Preamble

This is the preamble of the Beloved Community:

We believe that it is more than sheer coincidence that our congregations have come together as they have thus far. We believe the Holy Spirit is guiding a process by which the strengths of our respective congregations are enmeshed to offer an innovative approach for carrying God's Word and saving grace to more residents of Stevens Point. Based on our wonderful experience of worshipping together, as well as discussions among clergy and lay leaders, we believe the stage is set to take our discussions to the next level.

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Many churches these days are caught up in a kind of denominational tribalism, asserting their own inherent "rightness," above and beyond all others. The Called to Common Mission Concordat approved by the ELCA and the Episcopal Church in 2000 affirms a theological reciprocity between equals. It also establishes the groundwork for reciprocal practice in mission and ministry, arising out of that same unity about which Jesus spoke. Creation shows us that God does not favor uniformity, and so we can embrace diversity - in this case denominational diversity - without allowing it to become or be divisive.

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We, the congregations of Redeemer Lutheran Church and Episcopal Church of the Intercession recognize the authenticity of each other's teaching and practices. And even as we strive to celebrate those things which make us uniquely Lutheran and uniquely Episcopal, we place our focus on that most important element which we hold in common: our faith in Christ. While leveraging resources, we come together in unity to live out the call and message of the Gospel in service to our neighbors. As we continue in this common life, and the covenant which has come out of our relationship, we pray that we may be increasingly guided by God's wisdom, illumined by God's light, protected under God's wing, and receive the courage to make bold decisions.