Approved by the St. Andrew Session, June 2023
Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. - Romans 15:7
St. Andrew Presbyterian Church affirms the worth and dignity of all people. We are all created by God in God’s image, and God found all of creation to be good. Just as Jesus welcomed everyone into fellowship, especially those marginalized by society, we welcome all people to our congregation regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental ability, socioeconomic status, marital status, family structure, country of origin, or immigration status. All are welcome to participate fully in the life of St. Andrew: worship, service, baptism, communion, membership, ministry, and leadership. To this end, we affirm that the covenant of marriage should be extended to any two consenting adults who seek to enter a marriage based upon love, responsibility, mutual respect, and trust in God’s grace. We acknowledge that the Presbyterian Book of Order allows for each pastor to follow their own conscience as to whether they will perform a particular marriage service.
We recognize that the Christian church has historically condemned and excluded LGBTQ+ persons from the community of faith, and we assert that such actions are incompatible with the gospel of Jesus. We also acknowledge, and deeply regret, that St. Andrew Presbyterian’s actions have at times caused harm to our relationships with members of the LGBTQ+ community, including members of our own congregation. As we continue to grow as a congregation and discern our path forward in God’s love and grace, we seek to rectify these past wrongs and pursue justice for those who have been and continue to be oppressed. We commit to continue to learn and work toward ensuring that St. Andrew is a safe place where all people are welcomed and loved.
St. Andrew Statement on Racial justice