Pride at Epiphany
"I believe God is doing a new thing in the world. God is always moving us to include more people in the kingdom. God has taught the white, male, straight majority in our church's leadership that this is true about people of color, about women, and now I think God is teaching that about gay and lesbian folk. And I am humbled and privileged that I might be playing a very small part in that grand and wonderful plan of God's."
- The Rt. Rev. Gene Robinson, the first openly gay Bishop in the Episcopal Church, in 2003
The Church of the Epiphany, along with the greater Episcopal Church, not only supports all individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ but actively affirms their full participation, leadership, and spiritual life within the church, grounded in a theology of inclusivity and justice.
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At Epiphany, we:
- Welcome LGBTQ+ individuals into our church.
- Encourage LGBTQ+ individuals to serve, lead, and participate in all forms.
- Marry LGBTQ+ individuals in our church. We welcome you, your family, and your friends to share in the sacrament of marriage. Here, you can know that you will be loved, respected, and safe to celebrate your married life together.
An Affirming Home for All
In 2026, we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Episcopal Church affirming that LGBTQ+ people have a full and equal claim to the love, acceptance, and pastoral care of the church. The journey to make that promise a reality continues today, as we remember the struggles, celebrate the joy, and give thanks for love and for lives that refuse to be erased.
Our Pride Ministry Team meets monthly. Our goals are to:
- Create a visible and welcoming church building and community for LGBTQ+ people and their families.
- Offer hospitality and welcome to LGBTQ+ individuals who are visiting or looking for a church home.
- Help LGBTQ+ people feel invited and encouraged to participate fully in every aspect of church life, including ministries, committees, leadership, and worship.
- Make LGBTQ+ people know they are fully welcome to receive all sacraments at Epiphany, including baptism, communion, marriage, and ordination.
- Provide pastoral care and support to LGBTQ+ individuals and families within our congregation.
- Strengthen our connection with the wider community through outreach and relationship-building, including work with South Haven Pride
- Participate in local LGBTQ+ community events and activities as a visible expression of support, celebration, and solidarity.
- Encourage ongoing learning and conversation within the congregation that focuses on inclusion, affirmation, and living out God’s love for all people.
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Regardless of your membership at Epiphany, we want to be clear: we would love to host your wedding! Should you be interested in the Episcopal wedding liturgy, reach out to Fr. John today to begin a conversation about holding your special day in our building and with our community.
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We really do mean it when we say that all are welcome at Epiphany, no exceptions. Whoever you are and wherever you find yourself on the journey of life and faith, you are welcome here.