Since 2017, the Episcopal Church of the Intercession and Redeemer Lutheran Church in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, have been worshipping together under the leadership of the Rev. Jane Johnson. Shortly after this new ecumenical community sprang up, a group of worshippers who do not identify as either Episcopalian or Lutheran joined. They became known as “Beloved” members. Due to these new worshippers’ lack of formal denominational affiliation, they were unable to be elected to positions within the church. Special dispensation was offered by the local Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and Episcopal bishops.
In October, the entire body voted to unite all three communities, forming a new unionized church composed of two parishes and now a third community of congregants, a new expression of ecumenical partnership for both The Episcopal Church and the ELCA. They are also the first Union congregation in Wisconsin. The celebrated this historic union on Oct. 31.
To learn more about Beloved Community in Wisconsin, click here.