I highly recommend checking out the Affirm website: http://ause.ca/

Becoming an Affirming congregation is a long process, however, as far as I know, people in our congregation did not find it to be energy draining and I don't think it was all that expensive either. It can take up to two years to complete the process, but our congregation was able to do it in a much shorter time due to the fact that we had already completed several of the requirements prior to starting the process. It is important to remember that this is not just about being affirming towards the GLBTQ community - it is about affirming everyone, especially those who are traditionally marginalized.

Requirements include involving everyone in the congregation in a process of learning and reflection. One of the ways we did this was to have a series of gatherings with guest speakers from our own congregation and from the wider community. These were always very interesting events.

You must also create a vision statement, action plan and inclusive marriage statement. Our marriage statement was already inclusive - in fact, our ministers had already conducted several same sex marriages on our behalf - so all we had to do was a little tweaking of our vision statement and then create an action plan. 

I would say that it is a worthwhile process.

I have been part of the process in two congrgations.

Both became affirming.

Yes the process does take time but it is a worthwhile process.

It really says "All are welcome".

My eyeglass store has a rainbow sticker on it and I'm glad my church does too.

Latest congregations-a long time attender said "Now I can become a member" It was that important to her.

The process is really one about hearing stories and choosing how to be welcoming.

The best time to plant a tree-20 years ago

the next best time -NOW

Best time to become Affirming-10 years ago

Next best time -NOW!

The actual process was energizing!