After a year of research, reflection and prayer, the active membership of The First Church of Christ, Congregational in Suffield voted in January to become an “Open and Affirming” church, meeting the criteria set by the United Church of Christ. This expands their own statement and commitment to welcome everyone into their community of faith. First Church is the 1418th church in the UCC, approximately the 90th in Connecticut, to adopt the designation. As an “Open and Affirming” congregation, the church states publicly that it welcomes all people and explicitly celebrates the total identity of each person regardless of ancestry, origin, age, economic status, physical/mental ability, gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation. (For a copy of the statement, go to: firstchurchsuffield.org – Church Life – ONA)
While 90% of those voting were in favor, not everyone agreed; so when the results were announced, they were received quietly and followed by a prayer. Len Hodgman, a deacon, said “This is how an open and loving community of Christ can effectively explore, discuss and disagree but still support and respect each other. Given the current political climate, it was heartening to be part of learning and growing together in an environment that allowed for civil discourse and concern for each other’s opinions and ideas.”
According to Judy Quinn, “It took many years to get to a point where we were ready to discuss such an important issue in the life of our congregation mostly for fear of upsetting some members or splitting the church apart.” “Historically, our church has shied away from directly commenting on social justice issues so this was a big step for us” said Jan Banks, a long-time member. “The time had come and we worked through the process with God’s grace and guidance along the way. We are proud to make the Open and Affirming declaration public.”
As they live into this new commitment, the congregation is reaching out to groups in the area who seek social justice for all people…to provide support and encouragement. “We want to learn more about how we can fight prejudices and ignorance, how we can defeat racism, how we promote anti-bullying efforts especially of LGBT youth and more,” says Lois Palmer.
“For many years now, our worship service starts with an invitation saying, ‘No matter who you are or where you are in life’s journey, you are welcome in this place.’ We’re ready to share that message outside the walls of 81 High Street and bring it into our greater community so that everyone knows they are a beloved child of God,” says Robin Zatony, Chair of the Open & Affirming Committee.