Metro area churches open to performing gay wedding ceremonies

JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) - There are churches in the metro area open to same sex couples wanting a church wedding.

One Jackson minister is welcoming gay couples and opening their sanctuary when they want to tie the knot.

Rev. Justin McCreary with Unitarian Universalist Church of Jackson is ready to open the doors of the church to same sex couples who want to marry.

The church has been in Jackson since 1951, and McCreary said it has a history of openness and forward thinking.

The 36 year old minister thought he would be performing his first official ceremony Friday, as he waited with a same sex couple at the Hinds County Courthouse.

"A friend of mine called and asked me if i'd do it. It was a great opportunity to be there. As the day went on it was sad to me as I stood and I watched as they waited and waited and waited and finally they were turned away," said McCreary.

But when they or any other gay couple are ready to exchange their vows in the church up to six ordained ministers will be waiting with open arms.

"We serve a community. we serve people. Our main doctrine is love and if your main doctrine is love, acceptance come shortly after that," added the Jackson minister.

Their church isn't alone in agreeing to perform the unions.

Safe Harbor Family Church in Flowood will do so.

It is a part of the United Church of Christ.

Pastor Rev. Amber Kirkendoll says the church passed a resolution in 2005 to support same sex marriages.

Rev. McCreary said a gay couple is scheduled to be married at Unitarian Universalist Church in September.