Providence Church on Daniel Island will host a screening of the award-winning documentary Sanctuary on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 2 to 4:30 p.m.
Sanctuary is a feature-length film that explores the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals within modern faith systems, told through the eyes of a visionary architect whose passion project becomes a lifeline to many. When doctrine collides with personal identity, the film depicts a sacred space rising from rejection and offering refuge and hope.
The event will kick off Community Conversations, a series of dialogues hosted by Providence Church (294 Seven Farms Dr. on Daniel Island) on topics relevant to living a modern life through the lens of faith.
Immediately following the screening, the audience is invited to a panel discussion featuring filmmakers Autumn McAlpin and Vienna Boyes, along with Stan Mitchell, a Nashville, Tennessee, pastor quoted in the film. Charleston's Jensen Smith of Alliance for Full Acceptance (AFFA) and Providence Church pastor Dan Freemyer will also participate in the panel.
The film includes discussions of mental health, religious trauma and the suicide of LGBTQIA+ individuals, which some viewers, especially younger audiences, may find emotionally difficult. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For international resources, visit findahelpline.com.
The event is free, but registration is required.
Providence Church affirms the sacredness, dignity and equality of all people, regardless of any distinction of religion or society.
Questions can be directed to info@providencecharleston.org.
Event Details
- What: Screening of the award-winning documentary Sanctuary, followed by a panel discussion with the filmmakers
- When: Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, from 2 to 4:30 p.m.
- Where: Providence Church, 294 Seven Farms Drive, Daniel Island
- Audience: Anyone interested in learning more about LGBTQIA+ inclusion in faith communities
- Content warning: Mature themes, including references to suicide and mental health distress experienced by some members of the LGBTQIA+ community
- Cost: Free, but registration is required