First United Lutheran Church is a Reconciling in Christ Congregation

 

What is the Reconciling in Christ Program?

In 1984 Lutherans Concerned / North America started the Reconciling in Christ ("RIC") Program to recognize Lutheran congregations that welcome lesbian and gay believers. During the 2002 LC/NA Assembly, members took action to include people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the RIC Program. The Reconciling in Christ Roster now exceeds 300 settings, including congregations, synods and organizations.

The single element that is central to the program is the Affirmation of Welcome. It is simple, yet powerful in its witness. Any group that adopts it or a similar statement which includes the naming of GLBT people as welcome to full participation is eligible to be designated as Reconciling in Christ after review by Lutherans Concerned. Making the Affirmation promotes a publicly inclusive ministry and helps heal the pain of doubt.

 Back to top

Our Affirmation of Welcome

 

We, the members of First United Lutheran Church, as a community of disciples affirm with the apostle Paul, that in Christ, “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female” (Galatians 3:28).  We embrace everyone regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, economic status, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, nationality, or race.  We are a Reconciling in Christ Lutheran church.  Certain persons and their families are often scorned by society and alienated from the church.  We wish to make known our caring and concern.

 

We believe that all people were created by God and we joyfully follow God’s call to love one another.

 

In faithfulness to the Gospel and our Lutheran heritage, we openly invite all people to experience the word of God and the promise of the risen Christ without fear of judgment or discrimination.

 

At First United Lutheran Church we seek to Hear the Word, Follow Christ, and Transform Life.

 

 Back to top