The United Methodist Church has dismissed the Rev. Frank Schaefer as punishment for officiating at the wedding of his gay son. The church’s Council of Bishops is also recommending disciplinary proceedings against retired Bishop Melvin Talbert, who also officiated at a same-sex wedding. The Coalition’s Leadership Team is…
Dave Knapp, a member of First Congregational Church in Guilford, Conn., joined the Boy Scouts of America in 1938. He was expelled 55 years later when the Scouts learned he was gay. Since then, he’s campaigned tirelessly for a change in the Boy Scouts’ policy…
Samuel Loliger, longtime National Coordinator of the Coalition who shared that office with Jan Griesinger, is in hospice care at the end of a long illness. The UCC Coalition and the wider Open and Affirming movement owe Sam a deep debt: he and Jan were…
Sermon Andy Lang Executive Director, UCC Coalition for LGBT Concerns St. Paul’s UCC Warren, MI Sunday, Oct. 20, 2013 Luke 18:1-8 (The Message) Jesus told them a story showing that it was necessary for them to pray consistently and never quit. He said, “There was…
This map may not display properly on smartphone screens. If you can’t use it, please contact the Coalition at office@openandaffirming.org to inquire about LGBTQ-affirming churches in your area. If you are the representative of an Open and Affirming UCC church not listed on this map,…
The Open and Affirming Coalition advocates for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in the United Church of Christ and beyond, and equips UCC congregations to become effective witnesses to Christ’s extravagant welcome. Read more