It was a proud moment in our church's history when the congregation voted on Sunday, March 6 to be recognized as a Welcoming Congregation. This designation defines the church as being openly welcoming to all people regardless of their sexual orientation. It was accomplished with the guidance of the Unitarian Universalist Association and 13 months of hard work by the Welcoming Committee. “We're thrilled to have finally earned the right to hang our rainbow flags”, said Janet Peplin, Chair of the Committee. A year-long series of forums and educational events in which a majority of the church's membership participated led up to the voting this past Sunday. The goal of the workshops was to reduce prejudice by increasing understanding and acceptance among people of different sexual orientations. Some of the workshop session titles included: How Homophobia Hurts Us All; Common Elements of Oppression; Religion and Homosexuality; and Advocating LGBT Policy Changes in Michigan.
The church's bylaws will now have an additional paragraph with fully inclusive language:
“The congregation declares and affirms its special responsibility to promote the full participation of persons in all of its endeavors without regard to race, color, gender, disability, affectional or sexual orientation, age, or national origin.
"The workshops and forums helped lead people into conversations they’ve never had before" said church vice-president John Owens."I couldn't be more proud that GPUC is opening its doors and hearts to the LBGT community"
