The Welcoming Congregation

This text or more specifically a handbook is a superlative text designed for Unitarian Universalist congregations interested in becoming Welcoming Congregations. The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) officially recognizes UU churches who have demonstrated that they have followed a course of action to show to the wider community they are a welcoming religious and spirtual community for LBGT members. I'm helping to coordinate my UU church in becoming a welcoming congregation, and the church purchased this text, published by the UUA. It's designed for UUA churches but can be implemented and modified to fit any religious denomination attempting to educate and bring to light the issues surrounding the spirtual needs of LBGT congregants. Topics Include: 1. The Common Elements of Oppression 2. Gender Socialization and Homophobia 3. Racism and Homophobia/Heterosexism 4. HIV/AIDS 5. The Radical Right 8. Religion and Homosexuality 9. Experiences of Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, and/or Transgender People 10. History of Homophobia 11. Bisexuality and Biphobia 12. Transgender Identity: What it Means 13. How Homophobia Hurts Us All 14. What Now? The text also includes 14 workshops, with complete instructions for program leaders Readings, charts, and definitions for each workshop Guidlines for enhancing youth groups and religious education programs And much, much more! A wonderful investment for any congregation, of any size.

This is a step-by-step curriculum guide for becoming a congregation that is Welcoming to bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgender people. Each session comes with a list of resources, dialogue starters, and interactive activities. We used it at my UU congregation, and it has made a big difference! Although designed for UUs, the curriculum can be adapted to any religious group.