On Sunday afternoon, November 15, 2015, New Covenant United Church of Christ voted to officially become an Open and Affirming congregation (see resolution below). This means that we affirmed our belief that all people are created in the image of God without regard to age, disability, gender (including gender identity and expression), race/ethnicity, social or educational status and sexual orientation. New Covenant has a longstanding history of being a welcoming congregation and many who have traditionally been condemned, excluded or marginalized by other Christian churches and denominations, already serve in leadership capacities and call New Covenant, “home”. This statement therefore becomes a public affirmation of the ministry that we’ve been saying and practicing for many years. In his letter to the church in Galatia, the Apostle Paul writes, “You are all God’s children through faith in Christ Jesus. All of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.  There is neither Jew nor Greek; there is neither slave nor free; nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (3:26-28 CEV).  On November 15, 2015, the membership of New Covenant United Church of Christ publicly affirmed our belief in these words.

New Covenant United Church of Christ

Open & Affirming Resolution

WHEREAS, we believe that ALL are created in the image of God without regard to age, disability, gender (including gender identity and expression), race/ethnicity, social or educational status and sexual orientation; and

WHEREAS, we recognize that the Christian church has often condemned, excluded or marginalized these brothers and sisters; and

WHEREAS, New Covenant United Church of Christ has a longstanding history of being a welcoming congregation; and

WHEREAS, many within these marginalized groups already call New Covenant United Church of Christ their home;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that as of this day, Sunday, November 15, 2015 New Covenant United Church of Christ will be officially designated as Open and Affirming, signifying an explicit welcome and celebration of ALL.