NEWFANE -- In a unanimous vote, the Newfane Congregational Church overturned the 1826 excommunication of James Lamb, who had been accused of heresy for his steadfast belief in the universal redemption of humanity.

Lamb was reinstated into the church Sunday and fully welcomed back. He's buried in a cemetery on Newfane Hill Road with his wife and son.

"Due consideration has been given to your case," the Rev. Matt Deen said in an emotional speech before the vote. "The church, having prayerfully examined the circumstances culminating in your dismissal and removal from this congregation, most especially the theological grounds from which your fellowship was withdrawn, have determined the sentence passed against you under the auspices of this church ... was wholly without merit."

Met with thundering applause, the affirmative vote followed a two-month series offered by the church exploring the theology of Christian universalism and its cultural and political implications. The church said its leaders and members revisited Lamb's legacy, seeking to understand the theological, social and ethical questions his excommunication raised.

In an announcement by the church ahead of the vote, Deen tied to the historic event to the upcoming election.

"With a major, huge-stakes general election coming up, this feels like an unmissable opportunity to remind ourselves that we're not just spectators of history, but co-creators of it," Deen stated. "Lamb's story has helped us to see that the conviction of universal reconciliation (also known as Christian universalism) and the doctrine of eternal damnation are not just theological dispositions. They show up in our political and cultural commitments as well, in how we love or hate one another today, here and now. This vote is a gesture of healing for our church, for James Lamb, and for all those harmed by theologies of damnation. It emulates our commitment to building a world where everyone, literally everyone, belongs, is cherished, and allowed to thrive."

Deen called the vote "both an act of justice and healing for our community." In a sermon during the service before the vote, he said the 75-year-old Lamb was "ostracized" by the local church community at a time when that meant being "ostracized effectively in civic life."

"He risked it," Deen said. "We have looked at so many scriptures in this series that have testified to this all encompassing love of God, this vision that we will all one day be restored to God's self."

Deen referred to Lamb as "our very own patron saint."

"Blessed be his memory," Deen said.

Local poet and musician Sam Chapin sang "The Ballad of James Lamb." Chapin and Deen wrote the song together, with Chapin taking on the verses and Deen responsible for the refrain.

"I won't be bullied, I won't be swayed," the lyrics to the refrain read. "The good lord promises in the end we'll all be saved. I won't be pressured to live in false accord. I know the good book says that all will be restored."

Newfane Congregational Church is part of the United Church of Christ.