The United Church of Rockville Centre held its Community Pride worship service earlier this month, bringing together congregants, community members, public officials and visitors for a morning service featuring music, readings and fellowship.
The June 7 church service took place as part of the congregation’s centennial observance. The church, located at 430 Morris Ave., is an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ and states that it has a public commitment to welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals and their families.
The program included guest vocalists Kris Carrasco, Katie Travis and Eric Jordan Young, with Brian Sweeney accompanying on piano. Musical selections included songs from “Hercules,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” and “The Prom.”
During the service, the congregation reflected on the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. The message invited worshipers to consider how many LGBTQ+ people learn to hide parts of themselves in order to feel safe, and how Pride can become a way of recovering what fear taught people to hide. A participatory moment, “Sacred Mischief: Adding Color,” invited the congregation to help create a colorful stole as a sign of belovedness restored and carried together.
Following the worship service, attendees gathered for a reception on the church lawn. Guests received heart-shaped Pride pins.
Rev. Scott A. Ressman, pastor of United Church, addressed the congregation during the service.
“A Pride flag, a pin, or a sign can matter,” Ressman said. “Public symbols can help someone know they may be safer with you than in other places. But allyship does not stop with a symbol. It grows through listening, learning, speaking, and showing up when it matters.”
United Church has held its Open and Affirming designation for 22 years. During its centennial year, the congregation has described its mission as continuing its ministry in Rockville Centre.
