This happened and this, too
Just a few celebrations in recent weeks across the country:
Portland First Christian Church celebrated “Affirmation Day” on November 24 with sparkly rainbow cake. FCCPDX had been affirming of all people for decades, but officially became an Open & Affirming Ministry of the Alliance four years ago.
The welcome is wider! AllianceQ welcomes North Chevy Chase Christian Church in Chevy Chase, MD, as an Open & Affirming Ministry. At its November 17 annual congregational meeting, NC4 approved its Open & Affirming Statement. Rev. Cheryl Tatham is thankful for the hard work of Nancy Longo and the O&A team at NC4. During worship on the subsequent Sunday, the church included a litany of thanksgiving and welcome for the open hearts and arms of the congregation.
University Christian Church of San Diego celebrated 20 years of being Open & Affirming on November 17, with visits from their original O&A/discernment committee members and AllianceQ Moderator Robin Knauerhase. Pastor Caleb Lines and board chair Maggy Broderick were amazing hosts.
Mark Johnston and Melissa Guthrie Loy hosted a Building an Inclusive Church Training in Kansas City, MO, November 9. Clergy and lay leaders learned how to help their congregations along the welcoming journey. Do you want to host a training in your area? Let us know!
A great big welcome to Abbey Road Christian Church in Cape Girardeau, MO, to the Open & Affirming Ministry Program of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)! After a process of prayer, study, and conversation, Abbey Road voted overwhelmingly in favor of becoming Open & Affirming last year – and now, after completing a few more details – we welcomed them to the official list of Open & Affirming Ministries of the Christian Church at the end of October.
Is it time for your congregation to be added to the list of O&A Ministries? Is your church O&A and eager to expand and deepen its welcome? No matter where your congregation is on the welcoming journey, AllianceQ can help with training, resources, and support.
When did YOUR church become public in affirming all (ALL!) people? Celebrate your anniversary; let us know how you continue to widen the welcome.