From Rejected to Rescued

A Safe Haven in the United Church of Christ

Jul 21, 2024

Introduction

I held a secret intertwined into the core of my identity. A secret that made me feel dirty, broken and unloved. I am 51 years old, and from my earliest recollection, I remember going to church. I was one of those peculiar kids who actually loved attending services.

From a young age, I knew I was gay, a reality that was far from acceptable in my church, and in the 1970s and 1980s, it was scarcely socially accepted. I buried this secret for 45 years until I came out in 2016.

For years after, I grew bitter towards anything related to the church and abandoned my faith altogether. In my mind, these two worlds could never coexist. I was wrong. In 2024, I felt an inexplicable pull to become part of a local church community again.

A series of events led me to First Park Congregational UCC. After a month of listening to Rev. Darryl Kistler's teachings, I joined the esteemed Chancel Choir, led by Dr. Rev. Patrick Coyle. My life has been forever changed. My eyes were opened to the reality that God created me to be exactly who I am. For the first time I am included. I am just like you.

"God's dream is that you and I and all of us will realize that we are family, that we are made for togetherness, for goodness, and for compassion." Desmond Tutu

The Open and Affirming Movement

A Safe Haven for LGBTQ+

For many LGBTQ+ individuals, finding a place of worship that genuinely welcomes and affirms their identity can be a daunting task. The UCC's Open and Affirming (ONA) movement seeks to change that. By publicly declaring their congregations as open and affirming, UCC churches commit to the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ members in all aspects of church life. This means not just tolerating but celebrating diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. This stance transforms these churches into safe havens for those who have often felt marginalized by religious communities. The ONA designation is more than symbolic; it reflects a deep, ongoing commitment to equality and justice.

"We may have all come on different ships, but we're in the same boat now." Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King

This sentiment offers a sanctuary where queer individuals can worship freely, participate fully, and feel valued as integral parts of the body of Christ. Within these walls, the message is clear: everyone is welcome, and everyone belongs.

Community Support and Resources

A cornerstone of the UCC's Open and Affirming movement is its robust support network and wealth of resources tailored for LGBTQ+ members. These churches don't just stop at welcoming; they actively provide various forms of support to ensure everyone feels included and valued. Many congregations offer support groups, counseling services, and educational workshops on LGBTQ+ issues. The UCC has also created extensive online resources, including guides for individuals navigating their faith and identity, and webinars addressing the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ community.

The UCC ONA Coalition also organizes events like Pride celebrations and advocacy initiatives, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

"At the core, we are all members of one family." Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

These efforts collectively help create an environment where LGBTQ+ individuals can thrive spiritually, emotionally, and socially. By investing in these resources, UCC churches demonstrate a tangible commitment to nurturing and uplifting every member of their congregation, reinforcing the message that everyone is a vital part of the body of Christ.

Inclusion Compliments, and Completes

LGBTQ+ Makes the Body Whole

The concept of inclusivity is central to understanding 1 Corinthians 12:27, which states, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." By welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals, UCC churches live out this scripture in a profound way. Inclusion is not merely a gesture; it mirrors the entire community. Every member, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, contributes to the church's vibrancy and strength. When LGBTQ+ individuals are celebrated, instead of segregated, they finally feel fully integrated into the life of the church.

"The full, bold, inclusive love of God extends to everyone. You are included." Rev. Dr. Katrina Roseboro-Marsh, Executive Director, Open and Affirming Coalition, UCC

This holistic approach ensures that the body of Christ functions as a cohesive, loving unit. In UCC churches, the message is clear: every person is indispensable. By embodying this inclusivity, these churches offer a powerful model of what it means to be the body of Christ, united in love and purpose.

Scriptural Foundations and Practices

Scriptural understanding forms the bedrock of the UCC’s commitment to inclusivity. Central to this commitment is their interpretation of biblical teachings that endorse love, acceptance, and unity for all individuals. UCC churches view these scriptures as a divine mandate to welcome and affirm all people, including LGBTQ+ members. Their practices reflect this interpretation: sermons often revolve around themes of compassion, community, and unconditional love. Congregational activities are designed to cultivate inclusivity, ensuring everyone feels a sense of belonging.

UCC ministers receive specialized training on LGBTQ+ issues, which equips them to provide compassionate and informed pastoral care. This alignment of scriptural principles with everyday practices creates an environment where biblical teachings are not just read, but lived.

"Inclusion and liberation are matters of justice guided by love. We will never be free unless we are all free." Rev. Dr. John C. Dorhauer, General Minister and President, UCC

Grounded in scripture, UCC churches offer a spiritually enriching experience where all people are welcome, proving that faith and acceptance are not mutually exclusive but paint a beautiful masterpiece crafted by the Father.

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