LGBTQ+
We are a welcoming congregation that affirms people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.
Our demographic data from 2022 showed that 25% of our congregation identifies as LGBTQ+. Because it is not enough to privately believe that LGBTQ+ persons should have an equal share in our church and society, here is our written and public statement of welcome — we publicly proclaim this belief:
“We are a community of seniors, parents, children, singles, LGBTQ+ individuals, and families of all types. We are a community of artists, musicians, and storytellers. Our community is committed to opening our eyes, ears, hearts, and minds to love each other as images of God, to enter into the struggle, and in the struggle, to discover the Divine stories that shape us, and increase awareness through the LGBTQ+ lens and be called to action.”
In addition to our public statement of welcome, St Andrews is currently pursuing designation as a “Believe Out Loud” congregation. We believe that an open and affirming stance is at the very core of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and as such we are committed to teaching our children and youth to be a part of the conversation. We foster events in the LGBTQ+ community such as proudly marching in the Denver Pride Parade (with strong representation from our youth ministry), and we are currently offering a program series called Sacred Identities.
Ally Hawkins
“I am passionate about storytelling and creating spaces where we can amplify marginalized stories, challenge dominant narratives, and explore the tangling of our own stories. I believe in protecting the sacred in ourselves, in our neighbors, and in the earth."
Casey Kite
“Queer voices are often silenced or deemed too loud. Storytelling is a way to bring the voices of the past, present, and future together. I aim to bring awareness to those who participate in the hopes that future generations have allies in their present.”
Dan Wright
“Sacred Identities gives me both fellowship and work to further my aspirations to minimize judgmental otherings, to more often recognize the image of God in others, and to inform my advocacy response for those who are marginalized.”
Jim Fittz
“I am a cis, hetero male who seeks to become the most effective and appropriate ally that I can be.”
Shawn P. Nowlan
“I am a cisgender gay man married to my husband for five years. I enjoy facilitating conversations - particularly those that allow people to wrestle with the implications of faith in their daily lives".”