On 28 June, our council area (Mid and East Antrim) will host its first ever Pride Parade in Ballymena. This marks a bold and beautiful step forward for diversity, inclusion, and cross-community solidarity in a place where those values haven’t always been easy to come by.
Unsurprisingly, there’s been some pushback from certain religious communities. Much of it, sadly, still rooted in fear, misinformation, and a fundamental misunderstanding of the nature of God’s love.
But here’s the good news: there’s another kind of Christian witness. One that doesn’t stand at the edge throwing stones, but walks alongside our LGBTQIA+ brothers and sisters in love, solidarity, and celebration.
Because let’s be absolutely clear, LGBTQIA+ people of faith are not fringe figures in the life of the Church. They are the Church. Their stories, gifts, and spiritual insights are not just valid, they’re vital. Without them, the church is not whole – WE are not whole.
So if you’re a person of faith wondering what you can do, here’s a place to start:
* Walk with Christians at Pride NI in the parade.
* Join us for outdoor communion at the form-up area from 1pm (back of Waveney Road)
* Cheer, encourage, celebrate, and show up with love.
* Pray for peace, courage, and a spirit of compassion to prevail.
And if your church or denomination is still pushing anti-LGBT theology, don’t be afraid to speak up. Challenge the assumptions. Ask better questions. Change often starts not from the top, but from the pews, the living rooms, the quiet conversations between friends.
This is a chance to move the needle; from fear toward love, from silence toward solidarity.
Let’s follow the Spirit and help make history in Ballymena. Not just by marching, but by embodying the radically inclusive love of Christ. Hope to see you there!
Grace and Peace ♥️🛟
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