Open and Affirming

What It Means to Be Open and Affirming

Open and Affirming (ONA) is an official designation recognizing faith communities committed to the full inclusion of LGBTQ people. ONA ministries reflect a strong commitment to the acceptance and inclusion of people of sexual orientation and gender identity, ensuring gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and non-binary persons. Rooted in love and justice, ONA supports the belief that faith and spirituality flourish when acceptance and equality are at its core.

 Why Open and Affirming Matters

Some LGBTQ people have experienced rejection or exclusion in religious spaces, so having a spiritual community of people who are committed to affirmation ensures them a safe environment where they can participate in worship and belong. This encourages diversity while strengthening the church, creating deeper connections between members. The support created when an Open and Affirming perspective is embraced heals past wounds and shows faith and acceptance can coexist. When LGBTQ individuals are welcomed into sacred service, they are empowered to fully express their faith and contribute to the spiritual life of the community.

What It Looks Like in Practice

Actively practicing Open and Affirming values involves publicly declaring support for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. It uses intentional messaging that affirms inclusion and supports policies that protect against discrimination. Education like workshops, discussions, and resources are promoted and encouraged to deepen understanding and eliminate biases surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity. LGBTQ voices are valued by supporting them in leadership positions and decision-making processes. Active advocacy and outreach support LGBTQ rights.      

 

Open and Affirming FAQs 

 

What does Open and Affirming mean in a church?

 

A truly open and affirming church includes a covenant that welcomes people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Members of an Open and Affirming church congregation encourage LGBTQ people to fully participate in worship, leadership, and community activities. Baptism, communion, and marriage are celebrated for all people without discrimination. Participants in an Open and Affirming spiritual center practice their faith with Open and affirming prayers​. Safe spaces, and educational programs support equality and spiritual belonging in the church community. By creating a culture of acceptance and equality, ONA congregations demonstrate that faith is strongest when everyone is valued and fully supported.

 

What does “fully affirming” mean?

 

To be “fully affirming” means LGBTQ identities are wholeheartedly embraced, as well as recognized, supported, and valued in every part of community life. It includes a commitment to uplifting and integrating LGBTQ people in meaningful ways that includes advocacy, and celebration. It creates a space where all people feel safe, respected, empowered, and are welcomed for who they are.  

 

What is the difference between accepting and affirming?

 

Acceptance passively acknowledges someone’s identity but doesn’t necessarily celebrate it. Affirmation actively embraces, validates, and uplifts it. Affirmation actively supports, and celebrates LGBTQ identities so they feel individually seen, respected, and fully integrated into a community without limitations. Affirmation builds a culture of inclusion and support, where LGBTQ people aren’t simply tolerated but fully embraced as equal, valued members.