Why Become an Affirmed Church?

At NBUC we already strive to be a fully inclusive environment, so why are we working towards becoming a fully affirmed church?
We would like to offer every single person more than just a warm welcome.
Open Hearts: Resources for Affirming Ministries in The United Church of Canada by Alyson C. Huntly explained, “being an Affirming Ministry is not merely about welcoming people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Words like welcoming or inclusion suggest those on the inside have the power to choose to accept those on the outside. This makes it sound like an act of charity to welcome those who are different or marginalized. However, it is not our place to welcome anyone because church is not a private club and we are not the gatekeepers. As soon as one new person comes through the doors, the community becomes a new community.”
The Affirming Ministry at NBUC is meeting on a regular basis to continue making strides in ensuring a safe and loving environment for our entire community.
For more information about this ministry, please contact: affirmministry@nbuc.ca