Frequently asked questions

 
Question:  I am a member of the LGBTQ community, am I welcome?

Answer: The simple answer is yes. But life in the body of Christ isn’t always simple. At this time, the UCC in Medfield has chosen to emphasize unity in Christ; not allowing different beliefs to divide us. In practice, this means that there are people with different beliefs relating to the LBGTQ community. We do, however, believe that God loves all of us and we are committed to demonstrating that love by showing respect and kindness to one another and to making you feel safe and welcome. We invite you to work with all of us to figure out how to do that. We continue to pray for God’s leading and loving hand in this.
 
Question:  I don’t believe in Same-Sex Marriage, am I welcome?
 
Answer: The simple answer is yes. But life in the body of Christ isn’t always simple. At this time, the UCC in Medfield has chosen to emphasize unity in Christ; not allowing different beliefs to divide us. In practice, this means that there are people with different beliefs relating to Same-Sex Marriage. We do, however, believe that God loves all of us and we are committed to demonstrating that love by showing respect and kindness to one another and to making you feel safe and welcome. We invite you to work with all of us to figure out how to do that. We continue to pray for God’s leading in this.
       
Question: I don’t know what I believe about God, am I welcome?

Answer: Yes. The UCC in Medfield is committed to creating disciples of Christ, but we are all in different places on our journey. At the UCC in Medfield, there is a lot of space to question and come to understand your faith, as well as a lot of opportunities to have people come alongside and help you figure it out. We’re not a church for folks who “have it all together” because without exception we don’t have it all together.
 
Question:  Are women allowed in leadership (deacon,  teaching, preaching, etc.?)

Answer: Yes, in fact, our current Associate Pastor is a woman. Our Church Board and Deacon Team also have women. We believe in using the full body of Christ.
 
Question:  Can I get married at UCC Medfield to a same-sex partner?

Answer: Yes, if you are a member or a regular attendee of the UCC Medfield church. Pastors Phil and Karen have the names of several UCC pastors they know and trust who have agreed to perform the marriages in our sanctuary.
 
Question: Would I be allowed participation in “the full life of the church” if I am part of the LGBT community?

Answer: Yes! We really mean participation in “the full life of the church”. Anyone and everyone can take part and share in all that UCC Medfield has to offer including - worship, sacraments, rites, covenants, ministry, leadership, employment, small group/Bible studies, etc.

Question: Are members of the LGBTQ community allowed in leadership roles – i.e. pastor, deacon, youth leaders, lay leaders, Sunday School teaching, etc.?

Answer: Yes! The criteria, qualifications and character for those who participate in leadership, employment, teaching, etc. are applied equally to all, no matter who you are. We hold the same standards for everyone, and we all have a place in our church to serve where we are called.
 
Question: The UCC Welcome Statement does not say “Open and Affirming.” Does this mean, as a member of the LGBT community that I am truly welcome?

Answer: Yes, you are welcome! As a church we hold a diversity of beliefs on many issues. There are many aspects of theological and moral beliefs where different members of our church community believe very differently. These issues, however, do not divide us. We are willing to live with these differences, never ignoring them, but never allowing them the power to divide us. We feel that it is critical for us to be open and honest about our differing perspectives. Thus, we do not use the words “Open and Affirming”, but you are indeed welcome.

Question: I am different. I have felt judged in other communities. Will I be judged at UCC Medfield?

Answer: We work to embrace, respect and honor all people who are seeking the Lord. We are ALL created in God’s image. It should not be our place to judge God’s creations, no matter how different you are. We are not perfect, however. We would encourage anyone who feels uncomfortable and/or judged to please let us know so that we can support you. There are a number of helpful resources at UCC Medfield, including our Pastors and Staff, the Pastoral Relations Team, and Stephen Ministers.  God is walking with you and we will too.