A Welcoming Congregation

First Unitarian Church is a Welcoming Congregation. This means the congregation has taken deliberate steps, as outlined by the Unitarian Universalist Association, to become more inclusive of gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender (GLBT) people. The congregation works to address the needs of GLBT persons at every level of congregational life, welcoming not only their presence, but also the particular gifts they bring.

Interweave

First Unitarian Church also supports a local chapter of Interweave, a nationwide organization affiliated with the UUA. Interweave groups provide opportunities for GLBT UU's and straight allies to support each other, socialize and share life issues. They also reach out to the larger GLBT community to publicize the affirming religious alternative offered by Unitarian Universalism, as well as to work for social justice in the larger community.

Interweave is an active and vibrant GLBT group at First Unitarian Church. Interweave meets  at least monthly and coordinates a variety of activities within the church. Each year, Interweave sponsors a church service, educational forums, and the Church's participation in the Des Moines Pride Parade, for which First Unitarian church is one of the largest participants.

Interweave members meet the first Sunday of each month at 12 noon at the Church for a potluck meal. Contact Robert Stephens at rfstep2002@yahoo.com for meeting information.

The First Unitarian Interweave group is a member of Interweave Continental, an affiliate of the Unitarian Universalist Association, and a national network of Interweave groups.