"The members of First United Methodist Church of North Andover, MA are committed to living out our faith by practicing love, embodying hope and doing justice. We believe this part of our mission statement calls us to embrace Jesus message of grace, love and reconciliation for all people. Our welcome knows no boundaries of age, gender, race, ethnic origin, economic reality, family status, sexual orientation, diverse ability, faith history or social standing.We proclaim this statement of welcome to all who have known the pain of exclusion and discrimination within the church. At the same time, we recognize that there are differences among us. We do not seek to erase our differences and believe that we can love alike even though we may not think alike. We celebrate our diversity and recognize the sacred worth and dignity of all people. We welcome everyone in our journey together toward greater love, understanding and mutual respect.We are a Reconciling Congregation committed to the full inclusion of all people in the life, mission and ministry of our church. We pledge ourselves to love and support one another and to be a safe sanctuary for everyone. We will work actively to change general church policies and practices to allow the full participation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning people, in the ministry and life of the global United Methodist Church."