‘I Give Up Pretending To Be A Man’, US Pastor Announces Gender Transition

A Methodist pastor in Rochester, New York, United States, stunned his congregation last Sunday when he announced plans to transition into a woman, noting that he was done “pretending to be a man.”

According to a video shared by Fox News on Tuesday, Rev. Phillip Phaneuf, 51, made the revelation during a service on November 23 at North Chilli United Methodist Church, speaking from the pulpit while wearing a rainbow stole.

He explained that the announcement marked the beginning of embracing his true identity as a transgender woman.

“I’m affirming to all of you that I am transgender. This is a process, and it may be shocking for some, but it’s me being authentic,” Phaneuf told parishioners.

He also revealed that his sexual orientation is asexual, describing it as experiencing little or no sexual attraction to others.

Phaneuf said his new name will be Phillippa, with she/her pronouns.

He added that hormone replacement therapy has already begun, noting that changes to his voice, hair, and overall appearance are expected over the coming months.

Phillippa said the congregation has been overwhelmingly supportive, confirming that the church leadership, including the bishop, was consulted before the announcement and that his pastoral duties will continue uninterrupted.

However, he noted that his parents do not support the decision. “They asked me to tell you all that they do not support me,” he shared during the sermon.

The announcement came after the United Methodist Church’s 2024 reversal of rules condemning LGBTQ+ identities.

The church now affirms human sexuality as a sacred gift for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, emphasising care and inclusion for LGBTQ+ members.

Phillippa Phaneuf said despite the transition, his commitment to his congregation remains unwavering.

“What will stay the same is my deepening love for all of you,” he said.