Resource List of Welcoming and Affirming Congregations and Communities

PFLAG Pittsburgh has compiled this resource list of Welcoming and Affirming Congregations and Communities. While PFLAG Pittsburgh cannot guarantee a positive experience at any particular religious gathering, all of the included spiritual and religious groups have agreed to be part of this resource list and have confirmed to PFLAG Pittsburgh that they are welcoming and affirming. This list in intended to to assist the LGBTQ community and allies by providing an indication of what to expect in seeking spiritual enrichment with the listed faith and spiritual communities.

 

If you would like to add your religious organization to our list, please contact us at info@pflagpgh.org.  
 

Click on the categories listed below for a list of the accepting and affirming religious communities in your area:
 

Baptists

Buddhism
Catholic

Episcopalian

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
Judaism

Lutheran

Methodist

Metropolitan Community Church (MCC)

Multi/Nondenominational

Pagan

Presbyterian

Unitarian Universalist

United Church of Christ

Other/Specialized Groups
 

*Disclaimer: The information contained herein has been compiled for use as a resource for the LGBTQ community and its allies to foster growth in spirituality or faith. This document is not to be used for any form of solicitation and should not be reproduced without the prior written permission of PFLAG Pittsburgh. Any other use of this material is prohibited.

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Other Links:

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• Soulforce: Soulforce, guided by the spirit of truth and empowered by the principles of relentless nonviolent resistance, works to end the religious and political oppression of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning people.

• Would Jesus Discriminate?: The Would Jesus Discriminate? Campaign is the catalyst for articulating our message helping our churches be more directly involved in acts of justice and compassion, expanding our outreach and access to our message.

• Dignity USA: Creating an affirming space for LGBT Catholics and allies.

• Keshet: Working for full inclusion of LGBT people in Jewish life.

• The Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists: The mission of the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists is to create and support a community of churches, organizations and individuals committed to the inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons in the full life and mission of Baptist churches.

• Sarbat: Organization for LGBT Sikhs.

• Integrity USA: Advocating for LGBT inclusion within the Episcopal church.

• Gay and Lesbian Vaishnava Association: An organization for the LGBTHindu community.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Sexuality and Spirituality:
 

Finding out that someone you know is lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender may conflict with a long-held belief system and you may be left wondering how having a family member or friend who is gay will affect your own religious beliefs. Rest assured that many others have experienced the same feelings and have had similar questions.
 

1. Can gay people change?
   Ex-gay ministries use outmoded medical theories and radical religious beliefs to justify trying to alter gay and lesbian peoples’ natural sexual orientation.

   • Homosexuality is not a disease. The American Psychological Association states, “It does not require treatment and is not changeable.”

   • “Reparative therapy” is dangerous and doesn’t work. The American Psychiatric Association opposes attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation because treatment is ineffective and increases risk of depression, anxiety and self-destructive behavior.

   • The American Medical Association says, “Most of the emotional disturbance experienced by gay men and lesbians around their sexual identity is not based on physiological causes but is due more to a sense of alienation in an un-accepting environment.”
      

2. How can I reconcile my love for my friend/family member with my religious beliefs?
   Many have experienced the feeling of being pulled in two seemingly opposite directions. The first step is to examine your beliefs and, in doing so, to ask yourself if homosexuality is, indeed, contrary to your religion. As you explore, keep in mind that many religious groups with varied backgrounds and teachings have revised earlier teachings against homosexuality and have moved towards a more open and accepting philosophy. Though your current congregation may be firmly against homosexuality, there may be other congregations of the same religious denomination in your area that have more open and welcoming attitudes. PFLAG Pittsburgh can provide you with the names of open and affirming congregations in our area.
    

3. Everything I once believed I now question. How can I deal with this confusion?
   Without a doubt, calling into question your own long-held beliefs can be a frightening experience. The journey of self-exploration is one that should not be taken without some kind of support system in place to help you deal with this fear and examine your conflicting feelings. It is very important that those to whom you turn for support are able to listen without judgment. At PFLAG Pittsburgh's monthly support meetings, you can talk with people who have had similar experiences. If you would like religious counseling, try to find a congregation that is either gay friendly or that is willing to embark on the journey of discovery with you.
    

4. What if my religion does not accept gays?
   If your congregation does not accept gays, you have several options and will have to choose which is the best for you. You can stay and worship without further action or you can choose to stay and worship, but also work to make it a more accepting congregation. You may decide to change congregations or, if there are no affirming congregations, to change denominations. Some choose to leave organized religion and to instead find faith on their own. None of these is easy, so you should be sure to give yourself plenty of time to consider all of your options before making a decision.
    

5. What about traditional religious ceremonies?
   Religious ceremonies such as weddings, christenings, and funerals can become complicated for gay people and their friends and families. Keep in mind that the most important thing is that you honor your own values and beliefs. Religious events can be wonderful opportunities to create new traditions and bring families and friends even closer.
    

6. What can I do to help others?
   Speaking about your experiences, either one-on-one or in small or large groups, is a great way to lend support to others. Everyone feels better once they realize that they are not alone. You can also get involved with interfaith alliances or other groups working for religious change. PFLAG Pittsburgh can put you in touch with some of these groups and is always looking for new people to assist with its own educational program on faith issues.

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