DRAFT AFFIRMING STATEMENT

This is a draft statement that could be adopted by Hillhurst:

Hillhurst United Church commits to be an inclusive community of faith that follows in the Way of Jesus under the banner 'whoever you are, wherever you're at, we welcome you on the journey.'
We strive to accept each other as equals and welcome the ministry and participation of all persons regardless of age, gender identity, health, race, sexual orientation, differing abilities, religious or ethnic background or economic circumstance.
We hope that in all that we do, including our worship and community life, God's unconditional love is experienced. We do this trusting God is with us on the journey.'

Comments and suggestions are welcome.

Note: While the statement includes various potential sources of exclusion, the primary educational focus in the past year has been sexual orientation, for reasons outlined above. The Outreach Committee is now forming plans to extend that education to the other areas mentioned in the statement. We hope this will be an ongoing - and expanding - part of our work.