Clergy from across Prince Edward Island are holding a special church service this Sunday that invites the gay and lesbian community to join with other parishioners.

Leaders from five Presbyterian, Anglican and United churches organized the service because they say many gay and lesbian Islanders don't know which churches will welcome them.

"If this goes well this year, it would be nice if we could join [together] again in other years," said Jim Culbert, of the Kirk of St. James Presbyterian Church in Charlottetown, where the service is being held.

"It helps to build up the community. Some are nervous about coming to just a gay service in case somebody sees them coming into the church."

Culbert said having a combined event will also make it easier for Islanders who aren't ready to be open about their sexuality.

"With five churches invited, who knows who's coming," he said. "So you can come in, partnered or single, and you're not going to be pointed out."

The event is also a way for same-sex couples to church shop for ministers who will marry them.

Culbert is marrying six gay couples this summer.