What's in a Flag?
What’s In a Flag?
In 2009, the United Church of Chester voted to become an “Open and Affirming” church, (ONA), a designation given to a congregation making a public covenant of welcome into their full life and ministry to persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities. So why wait all these years to hang a rainbow flag? Simply, we felt the need to reassure all the people in our community that they are safe and loved here, especially during this climate of fear, hate crimes, and escalating threats in our midst. Though many associate this flag with the LGBTQ community, we look upon the many colors of the rainbow as the entire community: every single one of you is unique in your array of colors-not just skin color, but your culture, theological or political views, socio-economic background, age, gender, mental or physical abilities, or nationality. All are accepted here at UCC, and treated with love and respect. We are one human family, and we hope you find peace and tranquility here. Stop by Sunday morning for an hour of sanity in your hectic world. Attend a Bible study on Monday morning, or a Singing Bowl Meditation some evening. Lastly, Christians and Jews alike regard the rainbow as a symbol of God’s hope, peace and promise for the future. Hence, the flag. Our faith statement reads:
"No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here at the United Church of Chester, an Open and Affirming Church, and a member of the United Church of Christ. We are centered in Christ’s love, embracing, nurturing, serving all, and committed to justice and peace."
Marjorie Warner