It's the Feel Good Friday before the San Francisco Pride parade so we're taking a look at a group you're sure to see if you attend, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.
Easily recognizable by their painted white faces and habits, the Sisters have been around for almost 40 years! A quick visit to their website explains their history and mission.
"The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence is a leading-edge Order of queer nuns. Since our first appearance in San Francisco on Easter Sunday, 1979, the Sisters have devoted ourselves to community service, ministry and outreach to those on the edges, and to promoting human rights, respect for diversity and spiritual enlightenment. We believe all people have a right to express their unique joy and beauty and we use humor and irreverent wit to expose the forces of bigotry, complacency and guilt that chain the human spirit."
When they say irreverent, they're not kidding. One of their most popular events is the annual Easter celebration which starts with an Easter egg hunt for kids then moves to a series of contests - Easter bonnet, Foxy Mary and Hunky Jesus. Not only does this make for an entertaining Sunday, it's also a way for the Sisters to fundraise for grant money they distribute throughout the year.
Grants range from $250 - $1,000 and are typically given to small organizations and projects working with under-served communities. The Sisters explain other qualifying factors. "We are especially attracted to progressive grassroots projects that promote wellness, joy, tolerance, and diversity within our communities. We have a vision that encompasses diverse communities and groups that have a common interest in human rights, people of every gender, gender identity, race, class, age and sexual orientation."
Though the amounts of the individual grants may be small, since their founding, the Sisters have raised and distributed over one million dollars to non-profit organizations that serve needy communities.
If this sounds like something you'd like to be a part of you can become a nun, make a donation or attend an event. The easiest way to stay in the loop is by liking their Facebook page, following them on Twitter @SFSisters and saying hello to a Sister at the Pride parade on Sunday!
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