Church of the Saviour at the Syracuse Pride Rally
THE LGBT COMMUNITY
Is a Vital Part of the Congregation at Saviour
It is well known that the gay community has been an active part of most Anglo-Catholic parishes since the early part of the 19th Century – whether drawn by the aesthetic sensibility of Anglo-Catholic worship, a community that welcomed them, or the deep spirituality experienced in a liturgy that encompasses all the senses – from the visual richness of elaborate vestments and ritual, to the beauty of music, and even the aroma of incense rising to heaven with the prayers of the congregation.
The Episcopal Church today has openly gay and lesbian bishops and clergy, as well as women deacons, priests and bishops. Within the Diocese of Central New York and elsewhere, gay and lesbian couples can enjoy a fully sanctioned church wedding. At Saviour such an event will be one of dignity, beauty and celebration – long to be remembered. And the parish hall is available for receptions following the ceremony.
The congregation at Saviour comes from all parts of the Syracuse metropolitan area, including the nearby Hawley-Green Street neighborhood. Members range in age from newly baptized infants to octogenarians, and everything in between. Gay or straight you will find a warm, inclusive and welcoming community. Except during the summer months a coffee hour follows Mass every Sunday, providing an opportunity for people to get to know each other.
Members of the church participate in running the church’s food pantry and St. Ann’s Closet (which provides clothing to those in need free of charge). Men and women are equally welcome to join the Altar Guild (which prepares the church for Mass) and to be servers at the altar, assisting the priest at Mass.
With so many gay and lesbian couples adopting or having children these days, it’s good to know that Saviour is child friendly and has an active Sunday School, where children learn about God’s Love through the study of Old Testament heroes and heroines and the life of Jesus. And in the older members of the congregation you might just find a surrogate grandmother or two!