Village Church is an exciting new development within the Diocese of Manchester. Revd Paul Pritchard, one of those tasked with leading the church, states... "It is a church and chaplaincy service in the Village, working for and with the LGBTQ+ community". The church meets for worship on the second and fourth Sundays of each month at the LGBT Foundation on Sackville Street and is a safe place for all to come together and worship.
The Diocese of Manchester have responded to an invitation from the LGBT Foundation to create a chaplaincy within the village. A small team of clergy including Rev Michaila Roberts, Rev Cath Eccles and Rev Paul Pritchard will lead the church with the clear message that the love of God in Jesus Christ is for everyone; all are welcome, all are cherished, all are loved and celebrated for who they are.
Rev Paul Pritchard reflects on his hopes for the Village Church
"We truly hope that Village Church will be a safe space for LGBTQ+ people and allies, and in developing an inclusive and affirming community we might go some way to repairing any hurt LGBTQ+ folk have experienced in the past because of the church. All are welcome, All are welcome, All are welcome in this place!"
Photo above (left to right): Rev Cath Eccles; Rev Michaila Roberts; Rev Paul Pritchard; Rev Jide Macaulay
We caught up with some of the team as they discussed their thoughts and hopes for Village Church. Watch their discussion below: