St Paul Baptist Church @ Shively Heights

Okay, this review is going to be hard to write.
There was a lot about St. Paul Baptist Church @ Shively Heights that was wonderful. On the other hand, none of their signage, nor their website, nor the literature at the pews, revealed that they are a Southern Baptist Church. I learned that they were when they mentioned the Kentucky Baptist Association in the offering pitch and when the pastor mentioned in his sermon some good things Southern Baptists are doing.
I am a gay man, and I know Southern Baptists have a very different understanding of theology around this than I do. Other than an occasional visit to my parents’ church to honor them, I would never knowingly go to a Southern Baptist Church.
Having said that, this is an interesting church. My understanding is that the church was formed through the merger of a black church and a white church. In some ways, the church represents the best of both worlds.
There was a lot good about this church. From the time I entered the building, I was warmly and authentically welcomed. These are very nice people who clearly love one another. As a gay man, it’s impossible to avoid the thought: «Would you still love me if you knew who I really am?»
The music was good in this church. There was a choir of about 20 members. Hymns were traditional ones, sung in a modern style. There were a piano, an organ, and a drum set, but the instruments did not overwhelm the congregational singing. It was nice.
The Senior Pastor, Rev. Bingham, was a clear, interesting speaker. His sermon was good.
In order to avoid awkward conversations, I left when the invitation began (before the final hymn and benediction.)
My loving plea to St. Paul Baptist Church: be proud of who you are! If I know you are Southern Baptist, I can make an informed decision to attend or not.