The issue of same-sex marriage is one of the most divisive in recent memory. People of good will stand on both sides of the question, or somewhere in between.

As you may know, on July 4, 2005, the General Synod of the United Church of Christ adopted a resolution supporting equal marriage rights for couples regardless of gender. Click here to read the full text of the resolution. Christ Congregational Church has yet to take a stand on this resolution.

In addition, with the recent Circuit Court decision overturning Maryland's law limiting marriage to couples of the opposite sex, the issue has come to the forefront in our state. The Legislature is even now considering a proposed amendment to the state constitution limiting marriage to one man and one woman.

The members of CCC's Open and Affirming Task Force would like to invite members of the congregation to enter into dialog regarding this issue. While we know that many feel strongly one way or the other, we plan to have open, non-judgmental and mutually respectful discussions as we try to discern the direction our church should take.

To that end, the ONA Task Force is planning a series of "living room discussions," small groups that can get together and take the time necessary to really let each other know how we feel. As a first step in this process, we are inviting all those interested to submit questions and/or specific issues as a focus for discussion. You can send your concerns to the church office via the insert in the Sunday bulletin or send an e-mail to the ONA Task Force.

Thank you all in advance for your participation in this exciting time of sharing ideas!

Your Open and Affirming Task Force

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