One of the challenges that transgender people face as we seek out spiritual community is that all too often "LGBT" really only means lesbian and gay.  Congregations that call themselves inclusive are too often uneducated and ill-equipped to welcome a transgender person who walks through their door.

Each year, the fourth Sunday in January is designated as "International Welcoming Church Sunday." This is a time when congregations in many different denominations all celebrate our commitment to diversity – and in particular to affirming God's love for persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Observed at the beginning of a new year, Welcoming Church Sunday is an opportune time to reinvigorate our welcome with education about and exploration of the transgender experience. 

• TransFaith offers a "Where do we begin?" page that notes several books, curricula, and videos that might be useful in an adult education setting. Be sure to check out the new "Gender Identity and Faith Communities" curriculum that has just been released.

• Inquire with local LGBT centers and transgender support groups to see if there are speakers who might help you offer a panel presentation on transgender concerns during an adult education time.

• Consider taking up a special offering to support to support the development of the TransFaith speakers bureau -- or a local transgender support group or service organization.

• Review our InterSection on Finding a Spiritual Home to think about some of the issues involved in fully extending your welcome.

Most importantly, make a plan for how your congregation can begin to deepen its resolve to welcome and understand, to advocate and affirm people of all gender identities and expressions.