Rise in Resilience - a soulful evening with Calvin Arsenia

Kansas City Marriott Downtown

200 West 12th Street, 64105, Kansas City, MO, United States

Open and Affirming Coalition - UCC

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The Open and Affirming Coalition of the United Church of Christ advocates for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in the UCC, and equips UCC congregations to become effective witnesses to Christ’s extravagant welcome.Founded in 1972, the Coalition has helped the UCC reach each of its milestones on the journey towards acceptance and justice for its same-gender-loving (SGL)* and LGBTQIA+ members. From General Synod’s first resolutions advocating for the civil rights of LGBT citizens to the church’s historic affirmation of marriage equality, the Coalition has been a spur to the conscience of our beloved church. By claiming our right to participate fully in ministry and fellowship, by reminding UCC members of the injustices that continue to prevail in wider society, by providing leadership for the growing Open and Affirming movement, the Coalition has been an effective agent for change in the UCC.In the 21st century, the Coalition faces new challenges. With our support, more than 1,500 congregations are now Open and Affirming—but we want to reach the nearly 3,600 UCC churches that have not yet publicly affirmed their welcome to the LGBT community. LGBT youth still face the threat of bullying and suicide in communities across America. Transgender citizens are still denied basic civil rights. Powerful and well-financed groups are mobilizing to enact new legislation to grant broad “religious exemptions” against discrimination in employment, housing and public services. And ONA congregations need support as they seek new ways to reach and minister to the LGBT community.With your support, the Coalition is building a stronger movement for inclusion and justice in the UCC, and beyond. Our work continues until every congregation in the United Church of Christ can offer an affirmiung and confident welcome to LGBT seekers and their families, and all people can live their lives fully and authentically.