Church hosting new Pride celebration

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. VERMILION TWP. — Grace United Methodist Church will host Vermilion's first community PRIDE celebration this summer, inviting residents to gather for a day of music, food and community activities. The event — titled Pride 2026: Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors — will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 6 on the grounds of Grace United Methodist Church, 13406 W. Lake Road, in Vermilion. Organizers said the daylong event is intended to bring community members together through fellowship, music, learning and family-friendly activities. At the center of the event will be a free picnic called Unity in the Community, in which neighbors and visitors are invited to share a meal and spend time together. The celebration will also feature local vendors, live music, guest speakers and a children's activity tent designed to provide entertainment for attendees of all ages. Organizers said the goal of Pride 2026 is to create a welcoming space where people of all backgrounds, identities and abilities can come together in a spirit of understanding and respect. "Pride 2026 is about celebrating the beautiful diversity of our community and reminding people that everyone belongs," said Jim Chapple, chair of the church's diversity committee. The event is being co-sponsored by Shores & Islands Ohio, the Community Foundation of Lorain County, Trinity Lutheran Church and the United Church of Christ. Pastor Preston Watkins, of Grace United Methodist Church, said the celebration reflects the congregation's mission of welcoming people from all walks of life. "We believe faith calls us to open our hearts, open our minds, and open our doors to everyone," Watkins said. Organizers say the event is free and open to the public. Community members interested in learning more about the event can contact organizers or visit facebook.com/vermiliongrace for additional information.