At Community United Church, we believe faith comes alive when it is shared through love, compassion, and genuine welcome. As a nationally recognized Open and Affirming (ONA) Congregation within the United Church of Christ, our promise isn't just to be "inclusive"—it is to offer an extravagant welcome to everyone, exactly as they are.
We believe diversity is a beautiful expression of God’s creativity, and we work every day to ensure our LGBTQIA+ neighbors, families, and allies know that God’s love is unconditional, full, and free.
Every year, your precious Erie Gives dollars help us to be the beacon in the dark by offering love, clarity, and belonging in a world that too often brings confusion and rejection.
Putting Faith Into Action
Living out our covenant of welcome means stepping beyond our sanctuary doors and into the heart of our community. Each year, we put our mission into motion by providing:
- Radical Hospitality at Pride: At the Erie Pride Festival, our tent is a judgment-free oasis. We ask for nothing in return; we simply offer cold water, warm hugs, open conversation, and the reassuring truth that you belong.
- Solidarity in the Streets: We march proudly in the Erie Pride Parade, walking side-by-side with our friends and neighbors to show that support for equality and fairness isn't a one-day event—it’s a year-round commitment.
- A Safe Place to Belong: For several years, we’ve thrown open the doors of our Fellowship Hall after the parade for a post-Pride reception. It provides a safe, peaceful space for community members to share a light meal, connect, and rest in an environment of genuine care.
How Your Erie Gives Gift Makes a Difference
Creating spaces of true sanctuary and radical welcome takes community support. When you support Community United Church during Erie Gives, every dollar directly powers these efforts:
- Funding Hospitality & Care: Your donations directly buy the supplies, meals, cold water, and hosting materials needed to welcome hundreds of festival-goers and parade participants with radical welcome and open arms.
- Expanding Community Outreach: Your donations allow us to amplify our message throughout Erie, making sure isolated individuals know there is a safe, affirming spiritual home waiting for them.
- Building Sustaining Allies: Gifts help us continue offering year-round programming, advocacy, and safe gathering spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals and dedicated allies fighting for fairness and justice.
Join Us in Spreading the Message
No matter who you are, or who you love, you have a place at God's table. This Erie Gives, your generosity helps us keep the doors wide open, the water cold, and the welcome extravagant. Join Community United Church as we help to ensure everyone in Erie knows they are loved, valued, and home.