A Welcoming Congregation
We are a Welcoming Congregation. This means that, by vote of the congregation at the Annual Meeting in 1993, we are committed to the following:1. Being inclusive and expressive of the concerns of gay, lesbian and bisexual persons at every level of congregational life in worship or social occasions, welcoming not only their presence, but the unique gifts and particularities of their lives as well.
a. Not assuming that everyone is heterosexual, using a vocabulary of worship that reflects this perception and celebrates diversity by inclusivity of language and of content.
b. Understanding that the experience of lesbian, gay and bisexual persons will be fully incorporated through all programs, including religious education.
2. Including an affirmation and nondiscrimination clause in the bylaws and other official documents of the church affecting all dimensions of congregational life such as membership, hiring practices and the calling of religious professionals.
3. Engaging in outreach into gay, lesbian and bisexual communities, both by advertising and by supporting other gay, lesbian and bisexual affirmative action groups.
4. Offering congregational and ministerial support for services of union and memorial services for gay, lesbian and bisexual persons and celebrations of evolving definitions of family.
5. Celebrating the lives of all people and welcoming same-sex couples, recognizing their committed relationships and equally affirming displays of caring and affection without regard for sexual orientation.
6. Nurturing ongoing dialogue between gay, lesbian, bisexual and heterosexual persons to create deeper trust and sharing.
7. Being actively represented in the Joseph Priestley District UU Lesbian and Gay Concerns group and participating in their programs.
8. Affirming and celebrating gay, lesbian and bisexual issues and history during the year [possibly including Gay Pride Week in June].
9. Advocating for gay, lesbian and bisexual people, attending to legislative developments and working to promote justice, freedom and equality in the larger society, and speaking out when the rights of gay, lesbian and bisexual persons are at stake.
10. Celebrating the lives of all people and their ways of expressing their love for each other.