What do we mean when we say "Open & Affirming"?
Outside almost every church in the world, there's a sign that says, "All Are Welcome." Only, along the way, some of us find out that sign doesn't include us, particularly if we are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.
By contrast, an Open and Affirming (ONA) congregation in the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a church who has taken a public stand for the full inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, asexual, nongendered, and transgender persons in the life of the church and society.
By contrast, an Open and Affirming (ONA) congregation in the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a church who has taken a public stand for the full inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, asexual, nongendered, and transgender persons in the life of the church and society.
- United Christian Church of Austin passed our first Open and Affirming statement back in 2007.
- In 2011, we called our first gay senior pastor.
- In 2012 we amended that statement to include gender identity and gender expression.
- In 2017, our Church Council unanimously approved a measure to make our restrooms safe for transgender persons by making it clear: you use the restroom is right for you.
- We regularly participate in PRIDE, celebrate Pride Sunday each year, officiate LGBTQ+ weddings, advocate for LGBTQ+ rights at the capitol, and speak out.
- We incorporate a wholistic, healthy theology of sexuality in our sermons and our teaching.
Open and Affirming Statement
“We, the congregation of The United Christian Church, declare ourselves to be an open and affirming congregation, embracing diversity and affirming the dignity and worth of every person created in God’s image. We welcome into full membership and participation in the Body of Christ persons of every race, ethnic background, age, gender, gender expression/identity, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, social-economic background, marital status and faith background. We welcome all to share in the life, leadership, ministry, fellowship, worship, sacraments, responsibilities and blessings of participation in our congregation.”
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