During a recent Sunday service in North Chili, New York, longtime United Methodist pastor Rev. Phil Phaneuf shared a deeply personal journey with the congregation. At age 51, the pastor explained that she is transitioning and will now live openly as a woman, using she/her pronouns. Wearing a rainbow-colored stole, she spoke calmly but with conviction, saying that this step is not about becoming someone new, but about ending years of living as someone she never truly was. She will continue to serve as “Reverend Phil,” though her full name will now be Phillippa Faye Phaneuf.

Phaneuf emphasized that her ministry remains unchanged and that her faith continues to guide her. She noted that physical changes are underway, including several months of hormone therapy, but reassured the church that her commitment to teaching and service will not waver. She also made clear that honest mistakes with pronouns would be met with understanding, not correction.

While the United Methodist Church has recently adopted more inclusive policies—allowing LGBTQ+ clergy and same-sex marriage—Phaneuf acknowledged that not everyone in her life supports her decision. Her parents, she said, remain opposed, a reality she addressed with frankness and sadness.

She also shared that she is asexual, explaining that gender identity and romantic attraction are separate parts of a person’s life. To help the congregation learn alongside her, the church plans to offer educational resources, including guidance from The Savvy Ally, a book on supporting LGBTQ+ individuals.

Despite the surprise announcement, Phaneuf says her congregation has responded with warmth, encouragement, and a desire to grow together.