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We Are A Welcoming Congregation |
On October 14, 1992 the Unitaran Universalist Association's Office of Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian and Transgender Concerns (OBGLTC) notified our congregation that we are officially recognized as a Welcoming Congregation. "Our history shows that the liberal religious tradition is affirmed every time another congregation commits itself to being a human place that affirms, welcomes, and celebrates the presence of gay, lesbian, and bisexual persons," said Keith Kron, director, OBGLTC.
This was the culmination of a process begun in the spring of 1990. Many people and many actions have been part of the process. The by-laws were changed in 1991 to incorporate an affirmative non-discrimination clause. Inclusive language has been used in all worship services, public presentations, and publications. The About Your Sexuality curriculum has been taught to middle school youth. An OUUC Gay Pride banner has been carried in rallies and parades. Services of union are performed by the minister and the chaplains. A number of Gay Pride worship services have been held over the years. We have an on-going commitment to Stonewall Youth. We are proud of our Triangles group.
We are one of 140 congregations with the designation continent-wide. The final step - preparing the paperwork - was done by The Rev.Sandra Lee, June Kerseg-Hinson and Penny Sodhi. A poster with the designation was sent by the UUA. This group will arrange to have it displayed in the church. -Penny Sodhi
Welcoming Congregation Discussions
Information about being a Welcoming Congregation and what it means are also regular parts of the New Member Orientation meetings.
The Triangles social group for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered members and friends meets for potlucks on the last Saturday of each month. Contact Kay Engle or the church office for more details.
UUA Info on Welcoming Congregations
Information about the national program can be found on the UUA web site.
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