Following Jesus, who commanded his followers, ‘Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another,’ and believing that all persons are created in the image of God, the South-Central Synod of Wisconsin, ELCA, strives to be fully inclusive for all. This synod welcomes people of every race, background, age, political affiliation, economic and social status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and mental and physical ability, while striving to enable all people to participate fully in the life and work of the church and its expressions.
Several of our congregations in south-central Wisconsin have also taken steps to be intentionally welcoming to the LGBTQIA+ community. These congregations are identified as Reconciling in Christ congregations. By having a statement affirming this welcome that specifically names either, “LGBTQIA+ people” or “people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions” in their statement, these faith communities are accepted into the Reconciling in Christ partnership with ReconcilingWorks. You may click on a congregation below to learn more:
Madison Area
East
West
South
What: We are beginning a synod-wide Youth LGBTQ and Ally faith space. Right now this is only in the planning stage, but we will share our own dreams below. All we are asking is that as many who can will spread the word and begin to gather to plan.
Why: Queer people, and particularly Queer youth need safe spaces and especially safe faith spaces where they can join in community. Too often we who are Queer can feel alone in our world, particularly in faith spaces.
Who: We are asking for Queer youth leaders, and allies, to gather and begin our big-dream of what safe and joyful community worship specifically for Queer and Ally youth might look like and what it could become. If pastors, deacons, and lay-leaders can spread this message, we can make dreams into realities.
How: If this sounds like something you are being called to OR you are a young person who identifies as any part of the expansive LGBTQIA+++ community pleas reach out to Marie Leafblad in our synod office to get connected.
A Big Dream: We can only speak of our vision as it is now, but we expect it to change as youth leaders gather to dream big. But for now we see a space where LGBTQ youth and allies gather either via Zoom or in a roving church space that meets across the synod. We imagine a space where:
Who are we:
The Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Program is for congregations, synods, colleges, seminaries, and other Lutheran organizations. Lutheran communities that publicly welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people are accepted onto the Reconciling in Christ Roster. Most groups start the process of consideration by engaging in a study program or series of educational meetings. Hearing the experiences of LGBT people and their families often creates greater understanding and insights. Learn more about the RIC program through ReconcilingWorks.