We, the members of the First Congregational Church of Lyme, CT, interpreting the Bible in the context of its time and following the teachings and example of Jesus, declare our church to be an Open and Affirming church, actively expressing Jesus’ inclusive embrace of all people.  We acknowledge God’s acceptance of every individual and Jesus’ commandment to love one another. Therefore, this church welcomes heterosexual, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals to worship and enter into the full life and ministry of our church. In our community of faith, all people are encouraged to participate and share their talents and energy in worship and sacraments, leadership positions, ordained ministry, lay ministry, learning, service, mission, and fellowship.  Further, persons of every gender, mental and physical ability, age, race, nationality, economic and social status, faith background, marital standing, and family structure are welcome in our church community; and the First Congregational Church of Lyme invites all to share in the life, leadership, ministry, fellowship, worship, sacraments, responsibilities, blessings, and joys of our congregation.