Westdale United Church is an Inclusive and Progressive Christian Community –
Seeking | Caring | Affirming | Acting
As an inclusive community, Westdale United has taken progressive stands on issues of sexual orientation, gay ministry, and same sex marriage for over three decades. We welcome people of all stages in their faith journey.
In 2013, Westdale United Church declared itself an affirming Ministry within the United Church of Canada. In December 2022, Church Council voted to explore becoming an officially Affirming congregation through Affirm United.
Being affirming means that we are a safe space, striving to be fully inclusive of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
For more information on the Affirming Process click here
We are looking for people who are interested in being on an Affirming Committee. If you feel that this is a ministry you are being called to, please contact the office.
What does the United Church of Canada Believe about Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity?
The United Church affirms that gender and sexuality are gifts of God, and that all persons are made in the image of God. We welcome into full membership and ministry people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. The United Church is opposed to discrimination against any person on any basis by which a person is devalued.
The struggle for justice against sexism and gender-based violence, and towards justice for people of all gender identities and sexual orientations, are fundamental ways in which the United Church seeks to transform structures and systems and be faithful to God’s vision for humanity.
Even as we seek to eliminate sexism, misogyny, homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia, we know that we, too, are guilty of these forms of oppression.
We acknowledge the roles that Christianity and religion in general play in such oppression. We hear the call to take action to end all forms of discrimination. We acknowledge that the work of justice is not just about how we treat people who enter the four walls of our church; what matters is how we treat people out in the world. We are committed to journeying to where all people live in justice and peace together.
