In 1992, First Congregational UCC was one of Madison's first faith communities to adopt a formal statement welcoming and affirming ALL people, regardless of sexual orientation.

We invite and welcome all persons without regard to sexual orientation/gender expression to join us in our journey of life and faith and to seek to covenant to be responsible to God and to one another.

Active Members and Congregational Leaders
Members of the First Congregational United Church of Christ have welcomed into membership men and women of all sexual orientations and gender expressions. These men and women have responded by serving in positions of leadership in the congregation on all boards and the executive council including the position of Moderator.

Rainbow People
Members of First Congregational Church's Rainbow People (a fellowship of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) folk and friends) meet monthly usually following the second Sunday worship service for brunch or other activities. This group also plans the annual Open and Affirming worship service the second Sunday in October each year. They actively work to help the congregation stay aware of issues affecting the LGBT community.

Support for LGBT Families
Our church pastors have officiated at several same-gender union ceremonies, both in our sanctuary and at other locations. Children of lesbian and gay couples have been baptized and otherwise welcomed into our household of faith.

This congregation opposes the Marriage Amendment to the Wisconsin Constitution. Our pastor has written Biblical and Theological Reflections on the Marriage Amendment.

Interfaith Worship
In 1992, a First Congregational UCC member helped establish "Coming Out--Coming Together" in Madison, and members of our church continue their support of this group. Coming Out--Coming Together is an interfaith coalition that holds interfaith worship services, provides support for other congregations considering adoption of a formal welcoming statement to people of all sexual orientations, and encourages participation by religious groups in gay pride events.