OPEN AND AFFIRMING
OPEN AND AFFIRMING
The Word "Affirming" Matters
How is an "Affirming" church different from a "Welcoming" church?
We do not view homosexuality to be a sin. As such, no matter your sexual orientation or gender identity, you are welcomed no differently than anyone else who enters our doors.
"Although the terms 'welcoming' and 'affirming' have often been used interchangeably, some congregations differentiate between the words. For example, a church may 'welcome' ALL people but may NOT 'affirm' all lifestyles and therefore LGBTQ+ folks may not be allowed in leadership positions within the church. In the same vein, some denominations may forbid same-gender marriage or ordination of lesbian, gay or transgender people, yet will fully embrace and affirm everyone in leadership positions within the local church." (gaychurch.org)
Click below for a great article explaining the differences among welcoming, accepting, and affirming churches.
What is Open and Affirming (ONA) ?
Open and Affirming (ONA) Coalition of the United Church of Christ denomination that have adoped a public covenant that welcomes Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning people fully into the church's life and ministry. Churches become ONA to send a clear message that God's welcome is for all people and that this particular church is a safe place for the LGBTQ community.
Shalom Pride
We are here for you
Join our LGBTQ Game Night!
Game nights are currently happening via Zoom.
Complete the form below to be sent a Zoom link.
Every second Friday Shalom hosts a game night at 7 pm for the LGBTQ+ community. Ages 16 and up are warmly welcomed!
Complete this form to receive an email message with the Zoom link for LGBTQ Game Night.
PFLAG Youth
During the Covid-19 pandemic period meetings have been canceled.
Shalom hosts the PFLAG youth group on the first Friday of each month at 6 pm in our youth room. Ages 13 - 18.
UCC Pride
Shalom welcomes you and is proud to be part of the United Church of Christ denomination. The UCC makes a public covenant of welcome into their full life and ministry to persons of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.