Open and Affirming
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843-3220
925 Vermont Street
Lawrence, KS 66044
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- Called Meeting Approves "Open & Affirming Declaration"
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At a called congregational meeting on Sunday, April 18, 2004 the members of Plymouth approved the recommendation of the Church Council and the ONA Steering Committee that the Church become an “Open and Affirming Congregation.” The vote was 177 in favor, 33 opposed and one abstention.
The vote has Plymouth joining many other UCC congregations that have declared that their membership is open to people of all sexual orientations to fully participate in the “…life and leadership, ministry, fellowship, worship, sacraments, responsibilities and blessings of participation in our community of faith.”
The ONA Steering Committee will now recommend to the Church Council means by which the Declaration can be implemented in the various programs and activities of the Church.
Members of the ONA Steering Committee are Alan Sanders, Diana Robertson, Cindy McCoy, Christopher Luckey, Linda Luckey, Linda Gaumnitz, Corrinne Hickman, Lew Hinshaw, Marilyn Bradt, Lucia Orth and David Ambler.
Plymouth Church - Lawrence, Kansas
Open and Affirming Declaration
April 18, 2004
We declare Plymouth Congregational Church to be an Open and Affirming Church, welcoming all persons, regardless of gender, race, physical or mental ability, economic status, marital status, age or sexual orientation. We affirm that persons who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered share with all others the worth that comes from being unique individuals created by God. Therefore, this congregation joyfully and unequivocally welcomes all to share in the life and leadership, ministry, fellowship, worship, sacraments, responsibilities, and blessings of participation in our community of faith.
More Information...
What did the church vote on?
The vote on Sunday, April 18, 2004 was to approve the declaration that had been distributed to the congregation. It had been reviewed by the Council and recommended to the congregation for approval. The declaration is a statement of welcome to all people, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered persons, into the full life of Plymouth Church.
What about blessing of same-sex unions?
Same-sex marriages have no legal standing in the State of Kansas and therefore cannot be performed at Plymouth Church. The blessing of same-sex unions is a separate pastoral matter. Peter and Lew, in consultation with the church Council, moderators and board representatives, will address it at some point.
What's next?
Implementing the declaration is an ongoing task. A broad range of people from the congregation will be involved. The church Council, members of the Open and Affirming Steering Committee and other interested persons will continue the process. For more information, call the pastors, Peter or Lew, or the moderator, Elaine Schmidt.
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plymouthlawrence.com — Plymouth Congregational Church
