AFFIRMATIONS OF “ROOM FOR ALL” CHURCHES:
Welcoming & Affirming Congregations in the Reformed Church in America
Approved by Hope Church Congregation and Consistory ~ February 2012
Because we…
Affirm the face of God in all:
We are intentionally inclusive of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Within our congregational life, we make a conscious and deliberate decision to celebrate the Creator’s diversity as uniquely embodied in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people.
Because we…
Confess the harm done to LGBT people in the name of God:
We challenge theologies, beliefs, and doctrines that oppress or exclude anyone of any sexual orientation or gender identity who seeks to follow Jesus from full participation in the community of faith.
We intentionally design church systems and structures that include every such person in the full life of the church.
Because we…
Embrace the inclusive love of Jesus Christ:
We seek to proclaim Christ’s selfless and unconditional love in what we teach and in how we live together within our congregation and our community.
We encourage persons of all sexual orientations or gender identities to pattern their relationships after the model of Christ’s love.
Because we…
Recognize the need for greater understanding of LGBT people within our faith
community:
We walk with each other on our identity/orientation journeys, encouraging lives free of shame or fear.
We continue to study, to learn and to deepen relationships in order to share the concerns of LGBT persons and families, so as to be equipped actively to resist and to overcome exclusive practices.
Because we…
Look forward to the time when the Reformed Church in America –
- lives consistently with its baptismal affirmations.
- recognizes that all persons belong to God,
- fully welcomes and includes people of all sexual orientations and gender identities into the life and ministry of our denomination.
We encourage and advocate for the full inclusion of LGBT followers of Jesus within our congregation, our classis and our regional synod, as well as within the General Synod.
We support the mission of Room for All with our prayers, words, actions and gifts.
