Shining a light on unexpected allies: Santee United Methodist Church in East County picked up San Diego Pride’s Light of Pride Award for visible, sustained support of LGBTQ+ people , and locals say it matters because it creates a safer, friendlier place where few other voices speak up.

  • Recognition: Santee United Methodist Church received the Light of Pride Award for affirming LGBTQ+ faith community members and leading Pride efforts in Santee.
  • Visible support: The church has hosted the Santee Pride Walk & Festival since 2021, drawing music, booths, flags and family-friendly celebration.
  • Ground-level warmth: Locals describe the church’s presence as welcoming, passionate and brave in a conservative-leaning area.
  • Practical impact: The congregation belongs to the Reconciling Ministries Network, signalling formal commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion within the United Methodist tradition.
  • Atmosphere: Events feel lively and celebratory, with a sturdy community vibe and lots of colourful flags and T‑shirts.

Why this award matters , and why it surprised the pastor

Santee’s pastor, the Rev. Jaime Pangman, said he was stunned when the church won the Light of Pride Award because he thought the congregation was simply showing up and caring. That humility is part of the story; the award is given to religious organisations and individuals that visibly affirm LGBTQ+ people during San Diego Pride events. According to San Diego Pride, the accolade recognises more than a single parade float , it honours ongoing work that signals safety and welcome.

How a suburban church became a Pride hub

The church joined the Reconciling Ministries Network in 2021, a formal step that tells LGBTQ+ people they’re welcome inside. Since then Santee United Methodist has hosted the annual Santee Pride Walk and Festival, bringing vendors, music and community booths to a part of East County that doesn’t see many ally-led celebrations. Organisers and attendees say the event has become a focal point for families and people who want to be publicly supportive.

What the community says , courage and comfort in one package

Speakers from St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral and San Diego Pride praised the church for doing its work where allies are scarce. The interim dean called their efforts brave, and San Diego Pride’s advocacy director noted the festival fills a real local need. Those on the ground describe the scene as warm and lively: people waving flags, volunteers with friendly faces, and a genuine sense of “we care” that matters more than performance.

What joining a reconciling network actually means

Membership in networks such as Reconciling Ministries signals a congregation’s commitment beyond a single Pride weekend. It’s a formal pledge to include LGBTQ+ people in worship, leadership and community life , and it can help congregations navigate denominational tensions. For parishioners and newcomers, the label offers clarity: you won’t have to guess whether a church is affirming, it’s stated openly.

How to support local Pride efforts if you want to get involved

Show up. Volunteer at the Walk and Festival, donate to local LGBTQ+ charities, or simply bring friends and family to the event to boost visibility. If you’re part of a faith community wondering how to start, consider small, consistent acts: host an informational session, display Pride signage, or explore joining a reconciling network to formalise your welcome. Even modest visibility can change someone’s sense of safety in a place where allies are rare.

It's a small change that can make every local celebration feel safer and more inclusive.

Source Reference Map

Story idea inspired by: [1]

Sources by paragraph: