During a Sunday service on November 23, 2025, Rev. Phillip Phaneuf, the 51-year-old pastor of North Chili United Methodist Church in Rochester, New York, shocked his congregation by announcing his gender transition. Draped in a rainbow stole, Phaneuf claimed, “I’m transitioning. I’m affirming to all of you that I am transgender. The best way to put this is that I’m not becoming a woman, I’m giving up pretending to be a man.”
This revelation raises serious questions about the erosion of traditional biblical teachings on gender and identity within the Methodist Church. Phaneuf disclosed his asexual identity and lack of romantic pursuits during his tenure, while planning to adopt the name Phillippa and she/her pronouns. Having begun hormone replacement therapy three months earlier, he warned of impending physical changes to his appearance, voice, and hair—alterations that could disrupt the stability and role modeling expected from pastoral leadership.
He insisted his duties and affection for the flock would remain intact, but such assurances do little to address the potential confusion and division this may sow among faithful members. The congregation’s reportedly positive reaction underscores a troubling shift toward progressive ideologies in some Christian circles, with Phaneuf noting prior consultation with the bishop and alignment with church leadership. The pastor noted his parents’ opposition, “They asked me to tell you all that they do not support me”.
This incident reflects broader changes in the United Methodist Church, which last year abandoned longstanding policies upholding scriptural views on human sexuality and LGBT ideology. By now framing sexuality as a “sacred gift” for all and pledging support for such lifestyles, the denomination risks alienating conservatives and diluting the gospel’s timeless truths amid cultural pressures for inclusivity over orthodoxy.