I have tried various churches and religions in a variety of states, all claiming to be a "welcoming congregation." Yet when I began to share more of my personal life with them, that welcome was quickly withdrawn.
I didn't come out until recently, but I have always been open and accepting to the LGBT community. While attending churches in two different religions, I was criticized for my friends and the work I was doing with the LGBT community.
I first learned of UUFHC when I attended PFLAG meetings here. Then through Stacie Beard and April Fritts who I met while doing The Vagina Monologues a few years ago. (Which, on a sidenote, speaks volumes about how you live your life outside the church walls).
Jess and I have been together for over a year now and we were looking for a church. We were both drawn here to UUFHC because of the Civil Marriage is a Civil Right banner out front. Then we were lucky enough to be at a Harford County Board of Ed. meeting where Rev. Lisa spoke in defense of LGBT student rights. We knew that UUFHC was certainly unique and was being led by someone who truly saw us as equals.
We both had our reservations, but they were soon put aside in the very first moments of the service when Joann MacDonald said that this was a church with no creedal requirements and that no matter who you loved—you were welcome. We were instantly at ease.
Soon after, we participated in Candles of Sharing after we both lost relatives and friends within a week. We were shocked at the genuine care and heartfelt affection shown to us after the service. Since then, we have made a committment to join UUFHC.
We've been thrilled that our daughter has found comfort here as well, both with the congregation and with RE, as well as attending Rainbow Youth Alliance during the week.
We know that being part of an open and accepting community is an integral part of our personal spiritual growth as well as our growth with you as a congregation. So, we thank you for your re-committment to being a welcoming congregation and we look forward to many blissful years here at UUFHC.