Community Corner

A Stamford Church With an Open-Door Policy

Some might consider it a strong, symbolic gesture.

But Susan Gibson at the First Congregational Church of Stamford, considers it a challenge.

The interim pastor at the Walton Place church knows the rainbow flag that hangs prominently above the church entrance will get noticed.

But that's only part of the flag's purpose.

"That flag, that banner, challenges us," Gibson said. "Are you welcoming everyone because you are tolerant or are you welcoming everyone because they are family? There is a difference."

Gibson added "it's not easy in the sense that every one of us retains a certain aspect of homophobia, sexism and racism. So, yes, that banner represents a lot."

It also leads to at least a few phone calls per week from gays, blacks and other minorities looking for a spiritual home.

"They'll call and say something like 'I'm African-American or gay or from another country, but will I be accepted here?" Gibson said. "It is wonderful. We are proud to say yes."

The flag was placed on the church last year and the reaction has been what the church had hoped. Last year, the former pastor told Stamford Patch that a high school boy saw it and came in. Meanwhile, a mailman jumped out of his truck and asked "Does that mean what I think it does?"

He entered and prayed.







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