On August 30, 2020, Faith Lutheran Church held a Special Congregational meeting to receive the Church Council’s motion to adopt the Welcome Statement below, and on September 18, 2020, the congregation voted to adopt the Welcome Statement. The adoption of this motion places Faith Lutheran Church on the roster of Reconciling in Christ (RIC) churches that intentionally welcome all people . Also, the pastor(s) at Faith Lutheran Church would be authorized, at their discretion, to officiate at weddings of both heterosexual and same gender couples.
Faith's Welcome Statement:
In response to God’s unconditional love and grace, the people of Faith Lutheran Church seek to follow Jesus’ commandment to love God, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. We express that love in our commitment to racial equity, and in our welcome of people of all ages, races, economic status, intellectual and physical abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, along with their families and friends, to join with us as we worship God, grow in faith, and offer hope.
RIC Sunday - February 22, 2026
Theme: Celebrating Diversity as God’s Children
Why celebrate? We believe that the Gospel is built upon a foundation of diversity. We believe that the Creator gifted us a universe infused with beautiful diversity. We believe the Blessed Community is strongest and most faithful to Jesus when we invite everyone to the table. Throughout his ministry among the peoples of Roman Palestine and in his teaching, Jesus was always reaching for those on the margins of society and religious institutions, pulling them back into the center of the life of the community. Because it is rooted in the teachings and ministry of Jesus, the work of full inclusion is something that God’s beloved children can celebrate. No hiding in the shadows for us! Let us dance in the light of God’s love, singing songs of liberation, justice, and inclusion.
Akron Pride Festival - Sat., August 23, 2025
The Akron Pride Festival and Equity March took place on August 23. There were 23 volunteers who marched and/or staffed the booth throughout the day. Many thanks to the RIC Team for planning this important ministry.
Safe Space: Ally Training 101
Over 50 people attended the Safe Space Ally Training 101 Workshop on January 27, 2024, in the Fellowship Hall, conducted by speaker Ken Ditlevson, M.Ed., Director, LGBTQ+ Center at Kent State University. The program was offered to make our communities safer places for all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Participants learned about bias, stereotypes, current vocabulary, and best practices for handling gender and sexuality topics with sensitivity.