Under the Same Sky, We Will Keep Watch: Prayer Vigils Against Homotransphobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (May 2025)
Once again this year, around May 17— the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia—LGBTQ+ Christians, together with many Christian communities across Italy and Europe, will light a candle in the night. Through ecumenical prayer vigils and Sunday services, they will unite to say: Enough with violence, prejudice, and hatred against people simply for being themselves.
Under the same sky, Catholic, Waldensian, Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran, and many other churches will gather alongside LGBTQ+ Christian groups in prayer—from Italy to Spain, to Switzerland, and Malta. They will be guided by the words of the Apostle Peter: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.” (Acts 10:34–35)
These words remind us that no one is excluded from God’s love. Every life is worthy, beloved, and desired. No condition, identity, or orientation can separate us from God’s mercy. As believers, we cannot remain silent.
The vigils are meant to be prophetic signs—witnesses to the possibility of a Church that draws near, that listens, that comforts. A Church that seeks to become, ever more, a sanctuary of welcome and support for LGBTQ+ people and for all who face discrimination.
Once again this year, the Faith, Gender, and Sexuality Commission of the Baptist, Methodist, and Waldensian churches, together with REFO (Protestant Network of LGBTQ+ Inclusion), has prepared a suggested liturgy for the vigils. An English version is also available for any community wishing to take part in this time of prayer, reflection, and hope.
During the vigils held in Italy, free copies of the booklet “TRANSLUCENZA. Storie di fede transgender” (“TRANSLUCENCE. Stories of Transgender Faith”) will be distributed. Produced by La Tenda di Gionata, the booklet collects the heartfelt and courageous testimonies of seven transgender Christians—stories of wounds and healing, faith and identity. To download the booklet in PDF format, click here.
This is the time to keep watch, to walk together and kindle a light. And you—will you keep watch with us?
- To download the liturgy prepared by the Faith, Gender, and Sexuality Commission of the BMV churches, click here.
- To download sample posters and flyers for the vigils, click here.
- For more information, visit www.gionata.org/inveglia/
- To report a vigil or a Sunday service, contact: tendadigionata@gmail.com
- To view the list of cities where prayer vigils against homotransphobia will be held (regularly updated), click here
