Our Theological Beliefs Vary…
…But Our Core Values Unite Us
The work can be a lot — we believe in supporting each other while we give support. Read more about how we describe ourselves below.
Intentionality
We can’t guarantee the impact of our actions, but we like to move in the world like we mean it — with love and compassion.
Queer-focused, Black-led
More than open and affirming, we are queer-centered and Black-led from conceptualization.
Good is Possible
We believe good still exists despite what the world says, and even more good is possible.
Grace
We’re all still learning. That’s why we focus on grace. It’s the greatest gift we can give or receive.
Centered on the Margins
We all get what we need when we center the most marginalized among us.
Culture is Created
Culture is created. That’s why we are intentional about our language, policies, and programming.
Faith in Action
Faith is more than feelings or beliefs. It’s showing up for others when we need each other the most.
Accountability
Good intentions aren’t enough. Holding each other accountable keeps us aligned with our morals and values.
Our Beliefs | Making Room For Big Questions
Faith is a journey, and wherever you are on yours – we’re here to help and travel along with you. Read more about our theological considerations below.
Jesus
Most of us have a strong affinity for Jesus. We appreciate his story and mission of helping the marginalized. Some of us even think he’s the Messiah.
Sin
You won’t find the language of sin used here. Instead, we focus on how to best show up for ourselves and each other.
Holy Trinity
Some of us believe in the Holy Trinity, while others don’t. We’re flexible.
Praise & Gratitude
Like everything else here, our beliefs vary. We believe in giving praise to God, the Universe, our Ancestors, Mother Nature, and more.
God
Most of us believe there is a God that created the world; however, our concepts of God vary vastly. Whatever you think or don’t believe is welcome here.
Universalism
We believe if there is a heaven, we’re all going.
Ecumenical & Expansive
This probably isn’t a surprise, but we don’t believe there’s one way to embody faith. Our community is theologically ecumenical and intellectually expansive.
The Bible
We like asking big questions, especially about the “big” books. Generally speaking, we take the Bible seriously, not literally.
Our Principles | Making Room For Solidarity
Radical Justice
Radical justice starts by treating people with the dignity we all deserve.
Intentional Community
No church members here, just people-focused Partnerships.
Impractical Faith
Believing in things we have no business thinking are possible.
Our Story | Making Room For A Movement
A Vision Planted
Placed initially on Pastor John’s heart in 2016, There’s Room began with a yearning to experience community and faith differently. To have a space where folks could ask big questions and grapple with hard truths without shame or persecution. John envisioned a faith community where folks could truly be themselves without worry.
Launching
After sharing the vision and getting a core team in place, TR officially launched in 2021. Since day one, we’ve focused on creating an authentic community via innovative fellowship, direct services, sincere partnerships, and consistent volunteering.
A Movement Forward
As we go forward, we’re focused on being a movement of people doing the work of compassion. We believe in planting seeds of impossibility! What others believe to be far-fetched, we aim for. Ultimately, we envision a world where people are safe and secure, have their basic needs met, and can focus on happiness and joy.
Our Team | Making Room For The Work
Rev. John D. Blackshire, Ph.D.
The Rev. John D. Blackshire, Ph.D., (he/him) serves as TR’s Lead Pastor and Executive Director, guiding our team in North Carolina and beyond. An educator, artist, minister, and social justice coach, John helps There’s Room, individuals, and other organizations identify small yet mighty ways to accomplish radical community goals. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Cinema and Photography in 2014, with an emphasis on documentary production. He completed his Ph.D. in Gender Studies from the School of Social Transformation at Arizona State University in 2020. As a minister, John feels best when empowering others to leverage their agency to transform their world for good.
Courtney Milhouse
Courtney Milhouse (she/her) serves as TR’s Executive Administrator, ensuring proper organizational records, programming, and processes. A single mother of one, lovingly referred to as “Her Remix,” Courtney lives in Winston Salem, NC, by way of Maryland. Baptized Christian at an early age, and having followed that path most of her life, Courtney has since expanded on her faith. Her continued growth, questioning, and yearning to be closer to the Lord led her to There’s Room.
Rev. Dr. JJ Flag
The Rev. Dr. JJ Flag (he/him) serves as our Lead Chaplain and Associate Director, advising our chaplain team and supporting members of the broader community with spiritual and emotional needs. An ordained minister of the United Church of Christ, his previous work includes chaplaincy work on university and hospital campuses, as well as many different congregations as a pastor. Rev. JJ earned a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and went on to earn his Doctoral degree from Drew University Theological School. Having been born with a disability, advocating for those with disabilities is integral to living out his call. He is a member of numerous denominational and local community boards and often lectures and contributes to podcasts centering on theology, faith, disability, and race.
There's Room of North Carolina 