The Rev. Darrell Goodwin, the first LGBTQ Black American to lead the Southern New England Conference of the United Church of Christ UCC, has launched the Find Hope Now campaign to spread hope and inclusivity. Representing 570 UCC churches across Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, Goodwin’s mission focuses on radical love, acceptance, and providing a spiritual refuge for marginalized communities.
Through the campaign, Goodwin is seeking to reach those who have been alienated from faith, offering a message of welcome, hope, and belonging. The initiative has already attracted significant attention, with 135,000 visitors to the campaign’s website in just six weeks.
The campaign reflects Goodwin’s own experiences as a leader who represents the values of inclusivity and social justice, including support for LGBTQ+ people and communities of color.
Goodwin’s leadership also marks a shift in power dynamics within religious organizations, as his appointment signals a departure from traditional practices that often marginalized those from minoritized communities.
As the UCC focuses on the social gospel—putting love for neighbors into action—churches across the region have actively supported initiatives, such as creating food pantries, building free libraries, and offering sanctuary to LGBTQ+ refugees.
The Find Hope Now campaign also seeks to revitalize churches, many of which are struggling with declining membership, by encouraging them to re-engage with their communities and offer a meaningful space for people facing hardships.
By displaying signs with the campaign’s logo and message, churches are visually reinforcing their commitment to offering hope and inclusion, especially during difficult times such as global crises and political unrest.
Ultimately, Goodwin’s leadership and the Find Hope Now initiative aim to demonstrate that despite the challenges of the world, there is a place of radical inclusion, where everyone is loved and valued.
