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LGBT+

God loves you. No exceptions.

At St. John's everyone is welcome and belongs here, regardless of race, gender identity, or background.

Your Questions on Inclusivity

Find clear answers about our inclusive practices and how St John's supports every individual and family in our community.

  • How does St John's support LGBTQAI+ members?

    People talking and smiling outdoors, sunlit park, holding cups.
    We welcome LGBTQAI+ individuals and families fully, offering baptism, ministry, and fellowship without discrimination. Our congregation reflects diverse views, but all are embraced with respect and care.
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  • Can same-sex couples have their unions recognized here?

    Bride and groom holding hands, gazing at each other in a church. Sunlight streams through a stained-glass window.
    While national rules prevent us from conducting same-sex weddings, we celebrate civil partnerships and marriages with blessing services. We also guide couples to local churches authorized to perform same-sex weddings.
    Details

  • Are church facilities accessible and inclusive?

    Exterior of a restroom entrance with wooden double doors, female symbol signage, and concrete steps.
    All our facilities are designed to be gender-neutral and accessible, ensuring comfort and dignity for everyone regardless of gender identity or physical ability.
    Explore

Embracing Every Identity in God’s Love

At St John’s, we affirm that sexuality, gender identity, and orientation are integral parts of God’s creation, meant to be honoured and celebrated. Our community reflects this belief by welcoming all individuals without exception.
We uphold a faith that respects the full spectrum of human identity, encouraging growth in love and understanding through the teachings of Jesus Christ. Every person is valued here, and our doors remain open to all who seek belonging and spiritual support.

Sexuality and Gender Identity: Gifts to Be Honoured

Welcome, Whoever You Are


At St John’s, everyone is welcome and everyone belongs — you and your family or household, just as you are.
Whatever your race, marital status, gender identity, sexual orientation, background, physical or mental ability, you are included here.

We are not an “issue-based” church. We are simply a Parish Church seeking to celebrate the love of God — a love that breaks down barriers and embraces all who respond.


Our Commitment to Inclusion


We believe that human sexuality, sexual orientation and gender identity are gifts from God — to be accepted, enjoyed and honoured as expressions of love, in the spirit of Jesus Christ.

If you are in a civil partnership or same-sex marriage, we are delighted to celebrate the commitment you have made.
Although national regulations prevent us from conducting same-sex weddings at St John’s, we are very happy to support you with a service following your civil partnership or marriage. We can also signpost local churches who can legally conduct same-sex marriages.

Your family is welcome too — we will baptise your children and offer you every ministry of the Church. You are invited to participate in the life of the congregation as much as you wish.

All our facilities are gender-neutral for your comfort.


A Visible and Inclusive Church


St John’s is proud to be a Visible Congregation with OneBodyOneFaith, standing alongside LGBT+ Christians who seek churches with an explicit, safe welcome.

We are also a Registered Inclusive Church, committed to not discriminating on any level:
 economic power, gender, gender identity, mental or physical ability, race or sexuality.

People at St John’s hold a range of views, but many — gay, straight, trans, married, single — have found here a place where they can worship with peace and confidence.


You Are Welcome Here


Whoever you are, whatever your story, and wherever you are on your journey —
 you are truly welcome at St John’s.


Honouring Civil Partnerships and Marriages

St John’s warmly acknowledges the commitment made in civil partnerships and marriages. While national regulations prevent us from conducting same-sex weddings, we gladly offer blessings and services to celebrate these unions. Our support extends to all couples wishing to mark their commitment within the church community.

Supporting Your Journey Together

We provide opportunities for couples in civil partnerships or same-sex marriages to hold meaningful services following their legal commitment. Our church stands alongside those advocating for change in marriage laws, reflecting our dedication to equality. We are available to discuss and arrange personalized celebrations that respect your relationship.

Guidance and Connections for Same-Sex Weddings

Though St John’s cannot currently perform same-sex weddings, we maintain strong connections with local churches that can. We are happy to guide couples towards these welcoming communities. Our goal is to ensure every couple finds a place to celebrate their marriage with dignity and joy.

Inclusive Blessings and Ministry Access

All couples, regardless of orientation, are invited to receive blessings and participate fully in church ministries. We baptize children of LGBTQAI+ families and offer comprehensive pastoral care. Our commitment is to uphold a welcoming environment where every partnership is respected and valued.

Ministries Supporting LGBTQAI+ Families and Individuals

Family and Youth Support

Group of people socializing outdoors, smiling and holding drinks; green trees in the background.
Our family ministry offers tailored programs for LGBTQAI+ children and youth, providing a safe space for spiritual growth, fellowship, and guidance within a supportive community.

Pastoral Care and Counseling

Two people in chairs, talking. One person is wearing a white shirt; the other is in a green shirt. Interior room, window in the background.
Dedicated pastoral care is available to LGBTQAI+ individuals and families, offering confidential support, spiritual guidance, and assistance through life’s challenges.

Inclusive Spaces for Every Individual

St John’s provides gender-neutral facilities to ensure comfort and dignity for all members and visitors. Our spaces are designed to be welcoming and accessible, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity in every aspect of church life.
By offering gender-neutral restrooms and changing areas, we remove barriers and create an environment where everyone can participate fully and confidently. This practical step supports our broader mission to embrace diversity and respect each person’s identity.

Gender-Neutral Facilities at St John’s