Historically, the Christian church has excluded LGBTQ+ individuals. But over the last several years more and more followers of Jesus are beginning to question this traditional stance. (For example, see "Changing Our Mind" by Dr. David Gushee or "Letter to My Congregation" by Ken Wilson.) This is largely the result of LGBTQ+ Christians sharing their experiences of wrestling with their faith and their orientation (a good example is "Undivided: Coming Out, Becoming Whole, and Living Free From Shame" by Vicky Beeching). It has become clear that these exclusionary policies have created a tremendous amount of harm for people.
As a result, many Christians and faith communities are rethinking their approach to this sensitive issue. Most modern churches have tried to create more welcoming environments by downplaying their positions regarding LGBTQ+ inclusion. Unfortunately, this has led to a great deal of confusion and hurt as their underlying policies have not actually changed. (See ChurchClarity.org to learn more about the effort to help people understand exactly where churches stand on LGBTQ+ inclusion and women in leadership.) Some churches, like the River, have made the transition to becoming fully-inclusive and affirming of LGBTQ+ people. We left the evangelical movement we were a part of in order to welcome LGBTQ+ people in our faith community because we truly believe Jesus is good news for everyone.
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faith misunderstood: when the bible makes you meanWe fully affirm and include the LGBTQ community as members, teachers, and leaders in our church. To learn why we left the evangelical movement and are now fully inclusive, we invite you to take a look at this video, "Faith Misunderstood."
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following jesus out of evangelicalismWhen we made the decision to welcome LGBTQ people into the life of our church, it made a big impact on our community. Learn more in this 5-minute video.
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about our church
The River is a vibrant and diverse church in downtown Manhattan. We've been here since 2004. As a fully-inclusive community, we strive to help you connect with God and experience God's grace in all aspects of your life no matter your background. We're an LGBTQ-affirming church because we believe Jesus makes himself available to everyone.
When you visit us, you'll find everyone from young people and minorities to interfaith couples and more all worshipping God and celebrating our unique connection to one another.
In addition to a welcoming spirit, we also value intellectual rigor. You'll find that our pastors' sermons challenge you to think deeply while giving you practical ways to apply what you learned to your daily life (here's an example of a recent sermon). Our classes, LifeGroups, and programs such as RiverKids and RiverYouth are all available as ways to connect with other people in the church and learn more about God's goodness together.
Visit The River Today
The River is a place for you to be you—no pretenses, no judgment, no fear. We want you to feel warmly welcomed into a diverse community that is seeking to grow together in our relationship with God. Stop by the River for a visit. Come to a Sunday service to see for yourself what we're all about. Questions? Please email: [email protected]
When you visit us, you'll find everyone from young people and minorities to interfaith couples and more all worshipping God and celebrating our unique connection to one another.
In addition to a welcoming spirit, we also value intellectual rigor. You'll find that our pastors' sermons challenge you to think deeply while giving you practical ways to apply what you learned to your daily life (here's an example of a recent sermon). Our classes, LifeGroups, and programs such as RiverKids and RiverYouth are all available as ways to connect with other people in the church and learn more about God's goodness together.
Visit The River Today
The River is a place for you to be you—no pretenses, no judgment, no fear. We want you to feel warmly welcomed into a diverse community that is seeking to grow together in our relationship with God. Stop by the River for a visit. Come to a Sunday service to see for yourself what we're all about. Questions? Please email: [email protected]