Pastor Announces Gender Transition
Reverend Phillip Phaneuf of the North Chili United Methodist Church in Upstate New York recently shared with his congregation that he will be transitioning to identify as a woman.
During a late November service, Phaneuf, who is 51, addressed church members while wearing a rainbow stole, highlighting significant personal changes.
“I didn’t get into ministry to talk about myself,” Phaneuf explained, having removed the beard seen in his official church photograph. “But sometimes, personal matters come into play in ministry, and I’m inviting you all to join me in this transformative season for both myself and, perhaps, for all of us.”
He likened this personal revelation to a doctor’s advice that could dramatically improve one’s outlook on life.
“I am transitioning. I affirm that I am transgender,” he proclaimed. “To put it simply, I’m not becoming a woman—I’m abandoning the pretense of being a man.”
Phaneuf described this journey as one that invites God’s Holy Spirit for grace and peace. He urged the congregation to consider their feelings regarding the uncertainty of change.
The pastor maintained that his core commitment to “the good news of Jesus Christ” would remain unchanged. He also announced his new name, Phillippa Faye Phaneuf, while expressing a preference to still be called Pastor Phil or Reverend Phil.
“I’m not going to be the pronoun police,” he reassured the attendees. “I trust that no one will misgender or mis-pronoun out of malice.”
Regarding his appearance, he mentioned that changes would be evident, playfully noting that looks alone didn’t earn him his position. He added that his voice might sound higher as he had already started hormone replacement therapy.
The pastor emphasized that his transition has the support of scriptures, Methodist theology, and church officials. He mentioned that even biblical texts recognize “more than two” genders.
However, he did acknowledge that his parents do not support his decision and wanted their stance communicated to the church.
Phaneuf also identified as asexual, explaining that he had not sought romance for some time, which he found perfectly acceptable.
“I’m not living my life in a way where I’m looking for romance, and that’s okay!” he stated.
He shared a video of his announcement on social media, coupled with selfies featuring feminine makeup and earrings.
“Since coming out to my congregation, the support has been overwhelmingly positive!” he told the press.
Last year, the United Methodist Church updated its policies to better include LGBTQ individuals, affirming sexuality as “a sacred gift” pertinent to all, regardless of orientation or identity.
“The United Methodist Church commits to befriending and caring for all individuals, including those in the LGBTQ community,” the church stated.
