I have been coming to BRUU since December of 2015. As an LGBT individual, I often held my God and spirituality very close to my heart. After coming out to my family, and being raised Catholic, I got mixed reactions. Fortunately my immediate family was very accepting and has stood by me through it all, but being Roman Catholic, it really challenged my faith and what I thought I believed in. When I first found a UU congregation while living in Chicago some years ago, I felt like I had found my spiritual family once and for all. When I moved back to Virginia, I attended BRUU during a hard career transition in my life due to severe health problems from my past. I immediately felt welcome, and as I began my real estate career where time would allow, I got involved in the congregation. After joining the Fellowship Committee I started LGBTQ@BRUU in 2016 as a branch of Social Justice, and also have served as the PFLAG/BRUU Liaison since 2016. Being active in my LGBTQ community is important to me, especially as a business owner. I have been fighting bullies my entire life, and standing up for what is right. BRUU has become a sanctuary for me, and a spiritual home. I finally have found my spiritual path and am learning and growing more and more with the members of BRUU every day.  I also sing with the BRUU Adult Choir, and as of recent, serve on the Worship Committee. I am looking forward to many more new and exciting moments with my BRUU family. BRUU to me, means safety, sanctuary, spiritual healing and learning, and most of all FAMILY! I am so happy to be a member of this wonderful congregation!!