In 1985, the General Synold of the United Church of Christ accepted a resolution that called on congregations to declare themselves open to and affirming of gay, lesbian and bisexual people in the full life and ministry of the church.

In response and to shepherd churches in this process, the organization that would later be named The UCC Coalition for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Concerns began offering guidance and resources, and establishing the means by which congregations might fulfill this resolution.

Prior to the 1985 General Synod resolution, members of the organization had been supporting one another and advocating for the inclusion of GLB(T) people in the UCC for many years. Early members had seen the ordination of a gay man in 1972.

Since that time, the work of the organization has expanded to include a focus on ministry to youth and young adults and those who work with them.

The organization has seen significant changes in church and society over the past decades, including additional resolutions passed by the UCC General Synod that include recognition and affirmation of transgender persons, the addition of lgbt issues and concerns into the portfolios of many of the UCC national staff, and seeing over 10% of UCC churches declare themselves ONA.

With these watershed changes have come additional opennings for The Coalition to provide meaningful and prophetic witness to God’s extravagant welcome into the UCC. We are expanding ways to work ecumenically and cooperatively through an emphasis on organizing and outreach; continuing the work with young people and those who work with them; expanding our relevance through work on issues of import to the community such as marriage equality, immigration, racial injustices, and other issues; and continuing the ONA Program’s work with UCC settings, recognizing that there is always more to do once a setting becomes ONA, as well, and the development of local outreach for that program through ONA Consultants.

Come, be a part of this growing ministry.