A Community of Compassion and Inclusion

At Red Deer Lake United Church (RDLUC), we are committed to creating a safe, loving, and inclusive community for everyone.

We believe in God’s unconditional love and acceptance for all people—and we affirm this by welcoming individuals of every:

  • Ethnic or cultural background

  • Age

  • Sexual orientation

  • Socio-economic or marital status

  • Gender identity or expression

  • Mental health status

  • Physical ability

You are welcome in all aspects of our life together.


A Safe and Supportive Space

We know that stepping into a church can feel intimidating—especially if you’ve ever felt excluded or unsure about your place in a faith community.

That’s why we’re committed to being a church of open hearts and open minds. Whether you’re full of faith, filled with questions, or somewhere in between—you belong here.

Together, we create programs and spaces that are supportive, nurturing, and grounded in God’s love and grace.


What Does “Affirming” Mean?

“Affirming” is an official designation from the United Church of Canada that recognizes our intentional journey toward becoming a fully inclusive church.

Over the course of a year, we explored what it really means to embody radical hospitality—not just in words, but in practice.

Being an Affirming Church means:

  • Going beyond a polite welcome

  • Doing the vulnerable, ongoing work of inclusion

  • Ensuring everyone feels safe, seen, heard, and accepted

There are currently 10 other Affirming United Churches in Calgary—and many more across Canada. Learn more about the Affirming movement here.

Why Are We an Affirming Church?

Because this is what our faith calls us to do.

Jesus revealed a God who embraces everyone and invites us to create a just, inclusive, and vibrant world—what he called the “Kingdom of God.”

The Affirming journey helps us live into that call.
We strive to be a radically hospitable, welcoming community where people are not just welcomed—they are celebrated.

We do this not out of obligation, but out of love—because space was made for us, so we make space for others.


What This Means for You

No matter who you are—or where you're at in your spiritual journey—you are welcome here.

That includes:

  • Full participation in worship

  • Communion

  • Baptisms (for you or your children)

  • Marriage

  • Leadership roles

  • Community programs and outreach

Who you are is not a barrier. You are embraced just. as. you. are.

Interested in getting involved with other great affirming events and programs?

Are you looking for resources or information you can explore on your own time?


Get Connected

Looking for inclusive programs, events, or resources?
Check out these great organizations we partner with and recommend:

Affirming Connections

Working with 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and allies to build inclusive faith communities and create affirming spaces.
Led by Pam Rocker, who also provides training and a wide range of helpful resources.

🔗 Visit Affirming Connections

Skipping Stone!

A Calgary-based non-profit supporting trans and gender-diverse youth and their families in Alberta.
Offers:

  • Mental health support

  • Transition resources

  • Scholarships

  • Community-building events

🔗 Visit Skipping Stone

Trans Lifeline

A peer support hotline run by and for transgender people.
If you're trans and in crisis—or simply need someone to talk to—you are not alone.

📞 Call Trans Lifeline

Still Exploring?

You don’t have to have it all figured out to be part of this community.
Whether you’re just beginning your spiritual journey or returning after time away, you are welcome at Red Deer Lake United Church.

We’re here for you. Let’s walk this path together.