From Fox News: A Methodist pastor in New York revealed last week plans to transition into a woman and said the 51-year-old now identifies as asexual.
Rev. Phillip Phaneuf, of North Chili United Methodist Church in Rochester, made the announcement during a Nov. 23 Sunday service. The personal update was delivered from the pulpit while wearing a rainbow stole.
“So I get to announce with joy that I’m transitioning,” Phaneuf said. “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. This is a process, and it may be shocking for some as to what this all means.”
Phaneuf added that the pastor’s sexuality is now asexual, an orientation in which a person experiences little or no sexual attraction to others.
Claiming he’s not looking for romance, Phaneuf said, “I’m in the category of what they call asexual.” He also told the congregation that he will change his name to Phillippa, and will use she/her pronouns.
Phaneuf said the bishop and church has been supportive, but his parents have not.
Social media users have reacted in disgust over the video, with many calling it demonic and an abomination.
I do hurt for anyone struggling with their sexuality or identity, but to announce you’re transgender to your congregation is demonic! This is not a pastor but a wolf in sheep’s clothing. https://t.co/INngeRPnSf
— Jason Jimenez (@jasonpjimenez) December 2, 2025
READ MORE from Fox News.
SERMON SURPRISE: New York United Methodist Church pastor reveals to congregation plans to transition gender, says “giving up pretending to be a man.”https://t.co/CAAomkrhkv
— Fox News (@FoxNews) December 3, 2025
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