Praying and Working for An Inclusive Church...
Inviting All People into the Circle of God's Grace
West
Presbyterian Church has long been committed to diversity and
inclusiveness and invites all people into the circle of God’s grace.
This commitment is reflected in actions taken by the session and the
congregation. In 1994 the congregation approved the
following Statement of Inclusiveness:
We, the members of West Presbyterian Church of Wilmington, Delaware,
are committed to the goal of loving justice by eliminating
discrimination among persons wherever we can. Therefore, in our life
together as a community within the body of Christ, we work to
increase acceptance and participation of all regardless of racial or
ethnic origin, gender, economic status, age, physical or mental
abilities, marital status, or sexual orientation.
We welcome all persons who seek God's grace through acceptance and
trust in Jesus Christ, and who desire to be members with us. We
declare that profession of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and the
Loving God is the only requirement for full participation and
service. Each member of West Presbyterian Church will seek the grace
of openness in extending the fellowship of Christ to all persons.
We affirm that an active member of West Presbyterian Church is
entitled to all rights and privileges of the church, along with the
responsibilities. They have the right to participate in the
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, to present children for baptism, to
partake in meetings of the congregation, and the responsibilities to
vote and hold office, including those offices which require election
by the congregation and ordination.
We consider the individual's judgment in all matters that respect
religion as universal and inalienable, for God alone is Lord of the
conscience.
We remain committed these issues, and on May 13, 2003, the Session unanimously affirmed the following clarifying statement:
We, the Session of West Presbyterian Church, affirming both the Statement of Inclusiveness adopted by the congregation of this Church on November 20, 1994 and the church’s connections to and with the Presbyterian Church (USA), hereby faithfully covenant to uphold the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (USA) in all its provisions (including G-6.0106(b)), as we interpret that provision in light of the convictions set forth in the Statement of Inclusiveness.
West Church supports the work and ministries of More Light Presbyterians, Covenant Network of Presbyterians and That All May Freely Serve.