Reconciling in Christ

We welcome all to receive God’s love and grace. We welcome all because God welcomes all, regardless of race or culture, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or relationship status. We welcome all without regard to addictions, physical or mental health, legal status, political perspectives, socio-economic circumstances, or anything that too often divides us. Our unity is in Christ.

After having become a Reconciled in Christ (RIC) congregation in November of 2019, we followed up with celebrating RIC Sunday annually. We used liturgy provided to us though RIC resources. In celebration of this service and our new status as an RIC congregation, colorful streamers were added to both Kepley Hall and the main sanctuary.

The RIC Team offered a class about inclusive language during the Sunday school hour as part of continuing our education on being truly inclusive as a congregation and in our personal lives.

The RIC website has lots of resources that the newly developing Social Justice Ministries will take advantage of as they build an active ministry.

When was the RIC program started and why?

Beginning in 1984, the Reconciling in Christ (RIC) program recognizes Lutheran congregations, synods, organizations, colleges, and seminaries that welcome people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Because lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people of faith are frequently made to feel unwelcome in many Lutheran settings, the RIC roster provides a list of Lutheran communities where people of all sexual orientations and gender identities can find safe, nurturing, and affirming settings in which to worship and learn.

What are the goals of Reconciling Works?

We believe that God values and embraces each person as a beloved child, that the Spirit gives a diversity of gifts for the common good, and that Jesus Christ calls us to work for justice.

The ministries of Reconciling Works embody, inspire, and support the acceptance and full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, their families, friends and allies, within the Lutheran communion and its ecumenical and global partners. Through our Reconciling in Christ program, ministries, resources, events and alliances, Reconciling Works: builds community for worship, education and support; fosters welcome and acceptance in all Lutheran settings; advocates for the ecclesial changes necessary to ensure full participation in all rites, sacraments, and ministries of the church; and invites all people into Gospel lives of authenticity, integrity, and wholeness.