What does it mean to be "OPEN" ?

We WELCOME every person regardless of race, age, nationality, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity... and all are able to participate in leadership roles when called, without fear of being told that there is something wrong with them.
All are accepted as created and as they are.

What does it mean to be “AFFIRMING”?

We positively and confidently declare that every person is a child of God, regardless of their “race, age, nationality, ability,sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression”. 

By being “affirming,” we also create a community where all belong no matter who they are and support their full participation in the life of the church.

Does being “AFFIRMING” mean we are willing to accept every person's particular lifestyle?

No. You may be uncomfortable, even personally disapprove, the lifestyle of some members and friends of this congregation, however, you still affirm them as people, and affirm their right of full participation in the life of this church. Our lifestyle is our choice but our “race, age, nationality, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity is not our choice. It is how God created us. 

Do we have to list those toward whom we are “OPEN AND AFFIRMING”?

In an ideal world, we would not need a list; but since in our world churches, people, organizations and institutions do discriminate; inflicting deep hurt and pain on all who are discriminated against, we do. 

Click here to read the Covenant that was accepted by the congregation.