On February 23rd, 2020, SVLC officially adopted our statement of welcome during a congregational meeting. That Sunday included special musicial guests, preaching from the Pacifica Synod Bishop, and representatives from another ELCA congregation with RIC status in the area. The adoption of our welcome statement was our final step in becoming recognized by Reconciling Works as a Reconciling In Christ congregation of the ELCA.
It was a beautiful day in the life of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church.
Reconciling Works is an organization of Lutherans who have long “advocated for the full welcome, inclusion, and equity of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual/aromantic (LGBTQIA+) Lutherans in all aspects of the life of their Church, congregations, and community.”
SVLC is proud to have begun this important process with RW as partners and friends along the way. Even as we've been certified as an RIC Congregation, we see this work as far from over. We'll continue to learn, love, and listen as we journey together in this new adventure to which God has called us.
Click on the button below to learn more about Reconciling Works and their incredible ministry of welcome and love.
We at Shepherd of the Valley invite all into the fullness of God’s love. This invitation is inclusive of people of every ethnicity, national origin, immigration status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, physical or mental ability, or station in life. We pledge to use our differences as gifts for our work together.