In May of 2008, our church voted to extend an extravagant welcome to all persons regardless of differences such as race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, physical abilities or age.
OPEN AND AFFIRMING STATEMENT OF THE WEST AVON CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UCC Jesus said "You shall love the Lord your God with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength" and that "You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these." -Mark 12:30-31 We, the members of the West Avon Congregational Church, affirm the worth and value of all God's children and embrace participation, membership, employment, leadership and ministry by all persons regardless of differences such as race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, physical abilities or age. We welcome everyone to join in the life, responsibilities and mission of our faith community by fully sharing in worship, sacraments and fellowship as well as all ceremonies and services permitted by law. We declare our congregation to be Open and Affirming, so help us God. |