God has a plan… We’re it!
Assembly says ‘Yes’ to ministry changes
Voting members discuss the resolution on changing ordination standards.
The Southeastern Synod Assembly Friday expressed support of the proposal before the ELCA to allow ordination of persons in long-term, monogamous same-gender relationships.
The Assembly passed by voice vote a resolution urging the ELCA Churchwide Assembly to adopt the Social Statement on Human Sexuality. The resolution also recommended adoption of the four-parts of the proposed Recommendation on Ministry Policies. (more..)
Assembly supports proposed ELCA ministry changes
Update: Assembly passes resolution of support for ELCA proposed ministry changes and social statement on sexuality. Resolution asks ELCA to develop resources for congregations to support publicly accountable same-gender relationships. sepasynodResolution also asks for procedures to restore to the roster or candidacy persons precluded by the existing rules.
Assembly defeats resolution requesting two-thirds majority on rostering proposal
In a 242 to 202 vote, the 2009 Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly defeated a resolution that would have requested that the ELCA Church Council add the provision requiring a two-thirds vote at the 2009 Churchwide Assembly regarding any motion to change the practice for rostering of ordained ministers, diaconal ministers, associates in ministry, and deaconesses. Currently a majority vote is all that is needed to change the practice for rostering.
The narrow margin of defeat is an indicator of the depth of the division within the ELCA on this issue. (more..)
Support for disaster response, multicultural leadership
A resolution was approved to support Lutheran Disaster Response, a nationally recognized organization to bring comfort, healing and renewal to those affected by a variety of disasters. (more..)
God’s work. Our hands.
“I’m convinced from my sense of call and from watching and listening to congregational and synodical leaders that God does have a plan—and that you and I are it!” said David Swartling, Secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the Churchwide representative to this year’s Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly. (more..)
Assembly deals with ELCA sexuality actions
In its first reference and counsel report, the Assembly dealt with two memorials related to the ELCA’s upcoming decisions regarding a social statement on human sexuality, and proposed changes that would allow ordination of gay and lesbian persons in committed, monogamous relationships.
- The Assembly voted to consider (later today) a resolution in support of the proposed changes.
- The Assembly defeated a proposal to ask the ELCA to require a 2/3 majority on votes on the proposed changes in ministry standards, rather than the simple majority required by the ELCA Constitution.
Partnership support drops 4%
Richard Reimet, treasurer of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, presented the audit report on the synod’s finances highlighting the fact that the synod received $116,202 less in partnership support in the fiscal year ending Jan. 31, 2009 than in the previous year. That’s a four percent decrease in giving.
“As treasurer, I don’t like to see this but with the condition of the economy going south, I don’t think we did too badly,” said Reimet. “As we go through this year we will continually keep you updated regarding any concerns we might have.”
SEPA a ‘Book of Faith Synod’
The Twenty-Second Assembly of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod voted to become a “Book of Faith” synod committing “to live in and from the Word of God.” The resolution encouraged all congregations to commit to the initiative and become Book of Faith congregations in order to explore new opportunities for engaging the Bible. The voting members of the Assembly also agreed to covenant together to participate in regular Bible study and prayer. (more..)
‘Together, we are God’s FACE’
“This Assembly will not be business as usual.”
In place of many of the usual greetings and reports, the 2009 Assembly was designed to showcase the four strategic directions that emerged from the Synod’s 18 month process of listening to the dreams, passions and ideas of the people. (more..)
