Our LGBTQIA+ Chaplains were recommissioned by Bishop Rose during Evensong at Canterbury Cathedral on Wednesday 5 February.
This special occasion, taking place during LGBT+ History Month, saw people come together in prayer and celebration.
LGBTQIA+ is an inclusive term which includes all genders and sexualities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex and asexual.
Being commissioned were:
- Shannon Louise
- The Reverend Deacon Pat Wright
- Revd Denis Hartley
- Caroline Spencer
- Karen Sanders
Speaking about the service, LGBTQIA+ Advisor to the Bishop of Dover, Mark Wilson said: “As we mark this significant moment, we celebrate the commitment to love, support, and inclusion that the LGBTQIA+ Chaplaincy offers. May this recommissioning remind us all to create spaces where every person is valued and welcomed for who they are.”
After the recommissioning, Bishop Rose said: “I want to thank Mark Wilson for the courageous and loving challenge which he has given not just to those in the congregation here at the Cathedral this evening, but to the church as a whole.
“It is a real challenge to the rest of the body of Christ.
“Will we not just sing 'all are welcome’ but live the reality of what it means to be welcome in God's church.”
The Chaplains in our diocese work alongside and support LGBTQIA+ people, their families, friends and ministers.
The chaplaincy is a safe and encouraging listening space to ensure that people can be offered appropriate pastoral and spiritual care. Alongside this, it is also a place to get advice and guidance.
For more information about the LGBTQIA+ Chaplaincy in our diocese, you can visit our chaplaincy webpage or email LGBTQIA+ Advisor Mark Wilson.