Nondiscrimination

Our Commitment to Non-Discrimination

At Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in La Crosse, Wisconsin, we believe that the body of Christ is diverse, inclusive, and called to love without condition or exception.

As a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we affirm the dignity and worth of all people. We strive to live out our faith by creating a church community where everyone is welcome, valued, and respected, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, ability, or background.

A Church Without Barriers

We are committed to being a non-discriminatory body of Christ. This means:

  • Open Doors: All are welcome to worship, participate, and serve at Good Shepherd—without fear of exclusion or judgment.

  • Inclusive Leadership: We support and affirm the leadership of people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, people of color, and persons with disabilities.

  • Welcoming Worship: Our liturgy, language, and community events are intentionally inclusive and designed to reflect the rich diversity of God’s creation.

  • Ongoing Learning: We continually engage in education and dialogue about justice, equity, and inclusion as a faithful expression of our discipleship.

In Alignment with the ELCA

Our stance on non-discrimination is grounded in the ELCA’s social teachings and policies, including:

  • The Social Statement on Race, Ethnicity, and Culture

  • The Vision and Expectations for Rostered Leaders

  • The ELCA’s commitment to being a church for all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity (ReconcilingWorks)

These teachings call us to stand firmly against racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, and all forms of discrimination.

A Place for You

We believe that church should be a place where God’s unconditional love is made real through community, service, and belonging. If you have felt unwelcome or marginalized in other spaces, know that you are embraced here as a beloved child of God.

Join Us in the Journey

Being a non-discriminatory church is not a one-time decision—it is a daily commitment to justice, reconciliation, and love. We invite you to join us in this ongoing journey, shaped by grace and guided by the life and teachings of Jesus.

If you have questions, feedback, or would like to share your story, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out via the contact info below or speak with one of our pastors after worship.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
4141 Mormon Coulee Rd.
La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 788-0450
office@gslacrosse.org