January 24-25 is Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Weekend, a time when we lift up our commitment to the ongoing work of welcome, inclusion, celebration, and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ people as well as all who are marginalized and oppressed. This year we will give special emphasis to the theme of intersectionality and the meaningful ways our RIC commitment encompasses the diversity of all our Outreach missions. We invite everyone to join us for a weekend of celebration, learning, and discussion.
In Worship: Guest Preacher Rev. Dr. Cody Sanders
Saturday, January 24th, at 5:30 pm and Sunday, January 25th, at 9:00 & 10:30 am | Nativity Sanctuary
Cody J. Sanders (he/him) is Associate Professor of Congregational Care Leadership at Luther Seminary and an ordained Baptist minister (Alliance of Baptists and American Baptist Churches U.S.A.). He teaches in the areas of pastoral theology and spiritual care within congregational and community contexts. Sanders is a leader in the area of LGBTQIA+ spiritual care, writing and speaking frequently on the subject in churches and academic institutions. His current research aims to build ministerial and congregational capacity to lead in cultivating caring communities amid the uncertainty of complex near-future scenarios for our life in the world.
Adult Faith Formation: RIC-Outreach Panel
Sunday, January 25th, 9:00 am | Nativity Fellowship Hall
Deacon Kyle Soderberg and Nativity Outreach Representatives
In 2022, Nativity voted to become a “Reconciling in Christ” or RIC congregation. With this designation came a renewed commitment to welcome, inclusion, and allyship with all people, but especially those historically marginalized by the church and society at large. A large portion of our recent RIC efforts have been spearheaded by Nativity’s Outreach groups, reflecting the intersections of RIC. Come and hear from this panel of Outreach representatives to learn more about their recent work and how you might get more involved.
Lunch & Learn with Rev. Dr. Cody Sanders
Sunday, January 25th, 12:00 pm | Nativity Fellowship Hall
Nativity’s Pride Outreach Team invites the Nativity community and guests to enjoy a light lunch of soup, salad, and sandwiches while taking a deeper dive into the worship theme of intersectionality, its significance for faith communities, and its importance in our world today. Vegan options will be available. RSVPs are requested through Nativity’s worship bulletin (News to Note) tear-off or via email to Sherri Truchinski at sherri.truchinski@gmail.com.
Additional Learning & Involvement Opportunities
January 24-25, Following All Weekend Worship Hours | Nativity Commons
Visit the RIC Table to learn more about Nativity’s Reconciling in Christ commitment along with the missions and projects of our various Outreach Teams. You can also check out books from our Advocacy Library and enjoy special hospitality.