A second Congregational Forum on Marriage Equality will be held Wednesday, October 10 beginning at 7:00pm.  This forum will focus more specifically on the language of the referendum.  At its September 18 meeting, the Peace Church Council considered a resolution to endorse Referendum 74. After a lengthy and thoughtful discussion, the council majority voted to support the resolution.

The following segment, from the ELCA Social Statement on Human Sexuality, does well to address our lack of consensus and more importantly, it reminds us of our call of profound respect for one another regardless of our differing opinions.

“As we encounter opinions and beliefs different from our own, we are called to respond with profound respect and to honor one another in community. Although at this time this church lacks consensus on this matter, it encourages all to live out their faith in the local and global community of the baptized with profound respect for the conscience-bound belief of the neighbor. This church calls for mutual respect in relationships and for guidance that seeks the good of each individual and of the community. Regarding our life together as we live with disagreement, the people in this church will continue to accompany one another in study, prayer, discernment, pastoral care, and mutual respect. (ELCA Social Statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust, page 21)

Your participation is valued, so please plan on attending.