By Trish Gunby

I never, ever thought I would run for elected office. As a preschool board, welcome ministry, VBS and youth group mom, there was always enough on my plate. Still, I was mindful that that my children were growing up, and I constantly wondered where God would call me next. 

Fast forward to 2013. More than in any year when I’ve knocked on voter’s doors or called their phones or marched in parades, 2013 brought me several “God Moments” that changed the course of my life and led me to public service. 

I don’t know precisely how to define “God Moments,” but for me, they were a series of callings too personal to mistake for chance. Early on, I didn’t heed the call, my distractions were plenty, so I simply kept on with daily life. But the final nudge was too obvious to ignore—it told me to follow my heart and start to make the difference I had always dreamed of. 

It began when I started a ministry at my church, pursuing the full inclusion of all persons in the United Methodist Church. It grew more apparent as our early work spread across the Missouri Conference—inspiring others, connecting likeminded ministers, and growing our numbers. And its final reveal came during this past Christmas holiday, when I celebrated with an LGBTQ+ Family Support Group (over 50 strong!) grown from that original ministry. Now, talk about a “God Moment.” 

There have been others, for certain: the days where I’ve marched for racial justice, the days I’ve stood and spoken on the Missouri House Floor, and the days where I’ve simply sat and listened, hoping God would give me the strength to keep fighting. 

I’m here to tell you God will. And when God provides that strength, in whatever mysterious ways or messages, don’t ignore them. Don’t be afraid to make waves with your compassion.

Because doing so will change your life. But more importantly, it will change the lives of others.

You make our collective work possible by your witness for justice every day in your church, community, and Annual Conference. MFSA does not receive any financial support from the United Methodist Church's giving channels. 100% of our budget is funded through your membership dues and your generosity in giving.

Trish Gunby is a candidate for the U.S. House in Missouri’s 2nd Congressional District and the current state representative for Missouri’s 99th House District. Before rising to elected office, Trish served her community and Manchester United Methodist Church (member for 26 years) in various advocacy roles, either leading or joining causes pursuing LGBTQ equality, racial justice, expansion of voting rights and more. Between campaign events, she can still be found in the pews with her husband Mark, a physician, with whom she raised their now-adult children. For more information, please visit: www.trishgunby.com.