LEGISLATION with Historical Statements and Questions for Reflection

Transcription

1 Wholeness and Well-Being LEGISLATION Summary: If approved, this resolution would encourage health, well-being, and wholeness. It would request the church lift these principles with its focus on peace, justice, and community, and that it develop resources for assisting members to have access to information encouraging health and wholeness. Historical-background Statement In 2011 several younger-to-middle-age professional adults, some with health-related qualifications, began to explore conducting wholeness and well-being workshops within the church. Searches of the World Church website revealed a lack of clear, easily accessible guidance and encouragement, both about our beliefs and practice. Searches of previous resolutions showed many resolutions throughout the history of the church, many still on our books. It inferred that we need regular reminders to cherish and seek wholeness in our personal lives and relationships. Wider discussion identified the need for our long-held beliefs on wholeness, including the intimate and complex connections between the spiritual and the physical, to be stated more clearly. Additionally it was determined the church website could be used effectively for up-todate guidance and links. It seemed obvious and almost unnecessary to state the capacity to function effectively in our discipleship may be affected directly by our health. This led to developing a resolution to be considered by the World Conference. In the process the Health Ministries Association was contacted to invite its critique and suggestions. It provided valuable input. Proposed Resolution From the Australia Mission Centre: Whereas, Since the earliest days of the Restoration movement the concept of wholeness of body, mind, and spirit has been one of our major emphases; and Whereas, The Basic Beliefs of the church include a sacramental focus on laying on of hands for healing of the sick, and the Enduring Principles of the church lift up Sacredness of Creation and our role as stewards of care and hope for all creation ; the Worth of Persons declaring, God wants all people to experience wholeness of body, mind, spirit, and relationships ; and Responsible Choices, called to make Responsible Choices within the circumstances of our lives ; and Whereas, Good health and well-being often enhance the ability to make Responsible Choices and to be actively engaged as a good steward; and 1

2 Whereas, Promotion of health-strengthening life habits, including diet, exercise, and spiritual disciplines, can encourage and enable good health and well-being; and Whereas, Abundant evidence is accumulating around the globe about the inseparability of body, mind, and spirit, and the things that do and do not contribute to good health and well-being; and Whereas, Pursuing good health and well-being is essentially an individual journey that can be strengthened by the support and encouragement of a community; and Whereas, The health-related associations of the church, have a long history of addressing the basic needs and wholeness of people; and Whereas, The World Church website list of online ministry resources has more than 200 links but none directly referencing health, well-being, or wholeness; therefore, be it Resolved, That the World Church lift up wholeness and well-being to our members and to the world at large with similar clarity and emphasis as is given to other key principles such as generosity, peace and justice, and community; and be it further Resolved, That the World Church actively encourage members to engage this quest for wellbeing and wholeness of body, mind, and spirit, making responsible, healthy choices as their circumstances permit, with priority attention given to children and youth; and be it further Resolved, That resources be developed with assistance from the Health Ministries Association, the World Church Temple Strategy Team, and others, for assisting members to have access to information encouraging health and wholeness, including links between the World Church and Health Ministries Association websites, as well as other websites. Questions for Discussion 1. Keeping in mind this is a worldwide church, how does this resolution address the needs of the entire church? 2. How do you define wholeness? 3. How do you define well-being? 4. In what ways do the worldwide church, mission centers, and congregations have responsibility for wholeness and well-being? 5. What experiences have you had with the church providing or helping in your wholeness or well-being? 6. What concerns do you have if this resolution is passed? What do you hope is carried out if this resolution passes? 2

3 7. How do you see you or your congregation using resources that might be developed? 8. What new insights have you gained by reading the historical-background statement for this resolution? 9. How does this resolution relate to the church s Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives? Baptism and Membership Summary: If approved, this resolution would point out that recent policy has allowed those baptized in other Christian denominations to be received into Community of Christ by confirmation if they were baptized after the age of eight (8). This resolution would request the First Presidency continue exploring the possibility of accepting baptisms of those from other Christian denominations who were baptized before the age of eight (8). It also would request periodic updates and a full report on this matter before the 2016 World Conference. Historical-background Statement Some pastors and leaders have been struggling with the issue of rebaptism for individuals who have been baptized in other churches before age eight (8). Some committed Christians feel their parents brought them before God at an early age to begin their journey with Jesus with the parents guidance and support. A retreat at Eagle Lake Camp and Retreat Center near Brainerd, Minnesota, was held to discuss experiences, concerns, and feelings in this matter. It was a sensitive and Spirit-led weekend. After further discussion the present resolution was drafted and then presented to and approved by the Headwaters USA-Canada Mission Center at its 2012 fall conference for transmittal to the 2013 World Conference. Proposed Resolution From the Headwaters USA/Canada Mission Center: Whereas, Community of Christ s We Share document states that Christ s mission is our mission and calls the church to Invite People to Christ ; and Whereas, Our Enduring Principles of Grace and Generosity, Worth of All Persons, All Are Called, Unity in Diversity, and Blessings of Community speak directly to relationship with Christ and all of Christ s people; and 3

4 Whereas, Growth in discipleship is a lifelong journey in response to God s grace, which has led some people already committed to Jesus Christ through Christian baptism to further focus their response through church membership (Doctrine and Covenants164:2b); and Whereas, Many of these committed Christians embrace their previous baptism as the first step on their journey as a disciple of Christ; and Whereas, While recent policy changes affirm some previous baptisms, the majority of the world s Christians, having been baptized before the age of 8, are excluded from becoming members of the church without rebaptism, (Baptism, Confirmation, and Church Membership Policy, effective September 1, 2011); and Whereas, The redemptive action of God in Christ while uniquely and authoritatively expressed through the church is not confined solely to the church, (Doctrine and Covenants 164:2a); and Whereas, The Enduring Principle of Continuing Revelation recognizes our ongoing need to understand God s will for our lives, the church, and creation more completely on our journey of discipleship; therefore, be it Resolved, That the World Conference request the First Presidency to continue exploration of the issue of rebaptism specifically in regard to those baptized by other Christian denominations before the age of 8 in light of the insights brought to the church through recent revelatory experience, including a review of the present policy based on historical, scriptural, theological, and experiential grounds; and be it further Resolved, That the World Conference request the First Presidency to provide periodic updates on ongoing discernment as the church continues to reflect on the issues of church membership and to issue a formal report of its exploration no later than the next World Conference. Questions for Discussion 1. Keeping in mind this is a worldwide church, how does this resolution address the needs of the entire church? 2. How do see this resolution in relationship to Doctrine and Covenants 164:2a-c? 164:2 a. Instruction given previously about baptism was proper to ensure the rise and cohesiveness of the church during its early development and in following years. However, as a growing number have come to understand, the redemptive action of God in Christ while uniquely and authoritatively expressed through the church is not confined solely to the church. 4

5 b. God s grace, revealed in Jesus Christ, freely moves throughout creation, often beyond human perception, to achieve divine purposes in people s lives. In harmony with God s will, the Holy Spirit leads some people already committed to Jesus Christ through Christian baptism to further focus their response through church membership. c. Individuals previously baptized of water in an attitude of humility and repentance and as an expression of faith in Jesus Christ may become church members through the sacrament of confirmation of the Holy Spirit. 3. If this resolution passes, how might it affect the church, your congregation, yourself? 4. Share experiences you have had with people baptized before age 8 and wishing to be members of Community of Christ? 5. As you think about the sacraments and their relationship to community, what degree of consistency is important for you? 6. What baptism- and membership-related issues do you believe need to be part of the exploration and why? 7. What new insights have you gained by reading the historical-background statement for this resolution? 8. How does this resolution relate to the church s Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives? Basic Beliefs Summary: If approved, this resolution would request three things: (1) The whole church study the document, Sharing in Community of Christ, in forums throughout the field; (2) input from these sessions be gathered; and (3) after sufficient discussion and deliberation that the World Church Leadership Council present a document revised as deemed necessary to the World Conference for its consideration. Historical-background Statement Sharing in Community of Christ: Exploring Identity, Message, Mission, and Beliefs is an official resource containing statements in which questions of theology, history, scripture, etc. for the church are considered. This resolution expresses the desire for open discussions on theology, history, scripture, etc. of the church for consideration by the First Presidency. The resolution calls for wide discussion of this document throughout the entire church and eventually a debate and vote on it at a future World Conference. 5

6 The resolution infers the First Presidency may not make theological, prophetic, or pastoral statements without the approval of the World Conference. Proposed Resolution From the Pacific Islands Mission Centre: Whereas, The brochure titled Sharing in Community of Christ was published and promoted by the church leadership in 2010 as We Share: Identity, Mission, Message, and Beliefs of the church; and Whereas, The church leadership expects this paper will play a major role in guiding the church in the years ahead. And provide a foundation on which we will build classes, sermons, ministry models, resources, small-group activities, and worship experiences ; and Whereas, This document is being treated by the leadership as the de facto official statement of the church as to its Enduring Principles, Basic Beliefs, scripture, and its basis for understanding church history, which in effect precludes all other understandings and positions on these topics; and Whereas, This document has never been presented to the membership for discussion, debate, and approval by common consent in accordance with Section 4 of the Bylaws of the Church; therefore, be it Resolved, That the Conference requests that the First Presidency establish a forum and process for the free and open discussion of all aspects of the document, Sharing in Community of Christ, be accessible to the church; and be it further Resolved, That provision be made for the sharing of information and perspectives on the topics of the document in every jurisdiction of the church, and that the issues raised in such exploration be compiled and shared with the whole church; and be it further Resolved, That after sufficient discussion and deliberation that the World Church Leadership Council prepare and submit to the World Conference a document, revised as deemed necessary, for consideration by the church. Questions for Discussion 1. Keeping in mind this is a worldwide church, how does this resolution address the needs of the entire church? 2. What new information have you read in this resolution? 3. If this resolution passes, how might it affect the church, your congregation, you? 6

7 4. How do you see the relationship between the membership and leadership in creating statements of mission and beliefs? 5. What questions do you have about this resolution? 6. What is unclear in this resolution? 7. What do you believe is the responsibility of the World Conference in approving official statements on theology and beliefs? 8. What do you believe is the role of church leaders in shaping and promulgating the theology of the church? 9. What new insights have you gained by reading the historical-background statement for this resolution? 10. How does this resolution relate to the church s Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives? For information on Church Bylaws as referred to in the fourth whereas see Church Administrator s Handbook, Part I Organization at /policy/. Congregational Theological Education Summary: If approved, this resolution would lift up the need for educational material for all ages based on the unique scriptures of the church. It would ask the church to provide these materials to congregations throughout the world. Historical-background Statement The Community of Christ Seminary and MEADS curricula are doing great jobs in training key leaders of the church and some pastors. However, we have limited resources available to train congregational leaders and membership. The author feels there is a need for Christian education resources, produced by Community of Christ and based on the unique scriptures of the church, to equip congregational leaders and members with knowledge and skills in understanding our church history, theology, and polity. Proposed Resolution From the Pacific Islands Mission Centre: Whereas, The church is organized into congregations of committed members led by ordained lay priesthood as the primary embodiment of its witness and mission in the world; and Whereas, The primary function of the World Church leadership is to administer, guide, facilitate, and support the witness and mission of the congregations and members; and 7

8 Whereas, The Restoration has been provided by God with unique scriptures for its mission in the name of Jesus Christ in the present era; and Whereas, The church has now been called to become a prophetic people; therefore, be it Resolved, That the Conference requests that the World Church leadership provide to the congregations throughout the world educational materials for all ages that are fully based on the unique scriptures of the church and that will allow the members and priesthood in the congregations to teach one another the doctrine of the kingdom and be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God (Doctrine and Covenants 85:21b). Questions for Discussion 1. Keeping in mind this is a worldwide church, how does this resolution address the needs of the entire church? 2. What is your sense of what fully based (first sentence of the resolve) means? 3. If this resolution passes, how might it affect the church, your congregation, you? 4. What challenges might this resolution present the church? 5. What questions does this resolution raise? 6. What is unclear in this resolution? 7. What new insights have you gained by reading the historical-background statement for this resolution? 8. How does this resolution relate to the church s Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives? United States of America Immigration Policy Summary: If approved, this resolution would note the First Presidency published a statement in the Herald entitled, Statement on Immigration Issues in the United States. This resolution would request that in the future church leaders refrain from promulgating any official statements on immigration until the members in the nation involved have an opportunity to engage in a process of deliberation and discernment for this issue in their nation. Historical-background Statement Church leaders issued the Statement on Immigration Issues in the United States in the September 2007 Herald. The congregation in Hilo, Hawaii, had several discussions during its prayer and study group sessions about the statement. Concerns were expressed with the tone and manner in which certain assumptions and criticisms of the US government were framed. In months 8

9 following, several letters submitted to the editor of the Herald expressed concerns. The First Presidency issued a statement saying the Statement was made in response to a request from Hispanic church leaders ministering to undocumented immigrants. Hispanic leaders asked for guidance and support from the church on the issue of ministry and mission with undocumented immigrants. The proposers believe open discussions on controversial matters affecting the church would be helpful prior to publishing official statements. Such discussions help in discerning the nature of official statements. As additional background, members of the First Presidency, as the leading teachers and interpreters of the law, have a long history of making official statements on various topics for discussion and education purposes. This resolution seeks to limit that authority in such a way that all such statements need World Conference approval before being issued. It also may be helpful to note that before the statement was released, it was discussed extensively in the Human Rights Team, World Church Leadership Council, Standing High Council, and International Leaders Council. Proposed Resolution From the Pacific Islands Mission Centre: Whereas, On the Official page of the Herald of September 2007, the First Presidency caused to be published a Statement on Immigration Issues in the United States ; and Whereas, Said statement was promulgated as an official statement of Community of Christ without consultation with the members of the church in the United States of America; therefore, be it Resolved, That the Conference requests that the leaders of the church refrain from promulgating any official statements on immigration until the members in the nation involved have an opportunity to engage in a process of deliberation and discernment for this issue in their nation. Questions for Discussion 1. Keeping in mind this is a worldwide church, how does this resolution address the needs of the entire church? 2. If this resolution was passed, how might it affect the church, your congregation, you? 3. How do you see the relationship between the membership and leadership in creating official statements on national or international issues? 4. To what degree do official church statements inform your ethical or theological opinions? 9

10 5. How do you see this resolution in relationship to the responsibilities of the prophet/president and the First Presidency as the leading teachers and interpreters of the laws? 6. What questions do you have about this resolution? 7. What is unclear in this resolution? 8. What new insights have you gained by reading the historical-background statement for this resolution? 9. How does this resolution relate to the church s Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives? Drinking Of Intoxicants Summary: If approved, this resolution would seek to rescind WCR 297 that makes the consumption of alcohol by members and priesthood a test of fellowship. The resolution further would request the First Presidency give the church contemporary counsel regarding the interpretation of Section 152:4b, specifically regarding how the consumption of alcohol pertains to Community of Christ s understanding of sin. The resolution would request the First Presidency and the Council of Twelve Apostles review church policy on abstinence from the use of alcoholic beverages and confirm and/or revise the policy and administrative guidelines so there is a clear understanding of expectations for priesthood on this issue. Finally, the resolution would request this guidance be shared with the church on or before the president s annual address in April Historical-background Statement Several factors contributed to the development of this resolution. First was the 2007 World Conference resolution from the Europe Mission Centre, entitled G-1 Culturally Respectful Standards of Personal Conduct. Some felt the time was ripe for the discussion to occur but perhaps not about culture. Rather the issue is the right and wrong of drinking alcohol. The resolution was referred to the First Presidency for future consideration. Throughout the church there are widely divergent understandings of what is appropriate when it comes to the consumption of alcohol. This diversity of understanding is not always obvious, but over time it became evident that we are using different assumptions and different standards in different parts of the church. World Church Resolution WCR 297, adopted by the 1885 Conference says the consumption of alcohol is a test of fellowship. In other words, those who consume alcohol stand in jeopardy of being expelled from the church. WCR 297 is vague in some respects and reflects the concerns of a prohibition-era culture, found mostly in the USA cultural experience. It supports the shunning 10

11 of individuals based on a habit not clearly defined. WCR 1085 entitled Standards of Conduct, adopted by the 1970 World Conference, is a much clearer contemporary statement of conduct expectations. The abuse of alcohol is one thing, but to have a test of fellowship be whether or not an individual takes a drink from time to time seems an ethic rooted in the 18 th - century western American temperance movement. The proposers also studied references to alcohol in various resources, including the Rules and Resolutions and the Doctrine and Covenants. These references included Doctrine and Covenants 86:1, 119:3, 152:4b c, and 163:6a d. In addition, consideration was given to World Conference Resolutions 92, 297, 463, 702, 1085, 1158, and 1192, and the Priesthood Manual, 2004 Edition, page 22. Mark Scherer, World Church historian, was consulted about the historical background of WCR 297, the practice resulting from that test of fellowship, and the historical and cultural setting in which it was formed. We also studied the church s current shift from rule-based to principlebased ethical guidelines. One deep concern arose in reading Doctrine and Covenants 152:4b: Some have been led to inactivity, yea and even lulled to sleep by the spirit of carelessness and indifference. Some have been overcome by the grosser sins of the world the spirit of revelry, wanton living, use of drugs, drinking, and fornication and have fallen away. It is felt the First Presidency needs to guide the church in better interpreting the doctrine of sin as it applies to the occasional use of alcohol. In discussions, it became clear that in the minds of some members drinking in moderation is not seen as sinful. We understand that prophetic identity causes us to constantly seek the will of God, even if it is in opposition to the prevailing thought and culture. It is believed this is not an issue of cultural preference, or about exceptions for urgent circumstances, such as lack of safe water, or medically prescribed treatments. The angst-filled question is whether our rules are unjust, or if we are conforming to the will of God by requiring a high standard of personal conduct. Proposed Resolution From the Gateway USA Mission Center: Whereas, GCR 297, which states, Inasmuch as some of the members of this church are in the habit of visiting saloons and drinking intoxicants, which habit seems to hinder the spread of the work, therefore be it Resolved, That it be made a test of fellowship for any member of this church who will persist in this practice reflects a time in history of intense discussion about temperance and prohibition in the United States; and 11

12 Whereas, The population of the church was predominantly North American when GCR 297 became binding on the church, and Community of Christ is now an international community, represented by diverse cultures from many nations; and Whereas, In some jurisdictions of the church, pastors and administrators have verbally advised priesthood that the use of alcohol is no longer prohibited, causing a loss of authority for our written policy; and Whereas, The perceived integrity of Community of Christ is compromised when our actual practices do not conform to our written policies and resolutions, and this loss of perceived integrity can be harmful to our witness of Jesus Christ; and Whereas, Community of Christ has shifted theologically from a works-based understanding to grace-based understanding; and Whereas, Community of Christ is moving from a rule-based system of ethics to a principle-based system of ethics; and Whereas, GCR 933 acknowledges the Word of Wisdom as the health program for the church; and Whereas, GCR 1085 provides ethical principles guiding standards of personal conduct for all cultures throughout Community of Christ; therefore, be it Resolved, That GCR 297 be rescinded; and be it further Resolved, That the World Conference request the First Presidency give the church contemporary counsel regarding the interpretation of Section 152:4b, specifically regarding how the consumption of alcohol pertains to Community of Christ s understanding of sin; and be it further Resolved, That this World Conference request the First Presidency and Council of Twelve Apostles review the policy requiring complete abstinence from alcohol consumption by members of the priesthood, and confirm and/or revise the policy and administrative guidelines so there is a clear understanding of expectations for priesthood on this issue throughout the church; and be it further Resolved, That the First Presidency s interpretation of Section 152:4b, the review of policy and administrative guidelines, and any resultant guidance to the church be shared with the church on or before the president s annual address in April

13 Note: GCR stand for General Conference Resolution, which now is referred to as WCR, World Conference Resolution. Questions for Discussion 1. Keeping in mind this is a worldwide church, how does this resolution address the needs of the entire church? 2. What new information have you read in this resolution? 3. If this resolution passes, how might it affect the church, your congregation, you? 4. Besides the points raised in this resolution, what other issues does this raise? 5. What questions do you have about this resolution? 6. What is unclear in this resolution? 7. What out of your life experience informs your perspective on consuming alcoholic drinks? 8. How does Doctrine and Covenants 85 inform you regarding this issue? 9. The terms works-based and grace-based understanding and rule-based and principlebased systems of ethics are used. What is your understanding of these terms? How do those ideas apply to your discipleship? 10. What new insights have you gained by reading the historical-background statement for this resolution? 11. How does this resolution relate to the church s Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives? Baptismal Prayers Summary: If approved, this resolution would suggest the church needs to look at the language of the baptismal prayer so alternatives may be created because the current prayer is non-inclusive in attributing the masculine gender to God. Further, the resolution would give the support of the World Conference to the First Presidency for developing optional, additional baptismal prayer language and would ask that a report on this matter be made to the 2016 World Conference. Historical-background Statement Some congregations and priesthood have recognized for some time the need to update the language of our baptismal prayer. However, this is not permitted under current church policy, which requires that we use only the baptismal prayers recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 17:21c. In the mind of the proposer, as we seek to make our sacraments inclusive and have a World Church policy on inclusive language, it is time to change this policy. 13

14 A collaborative approach was used to encourage broad participation for a resolution to address this need. This resolution began to take shape in January 2012, out of the mission center council. Next, consultations were made with the help of the the World Church Resolutions Committee and our apostle. Changes were made in the resolution. A revised resolution initially was presented and discussed, but not voted on, at our 2012 spring mission center conference. We then had time (between the spring and fall mission center conferences) for the resolution to be discussed and refined by various bodies in the mission center. At the fall 2012 conference, we used new processes and technology to consider the resolution. For example, the body had the opportunity to express its support, or lack of support, for the resolution prior to formal debate or a vote. The final resolution reflects the many comments and perspectives gathered over 10 months and approved by the mission center conference. Proposed Resolution From the Central USA Mission Center: Whereas, By tradition and policy Community of Christ requires that Community of Christ ministers officiating at baptisms use the prayer recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 17:21c [ Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, Amen. ], but do not require this for baptisms performed by ministers of other Christian churches (Doctrine and Covenants 164:2), which authorized the acceptance of these baptisms, does not require the use of this baptismal prayer; and Whereas, church tradition permits the use of the word Spirit instead of Ghost but no other word substitutions in the wording of this baptismal prayer; and Whereas, The wording given in Doctrine and Covenants 17:21c reflects earlier understandings and sometimes limits the expression of God s grace and the discretion of Community of Christ ministers in the sacrament of baptism, and this earlier language is non-inclusive as it attributes masculine gender to God; and Whereas, The church would be blessed by the availability of alternative baptismal prayers; examples of possible alternative baptismal prayers include: Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, Amen. 14

15 As a minister of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, Amen. As a minister of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Creator, the Redeemer, and the Sustainer, Amen. ; and Whereas, Our concept of theocratic democracy has historically included the approval of both the First Presidency and the World Conference to make changes to church policy for prayers used for the sacraments; and Whereas, It is God s presence, and not the form of specific words spoken that matter for the effectiveness of the sacraments. Recent revelations to the church support the use of alternative baptismal prayers [ You have already been told to look to the sacraments to enrich the spiritual life of the body. It is not the form of the sacrament that dispenses grace but it is the divine presence that gives life. Be respectful of tradition and sensitive to one another, but do not be unduly bound by interpretations and procedures that no longer fit the needs of a worldwide church (Doctrine and Covenants 162:2d); It is not pleasing to God when any passage of scripture is used to diminish or oppress races, genders, or classes of human beings (Doctrine and Covenants 163:7c); Instruction given previously about baptism was proper to ensure the rise and cohesiveness of the church during its early development and in following years. However, as a growing number have come to understand, the redemptive action of God in Christ while uniquely and authoritatively expressed through the church is not confined solely to the church (Doctrine and Covenants 164:2a); therefore, be it Resolved, That the World Conference authorizes the First Presidency to create baptismal prayers with contemporary, gender-inclusive language that may be used by Community of Christ ministers (priests or Melchisedec priesthood) as alternatives to the prayer recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 17:21c for the sacrament of baptism, and that WCR 48 be rescinded. To be clear, the First Presidency is authorized but not required to create alternative baptismal prayers, as in matters of scripture the First Presidency should be led by the Holy Spirit; and be it further Resolved, That the First Presidency provide a report to the 2016 World Conference. Questions for Discussion 1. Keeping in mind this is a worldwide church, how does this resolution address the needs of the entire church? 2. What new information have you read in this resolution? 3. If this resolution passes, how might it affect the church? 4. As you think about your baptism(s), what was the significance of the words spoken by the baptizing minister? 15

16 5. As you think about the sacraments and their relationship to community, what degree of consistency is important for you? 6. What questions do you have about this resolution? 7. What opportunities or challenges would passage of this resolution present? 8. What new insights have you gained by reading the historical-background statement for this resolution? 9. How does this resolution relate to the church s Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives? Common Consent Summary: If approved, this resolution would lift up the importance of the equal worth of all members in the process of common consent. It would suggest that further guidance be given to administrators and leaders at all levels who preside at business meetings to assure common consent occurs. The resolution would ask the First Presidency to appoint a committee to review, clarify, revise, and recommend changes that clarify the roles of presiders and participants in our legislative assemblies at all organizational levels in the church, especially the voting processes to be used and avoided when making decisions. The resolution would ask that a report on this study be made to the 2016 World Conference. Historical-background Statement Four questions have prompted this resolution. The church s official, historical statements on common consent are confusing and raise questions. Here is the dilemma: Robert s Rules of Order was adopted in WCR 1156 (1980). Article VIII of the Bylaws of the Community of Christ Parliamentary Authority (2002) states the current edition of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised should still be used as the basic process for decision making where culturally appropriate, which presumably means primarily the USA. Does this mean that Robert s Rules is to be considered the best way to achieve common consent in the USA? Is Robert s Rules of Order appropriate for World Conferences, where many other cultures are represented? The other primary official statement on common consent is in the Church Administrator s Handbook (2005) on pages 6 and 7. The Operational Principles, while affirming majority rule in paragraph 7, in paragraph 8 imply that majority rule may be simple and/or complex, and therefore may not always represent true common consent. There are no specific clarifying guidelines for presiders and delegates to follow in achieving common consent. Does using Robert s Rules of Order in our conferences help or hinder us in achieving common consent as described and required? 16

17 There is much about common consent that seemingly is not clear after first being affirmed in In the experience of some, Robert s Rules is complex, and only experts can effectively use it, which limits participation by novices. Is there perhaps a need for (1) a relatively simple definition of common consent, (2) a succinct statement of basic principles that everyone can understand, and (3) a few functional guidelines to achieve it? Proposed Resolution From the Rio Grande USA Mission Center: Whereas, Common consent must acknowledge the Enduring Principle of the equal worth of all members of the church; and Whereas, The principle of common consent is a legislative principle to guide the membership of the church in either assenting or dissenting to matters of action considered by legislative assemblies; and Whereas, The operational principles presented in our official statement on common consent may cause as much confusion as clarification; and Whereas, Administrators at all legislative levels need guidance when presiding at legislative gatherings, to enable and guarantee that common consent actually occurs; therefore, be it Resolved, That the First Presidency appoint a committee composed of church administrators and non-administrative members (congregational, mission center, and/or World Church), to review the principle of common consent, including our current official statement, but not limited thereto; to review, clarify, revise, and recommend changes that clarify the roles of presiders and participants in our legislative assemblies at all organizational levels in the church, especially the voting processes to be used and avoided when making decisions, and report to the next World Conference. Questions for Discussion 1. Keeping in mind this is a worldwide church, how does this resolution address the needs of the entire church? 2. What new information have you read in this resolution? 3. If this resolution passes, how might it affect the church, your mission center, your congregation? 4. The third whereas notes our official statement on common consent may cause confusion. What confusion has the official statement created for you? 17

18 For information on Church Bylaws as referred to in the fourth whereas see Church Administrator s Handbook, Part I Organization at /policy/. 5. What questions do you have about this resolution? 6. What is unclear in this resolution? 7. How do you understand the principle of common consent? 8. What are your thoughts on the possibility of moving from parliamentary procedure to a consent model of decision making? 9. How might this resolution help, hinder, or alter current decision making in congregations and mission centers? 10. What opportunities and challenges does this resolution present? 11. What new insights have you gained by reading the historical-background statement for this resolution? 12. How does this resolution relate to the church s Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives? Action toward Nuclear-weapons Abolition Summary: If approved, this resolution would affirm that nuclear weapons pose a grave moral threat to the Earth and the existence of life and would call on Community of Christ to join global voices seeking to halt nuclear-weapons production, supporting prudent action to minimize the threat or use of nuclear weapons, and urging renewed efforts toward eradication. In addition, this resolution empowers the Peace and Justice Committee and the Earth Stewardship Team to share resources, network, and connect those within the church and church-affiliated organizations to strengthen our witness concerning this matter. The resolution also calls for a further report to be made to the 2016 World Conference. Historical-background Statement At the 2010 World Conference, Resolution G-11 on Nuclear Weapons was referred to the World Church Peace and Justice Team. The Team was asked to discuss and bring, if considered appropriate, a resolution to the 2013 World Conference. The team met monthly by Skype and was blessed through personal and collective prayer, study, discussions, learning from one another, and being open to the Spirit. Testimony of those who attended the 2012 Peace colloquy and feedback from a World Church survey shifted the focus for the team. It changed from creating a broad, open-ended resolution to that of a shorter-term 18

19 resolution as a purposeful and meaningful next step for Community of Christ toward supporting the abolition of nuclear weapons. In what we believe to be a first in Community of Christ history, a unique opportunity arose between the Peace and Justice Team and the Earth Stewardship Team to collaborate on this resolution. Our discussions and joint resolution clearly point out that the issue of nuclear weapons is more than a discussion for the Peace and Justice Team. The storage and/or use of nuclear weapons directly threaten our planet, and we cannot avoid the fact that nuclear weapons directly affect church members, friends, the human race, and our planet. Proposed Resolution From the World Church Peace and Justice and the Earth Stewardship Teams: Whereas, Pursuit of Peace (Shalom), Sacredness of Creation, and Responsible Choices are three of the identified Enduring Principles, and Pursue Peace on Earth and Abolish Poverty, End Suffering are two of the identified Mission Initiatives of the church; and Whereas, Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b urges, Above all else, strive to be faithful to God s vision of the peaceable kingdom of God on earth. Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue Peace ; and Whereas, The potential for mass destruction of humanity and poisoning of air, water, land, and Earth s living creatures make the existence of nuclear weapons a moral as well as political concern; and Whereas, Many within the international community, including security and defense experts, politicians, diplomats, and members of the military want a decrease in nuclear weapons, yet the access of such weapons continues to spread, increasing the danger of their use by accident or design; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That Community of Christ affirms nuclear weapons pose a grave moral threat to the Earth and existence of life; and be it further 19

20 Resolved, That Community of Christ join the global voices seeking to halt nuclear weapons production, support prudent action to minimize the threat or use of nuclear weapons, and urge renewed efforts toward eradication; and be it further Resolved, That wherever practical, Community of Christ convey its support for the responsible reduction and eventual eradication of nuclear weapons, urging policy to that end by all nations; and be it further Resolved, That the Peace and Justice and Earth Stewardship teams be empowered and supported in 1. sharing resources for education and dialogue that advance awareness of toxicity to the Earth, encouraging and supporting membership action on non-proliferation and elimination of nuclear weapons; 2. encouraging justice, peace and reconciliation training, and activities that educate concerning the complexities of nuclear disarmament and international strategic deterrence issues; 3. networking across the church, including access to the church s website, periodicals, and social media; and 4. connecting and encouraging the many individuals of Community of Christ and its affiliates such as PeacePathways, as well as advocates throughout the world committed to a peaceful, safe, and secure, nuclear weapons-free world; and be it further Resolved, That progress toward these aims together with recommendations for further initiatives be reported to the 2016 World Conference. Questions for Discussion 1. Keeping in mind this is a worldwide church, how does this resolution address the needs of the entire church? 2. What new information have you read in this resolution? 3. The second resolved states support prudent action to minimize the threat or use of nuclear weapons. What does prudent action mean to you? 4. What is the impact of resolutions that address national or international political issues? 5. If this resolution passes, how might it affect the church? 6. If this resolution passes, how might it affect your congregation? 7. What questions do you have about this resolution? 20

21 8. What is unclear in this resolution? 9. What elements of this resolution do you support? What causes you concern? Why? 10. What new insights have you gained by reading the historical-background statement for this resolution? 11. How does this resolution relate to the church s Enduring Principles and Mission Initiatives? 21