MINUTES 28 TH ANNUAL ASSEMBLY INDIANA-KENTUCKY SYNOD, ELCA INDIANAPOLIS MARRIOTT EAST INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA Breathe, Spirit, Breathe

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1 Friday, June 5, 2015 MINUTES 28 TH ANNUAL ASSEMBLY INDIANA-KENTUCKY SYNOD, ELCA INDIANAPOLIS MARRIOTT EAST INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA Breathe, Spirit, Breathe MADE NEW FOR MISSION BANQUET: Celebrating Leaders and Ministries of the Past, Present and Future A 4:15 p.m. welcome and orientation session for first time attendees led by Synod Vice President Ted Miller preceded the banquet. Synod Attorney and Parliamentarian Josh Tatum also spoke briefly regarding parliamentary procedure. Bishop Gafkjen and a number of Synod Council members attended and were introduced. Questions were asked and answered. The Synod Assembly began with the Made New for Mission Banquet. Bishop Gafkjen called the meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the Indianapolis Marriott East, welcomed sisters and brothers, asserted that it is great to be together and to celebrate the many ways God is leading us, embodying the life of Jesus, crucified and risen for the sake of the world. He announced that the Shalom choir was there to sing during the meal. He prayed for the meal. After the meal, Bishop Gafkjen announced that dessert will be after worship. He noted that we would be recognizing the many ways we celebrate mission and ministry. At 6:19 p.m. Bishop Gafkjen asked those celebrating twenty-five and fifty years since ordination up to the dais to the chairs on the stage. Each honoree stood as Bishop Gafkjen read information about the individual. Those recognized for twenty-five years of faithful service were Pastors Mark W. Bartusch, Nancy A. Nyland, and Mitchell D. Phillips; Pastor Lisa E. Dahill also is celebrating twenty-five years since ordination but was not present. Those recognized for fifty years of faithful service were Pastors George G. Mercer, John D. Place, George D. Silavs and Walter B. Stitt, Jr.; Pastor Roger Drews also is celebrating fifty years since ordination but was not present. Bishop Gafkjen expressed gratitude for their ministries. A group photo was taken of the honorees and each was presented a certificate. The names of those celebrating fifty-five and sixty years since ordination were read. Those celebrating fiftyfive years of faithful service included Pastors Carl C. Armiger, Charles P. Aylor, John R. Hunt, and John F. Stuck; those celebrating sixty years included Pastors Raymond W. Andrews, Jr., Loyal G. Bishop, Richard W. Miller, Arlington D. Rehrig, Robert E. Schrack, Paul J. Schumacher, and Donald M. Weber. Pastor Schumacher was present and was asked to stand and wave from the floor. Bishop Gafkjen drew attention to the list of new to roster and first call candidates listed in the booklet, page 18. Those listed were Pr. Rob Abner, Pr. Curtis Black, Joshua Buzbee, Pr. Daryl Emowrey, Pr. Tim Fleace, Pr. Dan Forehand, Richard Frederick, Pr. Erik Grayvold, Pr. John Henkel, Lake Lamert, Jared Lee, Pr. Dana Lockhart, Lauren Mache, Pr. Colleen Montgomery, Pr. Richard Nelson, Pr. Austin Newberry, Michelle Notardonato, Robert and Sarah Nowak, Pr. Steven Renner, Pr. Jane Rothman, Pr. Ben Sloss, James Smith, Pr. Justin Smoot, Becky Swanson, and Pr. Emily Wiles. Bishop Gafkjen invited Michelle Notardonato to speak about her excitement to have graduated from seminary (Trinity Lutheran Seminary) and to begin ministry soon in the Indiana-Kentucky Mission Territory. He noted that she is in the process of discerning her first call with us. Michelle stated that she couldn t begin to tell the assembly how pleased she was to be graduated just two weeks before. She 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 1

2 noted that the last months of seminary are an odd time, excitement but with doubts, reenacting the upper room experience. On days leading up to Ash Wednesday the bishops gathered for the selection process. Just a few weeks prior she was part of the Florida Synod. She heard about a synod that had dropped the title synod and replaced it with Mission Territory, about the excitement of a leader discussing springs of water in the desert. Then she thought she was going to Michigan but got the call from Bishop Bill. God continues to call us to our new home, walking beside us, and learning from one another. Thanks be to God. Bishop Bill described the selection process students assigned to regions and then divided into synods. He expressed that it is a profound privilege to make those calls, letting candidates know that they have been called to the Indiana-Kentucky Mission Territory. Bishop Gafkjen continued by expressing that he is grateful for the synod s relationship with Trinity Lutheran Seminary. He invited Brad Gee, Vice President for Advancement at Trinity Lutheran Seminary, to the dais for a few words from the seminary. Rev. Gee began with a few words of acknowledgement to Garry Pook and Cynthia Strietelmeier, who have served on the board of Trinity Lutheran Seminary. He acknowledged those from Trinity Lutheran Seminary with him at the assembly: Sister Becky Swanson, Lisa Dahill, Cheryl Peterson, Seth Bridger (Director of Admissions), Jane Stolzenburg (Director of Development), and Hank Langknecht. His comments followed. Trinity Lutheran Seminary is emerging. Many are saying that we have lost our ability to relate to millennials; we at Trinity Lutheran Seminary say we have not. We are compelled by our vision to address income gap, provide environmental courses, engage the people of this world, and ultimately unite all people. It is a vision for the healing of the people and the planet. God shows his life in the life of Jesus crucified and risen. Bishop Gafkjen invited Director for Evangelical Ministry Pastor Nancy Nyland and Synodically Authorized Minister, Douglas Mmari, to the dais to speak about Shalom Ministry, which is the recipient of the evening s worship offerings. Bishop Gafkjen stated that we are grateful for the way that the ministry has risen up in our synod. Pastor Nancy expressed thanks for mission support which helps to fund Shalom, which is a synodically authorized worshipping community and congregations under development. She mentioned all of them: intentional redeveloping or transformational congregations Faith Lutheran in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Grace Lutheran in Elkhart, Indiana, St. Andrews in Indianapolis, Indiana, with Pastor Dan Strobel; two synodically authorized worshipping communities Christ Lutheran Chapel in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, and Shalom Ministry in Indianapolis; and Congregations Under Development Roots of Life in Noblesville, Indiana, and Community of the Living Spirit in Indianapolis, Indiana. Douglas Mmari came to research the need in the area of Salem Lutheran Church. And he has now been called there. Douglas Mmari shared that we all know that Shalom is a Hebrew word which also means security, completeness, and wellness. This ministry is reaching out to refugees from sub-saharan Africa. They have experienced suffering and distress. They need Shalom. They don t know the language. They have many different languages. They need help to use common things do laundry, pick up mail. Some have never been to church. The goal is to invite them to worship. They are working with Salem Church. He expresses that God has made us one, from different countries. He expressed thanks for the ELCA, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, and the local ministerium. He declared that we are God s people and mission. Bishop Gafkjen expressed thanks for Douglas Mmari and his work in the Shalom Ministry. Bishop Gafkjen stated that he enjoys celebrating anniversaries with those celebrating their shared ministries. He invited members of those congregations present to come forward and stand in 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 2

3 front of the stage. First recognized was Resurrection Lutheran Church in Madison, Indiana, with vacancy pastor Reverend Laura Meier; they are celebrating fifty years of ministry. Next members of St. John Lutheran Church in North Liberty, Indiana, were asked to come forward with current pastor Reverend Vicky Blough. They are celebrating 150 years of ministry. The history of both congregations was in the program booklet. Nominees on the ballot were asked to stand as a group and be recognized. It was noted that they had turquoise ribbons on their name tags and that they would be available for conversation during the reception after worship. Bishop Gafkjen thanked them for their willingness to serve. Bishop Gafkjen then invited to the stage ecumenical guests whom he affectionately calls the Breakfast Club because they gather in Indianapolis for breakfast with the bishop and other ecumenical leaders representing Indiana. He stated that he also meets with ecumenical partners in Louisville for lunch once a month. He noted Kathryn Lohre s presence with the assembly and her ecumenical role with the ELCA; she was the ELCA Churchwide Organization s representative for the assembly and is the executive for ecumenical and inter-religious relations in the office of the presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Bishop Gafkjen introduced Rev. Gregory Alexander, General Minister with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kentucky, who is a member of the lunch club that meets once a month. Also introduced was Reverend Andre Gingerich Stoner, director of holistic witness and interchurch relations for Mennonite Church USA. Last, he introduced Bishop Mike Coyner of the Indiana Conference of United Methodist Church, another member of the Breakfast Club, to speak on behalf of the group. Bishop Coyner mentioned that the Breakfast Club is just meeting for coffee. His ancestors came here from Germany. When he was visiting a cemetery in Virginia, he found the graves of some of his ancestors and the caretaker was a Coyner. He said even though the connection was distant, the caretaker stated, "If we both claim the name, then we are part of the family. Bishop Coyner noted that, similarly, if we claim the name of Jesus we are kin to one another, all part of the family of God. He stated that he was glad for the assembly, and hoped for it to go well, and brought greetings. He stated, When we are together (as the Breakfast Club ) we pray for each because we are kin to each other. Bishop Gafkjen concurred, It is so good to be part of the Body of Christ. After announcements the Bishop closed the banquet with gathering worship to begin at 7:30 p.m. in Liberty Hall. He announced that the morning plenary session would begin at 8:30 a.m. in Liberty Hall, resolutions supported by fifty signatures of voting members would be due to the dais by 10:45 a.m. Friday, a fellowship reception would follow worship outside in the Oasis Patio, and the gathering worship offering would support Shalom Ministry. GATHERING EUCHARIST With gathering music beginning at 7:15 p.m., a worship service including Holy Communion was held in Liberty Hall, Indianapolis Marriott East, Indianapolis, Indiana, with presiding minister and preacher Bishop William O. Gafkjen and assisting minister Emily Ohland. Music preceding the service and throughout the service was led by the Director of Music and pianist Thomas Dearchs, cellist Hayley Phillips, harpist Nicholas Burrus, violinist Christopher Burrus, flutist Kim Converse, and the Assembly Choir from the Lafayette and Indianapolis Conferences directed by Sarah Gran-Williams. As a reminder of the gift of baptism, the assembly was sprinkled with water during the confession of faith. Crucifer was Delaney Winter, and Torch Bearers were Tadd Nyland and Jerry Shake. Cantor was David White; lectors were Meghan Smith, who read Isaiah 42:5 10a in English, and Jesus Vesga, who read Romans 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 3

4 8:10-17 in Spanish. The Gospel reading was John 20: (Jesus Appears to the Disciples). Bishop Gafkjen brought greetings in the name of Jesus from Ascension Lutheran Church, Louisville, where he celebrated the ministry and retirement of Rev. Hegele, and he asked the assembly permission to extend greetings to First Lutheran Church in Louisville, Kentucky, where he would install Austin Newberry as pastor on June 20. Bishop Gafkjen s sermon focused on Breathe, Spirit, Breathe, the theme of the assembly. Our physical bodies cannot live more than a few minutes without breathing. Is it possible we have forgotten how to breathe and are engaging in shallow gasping? He asked the assembly to pause on this holy ground, close eyes, and breathe intentionally and deeply. God who created the earth gives breath to you. The face of the earth is renewed when we cry out Abba Father; it is that breath of God. Receive the Holy Spirit. As Christians we need to think about breathing. We breathe in that life giving spirit and breathe out blessing. Jesus said as the Father sent me, I send you. When we think it is up to us, that is when we start breathing shallow and start gasping. The Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, kindness, faithfulness. The Breath of God is blessing. Breathe in life giving spirit, breathe out blessing. God who created sends out spirit and we become the spirit. Breathe in life giving spirit, breathe out blessing. Communion assistants included those celebrating fifty or twenty-five years of rostered ministry, conference deans, and others serving in the Indiana-Kentucky Synod. The offering supported Shalom Ministry, a new, parallel ministry growing out of Salem Lutheran Church, Indianapolis, which reaches out to the multicultural community, especially refugees and other groups emigrating from sub-saharan Africa, and was $3, Bakers of the Bread were Teri Ditslear and the Roots of Life Bakers; providers of the wine were Tom and Linda Frey. Directors of the liturgy were Rev. Rudy Mueller and Linda Henke. After worship, all were invited to a fellowship reception in the Oasis Patio of the Indianapolis Marriott East. Saturday, June 6, 2015 PLENARY SESSION I OPENING OF ASSEMBLY, GREETINGS AND INTRODUCTIONS, OPENING REMARKS At 8:30 a.m. the Synod Assembly began with the Liturgy for Opening of Assembly led by Bishop William Gafkjen, ending with prayer, and declaring the assembly open in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. The musicians leading the assembly s worship were from the Indiana- Kentucky Mission Territory. The following musicians served throughout the assembly: Thomas Dearchs (Christ Lutheran, Kokomo, Indiana) as Director of Music, Christopher Burrus (Christ Church, Zionsville, Indiana), Nicholas Burrus (Christ Church, Zionsville, Indiana), Kim Converse (Grace Lutheran, Columbia City, Indiana), and David White (Gloria Dei, Crestview Hills, Kentucky). Bishop Gafkjen welcomed the assembly and expressed that it was good to worship, that he was inspired by the worship last evening, and that he appreciated the great singing during the opening worship. Before the assembly he stated that he needed to tweet and took a video of the group; he announced the twitter hashtag #ikassembly15. He continued with the following statements: Can these bones live, mortal, you know O God; God is here among us. God knows because He is here among us and makes it happen. We are people who live in a dry place, desperate for light, water, for goodness, for grace, for peace. We know that God will put flesh on the dry bones of our lives so we can move out to share as graciously as we 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 4

5 have received. I m grateful that you are willing to take time out of your life, breathing together. He also announced that during times for voting, the seating area would be cordoned off for voting members. He also informed the assembly that there would not be break outs; instead, there would be holy conversations that assembly leaders hoped that assembly members would carry back to their home congregations. Bishop Gafkjen asked the newly assigned candidates to the synod for pastoral call who would serve as prayer leaders at the assembly to stand and wave as he called their names: Joshua Buzbee, Jared Lee, Michelle Notardonato, Robert (Bob) Nowak, Sarah Nowak, and James Smith. He stated we are grateful to have you among us. He then introduced the ELCA Churchwide representative Kathryn Lohre, who is Assistant to the Presiding Bishop and Executive for Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations. Next, Michael Bischoff and Lisa Negstad were introduced; Bishop Gafkjen noted that they would be leading us in the Holy Conversations. He gave thanks to Portico for we have been able to use those wellness funds to assess the wellness of the synod. Then he introduced Rev. Dr. George Heider representing Valparaiso University. From Trinity Lutheran Seminary he introduced Rev. Dr. Cheryl Peterson, associate professor of Systematic Theology; Rev. Seth Bridger, Director of Admissions; Rev. Brad Gee, Vice President for Advancement; and Jane Stolzenburg, Director of Development. He noted that one of the synod s pastors serves on the Churchwide Council and that she was attending the assembly, Rev. Vicki Garber. Region 6 includes six synods in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Kentucky; Associate in Ministry Marilyn Smith is the Region 6 Coordinator, and Bishop Gafkjen expressed appreciation for her leadership and asked her to stand for a floor wave. Diaconal Minister Tammy Divine, ELCA Wellness Manager with Portico, was asked to stand and wave; Bishop Gafkjen stated that she will be at the table in the Atrium if assembly members had any questions. Rev. Pamela Dorman with the Mission Investment Fund was introduced. Bishop stated that if assembly members had questions about the Mission Investment Fund, Pamela is the one to talk to. Bishop Gafkjen introduced Josh Tatum, parliamentarian, who is also synod attorney. The Synod Musicians Christopher Burrus, Nicholas Burrus, Kim Converse, Thomas Dearchs, and David White were introduced. Bishop Gafkjen thanked all who were introduced for being with us. Bishop Gafkjen gave thanks to the Marriott for the refreshments during registration Thursday and to Thrivent for providing the refreshments during the upcoming break. He stated that Thrivent would be demonstrating an Action Team Activity near their table in the Mission Fest stop by and participate in making lap blankets for Mulberry Health and Retirement Community in Mulberry, Indiana. He announced the offering of $3, at Thursday evening s worship service and that it was dedicated for Shalom Ministry; he noted that one could donate online also. Congregations who provided $1,000 to the malaria campaign will receive a bottle of wine and should see Pastor Paul Meier at the malaria table. Those who had given a $1,000 were St. Mathew by the Lake, Benton, Kentucky; Christ the King, South Bend, Indiana; St. John s, South Bend, Indiana; Pilgrim, Indianapolis, Indiana; Holy Trinity, South Bend, Indiana; Resurrection, Indianapolis, Indiana; and St. Paul, Seymour, Indiana. The hashtag to use is #ikassembly15. The Wi-Fi network for the assembly is ika15. Lost and found items are in the hall at the information kiosk. The approved April Synod Council minutes are available on the information table in Liberty Hall. Lutheran Child and Family Services in Indianapolis will be leading a group to Germany. Sven Schumacher will be leading that group. As part of that trip, the synod was invited to plant a tree commemorating the 500 years of reformation which will cost $500. Bishop Gafkjen announced that if 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 5

6 anyone would like to contribute to purchasing and planting a tree, there would be a box or jar at the information kiosk for donations; he thanked the assembly members for their generosity. PRELIMINARY REPORT ON REGISTRATION AND ATTENDANCE At 9:00 a.m. Bishop Gafkjen invited to the podium Synod Assembly Planning Committee member Meghan Smith for a preliminary report of registration for the 28 th Annual Indiana-Kentucky Synod Assembly. Registrants as of 9:00 a.m. included 316 registered voting members of which 209 were lay voting members (includes 7 lay rostered), and 107 were rostered voting members. Ninety-nine lay members were men and 110 lay voting members were women. There were 81 non-voting visitors. Secretary Bush confirmed and the Bishop declared that a quorum was present for transaction of business at the 28 th Annual Indiana-Kentucky Synod Assembly. As we move toward the adoption of the agenda, Bishop announced that you may want to take a look at it and note the orders of the day, such as times of voting, reports, elections, etc. We have a full morning in front of us, and if you need to step outside the plenary hall for any reason, please return by 11:15 a.m. for the time of voting. ADOPTION OF AGENDA Secretary Judy Bush presented the proposed agenda, including proposed Rules of Assembly at the bottom of page 3, as recommended for adoption by the Synod Council. She noted that there were parliamentary procedure sheets on the tables and should remain on the tables throughout the assembly. Copies of the proposed agenda were available on the handout table in the back of the plenary hall near the door. There being no discussion, it was VOTED: SA/2015/1: that the Synod Assembly agenda recommended by the Indiana- Kentucky Synod Council in SC/2015/14 be adopted. ASSEMBLY COMMITTEES Secretary Bush announced that the Synod Council had appointed the following 2015 Synod Assembly Committees: Nominating Committee is composed of Pastor Steve Schwier (North Central Conference), Melissa Kratzer (South Central Conference), Karen Husby (Evansville Conference), Marceile Redmon (Northeast Conference), Will Peugeot (Lafayette Conference), Dorothy Nevils (Northwest Indiana Conference), Janet Manning (East Central Indiana Conference), Tom Barker (Indianapolis Conference), Jeff Iacobazzi (Southeast Indiana Conference), and Bob Young (East Kentucky) with Pastor Rudy Mueller as liaison with the synod office. Reference and Counsel Committee is composed of Pastor Tim Knauff (chair)/christ (Valparaiso, IN), Pr. Charlie Strietelmeier/Augustana (Hobart, IN), Pr. Jessica King/Faith (Goshen, IN), David Rees/Bethlehem (Indianapolis), Amy Kruse/Christ Evangelical (Jeffersontown, KY), Pastor Jane Aicher/Trinity (Valparaiso, IN), Mrs. Janet Manning/St. John (Anderson, IN), Josh Tatum, Parliamentarian/Our Redeemer (Indianapolis, IN), and Pr. Rudy Mueller, staff liaison. Minutes Committee is composed of Rita Betts, Sue Miller, Marilyn Saum, Pr. Randy Schroeder, Josh Tatum, Nancy Walter, and Judy Bush. Conduct of Elections is composed of Liz Michael, Meghan Smith and volunteers. Registration is conducted by Meghan Smith and volunteers. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 6

7 NOMINATIONS REPORTS Secretary Bush first noted that there are four lay positions that are open on the Synod Council. Lay Synod Council members represent their conferences so the conference nominates the individual for the position and there are no nominations from the floor in accordance with the synod constitution. The term is for three years and an individual may serve two consecutive terms. After a six year period the conference is represented by the opposite gender; i.e. if the conference was represented by a lay male for six years, it would be represented by a lay female for six years. The four open positions are Lay females from the East Central Indiana Conference and Northeast Conference and two Lay male positions, one from the Lafayette Conference and one from the Southeast Indiana Conference. She asked the nominees to please stand as their names were called. The nominations of the following four individuals by their respective conferences to serve three-year terms as lay members of the Indiana- Kentucky Synod Council were as follows: East Central Indiana Conference Rebecca Jane Daum. Northeast Conference Laura E. Richcreek Lafayette Conference Michael Anderson Southeast Indiana Conference Clyde Knigga. Pursuant to S no further nominations were permitted from the floor, and the Bishop declared the four individuals elected by acclamation and it therefore was VOTED: SA/2015/2: that Rebecca Jane Daum, Laura E. Richcreek, Michael Anderson, and Clyde Knigga be declared elected to three-year terms as lay members of the Indiana- Kentucky Synod Council. For the Churchwide Assembly in August 2016 each conference is represented with the representation changing after two churchwide assemblies; i.e., the conference may be represented by clergy for two assemblies and then by lay representation for two assemblies. The conference nominates two individuals for each position with the Synod Assembly electing the representative and the person receiving the lesser number of votes in that conference is the alternate in the event the elected delegate cannot attend. Representing the ten conferences there are five clergy positions, 2 lay female positions, and 3 lay male positions. For the five clergy positions the nominees are the following: East Central Indiana Conference Matthew Manning Jerald Mielke Lafayette Conference Michael Crawford Sharon Walker Northwest Conference Timothy Knauff Erik Grayvold South Central Conference 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 7

8 Cindy Geisen Bimen Limbong Southeast Indiana Conference Matthew Voyer Susan Socha For the two Lay Female positions the nominees are the following: Indianapolis Conference Linda Henke Julie Peralta North Central Conference Sister Nora Lynn Ellen Frost Sally Dixon For the three Lay Male positions the nominees are the following: East Kentucky Hansel Ramathal Paul Trickel Evansville Conference Gary Moeller David Ronald Smith Northeast Indiana Cleveland Inge David Truelove Chris Walda, a member of the Nominating Task Force for office of Synod Secretary, was called to the podium. He reported that the task force has nominated and the Synod Council has affirmed the nomination of Judy Bush for a second four year term as Synod Secretary. Bishop Gafkjen thanked Chris for the report and asked for nominations from the floor. Hearing no nominations Bishop Gafkjen declared that the ballot is closed and asked that Judy Bush be declared elected for a second four year term as secretary of the synod; therefore the Synod Assembly VOTED: SA/2015/3: that Judy Bush be declared elected to a four-year term as Indiana- Kentucky Synod Secretary effective September 1, On behalf of the Synod Assembly Nominating Committee, Pastor Rudy Mueller, Assistant to the Bishop, reported. Before his report he thanked the assembly for all their prayers during the past year. The Nominating Committee has several positions for which it has responsibility for obtaining nominees. The deadline for nominations was April 22 and at that time the only nominations received were for the Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Board. Individuals nominated were for clergy male Scott Mauch and Ben Sloss and for the lay female position the individuals nominated were Kristie Dailey and Christine Miller. For all of the positions for which the Nominating Committee is responsible additional nominations may be made from the floor pursuant to S th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 8

9 There were no nominations for Synod Council Clergy by the deadline; there are two at-large positions open which can be either male or female and which are three year terms. The floor was opened for nominations. After nomination and second the following were nominated: Martin Bornhoeft, Nan Dehnke, Dana Lockhart, David Doane, Alice Smith, Austin Newberry, and Karen Strietelmeier. There being no additional nominations, Bishop Gafkjen declared the nominations for Synod Council Clergy closed. There were no nominees for the Synod Council position for Lay Rostered Leader by the deadline of April 22. The floor was opened for nominations. After nomination and second the following were nominated: E. Louise Williams, Barb Limbach, and Rick Frederick. There being no additional nominations, Bishop Gafkjen declared the nominations closed for Synod Council Lay Rostered Leader. There were no nominees for the Synod Council Youth position by the deadline of April 22. The youth position is a two year term and the individual must be less than 18 years of age at the time of election. The floor was opened for nominations. After nomination and second the following were nominated: Noah Smith and Tim Timmel, Jr. There being no additional nominations, Bishop Gafkjen declared the nominations closed for Synod Council Youth. By the deadline of April 22 there were no nominees for Consultation Committee; there are two open positions one clergy male and one lay male. Both are six year terms. The floor was opened for nominations. After nomination and second Pastor Steven Renner was nominated. There were no other nominations. Seeing no other nominations, Bishop Gafkjen declared Pastor Renner elected; therefore the Synod Assembly by acclamation VOTED: SA/2015/4: that Pastor Steven Renner be declared elected to a six year term on the Indiana-Kentucky Synod Consultation Committee. The Nominating Committee was charged with seeking nominees for an at-large Churchwide Assembly Voting Member. The nominee could be either a youth or young adult and either a person of color or an individual whose primary language is other than English. The floor was opened for nominations. After nomination and second Scout Elizabeth Bluejacket Landin and David Rojas Martinez were nominated. Seeing no additional nominations Bishop Gafkjen declared the nominations closed for at-large Churchwide Assembly Voting Member. There being no additional nominations for the positions, Bishop Gafkjen declared the nominations closed and made the following announcements: Anyone nominated from the floor must get biographical forms filled out and submitted to the information kiosk in the Atrium by 10:00 am. These forms will be reproduced as submitted, so please write legibly. The voting practices within the plenary hall are as follows: There will be no voting area outside the plenary; voting will be done in here. After we return from 10:15 a.m. coffee break, the area beyond the stanchions will be for voting members only. If you are not a voting member, you will need to take your belongings with you when we break, and you will be able to return if space is available after the voting process concludes. Election volunteers will be stationed at two check points in the room (one at back and one near musicians stage) and they will check your name tag as you move into the voting area and 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 9

10 then hand you a ballot (if they are printed by 10:40 a.m.). Only those with BLUE or YELLOW name tags will receive ballots. Please do not begin voting until the appointed time, after instructed to do so, with prayer, etc. A brief time will be given to fill out the ballots (which will be at 11:15 a.m., after the coffee break/mission Fest, Bishop s Mission Update). When it is the appointed time, we will ask voting members (ONLY those with YELLOW or BLUE name tags) to hold up red/green (yes/no) cards to receive a ballot. The election volunteers/pages will collect the ballots please do not fold them and hold them up when you are finished. Reminder we have a tight agenda and will begin each session on time. Please be back in the plenary hall promptly. KEYNOTE PRESENTATION Bishop Gafkjen invited the Reverend Dr. Cheryl Peterson to the dais for her first keynote presentation. She is a longtime friend of Bishop Bill. He noted that she is an astute scholar, excellent communicator, a passionate pastor, and has been involved with dialogue with Catholics and Pentecostals. Professor Peterson began by thanking Bishop for the invitation and especially thanking Pastor Heather Apel for all her help and gracious hospitality. She noted it is good to be here with so many Trinity alumni. She brought greetings from President Rick Barger and her colleagues. To the entire assembly she expressed, Thank you for all the ways you partner with us in our mission. Her presentation came in two parts. The first part was to Be sure you ask the right question. She recalls questions asked of her at her first call about membership. We wonder about the future of our congregations. The ELCA is 25 percent smaller than when it was formed. What do we do to turn things around is a question that is asked. We have tried to market better what we have Attractional Evangelism. The goal is to draw people into churches; if you build it, they will come. It might be best to ask the people we are trying to attract. There are two problems with Attractional Evangelism. First, we are only thinking in human terms. When we do it, we are marketing to have our needs met. The church is only considered in human terms as just another volunteer association. The first reason we are Lutherans is to gather in word and sacrament. But God does not only gather the church, the church is also sent. German missionaries wanted to look for other likeminded people, other Germans. An early missionary planted the congregations for existing Lutherans. Fastest growing churches in the world are in the global south. For many years individuals lived in a cultural Christendom. Today people are not waiting around thinking about which church to join. Probably not thinking about the church at all. Joining anything is not what people are looking for. Post-Christendom does not mean post-belief. Eighty-five percent of Americans say they believe in God, but church membership is declining. Fastestgrowing religious identification is the nones ; they have increased from 8.1 percent in 1990 to 15 percent in 2008; those who identify as Christians declined by 10 percent during the same period. Who are the nones? Nones is a label for a diverse group of people who do not identify with any group. They are easily misunderstood. It is not correct to describe them as unchurched or unaffiliated. There are a number who identify as spiritual but not religious. They are looking in places other than churches for spirituality. They may find mainline church culture is not spiritual enough but more secular with its emphasis on membership and volunteerism. They find groups that are not thinking about God s mission but a religious club holding a meeting where God is absent. Diana Butler Bass states that rejection of 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 10

11 organized religion by the nones is not because they are selfish, but when they bother to visit a church, they don t find people who are walking the walk or living a life that makes a difference, but find a social club concerned with its survival. A colleague of hers from the Methodist Theological Seminary of Ohio did research on those who call themselves spiritual but not religious. She found they are people interested in community; they are not joiners. They hold back from involvement for reasons of personal integrity. They are not on the whole wounded by the church or hostile to Christianity. For those who have left the organized church, the reason most often cited for leaving is that their theological questions were not answered or answered in simplistic ways. The movement is not a turn to eastern religions but is very American. Most maintain a nascent Christian framework belief in a personally involved deity, belief in life after death, and a longing to be involved in a fellowship with others. There is a spiritual hunger, a seeking for a way to make a difference in the world. Instead of asking what kind of church do we need to be to attract the nones or others, we should be asking what kind of church does God want us and need us to be to share the Gospel with this spiritually hungry world. Part two is a Spirit-breathed Church for a Spirit-hungry world. How do we respond? Do we need another reformation? Professor Peterson thinks that our church needs to be reformed and redeveloped, but also to be transformed to be made new, to make a thorough and dramatic change. Transformed means becoming a new thing Isaiah 46 was quoted. She pointed to the Holy Spirit as necessary for transformation. She related the experience of Pastor Mary Margaret Kannass of Hephatha Lutheran Church, Milwaukee. While Hephatha has become a thriving church, it is still redeveloping, but it has been transformed by the Holy Spirit. When Pastor Mary Margaret speaks of the church being transformed, she does not speak of leaders or strategies but of the Holy Spirit working through the children and other marginalized members of the community. The word transformation only appears four times in the New Testament. It is used twice in Mathew and Mark to refer to Jesus s transformation in the transfiguration event. And it is used twice by Paul in Romans 12:2 and II Corinthians 3:18. Paul connected transformation to discernment and to renewal and new life. As we think of the church being transformed, we must think of the church as always being made new, which comes from the Holy Spirit. We cannot achieve by our own efforts, but reliance on the Holy Spirit, we must learn to become a church that is spirit breathed and spirit led. Jesus gave disciples a missionary charge after he breathed the Holy Spirit on them. The Holy Spirit was leading them. Her latest research is on the Holy Spirit, and she is studying Lutheran charismatic movement. Luther s catechism is all about the Holy Spirit. In his explanation of the third article of the Apostles Creed, he writes that we cannot know Jesus Christ except that the Holy Spirit calls us through the Gospel, enlightens us with God s gifts, sanctifies us and keeps us in the true faith. That Holy Spirit calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church. We can start with the Spirit because that is how God starts with us. Biblically, we often go to Pentecost as the event where the Church receives the Holy Spirit. It is the event that the Church is empowered to be the Church because the Holy Spirit was breathed on the believers. A double movement is the calling to be the people of God and then to being sent out by God; it is like breathing in and breathing out. We are transformed by the Holy Spirit bringing us to Christ. Worship is a transforming event, but we don t always speak of it this way. God shows up in the proclamation of God s word and sacrament; Christ is present to transform us. Transformation does not justify us in God s sight; what makes us right is a gift of God. It is the new birth that accompanies our justification, and the Holy Spirit transforms us and makes us new individually and as a church. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 11

12 Transformation happens as a result of our justification. Transformation happens in the first movement of the spirit where we are called and gathered and also in the second movement as the people are sent out. It continues without ceasing; God sends the church as a community that does the Spirit s work. The sending out is the cultivation of congregations as mission centers. Missional is not something we do but a way of being. God is a missional God, one who shares and accompanies. This mission is God s, not ours. The church does not have a mission; God has a mission. We are the hands and feet of God. We move into the second movement of God; we inhale and exhale as well and meet people we would otherwise not meet to organize the Gospel as God sends us walking together in the Spirit for the sake of God s attention. Bishop apologized for not having prayer before Pastor Peterson spoke, so he prayed at that time. A gift from the Indiana-Kentucky Synod, an Isaiah 43:19 art piece created by Amber Apel, was given to Professor Peterson, ELCA representative Kathryn Lohre, Michael Bischoff, and Lisa Negstad. Bishop dismissed the assembly for a break and visit to the Mission Fest in the Atrium. MISSSION UPDATE: BISHOP BILL GAFKJEN Bishop Gafkjen began by asking everyone to join him in singing Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying accompanied by his playing the ukulele. He introduced the synod staff, whom he referred to as your synod staff April Lynch, who was not present due to recovering from surgery and who serves as administrative assistant to Bishop Gafkjen and Assistant to the Bishop Pastor Rudy Mueller; Sylvia Ore, who is the bookkeeper; Carol Webb, who is administrative assistant to Marilyn Smith, Pastor Nancy Nyland, and Pastor Heather Apel; Pastor Nancy Nyland, who is Director of Evangelical Mission; Danielle Burrus, who is director of communications; Pastor Heather Apel; Pastor Rudy Mueller; and Pastor Jerry O Neal. Bishop noted that the synod has a great staff. He acknowledged all the volunteers who make the assembly happen. Thirteen of the sixty-five synods were meeting in assembly as ours met. One of those synods is our domestic partner synod, the West Virginia-Western Maryland Synod, and its voting members were electing a new bishop that morning. We also have companion church relationships that span the globe. One is with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile (IELCH), and another is with the Batak Protestant Church (HKBP) in Indonesia. In Chile they have elected a new bishop, which is a new position for them. HKBP is the largest Christian body in Indonesia; it also has a new leader. Bishop Bill communicates electronically with HKBP s leader frequently. Pastor Bimen Limbong from Christ Lutheran Church in Louisville would be leading a group to HKBP; Bishop called him to a floor microphone, and Pastor Limbong discussed his upcoming trip and the relationship with the HKBP. Pastor Limbong reported that we have invited a young person from HKBP to the Youth Gathering, and she will be with us for a while. The books for which the synod raised the shipping funds are on their way. He asked that the assembly remember the people of the HKBP in prayer. He invited anyone interested in more information to see him. Bishop Bill mentioned that these are challenging times for us. This is an important time for us to be honest and open with others about our challenges, our anxieties, and confusion about those challenges. Keep Calm and Follow Jesus is a motto that he offers for consideration. He asserted that as we consider the budget, which is challenging, we needed to keep calm and follow Jesus. We trust God s abundance. We will be spending time in spiritual conversations to reshape how we do synod ministry. In the deep listening that we would be doing, we can help one another in our deep breathing. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 12

13 We would be spending a lot of time in prayer and scripture. The Holy Conversations may direct us to change how we organize. The real point of those holy conversations is to bring us together to live in the grace of God. We have identified four priorities cultivate congregations as mission centers/senders for mission, form and send faith-filled disciples, deepen and expand collaboration and communication, and develop and support missionary leaders. He sees congregations working together and providing mission in their communities. As we cross boundaries and work together, we will be amazed at what God can do. Bishop Gafkjen stated his gratitude for the partnership of all in the mission territory in our mission and willingness to follow Isaiah 43:19. You, people of God, have been faithful to Jesus crucified and risen for the world. He expressed appreciation that people have been lights of Jesus, played on ukulele and sang This Little Light of Mine and invited the assembly to join him. FIRST BALLOT At 11:15 a.m. Bishop Gafkjen invited Meghan Smith to the dais for a report of those registered. As of 11:15 a.m. there were a total of 354 voting members consisting of 230 lay members (including 9 lay rostered leaders) with 105 lay men and 125 lay women and 124 clergy. The ballots were not ready, so the Bishop moved to the treasurer s report. If individuals did not get copies of the biographical information of the nominees, he announced that there were stacks on the back table. He reported that the outdoor ministries ballot was corrected to reflect the nominees that had been submitted previously, and that there was an inadvertent error in the vocal report. TREASURER S REPORT AND MISSION PLAN (BUDGET) PRESENTATION At 11:25 a.m. treasurer Sue Miller and Finance Committee Chair Paul Trickel were invited to the dais. Synod Treasurer Sue Miller provided a brief overview of financial activity over the past fiscal year, which ended January 31, She explained the synod accounts, defining them and explaining how they are used. She provided a review of the fiscal year and information regarding additional activities and resources. She indicated that Finance Chair Paul Trickel would provide the budget proposal for fiscal year The synod accounts that were defined were temporarily restricted, endowment, council designated, and operations, which is essentially the budget. The bulk of income comes from congregations in the form of Mission Support, totaling $1.7 million, which is 65 percent of the income. The total revenue was $2.625 million. Fifty-two percent of expenditures is going to churchwide for Mission Support. For the past year, the budgeted Mission Support from congregations to the synod was short of budget by $189,000; however, due to variance in other aspects of the budget, there was not a deficit in the budget. While mission support has dropped since FY , it does seem to have leveled off. She shared the giving by conference and expressed gratitude for congregational giving; two conferences have increased their giving. Only 31 percent of congregations have increased giving in FY and the total congregational giving for was about $67,000 less than the previous year. The endowment funds total $4.289 million, of which $1.341 million is accumulated earnings. Every year the synod is audited by an independent, outside firm. The audit provides additional assurance that the synod s financial statements represent a true and accurate reflection of the financial condition of the synod, as well as provides an opportunity for recommendations for improvement. The audit firm provided an unqualified opinion, which means they have no reservations about the integrity of the financial statements, and noted no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies. They also expressed appreciation to the synod staff members for their cooperation. Treasurer Miller reported 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 13

14 that the current budget is a bare bones budget and relies on one-time funds to balance; it is a budget that is investing in the future. She indicated additional resources of the synod finances available to individuals on the website. Treasurer Miller closed by thanking Bishop Gafkjen, the synod staff, and the Finance Committee Paul Trickel (chair), Marty Mielke, Chris Walda, Marilyn Saum, Sue Miller, and Susan Prenatt (consultant). Paul Trickel, chair of the Finance Committee began by recalling that Mission Support from congregations declined during the early months of 2014 and never made up for that loss in giving. Giving is looking more positive than last year. He summarized key points related to the proposed budget for FY , so people would be prepared for the vote on Sunday. He mentioned that the proposed budget is available on the website. His presentation included a review of Mission Support, Council Designated Funds, Synod Ministries, Shared Mission Support, Mission Vitality and Financial Sustainability, and Summary and Questions. He asked What would you do with God s abundance, with $1.7 million, how should we steward God s abundance. He noted that $1.7 million has been a trend during the last few years. During the last three completed fiscal years, Council Designated funds have been used to balance the budget. By the end of the fiscal year we will have exhausted most of the council designated funds and will dip into the council designated endowment principal for the first time. Synod ministry costs have not fluctuated much from fiscal year through fiscal year Some churchwide mission support comes back to us in the way of other funding such as grants and other funding of synodical ministries. Under the heading Shared Mission Support, he indicated that we do not develop this budget in a vacuum, but have consulted with churchwide, especially since a reduced share of mission support is anticipated. There is great pride with the amount that we have forwarded to churchwide. As we prepared the budget for fiscal year , it became apparent that there was a need to keep more mission support within our mission territory and that we couldn t maintain our support for churchwide. The reduction in shared mission support is heart wrenching, but if we don t do this, we would need to cut important synodical ministries. Thus, in consultation with churchwide the proposed budget included a nine-percent cut in shared mission support. The synod s missional vitality and financial sustainability have been problems that our bishop has been responsive to, and several things are in place to address this issue. Synod staff, synod council, and the finance committee are committed to addressing this problem in a way that maintains current ministries while fostering new things. As a synod, we are embarking on a process to assess, impact, and evaluate our missional vitality and financial sustainability. The synod has a gifted stewardship director who is actively engaging congregations and individuals to develop mission support throughout our mission territory. We are engaged with other ministry partners in an effort to bring on a dedicated gift planner to our ministry territory, and this weekend Synod Council approved the synod s participating in the Mission Investment Fund Financial Services Organization pilot, which we believe will be extremely beneficial to the synod. For the proposed FY budget, the Finance Committee projected $1.7 million in mission support, the Synod Council decided to reduce the share with churchwide to forty-three percent. The total budget is $2.3 million, and the synod staff, council, and the Finance Committee continue to explore ways to support our missional vitality while assuring our financial sustainability. He then entertained questions. Questions asked were what percent of the budget comes from the endowment and what 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 14

15 about Financial Services Organization pilot program. Bishop Gafkjen helped explain the pilot program. Paul Trickel provided an overview of the proposed fiscal year budget, which has been developed by the Finance Committee and recommended by the Synod Council for adoption. FIRST BALLOT The ballots were ready, so Bishop Gafkjen thanked Treasurer Sue and Finance Chair Paul for their presentations. The ballots were distributed to those in the designated voting area. Before voting, Sarah Nowak, who is awaiting a call in the Indiana-Kentucky Synod, offered prayer from a floor microphone. Voting took place in the plenary hall. A brief time was given to complete the ballots. The tellers collected ballots as people finished. ELCA CHURCHWIDE GREETINGS At 11:57 Bishop Gafkjen declared the voting closed. He invited James Smith, who is awaiting a pastoral call, to pray from a floor microphone before Kathryn Lohre speaks. She is assistant to the presiding bishop and executive for ecumenical and inter-religious relations. Before James s prayer Bishop announced that there are Question & Answer sheets on the tables for questions, which will be answered by Kathryn at dinner. He asked individuals to submit questions to either information kiosk by 1:45 p.m. Bishop Gafkjen then invited Kathryn Lohre to the dais for her address. She explained that three years ago she was invited to attend the assembly, but she was double-booked and could not come. Then two years ago, she had new twins. She indicated that she was glad to be at the assembly to share and gave a thank-you to Pastor Heather especially. She recalled especially having a quality time with Bishop Gafkjen. That was the April 10, 2012, the Lutheran-Mennonite day of conversation and tree-blessing service in Elkhart, Indiana, where they planted a river birch tree. It was one of many events following three decades of conversations between Lutherans and Mennonites to address the historic persecution of Anabaptists by the Lutheran Church and the July 22, 2010, service of forgiveness and reconciliation in Stuttgart, Germany. Bishop Bill provided the sermon that evening; Ms. Lohre thanked the assembly for sharing Bishop Gafkjen with churchwide. Also, she expressed thanks for the representation of Pastor Vicki Garber on Churchwide Council and Josh Tatum on the churchwide discipline committee. She stated that this synod has both clear ideas about what it means to be church at this time and is willing to learn and to change. It is absolutely right to consider the synod as a mission territory. She indicated that her presence with the assembly is an opportunity to learn among the many frontiers we call the ELCA. We experience God s rivers flowing through our lives and the lives of those we serve. It is a celebration of what we accomplish in the name of the One who is the river of life. She led the assembly in prayer. She brought greetings from presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton. Her four strategic statements of emphasis are we are church, we are Lutheran, we are church together, and we are church for the sake of the world. They guide the decisions, strategic planning and work of the church; they are both a compass and a charter. The 2015 theme is we are church. Before we do God s work in the world, we must know that our lives belong to God. At the heart of being church is worship, and the heart of worship is Christ crucified and risen for the sake of the world and includes prayer, silence, giving, service, immersion in scripture, and proclaiming Jesus to others with enthusiasm and joy. The emphasis supports the experience we are having in this synod. She then showed the ELCA video We are Church. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 15

16 She stated that we didn t have time to discuss the video, but she shared discussion questions that the assembly might want to consider. What does it mean today in the midst of so much change to be Christ s church in this mission territory. Ms. Lohre implored, if assembly members remember anything that she said, remember just two words, Thank you. We are able to make life-changing ministries due to mission support. We provide new pastors, attack hunger, join partners worldwide to pray and work for unity, justice, and peace. She stated that she invites you to consider the churchwide resource, Stories of Faith and Action, which illustrates stories of individuals, which may be ordered off the ELCA website, and which is free. The impact of the work with our words and actions is remarkable. The third annual God s Work, Our Hands is coming up September 13, 2015; there are resources on the ELCA website. She gave Bishop Gafkjen a God s Work, Our Hands t-shirt to bring to Austin Newberry s installation. The five year Always Being Made New campaign began last year on February 1. About 24 percent of the Always Being Made New fundraising goal has been reached at the end of last year. Gifts from this synod to world hunger, malaria campaign, fund for leaders, new and renewing congregations, and global missionaries totaled over $478,000. Fifty-three new congregations were established last year with fifty-six percent in multicultural and poverty areas. Three hundred sixty-three new ministries are under development churchwide, and there are 160 renewal efforts in congregations. The ELCA has supported 241 students at eight ELCA Lutheran seminaries through the Fund for Leaders. She noted the sixty-three young adults in global mission, Young Adults in Global Mission, and continued support of 246 missionaries in forty-six countries throughout the world and mentioned those from our synod. There have been seventy-one scholarships to promising young international leaders. There has been $19.3 million given for hunger relief, including nearly $325,000 from this synod. In the United States, $6.1 million from Lutheran Disaster Relief has been granted. The ELCA Malaria Campaign is very close to making malaria history. There would be 29,000 youth and leaders gathered in Detroit at the youth gathering Rise Up Together in July Ms. Lohre invited all to participate in the Freed & Renewed in Christ, 500 years of God s Grace in Action, for the five hundredth anniversary of the reformation. There is a special website Ms. Lohre noted it is important to think about 2017 as commemoration, but also reflection of division. The celebration will be the first major anniversary of the Reformation in the ecumenical age and in a time of global reconciliation. The Joint Declaration of Reconciliation on the Doctrine of Justification in 1999 was a culmination of two decades of dialogue. From Conflict to Communion is the Lutheran Catholic Common Commemoration of the Reformation in 2017, and the report of the Lutheran Roman Catholic Commission on Unity. It is adopted not to tell a different history but to tell that history differently. The Lutheran World Federation adopted the declaration with Catholics regarding five hundred years of reformation. How might we consider what it means to be Christian in a multi-religious world? Who the we is when we declare that we are church, mindful of what it means to be Christian and Lutheran in the world. Considering the Pew report regarding the decline in church affiliation, there is a temptation to draw within, but we need to affirm the abundance of hope and love of Christ and draw others into our joy as a testimony of new hope and new life springing up. We are called to be church in new ways, which can mean risk but also going back to who we are as church. It means going back to sacraments and worship and seeing God in everyday life. Christianity is not meant only to be believed but meant to be lived; it is a shared act in the life of everyday people. You have been called to this challenge to be 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 16

17 church in abundance. She thanked the group for who they are, for how they give witness. Give thanks in the name of the one whose church we are to proclaim. She declared, We are Church. Bishop Gafkjen thanked Kathryn Lohre for her report and her partnership. He extended greetings to presiding Bishop Eaton. PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTIONS FROM REFERENCE AND COUNSEL Bishop Gafkjen introduced Pastor Tim Knauff, chair of the Reference and Counsel Committee. Pastor Knauff thanked everyone for the privilege to serve on the Reference and Counsel Committee. The work of the committee is to help those assembled to do their work in the synod, and he explained the responsibilities of the committee. He reported that there were two resolutions. R was submitted prior to the assembly, so unedited copies were available in the bulletin of reports. It seeks to establish a bylaw to the synod constitution to establish voice and vote for retired lay rostered leaders at synod assemblies. The committee recommends that it be adopted. He did note that there would be a budgetary impact due to reduced fees for retired lay rostered leaders at synod assemblies should the synod continue and extend its past practice of reduced or waived fees for retired pastors to lay rostered leaders. But this policy was not part of the proposed bylaw and could be changed by Synod Council. The second resolution was submitted at the assembly, so copies would be made available. It was entitled A Resolution Concerning a Time of Discernment Regarding Becoming a Reconciling in Christ Synod. He read the resolution, since copies were not available. The committee recommended that it be adopted. Pastor Knauff closed by thanking the assembly for the privilege of serving as committee chair. Bishop Gafkjen noted that we would break for lunch. He announced that he would not be at the assembly for the afternoon and evening sessions because his daughter was graduating from high school that day. Vice President Miller would preside during the afternoon session, and Bishop Gafkjen noted his confidence that he was leaving the assembly in capable hands. He then made the following announcements before lunch: Pre-purchased box lunches are available in the Atrium, have your green ticket ready. Remember to submit your questions for Kathryn by 1:45 p.m. to either information kiosk. If you brought donations for Beyond SNAP service project, there are collection tables outside plenary hall. If you have questions or want conversation about the budget, find Paul Trickel or Sue Miller. Plenary session begins again at 1:45 p.m. Cheryl Peterson will be in the atrium signing books this afternoon. LUNCH The assembly adjourned for lunch at 12:44 p.m. PLENARY SESSION II At 1:50 p.m. Vice President Ted Miller called the session to order and opened with devotions with the Synod Musicians leading in song and prayer. Vice President Miller thanked the musicians and the assembly for everyone coming back without the bishop with this rookie chair. He announced that the elections committee was still hard at work and would be ready to report soon. He announced that there would be time for reference and counsel that afternoon and Sunday. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 17

18 REPORT OF THE VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE SYNOD Vice President Ted Miller began his report by making some thank-you statements. He especially wanted to thank Synod Council including his fellow officers and their embracing of a New Synod for a New Day. Members willingly added an additional day to their scheduled meeting time in April to prepare for New Synod for a New Day. He asked each member to stand as he introduced them. New to council this year were Pastors Amy Beitelschees-Albers, Jessica King, and Randy Schroeder and lay members Bernie Augenstein and Amy Kruse. A number who are on for the second year are Danielle Nuss, Pattiann Meeks, and Nancy Walter. There is one finishing her third year, Liz Gaskins. Serving a fourth year is Marilyn Saum. Serving their fifth year are Pastors Jerald Mielke, Charlie Strietelmeier, and Pamela Thiede and lay member Paul Trickel. Particular thanks for their service to those leaving council youth member Andy Landschulz, Chris Walda, Connie Esposito, and Rita Betts. Three who have served six years and are leaving council are Pastor Tim Knauff, Pastor Wendy Piano, and Gary Manning. Gary and his wife have served twelve years consecutively. Nonvoting members include Pastor Vicki Garber as our synod s representative on the churchwide council, Lois Noel who is president of Indiana-Kentucky Synod Women of the ELCA, and synod attorney Josh Tatum. Vice President Miller thanked all and asked for a round of applause. He gave thanks to God for the opportunity to serve. Vice President Miller gave thanks to his supportive family, his wife Lisa especially, and his support system at his home congregation of Gloria Dei, Crestview Hills, Kentucky. REPORT OF ELECTIONS COMMITTEE Liz Michael of the elections committee began her report of the results of the first ballot election with Vice President Miller declaring elections as follows: 2016 Churchwide Assembly Voting Members Youth or Young Adult who is a person of Color or whose primary language is other than English Number of Votes Cast 324 Number needed for election 163 David Rojas Martinez 160 votes Scout Elizabeth Bluejacket Landin 164 votes SA/2015/5: Scout Elizabeth Bluejacket Landin was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly, and David Rojas Martinez will be the alternate. North Central Conference Number of Votes Cast 315 Number needed for election 158 Sally Dixon 102 Sister Nora Lynn Ellen Frost 213 SA/2015/6: Sister Nora Lynn Ellen Frost was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the North Central Conference, and Sally Dixon will be the alternate. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 18

19 East Kentucky Conference Number of Votes Cast 310 Number needed for election 156 Hansel Ramathal 105 Paul Trickel 205 SA/2015/7: Paul Trickel was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the East Kentucky Conference, and Hansel Ramathal will be the alternate. East Central Indiana Conference Number of Votes Cast 320 Number needed for election 161 Matthew Aaron Manning 197 Jerry Mielke 123 SA/2015/8: Matthew Aaron Manning was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the East Central Indiana Conference, and Jerry Mielke will be the alternate. Lafayette Conference Number of Votes Cast 313 Number needed for election 157 Michael L. Crawford 135 Sharon C. Walker 178 SA/2015/9: Sharon C. Walker was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the Lafayette Conference, and Michael Crawford will be the alternate. Northwest Indiana Conference Number of Votes Cast 317 Number needed for election 159 Tim Knauff 195 Eric Grayvold 122 SA/2015/10: Tim Knauff was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the Northwest Indiana Conference, and Eric Grayvold will be the alternate. South Central Conference Number of Votes Cast 321 Number needed for election 161 Cindy Geisen 161 Bimen Limbong 160 SA/2015/11: Cindy Geisen was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the South Central Conference, and Bimen Limbong will be the alternate. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 19

20 Southeast Indiana Conference Number of Votes Cast 314 Number needed for election 158 Susan Socha 214 Matthew R. Voyer 100 SA/2015/12: Susan Socha was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the Southeast Indiana Conference, and Matthew Voyer will be the alternate. Indianapolis Conference Number of Votes Cast 309 Number needed for election 155 Linda Witte Henke 157 Julie Schuessler Peralta, AIM 152 SA/2015/13: Linda Witte Henke was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the Indianapolis Conference, and Julie Peralta will be the alternate. Evansville Conference Number of Votes Cast 294 Number needed for election 148 Gary Moeller 215 David Ronald Smith 79 SA/2015/14: Gary Moeller was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the Evansville Conference, and David Smith will be the alternate. Northeast Indiana Conference Number of Votes Cast 309 Number needed for election 155 Cleveland Inge, Jr. 131 David Truelove 178 SA/2015/15: David Truelove was declared elected as a voting member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from the Northeast Indiana Conference, and Cleveland Inge, Jr. will be the alternate. Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Board Number of Votes Cast 339 Number needed for election 170 Scott Mauch 141 Ben Sloss 198 SA/2015/16: Ben Sloss was declared elected to a three year term to the Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Corporation Board. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 20

21 Liz Michael stated that the report concluded the counting that was completed at the time. Vice President Miller then stated that the report will continue later in the afternoon prior to the second ballot if needed. NEW SYNOD FOR A NEW DAY Vice President Miller invited Pastor Tim Knauff and Janet Manning to the dais. As they both came to the dais, he invited Joshua Buzbee, who is awaiting pastoral call, to lead the assembly in prayer. Pastor Knauff and Ms. Manning are both members of the New Synod for a New Day Guide Team. Janet Manning introduced herself and reported that she was proud to be a Lutheran and loved to be with Lutherans. Janet Manning spoke of her excitement regarding the process. She noted that this afternoon we would be practicing Holy Conversations. She continued that for several months the Guide Team, the Prayer Team, and the Synod Council had been praying and working together in planning and preparing for this new initiative. Pastor Knauff asked the group to read together Isaiah 43:19. These are words of promise; we have a God who works through renewal. These days we can feel lost in the wilderness. The wilderness is where our God chooses to work. God promises to bring new life, rivers of new life, creating in the wilderness along rivers of discontent. We have been hearing stories of God s work among our people for years. Bishop Gafkjen reminds us that we are church means to listen. We are called to be perceiving together, experiencing holy conversations, listening together to what God is doing, and sharing what God is doing. As church together we are called to let go and discover and embrace new life that God is bringing, living out death and new life. Mrs. Manning said that to be the Body of Christ together, we are inviting every member of every congregation to engage in these holy conversations. She stated that participants would experience two types of Holy Conversations. One was the one-on-one interviews, sharing the new things that they see God doing in their lives, their families, their communities, and in the church. The second Holy Conversation would build on the one-on-one interviews. Participants would be discerning from the one on one conversations, looking for thoughts, ideas, notions, bold steps, and thoughts about promise. They would be exploring answers to what can be used to reshape our ministry and new life in our mission territory. These new thoughts would be gathered on the Indiana-Kentucky Synod website. This would be a friendly process to do the reporting. The reports were to be used to establish synod wide action. This was not to be a top-down initiative. The initiative is to grow out of the foundation from throughout the mission territory. Sunday morning, the assembly would gather by conferences to see how we can make it work for congregations. Mrs. Manning highly encouraged participation in these conversations. Pastor Knauff noted that there is no three-ring binder with directions, no series of checklists. This is an invitation to conversation, exploration, a flexible process of discernment and listening, and one that each congregation can adapt and use. The Guide Team sees this as a spiritual process, as participants share with one another. Out of the deep listening and prayer will come possible ideas that congregations can use. Guiding and Prayer Teams were introduced and asked to come forward. They were to shape and guide the process. Pastor Knauff asked each member of the Guide Team to come forward; he introduced the Guide Team: Pastors Amy Beitelschees-Albers, Dan Forehand, Randy Schroeder, Tim Knauff (chair), and (Dr.) Hank Langknecht, Janet Manning, and Bishop Bill Gafkjen. He noted that one member of the Guide Team was so excited, so he gave Pastor Randy Schroeder 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 21

22 pompoms, and Pastor Randy shouted I am so excited! Pastor Schroeder spoke about why pastors got into the ministry what is it that God has called me to do. Pastor Knauff then introduced the prayer team Rhonda Gibson, Missy Schroeder, and Pastor Steve Reshan. They will be praying throughout the process and will be praying during the Holy Conversations today. The prayer team and Guide Team had red dots on their name tags. Pastor Schroeder asked that individuals seek them out. Pastor Knauff then introduced Lisa Negsted and Michael Bischoff, who are the consultants who were to help guide and shape the process. Lisa came forward and thanked Janet, Tim, and Randy in particular for his energy. She thinks of all present and everyone in the whole territory as leaders; everyone can have something to offer. She asked everyone to take a deep breath. Then she shared some details about the process. The one-on-one interviews are the foundational step of the dialogue. She asked that individuals find someone that they do not know well. She referred to the interview guides for everyone with step-by-step instructions. There would be forty minutes to engage in the interview. She made sure that everyone had a guide. They began at 2:41 p.m. with the conversations. At 3:00 they were reminded to switch roles in the interviews. She announced that the Guide Team would be around to answer questions. At 3:21 she asked them to go into the second conversation. In this step the partners should stay together and find another pair making a group of four. Participants were given a gathering guide. They had 40 minutes to follow the instructions on the guide. Pastor Randy asked Are you guys excited? He stated this was the best part of the assembly for him. He continued that we are connecting and that is why we got into the ministry. Imagine a church where you had people who could not wait to be on council. The spirit has put the gift of passion and enthusiasm in Pastor Schroeder. He said, I m a forty-six year old man holding pompoms in front of you. I can t wait to see what the spirit will do next. NEW SYNOD FOR A NEW DAY WRAP-UP Michael Bischoff introduced himself. He is a Quaker and wrote an article entitled, Falling in Love with Lutherans. I would like for you to take the best of Quakers to use as Lutherans. He asked the group to reflect on both the one-on-one interviews and the group-of-four conversations. Listen in silence to what was most alive in what you heard, where is the spirit moving, take a moment to reflect. Next he asked the assembly to share a word or phrase that captures what is most alive and to stand up where participants were and say it lively; words that were called out were passion, hope, diverse step to peace, listening, what is really necessary, don t be afraid, no boundary, prayer, flexibility, grace, patience with purpose, open capacity, deep intentional listening, trust, guarded, sharing the love, understanding, getting out of comfort zone, forgive, and I m so excited. Then he asked the assembly to name a couple of bold steps that might be brought forward, some of the ideas that stand out most. He asked individuals to share those bold steps from the floor microphones. Items mentioned were the following: even if church doesn t have a vacation bible school, go to another church; our church is talking about hospitality and it means people telling their stories that we are all broken people and look toward resurrection; Holy Communion every week will move the spirit; be passionate about your dream but also be authentic; each of us feel the presence of God daily; since we live by the spirit, let us keep in step with the spirit; we are doing a community garden with a labyrinth; taking the risk to step out of your comfort zone. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 22

23 Michael then stated that we want to talk now about where we are headed. Encourage you to do this kind of thing in your congregation by November 1. The guiding team passed out a Conversation Kit, which was meant to be a resource and guide for congregations. Michael reminded that the Guide Team and Prayer team were available to support participants. The first step was to prepare congregations and to start tomorrow during the conference conversations. He encouraged participants to hold as many one-on-one conversations as they can. Two versions of the interview guide are available one is brief and one is longer. Then there is a congregational group or gathering. There is a flow chart to guide the congregation. Enter the bold steps online with highlights by November 1. In January the Synod Council will have a retreat to gather the information and consider bold steps to try. He indicated the website to list the bold steps. Michael encouraged everyone to attend Conference Conversations Sunday morning. This was meant to be a platform that participants can run with; individuals or congregations may adapt as they wish to make it work. He thanked the prayer team for their support. We would ask each of you to nominate a prayer support person for your congregation. He asked Missy Schroeder to come forward and lead everyone in prayer. She asked everyone to stand, take off shoes and realize that you are standing on holy ground. She led the group in a body prayer. Michael asked that the forms that were filled out in the small groups be passed in. The Guide Team and Prayer Team were to be in the garden from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to answer questions. SECOND BALLOT Vice President Miller asked Meghan Smith for an updated registration report. She reported that there was one additional clergy voting member registered making the total voting members 355. He then called Liz Michael to the dais to continue the report on the voting. Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Board Number of Votes Cast 326 Number needed for election 164 Kristie Dailey 156 Christine Miller 170 SA/2015/17: Christine Miller was declared elected to a three-year term to the Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Corporation Board. Synod Council Youth Number of Votes Cast 336 Number needed for election 169 Noah Smith 211 Tim Timmel 125 SA/2015/18: Noah Smith was declared elected to a two-year term on the Indiana- Kentucky Synod Council as a youth member. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 23

24 Synod Council Associate in Ministry, Deaconess, or Diaconal Minister Number of Votes Cast 334 Number needed for election 168 E. Louise Williams 115 Rick Frederick 100 Barb Limbach 119 There would be a second general ballot to determine the Synod Council Associate in Ministry, Deaconess, or Diaconal Minister position with an election between E. Louise Williams and Barb Limbach. Synod Council Clergy (two vacant positions) Number of Votes Cast 344 Number needed for election 173 Martin Bornhoeft 77 Nan Dehnke 97 Dave Doane 89 Dana Lockhart 119 Austin Newberry 82 Alice Smith 71 Karen Strietelmeier 130 There would be a second general ballot to determine the Synod Council Clergy positions with an election among Pastors Nan Dehnke, Dave Doane, Dana Lockhart, and Karen Strietelmeier. Vice President Miller thanked the elections committee for their work and invited Michelle Notardonato, who is awaiting call, to a floor microphone for prayer. Vice President Miller asked that only those voting be seated in the designated areas and not to fold the ballots. Ballots were distributed and individuals voted. REPORT OF THE SECRETARY OF THE SYNOD Secretary Bush began her report by stating, As I look back on this last year in the Synod Council, I can report that celebrating the new things that God is doing continue while trusting in God s leadership to meet the challenges. Isaiah 43:19 God is doing a new thing, even now it springs forth, do you not perceive it continues to be forefront in the work of the Synod Council under the direction of the Bishop Gafkjen. The synod council acts as the board of directors of the synod and serves as its interim legislative authority between meetings of the Synod Assembly. Members are elected by the Synod Assembly. There are four officers: the bishop, vice president, secretary and treasurer; the bishop serves a six-year term, and the other officers serve four-year terms. Additionally, there is one lay member from each of the ten conferences, eight clergy under call, one lay rostered leader, one youth, and one young adult member. The adult members serve three-year terms, and the youth serves a two-year term. The clergy members, lay rostered leader, youth member, and the young adult member are elected at large by the Synod Assembly upon nomination by the Nominating Committee. Lay members representing conferences are nominated by their conference with no nominations from the Synod Assembly nor from the Nominating Committee. If no persons of color or persons whose primary language is other than English are elected to the Synod Council, the Synod Council at its first meeting following the annual 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 24

25 Synod Assembly elects to the Synod Council for a three-year term up to two lay members to ensure that there are two persons of color or whose primary language is other than English on the Synod Council. The Indiana-Kentucky Synod Council met five times between the 2014 Synod Assembly and this assembly. Meetings were held in September, November, and January beginning on Friday evening through Saturday afternoon. The regularly scheduled meeting in April was rescheduled to a retreat format to include the usual Friday evening and Saturday but also Sunday, with the typical Saturday agenda moved to Sunday. The Synod Council also met yesterday morning. Minutes that have been approved are found on the synod website, under Resources and then under Leaders. The minutes of the April meeting are available at the information desk. During the September and November Synod Council meetings, the council reviewed and discussed Journey in the Wilderness, and in January and April consultants Lisa Negstad and Michael Bischoff met with the group with a focus on a New Synod for a New Day. During each meeting sharing of the Eucharist led by synod council members and/or synod staff occurs. Changes in congregational constitutions have been reviewed with action regarding those constitutions. Congregations are encouraged to review their constitutions in light of changes to the model congregational constitution adopted at the Churchwide Assembly in August In September 2014 the Synod Council adopted the Indiana-Kentucky Synod Guidelines for Adopting or Amending Congregational Constitutions. That document is available to help congregations when changing their constitutions. It can be found under Resources and then under Congregations. Also, during meetings changes in the status of pastors have been reviewed. Reports from staff members are shared as well as reports from committees and task forces. The first meeting of the year was in September and was held at the Benedict Inn, Beech Grove, Indiana. In addition to beginning the study of Journey in the Wilderness, the group focused on how the Synod Council and its members serve the synod. Bishop Gafkjen led a discussion of Synod Council: Leadership for a New Day. Pastor Vicki Garber, who is a member of the ELCA Church Council, gave a report and concluded that it is an exciting place to be right now in the church. Interim Stewardship Director Pastor Jerry O Neal reported on his priorities in his new position with the synod. Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA information was discussed. Bishop Gafkjen reported that each synod has been asked to choose an area of emphasis among the segments of the campaign Congregations, Leadership, Hunger and Poverty, and Global Church and he would like our synod emphasis to be Leadership. Bishop Gafkjen also reported that he is continuing to address the missional vitality of the synod and has been in discussion with consultants Lisa Negstad and Michael Bischoff. The November meeting was held at the Synod office. The council reflected on Journey in the Wilderness and Psalm 116 in terms of implications for the Synod Council s work and ministry. Assistant to Bishop Pastor Heather Apel reported the theme for the 2015 Synod Assembly is Breathe, Holy Spirit, Breathe and that Cheryl Peterson of Trinity Lutheran Seminary will be the keynote speaker. The Nominating Committee for positions to be filled at Synod Assembly was approved. The council spent time discussing and exploring the proposal from consultants Lisa Negstad and Michael Bischoff, New Synod for a New Day that had been generated as a result of discussions with Bishop Gafkjen who has been investigating various ways to address exploring our mission development. It was decided to ask the consultants to meet with the Synod Council in January prior to making a decision to adopt the proposal. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 25

26 The January Synod Council meeting was held at Christ Lutheran Church, Zionsville, Indiana. Bishop Gafkjen reviewed that at the Synod Council meeting in April 2014 the topic was on financial stability and missional vitality. Pursuing ways to address financial stability and missional vitality, he was led to talk to Lisa Negstad and she brought Michael Bischoff into the dialogue. They met with the council Friday evening and Saturday morning. The group engaged in a process entitled Appreciative Inquiry using Paired Interview technique reflecting on John 16:13. After more dialogue in small groups Saturday morning, the group shared the values or key ingredients that helped one know that the Spirit is alive. The April Synod Council meeting was expanded to a three-day meeting at the Benedict Inn in Beech Grove, Indiana. The meeting Friday evening and Saturday was focused on the planning with consultants Lisa Negstad and Michael Bischoff. The retreat objectives included being guided and formed by the Holy Spirit and building the containers that will support the engagement and discernment with all the people in the synod over the next 2 years. Secretary Bush closed by stating, As we approached the 28 th Annual Indiana-Kentucky Synod Assembly, there has been much anticipation for the work of the Spirit as we come together. We have been preparing for a long time and we come with hope and expectation. We are always being made new. Breathe, Spirit, Breathe. STRETCH BREAK FROM PORTICO Vice President Miller introduced Tammy Divine from Portico. With the theme of Breathe, Spirit, Breathe, she couldn t help but think about the Portico stretch break for her presentation. She saw it as an opportunity to share the circle breath prayer. She asked the assembly to stand, and she introduced six gestures of praise. She serves the church by helping people to receive benefits and to strengthen members for ministry. Portico is responsible for developing benefits that contribute to healthy vibrant leaders. They emphasize self-care and self-responsibility and are striving for health of body, mind, and spirit. She asked Can you as rostered leaders hold up something that you are doing to maintain your health? When your leader is healthy, your church benefits. She advocated that each person should do his/her part to strengthen healthy, resilient leaders. COMPENSATION GUIDELINES At 4:45 p.m. Vice President Miller invited to the dais Assistant to the Bishop Pastor Rudy Muller for presentation, on behalf of the Compensation Guidelines Committee, of the proposed minimum standards for compensation for ELCA Rostered Clergy and ELCA Associates in Ministry, Deaconesses and Diaconal Ministers. Copies were in the bulletin of reports. Pastor Mueller first referred to the recommended guidelines for minimum standards for rostered clergy. There are minor edits. The health reimbursement accounts have been removed. On page 22 there is the new compensation salary chart which reflects a 1.7 percent cost-of-living increase, and that chart is to be used in the call process. There is a new section entitled, What Do I Do When I Turn 65. Page 31 now contains links, so people can find help. Seeing no questions the recommendation of the Synod Council was presented for vote and by voice vote it was VOTED: SA/2015/19: that the recommended Minimum Standards for Compensation for ELCA Rostered Clergy be adopted. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 26

27 Pastor Mueller then turned to consideration of the recommended minimum compensation standards for rostered associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers. There are basically the same edits and changes. The health reimbursement accounts have been removed. The helpful links have been added. There is a new section entitled, What Do I Do When I Turn 65. The recommended cost-of-living increase is also 1.7 percent. Those voting for the standards were asked to raise their green cards. The Synod Assembly VOTED: SA/2015/20: that the recommended Minimum Standards for Compensation for ELCA Associates in Ministry, Deaconesses, and Diaconal Ministers be adopted. DISCUSSION OF RESOLUTIONS FROM REFERENCE AND COUNSEL COMMITTEE Vice President Miller invited Pastor Tim Knauff, chair, to the dais to lead the consideration of resolutions from the Reference and Counsel Committee. The committee recommended adoption of R as revised, entitled Resolution re: Vote at Synod Assembly for Retired Associates in Ministry, Deaconesses, and Diaconal Ministers. Pastor Knauff read the resolution. He indicated that since it amends the synod constitution, adoption would require a two-thirds vote. After discussion it was VOTED: SA/2015/21: that R be adopted as follows: Whereas S7.22 of the constitution allows the synod to establish processes that permit retired ordained ministers, retired associates in ministry, retired deaconesses, and retired diaconal ministers on the roster of this synod to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly consistent with S7.21.c., and Whereas S establishes a process that permits retired clergy on the roster of this synod to have the privilege of voice and vote at meetings of the Synod Assembly; therefore be it Resolved that bylaw S be established as follows: S Retired Rostered Lay Leaders. Retired associates in ministry, retired deaconesses, and retired diaconal ministers on the roster of this synod have the privilege of voice and vote at meetings of the Synod Assembly. With regard to resolution R-15-02, Pastor Knauff asked everyone to read it and indicated that it will be considered tomorrow morning. ELCA CAMPAIGN VIDEO What does ELCA mean to me an ELCA Campaign video was shown. It stressed that all should feel that they belong. If we stick with our message, we can start new congregations, stop hunger, give young adults a voice, provide stronger linkages to scholarship, and have more women leaders. God s love is unconditional for all. We can do more. MIF VIDEO LIGHT The Mission Investment Fund Video entitled Light was shown. A summary of the video follows. One life, one light is all one gets. How do you plan to give? When you invest in Mission 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 27

28 Investment Fund, churches benefit. With every single investment we share God s love with the world. God s work, our hands. ANNOUNCEMENTS Vice President Miller noted that it is good that we affirmed the importance of supporting the bishop to be with his daughter at graduation. He then made the following announcements. We will start bright and early at 8:30 tomorrow morning and will be meeting by conference. See the map that was included in the registration packets with updated room location for assigned conference rooms. When applicable, your conference has been added to your name tag (below church). If you have no conference listed, feel free to join any group. Visit Mission Fest before dinner. This will be the last chance to get your card signed and submitted for gift giveaway during the evening program. We will not be returning to this room tonight, Evening Prayer will be in the Grand Ballroom after dinner. Please take your belongings with you. Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom. Pastor Mueller asked those who will be involved in the sending Eucharist should meet him at the dais. BREAK AND MISSION FEST EVENING BANQUET The Evening Meal began at 6:30 p.m. with Pastor John Hickey serving as Master of Ceremonies. He invited Jared Lee who is awaiting pastoral call to the podium to offer table grace. After dinner Pastor Hickey introduced Lois Noel, president of the Indiana-Kentucky Women of the ELCA. She brought greetings on behalf of the organization and invited all women to come to the biannual convention in Hebron, Kentucky August 7 8. There would be plenty of learning opportunities; registration will vary and be more flexible. There would be breakout opportunities to learn about CASA and human trafficking for example. Pastor Vicki Garber was to speak about intergenerational relationships; Gerda Braunheim, author of A Child s View of WWII, will speak on From Stonischken to Gedhus. World relief for school kids will be addressed. The Women of ELCA is an extension of Lutheran beliefs with main focus on women and children. The service project for this assembly is Beyond SNAP. Pastor Hickey called to the podium Pastor Mike Crawford and Pastor Sharon Walker of the Lafayette Conference to speak about Beyond SNAP. Pastor Mike introduced himself. As dean of the Lafayette conference he was asked to organize an in-kind service project. He noted that the Lafayette conference is spread out with a number of small urban centers. They couldn t decide whether to help Kokomo, Lafayette, or Terre Haute so they decided to cover things not covered by SNAP. The generous donations given by assembly participants will be distributed through congregations. Pastor Walker discussed some of the food pantries being supported by congregations. Pastor Crawford also mentioned that some of the congregational pantries will receive the donations. They expressed thanks for the generous donations. Pastor Hickey introduced Pastor Dana Lockhart to speak about Campus Ministry. He began by saying thank you on behalf of the Lutheran Campus ministries. He gets asked how many students do you have; he stated, I don t like that question. His answer is that there are 29,350 students at the 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 28

29 University of Kentucky; they are all of concern or interest. He asserted that we need resources, we need partners and friends. He is not just asking for more money for campus ministry, but do give more money. Partnerships are important. He stated that they want friendships, they want relationships; they are serving the entire community. Pastor Emily Wiles from the Renewing Mission Table was introduced. Pastor Wiles spoke about the CONNECT event in October. The Renewing Mission Table is leading a two-year Transformational Ministry process. Through CONNECT the faith community will connect congregations with those outside. Ten congregations will begin the process, and others will join throughout the process. Pastor Heather Apel came to the podium and called off the names of those who won prizes from the Mission Fest participants. Many individuals won meaningful gifts from the display booths. ELCA QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Beginning at 7:52 p.m., ELCA Churchwide Representative Kathryn Lohre and Pastor Vicki Garber, member of the ELCA Church Council, came to the podium. They invited the assembly to see them as resources and extended a welcome to come to churchwide offices. Ms. Lohre responded to several questions submitted by voting members. The video shown today can be found on You Tube; other You Tube videos cover what the sacraments mean as Lutherans and ministries that are in support of sacramental ministry. The four themes that have been developed as emphases by presiding Bishop Eaton have been developed as a study during lent. A question was Will we continue to have eight seminaries to train our leaders? The seminaries are under study, and the Church Council has not received the report. Funding for seminaries is not 100 percent from the ELCA; they have learned to work with other organizations. We are wonderfully well trained and committed in our church. Another question was If God is not boring and our liturgy is not boring, how do we do that better? She mentioned Searching for Sunday, a book written by millennial Rachel Held Evans about loving, leaving, and finding the church. Young people are not disinterested in sacraments; when those leading worship are not authentic, that is when they are turned off. The next question was How is the church addressing racism? Bishop Eaton has put out a statement regarding racism with links to resources. Ms. Lohre also lifted up ecumenical bodies such as the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA. She noted that we should all be more intentional about leadership. Another question was Is there any human activity that is not sinful? We are sinners and saints. The next question was Does Bishop Eaton support same-sex marriage? She supports the church s statement; the ELCA has not adopted a rite for same-sex marriage. Another question dealt with the significance of Islamic neighbors. There are resources that focus on education and understanding that are not evangelistic; the goal is to love our neighbor and first to know them. The emphasis is on being relational. What about ISIL? When Bishop Eaton was at the Vatican she joined in the Pope s statement on extremism. Extremism does not define any religion. How do we break the trend of Christians only associating with other Christians? The ELCA has resources to support inter-relationship with inter-religions. The goal is to be a good neighbor. How does the ELCA work with Lutheran World Federation? There are council meetings that meet annually, every six to seven years the federation meets in assembly which is the highest legislative body and will meet in There is significant engagement around theology, micro lending, and good gifts. With regard to ELCA shared communion with the Catholic Church, she sees that happening within her lifetime. There is a declaration on the way regarding Lutheran and Catholic shared ecclesiology looking to seal in all the agreements that have been made along the way. From Conflict to Communion 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 29

30 commemorates the five hundredth anniversary of the Reformation in 2017 and is a joint declaration between the Lutheran World Federation and Roman Catholics. Bishop Eaton and her group were in Rome in February. There was an expectation that she was to have a private audience with the Pope, but learned that she would not have a private audience. Instead Bishop Eaton was the first to be received by the Pope in front of a throng of people, so it seemed the private audience didn t matter. Another question was What makes being a part of the ELCA important to a struggling rural church? She answered that we want to acknowledge that learning each other s stories and share wherever we go is important. We see ourselves as part of the larger church, this global church, Christ s church. It is important to have relationships with full communion partners; in our prayer life we should remember all. Moving forward in a way to find answers to our challenges is to hold each other in prayer and to remember that no one is forgotten in Christ. She closed by stating that each person is most welcome to continue the dialogue and is welcome to visit. TRANSITION TO EVENING PRAYER Pastor Hickey thanked Kathryn Lohre for her thoughtful answers. He then made the following announcements. The 2016 Synod Assembly Dates and Location are June 9 11 (Thursday through Saturday) in South Bend, Indiana. The assembly will be at the Century Center and Double Tree by Hilton. The morning session begins at 8:30 a.m. Sunday in conference conversations. EVENING PRAYER AND COMMEMORATION OF THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED At 8:00 p.m. Assistant to the Bishop Pastor Rudy Mueller, liturgist David White, lector Pastor Nan Dehnke, and the Synod Musicians led a service of evening prayer including remembrance of the ministry of leaders who passed to the Church Triumphant in the past year Leslie Yeager, Bonnie Harstad, Ellen Klopfer, John Stacy, Gloria Blankenburg, and David Schroeder. Members of the assembly also lighted additional candles in remembrance of loved ones. Sunday, June 7, 2015 At 8:30 a.m. members of the assembly met by conference for directed conversations based on implementing the New Synod for a New Day Holy Conversations throughout the synod. Members of the Guide Team were available to help with the discussions. PLENARY SESSION III Bishop Gafkjen called the Assembly to order at 9:30 a.m., which began with music, readings, and prayer led by the Synod Assembly Musicians. Bishop Gafkjen stated that it is good to be back and expressed his gratitude for Vice President Ted Miller, who chaired the assembly Saturday afternoon, and for Pastor John Hickey, who was master of ceremonies for the dinner Saturday evening. He noted that we are still collecting money for the tree to be planted in Germany and that there are still some churches who have not picked up their wine for their contributions to the malaria campaign. He observed that there were good conference conversations and that information regarding the Holy Conversations is on the synod website. He also noted that we have the makings of a ukulele choir and thanked everyone for their presence this morning. Bishop Gafkjen then reviewed the agenda for the day. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 30

31 FINAL REPORT ON REGISTRATION AND ATTENDANCE At 9:45 a.m. Bishop Gafkjen called Meghan Smith to the dais for the final report on registration and attendance. There were a total of 364 voting members of which 125 were clergy and 239 were lay voting members (including 9 lay rostered leaders). There were 34 percent clergy and 66 percent lay voting members. Of the voting members 191, or 52.5 percent, were male, and 173, or 47.5 percent, were female. There were 95 nonvoting visitors. Secretary Bush received the report for the record. REPORT OF SECOND BALLOT Bishop Gafkjen invited Liz Michael, chair of the Elections Committee, to the dais. There were two elections on the second ballot. The first was for Synod Council Associate in Ministry, Deaconess, or Diaconal Minister, and the second was for Synod Council Clergy. Bishop Gafkjen declared the election as follows: Synod Council Associate in Ministry, Deaconess, or Diaconal Minister Number of Votes Cast 297 Number needed for election 149 E. Louise Williams 151 Barb Limbach 146 SA/2015/22: E. Louise Williams was declared elected to a three-year term on the Indiana- Kentucky Synod Council as an Associate in Ministry, Deaconess, or Diaconal Minister. Synod Council Clergy (two vacant positions) Number of Votes Cast 306 Number needed for election 154 Nan Dehnke 125 Dave Doane 115 Dana Lockhart 168 Karen Strietelmeier 198 SA/2015/23: Pastors Dana Lockhart and Karen Strietelmeier were declared elected to three-year terms on the Indiana-Kentucky Synod Council. James Smith, a seminary graduate who is awaiting a call, led prayer from the floor microphone giving thanks for those who were elected. KEYNOTE PRESENTATION II The Bishop then invited Rev. Dr. Cheryl Peterson to the dais for the second keynote address. Before beginning her address, Bishop Gafkjen invited Bob Nowak, who is awaiting pastoral call, to the floor microphone for prayer. Professor Peterson began by stating Thank you for the invitation to be here and to share thoughts about being the spirit-breathed church. She discussed twelve shifts to be a spirit-breathed church. We are already spirit-breathed people, we just don t always listen to the spirit. It is about allowing the spirit to move more freely in us. She does not have a step-by-step process. But if we start to allow the spirit to live within us, we may become more of a spirit-breathed church. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 31

32 The first shift is From survival to revival. She is calling for revival Lutheran style not talking about tent meetings, which is not sacramental and which is decision theology. To revive something is to bring it back to life. It is to look at what the spirit might have for us. The second shift is From planning to preparation. The spirit may have other ideas from our planning. We see this very clearly in the Acts of the Apostles. It means prayerful discernment to listen to the spirit and to listen to the stories. Third, we Lutherans need to be more comfortable talking about the Holy Spirit. The third shift is From discomfort to talking about the Holy Spirit with ease. The central sign of the spirit is wholeness. The fourth shift is From attractional to incarnational evangelism. It means the way the spirit is working in us. Let s try to show how the spirit is working within us, what Jesus is doing. What is exciting is what happens every Sunday as the people of God. It is about God and Jesus raised from the dead, a spirit of life that arises with what God did on Easter morning. The same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is raising us to new life, a people gathered and sent. We may be the only Bible that people see. How we participate in community and belong is an indication of the fifth shift which is From belonging to the church as an organization to belonging to Christ, members of the Body of Christ. Through Christ we belong to each other. Koinonia in Greek means a mutual sharing and participation. If we belong to Christ and through Christ we belong to each other. Calling in mission is much larger. The sixth shift is From Congregation to a wider network of relationships, including synod and ecumenical partners. We are not called to be lone rangers in ministry. One who walks alongside, we serve together. We have the Paraclete, the one who walks along side. Seventh, From volunteers to faith-filled disciples. We are the body of Christ with different gifts. To be used for the mission of God, instead of volunteering a spirit-filled church would pray to empower. Eighth is The Holy Spirit as the bond of unity (not our ethnic heritage). Koinonia is given by the Holy Spirit as the gift. We are bound together by the Holy Spirit. Lutheran congregations in North America need to be attended to. We need to break out from our racial, ethnic heritage and become multicultural. We need to be willing to acknowledge the racist heritage of our country. We need to commit ourselves to being an antiracist church. Ninth is From familial fellowship to a more expansive, inclusive fellowship the koinonia relationship. Koinonia can have family-like qualities, but it cannot be exclusive. Koinonia is a fellowship of mission in Acts. Professor Peterson related the Laotian ministry developed in her early congregation and how it developed. Tenth is From avoiding conflict to living into the full forgiveness of sins. Conflict needs to be addressed head on. Luther helps us think more expansively about forgiveness. Luther speaks of the full forgiveness of sins. Luther speaks of forgive, bear with and aid one another. We have authentic relationships. How many people leave congregations because the conflict was not addressed? She discussed a massacre at an Amish school. They did not turn to revenge, but sought to treat the killer as a fellow human being and reached out to his family. Some of the money that came in was diverted to the killer s family. Such reconciliation is an example of the Holy Spirit. Christians are called to this horizontal relationship. Eleventh and twelfth shifts are Where and how we are sent out in mission. The place of our ministry is where we are called to serve. We need to get out of our homes and go out into our community. The focus is not how to get people to join us but it is how we get to know others. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 32

33 Congregation Based Community Organizing is a way to reach out. Have one-on-ones with those in the community. We need to listen to all we meet, all God s people. We take the koinonia in the church and share with others. Let s pray for the Holy Spirit to breathe on us and is helping us to move out. She closed by stating, I pray for God s blessings on you as you allow God s spirit to breathe in you. Bishop Gafkjen noted that the Great Commission was not to make Lutherans but to make disciples. We make them in a Lutheran mode. He continued, Cheryl you remind us that God is making a way in the wilderness, reminding us of Isaiah 43:19, to breathe in life-giving spirit and to breathe out His spirit. ELCA MALARIA CAMPAIGN UPDATE AND VIDEO Bishop Gafkjen invited Rev. Paul Meier to the dais for a Malaria Campaign update. This ministry was the recipient of our sending worship offerings. The ELCA video was shown. Pastor Meier noted that we could celebrate that the ELCA has reached $14 million of the $15 million goal. Malaria mortality has dropped by sixty percent even though the population has risen. We are in the final year of the ELCA campaign. He has been amazed and energized by the synod s efforts, have raise $237,000. Over sixty percent of the congregations have participated. He noted that we still have sixty-three bottles of wine to give away representing $63,000. The ELCA Malaria campaign has been an example of what we can do together. He closed by stating, Thank you in advance for your offerings. Thank you and keep up the good work. Bishop Bill thanked Pastor Meier for his work. Considering the closing worship, he thanked Tom and Linda Frey for wine and Teri Ditslear for bread for both worship services. He continued by thanking Linda Henke and her volunteers for the weaving behind the dais and for all the work she has done for worship. ADOPTION OF FY BUDGET At 10:55 a.m., Bishop Gafkjen invited back to the podium Finance Committee Chair Paul Trickel for presentation of the FY Budget for adoption. Bishop Gafkjen first offered prayer. Paul reported in response to a question on Saturday that the endowment draw is about seventeen percent of the ministries in the synod and that the endowment is in very good shape. What has been spent is the council designated funds. He provided a quick review of the figures. The budget projects Mission Support of $1.7 million, reducing mission support to the ELCA to 43 percent from 52 percent which would be $731,000 of mission support shared with the ELCA. Total budget is projected to be $2,385,107, showing a draw from council designated funds of $54,679 to balance the budget. The figures are subject to receipts and expenditures that actually occur. There were questions and answers regarding the budget. Bishop Gafkjen asked for a vote by raising green or red cards. It was VOTED: SA/2015/24: that the Indiana-Kentucky Synod Budget with income and expenditures of $2,385,107 and mission support of 43% to the ELCA be adopted. REFERENCE AND COUNSEL At 11:15 a.m., Bishop Gafkjen invited back to the dais Reference and Counsel Committee Chair Pastor Tim Knauff. On behalf of the Committee, the Chair brought to the floor R-15-02, a resolution concerning a time of discernment regarding becoming a Reconciling in Christ synod. The resolution was 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 33

34 projected on the screen and he also read it; the Reference and Counsel Committee recommended adoption. The sixth whereas clause was changed to read twenty-five ELCA synods by motion and second and passage. After discussion it was VOTED: SA/2015/25: that R be adopted as follows: Whereas the people of the Indiana-Kentucky mission territory, as a community of the people of God, are called to minister to all people of our world, knowing that the world is often an unloving place; and Whereas our world is a place of alienation and brokenness, into which Christ calls us to work toward reconciliation and wholeness; and Whereas we are challenged by the Gospel to be agents of healing within our society; and Whereas the Reconciling in Christ Program of ReconcilingWorks seeks to make clearer the policies of congregations, synods, and other organizations where all people are welcome as full participating members, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity or that of their children, siblings, and friends [ReconcilingWorks, Reconciling in Christ, and Whereas the Reconciling in Christ Program of ReconcilingWorks is one way of proclaiming welcome to all people and working for reconciliation and healing; and Whereas twenty-five ELCA Synods have passed resolutions to become Reconciling in Christ synods; and Whereas there is present within our mission territory differing levels of familiarity with the Reconciling in Christ Program; and Whereas Bishop Gafkjen is inviting us into a time of Holy Conversations; therefore be it Resolved that the Indiana-Kentucky Synod commit itself to discernment regarding becoming a Reconciling in Christ synod; and be it further Resolved that the Bishop and the Executive Committee be directed to form a task force to identify resources, to provide guidance to congregations and individuals for this discernment, and to report to the 2016 Synod Assembly. Reference and Counsel Chair Pastor Tim Knauff presented an additional resolution of thanks on behalf of the committee. By acclamation indicated by applause, it was VOTED: SA/2015/26: that R 15-03, A Sending Resolution, be adopted as follows: WHEREAS, the Indiana-Kentucky Synod has met in assembly in Indianapolis, IN, on June 5, June 6, and June 7, 2015; and WHEREAS, we in the Indiana-Kentucky mission territory are a Spirit-breathed church for a spirit-hungry world; and WHEREAS, we are called to empower, equip, and encourage one another to make Christ known so that every member will be a missionary, every leader a mission director, and every community of faith a mission center; therefore 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 34

35 BE IT RESOLVED, that we express our thanks, appreciation, and support to those who made this inspiring experience possible: To the Reverend Heather Apel, the synod staff, and the Synod Assembly Planning Team for their dedication and hard work in making this Assembly run smoothly; To all of the volunteers who shared the triple crown of love, joy, and generosity; To those who led pre-assembly workshops; To the programs, institutions, and agencies who joined us and the volunteers who joined us for Mission Fest; To the Indiana-Kentucky Synod Assembly Musicians for sharing their gifts and enthusiasm in joyful music; To Shalom Ministry and the Alleluia Choir, for their ministry and witness; To the Reverend Rudy Mueller and the Synod Assembly Worship Team for planning and leading uplifting, inspiring, Spirit-breathed worship; To the staff of the Indianapolis Marriott East for their gracious hospitality, welcoming spirit, and excellent service; To the Rev. Dr. Cheryl M. Peterson for calling us to transformation and reminding us that evangelism is not marketing God sends us; To Kathryn Lohre for bringing insight and information on the ELCA and bringing greetings from Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, reminding us we are Church together for the sake of the world; To the Guiding and Prayer Teams, and to Lisa Negstad and Michael Bischoff, for inviting us into Holy Conversations and helping us see where the fruits of the Spirit are budding around this mission territory; To the Synod Council for its commitment to the mission of the synod; To Vice President Ted Miller for faithful, energetic spiritual leadership and modeling for us the priesthood of all believers; To Secretary Judy Bush for dedicated and detailed faithful leadership; To Treasurer Sue Miller for her mission-focused stewardship of our finances; To Paul Trickel and the members of the Finance Committee for their discerning and proactive oversight of our synod s finances; To Bishop Bill Gafkjen, who calls us to Breathe in the gift of the Spirit, breathe out blessing ; reminds us that what happens at Assembly does not stay at Assembly; and who almost makes the ukulele cool; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that together we welcome the Spirit to continue to breathe within us, sending us as blessing for the sake of the world, and together we say: I m so excited! Bishop Gafkjen thanked the reference and counsel committee. He thanked all for their participation. He noted that we will breathe in the spirit and breathe out our life. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 35

36 SENDING EUCHARIST Bishop Gafkjen announced that the offering at the closing worship will go to the ELCA Malaria Campaign. Individuals were asked to turn in nametag holders and lanyards. The tree offering box is still in the hall for offerings. Evaluation will be done online; individuals will receive an after the assembly with instructions. Pastor Mueller gave specific instructions for the worship service. It was announced that worship would begin in ten minutes in the plenary room. The Assembly business having been completed, Bishop Gafkjen asked, Is there a motion to adjourn? Motion and second were made, and all voted by applause. The assembly adjourned at 11:46. a.m. Sending worship was then held, including celebration of Holy Communion led by presiding minister Pastor Kelly Nelson. Pastor Dan Forehand of Grace Lutheran Church (Elkhart) preached primarily on the Gospel text from Mark 3:20-35; the people said that Jesus has gone out of his mind. Adam and Eve looked like all hope was lost but the spirit moved on. We go out with God s spirit, God is redeeming. There is nothing that is impossible with God. God is doing redemptive work with all of creation. The Eucharist was shared at individual tables. Those elected to service on the Indiana-Kentucky Synod Council were installed, and the entire Assembly was sent with affirmation of Christian vocation. Offering at the closing worship, designated for the ELCA Malaria Campaign, totaled $4, The collection to plant a tree in Germany in commemoration of the five hundredth anniversary of the Reformation was $ Respectfully Submitted in His Service, Judith A. Bush, Secretary 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 36

37 Attachment A Indiana-Kentucky Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America 28th ANNUAL ASSEMBLY Breathe, Spirit, Breathe Indianapolis Marriott East Indianapolis, Indiana Friday, June 5, :00 Synod Council Meeting (Indianapolis Ballroom Salon A) 11:00 MissionFest move in and set up/registration set up (Atrium) 12:00 Orientation for Registration Volunteers and Greeters (Atrium) 2:00 Pre-Assembly Workshops (2 hours) Congregational History (Grand Ballroom Salons 1-3) Doing Justice: Actions Speak Louder Than Words (Grand Ballroom Salons 6-8) Multisensory Worship (Veterans Hall 1) 3:00 Assembly Begins with Onsite Registration (Atrium) Collect your nametag, meal tickets and materials; visit Mission Fest booths; browse through the Steeple People Bookstore; greet old friends and new colleagues. 4:15 Welcome and Orientation for First Time Attendees; all voting members are invited to attend this session (Veterans Hall 1) 5:00 Onsite Registration Closes (reopens Sat., June 6 at 7:30 a.m.) 5:30 Made New for Mission Banquet: Celebrating Leaders and Ministries of the Past, Present and Future (Grand Ballroom Salons 1-5) Rostered Leader Anniversaries; Congregational Anniversaries; Mission Developers, Congregations under development and redevelopment; Leaders new to the roster of the I-K Synod; Ecumenical partners 7:15 Gathering music (Liberty Hall) 7:30 Gathering Worship (Liberty Hall) Service of Holy Communion, Bishop William O. Gafkjen preaching and presiding The offering will support Shalom Ministry, a parallel mission start growing out of Salem Lutheran Church, Indianapolis, which is reaching out to the multicultural community, especially refugees and other groups emigrating from sub-saharan Africa. 9:00 Reception (Outdoor Oasis) [weather back-up plan, Grand Ballroom Salons 1-5] 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 37

38 Attachment A Saturday, June 6, 2015 Breakfast on your own 7:30 Registration Reopens (Atrium) 8:30 Plenary Session I (Liberty Hall) Opening of Assembly with music and devotions Greetings and Introductions Opening Remarks by Bishop Bill Gafkjen 9:00 Preliminary Report on Registration and Attendance Adoption of Agenda Nominations Report - Introduction of candidates and nominees for synod positions 9:30 Keynote/Bible Study Session I Rev. Dr. Cheryl Peterson, Trinity Lutheran Seminary 10:15 Coffee break and Mission Fest (Atrium) 10:45 Resolutions supported by 50 signatures of voting members are due to the Secretary of the Synod, Judy Bush (per Sec c of the I-K Synod Constitution). Deliver to the dais at the front of the assembly hall. 10:45 Mission update: Bishop Bill Gafkjen 11:15 First Ballot voting will take place in the plenary hall Treasurer s Report and Mission Plan (Budget) Presentation by Synod Treasurer, Sue Miller and Finance Committee Chair, Paul Trickel ELCA Churchwide Greetings Kathryn Lohre, Assistant to the Presiding Bishop/Executive for Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations Presentation of Resolutions from Reference and Counsel Committee 12:30 Lunch: Two choices -- Box lunch (available in atrium area for those who purchased in advance) or lunch on your own at local restaurants. 1:45 Plenary Session II (Liberty Hall) Prayer/Devotions/Music 2:00 Report of Elections Committee and presentation of second ballot if needed 2:15 New Synod for a New Day Presentation: Fruits of the Spirit Guiding Team One-on-one conversations and small group sessions 4:00 Plenary Session II continued (Liberty Hall) New Synod for a New Day Wrap Up: Michael Bischoff and Lisa Negstad 4:30 Report of the Vice President of the Synod, Ted Miller Report of the Secretary of the Synod, Judy Bush Presentation and adoption of Compensation Standards Discussion of Resolutions from Reference and Counsel Committee 5:30 Break before dinner visit Mission Fest in the Atrium 6:30 Evening Banquet (Grand Ballroom) ELCA Representative Q&A, fellowship and greetings from special guests 8:00 Evening Prayer and Commemoration of the Faithful Departed (Grand Ballroom) 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 38

39 Attachment A Breakfast on your own Sunday, June 7, 2015 ** We will begin this morning by gathering as conferences for focused sharing and conversation. Please see the map on the back of this agenda for room locations for each conference. Your conference is labeled on the back of your nametag.** 8:30 New Synod for a New Day Conference Conversations (see map on back page for locations) 9:30 Plenary Session III (Liberty Hall) Prayer/Devotions/Music Report of 2 nd ballot results, 3 rd ballot if needed 9:45 Keynote/Bible Study Session II Rev. Dr. Cheryl Peterson, Trinity Lutheran Seminary 10:30 Summary and Reflection: Bishop Bill Gafkjen Final Report on Registration and Attendance Adoption of FY Budget Discussion of Resolutions from Reference and Counsel Committee 11:15 Sending Worship (Liberty Hall; upon the completion of Plenary Session III) Holy Communion, installation of those newly elected, and a sending forth of all in attendance! Offering will go to ELCA Malaria Campaign 12:30 Benediction and Adjournment Rules of the Assembly: 1. All resolutions supported by a petition of at least 50 signatures of voting members of the 2015 Assembly are due to the Secretary of the Synod by 10:45 AM, Saturday, June 6. Deliver to the dais at the front of the Assembly Hall. 2. Each speech from the floor on all resolutions and motions will be limited to 3 minutes. 3. Voting may be accomplished by use of voting cards, with green representing an affirmative vote and red representing a negative vote. The chair may call for affirmative and negative votes simultaneously or separately. 4. A member who has spoken on the pending question(s) may not move the previous question(s). 5. A motion to end debate by moving the previous question shall apply only to the immediately preceding motion. 6. A motion to end debate on all matters on the floor or more than the immediately pending question is not in order. 7. 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. 8. Any recount must be ordered by a majority vote before the end of the assembly at which the voting result was announced. 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 39

40 Attachment A TO VETERANS HALL SIDE ENTRANCE AND PARKING LOT Sunday, June 7, :30 a.m. Conference Conversation Room Locations East Central Indiana Conference: Indianapolis Ballroom Salon B East Kentucky Conference: Grand Ballroom Salon 6 Evansville Conference: Indianapolis Ballroom Salon E Indianapolis Conference: Grand Ballroom Salon 5 Lafayette Conference: Indianapolis Ballroom Salon A North Central Conference: Indianapolis Ballroom Salon C North East Conference: Grand Ballroom Salon 4 North West Indiana Conference: Indianapolis Ballroom Salon D South Central Conference: Grand Ballroom Salon 7 South East Indiana Conference: Grand Ballroom Salon 8 28 th Annual Synod Assembly, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, ELCA, Minutes 40