Embracing an open and affirming policy that includes the LGBTQ+ community has been a part of the structural footing on which the Church of the Palms, United Church of Christ, has built its ministry. And on Sunday, June 29 ,at 10 a.m., the LGBTQ+ Ministry Team at The Church of the Palm is hosting a service led by gay members and their allies.

The church is located at 14808 N. Boswell Blvd. and the service is open to everyone.

On this “Open and Affirming Sunday,” the church’s pastors Paul Whitlock and James Alexander will lead the service with prayer, stories and music. Whitlock will welcome everyone and the churches organist Jennifer Hoppe will play “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “True Hope.” Special music, the “Colors of My Love,” will be presented by Bobbie Chapman. Congregant Diana Graettinger will lead the call to worship and Elgie Gonzalez will offer the spiritual reading. Retired Rev. Susan Princehouse will present the story of “The Rainbow Sheep.”

“This is such an important day not only in the church’s life, but in the life of the community that surrounds it. We are blessed that we believe in God’s love of all and we embrace his teachings of all are welcome,” Whitlock said.

The LGBTQ+ Ministry is part of the church’s Social Justice Action Team and its task is to celebrate the diversity of all of God’s creations through unconditional love, justice and extravagant welcome. In its initial mission statement, the group said its role was to serve as a sanctuary, a place to embrace activities for the LBGTQ+ and to expand inclusiveness, create understanding and activism through its message of support.

The painting of artist George Feiste that captures the essence of the LGBTQ+ community will be unveiled and she will talk about the painting and her spiritual motivation for creating it.

Following the service, everyone is invited to King Hall for coffee and cookies.