A Welcoming Congregation

Each of us has worth and dignity, and that worth includes our gender & sexuality. As Unitarian Universalists, we not only open our doors to people of all sexual orientations/gender identities, we value diversity and see it as a gift. We create inclusive religious communities and work for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) justice and equity as a core part of who we are as a faith community.

South Church voted over a decade ago to become a Welcoming Congregation. As a Welcoming Congregation, we pledge to:

• Honor the lives of all people and equally affirm displays of caring & affection regardless of sexual orientation.
• Use inclusive language and content in worship, religious education, and programming.
• Incorporate an understanding of the experience of LGBTQ persons throughout our programs, including religious education for our children/youth.
• Affirm and celebrate LGBTQ lives and history.
• Uphold marriage equality and conduct same-sex weddings.
• Advocate for LGBTQ people rights and equality in the larger society.

What specific recent actions have contributed to our welcome?

• Addition of rainbow & “A welcoming congregation” on our outdoor sign & installation of a Pride flag in the sanctuary
• "South Church Pride" - LGBTQ social group that meets regularly and offers a Worship service during Pride month
• The Our Whole Lives program which facilitates discussion among our middle school youth on gender identity and sexual orientation
• LGBTQ workshops/films to educate the congregation
• Dedicated worship services that celebrate diversity of sexual orientation/gender identity
• Tabling at Portsmouth Pride march
• Ongoing social LGBTQ potluck series

If you wish to learn more about the larger UU LGBTQ+ community on the national level, subscribe to UPLIFT: the LGBTQ Ministries & Welcoming Congregations newsletter