Walking into a place of worship can be intimating at the best of times. But for members of the LGBTQ community, it can be distressing. Across Canada, many United Churches have gone through a formal "affirm" process to create safe space for all people, regardless of gender identities or sexual orientation.

Living Spirit United Church (LSU) has met the requirements of the affirming process will soon become Calgary’s 9th Affirming United Church. To celebrate the milestone, LSU is hosting a public concert with folk-singer and gay activist Kate Reid Sunday Oct. 26 at 1:30 at 629 49 Avenue S.W. Calgary.

Many at LSU, including member Norma Baldwin, have actively worked toward affirming status. The 78-year-old great grandmother said her reasons were simple.

"It was important because all churches should be open. It was something we could do to make a welcoming place in our community for those who might feel marginalized. Not just LGBTQ folks, but also their families."

The decision to seek affirming status meant a lot to LSU member Cameron Nicholson. "It’s huge. My history of having a church not be okay with me was difficult. It’s a great feeling for a church to accept who I am, and everything that I am."

Kate Reid’ music and sense of humour have been described as "the spoonful of sugar that makes the tolerance go up!" LSU is thrilled to welcome Reid to join our celebration. Tickets can be purchased at Living Spirit United at 629 49 Avenue S.W. or online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/881812