We are proud to be a queer-affirming Christian community in the heart of Guelph.
For decades, Harcourt has stood alongside the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, not just in words but in action. ​

History of Becoming an Affirming Church
Harcourt has been on a journey of queer inclusion and activism since the early 2000s, when we began actively engaging in conversations around what it means to be an inclusive church. In 2005, we formally became an Affirming Ministry within the United Church of Canada—a public, intentional, and explicit declaration of welcome to people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.

Since then, we've continued to live out that commitment through education, celebration, and advocacy. Being affirming isn’t a label for us—it’s a living practice.

​What Being 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusive Looks Like Today
At Harcourt, inclusion is woven into the fabric of our community life:

• Full Inclusion:  People of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions are welcome to participate fully—on staff, in leadership, and in all aspects of our community life. Our language, stories, activities, and music reflects a broad spectrum of gender and sexual identities. 
• Marriage for All: We joyfully officiate weddings for same-gender (and all genders!) couples, and our ministers work closely with couples to create meaningful ceremonies that reflect their love story and values.
• LGBTQ2S+ Representation: Queer and trans people are part of our leadership, staff, and ministry teams. We don’t just welcome diversity—we celebrate it.
• Ongoing Learning: We hold workshops, book studies, and community events that explore gender justice, intersectionality, and the lived experiences of queer folks.
• Pride All Year: While we show up loud and proud at Guelph Pride events, our support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is not seasonal. It’s daily, year-round, and deeply embedded in who we are. We also sponsor local LGBTQ+ groups, such as the Rainbow Chorus of Waterloo-Wellington.​

More Than Welcome—You Belong
Whether you’re reconnecting with faith or exploring it for the first time, Harcourt offers a place where your whole self is seen, valued, and loved. We can't wait to me you... join us on a Sunday morning, or check out the many ways to join Harcourt's community.

We know that for many in the queer community, church hasn’t always been a safe space. We're always working to change that narrative and to be better for one another. 

You don’t have to fit a mold to belong here. You are beloved. Full stop.

Want to learn more or visit us?
We’d love to meet you. Join us on a Sunday morning, drop us an email, or come out to one of our events. If you would like to speak to an 2SLGBTQIA+ staff member about Harcourt, please contact the Harcourt Office. 

Harcourt United Church – Faithfully Inclusive. Joyfully Affirming. Deeply Human.