Controversy Arises as Texas Church Organizes Unprecedented ‘Drag Sunday’ Service

The Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, known as the world’s largest LGBTQ-friendly church, recently hosted a controversial event called “Drag Sunday.” The service was held in honor of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a group of queer and trans individuals who are often accused of mocking Catholicism through their actions. Critics argue that this event disregards the sanctity of religious spaces and goes against the teachings of the Bible.

The Cathedral of Hope is a liberal Christian church affiliated with the United Church of Christ (UCC), a socially liberal Protestant Christian denomination rooted in the Congregational, Continental Reformed, and Lutheran traditions.

The church’s decision to bless the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence has been seen by many as a step towards inclusivity. However, others believe it crosses a line by undermining the sanctity of religious spaces and contradicting biblical teachings. During the service, attendees recited a pledge of allegiance to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, further fueling the controversy. The church defended its actions, stating that the term “family values” has been used to support hate and exclusion. They argue that their actions promote healthy families, meaningful connections, strong communities, and embody the good news of radical love and mercy.

Not everyone agreed with the church’s sentiment. Approximately 40 demonstrators gathered outside the Cathedral of Hope on the morning of the service to voice their opposition. They disapproved of the service dedicated to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, referring to them as “anti-Catholic.”

Among the protesters was Cesar Franco of the nonprofit America Needs Fatima, expressing his dismay at the mockery of the purity of nuns and the institution of the Catholic faith. Jim Muller of the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family, and Property also voiced his protest against what he called an “abomination.”

However, a member of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence told The Dallas Express that it was important for them to attend the service to “promulgate omniversal joy and expiate guilt” and show support for the LGBTQ and drag communities.

This article appeared in TheDailyBeat and has been published here with permission.