MINUTES of the 2010 SYNOD ASSEMBLY

Transcription

1 "Year of the Young Adult" MINUTES of the 2010 SYNOD ASSEMBLY The METROPOLITAN WASHINGTON, D.C. SYNOD of the EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA SPRING SESSION May 7-8, 2010 National Conference Center Leesburg, Virginia FALL SESSION September 25, 2010 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Gaithersburg, Maryland -1-

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Part 1: Minutes of the Spring Session of the 2010 Synod Assembly Introductory Activity Plenary Session 1 Reading of Excused Absences Report of the Registrar Report of the Nominating Committee First Reading of the Mission Spending Plan for 2011 Introduction to Synod Compensation Guidelines Report of the Treasurer Introduction of the Synod Staff Introduction of Ecumenical Guests Report of Assistant to the Bishop Introduction of Ecumenical Guests Plenary Session 2 Report of the Committee on Reference and Counsel Greetings Energy Stewardship Memorial to Report on the Status of the Implementing Resolutions of the Social Statement "Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust" Memorial to Encourage the Full Implementation of Actions on Ministry Policies Report of the Committee on Elections Presentation by the ELCA Representative to the Synod Assembly Workshops Festive Eucharist Plenary Session 3 Report of the Vice President of the Synod Report of the Committee on Elections Presentation by Keynote Speaker Plenary Session 4 Belmont Ridge Church of the Resurrection - A New Mission Report of the Director of Evangelical Mission Presentation by Keynote Speaker Report of the Committee on Elections Lunch and Workshops Plenary Session 5 Oromo Evangelical Lutheran Choir Report of the Committee on Elections Report of the Committee on Reference and Counsel Kairos Palestine Document Expression of Thanks and Gratitude Introduction of the Roanoke College Director for Church Relations Plenary Session 6 Finance Committee Report -2-

3 ELCA Representative to the Assembly Proposed Synod Budget for 2011 Report of the Committee on Elections Order for the Closing of a Synod Assembly Part 2: Fall Session Introductory Activity Plenary Session 1 Report of the Bishop Introduction of the 2011 Mission Spending Plan Introduction of Guest from Partner Synod The Middle East Working Group Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area Presentation Report of the Committee on Elections Report on Young Adult Working Group Presentation by Keynote Speaker - Part I Lunch and Workshops Plenary Session 2 Report of the Registrar Mission Spending Plan Direct Support to the ELCA Presentation by Keynote Speaker Results of First Ballot Milestones in Ministry Order for the Closing of an Assembly -3-

4 The following are the minutes of the Spring Session of the 2010 Synod Assembly of the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The 2010 Synod Assembly met in its Spring Session on 7 and 8 May at the National Conference Center in Leesburg, Virginia. The minutes herein transcribed were prepared by the Secretary of the Synod, reviewed by the Synod Council, and recommended for approval by the 2011 Synod Assembly in its Spring Session. The Rev. Dr. Marguerite M. Rourk Secretary of the Synod -4-

5 Introductory Activity 10:13 a.m. - Executive Committee of the Synod Council 11:00 a.m. - Synod Council 11:00 a.m. - Registration 12 NOON - 12:45 p.m. - Orientation for new Voting Members - Room #1 1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. - Opening Worship and the Rite for Opening of an Assembly Ballroom Reading of Excused Absences The Reverends Louis Almen Michael Kuchinsky Myron Barbour Kimberli Lile Ronald Christian Nancy Lund Roger Dahlin Daniel Martensen Christopher Duckworth Kari Parsons Craig Endicott William Perry +Roy Enquist Lee Ann Schray Gregory Gaertner Tiffany Towberman Sherman Hicks James Vigen Wollom Jensen Harry Yeide MOTION SA to approve these absences was adopted. PLENARY SESSION 1 Friday, May 7 1:30 P.M. - 3:30 P.M. Report of the Registrar Present: Voting Members 168 Rostered 116 Visitors 29 Total: 313 MOTION SA to adopt the Rules of Procedure was adopted. -5-

6 MOTION SA to approve the Registrar s report was adopted. MOTION SA to approve the seating of Voting Members was adopted. MOTION SA to approve the 2009 Synod Assembly minutes was adopted. Pr. Gary Rhinesmith, Chair Report of the Nominating Committee Nominations for representatives to the August 14-20, 2011, Churchwide Assembly: To be elected: 2 clergy, 5 lay, 4 females and 3 males; one person under 30 years of age and one person whose first language is other than English. + It was stipulated that persons nominated from the Assembly floor must confirm that they would accept the nomination. With no such nominations, the Bishop declared the nominations closed. Nominations for Synod Council -11 persons to be elected: D.C. Conference Clergy - Pr. Michael Wilker Lay - Jim Brookshire and Ralph Niepur MD Conference Clergy - Pr. Tom O Brien Montgomery Conf Lay - Ruth Manchester Potomac Conf Lay - Wendell Anderson Virginia Conf Clergy - Pr. Dax Jordan At-Large Lay - Tom Kern and Robert Schilpp Rostered lay - Deacon Kati Miller-Holland Youth Rep. Rachel Carle WELCA Rep. Bonnie Priebe With no nominations from the floor, the Bishop declared the nominations closed. First Reading of the Mission Spending Plan for 2011 Mr. Rick Ahlberg, chair of the Finance Committee and Synod Parliamentarian -6-

7 The Mission Spending Plan (MSP) draft is in the packet of materials. In previous years the Metro D.C. Synod has sent 55% of our receipts to the ELCA. The current economic downturn has necessitated changes and reductions in our synod budgeting plan. The Finance Committee felt it inappropriate to bring a budget to the Synod Assembly that would have to be reduced, so this proposed budget shows a most conservative input, estimating an income of $2 million from congregations (6.8% increase over 2009). The Committee believes this to be a realistic projection. Key areas where funding models have changed are funds provided by the ELCA, examples being reduced funding for new mission starts, and synods paying a larger proportion for seminaries and for campus ministries. Our synod feels these are priority funding items for us, and that it would be much more difficult to sustain the 55% sent to the ELCA. Therefore, working with all three expressions of the church, the Synod Council wanted a draft budget presented to this Synod Assembly that all could take back to their congregations for discussion and we also will have conversations with congregations, synods and churchwide before we vote in September. It is hope that we can raise 44% to churchwide. This would only apply to the first $2 million, and all additional would be shared with the ELCA at 55%. We are emphasizing seminary support by increasing our funding to Gettysburg Seminary so that they might recover from our reduction in funds we were able to send during 2010 and to help them make up for lower contributions from churchwide. Increased funding for new mission starts is also in this draft budget. Other increases include 17% for outdoor ministries at Caroline Furnace and Mar-Lu Ridge, a 3% increase for our synod staff in place of no increase in the 2010 budget, and $15,000 (the approximate cost of the last move) is budgeted for moving expenses when the synod office relocates after the termination of the current lease in November Congregational benevolence in 2008 was $1.359 million. If all 75 congregations in this synod had given just 10% more, benevolence would have been $2.507 million. Mr. Ahlberg noted that 14 congregations in this synod (19% of congregations) give10% or more. The synod medium was 5.9% giving (see report). Vice-president Dr. John White Introduction to Synod Compensation Guidelines The Synod Council has moved these Guidelines, but the vote will be delayed until tomorrow to give time for consideration and discussion by voting members. Mr. John Handley Report of the Treasurer Mr. Handley thanked the synod staff, Mr. Ahlberg who is outgoing chair of the Finance Committee after more than eight years of service, and he thanked all the congregational -7-

8 treasurers for what they do and what is often an unseen and unacknowledged task. He noted that looking at the numbers is another way of looking at our synod and how it carries out its many ministries. Receipts this year have been just under $1.9 million, and while this illustrates the current economic difficulties, it is still an excellent performance. We went onto a spending plan to most faithfully spend what we receive and made every effort not to overspend. We spent only $2,000 more than we received in unrestricted giving, and this amount was not hard to cover. We sent $1.25 million to the ELCA and we sent $90,000 in support to Gettysburg Seminary, also passing on $8,000 in designated gifts to the seminary. We sent $93,000 to Lutheran Campus Ministries, and $12,000 passed through the synod to them as designated gifts from congregations. We also started the Belmont Ridge mission, the Church of the Resurrection. Mr. Handley stated that in his capacity as Treasurer, he sees first hand the generosity of our congregations. $96,000 was donated by our congregations to disaster relief to earthquake victims, El Salvador, floods and Lutheran Social Services. We sent $74,000 to World Hunger, and $31,00 was sent from congregations for global missions activities and missionaries. It must be remembered that we do not see many gifts that are sent by persons and congregations in our synod directly to the ELCA. When we were looking toward 2010, our original budget was about $2.1 million based on intentions of congregations. We felt comfortable supporting a Mission Spending Plan of $1.9 million. If by October more contributions come in and we see that receipts will be more than $1.9 million, we will allocate more funds and release more monies toward the planned budget that the Synod Assembly approved last year. Currently receipts are supporting our $1.9 million goal, and we have received more than last year, which is a fine statistic and a very great blessing. Introduction of the Synod Staff Bishop Graham introduced Assistants to the Bishop Pr. Amy Thompson Sevimli and Pr. Phil Hirsch, Synod Administrator Harold Sargeant, Administrative Assistant and Synod Assembly Coordinator Amy Acland, and Communications Coordinator Karen Krueger. Introduction of Ecumenical Guests Jonathan Barton brought greetings from President Tom Joyce with the United Methodist Annual Conference. Pr. David Maack, representative of the Southeastern District of the Lutheran Church- Missouri Synod brought greetings from President Jon T. Diefenthaler. He referred to our synod and his district having worked together on many ministries to support and -8-

9 proclaim the gospel: Lutheran World Relief, Lutheran Disaster Relief; Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services, and other pan-lutheran organizations and other ecumenical efforts. Much work needed to clothe, feed and shelter, and to meet desperate needs. Bishop Graham attended the Washington, D.C., Diocesan Convention (Episcopal) at Washington National Cathedral, encouraging them that, like the Lutherans, they could indeed learn to use the electronic voting devices that they were trying for the first time. The Bishop introduced Jean Knight for a tutorial on using the voting devices. The Rev. Amy Thompson Sevimli Report of Assistant to the Bishop Pr. Sevimli shared interesting demographic information (see report) in the Division for Congregational Life report. In our synod this is the Year of the Young Adult and we will focus on their ministries. She spoke of our goals for and with young adult ministries, especially as we seek models that are effective outreach within this group. She spoke of the challenge that she gave to the Synod Assembly last year for each person to try to talk with one young adult each month; especially ones who do not go to church. Give Amy our address. What is our reaction to these young adults? Will we be defensive? Will we respond negatively or with anger or resentment? How will we show them Christ s body? How can we witness to the resurrection with them. We cannot in the usual old ways. More and more we must go outside walls and into coffee shops, bars, schools, libraries, on the streets, etc. As Lutherans this doesn t come easily or naturally for us, but many Lutherans do want to do new things to counterculture the young adults attitude of been there, done that. She spoke of how the Synod wants to help us do that - Young Adult Working Group (YAWG). They have worked to find new ways and to provide resources to all of us. All are well versed in young adult ministries. List of pastors working on this: Kate Murray, Karen Brauer, Meredith Keseley, Phil Hirsch, - INSERT FULL LIST They are moving in faith based discussions about Luther or faith or spirituality matters. Often these young adults yield fruits. A little of 8% of our voting members in this Synod Assembly are young adults. ELCA goal is 10% and we are getting closer. She introduced and other resources. Some are visiting congregations incognito and writing up their reactions about where they visited. They want to help our congregations connect with young adults and see what we can do in our communities. This is a generation hungry for good news and encouragement and -9-

10 the good news of Jesus that he gave us. But we cannot expect them to come to us - we must go to them with our congregations, our faith and the Word. The Rev. Andrew Gentzler, Director of Lutheran Advocacy Office in the District was introduced. That office shares our message and values and faith in the political arena. Asks for help with establishing a national Lutheran advocacy network that will speak for our principles and our disaster relief and advocacy work, to continue our commitment to dialogue and sharing our Lutheran firm foundations in the Word and to be a good neighbor in the world. Introduction of Ecumenical Guests The Rt. Rev. John Bryson Chane, Episcopal Bishop of Washington, was introduced. He noted that there are 93 congregations and 22 schools in that diocese. We share many ministries, especially in Middle East where our bishops work together. We also have a joint campus ministry at Howard University, and an Episcopal priest serves one of our congregations. Bishop Graham recognized the tenth anniversary of Called to Common Mission, and told of an anniversary celebration at St. Paul Lutheran Church on Connecticut Avenue in January Bishop David Jones, Suffragan Bishop of the Virginia Diocese (Episcopal), spoke of our many shared priorities, especially in efforts with young adult ministries. Text available among reports. Report of the Bishop MOTION SA to receive the Bishop s Report carried. PLENARY SESSION 2 Friday, May 7 4:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. The Rev. Darcy Tillman, Chair Report of the Committee on Reference and Counsel Reference and Counsel moved all resolutions, and votes will be to adopt or deny. -10-

11 In describing the resolutions Pr. Tillman referred the Assembly to the website, with one resolution being revised, and asked that all amendments and/or changes to resolutions to be given to Reference and Counsel and to the Secretary. INSERT GREETINGS Resolution asking the Secretary to extend the greetings of the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod to those synods meeting in Assembly at this same time (New Jersey, Pacifica, Southeastern Minnesota, Southeastern Pennsylvania, and Sierra Pacifica) was adopted Resolution concerning Energy Stewardship. INSERT ENERGY STEWARDSHIP It was requested that changes be made with reference to current information available instead of gathering new data on carbon footprints, and also to direct the various entities concerned to establish care teams that would be responsible for implementing this resolution. Clarification was requested for how congregations are to institute such a study of its footprint, and that written guidelines are needed for congregations. The Creation Care Team exists to help congregations do these things. Many other synods are engaged in these same activities this year. This ministry will also encourage young adults to join in this effort. It was noted that there are ELCA resources available to assist congregations in making an energy audit or otherwise assess the efforts at good energy stewardship. Resolution Memorial to Encourage the Full Implementation of Actions on Ministry Policies as the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod Assembly encourages the synod bishop, synod council and committees, congregations and ministries to implement fully and as soon as reasonably possible structured flexibility in candidacy and call processes, and to integrate fully qualified candidates and pastors who are in publicly accountable, lifelong, monogamous, same gender relationships into the life of this church for the sake of its mission and ministry, and, furthermore, that the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod Assembly memorialize the 2011 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to encourage the full implementation, as soon as reasonably possible, of the actions of the 2009 Churchwide Assembly with respect to its rostered ministry policies as set forth in the Social Statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust. -11-

12 INSERT MEMORIAL TO REPORT ON THE STATUS OF THE IMPLEMENTING RESOLUTIONS OF THE SOCIAL STATEMENT 'HUMAN SEXUALITY: GIFT AND TRUST' It was reported that Churchwide has already adopted changes to the guidelines for ministry to include the changes in the status of rostered persons in same gender relationships. The resolution was adopted Resolution Memorial to Report on the Status of the Implementing Resolutions of the Social Statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust directing the Metropolitan Washington DC Synod to memorialize the 2011 Churchwide Assembly to have the Office of the Presiding Bishop bring a report to the 2013 Churchwide Assembly on the status of the implementing resolutions of the social statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust. INSERT MEMORIAL TO ENCOURAGE THE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS ON MINISTRY POLICIES It was asked if certain Whereas clauses might be deleted, but the Bishop stated that it is not the Whereas clauses that are presented for a vote, nor are they a part of the final or recorded resolutions. Comments were received as information. The resolution was adopted The Rev. Bill Nienstadt, Chair Report of the Committee on Elections Presentation by the ELCA Representative to the Synod Assembly Kristen Glass - Director of Young Adult Ministries for the ELCA Everyday Evangelism A video showed the connection between local, synod, churchwide and global ministries. The ELCA raised $8 million for Haiti for food, clothes, medical supplies and personnel, shelter, hygiene and health supplies, care for those with disabilities, and trauma therapy, and the ELCA has pledged that this support will continue as long as it is -12-

13 needed. She shared stories of young adults throughout our country who are involved in various ministries through colleges, universities, Lutheran Campus Ministries, congregations, synods and churchwide organizations - all equipping young adults for their calling and vocations. Ministry with young adults means helping them understand how they are called in home, work community and church. As Luther said, we are simultaneously called in those realms all the time. Workshops Break for Dinner and Workshops - 6:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. 1) Introduction to Nominees - Conference Deans and Bishop Graham, Moderator 2) Mission Spending Plan - John Handley and Richard Ahlberg 3) Social Statement on Genetics Overview - the Rev. Dr. Carmelo Santos 4) Introduction of the Synod Creation Care Team - the Rev. Sarah Scherschligt 5) Middle East Working Group: The Cry of Kairos Palestine - the Rev. Russell Siler 6) ELCA Representative - Ms. Kristen Glass Festival Eucharist 7:30 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. - National Conference Center Auditorium The offering from the Festival Eucharist is to be divided among the ministries active in Haiti - Lutheran Disaster Relief. All Assembly attendees were invited to add to this offering and the Treasurer would include those funds in the total offering. PLENARY SESSION 3 Saturday, May 8 9:30 A.M. - 11:00 A.M. Dr. John White Report of the Vice President of the Synod Report included in packet. Dr. White noted that so far his experiences have been a great blessing. He then introduced the Compensation Recommendations for Rostered Leaders, and moved the adoption of these Recommendations. MOTION SA to adopt the guidelines including a 3% increase in unadjusted minimum salary and housing allowances and the addition of parental and caregiver leave guidelines was carried

14 The Rev. Bill Nienstadt, Chair Report of the Committee on Elections Election to Synod Council: D.C. Conference clergy - elect one - Pr. Michael Wilker Fairfax Conference lay - elect one - Jim Brookshire and Ralph Nieper Maryland Conference clergy - elect one - Pr. Tom O Brien Montgomery Conference lay - elect one - Ruth Manchester Potomac Conference lay - elect one - Wendell Anderson Virginia Conference clergy - elect one - Pr. Dax Jordan At-large lay - elect one - Tom Kern and Robert Schilpp At-large lay rostered - elect one - Deacon Kati Miller-Holland Youth representative - elect one - Rachel Carle Women of the ELCA representative - elect one - Bonnie Priebe Elect voting members of the Churchwide Assembly: Female clergy - elect one - Pr. Kim Conway, Pr. Wendy Deeben, Pr. Terry Hannon Male clergy - elect one - Pr. Mark Edwards, Pr. Jeff Wilson, Pr. James Vigen Person of color or with primary language other than English - elect one - Joseph Walker Person under 30 years of age, lay - elect one - Heidi Eichstadt and Amanda Wahlig The Rev. Karen Ward - Part I Break - 11:00 A.M. - 11:10 A.M. Presentation by Keynote Speaker PLENARY SESSION 4 Saturday, May 8 11:10 A.M. - 12:00 NOON Pr. Dax Jordan Belmont Ridge Church of the Resurrection - A New Mission The mission began with five families. Decided on this name on the first Sunday in Advent in their first year. By God s grace the congregation has grown by a few families -14-

15 each month, a little at a time. Synod staff, partner clergy and many lay have helped. Their people are absolutely committed, and Pr. Jordan declared his trust in the congregations of the synod to help the Church of the Resurrection be successful. They are excited about the gospel and doing what God has called them to do. Report of the Director of Evangelical Mission The Rev. Phil Hirsch (see section ) Pr. Hirsch has been in this new position for eleven months. It was originally funded by the ELCA, and he is also Assistant to the Bishop and serves the synod in this way as well. He ha visited 55 of 76 congregations, and has preached at 25 of them. He stated that what he had learned from being in community and with all of us is that many congregations are struggling: 44% are declining, 23% are stable, and 14% are growing. But many things are changing and such change can be very frightening. He trusts that all will be well because we have hope, but also because we have Jesus Christ. The 14% that are growing are trying new things. He reminded us that Luther could started his movement because of Guttenberg! We must be like Peter and risk stepping out of the boat, knowing that God is already there to help us. First Trinity has tried new things and has 50 new members in three years. Lord of Life, Fairfax, has risked for the gospel by taking over a failing mission congregation and now they have added a new service to accommodate all the people. San Marcos, part of St. Mark, Springfield, might have in Sunday worship. We can learn from each other as we figure things out together. The Synod Council has established itself as the primary mission table of the synod. Therefore, we will focus on where the gospel is preached and the sacraments feed God s people. New and Renewing Ministries is one Table, with Pr. Joe Vought as leader. The next new mission start is La Plata in Maryland. We have a new start in La Sagrada Familia in Langley Park, and the Oromo Christian Fellowship in Kensington Park. Any organism that doesn t replicate itself is in trouble, but that is what we are doing. New advisory groups are focusing on young adults and their culture and learning that culture and how we can connect them with the gospel. Next year s theme will be To See Ourselves As Others Do. We need to learn what is not so welcoming about us. Together in Mission will be on January 22, and we will begin to cross-pollinate our good ideas about seeing ourselves as others see us and how we can be more welcoming. Stewardship and Mission Support Table is examining how to fund mission and ministry in our synod. Do we reduce our ELCA benevolence? How do we shift expenses and funding methods and sources? We need conversation about this to listen effectively to every congregation and help with them with stewardship. When we cannot figure things out or problems become too big, we have God upon whom we can constantly rely! Alban Institute resources are helpful and insightful: How do we renew a congregation? 1) We must listen to each other, remind ourselves of who we are, and we must be authentic to be effective. We cannot be who we are not. And what are we about? -15-

16 2) We must love, and speak of and in love. Christ s love is unconditional, sacrificial and redemptive. We must follow in Christ s way to understand that kind of love. 3) Community - we need to listen with new ears to our families, to others, and to our children. We must listen to the world around us and God will do the rest. Pr. Hirsch declared that he prays for us and encourages us to pray for each other. The Rev. Karen Ward - Part II Presentation by Keynote Speaker The Rev. Bill Nienstadt, Chair Results of Elections: Churchwide Assembly voting members Report of the Committee on Elections Female clergy - elect 1 Total votes cast 199; votes needed for election 100 Pr. Kim Conway 90; Pr. Wendy Deeben 49; Pr. Terry Hannon 60 Runoff - Pr. Kim Conway and Pr. Terrie Hannon Male clergy - elect 1 Total votes cast 205; votes needed for election 103 Pr. Mark Edwards 74; Pr. Jeff Wilson 69; Pr. James Vigen 62 Runoff - Pr. Mark Edwards and Pr. Jeff Wilson Person under 30 years of age Total votes cast 181; votes needed for election 91 Heidi Eichstadt 87; Amanda Wahlig 94 Amanda Wahlig declared elected Person of Color or of First Language other than English Total votes cast 222; votes needed for election 112 Joseph Walker declared elected Lunch and Workshops The Rev. Dr. Robert Driver-Bishop gave instructions for lunch and workshops Break for lunch and workshops - 12:00 NOON - 1:30 P.M. -16-

17 PLENARY SESSION 5 Saturday, May 8 1:30 P.M. - 12:00 NOON - 3:15 P.M. Oromo Evangelical Lutheran Choir After the choir of the Oromo Evangelical Lutheran Church of Washington sang, the assembly was reminded that this congregation was received into our synod last fall (2009) at the Reformation Festival Service at Washington National Cathedral. Pr. Paul Wee spoke on behalf of the Oromo congregation, inviting all to worship with them. He noted the growth of Christianity in Asia, Africa and Latin/South America and how might we relate to the way they live out the theology of the Cross. The synod is grateful to the power of the Holy Spirit and what has been accomplished by this faith family. The Rev. Bill Nienstadt, Chair Report of the Committee on Elections 2011 ELCA Churchwide Assembly female clergy voting members run-off election: Total votes cast 226; votes needed for election 114 Pr. Kim Conway 135; Pr. Terry Hannon 91 Pr. Kim Conway declared elected ELCA Churchwide Assembly male clergy voting members run-off election: Total votes cast 209; votes needed for election 105 Pr. Mark Edwards 96; Pr. Jeff Wilson 113. Pr. Jeff Wilson declared elected ELCA Churchwide Assembly female lay voting members. Vote for 2: Heidi Eichstadt, Shirley Gibbs, Judith Manugbat, and Dolores O Brien. The Rev. Darcy Tillman, Chair Report of the Committee on Reference and Counsel The committee moved a substitution in Resolution , Section R. The first vote is on the substitute motion numbered S. Substitute motion would retain only the first Resolved, deleting the following three Resolved clauses, thus reading -17-

18 Resolved, that the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod call upon and urge all of its congregations, laity and clergy to (1) Read and discuss the Kairos Palestine document, (2) Seek ways to achieve a deeper understanding of the Israeli Palestine conflict, and (3) Seek ways in which they can act to help end the occupation, bring about justice for all, and foster reconciliation among all the people of the Holy Land. Pr. Tillman noted that the substitution is being moved because the Middle East Working Group feels that more education of all congregations and people is needed before a final resolution can be presented for voting. MOTION SA to accept the substitute motion was carried A motion to amend the substitute motion by substituting conflict rather than occupation in line 47 of the amended motion failed INSERT KAIROS PALESTINE DOCUMENT MOTION SA to pass the substitute motion for Resolution S as offered was adopted INSERT EXPRESSION OF THANKS AND GRATITUDE MOTION SA to accept the Resolution expressing gratitude to all persons who have participated in planning and carrying out the work of this Assembly was moved by Reference and Counsel, and adopted Introduction of the Roanoke College Director for Church Relations Kathryn Buchanan was honored for 23 years of service to the college. Bringing greetings (see report in section 5), she expressed the College s and her personal appreciation for the opportunity to speak to us and how she values greatly being accepted by this synod for greetings and support. Roanoke College has operated in the black for 55 years, and, at 168 years old, it is the second oldest Lutheran College (after Gettysburg) in the U.S. Break - 3:15 P.M. - 3:30 P.M. -18-

19 PLENARY SESSION 6 Saturday, May 8 3:30 P.M. - 12:00 NOON - 5:00 P.M. Finance Committee Report Prs. Doug Jones and Jan Lookingbill were recognized and thanked for their many years of service on the synod Finance Committee. Mr. Ahlberg reported on the previous day s workshop session on considering the draft 2011 Synod Mission Spending Plan and the ensuing lively discussion. Ms. Kristen Glass ELCA Representative to the Assembly She reminded the assembly that 80% of the work of the ELCA is supported by synodical benevolence. (The list of all those ministries can be downloaded from the ELCA website.) She reported two reductions: $65.3 million in 2008 and $57,9 million in 2009, and further losses are projected, amounting to more than a 15% loss in two years, with expectations that this trend will continue. Proposed Synod Budget for 2011 The Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod has proposed a $165,000 decrease in benevolence to Churchwide for 2011 (44% rather than 55%). Some are concerned that this reduction would overshadow and inadequately express our gratitude for what the Holy Spirit moved us to do at the 2009 Churchwide Assembly. Is there perhaps a better alternative? The Finance Committee was thanked for its work and excellent presentation of the draft budget, even as discussion and consultation continue. The current proposed Mission Spending Plan benevolence to Churchwide at 44% would amount to about $220,000 reduction. Synod congregations would need to increase their benevolence from a total of $2 million to $2.5 million. A non-binding poll concerning the 2011 budget at this assembly session (the vote will be at the September Assembly session) offered the following budget options: Option A: to accept the budget as proposed Option B to fund Churchwide at 55% and reduce synod program funding as necessary Option C: to split the difference Option D: to do none of the above. Poll results: A - 93; B - 28; C - 54; D

20 MOTION SA to postpone action on the Mission Spending Plan until the September assembly session carried The Rev. Bill Nienstadt, Chair Report of the Committee on Elections Election of voting members to 2011 Churchwide Assembly: 2 female lay to be elected. Total votes cast 192 (two candidates with the most votes are elected) Heidi Eichstadt 139; Shirley Gibbs 62; Judith Manugbat 81; Dolores O Brien 73. Heidi Eichstadt and Judith Manugbat declared elected. Adjournment at 3:20 P.M. Order for the Closing of a Synod Assembly -20-

21 The following are the minutes of the Fall Session of the 2010 Synod Assembly of the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The Synod Assembly met in its Fall Session on 25 September 2010 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The minutes herein transcribed were prepared by the Secretary of the Synod, reviewed by the Synod Council, and recommended for approval by the 2011 Synod Assembly in its Spring Session. The Rev. Dr. Marguerite M. Rourk Secretary of the Synod -21-

22 Introductory Activity 8:30 A.M. - 9:30 A.M. - Registration and refreshments 9:30 A.M. - Opening Worship PLENARY SESSION 1 Saturday, September 25 10:15 A.M. - 11:00 A.M. 10:00 A.M. - Order for the Opening of a Synod Assembly Report of the Registrar and Seating of Voting Members Present: Voting Members 128 Rostered 91 Visitors 32 Total: 251 MOTION SA to approve the Report of the Registrar, excused absences and seating of voting members was adopted. MOTION SA to accept and approve the Agenda of the Assembly and the Rules of Procedure was adopted. Report of the Bishop Bishop Graham gave his report which included the introduction of new rostered leaders in the synod and seminary interns serving congregations in this synod. Introduction of the 2011 Mission Spending Plan The 2011 Mission Spending Plan was introduced and moved. Throughout the summer a preliminary study, the work of the Finance Committee, a review of the draft presented at the spring session of the assembly were discussed. The Bishop noted that what is presented today is a compromise. It had been proposed that the synod send 44% of synod income to the ELCA (a reduction from 55%), but this compromise proposes 50% pursuant to a study of synod and shared ELCA ministries. All ministry concerns and -22-

23 challenges were considered, especially new mission starts, increased support for Gettysburg Seminary, etc. It is hoped that the proposed plan will be acceptable, as it has been carefully and prayerfully discerned and presented. The Bishop stated that when people ask How much do we have to send the ELCA?, he responds that we are the ELCA, and none of the money belongs to us: it all belongs to the whole church as the body of Christ on earth, and this money reaches out to touch millions of lives. The Bishop then asked for amendments to be presented now so that they can be examined and discussed before the vote. Introduction of Guest from Partner Synod Bishop Graham introduced Pr. Sylvia Haeta of Namibia near the Angola border. She was elected by her church to visit with us as sister/partner synod and to listen and learn. She brought greetings from Namibian bishops, especially of the Western Diocese, quoting Romans 12:15, St. Paul s words encouraging us to keep the unity that we all have in Jesus Christ. The Middle East Working Group The assembly was encouraged to remember that concern and compassion connect us with all who are in distress. The Middle East Working Group (MEWG) chair Nathan Rich asked the assembly to read and study the MEWG documents and other materials included in our synod packets. We must listen to and hear the concerns of our sisters and brothers around the world and respond after prayer and study. Katie Baugh went with the Working Group and will be available for questions. Pr. Paul Wee, interim pastor at the Oromo Evangelical Lutheran Church of Washington, D.C. noted that the Kairos document reflects despair and imprisonment in Gaza and the Negev. He said that the Spirit is moving among to bring a spirit of concern, relief and unity. A letter is available for voting members to sign to show respect, support and solidarity. Bishop Graham noted that the Bishop of the Lutheran Church in the Middle Ease is the new head of the Lutheran World Federation, and Bishop Graham wants to invite him to speak to our assembly. Bishop Graham emphasized that we need to grow and change, but this is hard to do. Therefore, we must play well in transition, find ways to trust God more deeply, let our Lord Jesus lead us through what is happening, and enjoy what we are doing. That great cloud of witnesses in the letter to the Hebrews includes us, and it is an occasion of grace to be in these transitional moments together. -23-

24 Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area Presentation 11:00 A.M. - 11:05 A.M. - Presentation by Melissa Graves, Executive Director of Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area She observed that some of what we heard from Pr. Hirsch could be disheartening, i.e. people not seeking traditional church, decreasing attendance, disillusionment with the church, etc. But, she noted, he also delivered a message of hope, a chance to look at things in a new way, especially in service and grace. God s love is so freely given, and so our love should be freely shared through service to God and neighbor. She sees dramatic examples of grace every day as she and her staff and co-workers assist refugees, victims of abuse and neglect, persons with HIV/AIDS, adoption services, and more. LSS is the largest human services network in the US. Yet, she says, that what we don t do particularly well is to share our mission, sharing the good news of God in Jesus Christ, through who we are and what we do as God s servant people. She encouraged us to come out and see examples of service and grace in action via the compassion Walks offered by LSS which can show us how we can participate in service and grace. Report of the Committee on Elections 11:05 A.M. - 11:15 A.M. - Pr. Bill Nienstadt, chair Introductions of nominees to Synod Council and Committees prior to elections in the afternoon session: Consultation Committee - elect 3 clergy and 3 lay: Clergy - Pr. Paul Opsahl and Pr. Carmelo Santos Lay - Sheila Bell, Pamela Olsen and Wayne Ralston Representatives to Synod Council - elect 1 clergy male and 1 lay female: Clergy - Pr. John Bradford Lay - Margretta Williams. The Bishop asked for nominations from the floor for the Consultation Committee clergy or lay, and subsequent to no further nominations, MOTION SA to close the nominations was adopted. The Bishop then asked for floor nominations for Synod Council, and subsequent to no further nominations, -24-

25 MOTION SA to close the nominations was adopted. Report on Young Adult Working Group Prior to introducing the keynote speaker for this assembly, Assistant to the Bishop Pr. Amy Thompson Sevimli reported that our synod s Young Adult Working Group is engaged in exciting plans and events, creating young adult ministries in groups of varying sizes. Several congregations have committed to emphasizing and supporting this ministry. She announced the Young Adult Conference on November 6 at Faith, Arlington, for congregations looking for ways to reach out and connect to young adults. The speaker for the November event is one who took a downtown St. Louis congregation which had closed, reopened it with ELCA support, focusing on ministry to and among young adults. The congregation now has two sites and several services each week. Presentation by Keynote Speaker Part 1-11:15 A.M. - 12:00 NOON - The Rev. Dr. Rodger Y. Nishioka - Professor of Practical Theology, Columbia Theological Seminary - Decatur, Georgia Lunch and Workshops Break for Lunch and Workshops - 12:00 NOON - 2:15 P.M. Report of the Registrar Present: Voting Members 110 Rostered 77 Visitors 26 Total: 213 PLENARY SESSION 2 Saturday, September 25 2:15 P.M. - 4:30 P.M. 2:20 P.M. - 2:30 P.M. - The Rev. Dr. Michael Cooper-White, President, Gettysburg Seminary 2:30 P.M. - 3:00 P.M. - Mission Spending Plan and First Ballot -25-

26 3:45 P.M. - 4:00 P.M. - Report of the Committee on Elections - Pr. Bill Nienstadt, chair Consultation Committee - elect 3 clergy and 3 lay: Clergy - Pr. Paul Opsahl and Pr. Carmelo Santos Lay - Sheila Bell, Pamela Olsen and Wayne Ralston Synod Council - elect one clergy male and one lay female: Clergy - Pr. John Bradford Lay - Margretta Williams The Bishop asked for a vote by acclamation. MOTION SA for a vote by acclamation carried unanimously and all nominees were declared elected. Mission Spending Plan Richard Ahlberg asked for comments and discussion of the Mission Spending Plan. The synod was thanked for their gifts to Fellowship Square Foundation that have sustained that ministry and their chaplaincy program. Mr. Ahlberg was asked to explain how we hold the ELCA to its responsibilities for its part of support for new missions. Heretofore the plan had been for the ELCA to contribute 1/3 and the synod contribute 2/3, but now the synod is responsible for the entire amount. Mission developers who were employed by the ELCA are now synod employees. MOTION SA to approve and accept the Mission Spending Plan projecting $2,005,000 - $2 million to be received from congregational benevolence and sending 50% to the ELCA was adopted. Direct Support to the ELCA Augustana, D.C., has already offered $2,500 for the synod to use for direct support to the ELCA from the synod. Another parish has also made a similar offer of support. Presentation by Keynote Speaker Part II 3:00 P.M. - 3:45 P.M. The Rev. Dr. Rodger Y. Nishioka. -26-

27 Results of First Ballot 3:45 P.M. - 4:30 P.M. - Results of the first ballot (not needed as vote was by acclamation) Milestones in Ministry 4:00 P.M. - 4:30 P.M. - Anniversaries of Rostered Leaders and Anniversaries of Congregations and Ministries 4:30 P.M. - 4:45 P.M. - Break Order for the Closing of an Assembly 4:45 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. - Worship Celebration and the Order for the Closing of an Assembly -27-