he mission of Gateway Open and Affirming (ONA) Coalition is to serve as a resource for churches who seek to embrace the diversity of God's people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. We strive to serve as a spiritually supportive resource for LGBTQIA (Lesbian / Gay / Bisexual / Trangender / Queer or Questioning / Intersexual / Ally) individuals and their families and friends. We welcome UCC churches and institutions in the St. Louis metropolitan area who are ONA, as well as individuals and pastors from other congregations who choose to affiliate with, and support the mission of, Gateway ONA. We believe the extravagant welcome of the United Church of Christ is a continuing testament of God's inclusive love for all. Being an ONA church is a public declaration that all are invited into the full life and ministry of our congregations, and that the grace of our Still Speaking God is a blessing offered to us all.