The RIC designation identifies Lutheran churches, synods, colleges, and seminaries that are committed to the welcome, inclusion, and celebration of all people, including those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex or asexual/aromantic (LGBTQIA+). It marks these faith communities as safe and liberating environments for people who have often been rejected and hurt by society, their family and the church.

Jesus welcomed everyone who sought him, recognizing them as children of God. Jew or Greek, rich or poor, healthy or infirm: all were granted access to God's grace. This process is meant to clarify and publicly proclaim the extravagant hospitality we already see in practice in our congregation. We approach the journey with humility and trust that wherever God leads us, it will be for the benefit of our church and our community.