Dear Beloved LGBTQIA+ Clergy and Parishioners of the Diocese of Long Island:
Today marks the 55th Anniversary of the beginning of the Stonewall Uprising. Amid our celebrations of Pride Month and this particular day in history, I extend my heartfelt greetings and profound gratitude for your unwavering dedication and service within our diocese. This significant milestone not only marks a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards full inclusion and equality.
As I write this message from Louisville, Kentucky, where we are holding the General Convention of the Episcopal Church, I want to acknowledge the historic exclusion and marginalization that the LGBTQIA+ community has faced within the institutions of the church.
Over the course of many centuries of Christianity, it was just 20 years ago that Gene Robinson was elected as the first “out” gay diocesan bishop in the Worldwide Anglican Communion. While many of us celebrated this event, others reacted harshly. Violent threats were so numerous and intense that Bishop Robinson had to wear a bulletproof vest at his consecration. Recognition of both the early history of the church, and our very recent history, is essential as we work toward a better future: a future rooted in full inclusion, love, acceptance, and justice.
Just two days ago at General Convention, we elected a new Presiding Bishop. Presiding Bishop-Elect Sean Rowe, and indeed the entire slate of nominees, reflect a collective commitment to inclusion and advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQIA+ community. This progress is a testament to the persistent efforts and courage of individuals like yourselves who have worked tirelessly to ensure that our church embodies the love and inclusivity that Christ taught us.
I am particularly encouraged by the numerous Pride events that have taken place across our diocese. The growth of these events, and our visible participation in them, is a powerful testament to our commitment to celebrating and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community and declaring that we are ALL made in God’s image.
As we move forward, let us continue to build a church where every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, is celebrated and affirmed. Your presence and leadership are invaluable to this mission, and I am deeply grateful for your contributions.
May God bless each of you richly during this Pride Month and beyond. Let us march forward together, embodying the inclusive love of Christ in all that we do.
With love and blessings,
The Rt. Rev. Lawrence C. Provenzano
Bishop of Long Island