Social Justice
Part of the fragmentation of our world today has to do with systems and ways of “being” that do not promote and ensure justice for everyone. First Christian Church is committed to the work of making a way for everyone to be fully who God created them to be, bringing about wholeness in a fragmented world. We partner with a number of groups and organizations on this important ministry. If you would like to get involved, contact the church office.
Open & Affirming
At First Christian Church, we proudly embrace the values of being Open & Affirming. We believe that every person, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or background, is a beloved child of God deserving of love, respect, and full acceptance. Our inclusive community welcomes and celebrates diversity, recognizing the unique gifts and experiences each individual brings. We strive to create a safe and nurturing space where all are free to be their authentic selves, and where love knows no bounds. With open hearts and open minds, we stand as an affirming beacon, seeking to build a more inclusive world, both within our congregation and beyond.
Our Open & Affirming Statement:
We proclaim that we are an open and affirming congregation and we covenant with our community to provide a loving welcome for all God’s children into the full life and leadership of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Bloomington, Illinois.
We welcome all who seek to follow Jesus regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, nationality, ethnicity, marital status, physical or mental ability, family configuration, political affiliation, economic circumstance or theological perspective.
Please click this link for Disciples LGBTQ Alliance resources.
Pro-Reconciliation
With the recent turmoil in our nation around racism and social justice, we have turned our focus to these issues. One of the 4 priorities of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) has been and continues to be “Becoming a Pro-reconciling/Anti-Racist Church”. You can find more about the church’s ministry here, including suggestions for reading, news, and information about the how to support the work this ministry does: Reconciliation Ministry
We continue to meet to talk about ways our church can be engaged in reconciliation in our own community. We’d like to offer the following suggestions, linked below. You can use these in your own personal reflections, for small group discussions, or to take action and get involved in the community.
1. Reconciliation Ministry Resources – this includes lists of books, articles, videos, podcasts, and more.
2. Local groups – Not In Our Town, YWCA McLean County, WGLT/Racism (see below)
Not In Our Town
Not in Our Town (NIOT) is a grass roots community organization that is working to build inclusive, safe community. NIOT tends to issues of racism, discrimination toward members of the LGBTQ community, bullying in schools, and other ways human beings are excluded or oppressed.
The General Church (Disciples of Christ)
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) supports many organizations and ministries that are working on issues of justice.