October 11 is “National Coming Out Day,” an annual LGBTQ+ awareness day meant to support lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, non-binary, and transgender people in “coming out of the closet” and publicly living their full identities. Most any member of these communities could tell you a story or two about their coming out experience. It’s rarely easy and often comes after years, sometimes decades, of self-reflection and finding the courage to come out. Having the support of family, friends, and yes, faith communities, can make the experience that much easier. Sadly, it is still not safe for all people to be able to “live out,” often facing rejection by their family of origin, loss of employment, and even the threat of violence. But we also know that homophobia can only thrive in silence.
We invite the parishes, lay persons, and clergy of the Diocese of New Jersey to commit ourselves to making our houses of worship safe and welcoming spaces for people who are taking these important, brave steps toward freedom and self-realization. We must speak up and speak out against hate, discrimination, and violence. They need to hear our voices!
Trinity, Asbury Park, is one parish planning a special liturgy for that day.
Celebrate National Coming Out Day, Sunday, October 10
Join us on Sunday, October 10, at the 10am service as we celebrate National Coming Out Day at Trinity Asbury Park. Trinity will recognize this day with a special liturgy, shirts, giveaways and refreshments. “Come Out” and join us on Oct 10 at 10 am!
