Working towards An Open and Affirming Church

Welcoming and celebrating the gifts of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer people.

The Open and Affirming Project is an invitation to live out the mission of the Church as a welcoming community with specific recognition of the gifts brought by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people, same-sex relationships and rainbow families.

The Project is a step-by-step process developed in local congregations to demonstrate how Churches can intentionally live out their welcome, in all areas of their life and mission. As a Church Council discusses whether to become an Open and Affirming Congregation resources are available for their learning and discussion.

Leaflet No 1 outlines the process for a congregation to become an Open and Affirming Congregation and is a good place to start.

Other Leaflets are available that address specific issues that may be encountered in the life of your church.

Please download them and use them as information for awareness, discussion and action in your community.

Leaflet 1 – An Open and Affirming Church

Leaflet 2 – Human Sexuality in Biblical perspectives

Leaflet 3 – Language and Symbols

Leaflet 4 – How to talk to children

Leaflet 5 – Safe Church for Rainbow Families

Leaflet 6 – Coming Out, Coming Home

Leaflet 7 – Gender

Leaflet 8 – Gifts for Leadership

Leaflet 9 – The Uniting Church – A Welcoming Church

Leaflet 10 – Welcoming LGBTIQ Elders

Leaflet 11 – Same Gender Marriage

Leaflet 12 – Why did we want to get married in the UCA?

Leaflet 13 – Queer Young People

Leaflet 14 – Gender Diversity

Leaflet 15 – Conversion Therapy

Ready to list your congregation on our website? Do so here.