Theme: Standing Up for Love Takes Courage and Inner Strength

We are thrilled to welcome Wyn Starks, the acclaimed American soul-pop singer, as the musical headliner of this year’s Berlin Pride Church Service on Friday, July 25th at 5 PM at St. Mary’s Church (Marienkirche).

Known for his stirring vocals and heartfelt songwriting, Wyn first captured international attention with his emotional performance of “Who I Am” on America’s Got Talent, a tribute to his late twin brother. His debut album Black Is Golden blends gospel, soul, and pop with deeply personal lyrics that speak to resilience, identity, and healing.

Most recently, Wyn’s music reached a global audience when “Who I Am” was featured in the 2024 Amazon Prime documentary "I Am: Céline Dion," underscoring its powerful message of perseverance and hope—perfectly aligning with this year’s theme:

“Standing Up for Love Takes Courage and Inner Strength.”

You can get a taste of Wyn’s soul-stirring sound ahead of the Berlin performance through some of his standout music videos:

 Wyn Starks – “Who I Am” (Official Video)

The emotional breakout single featured in I Am: Céline Dion.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8S1bjR-dGI&list=RDg8S1bjR-dGI&start_radio=1

Wyn Starks – “Sparrow” (Official Video)

A soaring anthem of hope and strength.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVlwXYUcTeI&list=RDoVlwXYUcTeI&start_radio=1

️ Wyn Starks on Americas Got Talent   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnSzDow00uw

 Wyn Starks – “Dancing My Way” (Official Video)

A joyful, empowering celebration of identity and freedom.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSmRG0y5ScM&list=RDTSmRG0y5ScM&start_radio=1

Wyn will be joined by his pianist and longtime collaborator Fred Williams, also known as Built By Titan. A Nashville-based producer and songwriter, Williams played a key role in launching Wyn’s career and co-produced his debut album. Together, they bring a soulful, emotionally rich sound to the stage.

Featuring the Powerful Voice of Bishop Vanessa M. Brown

We’re also honored to welcome Bishop Vanessa M. Brown, senior pastor of Rivers of Living Water UCC in New York City and New Jersey. Known for her incredibly powerful voice and commanding stage presence, Bishop Brown will offer music during the service that uplifts and inspires. Her gospel performance promises to be one of the emotional high points of the evening.

Preacher: Rev. Micah Bucey

Among the preachers in this year’s service is Rev. Micah Bucey, a queer minister from Judson Memorial Church UCC in New York City. Rev. Bucey is known for blending art, spirituality, and activism in creative and deeply moving ways. His preaching brings inspiration, joy, and a bold call to justice and inclusion.

A Diverse and United Service

Held annually on the eve of Christopher Street Day (CSD), this interfaith gathering brings together voices from Christian, Jewish, and Muslim communities to celebrate love, dignity, and solidarity. This year marks the first official participation of Out in Church, a Catholic LGBTQ+ initiative.

Protestant Bishop Christian Stäblein will take part in the service, along with Cansel Kiziltepe, Berlin’s Senator for Equality and Diversity, and other civic and religious leaders.

The service will also officially welcome Julia Helmke, Berlin’s new General Superintendent, as patron of the Protestant Church’s float at CSD Berlin 2025.

 Event Details

 When:

Friday, July 25, 2025

5:00 PM (Service duration: max. 2 hours)

 Where:

St. Mary’s Church (Marienkirche)

Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 8, 10178 Berlin, Germany

Join us for a moving, musical celebration of faith, diversity, and courage—led by the unforgettable voice of Wyn Starks, the gospel brilliance of Bishop Vanessa M. Brown, and an inclusive message of love and justice from Rev. Micah Bucey.