Elca position on gay marriage
Readers of The Lutheran recognize the ELCA has been involved in a review of human sexuality with specific reference to homosexuality and whether homosexual people should be ordained as pastors. Pastors and others received a thorough analyze, Background Essay on Biblical Texts, as part of the ELCA’s study.
Members of some congregations hold not had the opportunity to read this review , or they may include been turned off by its length and detail. But even for those who do read it, I share some insights that I have not seen in this analyze. I will also inquire some questions to ponder as you consider the biblical texts, leaving you free to draw your own conclusions.
I am in no way involved in the process for determining the ELCA’s position or policies on the issues before the church. My purpose is to advise and invite reflection on the subject of homosexuality and the church today, while not trying to persuade anyone toward any conclusion on the issues at hand.
In dealing with biblical texts, it is easy to read into or out of them what one wants to find. Therefore, different and conflicting interpretations of the texts often occur, which is well demonstrated in the study mentioned. I will deal b
Stances of Faiths on LGBTQ+ Issues: Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
BACKGROUND
Of the three leading Lutheran organizations operating in the United States, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is considered the most welcoming and inclusive of LGBTQ+ members. Formed in with the merger of three smaller Lutheran organizations, the ELCA is based in Chicago and encompasses nearly 10, congregations and more than million members across the country.
Churchwide Assemblies are held every three years, with elected representatives establishing policy and addressing the concerns of the larger church body. As stated on the denomination’s web site, the Churchwide Assembly “provides a time and place for growth and change while remaining rooted in Scripture, tradition, Lutheran confessions and the rich histories of our congregations and communities.”
LGBTQ+ EQUALITY
ON SEXUAL ORIENTATION & GENDER IDENTITY
In , the Churchwide Assembly passed a resolution stating that, "Gay and lesbian people, as individuals created by God, are welcome to participate fully in the animation of the congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America."
Today, church programs include
Human Sexuality
Human Sexuality: Gift and Trustexpresses ELCA teaching on human sexuality. The remark is grounded in the biblical witness to the relationship God establishes with creation as a model for relationships between human beings. God is absolutely trustworthy and faithful, and, therefore, with regard to sexuality, both human action and social structures are considered in relation to how they foster reliance, commitment and protection for the flourishing and well-being of all people. In light of human sexuality as a gift and a trust, the utterance considers the ways social structures and institutions shelter, sustain and protect personal, family and social relationships of love and trustworthiness.
The statement provides guidance on key matters, such as marriage, family, same-gender relationships, protection of children and youth, sexuality and the self, sexual intimacy and cohabitation. It addresses issues of sexuality in the public square, the perform place and within the church. This social remark was adopted by the ELCA Churchwide Assembly.
SOCIAL Declaration (EN)
SOCIAL STATEMENT (ESP)
Follow these links to find resources for understanding this social s
Resources for the LGBTQIA+ Community
This is Christ's church. There is a place for you here.
We are the church that shares a living, daring confidence in God's grace. Liberated by our faith, we hug you as a whole person – questions, complexities and all.
ELCA social statement on human sexuality
Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust expresses ELCA teaching on human sexuality. A social statement is a learning and policy document that assists us in thinking about and discussing social issues in the context of faith and world. This statement was adopted in and provides guidance on matters like marriage, family and same-gender relationships.
LGBTQIA+ voices and ministries in Living Lutheran
We are a church that values and encourages diverse voices and lively dialogue.
Find articles authored by LGBTQIA+ church leaders and stories about ministries that affirm people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in Living Lutheran magazine and on
Evangelical Lutheran Worship Service of Marriage:
Supplemental Resources
This marriage service supplement offers inclusive language for all cou
.