Revisiting Convention Decisions Two Years Later

 

By Jon Coyne

     Many things were accomplished at the 2004 Convention of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Two years later it is important to consider the impact of several decisions as we anticipate and prepare for the 2007 Convention.                                                                                 

Resolutions 7-02a and 7-14

     7-02a amended the Articles of Incorporation and the Bylaws of the LCMS, eliminating any confusion about the fact that in the LCMS certain limits are placed on Synod’s Board of Directors. Specifically, the BOD is not charged or elected to supervise theology. This responsibility rests with the Synod’s President and other elected officers.

     Some have charged that 7-02a took away the power accorded Synod’s Board of Directors by the laws of the state of Missouri . A careful reading of Missouri Law, Chapter 355.096-3-3b, proves otherwise: “The articles of incorporation may set forth: (3) Provisions not inconsistent with law regarding: (b) Defining, limiting, and regulating the powers of the corporation, its board of directors, and members, or any class of members.” In other words, the Synod in Convention is free to make such amendments.

     7-14 similarly changed how vacancies are filled on the Board of Directors and other boards.

Resolution 8-01a

     8-01a changed the system for expelling from the LCMS congregations and called workers. Previously, any person (non-LCMS members, non-Lutherans, and even non-Christians) could bring charges. Now only congregations and individual members of the LCMS may bring charges.

     Furthermore, 8-01a goes on to say that Matthew 18 must be followed in order for the complaint to move forward. In other words, the initial goal must be reconciliation rather than expulsion.

     Have lay people “lost the ability to judge their pastor,” as some claim is the result of 8-01a? No. They still have the ability to bring charges to the appropriate supervisors, if the steps outlined in Matthew 18 are followed.

     A very positive result of 8-01a is that fewer frivolous complaints are being made against pastors and other called workers. Instead, District Presidents have more time to spend on situations warranting attention.