On July 12, 2016, the Church Council voted to add the phrase “queer identifying” to the Good Shepherd RIC welcome statement. The word “queer” can be used as an umbrella term for the LGBTQ community and can also refer to an individual’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Some people choose this term because they feel like they do not fit into specific or normative identities. Because it has been used as a derogatory word in the past, some people do not like or use the word queer –it’s important to not use this word for those who haven’t used it for themselves. We use the phrase “queer-identifying” to recognize those who have reclaimed this word and choose to use it for themselves. The updated RIC Welcome statement follows:
All are welcome at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. God makes no exceptions. In the spirit of Jesus Christ, we offer trust and respect to all, including those who may experience alienation, distrust, or rejection. We rely on the healing, unconditional love of God to shape our community in the name of the Good Shepherd. In keeping with our welcome, Good Shepherd is a Reconciling In Christ congregation, affirming our welcome to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer identifying persons to participate fully in the life of our congregation.
Good Shepherd became an RIC Congregation in 2007.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Good Shepherd is fully accessible to all. 