Church For Gays Sets Up In Chch (Press, 18 September 1989)

On 18 September 1989, Tom Metcalfe reported the establishment of a new branch of the Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) in Christchurch, a Christian church predominantly catering to a gay congregation. The MCC already operated two other branches in New Zealand, located in Auckland and Rotorua. Rev. Richard Mickley, pastor of the Auckland branch, travelled to Christchurch to provide support and led a service to celebrate the reopening of the Dorian Society rooms on Lichfield Street. The Dorian Society, an organisation serving gay men and women, invested $100,000 in renovations of their facilities. These upgrades included the addition of a restaurant, bar, and performance stage. The MCC plans to hold its services in these newly renovated rooms. Rev. Mickley clarified that the Metropolitan Community Church should not be exclusively considered a gay congregation but aims to create a welcoming Christian environment for all individuals. He highlighted the unique connection that many in the LGBTQ+ community feel with the church, noting that these individuals often do not receive acceptance in other congregations, including those they may have attended during their upbringing. He asserted that the MCC operates within mainstream Christian doctrines and places emphasis on the acceptance of all people, reflecting Christ's teachings as outlined in the Bible. Currently, there are approximately 300 Metropolitan Community Churches worldwide, with the Auckland branch being established for 16 years and maintaining a congregation of about 100 members.

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