OGDEN, N.Y. — Pastor Philippa Faye Phaneuf of the North Chili United Methodist Church came out as transgender during a worship service on Nov. 23. News10NBC’s Erin Mahon spoke with Phaneuf and members of her congregation about the announcement.
“I’m affirming and saying to all of you that I am transgender,” Phaneuf said during the service.
Phaneuf, who has served in ministry for 20 years and more than six years at the North Chili church, emphasized that while her appearance may change, her dedication to her role remains steadfast. She told her congregation she was not “becoming a woman” but “giving up pretending to be a man.”
“There have been signs, but I would say in particular this year is where clarity really came to the forefront,” Phaneuf said. She added that she knew she was ready when she gained the confidence to discuss hormone replacement therapy with Planned Parenthood. She first told church leaders, who affirmed her decision to tell the congregation.
While one person walked out during her announcement, most congregants stayed to show their support. Sue Josephson, a 48-year member of the church, expressed her concern for Phaneuf and the congregation’s reaction, but she wasn’t shocked by the news.
“Nowadays not a whole lot shocks me at this age,” Josephson said. “But concern over how she was feeling and how the congregation was going to take it.”
Phaneuf’s story gained national attention after a New York Post article, leading to thousands of comments, mostly positive. The hateful comments don’t tarnish what she calls her experience of “trans joy” right now. She says they’re uncreative, copy-and-paste comments. She views the current spotlight as an opportunity for ministry and to reach more people.
“I love them. We still love them…a dear friend taught me years ago that change is loss,” Phaneuf said in response to those who left the church.
Josephson affirmed her support for Phaneuf, saying, “Phil can’t go. We need her here. She’s a good leader. The message is always the same. Loving kindness, inclusiveness, respect.”
Both Josephson and Phaneuf expressed that those who left are always welcome back if they feel comfortable. Phaneuf hopes her announcement will make the church even more of a safe haven for marginalized community members.
The United Methodist Church recently updated its Book of Discipline, allowing regional conferences more autonomy in deciding their stance on LGBTQ issues. Phaneuf says this was an important part of her decision to come out when she did.
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