ATTENDING GENERAL SYNOD? JOIN US FOR THE ONA LOVE FEAST!
Planning to attend the UCC’s first virtual General Synod in July? Be sure to register for our ONA Love Feast at 7 to 9 pm EDT on Tuesday, July 13. This Synod event will celebrate the launch of the Coalition's 50th anniversary celebrations. Keynoter is Carmarion Anderson, a vibrant transgender activist and co-leader of the “TransSaints” movement in the Fellowship of Affirming Ministries. She is also Alabama director of the Human Rights Campaign’s “Project One America.” Coalition executive director Andy Lang will speak on the “State of the Open and Affirming Movement,” and the famous Coalition Choir will perform. Please note: the Love Feast is one of the “optional events” when you register for General Synod.
DO YOU LOVE TO SING? JOIN THE COALITION CHOIR
The ONA Coalition Choir has been a feature at every General Synod since 1985. This year, the choir will perform virtually at our General Synod Love Feast. To learn more, contact Kimi Floyd Reisch.
HONOR LGBTQ ELDERS ON MAY 16
May 16 is National LGBT Elders Day. It’s a tragic fact than many LGBTQIA+ seniors face abuse and neglect in nursing homes and retirement communities. Yet our elders set the stage for the “Coming Out” movement that made it possible for many of us to live without fear. Mark this occasion in your social media, and use the “Seniors” page on our website for ideas how your ONA congregation can support this community.
MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH
Is your church a “WISE” (Welcoming, Inclusive, Supportive and Engaged) congregation? Partly modeled on ONA, WISE is a movement of churches who commit to supporting and welcoming individuals and families living with mental health challenges, brain disorders and substance use disorders. WISE is an opportunity for ONA churches to expand their commitment to inclusion and justice. During Mental Health Awareness Month, don't miss this opportunity to explore the WISE program.
ONA CALENDAR
Taizé Morning Prayer for the ONA Family
Monday through Friday, 9 and 11 am EDT
Sunday, 10 pm EDT
General Synod (and ONA Love Feast)
July 11-18
HELP ONA GROW!
The ONA Coalition serves the largest and fastest-growing LGBTQ-affirming church movement in the world! But this mission depends on financial support from ONA churches and individuals. The Coalition is an independent non-profit: although we work in close partnership with the UCC’s national office, funding from national ministries accounts for less than five percent of our budget. Will you help us reach our goal: a church that isn’t just 33% but 100% Open and Affirming? Help us help the ONA movement grow! Your safe online contribution is tax-deductible.