OPEN AND AFFIRMING SUNDAY SOCIAL
As members of the Open and Affirming Committee, we recognize the importance of fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment within our church community. In line with our commitment to embracing diversity and supporting all individuals, especially based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or other marginalized identities, we established a monthly gathering. This gathering aims to provide a space for fellowship and church in-reach. These are called our “Open and Affirming Sunday Socials.” We’ve met twice and the turnout has been great each month. We do a different activity on the Second Sunday of each month.
Our next three activities, open to any UCG members, are:
- September 8 – Karaoke at Stage 7 Karaoke (Limited space, requires sign ups at https://forms.gle/z9mDjwZstC6meDm1A)
- October 13 – Game Night at UCG
- November 10 – UF Women’s Volleyball game
PRIDE
Gainesville will celebrate Pride on the weekend of September 28-29th, 2024. Why in the Fall, you ask, when the rest of the country celebrates in June? Well, it has to do with the summer heat and having students back in our precious college town! Usually, Pride is scheduled in October, but this year it’s in September due to the Gator football game schedule. (The October dates are associated with October 11, National Coming Out Day which was established in 1988 in commemoration of the 2nd March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights in 1987).
Looking ahead:
September 22, Sunday after church, creative art projects to prepare for the next weekend.
September 28, Saturday, UCG booth at Bo Diddley Plaza during the downtown pride festival.
September 29, Sunday, pride service and brunch.
Look for New UCG Pride T-shirts, designed by Cai Husband, to be on sale in the courtyard in September leading up to Pride events!
September 28, Saturday will be the pride festival in the downtown plaza.
To Volunteer for the Pride Booth sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080544AEAA29A75-51018886-onabooth
For the Potluck Pride Brunch sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080544AEAA29A75-51018884-ucgpride