Affirming Ministries

Every faith community or organization that is an Affirming Ministry declares itself to be fully inclusive of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities — and they back up their words with action. Our Affirming Ministries Program encourages ministries of all kinds, in the United Church and beyond, to explore what it means to be publicly welcoming and inclusive.

The program provides support for sexual orientation and gender identity struggles for equity and justice. It also encourages the study of other resources that promote the inclusion of other marginalized groups. Please go to the menus above to find out more about this program, to locate an Affirming Ministry near you, or find out about upcoming celebrations of newly declared Affirming Ministries. Our site includes a link to Affirming Ministry websites, where you’ll see their public declarations and their ongoing education programs and other activities.

Since the first day I walked in here, I have been included…this church tells me I am valued. And to be valued is to belong!
—A member of Trinity United, an Affirming Ministry in Vancouver