A pastor from Rochester, New York, publicly announced plans to transition from male to female during a Sunday service held on November 23, 2025. Rev. Phillip Phaneuf, who leads the North Chili United Methodist Church, shared this significant personal milestone with his congregation, stating, “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.”
Phaneuf, who is now 51 years old, made the announcement while wearing a rainbow stole, symbolizing support for the LGBTQ+ community. He further revealed that he now identifies as asexual, meaning he experiences little or no sexual attraction to others. “I’ve been that way since we’ve all been together,” he explained, indicating that he does not seek romantic relationships.
In his address, Phaneuf announced that he will adopt the name Phillippa and use the pronouns she/her. He confirmed that he has been undergoing hormone replacement therapy for the past three months, which will result in changes to his appearance, voice, and hair.
Support from the Church Community
Phaneuf expressed gratitude for the support he received from the church leadership. He noted that the bishop had been consulted prior to his announcement, and he affirmed that his pastoral duties would remain unchanged. “What will stay the same is my deepening love for all of you,” Phaneuf stated, emphasizing the continuity of his commitment to the congregation.
Despite the church’s support, Phaneuf shared that his parents do not endorse his decision. During the sermon, he conveyed their request to inform the congregation of their lack of support, adding a personal dimension to the announcement.
In recent years, the United Methodist Church has shifted its stance on LGBTQ+ issues. In 2022, the denomination reversed previous rules that condemned LGBTQ+ identities within the community. According to the church’s official website, the UMC now recognizes human sexuality as “a sacred gift” that applies to all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
A New Chapter
Phaneuf’s transition highlights a growing visibility for transgender individuals within religious communities, aligning with broader societal acceptance and understanding. The support from the United Methodist Church marks a significant step towards inclusivity, as the denomination commits to caring for all individuals in its congregations and communities, including LGBTQ+ persons.
As Rev. Phaneuf embarks on this transformative journey, his announcement serves as a reminder of the personal struggles many face in their pursuit of authenticity and acceptance within both their families and communities. It is a pivotal moment not only for him personally but also for the North Chili United Methodist Church and the wider religious landscape.
