The history of the global movement for LGBTQ+ equality in faith is rich with courageous individuals, and preserving their stories is a sacred act. We are thrilled to celebrate the recent addition of three distinguished leaders from the Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC) to the database of the LGBTQ Religious Archives Network (LGBTQ-RAN).
LGBTQ-RAN is a vital organization dedicated to collecting and making available the history of LGBTQ+ religious movements and figures. By documenting the lives and ministries of these individuals, LGBTQ-RAN ensures that their vital contributions to spiritual freedom, justice, and affirmation are never forgotten.
The inclusion of these three profiles—spanning three different continents—underscores the powerful, decades-long, and global reach of the MCC movement.
Rev. Elder Nokuthula Dhladhla
Rev. Elder Nokuthula Dhladhla is a dynamic leader whose ministry has shaped the landscape of faith-based LGBTQ+ activism in Southern Africa and beyond. Ordained in MCC in 1998, she has served as the Pastor of Hope and Unity MCC and is a leading figure in fostering dialogue between faith communities.
Rev. Alberto Najera
Rev. Alberto Najera brings a background rooted in the Pentecostal tradition and a ministry spanning two continents, demonstrating the foundational impact MCC had in Central America. A native of Nicaragua, he was ordained as MCC clergy in 2006.
Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez
Rev. Elder Héctor Gutiérrez is a spiritual guide and theological educator whose work has been vital to the growth and leadership development of MCC, particularly in Latin America. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, he holds a Pontifical Master Degree in dogmatic theology.