Epiphany Lutheran Church’s Welcome Statement
- God’s love is given freely to all.
- We are imperfect people who strive to celebrate and embrace the beautiful diversity of all creation. At Epiphany Lutheran Church, we welcome all people and value their unique identities and experiences.
- Come to Epiphany as you are and not what you think the church wants you to be. God loves you, and Epiphany welcomes the whole you. No matter your age, gender, race, sexual orientation, ability, economic or social status, nationality, and/or past, God loves you, and we welcome the whole you.
While we strive to be patient, to pray and to be positive, we do so choosing to value the many diverse gifts of the people who fill our community of faith:
Age
Our age is not a measure of a person’s worth. We value our youth and seniors and all the years in between as they provide new, unique, and experienced perspectives on God’s creation. We strive to use our speech, conduct, love, and faith in action to demonstrate our shared beliefs and values at any age.
Sex (Male, Female, Non-binary)
We rejoice in a God who sees the full complexity of our gender identity and the very simple need to be called “beloved child of God.” As the body of Christ in this corner of God’s creation, we seek to give space for people of all identities to live into their full callings with their God-given gifts.
LGBTQIA+
God creates us all perfectly and beautifully. We know that Christ welcomes those of all orientations into the church because “nothing can separate us from the love of God” (Romans 8:38). Your sexual orientation is not sinful. Each person deserves to be seen as a unique gift from God with a gender identity and sexual orientation affirmed and welcomed, and as equal participants in the body of Christ.
Race and/or Ethnicity
Race or ethnicity does not distinguish your inclusion into the body of Christ. Being Christian does not cause you to lose your racial or ethnic identity, but allows you to display your Christian uniqueness given to you by God. That diverse tapestry displays God’s infinite detail for creation on earth.
Ability or Disability
Our abilities and disabilities are one part of our identity. Each aspect of our identity is a gift that produces awareness, empathy, character and hope. Abilities and disabilities are in us all and part of God’s eternal equation of love for us all.
Wealth/Income
People of varying income levels, including none at all, have and will continue to find a place at Epiphany. As Jesus’ ministry was dedicated to “preaching the good news to the poor” we strive to receive the gifts of all and seek justice alongside any who have had it denied them.
Social Status/Class
Engaging others across the diverse social classes provides new insights and understanding. We learn to love the richness of God’s creation and value all that is different through patience and love.
Nationality
We welcome all who wish to travel with us through this life, as we are all natives in God’s land. We are all siblings in Christ who need love and care. Our doors are open to all people regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or immigration status.
Language
While we worship primarily in English, we know that not all of our neighbors have English as their first language, and we promise to draw upon all possible resources to communicate a full welcome to everyone, no matter the language of their silent prayers to God. This includes a commitment to communicating effectively with those who are hearing impaired. At the same time, we commit to using language intentionally in how we talk about God and community. We know that “traditional male” pronouns for God are a barrier for some in drawing close to God’s grace and love. We also know that historically, Christian churches have used language that is misogynistic, anti-Semitic, racist, and patriarchal. We seek to separate ourselves from this legacy, particularly in the language we use as a church.
Challenging Life History/Addiction
Living on both sides of the track is an opportunity to experience the best and worst in life and know which way you want to go. Choosing a path that leads to grace and fulfillment or self-destruction can be a deep struggle. Relapse can be a big part of the recovery process. We know from our own personal experience that God is Love and that God is able to fill the void you are missing. God can turn tragedy into an opportunity to serve others and rejoice in the life you have been given.
Present Reality
All are welcomed here. This is a place where God will meet you where you are in your life’s journey. Whether you are in the midst of welcoming a new child into your family or struggling with addiction or mental health concerns, looking for a place for a multi-cultural wedding or facing job uncertainty, whether you have recently moved into our community or are facing housing instability, family turmoil or food insecurity; you are welcome. We walk together in community, celebrating our shared journey through worship, prayer, Bible study, service projects, community outreach, and fellowship. We look forward to meeting you, whatever your present reality, with open arms and a desire to share God’s love.