Following the United Church of Christ's 1985 General Synod's adoption of an Open and Affirming (ONA) resolution - which encouraged all UCC churches to become ONA - The Coalition began listing churches which responded to this call.

In 1987, it established the ONA program to assist congregations in learning more about this witness, develop study materials, and provide support during their ONA process.

Since that time, The ONA program has provided the primary leadership and resources for this growing movement which proclaims that LGBT persons are loved by God and that their gifts are an essential part of the community and ministry of Jesus Christ.