In early April ELM launched Proclaim, the new professional community for publicly-identified LGBTQ Lutheran rostered leaders and seminarians.  Proclaim members are Lutheran rostered leaders who seek to renew and transform Lutheran congregations and ministries and serve God’s people through their ministry as publicly-identified lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people.  Proclaim is an Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries program.

Proclaim recently reached the 55 member mark and continues to grow. The group includes a diverse group of LGBTQ rostered leaders, ranging from those who’ve been in ministry for many years to others who are just starting out. The group includes leaders from places like the Midwest, Alaska, South Africa, the Bay Area, East Coast and even Texas! Visit www.elm.org/proclaim for a list of current members.

Proclaim offers its members professional development and support; participation in an annual leaders’ retreat; eligibility to apply for ELM grants and scholarships; and  access to year-round networking and  professional development resources.

Proclaim is open to any Lutheran clergy or rostered lay leader who publicly identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer. Proclaim also welcomes entranced seminarians to the community. You can learn more and download a membership form by visiting www.elm.org/proclaim.

Check the ELM news blog for updates about the work Proclaim members are doing.