Ordination of Hispanic UCC Pastors Lifts Up ONA, 'New Understanding'

This article highlights the personal and spiritual transformation of two LGBT-affirming Latino pastors ordained by the United Church of Christ.

ONA relevance and the culmination of a personal theological transformation took bold steps forward May 22 as the UCC ordained two Hispanic pastors to serve primarily Spanish-speaking congregations.

A staunch advocate for social-justice issues – including the UCC's Open and Affirming (ONA) position – the Rev. Jose Claudio was ordained as pastor of Iglesia Unide De Cristo El Nuevo Camino in Buffalo, N.Y.

Meanwhile, at United Church of Chapel Hill (N.C.) UCC, the Rev. David Mateo's ordination and installation marked a major personal reshaping of his once-Southern Baptist perspective.