In our first survey of the LGBTQIA+ community in Congleton, in 2020, we learned that 63% of respondents reported experiencing some harassment or abuse in Congleton, with some believing that the influence of certain churches can be negative for LGBTQIA+ people.
As a result, we had a number of meetings with Rev. Ian Enticott from All Saints Congleton (which includes St Peter’s, St Stephen’s, St John’s in Buglawton and Holy Trinity at Mossley) and Rev. Murray George of the United Reformed Church.
The meetings were very productive and, as a result, the Churches have a joint stall at Congleton Pride events. Astbury St Mary’s and St John the Baptist at Smallwood have also joined in with this. Murray George is a member of the Congleton Pride team and has run Pride-themed services at the United Reformed Church.
The Churches we have worked with have all pledged to make LGBTQIA+ people feel welcome, supported and valued in their worship and at their events.
