News by email Donate

Suggestions

The-New-Room-in-Bristol-gay-pride-event-main_article_image.jpg
The New Room staff
UK News

John Wesley's chapel defends Bristol gay pride event

The New Room in Bristol allowed Christians at Bristol Pride - a group which organises events where lesbians and gay people are "affirmed unconditionally" - to host a "service of celebration" on Saturday.

Bosses at the landmark, which was built by John Wesley in 1739, told Premier they sought the backing of trustees and local leaders at the Bristol and South Gloucestershire Circuit before granting the booking.

Educational officer Rev Mandy Briggs: "We were approached by the group who were taking part in the Bristol Pride march [on Saturday] and wish to share God's love with everyone who takes part."

"We are allowed to hold appropriate services where trustees have agreed... but I want to stress that we do not marry gay couples and we are not allowed to bless gay marriages".

Jongleur100/Wikimedia Commons

In a resolution agreed 25 years ago, Methodists affirmed their commitment to "the traditional teaching of the Church on human sexuality", while acknowledging that no one should be barred from the Church on the grounds of sexual orientation.

The New Room said a protest organised by Pastor Dia Moodley of the city's Spirit of Life Church against the Christians at Bristol Pride event was attended by approximately a dozen people.

Expressing her support for Pastor Moodley, Andrea Williams, the chief executive of Christian Concern said: "The heritage of sound biblical teaching on human sexuality that was faithfully proclaimed by Christian men like John Wesley should be upheld by the church, not torn down.

"Methodism is dear to my heart, and I find it very sad to see buildings intended for the proclamation of the glorious gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ being used to celebrate a sexual lifestyle that He condemned."

Premier has contacted Christians at Bristol Pride for a comment.

Thousands of people attended Bristol Pride on Saturday.

Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.

News you can believe in. Stand with Premier Christian News today.

Your gift today ensures that Premier Christian News can press forward in strength, reaching more people with biblical truth and shaping the future of Christian thought. It’s more than just a donation—it’s an investment in renewed minds and transformed lives. 

Without continued support, the ability to create and distribute resources that strengthen faith and equip the church will be compromised. But with your help, we can grow deeper, stand firmer, and shine brighter in the culture.

Your support today is critical.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate