Array of rainbows and religions marks WorldPride interfaith service in DC

In Washington, people from various faiths came together at a worship service as part of WorldPride, a global LGBTQ+ festival hosted by the District of Columbia. The service, held at All Souls Church, Unitarian, featured drumming, prayers, and speeches emphasizing unity and inclusivity.

Rev. Darryl! Moch, a pastor from Virginia, emphasized the importance of being united despite differences in race, class, orientation, and faith. The service, a long-standing tradition during D.C.’s Pride events, was now part of WorldPride, attracting a diverse audience and faith leaders from around the world.

Various religious traditions were represented at the service, with rainbow symbols and spiritual practices such as a shofar blowing and Muslim prayers. While the focus was on love and peace, speakers also addressed political challenges and social issues, including HIV education and reproductive rights.

The service aimed to promote unity and understanding among different communities, with a call for advocacy and pastoral care for marginalized groups. Faith leaders signed an interfaith call to action, urging support for LGBTQ rights and affirming trans theologians.

Throughout the WorldPride celebration, religious dimensions were evident in various events, such as exhibits on LGBTQ+ Jewish history and honoring civil rights activists like Bayard Rustin. The overall message emphasized the importance of embracing diversity, inclusion, and social justice in faith communities.