Q&A
What does Q&A stand for? We’ve heard that question before!
When open and affirming churches in the Des Moines area began a conversation about a shared youth group,
the name was one of the first things to be decided: Q&A Youth Group. Q&A stands for queer and allies AND
Q&A also stands for questions and answers. Both meanings point to the underlying tenets of the youth group – that it should be a safe space for queer people of all ages, an intentional space where questions about God
and faith can be asked safely, and a space where ‘answers’ can be questions that lead to deeper reflection and a closer relationship with God.
The three churches who are part of Q&A - Downtown Disciples, New Beginning Christian Church, and
Urbandale United Church of Christ - chose to utilize curriculum that focused on each persons belovedness,
belonging and community, justice, equity, and creation care. Staff and volunteers from each church take turns
leading the lesson and helping with other aspects of the gathering.
Like most youth programs, the evening starts with a shared meal, then a short lesson with questions and
discussion. Each gathering also has games and check-in at the end to share what part of the gathering was
their favorite. Usually, it’s the food! But there is also laughter, beautiful insights, deep thinking about issues
that matter, and more laughing. Without question, it is a gathering where everyone feels loved.
Shalom,
Rev. Heather Wachendorf
New Beginnings Christian Church, Urbandale, IA
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