Congregations Walking Together in Mission To Amend Article III of the Constitution
RESOLUTION 8-31
TF Report (CW TFR, pp. 21–22); (CW TFR A, 1.2–.4); Overtures 8-14–16, 8-46–47 (CW, pp. 225–227, 237)
Preamble
Since its inception, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod has kept a clear focus on the confessional mission of the church. Throughout its 163 years this has been the central and guiding principle for its existence. This focus finds its expression in the Scriptures’ description of the body of Christ and the multiplicity of gifts given to the church. The suggested changes to the constitution maintain this connection with the historic expression of the mission of the Synod and seek to articulate it in our cultural context.
and
WHEREAS, Our Lord has called His church to announce the Gospel to the world in word and deed; and
WHEREAS, Our Lord has entrusted to us His message of reconciliation as His ambassadors to the world;
WHEREAS, This calling expresses itself as we intentionally reach out to the people around us in loving and active service that testifies to the Gospel; and
WHEREAS, The Synod was organized to provide encouragement and resources to congregations and individual Christians in the carrying out of this ministry of reconciliation and to prepare men and women for their respective vocational tasks; and
WHEREAS, The Synod was organized to maintain doctrinal integrity and promote the unity of true faith; therefore be it
Resolved, This calling be lifted up and articulated in the governing document of our church; and be it
further and Bylaws 1.2.1 (d), 1.3.4, 1.3.5, 2.1.1, 3.6.1.5 (f), 3.9.5, 4.1.1, and 4.4.4, as shown (“2007 Handbook Convention
Resolved, That the Synod in convention approve the proposed amendments to Article III of the Constitution Version,” TB, pp. 159–160, 169–170, 172, 193, 249, 271, 309, 314).
Summary of Resolveds. Make lots of changes to the bylaws and constitution.
Confessional mission??? What in the world is that? Are we now tacking “confessional” on things to bless them?Where’s my confessional hot dog?
Man, there are a lot of words to change to go from “objective” to “mission and purpose.” This resolution contains the most frustrating word change I found. The current wording is “Encourage congregations to strive for uniformity in church practice.” The proposed change is ”Encouraging a common understanding and appreciation of a variety of responsible practices.” Our striving for uniformity of church practices goes hand-in-hand with our striving for unity in doctrine. Additionally, the answer to my question on this matter what so utterly botched at the Regional Gathering that it removed any confidence that the BRTFSSG was qualified to propose these changes.
Vote: No
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