Pastor Announces Gender Transition in Sermon
A pastor in New York has recently drawn national attention after sharing during a Sunday sermon that he identifies as transgender and is undergoing a transition to become a woman.
Philip Phaneuf, who serves at North Chile United Methodist Church in Rochester, made this revelation during a sermon on November 23. He mentioned that while his parents are not supportive of his decision, he firmly believes it is the right choice for him. Phaneuf will now be known as Philippa and will use feminine pronouns.
“I didn’t come into ministry to focus on my personal life, but sometimes personal experiences intertwine with the ministry,” Phaneuf noted. “So I invite you all to join me in a season of creative transformation for myself and everyone involved.”
“I’m pleased to share that I am transgender. I’m affirming that I am indeed transgender. The simplest way to say this is: I won’t be pretending to be a man anymore.”
Phaneuf described herself as “asexual,” indicating a lack of interest in relationships, and has begun hormone replacement therapy. “What might change? Well, perhaps my voice could get a bit higher,” she remarked.
According to Phaneuf, the response from the church has been largely positive. The congregation is characterized as a “small church in a rural town.”
The United Methodist Church lifted its restrictions on LGBT clergy and same-sex marriage in 2024. The results of that vote seemed almost predetermined, since many conservative congregations have left the denomination, dissatisfied with its stance on Biblical teachings. Numerous such churches have joined the Global Methodist Church, a new organization formed by conservative Methodists affirming traditional beliefs about marriage and sexuality. Overall, about a quarter of UMC churches in the United States have made the choice to leave.
The Book of Doctrine of the Global Methodist Church states: “We believe that human sexuality is a divine gift and should be celebrated when expressed within the context of a loving, monogamous marriage between one man and one woman. … While we uphold the Biblical view of sexuality and gender, we welcome all who wish to experience the grace of salvation.”
