A pastor in New York shocked a church congregation as it was announced that he would be transitioning to a woman and would now be using she/her pronouns.
Wearing a rainbow stole, Reverend Phil Phaneuf told his congregation at North Chili United Methodist Church that he was going through a gender transition.
The 51-year-old said during the service: “I get to announce with joy that I am transitioning. I am affirming and saying to all of you that I am transgender.
“'The best way to put this is that I'm not becoming a woman, I'm giving up pretending to be a man.”
The announcement went viral online, sparking widespread debate and mixed reactions from the congregation.
This follows the controversial decision to remove the bans on the ordination of LGBTQ+ clergy members back in May 2024 by the General Conference, which is the highest legislative body of the UMC.
Whilst Phaneuf claims that the UMC are “absolutely” on board, it’s not the same for the parents of the veteran reverend.
“Are my parents okay with this? Absolutely not," Phaneuf said.
“They texted me this morning, and they asked me to tell you all that they do not support me.”
He concluded: “They have chosen their convictions and their beliefs over supporting their child.”
Phaneuf said their church has been “very affirming” since the announcement and that their commitment to Jesus Christ and ministry will remain the same.