Salem Lutheran Church

Salem’s Response to the ELCA

At the 2009 ELCA Churchwide assembly in August, the assembly adopted the 10th social statement of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) entitled Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust. Click here to view the statement.

The assembly also adopted four resolutions that recommended implementing ministry policies and congregational recognition of publicly accountable, lifelong, monogamous, same-gender relationships in congregations that choose to recognize these policies. The resolutions also commit the ELCA to bear one another’s burdens and respect bound consciences in these matters; to allow congregations that choose to do so to find ways to recognize and support lifelong, monogamous, same gender relationships and hold them publicly accountable; and to find a way for people in such relationships to serve as rostered leaders in the ELCA. The fourth resolution points toward a specific way to allow rostering while respecting bound consciences.

Due to the controversial nature of the statement and resolutions, Salem had decided to engage in series of discussions and informational events to allow us to discern how we might respond. On Sunday, June 6, 2010, Salem will be having a congregational discussion to assess the congregation’s preference for responding to these events. Click here for additional information about the June 6 discussion.

Click here for frequently asked questions regarding Salem's response to the ELCA.

Timeline of events scheduled (with links to audio from the primary discussions):

Sept 6 & 13, 2009	Presentations to congregation about the content of the statement and resolutions passed at Churchwide assembly.
Oct 11, 2009	Congregational discussion to discern questions and concerns of Salem members.
Nov 9, 2009	“Towards Understanding the ELCA Decisions on Human Sexuality” A presentation by Dr. Craig L. Nessan
Jan 17, 2010	Presentation by Pastor Mark Vander Tuig about LCMC, an independent Lutheran body
April 18, 2010	Meeting with Bishop Steven Ullestad
June 6, 2010	Congregational Discussion – Questions and answers about the process, and determination of next steps for Salem. Click here for more information about the June 6 discussion.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Fantasy Football league draft on Thursday, Sept. 9. Click here for more info, or see Mark.

Confirmation for 7th/8th graders begins Wednesday, Sept. 15, at 6 p.m. (meal at 5:30). Click here for the schedule and more information.

Join us for Wednesday night dinners at 5:30. Everyone welcome - click here for the menu!

VERSE OF THE DAY:
My righteousness draws near speedily, my salvation is on the way, and my arm will bring justice to the nations. The islands will look to me and wait in hope for my arm. -- Isaiah 51:5