About Us
Q: What is the Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches?
A: The Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches began as a collection of welcoming churches in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. We now also accept and encourage participation from churches outside Lakeview. The churches in the coalition are all "welcoming" - that is, accepting all, regardless of sexual orientation, including those in the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, or questioning communities. Visitors will fell welcome and accepted in God's love in any of the participating churches.
Q: What is the history of the Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches?
A: Born in August, 2000, out of the WOW!2000 conference, members of area churches decided to collaborate to work together better to communicate our welcoming message to the g/l/b/t/q community and our Lakeview neighborhood.
Q: What qualifies a church to be in the Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches?
A: Members of CCWC share the following in common:
- All are Christian churches
- All are welcoming churches; accepting all regardless of sexual orientation - straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, or questioning
- All are actively involved in change initiatives in their own denominations, advocating equal treatment of all members and clergy, and working for real change within their denominations.
In many cases, our welcoming churches are nationally recognized leaders for progressive thinking and leadership on g/l/b/t/q issues within their churches.
Q: How can my church join the Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches?
A: Our coalition is constantly growing and expanding. If you'd like to join, please e-mail us at info@chicagowelcomingchurches.org.