Keller, December 20, 2025
The Keller City Council’s decision to revoke Rev. Alan Bentrup’s invitation to deliver an opening prayer has ignited debates on community values and LGBTQ inclusivity. Following Bentrup’s church hosting the inaugural Keller-Southlake Pride festival, council members expressed concerns that the event exposed children to inappropriate content. This decision reflects a growing tension between religious beliefs and the push for inclusivity within the community.
Keller, Texas
City Council Revokes Prayer Invitation to Pastor Over LGBTQ Pride Support
The recent decision by the Keller City Council to revoke the invitation for Rev. Alan Bentrup to deliver an opening prayer at a council meeting underscores the complex dynamics surrounding community values and the evolving discussions on inclusivity. Rev. Bentrup, rector of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, was uninvited after his church hosted the inaugural Keller-Southlake Pride festival, which took place in October and aimed to celebrate diversity in the area. This incident highlights the intersection of religious expression, community standards, and the rights of LGBTQ individuals.
The festival hosted by St. Martin-in-the-Fields drew about 700 attendees and featured performances, including a B-52s cover band and age-appropriate drag shows. However, the event faced criticism from some local GOP leaders and residents who expressed concerns about its suitability for children. Mayor Armin Mizani articulated this discontent, stating that the council would not endorse a prayer led by someone who they believed had offended many community members through the festival’s programming.
Background of the Keller-Southlake Pride Festival
The Keller-Southlake Pride festival aimed to provide a joyful atmosphere for the LGBTQ community, focusing on family-friendly entertainment. While approximately 700 residents attended, the festival was met with polarized opinions. Critics, including local leaders, raised alarms regarding what they deemed “inappropriate” content for younger attendees. This backlash has sparked broader conversations across Texas about the acceptance and inclusion of LGBTQ events.
The Council’s Decision and Community Reaction
In light of the council’s decision to revoke Rev. Bentrup’s invitation shortly before the meeting, discussions within Keller have intensified regarding the balance between community values and the principles of inclusion. The council’s stance reflects a broader sentiment in certain areas of Texas, indicating a careful navigation between traditional values and evolving perspectives on representation and inclusivity.
Rev. Bentrup’s Response
In response to the city council’s decision, Rev. Bentrup expressed his ongoing commitment to serving the community. His church has allocated significant resources to charitable efforts, such as an $80,000 contribution to local food pantries, homeless shelters, and refugee ministries in the past year. He questioned the implications of being deemed unworthy to lead a prayer centered on love and respect, prompting a dialogue on what community values genuinely mean in Keller.
Ongoing Conversations in Keller
The incident has catalyzed a vital discussion about religious expression, community engagement, and the role of local governance in shaping societal values. As Keller navigates this dialogue, residents grapple with definitions of inclusivity, respect, and the responsibilities of public figures. This conversation is not limited to Keller — various Texas communities are similarly reconsidering their approach to LGBTQ inclusion, making it a significant topic of state-wide interest.
Conclusion
The Keller City Council’s decision regarding the prayer invitation serves as a microcosm of wider discussions on inclusivity and community values in Texas. As the community continues to evaluate its stance on LGBTQ issues and religious expression, local businesses and residents alike are encouraged to engage actively in these dialogues. Supporting diverse events enhances community bonds and fosters a culture of understanding and respect, essential for the economic and social vitality of Keller.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why was Rev. Alan Bentrup uninvited from delivering the opening prayer at the Keller City Council meeting?
The Keller City Council rescinded Rev. Bentrup’s invitation after his church, St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, hosted the first Keller-Southlake Pride festival in October. The council cited concerns that the event exposed children to “inappropriate, highly sexualized content,” which they deemed unacceptable.
What was the nature of the Pride festival hosted by St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church?
The Pride festival included performances by a B-52s cover band and an age-appropriate drag show, drawing approximately 700 attendees. The event aimed to provide a safe and joyful space for the LGBTQ community in the Keller-Southlake area.
How did Mayor Armin Mizani respond to the Pride festival?
Mayor Mizani publicly opposed the festival, stating that its programming suggested an agenda aimed at exposing children to “inappropriate, highly sexualized content,” which he found unacceptable.
What has been the community’s reaction to the council’s decision?
The council’s decision has sparked ongoing discussions about the intersection of religious expression, community values, and LGBTQ rights within Keller. The incident reflects broader debates occurring in various Texas communities regarding the inclusion and acceptance of LGBTQ individuals and events.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | First Keller-Southlake Pride festival hosted by St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church in October 2025 |
| Attendance | Approximately 700 attendees |
| Performances | B-52s cover band and age-appropriate drag show |
| Council’s Response | Revoked invitation for Rev. Alan Bentrup to deliver opening prayer at council meeting |
| Mayor’s Statement | Event exposed children to “inappropriate, highly sexualized content,” deemed unacceptable |
| Community Discussion | Debate over religious expression, community values, and LGBTQ rights in Keller |
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