Our Story

In the early hours of June 28, 1969, years of tension and discrimination came to a head when police raided the Stonewall Inn, an established LGBT bar in New York. The raid quickly descended into chaos and several nights of rioting ensued.

After the first night of what are remembered as the Stone Wall Riots, many found sanctuary in Christopher Park. It was here they began to take stock of what was beginning, and committed themselves to their campaign for inclusion. It proved a decisive moment in the campaign for LGBT+ inclusion and equality.

The arch above Creating Sanctuary is based on that which stretches over the entrance to Christopher Park. Whereas the one found in New York is beautifully adorned, ours is incomplete. It represents our progress and our, as of yet, unfinished campaign for inclusion and equality, and our belief that the Church should be a place of refuge where all are welcome - a sanctuary. We believe these are traits of our heavenly father. We believe these are traits of love.

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One year after the riots, on June 28th, 1970, the LGBT community took to the streets again, this time in New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Today, Pride marches take place all around the world as a celebration of love, and a campaign for greater inclusion. We are proud to be a part of this tradition.