Vermont Conference
United Church of Christ

An Open and Affirming Conference of the United Church of Christ

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Vermont Conference of the United Church of Christ
is an Open and Affirming Conference

Read our RESOLUTION TO BE AN OPEN & AFFIRMING CONFERENCE here

“Open and Affirming” (ONA) is a movement of more than 1,800 churches and other ministries in the United Church of Christ that welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) members. More than 350,000 members of the UCC belong to ONA churches—and our movement is growing rapidly.

What does ONA mean?

An Open and Affirming (ONA) designation within the United Church of Christ (UCC) signifies a public commitment to fully include LGBTQ+ individuals—encompassing all sexual orientations and gender expressions—in the church's life and ministry, including membership, leadership, and employment. This commitment reflects a spirit of genuine hospitality and a dedication to enacting that welcome meaningfully.

What can I expect from an ONA Church?

Seeking a faith community where you and your loved ones are truly welcomed and safe? Within the United Church of Christ, Open and Affirming (ONA) congregations offer a haven of inclusion and acceptance.
 

The United Church of Christ's congregational polity empowers each church to make its own decisions, fostering a rich diversity of theological perspectives and practices. This autonomy means that each ONA congregation has embarked on a unique journey of dialogue, study, and prayer, culminating in the adoption of its own Open and Affirming covenant.

While each ONA church expresses its commitment in distinct ways, certain core principles unite them:

 

  • Creating a Safe Space for Dialogue: ONA congregations foster environments where open and honest conversations about human sexuality and gender identity are encouraged and respected.
  • Empowering LGBTQ+ Leadership: They actively encourage LGBTQ+ members to serve in both lay and ordained leadership positions, recognizing their valuable contributions to the church.
  • Celebrating Love and Commitment: ONA churches joyfully celebrate same-sex weddings, anniversaries of LGBTQ+ couples, and offer rites to honor gender transitions.
  • Advocating for Justice: They stand as advocates for LGBTQ+ civil rights, defending the dignity and safety of their LGBTQ+ neighbors.
  • Providing Community Support: They are willing to host meetings for support groups like PFLAG, offering vital resources and connection.
  • Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth: They explicitly advertise themselves as safe spaces for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth, providing a sense of belonging and affirmation.
  • Participating in Community Celebrations: Many ONA congregations participate in local LGBTQ+ Pride Parades, demonstrating their solidarity and support.
  • Renewing Commitment: They observe ONA Sunday annually and renew their ONA covenant, reaffirming their dedication to inclusivity.

In essence, an ONA congregation is a community of faith that actively lives out its commitment to welcoming and affirming all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. They strive to create a space where everyone can experience the unconditional love of God and find their true belonging.

Locate an Open and Affirming Church

SHOULE WE BECOME ONA?
HOW TO BECOME ONA
LIVING INTO ONA COVENANT