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New to Joy?Mission & ValuesWhat We BelieveOur PastorsOur StaffWorship TimesGetting BaptizedGivingMinistry PartnersCare (Oasis)Children (0 to 5th Grade)Community GroupsMarriage & CouplesMemorial GardensMenMissions & OutreachPrayerSeniors (Fiesta)Serve DayStudents (6th-12th)VolunteerWomenWorshipGive Online* BylawsEvents CalendarMERGE MagazinePodcastsWebcastClassified AdsBusiness DirectoryJob ListingsThe Joy FoundationWhy is CCOJ Leaving the ELCA?
On Sunday, June 28, Community Church of Joy voted to disassociate from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and separately voted to align itself with Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC).
The result of the vote to end our affiliation with the ELCA was 174 in favor and 11 opposed. 94% of those present were eager to move into relationships and partnerships that are more aligned with Joy's vision, values and mission. This is a significant step into a future filled with unlimited opportunities to experience God's blessings of obedience and righteousness.
To make it clear why CCOJ has taken this action, you may download documents regarding recent ELCA actions below:
In a separate vote, Joy also committed to enter into a relationship with a spirit-filled Lutheran association known as the LCMC (Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ) by a 98% margin. This part of the Body of Christ is very closely aligned with Joy's vision, values and mission.
UPDATE: On Sunday, September 27, Joy voted a second time to disassociate from the ELCA after the required 90-day waiting period between votes. 129 were in favor; 0 were against. Subsequently, Pastor Walt Kallestad resigned from the rostered clergy of the ELCA.