Visiting First United Church of Christ

One aspect of my quest to become a better ally includes exploring some of the people and places in my community who have publicly expressed welcome to their LGBTQ neighbors. As part of this effort, I am visiting all seven churches who added their name to the Equality Springfield billboard project.

Most recently, my wife and I had the opportunity to visit First United Church of Christ.

The members of First UCC greeted us warmly when we arrived and welcomed us into their company for the morning worship service.

The sermon, readings, music, and interactions... throughout the entire service, the central and overriding theme was obvious: LOVE. No matter who you are or where you've been, you are dearly loved. This message was evident from our interactions with the people of First UCC, but even a cursory glance at some of their core beliefs brings further confirmation. Here are just a few of them:

• We believe there is more love in God than there is bad in us.
  
• We believe all people are valued by God, no matter where they've been or what they've done.
  
• We believe we don't all have to believe the same things. People's spiritual journeys take them many different places.
  
• We believe our mission is to serve the people of our community with as much of God's love and understanding as we can muster.

First UCC also holds the distinction of being an Open and Affirming ministry.

"Open and Affirming" is an official designation for congregations who affirm the full inclusion of LGBT+ people in the life and ministry of the church. Think of it as a certification of sorts, documenting a church group's intention and capacity to welcome LGBT+ people. The Open and Affirming program is administered by the UCC Open and Affirming Coalition.

For First UCC, becoming an Open and Affirming congregation did not happen overnight. It was a process, which Pastor Gail Eastwood considered to be very important. When a key member of the congregation advocated for the church to enter into the Open and Affirming process, it launched the church into a time of study and engagement of issues related to gender identity and sexuality.

Working toward Open and Affirming status included congregational meetings, discussions, and time spent in study and prayer. The process also involved an examination of church practices, to ensure that the church was doing everything possible to be welcoming of all people. The process culminated in First UCC joining in covenant with Open and Affirming Coalition, declaring publicly their full welcome and inclusion of LGBTQ people.

At First UCC, "Love your neighbor," is not just an empty phrase; it is a call to action. In addition to their regular Sunday services, the church is active in community service, including frequent community meals, support of a local food pantry, collecting donations of winter clothing and items for local elementary schools, and other efforts.

First UCC has hosted a Transgender Day of Remembrance service, an annual observance to honor the memory of transgender people who lost their lives to violence. First Church also hosted a vigil in the wake of the shooting at Pulse Nightclub of Orlando in 2016.

"Welcome" does not happen by accident. Like any other skill, extending hospitality takes practice. And First UCC has been practicing for quite some time.