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Many churches in the D.C. suburbs openly welcome the LGBT faithful

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MCC, Metropolitan Community Church, gay news, Washington Blade

A Metropolitan Community Church service (Photo by Jonahthunder via Wikimedia Commons)

Many D.C. churches welcome LGBT worshippers to varying degrees. But aside from avoiding certain denominations, how does one know which churches are safe out in the suburbs?

Though not meant to be exhaustive, our list is a good place for starters. If we missed you this time, please e-mail the Blade’s Features Editor Joey DiGuglielmo so your church or synagogue can be included in a gay-friendly church resource guide we’ll unveil soon at washingtonblade.com.

Metropolitan Community Church, founded in 1968, is an international organization of Protestant congregations with a special ministry to LGBT believers. MCC describes itself as “the vanguard of civil and human rights movements.” The church fights for marriage equality in the U.S. and serves as a voice for the LGBT equality movement. Among their 222 congregations around the world are five in Maryland and northern Virginia.

Maryland:

MCC Baltimore holds a traditional service at 9 a.m. and a praise and worship service at 11 a.m. on Sundays.

401 W. Monument St., Baltimore, MD 21201

410-669-6222

[email protected]

mccbaltimore.org

Open Door MCC holds services on Sundays at 10 a.m.

15817 Barnesville Rd, Boyds, MD 20841

301-916-5777

[email protected]

Opendoormcc.com

Holy Redeemer MCC holds its worship Sundays at 11 a.m.

4907 Niagara Rd Suite 201, College Park, MD 20740

301-982-5775

[email protected]

hrmcc.org

New Light MCC holds services on Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

40 West Church St., Hagerstown, MD 21740

301-797-5698

[email protected]

Newlightmcc.com

Virginia:

MCC of Northern Virginia holds Sunday worships at 11 a.m.

10383 Democracy Lane, Fairfax, VA 22030

703-691-0930

[email protected]

mccnova.com

Bull Run Unitarian Universalist Church in Manassas, Va., is a welcoming congregation that values justice, equality and compassion. The church believes in social justice, particularly for the LGBTcommunity. The church donates to, among other groups, Equality Virginia. Sunday services are at 10:45 a.m. with an additional 9 a.m. service from September through June.

9350 Main St., Manassas, VA 20110

703-361-6269

[email protected]

bruu.org

Commonwealth Baptist Church says of itself, “all are welcome — no exceptions.” Together with the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists, the church walked in the 2012 Capital Pride Parade. Worship is on Sundays at 11 a.m.

700 Commonwealth Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301

703-548-8000

commonwealthbaptistchurch.org

Two other churches in Virginia are members of the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists:

Virginia:

Ravensworth Baptist Church worships on Sundays at 11 a.m.

5100 Ravensworth Rd, Annandale, VA 22003

703-941-4113

rbc-va.org

Washington Plaza Church holds services at 11 a.m. on Sundays.

1615 Washington Plaza, Reston, VA 20190

703-471-5225

washingtonplazachurch.com

Several synagogues are openly LGBT welcoming.

Adat Shalom Reconstructionist is celebrating its 25th anniversary and has Shabbat services Saturday mornings at 9:30 a.m.

7727 Persimmon Tree Lane

Bethesda, MD 20819

301-767-3333

adatshalom.net

Congregation Etz Hayim is an active synagogue with monthly themed Shabbats, special events going on constantly and several Passover services planned all next week.

2920 Arlington Blvd.

Arlington, VA 22204

703-979-4466

etzhayim.net

Kehila Chadasha meets at various locations in North Bethesda and cherishes Jewish heritage, history and traditions through a “non-dogmatic approach.”

e-kehila.org

Kol Ami: The Northern Virginia Reconstructionist Community also has a bounty of weekly activities and meet at various locations in and around Arlington.

Kolaminvrc.org

Machar is a diverse Jewish community serving secular Jews, Humanists and interfaith and mixed-heritage families.

Machar.org

Temple Rodef Shalom is the largest Jewish congregation in Virginia serving McLean, Arlington, Falls Church and more.

2100 Westmoreland Street

Falls Church, VA

703-532-2217

templerodefshalom.org

Mount Vernon Unitarian Church strives to be “a voice for liberal religion.” Unitarian Universalists pride themselves on having affirmed the rights of the LGBT community since 1970, and they support marriage equality. The church holds services at 9:15 and 11:15 a.m. on Sundays.

1909 Windmill Lane, Alexandria, VA 22307

703-765-5950

mvuc.org

DignityUSA is a Catholic organization that works to ensure the respect and justice for all people, regardless of gender, gender identity or sexual orientation. Their local chapters across the country include one in northern Virginia.

Dignity/Northern Virginia celebrates Mass each Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill

3606 Seminary Rd., Alexandria, VA 22304

[email protected]

dignitynova.org

Holy Trinity Parish, an independent Catholic church, welcomes people of all sexual orientations to join in worship. Sunday Mass is held at 9 and 10:30 a.m.

13515-A Dulles Technology Dr., Herndon, VA 20171

800-603-0644 ext 1

bishopsantore@holytrinityhtp.org

holytrinityhtp.org

Emmaus United Church of Christ affirms all relationships, including those in the LGBT community. The church fully welcomes all people, regardless of gender identity and expression and sexual orientation. Worship is held on Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

900 Maple Avenue East, Vienna, VA 22180

703-938-1555

emmausucc.org

The United Church of Christ is, across the board, welcoming of the LGBT community. Several local churches are particularly proud of their support for the community.

Bethesda UCC bills itself as “on the forefront of progressive change.”

10010 Fernwood Road

Bethesda, MD

301-365-3387

bethesdaucc.org

Six:Eight UCC meets Sundays at noon and welcomes members of the queer community to participate in all levels of leadership.

Mobtown Theater

3600 Clipper Mill Rd. Ste. 114, Baltimore, MD 21211

sixeightucc.org

St. Mark’s UCC proudly counts among its church leadership openly gay and lesbian members of its congregation. Worship is held Sundays at 10 a.m.

1805 Wickes Ave., Baltimore, MD 21230

410-644-5466

[email protected]

st-marks-ucc.net

Immanuel UCC welcomes into full membership all people, regardless of sexual orientation. This includes equal employment opportunities and the celebration of holy unions for same-sex couples. Service begins at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays.

1905 Edmondson Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228

410-744-5014

[email protected]

immanuelucc21228.org

The Unity Fellowship Church Movement is a group of churches across the country working to empower those who have been oppressed, particularly gay and lesbian African Americans. It welcomes everyone, particularly those fighting for social justice. The church has two locations in Maryland.

Unity Fellowship Church of Columbia, Md., holds services Sundays at 10 a.m.

Locust Park Neighbor Center

8995 Lambskin Lane, Columbia, MD 21045

301-275-5310

thecolumbiaproject.org

Unity Fellowship Church of Baltimore holds services on Sundays at 10:45 a.m.

4007 Old York Rd., Baltimore, MD 21218

410-244-0884

[email protected]

ufcb.org

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Real Estate

Tips for buying a house in Rehoboth Beach

And why it’s a great fit for the LGBTQ community

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Rehoboth Beach, Del. (Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a charming beach house where flip-flops are considered formalwear and sunsets are your daily entertainment, Rehoboth Beach, Del., might just be your dream come true. It’s not just a beautiful coastal town—it’s also a long celebrated safe haven and vibrant hub for the LGBTQ community. Let’s dive into why Rehoboth Beach is a fabulous choice and how to make a savvy beach house purchase.

Why Rehoboth Is a Vibe (especially for the LGBTQ community)

1. A Welcoming, Inclusive Community

Rehoboth Beach has been lovingly nicknamed the “Nation’s Summer Capital,” and it’s not just because of its proximity to D.C. For decades, Rehoboth has built a reputation as a warm, inclusive, and LGBTQ-friendly destination. From gay-owned businesses to LGBTQ events and nightlife, this is a town where you can truly be yourself.

2. Packed Social Calendar

Poodle Beach, the LGBTQ beach hangout just south of the boardwalk, is always buzzing in the summer. Events like Rehoboth Beach Bear Weekend, Women’s FEST, and CAMP Rehoboth’s myriad of social and wellness events bring people together all year round. That’s right—you’ll never be bored here unless you want to be.

3. Small Town Charm Meets Big City Culture

You get art galleries, drag brunches, live theater, eclectic cuisine, and adorable boutiques—basically everything your soul craves—without the chaos and crowds of major cities. It’s quaint but never boring. Think: Key West vibes with a Delaware zip code.

Tips for Buying Your Dream Beach House 

1. Know Your Budget and Think Long Term. Beachfront and near-beach properties come at a premium. Expect to pay a bit more for proximity to the sand and ocean views. 

2. Choose Your Neighborhood Wisely. Do you want to be walking distance from the action on the boardwalk? Or do you prefer something more secluded in areas like North Shores or Henlopen Acres?

3. Rental Potential. If you’re not living there full time, your beach house could work overtime as a vacation rental. Rehoboth Beach has a healthy short-term rental market, especially in peak summer. Often times LGBTQ travelers actively seek inclusive, affirming places to stay.

4. Weather the Weather. Like all coastal areas, Rehoboth comes with a side of salt air and occasional storms. Invest in a good home inspection, especially for older homes, and be prepared for the maintenance that comes with beachfront living (yes, that includes sand everywhere).

5. Work With a Local Real Estate Agent. Look for an agent who knows Rehoboth inside and out and understands the unique needs of LGBTQ buyers. This isn’t just a house — it’s your happy place. You want someone who sees that and says, “Let’s find your sanctuary.”

Buying a beach house in Rehoboth Beach isn’t just about real estate — it’s about finding a space that reflects your lifestyle, values, and need for both community and calm. Whether it becomes your full-time home, your weekend escape, or your Airbnb side hustle, Rehoboth welcomes you with open arms (and maybe a mimosa).

Want personalized tips on navigating the Rehoboth Beach real estate market? Let’s chat! I’ll bring the listings if you bring the sunscreen. 


Justin Noble is a Realtor with The Burns & Noble Group with Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Delaware. Reach him at [email protected] or 202-234-3344.

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Real Estate

Impact of federal gov’t RIF on D.C.’s rental market

A seismic economic change for local property owners

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President Trump’s plan to cut the federal workforce presents challenges to local landlords. (Washington Blade file photo by Michael Key)

In a move that could redefine the federal government workforce and reshape the economic fabric of Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump has announced his intentions to significantly reduce federal government spending as well as the number of people the federal government employs.

Calling the federal bureaucracy “bloated” and “out of control,” Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to cut thousands of federal jobs. While these cuts align with his long-standing push to “drain the swamp,” they come with potential and real collateral damage, especially for landlords in the D.C. area who have relied on government employees as some of their most reliable and long-term tenants.

The potential reduction of thousands of jobs in a city built around government work is not just a political shift—it’s a seismic economic change for the city government as well as for local property owners who have invested in the predictability of a near-constant demand for workers in the federal government agencies, government contractors and the economic ecosystem they sustain. 

For landlords, government workers have represented ideal tenants: strong income, long-term leases, and responsible rental histories. Now, that foundation is being shaken in a battle by the Administration against a workforce which is the backbone of the Washington area’s overall economy, and especially its rental market.

With uncertainty looming, landlords are left in a difficult position. If widespread layoffs come to fruition, rental vacancies could spike, rental prices would drop, and previously secure investment properties might become financial liabilities. The sudden shift forces landlords to consider their next moves: how to support tenants facing job losses, how to adapt to a changing market, and how to ensure their own financial stability amid the uncertainty.

For D.C. landlords, this isn’t just about policy shifts or budget cuts, it’s about economic livelihood. The challenge ahead isn’t about just reacting to change, but proactively preparing for it, ensuring they can weather the storm of political maneuvering.

Potential Consequences for D.C. Landlords

  1. 1. Increased Risk of Non-Payment of Rent
    • Job losses may lead to late or missed rent payments
    • As affected tenants struggle financially, they may ask to break their lease to live elsewhere or even move out of the region
    • Eviction lawsuits may rise, leading to a long and expensive process for landlords, all while not being able to rent their property to paying tenants.
  1. 2. Higher Vacancy Rates
  1. If many government employees leave the D.C. region in search of work elsewhere, the rental demand could decline significantly
  2. Rental properties may sit empty longer, requiring landlords to lower rents to attract new tenants and creating even more financial loss

3. More Competition from Other Landlords

  1. As many more units are vacant on the market, all competing for the same pool of potential tenants, older and smaller rentals, and those located further out from the core of the city will all struggle to find quality renters.
  2. Landlords will need to offer other ways to attract and retain tenants, such as incentives, which could quickly overwhelm the finances of smaller landlords who cannot keep up.

Proactive Strategies for Landlords

To mitigate risks and ensure future rental success, landlords should consider these defensive measures:

1. Strengthen Tenant Relationships and Communication

  • Encourage tenants to communicate if they anticipate financial hardship due to job loss.
  • Work out temporary payment plans or partial payments to prevent full non-payment or eviction.
  • Provide guidance on rental assistance programs available in D.C.

2. Offer Flexible Lease Terms

  • Consider shorter-term leases than a full 12-month term to accommodate the needs of tenants who may be uncertain about their long-term employment status.
  • Offer lease renewals at the same rent amount to keep stable tenants and avoid turnover

3. Diversify Tenant Base

  • If a large portion of tenants are government workers, a landlord may want to market to a broader audience or professionals in private industries.
  • Advertise on platforms that cater to diverse tenant pools, including students and international workers.

4. Adjust Screening Criteria Thoughtfully

  • While it’s important to ensure financial stability, consider creditworthiness, assets, and rental history rather than just employment status.
  • Consider alternative income sources, like family members assisting, part-time work or freelance gigs.

5. Protect Cash Flow with Rent Guarantee Options

  • Explore rental insurance policies or rent guarantee services to cover losses in case of non-payment.
  • Consider co-signers or guarantors on leases for new tenants in vulnerable industries, just in case.

6. Adjust Rental Pricing to Stay Competitive

  • Monitor the D.C. rental market and adjust pricing accordingly to attract new tenants.
  • Consider offering move-in incentives as a way to stand out.  Be creative!  Sometimes things you can offer are different and may catch someone’s eye

Long-Term Planning for Rental Success

  • Build reserves to cover expenses during potential vacancies or rent shortfalls.
  • Invest in property upgrades to make rentals more attractive to a broader audience, such as young professionals or remote workers.
  • Consider diversifying property holdings to include areas that are less reliant on government employment.

By taking proactive steps, landlords can safeguard their investments while supporting tenants through economic uncertainty, ultimately leading to a more stable and resilient rental business.


Scott Bloom is owner and senior property manager at Columbia Property Management. For more information, visit ColumbiaPM.com.

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Real Estate

Hidden hazards at home

Professional inspections can help catch safety issues early

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Test smoke detectors monthly and change batteries at least once a year. (Photo by Phonlamaiphoto/Bigstock)

As the spring market hits its stride, we are beginning to see more inventory and an increase in days on the market in parts of the DMV. This may result in professional home inspections becoming routine parts of contract offers again. A thorough home inspection can help catch safety issues early and is an opportunity to learn about the operation and maintenance of items in your home.

Pay attention to flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, and discolored outlets—these are signs of potential electrical hazards. Outdated wiring, overloaded outlets, and faulty appliances can lead to electrical fires. 

Structural issues are often overlooked until it’s too late. Crumbling foundations, weak or damaged stairs, loose railings, and uneven flooring can cause trips and falls. Water damage from leaks or flooding can weaken the integrity of floors and walls, creating a risk of collapse. 

Toxic chemicals can pose serious threats to health and safety, often without obvious warning signs. Understanding and addressing these risks is crucial for maintaining a safe living environment for you and your loved ones.

Household products such as cleaners, pesticides, air fresheners, and even cosmetics can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds, when inhaled regularly, can cause a range of health issues including headaches, respiratory problems, hormonal disruptions, and in some cases, even cancer. To minimize these risks, homeowners should opt for low-VOC or VOC-free products, ventilate regularly, and consider investing in an air purifier. 

Formaldehyde is another common toxin found in pressed wood products, insulation, and certain paints. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory problems and has been linked to cancer. 

Radon gas, another possible carcinogen, is prevalent in the DMV. Your home inspector can do a radon test or there are DIY kits available at many hardware stores. If levels are above EPA standards, a professional remediation firm can install a system that extracts the radon and vents it safely outdoors.

Carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless gas, is produced by gas stoves, heaters, and fireplaces. Exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death. Install CO detectors near bedrooms and ensure that all fuel-burning appliances are properly maintained and ventilated. 

Additionally, older homes may still contain asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, or roofing materials. If disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and are highly dangerous when inhaled, leading to serious diseases such as mesothelioma, so when renovating an older home, it’s critical to have materials tested for asbestos before beginning work.

Mold and mildew thrive in damp, poorly ventilated areas such as bathrooms, basements, and around leaky pipes. While some molds are harmless, others can cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems and aggravate conditions such as asthma. Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) is notorious for producing mycotoxins that may lead to severe health issues.

Signs of mold include musty odors, visible growth on walls or ceilings, and excessive humidity. Preventing mold growth requires controlling moisture levels—using dehumidifiers and vapor barriers, fixing leaks promptly, and ensuring adequate ventilation. Professional mold remediation may be necessary for severe infestations.

Though banned in residential paints in 1978, lead-based paint still exists in millions of older homes. Lead exposure is especially dangerous for children, causing developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral issues. Adults are not immune – lead can lead to high blood pressure, kidney damage, and reproductive problems.

Even dust from deteriorating lead-based paint can be hazardous. The EPA recommends professional lead testing for any home built before 1978, especially if renovations are planned. Certified abatement professionals can safely remove or encapsulate lead paint.

Improper use of heating equipment, fireplaces, unattended candles, and cooking accidents are common sources of home fires. Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are essential for early detection and response. Test smoke detectors monthly and change batteries at least once a year.

Homes that are safe for adults may not be safe for children or pets. Small objects, unsecured cabinets, toxic plants, and open staircases can pose significant risks. Childproofing measures such as outlet covers, safety gates, and cabinet locks, along with safe storage of chemicals and medications, are essential precautions.

The good news is that many of these risks can be mitigated with awareness and action. Here are a few simple steps to enhance home safety:

• Conduct a thorough safety audit using checklists available online.

• Ensure proper ventilation to reduce indoor air pollutants.

• Regularly check for leaks and signs of water damage.

• Keep cleaning and chemical products out of reach of children.

• Educate all household members about emergency procedures, including fire escapes and first aid.

Our homes should protect us, not pose threats to our well-being. By identifying and addressing these toxic and unsafe issues, we can transform our living spaces into truly safe havens.


Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at 202-246-8602, email her via DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs.

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