Wananalua Church Votes to Become ONA Church

On Sunday, April 23, 2023, members of Wananalua Congregational Church in Hāna, Maui, voted unanimously to become an Open and Affirming (ONA) church in the United Church of Christ (UCC). This was the culmination of a completely laity-led vision and effort. They adopted the following statement:

"We at Wananalua Congregational Church and the Hawai'i Conference of the United Church of Christ value and welcome a diverse congregation. We are an 'Open and Affirming' Church, believing that each of us is created in God's image. We invite and welcome into our faith community persons of all sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, ability, race, age, economic and social status, marital standing, and family structure. We strive to demonstrate in all ways that no matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here!"

Once the UCC's ONA Coalition makes it official, this church will be the eighth ONA church in the Hawai'i Conference, the second on Maui, and the first in East Maui.