Our History

Pikes Peak Metropolitan Community Church began in July 1979, when a small group gathered for worship in the Colorado Springs garage of the Rev. Joyce E. Setala. The congregation was founded as a place where LGBTQ+ people and their families could worship openly at a time when many churches did not welcome them.

As attendance grew, the congregation moved from the garage to space at All Souls Unitarian Church on North Tejon Street. The Rev. Bonnie Daniels served during the church’s early years. The Rev. Roger E. Webb became pastor in 1983, and in November 1985, Pikes Peak MCC became a chartered congregation of Metropolitan Community Churches.

Over the years, PPMCC was guided by pastors including the Rev. Marion Harrison, the Rev. Nori Rost, the Rev. Wesley Mullins, and the Rev. Alycia Erickson. The congregation grew from a small worship gathering into an established church offering worship, pastoral care, fellowship, advocacy, and opportunities to serve.

In May 1999, PPMCC purchased its own church building. The process was not easy. The congregation experienced discrimination, and four women from the church co-signed the mortgage and placed their own homes up as collateral. Their courage and commitment helped secure a permanent home for the congregation. In March 2024, PPMCC paid the mortgage in full.

Throughout its history, PPMCC has remained connected to the wider Colorado Springs community. Members participated in public opposition to Amendment 2, marched for LGBTQ+ equality, supported people and families affected by HIV and AIDS, provided relief supplies following Hurricane Katrina, and joined Westside CARES in serving low-income and unhoused neighbors.

That community role became especially visible following the Club Q shooting in November 2022. PPMCC organized and hosted a Thanksgiving dinner that same week for people affected by the tragedy. The church later hosted a Christmas dinner and drag show that had traditionally been held at Club Q.

PPMCC has also benefited from clergy who supported the congregation in different roles. Pastor Charles Gilbert served for many years as Staff Pastor. Pastor Diane Martin has served PPMCC while also ministering at Lower Coon Valley and Zion Lutheran churches in Wisconsin. The Rev. John Mark Hild, a longtime faith leader in Southern Colorado, has also participated in the worship and ministry life of PPMCC.

Today, PPMCC continues the work that began in a garage in 1979. We remain committed to providing a church where people can worship without hiding who they are, find community, receive support, and take part in serving others. We honor those who came before us while preparing the congregation for the years ahead.