Congregational Church of Needham

THE CONGREGATIONAL <?xml:namespace prefix = ns0 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />CHURCH OF NEEDHAM<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

United Church of Christ

Needham, MA

…gives this stole in celebration of the 5^th anniversary of our vote to become an Open and Affirming congregation.

We dedicate this stole to those in our midst and elsewhere who have lived and served openly or in silence, those who have suffered because of church or society and those who have been healed, those who have lost family or safety and those who have found them.

May we be a place where all people find safety, healing, affirmation, fulfillment, and God’s grace.

Open and Affirming Statement

As a covenant community, we are committed to the belief that all people are created equal before God.

In affirmation of the inclusive love of Christ Jesus, we welcome persons of any race, gender, age, sexual orientation, ability, and economic circumstance to full participation in our community life and ministry.

We strive to reflect these beliefs in
the language and content of our worship and in our lives together.

Adopted February 2000