The LGBTQ community in America is represented by diverse ages, racial / ethnic backgrounds, religious convictions and belief systems. Using Gallup poll data taken from interviewing 1.6 million adults it is estimated that, as of 2017, approximately 10 million Americans identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Questioning representing 4% of the general population (and around 7.3 % of the population born between 1980 and 1998).

The LGBTQ social movement advocates for the full acceptance of LBGTQ people in society. Discrimination against the Community was pervasive until quite recently. For example, until 1990 Congress allowed a 1969 law which allowed for the exclusion of immigrants on the grounds they were homosexual to stand. The community has, however, made significant strides in social acceptance in the past twenty five years, culminating in the 2015 Obergefell v Hodges U.S. Supreme Court decision, by a 5-4 vote, which legalized same sex marriage in all 50 states.

Since the advent of the modern gay rights movement in 1969 Christians have been among those who have raised their voices for LGBTQ equality.

Hear our prayer today for our LGBTQ neighbors who live in fear of discrimination and violence because of their sexual orientation.

Dear God, we who are divided, prejudiced at times, inclined to misunderstanding, or intolerant– as we consider the needs of the LGBTQ community, make us instead united, loving, open to learning, understanding and forgiving and tolerant. May your Spirit be present in us, as in all peoples. Amen.