Statement of Inclusion and Welcome

Faith is hard. This is us.

An emerging faith community, The Lakeshore Collective gathers people of  various backgrounds and beliefs, drawn together by the love of Jesus Christ, our care for each other, and our passion for our community. Jesus often gathered people by a lake.  Our choice of name reflects our desire to gather in the same way, whether it is in a park, a restaurant, a coffee shop, a bar, or a home or backyard.  At  the Lakeshore Collective, all people are welcome, and all means all. We believe that all people are created in the image of God, that all people are of sacred worth, and that Christ died for all people. We believe that God’s radically inclusive love excludes no one. We welcome everyone without exception, regardless of age, race, ethnic background, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, family or socioeconomic status, educational background, political affiliation, physical or mental ability, faith history or life experience. We believe that the diversity of God’s creation makes it beautiful. We need each other!  We are a church without walls, but wherever and however we gather, it is a safe place for all.  We may see matters of theology and biblical interpretation differently, but we agree that even when we disagree, we do so with love, respect, and without judgment.  We covenant to accept, respect, and love one another along our faith journeys. No matter who you are, where you’re from, or what you believe, you are always welcome at The Lakeshore Collective.

We believe that anyone,
and that means everyone, can:

  • Be baptized
  • Have children baptized
  • Become members of The Lakeshore Collective 
  • Participate in small groups
  • Volunteer with any of our work, worship, or service teams, such as:
    • Lead small groups
    • Volunteer with our children and youth ministries
    • Participate in or lead a mission trip
    • Serve on our Leadership Team
    • Read Scripture in worship
    • Participate in worship leadership (serve communion, be a greeter, etc…)
    • Participate in any level of leadership.

Your sexual orientation or gender identity will never disqualify you from any activity at The Lakeshore Collective.

In the spring of 2024 the General Conference of the United Methodist Church did what only our General Conference can do.  The language in our Book of Discipline has been changed!  Pastor Amy may now officially officiate same gender weddings.  If you are in need of a pastor to officiate your wedding, please let us know!  

We’re Connected.

As a United Methodist congregation, we  partner with other United Methodist Churches in our area for missional, worship, and fellowship opportunities. We believe that the power of our connection should include being in ministry together for the benefit of all.  Your participation in any of The Lakeshore Collective’s events and ministry provides additional resources for you, whether or not you are a member or participant at another church! We believe the future of the church lies in our ability to work together for the benefit of our communities and to work together.