LGBTQ+ in the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Indiana
The Episcopal Diocese of Northern Indiana is on a journey. Prior to 2016, this web page would not have existed on the diocesan website. But we are on a journey—a journey that is calling us to engage more fully with our LGBTQ+ siblings as we strive for full inclusion in the life of the diocese.
On December 1, 2016, The Right Reverend Dr. Douglas E. Sparks, VIII Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Indiana, issued a pastoral letter, On Marriage and Blessings, authorizing same-gender marriage and blessings within our diocesan borders. This included a process of implementation that was put in place for faith communities to consider. Several faith communities have completed the process outlined in the pastoral letter and have formally adopted an inclusive marriage policy, others are currently engaged in this process, and some have not yet engaged in the discussion. (Below is a list of faith communities that have self-identified as being LGBTQ+ welcoming.)
To our lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender brothers, sisters, and siblings: The Episcopal Diocese of Northern Indiana welcomes you!
Photo Album: South Bend Pride Festival 2023
For the first time, the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Indiana had a booth at the South Bend Pride Festival where we shared God’s love and showed support for our LGBTQ+ siblings.
Photo Album: Indy Pride 2019
The Episcopal Diocese of Northern Indiana partnered with the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis to participate in its very first Pride Parade and Festival!
LGBTQ+ Welcoming Faith Communities in Northern Indiana
Bristol
St. John of the Cross Episcopal Church
Crown Point
St. Christopher Episcopal Church*
Fort Wayne
Gary
St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church
St. Barnabas-in-the-Dunes Episcopal Church*
Huntington
Christ the King Episcopal Church*
Kokomo
LaPorte
Logansport
Marion
Mishawaka
Plymouth
St. Thomas/Santo Tomás Episcopal Church
South Bend
Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church
Valparaiso
Warsaw
(* Faith community has not formally adopted an inclusive marriage policy)
Information below from The Episcopal Church website. https://www.episcopalchurch.org/organizations-affiliations/lgbtq
For decades, LGBTQ+ Episcopalians and allies have worked to make The Episcopal Church a place of belonging and inclusion. We have prayed, studied, and discerned, and in doing so, we have seen the evidence of God’s blessing in the lives and love of our LGBTQ+ siblings in Christ.
In 2026, we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of our church affirming that LGBTQ+ people have a full and equal claim to the love, acceptance, and pastoral care of the church. The journey to make that promise a reality continues today, as we remember the struggles, celebrate the joy, and give thanks for love and for lives that refuse to be erased.
Today in The Episcopal Church, discernment for the ministries of bishop, priest, deacon, and lay leadership is open to all without discrimination. We celebrate and give thanks for the beauty, strength, and sacred worth of LGBTQ+ leaders across all contexts and callings.
We invite you to join us on the journey. You belong. No exceptions.