While “Just be yourself” are words many hear while growing up, for some, that is not an easy path to follow, nor often a safe one. Recognizing this, the LGBTQ+ Ministry Team at The Church of the Palms, United Church of Christ, 14808 N. Boswell Blvd., is hosting a service led by gay members and their allies 10 a.m. Sunday, June 30.

Team members will tell their stories as gay people, allies or as parents of gay and transgender people. They will talk about how they navigate their lives and how the church supports and comforts them in their walk with God. The service is open to everyone, regardless if they are members of the church.

The LGBTQ+ Ministry is part of the church’s Social Justice Action Team and its task is to celebrate the diversity of all of God’s creations through unconditional love, justice and extravagant welcome. In its initial mission statement, the group said its role was to serve as a sanctuary, a place to embrace activities for the LBGTQ+ and to expand inclusiveness, create understanding and activism through its message of support.

The team and its director, Georgia Feiste, as well as its outreach programs, have celebrated the success of their mission for the past year and a half, including participation in local Pride parades, hosting a booth twice at the Rainbow Festival and celebrating Trans Remembrance Day.

The opening hymn at the June 30 Sunday service is “I See the Face of God in You,” followed by quotes of gay men and women who have lived throughout history. The Rev. Jim Alexander, one of the pastors and the group’s advisor, will provide special music as part of the service. Andy Jordan, who is a member of the LGBTQ+ Ministry Team, will share the message, “My most overwhelming problem became my greatest blessing.” His message offers an alternative way to see God’s communication and leadership through the Holy Spirit.