Description
Video and audio tapes and CD-ROMs of conference
proceedings of the Universal Fellowship of the Metropolitan Community Church
(UFMCC) and its congregation in Long Beach (MCCLB), along with recordings of
events, lectures, sermons, and services related to religion and homosexuality,
1984-2002.
Background
Church Long Beach. The first called pastor was Reverend Jon Bullock.
Reverend Bullock, who served for a year and a half. The church then called
Reverend Bob Cunningham who served until 1979. During this time the church
purchased property on Raymond Street, and when they outgrew that property they
sold it and purchased property at 785 Junipero Street in Long Beach. When
Reverend Bob resigned, the church placed then "Exhorter" (MCC’s term for a
minister in training) Michael Cole in charge of the church until it could call
a pastor. In 1980, the church called Reverend Dusty Pruitt to the Pastorate. She
served until 1995. During that time the church sold its property on Junipero
Street and bought property downtown, at 1231 Locust Avenue, an abandoned
Oddfellows hall. During this time the church grew to a membership of over 300.
In 1995, under the leadership of Reverend Pruitt, the church sold the building
at 1231 Locust Avenue and did not buy another one. The church had incurred a large
construction debt to earthquake proof the property which became difficult to
service. After the property was sold, several disgruntled members in the church
led the church to call a vote of confidence for Reverend Pruitt, which in
August of 1995 she failed by a vote of 53% to 47%. After a short interim period
when Reverend Ken was the interim pastor, the church called Reverend Sandra
Turnbull, who had been a Student Clergy and protégée of Reverend Pruitt. After
several years as clergy in MCC, Reverend Turnbull resigned her credentials and
led the church to disaffiliate with MCC. The congregation that was MCC Long
Beach continues as Glory Tabernacle Community Church in Long Beach and
functions as an Independent Pentecostal GLBT congregation. The church still
does not have a permanent building.
Extent
4 archive cartons.
1.8 linear feet.
Restrictions
Researchers wishing to publish materials must obtain permission in
writing from ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives as the physical owner.
Researchers must also obtain clearance from the holder(s) of any copyrights in
the materials. Note that ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives can grant
copyright clearance only for those materials for which we hold the copyright.
It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain copyright clearance for
all other materials directly from the copyright holder(s).
Availability
The collection is open to researchers. There are no access
restrictions.