SOCIAL JUSTICE
LGBTQIA+ Engagement and Support
As the national tenor toward the Queer community has increasingly become more negative, we have sought to amplify our voice of welcome. We are consistent participants in the efforts of Ridgefield CT Pride. We have been at Ridgefield’s Pride in the Park since its inception. In our own space, we tell the stories of Queer Episcopalians, both past and present, who have lived lives of faith.
Dismantling Racism
2020 brought to many of our attention, for the first time, the severity of the disparity in the USA between people who identified as white and those who know themselves as Black. Through sermons and podcasts and books and discussions, many people at St. Stephen’s sought to eliminate their blindness to racism and effectively contribute to the efforts of Black leaders. We began our Concert in celebration of Black History in 2020 and increased the incorporation of Black Christians, both past and present, through story and song. We know that the population of Black Americans in Ridgefield and the surrounding areas is small, but if anyone is looking for a church in the area, we want them to find a welcome place at St. Stephen’s.
Practicing Civil Discourse
One of the best ways to “love your neighbor” is to listen to them toward understanding. As we anticipated 2024, we began to explore opportunities toward this end. We partnered with Braver Angels and offered two community “debates” on Affordable Housing in Ridgefield and Religion in Politics. Those who came gained a greater appreciation and stronger bonds with their neighbors.
Teaching Against Christian Nationalism
The narrative on Christianity in the political world can mislead people, we believe. We take a hard stand against Christian Nationalism. We’re helping the community become educated on what it is through showing the film Bad Faith and welcomed renowned author and teacher Randall Balmer to speak on October 13.