On January 30th, 2005 at our annual meeting we overwhelmingly adopted the following open and affirming statement.

''As members of First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Waterville, Maine, we seek to know God's love for each of us as revealed through our savior, Jesus Christ.

We invite everyone to full participation in our community of worship, fellowship, learning, service, mission, and leadership. We affirm each person as a child of God, worthy of God's love and our love. Our church community welcomes people

of every age, gender identity, race, and ethnicity;

of every family structure, sexual orientation, and marital standing;

of every background, physical and mental ability, and economic situation.

We seek justice and peace for all people everywhere. As an Open and Affirming church, First Congregational Church UCC has a place for all who choose to join us. We have roles for each person to explore in our ministry and activities, and an assurance that, no matter who you are or where you are in your faith journey, you are welcome here."