You are welcome. You belong. You are loved.

“You are welcome. You belong. You are loved.” These are the words on a sign as you enter the church.

About a year ago, I joined an affirming church in my community—one that openly welcomes and affirms LGBTQ2SIA+ people. The congregation has completed the “Reconciling in Christ” process, which in Canadian Lutheran churches is more than a designation. It is a thoughtful journey of learning, prayer, conversation, and public commitment, supported by ReconcilingWorks and lived out in congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada. Congregations typically listen to LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families, explore what genuine welcome requires, and discern how to become safer, more inclusive, and more accountable communities. This process often results in a clear welcome statement, openness to calling LGBTQ2SIA+ and BIPOC rostered leaders, support for weddings and blessings for LGBTQ2SIA+ couples, and an ongoing commitment to racial equity and anti-racism.

What a refreshing change. I have also noticed how warmly my new congregation welcomes people of all abilities.  Each week, a woman with profound developmental delays and autism helps lead the Apostles’ Creed. My son, who is also autistic, has been welcomed with genuine warmth.

In a space like this, I can breathe easily.

Please know that you are welcome in my practice, too. I welcome people of every race, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ability, and lived experience. Whoever you are, and whatever your story, you are welcome to take a Leap of Faith!