Illinois Congregations deal with gay ruling by Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Golden light filtered through the stained-glass windows of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church on Sunday, illuminating a congregation on its feet.

Everyone in the pews of the Wrigleyville church stood, some with tears in their eyes, applauding the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s recent decision to allow gay men and women in committed relationships to serve as leaders.

“It’s a good day to be a Lutheran,” said Patrice Macken, a member of Holy Trinity for six years. “I feel like it’s a long overdue decision … it’s just a human-rights issue.”

Meanwhile, at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Lindenhurst, Rev. Bill Shields opened worship with a cry of anguish. “Dear Father, we come to you with heavy hearts because our church is in turmoil,” he prayed.

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Posted in * Religion News & Commentary, Lutheran, Other Churches, Sexuality Debate (Other denominations and faiths)