How to check if my local group is inclusive?

[Krisvm]

I wanted to know if there is an easy way to check if a church is likely to be inclusive?

 

I used to attend a Quaker meeting group that was quite inclusive before I came to terms with my identity. I shifted away from attending, simply because I wasn't able to attend when I moved work places. I should now be able to attend one near me.

 

Reading around their still needs to be some debate about gender identities in the community and the local website does contain any inclusivity statements (it is all fairly basic).

 

How do I find out? Do you think I should ask their gender and sexuality diversity network, the local clerk or something else?

[VickySGV]

It is a toss up on individual parishes of The Church Of England although on FB I have two Trans Priests from COE.  United Churches of Christ, some progressive Lutheran churches may be as well.  The Society of Friends is an individual meeting issue, but a large number are supportive. Here in the U.S. there are organizations that track churches on acceptance, and I would imagine there is a similar organization there in England.  One way to find out is to look for local churches and see if they are having special PRIDE services this month, that would be a definite indicator.

 

 

[Charlize]

I wish could give you a definitive statement.  our local Quaker meeting and the Episcopal Church in a nearby town are both accepting.  I really think it depends more on the congregation in many situations.           

[Astrid]

For the U.K., where you are, take a look at

 

https://www.inclusive-church.org/

 

At the top of their home page, there's a "Find a Church" link where you can search by postal code.

 

Hopefully there will be a congregation nearby!

 

With best wishes,

 

Astrid

 

[DeeDee]

I will say the above link is not exhaustive. I've never heard of them and they seem to be very England-centric as there was nothing in Scotland apparently which I know to be false, but certainly Vicky has a good suggestion, anyone who is doing anything for Pride month or who openly attends local Pride events would be a good start.

Other than that if they do not have much of a social media presence then even a quick email to the minister/priest/pastor would be kept confidential and save any awkwardness as some ministers are more forward thinking than their congregations (or vice versa) good luck! ?

[Krisvm]

10 hours ago, Astrid said:

For the U.K., where you are, take a look at

 

https://www.inclusive-church.org/

 

At the top of their home page, there's a "Find a Church" link where you can search by postal code.

 

Hopefully there will be a congregation nearby!

 

With best wishes,

 

Astrid

 

 

I am afraid there is nothing on that list within 20 miles of me.

 

 

 

Thanks all for your suggestions I will keep a lookout throughout the month and see if I see anything. If not I may drop an email.