Metropolitan Community Church of Philadelphia Changes Name, Mission to Reflect LGBT Inclusiveness
Rev. Jordan-Pickett (far left) unveils the new church sign with Lay Delegate Renee Williams and Board Vice Moderator Arthur Martin Chester.
On Easter Sunday Metropolitan Community Church of Philadelphia (MCCP)’s Reverend Jeffrey H. Jordan-Pickett revealed that after 43 years, MCC would be changing its name, goals, and ministry plans to better reflect its LGBT-inclusive teachings.
“MCC is Philadelphia’s oldest LGBT organization,” says Jordan-Pickett, “so we wanted a name that defined us.” What did he and the church board come up with? “Whosoever Metropolitan Community Church.”
“The new name reflects the unconditional love of God,” he says, pointing to Bible verse John 3:16 as inspiration: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
The new name also comes with a revamped outreach plan that includes a monthly drag queen gospel brunch starting in June, connection groups, Bible studies, and even a meetup at Norristown gay bar Beagle Tavern. To further increase visibility outside church walls, Jordan-Pickett says he’ll set up outreach booths at 10 festivals throughout the year. “Last year we only did two: Pride and OutFest. But this year we will be at Equality Forum, the Trans Health Conference, Black Gay Pride, University of Penn orientation and others.”
Whosoever Metropolitan Community Church of Philadelphia is located in West Philly at 3637 Chestnut Street. Services are held every Sunday at 11 a.m. For more information, visit its website, call 215-873-5719, or email mccphila@aol.com.
