The Dioceses of Kansas and West Missouri came together to celebrate a special Pride Mass on Saturday, June 8, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Kansas City, MO. Bishop Cathleen Bascom presided with Episcopalians from both sides of the state line worshipping together to affirm that all are welcome in the Episcopal Church.
Following the Pride liturgy, those wishing to join the Pride parade made the short walk to the Westport neighborhood of Kansas City to take their spot in line. Parishes were encouraged to bring signs and/or banners identifying their churches. The parade route was approximately 2 miles in length, ending at Pridefest located at Theis Park in front of the Nelson Atkins Museum. The festival went throughout the weekend, featuring national recording artists, vendors, food trucks, family activities, and more.
Many in the LGBTQIA+ community have experienced rejection by the faith traditions they were raised in. The Episcopal Church affirms that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, is a beloved child of God, and is invited to practice their faith as their authentic self.
For those Episcopalians attending Pride KC, their participation was a way to show love and support to the LGBTQIA+ community during Pride month.
The Rev. Dr. David S. Cox of St. Michael and All Angels, Mission said, “It’s important for us to be present at community events like this to show that we actually care for people where they are.”
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