A Lutheran Ministry for Family and Friends of Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual People

"And I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will heed my voice. So there shall be one flock, one shepherd." – John 10:16

Your Family

Maybe you thought it could never happen, but a family member or friend has revealed themself to be a gay, lesbian or bisexual person. You may feel it's a family secret that no one would understand. You have a deep faith in God, but you feel unsure about the reaction in your church or even fear sharing the truth with other members of your family or friends.

You may struggle with scriptural passages that seem to condemn your loved ones. Or perhaps you see the pain and injustice in beliefs that demean fellow Christians because of an orientation they did not choose. Now there is a simple word of grace awaiting you and your family even in your most difficult places.

God's Family

Jesus recognized the diversity of God's creation when he spoke about bringing other sheep into his flock. God loves you and your family members regardless of sexual orientation. You and your loved ones are a part of God's family through each one's baptism into Jesus Christ. Lutherans also share a deep sense of God's grace. What makes us valuable and acceptable is not what we do or do not do, but rather who we are: children of a loving God.

"Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." – Romans 5:1

Families Concerned

Whatever your situation, we have much in common and we're here to listen. As Christians we share a tradition of faith that redeems us through Jesus Christ. As parents, sisters, brothers or spouses we share an understanding of what it is like to have loved ones who are gay, lesbian or bisexual. As Lutherans we share an appreciation for the reforming nature of the church and ask "What is God's word for us in today's world?"

As a new ministry of Lutherans Concerned, we have come together in a community called Families Concerned to sponsor affirming spiritual support groups for parents, family and friends in the context of the best Lutheran traditions. We seek to build understanding and reconciliation for people within the Lutheran church and for those who would seek sanctuary with us.

What is the mission of Families Concerned?

Our mission is to break down the barriers that keep pain, guilt, shame and faith issues from ever being resolved. We affirm our Christian beliefs and our human need for God's redeeming power. We seek both to heal pain and move the Lutheran church to greater understanding.

Our parent organization, Lutherans Concerned, established this new ministry in 1994 to reach out in more effective ways to people within the church who have family or friends who are gay, lesbian or bisexual. In doing so we also strive to lead the church by example and answer our own call to ministry.

We offer:

• Listening
• Sharing
• A Confidential setting
• Scriptural insights
• Accurate Information
• Worship experiences
• A Lutheran understanding of the "Living word of God"
  

What can I expect if I come to a meeting or become a part of the group?

Your participation in Families Concerned can help resolve many concerns and strengthen your faith. You will be able to move to comfort levels that reconcile and build family ties.

Our experience shows that, as you become more comfortable and grow in your faith, you can help others too. Your new found understanding may be a blessing helping you to uplift another person. People with gay, lesbian or bisexual family or friends often become very respected voices for change within the church.

Who do I contact?

If you would like more information about local groups or to discuss forming a group in your area, please contact us by email at:

parents@lcna.org

"There is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." – Galatians 3:28