All are welcome!

A Reconciling in Christ Congregation

Saint Mark Lutheran Church


PHOTO: Saint Mark celebrated its Reconciling in Christ designation in November,2011.

On October 30th, 2011 members of Saint Mark Lutheran Church voted overwhelmingly to adopt a welcoming statement and become a Reconciling in Christ congregation. The vote was celebrated during church services held the following month (see photo above).

The Reconciling in Christ (RIC) program, administered by Lutherans Concerned/North America, recognizes Lutheran congregations that welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender believers.

The statement adopted by Saint Mark goes beyond welcoming members of the LGBT community. It reads:

“At Saint Mark Lutheran Church, we celebrate that Christ has made us one body with many members, all sharing in God’s grace and unconditional love. As a Reconciling in Christ congregation, we embrace all of God’s people, regardless of age, ethnicity, physical and mental abilities, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or economic circumstance. We believe we are all unique and worthy individuals created by God. We joyfully welcome you to join us in worship, prayer, study, service and fellowship.”

Saint Mark was the first RIC Lutheran congregation in Salem.

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