Maranatha
We seek to foster greater understanding and equity for LGBTQ+ people and their allies. Components include service, advocacy, scholarships and special events. We meet on the second Sunday of the month after worship, September through June. Maranatha’s Co-Conveners are Ranardo-Domeico Grays, Juliet Owuor, and Nicholas Singletary. Please reach out if you have questions. Contact MCPL@trcnyc.org.
Our Mission
Maranatha, a ministry of The Riverside Church, is committed to serving God by fostering greater understanding while promoting equity for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Same-Gender Loving, and Allies. With these goals, we have organized our ministry to serve, advocate, and support the LGBTQ community.
What does Maranatha mean?
Maranatha means “The Lord Cometh” or “Lord Come to Me”. It was used as an expression of greeting and encouragement among early-persecuted Christians.
When does Maranatha meet?
Maranatha meets at The Riverside Church, the second Sunday of each month, September through June, following the morning worship service. We offer diverse programs of interest to members, to Riversiders, and to our LGBT neighbors and allies in the larger community of New York
What are Maranatha’s annual events?
Maranatha has a Christmas party and a Pride Breakfast on Pride Sunday. Since 1978, we have marched in the Pride Parade. Since 2009 we have had a beautiful Pride float. Maranatha has a table at the Harlem Pride festival and participates in the annual AIDS Walk. We also have special programs to honor Black History Month and Women’s History Month.
What are Maranatha’s other activities?
There are many! For example, they include the gathering of donations for a charity that provides shelters and drop-in centers for homeless youth, collaboration with an organization that promotes the adoption of older children, and the awarding of endowed scholarships to LGBT college students.
Pride Events 2026
The Riverside Church and our Maranatha LGBTQ ministry are once again pleased to invite you to participate in a variety of Pride Month activities. All are welcome. Click the following link for more on our Pride Events. Riverside Church Pride Month – Riverside Church
Maranatha Scholarships
Maranatha at Riverside seeks to foster greater understanding and equity for LGBTQI people and their allies. There are three scholarships currently open for students. Click the link below to learn more about the John Fiske Robson Music Scholar Award, the Edgar G. Richards Scholar Award and the Dr. Ronald B. Lonesome Medical Scholarship, visit Riverside Church 2026 Maranatha Scholarships – Riverside Church.
Maranatha Annual Christmas Celebration
Celebrate the holiday season with us on Friday, December 19, 2025, in Room 9T at 6:00 PM. Join us for a festive evening with a holiday dinner, caroling, and meaningful moments of giving. Maranatha, The Riverside Church’s LGBTQ+ ministry, welcomes everyone! For more information click the following link. Maranatha Annual Christmas Celebration
Tickets:
Adults: $35
At the door: $45
Students & seniors may receive a $10 discount off the general ticket price.
Support Maranatha scholarships with your ticket, explore additional giving opportunities, and help uplift our community together. Need assistance? Contact MCPL@trcnyc.org.