St. Paul Congregational UCC is an “Open and Affirming” Congregation

St. Paul Congregational United Church of Christ, Oskaloosa Iowa

At a recent congregational meeting, St. Paul Congregational UCC declared itself to be an “Open and Affirming” congregation that welcomes and affirms all people as beloved children of God regardless of sexual orientation and other differences. The congregation approved the following statement:

“St. Paul Congregational United Church of Christ is an Open and Affirming congregation. All are welcome in this faith community, regardless of age, economic or marital status, faith background, gender identity and expression, physical or mental ability, race, or sexual orientation. As Jesus did, we invite everyone to participate fully in the life, leadership, fellowship, worship, sacraments, responsibilities, challenges and blessings of our congregation.”

“Open and Affirming” (“ONA”) is the term used by congregations of the United Church of Christ that are proud to proclaim, “Jesus never turned anyone away; neither do we.” Over 1100 congregations in the UCC are now Open and Affirming. For years the UCC has advocated for the inclusion of all people regardless of any kind of difference, and for marriage equality for committed same-gender couples.

For more information, contact the church at 673-7206, or at stpaul@mahaska.org.