Ebenezer / herchurch Lutheran Church

A sanctuary painted in vibrant purple and periwinkle, a bold statement amidst the San Francisco cityscape. This is Ebenezer/herchurch Lutheran Church. Ebenezer/herchurch Lutheran Church isn’t just a building. It’s a story of transformation, a testament to the power of embracing the feminine divine within the Lutheran tradition. Founded in 1882 as Ebenezer Lutheran Church, this church initially served Swedish immigrants. The current building arose in 1956. But the story truly takes a turn with the arrival of Pastor Stacy Boorn in 1998. The church was facing dwindling membership. Boorn felt a call to revitalize the church with a focus on feminist theology. This sparked a revolution within the congregation. Boorn introduced inclusive language, replacing “Our Father” with “Our Mother” in prayers. She incorporated female imagery into the liturgy. In 2002, a banner declared “God loves all Her children,” marking a public embrace of the herchurch identity. This bold move caused a rift, with many original members leaving. But under Boorn’s leadership, Ebenezer/herchurch Lutheran Church found new life. The church became a beacon for those seeking a more inclusive and egalitarian spiritual home. They champion LGBTQIA+ rights and social justice issues concerning women. Their annual Faith and Feminism conference draws people from all walks of life. Ebenezer/herchurch Lutheran Church also holds a unique place in LGBTQIA+ history. In 2006, it was part of a joint call that ordained Megan Rohrer, the ELCA’s first transgender pastor. Ebenezer/herchurch Lutheran Church continues to push boundaries, fostering a community of acceptance and challenging traditional power structures within the church. Their story is a testament to the evolving nature of faith and the power of embracing the feminine divine. Their purple walls stand as a symbol of that transformation, a vibrant reminder of the inclusive spirit within.