Gloucester’s Apostles Lutheran Church has become a “Reconciling in Christ” church after over two years of working toward this goal.

Reconciling in Christ, according to the church’s welcome statement, means that the church believes “that because we are all one in Christ, and created in God’s image, all are welcome as beloved children of God. We welcome into the full life of the church all those whom God sends us.

“Rejoicing in God’s amazing diversity, we welcome people of all ages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and physical and mental abilities. Centered in Christ, we commit ourselves to breaking down dividing walls and building a community where all are beloved.”

Jeniffer Tillman, M.Div., pastor of Apostles Lutheran, which is located at 7092 Main Street, said that she wanted the church to be truly open and welcoming to everyone and fully inclusive, since Jesus Christ showed examples of loving your neighbor as yourself.

In 2019, Tillman was seeking out chur...