WordAlone Nebraska Issue papers

JOURNEY TOGETHER FAITHFULLY

As promised, the initial draft of the third Human Sexuality study was released on Thursday, March 13. Rostered Pastors should now have hard copies, and it is available on line to everyone.

As expected, the proposed draft is long, almost 50 pages. It will require considerable perseverance to work through the document.

Following the conclusion, a response form is attached. More about that at a later date.

To find the document click here.

DRAFT of PROPOSED ELCA SOCIAL STATEMENT ON SEXUALITY Available March 13

The next step is about to be taken. The ELCA Task Force for Studies on Sexuality has announced that a proposed draft of the new document will be released in March. It will be provided to Pastors, and will also be available online.

Like previous proposals, the response of the Church will be encouraged.

The announcement was made in an ELCA News Release on Febr. 4. To read it click here.

LAYMAN'S GUIDE TO SCRIPTURE

By Mark Chavez, Director and by Gary R. Jepsen, Pastor, Pilgrim Lutheran Church, Puyallup, WA

At the Churchwide Assembly (CWA) in 2007, the ELCA adopted: Book of Faith: Lutherans read the Bible.

To show the CWA report click here.

This five year study is underway. Dr. Diane Jacobson of Luther Seminary is the Director of the study, and is to devote half of her time to this project.

Even though this initiative will continue for several years, it is not too early to examine it more closely.

To read it click here.

In this message, Director Chavez introduces an article by Pastor Jepsen which lays a foundation for this study. It gives us a base from which to operate as new material becomes available in the future.

TEN EXAMPLES OF THE CRISIS

PARADIGMS IN ACTS -- FOR THE SPIRIT-LED CHURCH

(Discernment in the New Testament and Today)

By Frederick W. Baltz

The Fall Theological Conference of WordAlone was held Nov. 11-13 at White Bear Lake, MN. One of the featured presenters was Dr. Frederick Baltz, a member of the WordAlone Board of Directors.

Using the Book of Acts as a pattern, Fred sets forth several paradigms which prevailed in the early church, and which should still obtain in the church today.

One of these paradigms is enunciated in Acts 6: 1-4. In response to a complaint, the 'Twelve' summoned the believers, and said to them: "It is not right that we should give up preaching the Word of God to serve tables."

In this particular section, Fred contends that one of the major faults of the church today is that we have replaced the primary duty of 'preaching the Word' (Evangelism) with an almost obsessive emphasis on socio-political concerns (waiting on tables). In so doing, we have reversed the paradigm set forth by the 'Twelve' in Acts 6. To find the text of his presentation click here.

LINDENHURST MEETING REPORT

October 5, 2007

We have been waiting for a report from the highly publicized national gathering of LUTHERAN CORE, held on Sept. 28 at Lindenhurst, IL. That report is now available. Lutheran Coalition for Reform is one of the expressions of the Word Alone Network.

It contains a lot of sage comments from some highly qualified people. To find it click here.

SAME VIEW, TWO REVIEWS (Sexuality Study Guide)

Part Three, Free in Christ to Serve the Neighbor: Lutherans Talk About Human Sexuality. This study leaves much to be desired, both for what it says, as well as some things that it does not say. It carries a considerable bias, and is of limited value without an independent study guide.

Many critiques have been written, but we have chosen to direct your attention to two pieces published by the American Lutheran Publicity Bureau. To find them click here.

To read the entire ELCA study click here.

ELCA ASSEMBLY SLIPS PRACTICING GAYS IN BACK DOOR TO PULPIT

By Betsy Carlson, Network News Editor

The CWA is over. What did it do? Maybe not much. 15 of 22 resolutions were adopted by lop-sided majorities. Was it just another very expensive perfunctory exercise? It might seem so.

The one resolution that attracted several days of controversy, and a fairly close vote, was to "urge" the bishops to exercise restraint in applying discipline. Nothing really new here either. In the recent past, some bishops have enforced church policy; some have not. The adopted resolution gives some cover to bishops who choose to flaunt the stated policies of the church.

Our August Issue Paper offers a Word Alone "take" on what the resolution might mean. To read it click here.

'THE LUTHERAN' AND DR. DONFRIED

The July issue of the Lutheran magazine contains two articles pertaining to the Word Alone Network, and to Dr. Donfried’s remarks at the WordAlone Convention in particular, on page 51 and the editorial on page 4. (They are available on line if you are subscribed.) To read them click here and click here.

As it turns out, both articles represent flawed reporting. In response, Dr. Donfried has prepared a letter to Editor Lehmann and other church leaders. You need not wait until it is published by the Lutheran. To read it now click here.

SCRIPTURE AS THE REAL PRESENCE OF CHRIST

By Rev. Prof. Karl P. Donfried, Dr. of Theology

The ELCA and WordAlone have much in common. Both are currently involved in a study of how to read and interpret Scripture. A noble undertaking for both.

Our Issue Paper for the month is the keynote address on the subject, delivered by Dr. Donfried at last month’s WordAlone Convention.

Dr. Donfried is an ordained ELCA Pastor, but his material does not sound typical ELCA. There is good reason for that.

The presentation is long, but is worth your while. We can almost guarantee that you will not find it to be a waste of your good time. To find it click here.

A LUTHERAN STATEMENT ON THE AUTHORITY AND INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE IN THE CHURCH.

The steering committee of Lutheran Coalition for Reform, an expression of the Word Alone Network, issued this statement just prior to the recent WordAlone Convention. It reflects the primary theme of the convention, and is intended to give direction to the study of scriptural interpretation which is currently being conducted in the ELCA.

If this presentation expresses your understanding of 'how to read the Bible', you are free to subscribe to it as indicated. To read it click here.

HOW MAINLINE SEMINARY EDUCATION UNDERMINES ORTHODOX PERSPECTIVES

By Ryan Travis

An article in the April 2007 issue of The Lutheran gives a glowing report of the orthodoxy of theological education at our ELCA seminaries. Dr. Donald Huber, academic dean of Trinity Seminary, Columbus, OH, states that the curriculum continues to emphasize commitment to Lutheran doctrine and biblical authority. But, he goes on to say: “What is changing is how we get down to applying these things to our lives today”.

Aye, there’s the rub. A student at a Presbyterian seminary (one of our full-communion partners) sees mainline theological education in quite a different light. There is ample evidence that the atmosphere he describes also prevails at our own seminaries. Like Ryan, we are increasingly concerned with the future well-being of our church. Read and heed his insightful comments click here.

IT'S RESOLUTION TIME!

The 2007 Synod Assemblies are just around the corner. Now is the time for 'grassroots' Lutherans to make their voices heard.

There are a number of suggested resolutions from various sources available for our consideration. The website of the Word Alone Network offers a considerable list. We commend it to your attention. To read it click here.

ELW - EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN WORSHIP, a hymnal for the ELCA.

We have offered comments on the new ELCA hymnal previously. (Issue Paper, June 2006, and News Item, Nov.2006)

At this point, the ELW (Evangelical Lutheran Worship) is in print. We are told that quite a few congregations have already ordered it, much to the glee of Augsburg-Fortress.

If you are considering such a move in your congregation, it may be wise to examine it in all of its parts. Why buy something that you know so little about?

We offer two choices, written by different people at different times. One is a little more comprehensive, but both are informative.

The choices are:

(1) click here.

(2) click here.

NEW SEXUALITY STUDY SEPARATES LAW AND GOSPEL

By Mark Chavez, Director, WordAlone Network

The third ELCA study on human sexuality is available. Most of us have at least some acquaintance with its contents.

Every document makes a statement, and this study is no exception.

Moreover, statements often need a counter-statement to clarify the issues. This reaction was prepared by WordAlone’s Mark Chavez. To read it click here.

ELCA COUNCIL ASKS FOR REPORT

The ELCA Church Council, meeting Nov. 11-13, 2006 in Chicago, entertained the discussion of two issues which are of more than passing interest.

They heard about forming a group to study 'how we study and use the Word of God'. That sounds all too simple, but most of us know that it is the most critical issue that faces our Church today. Almost everything in our theology and practice flows from this one basic concept.

The Council also heard a report on the third round of studies on Human Sexuality. Its name has been changed. It is now titled: Free in Christ to Serve the Neighbor: Lutherans Talk about Human Sexuality.

The Study Guide, promised for Dec. 4, 2006, is now available. Its URL is listed in the text of the News Release. Open 'faithful journey', click on 'more' in box on right side of the page.

Admittedly, this is a formidable report. As a beginning, we recommend that you read the introduction. It sets the tone for the discussion that follows.

To see the complete referenced News Release click here.

ELCA TASK FORCE ON HUMAN SEXUALITY WORKS TO FINALIZE A THIRD STUDY

The third ELCA study document on human sexuality is about to be released under the title, Set Free in Christ: Talking about Human Sexuality.

Advance copies may be pre-ordered at a cost of $3.00. It will be available for free download beginning December 4, 2006.To read the preliminary News Release click here.

THE INESCAPABLE CHOICE

by Richard J. Niebanck

The Issue Paper for this month is written by a Lutheran Pastor who is a member of the Society of the Holy Trinity. Several members of this group have left the Lutheran Church for the Roman or Orthodox persuasions.

This does not directly apply to most ELCA pastors. But many of the same principles are applicable. There are Pastors who seriously question their continued affiliation with the ELCA

We know from personal contact, or from correspondence, that there are ELCA pastors who are struggling with the question: Do I stay, or do I leave? Read the rationale by which this pastor answered this question for himself. You will find that his conclusions parallel the position of the Word Alone Network. To read the article click here.

CHAVEZ LETTER TO EDITOR OF "LUTHERAN" MAGAZINE

In the July issue of 'The Lutheran', an extended article appeared under the title: "Its About Scripture, Reform-minded Groups Argue Authority."

Many Word Alone members cringed when their organization was juxtaposed with Lutherans Concerned/ North America. ( LC/NA is a leader in the gay/lesbian lobby). A group that promotes adherence to Scripture (WA) is hardly a compatible bedfellow with another group that openly denies the authority of Scripture. (LC/NA)

We leave it to Word Alone's Director, Pastor Mark Chavez to offer his perspective in a letter to Dan Lehmann, editor of the 'Lutheran' magazine. To Find it click here.

If you missed the 'Lutheran' article, look for it in the July 2006 issue, or if you have online access to the Lutheran, you may read it click here.

Mainline Renewal Leaders Warn against Sexuality Compromises

This is a letter from the Association for Church Renewal Leaders. The imposing list of signatories includes our own Mark Chavez of the Word Alone Network.

They suggest that the current trend in many mainline churches is creating what can be called: ‘a third way’. In their own words:

“The essence of the new strategy is this: to leave in church law books the orthodox standards calling Christians to fidelity in marriage and sexual abstinence in singleness, while inventing procedural devices permitting church bodies and officials to disregard the standards at will.”

They conclude that “a church that systematically refuses to choose between truth and error has no place left to stand.” To read the entire letter click here.

FORMAL THEOLOGICAL STANCE PROPOSED FOR WORD ALONE

By Mark Chavez, Director

A basic theological statement of Word Alone is stated in the Common Confession, which has been presented in previous posts to our website.

However, it is believed that a more comprehensive theological statement should be developed. The study process for this project is based on an article by Dr. Dennis Bielfeldt. A Study Guide is being prepared, and will be available soon. It is intended for individuals, groups and for the Fall Theological Conference of the WordAlone Network.

An introduction to this undertaking is found by clicking here.

The full text of Dr. Bielfeldt’s comprehensive presentation is at this address click here.

THINK LONG AND HARD, before buying the new ELCA Hymnal

What started at the 2005 Churchwide Assembly as “Renewing Worship” is now to appear as a new hymnal, Evangelical Lutheran Worship. A preliminary kit has been sent to all ELCA congregations.

Pastor Scott Grorud, a committee member of Reclaim Resources, which is developing similar material under the auspices of the Word Alone Network, offers some cautionary remarks.

Caveat emptor! Let the buyer beware. To read his comments click here.

A THOUGHT EXPERIMENT ON THE FUTURE OF ECUSA

All is not well in ECUSA (Episcopal Church, USA), the US expression of the worldwide Anglican Communion. The Anglican Communion Institute recently (April 24, 2008) offers a scenario of twenty statements, followed by four provocative questions. one of which is: Where will those wanting the old ECUSA find their logic and their general place in the fractured reality?’

Considering the current trends in our own ELCA, is this the direction in which we too are heading? Or, may we be so bold as to suggest that, in some respects, we are already there? To read the referenced article click here.

HETEROPRAXIS AND OBFUSCATION

By Robert Benne, Director of the Center for Religion and Society, Roanoke College, an ELCA institution of higher learning.

Once again, Dr. Robert Benne returns to our pages. Under a rather imposing title, Dr. Benne, in a very recent article, gives an analysis of actions at the 2005 Churchwide Assembly, particularly those relating to the three resolutions pertaining to homosexuality.

Prof. Benne discusses what the resolutions said, how they are being interpreted, and what changes in practice are happening, or are being encouraged and promoted.

To read this article click here.

LUTHER ROLLS IN GRAVE?

Many of our Issue Papers are intended for those who have the time and inclination to do serious study.

This pattern is exemplified by an article written by Dr. Dennis Bielfeldt, Professor of Philosophy and Religion at South Dakota State University, an ELCA Pastor, and chair of the Lutheran Theological House of Studies Task Force.

In it he discusses the ’paradigm shift’ from the theology of Luther to the ‘working theology’ of the Protestant community in general, and more specifically, within the ELCA. To find this extended study click here.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS, ANYTHING BUT BORED

The reform movement in the Lutheran Church , as you may know, is undergoing a number of changes. Taking the lead in this process is the Word Alone Network.

Rev. Jaynan Clark Egland, President of the Word Alone Network, offers an article announcing some of the changes in the organization’s structure. To read it click here.

WHY A LUTHERAN HOUSE OF STUDIES?

By Dr. Dennis Bielfeldt

At the Word Alone Network Annual Convention, April 2005, it was resolved that, in the light of perceived flaws in theological education in the ELCA, the Board appoint a Task Force “to develop a plan and proposal to establish a Lutheran Theological House of Studies“.

This resolution has been implemented, and is chaired by Dr. Dennis Bielfeldt.

In this article Dr. Bielfeldt discusses the trends in theological education that have led us to the place where we now find ourselves. It ends with the goals of this new Lutheran House of Studies.

To read the article click here.

LUTHERAN CHURCHES OF THE CONMMON CONFESSION

The News Item for last month called attention to the Fall Conference of the Word Alone Network, attended also by other organizations committed to reform in the ELCA. The gathering produced a framework for a new association of congregations.

On Saturday, Dec. 10, 2005 a special post to WA Chaptertalk announced some specific details of this new Association, to be known as: Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession. (LCCC)

A special website has been established to follow the progress of this new organization. To find it click here.

METRO NY SYNOD MOVES GAY AGENDA FORWARD IN THE ELCA

"Ultimately, the assembly (Churchwide Assembly) failed to adopt a policy recommendation that would allow the church to ordain, consecrate and commission candidates for ministry who are in life-long, committed same-sex relationships. The vote fell well short -- 490-503 -- of the two-thirds required to make the change."

This is a quote from an ELCA news release dated Aug. 12, 2005, while the CWA was in session at Orlando, FL. Unlike another of the major resolutions at the Assembly, this resolution was eminently clear. No ordination for homosexuals living in a partnered relationship.

Not everyone was satisfied with this resolution, but the only group to take specific action, to the best of our knowledge, is the Metropolitan New York Synod. Your attention is invited to a report on a special Synod Assembly held on Oct, 29, 2005.

An example from Resolution C:

"Resolved, that the guidance of this Synod with regard solely to the fact that an otherwise-qualified candidate for rostered ministry is in a loving, committed, same-gender relationship, is for the Candidacy Committee of this Synod to determine the matter primarily on the basis of whether the mission and pastoral needs of this Synod would be best served by accepting that candidate's gifts for ministry."

Metro NY Synod Moves Gay Agenda Forward in the ELCA by Eric Swensson, the Evangleical Lutheran Church the Holy Trinity, New Rochelle, New York (posted with the author's permission)

A special meeting of the Synod Assembly was held on Oct. 29 at St. Peter's Church on Lexington Ave. in Manhattan. In the ultra modern sanctuary of the church that sits at the base of one of the corners of the City Corp building, traditionalist members of the church wonder if some of the foundational teaching of the church was not excavated. The other side of what was a sharply divided house felt on the other hand that they were making civil rights history as they voted for the right to call "partnered" gay and lesbian clergy.

The stated reason for the meeting on the synod's web site was, "to consider the actions of the Churchwide Assembly concerning human sexuality." Four resolutions on Gay and Lesbian issues were placed before the assembly by the Executive Committee of the Synod.

The session began with Morning Prayer. There were 118 clergy, 11 Associates in Ministry, and 160 Lay delegates present.

Following Morning Prayer where a hymn praising inclusive love was sung and the John 8 text for Reformation Day was read, Bishop Stephen P. Bouman spoke for ten minutes. He asked everyone to treat each other with utmost respect. He quoted Mark Powell's words that the purpose of the church was to love Jesus and everything beyond that was just strategy. Bouman said that he was personally unhappy that Recommendation 3 didn't pass in Orlando, but he wanted everyone to remember, "We don't meet in the middle but at the table" as he gestured toward where the altar would be. He said that though this might be seen as a crisis by some "this time will pass and others will occur." He made an allusion to making and acting on moral decisions when he said, "This meeting is about how did we behave in the dark."

The session went into committee of the whole with speakers given two minutes to address the general nature of the issues before them. Early on one pastor said that she had only learned on Wednesday that this was to be a legislative meeting, she had believed previously that according to the resolution passed at the annual assembly held last May that this was to 'meet and discuss."

The Secretary of the synod, Rev. James Krauser, was appointed parliamentarian of the meeting by Bishop Stephen P. Bouman, took the question. He said that after the Orlando assembly the Executive Committee met to proceed on this resolution and since the third recommendation is the only one that didn't pass it was decided that this meeting should deal with that issue. The reason it is a legislative meeting is that "all assemblies are legislative bodies and they can vote or not vote, we can not make you or stop you from voting."

It was apparent that a vote was going to be taken after the committee of the whole though it was explained by Synod Vice President John Litke how a motion could be made from the floor that a resolution not be considered.

The first speaker was a pastor from Coney Island who said that since modern people believe in science and do not believe the creation account of Genesis 1 and 2 we should also not take the Bible literally, when it talks about human sexuality. Such concerns were amplified later on when another pastor said that his vocation was a scientist in England before 2000 and in his work as a consultant to sex educators, they had "Incontrovertible proof that there were not man and woman s the Bible says but 11 sexes."

The second speaker, Rev. Gregory Fryer of Immanuel Lutheran Church, possibly the only Traditionalist Lutheran pastor in New York, spoke very briefly, and in a clear reference to Martin Luther, who has a well known doctrine on creation which is an important component of his Luther's teachings, saying with dramatic hesitation that he wished that we did believe in the that (creation by God into man and woman, but also could be taken to mean believe Scripture).

Another clergy spoke urging caution and said, "One of the very reasons for a synod to exist, so that we (pastors and congregations) are not alone, are not lone rangers, this assembly is threatening to do. People here, good people whom I know, I know they think they are promoting social justice, but what it actually is doing is breaking the cease fire since Orlando. And what you are doing here, you are doing nationwide in the ELCA, and what we are talking about is schism."

All resolutions passed, with the exception of the fourth which was about to be considered but when the bishop announced that the stated closing time had been reached, the host pastor jumped to his feet and moved for adjournment. In response to a question from a delegate as to what would happen to Resolution D, to synod Secretary James Krauser said, "It will go to synod council to be processed."

Resolution A

Expressing Gratitude for the Care and Support of Gay and Lesbian Persons in our Synod

Whereas, the Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America adopted Recommendation One of the ELCA Church Council, committing this church to "seek unity in the midst of our disagreements" over matters of sexuality; and

Whereas, the Metropolitan New York Synod embraces the spirit of Recommendation One, cherishing as we do the gift of the communion we share in Jesus Christ; and

Whereas, in identifying the MNYS as a Reconciling in Christ synod we have committed our synod to the ministry of promoting unity, healing, truth and love on the matters at issue; therefore be it

Resolved, that this Assembly of the MNYS direct the Secretary of the Synod to thank the MNYS bishop, staff, Synod Council and committees for living out this unity in the care and support they continue to offer the gay and lesbian persons among us - lay, commissioned consecrated, ordained, single and partnered - receiving their gifts of time, talent, treasure and ministry on their own merits for the sake of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Submitted by the Metropolitan New York Synod Commission for Gay and Lesbian People

Resolution B

Endorsing Restraint in the Administration of ELCA Policies Applicable to Gay and Lesbian Rostered Persons

Whereas, The 2005 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America urged our church "to concentrate on finding ways to live together faithfully in the midst our disagreements;" and

Whereas, The discussion of the 2005 Churchwide Assembly concerning the ministry of partnered gay and lesbian persons provided no resolution of the disagreements by the action of a substantial majority; and

Whereas, A significant minority demonstrated their dissatisfaction with the current policy and practice of the ELCA with regard to the service in rostered ministry of partnered gay and lesbian persons, though no proposals for exceptions to or alteration of current policy achieved a majority at the 2005 Churchwide Assembly; and

Whereas, It is clear that no resolution of this matter acceptable to all persons is possible at this time; and

Whereas, Service in the rostered ministry of the church is neither a right to be claimed nor a privilege bestowed, rather it is the duty and obligation of both candidates and the church to discern the calling of God for service in the rostered ministry in specific persons; and

Whereas, This vocation is confirmed by call of the church to a specific ministry; and

Whereas, There are many instances where the process of discernment has identified candidates and settings for rostered ministry where the only impediment to the call of the church is the preclusion to service by partnered gay and lesbian persons as defined in ELCA policy; and

Whereas, Many gay and lesbian persons, partnered and single already serve in the rostered ministry in congregations of this church; and

Whereas, There are many instances where congregations have expressed their willingness to receive the ministry of partnered gay and lesbian rostered leaders; and

Whereas, Rather than limiting ourselves to one resolution of our disagreements, we ought to "invest the talents" given us in those places where call is extended to and received by partnered gay and lesbian persons and discern the working of the Spirit through the lived experience of the God's people; and

Whereas, The Rabbi Gamaliel convinced the Sanhedrin not to act against Peter and the apostles saying, ".[I]f this plan or this undertaking is of human origin, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them--in that case you may even be found fighting against God!" [Acts 5:38-39, NRSV]; therefore be it

Resolved, That in furtherance of the goal of "finding ways to live together faithfully in the midst of our disagreements" the Metropolitan New York Synod Assembly endorses, and calls for, restraint in the administration of those policies that address the full service of partnered gay and lesbian persons in rostered ministry, in order that the ministry of such persons to and with our congregations may be seen and we may discern whether God "prospers the work of their hands" [Ps. 90:17] and they may be "[known] by their fruits" [Mt. 7:16, 20]; and be it further

Resolved, That the MNYS requests other synods to join us in endorsing the practice of restraint in the administration of policies applicable only to gay and lesbian rostered persons as a part of the continuing discernment process of the ELCA so that a number of ministries across the church may be looked to as exemplars through which our synods and the ELCA may evaluate the spiritual health and welfare of congregations and communities served by openly partnered gay or lesbian rostered ministers; and

Resolved, that in this time of disagreement and discernment all members of the ELCA earnestly pray: "Lord God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen." [Morning and Evening Prayer, LBW Prayer (251)]

Submitted by

Pr. William Baum, Pr. Michael Church, Pr. Amandus Derr, Pr. Gerard Gaeta, Ms. Allison Guttu, Pr. James Klockau, Pr. James Krauser, Pr. Gary Mills, Pr. Annemarie Noto, Pr. Brooke Swertfager, Pr. Phil Trzynka,

Pr. Dennis Walker Our Savior's Atonement, Manhattan

Resolution C

Giving Guidance in the Exercise of Discipline and the Candidacy Process in the Metropolitan New York Synod

Whereas, the Metropolitan New York Synod ("this Synod") has already "received and will continue to receive the gifts of single or partnered gay and lesbian persons joyfully with thanksgiving to God, and pledges to continue to support, encourage and love those faithful gay and lesbian persons among us, whether lay, commissioned, consecrated, or ordained, whose service, witness and ministry it so receives" (per the 2005 Synod Assembly); and

Whereas, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ("ELCA") has repeatedly affirmed that "that gay and lesbian people, as individuals created by God, are welcome to participate fully in the life of the congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America" (per the 1991, 1995, 1999, 2001, and 2005 Churchwide Assemblies); and

Whereas, the ELCA has urged this Synod "to concentrate on finding ways to live together faithfully in the midst of disagreements, recognizing the God-given mission and communion that we share as members of the body of Christ" (per the 2005 Churchwide Assembly); and

Whereas, the ELCA Constitution (10.21.a; and 10.21.c) mandates that this Synod shall provide for both pastoral care and discipline of congregations and rostered leaders, including approval, call, ordination, consecration, commission, termination, censure, suspension, and removal; and

Whereas, in all of the relevant provisions (9.23; 20.21.21; 20.23.01; 20.21.09; and 20.31.04) the ELCA Constitution and Bylaws do not require a disciplinary committee (or this Synod's Council under 9.23) to impose a particular discipline, but only limit which disciplines a committee may impose if it chooses to impose any; yet the provisions do require disciplinary committees to make three decisions - (1) what "the truth of the matter" is; (2) whether this truth is grounds for discipline; and (3) whether to actually impose a particular discipline; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, By this Synod, in order to "live faithfully together in the midst of disagreements" and in order to exercise its dual responsibility to provide for both pastoral care and discipline of congregations and rostered leaders, that the following guidance shall apply only to a charge solely concerning the fact that a rostered leader is in a loving, committed, same-gender relationship; and be it further

Resolved, that in the following guidance this Synod does not create new standards for discipline, but does exercise its constitutional duty to provide for the implementation of those standards within this Synod; and be it further

Resolved, that the following guidance in no way applies to any relationship where there is clear evidence of abuse, infidelity, or exploitation of one person by another; and be it further

Resolved, that in every disciplinary action (including applications of ELCA Constitution 9.23) solely concerning the fact that a rostered leader is in a loving, committed, same-gender relationship, the following guidance shall apply:

At every point in the disciplinary process, the overriding consideration must be to best serve the mission and pastoral needs of both the particular ministry or congregation and this Synod;

In submitting a charge, the bishop, congregation members, and rostered leaders of this Synod must describe how it would best serve the mission and pastoral needs of both the particular ministry or congregation and this Synod to impose the discipline sought solely on account of the rostered leader's being in a loving, committed, same-gender relationship;

In deciding what "the truth of the matter" is, any discipline committee judging congregations or rostered leaders of this Synod must consider and determine as a fact whether imposing discipline would best serve the mission and pastoral needs of both the particular ministry or congregation and this Synod;

The discipline committee (or this Synod's Council, if under ELCA Constitution 9.23) should not impose discipline unless it determines that the imposition of discipline at all and the imposition of the specific discipline chosen both best serve the mission and pastoral needs of both the particular ministry or congregation and of this Synod; and be it further

Resolved, that in this guidance this Synod exercises its constitutional responsibility over the final decision as to whether any candidate for rostered ministry will be approved for rostering, and in the process this Synod is not establishing new standards, but announcing how candidates will be evaluated against such standards; and be it further

Resolved, that this guidance in no way applies to in any candidate in whose committed relationship the Candidacy Committee finds clear evidence of abuse, infidelity, or exploitation; and be it finally

Resolved, that the guidance of this Synod with regard solely to the fact that an otherwise-qualified candidate for rostered ministry is in a loving, committed, same-gender relationship, is for the Candidacy Committee of this Synod to determine the matter primarily on the basis of whether the mission and pastoral needs of this Synod would be best served by accepting that candidate's gifts for ministry:

Submitted by Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Manhattan

Resolution D

Adopting a Policy Regarding the Approval or Continuance of Partnered Gay or Lesbian Persons in Rostered Ministry within the Metropolitan New York Synod

Whereas, the Metropolitan New York Synod (MNYS) assembly in May 2005 and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) churchwide assembly in August 2005 both overwhelming committed to: ...live together faithfully in the midst of disagreements, recognizing the God-given mission and communion that we share as members of the body of Christ; and

Whereas, the Metropolitan New York Synod Assembly in May 2005 publicly affirmed: ...as with all gifts of the Spirit, we have received and will continue to receive the gifts of single or partnered gay and lesbian persons joyfully and thanksgiving to God, and pledges to continue to support, encourage and love those faithful gay and lesbian persons among us, whether lay, commissioned, consecrated, or ordained, whose service, witness and ministry it so receives; and

Whereas, the ELCA in assembly actions in 1991 and 1995 voted: ...to affirm that gay and lesbian people as individuals created by God are welcome to participate fully in the life of the congregations of the ELCA; and

Whereas, the Metropolitan New York Synod of the ELCA has historically voted to affirm this statement through several synodical assembly actions including voting to become a Reconciling in Christ Synod; therefore be it,

Resolved, that for the sake of the Gospel witness, mission, and ministry in this Synod:

1) Without discrimination, this Synod shall continue to encourage all members of its congregations to listen carefully and respond prayerfully to Christ's call to rostered ministry;

2) With regard to candidacy processes, it shall be the policy of this Synod that our Bishop and Candidacy Committee approve for call partnered gay and lesbian candidates who otherwise comply with Vision and Expectations, and

3) With regard to discipline processes for rostered people, it shall be the policy of this Synod that our Bishop and Discipline Committee refrain from disciplining partnered gay and lesbian people who have been approved, called, and are otherwise in compliance with Vision and Expectations and Guidelines for Discipline; and be it further

Resolved, that the Metropolitan New York Synod in assembly affirms its commitment to live together faithfully in the midst of our disagreements, recognizing the God-given mission and communion that we share as members of the body of Christ and invites all members of this synod and the members of the ELCA to continue prayerful and respectful dialogue and faithful witness to the Gospel.

Submitted by Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Manhattan

Top of page OR Top of issue links

THE DETAILS OF THE NEW ELCA HYMNAL

The Issue Paper for October is a detailed study of proposed changes in the wording of many of our familiar hymns. The author, ELCA Pastor James C. Culver, believes that most of these changes are intended to satisfy a gender specific agenda.

Since this article is quite long, and by its very nature is a study document, we have chosen to post it under "Resources" on our website. To read it click here.

Top of page OR Top of issue links

REFLECTIONS ON CHURCH-WIDE ASSEMBLY

by The Rev. Sara Gausmann

There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12

These are some initial thoughts on my week at church-wide assembly. Some of which I will be sharing in my congregation's newsletter. I am a parish pastor. I have been ordained for 14 years and currently serve as co-pastor with my husband Paul Gausmann. I also serve on the synod council for the Lower Susquehanna Synod, ELCA.

I want to share two things in response to my week at the church-wide assembly in Orlando. First of all I share the text of my speech from the floor of the assembly; since some of it was quoted on National Public Radio and some in the Harrisburg paper I thought it would be helpful to see the whole thing. Also, I would like to share some initial reaction that I have to not only the proceedings but to the tenor of the whole week and the state of the ELCA.

^From the floor of the assembly at the quasi committee of the whole:

Sally Gausmann, Lower Susquehanna Synod:

I give thanks to God for his love for all people. I give thanks to God for the gift of Jesus Christ, the one who came not to abolish the law and the prophets, but to fulfill the law. I give thanks to God that by the power of the Holy Spirit he leads us to Christ who forgives our sins. I give thanks to God for continuing to give his commandments by which we can order our lives for the sake of bringing the good news to others. Like a good parent God gives guidance to our lives through these commandments - saying yes to things that are healthy for us, saying no to things that would harm us, others, or our society. These commandments have been a blessing to my life. Because of them I don't have to be bound by my feelings or confined to the impulses of my conscience.

As a pastor and a mother I grieve this new era of ambiguity that our church is considering. I don't know how I could have raised my children if I could only say, do what you feel compelled to do even if it is against God's word, God will forgive you. What dangers would that lead my children into? As a pastor I have promised to uphold scripture (Old and New Testament) and the Lutheran confessions. How will I teach the catechism in this new intentionally ambiguous era? When we get to "thou shall not commit adultery" what exceptions and life styles am I being asked to promote to the young people of my congregation? God give us his commandments out of his love for us. Thanks be to God for his word.

Additional thoughts:

Although the thoughts that I shared on the floor of the assembly were specifically addressed to the recommendations surrounding the issues of the blessing of same sex unions and the ordination of non-celibate homosexuals these were not the only issues nor are they the main challenges that are facing those of us who are a part of the ELCA. Rather they are a one manifestation of a much larger problem. That problem is a fundamental shift in the definitions of grace, love, law and gospel by many of those in leadership positions in the ELCA. It is an attempt to reframe our reality as Christians. It is, I believe, what Saint Paul refers to in 2 Corinthians 11:4 as the preaching of a different Christ. I discovered these new definitions not only in the speeches from the floor but in nearly every sermon that was preached that week. The grace that I heard about this past week was a more like the cheap grace that Bonhoeffer talks about. The early church also faced this kind of challenge with the understanding that we can do nothing to earn God's love or salvation. Even back then there were some that thought this meant that there would be no restriction on behavior and that our bodies could be used as we wanted because of this free grace (Antinomianism.) Saint Paul reminds us in Romans that we do not sin all the more just so that grace may abound (Romans 6:1).

In the same way, this new kind of love that is being promoted in the ELCA is a love that never corrects but only accepts, this kind of love is lived out only in affirmation rather than in transformation. No sin is worse than another sin - in other words a pastor who overeats and a pastor who acts out his or her homosexual feelings are held in equal status before the law. In fact, the law can no longer be used as a tool for correction (third use of the law.) Acceptance is the new law and God's truth is rejected in order to live out this new law of love. These radical new definitions are under-girded by a reframing of reality. In this new reality, what I feel takes precedence over what God desires for my life. Feelings and self-identity must be lived out in this new reality.

I have a number of problems with these new definitions and these new realities. First of all, they deny one of the basic teachings of scripture and one of the fundamental things that I learned in systematic theology - our primary identity, our primary reality is as children of God. Therefore, because through Christ we have been given this identity, we are not bound by any other feelings or self-identities. Thanks be to God that we can say no to other feelings and desires we have because Christ has said yes to us.

Secondly, these new definitions and this new reality that is being promoted are illogical. It doesn't follow basic tenants of logic. If it did, then it would say that any self-identity that I have would take precedence over my identity as a child of God and any feeling that I felt strongly enough must be acted upon. Surely, those promoting cart blanc acceptance of homosexual, bisexual and transgender lifestyles are not asking us to accept other great and shameful behaviors just because someone had a strong inner urge to act those behaviors out?

Thirdly, and perhaps most disturbing, is the fact that there is a bold faced denial that these are new definitions and teachings. We were told in recommendation one from the church council that even those who seek change want to be faithful to scripture. Yet, in at least two sermons at the assembly those who support the traditional teachings of the church were compared to the Pharisees of Jesus' day.

Some have said that the traditional teachings of the church had a victory in Orlando. Well, sorry to say, not really. The vote to reject the third recommendation from the Church Council did not come close to the 2/3 it needed but was differentiated by only 13 votes (490-503), which shows the sharp divide that is in this denomination. One must recognize that in order to get to that vote we had to reject a substitute motion that would have affirmed the current policy of the ELCA - that was soundly rejected! The other element that must be considered in our concerns over the direction that the church is headed is the leadership issue. Certainly in was no accident that all of the sermons (with perhaps the exception of one) were about acceptance and affirmation. Was it an accident that we broke away from our debates to give time to two consultants - one a professor from Chicago and one former bishop Herbert Chilstrom who both promoted these new teachings? Was it an accident that after the vote on Friday an announcement was given from the floor of the assembly (which was clearly out of order, but was given anyway) that for those in pain over our decisions, "gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender pastors" were waiting in the hall to comfort us! Was it an accident that when the majority of the church members do not want a change in church teaching our voting members did not support that desire? Was it an accident that day after day we were bombarded with rainbow ribbons - that we had to walk the gauntlet to get into every meeting and that some were even handing out "Good Soil" flyers after communion?

In this reflection I have not even touched on other disturbing actions such as the changes that have been made, without explanation, to the Apostles' and Nicene Creeds in our new worship materials. By whose authority must we now say that Jesus is not man but human? By whose authority do we remove the words that he was conceived by the "power" of the Holy Spirit?

I would like to know how we received a glossy hand-out on the new Palestinian initiative less than 24 hours after it was approved. Could this have been prepared before the voting members even voted?

Perhaps, some of my great disappointment comes from the fact that I am at heart a loyalist. There is nothing that I would like more in the whole world than to support the denomination that I am a part of. However, my primary loyalty is to the triune God as revealed in scripture and to his teachings as expounded in the Lutheran confessions and I cannot deny either. I also hate confrontation and would like to gloss over things and look the other way, but having been immersed in a week of false teachings I cannot look the other way. Thanks be to God that he does provide for us. I was comforted by other believers at the assembly and by the work of organizations like Solid Rock and Word Alone whose efforts helped in holding back the wave of changes. Now I think many of us feel like people who have been sand bagging for weeks on end and we just want to rest, but we must instead figure out how to stop the flood. Let us not grow weary in doing what is right, but instead continue to seek God's will and follow him in love and faithfulness. As Luther reminds us in the famous hymn, A Mighty Fortress - God's word forever shall abide!

The peace of Christ be with you all!

Pr. Sally Gausmann

Top of page OR Top of issue links

AN UNWORKABLE THEOLOGY

By the Very Rev. Dr. Philip W. Turner III, former Dean of the Divinity School at Yale University.

In this article, Dr. Turner analyzes developments within the Episcopal Church, USA (ECUSA). In reading this piece, please consider the close correlation between events in ECUSA and in our own ELCA.

In the title and in the article, the author distinguishes between two kinds of theology in most mainstream church bodies. There is the theology that is stated in the body's confessional writings, and then there is also the theology as it is lived out in real time.

The two are often not the same. The result is what Dr. Turner calls: An Unworkable Theology. To read it click here.

Top of page OR Top of issue links

	Below are links to Isssue Papers
March 2008	JOURNEY TOGETHER FAITHFULLY
February 2008	DRAFT of PROPOSED ELCA SOCIAL STATEMENT ON SEXUALITY Available March 13
January 2008	LAYMAN'S GUIDE TO SCRIPTURE
December 2007	TEN EXAMPLES OF THE CRISIS
November 2007	PARADIGMS IN ACTS -- FOR THE SPIRIT-LED CHURCH by Frederick W. Baltz
October 2007	LINDENHURST MEETING REPORT
September 2007	SAME VIEW, TWO REVIEWS (Sexuality Study Guide)
August 2007	ELCA ASSEMBLY SLIPS PRACTICING GAYS IN BACK DOOR TO PULPIT
July 2007	'THE LUTHERAN' AND DR. DONFRIED
June 2007	SCRIPTURE AS THE REAL PRESENCE OF CHRIST by Rev. Prof. Karl P. Donfried
May 2007	A LUTHERAN STATEMENT ON THE AUTHORITY AND INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE IN THE CHURCH
April 2007	HOW MAINLINE SEMINARY EDUCATION UNDERMINES ORTHODOX PERSPECTIVES
March 2007	IT'S RESOLUTION TIME!
February 2007	ELW - EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN WORSHIP, a hymnal for the ELCA.
January 2007	NEW SEXUALITY STUDY SEPARATES LAW AND GOSPEL By Mark Chavez
Dec. 2006	ELCA COUNCIL ASKS FOR REPORT
Nov. 2006	ELCA TASK FORCE ON HUMAN SEXUALITY WORKS TO FINALIZE A THIRD STUDY
October 2006	THE INESCAPABLE CHOICE by Richard J. Niebanck
Sept. 2006	CHAVEZ LETTER TO EDITOR OF "LUTHERAN" MAGAZINE
August 2006	MAINLINE RENEWAL LEADERS WARN AGAINST SEXUALITY COMPROMISES
July 2006	FORMAL THEOLOGICAL STANCE PROPOSED FOR WORD ALONE
June 2006	THINK LONG AND HARD, before buying the new ELCA Hymnal
May 2006	A THOUGHT EXPERIMENT ON THE FUTURE OF ECUSA
April 2006	HETEROPRAXIS AND OBFUSCATION, by Dr. Robert Benne
March 2006	LUTHER ROLLS IN GRAVE? by Dr. Dennis Bielfeldt
February 2006	BOARD OF DIRECTORS, ANYTHING BUT BORED
January 2006	Why a Lutheran House of Studies? by Dr. Dennis Bielfeldt
Dec. 2005	Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession
Nov. 2005	Metro NY Synod moves gay agenda forward in the ELCA
October 2005	The details of the new ELCA Hymnal, by James Culver
Sept. 2005	Reflections on Church-Wide Assembly, by The Rev. Sara Gausmann
July 2005	An Unworkable Theology
June 2005	What color will the new Hymnal be?
May 2005	Three Failures of the ELCA Church Council
April 2005	The Limits of Tolerance, by Dr. Robert Benne
March 2005	A Slippery Slope?" - ELCA Task Force Recommendations
Feb 2005-1	Abandoning Scripture and Confessions
Feb 2005-2	An open letter to Bishops who support the decisions of General Convention 2003
Dec 2004	Barbara Lundblad speaks again
Nov 2004	More on a WordAlone non-geographic Synod
Nov 2004	WordAlone congregations reverse ELCA membership decline
Oct 2004	WordAlone Board plans for new Association
Sep 2004	Tanzanian Bishops Address Homosexuality
Aug 2004	Local Option for Certifying Pastors! Dr George Muedeking
Jul 2004	A Critique of “Journey Together Faithfully”. Dr Merton; Strommen
Jun 2004	Why the Homosexual Movement Has Won. Dr Albert Mohler
May 2004	An Inside Look At Higgins Road (ELCA Hdq) Ms Marian Stamos, former employee
Apr 2004	Homosexuality and Church Tradition. Dr Donald Juel
Mar 2004	So What about ‘CHURCH’? Dr Dennis Bielfeldt
Feb 2004	Journey Together Faithfully, Part II The Church and HomoSexuality
Jan 2004	Journey Together Faithfully. Dr Dennis Bielfeldt
Dec 2003	Let Your Voice be Heard. (Don't miss the chance to vote!)
Nov 2003	German Theologian comments on American Lutheranism
Oct 2003	Chicago Area Pastor (ELCA) Addresses the Sexuality Crisis
Oct 2003	A Pastoral Statement of Conviction and Concern (Amer Luth Publicity Bureau)
Sep 2003	Consider becoming a WordAlone congregation
Sep 2003	Still talkin' 'bout CCM? Dr Gordon (Tim) Huffman
Sep 2003	Admonition for the Sake of the True Peace and Unity of the Church (WordAlone)
Sep 2003	What is a Lutheran? (Excerpts from the Book of Concord)
Top of page