Clarence E. Anderson Peace and Justice Award

Clarence E. Anderson was a long-time member of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Glendale and a strong supporter of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in North Hollywood. As gay man, Clarence felt the sting of exclusion and prejudice throughout his life. Thanks to the ministries of Bishop J. Roger Anderson, Pastor Dwight Johnson, and Lutherans Concerned - Los Angeles (now SoCal Lutherans), Clarence found a church that loved him unconditionally. Clarence lived a simple life of quiet generosity and at the time of his passing in 2001, he left most of his estate to Lutheran congregations and organizations committed to the full inclusion of LGBTQ persons. In honor of Clarence’ commitment to the work of peace and justice, the Synod Council of the Southwest California Synod and SoCal Lutherans created “The Clarence E. Anderson Peace and Justice Award.” It is given annually to those who work to further LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the church.