The New York Avenue Presbyterian Church is a More Light congregation. More Light Presbyterians, a network of over 230 congregations, works to “empower and equip individuals and congregations to live into their welcome for LGBTQIA+ people.” As its mission statement says:
Following the risen Christ, and seeking to make the Church a true community of hospitality, the mission of More Light Presbyterians is to work for the full participation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) people in the life, ministry and witness of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and in society.
The New York Avenue Presbyterian Church Session voted to join this network in 1998 to advocate for the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ folks in the world and the church. For us, that has meant choosing and supporting LGBTQ leaders in our local congregation, calling LGBTQ pastors, lobbying for LGBTQ rights in the civic arena and in our denominational structures, caring for LGBTQ persons and families in our midst, and supporting national advocacy groups, such as More Light Presbyterians.
If you or someone you love identifies as LGBTQ+, you are welcome here! We look forward to marching at Pride alongside you, celebrating weddings, marking gender transitions, baptizing children, working for justice, and seeking the loving and peaceful reign of God together in Jesus’ name.
