Today we are blessed to receive the members of the congregation of Lutheran Church of the Reformation into our midst as our newest Reconciling in Christ congregation. As a small taste of their message to members, visitors and all people, read their beautiful Affirmation of Welcome:
Our congregational mission statement is clear and succinct:
Making a difference in our community by bringing the story of Jesus to life.
At the core of that story is the gospel from the apostle Paul:
In Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. 2 Cor. 5:19
So stunning is God's reconciling love that Paul would also write:
there is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male or female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. Gal. 3:28
In a world broken by human sin, the church has been entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation. Christ leads us into this ministry of healing.
Because gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons are often scorned by society and alienated from the church, we wish to make known our caring and concern. For this purpose we affirm that:
- people of all sexual orientations and gender identities share the worth that comes from being unique individuals created by God,
- people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are welcome into the membership of this community of the baptized upon making a common, public affirmation of faith,
- as members of this community, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are expected and encouraged to share in the sacramental and general life of this congregation.
God's peace be with you, Lutheran Church of the Reformation, and welcome!
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