Defining Welcome: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Genderqueer Christian Voices

Christian congregations’ approaches to people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+) have been influenced by non-affirming interpretations of several Bible verses. Consequently, for many LGBTQ+ Christians, religious spaces have been unwelcoming and negatively affected their well-being. Recently, many prominent Christian denominations have re-examined their approaches to LGBTQ+ Christians in light of different interpretations of scripture and a recognized need to create welcoming religious spaces for LGBTQ+ people. This study explored the concept of welcome in religious settings from the standpoint of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and genderqueer Christians. Participants reflected on their experiences with unwelcome in religious settings and what welcome has meant for them in LGBTQ+ affirming churches. The experience of welcome emerged through four themes – safety, visibility, audibility, and opportunity. Implications for ministry and social work practice are considered. Guidance for LGBTQ+ Christians undergoing a faith transition are also presented.