Open Table Liverpool
By Open Table Liverpool
Love is the Answer - International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia 2025
This sermon was given by the Revd Cate Jacobs at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for our monthly Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The readings were Acts 11:1-18 and John 13:31-35
Cate a dear friend and long term member of Open Table. Cate is also Curate at Speke All Saints and St Aidan’s and a published poet.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
I Love Easter - April 2025
This sermon was given by the Revd Alan Brooks at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for our monthly Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The readings were Acts 10:34-43 and John 20:1-18
The Revd Alan Brooks is a dear friend of Open Table Liverpool, a retired Head Teacher and part of the community at Crosby All Saints with St Frideswyde which hosts Open Table Sefton
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
The blessing of same sex marriage
This sermon was given by the Revd Dr Colin Hart at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for our monthly Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ community. The readings were Romans 15: 1-7 and Mark: 2:23-3:6.
Rev Dr Colin Hart has research degrees in both New Testament and Ethics, and taught both subjects for many years at St John’s College, Nottingham, a Church of England theological college. He has also been a vicar and taught in Grammar schools and a sixth-form college.
Colin has written four Grove Booklets on New Testament Ethics and has more recently co-authored school textbooks on Critical Thinking. He is currently Principal Examiner in Thinking Skills for Cambridge International and has permission to officiate in the Diocese of Chester. He is a member of the Liverpool and Wirral Open Table congregations.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Understanding the New Testament Teaching on Homosexuality: Must Bible-believing Christians be Anti-Gay?
We were delighted to welcome the Revd Dr Colin Hart to Open Table and St Bride’s to share a lecture on this important topic.
In his lecture, Colin looked in detail at the (sparse) New Testament teaching about same-sex attraction, sexual acts and relationships, in order to assess the widely-held view that “Bible-believing Christians” must condemn some or all of these.
Rev Dr Colin Hart has research degrees in both New Testament and Ethics, and taught both subjects for many years at St John’s College, Nottingham, a Church of England theological college. He has also been a vicar and taught in Grammar schools and a sixth-form college.
Colin has written four Grove Booklets on New Testament Ethics and has more recently co-authored school textbooks on Critical Thinking. He is currently Principal Examiner in Thinking Skills for Cambridge International and has permission to officiate in the Diocese of Chester. He is a member of the Liverpool and Wirral Open Table congregations.
To download a PDF copy of Colin's Powerpoint please click here.
To download a copy of the handouts Colin shared please click here.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Glitter Ash Wednesday - March 2025
This sermon was given by Mr Warren Hartley, LGBTQIA+ Ministry Facilitator for the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for our annual Glitter Ash Wednesday Service. The reading was Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21.Glitter+Ash exquisitely captures the relationship between Ash Wednesday and Easter -- which is the relationship between death and new life. We do not live in fear of ash - of death - we place it on our foreheads for the world to see. We know that fear will rise, cramping our hearts.We also know that God specifically calls us not to project that fear onto the Other, the alien, the stranger in our midst. God insists that we look for the spark of life, of hope, in ourselves and one another. This Ash Wednesday, we will make that spark easier to see. As Christians, we will witness to the gritty, glittery, scandalous hope that exists in the very marrow of our tradition.
Liz Edman, founder of the initiative says "what I was imagining with glitter + ash...the glitter from a drag queen's makeup falling to the floor, being swept up with the dust as that same drag queen walks home on darkened streets, risking life and limb by being their full self in view of others. This courage, this embrace of abjection, this determination to find joy while making queerness and beauty visible, audible -- all of this is the history and the conviction that I hoped we would smear on our foreheads for the world to see"For more about the initiative visit www.queervirtue.com/about-gaFor details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqiaOpen Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
LGBT+ History Month February 2025 – Blessings and Woes
This sermon was given by the Revd Tim Meadows, Moderator of the General Assembly of the United Reformed Church, the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for our monthly Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ community. The reading was Luke 6:17-26.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Hope in abundance - January 2025
This reflection was given by the Revd David Halliwell, Team Rector of St Luke in the City at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community.
The reading was John 2:1-11.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Trans Day of Remembrance 2024
This reflection was given by the Revd Lu Skerratt-Love, Assistant Curate of St Luke in the City at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community. as we honoured Transgender Day of Remembrance The readings were Isaiah 43:1-4 and Matthew 22:34-40.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
The Gospel of Love – October 2024
This reflection was given by the Revd Canon Amanda Bruce, Dean of Diveristy for the Diocese of Liverpool at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community. The readings were Romans 8:35-39 and Joh 15:9-17. For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
The Golden Rule – Bisexuality Awareness Week 2024
This reflection was given by the Revd Jenny Brady at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community. The reading was Matthew 7:1-14. For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
A Song of Hope & Joy - August 2024
This reflection was given by the Revd Nick Birnie-Campbell at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community. The readings were Isaiah 7:14-17 and Luke 1: 45-55. For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Episode Cover Art Image by Ben Wildflower with words from the Magnicat in Luke Chapter 1 https://benwildflower.com/
Be Heard: Celebrating Pride in Liverpool 2024
This reflection was given by the Revd Lu Skerratt-Love, Curate to St Luke in the City Team Ministry at the Celebrating Pride Service at Liverpool Cathedral on 28th July 2024. Liverpool Cathedral joined with the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool for a reflective service that brings us together and celebrates the vulnerability and visibility of pride. Come to celebrate that God hears us and loves us all equally. The readings were:
- 1 Kings 19:11-13
- Luke 19:28-40
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
The love of Christ is inclusive - Happy Birthday Open Table
This reflection was given by the Revd Canon Dr Robert Clack, Rector of Holy Trinity Wavertree for the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community.
We also celebrated the 16th Birthday of the Open Table Liverpool Community. You can ready more about our history here. The readings were:
- 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 & 14-17
- Mark 4:26-34
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
May your knowing be undone - Pentecost Sunday & IDAHOTB
This reflection was given by the Revd Mark Stanford, Vicar of Holy Trinity Formby on Pentecost Sunday for the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community.
We also marked International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia which is celebrated on 17th May each year. The readings were:
- Poem 'Blessing that Undoes Us' by Jan Richardson from Circle of Grace
- Acts 2:1-21
- John 15:26-27 and 16:4b to 15.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Encountering Jesus - Lesbian Visibility Day
This reflection was given by the Revd Dr Anne Kazich, GP and Priest in our parish, at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community. We also marked Lesbian Visibility Day which is celebrated on 26th April each year. The readings were Nehemiah 7:73b-8:12 and Luke 24:25-32. For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
We Want to See Jesus - Trans Day of Visibility
This reflection was given by the Revd Dr Sheryl Anderson, Chair of the Liverpool Methodist District, at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community. We also marked Trans Day of Visibility which is celebrated on 31st March each year. The readings were Jeremiah 31:31-34 and John 12:20-33. For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Queer Joy - Open Table Carol Service
This reflection was given by Lilly Nelson, at the Open Table Liverpool community Carol Service hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK
Lilly is an ordinand within the Church of England studying at Durham and a long term member of Open Table Liverpool. For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Transgender Day of Remembrance 2023
This sermon was given by the Revd Dr Alex Clare-Young, at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community as we honoured Transgender Day of Remembrance
The readings were:
- Judges 16: 6, 11-13, 17-21
- Luke 12:4-7
Alex is a URC minister, author, co-chair of the Open Table Network, a trustee of Inclusive Church and a consultant for One Body One Faith and member of Creating Sanctuary. For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Trans-Formations: Whatever Next - Why Trans Theology Matters
This lecture was given by the Revd Dr Alex Clare-Young as part of the Public Theology series of lectures at St Bride's Liverpool and hosted by the Open Table Liverpool community as part of Trans Awareness Week
For a copy of Alex's Presentation, click here
In this lecture Alex debunks myths about trans people and theology, introducing their upcoming book and exploring why trans theology by trans people matters. Alex is a URC minister, author, co-chair of the Open Table Network, a trustee of Inclusive Church and a consultant for One Body One Faith and member of Creating Sanctuary.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
In Advent Hope - Open Table Nantwich's First Birthday
This sermon was given by Warren Hartley, our LGBTQIA+ Ministry Facilitator at the invitation of Open Table Nantwich community hosted by Nantwich Methodist Church for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community as they marked their first birthday as a community.
The reading was John 1:6-8, 19-28.
For details on the Open table Nantwich community visit www.facebook.com/groups/1943088185892626
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Come to the Feast - National Coming Out Day - October 2023
This sermon was given by Fr Gerry Proctor, at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community as we marked National Coming Out Day and Asexual Awareness Week.
The readings were:
- Isaiah 25:6-10
- Matthew 22:1-14
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Julian of Norwich the "Radical Psychotherapist"
2023 marks the 650th anniversary of Julian of Norwich’s book, Revelations of Divine Love. On 7th October Open Table people gathered at the Cenacle Convent in Wavertree to explore this ‘ahead of its time’ work. Warren Hartley from Open Table gave this reflection on the day sharing Brian Thorne's idea that Mother Julian "may be seen as perhaps the most radical psychotherapist there has ever been and should be studied by every aspiring therapist."
The books from which the research for this reflection was taken are:
1. Infinitely Beloved: The Challenge of Divine Intimacy by Brian Thorne
2. Person-Centred Counselling and Christian Spirituality: The Secular and the Holy by Brian Thorne
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Marvellous Melody of Endless Love: Julian of Norwich
2023 marks the 650th anniversary of Julian of Norwich’s book, Revelations of Divine Love. On 7th October Open Table people gathered at the Cenacle Convent in Wavertree to explore this ‘ahead of its time’ work. Lou Ryan from Open Table gave this presentation on the life and times of Mother Julian at the start of the day.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Who do you say that I am? - September 2023
This sermon was given by the Revd Poppy Thorpe, Vicar of All Saints with St Frideswyde's Crosby, at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community. All Saints with St Frideswyde also hosts Open Table Sefton.
The reading was Matthew 16:13 to 20.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Faith not inhibited by categories – August 2023
This sermon was given by the Revd Canon Dr Crispin Pailing, Rector of Liverpool, at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community.
The reading was Matthew 15:21 to 28.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Open Hands - Pride at Liverpool Cathedral
This reflection was given by the Jen Williams, Verger at LIverpool Cathedral and Founder of Open Table Sefton at a service held at Liverpool Cathedral celebrating Liverpool Pride.
The reading was Luke 19:29-40
In the talk Jen mentions the wonderful Elizabeth Frink "Open Hands" statue above the main doors to the Cathedral. Jen advises the following correction: Elisabeth Frink sadly died a week *after* the statue was unveiled. She watched it from home on the television & her son went to the unveiling in her place. For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Non Binary Awareness Week 2023
This sermon was given by the Revd Cate Jacobs at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community.
The readings were:
1. Genesis 25:19-end
2. Matthew 13:1-9 & 18-23
In the Silence Name Me by Ted Loder
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Walking with Integrity - Happy 15th Birthday to Open Table - June 2023
This sermon was given by the Revd Cate Jacobs at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service celebrating our 15th Birthday.
The readings were Psalm 84, Romans 5:1-6 and Genesis 18:1-15
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia 2023 - Unity does not mean uniformity by Revd Dr Charlie Bell
This sermon was given by the Revd Dr Charlie Bell at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service celebrating International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia 2023. The reading was John 17:1-11
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Testing and Blessings - April 2023
This sermon was given by the Revd Dr Augustine Tanner-Ihm at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ Community. The reading was John 20:19-end
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Trans Day of Visibility 2023 - Abundant Love
This sermon was given by the Revd Dr Louis Johnson at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility 2023. The readings were Ephesians 5:8-14 and John 9.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
LGBT+ History Month February 2023 - A Gender Queer Baptism
This sermon was given by the Revd Laura Ferguson, Team Vicar of St Luke in the City, the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for our monthly Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ community. The readings were Acts 8: 26 to 39 and Matthew 17:1-9.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
This was an extra special service as community member Lou was baptised during the service
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Come and See - January 2023
This sermon was given by the Ven Mike McGurk, Archdeacon of Liverpool, at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for our monthly Communion Service for the LGBTQIA+ community. The readings was John 1:29-42.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Mike is the Archdeacon of Liverpool and has been a great friend, support and ally to our community and it was great to welcome him back. While Mike was here he also re-commissioned our LGBTQIA+ Ministry Facilitator which is included in this reflection.
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Queer Carol Service - Christmas 2022
This sermon was given by Mr Warren Hartley, LGBTQIA+ Ministry Facilitator at the Open Table Liverpool Queer Carol Service hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool. Every year Liverpool Open Table hosts the parish Carol service welcoming EVERYONE to celebrate Christmas.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Transgender Day of Remembrance 2022
This sermon was given by Ms Bethany Austin at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service marking Transgender Day of Remembrance 2022. The readings were Colossians 1:11-22 and Luke 23:33-43.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Bethany is an ordinand studying at Emmanuel Theological Colleague and a proud members of the Trans* community.
Transgender Day of Remembrance began in 1999 as a result of increasing anti-transgender violence and discrimination. The first memorial event was held in November 1999 to remember and honour Rita Hester, who was murdered on November 28th, 1998 in Boston, USA. Rita Hester’s murder — like most anti-transgender murder cases — is still unsolved.
Today is a special service where we gather to honour Transgender Day of Remembrance, to remember those who have died due to transphobia and to celebrate the survivors. FFI: https://tgeu.org/tdor/
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
National Coming Out Day Reflection
This sermon was given by the Revd Dr Ash Barker at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service celebrating National Coming Out Day 2022. The reading was Matthew 5:1-12.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Ash is originally from Australia and is a Leadership developer, shalom activist, speaker, author. and URC Minister in Winson Green Birmingham. He also leads ‘Seedbeds’ - growing leaders and communities into fullness of life. Ash will be talking about Creating Inclusive Spaces in our churches and our neighbourhoods.
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Trans Day of Visibility 2022 - Standing on Holy Ground
This sermon was given by the Revd Anne Lawlor at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility 2022. The reading was Mark 5:24-34
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Anne is a long term friend of Open Table LIverpool and is also a Team Vicar in Kirkby Liverpool. Anne is also undertaking an MA in Theology at the University of Chester and has been interviewing Open Table community members and hearing their stories which she describes as "standing on holy ground".
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Glitter Ash Wednesday March 2022
This sermon was given by the Mr Warren Hartley at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK on Ash Wednesday, 2nd March 2022. We took part in the global Glitter Ash initiative where folk received on their forehead the traditional ash but with a dash of glitter. Sounds frivilous but carries a deeply profound meaning. The reading was John 8:1-11.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Warren is originally from Sydney Australia and how calls Liverpool home with his husband Kieran. Warren is our LGBTQIA+ Ministry Facilitator at St Bride's and helps co-ordinate the Open Table Liverpool community.
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
LGBT+ History Month February 2022 - Weathering the Storm
This sermon was given by the Revd Sara Doyle at the Open Table Liverpool community hosted by St Bride's Church Liverpool, UK for a Communion Service celebrating LGBT+ History Month 2022. The reading was Luke 8:22-25.
For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Sara is a long standing friend of Open Table Liverpool. Sara is the Mental Health Chaplain to MerseyCare and an Associate Priest of our parish.
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt
Glitter Ash Wednesday 2020
Warren Hartley, our LGBTQIA+ Ministry Facilitator, with the Open Table ecumenical worship community for LGBTQIA+ Christians @ St Bride's Liverpool, Wednesday 26th February 2020. This year we took part in the international Glitter Ash Initiative. Glitter+Ash exquisitely captures the relationship between Ash Wednesday and Easter -- which is the relationship between death and new life. We do not live in fear of ash - of death - we place it on our foreheads for the world to see. The reading was John 8:1-11. For details on the Open table Liverpool community visit www.stbridesliverpool.org.uk/lgbtqia
Open Table is a network of ecumenical Christian worship communities which offer a warm welcome to people who are: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church. The first Open Table community began at St Bride’s Liverpool in June 2008. Now Open Table communities gather across England and Wales, hosted by inclusive churches in four denominations (Anglican, United Reformed Church, Baptist, Methodist). To find out when and where you can 'come as you are' visit www.opentable.lgbt