8 Months as Beloved

How One Community Blended Two Traditions into a Bold New Witness

On October 13, 2024, the Episcopal Church of the Intercession and Redeemer Lutheran Church in Stevens Point voted to become a Union Congregation. By October 30, the vote had passed, and a new name and a new vision were born: Beloved Community. Today, just over eight months later, the story of this Episcopal–Lutheran congregation is one of organic unity, meaningful worship, and Spirit-led growth.

“We had already combined in word and deed as one church before it was official,” said church leader Gary. “So the official process seemed pretty seamless.”

And yet, what’s taken place since has been anything but static. With combined ministries, unified finances, and shared leadership, Beloved Community has become, as current member Jackie described, “a refuge and shelter for many.”

“One in Two”: Formation & Becoming

This merger wasn’t just a line in the budget—it was a journey of discernment and deep listening. “We did a lot of listening and community gatherings before coming together in August of 2017,” one leader recalled. With support from diocesan and synod leaders like Cathy Cowling and Rev. Amy Engebose, the congregations spent a year building trust. “The strengths that have carried us forward are intentional asking, listening, and adjusting,” they said. “We recognize that the Spirit is leading and our job is discernment—and then ‘recalculating.’”

There were expected challenges. “One issue was the assets,” Gary explained. “Redeemer brought in a building that was paid off. Intercession brought in a substantial money market account. People… were questioning how this would all work if we became one church family.” Worship style was another: “Intercession came from a Gothic Church building… with a very traditional/formal worship style. Redeemer had a band three times a month and wore no vestments. We have continually made room for one another and have learned the beauty of both ends of the style/music spectrum.”

Still, the results have been profound. “There is so much joy,” said one parent. “Watching our children’s ministry grow, watching them participate in the liturgy—and how proud they are. When they are invited to come and get ‘extra Jesus’... they come running.”

Worship that Reflects a New Identity

Worship at Beloved Community doesn’t belong to one tradition—it belongs to the people. “Beloved Community members are more accustomed to change,” said Lyssa, music director. “There is more of a blend in what elements are included in both services now that members have adapted to and grown to enjoy.”

Jackie shared, “When we first started worshiping together, Pastor Jane needed to point out what was Lutheran or Episcopal… Now there is no longer a concern about what is being ‘lost’ as we come together. It is less about traditional practices and more about the messages and daily practice in the way of love.”

“I think the blending of Lutheran and Episcopal traditions has existed since I came here,” Lyssa added. “There are hymns and songs from both that are an integral part of worship, and The Beloved Community’s music ministry would not be the same without that combination.”

From her view as a newer member, Dona said, “I didn’t enter the Beloved Community with any deep, experiential expectations about what either the Lutheran or Episcopal traditions would include... I’ve learned how much matters like the hymnal have mattered to people historically.”

“I have learned what we should be practicing everywhere in our lives,” Jackie noted. “Look for what brings us together rather than what sets us apart.”

New Ministries from Shared Vision

With unity came a blossoming of creativity. “Yes, there are new ministries!” said Lyssa. “We are beginning a choir that will unite folks in music who were originally part of either one church or the other.”

“Absolutely,” added Dona. “Over the past couple of years, we’ve seen the emergence of a number of new ministries and groups… a semi-annual thrift sale, new groups serving marginalized populations, a pickleball ministry, and a hospitality committee. A bi-denominational church like this probably attracts people who value tradition without being bound by it.”

Youth leadership has also evolved. “We are continuing youth-centered leadership, while giving them even more voice and autonomy,” Jackie said. “I see more youth and families stepping in when asked because they see the value of what is happening.”

Stewardship Rooted in Trust

In terms of finances, the transition has been intentional and clear. “Since the union, we have moved to one EIN, one entity,” said Kathryn. “All income and expenses are going through the combined bank accounts… The unified banking—and the accounting and payroll services provided by the Diocese of Wisconsin—should greatly simplify our budget planning.”

“We established a Capital Expense Fund and committee,” added Judi. “Each congregation puts $4,000 annually toward building repairs/improvements… When we have a capital expense, the committee researches options and reports their recommendations to the Council.”

The Care for the Earth Fund supports projects like prairie restoration, rain barrels, and LED lighting. “We’re committed to maintaining our property and hosting the wider community,” Kathryn said.

Have giving patterns changed? “Not really,” Judi replied. Kathryn agreed: “Since we’ve been in partnership for seven years already, I don’t foresee any real changes.”

What Comes Next

Looking ahead, the council is clear-eyed and hopeful. “I hope that we continue to be a safe, welcoming space for ALL,” said Kendra. “Good soil that creates space for others to grow, be loved, and to love.”

“Our mission growth will be more in the community,” Sarah said. “Beloved Community has a strong history of community support… Holding on to a mission of love requires long-term care and short-term pivots.”

“This year may be a time for us to focus on what has been transformative,” added Greg, “and develop other programs that continue that transformation.”

For the Curious and the Cautious

What would they say to someone unsure about joining something so new?

“You can be a part of BC in many different ways,” said Kendra. “Member, friend, acquaintance… The gifts you have to share with us are just as important as what we have to share with you.”

Sarah offered this reflection:

“We believe all are created in, and a reflection of, God's image; regardless of color, race, spiritual beliefs, gender, origin, economic class, or sexual orientation... We believe the Bible to be divinely inspired while also written by imperfect men... I would acknowledge to a newcomer that this community may not look like what they have known or expect, but to see if they have value alignment in the above objectives. I would encourage folks to come curious.”

Greg added: “We are all still growing. There’s room for you to explore at your own pace, ask questions, and see what feels real and meaningful.”

And what do they hope people say about them a year from now?

“That Beloved Community… they get it,” Greg said.

“I’m a proud member of Beloved Community,” Sarah echoed, “because it is a community where I can lead with love and curiosity… I feel love and give love.”

Plans for the one-year anniversary are already underway—at the heart of them, storytelling. “I feel inspired by the opportunity to contribute my thoughts,” Sarah said, “and see how, collectively, Beloved Community can appreciate a one-year anniversary by sharing our stories with the wider community.”

To learn more about Beloved Community or connect with its ministries, visit belovedcommunitysp.org