All Are Welcome Here

Church Council has approved a request by the Elders to display the Progress Pride flag on our church sign and in other places, including the website, as a symbol of inclusion. Our church vision states that Erb Street Mennonite Church is a welcoming and inclusive community of diverse persons each contributing uniquely to our common purpose of following Jesus Christ. We value our congregation’s diversity of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, race, ethnicity, age, faith history, economic status, marital status, physical and mental ability, and education. The flag is a sign that we strive to be a welcoming and safe place for all. If you have questions or comments, please be in touch with any member of Church Council or Elders.

A statement by 2 of our congregants

I am not a flag waver. In fact I would prefer to advocate quietly and live by example. But, there is a time to stand up, and we are calling the church community to continue to stand with us. The visibility of Pride flags in public spaces like stores, restaurants and churches is pivotal for fostering inclusivity and signalling support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. These flags represent more than mere colours; they symbolise safety, acceptance, and the celebration of diverse identities.

For us and other individuals within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, seeing Pride flags in everyday spaces communicates a message of affirmation and respect. It cultivates a sense of belonging, assuring us that our identities are acknowledged and valued. This visibility isn’t just symbolic; it signifies tangible support, which can positively impact mental health and well-being. It supports us in knowing that should someone who is not supportive come into the space we will be cared for and protected by others, that we can be in the space, as our authentic selves, as a family without fear.

In our church, the presence of the Pride flag embodies the core principles of love, acceptance, and compassion taught by Christ. It’s an expression of embracing all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, aligning with the fundamental teachings of love and equality from the Creator of us all.

Ultimately, the presence of Pride flags in our church or other public spaces isn’t about politics; it’s about humanity. It’s a visible statement that says, “You are welcome here just as you are.” It’s a step towards creating a society where everyone feels respected, accepted, and celebrated for who they are. This encourages a more diverse and accepting community.

Here is our calling as a Church community: by displaying this flag we are saying that this is a safe place for all. If you enter here you will find a community that values each person for who they are as people seeking to follow Jesus’ example of love for one another. We support one another and will stand with each other and put into action what it means to love one another as Christ has loved us. To stand against hatred and fear to put on display not just a flag but Christ’s love in action.

About the flag

The Progress Pride Flag was designed by Daniel Quasar, a non-binary artist and graphic designer from Oregon, in 2018. It combines the Rainbow Pride Flag with the Transgender Flag along with black and brown stripes that represent Black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC) in the 2SLGBTQ+ community as well as community members who have died from, or are currently living with, HIV/AIDS. Quasar designed the flag to emphasize on the need for inclusion and progress. A more detailed description can be found at: https://www.womenscollegehospital.ca/the-progress-pride-flag-all-the-colours-of-the-rainbow/