We are all made in the image of God, and God proclaimed that it was good - very good. Each and every one of us is who we are intended to be, beautiful children of God, created as God’s reflection. United Christian Church of Austin is a proud Open and Affirming congregation. All are welcome to participate in the life and leadership of our church, and our time of communion is open to all who wish to partake.
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 means you're welcome to come, but we expect you to change who God made you to love.
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 our world.
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 our world.
- United Christian Church of Austin passed our first Open and Affirming statement back in 2007.
- In 2013, we called our first LGBTQ pastor.
- In 2012, we amended the statement to include all gender identities and gender expressions.
- In 2017, our Church Council unanimously approved a measure to make our restrooms safe for transgender persons by making it clear: you use whichever restroom is right for you.
- We have been featured on the news: locally in Austin, and as far as France for our advocacy for transgender rights.
- We regularly participate in Pride Parades, celebrate Pride Sunday each year, officiate LGBTQ+ weddings, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights through voting, letter writing, petitions, and rallying.
- We incorporate a wholistic, healthy theology of sexuality in our sermons and our teachings.
- You'll find nametags and stickers for nametags that tell others your pronouns.
Open and Affirming Statement
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“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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Pride Festivals and Sunday Celebrations
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For our Pride Celebration Service in 2023, Pastor Meghan Dever (she/her) preached a meaningful and powerful sermon. Pastor Meghan preached "Made this Way" on Genesis 1, and gave us an insightful prayer and call to care for ALL in God's good creation. Watch the full PRIDE SUNDAY SERMON by clicking the video:
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