Open & Affirming Statement
We proclaim that the Feeding Hills Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, is an Open and Affirming church. We recognize, give thanks for and celebrate the diversity of God’s children among us. We honor all loving and committed relationships that are based upon responsibility, trust, mutual respect, fidelity, and most importantly, love for one another.
With this in mind, we joyfully welcome into the full life and ministry of this congregation, all who wish to share in the life, ministry, fellowship, responsibilities, sacraments, leadership, and mission of Feeding Hills Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, all persons who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, regardless of race, gender, age, culture, sexual orientation, abilities, economic or marital status, or religious or educational background.
We promise to include all who desire, a full opportunity for leadership, membership and fellowship with the members of our church. We also promise free and open discussion on all matters of faith and public issues, with equal voice provided for all.
We further promise to protect against any prejudice, including neglect of, harassment of or violence against any group in our society, whether they are people of color, ethnic groups, religious groups, elderly, children, gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered people, or persons with handicaps. We promise to advocate for basic human rights for all people.
Therefore, we the members of Feeding Hills Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, declare ourselves to be an Open and Affirming Congregation, with the Grace and Goodness of God on this day, February 6, 2005.