Zion's RIC Journey

Our congregation is on the journey of being recognized by the ELCA as a “Reconciling in Christ” congregation, which means Zion would commit itself to being supportive and accepting of LGBTQIA+ people. Many other congregations in our Synod are either already RIC or moving towards that; Gloria Dei in Duluth is one of the oldest RIC congregations in our Synod (over 20 years). 


The RIC team is seeking conversations with all of Zion’s members as we move towards that goal. If you would like to talk with a team member, feel free to contact the office to set up a time to meet.


Our team is working with the synod to provide educational opportunities so that questions are answered, perspectives shared, and all voices are heard. About once per month we have a community member share a short talk about their life or experiences that are connected in some way with the LGBTQIA+ Community. We hope these stories promote conversation and understanding. If you have a story to share please reach out. We would love to hear from you.

Why become an RIC partner?

Becoming an RIC Community is a way to put our welcome of ALL people out in a visible way to our extended community. Zion has had "All Are Welcome" visible on our outdoor sign for a long time and becoming an RIC community may be the next step in putting welcome into practice.


Since 1983, the Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Program has been a public way for faith communities to see, name, celebrate, and advocate for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions in the Lutheran church. The RIC Program is made up of congregations, synods, colleges, seminaries, outdoor ministries, and other Lutheran organizations.


RIC Partner Public Commitments

The purpose of the Reconciling in Christ (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 is RIC?

Since 1974, ReconcilingWorks: Lutherans for Full Participation has advocated for the full welcome, inclusion, and equity of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual/aromantic (LGBTQIA+) Lutherans in all aspects of the life of their Church, congregations, and community.  

Who is Reconciling Works?

Vision

To keep expanding the welcome, liberating those who are forced to live in the margins. To keep dismantling barriers and building bridges.
To keep working until all of God's beloved have equity.


Mission

ReconcilingWorks advocates for the acceptance, full participation, and liberation of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions within the Lutheran Church.


Values

We believe that God values and embraces each person as a beloved child, that the Spirit gives a diversity of gifts for the common good, and that Jesus Christ calls us to work for justice.