In 2003, First Church Natick proudly adopted an “Open and Affirming” (ONA) covenant to make it clear that this congregation seeks to be a faith community where no one is required to repudiate their God-given identity in order to be welcome.
Since adopting our Open & Affirming Covenant in 2003, we have welcomed LGBTQ families, celebrated same-sex weddings, designated a gender-neutral bathroom, and partnered with OUT MetroWest serving area LGBTQ youth. We march in the annual Boston Pride Parade, host music and art events celebrating the LGBTQ community, and let our rainbow and transgender flags fly on Main Street.
Our Sanctuary is accessible by an elevator and the dais area is accessed by a ramp. An app is available for listening assistance and large print bulletins are available for people with sight restrictions.
FCC Natick, as a partner of the United Church of Christ Mental Health Network, works to reduce stigma and promote the inclusion of people with mental health challenges and neurodiversity and their families in the life, leadership and work of our congregation.
FCC Natick has offered many racial justice trainings and partners with both local organizations and the UCC in working towards disrupting the realities of systemic racism that surrounds us.
FCC Natick has been involved with the movement across our southern border and with those seeking asylum locally. Locally, a group of Natick residents including our church members have been developing a policy to establish Natick as an immigrant welcoming community, and are working to bring this policy to the Natick Select Board.