We welcome everyone; why should we broadcast one particular welcome?

Thank you for all that you do to create a welcoming and inclusive community of faith. But why would you want to hide your light under a bushel?

Here’s the deal: Many people associate Christianity with condemnation.

Your congregation may welcome all, but you may be missing many people who are longing for a welcoming space—

  • gay and transgender people who are unwilling to risk rejection again,
  • young adults who long for an inclusive church,
  • parents who want to raise their children in a truly welcoming environment like yours.

The list is very long. Stating your welcome publicly is one step to inviting many disenfranchised worshippers back into the fold!

Contributed by Ann Thompson Cook

Please give credit: The person or organization who contributed this resource has made it available for you to download free for use for worship or education in your congregation or faith community. Whenever you use it, please attribute to the contributors as they are named, adding the words, "downloaded at ManyVoices.org." Use of this resource for commercial purposes is expressly prohibited.

Please give feedback: To share anything about your experience using this resource, enter your comments below. Your feedback helps build a vibrant community.

Please give a donation: If you appreciate the opportunity for free downloads, please consider a donation so we can continue offering guidance to all who seek to broaden their welcome.