Transgender Upstate New York Methodist Minister Reveals Gender Identity to Congregation at Sunday Service

The North Chili United Methodist Church near Rochester, New York, was filled with a quiet anticipation as congregants awaited a special announcement from their pastor. Rev. Dr. Phillippa Phaneuf addressed the church with a heartfelt revelation, sharing a deeply personal truth few clergy have ever publicly disclosed.

I am not leaving, she said at the start of the November 23 service, prompting laughter and relief among those gathered. Then, she revealed the truth she had carried for decades: I am transitioning. I am transgender. Im not becoming a woman; I am letting go of pretending to be a man.

Her announcement, later shared on her Facebook page, was met with supportive cheers and an atmosphere of understanding. The moment was not framed as a political statement, but as an act of pastoral honesty and spiritual openness. Phaneuf invited her congregation to join her in a season of creative transformation, rooting her disclosure in faith and community.

She encouraged reflection, asking, Imagine if your doctor told you your life could improve profoundlywould you listen? If you felt Gods presence in ways you hadnt before, might that be something God approves of?

What Remains the Same

Phaneuf reassured the congregation about continuity in her ministry: My commitment to fostering belonging remains. Our faith community thrives on it. My love for all of you continues to deepen.

She also shared practical changes. While her legal name would become Phillippa, she would still respond to Phil, Reverend Phil, or Pastor Phil, with a lighthearted note that Dr. Phil would not be appropriate. She explained the difference between gender and orientation, noting she identifies as asexual and is not seeking romantic relationships.

Changes and Community Support

Phaneuf described adjustments in her daily life, including a slightly higher voice and the use of she/her pronouns, while emphasizing flexibility and patience. She expressed hope that the church would become an even safer space for those marginalized in religious settings.

She confirmed that Methodist leadership, including the bishop, was supportive of her transition. Her announcement aligns with the United Methodist Churchs recent move toward LGBTQ+ inclusion, affirming human sexuality as sacred regardless of orientation or gender identity.

Family Response

Phaneuf also shared a painful personal moment: her parents had texted that morning, stating they did not support her. Despite this, she emphasized the love and support she receives from friends and the congregation.

The Path Forward

Three months into hormone therapy, Phaneuf described a renewed sense of happiness. She encouraged congregants to ask questions and participate in workshops and resources to support the church community during the transition. What has kept us together, she said, is what remains constantour love, service, and dedication to this community. May it continue.

Author: Caleb Jennings