Locate an Open and Affirming Church
If you are the representative of an Open and Affirming UCC church not listed on this map, or if you need to make updates or corrections to your congregation’s listing, please contact us at office@openandaffirming.org. Please know that many churches are only gathering online right now – check with the church via phone, website, etc. to be up to date on current offerings.
To find churches near your location, type in your city and state or zip code, then hit the “Search” button.
What can I expect in an ONA church?
A community of faith where you and your family are safe!
Because each congregation in the United Church of Christ is independent, and therefore free to make its own decisions, there is a broad diversity of theology and practice in our tradition. In the UCC, there is no hierarchy that can impose uniformity on our churches. Each ONA congregation has independently adopted an Open and Affirming covenant after a journey of dialogue, study, and prayer. There are differences between congregations, but generally, an ONA church:
- is a safe space for open and honest conversation about human sexuality and gender identity.
- encourages LGBTQ members to serve in lay and ordained leadership.
- celebrates same-sex weddings.
- celebrates the anniversaries of LGBTQ married and partnered couples and offers rites to honor gender transitions.
- advocates for LGBTQ civil rights, and defends their LGBTQ neighbors when their dignity or safety are threatened.
- is willing to host meetings of support groups like PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays).
- advertises that it is a safe space for LGBTQ and questioning youth.
- participates as a group in the local LGBTQ Pride Parade.
- celebrates ONA Sunday once a year and annually renews its ONA covenant.
