HOLLYWOOD LUTHERAN CHURCH and
Ministry with the LGBT COMMUNITY

What does "Reconciling in Christ" mean in this church?

LGBT persons or couples—people of all sexual orientations and gender identities—are unconditionally welcome here!

"Rainbow's Promise", 1999, made by long-time member Jan Osterman. The rainbow comes to rest over the cross on Hollywood's church tower. The quilt consists of nearly 3,000 tiny squares of cloth stitched together.

 Hollywood Lutheran Church is one of about 400 ELCA congregations in the United States and Canada which publicly welcome people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. We joined the Reconciling in Christ program of Lutherans Concerned/North America in 1999, by adopting a public statement called an "Affirmation of Welcome."  
The Reconciling in Christ program seeks to call the Lutheran Church back to its historic center in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, receiving and welcoming any and all who are seeking God in the Good News of God's unconditional love.

The New Testament is clear that since all human beings have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, all human beings are redeemed not by their own efforts, good works or striving but solely by the gift of Jesus Christ upon the Cross, a gift which all human beings receive simply as God's grace. GLBT persons or couples—people of all sexual orientations and gender identities—are unconditionally welcome here!

Are you single? Dating? In a long-term relationship? Are you raising a family?  Providing elder care?  Are you Lesbian or gay, transgender, bisexual?  You are welcome to participate fully in the life of Hollywood Lutheran Church.

Can't remember how long has it been since you've been in a church?  It doesn't matter. God is still here for you, when you're ready.

In 2002, Hollywood Lutheran's Council affirmed as a mission priority a fully-inclusive ministry in the gay/lesbian community, including being open to bless same-sex couples (weddings).

Hollywood Lutheran Church observes Reconciling in Christ Sunday in January of each year, as part of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.  Please join us!!

Discipleship at Hollywood Lutheran Church

There are no ifs, ands, or buts about lesbian, gay, transgender or bisexual Christians participating in the mission, fellowship and ministries of Hollywood Lutheran Church. As with all other Christians, we believe that GLBT persons are invited to dedicate their lives to both the Great Commandment and the Great Commission of Jesus Christ.

The Great Commandment: "You shall Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." -- Luke 10:27

The Great Commission: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." -- Matthew 28:19-20

As signs of living faith and active membership, all Christians are invited to participate in four ways in our parish life:

  • Worship and prayer -- including frequent participation in the Eucharist (the Lord's Supper), the Confession of Sins, and daily prayer. 
  • Education -- availing oneself of opportunities for learning and spiritual growth through study and discussion opportunities.
  • Service -- participating in at least one form of compassionate caring through congregational ministries or on your own.
  • Stewardship -- returning to God an offering of your time, gifts and skills, and financial means as you are able.

There are 16 RIC congregations in the greater Los Angeles area, from Altadena to Santa Monica, Long Beach to North Hollywood.  See www.LutheransLove.org for a complete listing.

Explore!

Find More information about the Reconciling in Christ Program.

Find more information about Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries.

Pick up a copy of the ELM newsletter, the Mission, in our church Narthex. -->

 

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