Paul Wilczynski's Observations

Status of our church's proposed banner

Bay Windows reports the latest news on the effort of our Quincy, MA church to raise a banner saying "People of Faith for Marriage Equality" ...

Visitors to Quincy's bustling downtown will soon be greeted with a message of support for marriage equality, courtesy of the United First Parish Church.

The Unitarian Universalist congregation prevailed in its effort to hang a 34-foot-by-4-foot banner that reads "People of Faith for Marriage Equality" on the facade of the historic church, reaching an agreement with city officials just about three hours before the Rev. Sheldon Bennett, United First's minister, was to request a variance from the city's Zoning Board of Appeals to hang the banner.

Speaking after he appeared before the zoning board on March 7 to withdraw his request, Bennett said that after several days of discussions with Quincy officials, the city's Department of Inspectional Services would immediately issue a permit allowing the church to hang the banner on the church's front exterior for 60 days. The church had wanted the banner to hang for 90 days but Bennett said he's satisfied with the agreement. "It's satisfactory to both parties and we're very glad that we were able to reach a satisfactory solution," said Bennett. "We're glad we can put up the banner." The minister expects it will be up within the next three weeks. ...

And here's a link to a Boston Globe article.

posted by Paul Wilczynski @ 8:05 AM