At Affirming Pentecostal Church in Memphis, we believe that every person is created in God's image and deserves to experience the fullness of spiritual life. We are a community where Trans Christians can worship authentically, connecting with God without hiding who they are. Our journey is one of celebrating divine love in all its expressions.
Our Purpose
We exist to create a sacred space where Trans individuals and allies can experience the transformative power of God's love. We believe in building bridges between faith and identity, healing religious trauma, and fostering authentic Christian community that celebrates diversity. Our purpose is to demonstrate that spirituality and sexuality are gifts from God to be embraced, not aspects of ourselves to be denied.
Our Mission
Our mission is to bring the inclusive love of Christ to those who have been marginalized or wounded by religious institutions. We strive to create a community where all can pray, worship, and grow in faith without fear or shame. Through authentic worship, supportive fellowship, and affirming theology, we help people reconcile their faith and identity, finding wholeness in God's unconditional love.
"There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."
Galatians 3:28-29
Our Values
Radical Welcome
We believe in extending Christ's welcome to all, especially those who have been excluded from religious spaces. Our welcome is not just tolerance, but genuine celebration of the diverse ways God creates and loves each person. We affirm that Trans identities are a divine gift to be celebrated.
Authentic Faith
We encourage authentic expression of faith that integrates all aspects of identity. We believe that spiritual growth flourishes when we can bring our whole selves before God. Our community supports each person's journey of reconciling faith and identity.
Holy Spirit Leadership
We embrace the Pentecostal tradition of being led by the Holy Spirit, believing that God's Spirit moves in ways that often challenge human boundaries and prejudices. We trust in the Spirit's guidance as we build an inclusive church.
Healing Community
We create space for healing from religious trauma and rejection. Through support groups, pastoral care, and loving community, we help people recover their faith and discover that they are beloved children of God, exactly as they are.
Our Affirming Beliefs
Divine Image
We believe that every person, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, is created in God's image and is worthy of love, respect, and full inclusion in the body of Christ.
Love's Sacred Worth
We affirm that love between consenting adults is sacred, and that committed Trans relationships can be holy expressions of God's love. We celebrate these relationships and support couples in their spiritual journey together.
Identity as Gift
We believe that sexual orientation and gender identity are divine gifts. We reject interpretations of scripture that condemn Trans people, and instead embrace theological perspectives that affirm the goodness of diverse identities.
Inclusive Grace
We believe God's grace and gifts are available to all believers, regardless of orientation or identity. We affirm Trans individuals in ministry leadership and celebrate the unique perspectives they bring to understanding God.
Our Leadership Team
Pastor Sarah Johnson Lead Pastor
With over 15 years of experience in inclusive ministry, Pastor Sarah leads our congregation with compassion and wisdom. Her focus on healing and affirmation helps people reconnect with their faith.
Rev. Michael Chen Associate Pastor
Rev. Michael leads our community outreach and support groups, bringing his experience in Trans advocacy and pastoral care to create spaces of belonging and growth.
Dr. Rachel Martinez Worship Director
Dr. Martinez brings together traditional Pentecostal worship with inclusive language and themes, creating powerful worship experiences that celebrate all of God's people.
Alex Thompson Youth & Young Adult Minister
Alex leads our youth and young adult ministry with a focus on creating safe spaces for Trans youth to explore their faith and find community support.