We believe transparency builds trust. Here is how we organize ourselves, make decisions, and hold one another accountable.
Ecclesiastical Government
Our governance is structured to ensure decisions are made democratically and in the best interest of the community. Currently there is one Blahaj Church, led by the First Minister and governed by the board.
First Minister
The First Minister is responsible for setting the church's agenda, managing its resources, and ensuring our mission and values are upheld. The First Minister is advised by and reports to the board.
Regional Churches
If additional regional churches are created, they will operate autonomously while adhering to the same core principles. Each regional church will have its own First Minister and board, with decisions made democratically. A regional church that wishes to separate will be expected to change its name. There is no fee from the central Blahaj Church to affiliates, though collaboration on important matters is encouraged.
Board
The board is composed of five people, the majority of whom are transgender, gender non-conforming, gender variant, or intersex. Board members serve one-year terms as primarily volunteers, though small stipends for travel and training may be available.
The board oversees operations, budgeting, fundraising, and outreach. The lead minister – who may also use the title of priest or priestess – reports to and works closely with the board. The lead minister may serve on the board.
The board is also tasked with investigating any accusations of wrongdoing by ministers or members. If wrongdoing is found, the board has the authority to take disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion.
By placing decision-making power in the hands of those who have experienced discrimination based on gender identity, we seek to create a community that is truly representative of its members.
We have open board seats. If you share our values and want to serve, get involved.
Appointed Positions
The board appoints officer roles to assist with the management of the church:
- Treasurer
- Manages the church's finances, keeps accurate records of all financial transactions, and provides regular financial reports to the board and congregation.
- Secretary
- Takes minutes at board meetings, maintains records of church policies and procedures, and ensures all legal and regulatory requirements are met.
- Membership Chair
- Manages the membership database, processes new membership applications, and communicates with members about events and activities.
- Communications Chair
- Manages the website, social media, and other communication channels, ensuring all communications are consistent with the church's mission.
- Outreach Chair
- Promotes the church's mission to the broader community, organizes community events and service projects, and builds relationships with other organizations.
Doctrine and Discipline
Doctrine
- Sacredness of Gender Diversity
- We recognize and affirm the inherent value and sacredness of all gender identities and expressions. Every individual is created in the image of the divine.
- Inclusivity
- We welcome and affirm all individuals, regardless of gender identity or expression. We strive to create a safe and welcoming space for all.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy
- We recognize HRT as an important tool for individuals who desire it, helping them live and present in their congruent gender.
- Puberty Blockers
- We recognize the value of puberty blockers for young people experiencing gender dysphoria, working with qualified healthcare providers.
- Gender-Affirming Rituals
- We hold rituals that celebrate and honor the sacredness of transgender, gender non-conforming, and intersex individuals.
- Bodily Self-Determination
- We believe in the right of self-determination regarding medical and personal decisions about one's body.
Discipline
- Respect for Diversity
- All members and leaders must treat others with respect and dignity. Discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
- Accountability
- All members and leaders are held accountable for their actions and words. Harmful, discriminatory, or disrespectful behavior will be addressed.
- Confidentiality
- We respect the privacy of our members. Personal information shared within the community is kept confidential unless explicit permission is given.
- Responsibility
- All members and leaders take responsibility for their own actions and words.
- Community Service
- We encourage members and leaders to engage in community service and activism supporting trans, gender non-conforming, and intersex individuals.
This code of doctrine and discipline is not exhaustive and may be updated over time, but it reflects our core values.
Statement of Inter-Faith Support
We recognize that many religious beliefs and practices may not align with our specific focus, but we believe compatibility is possible with faiths that do not conflict with our mission. We are committed to interfaith dialogue and building relationships with individuals and organizations that share our values of inclusivity and respect.
We acknowledge that individuals may hold multiple religious affiliations or identify with multiple spiritual traditions. We respect and honor that diversity, and encourage people to integrate their spiritual journey with their gender affirmation journey in whatever way feels authentic.
Political Activity
The Blahaj Church does not participate in or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office. No officer, minister, or representative may endorse candidates, make political contributions on behalf of the church, or issue statements for or against any candidate while acting in their official capacity.
This prohibition is a current internal policy and is also consistent with Section 501(c)(3) standards. If and when federal tax-exempt recognition is granted, this policy will continue as a legal requirement. The church may engage in issue-based advocacy and education consistent with its religious mission, provided such activities do not constitute a substantial part of its overall activities.
Tax Status
The Blahaj Church is incorporated in Sacramento County, California, as an active religious entity under state law.
IRS 501(c)(3) recognition is currently pending and has not yet been approved.
At this time, donations should not be treated as tax-deductible.
Dissolution
Upon dissolution, remaining assets after debt payment will be distributed in a manner consistent with our charitable and religious mission and applicable law at that time. If IRS 501(c)(3) recognition is in effect at dissolution, assets will be distributed to charitable, educational, or scientific organizations recognized under Section 501(c)(3). Potential recipients include the TGI Justice Project or other organizations aligned with our mission. The final decision will be made by the board at the time of dissolution.