OPEN AND AFFIRMING CHURCHES

This General Synod affirms the presence and contributions of gay men and lesbians in the life of the church, and condemns bigotry, violence and hatred toward any due to their sexual orientation.
Act 57, 1995 General Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada

As an Anglican parish, St. John's affirms our commitment to study and action based on the following convictions:

that all baptized people, including gay men and lesbians, are members of the body of Christ;
that all Christians who seek spiritual wholeness need to express and share their spirituality within supportive and loving Christian communities;
that it is unacceptable to force gay and lesbian people to deny or hide their sexual orientation and committed relationships in order to be accepted into our church; and,
that the relationship of gay men and lesbians with the rest of the Anglican church is based on mutual support, and that no one within the people of God is marginal, special or defined solely by their sexual orientation.

We recognize that gay men and lesbians, both lay and ordained, have made significant contributions within the life of the church throughout history. Some of these Anglicans believe that they were called to celibacy, and others, as with heterosexuals, believe that they were called to express their God-given sexuality within a committed relationship. We regret that many gay men and lesbians are still forced to deny both their sexual orientation or their committed relationships in order to participate fully in parish life.

We therefore declare ourselves to be a parish that is open and affirming of the celebration of the Christian faith by all people, including gay men and lesbians, and supports all people in all aspects of the life of the Church.

We say to all gay men and lesbians, draw near to us in faith. Come and worship with us. We welcome you to full and open membership in this parish.