Open and Affirming

Open and Affirming (ONA) Congregation

In 1985 the 15th General Synod of the United Church of Christ called upon its congregations to adopt a policy of non-discrimination against lesbian, gay, and bisexual people, and to adopt a Covenant of Openness and Affirmation of persons of lesbian, gay, and bisexual orientation.

Being open and affirming is a part of an inclusive non-discrimination policy. UCC-Congregational of Ames joyfully and unconditionally welcomes all people of any age, gender, race, culture, ability, or sexual orientation into our community of faith and affirms the worth of all people as unique individuals made in God’s image.

In January 2000 the Ames UCC passed a motion to become an open and affirming congregation. It was adopted unanimously by all who voted. The full motion: We covenant to be a community that remains open to the challenges of the Christian faith. We welcome into this community of faith, and affirm the participation in all aspects of the church life, persons of every age, race, gender, nationality, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. We will continue our efforts toward inclusiveness, and stand against all forms of discrimination. We will empower ourselves, our children, and one another to be fully present in the world, living in Christ’s image, and striving for justice and peace.

Open and affirming means publicly declaring all are welcome in the congregation’s full life and ministry. It bespeaks a spirit of hospitality and a willingness to live out that welcome in meaningful ways.