Matthew 25 In Action: Celebrating Love and Inclusion at the First Annual Presbytery-Wide Pride Service

On June 1st, Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church will make history by hosting the 1st Annual Presbytery-Wide Pride Service, an event that embodies the heart of the Matthew 25 Initiative—affirming that what we do matters to God and how we treat others is important to God. Rooted in the gospel call of Matthew 25:31-46, this vibrant gathering uplifts congregational vitality, actively works to dismantle structural racism, and affirms LGBTQIA+ people who have long been on the margins of church life and society.

A Joyful Invitation to Celebrate

Churches, pastors, members, and allies are invited to join in a morning of worship, music, and celebration. This isn't just a service—it’s a joyful declaration of God's inclusive love.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, June 1st

  • Time: 9:30 AM

  • Location: Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church, 875 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14222

  • Communion will be served

Rather than holding regular worship services, congregations are encouraged to attend as one unified body. Wear your brightest rainbow attire 🌈 and bring your full, open-hearted selves to this sacred space of welcome.

More Than Worship: Pride in Action

Following the service, participants will step out onto the church lawn to witness—or march in—the local Pride Parade, which will pass directly in front of Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian. Those who wish to walk in the parade may join University or Westminster Presbyterian Church’s groups as visible witnesses to God’s love for all.

What to Bring:

  • Friends and fellow worshipers

  • Lawn chairs or picnic blankets

  • Snacks/lunch and plenty of water

  • Rainbow gear to show your pride

  • Cash for local vendors and donations

  • A spirit of joy, justice, and inclusion ❤️

Inclusive Options for All

  • Livestream the Service: Watch from home or host a viewing at your church at 9:30 AM.

  • Recorded Service: Available around 10:30 AM for post-event playback.

  • Alternative Liturgy: Resources are available for congregations who cannot attend but wish to participate in the spirit of Pride and inclusivity.

A Living Witness to the Gospel

This Pride Service affirms the dignity and belovedness of LGBTQIA+ siblings in Christ. It reflects the Matthew 25 commitment to dismantling the walls of exclusion that have too often silenced queer voices in faith communities. It calls the church to be a living witness to radical hospitality, boldly proclaiming that all are welcome in God’s house.

When the Body of Christ gathers—diverse in identity, united in love—congregational vitality flourishes. In standing against discrimination and lifting up the marginalized, we move one step closer to the kin-dom of God.

Let us worship, celebrate, and march—not just for Pride, but for justice, unity, and the boundless love of Christ. 🌈✝️

For questions or to RSVP for the shuttle, contact Rev. Holly Clark-Porter at holly@fredoniapres.org or 302-530-3221.

Sources:

Presbytery of Western New York Newsletter : Presbytery of WNY Pride Service and Parade

Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church
875 Elmwood Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14222

Presbytery of Western New York
3014 Delaware Avenue, Unit 4126
Kenmore, NY 14217

Matthew 25 In ActionMark Bennett