We, as a diverse body of believers seeking to live in the light and image of God in Christ, do affirm:
- that every person has worth as a special and unique creation made in God’s image;
- that in the Spirit of love, openness, and inclusiveness we welcome persons of every sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, race, nationality, ability and age to participate fully in all aspects of the Church’s life and ministry;
- that as agents of reconciliation and wholeness we embrace justice and seek to support all who suffer discrimination or who are disenfranchised from the religious community;
- that in light of the gospel we will continue to comprehend and appreciate more fully our differences and gifts;
- that through grace our love for God and neighbor may flourish.
This ONA statement was originally passed by vote of the Congregation on April 2, 1995. It was amended (April 19, 2015) to include the phrases “gender identity” (referring to one’s innermost core concept of self which can include male, female, a blend of both or neither, and many more) and “gender expression” (referring to the ways in which one expresses gender identity to others).