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Under God’s Queer Blessing, the evangelical women of the Leherheide church community celebrated Christopher Street Day 2024. I, Pastor Alexandra Wilken, experienced many beautiful moments in this joyful community. The atmosphere was marked by a feminine celebratory spirit and solidarity.

Last weekend, I had the great privilege of participating in Christopher Street Day 2024 in Leherheide with our congregation, and I can confidently say that it was a deeply moving and positive experience. Under the motto “Under God’s Queer Blessing,” we were able not only to celebrate but also to send a powerful message of hope and acceptance.

The participation of transgender individuals and female pastors in the church is a relatively new but extremely significant step in our evangelical community. For many of us who navigate outside traditional gender roles, it is an act of visibility and strength. Christopher Street Day gave us the unique opportunity to share our perspectives and experiences. It is essential that we raise our voices and show that we are part of this community—a community that recognizes and values all facets of human identity.

The celebratory atmosphere that surrounded us was infused with solidarity and joy. Amidst the music, the colorful banners, and the cheerful people, I felt the power of community, which serves as a safe harbor for many of us. This solidarity is not only a source of joy but also an invaluable comfort for all those who long for acceptance in a often challenging world.

As transgender pastors, we contribute in a special way to raising awareness of the concerns of the LGBTQ+ community within the church. Our presence serves as a letter of encouragement to all those who are often marginalized within the church. We seek to dismantle prejudices, build bridges, and spread an inclusive message that makes everyone feel loved and accepted. In a time when every voice counts, it is all the more important that we stand for diversity and respect.

By leading and participating in such celebrations, we help make God’s love and acceptance tangible for everyone. It is our deepest wish that, above all, the encounters that arise in these moments can offer healing and hope—not just for one day but for a lifetime.

What we experienced on this day was more than just a celebration of identity; it was a powerful testament to tolerance, respect, and the strength that lies within a community created by God. We are all children of God, ready to approach one another with open hearts and open arms. The love we share can transcend boundaries and build bridges—that is the true essence of our celebration and the faith that unites us.

Celebrating together was a beacon of light and a strong signal for all who were with us and who will carry this message far beyond the borders of the festivities. Let us continue to stand together, pray together, and grow together, with the assurance that God’s love is for everyone. God is Queer.