The Gathering

Who We Are

A Progressive and Inclusive Faith Community

The Gathering is a radically diverse collection of people who have come together to find spiritual insights about themselves and the universe. In doing so, members of the Gathering recognize our primary goal is not to serve ourselves but to reach out into our community, nation and world to help build a more just, peaceful and compassionate culture. We have chosen as our outreach focus to serve homeless youth and our commitment is to help end that cycle of poverty and hopelessness.
In faith, we ask questions instead of asserting dogmatic answers. We look to many faith traditions for wisdom as we believe there are many paths to the Divine. We study the Bible and the teachings of Jesus along with the other great prophets of history. At the Gathering, all people of faith - or no faith - are welcomed and celebrated. Indeed, we comprise folks of all kinds - black, white, gay, straight, Christian, Buddhist, Atheist and many more - all coming together in a truly friendly and very supportive way.

Vibe
Casual, Down to Earth, Downtown, Friendly, Progressive, Gay affirming, Inclusive, Multigenerational

Programs
Social Justice, Choir, Missions, Food Pantry

Music
Traditional Hymns

Denomination
United Church of Christ

Size
Small

Language
English, German

Founded
2003

Contact

Phone

513-502-7535

Website

http://www.thegatheringcincinnati.org

Our Services

Service Times

Sunday

10:30am - Service

What to Expect

What are services like?
Our services last for one hour - from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM. They are casual with a focus on congregation input and participation. After many "sermons", the congregation is asked for their own ideas, insights and comments. Services have a "traditional" order but are very relaxed and NOT religious.

What is the community like?
We are a multi-generational, progressive and very diverse congregation. We truly support and celebrate ALL persons. The Gathering is an "Open and Affirming" congregation meaning that we celebrate persons who are LGBTQ. We endorse and perform gay and lesbian weddings. Even so, we are not a "gay church" but one that looks beyond labels to see the humanity, goodness and beauty of each member and guest.

What if I'm not a Christian?
Christians and non-Christians are always welcome at the Gathering - not just tolerated but openly included into our community. We believe there are many pathways to finding Divine Truth and no religion has all of the answers in that search. We also welcome people who profess they are Agnostic or Atheist but who seek spirituality in their lives. We are far from being a "museum of saints" but are, instead, a place of meaning, seeking, serving and community.

Leadership

Doug Slagle

Doug has been with the Gathering for three years having come from work as an Associate Pastor in charge of Pastoral Care at a very large church. He studied at a local seminary. Doug is open, friendly and warm. His messages are thought provoking, spiritual and focused on discovering new ways to live a more whole and involved life. He regularly meets with many members and friends of the church. He is accessible at all times and to all members and non-members alike.