Minutes of the 58 th Regular Convention of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod July 5-7, 2015 Springfield, Illinois

Transcription

1 Minutes of the 58 th Regular Convention of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod July 5-7, 2015 Springfield, Illinois Sunday, July 5 Registration took place between 3:00 and 6:00pm at the Crowne Plaza. The opening service was held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Springfield at 7:00pm. The First Vice-President of the Missouri Synod, Rev. Dr. Herbert Mueller, gave the sermon. Monday, July 6, Morning Session Registration opened at 7:00am. The opening devotion was given at 8:00am by the convention chaplain, Rev. Thomas Radtke. The text was Isaiah 55:6-11 and the hymn, LSB 566, By Grace I m Saved. District President, Rev. Mark Miller, introduced Rev. Thomas Heren, chairman of the Registration and Credentials Committee, who reported the following in attendance: 120 lay delegates 112 pastoral delegates 23 advisory delegates 22 guests 6 staff Rev. Gary Fortkamp, chairman of the Elections Committee, gave the instructions for the electronic voting keypads and had the delegates practice voting on sample questions. A quorum was declared and President Miller declared the 58 th Regular Convention of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod to be open in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. He followed this declaration with a prayer. A motion was made and seconded to accept the Convention Agenda with minor changes as deemed necessary by the chairman. The motion passed. President Miller read the proposed standing rules. A motion was then made and seconded to accept them. The motion passed. President Miller introduced the following people: Mr. Harold Olsen Parliamentarian and Time Keeper First Vice-President Herbert Mueller and Second Vice-President Daniel Preus Synod Representatives Rev. Dr. Ken Schurb Essayist Mr. Jordan Glock Organist Mr. Glenn Goeres Voting Machine Operator Mr. Eric Garvue Computer Technician Rev. John Laux, chairman of the Floor Committee Convention Resolutions, reported that since the 2012 District Convention the following constitutions have been approved by the Central Illinois District Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee, as well as by the Central Illinois Board of Directors: 1) Immanuel, Arenzville November 26, Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 1

2 2) St. John, East Moline May 26, ) St. John, Effingham January 27, ) St. Paul, Havana September 24, ) Good Shepherd, Hoopeston May 27, ) Christ Deaf, Jacksonville May 26, ) St. John, Louisville January 27, ) St. John, Mattoon May 27, ) St. Matthew, Milan May 26, ) Our Savior, Milford September 24, ) Holy Cross, Moline September 24, ) St. John, New Berlin November 26, ) Trinity, Pekin September 24, ) Christ, Peoria September 23, ) Mt. Calvary, Peoria January 27, ) St. John, Quincy September 24, ) Good Shepherd, Sherman November 24, ) St, Paul, Sigel May 26, ) Zion, Taylor Ridge May 27, ) Trinity, Taylorville November 24, ) Our Savior, Washington September 23, ) Christ, Winchester November 26, 2013 A motion was made and seconded to ratify the approval of these constitutions. The motion passed. The newly rostered ordained and commissioned workers since the last convention were introduced, asked to stand, and welcomed to the District. The District Secretary announced the nominees for District President and explained that 5% of the total nominations submitted were required for the ballot. Thus, the ballot consisted of one nominee President Mark A. Miller. The vote was taken for the election of President Miller but the voting machine system failed to operate properly. A motion was made and seconded to elect the District President by a voice vote. The motion passed. A voice vote was taken and President Mark A. Miller was elected to his second term as President of the Central Illinois District. More testing was then done to determine and fix the malfunctioning of the voting machine system. President Miller delivered his address to the Convention. He noted that because of our sinfulness, the decline of society, and the like, it often appears to be the worst of times. Nonetheless, the word of absolution we have in Christ is more abundant than our sins. God is still in control and His love is everlasting. This makes it the best of times and we have a message to share. President Miller also thanked the Convention for another opportunity to serve as District President Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 2

3 The Rev. Dr. Ken Schurb, the Convention Essayist, began his essay entitled, Grace Free and Boundless. He described GRACE as God s Riches At Christ s Expense. In this first part of his essay, he emphasized that saving grace is free. It is not what we deserve and it comes on account of Christ. After part one of the essay, two tests were made with the voting key pads and it was determined that the system had been fixed and was now working properly. Rev. Fortkamp of the elections committee then presented the lists of the eastern and western region pastors of the District. These comprised the slates for the election of the District Vice-Presidents. The first vote was made for the two Vice-Presidents. Rev. Laux of the Floor Committee Convention Resolutions, moved Resolution , To Commend Deaconess Linda Schaefer upon Her Retirement. The motion was seconded. The motion passed. Deaconess Schaefer came forward and was presented with a plaque by President Miller. After this, the delegates rose to sing the Doxology. Rev. Joel Cluver, the Central Illinois District Administrative Assistant for Missions, Evangelism, Human Care, and Stewardship, gave a brief presentation on those areas of ministry. He noted the missions of the District and mentioned what church members, congregations, circuits, and the District can do to assist mission and outreach. He also pointed out the decline that has taken place not only in the congregations of the District but in all of Christianity in this country. One way to help congregations is through the District s Revitalization process. Rev. Cluver then talked about the need to be good stewards of all that God gives. To assist with this, a CD of yearly three-week stewardship programs was given to congregations. He stated that about 500 individuals in the District have now been trained in the LERT program and that this is one of the highest numbers in the Synod. Rev. Cluver gave thanks to all the Commission members he has served with and stated how great of a blessing they have been. Rev. Laux moved Resolution , To Encourage Congregations to Reach the Unchurched and Unsaved. The motion was seconded. The motion passed. Rev. Laux next moved Resolution , To Amend the Synod Bylaw concerning the Commission on Constitutional Matters. The motion was seconded. A friendly amendment was made to add two commas one after the word incorporation in letter b of the first Whereas, and one after the word incorporation in letter d of the Resolved. Resolution then passed. Rev. Laux moved Resolution , To Request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to Draft Doctrinal Statements. The motion was seconded. The motion passed. Rev. Fortkamp of the Elections Committee reported that after the earlier vote for the eastern region Vice-President, the ballot was narrowed to Rev. Rick Milas, Rev. Michael Mohr, and Rev. Kent Tibben. The convention voted on these three and the ballot was further narrowed to Rev. Rick Milas 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 3

4 and Rev. Kent Tibben. The convention voted on these two and Rev. Kent Tibben was elected as Vice- President of the eastern region. Rev. Fortkamp likewise reported that after the earlier vote for western region Vice-President, the ballot was narrowed to Rev. Daniel Bishop, Rev. Joel Cluver, Rev. Mark Eddy, Rev. Mark Peters, and Rev. Terry Strom. The convention voted on these five and the ballot was further narrowed to Rev. Daniel Bishop and Rev. Terry Strom. The convention voted on these two and Rev. Daniel Bishop was elected as Vice-President of the western region. Rev. Dr. Herbert Mueller, First Vice-President of the Missouri Synod, came forward to give the Synod Report. His report included a Bible Study on Matthew 16:13-26 entitled Who is Jesus? He extended greetings from President Matthew Harrison, everyone at the International Center, and all who work with the Synod throughout the world. He also spoke on issues confronting the Synod and the whole Church. He noted that both seminaries are operating in the black, that the Concordia University System is growing and improving, and that the number of missions has almost doubled and should surpass that mark by the fall. Rev. Fortkamp of the Elections Committee came forward for the convention vote to determine which of the newly elected pastors would be First Vice-President. The results of the vote were as follows: Rev. Daniel Bishop, First Vice-President Rev. Kent Tibben, Second Vice-President Mr. Wayne Dietrich, Chairman of the District Nominations Committee, presented the nominees for the following offices: District Secretary, Rev. Michael Mohr Rev. Kent Umbarger Assistant Secretary, Rev. Wilfred Karsten Rev. James Stuenkel District Treasurer, Mr. Dale Dirks Financial Secretary, Mr. Robert Dalton Mr. James Frazee There were no nominations from the floor. Rev. Fortkamp of the Elections Committee then came forward for voting on these offices. The following were elected: District Secretary, Rev. Michael Mohr Assistant Secretary, Rev. James Stuenkel District Treasurer, Mr. Dale Dirks Financial Secretary, Mr. Robert Dalton Mr. Dietrich presented the nominees for the following positions: Board of Directors Clergy Rev. Daniel Bishop Rev. Peter Brechbuhl Rev. Pablo Dominguez Rev. Donald Pritchard Rev. Bruce Scarbeary Rev. Brian Pape Rev. Rick Milas was nominated from the floor. The nomination was seconded and he was added to the ballot Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 4

5 Board of Directors Teachers Mr. Scott Brown Mr. Nathan Landskroener Mr. Paul Thompson Mr. Jeffry Shoumaker There were no nominations from the floor. Board of Directors Laymen Mr. Bill Denham Mr. Larry Marxman Mr. Matt Putnam Mr. Bill Schneider Mr. Aaron Schroeder Mr. Ray Stuckemeyer Mr. Richard McMullen was nominated from the floor. The nomination was seconded and he was added to the ballot. President Miller extended thanks for the re-election of Rev. Bishop and Rev. Tibben as District Vice- Presidents. He also extended thanks to the District staff. President Miller gave thanks to his wife, Debra, and noted that they have been married for 39 years. This brought the applause of the convention. Rev. Radtke, the Convention Chaplain, was called forward to give the prayer for lunch. During the start of the lunch period, caucuses were held to elect ordained and commissioned advisory delegates to the 2016 LCMS Convention. The following were elected: Advisory Pastoral Delegate Rev. Wesley Reimnitz Alternate Rev. Robert Barth Advisory Commissioned Delegates Mr. Joshua Dixon Mrs. Martha Milas Alternate Miss Anna Dickhut Monday, July 6, Afternoon Session The CID Convention reconvened at 2:50pm after the Church Extension Fund Convention which took place at 1:00pm. Chaplain Radtke gave the prayer as the Convention returned to the business at hand. Rev. Wayne Hoffman gave a presentation about Ministerial Care Coalition (MC 2 ) Partner and noted five areas of concern stress, depression, family matters, child care needs, and marital difficulties. An announcement was made that the next Pastors Wives Retreat will be at Camp CILCA on October and that Adriane Heins will be the speaker. Rev. Fortkamp of the Elections Committee came forward for the voting on the Board of Directors positions. The following were elected for: Board of Directors Clergy Rev. Pablo Dominguez (first ballot) Rev. Rick Milas (first ballot) 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 5

6 Rev. Donald Pritchard (first ballot) Rev. Bruce Scarbeary (third ballot) (After the first ballot, a motion was made and seconded to suspend Standing Rule number 11 in voting the remaining clergy for the Board of Directors. The motion failed. Board of Directors Teachers Mr. Nathan Landskroener (first ballot) Mr. Paul Thompson (first ballot) Board of Directors Laymen Mr. Bill Denham (third ballot) Mr. Matt Putnam (first ballot) Mr. Aaron Schroeder (first ballot) Mr. Ray Stuckemeyer (first ballot) Rev. Laux of the Floor Committee Convention Resolutions presented Amended Resolution A, To Re-Affirm the God-Given Form of Marriage. Rev. Laux noted that the underlined portions were being offered by the Floor Committee as a friendly amendment. Amended Resolution A was seconded. A motion was next made and seconded to forego the reading of the Whereases for the rest of the Convention. The motion was seconded. The motion failed to pass. An amendment was moved from the floor to change the word they in the sixth Whereas to their unions and to add between the words cannot and conceive the words be made to. The amendment passed. A friendly amendment was moved and seconded to change United State Supreme Court in the eighth Whereas and tenth Whereas to Supreme Court of the United State. An amendment was then made and seconded to change capital crimes in the tenth Whereas to sins. The amendment passed. A motion was made and seconded to return A to the Floor Committee Convention Resolution to make alterations in light of the discussion that had taken place. The motion passed. Rev. Laux moved Resolution , To Memorialize the Synod as Regards the Licensed Lay Deacon. The motion was seconded. President Miller called for the orders of the day as it was now time for the question and answer session with the Synod s representatives, Rev. Dr. Mueller and Rev. Dr. Preus. Rev. Dr. Mueller began by announcing the following: -The Preach the Word Initiative of President Harrison to assist pastors in preaching. -The 500 th Anniversary of the Reformation in 2017 under the theme It s Still All About Jesus. Following the question and answer session, Rev. Laux returned for discussion on the previously moved Resolution The resolution passed Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 6

7 Rev. Laux passed out Amended Resolution A noting that the changes involved the striking of the fifth, tenth, and eleventh Whereas of the original and adding the new portions on the handout. A friendly amendment was made from the floor giving the correct Daystar Journal url reference as thedaystarjournal.com/an-argument. An amendment was then made and seconded to add the words reconsider his rejection of the LCMS confession on these matters in place of remain in the LCMS in the first Resolved. The amendment passed. A friendly amendment was made and seconded to add the name of District President Terry Forke after District President Paul Linnemann in the second Resolved. A vote was taken on A as amended during the discussion time. It passed as amended. President Miller led the Convention in prayer in accord with the third Resolved of A. Rev. Dr. Ken Schurb came forward to give part two of the Convention Essay. The theme of this part was Saving Grace is Boundless. He pointed out two events in the Book of Acts that emphasize this: the conversion of St. Paul and the meeting between St. Peter and Cornelius. Gathered around Word and Sacrament, the Church continues to go out to others. Pam Spilker, President of the CID LWML, extended greetings to the Convention and spoke about the recent LWML National Convention. Robert Garlisch, President of the CID LLL, extended greetings and thanked the pastors of the District for their support. Once again, the LLL will sponsor a booth at the Illinois State Fair. A special presentation took place to convey an honorary doctorate on former District President, David Bueltmann. The Doctor of Letters was presented by Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich, President of Concordia University, Nebraska. President Bueltmann gave thanks to all who assisted him along the way, including his parents, wife, children, and grandchildren. President Miller had David Bueltmann s family come forward to be recognized. The afternoon session of the Central Illinois District Convention adjourned for the CID Endowment Fund Convention. Following this, Chaplain Radtke gave the prayer for the close of the day s activities and for the evening meal. Tuesday, July 7 President Miller called the Convention to order at 8:00am. Chaplain Radtke gave the opening devotion. The text was Jude and the hymn, LSB 575, My Hope is Built on Nothing Less. His prayer gave thanks for the faithful service of all the workers who died in Christ since the last Convention. Mr. Glenn Goeres, the Central Illinois District Administrative Assistant for Education and Congregational Life gave a brief presentation for those areas of ministry. He noted an overall decline 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 7

8 in the elementary and high schools of the District. Nonetheless, 85 congregations of the District are involved in Lutheran education. In families where the first contact adults or children had with the church was through the school, 151 adults and 208 children were baptized. Concerning Congregational Life, he noted the benefits to congregations participating in the Family Friendly Partners Network. He also spoke of the value of youth workshops and stated that it has been a pleasure for him to work with the District youth. The bulletin insert for District news continues to draw positive comments and although the mailing of hard copies of the full Gatepost will come to an end in 2015, it will continue to be available online. Rev. Dr. Schurb gave the third and final part of the Convention Essay. The fact that one is saved by grace, free and boundless means: -One is free in faith -One brings forth good works -One has God as Father -God has the best last Word Mr. Wayne Dietrich of the Nominations Committee presented the nominees for the following positions: Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee Clergy Rev. Mark Eddy Rev. Barry Long Lay-Attorney Mr. Tim Kirk Nominations Committee for the 2018 District Convention Clergy Rev. John Laux Rev. Barry Long Rev. Clarence Rogers Rev. James Wright Teachers Mr. John Jacob Mrs. Martha Milas Laymen Mr. Henry Gartner Mr. Danny Magelitz Mr. Raymond Stuckemeyer Mr. Thomas Stuenkel Synod Nominations Committee for 2016 Rev. Jason Braaten Rev. James Henning Rev. David Bueltmann President Mark Miller was nominated from the floor. The nomination was seconded and he was added to the ballot. Rev. Fortkamp of the Elections Committee then came forward for voting on these positions. The following were elected: 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 8

9 Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee Clergy Rev. Mark Eddy (first ballot) Rev. Barry Long (first ballot) Lay-Attorney Mr. Time Kirk (first ballot) Nominations Committee for the 2018 District Convention Clergy Rev. Clarence Rogers (first ballot) Rev. James Wright (first ballot) Teacher Mr. John Jacob (first ballot) Mrs. Martha Milas (first ballot) Laymen Mr. Raymond Stuckemeyer (first ballot) Mr. Thomas Stuenkel (first ballot) Synod Nomination Committee for 2016 Rev. Mark Miller (second ballot) A motion was made and seconded to ratify the slate of circuit visitors, including the addition of Rev. David Speers who was elected by circuit caucus as circuit visitor of the Altamont Circuit. Altamont David Speers Mattoon John Sharp Bloomington North Joseph Burns Peoria Mark Nelson Bloomington South David Bergelin Quincy Michael Burdick Champaign Mark Elliott Rock Island Robert Hagen Decatur Melvin Weseloh Shelby Jason Rensner Effingham Allen Kramp Springfield E. Samuel Janssen Iroquois Benjamin Meyer Springfield W. Jeffrey Gross Jacksonville David Knuth Tazewell Thomas Heren Lincoln Wesley Reimnitz The motion passed. Rev. Dr. Mueller and Rev. Dr. Preus, the Synod Representatives, presented a video entitled On This Rock. The video highlighted the word God is doing through the LCMS. It is available for congregations to show to their members. Rev. John Laux of the Floor Committee Convention Resolutions moved Resolution , To Adopt Revised CID Handbook for The motion was seconded. The motion passed. Rev. Laux next moved Resolution A as altered by the Floor Committee per the request of the Convention during Monday s afternoon session. He explained that the Floor Committee removed all of the fourth Whereas after the first Biblical references and also removed all of number 2 in the fifth Resolved except for the words: that for Christ s sake He would forgive all who repent of their sexual sins. Resolution A, as revised by the Floor Committee was seconded Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 9

10 An amendment was then moved and seconded from the floor to add back the sections removed by the Floor Committee. An amendment was made and seconded to add the words at that point in history after the two places the word prescribing occurs in the fourth Whereas which was asked to be returned in the above amendment. A motion was made and seconded to call the question on the amendment to the amendment. The motion passed. Next, a vote was taken on the amendment to the amendment. The amendment to the amendment passed. A motion was made and seconded to call the question on the amendment which had just been amended. The motion passed. A vote was taken on the amendment to return the sections the committee revised with the addition at that point in history. The motion passed. A motion was then made and seconded to remove the word sexual from sexual union in the third Whereas. Having discussed A for thirty minutes, the chairman, President Miller, as required by standing rule 5, called the question on this amendment. The Convention voted in favor of calling the question. A vote was then taken on the amendment to remove the word sexual from sexual union in the third Whereas. The amendment failed. Now Resolution A as amended came to a vote A as amended passed. Rev. Laux next moved Resolution , To Study the Process for Expulsion of a Member of Synod for the Public Teaching of False Doctrine. The motion was seconded. A friendly amendment was made to replace the word may in may be an attorney with shall at the end of the first Resolved. Resolution then passed with addition of the friendly amendment. Rev. Laux moved Resolution , To Respectfully Decline Overture The motion was seconded. The motion passed. This concluded the work of the Floor Committee Convention Resolutions. A motion was made and seconded to post the minutes of the Convention on the District Website after approval by the Board of Directors. The motion was seconded. The motion passed. Mark Marshall, representing Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, extended greetings from the seminary community. He spoke about some coming events such as the 175 th anniversary of Concordia Seminary. He also announced that the Board of Regents made the decision to help students with financial burdens 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 10

11 through newly established scholarships. He noted that a curriculum update is underway and that there will be a move from the quarter system to semesters. Gary Nahrwold brought greetings from Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne. He spoke of the seminary s mission and ways that people can participate in this mission through prayer, encouragement, and financial gifts. Louis Johnson, representing Concordia Plan Services, next came forward. He spoke about the founding of this organization and how it exists to care for those serving in the ministry while active as well as retired. He noted how we all insure each other by participating in the plan. Rev. Heren of the Registration and Credentials Committee gave the following end of convention registration statistics: 123 lay delegates 116 pastoral delegates 29 advisory delegates 16 guests 6 staff A motion was made and seconded to use the offering from the opening service on Sunday evening for seminary student scholarships. The motion passed. President Miller thanked all the delegates for their faithful service. Chaplain Radtke gave the closing devotion. The text was Titus 3:4-7 and the hymn, LSB 850, God of Grace and God of Glory. The installation of Rev. Mark Miller to his second term as Central Illinois District President then took place by the Synod representative, First-Vice President, Herbert Mueller. President Miller, then, installed the District Vice-Presidents. Following this, President Miller installed the Circuit Visitors. He next installed the other newly elected and re-elected people. Following the installations, President Miller declared the 58 th Regular Convention of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod to be in adjournment. Respectfully submitted, Rev. Rick R. Milas Secretary, Central Illinois District 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 11

12 Appendix Resolution (Passed) To Commend Deaconess Linda Schaefer upon Her Retirement Reference Overtures WHEREAS, Deaconess Linda Schaefer has worked faithfully for 44 years (the longest ever for any District staff) for the Central Illinois District; and WHEREAS, She retired last August 2014; therefore be it Resolved, That we say to Deaconess Linda Schaefer, Well done, good and faithful servant (Matt 14 25:21); and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District in convention thank and commend her for her faithful years of work by directing the District President to present her a special gift of thanks; and be it finally Resolved, That this convention give thanks to God for this faithful servant of the Lord and praise Him by rising and singing: Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. Resolution (Passed) To Encourage Congregations to Reach the Unchurched and Unsaved Reference Overture WHEREAS, God desires that all be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4); and WHEREAS, Our Lord has given to all His children the opportunity and responsibility to spread the Gospel, declaring the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9); and WHEREAS, Unchurched and unsaved people abound in the communities of the Central Illinois District; therefore be it Resolved, That the congregations of the CID be encouraged 1) to establish and publicize a program for Adult Instruction Classes on a regular basis, 2) to host Outreach/ Invite a Friend to Church Sundays, 3) to build and maintain congregational web sites, and 4) to make use of District and Synodical Evangelism Resources. Resolution (Passed with friendly amendment) To Amend Synod Bylaw Concerning the Commission on Constitutional Matters Reference Overture Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod submit the following overture to the 2016 convention of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 12

13 WHEREAS, Bylaw in the 2013 Handbook of The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod states: The Commission on Constitutional Matters shall examine the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and policy manuals of every agency of the Synod to ascertain whether they are in harmony with the Constitution, Bylaws, and resolutions of the Synod. (a) Agencies intending to make amendments to articles of incorporation or bylaws shall make such intentions known and receive approval from the commission in advance. (b) The commission shall maintain a file of the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and policy manuals of all agencies of the Synod. and WHEREAS, Bylaw (a) (1) in the 2013 Handbook of The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod states: Agencies include each board, commission, council, seminary, university, college, district, Concordia Plan Services, and each synodwide corporate entity ; and WHEREAS, Districts amend their articles of incorporation and bylaws in conventions, at which the Synod Commission on Constitutional Matters (CCM) is not present, and therefore the CCM cannot give approval in advance for any changes in wording of articles of incorporation or bylaws which might be made through amendments from the floor at such conventions, and WHEREAS, The parliamentarian at the 2007 convention of the Synod ruled that, according to Synod s bylaws, amendments from the floor could not be debated unless they had first been examined by the CCM, in effect allowing the CCM to kill any amendments simply by failing to examine them, and WHEREAS, By such a reading, Bylaw would rule out all amendments from the floor of any district convention, thus robbing the districts of the insights of the delegates who are not on floor committees, even prohibiting districts from voting on their own bylaws, if their floor committees failed to provide the CCM with advance copies of their proposed changes, or if the CCM for any reason fails to approve them before the convention; therefore be it Resolved, That Synod Bylaw be amended to read as follows: The Commission on Constitutional Matters shall examine the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and policy manuals of every agency of the Synod to ascertain whether they are in harmony with the Constitution, Bylaws, and resolutions of the Synod. (a) Agencies intending to make amendments to articles of incorporation or bylaws shall make such intentions known and receive approval from submit their proposed amendments to the commission in advance for review. (b) The commission shall examine the proposed wording of all amendments received from these agencies and report their findings to the submitting agency, including suggestions for any corrections which the commission deems to be necessary. (c) After agencies amend their articles of incorporation or bylaws, they shall submit them to the commission for similar review. (d) The commission shall maintain a file of the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and policy manuals of all agencies of the Synod. Resolution To Re-affirm the God-given Form of Marriage 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 13

14 Reference Resolution Overture WHEREAS, God instituted marriage as the union of a man and a woman for the procreation of children and mutual help, companionship, and support (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:18 & 21-25); and WHEREAS, The Lord Jesus and His apostle St. Paul re-affirmed God s intent for marriage, as stated in Matthew 19:4-6 & 9 (see also Mark 10:6-12) and Ephesians 5:28-33; and WHEREAS, The God-given way to procreate children is through the sexual union of a male husband and his female wife, in which the husband releases sperm to fertilize the wife s egg, making the husband the resultant child s father and the wife the child s mother; and WHEREAS, God prohibits all sexual intercourse outside of the marriage of a husband and his own wife (1 Cor. 6:9f; 1 Tim. 1:9-10), with His prohibitions including: adultery with another person s spouse (Ex. 20:14; Lev. 20:10; Deut. 22:22-23; 1 Cor. 6:9f), incest (Lev. 20:11-12, 14, 17, 19-21), homosexual activity (Lev. 20:13; Rom. 1:26-27; 1 Cor. 6:9f; 1 Tim. 1:9-10), bestiality (Lev. 20:15-16), and prostitution (Lev. 19:29; Deut. 23:17), prescribing at that point in history the death penalty for many of these offenses (Lev. 20:10-16, see also Rom. 1:32), and also prescribing at that point in history that if an unmarried man and woman have intercourse, they be compelled to marry (Deut. 22:28-29); and WHEREAS, In 2014 A.D. the State of Illinois changed its definition of marriage to include two persons of the same sex; and WHEREAS, Homosexual couples cannot fulfill all the responsibilities of marriage, because their unions cannot be made to conceive children together; and they cannot engage in true sexual intercourse as a husband and his wife become one flesh; and WHEREAS, The 2011 A.D. Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act stated: Nothing in this Act shall interfere with or regulate the religious practice of any religious body. (Section 15); and WHEREAS, On June 26, 2015 the Supreme Court of the United States by a 5/4 vote in Obergefell v. Hedges ruled that same-sex couples may exercise the right to marry throughout the United States of America; and WHEREAS, St. Paul taught us: Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God (Rom. 13:1), in agreement with our Lord s testimony to Pontius Pilate, You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above (John 19:11), and St. Peter stated: We must obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29); and WHEREAS, Illinois law and the Supreme Court of the United States ruling in this matter calls evil good, by honoring actions which God calls sins, and calls good evil, by considering those who disagree with this law to be guilty of discrimination, in spite of God s condemnation: Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness (Isaiah 5:20, see also Malachi 2:17); therefore be it 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 14

15 Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod re-affirm all that God s word says about marriage, sexual activity, and child rearing; and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod publicly state that the apostle s statement: We must obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29), applies to all people at all times, not only to Christian pastors in divine services; and be it further Resolved, That the secretary of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod be instructed to forward this Resolution to the Governor and legislators of the State of Illinois, the U.S. Senators and Representatives from this State, and the Presidents of the Northern and Southern Illinois Districts of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod; and be it further Resolved, That the members of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod be encouraged to contact their representatives and to work for the restoration of the biblically and biologically correct definition of marriage and to oppose any government actions which deny religious freedoms to the residents of this State and nation; and be it finally Resolved, That the members of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod be encouraged to pray to our loving and merciful God, 1) that He would move all of His people to speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15) to our neighbors, explaining the evils of sin, calling them to repentance (as Lot did when he told the men of Sodom I beg you, my brothers, do not act so wickedly. Gen 19:7), and offering the blessings which God provides by grace, 2) that for Christ s sake He would forgive all who repent of their sexual sins, including couples engaging in sexual activity without being married to each other as well as those who commit homosexual acts, and 3) that by His Spirit s working through His Word, God would empower His people to lead a sexually pure and decent life in what we say and do, and husband and wife love and honor each other (Luther s Small Catechism, sixth commandment), always showing love by fulfilling God s laws (Rom. 13:8-10), overcoming evil with good (Rom. 12:21), setting good examples for our neighbors of all ages and religions, and thus being agents of God s blessings to our state, nation, and world. Resolution (Passed) To Memorialize the Synod as Regards the Licensed Lay Deacon Reference Overture WHEREAS, The LC MS in Convention in 2013 adopted Resolution 4-06A, which directed the following: Resolved, That in faithfulness to God s Word and Article XIV of the Augsburg Confession regarding the Office of the Holy Ministry, the President of Synod would direct the CTCR to develop resources for use on the congregational, district, and Synod levels concerning this issue; and be it further Resolved, That the President of the Synod, who has the responsibility to promote and maintain unity of doctrine and practice in all the districts of the Synod (Constitution, Art. XI B 3), be 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 15

16 encouraged to use all means at his disposal to promote study and discussion of this vital issue; and be it further Resolved, That the President of the Synod establish a task force consisting of members from the Commission on Theology and Church Relations, the Council of Presidents, the Praesidium, and seminary faculties to develop a plan anchored in the Word, in consultation with licensed lay deacons and those who supervise and are served by them, to resolve questions about the service of licensed lay deacons serving congregations of The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod with the Word and Sacraments of Christ; and be it finally Resolved, That the plan and its proposed implementation be reported to the Synod one year before the 2016 convention; WHEREAS, The theological basis of Resolution 4-06A remains Article XIV of the Augsburg Confession which states: Our churches teach that no one should publicly teach in the Church, or administer the Sacraments, without a rightly ordered call ; and Article V of the same which states: So that we may obtain this faith, the ministry of teaching the Gospel and administering the Sacraments was instituted. Through the Word and Sacraments, as through instruments, the Holy Spirit is given (John 20:22) ; WHEREAS, The Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod in convention in 2012 passed a resolution To Require Uniformity of Practice With Regard to Word and Sacrament Ministry which expressed our regret with the current practice within the LC MS of men who are conducting Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry ; WHEREAS, In that same resolution the Central Illinois District also memorialized the Synod in Convention to direct the Council of Presidents to develop a plan and lay out procedures: A) So that all men who are currently engaged in Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry may either be enrolled in the SMP program or cease from all forms of Word and Sacrament ministry by the end of 2019, and B) So that all current Synod and District tracks, programs, licensing procedures etc. which train men for Word and Sacrament ministry without benefit of being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry can be phased out in favor of SMP by the end of ; WHEREAS, The Task Force established by the 2013 Synod in Convention has been doing its work as directed, and based on updates posted to the Convention update webpage dedicated to Resolution 4-06A ( is planning to distribute its report in hard copy and electronically to each member of the Synod; WHEREAS, The task force intends for a Synod-wide discussion of its report to take place prior to the 2016 Synod Convention; and 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 16

17 WHEREAS, The Scriptural and Confessional basis of the 2013 Central Illinois District Convention s resolution has not changed, as the Word of God is unchangeable, Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away (Luke 21:33); therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District thank the members of the Resolution 4-06A Task Force for their work in studying the ongoing challenge of men who are conducting Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry; and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District thank the men currently serving as Licensed Lay Deacons for their service to Christ s Church for the sake of the Gospel, and that the Chaplain of the convention lead us in prayer that our Lord would lead these men to seek ordination according to His good and gracious will; and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District memorialize the Synod in convention to direct the Council of Presidents to enact the following plan to return the Synod to a faithful practice of her confession: 1. All the Districts of the Synod shall immediately discontinue the licensing of lay deacons (1989 Res. 3-05B). 2. All men currently engaged in Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry will be enrolled in either a residential program at one of our two seminaries by the end of 2019 or in the Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP) program, or will cease all forms of Word and Sacrament ministry within that same time frame. An extension of the above deadline for those currently licensed can be granted by the appropriate District President in extreme circumstance, upon consultation with and approval of the President of the Synod. 3. All the current Synod and District tracks, programs, licensing procedures and the like which train men for Word and Sacrament ministry without benefit of being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry will be discontinued as soon as possible, but no later than the end of 2019, in favor of either the residential programs at our two seminaries or the SMP program. 4. The Districts in which men currently serve as Licensed Lay Deacons will ensure that these men be provided reasonable assistance in pursuing ordination or finding an alternative vocation. Resolution A (Passed as amended) To Publicly Call Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker to Repentance Reference Resolution Overture , 09 WHEREAS, Holy Scripture warns, Matthew 7:15(ESV) Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves; and 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 17

18 WHEREAS, Holy Scriptures warns, Romans 16:17-18(ESV) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naïve; and WHEREAS, Holy Scripture warns, 2 Timothy 4:3-4(ESV) For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths; and WHEREAS, Holy Scripture declares, 2 Timothy 3:16-17(ESV) All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work; and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including women s ordination, having published articles on his own blog, and on Daystar where he published an article titled An Argument for Women Pastors and Theologians in which he states: There is no legitimate biblical or dogmatic rationale for why the LCMS should now prohibit women from serving as theologians and pastors in the church. ( and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including participating while vested in the installation of Charlene Rachuy Cox at Valparaiso ( and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including acceptance of homosexuality and homosexual marriage, having written on his blog Transverse Markings: One Theologian s Notes titled Further Sign of LCMS Times ( and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including, promoting a figurative interpretation of Genesis 1 and 2 stating in his post The Scandal of the LCMS Mind Scientific data about the reality of physical death in the animal and plant kingdoms prior to origin of human beings (e.g., fossils of animals that lived long before the origin of human beings) must lead those who interpret the Bible in light of scientific knowledge to restate the nature of God s good creation prior to the advent of human sin (e.g., such a good creation must have included the reality of death prior to the existence of human beings) and the character of the historical origin of sin (e.g., the advent of sin is to be traced to the first hominids who disobeyed God s will but not necessarily to their having eaten from a tree in an actual place called the Garden of Eden several thousand years). ( and WHEREAS, on July 1, 2015, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker posted to his blog that he had been asked by his ecclesiastical supervisor to resign and in light of his refusal to do so was suspended from the roster of the LCMS, and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker further stated his intention to not appeal, be removed from the roster of the LCMS, and seek membership and rostering in the ELCA, therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the LCMS call the Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker to repentance of his false and divisive doctrines and in repentance and faith reconsider his rejection of the LCMS confession on these matters rather than join a church body that will not speak the truth to his 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 18

19 errors, and that this be communicated to him by the Central Illinois District President; and let it be further Resolved, That the President of the Central Illinois District, on behalf of the Central Illinois District, thank President Matthew Harrison, District President Paul Linnemann, and District President Terry Forke; and commend them for their faithful leadership in this matter, and give them such encouragement; and be it finally Resolved, That the Convention Chaplain lead the Convention in prayer for a godly resolution to these matters. Resolution (Passed with friendly amendment) To Study the Process for Expulsion of a Member of Synod for the Public Teaching of False Doctrine Reference Overture , 10, 11 WHEREAS, Member congregations of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod should be able to call any rostered member of Synod with the confidence that they will perform their duties in accord with the Word of God and the Lutheran Confessions; and WHEREAS, Luther writes, God s people or holy Christians are recognized by the office of the keys exercised publicly. That is, as Christ decrees in Matthew 18 if a Christian sins, he should be reproved; and if he does not mend his ways, he should be bound in his sin and cast out (AE 41:153); and WHEREAS, LCMS President Matthew Harrison has made the following statement: When a public teacher on the roster of Synod can without consequence publicly advocate the ordination of women (even participate vested in the installation of an ELCA clergy person), homosexuality, the errancy of the Bible, the historical-critical method, open communion, communion with the Reformed, evolution, and more, then the public confession of the Synod is meaningless. I am saying that if my Synod does not change its inability to call such a person to repentance and remove such a teacher where there is no repentance, then we are liars and our confession is meaningless. I do not want to belong to such a synod, much less lead it. I have no intention of walking away from my vocation. I shall rather use it and, by the grace of God, use all the energy I have to call this Synod to fidelity to correct this situation. ( not-to-proceed-withcharges-regarding-a-public-false-teacher-in-the-lcms); and WHEREAS, Article III.1 Objectives of the Constitution of the LCMS says, The Synod, under Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, shall conserve and promote the unity of the true faith (Eph 4:3-6; 1 Cor.1:10), work through its official structure toward fellowship with other Christian church bodies, and provide a united defense against schism, sectarianism (Rom 16:17), and heresy; therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod memorialize the 2016 convention of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod to direct the President of Synod to appoint a Task Force. This Task Force may be comprised of one professor from each seminary, two district presidents, one parish pastor, one commissioned minister, and three laypersons (at least one of whom shall be an attorney) to study this problem; and be it finally 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 19

20 Resolved, That the Task Force formed at the 2016 Synodical Convention report back to the 2019 Convention of the LCMS with recommended changes to the dispute resolution procedures that allow for clear biblical and confessional standards to deal in Christian love with those who openly teach contrary to Article II of The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod s constitution. R (Passsed) To Request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to Draft Doctrinal Statements Reference Overture WHEREAS, There is sharp disagreement within The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod over a number of doctrinal matters; and WHEREAS, The Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) has the authority to submit Doctrinal Statements (as defined by LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2(b)) to the Synod in convention for further consideration and possible adoption by majority vote (LCMS Bylaw (b) (4)); and WHEREAS, A District Convention may submit a proposal for the development of doctrinal statements to the CTCR (LCMS Bylaw (b) (1)); therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District in Convention request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to develop Doctrinal Statements on the following topics: The Male-Only Pastorate; The Six Days of Creation; The Necessity of a Call and Ordination for the Exercise of the Functions of the Pastoral Office; and be it finally Resolved, That the Central Illinois District in Convention request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to submit these doctrinal statements to the 2019 convention of The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod for further consideration and possible adoption pursuant to LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2(b)(4)ff. Resolution (Passed) To Adopt Revised CID Handbook for 2015 Reference Overture WHEREAS, The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod adopted changes to its constitution and bylaws at the 2013 Convention, which is cause for the Central Illinois District to change its Handbook; and WHEREAS, The Commission on Constitutional Matters made other changes and updates to the CID 2012 Handbook; therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District adopt the following as the CID Handbook for 2015 as it has been revised. [See Convention Workbook for CID Handbook] 2015 Convention Section I Proceedings and Resolutions Page I - 20