August 22, 2016 in ELCA
Key Actions Of Churchwide Assembly
Gathering under the theme “Freed and Renewed in Christ,” nearly 1,000 voting members — including 18 from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod — met in New Orleans Aug. 8-13 for the 2016 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. Full days included worship, legislative action, reports from Bishop Eaton and Churchwide officers and units, updates on ministries, workshops, Bible study, fellowship and more.
Download an insert to share: 2016 Churchwide Assembly Actions
The Assembly:
- Overwhelmingly affirmed the “Declaration on the Way,” a document noting 32 principles of agreement between Roman Catholics and Lutherans. The document is commended as a study resource as Catholics and Lutherans strive toward sharing Communion and ministry.
- Approved a unified Ministry of Word and Service roster effective January 1.
- Adopted strategies toward greater diversity within the ELCA (whose minority members represent only 6 percent of its membership) through intentional outreach and raising awareness of both overt and subtle racism in the U.S.
- Adopted the AMMPARO (Accompanying Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities) strategy for addressing the complex issue of minors fleeing violence in Central America.
- Elected William B. “Bill” Horne II of Clearwater, Fla., vice president of the ELCA.
- Adopted annual budgets for the next three years of approximately $64 million annually for ELCA ministries and $25 million for World Hunger.
- Affirmed efforts to support veterans and their families, military chaplains and all affected by war.
- Adopted strategies for positive investment aimed at supporting peace in Israel and Palestine and reduced energy usage and reliance on fossil fuels.
Four members of our Synod were elected to Churchwide posts: Joyce D. Adams of Faith-Immanuel, East Lansdowne, Nominating Committee; The Rev. Fritz Fowler of University Lutheran, Philadelphia, Committee on Appeals; Frank A. Roth of St. Paul’s, Ardmore, Board of Pensions; and Thomas Salber of Prince of Peace, Philadelphia, Committee on Discipline.
Legislative updates are available for download.
See also: ELCA News Service
