lgBTq+ Family support network
Creating a safe space
Family members can experience a range of emotions when they learn a loved one is part of the LGBTQ+ community. This ministry is a faith-based welcoming, confidential, and non-sectarian safe forum for LGBTQ+ persons and their relatives and friends. We receive education, peacefully advocate, and share insights, comfort, and encouragement.
upcoming events
Manchester UMC Celebrates Pride Month
“Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” — Colossians 3:14 (NRSVue)
At Manchester United Methodist Church, we journey toward greater understanding and respect for all. We affirm the diversity of our human family—across age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, family structure, socioeconomic status, education, political views, and life experiences.
🌈 We’re Marching in Pride!
Manchester UMC is proud to be participating in this year’s PrideFest STL Parade on Saturday, June 29.
As a church committed to living out Christ’s call to love our neighbors, we are honored to walk alongside our LGBTQIA+ siblings, friends, and allies in this joyful celebration of identity, dignity, and inclusion.
By marching, we embody our values — showing the wider community that God’s love is for everyone, without exception.
Want to join us?
Everyone is welcome to walk with our group — members, friends, families, and allies. Sign up below to receive details about meetup time, location, and what to expect.
Let’s show the world what it means to Love God. Love Neighbor. Love.
Sign up to March in PrideFest STL!
Monthly Meetings
Monthly meetings are held the third Tuesday at Manchester UMC that may feature speakers, book study discussion or simple fellowship. A few additional social activities open to group members and their families also are planned during the year.
past events
Ben Greene Author, "My child is Trans, Now what?"
Ben Greene Speaking Event 1.29.2024 at Manchester United Methodist Church
How To Be An LGBTQ+ Ally
Debbie Reinhardt, Leader of the LGBTQ+ Family Support Network, explores how you can be an LGBTQ+ ally.
Dr. christopher lewis answers lgtbq+ questions
In March, 2022, the LGBTQ+ Family Support Network of Manchester United Methodist Church hosted a free educational program about orientations, identities and LGBTQ+ health. During this community event, Dr. Christopher Lewis, M.D., of Washington University and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, shared information and insights about the LGBTQ+ community and answer questions submitted by event participants
Christopher Lewis, M.D.
Pediatric Endocrinologist
Co-Director of the Transgender Center, Washington University School of Medicine
Dr. Lewis earned his M.D. at University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX, and completed his pediatric residency at Washington University.
About Dr. Christopher Lewis
As a part of the LGTBQ+ community himself, it was quite disheartening for him to hear the struggles these parents had to go through just to have their children receive medical attention.
During his fellowship, with the guidance and support of the division of pediatric endocrinology, he was able to cultivate his passion for transgender health and lay the groundwork for the Washington University Transgender Center at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. He has presented at local, regional and national conferences, as well as academic institutions outside of Washington University to promote LGBTQIA health equality.
His efforts were recognized by the Human Rights Campaign, the largest civil rights organization in the U.S. fight for LGBTQIA equality, after being voted as the 2017 Human Rights Campaign Equality Award recipient.
For more information about this group, please email the LGBTQ+ Family Support Network Ministry Leader, Barb Loechl.