Open and Affirming Network

Welcome

The Keystone Conference Open and Affirming (ONA) Team is a diverse and spirited group of individuals from across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. We are pastors, lay leaders, educators, chaplains, advocates, and justice-seekers—each bringing unique gifts, lived experiences, and theological perspectives. Together, we serve as companions and catalysts for congregations, members, and seekers who long for a church that fully embraces LGBTQIA+ people as beloved and essential.

We believe that every community—rural or urban, traditional or experimental—can embrace God’s extravagant welcome. Our team is here to help you explore, deepen, and celebrate that calling.

Inspire

We are committed to inspiring churches and associations to embrace the ONA journey, affirming LGBTQIA+ individuals as integral to the life and leadership of the church. Our work includes:

Encouraging congregations to explore and adopt ONA covenants
Supporting clergy and lay leaders in creating welcoming worship and community spaces
Celebrating the diversity of God’s creation through storytelling, education, and justice-rooted theology

Whether you’re just beginning the ONA process or have long been affirming, we’re here to walk with you.

Connect

Let’s build bridges across Pennsylvania’s UCC Associations. We invite you to:

Join our mailing list for updates on regional ONA gatherings and workshops
Share your congregation’s story of welcome and transformation
Collaborate with others across the state who are passionate about inclusion and justice

Equip

We believe that education is liberation. Our team curates and shares resources to help congregations deepen their understanding and expand their welcome:

These tools are ideal for church councils, worship teams, youth leaders, and anyone seeking to deepen their faith and foster a welcoming environment.

Support

The journey toward full inclusion is sacred—and sometimes challenging. The Keystone ONA Team offers:

Peer support for clergy navigating congregational change
Mentorship for churches discerning their ONA path
Connection to statewide and national networks of affirming faith leaders

Find an ONA church near you: ONA Church Finder
Learn more about the national movement: Open and Affirming Coalition

Together, we proclaim: God is still speaking—and God’s love includes everyone. Let’s make Pennsylvania a beacon of welcome, justice, and joy.