LCMS structural changes emphasize congregations

Debate began Monday on resolutions required to restructure and change the governance of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. According to Floor Committee 8, responsible for shepherding through the changes, the goal of the 38 resolutions is to place more emphasis on the role and ministry of congregations. The restructuring comes at a time when the LCMS is facing what Vice-president Finance/treasurer Dr. Thomas Kuchta called a “financial crisis.”

The day began with a resolution to change the current three-year convention cycle into a four-year cycle. Since adopting the resolution would mean changing the constitution, a two-thirds majority was required. When put to the vote, the resolution did not reach the necessary majority.

Throughout the day delegates voted on a series of resolutions that result in major structural changes to the LCMS. Much of the day required attention to detail as delegates noted editorial changes, amendments and even an amendment to an amendment.

The major resolution which dissolved current elected boards and created two new boards to give direction and oversight to national and international mission was adopted by a slim majority. This resolution set the stage for all future resolutions dealing with governance and structure. The convention’s nominating committee will now present its slates of candidates based on the new structure.

Other changes adopted by the delegates will allow congregations and pastors to vote for Synod President by electronic ballot before a convention. The president will then nominate five candidates from a list of 20 to serve with him as first vice-president, a full-time position.

The new structure also creates regions within LCMS for the purpose of balanced representation on the Board of Directors. Currently, LCMS English and SELC districts have congregations in Canada. By amendment, all Canadian congregations of the LCMS will be placed in a single adjacent US region.

The debate on structure and governance resolutions continues Tuesday morning. Other floor committees will introduce resolutions on other matters later in the day.

All convention information is at http://www.lcms.org/convention

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