Lutz, FL 11/27/19
All Saints Lutheran Church (ELCA) has been recognized by Reconciling Works (formerly Lutherans Concerned/North America) as the most recent Reconciling in Christ Congregation near Tampa, FL. This recognition comes after the congregation officially adopted a public statement of welcome for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. The statement reads,
“We welcome all because God welcomes all regardless of race or culture, sexual orientation, gender identity or relationship status (LGBTQIA+). We welcome all without regard to addiction, physical or mental health, imprisonment, socio-economic circumstances, differently-abled or anything that too often divides us. OUR UNITY IS IN CHRIST.”
The Rev. Joshua Gyson, Pastor of All Saints Lutheran Church sees this statement as “a way to show the world that Jesus Christ wants a relationship with us all, and that there is a place for every one of us at the Lord’s Table.”
The Reconciling in Christ recognition of ReconcilingWorks said, “We welcome All Saints Lutheran Church to the Reconciling in Christ family. It is with love we are called to welcome all God’s children into our congregations, communities, and our world. We thank All Saints for being an active member working for reconciliation and growth within the church so people of all sexual orientations and gender identities can share a lived experience of love, welcome, and family.”
ReconcilingWorks is a Christian ministry affirming God’s love for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Reconciling in Christ is a program of ReconcilingWorks.