Reconciling in Christ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the difference between ReconcilingWorks and Reconciling in Christ?

Founded in 1974 as Lutherans Concerned for Gay People, the organization changed the name in 1980 to Lutherans Concerned/North America and again in 2012 to ReconcilingWorks. Included in the new logo is the phrase “Lutherans for Full Participation.”

ReconcilingWorks believes God values and embraces each person as a beloved child, the Spirit gives a diversity of gifts for the common good, and Jesus Christ calls us to work for justice. The ministries of ReconcilingWorks advocates for the acceptance, full participation, and liberation of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions within the Lutheran Church.

Reconciling in Christ (RIC) is the partnership program offered by the ReconcilingWorks organization. Since its beginning in 1983, the RIC has identified congregations, synods, and other Lutheran organizations as safe, welcoming communities of faith for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions. The purpose of the RIC Program is to ensure the welcome, inclusion, celebration, and advocacy for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions; work for racial equity and commit to anti-racist work and support the national program.

What does it mean to be a Reconciling in Christ partner congregation?

It means we are an OPEN and AFFIRMING congregation so when we say “all are welcome,” we really mean it. We strive to live that out in our actions as well as our words. We publicly and humbly commit to do what it takes to truly be a sanctuary filled with warmth, love, understanding, safety, respect, and care for all who enter here.

Does St. Matthew Lutheran Church have an RIC statement?

Yes, you can read our Statement of Welcome, Affirmation, and Full Participation here.

How can we continue to learn and grow?

We are always growing through our Learning and Loving Series, offered quarterly with a meal after worship on Saturday evening and Sunday morning.

We are always growing through our Learning and Loving Series, offered quarterly with a meal after worship on Saturday evening and Sunday morning.

How can you find other RIC partners?

You can search for other RIC communities by address, zipcode, or by state on the ReconcilingWorks website.