Our LGBTQIA+ Chaplaincy Service is designed to create a safe space where anyone can be confident that their lived experience is listened to with compassion and respect and that there is appropriate pastoral and spiritual care available.
This page tries to answer questions you may have about the service. If you would like to suggest a topic for this page, please email inclusion@oxford.anglican.org
Who are the chaplains?
Our chaplaincy service team encompasses people from a range of theological backgrounds and perspectives, covering the geographical spread of the Diocese of Oxford. They are lay and ordained and of diverse sexualities.
Click here for further information about the chaplains, the gifts they bring to their role, and how to contact them.
How do I know that it’s safe to talk to a chaplain?
Our chaplains offer non-judgmental listening and support, and prayerful affirmation for LGBTQIA+ people, their families and friends. The chaplains are committed to, and understand the need for, complete confidentiality. Nothing you share with them will be passed on to a third party without your permission (with the proviso that the chaplains operate within safeguarding best practice).
What is your stance on conversion therapy?
We believe that everyone is made in God’s image, that all are welcome in His church and that everyone has a place at the table. Our chaplaincy team fully affirms and works in line with the vote by General Synod that backed a motion calling for a ban on the practice of Conversion Therapy.
How do I get in touch? Can I self-refer?
Simply use the contact form to get in touch with a chaplain you think you would most like to talk to or choose 'I'm not sure/I don't mind'. A chaplain will contact you through the contact details you provide.
There's no need for anyone to refer you, so do get in touch if you'd like a conversation with a chaplain or if you have any questions.
I’m under 18, or concerned about a young person
We are not able to offer the LGBTQIA+ Chaplaincy Service to children and young people at this time; users of the chaplaincy service must be over 18. However, our chaplains have a resource list for anyone getting in touch with them about a child or young person.
What will happen?
Following your self-referral the chaplain will contact you to talk through the kind of support you think you feel you need, and how that might best be provided. This might be meeting up, talking on the phone, or video calls.
There is no single model of support and the chaplain will endeavour to tailor their support to best meet your needs.
How many times will we meet or talk?
How often you meet or talk is something that you and the chaplain will discuss and agree. Some people meet with a chaplain just the once, others will meet several times over a period of time.
Where will we meet?
We understand that a church building may not suit you. The chaplain will have a range of options as to where, and whether, you might meet. Please let the chaplain know if you have a preference for type of meeting location - your choices and needs will be respected. There is also the option to talk on the phone, or by video call rather than meet up in person.
Is it free or do I need to pay a fee?
The service is completely free of charge to those who use it. The LGBTQIA+ Chaplaincy Service is funded by the Diocese of Oxford and operated by volunteer chaplains who are commissioned and supervised by the diocese.
How are the chaplains accountable?
The LGBTQIA+ Chaplaincy Service is accountable to the Bishop’s staff of the Diocese of Oxford. It is managed by a Reference Group which is chaired by the Associate Archdeacon of Dorchester. The Reference Group meets regularly to review progress.
Chaplains receive quarterly group supervision and yearly training and resourcing.
However, if you do not think you have received the kind of support you expected, then please email inclusion@oxford.anglican.org.
Can I promote the service at my church?
Yes, please do. You can download the poster to print and display at your church. We also have Chaplaincy postcards with information about this service on one side, and an affirming prayer on the other - please get in touch to order some of these to display or hand out.
Get in touch if you'd like a chaplain to come and speak with your group or at your event.
Resources and more support
Two:23 is a network of Christians in the UK connected by LGBT+ issues. All are welcome at their events.
SupportU is a charity based in Reading but works throughout the Thames Valley, particularly working with schools.
Samaritans are a charity who are available 24/7 to listen to whatever you're going through. You can call them for free at any time on 116 123 or send them an email.
Stonewall has a list of LGBTQ+-inclusive organisations that can provide a range of support and help.
What is Living in Love and Faith (LLF)?
LLF resources draw together the bible, theology, science and history with powerful real-life stories designed to help every Christian explore questions of identity, sexuality, relationships, and marriage. Find out more about LLF.
The LGBTQIA+ Chaplains are outside the LLF process but are here to have conversations with you if you would like to discuss anything which the LLF discussions raise for you.