At First United Church of Christ in Milford, we believe that God’s love knows no bounds — and neither should the church. Rooted in the teachings of Jesus and guided by the Spirit, we have made a public covenant to be an Open and Affirming congregation. That means we welcome and affirm the full diversity of God’s people, especially those who have too often been excluded from faith communities, including our LGBTQ siblings. The covenant below expresses our deep commitment to inclusion, justice, and radical hospitality — not as a slogan, but as a way of life.
Open and Affirming Covenant
We the First United Church of Christ, Congregational, in Milford, Connecticut believe all people are created in God’s own image, infinite in diversity, and one in the body of Christ. God bestows full humanity to all people, and all are uniquely and completely loved by God. No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.
We declare ourselves to be an Open and Affirming Congregation, welcoming and affirming people of any age, cognitive or physical ability, culture, ethnicity, family structure, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, nationality, race, sexual orientation, socio-economic standing, or spiritual tradition — no exceptions, no exclusions.
We covenant, one with another, to extend an extravagant welcome to all to participate fully in the life of our church — its worship, sacraments and blessings, its leadership, stewardship and fellowship, its mission and its ministries.
We promise to follow in the ways of our Lord, Jesus Christ, who said to us, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another just as I have loved you.” (John 13:34)
We commit, through this covenant, to help end ignorance, fear, prejudice, and discrimination. Moved by the Spirit and relying on God’s grace, we vow to promote understanding, equality and love — in this congregation and in the world.
God is still speaking,
A Tradition of Bold Welcome
The United Church of Christ is a denomination known for its bold and inclusive welcome. With roots in the Reformation and a history of social justice leadership, the UCC has long stood at the forefront of movements for equality — from civil rights to LGBTQ inclusion to reproductive and environmental justice. Guided by the belief that “God is still speaking,” the UCC embraces a living faith that honors both tradition and transformation. In the spirit of Jesus, who welcomed outcasts and broke down barriers, the UCC proclaims that all people — no matter who they are or where they are on life’s journey — are invited, valued, and fully beloved.
