An Update to Members and Stakeholders
We are writing to share an important update on recent changes within OneBodyOneFaith. This is a time of significant transition for the charity, and we want to be open about the challenges we are facing, while also expressing our deep gratitude to those who have contributed so much to our work.
The past few months have seen several key departures from our team, and while this is undoubtedly a difficult moment for the charity, we remain committed to our mission of advocating for inclusion, dignity, and safeguarding for LGBTQ+ people across all denominations and church communities.
Leadership Transitions
Mark Rowland has served as a trustee of OneBodyOneFaith since 2019, and as Co-Chair for the past three years. During this time, he has been a passionate advocate for inclusion, both within the Methodist Church, where he serves as Secretary of the Faith and Order Committee, and through his deep commitment to ecumenical working for change.
Mark has now stepped down from his roles with OneBodyOneFaith to focus on his work within the Methodist Church. During his tenure as Co-Chair, the charity broadened its engagement with Christian leaders both nationally and internationally, strengthened its governance, stabilised its finances, and helped position OneBodyOneFaith for its next phase.
Reflecting on his time with the charity, Mark said:
"I have been honoured to serve as a trustee of OneBodyOneFaith for nearly seven years, including most recently as Co-Chair. While the time has come to step back from the board, I continue to be an enthusiastic supporter of the charity's work and remain a proud member. The work for LGBTQ+ equality in the churches and beyond is far from over and OneBodyOneFaith has a critical role to play in it."
On behalf of the Board, Jo Walchester said:
“Mark has given outstanding service to OneBodyOneFaith at a crucial time in its development. We are deeply grateful for his leadership, and we look forward to his continuing friendship and support.”
Following Mark’s departure, Hannah Brock Womack and Rev Dr Thomas Sharp will serve as interim Co-Chairs until the AGM in June, with invitations to the AGM being sent out shortly. The Board is now working to recruit new trustees and appoint new Co-Chairs to help guide the charity through this next phase.
If you are interested in supporting the work of OneBodyOneFaith as a trustee, we warmly invite you to contact Charlie Lord, Treasurer and Company Secretary, at treasurer@onebodyonefaith.org.uk for an initial conversation.
Staff and Volunteer Departures
Head of Operations Katie Marsh, who has devoted over a decade to OneBodyOneFaith, is now embarking on a new chapter in her journey. Throughout her time with the charity, Katie has been a constant and trusted presence, supporting the organisation across every aspect of its work. Katie has been the backbone of OneBodyOneFaith, and her unwavering commitment has left an indelible mark on our community. We are profoundly grateful for her dedication and service, and we wish her every success in the future.
Fr Lee Taylor has served as chaplain to Rhythm, our online service of worship and fellowship for LGBTQ+ Christians, initially a part-time employee, has now stepped down from this role.
Lee’s pastoral care, vision, and commitment to the Rhythm community, which he helped to build and sustain, have been deeply valued and will be greatly missed. We are pleased that Rev Dr Thomas Sharp, one of our newer trustees, will be working with the community as it continues to grow in worship and fellowship.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Support and Reflection
We are committed to thoughtful reflection during this period of transition, as we strive to build on the foundations already laid and identify areas for growth.
As we approach our 50th anniversary, we are mindful of our history and the changing needs of those we serve. We remain clear in our conviction that LGBTQ+ Christians are not called merely to survive, but to flourish.
However, we cannot do this alone. We need the support, feedback, and engagement of our members, partners, and stakeholders to help us navigate this period of change.
If you would like to contribute to the future of OneBodyOneFaith, we encourage you to get involved in one of our Community Listening and Visioning Sessions. Past reflection and collaboration will inform our steps forward, and we encourage participation. Please email our Trustee Jo Walchester at jo@onebodyonefaith.org.uk if you would be interested in taking part.
Together, we can ensure that distinctively LGBTQ+ Christian voices continue to be heard, valued, and strengthened in the life of the Church.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our shared mission.
