Open and Affirming

A group of St. John's clergy and parishioners posing for a photo at the Pride Parade

Saint John the Evangelist is a safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people.

A welcoming space is a wonderful and hospitable thing! We welcome visitors and long time parishioners alike each time we gather. Being a safe space goes a few steps beyond being a welcoming space.

As a safe space, we strive to create a faith community where everyone’s story is respected as their own. We speak from our own experience, and ask others what they need in order to feel comfortable in our community. We listen. We do not shame or shun one another; rather we seek inclusive conversation. Consider the ways you tell your story, and the ways you encourage others to share their own stories. Our attitude towards one another is what makes us a safe space. 

St. John’s actively affirms the full inclusion of women and LGBTQ+ people in all sacraments and levels of leadership. Multiple LGBTQ+ clergy have served at St. John’s. And from same-sex weddings to rites of renaming for trans parishioners, St. John’s rejoices in walking with our LGBTQ+ parishioners through all the seasons of their lives.

Jesus taught love of God and love of neighbor as the most important commandments. When we create a safe, open, and affirming environment for everyone, we honor his teaching.

Further Education on LGBTQ+ Identities

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Copyright © 2020 St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church

St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church
[email protected]
651.228.1172
60 Kent St N, St. Paul, MN 55102-2232
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