I have seen numerous questions or observations about the UU being "accepting" or "open" to the LGBTQIA+ community, and though some may consider it as simply a matter of semantics, I would like to suggest a re-wording of the matter. From the moment I started attending a UU 8 years ago I realized that the congregation wasn't simply welcoming, or even affirming of the community. Being LGBTQIA+ is very much a part of our identity. And I don't mean we are all gender diverse or identify as sexually non-binary. I, am a straight male. What I mean is, people all along the spectrums make up a vital part of who we are and what we do. My congregation simply would not be itself without the many members who identify as LGBTQIA+. We don't just set out an extra chair for those in the "community." The "community" owns the chairs right along with the rest of us.

I am planning a welcome bag for our many first time visitors at my local UU congregation. If you are a member of a UU congregation, does your church give out any kind of 'welcome bag' or any sort? If so, what does it contain. If you are visiting a congregation and received such a bad, what was it like? Was there anything you particularly liked or disliked about the contents and the gesture?

I have been a UU for 8+ years and I cherish my community. I volunteer my time and resources gladly, but without pressure to do so. I cannot imagine the shape my mental health would be in were it not for my congregation. It has been wonderful seeing many share their experiences with the UU on this subreddit. One common element among these posts has been people saying that it was common to shed tears during or after services. Often they say nothing more than "I cried." If you are such a person I am curious to hear what it was about your experience that moved you to tears. Share if you wish.