LGBT Ministries

On May 2, 1999, St. Stephen’s passed a resolution to make an addition to its mission statement to welcome and affirm all people without regard to differences, including sexual orientation. Since then, we have continued to live out this statement of inclusion in our church and offer people of all sexual orientations and gender identities a place to worship and be celebrated as active members of a progressive faith community.

In 2008, St. Stephen’s became an official member of the Reconciling Ministries Network. Through its Reconciling Ministries Committee, St. Stephen's works for full participation and acceptance of ALL people in the United Methodist Church. We do so by supporting those individuals, groups or actions that assist us in the breaking down of barriers or divisions that separate God’s family and hinder personal self–expression. We affirm the mission statement of St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church and will strive to reach out to those who have need of a religious presence in their lives.

St. Stephen's supports the LGBT community by hosting YOTSO (Youth Open to Sexual Orientation) for young people and by serving as the meeting place for PFLAG (Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.) St. Stephen's currently offers a Sunday School class called "Exploring the Theology of Welcome," looking at theology through the lens of total inclusiveness. 

St. Stephen's provides a nurturing and accepting family of faith for LGBT individuals and their families. 

Walking the Walk: Members of St. Stephen’s helped raise more than $3,850 for the 2012 AIDS Walk in Oklahoma City. Once again, we were one of the top teams in terms of number of walkers and funds raised.