Life in Human Bodies in the Body of Christ:  Sexual Ethics in the Church

Wednesdays, June 7, 14, 21, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Gloria Dei Fellowship Hall

Over the first three Wednesdays of June, we will gather to discuss and consider the evolving nature of sexual ethics in the church.  How does the church make decisions of when and how to affirm loving relationships in a changing world?  What do we need to guide us as we seek common understandings of what it means to be the church? Do we have a shared perspective on appropriate models of leadership? How do we protect vulnerable individuals in our congregations as we proclaim a God of love and acceptance?  How do we teach our children as we raise them in the faith in today’s environment? Join the pastors to explore the sexual ethics of the church today.

Session 1 — June 7:  What does it mean to follow Jesus in lives that are embodied in human relationships? What are the ongoing concerns or questions that are most important to us as we explore the evolving nature of sexual ethics? We reflect together on what is most on our minds and hearts as we respond to sexual teachings in the church.

Session 2 – June 14:  Where is the ELCA? What does the wider church teach about sexuality? What are the guidelines defined by our social statements and teaching documents? Who decides on the reasons for discipline and how are rules enforced in the church?

Session 3 – June 21:  What are the Christian principles that guide and influence us? What do we want to teach our youth about sexual ethics? How might we imagine a faithful understanding of sexuality for future generations?