Sierra Pacific Synod approves 8 LGBT pastors
News & Events ยป Sierra Pacific Synod approves 8 LGBT pastors
 
Sierra Pacific Synod approves 8 LGBT pastors PDF Print E-mail
Tuesday, 25 May 2010 18:09

Yet another confirmation of the wonderful changes occurring in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) was seen yesterday as the council of the Sierra Pacific Synod met to approve the reinstatement and reception of eight LGBT pastors: Rev. Paul Brenner, Rev. Jeff Johnson, Rev. Ross Merkel, Rev. Craig Minich, Rev. Dawn Roginski, Rev. Megan Rohrer, Rev. Steve Sabin, and Rev. Sharon Stalkfleet. Plans are underway for a service of reception, reinstatement and reconciliation to be held within the Sierra Pacific Synod later this summer.

Although all of these ministers are currently or were previously on the roster of Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries (ELM), each has a unique story to tell about how previous discriminatory policies separated her or him from the official roster of the ELCA. Some were actively serving on the ELCA roster but were later removed; these pastors will return to the roster via the ELCA process referred to as “reinstatement.” Others were dropped from the ELCA’s candidacy program, finishing their process of discernment, preparation, and credentialing through ELM; they will enter the ELCA roster through a rite of reception. One will be received from the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.

Lutherans Concerned / North America celebrates with these eight ministers, with ELM, and with the Sierra Pacific Synod as we look forward together to a church that more fully recognizes and affirms Christ’s call to all those who have been set apart for Word and Sacrament ministry. We look forward to our mutual work in reconciling our church’s policies and practices. While we recognize that there is still much work to be done to achieve the full inclusion of LGBT people in the life of the church, we rejoice in the great progress that has been made. As Rev. Jeff Johnson said,

“Twenty years ago when I was ordained, we could dimly imagine that Lutherans would one day fully recognize lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and celebrate our relationships and marriages. This day is dawning in our church. I’m very thankful for all who have helped to carry this struggle forward and for our church which has finally opened up to the new and exciting future God has in store for us!”

See ELM’s full report at extraordinarylutheranministries.blogspot.com

 

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