The first three webinars are designed for churches exploring the possibility of an ONA commitment, or beginning and ONA process. (Not-yet ONA churches are two-thirds of all UCC congregations.) They share best practices for leading a church to an ONA covenant in ways that build consensus and reduce the risk of conflict. "ONA NEXT" is the successor to our "ONA 201" webinar: it's designed primarily for existing ONA churches looking for ways to revive their ONA commitment, with best practices we've learned from thriving ONA churches.
If you have any questions, please contact Andrew Lang at ed@openandaffirming.org.
TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR ONA AND NOT-YET ONA CHURCHES
The Coalition’s popular series of webinars resumes on Tuesday, Oct. 26 with “ONA 101,” repeated on Thursday, Nov. 4. Also in our line-up: “ONA and the Bible” (Tuesday, Nov. 2 or Thursday, Nov. 11), “1-to-1 Conversations about ONA” (Tuesday, Nov. 9) and a revamped webinar for existing ONA churches: “ONA NEXT” (Tuesday, Nov. 16). Do you know churches that want to become ONA, but are hesitating because of the fear they might lose members and money? Let them know about this series: churches that participate in our training programs learn how an ONA process can build consensus and revive energy for mission and ministry! Scroll down this page for links to all of our webinars. You can register for an individual webinar or purchase a discounted Season Pass for all sessions.
This webinar explores how and why congregations can become ONA—in ways that do not divide, but unite the church. Applying the basic ONA principles of “graceful engagement” and “covenant,” ONA 101 has helped hundreds of congregations successfully navigate through an ONA process.
We'll examine the seven texts that are commonly used to condemn same-sex relationships, but these few verses shouldn’t control your church’s conversation about ONA. How can biblical values of covenant, relationship and discipleship be foundational for a successful ONA process? Churches adopt ONA covenants not in spite of, but because of the Bible. This webinar is also valuable for members of existing ONA churches who want to know the biblical basis of their congregation’s welcome and support for LGBTQ+ neighbors.
1-to-1 Conversations are a basic tool for churches navigating through potential conflict. It can engage members who otherwise might be skeptical or oppositional in your church's ONA process, and build relationship and trust in the congregation. Our goal: churches that are more unified, not divided, after the ONA journey.
Do you want to revive your church’s ONA commitment? ONA congregations that are visible in their communities can grow—in spirit and often in numbers. Congregations that are invisible won’t have an impact their their community or attract seekers. Learn how your ONA covenant can revive passion for mission, ministry and advocacy, and learn the best practices we've learned from thriving ONA churches!