LGBTQ+

St. Luke’s is an “Open and Affirming” congregation, an official designation adopted by churches of any denomination that commit to the full inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and non-binary persons (LGBTQ+) in the church’s life and ministry. As we live out our Baptismal Covenant, by which we promise to strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of every human being, we will stand with the LGBTQ+ community when their human dignity and their basic rights are attacked.

Inclusion: Our Commitment to LGBTQ+ People within the Church

Many lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have experienced spiritual and psychological abuse in other churches and faith communities. But we believe we are following the example and command of Jesus Christ when we welcome LGBTQ+ people and honor their relationships. In The Episcopal Church and at St. Luke’s, we bear witness that not all Christians condemn LGBTQ+ people as “sinners.”

We work to make our congregation a safe place for LGBTQ+ members and their families, where they know they are wanted, valued, and affirmed. We take seriously the teaching of Scripture: “Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (Romans 15:7). Therefore, LGBTQ+ Christians are invited and encouraged to participate fully in all sacraments, including baptism of children and adults; Holy Communion (the Eucharist, or the sharing of the bread and the cup); confirmation (the process of making an adult commitment to membership in the church); ordination (becoming a deacon, priest, or bishop); and marriage.

For the full statement on LGBTQ+ roles in The Episcopal Church, see here.

Since 2023, St. Luke’s has also held a special service of welcoming and affirmation to celebrate Pride Month. “You Are Loved: A Pride Service” is a way for us to celebrate the beautiful diversity of God’s children. While this is a Christian service, it is open to all who wish to join us in celebration, not just members of our faith.

For details on our June 1, 2025 service, please click here.

To sing in the choir for our Pride service, please click here.

Outreach: Our Commitment to LGBTQ+ People Outside the Church

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church endeavors to be a safe space in the Lebanon community as well as a proponent of the civil rights of LGBTQ+ people. We seek out partnerships with other Open and Affirming churches and denominations, as well as with secular organizations, to further this cause. We believe that LGBTQ+ individuals are valuable, regardless of whether they are members of our church or any church.

We are proud to partner with the LGBT Center of Greater Reading to host their Lebanon satellite location. For more information on the services offered by the LGBT Center of Greater Reading, please click here.