St John's Metropolitan Community Church

Overview

St John's Metropolitan Community Church is a part of the global movement of Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC), a denomination known for its LGBT-affirming stance and inclusive practices. Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, the church is listed as a religious organization and is a component of the Southern Hospitality Network of MCC churches.

Inclusion and Diversity

St John's MCC is deeply committed to inclusion and diversity, reflecting the broader values of the MCC movement. The church welcomes people of all ethnic backgrounds, including European, African, Asian, Hispanic, and Native American heritage. It also embraces gender diversity, with members from the LGBTQ+ community actively participating alongside straight and questioning individuals. The congregation spans various age groups and socioeconomic strata.

Mission and Values

The mission of St John's MCC centers around encouraging authenticity, transparency, and inclusion in its members' faith journeys. The church's vision is rooted in community building, fostering relationships, and spreading love. The core values, as outlined by the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches (UFMCC), include Inclusion, Community, Spiritual Transformation, and Social Action.

Movement and Affiliations

As part of the MCC movement, St John's MCC is linked to a network of LGBT-affirming churches across several states in the southeastern United States. This network, known as the Southern Hospitality Network, includes churches in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. St John's MCC plays an active role in promoting justice and equality, aligning with the broader MCC ethos of being a prophetic voice for marginalized communities.

Historical Context

The MCC movement was founded in 1968 by Rev. Troy Perry in Los Angeles, making it one of the first Christian denominations to actively welcome and minister to the LGBTQ+ community. Since its inception, MCC has grown to have a presence in over 37 countries, with St John's MCC contributing to this global effort by providing an inclusive and supportive environment for all members.

Significance

St John's MCC, like other MCC congregations, is significant not only for its role in religious inclusivity but also for its contributions to social justice, particularly in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Its commitment to community and spiritual transformation makes it a vital part of the MCC movement's ongoing mission to create spaces where all people can be valued and accepted.