There will be music and dancing in Reading this weekend (30 August) as Reading Pride hits the streets.
Anyone taking part in the procession or in the town centre will be welcomed to Reading Minster with refreshments and a smile.
Reading Pride chair Kirsten Bayes explained why the event is important for the LGBTQIA+ community. She said: “Pride is important because most people who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community have an experience, as they go through their lives, of feeling a little bit isolated and different from the people around them. Pride provides a venue and a space for people to come together and be with their friends and in a way feel God’s love for them.”
Kirsten is also one of the founders of Open Table Reading, which marks its fifth year in November. The ecumenical communion service takes place once a month at the Minster, welcoming all, especially LGBTQIA+ worshippers.
She added: “It began as something small and has grown into around 20 regular attendees. We have great speakers and great music too! And the Holy Spirit is definitely there.”
Read about the diocese's LGBTQIA+ chaplaincy and its work.