More Light
Church of the Pilgrims joins with other More Light churches
for the Capital Pride Parade
Being a “More Light” church means we welcome the full participation of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons in the life of the congregation, including ordained office (this places us at odd with the current policy of the Presbyterian Church U.S.A.). Why did Church of the Pilgrims become a More Light church? We felt (and continue to feel) the current policy that denies ordained leadership within the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A runs counter to biblical values of justice and inclusiveness.
Being a More Light church also means we support the ministry of More Light Presbyterians www.mlp.org, a national organization of Presbyterians working for a more inclusive church. Our local chapter of More Light Presbyterians is called Open Doors. Jeff Krehbiel , pastor at Pilgrims, is moderator of the Open Doors board. Church of the Pilgrims staff and members are involved in the local level of More Light endeavors, especially in June when the Capital Area Pride Festival starts practically at the doors of the church. Church of the Pilgrims is proud to join in the parade with local More Light churches and the best of the DC drag queens.
Church of the Pilgrims has long been a supportive congregation to the GLBT community. In 2001, the Session adopted Statement of Welcome to reaffirm that commitment.
