FAQ Concerning RIC
As the Gulf Coast Synod considers becoming an RIC synod, here are answers to some FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS CONCERNING RIC that may be helpful.
If you have other questions, please contact the Gulf Coast Synod LGBTQIA Coalition for more information.

Synod RIC Discernment Process
As the Gulf Coast Synod considers becoming an RIC synod, the following are resources to better help members, clergy, congregations, and others to learn more about what this would mean:
- What Becoming an RIC Synod would mean
- LGBTQIA Definitions and Why Pronouns Matter
- Examples of RIC Welcome Statements
- A Primer for RIC Synods
If you have other questions, please contact the Gulf Coast Synod LGBTQIA Coalition for more information.
What is Reconciling in Christ?
The Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Program is for congregations, synods, colleges, seminaries, and other Lutheran organizations. Lutheran communities that publicly welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people are accepted onto the Reconciling in Christ Roster which now exceeds 813 settings. Most groups start the process of consideration by engaging in a study program or series of educational meetings. Hearing the experiences of LGBT people and their families often creates greater understanding and insights.


Gulf Coast Synod’s RIC Congregations
- Celebration-Cypress
- Kindred-Houston
- Zion-Houston
- Gethsemane-Chalmette
- Peace-Slidell
- Salem-Houston
- Treehouse Campus Ministries
- Order of Lutheran Franciscans
Resources
- Reconciling in Christ Synods: A Synod’s Guide to RIC
- Reconciling in Christ Frequently Asked Questions
- “We’re already welcoming! Why do we need to be RIC?”
- Congregational Assessment Survey
- “Lutheran Introduction To Our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, And Queer Neighbors”
- Sample Affirmation Statements
- “You’re RIC! Now what?”
- Download the RIC logos
For more resources to assist your congregation in growing inclusion and welcome of LGBTQIA, visit ReconcilingWorks.

