Supporting and Affirming the Faith of LGBTQIA+ People

All Sacraments for All People

We are an inclusive and affirming parish which supports the spiritual growth and faith of all people, including LGBTQIA+ people. We are intentional about including in our parish family those who the Church and Society often push to the margins. We believe that our baptisms have made us all members of the one body of Christ; in Christ there are no margins, no borders, no outsiders.

All of the Sacraments of the Church are offered to all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender expression. This includes Marriage, the Baptism of LGBTQIA+ people and their children, Confirmation, Confession, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Communion. You are always welcome to worship with us at Mass and to receive Holy Communion. If you are interested in any other Sacraments or Rites of the Church (such as Last Rites or Funerals), please contact our priest, at rectorstmartinsnj@gmail.com.

Supporting and Affirming the Sacred Identity of Trans People: A Service of Renaming

One of the most sacred actions undertaken by a trans person is the choosing of a new name. One’s name is intricately tied to one’s identity- and we believe to the divine image that we each bear. The Service of Renaming is rooted in the stories of our forebears of faith whose names were changed as they heard God calling them to a new life or a more authentic acceptance of their true identities: Sarai’s name was changed to Sarah; Jacob’s name was changed to Israel; Simon’s name was changed to Peter. This service is a way to prayerfully and liturgically celebrate and bless the new name that a trans person has chosen. This celebration does not negate nor replace their baptism; rather, it acknowledges with thanksgiving the grace and courage that has been given by the Holy Spirit to enable these persons to live more authentically as they understand how the image of God is reflected in their own lives and identities. It is a service of blessing and affirmation of their identities.

The Service of Renaming is available to all trans people who desire to have their new name blessed and affirmed by the Church. You do not need to be an Episcopalian or a member of St. Martin’s Church. Contact our priest for more information at rectorstmartinsnj@gmail.com.