praise be

How to find gay-friendly churches in your city and while traveling

By Aspen Reed
A female presenting person wearing a rainbow sash at a Washington D.C. Pride parade holding a sign that says "This Baptist pastor loves you!" Another sign in the back says "you are god's beloved!"

Finding welcoming and affirming gay-friendly churches can be a significant concern for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking a spiritual home. That’s often because LGBTQ+ individuals often face unique challenges when it comes to religion.

According to a 2013 Pew Research Center survey, about half of LGBTQ+ adults have no religious affiliation, compared to 20% of the general public.

This disparity is partly due to the perceived or real tensions between their orientation or gender identity and the teachings of many religious institutions. For instance, a significant portion of religiously affiliated LGBTQ+ adults report feeling a conflict between their religious beliefs and their orientation or gender identity.

Historical and social context

Historically, many orthodox religions reject homosexuality and have treated LGBTQ+ individuals harshly, leading to exclusion and discrimination. However, within nearly every religious denomination, there are now supportive groups that have adopted more inclusive interpretations regarding LGBTQ+ people. 

This shift is crucial as it reflects a broader societal move towards acceptance and inclusion.

While some find solace and community in their faith, others experience increased mental health challenges due to exclusion and discrimination within religious spaces. 

For example, LGBTQ+ youth who find religion important in their lives report higher thoughts of self-harm, highlighting the need for supportive and affirming religious environments.

Tips for finding gay-friendly churches

Seven doors in a different color of the rainbow, each featuring different religious sybmols and the words 'God's doors are open to all" painted on them.

For some, finding gay-friendly churches means reconciling their faith with their orientation or gender identity. Inclusive churches help bridge the gap between religious beliefs and personal identity, allowing individuals to practice their faith authentically.

Consider one of these online databases to find gay-friendly churches:

  1. GayChurch.org: This website lists churches that have requested to be included, indicating they have done some work to be open and inclusive.
  2. Believe Out Loud: Offers a welcoming church map to help locate LGBTQ+ affirming churches.
  3. Pride in Places: Our own database allows you to find gay historical sites that could lead you to an open-minded church.

Different denominations use specific language to indicate their inclusivity:

  • Presbyterians: Look for “More Light” distinction
  • Evangelical Lutheran Church in America: “Reconciling in Christ”
  • United Church of Christ: “Open and Affirming”
  • American Baptist Church: “Welcoming and Affirming”
  • United Methodist Church: “Reconciling”

If all else fails, look for welcoming statements and correct language regarding gender identity and expression. You can also contact pastors via email to ask about the church’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues. A clear and supportive response is a good indicator of an inclusive environment. Lastly, you could trust your gut feeling when visiting.

If something feels off or unwelcoming, it’s okay to look elsewhere.

Traveling tips

If you’re looking for a spiritual reprieve while on vacation, it can be difficult to find LGBTQ+-inclusive churches. However, several options are available for those seeking a place of worship that aligns with their beliefs and orientation.

  1. Plan ahead: Use online resources to find inclusive churches in your travel destination.
  2. Live-stream virtual services: If you can’t find a local church, consider joining a live-streamed service from your home church or another inclusive church.
  3. Form a group: If traveling with friends, consider forming a small group for prayer and study.

It’s possible to find a welcoming space

Finding a gay-friendly church is an important step for many LGBTQ+ individuals seeking a spiritual home. By understanding the diverse religious views within the LGBTQ+ community and utilizing available resources, individuals can find supportive and affirming places of worship.

Whether locally or while traveling, the key is to seek out communities that offer acceptance, support, and a sense of belonging.

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