Help ReconcilingWorks welcome the newest Reconciling in Christ (RIC) community: Mar-Lu Ridge Conference and Educational Center, Inc. (Jefferson, MD).
Their welcome statement reads:
“In accordance with our Mission Statement which reads in part “We welcome all people,” Mar-Lu-Ridge Camp and Retreat Center is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment which reflects the lessons Jesus taught us: To love one another, even as I have loved you. (John 13:34)
Mar-Lu-Ridge values diversity, opposes discrimination, and promotes equal opportunity regardless of age, disability, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, or gender expression or identity. Mar-Lu-Ridge will not tolerate behavior that discriminates based on any of the above identities. In contrast, and in keeping with our values and mission, and the teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ, we wish to affirm and celebrate the identities of all people.
We will strive to provide an environment where people will feel appreciated as unique individuals as well as commit ourselves to the work of anti-racism, pledging to live as reconciling people seeking reparations in our life together and among the world. We will work to ensure that our staff members, campers, volunteers, and guests can reach their full potential by living and working in a community of inclusivity and mutual respect as beloved members of the kin-dom of God.*
* “Kin-dom” was first introduced to us in 1996 by Maria Isasi-Díaz in her book, “Mujerista Theology.” In it she used the word “kin-dom” to avoid using the word “kingdom,” which many understand as sexist and elitist. She also used it to note that when Scripture speaks of the kingdom of God, it describes the coming together of people as kin, with no one being excluded; where there is liberation, salvation, and the fullness of life for all.“
Learn more about Mar-Lu Ridge at: www.mar-lu-ridge.org