Death, Sex & Money “The Lord Is My Shepherd and He Knows I'm Gay”
Nov 25, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, Lynne Gerber, a religious studies scholar and host of 'When We All Get to Heaven,' shares her journey into the Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) and its vital role during the AIDS crisis. She recounts discovering archival cassette tapes hidden under the church floor, revealing poignant sermons and songs that fostered community. Lynne highlights the transformative experience of MCC services, Troy Perry's charismatic leadership, and the church's efforts to create safe spaces for queer individuals, emphasizing its lifesaving support during difficult times.
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Found Tapes Sparked The Project
- Lynne Gerber discovered boxes of cassette tapes under MCC San Francisco's elevated sound-room floor and began cataloging them.
- The tapes contained services, sermons, and dates that became the project's primary archival source.
Evangelical Style Meets Gay Affirmation
- MCC grew from Pentecostal and Baptist roots into an explicitly gay-affirming Christian movement under Troy Perry.
- That blend of evangelical style and unwavering acceptance created a uniquely powerful religious identity.
MCC Began In A Living Room
- Troy Perry started MCC in his Los Angeles living room in October 1968 with a sermon called 'Be True to You.'
- Twelve people showed up that first day and the group committed to forming a church for the homophile community.
