Inclusion Statement

We acknowledge that throughout history of Christianity has often condemned and excluded people for many reasons, especially on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. Danforth Mennonite Church (DMC) is an open and welcoming community of faith-keeping and faith-seeking people who affirm that every person has worth as a unique creation made in the image of God. We recognize, celebrate and give thanks for the many diverse gifts of God among us. We welcome into the full life and ministry of the church persons of every race, culture, age, ability, gender identities, sexual orientation, and economic status. This includes membership, baptism, marriage, congregational leadership and pastoral ministry. We commit to model a community of faith that seeks to be open and pursue understanding, healing and wholeness of life for all people. We believe that through our diversity, all can grow and practice a unity of faith that transcends our differences.

Statement of Variance with Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective

DMC is part of Mennonite Church Canada. Its document, the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective, is intended as a guide for faith communities. As a result of our congregational discernment, DMC is at variance with this document; in particular, Article 19 “Family, Singleness and Marriage”. We acknowledge that the perspectives reflected in this article have caused harm to LGBTQ+ persons. There is still work to be done in terms of the Church's naming of harm done and the need for reconciliation to be pursued.

We remain committed to reconciliation, wholeness, and wellbeing in regards to LGBTQ+ inclusion and to MC Canada. Therefore we:

  • Call for the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective to be revised.
  • Urge denominational partners to become inclusive of LGBTQ+ persons.
  • Commit to continuing our own journey towards healing: to raise awareness of harms
    done, discern further steps, and advocate for change.

DMC commits to networking with other congregations and advocating with our wider church family.