I always enjoy engaging with churches who are seeking to be more inclusive and affirming in relation to the LGBTQ+ community. Severn Church in Bristol (formerly Severn Vineyard) have made some courageous steps in seeking to ensure their church is a safe and affirming space, and as someone who was previously excluded from any form of leadership or meaningful participation in a Vineyard church due to my sexuality, it’s been a particular joy to watch their journey unfold! I recently visited the church on a Sunday to share my story and encourage the church as they continue to move towards inclusion and love.

Here’s what I originally wrote on Facebook to accompany the above image: “Well I’ll be honest people – speaking at a Vineyard church was definitely not on my 2025 bingo card. But you know what? Things change, people change, churches change, and sometimes that change is a courageous move towards goodness, inclusion and love. Posting this for the heartbroken younger version of me who was told they couldn’t lead, couldn’t speak or preach in a church because they were gay. Just look at us now kid.”