Unitarian Universalist values include equity because we believe it is a necessary component of justice and a core expression of our commitment to the inherent worth and dignity of every person. Equity means actively working to dismantle systems of oppression and create inclusive communities where everyone can flourish. If you are interested, visit our Values page to learn more about our other Unitarian Universalist values.

Learn more about the Unitarian Universalist Welcoming Congregations Program.

What Is A Welcoming Congregation?

A congregation that strives for radical inclusion, creating spaces where all are honored and belong. You can see this in the church lobby where LGBTQ+ days of observance and our Welcoming Congregation certification are displayed.

How Did The Church Become A Welcoming Congregation?

We engaged in The Welcoming Congregation Program, which is a volunteer program for congregations that see a need to become more inclusive towards LGBTQ+ people. The program consists of a series of workshops developed by the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA).

The goal of the workshops was to reduce prejudice by increasing understanding and acceptance among people of all sexual orientations. Some of the workshop titles included:

• How Homophobia Hurts Heterosexuals
• Connections to Other Forms of Oppression
• Gender Socialization and Homophobia
• Biblical Perspectives On Homosexuality

Why Just Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and/or Transgender People?

Why single out gay, lesbian, bisexual, and/or transgender people? The Rev. Douglas Morgan Strong probably states it best in the Welcoming Congregation manual:

For centuries, the church has been a leading force against sexual minorities. It is not surprising that gay people are reluctant to reach out to the very institution that oppresses them. Yet, gay, lesbian, (transgender), and bisexual people have no less need for warmth, caring, and affirmation than anyone else who calls the liberal church their religious home. In fact, as a subculture in society gay, lesbian, (transgender), and bisexual people may need our support more than the general population.

What Does It Mean To Be A Welcoming Congregation?

We publicly welcome gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people and we:

• Include and address the needs of LGBTQ+ persons at every level of congregational life, including in worship, programs, and social occasions.
• Include LGBTQ+ people in rites of passage and welcome not only their presence, but their gifts and individual experiences.
• Assume that LGBTQ+ people will attend our church and so celebrate this diversity by having inclusive language and content in our worship.
• Fully incorporate the experiences of LGBTQ+ persons throughout all programs, including religious education.
• Include an affirmation and nondiscrimination clause in our by-laws and other official documents that affect all dimensions of congregational life, including membership, hiring practices, and the calling of religious professionals.
• Engage in outreach into the LGBTQ+ community in our advertising and actively support LGBTQ+ affirmative groups.
• Offer congregational and ministerial support for union and memorial services for LGBTQ persons, and for celebrations of their families.
• Celebrate the lives of all people and welcomes same-sex couples, recognizing their committed relationships, and affirming displays of caring and affection without regard to sexual orientation.
• Seek to nurture ongoing dialogue between gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer and heterosexual persons to create deeper trust and sharing.
• Encourage membership in a Unitarian Universalist Association Interweave Chapter.
• Affirm and celebrate LGBTQ+ issues and history during the church year.
• Attend to legislative development and work to promote justice, freedom, and equality in the larger society.
• Speak out when the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other people are at stake.
• Celebrate the lives of all people and their ways of expressing their love for each other.

Wasn’t The Congregation Welcoming Before?

Yes, it’s true that our church probably met most of the qualifications for a Welcoming Congregation.

Our church bylaws prohibit discrimination based on age, race, occupation, gender, past religious affiliation, or sexual orientation. However, as a Welcoming Congregation: 

• We ensure space is provided for LGBTQ+ persons;
• We take positions on LGBTQ+ oppression; and,
• We are better able to conduct community outreach programs.

How Does Belonging To A Welcoming Congregation Benefit Me?

Safely confronting prejudices in a group fosters understanding and change. Understanding our prejudices leads to personal spiritual growth and congregational unity. Learn more about the Unitarian Universalist Association’s Welcoming Congregation program.