BETHEL — On Sunday, June 29, West Parish Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, will celebrate its 2012 decision to become an Open and Affirming congregation.

The Open and Affirming resolution states:
“West Parish Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, in Bethel, Maine, is an inclusive community united by faith in the God revealed in
Jesus Christ. Because Jesus welcomed and celebrated the diversity created and loved by God, we the congregation, declare ourselves to be Open and Affirming. We embrace people of every age, race, nationality, ethnicity, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression, regardless of
physical, mental, or emotional ability, family structure, faith background, or socio-economic status.

The Congregation is committed to promoting justice and peace for everyone. Therefore, all are invited into the full life, ministry, joy, and responsibility of participation in this church. We ask for God’s grace and guidance to live by these words.”

Here are some examples of the church’s living into the resolution. The church hangs the Pride flag. The 4-H Youth Hub at Congo Cafe welcomes
LGBTQ+ youth into a safe and welcoming space with caring adults. Members take part in Pride marches and Pride events, like the upcoming Bethel Pride Day at The Gem in Bethel on June 26 from 3-6 p.m. The church recognizes and performs same sex marriages.

Not just Pride month but all year round, the church recognizes that all people are beloved children of God. The church uses the United Church of Christ motto: “Whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey … you are welcome here.”

Church service is Sunday, at 10 a.m. in person and live streamed on the YouTube Channel: West Parish Congregational United Church of Christ. For more information, contact Rev. Dr. Tim LeConey, 207-824-2689.