Washington Street is a congregation of The United Methodist Church (UMC). The UMC is divided regarding the equity and inclusion of LGBTQIA+ people in the life and ministry of the church. As a congregation that embraces diversity and ongoing conversation, many members of our church find the decisions of the 2019 General Conference to be exclusionary, divisive, and not expressive of the gospel message of love and grace for all humankind. We pray that God’s all-inclusive love will prevail.
Washington Street will continue to live out our identity statement:
The congregation of WSUMC praises and serves God from the heart of the city in ways which reach our neighbors near and far. We welcome all who seek the love and mercy of Christ regardless of race, creed, age, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or economic status. We honor traditions as rooted in our history, our expression of worship, and our respect for theological curiosity. We nonetheless see vital change and ongoing renewal as essential for spiritual growth. (Adopted 2016).
Washington Street UMC wants all people to know you are welcomed here by a God who loves you and wants a personal relationship with you. In our congregation, it does not matter what you believe (or doubt) or who you love. You are welcome.
Approved by WSUMC Church Council 3/18/19