What began as a single Easter offering has grown into a meaningful partnership rooted in gratitude, compassion, and a shared commitment to ensuring every young person knows they are seen, valued, and loved.
In the spring of 2024, as the Outreach Commission discerned the beneficiary of Christ Church’s Easter offering, members looked closely at the realities facing some of Charlotte’s most vulnerable people. They knew the statistics:
41% of LGBTQ+ young people in North Carolina considered suicide in the previous year.
66% experienced symptoms of anxiety or depression.
23% were physically threatened or harmed because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The commission saw an opportunity to respond not only with concern but with tangible support as they selected Time Out Youth as one of two beneficiaries of the 2024 Easter offering, along with OurBridge for Kids.
The congregation responded with remarkable generosity, contributing almost $18,000 in total, a reflection of how deeply these ministries resonated with the parish. Many, especially parents of LGBTQ children who grew up at Christ Church, felt a personal connection to the need.
A Powerful Message
At its heart, Time Out Youth sends a powerful message to every young person it serves: I see you. I value you.
The Easter offering was one way that we joined in that vital work. But it didn’t stop there. The offering led the Outreach Commission and other members of the parish to consider what a deeper partnership could look like beyond financial donations. Just two years later, supply drives, holiday meals, and volunteer opportunities have become part of the parish’s regular rhythm, and Time Out Youth is supported through the Outreach Commission’s ongoing budget.
God’s Wide Welcome
The wide welcome of God and our congregation to the LGBTQ+ community continues to expand. In 2025, Christ Church hosted a booth at Charlotte Pride for the first time. Parishioners gathered under the Christ Church banner to offer hospitality, build connections, and stand alongside LGBTQ+ neighbors. They came for many reasons, each carrying their own story.
One volunteer shared:
“When my daughter came out, I didn’t handle it well. But I’m learning. I’m here. I hope she would be proud of me now.”
Another reflected:
“I have young kids. I don’t know yet who they will be, but I want them to know that whoever they become, they are loved by me and by God. It’s one of the reasons we came to Christ Church. This can be their spiritual home, whoever they grow up to be.”
Looking back, it is easy to see how much grew from a single offering. What began as a gift became a relationship. What began as a one-time act of generosity became an ongoing witness to God’s expansive love.
For the ministry of Time Out Youth, for the generosity of this parish, and for every young person who hears the words “You are seen, valued, and loved,” we give thank