BGLT & Allies Group/Welcoming Congregation
“We affirm the inherent worth and dignity of all persons,” states our first Principle as Unitarian Universalists, and so it goes without saying that gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender persons are not only welcome at West Shore, but expected. In the late 1980’s, West Shore voted to become a “Welcoming congregation” which means that the church took seriously its commitment to educate its members on GLBT justice concerns, and serve as active advocates for, and with bisexual, gay, lesbian, and transgender people.
The Allies Group is composed of both gay and non-gay members of West Shore who meet monthly for mutual support and for political strategy. All are welcome to attend their monthly meetings, generally held on the second Friday evening of the month. Check the current issue of West Shore's newsletter, Shorelines, the order of service, the on-line church calendar, or call the church office at 440-333-2255.
The Ministers of the church are also active participants in the Spiritual Leaders group, meeting at The Center. The Spiritual Leaders offer a community of support for clergy whose congregations or faith traditions affirm full participation of GLBT people.
West Shore members routinely join other UU's from around the area in marching downtown in the Pride Parade in mid-June. The pictures on the right were taken by a recent Pride Parade delegation.
