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Grace and peace to you in the liberating love of Christ.
We write to you as a community deeply committed to affirming the sacred worth of every person. In this time of increasing legislative activity around gender identity, we, as MCC leaders, are called to respond with courage, knowledge, and pastoral care.
Across our country, laws governing gender-affirming care for transgender and nonbinary minors are shifting rapidly. In many states, access to medical treatments such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and affirming procedures is being restricted or criminalized. In others, care remains protected but politically contested. Amid these changes, our ministry must remain rooted in compassion, vigilance, and prophetic witness.
As MCC, we urge our churches, lay leaders, and clergy to:
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Know your state's laws. Legal landscapes vary widely. Use trusted sources such as KFF’s Policy Tracker and FindLaw’s State Guide to remain informed. Your awareness protects not only your congregants, but also your church’s integrity and legal safety.
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Practice pastoral vigilance. Be mindful of inquiries from unfamiliar individuals or organizations. There are anti-trans organizations that are intentionally seeking to entrap trans-supporting organizations and leaders through dishonest "inquiries" for pastoral care. These are helpful questions to ask to make sure you are dealing with a credible person:
- What’s your name?
- What organization/publication are you with?
- How will this video be used?
- What’s the angle of this story?
- Are you presenting “both sides”?
- Can I see your credentials?
- Can I see your ID?
- Hang on while I google you.
If they can’t or won’t answer those questions, move on.
If you think you may have been the target of a malicious enquiry, please let Rev. Dexter Brecht [revdexterbrecht@mccchurch.net] and James Hartman [jameshartman@mccchurch.net] know. James can also assist with press releases and checking the authenticity of journalists and reporters.
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Protect the privacy and safety of trans youth and families. When in doubt, consult with legal counsel, denominational leaders, or MCC’s Public Policy Team. There are significant risks for our clergy, lay leaders and congregations around minor children in the current climate and we must remain vigilant.
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Equip and educate your leadership. Offer training on gender identity, trauma-informed care, and legal rights. Let our churches be places where trans youth and their families know they are spiritually and practically supported. At the same time, be cautious around minor children and ensure they are accompanied by their legal guardian/s; using ‘parental/guardian consent forms’ when such care and practical support is indicated and appropriate.
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Affirm MCC’s legacy of justice. Since our founding, we have been pioneers in LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Let us continue this holy work by advocating for trans rights, educating our communities, and embodying Christ’s radical hospitality.
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Identify your local allies and stay in communication with them. Now more than ever we must realize that we are stronger together and accurate information empowers us to make wise decisions in regard to our ministry and those we serve.
As Scripture guides us: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Defend the rights of the poor and needy." (Proverbs 31:8–9)
Holy One of Justice and Grace,
We lift our voices and hearts to you, burdened by laws that harm our beloveds.
Strengthen us to be vigilant and bold, compassionate and wise.
Give us holy discernment as we shepherd those entrusted to our care.
Bless our churches to be sanctuaries of truth, healing, and sacred affirmation.
And may your Spirit guide us as we rise for justice, speak in love,
and remain steadfast in our calling to affirm the divine in every child of God, regardless of age. In your many names we pray, Amen.
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