United Methodist Pastor Comes Out As Transgender Mid-Sermon — Who Is Rev Phil Phaneuf And What Was The Church's Response?

United Methodist Church leaders were informed beforehand and expressed support, allowing him to continue in his role. (Credit: Phil Phaneuf/Facebook)

During a Sunday service at North Chili United Methodist Church in Rochester, New York, senior minister Phil Phaneuf told his congregation that he is transgender. The announcement was made from the pulpit on 23 November during the sermon.

Phaneuf said he has begun hormone replacement therapy and will change both his name and pronouns to reflect his gender identity. He also confirmed that senior church leadership had been informed in advance and supported his decision, according to US media reports.