Ministries · Affirming

Knox: A Fully 2S & LGBTQIA+ Affirming Community

Calgary's first Affirming congregation since 2007. We celebrate and affirm the full humanity of all people, especially those who have been othered and marginalized by the church and society.

Our Commitment

You are welcome
in this place

In 2007, Knox was proud to become the first Affirming Ministry in Calgary, an outward statement that means we welcome and celebrate all people, especially those who have been othered and marginalized by the church and society.

We extend a welcome to all across the spectrum of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, economic status, mental or physical ability, age or race. In particular, we acknowledge the harm the church has caused the 2S & LGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, plus…) community.

As a key part of our Affirming Ministry, Knox strives to be a safe, inclusive, and welcoming place for all and we invite and encourage everyone's full participation in our ministry and community.

"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you", Jesus (John 15:12)

What Affirming Means

More than welcoming

Being "affirming" goes beyond saying everyone is welcome at the door. It means actively celebrating and affirming 2S & LGBTQIA+ people as full and beloved members of the community, in leadership, in marriage, in ministry, and in every aspect of church life.

Knox has been a member of Affirm United, the 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming arm of the United Church of Canada, since 2007. This membership reflects an ongoing commitment to education, advocacy, and the full inclusion of 2S & LGBTQIA+ people in all areas of congregational life.

Knox also stands in anticipation of the United Church of Canada's historic apology to 2S & LGBTQIA+ communities, delivered at Knox on August 8, 2025 at General Council 45.

Learn about Affirm United

How We Live It

Affirming in practice

  • All Weddings Celebrated

    Knox joyfully solemnizes marriages for all couples, same-sex, opposite-sex, and all loving partnerships. Our sanctuary is open for every love story.

    Learn More

  • 2S & LGBTQIA+ Leadership

    2S & LGBTQIA+ people are welcomed and celebrated in all levels of leadership, ministry, and congregational life at Knox, from deacons to worship leaders.

  • Education & Advocacy

    Knox is committed to ongoing education on 2S & LGBTQIA+ inclusion and actively advocates for rights and dignity in the broader community and denomination.

  • Pride & Celebration

    Knox participates in Calgary Pride each year and holds special affirming services throughout the year. We don't just tolerate, we celebrate the full spectrum of who you are.

  • Glitter Rainbow

    Our community public art installation, 100,000 sequins on our exterior wall, is our shimmering declaration to the neighbourhood and city: all are welcome, always.

  • Safe Space to Belong

    For many, Knox is the first faith community where they've felt fully seen, fully loved, and fully welcomed. That gift is never taken lightly.

Join Us

You belong here.

Whether you are exploring faith for the first time, returning after a difficult experience with religion, or looking for a community that will truly celebrate who you are, Knox United Church is that place.

Our Sunday services take place every week at 10:30 am. There is no dress code, no prior knowledge required, and absolutely no condition on your welcome. Come as you are. You are home.

Get in touch