Updates on Our Journey
Start of the Idea
At a church council meeting on November 16, 2021, several youth members along with their adult leader asked if LCGS would consider becoming a Reconciling in Christ Congregation, to publicly declare that we are welcoming to LGBTQIA+ individuals. A small exploring group was formed to look into what being an RIC congregation means and what the process would entail.
In February of 2023, after an update to council from the exploring group, the Reconciling in Christ Task Force was officially formed!
Together, we will be engaging in education and conversation as we discern if God is calling The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd to intentionally provide a safe place of love and support for LGBTQIA+ people.
In February of 2023, after an update to council from the exploring group, the Reconciling in Christ Task Force was officially formed!
Together, we will be engaging in education and conversation as we discern if God is calling The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd to intentionally provide a safe place of love and support for LGBTQIA+ people.
Where We've Been
Listening Session 1 - March 26, 2023 (click to view the video)
“Discrimination’s Toll on LGBTQIA+ Youth and Adults’ Mental Health" Facilitated by Mr. Alfredo Santiago, MSW, LCSW-C, Staff Therapist at Chase Brexton Health Care, Baltimore, and professional in the area of LGBTQIA+ Mental Health.
“Discrimination’s Toll on LGBTQIA+ Youth and Adults’ Mental Health" Facilitated by Mr. Alfredo Santiago, MSW, LCSW-C, Staff Therapist at Chase Brexton Health Care, Baltimore, and professional in the area of LGBTQIA+ Mental Health.
Listening Session 2 - April 16, 2023 (click to view the video)
Follow up with Mr. Alfredo Santiago
Follow up with Mr. Alfredo Santiago
Book Discussion Sessions - June 2023
UNCLOBBER: Rethinking our Misuse of the Bible on Homosexuality written by Rev. Colby Martin who examines from a historical and hermeneutical method, the six passages in the Bible- often known as the “clobber” passages- that are commonly misused to prevent the full inclusion of LGBTQIA+ people in congregational life.
Copies of the book are available for free from the church office if you'd like to study on your own.
UNCLOBBER: Rethinking our Misuse of the Bible on Homosexuality written by Rev. Colby Martin who examines from a historical and hermeneutical method, the six passages in the Bible- often known as the “clobber” passages- that are commonly misused to prevent the full inclusion of LGBTQIA+ people in congregational life.
Copies of the book are available for free from the church office if you'd like to study on your own.
August 20, 2023 - "Town Hall" Meeting
In addition to submitted questions being addressed by the taskforce, participants at the town hall had the opportunity to voice comments, listen to testimonials and learn from one another. Read the Q&A's here. |
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Looking Ahead
September 24, 2023 - "Town Hall" Meeting at 9:30 a.m.
Bring your questions/comments to share with others in the LCGS community. Questions that have been submitted for the taskforce will be answered at the meeting as well. If you'd like to submit a question ahead of the meeting, use this link.
October 2023 - RIC Taskforce works on draft of welcome statement
Bring your questions/comments to share with others in the LCGS community. Questions that have been submitted for the taskforce will be answered at the meeting as well. If you'd like to submit a question ahead of the meeting, use this link.
October 2023 - RIC Taskforce works on draft of welcome statement
Final Steps
Council review of process
Congregational Vote on becoming an RIC Congregation
Congregational Vote on becoming an RIC Congregation
