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opentablelgbt.bsky.social
Open Table Network
@opentablelgbt.bsky.social
380 followers 70 following 670 posts
Partnership of #Christian communities across England & Wales welcoming & affirming #LGBTQIA people + our family & friends & anyone who wants to belong in an accepting, loving community.
www.opentable.lgbt
#ComeAsYouAre #MoreThanWelcome #FaithfullyLGBT
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opentablelgbt.bsky.social
TODAY is #RandomActsOfKindnessDay - a campaign to #MakeKindnessTheNorm
randomactsofkindness.org
Here are four simple ways you can help us share #kindness through our growing network of communities: opentable.lgbt/support-us
#RAKWeek #RAKWeek2026
An image with a purple background featuring the text "RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS" in glowing white capital letters. Below the title are six colorful sticky notes arranged in two rows of three, each containing a suggestion for a kind gesture: Top Row: "give a compliment" (yellow), "share with loved ones" (light purple), and "volunteer in your community" (beige). Bottom Row: "ask how someone's doing" (cream), "say thank you" (pink), and "donate or fundraise" (yellow). The corners of the image are decorated with abstract white line patterns and dots.
February 17, 2026 at 8:57 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
'BEING TRANS is just one part of a person’s identity.'
Read OTN Co-Chair Carol Joyner's review of the #EverydayNormal tour by Revd Sarah Jones, the first person ordained in the #ChurchOfEngland following gender transition.🏳️‍⚧️
🗓️ Bring this powerful story to your community
🔗 bit.ly/EverydayNormalTour
Revd Sarah Jones, wearing a black clerical shirt and collar, smiles while holding a large red sign. The sign features the text "COME OUT FOR TRANS EQUALITY" in bold white and black lettering, along with the Stonewall logo and a website address. She is standing in an indoor space with a large window and event banners visible in the background.
February 16, 2026 at 9:01 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
'The #LivingInLoveAndFaith process has been "concluded" but the work for justice has not.'
Nic Tall, National Co-ordinator of Together for the Church of England, reflects on a bruising #GeneralSynod and moving from lament to action:
🔗 viamedia.news/2026/02/13/leaving-in-love-and-faith
February 15, 2026 at 3:44 PM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
TODAY our communities in Birmingham, Cambridge, Kendal, Lincoln, Liverpool, London - West Hampstead & Salford are gathering. FFI: opentable.lgbt/our-communities
#ComeAsYouAre #MoreThanWelcome #FaithfullyLGBT #PlaceToBelong RoomAtTheTable
Google Maps image of England and Wales with an Open Table logo marking the locations of our communities.
February 15, 2026 at 9:00 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
MARRIAGE EQUALITY has a surprising role model in #SaintValentine, a 3rd-century Roman priest who defied the law to wed couples who were forbidden to marry.
READ MORE: qspirit.net/saint-valentine-marriage-equality
#ValentinesDay #MarriageEquality
The image is a detailed mosaic depicting a figure identified by the arched red text as ST. VALENTINVS (Saint Valentine). Key Visual Details: The Figure: A man with a long, grey beard and a serious expression looking upward and to the right. He wears a traditional mitre (a bishop's tall, pointed hat) and clerical robes rendered in shades of grey, gold, and white. The Symbol: In his right hand, he holds a white cross adorned with red jewels or stones. Artistic Style: The image is composed of many small, square tiles (tesserae). The background consists of shimmering gold-toned tiles, while a red circular border frames the saint's head and the Latin inscription. The overall aesthetic is characteristic of Byzantine or ecclesiastical mosaic art, using a warm, metallic palette.
February 14, 2026 at 12:00 PM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
FIRST LOVE YOURSELF: Reflection & resources for #ValentinesDay & a broader interpretation of what it means.
Written by OTN Patron Alex Clare-Young. Digital download only £2.60.
Treat yourself this #ValentinesNight
ionabooks.com/product/first-love-yourself-pdf-download
#Love #LoveYourself #LGBT
A square graphic with a purple header featuring white text that reads, "First Love Yourself" and a smaller subtitle, "A reflection and resources for Valentine's Day." Below the header is a colorful watercolor painting of a horizontal rainbow. Two white, hand-drawn hearts overlap in the center of the rainbow background.
February 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
'I CANNOT any longer... preach liberation on Sunday and accept spiritual diminishment on Monday.'
Fr Robert Thompson reflects on the conclusion of the #ChurchOfEngland's #LivingInLoveAndFaith process on #identity, #sexuality, #relationships & #marriage bit.ly/MoralClarityLLF
#GeneralSynod #CofE #LLF
Official logo for the Church of England’s Living in Love and Faith (LLF) process. A modern, abstract logo consisting of four overlapping, transparent heart shapes in vibrant colors: teal, orange, magenta, and lime green. Where the hearts intersect, new colors are formed, symbolizing the "growing together" and "discernment" of the project. To the right of the icon, the words "Living in Love and Faith" are written in a clean, charcoal-colored serif font. A headshot of Fr Robert Thompson wearing a black clerical shirt standing in front of a church garden and noticeboard.
February 13, 2026 at 1:07 PM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
Day 5 of #ChurchOfEngland #GeneralSynod. As many carry weary hearts at the end of the #LivingInLoveAndFaith process on #identity, #sexuality, #relationships & Marriage, we pray that God’s welcoming embrace brings restoration, confidence, and joy to all who seek belonging. 🌈
#CofE #LLF
Title: Prayer for Church of England General Synod Friday 13th February 2026. Text content: "God of refuge and compassion, stronghold in times of trouble and shelter in every storm: draw near to those who are weary and burdened, and to all who tirelessly seek belonging and sanctuary. Be shade in their heat, safety in their searching, and comfort for their hearts. Bind up the brokenhearted; comfort those who mourn, feel lost, or hopeless, and free them to grow in trust and hope; that in your welcoming embrace they may find restoration, confidence, and joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen." Visual description: The prayer text is centered on a light, clean background featuring abstract, soft pastel waves in shades of orange, yellow, and blue. In the bottom right corner, the Open Table Network logo depicts a circle of eight stylized, rainbow-colored figures holding hands, with the words 'OPEN TABLE' in purple capitalized text below.
February 13, 2026 at 9:49 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
'TRYING TO PRETEND... nearly cost me everything."
FOR #LGBThistorymonth Lou shares her powerful journey from suppressing her identity to finding her true self, her wife, and an inclusive spiritual home in the #MethodistChurch.
Read Lou’s testimony: bit.ly/LouTestimony
#LGBTHM #LGBTHM26
A portrait of Lou smiling, wearing a green cap, black sunglasses, and an orange shirt. The image has a colorful, abstract graphic background including the Methodist Church logo in the top left corner.
February 12, 2026 at 4:19 PM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
DAY 4 of #ChurchOfEngland #GeneralSynod: From 3pm #Synod will debate and vote on the #HouseOfBishops' motion to bring the #LivingInLoveAndFaith process to a close.
We pray for those feeling 'scattered' and ask for the courage to turn from idols that deny God’s all-embracing love. 🕯️✨
#CofE #LLF
Title: Prayer for Church of England General Synod Thursday 12th February 2026. Text content: "God our shepherd, who gathers what has been scattered and sends us into the world in love: guard your Church from the temptation to honour unity above justice or to trade faithfulness for a peace without righteousness. Turn us from every idol that denies your all-embracing love. Knit us into one body in Christ, tender in mercy and steadfast in truth, that loving one another as Christ has loved us we may be a faithful sign of your kingdom; and the world may believe in the One you have sent, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen." Visual description: The prayer text is centered on a clean, light background decorated with soft, flowing abstract pastel waves in shades of orange, pink, and blue. In the bottom right corner, the Open Table Network logo depicts a circle of eight stylized, rainbow-colored figures holding hands, with the words 'OPEN TABLE' in purple capitalized text below.
February 12, 2026 at 10:23 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
LOVELY 4th birthday for our Open Table community in #Leyland #Lancashire last Sunday. 16 people gathered for cake and Communion. OTN Director Kieran led a reflection on the Open Table story for #LGBTplusHistoryMonth #LGBTHM
Watch this space for future gatherings: facebook.com/groups/1664874860526365
A group of 16 people of various ages and genders posing for a group photo inside a church. In this image they are posing formally. The group is positioned in front of a stone wall with two arched windows. To the left and right are banners for 'Open Table Leyland' which include the phrase 'A place where everyone belongs'. A large, rainbow-colored balloon in the shape of the number '4' is visible behind the group, marking their 4th anniversary celebration. In the centre, two individuals wear ceremonial chains of office, associated with the local government roles of Mayor and Consort. The people are dressed in a variety of casual and semi-formal clothing, including sweaters, jackets, and t-shirts. The overall atmosphere is joyful and inclusive. A group of 16 people of various ages and genders posing for a group photo inside a church. In this image they are waving or gesturing towards the camera. The group is positioned in front of a stone wall with two arched windows. To the left and right are banners for 'Open Table Leyland' which include the phrase 'A place where everyone belongs'. A large, rainbow-colored balloon in the shape of the number '4' is visible behind the group, marking their 4th anniversary celebration. In the centre, two individuals wear ceremonial chains of office, associated with the local government roles of Mayor and Consort. The people are dressed in a variety of casual and semi-formal clothing, including sweaters, jackets, and t-shirts. The overall atmosphere is joyful and inclusive.
February 11, 2026 at 12:05 PM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
DAY 3 of #ChurchOfEngland #GeneralSynod. After a heavy debate on #LivingInLoveAndFaith, today the focus is on the global #AnglicanCommunion & #Safeguarding.
We pray for the courage to break down dividing walls and gather those held 'far off' into a dwelling-place of love and grace.🕯️🌈 #CofE #LLF
Title: Prayer for Church of England General Synod Wednesday 11th February 2026. Text content: "God of inclusion, who in Christ has broken down dividing walls and made us one body beyond all separation: grant your Church wisdom and boldness to discern your will of boundless love. Draw near those once held far off; gather strangers and the marginalised into your household; and build us together in your Spirit as a dwelling-place of your love and grace; that, being one in Christ Jesus, we may live as a people reconciled and made whole; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen." Visual description: The prayer text is centered on a light, clean background featuring abstract, soft pastel waves in shades of blue, pink, and yellow. In the bottom right corner, the Open Table Network logo features a circle of eight stylized, rainbow-colored figures holding hands, with the words 'OPEN TABLE' in purple capitalized text below the icon.
February 11, 2026 at 9:54 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
Day 2 of #ChurchOfEngland #GeneralSynod with a critical 5-hour presentation & questions on the end of #LivingInLoveAndFaith (LLF) at 2pm.
We pray for a Church with the courage to act justly, where the diversity of humanity is celebrated & all find a true home of safety & belonging. 🕯️🌈
#LLF #CofE
Title: Prayer for Church of England General Synod Tuesday 10th February 2026. Text content: "God of justice and mercy, who calls us to speak for those denied a voice and to defend the poor and the needy: renew your Church in courage to act justly, in generosity to love mercy, and in humility to walk with you. Shape its transforming that all may find more than welcome - a home of safety and belonging - where the vulnerable are safeguarded, and the diversity of humanity is celebrated; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen." Visual description: The prayer text is centered on a clean, light background featuring soft, abstract pastel swirls in shades of pink, yellow, and blue. In the bottom right corner is the Open Table Network logo, which depicts a circular group of eight stylized figures in rainbow colors, with the words 'OPEN TABLE' in purple text underneath.
February 10, 2026 at 9:46 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
TODAY the #ChurchOfEngland #GeneralSynod begins, marking the end of the #LivingInLoveAndFaith process on #identity, #sexuality #relationships and #marriage. We know many #LGBTQIA+ Christians feel anxious and hurt.
We're sharing daily prayers this week for justice, hope, and healing. 🕯️🌈
#LLF #CofE
Title: Prayer for Church of England General Synod Monday 9th February 2026. Text content: "Almighty and compassionate God, who heals the broken-hearted and is near to those crushed in spirit: draw close to them in their pain; restore what has been wounded, give courage where there is fear, and plant hope where trust has been shaken. Let your justice guide the reshaping of what has failed, that dignity may be honoured and mercy and peace may take root; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen." Visual description: The text is set against a soft background of abstract, pastel-colored shapes. In the bottom right corner is the Open Table Network logo, which features a circle of diverse figures in rainbow colors, with the words 'OPEN TABLE' printed clearly below them.
February 9, 2026 at 12:00 PM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
TONIGHT 7.30pm: A Eucharist as #GeneralSynod considers #LivingInLoveAndFaith - a space to bring prayer, pain, hope and longing about the place of #LGBTQIA+ people in the Church of England.
📍 St Martin-in-the-Fields, London
🌍 Join online: youtube.com/@stmartin-in-the-fields1726
Event poster titled “Reaching for the Hem.” Logos for St Martin-in-the-Fields and Together for the Church of England. Central artwork shows a woman on the ground reaching toward the hem of Jesus’ robe in a crowd. Text gives date, time, location, and livestream details.
February 9, 2026 at 9:38 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
TODAY our Open Table community in #Leyland #Lancashire celebrates #LGBThistorymonth & 4 years of meeting.
6pm Refreshments 6.30pm Communion.
OTN Director Kieran will lead a reflection on the Open Table story.
READ MORE: bit.ly/OTleyland0226
#ComeAsYouAre #MoreThanWelcome #FaithfullyLGBT
An image promoting Open Table at St Ambrose Church, Leyland. At the top, purple text reads "Come As You Are", followed by black text stating "You're more than welcome here @ St Ambrose Church, Leyland". Below the text are two graphics: on the left, a black and white sketch of St Ambrose Church inside a rounded brown border; on the right, the Open Table logo, which features a colorful rainbow circle of stylized figures with their arms raised, above the words 'OPEN TABLE' in purple and black.
February 8, 2026 at 12:01 PM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
TODAY Open Table communities meet in:
Bath, Canterbury, Chester, Colchester, Fareham, Haverfordwest, Horsham, Leyland, London: Bromley, Wanstead & Waterloo, Sefton, Taunton, Warrington, Widnes & Wirral: New Brighton.
FFI: opentable.lgbt/our-communities
Google Maps image of England and Wales with an Open Table logo marking the locations of our communities.
February 8, 2026 at 9:01 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
CHURCH BUILDINGS can be daunting for those who've been hurt. So Grace, a queer artist, creates sacred spaces where people feel comfortable. 🏡✨
Read how Grace found 'home' and belonging in a Methodist/URC community: bit.ly/QueerFaithArt #LGBThistorymonth #LGBTHN #LGBTHM26
A person with long hair tied in a bun, wearing a black t-shirt and trousers, sits on a small yellow velvet stool in an art studio. They are holding a light-colored pet rat on their hand while looking at the camera. The white wall behind them is decorated with various sketches and drawings, including depictions of crosses and horses.
February 7, 2026 at 9:00 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
WHY DOES LGBT+ History Month matter?
Because it reminds us we are safe, accepted, and valued.🏳️‍🌈
Read Sam Stone's reflection on history, personal faith, and the United Reformed Church’s path to inclusion: urc5.org.uk/news-item/jpic-highlight-lgbtq-history-month
#LGBThistorymonth #LGBTHM #LGBTHM26 #URC
A rainbow Pride flag fluttering on a flagpole against a sunny blue sky.
February 6, 2026 at 9:15 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
THIS SUNDAY our Open Table community in #Leyland #Lancashire celebrates #LGBThistorymonth & 4 years of meeting.
6pm Refreshments 6.30pm Communion.
OTN Director Kieran will lead a reflection on the Open Table story.
READ MORE: bit.ly/OTleyland0226
#ComeAsYouAre #MoreThanWelcome #FaithfullyLGBT
An image promoting Open Table at St Ambrose Church, Leyland. At the top, purple text reads "Come As You Are", followed by black text stating "You're more than welcome here @ St Ambrose Church, Leyland". Below the text are two graphics: on the left, a black and white sketch of St Ambrose Church inside a rounded brown border; on the right, the Open Table logo, which features a colorful rainbow circle of stylized figures with their arms raised, above the words 'OPEN TABLE' in purple and black.
February 5, 2026 at 10:02 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
THANK YOU to the Methodist Church in Britain for sharing this prayer for #LGBThistorymonth
#LGBTHM #LGBTHM26
A graphic with a maroon, orange, and teal geometric background featuring the Methodist Church logo (a cross within a white circle) in the top right. The central text is a prayer that reads: "Loving God, Show us the way to make our worship spaces and congregations welcoming to all who seek your face. Cause us to lift the barriers which prevent us from being welcoming. Change the hearts of those who do not welcome difference and who are reluctant to embrace the full gospel of Christ. All are welcome. We are one body. One Church. Amen."
February 4, 2026 at 9:50 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
TODAY our communities in Bradford, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter, Liverpool, London - Bow & Bethnal Green, Reading, Runcorn, and Weymouth gather.
FFI: opentable.lgbt/our-communities
#ComeAsYouAre #FaithfullyLGBT #MoreThanWelcome #PlaceToBelong #RoomAtTheTable
Google Maps image of England and Wales with an Open Table logo marking the locations of our communities.
February 1, 2026 at 9:00 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
'GOD WANTS US to thrive and to shine and to rejoice in the way God has made us, not to live in fear or self-loathing as so many of us do.' - Cherry Vann, now Archbishop of Wales.
WATCH our webinar with OTN Patron Cherry when she was Bishop of Monmouth in January 2021: youtu.be/M8FxFbsSXa8 [54mins]
A portrait of Cherry Vann, Archbishop of Wales. She has short grey hair and is wearing clerical clothing with a purple shirt and collar, standing inside a church. Text on the right reads: “Cherry Vann, Bishop of Monmouth, Church in Wales,” alongside the Open Table logo.
January 31, 2026 at 12:32 PM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
FEBRUARY is #LGBThistorymonth in the UK - This year's theme is 'Science & Innovation'.
READ MORE: lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2026
How will you celebrate and commemorate #LGBThistory?
A promotional graphic for LGBT+ History Month 2026, themed "SCIENCE AND INNOVATION." The text is written in large, diagonal red letters across a light blue circular background. The top left corner features the LGBT+ History Month logo and "Founded by: SCHOOLS OUT." In the bottom right, an illustration of a conical science flask shows a vibrant rainbow-colored splash bursting from the top, with the year 2026 printed on the base of the flask.
January 30, 2026 at 9:58 AM
opentablelgbt.bsky.social
OUT NOW: Our January e-news with a new #ThisIsMyStory podcast, a #NewYear reflection, and news from our growing network including a community launch and two birthday celebrations. READ MORE: bit.ly/OTNenews0126
An abstract illustration of overlapping, brightly coloured envelopes scattered across the image. Each envelope is labelled “newsletter” in handwritten-style text, suggesting email communications, updates, or mailing lists. The colours include green, purple, blue, yellow and pink, creating a lively, layered design.
January 29, 2026 at 1:37 PM