Affirm and 2SLGBTQ+ Activism

East End United is proud to be recognized as an Affirming Congregation within the United Church of Canada.   To become recognized, the congregation must go through a rigorous process of studying its practices, policies, and attitudes toward inclusivity – not just about gender and sexuality, but also around racism, ableism, classism, sexism, and many of the other artificial labels that attempt to segregate us one from another and from God.  As a congregation, we’re committed to the P.I.E. Principle: being Public, Intentional, and Explicit about our theology of God’s love and inclusivity of all persons in our community of faith.  And, sometimes, we enjoy P.I.E., in community by sharing pie together – apple, lemon, cherry, or whatever. One of the places God meets us in all our diversity is when we break bread (or pie) together.

East End, in fact, has a deep commitment to this inclusion of all people, a long record of queer leadership by both clergy and laypeople, and has been a queer-positive presence on the Danforth and Gerard neighbourhoods for many decades.  That involvement is visible throughout the year in our worship, outreach, programs, and events, but particularly highlighted during Pride month. Every June we celebrate Pride in its many forms, in our worship, flag-raising, participation in the various parades, picnics, and other events. EEU works closely with other Affirming Congregations in the GTA and a variety of faith groups that are queer-positive and queer-affirming.

East End has an inclusive and equal marriage policy, so if you’re thinking of getting hitched, go to our Life’s Big Moments page for more information.  We’ be happy to help you celebrate your love and commitment.

If you want to find out more about East End’s position and support of the 2SLGBTQQ+ community contact Rev. Dan.  To learn more about the Affirming Congregation Program in the United Church of Canada check out Affirm’s website.  For a backgrounder on the United Church’s position of homosexuality visit the UCC Website or this  Wikipedia page.  And, if you’re looking for a great slice of pie, here are some great recipes.

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Our Affirming Mission Statement

We declare publicly our commitment to creating a community where people of all ages, genders, races, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, differing abilities, cultural backgrounds, spiritual beliefs and economic circumstances are welcome.
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All persons are welcome to take part in every aspect of church life including membership, leadership and celebrating life passages. We celebrate the richness that diversity brings to our church, even as it challenges us. We  for God’s spirit to guide us as we work for reconciliation and justice for all persons in both church and society.