Calvary on 8th Statement of Inclusion
Calvary on 8th recognizes the dignity, worth, and gifts of each person as created in the image of God. We welcome into the full life of the church all people who desire to express their devotion to Jesus Christ through the fellowship and ministry of Calvary on 8th, as we seek to Love God, Become Disciples, and Choose Community. We do this together regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, physical or mental ability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, economic condition, or life experiences. We recognize among us differences in theology and biblical interpretation and, as outlined in the Choosing Community Covenant, commit to accept, to respect, and to love one another along our faith journeys. As God loves us, so let us love one another.
FAQs
What does this statment mean in practice?
Consistory will continue to exercise the same responsibility and authority as it has in the past. The Elders admit persons into membership, act on requests for baptism and marriage, and exercise responsible care and oversight of all the members including the pastors. The same vows and expectations apply to all people requesting membership in the church.
This statement affirms that, in carrying out this responsibility and authority, the Elders, acting in their discernment on behalf of Calvary, shall not disqualify an individual solely on the basis of one of these aforementioned characteristics.
This statement affirms that, in carrying out this responsibility and authority, the Elders, acting in their discernment on behalf of Calvary, shall not disqualify an individual solely on the basis of one of these aforementioned characteristics.
What do we mean by the “full life of the church”?
We mean that participation in worship, communion, baptism, teaching or leading in church activities or programs, serving on a church committee or board, ordination as elder, deacon, or minister of Word and sacrament, funerals, weddings, or pastoral care, will not be denied because of race, class, sexual orientation or any other such category. Calvary will allow pastors to officiate at marriage services of same-sex couples.
Is it necessary to make a list of the ‘categories’ of people we welcome? Why not just say we welcome everyone?
The list is meant to be illustrative, not exhaustive. We believe that a diverse membership is a strength of the church and that by welcoming a diversity of people with a diversity of gifts into the full life of the church, we become a stronger, more faithful congregation of Jesus Christ. However, because some Christians have been excluded from full participation in the life of the church due to these categories, sexual orientation in particular, it is important to clearly communicate our welcome.
When the Apostle Paul wanted to affirm that “all are one in Christ” (Galatians 3:28) he prefaced it by saying, “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female.” These were some of the social barriers in Paul's time. The prophet Isaiah specifically mentioned the foreigner and the eunuch as belonging among God's people because these were categories of people who had formerly been excluded (Isaiah 56, Deuteronomy 23). Jesus began his public ministry by quoting from Isaiah 61 and naming the poor, the captives, the blind, and the oppressed (Luke 4:18-19). When certain people have been previously singled out, excluded and/or discriminated against, it is important to mention them by name in order to be clear that we mean to include them.
When the Apostle Paul wanted to affirm that “all are one in Christ” (Galatians 3:28) he prefaced it by saying, “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female.” These were some of the social barriers in Paul's time. The prophet Isaiah specifically mentioned the foreigner and the eunuch as belonging among God's people because these were categories of people who had formerly been excluded (Isaiah 56, Deuteronomy 23). Jesus began his public ministry by quoting from Isaiah 61 and naming the poor, the captives, the blind, and the oppressed (Luke 4:18-19). When certain people have been previously singled out, excluded and/or discriminated against, it is important to mention them by name in order to be clear that we mean to include them.
How is this statement supported theologically?
Throughout the entirety of scripture, the Spirit of God leads God’s people to break down barriers. God’s power freed the people from Egypt (Exodus, Deuteronomy). Through the power of God, the early church bridged the mighty chasm between Jew and Gentile (Acts 11, Galatians 3). Most notably, Christ himself, through his death, knocked down the dividing wall of hostility (Ephesians 2) that separated us from God and from each other. We believe that the Spirit’s work continues to call us to confront the barriers that prevent people from hearing and experiencing the fullness of God’s grace and love. We want the lavish and radical grace of Jesus to be demonstrated in our fellowship, as well as the belief that every single person bears the image of God and has gifts to offer the community; every single person can receive the grace of Jesus Christ and the church is compelled to enact that grace in its policies and vision. The early church followed the Spirit’s lead in recognizing the gifts of eunuchs, women, the poor, and others who were often excluded from fellowship or leadership.
God’s intention is to bring diverse people into community with one another, that they might worship God and follow Jesus Christ together. Therefore, the early church strove to fellowship with each other despite vast differences. They united in Christ around the Lord’s table, which bound them in communion with God and each other. We desire to live within that tradition. We recognize that not all Christians agree on the many questions surrounding sexuality, and we do not expect that everyone in our church will hold the exact same views. Through the power of God’s Spirit, we seek to respect one another and strive for unity around the communion table, for the sake of God’s mission in the world.
The Bible shows that marriage is a God-ordained gift. Marriage illustrates Christ’s love for the church, provides a foundation for society and community, and calls individuals to be sanctified through the process of uniting their life to one another to grow in lifelong faith together (see the RCA liturgy for marriage). There are Christians who believe these holy outcomes are possible for same-sex couples seeking Christian marriage, just as they are for opposite-sex couples. In Romans 1, when Paul wrote of unnatural relations, he described people who had intentionally turned from God and pursued relationships based in lust. We believe this is distinctly different from the type of same-sex relationships we bless in our community. Therefore, many Christians believe the Bible does not condemn committed same-sex relationships grounded in Christ.
God’s intention is to bring diverse people into community with one another, that they might worship God and follow Jesus Christ together. Therefore, the early church strove to fellowship with each other despite vast differences. They united in Christ around the Lord’s table, which bound them in communion with God and each other. We desire to live within that tradition. We recognize that not all Christians agree on the many questions surrounding sexuality, and we do not expect that everyone in our church will hold the exact same views. Through the power of God’s Spirit, we seek to respect one another and strive for unity around the communion table, for the sake of God’s mission in the world.
The Bible shows that marriage is a God-ordained gift. Marriage illustrates Christ’s love for the church, provides a foundation for society and community, and calls individuals to be sanctified through the process of uniting their life to one another to grow in lifelong faith together (see the RCA liturgy for marriage). There are Christians who believe these holy outcomes are possible for same-sex couples seeking Christian marriage, just as they are for opposite-sex couples. In Romans 1, when Paul wrote of unnatural relations, he described people who had intentionally turned from God and pursued relationships based in lust. We believe this is distinctly different from the type of same-sex relationships we bless in our community. Therefore, many Christians believe the Bible does not condemn committed same-sex relationships grounded in Christ.
Why is gender identity listed in the statement? Weren’t our conversations focused on sexual orientation?
While the conversations and study did not focus on biblical perspectives of gender identity, the welcoming nature of the Statement prompted the inclusion of gender identity as a characteristic by which leadership will not discriminate. This policy is focused on adults who desire to follow Jesus as a part of Calvary, and the Pastoral Elders will not inquire into a person’s biological gender in their spiritual evaluation of a (potential) member. The “Additional Children’s and Youth Ministry Considerations” section at the end of this document outlines how this will be approached among children and youth.
Are there any limits to this statement of inclusion? What standards will we use?
This statement of inclusion removes barriers to participation for certain people that have been historically excluded. But we continue to maintain historic standards of Christian belief and character.
Much of this is implied or said directly in other portions of these Questions and Answers for Discussion, but it is worth repeating because we want to make abundantly clear what this statement does and what it does not do. It does not abolish all standards of conduct, create disdain for discernment and discretion, nor diminish the importance of Christian character for all members and leaders. It does give clarity to leadership that certain persons may now be considered for official participation in the life of the church, within the context of those other standards of faith and life.
- For membership, a person must demonstrate a desire to join this community as a Christ-follower. (see Statement)
- We maintain that marriage is always between two consenting adults, and we uphold the importance of fidelity in marriage.
- Not all people are gifted for leadership. While this statement makes leadership possible for previously excluded persons, in no way does it guarantee that every person is gifted to serve as a leader.
- We expect elders and deacons to hold to historic standards of holiness in their lives, such as commitment to the Ten Commandments (Deuteronomy 5) and clear demonstration of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5).
- Temperance and self-control are key qualities of leadership at all levels (1 Timothy 3).
- Staff and leaders will continue to use these types of standards when inviting people to serve and volunteer.
- Our policies will always prioritize the safety of our children and youth. This statement does nothing to alter our current background checks, Abuse Prevention Policy, or other volunteer screenings.
- We will use discretion when engaging with children and youth around sensitive topics. Along with acknowledging our Statement of Inclusion, we also acknowledge that not everyone in our church is in agreement about these things. Leaders and volunteers will defer to parental authority as much as possible.
- We do not expect that every member, elder or deacon, staff, or minister of Word and sacrament will be in full agreement with this statement or the implementation of this policy. Their dissent shall not disqualify them from full participation in the life of the church.
Much of this is implied or said directly in other portions of these Questions and Answers for Discussion, but it is worth repeating because we want to make abundantly clear what this statement does and what it does not do. It does not abolish all standards of conduct, create disdain for discernment and discretion, nor diminish the importance of Christian character for all members and leaders. It does give clarity to leadership that certain persons may now be considered for official participation in the life of the church, within the context of those other standards of faith and life.
How did we get to this point?
In Fall of 2022, after years of prior conversation, study, and congregational feedback, Consistory launched the Love. Wisdom. Clarity. initiative: focused on God’s love for us and others, how might we seek wisdom to bring clarity to our policies and practices of marriage and ordination of people in same-sex relationships. This nine-month process included Bible study, Discovery Hour classes, intentional conversation, and opportunities for input through listening sessions and surveys. At the conclusion of this season of significant participation, the Elders approved moving into a time of discernment and decisions based on study and congregational feedback.
Previously, in 2021, Consistory adopted the Hospitality Initiative, a commitment toward various action steps and initiatives with regards to race, disability, and mental health. This Statement of Inclusion aligns with the spirit of that work.
Previously, in 2021, Consistory adopted the Hospitality Initiative, a commitment toward various action steps and initiatives with regards to race, disability, and mental health. This Statement of Inclusion aligns with the spirit of that work.
How will this impact children’s and youth programming?
Children’s (birth through 5th grade) and youth (6th-12th grade) programming will continue to focus on faith-nurturing relationships that provide a safe place for children to meet Jesus, experience God, and respond to God’s story in age-appropriate ways. Parents and guardians play a critical role in their children’s spiritual journey, and Calvary staff and volunteers will continue to collaborate with parents to equip them to do so. For additional details, see the “Additional Children’s and Youth Ministry Considerations” section at the end of this document.
Will this change what is taught from the pulpit?
During Sunday morning services we will continue to preach, share the gospel, and gather together in fellowship. When applicable, sermons may draw on and reference the Statement of Inclusion and its themes as it expands upon the scripture reading and gospel message.
How does this affect Calvary’s relationship with the Reformed Church in America?
We are fully committed to our denomination. The RCA has held traditional views on marriage and ordination for many years. In recent years, many churches have begun to question those teachings and explore new ways to include the LGBTQ community. The teachings of our denomination are important to us, but the RCA teachings on marriage do not hold a confessional status. We interpret that this non-confessional status means there is room for discussion and disagreement, as there is for many other important topics. In addition, according to the polity of the RCA, authority over questions of ordination and discipline belongs to the Classis. Calvary is part of the Holland Classis which has a long history of discernment, deliberation, and diversity. We are glad to serve alongside many churches in our community with various beliefs and practices, and we will continue to do so. Many changes are occurring in our denomination right now, and we will follow them with great interest.
What’s next for Calvary?
As Calvary on 8th seeks to faithfully Love God, Become Disciples, and Choose Community, we recognize that this is a journey that requires continual re-assessment of our ministry and fellowship, rooted in God’s love and grace. We continue to critically analyze our practices to ensure people from all walks of life feel welcomed into full participation in the life of the church, and we value your perspectives and feedback about how to do this.
Many survey respondents expressed a desire to hear from members of the LGBTQ community and their family members, particularly about their experiences as Christians in West Michigan. In the coming months, we hope to provide opportunities for this. At the same time, we recognize that there is a wide variety of relevant theological and social topics to us as Christ-followers, and we anticipate other engaging adult Discovery Hour sessions during the upcoming year.
Many survey respondents expressed a desire to hear from members of the LGBTQ community and their family members, particularly about their experiences as Christians in West Michigan. In the coming months, we hope to provide opportunities for this. At the same time, we recognize that there is a wide variety of relevant theological and social topics to us as Christ-followers, and we anticipate other engaging adult Discovery Hour sessions during the upcoming year.
Additional Children's and Youth Ministry Consdierations
Children’s Ministry Mission: Through faith nurturing relationships, we provide a safe place for children to meet Jesus, experience God, and respond to God’s story in age-appropriate ways.
How will the Statement of Inclusion affect the teaching in Children’s Ministry?
For Sunday morning, we are using and planning to continue to use curriculum from Faith Alive, a publisher which serves both the CRC and RCA. We are using a different curriculum on Wednesday night; it integrates Biblical and Christian doctrine common to many denominations because it is written to be used by many different churches. None of these materials address issues connected to sexuality. If issues relating to LBGTQ+ were to arise in the Children’s Ministry, children will be referred to their caregivers.
Will this Statement of Inclusion affect who can teach at Kids Club or during Discovery Time?
This Statement says that all people can be involved in the full life of the church. “Full life” includes volunteering in our Children’s Ministries. Anyone who volunteers goes through the same process of an application, references, and a background check. All volunteers are also trained on Calvary’s Care Policy.
How will volunteers and staff respond to questions regarding sexuality and gender?
As a congregation, Calvary has committed to respect theological diversity. As part of maintaining unity amidst diversity, staff and volunteers in the children’s program commit to refrain from teaching about gender or same-sex marriage. Leaders will respond factually about same-sex marriages within the congregation. If a child asks follow-up questions, the leaders will gently encourage children to talk to their caregivers.
What if a child says that they are a member of the opposite gender than their name or clothing might indicate?
Staff and volunteers will follow caregivers’ lead in responding to their children. If we hear or see a pattern with a child, we would certainly share our observation with a caregiver–just as we would if we saw any behavior that we did not understand. We seek to partner with families.
How will teachers respond when a student asks about a family that is different than their own?
Families look different: families have different numbers of children, and in some families the people look a lot alike, and in some families people look different. It’s important to talk to your caregivers about families and who is in them.
Considerations Regarding Youth Ministry
What will be said when a child shares that they are a member of the LBGTQ+ community?
We welcome all youth, and we treat all youth with the dignity given to them by God. It is important that students know that we will come alongside them for anything they are going through. We also partner with caregivers; if the parent or guardian of the youth is unaware, then we will assist the youth in talking with their caregivers, just as we would with any other important situation (mental health issues, cheating at school, pregnancy, drugs, alcohol etc).
What will be taught at Youth Group or MS/HS Discovery Time?
MS Discovery Time is currently using the GROW Curriculum and continuing to study the Heidelberg Catechism. HS Discovery Time will be taught by church members on specific topics (Profession of Faith, vocation, etc). MSYG is using SIFT, and HSYG is studying TELOS. Going forward, curriculum and material will be approved by the youth committee and/or the Pastoral Care Elders. If controversial topics are addressed, parents will be notified and the discussion will include theological diversity. Staff and volunteers should recognize that they may be influential people in the lives of youth, and their words and actions should reflect their influence.