First Church in Jamaica Plain Unitarian-Universalist took a dramatic step forward in affirming gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals by unanimously passing a resolution to become a "Welcoming Congregation". The vote culminated a year-long series of workshops offered by church members using materials from the Unitarian-Universalist Association. Most workshops were led by church volunteers, with one weekend workshop being held in conjunction with trainers from the UUA's office of Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, and Transgender Concerns (OBGLT).

"This is a momentous occasion in the life of our church," said Welcoming Congregation task force co-chair Diane Simpson. "At a point when other religious institutions are rejecting and denegrating their gay, bi, lesbian and transgender members, our church is going out on a limb and saying 'We welcome you. We believe every person has something special to offer regardless of sexual orientation.' This workshop series has been many months of hard work but it was well worth the effort."

What It Means To Be A Welcoming Congregation

Offer congregational and ministerial support for services of union and memorial services for gay, lesbian, and bisexual persons, and celebrations of evolving family definitions

Welcome same-sex couples, and equally affirm displays of caring and affection without regard to sexual orientation

Seek to nurture ongoing dialogue between gay, lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual persons and to create deeper trust and sharing

Encourage the presence of a chapter of Interweave (UnitarianUniversalists for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Concerns)

Affirm and celebrate gay, lesbian, and bisexual issues and history during the congregational year

Attend to legislative developments and work to promote justice, freedom, and equality in the larger society. Speaks out when the rights and dignity of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people are at stake.