LGBTQ+ Pride
Holy Communion has a history of welcome. In recent decades we have made strides, not only welcoming LGBTQ+ community into the full life of the church, but also toward advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights in wider society. After a period of learning and self study we declared the parish "open and affirming" in the early 2000s. We were one of the first Missouri parishes to bless same-gender relationships, and one of the first to perform marriage for same-gender couples when the Supreme Court affirmed marriage equality. In 2015, the Rev. Mike Angell, accepted the call to be rector (head priest) of Holy Communion, the first openly LGBTQ+ person to serve in that role. He and his husband Ellis' marriage was blessed at Christ Church Cathedral on Pentecost of the same year, and our congregation and choir came down to help celebrate.
Advocacy with our Trans siblings
Holy Communion has partnered with area clergy to advocate with the LGBTQ+ against statewide legislation which would curtail trans rights. Our clergy have worked to advocate against proposed policies which would further marginalize LGTBQ+ people, and especially trans kids. Much of this advocacy takes place with PROMO Missouri. We have offered a Trans 101 training. We have also hosted multiple Theology on Tap events, talking about theology, gender, and sexuality. Our two main restrooms upstairs are gender inclusive, and labeled as such.
St. Louis Pride
Holy Communion helps to host the PrideFest Interfaith service on the last Sunday of June Each year. While we hold an 8am service at the church that morning, our principle worship is at PrideFest. Our choir sings alongside choirs from Metropolitan Community Church and other congregations. We also help lead the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri's delegation in the Pride parade.
