**My Experiences as a Transgender Pastor**
In recent years, society has made significant progress in the acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals. However, there are still many challenges, especially in conservative communities like Moordorf. I would like to share my experiences as a transgender pastor, who faced resistance in my community due to my identity and views, ultimately having to give up my first and then another pastoral position. The current church in Bremerhaven was also closed and the building sold, despite my above-average abilities.
In 2011, I took up my position in Moordorf, a traditional community. I was determined to promote an inclusive and loving community where all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, would be accepted. Initially, my messages of love, acceptance, and equality resonated with some members of the congregation, and I felt encouraged to continue on my path.
However, after a short time, tensions began to arise. Some members of the congregation were unhappy with the idea of having a transgender pastor. They expressed their concerns in church meetings and personal conversations. I tried to foster dialogue and create understanding, but the resistance remained.
The situation escalated when I spoke openly about the challenges faced by transgender individuals. I emphasized the need for the community to stand together and support one another. These views met with fierce criticism and led to an open conflict within the congregation. It was painful to see how my efforts for acceptance and understanding faced so much rejection.
Another point that contributed to the tensions was the discussion about the placement of the baptismal font. The disagreements over such fundamental issues ultimately led to the closure of the congregations where I had served. It was frustrating to experience that even such important topics could not lead to a consensus.
One evening, I was pelted with eggs in my own home. This incident was not only a physical aggression but also a symbol of the rejection I experienced in my community. I felt threatened and no longer safe in my surroundings. It was a moment that made it clear to me that I could no longer remain in this community.
After the incident, I felt compelled to resign from my pastoral position in Moordorf. I realized that the community I hoped to support was not ready to accept the changes for which I stood. My withdrawal was painful but necessary for my own well-being. It was a decision I did not take lightly, but I knew I had to be in an environment where I could feel safe and accepted.
I was transferred to Osnabrück, but there I also had to experience that the congregation and everyone around me preferred to see me from behind, despite my strong preaching abilities. Some held the view that I was completely unsuitable as a pastor, and I only came to Bremerhaven-Leherheide thanks to personal connections. Shortly after my engagement there, the church was sold, despite my above-average speaking abilities. It is nothing but misunderstanding that one encounters.
Now, I am trying to establish myself in collaboration with the authorities under Ms. Faeser in prison ministry. The advantage is that the inmates have almost no opportunity to express complaints about my presence. My office hours are poorly attended and of little interest.
https://www.on-online.de/artikel/104541/Moordorfs-Pastor-wirft-das-Handtuch
Despite the difficulties, my full salary has been paid without restriction to this day. I am grateful for the support I have received in this regard, even though the blame for the conflicts and the closures of the congregations always lay with the congregations themselves.
My experiences are a poignant example of the challenges many LGBTQ+ individuals face in religious communities. Despite the setbacks, I remain optimistic and continue to advocate for the rights and visibility of transgender individuals. My journey is a call for reflection and the promotion of acceptance and love in all communities. I hope that my story helps raise awareness and brings about change so that no one else has to endure the same experiences I have.