About ONA
ONA is the process by which settings in the United Church of Christ declare themselves open to and affirming of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) persons in the full life and ministry of the church. The process was a direct result of a 1985 resolution from the General Synod of the United Church of Christ.Following this resolution, many churches began the journey toward understanding what it means to welcome and support LGBT members and clergy. The ONA process was designed to assist churches in implementing this resolution.
The UCC General Synod passed the 2003 resolution specifically affirming transgendered persons.
Accordingly, the ONA process was expanded to include support for understanding transgender (T) concerns such as gender identity and gender expression. As of July 2010, all new Open and Affirming statements must include a transgender declaration.
Each ONA process is as unique as the churches who embark on them. The outcome of our process is not predetermined. If we choose to become an Open and Affirming church, we will craft our own statement that reflects our values and beliefs.
