WHAT IS MCC?

The Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches is a Christian denomination whose primary ministry is within the gay community but it is also a church for all people, women and men, saints and sinners, rich and poor, black and white.

MCC was founded by the Rev. Troy Perry in Los Angeles on the 6th of October, 1968. Troy who comes from a Pentecostal background is the moderator of his fellowship. He is assisted by a board of nine elders who may be women or men, ordained or lay. All members of the church have equal status, there is no hierarchy as such. Pastors and deacons are set aside to preach and serve but all members may lead worship and preside at the Lords table.

The church grew in number and inner strength. By 1970 there were congregations in San Diego, San Francisco and Chicago and at present there are over 240 churches throughout the world in such diverse places as Australia, Denmark, Nigeria and Indonesia though the majority of members are in North America.

It is now hoped that there will be sufficient interest in Ireland to bring this special ministry to the gay community here.

MCC is here for those who feel a God-shaped gap in their lives, who need to be reassured of Gods love and who feel they do not fit in to any of the mainline denominations.

From the beginning people have come to MCC from every conceivable Christian tradition. The result has been a rich blend of Pentecostal spontaneity and exuberance combined with the solemnity of Anglican, orthodox and Roman Catholic liturgy. The Sunday services are always Eucharistic and in some churches there are bible studies, prayer groups and membership classes during the week.

MCC ascribes to belief in the historic Creeds, the inspiration of scripture and the priesthood of all believers.

The Universal Fellowship is committed to eradicating sexism and the use of inclusive language in its worship and life. The care of people with AIDS, political activism, nuclear disarmament, world peace and social justice are urgent concerns close to the hearts of all members of the Fellowship.

Alistair Bate.