Pride Sunday, June 9, 2024
Pride Sunday Worship Service
On Sunday, June 9 at 10 am, we will worship God and celebrate how we are all "fearfully and wonderfully made by God" (Psalm 139:14). If you do not have a church home, or if your church does not include or celebrate you or your friends in the LGBTQ+ community, we welcome you to join us on this Sunday.
What: Pride Sunday
When: Sunday, June 9, 2024 @ 10 am
Where: 70 Hooker Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
Where do I park: Parking is available in the church parking lot, on Hooker Avenue, behind the church on Hanscomb Avenue, and in Bartlett Park.
How do I dress? Dress comfortably.
Our worship service begins at 10 am. Childcare is provided for free for children in kindergarten and younger. Sunday school is available for students grades 1 - 6th, however, these students are also welcome to stay in the worship service with those who brought them. An easy-to-follow worship bulletin is provided and Pastor Jason offers encouraging words that lift up and do not put down. The songs are uplifting. We spend time in moments of silence and in times of prayer. Although we take up an offering because we see that as part of our acts of gratitude, we do not expect guests to give.
Our Long-Standing Commitment to Inclusivity, Diversity, and the Unity of Humanity
Our church is part of the Reformed Church in America. We have a long-standing commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and the unity of humanity. We cemented our beliefs by adopting the Belhar Confession, which was written by our siblings who were living with and objecting to apartheid in South Africa.
The Belhar Confession affirms our belief that God has reconciled us and made us one with each other. Therefore we are obligated to pursue unity, which is the struggle for justice on earth. Therefore, we reject "any doctrine which explicitly or implicitly maintains that descent or any other human or social factor should be a consideration in determining membership of the church."
For too long, our siblings in the LGBTQ+ community have been told they do not belong in the church. We reject this idea and believe that we "must stand where the Lord stands, namely against injustice and with the wronged." To say it another way, it is not enough for us to think about it; we must actively be allies, advocates, friends, and voices of inclusion if we are to live our values faithfully.
A Community of Care as an LGBTQ Friendly Church
Psalm 139:14 states we are "fearfully and wonderfully made" by God. The Hebrew word for “fear” means “to revere,” “to respect,” or “to stand in awe of.” You are created with great reverence, respect, and awe, and that highlights the profound and careful manner in which God made you. You deserve a minister and congregation who will likewise show the same care.
Celebrating and Worshipping on Pride Sunday
Pride Sunday is an opportunity for us to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, our loved ones, and our Creator, who loves and embraces all people. It is a time to rejoice in the diversity that God has created and to stand together against any form of discrimination.
The worship service will include uplifting music, a special solo by Meg Boyce, an inspiring message, and thoughtful liturgy and prayers that reflect grace, faith, and beauty.
We hope you will join us. Whether you are a long-time member or a visitor, you are welcomed and valued here.
If you are looking for an inclusive church, gay-friendly church, or lgbtq friendly church that is committed to the gospel of Christ and helping you grow in your faith, I think you've found it.
If you have any questions before you visit, I'd love to help. Sometimes it's easier to talk via phone, email, or Zoom before showing up for the first visit! I'm happy help --Pastor Jason. Click the link below and let's start!
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