Open and Affirming Congregation

As the result of unanimous congregational vote on May 1, 2016, Shiloh Church United Church of Christ is an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ. The office is taking the necessary steps for the congregation to enact the UCC designation.

This should likely come as no surprise to any who know Shiloh Church. This is a welcoming, hospitable church. The ONA Statement simply reflects the work that Shiloh Church is already doing in our community and throughout the world. The statement that Shiloh adopted at its congregational meeting is clear:

Shiloh Church United Church of Christ celebrates and welcomes diversity.
          We recognize that we do not have to be or believe alike in order to
          accomplish God's will on earth.
Shiloh Church celebrates your journey, your gifts, your talents, and your
          calling, and invites you to bring to the Lord's Table your energy and
          your uniqueness, to join with ours in
                      "Living the Word by Serving the World"

                               YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Shiloh Church works unceasingly at welcoming every person. It is work at which Shiloh is not perfect. The congregation sometimes falls short of emulating the love of Christ, as each person falls short, but the lofty aim of reflecting Christ is ever before us. If we remain conscious of our actions and aware of areas of improvement, maybe Shiloh can be a congregation that sometimes approaches the grace and love of Jesus Christ.

There are opportunities to reflect Christ's love all around us. Some come immediately to mind. Shiloh's Front Porch Ministry is held in conjunction with our Farmers' Market, which is open each Saturday, from 8:00a.m. to 1:00 p.m., May through the middle of October. Your presence is all that is required. Come and join in open interaction with members of the Shiloh/North Dayton community. Eat, have a cup of coffee, share, learn and care for those who form our neighborhood. Weekly worship provides yet another opportunity for openness to others. Wear those name tags. Introduce yourself to persons whom you do not yet know, welcome strangers, engage in conversations that draw newcomers in, intentionally work at going out of the way to make someone feel comfortable and welcome. It can be exciting work. Join in the fun!

I pray that Shiloh lives up to the title of Open and Affirming, even surpasses its expectations, as we continue to minister in Jesus' name.