Many Luther students, especially those preparing for ordination in the ELCA, have expressed interest in or questions about serving in a Reconciling in Christ (RIC) organization, or leading a community through the process—especially in light of recent social and legislative efforts to restrict the rights of trans people, immigrants and other marginalized people.

Since 1983, the RIC program from the nonprofit ReconcilingWorks 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, as well as to promote racial equity and inclusion.

This April, the RIC Advocacy Committee and the Office of Inclusion and Belonging co-sponsored an event to inform and educate interested community members on this topic. A panel of four local pastors and Luther alums shared their experience and advice:

• Chris Bingea, First Lutheran, St. Paul
• Matthew Johnson, Interim at Minnehaha Communion/Lutheran, Minneapolis
• Hierald Osorto, St. Paul’s-San Pablo Lutheran, Minneapolis
• Kelli Weiss, Mount Calvary Lutheran, Eagan

With facilitation from Matthew Skinner, they took turns sharing the joys and challenges of engaging congregations in inclusive work, some at congregations that have been RIC for decades and others that are just beginning the journey. About thirty students, staff, and faculty attended this event, asking thoughtful questions and expressing appreciation for the insights of the panel.