You're welcome here.
Seriously.
We covenant with God and each other to live as Jesus has taught. Following God’s example, we strive to be a Christian Community welcoming you no matter who you are. No matter your physical or mental ability, race, ethnicity, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, marital status, or economic status, you are truly welcome. We acknowledge past hurts individuals may have experienced and look to offer a safe, non-judgmental space for all who want to know God in Christ. This covenant includes the right to participate equally and fully in all aspects of the life and ministry of this congregation. In a spirit of understanding, we strive for collaboration as we seek to become the fully inclusive community of faith that God calls us to be.
WE BELIEVE GOD LOVES EVERYONE.
AND EVERYONE MEANS YOU.
WHAT IS OPEN & AFFIRMING?
“Open and Affirming” (ONA) is a movement of more than 1,500 churches and other ministries in the United Church of Christ that welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) members. More than 350,000 members of the UCC belong to ONA churches—and our movement is growing rapidly.
After a time of study, dialogue and prayer, churches adopt an Open and Affirming “covenant” committing their members to welcome LGBTQ seekers, support their relationships, and advocate for their basic rights. All sacraments and rites of an ONA congregation are available to LGBTQ people, including baptism, confirmation, communion, and marriage. ONA churches take seriously the Bible’s admonition to “accept one another, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” (Romans 15:7, NIV)
DOES IT REALLY MEAN ME?
Yes! We mean that you are welcome here just as you are and no matter who you love. It means your queer children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors are welcome here any time they are in town. It means you are free to talk about your boyfriend, girlfriend, or partner without worrying that you will get funny looks. You, and all you are, really are welcome here!
CAN I GET MARRIED IN YOUR CHURCH?
Yes! No matter your sexual orientation or gender expression, all loving couples are welcome to get married here!!!
WHY IS THE "AFFIRMING" PART IMPORTANT?
There are churches in this town who will say that you are welcome, but they will not affirm all of who you are. It is important for us to boldly proclaim that all of you is welcome, loved, and affirmed at this church. All the work, mission, ministries, and sacraments are open to you now and in the future!