By Michelle Mathis

Pilgrim United Church of Christ (Durham, NC) celebrated ten years of being an Open and Affirming congregation during a weekend long celebration October 3-4, 2009. The church affirmed its commitment to welcome and value all people regardless of God-given sexual identity. This was done through display of the AIDS quilt and showcasing the Stoles of many clergy who'd been denied participation in the life of their denominations because they chose to disclose their sexual orientation or identity. The event reached it pinnacle when Bishop Yvette Flunder, pastor of City of Refuge UCC, gave a rousing address to a very well receiving audience. Members of the Common Woman Chorus sang their hearts out and were an inspiration to all.