LGBTQ+ Resources
Embrace the journey of inclusivity and understanding within the Episcopal Church through the exploration of resources and organizations dedicated to LGBTQ+ inclusion. Discover insightful links, empowering toolkits, educational initiatives, and transformative advocacy efforts that foster acceptance and care for all individuals.
Embracing Inclusion: The Episcopal Church's Journey of Acceptance and Love for All
In 1976, the General Convention of the Episcopal Church made a significant declaration affirming the inherent worth and dignity of homosexual persons as children of God, granting them a full and equal claim upon the love, acceptance, and pastoral care of the Church (1976-A069).
This momentous decision marked a pivotal turning point, propelling Episcopalians on a collective journey toward greater understanding, compassion, and inclusivity for all individuals who form part of God's diverse creation. Since then, the Episcopal Church has been steadfastly committed to fostering an environment where every person is embraced, respected, and supported, recognizing that diversity is a beautiful reflection of God's abundant love and grace.
Through ongoing dialogue, education, advocacy, and pastoral care, The Diocese of Southern Virginia strives to create a Church that is welcoming, affirming, and responsive to the needs and experiences of all of God's children, ensuring that no one is excluded or marginalized based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Useful links and resources
Explore the LGBTQ+ page on the official website of The Episcopal Church to delve into the rich and inclusive environment fostered within the Church. Discover a wealth of resources, information, and affirming content that highlights the Church’s commitment to embracing and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. From theological perspectives and educational materials to stories of personal journeys, this webpage serves as a valuable hub for understanding the Church’s advocacy, inclusion, and celebration of LGBTQ+ people within its diverse community.
The purpose of this ecumenical group is to provide the resources to facilitate a paradigm shift in multiple denominations whereby churches become welcoming and affirming of all congregants regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. IWR wants to help build church homes that are truly welcoming and nurturing, where everyone knows “they’re okay, just like they are.” IWR offers a number of useful resources, including “Building an Inclusive Church: A Welcoming Toolkit”
A youth-led organization dedicated to transforming the educational environment for trans and gender nonconforming students through advocacy and empowerment. In addition to creating a more trans-friendly education system, their mission is to educate the public and teach trans activists how to be effective organizers. TSER believes that justice for trans and gender nonconforming youth is contingent on an intersectional framework of activism. Ending oppression is a long-term process that can only be achieved through collaborative action. www.transstudent.org
CLGS has a mission to advance the well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer and transgender people and to transform faith communities and the wider society by taking a leading role in shaping a new public discourse on religion, gender identity, and sexuality through education, research, community building, and advocacy. www.clgs.org
