Beloved congregation,
Our session has recently voted for our church to join the Covenant Network of Presbyterians, a national coalition of congregations and individuals across the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The Covenant Network seeks to strengthen the church’s authentic welcome of LGBTQIA+ people in its life and leadership.
By becoming a member of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians, our congregation publicly commits to the full participation of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the life and ministry of the church. We are joining in shared efforts to further unity in the church by supporting education and conversations about diverse gender and sexual identities. This partnership will provide our church with resources, connections, and opportunities to more deeply embody the inclusive love of God in our congregational life and public witness.
Over the past several years, this congregation has engaged deeply in theological education, biblical study, and community practices related to LGBTQ+ inclusion. These efforts reflect a sustained commitment to faithful welcome and covenantal life within the PC(USA).
Educational Formation to Date Includes:
• Multi-week Bible studies on LGBTQ+ inclusion and Scripture
• Panels on gender, sexuality, and Presbyterian polity
• Scholarly engagement with New Testament interpretation
• Congregation-wide events supporting LGBTQ+ belonging
• Ongoing Lenten formation centered on inclusion as a Christian value
• A presentation as well as a worship service led by Rev. Brian Ellison, Director of Covenant Network
• Two listening sessions before and after worship, and an opportunity to send in questions via our website
• Session and committee engagement through thoughtful conversation
On Sunday, June 7, we will celebrate PCM’s discernment journey with a special Pride Sunday worship and recognition followed by a special fellowship hour hosted by the LGBTQ+ Task Force. If you have any questions you can direct those to Rev. Audrey Webber or the LGBTQ+ Task Force.
We hope you’ll join us in celebrating this commitment to the Covenant Network of Presbyterians, and in praying for our church and the opportunities we have to serve all God’s people in our community and in our world.
Loving God,
We give you thanks for the work and witness of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians. We celebrate our congregation’s decision to join a new ministry partner in working toward a world as just and generous as your grace.
Bless our shared ministry and grant us wisdom, courage, and compassion as we seek to dismantle barriers and proclaim your all-inclusive love. Embolden us to proclaim a wide welcome and create communities of faith that empower LGBTQIA+ people to live authentically into God’s call on their lives. By your Spirit, help our church minister to the marginalized as we follow the example of Jesus, who welcomed all to the Table with radical hospitality.
In the name of Christ, our gracious host, we pray. Amen.
Sincerely in Christ,
The Session of the Presbyterian Church in Morristown
Read more about Covenant Network of Presbyterians by visiting www.covnetpres.org or following them on Facebook or Instagram.
