2016 BULLETIN OF REPORTS Part 1

Transcription

1 2016 BULLETIN OF REPORTS Part 1 Published May

2 Table of Contents Bulletin of Reports... 4 General Information... 5 Special Guest Introductions... 6 Synod Assembly 2016 Keynote Speaker... 6 Synod Assembly 2016 Bible Study Leader... 6 Synod Assembly 2016 ELCA Representative... 7 Synod Assembly 2016 Musicians... 8 Roland E. Powell Convention Center... 9 Lower Level... 9 Upper Level Rules of Procedure for the 2016 Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly Delaware-Maryland Synod, ELCA 2016 Synod Assembly Agenda Overview Detailed Agenda Plenary Session One Plenary Session Two Plenary Session Three Plenary Session Four Plenary Session Five Plenary Session Six Constitution and Bylaws Committee Vision 2018: Discerning God's Plan Implementation Outline Memorials and Resolutions Memorial #1 African Descent Lutheran Lives Matter Resolution #1 Justice for the Holy Land through Responsible Investment Resolution #2 U.S. Aid to State of Israel as a Tool for Peace Resolution #3 Bridging the Racial Divide and Encouraging Racial Reconciliation in the Delaware-Maryland Synod Resolution from the Synod Council Synod Task Group Synod Council Secretary

3 Treasurer Faith Spending Plan Nominations Committee/ Biographies of Nominees Overview Nomination: Secretary of Synod Council Nomination: Synod Council, Mission Through Congregations Team Nomination: Synod Council, Cluster A: Clergy Nomination: Synod Council, Cluster A: Lay Female Nomination: Synod Council, Young Adult Nomination: Synod Council, Lay Male at Large Nomination: Consultation Committee - Lay Nomination: Consultation Committee Clergy Nominees for ELCA Church Council: Young Adult (18-30), female Report of the Bishop Part A: Signs of Hope in a Culture of Fear Part B: Roster Changes (as of April 20, 2016) Reformation 500 Taskforce

4 Bulletin of Reports The Bulletin of Reports is being electronically presented in two parts: Part 1 contains all those documents that voting members will need to have in front of them as they conduct the assembly's business, such as the agenda, resolutions and memorials, nominations, the proposed budget, etc. In an effort to go green and be good stewards of the gifts God has given us, the Bulletin of Reports is available on the synod s website, as of May 1, Those who require a printed copy had the opportunity to request one during the registration process. If you requested a printed copy of the Bulletin of Reports, you may pick up Part 1 as you arrive and register for the assembly. Part 2 of the Bulletin of Reports contains important information that the assembly needs for background information and to hold the officers, Synod Council and related ministries accountable. It is not information, however, that the assembly will act upon. Part 2 is available electronically only; if you wish, you are welcome to print your own copy. If you plan to access information electronically, please know that high speed internet access is available in the assembly hall. We are working hard to make sure to have reliable Wi-Fi access throughout our meeting space. However, we have run into problems in the past and cannot guarantee service. 4

5 Welcome to Ocean City and to the 29 th Annual Assembly of the Delaware-Maryland Synod, ELCA General Information The Assembly BOOKSTORE is located in Room 210. It will be open throughout the assembly. DISPLAYS from various groups, organizations and vendors can be found in Rooms and 209 throughout our time together. Check it out! There are NO MEAL TICKETS. The meals you have pre-purchased are indicated on your nametag. Please wear your nametag when coming to the meals! There is ASSIGNED SEATING in the Assembly Hall again this year. When you enter the Assembly Hall, please consult the seating chart that is displayed at the entrance, then locate the seats reserved for your congregation. Voting members who are not part of a congregational group (retired, on-leave-from-call, non-congregational call) have assigned seating in the front of Section A. WORSHIP AT ASSEMBLY is offered in a variety of ways. Each day at 11 a.m. (Thursday, Friday and Saturday) we center our work in a Service of Word and Sacrament in the Performing Arts Center (PAC). We also offer Morning Prayer on Friday and Saturday from 8:30-8:50 a.m., also in the PAC. Worship offerings at this assembly are designated as follows: onehalf to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal, and one-half for local hunger programs in the synod. During registration, you will have an opportunity to sign up for THE E- LETTER, the synod s weekly electronic newsletter. You may also send an to Julie Stecker in the synod office, jstecker@demdsynod.org, if you wish to sign up later. God Bless Our Time Together! 5

6 Special Guest Introductions Synod Assembly 2016 Keynote Speaker The Rev. David D. Daubert is the Lead Consultant and Managing Partner for Day 8 Strategies, which does coaching and consulting for faith based organizations and their leaders. He works across the U.S. and Canada and is a leading proponent for emergent planning for nimble ways of working in today's world. Dave brings his experiences as an agricultural engineer, nonprofit board member, parish pastor, and denominational executive to his work in faith-based organizational renewal. An avid learner, Dave has a bachelor's degree in engineering, two master's degrees in theological disciplines and mission, two doctorates focusing on church leadership and mission, and a certificate in nonprofit management from Michigan State University. Prior to starting Day 8 Strategies, Dave was a managing partner at A Renewal Enterprise, Inc. - a group with which he continues to share a strategic relationship. He has published several books and articles, including "Seeing Through New Eyes" and "The Future Starts Now" with Kelly Fryer & Tana Kjos, "Living Lutheran: Renewing Your Congregation" and "Reclaiming the V Word: Renewing Life At Its Vocational Core" with Tana Kjos and several others. You can order copies of Dave's books and other works by him by connecting to our A Renewal Enterprise Books online store. Dave is a frequent keynote speaker across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. You can also find out more about Dave by going to his LinkedIn profile. Synod Assembly 2016 Bible Study Leader Bishop Thomas A. Skrenes, the third bishop of the Northern Great Lakes Synod, was raised on a dairy farm near Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. My Norwegian grandparents immigrated to the Madison, Wisconsin area a century ago, Bishop Skrenes said. They were charter members of Bristol Lutheran Church, where I was baptized on Reformation Day 1954, confirmed in the spring of 1969, and ordained in My parents, the late June and Arthur Skrenes, brought my sister Arlene and me to God s house and nurtured us in the Christian faith. Bishop Skrenes graduated from the Sun Prairie Public Schools in 1972 and is a 1976 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It was during these college years that I felt the call to ordained ministry, Skrenes said. Wonderful pastors like John Midtling, O.M. Skindrud, and Palmer Wahl were powerful examples of caring men of God. They were gifts to me as I discerned God s call to the ministry. 6

7 Bishop Skrenes attended Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio. His internship year was at Good Shepherd Congregation in Alexandria, Virginia. Called to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Bishop Skrenes served as pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ishpeming, Michigan from 1980 to Those twelve plus years in the parish were a joy for me, Skrenes said. We grew together. Trinity Church is a great place to do ministry. I am thankful to God for the people of that congregation. It was a privilege to be their pastor. In 1992, Skrenes received the call to become Assistant to Bishop Dale Skogman. Elected as Bishop in 1999 and reelected to six year terms in 2005 and 2011, Bishop Skrenes is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Conference of Bishops and served on the ELCA Blue Ribbon Commission on Mission Funding as well as on the Churchwide Board of Lutheran Men in Mission. Synod Assembly 2016 ELCA Representative The Rev. Wm Chris Boerger was elected Secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America at the 2013 Churchwide Assembly. Prior to election, he served two terms as bishop of the Northwest Washington Synod, Seattle, Washington. His parish experience was as mission developer of the Lutheran Church in the San Juans, Friday Harbor, Washington; Central Lutheran Church, Everett, Washington; and Northlake Lutheran Church, Kenmore, Washington. As the son of a career Navy enlisted man he lived and went to school in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Tennessee, and Washington. His call to ministry came when his kindergarten teacher at Trinity Lutheran School, Marysville, Ohio, asked who wanted to be a missionary when they grew up. His hand went up and the seed of being a pastor was planted. Encouraged by family and local congregations, he graduated from Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, Washington, with a degree in Communication Arts. He then attended Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri, until the creation of Christ Seminary-Seminex in Graduating from Seminex in 1975, his first call came from four families in the San Juan Islands in Washington to start an independent Lutheran congregation. The congregation was organized in 1976 and became a member of the American Lutheran Church in He was ordained in June of Chris is married to DeDe (Finlayson) Boerger. They have two grown children, John and Mary, and four grandchildren. DeDe serves as a volunteer Faith Community Nurse two days per week in the Lutheran Center. Chris hobbies include raising and showing dahlias, reading, and being a fan of baseball, football, and college basketball. His interest in constitutions and parliamentary procedure began in a class on Robert s Rules of Order in college. He served as parliamentarian at district conventions and synod assemblies prior to his election as bishop. 7

8 Synod Assembly 2016 Musicians Monte Leister and the Situation Monte Leister is a lifelong musician, family man, country boy, lover of Jesus, and storytelling youth guy. With guitar in hand and a passion for spreading the Gospel, Monte, his sons, and friends, the Situation share the joy of Jesus Christ, and encourage families to be the hands and feet of God through audience-engaging music, authentic worship, and stories of faith. As a worship leader, Monte desires to create an atmosphere that allows people to become aware of the movement of the Holy Spirit and prepare their hearts and minds to receive God s Word. Monte Leister and the Situation share their music ministry regularly at churches, youth events, summer camps, preschools, festivals, Christian coffeehouses, retreats and children s museums. Their concerts will leave you singing, laughing, thinking and inspired to dig into God s Word. Monte and his family are excited to work alongside World Vision ( as Artist Associates. Through World Vision s Child Sponsorship program and their many other ministries, Monte and his family are blessed to match sponsors with children all over the world. I am blessed to give people an opportunity to directly be the hands and feet of Christ and literally save a child s life for only $38 per month. Find out more at Jeremy Grenhart Jeremy J. Grenhart was called as the Creative Minister of Music at Luther Place Memorial Church in Washington, D.C. after serving for 14 years at Bridge of Peace in Camden, New Jersey. Jeremy says inviting good music into worship spaces is important to him, and is a calling he takes seriously. Jeremy is well versed in Gospel, Soul, Afro-Cuban, and Classical schools of music, and is just as happy playing a Bach fugue as he is playing African spirituals. The music at Luther Place is a reflection of diverse cultural and artistic backgrounds, and expands the boundaries of meaningful and vibrant worship. When Jeremy is not playing or rehearsing with the Ambassadors of Praise, he enjoys cooking with his good lady and reading. 8

9 Roland E. Powell Convention Center Lower Level ************ ************ ********************************************************* All pre-purchased meals will be held in Dockside Hall. ********************************************************* 9

10 Upper Level Activities and Locations Bookstore 210 Business Sessions Bayfront Ballroom Childcare 213 Displays/Exhibits/Vendors Elections/Tech Room 212 Morning Devotions Performing Arts Center Registration Bayfront Lobby 2 nd Floor Synod Office 211 Worship Performing Arts Center 10

11 Rules of Procedure for the 2016 Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly 1. All cell phones, pagers, and other portable electronic devices shall be on vibrate or silent during the assembly. 2. Registered voting members shall be seated within the bar of the assembly. 3. The privilege of voice (on any issue before the Assembly), but not vote shall be granted to: a. The presiding bishop of the ELCA and such other official representatives of this church as may be designated from time to time by the Church Council; b. The chairpersons of synodical mission teams and task forces who are not voting members of the Synod Assembly; and c. The president or president s appointee of the synodical youth, women s and men s organizations, and those additional persons whom the Synod Assembly or the Synod Council shall from time to time designate. 4. The privilege of voice and vote shall be granted to any assistant to the bishop not otherwise granted such privilege. 5. The privilege of voice and vote shall be granted to any leader rostered in a church body with which the ELCA is in full communion and who is serving in a Delaware- Maryland Synod congregation or ministry. 6. Election of a Bishop: The representative of the churchwide organization shall preside over the assembly whenever the assembly is in session and considering business related to the election of the synod bishop, or when the assembly is casting ballots in this election. Upon conclusion of balloting or of specific business related to the election, the bishop shall resume presiding over the assembly. 7. In addressing the chair, speakers shall use a microphone and shall identify themselves by name and congregation, agency, or institution. 8. No person shall speak more than twice on the same question, except by consent of the assembly, and only after all others have spoken. 9. A member who has spoken on the pending question(s) may not move the previous question(s) at the conclusion of his/her speech. A motion to end debate by moving the previous question shall apply only to the immediately preceding motion. A motion to end debate on all matters on the floor or more than the immediately pending question is not in order. 11

12 10. A member may not move previous question until the opportunity is available for five pro and five con points of view to be presented. 11. When a substitute motion is made, secondary amendments may be offered first to the original motion. After all secondary amendments to the original motion have been disposed of, secondary amendments to the substitute motion may be offered. When all amendments to the substitute motion have been disposed of, the vote shall be taken on whether the substitute motion is to be substituted as the original motion or be rejected. 12. The question shall be automatically called after thirty (30) minutes of debate unless the assembly consents to an extension of time. 13. In all business meetings, speeches from the floor shall be limited to two minutes. 14. All motions, other than routine ones, shall be written by the mover on forms furnished for that purpose, signed, and sent to the presiding officer, with a copy for the secretary. 15. When there are many pro and con statements on any motion, the chair will recognize alternately persons making a pro or con statement. This shall be done by those speaking for using the odd-numbered microphone and those speaking against using the even-numbered microphone. Those persons proposing a subsidiary, incidental, or privileged motion shall indicate this action by raising a white card and using either microphone. 16. If three (3) speakers have spoken in favor of a motion, with no one speaking against, the chair may proceed to call for the vote on the motion. 17. Only voting members wearing voting member badges shall receive ballots for voting. Voting members must be seated in the boundaries of the voting member section of the plenary hall. 18. No motion is before the house until it is stated by the chair, and no discussion shall occur without a motion before the assembly. 19. For the election of the bishop: a. The bishop shall be elected by ecclesiastical ballot. Three-fourths of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election on the first ballot. If no one is elected, the first ballot shall be considered the nominating ballot. b. Three-fourths of the legal votes cast on the second ballot shall be necessary for election. i. Group meetings by conference(s) shall be held with the seven persons (plus ties) receiving the greatest number of legal votes on the second ballot. Such meetings will include an introduction, conference-developed question(s) and questions from the floor. 12

13 c. The third ballot shall be limited to the seven persons (plus ties) who received the greatest number of legal votes on the second ballot, and two-thirds of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election. i. The three persons (plus ties) receiving the greatest number of legal votes on the third ballot will address the assembly and respond to questions from the moderator. d. The fourth ballot shall be limited to the three persons (plus ties) who receive the greatest number of legal votes on the third ballot and 60 percent of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election. i. If there is no election on the fourth ballot, the top two candidates will respond to questions from the moderator e. The fifth ballot shall include the top two candidates. 20. For elections other than bishop, additional nominations may be made from the floor for all positions except for conference-cluster-based positions on the Synod Council, the youth position on the Synod Council, Mission Team Leaders, and the Dean on Synod Council. Those making such nominations must: a. Obtain the consent of the person being nominated. b. Insure the nomination fulfills the category assigned for that purpose. c. Obtain a nomination form at the Pages table and turn it in to the secretary when the nomination is presented. 21. Amendments to the budget may not increase total expenditures. Amendments changing one line item must be reflected in an equivalent change in other line item(s) so that total expenditures remain constant. Anyone suggesting an amendment must complete a form which spells out the rationale for the proposed change. The forms can be found at the Pages table. 22. The minutes of this Synod Assembly shall be referred to the Synod Council for certification. Robert s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall be the governing parliamentary procedure of this assembly, except as otherwise provided in the constitution, bylaws, and continuing resolutions of this synod and in these rules of procedure of the Synod Assembly, unless otherwise ordered by the assembly. 13

14 Delaware-Maryland Synod, ELCA 2016 Synod Assembly Agenda Overview THURSDAY, MAY 28 FRIDAY, MAY 29 SATURDAY, MAY 30 7:00 a.m. Breakfast on Your Own 7:00 a.m. Breakfast on Your Own 7:00 a.m. Breakfast on Your Own 8:30 a.m. Morning Prayer - PAC 8:30 a.m. Morning Prayer - PAC 8:30 5:30 Registration 9:00 11:00 BUSINESS SESSION 3 Forward in Faith Campaign 2017 Faith Spending Plan Report of Election Committee (elections other than bishop) Keynote Address: Dave Daubert 14 9:00 11:00 BUSINESS SESSION 6 Bible Study ELCA Representative Stewardship Update Fifth Ballot for Election of Bishop Elections Report: 5 th Ballot for Bishop Introduction of Bishop Elect Bishop s Report Adoption: 2017 Faith Spending Plan Unfinished & New Business Evaluation of 2016 Synod Assembly 11:00 OPENING WORSHIP - PAC 11:00 WORSHIP - PAC 11:00 CLOSING WORSHIP - PAC 12:30 Lunch 12:30 Lunch Forward in Faith Lunch 12:30 Deadline Budget Ammendments 2:00 5:00 BUSINESS SESSION 1 Rules of Procedure & Agenda ELCA Rep Overview: Election for Bishop/Ecclesiastical Ballot First Ballot for Election of Bishop Coffee Break Constitution & By-Laws Committee Report of Nominations Committee Vision 2018 Implementation Plan Reference and Counsel Committee Elections Report:1 st Ballot for Bishop 5:00 Deadline: Memorials & Resolutions Dinner on your own 6:00 Reference & Counsel Committee Mtg. 6:30 Deadline:Removal of Names from Ballot 7:00 9:00 BUSINESS SESSION 2 Bible Study Recognition: Rostered New to Synod Practice Electronic Voting Report of Elections Committee Second Ballot for Election of Bishop Report of Vice President Report of Secretary Report of Treasurer Report of Reference & Counsel Elections Report:2 nd Ballot for Bishop 2:00 5:00 BUSINESS SESSION 4 Group Meeting Procedure Group Meeting with Nominees for Bishop Third Ballot for Election of Bishop Elections Report: 3 rd Ballot for Bishop Second Ballot for Elections (other than bishop - if needed) Dinner on your own 5:30 Synod Council Meeting 7:00 9:00 BUSINESS SESSION 5 Bible Study Report of Constitution/Bylaws Committee Presentation: Nominees for Bishop Fourth Ballot for Election of Bishop Elections Report:4 th Ballot for Bishop Recognition of Anniversaries and Retirements Lunch on your own

15 Detailed Agenda Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly June 2-4, 2016 Roland Powell Convention Center, Ocean City, MD Presiding Officer: Bishop Wolfgang Wm. Chris Boerger Parliamentarian: Ann Iona Warner Bible Study Leader: Bishop Thomas Skrenes Thursday, June 2 (Morning, Afternoon) 8:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. Registration 11:00 a.m. Worship (Performing Arts Center) and Order for the Opening of the Assembly 12:30 p.m. Lunch 2:00 5:00 p.m. Business Session #1 Organization of the Assembly Welcome and Introductions Adoption of the Rules of Procedure Adoption of the Agenda ELCA Representative Overview of the Election for Bishop Explanation of the Ecclesiastical Ballot Report of the Credentials Committee Spiritual Preparation First Ballot for Election of Bishop Introduction of Parliamentarian/Video: Roberts Rules of Order Social Media Etiquette Introduction of Synod Council Report of Constitution and Bylaws Committee (Announcement of Proposed Amendments) Report of the Nominations Committee Noisy Change Offering Coffee Break (30 minutes) Vision 2018 Implementation Plan Report of Reference and Counsel Committee Report of Bishop Elections Committee: First Ballot for Bishop 5:00 p.m. Recess Deadline for Resolutions Dinner (on your own) 15

16 Thursday, June 2 (Evening) 6:30 p.m. Deadline for Removal of Names from Ballot 7:00 p.m. Business Session #2 Practice using the Electronic Voting Machines Recognition of Pastors and Rostered Leaders New to Synod Recess Report of Credentials Committee Report of Elections Committee Spiritual Preparation Second Ballot for Election of Bishop Hunger Appeal Awards Seminary Update African Descent Strategy Video Report of Vice President Report of Secretary: Action of 2015 Minutes Report of Treasurer Report of Reference and Counsel Committee Report of Bishop Elections Committee: Second Ballot for Bishop 16

17 Friday, June 3, 2016 (Morning, Afternoon) 7:00 a.m. Breakfast (hotels or out) 8:30 a.m. Morning Prayer (PAC) 9:00 11:00 a.m. Business Session #3 Report of Credentials Committee Forward in Faith Campaign Presentation of 2017 Faith Spending Plan Report of Election Committee (Elections other than Bishop) Keynote Address: Dave Daubert 11:00 a.m. Worship (PAC) 12:30 p.m. Lunch Deadline for Budget Amendments Forward in Faith Ambassador s Lunch 2:00-5:35 p.m. Business Session #4: Report of Credentials Committee Spiritual Preparation Explanation of Group Meeting Procedure Group Meetings with Nominees for Bishop (at various locations) Third Ballot for Election of Bishop Report of Bishop Elections Committee: Third Ballot for Bishop Second Ballot for Elections other than Bishop (if needed) 5:35 p.m. Evening Meal (on your own) Synod Council Meeting Friday, June 3 (Evening) 7:30-9:30 p.m. Business Session #5 Report of Credentials Committee Presentation by Nominees for Bishop (top 3 plus ties from third ballot) Spiritual Preparation Fourth Ballot for Election of Bishop Report of Bishop Elections Committee: Fourth Ballot for Bishop Report of Constitution/By-Laws Committee Recognition of Anniversaries/Retirements LWR Quilts 9:00 p.m. Recess 17

18 Saturday, June 4, 2016 (Morning) 7:00 a.m. Breakfast (hotels or out) 8:30 a.m. Morning Prayer (PAC) 9:00 11:00 a.m. Business Session #6 Report of Credentials Committee Spiritual Preparation Fifth Ballot for Election of Bishop Report of the Bishop Elections Committee: Fifth Ballot for Bishop Introduction of Bishop Elect ELCA Representative Stewardship Update Bishop s Report Reformation 500 Task Force Report Adoption of the 2017 Faith Spending Plan Portico Presentation Mission Investment Fun Creation Care Team Unfinished Business New Business Evaluation of 2016 Assembly 11:00 a.m. Closing Wordship Installation of Synod Officers: Conference Officers; Mission Team Leaders; Synod Council; Consultation Committee and Committee on Discipline members Order for the Closing of an Assembly 18

19 Plenary Session One Thursday, June 2 Beginning: 2 p.m. Ending: 5:00 p.m. Agenda Item Reference Recommended Action Organization of the Assembly: Welcome and Introductions Social Media Etiquette Adoption of the Rules of Procedure pp To adopt the Rules of procedure as presented Adoption of the Agenda pp To adopt the Agenda ELCA Representative: Overview of the Election for Bishop Report of the Credentials Committee Explanation of the Ecclesiastical Ballot Spiritual Preparation First Ballot for Election of Bishop Hunger Appeal Noisy Change Offering Coffee Break (30 minutes) Report of Constitution and Bylaws Committee pp To adopt changes (Announcement of Proposed Amendments) to Synod Bylaws Report of the Nominations Committee pp Vision 2018 Implementation Plan pp Report of Reference and Counsel Committee pp See recommendations of Reference & Counsel Report of Bishop Elections Committee: First Ballot for Bishop 19

20 DEADLINE for Submission of Late Resolutions: Thursday, June 2, 5:00 p.m. DEADLINE for Removal of Names from Ballot: Thursday, June 2, 6:30 p.m. Plenary Session Two Thursday, June 2 Beginning: 7:30 p.m. Ending: 9:00 p.m. Agenda Item Reference Recommended Action Bible Study Recognition of Pastors and Rostered Leaders New to Synod Practice using the Electronic Voting Machines Report of Credentials Committee Report of Elections Committee Spiritual Preparation Second Ballot for Election of Bishop Hunger Appeal Awards Seminary Update African Descent Strategy Video Report of Vice President Report of Secretary: Action of 2015 Minutes pp. 42 Report of Treasurer pp To adopt audit Report of Bishop Elections Committee: Second Ballot for Bishop 20

21 Plenary Session Three Friday, June 3 Beginning: 9:00 a.m. Ending: 11:00 a.m. Agenda Item Reference Recommended Action Report of Credentials Committee Forward in Faith Campaign Presentation of 2017 Faith Spending Plan pp Report of Election Committtee pp (Elections other than Bishop) Keynote Address: Dave Daubert DEADLINE for Budget Amendments: Friday, June 3 rd, 12:30 p.m. 21

22 Plenary Session Four Friday, June 3 Beginning: 2:00 p.m. Ending: 5:00 p.m. Agenda Item Reference Recommended Action Report of Credentials Committee Spiritual Preparation Explanation of Group Meeting Procedure Group Meetings with Nominees for Bishop (at various locations) Third Ballot for Election of Bishop Report of Bishop Elections Committee: Third Ballot for Bishop 22

23 Plenary Session Five Friday, June 3 Beginning: 7:00 p.m. Ending: 9:00 9.m. Agenda Item Reference Recommended Action Bible Study Report of Constitution/Bylaws Committee pp Presentation by Nominees for Bishop (top 3 plus ties from third ballot) Report of Credentials Committee Spiritual Preparation Fourth Ballot for Election of Bishop Report of Bishop Elections Committee: Fourth Ballot for Bishop Recognition of Anniversaries/Retirements LWR Quilts 23

24 Plenary Session Six Saturday, June 4 Beginning: 9:00 a.m. Ending: 11:00 a.m. Agenda Item Reference Recommended Action Bible Study ELCA Representative Stewardship Update Report of Credentials Committee Spiritual Preparation Fifth Ballot for Election of Bishop Report of the Bishop Elections Committee: Fifth Ballot for Bishop Introduction of the Bishop Elect Bishop s Report pp Adoption of the 2017 Faith Spending Plan pp To adopt Portico Presentation Mission Investment Fund Creation Care Team Unfinished Business New Business Evaluation of 2016 Assembly 24

25 Constitution and Bylaws Committee The Constitution Committee reviews proposed amendments to Congregational Constitutions to assure that each Congregational Constitution contains all required provisions of the Model Constitution for Congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Additionally, review by the Constitution Committee assures that no non-required provision in the local constitution is in conflict with required provisions. Amendments and revisions to the following Congregational Constitutions have been reviewed and approved this year: St. John s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Creagerstown, Maryland First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Ellicott City, Maryland Saint Paul s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Utica, Maryland Evangelical Lutheran Church, Frederick, Maryland At the time of this report, these congregations are in the process of amending their Congregational Constitutions: Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Williamsport, Maryland Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Prince of Peace, Rosedale, Maryland Jerusalem Lutheran Church, Westminster, Maryland Emmanuel Trinity Lutheran Church, Frederick, Maryland At the Churchwide Assembly of the ELCA in August, we anticipate further changes to the Model Constitution for Congregations. All congregations are urged to check the ELCA website after the Assembly in August 2016, to check for changes and amend their Congregational Constitutions accordingly. Additionally, the following change to Synod Bylaws S is requested: St. Luke Lutheran Church, Parkville, Maryland, to be moved from the Baltimore North Conference to the Baltimore City Conference. Specifically: S There shall be 11 conferences in the synod designated as follows: 25

26 b. Baltimore North shall include the following parishes: Ascension, Towson; Christus Victor, Parkville; Divinity, Towson; Faith, Cockeysville; Grace, Lutherville; Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Sept 3, Lutherville; St. Andrew, Baltimore; St. John, Parkville; St. John, Sweet Air; St. Luke, Parkville; St. Michael, Perry Hall; St. Paul, Lutherville; St. Peter, Fullerton. c. Baltimore City shall include the following parishes: All Saints, Baltimore; Amazing Grace, Baltimore; Augsburg, Baltimore; Breath of God (St. Paul), Highlandtown; Christ, Baltimore; Emmanuel, Baltimore; Epiphany, Baltimore; Faith, Baltimore; First English (Guilford), Baltimore; Grace, Hamilton; Holy Comforter (Govans), Baltimore; Jerusalem, Baltimore; Messiah (Canton), Baltimore; People s Community, Baltimore; Salem, Baltimore; Sts. Stephen and James, Baltimore; St. John, Brooklyn; St. John, Pimlico; St. Luke, Hampden; St. Luke, Parkville; St. Mark, Baltimore; St. Mark Estonian, Baltimore; St. Paul, Curtis Bay; St. Philip, Baltimore; Zion, City Hall Plaza. Respectfully submitted by Mykel Hitselberger, Chair 26

27 Vision 2018: Discerning God's Plan Implementation Outline Forward in Faith Purpose: this document outlines how, with the Holy Spirit s guidance, we plan to implement the Four Ways of Vision 2018 aligned with our Forward in Faith capital campaign. 1. The Way of Discipleship: $265,000 Oversight Responsibility: Mission Through Congregations Team Jennifer Simms Our people will be empowered to share the Good News of Jesus Christ in their communities Goal 1: Invite all of our congregations to execute a plan for mission and ministry by 12/31/2018. Goal of 30 congregations per year for a total of 90 by 12/31/18. By 12/31/15, the Synod Staff will prepare and disseminate (on-line and through personal contact) a list of resources for the development of plans for mission and ministry. The campaign will provide up to half of the costs of the planning process and additional funds if needed. Cost: $35,000 Goal 2: The Synod Staff will prepare a survey of congregation s progress towards the Synod Vision Plan (as a starting point) using Congregational Connectors where possible. Goal is a response from 75% of the congregations by 2/28/16. Goal 3: The Synod Staff, Deans, coaches and ministry teams along with outside resources, will provide consultation and monitoring as congregations develop and implement their plans for mission and ministry. Goal of 30 congregations per year for a total of 90 by 12/31/18. Cost: $40,000 Goal 4: The Synod Staff will identify areas for two new mission starts by 3/30/16 and implement them by 12/31/18 Cost $100,000 Goal 5: The Synod Staff will identify and prepare three new redevelopment starts for 2016 by 3/1/16 and three each in 2017 and Redevelopment funds of $10,000 per start. Cost $90, The Way of Communication: $60,000 27

28 Oversight Responsibility: Communications Team Leader Julie Stecker Our communication will be effective and a defining characteristic of our Synod Goal 1: Create a basic technology threshold for all congregations and then assist in bringing them to that level (hardware/software) so that communication can flow from the Synod to congregation and among congregations. Examples include: basic internet connectivity, smart boards, Go To Meeting, etc. Conduct assessments for hardware in congregations. Assist congregations in bringing them up to the basic technology threshold. Synod funds to be combined with individual congregational funding. Goal to have all congregations to minimum level of connectivity by 12/31/18. Cost: $50,000 Goal 2: Identify designated on-going Congregational Connectors in each congregation. They will be trained and equipped in their ministry through local training events and larger-scale events, such as the Region 8 Networks for Mission gathering. All congregations to have a Congregational Connector by 12/31/18. Cost: $10, The Way of Connectedness: $50,000 Oversight Responsibility: Mission Through Partnership Team Claudia Harrington Our congregations and related ministries will thrive through deeper connectedness with other congregations and communities through mutual support and sharing of resources Goal 1: Congregations will be linked with at least two others with similar opportunities and challenges to share ideas, insights, and resources. The gatherings will included lay and rostered leaders in each conference and encourage Bishop and Synod Staff participation. Conference Deans will be responsible for coordinating the initial gatherings. Timing by 12/31/16. Goal 2: Develop congregational discipleship and stewardship ministries to grow generosity in support of the Synod s wider ministry to include providing funds to enhance and support ministries that connect congregations both inside and beyond our Synod. For example, potential areas of support include, but are not limited to: Task Forces for Hunger, Tanzania, Estonia/Finland; Lutheran Community Services Delaware; Campus Ministry; Disability Ministry; Mar-Lu-Ridge Camping and Retreat Ministry; Youth and Family Ministry among others. Synod Council will determine which programs to sponsor considering appropriate input. Cost: $50,000 28

29 Goal 3: Conference Deans will organize and conduct annual Pre-Assembly Conference meetings prior to Synod Assemblies, beginning in The Way of Leadership: $125,000 Oversight Responsibility: Mission Through Leadership Team Mike Louia Our leaders, lay and rostered, will be energized to serve with passion, health, and effectiveness. Goal 1: Engage a Leadership Development Director role to lead and implement the rostered and lay leadership development curriculum (see Goal 2 below) of the Synod. Director would report to the Mission Through Leadership Team. Stipend of $7500/year for 4 years which includes mileage and expenses ($1000/year). Timing: 3/1/16. Cost: $30,000 Goal 2: Leadership Development Director working with the Mission Through Leadership Team develops lay and rostered leadership development curriculum by 6/1/16. The first 100 leaders are trained by 6/1/17 and the second 100 by 12/31/18. Cost: $40,000 Goal 3: Mission Through Leadership Team provides resources and implementation support for a Mutual Ministry Team in every congregation by 12/31/17. Goal 4: The Synod will financially support DE-MD Synod seminary candidates by establishing a DE-MD Synod Endowed Scholarship Fund through Gettysburg Seminary (to be matched $1 for $1 by the seminary), and encouraging congregations to pay the candidacy fees as well as establishing a fund to provide support for candidates without congregational financial support by 3/1/16. Fund breakdown listed below: Cost: $30,000 Gettysburg Scholarship Cost: $25,000 Candidacy Fees Goal 5: Synod Council will re-evaluate the overall structure and functioning of the Mission Teams (closer alignment with the Four Ways of Vision 2018), conferences and Synod Staff. Initial plans to be proposed and presented to the 2016 Synod Assembly in June, Final implementation following the 2017 Synod Assembly. Note: As the Capital Campaign exceeds the $500,000 designated for the Synod s ministries, projects and goals in each of the Four Ways will be expanded upon approval of the Synod Council. 29

30 Memorials and Resolutions Memorial #1 African Descent Lutheran Lives Matter WHERAS, the United Nations declared the International Decade for People of African Descent. African American, African Caribbean and African national communities of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) are gifted and culturally diverse, represented by more than 200 million people living in the Americas. Whether as descendants of the transatlantic slave trade or as more recent migrants, people of African Descent constitute some of the poorest and most marginalized groups with limited access to quality education, health services, housing, and Social Services; and WHEREAS, people of African Descent represent 13% of the total population of the United States of America. Within the ELCA there are more than 46,100 members that identify as people of African Descent, or 1.9% of the ELCA s total population; and WHEREAS, as the ELCA prepares to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation, the political, social and economic injustices affecting African Descent communities still remain largely invisible to a society indifferent to black life. The legacy of slavery, post-reconstruction Jim Crow laws and racial subordination in the United States remains a serious challenge as there has been no real commitment to recognition and reparations for people of African descent. Despite many advances by people of African Descent within the ELCA and society, racism and racial discrimination, both direct and indirect, de facto and de jure, continue to manifest themselves in inequality and disadvantage; and WHEREAS, the 1993 ELCA Churchwide Assembly adopted the social statement, Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity & Culture as a confession of the sin of racism. However, Black Liberation Theology is often rejected and avoided within many Lutheran academic institutions. African Descent rostered leaders acquire higher education debt, wait longer to receive calls, are less likely to receive full-time calls, and less likely to reach synod compensation guidelines; and WHEREAS, the majority of African Descent ELCA congregations were birthed out of white flight, a divestment from urban areas, taking socio-economic resources and abandoning a connection, call and witness. What is left are deteriorating, debt-filled buildings with shrinking memberships, in part due to the systemic and structural issues of discrimination and lack of full inclusion of the gifts of leadership and worship styles of people of African Descent; and WHEREAS, the African Descent community is within a denomination that affirms There is no longer Jew or Greek, slave or free, male and female; for all of you are one in Christ (Galatians 3:28). We are called to be a church that embraces each person and confronts racial, ethnic, cultural, religious, age, gender, familial, sexual orientation, physical, personal and class barriers that often manifest themselves in unjust treatment, 30

31 inequalities, exclusion and violence. The ELCA constitution ( section A number 7), states Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, every ordained minister shall: speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God s love for the world. Justification by grace through faith is a principle of scripture and Lutheran identity for all races, ethnicities, genders, gender identities, sexual orientation, class, cultures or nationalities; therefore be it RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly memorializes the 2016 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) to: 1. Direct the Church Council to create a Declaration of the ELCA to the African Descent Community similar to the Declaration of the ELCA to the Jewish Community (4/18/1994) acknowledging the Lutheran church s complicity in the 400+ years of slavery and the oppression of other marginalized groups; that people of African descent were victims of slavery, the slave trade and colonialism and continue to be victims of its consequences; and, the ELCA has perpetuated racism and discrimination through attitudes, actions, policies and practices these communities still endure. The Council will bring this Declaration to the 2019 Churchwide Assembly for its consideration and action with a recommendation to include this Declaration in the governing documents of the ELCA; 2. Direct the Church Council to require the Advisory Committee of the Church Council focusing on Theological Education in partnership with the Conference of International Black Lutherans (CIBL) to recognize and dismantle white hegemony by lifting up, encouraging and incorporating academic exploration of Black Liberation theology across ELCA educational expressions, to allocate funds for the development of resources and to accomplish this by the 2019 Churchwide Assembly; and, 3. Direct the Church Council to require the Congregational and Synodical Missions Unit of the ELCA, to work in partnership with the African Descent Lutheran Association to increase by 10% the number of African Descent leaders, congregations and communities served, thereby renewing its commitment (see African Descent Strategy, CWA, 2005) to create, sustain, reinvest in and support this plan of action by the 2019 Churchwide Assembly and to encourage Synods and congregations to do likewise. Submitted by: Mydea Reeves-Karpeh,-Chair, ADLA (Delaware-Maryland Chapter) Rev. Patrick Gahagen- Chair, Racial Justice Ministry Team Rev. Eric Campbell- Coordinator, African Descent Strategy 31

32 When the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America was formed in 1987, a commitment was made to widen membership and leadership of this church to include at least 10% people of color or whose primary language is not English. Clearly, we have fallen far short of that goal. Even more disturbing is the fact that racism, both outward and hidden, is at work every day in our church as well as in the world. In 1999, the 12 th anniversary of the formation of the ELCA, the Rev. Frederick E.N. Rajan, then the Executive Director of the Commission for Multicultural Ministries said, Denial never has been a source of creativity, innovation or renewal. His words are still true today. The Reference & Counsel Committee supports Memorial #1 which calls on the ELCA to put into action three specific strategies. If adopted and worked on, these strategies will help to reignite the goal of expanding the ELCA membership and leadership in a way that will make us more reflective of the population around us. More importantly, these actions call upon all who are part of the ELCA to be involved in acknowledging the sin of racism and working toward overcome its devastating results. The Reference & Counsel Committee recommends adoption of Memorial #1. 32

33 Resolution #1 Justice for the Holy Land through Responsible Investment WHEREAS, the continued occupation of the Palestinian Territories by the State of Israel, the ongoing building of Israeli settlements in the Palestinian Territories, and other activities associated with this occupation and settlement, including but not limited to expulsion of Palestinians from their legally held lands; demolition of their homes; prolonged detention with torture and without due process; arrest, mistreatment, and detention of children; separate and unequal systems of law for Israeli settlers and Palestinians; severe restrictions on movement and travel through arbitrary permit systems, checkpoints and the separation wall; and segregated roads and buses; deny the fundamental human rights of Palestinians, hamper efforts to create a just and lasting peace, jeopardize a two-state solution and violate international law as set forth in the United Nations Charter, the Fourth Geneva Convention and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; and WHEREAS, the 2005 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America adopted Peace Not Walls: Stand for Justice in the Holy Land, as our church s strategy of engagement in the Holy Land, a strategy that advocates for equal human dignity and rights for all people in the Holy Land, an end to Israeli settlement building and the occupation of Palestinian land, and a two-state solution, with two viable, secure states living side-by-side; and WHEREAS, Palestinian Christians, in the 2009 Statement Kairos Palestine, written and supported by leaders and heads of thirteen churches in the Holy Land, including Catholic, Orthodox and Lutheran Bishop Munib Younan and Pastor Mitri Raheb of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land both contributed to the statement called on churches of the world to stand alongside the oppressed and work to end the sin of occupation imposed upon us; and WHEREAS, multiple sources, including the American Friends Service Committee s investment screening database, confirm that certain multinational corporations, including Caterpillar, HP Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Motorola Solutions, and G4S have been complicit in the occupation and its associated human rights abuses: Caterpillar provides specialized bulldozers, including unmanned bulldozers, to demolish Palestinian civilian homes and property; HP Inc. and Hewlett Packard Enterprise provides IT services and systems so that the State of Israel can collect finger print and facial recognition data on every Palestinian over the age of 16 to track and control their movements; Motorola Solutions provides invisible radar fences, surveillance, and communication equipment used in the occupied territories; and G4S provides security systems for Israel s prisons and detention centers, West Bank settlements, and military checkpoints; and 33

34 WHEREAS, three of the ELCA s full communion partners - the Presbyterian Church USA, the United Church of Christ, and the United Methodist Church - have each voted within the past two years to divest funds from these and other companies and banks that profit from or are complicit in human rights violations arising from the occupation; therefore be it RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly direct the Synod Council to divest of direct or substantive indirect holdings in companies profiting from, or complicit in, human rights violations arising from the occupation, such as Caterpillar, HP Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Motorola Solutions, and G4S, until such time as those companies no longer profit from the occupation or cease operations in the illegal settlements; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly encourage its members and congregations, to divest of direct or substantive indirect holdings in companies profiting from, or complicit in, human rights violations arising from the occupation, such as Caterpillar, HP Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Motorola Solutions, and G4S, until such time as those companies no longer profit from the occupation or cease operations in the illegal settlements; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly memorialize the 2016 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to direct the Church Council to divest of direct or substantive indirect holdings in companies profiting from, or complicit in, human rights violations arising from the occupation, such as Caterpillar, HP Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Motorola Solutions, and G4S, until such time as those companies no longer profit from the occupation and cease operations in the illegal settlements; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly memorialize the 2016 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to encourage synods, congregations, and agencies and institutions of this church to divest of direct or substantive indirect holdings in companies profiting from, or complicit in, human rights violations arising from the occupation, such as Caterpillar, HP Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Motorola Solutions, and G4S, until such time as those companies no longer profit from the occupation and cease operations in the illegal settlements. Submitted By: Ms. Tina Boyd, Joy Reigns Lutheran Church, Edgewater, MD Ms. Angelika Fischer, Joy Reigns Lutheran Church Edgewater, MD Rev. Mark Huffman, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Frederick, MD Rev. Earl Janssen, Our Shepherd Lutheran Church, Severna Park, MD Rev. Fred Melton, retired, St. Mark s Lutheran Church, Wilmington, DE 34

35 Rev. B. Nicki Parrish, retired, St. Martin s Lutheran Church, Annapolis, MD Mr. W. Brad Schlegel, St. Mark s Lutheran Church, Baltimore, MD Ms. Selma Tepper, St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Wilmington DE Rev. Alan Traher, retired St. Martin s Lutheran Church, Annapolis, MD Rev. Sara Yotter, Joy Reigns Lutheran Church Edgewater, MD Lutherans and others who have visited the Holy Land have seen first-hand the devastation brought about by policies making it nearly impossible for Palestinians to legally build homes or businesses on the West Bank while the Israeli population in the area continues to grow. Driving thorough Bethlehem, for example, you see how Palestinian farmers have been cut off from their olive groves. Likewise, many Palestinians are currently unable to reach the Augusta Victoria Hospital to receive lifegiving services such as chemotherapy and dialysis. Resolution #1 asks us to put our prayers into action for the needs of the Palestinian people. Divestment is an action that has proven to be effective in getting the attention of American businesses. The Resolution calls for American companies to cease making profit by supporting the creation of illegal settlements, dividing people from their own land, and treating people wtih a variety of dehumanizing practices. The ELCA, in its statement, Peace Not Walls: Stand for Justice in the Holy Land, has already spoken against these activities. This Resolution calls on the synod to put our concern into action, to invite congregations and individuals to consider doing the same, and to urge the ELCA assembly to take similar action. The Reference & Counsel Committee recommends adoption of Resolution #1. 35

36 Resolution #2 U.S. Aid to State of Israel as a Tool for Peace WHEREAS, the continued occupation of the Palestinian Territories by the State of Israel, the ongoing building of Israeli settlements in the Palestinian Territories, and other activities associated with this occupation and settlement, including but not limited to expulsion of Palestinians from their legally held lands; demolition of their homes; prolonged detention with torture and without due process; arrest, mistreatment, and detention of children; separate and unequal systems of law for Israeli settlers and Palestinians; severe restrictions on movement and travel through arbitrary permit systems, checkpoints and the separation wall; and segregated roads and buses; deny the fundamental human rights of Palestinians, hamper efforts to create a just and lasting peace, jeopardize a two-state solution and violate international law as set forth in the United Nations Charter, the Fourth Geneva Convention and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; and WHEREAS, the 2005 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America adopted Peace Not Walls: Stand for Justice in the Holy Land, as our church s strategy of engagement in the Holy Land, a strategy that advocates for equal human dignity and rights for all people in the Holy Land, an end to Israeli settlement building and the occupation of Palestinian land, and a two-state solution, with two viable, secure states living side-by-side; and WHEREAS, Palestinian Christians, in the 2009 Statement Kairos Palestine, written and supported by leaders and heads of thirteen churches in the Holy Land, including Catholic, Orthodox and Lutheran Bishop Munib Younan and Pastor Mitri Raheb of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land both contributed to the statement called on churches of the world to stand alongside the oppressed and work to end the sin of occupation imposed upon us; and WHEREAS, the Congress of the United States is not following the directive of the Foreign Assistance Act, which requires that a country receiving U.S. financial aid not engage in consistent violation of human-rights of people under its governance; and WHEREAS, Congress is not following the directive of the Arms Export Control Act, which requires that a country receiving U.S. military arms not use weapons for oppression of another people; therefore be it RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly urge the Congress of the United States to make U.S. financial and military aid for the State of Israel conditional on the halting of settlement building and the halting of the expansion of existing settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, and to follow the directives of the Foreign Assistance Act and the Arms Export Control Act, which require that a country 36

37 receiving U.S. financial aid and military arms not engage in human-rights violations of another people; and be it further RESOLVED, that Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly, seeking a just peace for Israel and Palestine, encourage this synod s congregations and members to pray for Israelis and Palestinians, to learn about the current situation in the Holy Land, to read the Kairos Palestine document, and to advocate the aforementioned conditions on U.S. aid to Israel to their Congressional representatives; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly direct the bishop of this synod to make this resolution known to the members of Delaware and Maryland s Congressional delegation who serve citizens living in our synod and to the public at large; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly memorialize the 2016 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to ask for Congress to follow the directives of the Foreign Assistance Act and the Arms Export Control Act, which require that a country receiving U.S. financial aid and military arms not engage in human-rights violations of another people and to urge Congressional action requiring that, to continue receiving U.S. financial and military aid, Israel must stop settlement building and the expansion of existing settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. Submitted by: Ms. Tina Boyd, Joy Reigns Lutheran Church, Edgewater, MD Ms. Angelika Fischer, Joy Reigns Lutheran Church Edgewater, MD Rev. Mark Huffman, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Frederick, MD Rev. Earl Janssen, Our Shepherd Lutheran Church, Severna Park, MD Rev. Fred Melton, retired, St. Mark s Lutheran Church, Wilmington, DE Rev. B. Nicki Parrish, retired, St. Martin s Lutheran Church, Annapolis, MD Mr. W. Brad Schlegel, St. Mark s Lutheran Church, Baltimore, MD Ms. Selma Tepper, St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Wilmington, DE Rev. Alan Traher, retired St. Martin s Lutheran Church, Annapolis, MD Rev. Sara Yotter, Joy Reigns Lutheran Church Edgewater, MD 37

38 Jesus called on his followers to be peacemakers. In today s complex world, as we face global, 21 st century issues, it is challenging to know how to best carry out our Lord s teaching. Resolution #2 invites the use of 21 st century methods that allow us to be peacemakers. Using economic leverage is a way for the United States to stand with oppressed people in Palestine while still supporting America s long-standing friendship with Israel. Calling on our government leaders to make systematic changes is a way for us to make our voices known. Resolution #2 also includes a memorial to the ELCA asking our whole church body to join in advocacy that will lead to systemic change for our sisters and brothers in Israel and Palestine. The Reference & Counsel Committee recommends adoption of Resolution #2. 38

39 Resolution #3 Bridging the Racial Divide and Encouraging Racial Reconciliation in the Delaware-Maryland Synod WHEREAS, the Delaware-Maryland Synod of the ELCA supports and encourages efforts to bridge the racial divide in many ways including dialogue/conversation about race, summits, inclusion and racial reconciliation as demonstrated in the 2008 Synod Assembly focus on anti-racism and the 2010 Synod Assembly action to pass the African Descent Strategy; and WHEREAS, efforts are being made to break down the barriers of historical prejudices, address the important issues of justice, police/community relations and poverty; and WHEREAS, churches, religious institutions and other faith based networks play a vital role in the development of the spiritual, socio-economic and moral fabric of a responsible citizenry; and WHEREAS, there is the intentional need to have open dialogue among different ethnic groups and to provide skills and information to find ways to break down barriers to peaceful coexistence by spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ; and WHEREAS, there is a realization that new challenges and lack of civility threaten community safety and tranquility; therefore be it RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod continue to collaborate with historic ecumenical partners to maintain a good quality of life for the members and provide forums where differing views and opinions may be heard in a manner of mutual respect and justice for all people; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod continue to protect civil and human rights, facilitate positive community relations and promote social equity policies; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Delaware-Maryland Synod encourage symposiums, summits, monthly focus groups and an annual celebration of hope in January where traditions of worship would blend white and black Christian traditions, mass choirs, combined services aimed at promoting racial reconciliation; and be it further RESOLVED, that the assembly urge the congregations of the Delaware-Maryland Synod to connect with the African Descent Lutheran Association (ADLA), the Racial Justice Ministry Team, and the African Descent Strategy Team for assistance in identifying tools and strategies to discuss the issue of race in the context of each congregation. 39

40 Respectfully submitted, Mydea Karpeh, Chair- African Descent Lutheran Association (ADLA) Rev. Eric Campbell, Coordinator- African Descent Strategy Implementation Team Rev. Patrick Gahagen, Chair- Racial Justice Ministry Team While Memorial #1 speaks to the ELCA, it is easy to forget that it speaks directly to us as well. Resolution #3 reminds us that racism and its ugly results are alive and well in every community in the Delaware Maryland Synod. Members and leaders of our synod have been involved in efforts to promote healthy dialogue and develop life-changing relationships. However, there is a great need to continue these efforts and to create even more opportunities for growth. Resolution #3 offers specific ways in which individuals and congregations throughout our synod can be involved in positive ways to learn from one another, build stronger relationships among diverse groups of people, and create healing moments in a broken world. The Resolution speaks not only to the congregations in Baltimore City, but it addresses those of us who are in the far western counties of Maryland, the shoreline of Delaware, and everywhere in between. We all need to be involved if change is ever going to happen. The Gospel of John tells us that Jesus said, I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. This is an opportunity to obey Jesus command. The Reference & Counsel Committee recommends adoption of Resolution #3. 40

41 Resolution from the Synod Council Synod Task Group WHEREAS, Jesus Christ instituted the church, saying to Peter, I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it, as recorded in Matthew 16:18; and WHEREAS, St. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians, 14:40, that all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner; and WHEREAS, the current administrative structure of the Delaware-Maryland Synod, consisting of eleven conferences, dates to the formation of the synod in 1988; and WHEREAS, the Delaware-Maryland Synod today has changed dramatically over the years and faces very different challenges and opportunities than it did almost 30 years ago, not the least of which is a dramatic decline in income which raises concerns related to staffing levels; and WHEREAS, the synod s strategic missional plan, Vision 2018: Discerning God s Will, which was adopted with near unanimity at the 2015 Synod Assembly, calls on the Synod Council to study and evaluate the current conference structure by 1/1/2018; therefore be it RESOLVED that the Delaware-Maryland Synod meeting in assembly hereby directs the Synod Council to form a Task Group for the purpose of evaluating our synod s current structure, programs and staffing; and be it further RESOLVED that this Task Group will strive to involve as many people as possible in its deliberations through the creative use of internet surveys, focus groups, one-on-one interviews and town hall meetings; and be it further RESOLVED that the Task Group will bring a report and recommendations to the 2017 Synod Assembly, including possible constitutional and by-law changes that may become necessary. Submitted by: The Synod Council of the Delaware-Maryland Synod, ELCA 41

42 Synod Council Secretary I offer my sincere appreciation and thanks to the bishop, assistants and staff of the Delaware-Maryland Synod for their faith, leadership and love of our Lord and Savior. The members of the Synod Council are a dedicated group who give of their time and talents to support the mission of the synod. Vision 2018 will continue to direct the work of the synod, leaders, and congregations and the resources from Forward in Faith hold much promise. God is Good, All the Time. All the Time, God is Good! The duties of the office of secretary have been performed in accordance with the requirements of the synod s Constitution and Bylaws. All minutes of the synod council and the executive committee, upon approval, are regularly placed into the archives of the synod. There were no matters for which the seal of the synod was needed for authentication. Recommendation: That two copies of the Minutes of the 2015 Synod Assembly of the Delaware-Maryland Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, as certified by the synod council, be approved as the official record of the 2015 Synod Assembly and deposited in the archives of the synod. Nancy Gordon, secretary 42

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54 Nominations Committee/ Biographies of Nominees Overview Synod Council: Secretary (vote for one) 1. Nancy Gordon 2. Kevin Garrity Synod Council: Young Adult (vote for one) 1. Julie Anderson 2. Leanne Elliot Synod Council: Mission Through Congregations Team (vote for one) 1. Jennifer Simms Synod Council: Lay Male at Large (vote for one) 1. Robert Federwitz 2. Matthew Herzberg 3. Alex McKeague Synod Council: Conference Cluster A Clergy (vote for one) 1. The Rev. Clarence Pettit 2. The Rev. Chasity Wiener Nominees for Consultation Committee Lay (vote for one) 1. Robert Fairchild 2. Robert Patterson Synod Council: Conference Cluster A Lay Female (vote for one) 1. Pamela Estes 2. Gretchen Rockafellow Nominees for Consultation Committee Clergy (vote for one) 1. The Rev. Chris Litton 2. The Rev. David Oravec Nominees for ELCA Church Council: Young Adult (18-30), female (Vote for two) 1. Colleen Carpenter-Gonia 2. Leanne Elliot 54

55 Nomination: Secretary of Synod Council Ms. Nancy Gordon Zion Lutheran Church, Middletown, Md. I am completing my third term as synod secretary. This opportunity has strengthened my faith and allowed me to see the Holy Spirit at work in our congregations, members, and leaders. And, "We can do all things through Christ who guides, loves and strengthens us!" (Phil. 4:13) Mr. Kevin Garrity New Light Lutheran Church, Dudalk, Md. I ve served on the Synod Council for the past three years, learned a lot, grown a lot, and have developed strong friendships. I am happy to serve the Synod as needed. Nomination: Synod Council, Mission Through Congregations Team Ms. Jennifer Simms All Saints Lutheran Church, Baltimore, Md. Jennifer has served the Synod Council as the representative of the Mission Through Congregations Team for the past three years and is looking forward to another term. She is passionate about congregational leadership and empowering all of God s people to serve. Jennifer is a social worker in Baltimore County Public Schools and has served on congregation council at All Saints Lutheran Church in Baltimore. Jennifer enjoys serving all of God s people. 55

56 Nomination: Synod Council, Cluster A: Clergy The Rev. Clarence Pettit Spirit of Life Lutheran Church, Wilmington, Del. Pastor Pettit has served on the Synod Council for the past three years as a representative from Cluster A. He enjoys sharing in the decision making of the Synod, is passionate about ministry, and hopes to continue to use his gifts for the greater good of our church. The Rev. Chasity Wiener Holy Communion Lutheran Church, Fallston, Md. Like most of us, The Rev. Chasity L. Wiener spends most of her time juggling: She is a full time wife and mom, and full-time Senior Pastor at Holy Communion Lutheran Church. She has been a guest speaker for the Harford County cluster of the Women of the ELCA, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, and World Vision s The 30 Hour Famine. Her faith always has her seeking God in the everyday from relationships, to household management, and even over life s spilt milk experiences. On a weekly basis, she fights mounting laundry and dishes in a single bound, battles 5th grade homework and housework, and boldly goes where others fear to go--in the pulpit to preach and in the middle school confirmation classroom to teach. She has dust bunnies under her bed, and perhaps even a few cobwebs in her soul that could use a nice cleaning (but God's not done with her quite yet)! 56

57 Nomination: Synod Council, Cluster A: Lay Female Ms. Pamela Estes Gretchen Rockafellow St. Peter Lutheran Church, Ocean City, Md. Ascension Lutheran Church, Towson, Md. I am presently serving as Church Council Secretary and President of St. Peter's Women of the ELCA. I serve as the Liaison for our Witness Team and report to the Church Council as well as participate in worship services as an Assisting Minister, Communion Assistant and Reader. I am a certified Stephen Minister and completed a two year Lay Minister Program at Roanoke College in Virginia. I am the DelMarVa Cluster Coordinator for the Delaware-Maryland Synodical Women's Organization of Women of the ELCA. After a year of gathering contacts from our 19 churches we were able to hold our first Spring Gathering in over 15 years. I have attended five Triennial Conventions of Women of the ELCA and served as delegate representing synods in Virginia and Maryland. I have a degree in public speaking from the University of Maryland and have written faith stories published on a small scale for congregational devotion booklets. I would be very excited to serve on our Synod Council. I think I have a great deal to offer the Delaware- Maryland Synod. I have experience on church councils as both a member as well as a member of the Executive Committee. I am an active participate of Ascension serving as a reader, worship assistant, communion assistant, choir member, and handbell choir member. I am able to think big picture about issues and topics as well as unintended consequences to decisions being made. My passion is ensuring we have worship experiences that are meaningful for all congregants. Children and adults with disabilities may not always feel connected to the worship experience. I would be honored to serve on the DAART subcommittee to ensure individuals with disabilities have a voice at the table and in the entire worship experience. Church is about building community not barriers. All are welcome in this place. 57

58 Nomination: Synod Council, Young Adult Ms. Julie Anderson St. Paul Lutheran Church, Lutherville, Md. I participated in Lutheran Youth Organization for three years in high school. I continue to be an active member of my home congregation. My long term plan after I finish my undergraduate degree is to further my education at Seminary. Ms. Leanne Elliot Grace Lutheran Church, Westminster, Md. I am the Director of Christian Education, Youth & Family Ministry at Grace Lutheran Church in Westminster, MD. I have served in this role for 4 years. I received my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Children, Youth & Family Studies from Trinity Lutheran College in Everett, WA in I served on the Lutheran Youth Organization of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod from February 2005-June 2008 and have been actively involved in church my entire life. I am passionate about the life of the church and feel called to expand my involvement in the Delaware-Maryland Synod by serving as the Young Adult Representative on Synod Council. 58

59 Nomination: Synod Council, Lay Male at Large Mr. Robert Federwitz St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Dover, Del. I love my church and continue to be active in retirement. I served as Vice President of our church council. I served on the Synod s Campaign Action Team. My ministry was in Lutheran schools serving as regional director working with the two Synods in Southern California. I completed my ministry serving as the ELCA Director for Schools in Chicago. Those experiences helped me to understand the work of the regional and national church. If elected I would be honored to serve as a member of the Synod Council. Mr. Matthew Herzberg Breath of God Lutheran Church, Baltimore, Md. Having served the Synod Council as the Young Adult for the past three years, I would be excited to continue to be part of the leadership of the Synod. I am an experienced non-profit worker and I currently serve as President of Breath of God Lutheran Church and run our Youth Mentoring program. I believe everyone has a place in their community and one of the most important roles of the church is making that so. Mr. Alex McKeague Our Shepherd Lutheran Church, Severna Park, Md. Alex has served this past year as an At Large member of the Synod Council, filling a vacancy with one year remaining. He is currently serving on both the Mission Through Leadership Mission Table as well as The Mission Through Congregations Mission Table. Alex has served on Mission Tables for a number of years. He particularly enjoys his work on the Ministry Review Team through New and Renewing Congregations. In his home congregation, Alex currently serves as the Chair of the Youth Ministry Team, a member of the Vision, Mission, and Implementation Ministry, as well as the Service and Outreach Ministry. He has served in many capacities both in his professional and church life. Alex has been President, Vice-President, COO, and bottle washer. The titles he most cherishes are Father, Husband, Friend, and Servant of God. He is committed to continually ask the question What is God calling us to do? and What are we going to do about it? In his spare time, Alex is a fitness enthusiast, SPIN instructor, TRX Trainer, Coach and 2X Ironman Triathlete. Alex completed his 1st Ironman for his 50th Birthday. His goal is to finish his 10th for his 60th Birthday! 59

60 Nomination: Consultation Committee - Lay Mr. Ronald Fairchild Grace Lutheran Church, Westminster, Md. My family and I have been members at Grace since I currently serve as president of the congregation council and have served on the council for the past five years. I am active in many of the ministries of the church including serving as a worship assistant, usher, and Sunday School teacher. I enjoy teaching both adults and confirmation students. I also cook for our cold weather shelter and our Food and Faith dinners. My wife and I have two teenagers who are active in the synod s LYO program. My service to the broader church and Lutheran service organizations includes being a member of the board of Carroll Lutheran Village and serving as the chair of the governance committee. In my professional life, I am the owner of a small consulting firm called the Smarter Learning Group that works with nonprofit organizations and foundations to improve educational outcomes for low-income children across the country. In my free time, I enjoy reading, gardening, spending time with family, traveling, and distance running. Mr. Robert Patterson St. Philip Lutheran Church, Baltimore, Md. My family worships at St. Philip Lutheran Church in Baltimore, Maryland and I have been an active synod volunteer during my years there. I served on Synod Council for two terms, and also on the Assembly Registration Committee for the past four years. At St. Philip Lutheran Church, I have spent six years as a Youth Advisor, taught Sunday School for sixteen years and still do, was Chair of the Fellowship Committee for two years, and served on congregation council many times over during the same sixteen years, even serving one of those terms as council secretary. My wife, Regina and I have two sons, a Goddaughter and six grandchildren and enjoy every minute of our time with them. 60

61 Nomination: Consultation Committee Clergy The Rev. Chris Litton Christus Victor Lutheran Church, Carney, Md. I served as the Pastor at Israel's Creek Lutheran Parish in Woodsboro, Md., served as Interim Pastor at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Manchester, Md., and am currently serving as the called Pastor at Christus Victor Lutheran Church in Carney, Md. I served as the conference secretary in the Frederick Conference and attend the coaching workshop to become a coach for congregations in the Healthy Congregations program. All of these experiences have helped me develop a deeper understanding of the needs of clergy, the needs of the parish, and the importance of the Synod in promoting healthy relationships. I would be honored to serve the Synod on the Consultation Committee. The Rev. David Oravec St. Martin Lutheran Church, Annapolis, Md. Dave serves St. Martin Lutheran Church in Annapolis and has been in ordained in the ELCA for 25 years. In addition to a variety of parish experiences Dave has also been a chaplain in the United States Navy Reserve Component for 25 years and holds the rank of Captain. All of this experience gives him a unique vision of the church and the value of pastoral care at all levels. 61