Pastor Scott's Message
Last week I talked about my disappointment with the LCMS convention’s tone and feel. In Bible class, I started to discuss the resolutions that were passed. This week after service, I will finish the discussion. I believe that it is important that as many people as possible are educated in the happenings of our synod. It seems to me that when are church body goes wrong is when a select few have the power to make big decisions. When our whole congregation or the whole of the LCMS is informed and empowered then better more faithful and loving decisions are made. We are all the priesthood and have a responsibility to care for the church and its direction.
Many of the resolutions at the convention were uncontroversial as evidenced by a high percentage yes vote. Encouraging the planting of churches, promoting vigilance in child protection, giving thanks to God for the work of International mission all over the world and others passed with near 100% votes. Controversial votes where a resolution passed in the 60-80% range were rarer. But these votes illuminate potentially divisive issues in our synod that require coming together.
4-11A To encourage the study of the doctrine of Closed Communion passed by 78%. 6-02A To promote residential Seminary Education as the preferred option for the preparation of pastoral ministry passed 71%. To enhance the specific ministry pastor program passed 70%. To advance the prior review process for the Concordia University System Presidential candidates passed 60%. 9-16 To allow District Presidents access to congregational registrations in the presidential vote passed by only 56%. 9-17
Some resolutions were controversial enough to be postponed. Instead of voting on giving LCMS teachers, DCEs and other commissioned minsters the right to be considered lay delegates a resolution was passed To study voting privilege in the LCMS (72%.) The role of the LCMS president in Ecclesiastical supervision was postponed because it was so controversial.
If you would like to hear about these issues come to Adult Bible class this Sunday. You have the Spirit and are called to know these issues and have a voice in God’s church.
