There was a special service Sunday at the United Church of Scarborough in southwestern Calgary as the community celebrated new Pride banners to send the message that they are a strong and affirming congregation.
“We have doubled in that we are public, deliberate and explicit in our welcome,” said Rev. Erin Klassen.
The church has been an affirming congregation for at least 12 years, which means that it has gone through a process to ensure that it is “open and inclusive for people of all genders, identities and sexual expressions.”
But in March, a banner designed to announce the fact and greet LGBTQ people was vandalized – partially burned and torn and with the word “repent” written on it. Calgary police believe this is a possible hate crime.
Klasen said the initial emotions ranged from worrying about strange people having to walk past a symbol of hatred, to anger that someone would be so hurt. But the community quickly showed support.
“As discouraged as we were when the banners were depersonalized, the response was wonderful,” she said, calling it a sad way to get a good reminder.
Prep. Erin Klassen, left, stands by Elder Marilyn Shinguz, who presided over the blessing of the new flags on Sunday. (Helen Pike / CBC)
Three organizations have offered to donate new banners, said Sharon Woodhouse, who has been a member of the United Church in Scarborough for nearly 40 years.
“It’s just a confirmation for us that we’re on the right track and that people need it. They need this acceptance and awareness that Scarborough Church will be a place where homosexuals can come and be loved, ”Woodhouse said.
She said that along with Scarborough, more than 50 united churches in Calgary are approving congregations.
Parishioners gathered in front of the church, where one of the new banners hangs. (Helen Pike / CBC)
The two new flags of the church were donated by a respected Red Panda.
“When we saw the news … we felt it was our duty to do what we could,” said Brandin Funk, owner of Calgary’s printing service.
He is not a member of the church, but he supports its inclusive message.
“We wanted to show that while community members may disagree with them, the whole community certainly is.”
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