Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Minutes of the 15th...

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Liberated By God’s Grace 2015 National Convention July 9–12, 2015 Shaw Conference Centre, Edmonton 1

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Minutes of the 15th Biennial National Convention Shaw Conference Centre, Edmonton, AB

Business Session #1: Thursday, July 9, 2015, 1:30 p.m.—5:00 p.m.

Opening Worship led by National Bishop Susan Johnson presiding, and Presiding Bishop

Elizabeth Eaton preaching. An offering was collected for the work of Canadian Lutheran World

Relief.

Welcome to the Land

Oskaapewis Reuben Quinn, Ceremonial and Spiritual Leader of the Papaschase Band, welcomed

the convention to Treaty 6 territory.

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared the Fifteenth Biennial National Convention of the

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC) open.

National Bishop Susan Johnson called Business Session #1 of the 15th

Biennial National

Convention to order.

Report of Committee on Registration and Credentials

Dorothy Frook presented the report as at 3:10 p.m.

115 lay delegates

125 rostered delegates

240 voting delegates

116 visitors

Establishment of Quorum

Quorum at the 15th

Biennial National Convention was established.

Adoption of Agenda

M/S That the revised agenda for the 15th

Biennial National Convention be adopted as presented.

CARRIED.

First revision: interchange the Standing Order of the Reports of Lutheran Collegiate Bible

Institute and Luther College; Business Session #7, Saturday, July 11

Second revision: addition of “Right Relationships Mapping Tool,” 3:30 p.m., Saturday,

July 11

Adoption of Standing Rules of Order (Refer to Bulletin of Reports pages C-15 to C-18)

M/S That the Standing Rules of Order be approved as presented. CARRIED.

Introduction of Convention Committees

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Reference and Counsel

Rev. Paul Sartison, SK – Chair Mark Johnson, BC

Rev. Tuula Van Gaasbeek, Eastern Laurie Kitchen, Eastern

Rev. Marlys Moen, BC Shirley McLellan, MNO

Rev. Heidi Wachowiak, ABT Wayne Street, ABT

Minutes Rev. Wendell Grahlman, Eastern – Chair Ann Baty, BC

Rev. Linda Hall, SK Edward Jobs, ABT

Elections

Rev. Ali Tote, SK – Chair Maaike Froelich, Eastern

Rev. Philip Penrod, ABT Philip Lokken, ABT

Rev. Leslie Poulin, MNO Deborah Roberts, SK

Rev. Elina Salonen, Eastern Grace Shaw, BC

Registration and Credentials

Dorothy Frook, Eastern – Chair Rev. Bart Coleman, MNO Wendy Kalkan, ABT

Introduction of Special Guests

The special guests and partners were introduced to the convention.

Special Guests:

Archbishop Fred Hiltz, Primate, Anglican Church of Canada

Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, Presiding Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Request to Grant Privilege of Voice

M/S That seat and voice privileges be granted to our special guests Archbishop Fred Hiltz,

Primate, Anglican Church of Canada and Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, Presiding Bishop, Evangelical

Lutheran Church in America. CARRIED.

National Bishop Susan Johnson welcomed the following to the convention:

Robert Granke, Executive Director, Canadian Lutheran World Relief

Jackie Dojack, Chair of the Board and Lisa Thiessen, Executive Director, ELCIC Group

Services, Inc.

Dr. Bryan Hillis, President, Luther College, Regina SK

Wayne Hove, President, Lutheran Collegiate Bible Institute (LCBI) High School,

Outlook SK

Jennifer Henry, Executive Director, KAIROS

Rev. Dr. Gordon Jensen, Lutheran Theological Seminary (LTS) Saskatoon SK

Rev. Dr. Allen Jorgenson, Waterloo Lutheran Seminary (WLS) Waterloo ON

Don Storch, Parliamentarian

Rev. Craig Wentland, Convention Chaplain

Dr. Marie Wilson, Commissioner, Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Stephen

Kakfwi.

Sister Janet Stump, Director, ELCA Deaconess Community

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


National Bishop Susan Johnson turned over the chair to Vice-President Sheila Hamilton.

Report of the National Bishop (Refer to Bulletin of Reports starting on page E-1)

Report of National Church Council

Secretary Murray Walter presented the following:

- Notice of Items Requiring Action at this Convention (2015 Bulletin of Reports page F-20)

- Notice of Proposed Amendments to the ELCIC Constitution and Administrative Bylaws

ELCIC Constitution (Refer to Bulletin of Reports pages F-20 to F-27) and

ELCIC Administrative Bylaws (Refer to Bulletin of Reports pages F-27 to F-49) as revised and

distributed at the convention.

National Bishop Susan Johnson led the convention in prayers and petitions.

Announcements

Closing Prayer led by convention chaplain Rev. Craig Wentland.

Vice-President Sheila Hamilton declared Business Session #1 closed.

Business Session #2: Thursday, July 9, 2015, 7:00 p.m.—9:30 p.m.

Vice-President Sheila Hamilton called Business Session #2 of the 15th

Biennial National


Opening Prayer led by convention chaplain Rev. Craig Wentland.


Rev. Bart Coleman presented the report as at 6:35 p.m.

118 lay delegates



116 visitors

Report of Committee on Conduct of Elections -First Ballot for National Bishop

Report of Nominating Committee (Refer to Bulletin of Report pages E-20 to E-21)

Secretary Murray Walter presented the Report of Nominating Committee.

The nominees for the National Church Council, ELCIC Group Service Inc., Court of

Adjudication, and the 2017 Nominating Committee were presented to the National Convention.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


National Church Council

Positions Required: BC – 1 Rostered, AB –1 Lay, SK – 1 Lay &

1 Rostered, MNO – 1 Lay, EAST – 1 Lay & 2 Rostered

Synod Type Term Nominee

BC Rostered 4 years Jane Gingrich

Rostered Erik Bjorgan

ABT

Lay 4 years Wayne Street

Lay Les Pearson

SK Lay 4 years Ed Miller

Lay Cole Guenter

SK Rostered 4 years Christopher Bishopp (e)

Rostered Stewart Miller

MNO Lay 4 years Jeffrey Buhse (e)

Lay Jennifer Jantz

EAST

Lay 4 years Pat Lovell (e)

Lay Judy von Wahl

Rostered 1 4 years Heather Spencer (e)

Rostered 1 Susan Climo

Rostered 2 4 years Jeffrey Smith (e)

Rostered 2 Steve Hoffard

ELCIC Group Services Inc.

GSI Positions Elected at Convention: 1 Lay Plan Member

and 1 Rostered Plan Member

Lay Plan Member 4 years Pamela Giles (e)

Lay Plan Member Darla Wildfang

Rostered

Plan Member

4 years Mark Van House (e)

Rostered

Plan Member

Sebastian Meadows-Helmer

Court of Adjudication

Positions Required: 2 Rostered and 2 Lay

Type Term Nominee

Lay 1 4 years Tim Kurbis (e)

Lay 1 Stephen Thornton

Lay 2 4 years Glen David Tait (e)

Lay 2 Joan Meyer

Rostered 1 4 years Patricia Giannelia (e)

Rostered 1 Eric Krushel

Rostered 2 4 years Allan Grundahl (e)

Rostered 2 Richard Pryce

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Notes: (e) eligible for re-election

There were no further nominations from the floor for National Church Council, Group Services

Inc., Court of Adjudication, and the 2017 Nominating Committee.

The slate of nominees for the 2017 Nominating Committee was acclaimed elected.

Report of National Church Council (Refer to Bulletin of Reports pages F-19 to F-49)

-Presentation on Second Reading of Constitution and Administrative Bylaws (Refer to Bulletin of

Reports pages F-20 to F-27 and F-27 to F-49 respectively)

Secretary Murray Walter presented the changes on the current Constitution and Administrative

Bylaws of the ELCIC (Constitution committee members were called on-stage: Vanessa

Bergeron, Marie-Laure Collet, Rev. Dr. Cameron Harder and Rev. Kathy Martin)

Changes to the ELCIC Constitution; highlighted were:

1. Article VII Synodically Recognized Ministries (Bulletin of Reports, page F-23)

2. Article XVII Court of Appeal (Bulletin of Reports, page F-26)

3. Article XIX Amendments (Bulletin of Reports, page F-27)

Changes to the ELCIC Administrative Bylaws; highlighted were:

1. Part III Synodically Recognized Ministries (Bulletin of Reports, Page F-30)

2. Part VII Conventions (Bulletin of Reports, page F-38)

a. Following 2019 convention, conventions will be held every three years.

b. Section 5 – Each synod shall pay the cost of its delegate(s) at a rate determined by the

National Church Council.

c. Section 7 (page F-39) – The maximum number of voting delegates at convention

shall be 150. Eighty delegates shall be lay. 10 shall be youth, and 60 shall be rostered

delegates.

d. Section 8 and 10 (page F-39)

3. Part VIII Nomination and Elections (Bulletin of Reports, pages F-40 to F-42)

-Sections 3b, 3f

4. Part IX National Church Council (Bulletin of Reports, page F-42)

-Section 3a, 3b

5. Part X Officers (Bulletin of Reports, page F-43)

2017 Nominating Committee

Synod Term Nominee

BC Synod 2 years Marlys Moen

ABT Synod 2 years Allyn Langager

Patricia Schmermund

SK Synod 2 years Joan Meyer

Stewart Miller

MNO Synod 2 years Larry Ulrich

Eastern Synod 2 years Wendell Grahlman

Linda Grainger

Douglas Reble

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


-Section 1

6. Part XVII Court of Appeal, Section 1 (Bulletin of Reports, page F-48)

7. Part XVIII Transition (Bulletin of Reports, pages F-49)

Table Groups discussed for twenty minutes:

What do you like?

What concerns you?

What effect will these have on my congregation?

Committee of the Whole

Report of Committee on Conduct of Elections

Rev. Ali Tote presented the Report of Committee on Conduct of Elections

234 total number of ballots cast

4 spoiled

230 eligible

173 required ballots to elect

Results of First Ballot for National Bishop:

Johnson, Susan - 137

Pryse, Michael - 11

Kochendorfer, Larry - 9

Mohr, Gregory - 9

Alimezelli (Tote), Ali - 6

Calkins, Kathy - 3

Larson, Rebecca - 3

McKenzie, Lyle - 3

Sauer, Elaine - 3

Haugen, Sidney - 2

Jerry, Marc - 2

Kuplens-Ewart, Ilze - 2

Wachowiak, Heidi - 2

Woolery, Lee - 2

Zinko, Jason - 2

Aicken, Dennis - 1

Andersen, Dean - 1

Anderson, Jason - 1

Bjorgan, Erik - 1

Boeckner, Barry - 1

Borch, Hans - 1

Crouse, Joel - 1

Dahle, Guenter - 1

Dunbar, Henry – 1

Ehlebracht, Mark - 1

Falkenstern, Renita - 1

Gehrs Paul - 1

Greifenhagen, Volker - 1

Hall, Linda - 1

Halmarson, Jim - 1

Haugen, Daniel - 1

Hognestad, Lindsay - 1

Jensen, Gordon - 1

Johnson, Paul - 1

Jorgenson, Allen - 1

Kern, Greg – 1

Kristenson, Stephen - 1

Malina, Martin - 1

Martin, Kathleen - 1

Mastin, Howard - 1

McNabb, Kimberlynn - 1

Nelson, Wilburn - 1

Posyluzny, Tim - 1

Sartison, Paul 1

Serfas, Dennis - 1

Smith, Jeff - 1

Wagschal, Beth - 1

Wellman, Mike - 1

Wray, Tim - 1

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Announcements

Vice President Sheila Hamilton declared Business Session #2 closed.

Night Prayer led by convention chaplain Rev. Craig Wentland and the worship team.

Business Session #3: Friday, July 10, 2015, 8:30 a.m.—12:00 p.m.

Morning Holy Communion


Biennial National



Wendy Kalkan presented the report as at 8:50 a.m.

120 lay delegates



120 visitors

Report of Committee on Conduct of Elections -The Second Ballot for National Bishop took place.

Vice-President Sheila Hamilton turned over the chair to National Bishop Susan Johnson.

Report of National Church Council -ELCIC Reformation Challenge (Bulletin of Reports page F-50)

NCC members Rev. Chris Bishopp, Bruce Cook, Cynthia Haines-Turner, Rev. Dr. Marc Jerry,

Pat Lovell and Judy Wry were called on stage.

Motion: That the 2015 National Convention adopt the ELCIC Reformation Challenge:

That the ELCIC in convention adopts the ELCIC Reformation Challenge for 2015–2017. In

honour of the 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation we will commit ourselves, as

individuals, congregations, specialized ministries, and synods, to:

500 new refugee sponsorships;

500 new bursaries for students in schools of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in

Jordan and the Holy Land;

500,000 trees to be planted in Canada and around the world; and

$500,000 to be raised for The Lutheran World Federation Endowment Fund.

Amended motion – change the word “commit” to “challenge.”

“In honour of the 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation we will challenge ourselves, as

individuals, congregations, specialized ministries, and synods, to:”

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


NC-2015-01 M/S That the ELCIC in convention adopts the ELCIC Reformation Challenge for

2015–2017. In honour of the 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation we will challenge

ourselves, as individuals, congregations, specialized ministries, and synods, to:

500 new refugee sponsorships;

500 new bursaries for students in schools of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in

Jordan and the Holy Land;

500,000 trees to be planted in Canada and around the world; and

$500,000 to be raised for The Lutheran World Federation Endowment Fund.

CARRIED.

Greetings—The Most Rev. Fred Hiltz, Primate, Anglican Church of Canada

Standing Order—Dr. Marie Wilson, Commissioner, Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Dr. Wilson reflected on the convention theme through the lens of the work of the TRC. She

shared experiences from the TRC. As part of this, Stephen Kakfwi, residential school survivor,

presented a song representing his memories and journey.




1 spoiled

231 eligible


Results of Second Ballot for National Bishop:


Kochendorfer, Larry 18

Pryse, Michael - 17

Mohr, Gregory - 16

Alimezelli (Tote) , Ali - 9

Zinko, Jason - 4

Jensen, Gordon - 3

Larson, Rebecca - 3

Haugen, Sidney - 2

McKenzie, Lyle 2

Haugen, Daniel - 1

Jerry, Marc - 1


Wachowiak, Heidi - 1

Wellman, Mike – 1

Announcements



________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Business Session #4: Friday, July 10, 2015, 1:30 p.m.—5:00 p.m.


Biennial National




Rev. Bart Coleman presented the report as at 1:10 p.m.

120 lay delegates



128 visitors

Bible Study led by Rev. Dr. Gordon Jensen, Lutheran Theological Seminary Saskatoon and Rev.

Dr. Allen Jorgenson, Waterloo Lutheran Seminary.

Report of Committee on Reference and Counsel

Rev. Paul Sartison presented the Report of Committee on Reference and Counsel.

NC-2015-02 M/S That the ELCIC acknowledges with sadness that several of our family

congregations and family members have chosen to leave this church. We would like to be clear

that our thoughts and prayers remain with them as they carry on Christ’s ministry. We will

include these congregations and former members in our weekly prayers as we do member

congregations of this church. We will continue to look for opportunities to alleviate suffering in,

and to care for, the communities we serve together. CARRIED.

NC-2015-03 M/S That on behalf of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada the National

Bishop write a letter to the Prime Minister of Canada asking that a public inquiry be convened

concerning the missing and murdered indigenous women and girls.

Amended/S to remove the term indigenous.

M/S That on behalf of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada the National Bishop

write a letter to the Prime Minister of Canada asking that a public inquiry be convened

concerning the missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. DEFEATED.

CARRIED.

Presentation—Doctrine of Discovery by Jennifer Henry, Executive Director, KAIROS

Table groups discussed for ten minutes:

Where do you see the Doctrine of Discovery continuing to operate?

What does reconciliation mean to you?

________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Rev. Philip Penrod presented the Report of Committee on Conduct of Elections


3 spoiled

236 eligible


Results of Third Ballot for National Bishop:



Mohr, Gregory - 10

Alimezelli (Tote), Ali - 9

Pryse, Michael - 7

Jensen, Gordon - 4

Haugen, Sidney - 2

Larson, Rebecca - 1

McKenzie, Lyle - 1

Zinko, Jason - 1

National Bishop Susan Johnson was re-elected as National Bishop of the ELCIC.

- First Ballot for Secretary

Standing Order—Report of Canadian Lutheran World Relief

A presentation was given by Robert Granke, Executive Director of Canadian Lutheran World

Relief.

Standing Order—Report of ELCIC Group Services, Inc.

A presentation was given by Jackie Dojack, Chair of the Board and Lisa Thiessen, Executive

Director.

Standing Order—Report of the Treasurer (Bulletin of Reports pages E-53 to E-71)

A presentation was given by Treasurer Ken Day. Members of the following committees were

also called on stage: Jeff Buhse and Cindy Hoppe (Audit); Rev. Chris Bishopp, Bruce Cook,

Rev. Jeff Smith and Jeanie Stann (Finance Committee); and ELCIC Director of Finance and

Administration Gloria McNabb.

-Approval of 2014 Audited Financial Statements (Bulletin of Reports, Report of the

Treasurer, page E-71)

NC-2015-04 M/S That the 2015 National Convention approve the ELCIC 2014 Audited

Financial Statements by Ernst & Young. CARRIED.

-Approval of 2016 and 2017 Budgets (Bulletin of Reports, Report of the Treasurer, page

E-55)

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


NC-2015-05 M/S That the 2016 and 2017 Operating, CECF and LIFE fund budgets be approved

as presented. CARRIED.


Rev. Ali Tote presented the Report of Committee on Conduct of Elections for the First Ballot of

Secretary.


59 spoiled

162 eligible


Results of First Ballot for Secretary:

Grainger, Linda - 22

Walter, Murray - 22

Grahlman, Wendell - 12

Lovell, Pat - 6

Meyer, Joan - 5

Jerry, Marc - 4

Woolery, Lee - 4

Wildfang, Darla - 3

Calkins, Kathleen - 2

Gingrich, Jill - 2

Hoffard, Steve - 2


Kurbis, Tim - 2

Murray, Marilyn - 2

Pearson, Les - 2

Penrod, Phil - 2

Pryce, Rick - 2

Pryse, Michael - 2

Rempel, Jacob - 2

Sadler, Margaret - 2

Sartison, Paul 2

Wray, Tim - 2

Anderson, Heather - 1

Anderson, Jason - 1

Bastian, Ed - 1

Berg, Phil - 1

Beyer, Debbie - 1

Bjorgan, Erik - 1

Cameron, Colin - 1

Climo, Susan - 1

Dahle, Guenter - 1

Drewitz, Orlo - 1

Fairbrother, Carol - 1

Fortier, Dianne - 1

Frook, Dorothy - 1

Gehrs, Paul - 1

Grahlman, Ken - 1

Gram, John - 1

Hall, Linda - 1

Haugen, Roger - 1

Hendrickson, James - 1

Huen, Vicky - 1

Jantz, Jennifer - 1

Jesperson, Henry - 1

Johnson, Mark - 1

Johnson, Paul - 1

Kaufman, Sandra - 1


Lavergne, André - 1

Lokken, James - 1

Lorch, Brian - 1

MacPherson, John - 1

Malina, Martin - 1

McNabb, Kimberlyn - 1

Melax, David - 1

Moen, Marlys - 1

Nunns, Jackie - 1

Parker, Naomi - 1

Read, Peggy - 1

Reinhardt, Cliff - 1

Salmon, Ann - 1

Saude, Dave - 1

Scharf, Bonnie - 1

Schmeidge, Zsofi - 1

Schmidtke, Kathleen - 1

Smith, Jeffrey - 1

Stepko, Karen - 1

Storch, Don - 1

Thompson, Norman - 1

Trueman, Conor - 1

Van Gaasbeek, Tuula - 1

Van House, Mark - 1

Villetard, Sharon - 1

Wegner, Michael - 1

Wentland, Craig - 1

Wilker, Heidi - 1

Wry, Judy - 1

Zinko, Jason - 1

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Announcements



Business Session #5: Friday, July 10, 2015, 7:00 p.m.—9:30 p.m.


Biennial National




Wendy Kalkan presented the report as at 6:45 p.m.

120 lay delegates



128 visitors

Report of Committee on Conduct of Elections -The Second Ballot for Secretary took place.

Report of Committee on Minutes

Rev.Wendell Grahlman presented the Report of the Committee on Minutes.

M/S That the 2015 National Convention adopt the minutes of Business Session #1. CARRIED.



Greetings—Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, Presiding Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Church in

America


ELCIC Resolution on the Doctrine of Discovery (Bulletin of Reports pages F-50 to F-51)

Rev. Paul Gehrs, Assistant to the Bishop, Justice and Leadership and members of the National

Church Council were called on stage: Bruce Cook, Cynthia Haines-Turner, Allyn Langager, Rev.

Jeff Smith, Jeanie Stann, Rev. Heather Spencer-Stoltz and Rev. Brian Wilker-Frey.

M/S That the 2015 National Convention adopts the following “ELCIC Resolution on the

Doctrine of Discovery:”

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


That the ELCIC in convention repudiates and renounces the Doctrine of Discovery as

fundamentally opposed to the gospel of Jesus Christ and our understanding of the inherent rights

that individuals and peoples have received from God.

We confess that this doctrine encourages patterns of domination and oppression that continue to

afflict Indigenous peoples today. The ways of life, identities, well-being and very existence of

Indigenous people are threatened by the continuing effects of colonization and national policies,

regulations and laws that attempt to force Indigenous peoples to assimilate into the cultures of

dominant societies.

We confess that this doctrine encourages patterns of domination and oppression of land and

environment which continue today. These patterns discourage healthy and holistic relationships

with God’s whole creation. The doctrine continues to inform national policies, regulations and

laws thereby becoming a detriment to addressing urgent environmental challenges such as

climate justice, responsible resource extraction and establishing sustainable lifestyles.

Liberated by God’s Grace, we will:

Pray for wisdom, humility, courage and God’s guidance towards action as we live

into the reality that salvation is not for sale, human beings are not for sale and

creation is not for sale.

Encourage all members and congregations to reflect upon our own national and

church history, and seek greater understanding of the issues facing Indigenous

peoples.

Walk with Indigenous peoples in their ongoing efforts to exercise their inherent

sovereignty and fundamental human rights and renew our commitment to truth,

reconciliation and equity.

Reflect on how the church’s policies and programs have been impacted by the

Doctrine of Discovery, and work toward transforming policies, program and

structures in order to promote equality, self-determination and respect for the land.

Urge governments to transform legal structures and policies based on the Doctrine of

Discovery and dominance, so as better to empower and enable Indigenous peoples to

identify their own aspirations and issues of concern.

Support the continued development of theological reflections by Indigenous peoples

which promote indigenous visions of full, good and abundant life and which

strengthen their own spiritual and theological reflections.

This convention asks the National Bishop to:

Communicate this action to our key ecumenical partners, including The Lutheran

World Federation, the World Council of Churches, the Canadian Council of

Churches, our Full Communion partner: the Anglican Church of Canada, the

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and the Episcopal Church.

Communicate this action to key national aboriginal organizations, including the

Assembly of First Nations, the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Métis National

Council.

Communicate this action to the United Nations and to the Government of Canada.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Amended/S to add to the final bullet point:

Communicate this action to the United Nations, the Government of Canada,

provincial and territorial governments. CARRIED.

M/S That the 2015 National Convention table the motion on the “ELCIC Resolution on

the Doctrine of Discovery:” to the next business session. DEFEATED.

NC-2015-06 That the 2015 National Convention adopts the following “ELCIC Resolution on the

Doctrine of Discovery:”

That the ELCIC in convention repudiates and renounces the Doctrine of Discovery as

fundamentally opposed to the gospel of Jesus Christ and our understanding of the inherent rights

that individuals and peoples have received from God.

We confess that this doctrine encourages patterns of domination and oppression that continue to

afflict Indigenous peoples today. The ways of life, identities, well-being and very existence of

Indigenous people are threatened by the continuing effects of colonization and national policies,

regulations and laws that attempt to force Indigenous peoples to assimilate into the cultures of

dominant societies.

We confess that this doctrine encourages patterns of domination and oppression of land and

environment which continue today. These patterns discourage healthy and holistic relationships

with God’s whole creation. The doctrine continues to inform national policies, regulations and

laws thereby becoming a detriment to addressing urgent environmental challenges such as

climate justice, responsible resource extraction and establishing sustainable lifestyles.

Liberated by God’s Grace, we will:

Pray for wisdom, humility, courage and God’s guidance towards action as we live

into the reality that salvation is not for sale, human beings are not for sale and

creation is not for sale.

Encourage all members and congregations to reflect upon our own national and

church history, and seek greater understanding of the issues facing Indigenous

peoples.

Walk with Indigenous peoples in their ongoing efforts to exercise their inherent

sovereignty and fundamental human rights and renew our commitment to truth,

reconciliation and equity.

Reflect on how the church’s policies and programs have been impacted by the

Doctrine of Discovery, and work toward transforming policies, program and

structures in order to promote equality, self-determination and respect for the land.

Urge governments to transform legal structures and policies based on the Doctrine of

Discovery and dominance, so as better to empower and enable Indigenous peoples to

identify their own aspirations and issues of concern.

Support the continued development of theological reflections by Indigenous peoples

which promote indigenous visions of full, good and abundant life and which

strengthen their own spiritual and theological reflections.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Communicate this action to our key ecumenical partners, including The Lutheran

World Federation, the World Council of Churches, the Canadian Council of

Churches, our Full Communion partner: the Anglican Church of Canada, the

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and the Episcopal Church.

Communicate this action to key national aboriginal organizations, including the

Assembly of First Nations, the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Métis National

Council.

Communicate this action to the United Nations, provincial and territorial

governments and to the Government of Canada.

CARRIED.

ELCIC Resolution on the Criminal Justice and Correctional Systems in Canada (Bulletin of

Reports pages F-51 to F-60)

M/S That the 2015 National Convention adopt the following motion regarding the “ELCIC

Resolution on the Criminal Justice and Correctional Systems in Canada”:

And that this convention:

Commits the ELCIC to a prayerful approach for addressing the challenges of the

criminal justice and correctional systems in Canada, and affirms support for

restorative justice approaches that facilitate the righting of harms done, and foster

the healing of relationships between offenders, victims and the larger community.

Asks the National Church to identify educational resources to encourage and

facilitate study by congregations and individuals of a wide range of materials

relevant to developing a deeper understanding of the current concerns of Canada’s

criminal justice and correctional system.

Commits the ELCIC to continuing to work with ecumenical, interfaith and

community partners, including the Church Council on Justice and Corrections, in

order to minimize the use of mandatory sentencing and to facilitate the criminal

justice and correctional system that embodies the values of restorative justice, and

to make provision for effective spiritual care.

Invites all congregations and members to seek a deeper understanding of

Canada’s criminal justice and correctional system in order to express a critical

evaluation of current practices and policies, and encourages congregations and

members to engage in projects, programs and ministries that provide support for

victims, offenders, correctional services staff, and others involved in the criminal

justice system.

Encourage the participation by all rostered ministers and congregations in the

annual Restorative Justice Week sponsored by the Correctional Service of Canada

in the third week of November.

Asks the National Bishop to communicate the concerns raised in this policy

resolution to the federal government and to the governments of each province and

territory.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Asks the National Bishop to share this policy resolution with our key ecumenical

and interfaith partners, including The Lutheran World Federation, the World

Council of Churches, the Canadian Council of Churches, and our Full

Communion partner, the Anglican Church of Canada.

An ELCIC Resolution on the

Criminal Justice and Correctional Systems in Canada Part I: Examining the Current Context

Preamble

The biblical vision of the reign of God in the world is one of harmony and well-being for all

human beings. This vision is fractured when individuals and groups transgress sacred and

social standards of behaviour that foster shalom. Public safety is required for human well-

being to be realized in Canadian society. The criminal justice and correctional systems are a

human response to this essential social goal.

Statistics Canada reports that crime in Canada is at its lowest since 1969. Apparently all

types of crime are down due to factors such as an aging population, changing police

strategies, the use of technology, shifts in unemployment, changing attitudes toward various

behaviours and in alcohol consumption.1Yet, court dockets are filled and prison populations

overflowing. Currently the criminal justice and correctional systems faces several

challenges:

Delays in the scheduling of trials which result in significant numbers being held on

remand awaiting trial.

Overpopulation of both provincial and federal correctional facilities.

Increasing rates of incarceration.

Prevalence of adversarial procedures and punishment, rather than practices that promote

reconciliation, rehabilitation, healing and social harmony.

Prison populations include a disproportionate number of Aboriginal Peoples.

Prison populations include many people with mental illnesses.

The importance of addressing the unique needs of women and youth in correctional

facilities.

Many who are released from prison go on to reoffend.

Echoing the insight of a social statement of a predecessor body, A Social Statement in Pursuit

of Justice and Dignity: Society, the Offender, and Systems of Correction,2

the Canadian

criminal justice and correctional systems require reform to achieve the stated goals of fairness,

impartiality and effectiveness to achieve positive social behaviours and accountability in the

use of financial and human resources. The Justice System

Canadians benefit from a well-developed and respected criminal justice system, which is an

essential social institution constructed to ensure community stability and individual safety and

security. The criminal justice system is a complex and interconnected network involving

legislation, enforcement, courts—judges, prosecutors and defense attorneys—correctional

facilities, and measures to reintegrate offenders into the community and meet the needs of

victims. Canadians are deeply concerned when these institutional structures appear to fail.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


There is public outcry in the face of horrific criminal acts. Yet in spite of reports of these

perplexing crimes that fill the headlines, the majority of crimes are of lesser harm, though no

less significant. Most crime occurs among persons who know one another rather than

indiscriminate acts against strangers. Legislation that structures the criminal justice system is continually reviewed and reworked to

address ongoing social needs. The Criminal Code of Canada is federal legislation that defines

criminal acts and sets out the policies that seek to ensure public safety. Sacred teachings such

as the Ten Commandments have been central to the emergence of common law in western

societies. International agreements, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and

other covenants, articulate an emerging sense of universal standards. There is considerable

public debate about what constitutes crime in our Canadian society. Current debates are

evident in such important matters as privacy, physician-assisted dying, the registration and

classification of firearms, the decriminalization or legalization of marijuana, and prostitution.

Although rates of criminal behaviours have generally been decreasing in Canada in recent

decades, there is considerable concern about violent crimes, violations against children, sexual

assaults, the growth of gangs among youth, and blatant white collar crime and corruption. Enforcement of the criminal law is a joint endeavour of the federal, provincial and municipal

jurisdictions through police services and other agencies of investigation and apprehension.

Public awareness and appreciation of the exposure to danger by police on behalf of the

community is accentuated when officers are killed or injured in the line of duty. While

Canadians have a high regard for enforcement agencies, there is an ongoing need that police

and other agencies have civilian oversight. Most police agencies would benefit from having

more members from among Aboriginal Peoples and minority ethnic groups. Community

policing which links closely with social agencies, families and neighbourhoods has proven to

be a viable strategy for preventing crime.

Courts play a significant role in the administration of justice. It is important that judges be

appointed through procedures apart from political or ideological interference to ensure fair and

unbiased application of the law. The courts make judgements regarding guilt or innocence and

determine appropriate sanctions. Current sentencing practices tend to equate the length of a

sentence with the apparent severity of an offence—that sanctions be proportionate to the harm

inflicted. While legislation mandating minimum sentences may have some merit, judges must

be given sufficient discretion to consider the circumstances of each particular case. In the

Canadian judicial system, crown prosecutors have considerable discretion in how cases are

dealt with. Adequate legal aid is required to support and protect those who lack the means to

defend themselves in the courts given the immense powers and resources of the state.

Increasingly the voices of victims have a place in assessing harm done. Procedures are needed

to protect and compensate both victims and those who are wrongfully convicted. The Correctional System Our society has developed multiple means to apply sanctions that uphold the law, to seek

correction for offenders and to secure redress for those who have been victims of criminal acts.

Criminologists suggest that the functions of the correctional system include retribution,

deterrence, rehabilitation and social protection. There is general consensus that incarceration

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


should be the last resort to deal with those who violate the law and that those convicted should

be detained in the least restrictive means to ensure public safety. There is little relationship

between the length of sentences imposed and rates of criminal behaviours.3

When sentences are

imposed, penalties less than two years in length become the responsibility of provincial

jurisdictions and those two years and above are

administered federally by Correctional Service

Canada.

The task of corrections is to administer the sentences determined by the courts. Many

sentences include a time of incarceration in a prison or correctional facility. The courts may

grant conditional sentences in which those convicted remain in the community under

supervision by probation or parole officers. The Parole Board of Canada may grant parole to

prisoners by which part of the sentence is served in the community under supervision. The

prospect of parole or eventual pardon (record suspension) motivates offenders to conform to

community standards and put their misdeeds behind them. The Corrections and Conditional

Release Act mandates that the primary function of correctional institutions and community

resources is to prepare offenders held in custody to reintegrate into the community.

Unfortunately, in spite of insightful case management and the rehabilitation programs that are

available, for many offenders the prison experience is one of simply being confined, and for

some it may even become a school of crime in a deviant subculture. The demographic make-up

of the prison population raises concerns about racial bias and inadequate response to those with

mental illnesses in the correctional system. The fact that so many more men than women are in

prison raises concerns about providing for the unique needs of female inmates. It also raises

questions about the root causes for gender differences in criminal activities. The practice and

frequency of holding prisoners in solitary confinement for excessive periods of time is a

controversial matter. While the federal system has a special investigator to appeal cases, most

provinces lack this backup service.

Chaplains and Spiritual Care Providers International standards hold that those in prisons have a fundamental right to worship in their

own tradition. Offenders who develop a faith commitment have the potential to express their

faith in pro-social attitudes and behaviours. Chaplains, spiritual advisors and spiritual care

providers facilitate the provision of freedom of religion and assurance that religious rights and

spiritual accommodation are given appropriate attention. They care for spiritual needs, journey

both with offenders and also with the staff and volunteers who work with offenders, and offer

support for families. Chaplains and spiritual advisors/providers represent a holistic approach to

treating offender issues. Christian chaplains share the hope of the gospel message of forgiveness and new life. Our

church certifies the status and suitability of ordained and diaconal ministers called to work in

prisons. Through visible presence and Word and Sacrament they signal hope and light,

performing a significant role in maintaining linkage with caring community and liaise with faith

communities. They engage Canadian faith communities in addressing those affected by the

consequences of crime: offenders, victims and the community. In Matthew 25, Jesus affirms the

importance of visiting those in prison, saying I was in prison and you visited me.4

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Restorative Justice Canada has been a nurturing place for the emergence of restorative justice approaches to

address criminal justice issues.5

In recent years there has been a convergence of Christian and

aboriginal teachings in a movement of restorative justice. While established approaches have

given emphasis to punishment as a solution to crime, restorative justice lifts up the importance

of the restoration of broken relationships. While accustomed policies focus upon crime as a

breaking of the laws of the state, restorative justice gives emphasis to the healing of broken

relationships as a goal of bringing about justice. This changed lens views justice as restoring

and healing relationships between victims and

offenders and the larger community. The focus

of restorative justice is on conflict resolution rather than adversarial postures between victims

and offenders. 6

At the heart of restorative justice is reconciliation rather than retribution. Through offender-

victim mediation, family group conferencing and sharing circles, the restoration of broken

relationships is sought through restitution and community service. While restorative justice is

often chastised as being “soft on crime,” these measures actually increase accountability for

offenders who must face directly the injury inflicted upon victims. In recent years there has

been an increase in the use of alternatives which divert offenders from the courts and

incarceration into restorative justice programs that increase accountability and healing.

Restorative justice approaches are perhaps most suitable for first-time offenders, youth and in

cases of non-violent altercations, but have also been found effective in more serious cases. The

establishment of special courts for youth, the mentally ill and those whose crimes can be

attributed to addictions, are positive steps.

Community

Those who come before the law have been formed in our communities. There is

considerable debate about the sources of criminal behaviour. Some cite the unequal

opportunity structures of our society. Others cite the varied social relationships in families

and peer groups which shape identity, values and actions. Some point to significant

psychological or emotional factors. Offenders often come from fragmented social

backgrounds of family abuse, poverty, racial discrimination, poor educational attainment,

substance abuse, addictions, inadequate child and family services and the failure to

internalize social norms. Laws, enforcement, courts and prisons are only partial responses to

criminal behaviours. The ultimate solutions to deviance lay in communities that exhibit

greater opportunities, mutual respect and equity. The care and education of children is

particularly important as a major preventive measure; addressing critical developmental and

social needs will reduce the number of youth falling into or choosing lives of crime. These

are values that are inherent in the Christian gospel and the theology and practices that have

emerged in the church around the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Faith

communities can be significant settings in which both victims and offenders can find

healing.

Part II: Affirming the Courage of Faith The ELCIC, as an expression of the body of Christ in the world, has significant resources to

address current concerns in the criminal justice and correctional systems in Canada.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


The seminal foundations of Lutheran theology and ethics remain instructive and

authoritative to address current challenges.7

Law and Gospel

Lutheran theology distinguishes between law and gospel as significant dimensions of the

Christian message. The importance of law in our social affairs is essential for the formation of

a healthy society. The biblical teachings of law provide a framework for ethical standards and

social structures; function to convict the consciences of individuals and societies regarding the

effects of sinful beliefs, attitudes and actions; and serve as guides for those who have sought

forgiveness through sincere repentance. Guided by these enduring values, this church can

utilize contemporary insights and research that seek to contribute to the harmony and social

well-being envisioned in the reign of God.

http://www.csc-scc.gc.ca/restorative-justice/003005-0007-eng.shtml

The gospel of Christ is supportive of restorative justice practices. We are reminded of the

teachings of Jesus:

So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or

sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be

reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your

gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to

court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the

guard, and you will be thrown into prison.8

You have heard that it was said, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.” But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile.

9

We also remember the words of the Hebrew prophet:

O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and

to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?10

Looking through the eyes of Jesus and the prophets, reconciliation is a central principle

informing our perspectives on criminal justice practices. Church and Society

This church affirms the confessional teachings that understand that God is at work in both the

church and society.11

God offers the comfort of salvation through the means of grace, Word and

Sacrament. God also works through the “left hand” of God to provide safety and security in the

society through social institutions such as the family, government, the economy, health and

social services. Human reason is a significant gift of God to order human relationships.12

http://www.csc-scc.gc.ca/restorative-justice/003005-0007-eng.shtml

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Saints and Sinners Public opinion about those who commit criminal offences often expresses critical judgment

of those who are “criminals.” Offenders are stigmatized which isolates them from the

acceptance and respect offered to others. The label “criminal” becomes descriptive of the

whole person, rather than being associated with specific behaviours. Religious notions often

divide people into saints and sinners, the righteous and unrighteous, those who are good and

those who are evil. Yet the Christian faith affirms that all persons are made in the image of

God and have intrinsic value. The scriptures also teach that …all have sinned and fall short

of the glory of God.13

In his personal testimony of faith, St. Paul confessed this inner

struggle: For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I do.14

Luther

expressed this tension in the doctrine of simul justus et peccator, that a believer is at the

same time both a sinner and a saint.

While Lutheran theology refutes the notion that salvation can be earned by good behaviour,

it also affirms that faith brings forth good works.15

Caution is needed when categorizing

other persons as good or evil. Although there certainly are some whose antisocial behaviour

patterns are so engrained that there is little possibility of personal change, the overall vision

of Jesus is that persons can be transformed through faith and a relationship with God. It is

important not to confuse ultimate redemption which is in the hands of a gracious God, with

deviance from social norms, which may be subject to correction and reform. The goal of the

justice and correctional systems is to assist those who have broken the law to discover ways

to live with freedom and responsibility as law-abiding citizens. Biblical Interpretation

Our biblical foundations are built upon values of compassion, unconditional love, the theology of the cross that embraces the reality of suffering and an enduring hope. While Luther recognized the importance of natural law revealed to all persons and also positive laws established by legitimate authorities, he also encouraged a flexible administration of the law based upon values of equity, mildness and love. In Luther’s words, the law must “make room for love.”

16

Part III: Imagining New Possibilities

The harm caused by crime leaves lasting effects, which make healing and reconciliation both

challenging and essential. The ELCIC recognizes the tremendous needs in society of all who

are affected by crime. As a church In Mission for Others, the ELCIC commits to raising

awareness of the many and various ways by which congregations and individuals can

participate in addressing such needs. We seek to be informed by the values of compassion,

mercy and inclusiveness when dealing with offenders and victims. We understand the

challenges and opportunities in promoting restorative justice to be both personal and systemic.

Affirmation and Commitments

1. The ELCIC is dedicated to a prayerful approach for addressing the challenges of the

criminal justice and correctional systems in Canada, and commits to praying for all who

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


are affected by crime and the criminal justice system, including victims, offenders and all

who work in the corrections and public safety fields.

2. The ELCIC affirms restorative justice approaches that consider crime as the breaking down

of human relationships among victims, offenders and the larger community, rather than

simply the breaking of laws against the state. The ELCIC supports initiatives that facilitate

the righting of harms done, and foster the healing of relationships between offenders,

victims and the larger community.

3. The ELCIC encourages the use of conditional sentences, probation and parole rather than

incarceration as means of seeking correction and rehabilitation in the lives of offenders.

The ELCIC supports judges being given sufficient discretion in sentencing to consider the

circumstances of each particular case. The ELCIC encourages positive community based

relationships with offenders and parolees in order to foster safe reintegration and crime

prevention.

4. The ELCIC encourages initiatives to reduce the numbers of those awaiting trial, the

numbers of those incarcerated and held in custody and measures that eliminate the

overcrowding in Canada’s prisons.

5. The ELCIC affirms that fostering economic justice, access to affordable housing, an

effective public health system and encouraging healthy family relationships and the care of

children are measures that help reduce deviance and crime in our society.

6. The ELCIC recognizes the impact that social inequality has on an individual’s experience

of the criminal justice and correctional systems. The ELCIC encourages reflection on

meaningful approaches that will be effective for women, the aboriginal community and

those who experience mental illness.

7. The ELCIC affirms that in the face of the expansion of correctional facilities, that

increased funding for preventive, rehabilitative and re-integrative processes and programs

be encouraged.

8. The ELCIC supports best practices in the operation of correctional facilities, including

addressing the specific and unique needs of all those who are convicted.

9. The ELCIC regards the operation of correctional facilities in Canada as the responsibility of

governments. This church urges extreme caution in any consideration of private ownership

or administration of correctional facilities.

10. The ELCIC supports those who are victims of crime, through compassionate pastoral

care, community support and constructive programs that may assist victims to deal with

trauma, psychological and emotional distress and the loss of resources.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


11. The ELCIC encourages congregations and individuals to give of their time and talents to

engage meaningfully in projects, programs, and ministries that provide support for victims,

offenders and others involved in the criminal justice system.

12. The ELCIC encourages all members to become informed about Canada’s criminal justice

and correctional system in order to express a critical evaluation of current practices and

policies.

13. The ELCIC encourages members to consider their vocational call from God and supports

those who enter occupations and professions in the criminal justice and correctional

systems.

14. The ELCIC affirms the role of chaplains and other spiritual care providers who serve

those in the criminal justice and correctional systems, and supports the public funding of

these services.

15. The ELCIC advocates for those who are marginalized and suffering as a result of the

challenges which currently exist in Canada’s criminal justice and correctional system,

by speaking forth through various venues of communication and ensuring that the

necessary voices for accountability are heard especially by those in positions of

authority and power.

16. The ELCIC recognizes that engaging the criminal justice and correctional systems is an

opportunity for a ministry of reconciliation, and we hold the hope of enabling all people

to contribute positively to the life of the community as family members, workers and

persons who contribute positively to the life of the community as family members,

workers and persons who respect the rights of others.

1 http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2015/01/28/crime-in-canada-falls-to-lowest-point-since-the-60s.html

2 A Social Statement in Pursuit of Justice and Dignity: Society, the Offender, and Systems of Correction,

Lutheran Church in America, 1972 www.elcic.ca 3

David Cayley, The Expanding Prison, Anansi Press, Toronto, 1998, pp.89–99 4

Matthew 25:36 5

Howard Zehr, Changing Lenses, Herald Press, Waterloo, 2005; Michael L. Hadley, editor, The Spiritual Roots of Restorative Justice, State University of New York Press, Albany, N.Y., 2001

6 See, for example, Correctional Service of Canada,

The courts have affirmed that in the sentencing of Aboriginal persons, special consideration is to be given to the history of mistreatment experienced by many Aboriginals. Incorporating additional insights from restorative justice into the criminal justice system has the potential to increase public safety.

7 George W. Forell, Faith Active in Love, Augsburg, Minneapolis, 1954; Karen L. Bloomquist and John R.

Stumme, editors, The Promise of Lutheran Ethics, Fortress Press, Minneapolis, 1998

8 Matthew 5:23–25

9 Matthew 5:38–41

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2015/01/28/crime-in-canada-falls-to-lowest-point-since-the-60s.html

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2015/01/28/crime-in-canada-falls-to-lowest-point-since-the-60s.html

http://www.elcic.ca/

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


10 Micah 6:8, NRSV

11 Augsburg Confession Article XVI

12 Mary Gaebler, The Courage of Faith, Fortress Press, Minneapolis, 2013

13 Romans 3:23

14 Romans 7:19

15 Augsburg Confession Articles IV and VI

16 Paul Althaus, The Ethics of Martin Luther, Fortress Press, Philadelphia, 1972 p.135

Table groups discussed for ten minutes:

What did you learn from reading the Resolution?

What questions/concerns do you have about the Resolution?

What opportunities for ministry do you see emerging from the Resolution?

Amended/S to delete:

That the 2015 National Convention adopt the following motion regarding the “ELCIC

Resolution on the Criminal Justice and Correctional Systems in Canada”: … CARRIED.

M/S That the 2015 National Convention table the motion on the “ELCIC Resolution on

the Criminal Justice and Correctional Systems in Canada” to the 2017 Convention.

DEFEATED.

M/S to call the question on the amended “ELCIC Resolution on the Criminal Justice and

Correctional Systems in Canada.” CARRIED.

NC-2015-07 M/S That the 2015 National Convention adopt the “ELCIC Resolution on the

Criminal Justice and Correctional Systems in Canada”:

And that this convention:

Commits the ELCIC to a prayerful approach for addressing the challenges of the

criminal justice and correctional systems in Canada, and affirms support for

restorative justice approaches that facilitate the righting of harms done, and foster

the healing of relationships between offenders, victims and the larger community.

Asks the National Church to identify educational resources to encourage and

facilitate study by congregations and individuals of a wide range of materials

relevant to developing a deeper understanding of the current concerns of Canada’s

criminal justice and correctional system.

Commits the ELCIC to continuing to work with ecumenical, interfaith and

community partners, including the Church Council on Justice and Corrections, in

order to minimize the use of mandatory sentencing and to facilitate the criminal

justice and correctional system that embodies the values of restorative justice, and

to make provision for effective spiritual care.

Invites all congregations and members to seek a deeper understanding of

Canada’s criminal justice and correctional system in order to express a critical

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


evaluation of current practices and policies, and encourages congregations and

members to engage in projects, programs and ministries that provide support for

victims, offenders, correctional services staff, and others involved in the criminal

justice system.

Encourage the participation by all rostered ministers and congregations in the

annual Restorative Justice Week sponsored by the Correctional Service of Canada

in the third week of November.

Asks the National Bishop to communicate the concerns raised in this policy

resolution to the federal government and to the governments of each province and

territory.

Asks the National Bishop to share this policy resolution with our key ecumenical

and interfaith partners, including The Lutheran World Federation, the World

Council of Churches, the Canadian Council of Churches, and our Full

Communion partner, the Anglican Church of Canada.

CARRIED.



M/S That in light of advances in medical science and the recent Supreme Court of Canada’s

ruling decriminalizing doctor assisted suicide the National Church Council be directed to review

our current Resolutions on Decisions-At-The-End-Of-Life approved at the Sixth Biennial

Convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (1997).

Amended/S to substitute:

That in light of advances in medical science and the recent Supreme Court of Canada’s

ruling decriminalizing doctor assisted suicide death the National Church Council be

directed to review our current Resolutions on Decisions-At-The-End-Of-Life approved at

the Sixth Biennial Convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (1997).

CARRIED.

NC-2015-08 That in light of advances in medical science and the recent Supreme Court of

Canada’s ruling decriminalizing doctor assisted death the National Church Council be directed to

review our current Resolutions on Decisions-At-The-End-Of-Life approved at the Sixth Biennial

Convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (1997).

CARRIED.

NC-2015-09 That the following be referred to National Church Council:

“That the National Church consider more cost effective options for the National Convention so

that the cost is not a barrier to congregations’ ability to attend the convention.”

CARRIED.




________________________________________________________________________________________________________


3 spoiled

224 eligible


Results of Second Ballot for Secretary:

Grainger, Linda - 100

Trueman, Conor - 66

Grahlman, Wendell - 16

Sadler, Margaret - 10

Walter, Murray - 5

Meyer, Joan - 4

Wildfang, Darla - 4

Gingrich, Jill - 3

Lovell, Pat - 3

Rempel, Jacob - 3

Berg, Phil - 1

Calkins, Kathleen - 1

Grahlman, Ken - 1

Hall, Linda - 1

Haugen, Roger - 1

Johnson, Mark - 1

Reinhardt, Cliff - 1

Schmidtke, Kathleen - 1

Thompson, Norman - 1

Villetard, Sharon – 1

Announcements


Night Prayer led by convention chaplain Rev. Craig Wentland and the worship team.

Business Session #6: Saturday, July 11, 2015, 8:30 a.m.—12:00 p.m.

Morning Holy Communion


Biennial National



Dorothy Frook presented the report as at 8:50 a.m.

120 lay delegates


________________________________________________________________________________________________________



131 visitors


-ELCIC Policy Regarding Authorized Lay Ministries

Bishop Larry Kochendorfer (ABT Synod), ELCIC Assistant to the Bishop for Ecumenical and

Interfaith André Lavergne and the following National Church Council members were called on

stage: Allyn Langager, Rev. Dr. Marc Jerry and Rev. Heather Spencer-Stoltz.

M/S That the National Convention adopt the following policy regarding the provision of Word

and Sacrament ministry in under-served areas:

POLICY REGARDING AUTHORIZED LAY MINISTRIES

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada

The proclamation of the Word and the celebration of the sacraments are inseparable and are

central to Lutheran worship and church life.

We affirm that the normal means by which Word and Sacrament ministry is provided in

congregations is through a called and ordained pastor.

We recognize that, under particular local circumstances, the usual norm of pastor presiding over

Word and Sacrament ministry is not possible. In most of these circumstances congregations can

be served by one or more of the following:

• Interim/vice-pastors;

• Multi-point parishes or companion/yoked congregations;

• Wide-area parishes;

• Arrangements with our Anglican Full Communion partner;

• Assistance from ecumenical partners with whom we have an Ecumenical Shared

Ministry protocol (eg. United and Presbyterian);

• “Circuit riders” or itinerant ministers;

• Calling an individual who has been ordained through the Alternate Route for

Admission to the Roster of Ordained Ministers; or

• Partnering with other congregations to share their pastor.

In certain, rare circumstances none of these options is workable. In such cases:

1. The bishop of the synod may initiate a conversation with the congregational

council about authorized lay ministry and whether it may be appropriate to their

context.

2. The bishop of the synod would then seek approval of the Synod Council and the

Conference of Bishops for authorized lay ministry in this context.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


3. The congregational council would normally identify more than one candidate to

serve in the ministry context. Candidates should have an aptitude for preaching

and presiding.

4. The bishop of the synod and the Synod Council would approve authorized lay

ministers subject to the following:

• Authorized lay ministers will be appointed for one-year renewable terms;

• The synod will provide appropriate preparation in Scripture, Lutheran

Confessions, preaching, worship and in appropriate boundaries;

• Authorized lay ministers will work under the supervision of a mentoring

pastor appointed by the bishop of the synod;

• The mentoring pastor will provide on-going support and review;

• Authorized lay ministers will normally be installed by the dean; and

• Authorized lay ministers will participate in a regular, on-going process of

formation and education.

Authorized lay ministry is non-stipendiary.

Authorized lay ministers are appointed to a specific ministry context and do not serve outside

that context.

Authorized lay ministers are permitted to proclaim the Word and preside at Holy Communion.

This authorization does not extend to baptisms, weddings, funerals, or other activities which are

normally in the purview of ordained ministers.

Authorized lay ministers shall not wear clerical garb or vestments. When preaching or presiding,

authorized lay ministers may choose to wear an alb.

The title “Pastor” is reserved for ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament. There is no title

associated with authorized lay ministry.

In cases where pastoral counselling is needed, authorized lay ministers shall refer the

individual(s) to their mentoring pastor.

There shall be an annual review of both the authorized lay ministers and of the appropriateness

of the site for authorized lay ministry.

The synod will ensure that resources are available for preaching and worship leadership which

might include a sermon bank, seminary resources and synod workshops.

This policy, once adopted by the ELCIC in convention, will be reviewed and amended as

required by National Church Council.

Amended/S to add licensed diaconal ministers to the first bullet. DEFEATED.

Amended/S to add to the following paragraph:

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Authorized lay ministers are permitted to proclaim the Word and preside at Holy

Communion. This authorization does not extend to baptisms, weddings, funerals,

or other activities which are normally in the purview of ordained or consecrated

ministers. CARRIED.

Amended/S to add to the following paragraph:

We recognize that, under particular local circumstances, the usual norm of pastor

presiding over Word and Sacrament ministry is not possible. We therefore

recognize that authorized lay ministers are not an acceptable permanent

solution but rather one that attempts to respond appropriately to a temporary

anomaly. In most of these circumstances congregations can be served by one or

more of the following: … DEFEATED.

(ELCIC Policy Regarding Authorized Lay Ministries was tabled to a later session.)

Report of Committee on Conduct of Elections -Third Ballot for Secretary


0 spoiled ballots

231 total eligible ballots


Linda Grainger 118

Connor Trueman 64

Margaret Sadler 34

Wendell Grahlman 15

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Linda Grainger elected as Secretary of the ELCIC.


-Second Reading of Constitution

NC-2015-10 That the 2015 National Convention repeal Articles III to XX of the ELCIC

Constitution and adopt the following Articles III to XIX (second reading):

ARTICLE III

Nature of the Church

Section 1. Jesus Christ is Lord of the Church. All power belongs to him as its head. All actions

of this church are to be carried out under his rule and authority.

Section 2. The Holy Spirit calls, gathers, enlightens and sanctifies the church, which exists as

congregations and synodically recognized ministries gathered for worship, witness,

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


education and service, and as an inclusive fellowship which has its own identity and

integrity. Congregations find their fulfilment in the universal community of the

Church, and the universal Church exists in and through congregations.

Section 3. This church derives its character and its powers from its congregations, synodically

recognized ministries and from its inherent nature as part of the universal Church. It

regards itself as standing in the historic continuity of the communion of saints and

as being an expression of that Christian fellowship in today’s world.

ARTICLE IV

Mission of the Church

Section 1. The mission of this church, as an expression of the universal Church and as an

instrument of the Holy Spirit, is to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with people in

Canada and around the world through proclamation of the Word, celebration of the

sacraments, and through service in Christ’s name.

Section 2. In seeking to achieve its mission, this church shall:

a. Receive, establish and maintain congregations and synodically recognized ministries in

which the gospel is rightly preached and the sacraments rightly administered;

b. Safeguard the faith and life of its congregations, synodically recognized ministries and

rostered ministers, deciding all questions relating thereto on the basis of the Word of God

and in accordance with its Confession of Faith;

c. Admit persons to the roster of ordained and diaconal ministers by ordination, transfer or

consecration, and be responsible for their nurture, support and discipline;

d. Study issues in contemporary society in the light of the Word of God and respond publicly

to social and moral issues as an advocate for justice and as an agent for reconciliation;

e. Publish materials for the education and the edification of its own members and others

interested in the life of the Lutheran Church;

f. Develop the worship life of this church, providing or recommending service books and

other material for congregational and personal use;

g. Establish church agencies and create regional synods for the administration of its programs;

h. Have relationships with other Lutheran Church bodies and with other Christian churches

for the furtherance of its mission; and

i. Estimate the financial needs of this church, and solicit and disburse funds for its program.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 3. In seeking to achieve its mission, this church may:

a. Establish and maintain seminaries for the education and continuing development of

rostered ministers and other church leaders;

b. Establish and maintain, or otherwise recognize and support, schools for the education of its

members and others for leadership in church and society; and

c. Establish and maintain, or otherwise recognize and support, institutions and agencies to

minister to human need and in the name of Christ.

ARTICLE V

Membership

Section 1. As provided in the corporate bylaws, the membership of this church consists of

member congregations and synodically recognized ministries. Baptized individuals

who are members of a congregation or synodically recognized ministry (“baptized

members”) shall exercise their privileges and responsibilities through participation

in the congregation or synodically recognized ministry in which they are members.

Section 2. United in one Lord, one Faith and one Baptism, the baptized members of this

church are to be constant in worship and in the study of the Holy Scriptures,

regularly nourishing their life in Christ in the Sacrament of the Altar, presenting

their children for Holy Baptism and providing for their Christian instruction. They

are called by the Spirit to lead godly lives, to promote the unity and welfare of the

church in the bond of peace, to proclaim the gospel and to renounce the evil one.

The commitment of each baptized member to this call is to be expressed through

this church, its synods and its congregations by a life of repentance, faith, prayer

and the sharing of resources.

ARTICLE VI

Congregations

Section 1. A congregation, the corporate existence which is recognized by this church, is a

worshipping, learning, witnessing and serving community of persons baptized in

the name of the triune God among whom the Word is proclaimed and the

sacraments are administered according to the gospel.

Section 2. Each congregation shall operate in accordance with its constitution, owning its

property, making decisions in regard to its programming, calling its rostered

ministers after consulting with the bishop of the synod, and retaining authority in all

other matters that have not been committed to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in

Canada or its synods in this constitution or by subsequent enactments.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 3. Reception of a congregation shall be by action of the synod on whose territory it is

located. Each congregation shall, in its application for reception into this church,

agree to abide loyally by the constitution, administrative bylaws and enactments of

this church and those of the synod of which it becomes a part.

Section 4. Each congregation normally shall be a part of the synod on whose territory it is

located.

Section 5. Congregations shall be only members of this church. Multiple memberships are

prohibited with the exception of membership in a partner church of The Lutheran

World Federation (LWF) by virtue of ethnic origin.

Section 6. Congregations shall have the right to petition this church according to procedures

set forth in the administrative bylaws.

Section 7. A synod, acting for this church, may exclude a congregation from the membership

of this church for proper cause by the disciplinary process prescribed in the

administrative bylaws. This action may be appealed to the Court of Appeal whose

decision therein shall be final.

Section 8. A congregation which desires to sever its relationship with the church, shall

make written application to its synod for a proper release. The synod shall grant

such release following the process set out in the administrative bylaws of the

church.

ARTICLE VII

Synodically Recognized Ministries

Section 1. A ministry recognized by any synod of this church shall be a worshipping, learning,

witnessing and serving community of persons who desire to belong to this church

and commit themselves to the gospel of Jesus Christ, and subscribe to Articles II

and III of the constitution of this church.

ARTICLE VIII

Rostered Ministers—Ordained

Section 1. The administrative bylaws of this church shall define the standards for acceptance

into its ordained ministry, and for the admission and continuance of individuals on

its roster of ordained ministers in a manner consistent with this article. Each synod

shall establish and maintain a roster of ordained ministers in accordance with such

standards.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 2. Each ordained minister must covenant to abide loyally by the constitution,

administrative bylaws, and enactments of this church and of the synod under which

they serve.

ARTICLE IX

Rostered Ministers—Diaconal

Section 1. The administrative bylaws of this church shall define the standards for acceptance

into its diaconal ministry, and for the admission and continuance of individuals on

its roster of diaconal ministers in a manner consistent with this article. Each

synod shall establish and maintain a roster of diaconal ministers in accordance

with such standards.

Section 2. Each diaconal minister shall covenant to abide loyally by the constitution,

administrative bylaws, and enactments of this church and of the synod.

ARTICLE X

Full Communion Partners

Section 1. Ordered ministers of churches with which this church has a full communion

agreement, who are serving in this church under the provisions of that full

communion agreement, shall have the same rights and privileges as the equivalent

order of ministry in this church.

ARTICLE XI

Synods

Section 1. The church shall be organized regionally into synods whose number and

boundaries are to be determined by this church in its administrative bylaws.

Section 2. Each synod shall be incorporated in keeping with the terms of appropriate

documents ratified by the National Church Council. Amendments thereto shall be

subject to ratification by the National Church Council.

Section 3. Each synod shall have a constitution ratified by the National Church Council.

Amendments thereto shall be subject to like ratification by the National Church

Council.

Section 4. As a regional expression of the church, each synod shall have jurisdiction in its

affairs and be responsible for its life and ministry as delineated in its constitution

and administrative bylaws.

Section 5. It shall be the responsibility of each synod to:

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


a. Shepherd congregations, synodically recognized ministries, rostered ministers and lay

workers located within its jurisdiction;

b. Advance the church’s mission within its jurisdiction;

c. Conserve unity in the true faith and guard against any departure from it;

d. Develop the resources of God’s people for the advancement of God’s kingdom at home

and throughout the world; and

e. Co-operate with this church and other synods in implementing its programs.

Section 6 Synods shall carry out such additional duties and responsibilities as are assigned

to them in the administrative bylaws.

Section 7. Each synod shall have the right to petition this church according to the procedures

set forth in the administrative bylaws.

ARTICLE XII

Conventions

Section 1. The convention of this church shall be its highest legislative authority.

ARTICLE XIII


Section 1. There shall be a National Church Council comprised of the officers of this church,

who shall serve as the officers of the council; additional members from the

synods as provided in the administrative bylaws of this church; and other

representatives from full communion partner agreements.

The synod bishops shall be advisory members of the council.

Section 2. The purpose, duties and expectations of council shall be as defined in the

administrative bylaws of the church.

ARTICLE XIV

Officers

Section 1. This church shall be served by a bishop who shall be its chief pastor and chief

executive officer. The bishop shall be on the roster of ordained ministers of this

church. The other officers shall be a vice-chair, a secretary and a treasurer, all of

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


whom shall be lay members of this church.

Section 2. The purpose, duties and expectations of the officers shall be defined in the

administrative bylaws.

ARTICLE XV

Benefit and Pension Plans

Section 1. The administrative bylaws shall provide for the participation by rostered ministers

and lay employees of this church, its synods, congregations, agencies, institutions,

and other recognized ministries and organizations in a pension plan and in a group

benefits plan. The administrative bylaws may establish rules providing for the

participation of such employers and employees in such plans on a compulsory

basis, and may determine the methods to be adopted by the participants in such

plans in order to provide for the proper administration of such plans.

Section 2. The convention may review any such benefit or pension plan and may make

recommendations to the administrator of such plan or to the National Church

Council on any proposed amendments to such plan, and may from time to time

provide advice and direction to the administrator with respect to any proposed

amendment to such plan.

ARTICLE XVI

Special Interest Conferences and Recognized Independent Organizations and Institutions

Section 1. This church may authorize, as provided in the administrative bylaws, the

organization of special interest conferences having common linguistic or cultural

heritages. Such conferences may hold periodic meetings for fellowship and

discussion of common concerns. Reports of meetings, together with any

recommendations arising out of their special sphere of interest, shall be made to the


Section 2. This church shall recognize independent Lutheran organizations and institutions of

a national scope established for Christian education, for the care of the ill, the aged

and the infirm or for missionary endeavour as approved by the National Church

Council.

ARTICLE XVII

Court of Appeal

Section 1. There shall be a Court of Appeal.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 2. The purpose, duties and procedures of the Court of Appeal shall be defined in the

administrative bylaws of this church.

ARTICLE XVIII

Administrative Bylaws

Section 1. This church may adopt such administrative bylaws, not in conflict with this

constitution, as may be necessary. Such administrative bylaws may be amended at

any convention by a two-thirds vote of the delegates present and voting. At least

twenty-four hours shall lapse between first presentation and convention action

unless unanimous consent to amendment is given.

Section 2. Administrative bylaws relating to convention procedure may be suspended by a

two-thirds vote of the delegates present and voting.

ARTICLE XIX

Amendments

Section 1. ARTICLE II on “Confession of Faith” shall be unalterable.

Section 2. Amendments to this constitution shall be in writing and may be proposed by:

a. The National Church Council provided that the amendment is published on the official

website of the church no fewer than forty-five days prior to the convention; or

b. Twenty or more convention delegates representing a majority of synods.

Section 3. All proposed amendments must be reported to the convention no later than the

first full day of business. The National Church Council shall make a report and

recommendation during that convention on all proposed amendments.

Section 4. Adoption of an amendment shall require two separate readings separated by at

least twenty-four hours. Each reading must be passed by a two-thirds vote of the

delegates present and voting.

CARRIED.

-Approval of Administrative Bylaws

NC-2015-11 That the 2015 National Convention repeal the current Administrative Bylaws and

adopt the following Administrative Bylaws.

Administrative Bylaws


Part I Head Office .......................................................................................................................2

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Part II Congregations ....................................................................................................................2

Part III Synodically Recognized Ministries.....................................................................................3

.

Part IV Rostered Ministers—Ordained ...........................................................................................4

Part V Rostered Ministers—Diaconal ............................................................................................8

Part VI Synods ................................................................................................................................12

Part VII Conventions........................................................................................................................13

Part VIII Nominations and Elections................................................................................................15

Part IX National Church Council....................................................................................................18

Part X Officers................................................................................................................................19

Part XI Recall or Dismissal of an Officer ......................................................................................21

Part XII Conference of Bishops .......................................................................................................22

Part XIII Colleges, Universities and Seminaries ..............................................................................23

Part XIV Financial Matters................................................................................................................23

Part XV Benefit and Pension Plans ..................................................................................................23

Part XVI Special Interest Conferences ..............................................................................................24

Part XVII Court of Appeal .................................................................................................................25

Part XVIII Transition ..........................................................................................................................26

PART I HEAD OFFICE

Section 1. The registered head office of this church shall be located in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Section 2. National Church Council shall determine the location of executive offices.

PART II CONGREGATIONS (Constitution, ARTICLE VI)

Section 1. A congregation seeking to be admitted into this church shall submit to the bishop of the

appropriate synod a formal application and a copy of the constitution of the congregation.

Prior to admitting said congregation, the synod shall ascertain if the constitution is in

harmony with the faith and polity of this church.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 2. Each congregation of this church shall:

a. Regularly and faithfully proclaim the Word and administer the sacraments;

b. Endeavour to hold at least one service of worship on each Sunday;

c. Cultivate in its members a life of prayer and an awareness of the presence of God;

d. Educate persons of all ages in the faith confessed by this church and in its implications

for daily living;

e. Encourage and stimulate its members in their witness to Christ, in works of mercy and in

the practice of Christian fellowship and stewardship;

f. Provide adequately for the material needs of its minister(s) and other employees,

including ensuring their participation, when eligible, in the benefit plan and in the

pension plan as set out in Part XV;

g. Share responsibility in providing the funds needed for the life and work of this church

and of the synod;

h. Assure that only those on the roster of ordained or diaconal ministers of this church or of

churches in full communion agreement with this church serve it in a pastoral capacity,

except as this principle is waived in a specific instance with the approval of the bishop of

the synod, subject to review by the synod council;

i. Comply with the constitution, bylaws and enactments of this church and of the synod,

taking no actions in conflict therewith; and

j. Place on file in the synod office a copy of its constitution and bylaws and report promptly

any amendments it may adopt.

Section 3. A congregation may be suspended or excluded from this church by action of a synod if

the congregation persists in any of the following offences:

a. Turning aside from the faith confessed by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada as

set forth in ARTICLE II of its constitution;

b. Willfully violating or disregarding the constitution or official actions of this church or the

synod;

c. Applying for or maintaining membership in another church;

d. Refusing or neglecting to exercise proper discipline over its members;

e. Failure to provide financial support to this church or the synod; or

f. Failure to participate in conventions of this church or synod without reasonable excuse.

The bishop of the synod shall counsel with any congregation where such offences exist.

If necessary, the bishop shall then admonish the congregation in writing. If the

admonition is unheeded, a representative committee composed of rostered ministers and

laity shall be appointed by the synod council to investigate the congregation. Upon the

recommendation of the committee the synod council may suspend or exclude the

congregation from this church.

Disciplinary action of the synod council may be appealed to the Court of Appeal within

forty-five days of receiving notification of the action of the synod council. The decision

of the Court of Appeal is final.

Section 4. A congregation considering severing its relationship with this church shall confer with

the bishop of the synod before any formal steps are taken leading to such action.

Subsequent to such consultation with the bishop, a motion to sever the relationship with

this church may be considered at a special meeting of congregation and a two-thirds

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


majority vote shall be required for approval of the motion. Written notice of the motion

and the date and time of the congregational meeting shall be sent to the bishop at least

thirty days before the meeting. A decision to sever the relationship with this church shall

not be effective until it has been ratified by a two-thirds majority vote at a second special

meeting of the congregation held not less than 90 days and not more than 150 days after

the first meeting. Notice of the date and time of this second meeting shall be sent to the

bishop of the synod by registered mail at least thirty days before the meeting.

PART III SYNODICALLY RECOGNIZED MINISTRIES (Constitution, ARTICLE VII)

Section 1. A ministry seeking to be recognized by a synod of this church shall submit to the bishop

of the appropriate synod a formal application and a copy of its governing documents.

Synod council shall, prior to recognizing said ministry, ascertain whether those governing

documents are in harmony with the faith and polity of this church.

Section 2. Each recognized ministry of this church shall:

a. Faithfully live out its unique mission,

b. Annually report to the appropriate synod,

c. Comply with the constitution, bylaws and enactments of this church and of the synod,

taking no actions in conflict therewith;

d. Place on file in the synod office a copy of its governing documents and report promptly

any amendments it may adopt; and

e. Commit to live out a relationship of mutual support with this church through prayer, by

participation in the wider church, with financial and other resources, and by regular

communication.

Section 3. A recognized ministry may be suspended or excluded from this church by action of a

synod if the ministry persists in any of the following offences:

a. Turning aside from the faith confessed by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada as

set forth in ARTICLE II of its constitution;

b. Willfully violating or disregarding the constitution or official actions of this church or the

synod; or

c. Refusing or neglecting to exercise proper discipline over its members.

The bishop of the synod shall counsel with any recognized ministry where such offences

exist. If necessary, the bishop shall then admonish the ministry in writing. If the

admonition is unheeded, a representative committee composed of rostered ministers and

laity shall be appointed by the synod council to investigate the ministry. Upon the

recommendation of the committee the synod council may suspend or exclude the ministry

from this church.

Disciplinary action of the synod council may be appealed to the Court of Appeal within

forty-five days of receiving notification of the action of the synod council. The decision

of the Court of Appeal is final.

PART IV ROSTERED MINISTERS—ORDAINED (Constitution, ARTICLE VIII)

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 1. Standards for Admission

To be eligible for ordination or admission onto the roster of ministers of this church, a

candidate must have accepted a call (which call may be subject to the candidate’s

ordination) and must have met the standards set forth in the candidacy manual of this

church.

Section 2. Colloquy

Synodical examining committees shall interview all candidates for ordination and all

persons applying for admission to the roster of ministers and shall ensure their:

a. Acceptance of and adherence to the Confession of Faith of this church;

b. Fulfilment of academic requirements; and

c. Personal qualifications for carrying out the functions of ordained ministry.

Section 3. Continuance on the Roster of Ministers

a. In order to remain on the roster of ministers of this church, each ordained minister must

be in possession of a proper call, be on leave from call, retired, or be an individual who

has been suspended from exercising the office and privileges of the ordained ministry, in

accordance with these administrative bylaws. A synod council may remove an individual

from the roster of ministers in accordance with the provisions of this Part.

b. Calls may be issued for the ministries specified below by the agencies indicated:

Type of Ordained Ministry Source of Call

i. Parish pastor Congregation

ii. Bishop of the church Convention of this church

iii. Staff of this church National Church Council

iv. Synod bishop and other officers Synod Convention

v. Staff of synod Synod Council

vi. Staff of an educational or charitable Synod Council on whose

institution or agency territory the institution or

agency carries out its

functions.

vii. Staff of Federation of Lutheran Churches National Church Council

viii. Staff of nationwide inter-Lutheran agency National Church Council

ix. Staff of a provincial agency or institution Synod Council

x. Staff of an interdenominational agency National Church Council

xi. Chaplain in the armed forces or in an National Church Council

institution operated by the federal government.

xii. Pastor developing a new congregation Synod Council

xiii. Pastor in a synodically recognized ministry Synod Council

xiv. Pastor of an independent congregation in National Church Council

Canada

xv. Pastor serving an institution or agency National Church Council

outside of Canada

xvi. Global missionary National Church Council

xvii. Pastor serving in a congregation under Synod Council

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


synod supervision

xviii. Ministries not otherwise provided for Synod Council on whose

(as in conjunction with occupations in territory the ministry is

unusual ministries in approved located or National Church

situations) Council if the ministry

involves more than one

synod or is outside Canada,

upon recommendation of the

Conference of Bishops

xix. Pastor ordained through alternate routes

recognized by this church

Synod Council

c. All ordained ministers of this church shall make an annual report of their ministry to their

synod bishop.

d. Each ordained minister shall, when eligible, participate in the benefit plan and in the

pension plan referred to in Part XV unless, with respect to the pension plan, such

ordained minister is required to participate in another registered pension plan as defined

in section 147.1 of the Income Tax Act. An ordained minister required to participate in

another registered pension plan shall provide proof of such participation to the committee

or board appointed to administer the pension plan referred to in Part XV.

Section 4. No ordained minister of this church shall divulge any confidential disclosure given in the

course of the care of souls or otherwise in a professional capacity, except with the express

permission of the person involved, or where required by law, or in order to prevent the

commission of a crime.

Section 5. Ordained ministers on the faculty of the Lutheran Theological Seminary Saskatoon must

maintain status on the roster of ministers of the British Columbia Synod of the

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, the Alberta Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran

Church in Canada, the Saskatchewan Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in

Canada or the Manitoba/Northwestern Ontario Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran

Church in Canada. The synod in which the faculty member will be rostered will be

decided by the Board of Governors of Lutheran Theological Seminary. Ordained

ministers on the faculty of Waterloo Lutheran Seminary must maintain status on the

roster of ministers of the Eastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada.

Section 6. An ordained minister of this church who accepts a call in a full communion partner

church or another church with which this church has exchangeability of clergy shall,

upon application to the bishop of the synod, be entitled to a certificate of transfer.

Section 7. If an ordained minister resides at too great a distance from any congregation of this

church or a full communion partner church to be able to sustain a living relationship

thereto, the bishop of the synod may grant permission to hold membership in a

congregation of another church.

Section 8. Other than serving as minister to and/or joining a full communion partner church, or

except as provided for in Section 7 above, an ordained minister of this church who enters

the ministry or joins a congregation of a church other than this church shall cease to be a

member of this church and shall be removed from the roster of ministers.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 9. An ordained minister may voluntarily resign from the roster by giving written notice to

the bishop of the synod. Request for reinstatement shall be submitted to the synod

examining committee. Upon favourable action by this committee, the bishop shall declare

the person eligible for a call. Upon acceptance of a call, the person shall be reinstated on

the roster of ministers.

A person who has failed to be approved by one synod may re-apply only to the same

synod. If the second application is declined, the candidate may appeal to the National

Church Council through the bishop of this church for an exception to this limitation.

Section 10. An ordained minister serving under a call shall not engage in an additional occupation

without approval of the calling authority and the bishop of the synod. The approval shall

not be unreasonably withheld.

Section 11. An ordained minister desiring to remain on the roster without call shall make application

to the bishop of the synod, who shall bring the request to the synod council for action.

The synod council may grant the application for a period of up to three years. An

application for an extension of “on leave from call” status for an additional five years

may be granted by the synod council for the purpose of parental leave or study leave.

The status of “on leave from call” shall be subject to an annual review by the synod

council and may be cancelled by the synod council as a result of this review. Before

cancelling the status of “on leave from call” the synod council shall give the ordained

minister 90 days written notice of the intent to cancel. The action of the synod council

may be appealed to the Court of Appeal within 45 days of receiving notification of the

intent of the synod council to cancel the “on leave from call” status. The decision of the

Court of Appeal shall be final.

At the end of the approved “on leave from call” period, the synod council shall remove

the ordained minister from the roster of ministers and shall notify that minister of such

action. This action of the synod council is not subject to appeal.

Section 12. Upon application, the status of “retired” shall be granted by synod council to an ordained

minister who has attained the age of 55 years or who has 30 years of service.

Section 13. Discipline:

Synod councils shall undertake to put in place the following provisions for discipline of

ordained ministers:

a. Synod councils shall subject an ordained minister to discipline for:

i. Preaching or teaching of doctrine in conflict with the confession of faith of this

church (Constitution, ARTICLE II);

ii. Conduct unbecoming an ordained minister;

iii. Willful disregard for or violation of the functions and standards established by

this church for the office of Word and Sacrament; or

iv. Willful disregard of the constitution, administrative bylaws or enactments of

this church or of the synod.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


b. After three years an ordained minister suspended from the office and privileges of the

ordained ministry by a synod council shall be removed from the roster of ministers by the

synod council which suspended such individual unless, within three years of the date of

such suspension, that synod council received evidence satisfactory to it of repentance and

amendment of life.

c. An ordained minister under discipline by a synod or otherwise removed by it from the

roster of ministers must be restored by that synod to good standing before becoming

eligible for acceptance by another synod. If not restored by that synod, the ordained

minister may appeal to the Court of Appeal for an exception to this ruling.

d. Upon reinstatement by a synod council, an ordained minister who was suspended from

the office and privileges of the ordained ministry may apply for status of “on leave from

call.”

Section 14. The National Church Council may from time to time establish guidelines to define or to

assist in the interpretation of the above grounds for discipline.

Section 15. The National Church Council shall also maintain a Manual on Discipline of Ministers

containing material which provides guidance to synods and individuals involved in a

process dealing with a complaint against, or the discipline of, an ordained minister.

PART V ROSTERED MINISTERS—DIACONAL (Constitution, ARTICLE IX)

Section 1. Standards for Admission

To be eligible for consecration or admission onto the roster of ministers of this church, a

candidate must have accepted a call (which call may be subject to the candidate’s

consecration) and must have met the standards set forth in the candidacy manual of this

church.

Section 2. Colloquy

Synodical examining committees shall interview all candidates for consecration and all

persons applying for admission onto the roster of ministers and shall ensure their:

a. Acceptance of and adherence to the Confession of Faith of this church;

b. Fulfilment of academic requirements; and

c. Personal qualifications for carrying out the functions of diaconal ministry.

Section 3. Continuance on the Roster of Ministers

a. In order to remain on the roster of ministers, each diaconal minister must be in possession

of a proper call, on leave from call, retired, or be an individual who has been suspended

from exercising the office and privileges of the diaconal ministry, in accordance with

these administrative bylaws. A synod council may remove an individual from the roster

of ministers in accordance with the provisions of this Part.

b. Calls may be issued for the ministries specified below by the agencies indicated:

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Type of Diaconal Ministry Source of Call

i. Congregational Diaconal Minister Congregation

ii. Staff of this church National Church Council

iii. Synod officer Synod Convention

iv. Staff of the synod Synod Council

v. Staff of an educational or charitable Synod Council on whose

institution or agency territory the institution or agency

carries out its functions

vi. Staff of Federation of Lutheran Churches National Church Council

vii. Staff of a nationwide inter-Lutheran agency National Church Council

viii. Staff of a provincial agency or institution Synod Council

ix. Staff of an inter-denominational agency National Church Council

x. Chaplain in an institution operated by the National Church Council

federal government

xi. Congregational diaconal minister of a Synod Council on whose

synodically recognized ministry territory the ministry is

situated

xii. Diaconal minister serving an institution or National Church Council

agency outside of Canada

xiii. Global missionary National Church Council

xiv. Ministries not otherwise provided for Synod Council on whose

(as in conjunction with occupations in territory the ministry is

unusual ministries in approved located or National Church

situations) Council if the ministry

involves more than one synod

or is outside Canada, upon

recommendation of the Conference

of Bishops

c. All diaconal ministers shall make an annual report of their ministry to their synod bishop.

d. Each diaconal minister shall, when eligible, participate in the benefit plan and in the

pension plan referred to in Part XV unless, with respect to the pension plan, such

diaconal minister is required to participate in another registered pension plan as defined

in section 147.1 of the Income Tax Act. A diaconal minister required to participate in

another registered pension plan shall provide proof of such participation to the committee

or board appointed to administer the pension plan referred to in Part XV.

Section 4. No diaconal minister shall divulge any confidential disclosure given in the course of the

care of souls or otherwise in a professional capacity, except with the express permission

of the person involved, or where required by law, or in order to prevent the commission

of a crime.

Section 5. If a diaconal minister resides at too great a distance from any congregation of this church

or a full communion partner church to be able to sustain a living relationship thereto, the

bishop of the synod may grant permission to hold membership in a congregation of

another church.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 6. Other than serving as minister to and/or joining a full communion partner church, or

except as provided for in Section 5 above, a diaconal minister of this church who enters

the ministry or joins a congregation of a church other than this church shall cease to be a

member of this church and shall be removed from the roster of ministers.

Section 7. A diaconal minister may voluntarily resign from the roster by giving written notice to the

bishop of the synod. Request for reinstatement shall be submitted to the synod examining

committee. Upon favourable action by this committee, the bishop of the synod shall

declare the person eligible for a call. Upon acceptance of a call, the person shall be

reinstated on the roster of ministers.

A person who has failed to be approved by one synod may re-apply only to the same

synod. If the second application is declined, the candidate may appeal to the National

Church Council through the bishop of this church for an exception to this limitation.

Section 8. A diaconal minister serving under a call shall not engage in an additional occupation

without approval of the calling authority and the bishop of the synod. Approval shall not

be unreasonably withheld.

Section 9. A diaconal minister desiring to remain on the roster without call shall make application to

the bishop of the synod, who shall bring the request to the synod council for action. The

synod council may grant the application for a period of up to three years. An application

for an extension of “on leave from call” status for an additional five years may be granted

by the synod council for the purpose of parental leave or study leave.

The status of “on leave from call” shall be subject to an annual review by the synod

council and may be cancelled by the synod council as a result of this review. Before

cancelling the status of “on leave from call” the synod council shall give the diaconal

minister 90 days written notice of the intent to cancel. The action of the synod council

may be appealed to the Court of Appeal within 45 days of receiving notification of the

intent of the synod council to cancel the “on leave from call” status. The decision of the

Court of Appeal shall be final.

At the end of the approved “on leave from call” period, the synod council shall remove

the diaconal minister from the roster of ministers and shall notify that minister of such

action. This action of the synod council is not subject to appeal.

Section 10. Upon application, the status of “retired” shall be granted by synod council to a diaconal

minister who has attained the age of 55 years or who has 30 years of service.

Section 11. Discipline (Diaconal Ministers)

a. The synod council shall subject a diaconal minister to discipline for:

i. Preaching or teaching of doctrine in conflict with the confession of faith of this

church (Constitution, ARTICLE II);

ii. Conduct unbecoming a diaconal minister;

iii. Willful disregard for or violation of the functions and standards established by

this church for the office of Word and service; or

iv. Willful disregard of the constitution, administrative bylaws or enactments of this

church or of the synod.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


b. After three years a diaconal minister suspended from the office and privileges of the

diaconal ministry by a synod council shall be removed from the roster of ministers by the

synod council which suspended such individual unless, within three years of the date of

such suspension, that synod council receives evidence satisfactory to it of repentance and

amendment of life.

c. A diaconal minister under discipline by a synod or otherwise removed by it from the

roster of ministers must be restored by that synod to good standing before becoming

eligible for acceptance by another synod. If not restored by that synod, the diaconal

minister may appeal to the Court of Appeal for an exception to this ruling.

d. Upon reinstatement by a synod council, a diaconal minister who was suspended from the

office and privileges of the diaconal ministry may apply for status of ‘on leave from call.’

Section 12. The National Church Council may from time to time establish guidelines to define or to

assist in the interpretation of the above grounds for discipline.

Section 13. The National Church Council shall also maintain a Manual on Discipline of Ministers

containing material which provides guidance to synods and individuals involved in a

process dealing with a complaint against, or the discipline of, a diaconal minister.

Section 14. All diaconal ministers consecrated by the ELCIC have the right to use the title “Deacon.”

PART VI SYNODS (Constitution, ARTICLE XI)

Section 1. This church shall be organized into five synods with names and territories as follows:

a. Name: British Columbia Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada.

Territory: Province of British Columbia

b. Name: Alberta Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, also known as

the Synod of Alberta and the Territories.

Territory: Province of Alberta and territories of the Yukon, Nunavut and the Northwest

Territories.

c. Name: Saskatchewan Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada

Territory: Province of Saskatchewan and the geographical area served by member

congregations outside Saskatchewan.

d. Name: Manitoba/Northwestern Ontario Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in

Canada.

Territory: Province of Manitoba and the portion of Ontario west of 86 degrees longitude.

e. Name: Eastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada.

Territory: Province of Ontario east of 86 degrees longitude and the Provinces of Quebec,

New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Section 2. The number and size of synods shall be reviewed by the National Church Council at such

times as it deems appropriate or when a request for such a review is made by a synod

seeking a change to its boundaries or by at least forty congregations seeking a change to

the boundaries of their synod. The establishment of a new synod must receive a two-

thirds majority vote by the delegates present and voting at the convention(s) of the

synod(s) involved and thereafter it must be approved by the convention of this church by

a majority vote.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 3. Congregations, which might benefit from inclusion in an adjoining synod may apply to

this church for reassignment to that synod.

Section 4. The bishop of this church, or a bishop otherwise appointed by the bishop of this church,

shall preside according to the duly authorized rite of this church when a newly elected

synodical bishop is set apart and/or installed to that office.

Section 5. Within the context of this church’s policy and structure as set forth in these bylaws and

by convention resolution, each synod bears primary responsibility for:

a. Initiating and developing new congregations and synodically recognized ministries on its

territory;

b. Providing chaplaincies and other forms of ministry to institutions on its territory;

c. Relating to regional social structures, councils of churches and the like;

d. Operating camps and other centres for conferences and retreats;

e. Developing programs and providing resources for evangelism, Christian education, social

ministry, stewardship, worship and music, and youth ministry among its members in

cooperation with the church and the synods; and

f. Promoting and supporting the cause of mission in the world.

Section 6. Each synod shall be responsible for maintaining a current roster of ministers of this

church which are within its jurisdiction. At the written request of a rostered minister who

is a member in good standing and who is called into another synod, the secretary of each

synod shall issue a Certificate of Transfer and shall enter on the roster of ministers of the

synod the names of all rostered ministers for whom proper Certificates of Transfer have

been received.

Section 7. Each synod shall be responsible for all acts of installation of its rostered ministers, except

in the case of the National Bishop of this church and other rostered ministers serving

under call from the National Church Council.

Section 8. Each synod shall receive contributions from congregations for the work of the church and

shall forward to this church a proportion thereof determined by mutual consultation

between the synod and this church.

PART VII CONVENTIONS (Constitution, ARTICLE XII)

Section 1. The regular conventions of this church shall be held triennially.

Section 2. The time and place of the next regular convention shall be determined by National

Church Council.

Section 3. The secretary shall make a Bulletin of Reports available to all delegates-elect at least

forty-five days before each regular convention.

Section 4. Arrangements for conventions of this church shall be made by the National Church

Council in conjunction with a committee appointed by the host synod for that purpose.

Section 5. Each synod shall pay the cost of its delegate(s) at a rate determined by the National

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Church Council.

Section 6. All appointments for general religious services or public meetings shall be subject to

approval by the bishop of this church, who shall appoint a chaplain to be responsible for

the devotional periods of the convention.

Section 7. The maximum number of voting delegates at convention shall be 150. Eighty delegates

shall be lay, 10 shall be youth, and 60 shall be rostered ministers.

Section 8. Synods shall be entitled to elect 10 delegates from each synod; the remaining delegates

shall be apportioned among the synods based on baptized membership 18 months prior to

convention.

Section 9. Youth delegates shall be baptized members between the ages of 16 and 25 inclusive on

the first full day of the convention.

Section 10. The secretary of each synod shall forward to the secretary of the church at least 90 days

before the convention a certified list of the regular and alternate delegates elected in the

synod. The roll of the delegates to each convention shall be prepared by the secretary of

this church in advance of the convention. Changes in the roll of delegates must be

authorized by the synod concerned prior to the commencement of the convention.

Section 11. Petitions from synods and congregations shall be submitted to the secretary of this church

not later than 90 days prior to the convention for referral to the Committee of Reference

and Counsel, and for inclusion in the Bulletin of Reports.

Section 12. During the first session of each regular convention, the bishop of this church shall

announce the membership of the following committees appointed by the officers:

a. Committee of Reference and Counsel; and

b. Committee on Conduct of Elections.

Section 13. A resolution of a general character which is not germane to the pending question or

report shall be given to the Committee of Reference and Counsel by the delegate

proposing such resolution. The Committee of Reference and Counsel shall report all such

resolutions to the convention with its recommendations. Other duties of the committee

shall be to recommend special orders for the hearing of representatives, to grant or deny

permission to distribute printed or electronic matters not issuing from the office of the

secretary and to give such assistance to the bishop as may be desired in the course of the

convention.

Section 14. All reports published in the Bulletin of Reports or in supplements thereto shall be

received by the convention by virtue of that fact without vote.

Section 15. The privilege of the floor shall be granted at all times to all members of the National

Church Council.

Section 16. Official representatives from other church bodies may be given seat and voice.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 17. Any delegate may request the convention to grant any person the privilege of addressing

the convention upon any matter then under consideration. Such request shall be granted

only upon the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the delegates then present and

voting. However, such person shall not thereby have seat or voice in the convention.

Section 18. Unless otherwise determined by a two-thirds vote of the convention, all speeches in

general discussion shall be limited to three minutes.

Section 19. When a motion calling for an appropriation of funds comes before the convention from

any source other than the National Church Council, it shall be referred at once to said

council for consideration and report.

Section 20. Bourinot’s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall be the governing parliamentary law of this

church, except as otherwise provided in its constitution and bylaws.

Section 21. Special conventions shall be called for specified purposes by the bishop of this church to

be held within 90 days of receiving a request in writing from 2/3 of the members of the

National Church Council or from 2/3 of the synods.

Section 22. The voting membership at a special convention shall consist of the delegates seated in the

preceding regular convention providing they have not been disqualified by termination of

membership. Vacancies shall be filled by appointment of synod councils.

Section 23. A quorum shall consist of twenty percent of the eligible voting members provided that

such members are from at least two-thirds of the synods.

PART VIII NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS

Section 1. The procedure for nominations in general shall be as follows:

a. The National Church Council shall submit nominations for the Committee on

Nominations to the church in convention.

b. The church in convention shall elect the Committee on Nominations for the next

convention. This committee shall consist of five members, one from the British Columbia

Synod, one from the Alberta Synod, one from the Saskatchewan Synod, one from the

Manitoba/Northwestern Ontario Synod, and one from the Eastern Synod.

c. The committee shall elect its own convenor at an initial meeting called by the secretary.

They shall prepare a slate of nominations for election by the convention to fill vacancies

in the membership of the National Church Council, Court of Appeal and ELCIC Group

Services Inc. except as otherwise provided. This slate shall be complete at least three

months prior to each convention.

d. At least six months prior to the convention, the secretary shall publish on the official

website of this church a list of vacancies to be filled at the convention.

e. The Committee on Nominations shall select two nominees for each vacancy having

concern for inclusive representation and the particular needs of the National Church

Council, Court of Appeal, and ELCIC Group Services Inc. and also for geographical and

synodical distribution, but nominating no person holding an elected position whose term

does not expire at the time of the convention.

f. Should any of the nominees indicate inability to serve, the Committee on Nominations

shall make whatever alteration to the list of nominations as may be necessary.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


g. Following the report of the Committee on Nominations to the convention, opportunity

shall be given for nominations from the floor.

h. The report shall provide the following information about each nominee: occupation,

synod, and a brief statement of experience. Like information shall be given by the

nominator to the Committee on Nominations for each person nominated from the floor.

i. Upon completion of all nominations, the secretary shall have the official ballots prepared.

Section 2. The officers shall be elected in the following order: bishop, vice-chair, secretary, and

treasurer.

Section 3. In elections by the convention, the following rules shall apply:

a. All elections shall be by ballot. In all elections except as otherwise provided a majority of

the votes cast on any ballot shall elect.

b. When the National Bishop is eligible for re-election, the first ballot shall contain one

name only in a yes or no vote on election of the incumbent National Bishop. Two-thirds

of the ballots cast shall be required for election.

c. Should the election fail, the election shall proceed with an ecclesiastical ballot of

nominations from the floor. On this ballot for bishop, three-fourths of the votes cast shall

be required for election. Thereafter, only such votes as are cast for persons who have

received votes on the first or nominating ballot shall be valid. On the second ballot, two-

thirds of the votes cast shall be required for election. On the third ballot, a majority of the

votes cast shall elect. On the fourth ballot, the voting shall be limited to five persons

receiving the highest vote on the third ballot, and a majority of the votes cast shall elect.

On the fifth ballot, the voting shall be limited to the three persons receiving the highest

vote on the fourth ballot, and a majority of the votes cast shall elect. On the sixth ballot,

the voting shall be limited to the two persons receiving the highest vote on the fifth

ballot, and a majority of the votes cast shall elect.

d. Following the second ballot for bishop, each eligible person receiving one or more votes

will be invited to provide a brief biography. These may include congregational

membership, degrees earned and honorary, pastorates and other positions held in the

church, secular profession or occupation, membership on boards, special committees or

agencies. Following the third ballot, those five persons receiving the highest number of

votes cast will be invited to address the convention. Following the fourth ballot, those

three persons receiving the highest number of votes cast will be invited to respond to

questions submitted in writing from the convention delegates and selected by the

Committee on Conduct of Elections. As each responds, the other two will be sequestered.

e. On the first ballot for vice-chair, three-fourths of the votes cast shall be required for

election. Thereafter, only such votes as are cast for persons who have received votes on

the first or nominating ballot shall be valid. On the second ballot, two-thirds of the votes

cast shall be required for election. On the third ballot, the voting shall be limited to the

four persons receiving the highest vote on the second ballot, and a majority of the votes

cast shall elect. On the fourth ballot the voting shall be limited to the three persons

receiving the highest vote on the third ballot, and a majority of the votes cast shall elect.

On the fifth ballot the voting shall be limited to the two persons receiving the highest vote

on the fourth ballot, and a majority of the votes cast shall elect.

f. National Church Council shall nominate a person for the offices of secretary and

treasurer. Opportunity will be given for nominations from the floor of the convention.

g. The Committee on Conduct of Elections shall make available to the convention the

following information concerning each person appearing on the third ballot for vice-

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


chair: congregational membership, degrees earned and honorary, positions held in the

church, secular profession or occupation, membership on boards, special committees or

agencies.

h. If no nominee receives a majority of votes on the first ballot for elections of secretary,

treasurer, members of the National Church Council, Court of Appeal, and the ELCIC

Group Services Inc., only the names of the two persons receiving the highest number of

votes but not elected on the preceding ballot shall be entered on the next ballot.

i. At no point during the election will any eligible person be permitted to withdraw his or

her name from any ballot. Nor will any person be compelled to provide a biography or

address the convention.

j. The result of each ballot in every election shall be announced in detail to the convention

by the Committee on Conduct of Elections.

Section 4. In determining eligibility for re-election to the National Church Council, Court of

Appeal, and ELCIC Group Services Inc. a half-term shall be counted as a full term.

Section 5. All terms of office, except as otherwise provided in these bylaws, shall begin at the

conclusion of the convention at which the election thereto occurred.

Section 6. A person shall not be eligible to serve on more than one of the following:

National Church Council, Court of Appeal, or ELCIC Group Services Inc.

PART IX NATIONAL CHURCH COUNCIL (Constitution, ARTICLE XIII)

Section 1. The council shall normally meet in March and September of each year.

Section 2. The Executive Committee of the council shall consist of the officers of this church.

Section 3. In addition to the officers National Church Council shall consist of 5 rostered members,

one from each synod; 5 lay persons, one from each synod; and 1 lay person at large from

the synod with the most baptized members. There shall be one additional member

appointed by the Council of General Synod (COGS) of the Anglican Church of Canada

for a term to be determined by COGS.

Section 4. Members of council, other than the officers and synod bishops shall be elected by the

convention for a term of three years and are eligible for re-election but may not serve

more than three consecutive terms.

Section 5. A majority of the members of the council shall constitute a quorum.

Section 6. The council shall arrange for the celebration of the duly authorized rite of this church

when a new National Bishop is set apart to that office. The bishop of this church (or if

such office is vacant, the council) shall appoint a bishop to preside at the rite.

Section 7. The council shall issue letters of call to the rostered salaried staff of this church, to

rostered ministers serving within the structures and agencies of this church, and to those

in special service in accordance with the bylaw provisions (Part IV, Section 3 or Part V,

Section 3).

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 8. The council shall approve personnel policies applicable to all executive and support staff.

Section 9. The council shall be responsible for organizing the National Convention including

preparation and presentation of annual budgets and convention agenda.

Section 10. The council may issue official statements on social or moral issues in the name of this

church between its conventions when, in the judgment of the council, an emergency

exists or when delay of such action until the next convention would impair the timeliness

of an utterance that this church ought in conscience to make. Concurrence of two-thirds

of the total membership of the council shall be required in each such instance.

Section 11. The bishop of this church shall be ex officio a member of all committees of council.

PART X OFFICERS (Constitution, ARTICLE XIV)

Section 1. The officers other than the bishop shall be elected by the convention for a term of three

years according to procedures established in the administrative bylaws. The bishop shall

serve for a term of six years. All officers shall be eligible to be re-elected without term

limit and shall serve until their successors assume office.

Section 2. Should a vacancy occur ad interim in any of the offices with the exception of the office

of bishop, the National Church Council is empowered to fill the same until the next

regular convention or to call a special convention to fill the vacancy. Each election by a

convention shall be for a full term of office.

Section 3. The terms of the officers other than bishop shall begin at the conclusion of the convention

following election. The term of the bishop shall begin on the first day of September

following election.

Section 4. The bishop of this church shall:

a. Serve as its leader and counsellor;

b. Seek to preserve its peace and order;

c. Call, convene and preside over its conventions and the meetings of the National Church

Council;

d. Speak publicly and witness for the gospel on behalf of this church;

e. Oversee the officers and executive staff;

f. Co-ordinate the work of its committees, and serve in an ex officio capacity with voice and

vote;

g. Represent this church at meetings of recognized independent organizations;

h. Convene meetings of the bishops of the synods;

i. Serve as the primary representative of this church in all inter-church associations and

councils in which it holds membership;

j. Be responsible for co-ordinating administrative matters, clarifying areas of overlapping

or unassigned accountability;

k. Convene meetings of the officers and executive staff of this church for consultation, other

persons may be included at the discretion of the bishop;

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


l. Serve as a consultant in the nomination process for the election of chief executive officers

of the institutions of this church;

m. Convene and chair meetings of the Executive Committee;

n. Prepare a report on the state of this church for presentation at the conventions of this

church and of its synods;

o. Make an annual report to the National Church Council, analyzing the programs of this

church and aiding the council in setting priorities and emphases in the work of this

church;

p. Represent this church at conventions of the synods or appoint a member of the National

Church Council to be a representative;

q. Engage, with the approval of the National Church Council, such staff as is necessary to

discharge the responsibilities assigned to the bishop; and

r. Perform the additional duties prescribed in the constitution, administrative bylaws and

resolutions of this church.

Section 5. The vice-chair shall:

a. Preside at conventions and at meetings of the National Church Council upon the request

of the bishop;

b. In the event of the death, resignation or incapacity of the bishop, convene the National

Church Council to provide for the discharge of the bishop’s duties pending the election of

a new bishop at a regular or special convention;

c. Serve as a member of the Executive Committee of the National Church Council, together

with the bishop, secretary and treasurer; and

d. Perform the additional duties prescribed in the constitution, administrative bylaws and


Section 6. The secretary shall:

a. Maintain the roster of congregations of this church;

b. Have custody of the archives of this church, including:

i. Official documents and records of this church,

ii. Proceedings of the conventions of this church and of its synods, and

iii. Biographical data of rostered ministers who have served this church.

c. Gather and publish the statistics of this church;

d. Publish, as needed, the articles of incorporation and a current issue of the constitution and

bylaws of this church and make available through the website of this church.

e. Give notice of each convention of this church upon order of the bishop, and prepare and

distribute a Bulletin of Reports;

f. Maintain a record of delegates, advisory members and official visitors of the conventions;

g. Keep convention minutes and codify convention resolutions;

h. Register participants at regular and special conventions;

i. Compile and publish a report of each convention to be made available on the website of

this church;

j. Issue certificates of election and notify those concerned of resolutions adopted by each

convention;

k. Respond to inquiries seeking information on policies approved or actions taken by the

National Church Council and by the conventions of this church; and

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


l. Ensure that appropriate corporations are established for health care institutions or

agencies owned by this church or its synods, and review and make recommendations

regarding all proposed constitutional amendments.

m. Perform the additional duties prescribed in the constitution, administrative bylaws and


Scction 7. The treasurer shall:

a. Be the fiscal officer of this church;

b. Make full report of the financial affairs of this church to conventions and to the National

Church Council;

c. Be responsible for the safekeeping of the securities, insurance policies, deeds, abstracts,

mortgages and other legal instruments held by the National Church Council on behalf of

this church and its boards; and

d. Perform the additional duties prescribed in the constitution, administrative bylaws and


PART XI RECALL OR DISMISSAL OF AN OFFICER

Section 1. The recall or dismissal of an officer of this church or of a synod of this church and the

vacating of the office may be effected:

a. For willful disregard or violation of the constitution, authority or resolutions of this

church;

b. For such physical or mental disability or incompetence as may render the officer

incapable of performing the duties of office; or

c. For such conduct as would subject the officer to disciplinary action in the synod or

congregation of which he or she is a member.

Section 2. Proceedings for recall or dismissal shall be instituted by filing with the chairperson of the

Court of Appeal a petition stating specifically the charge or charges.

a. A statement of charge against an officer of the National Church may be initiated:

i. By at least two-thirds of the elected members of the National Church Council; or

ii. By a petition signed by at least one-fifth of those who were delegates to the latest

convention of this church, at least 15 of whom shall be rostered delegates and at

least 15 of whom shall be lay delegates representing at least two synods with no

more than 20 from any one synod.

b. A statement of charge against a synod officer may be initiated:

i. By at least two-thirds of the elected members of the synod council;

ii. By at least one-fifth of those who were delegates to the latest convention of the

synod, at least one-quarter of whom are rostered delegates and at least one-

quarter of whom are lay delegates; or

iii. By at least two-thirds of the elected members of the National Church Council.

Section 3. The chairperson of the Court of Appeal shall cause a copy of the statement of charge to

be delivered to the accused officer, together with a notice of the time and place when the

court will meet to hear the charges. The accused officer shall have the right to present a

defence. After hearing such testimony as it may deem necessary and helpful, the court

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


shall decide promptly whether the charges have been sustained and whether the accused

officer shall be recalled or dismissed and the office vacated. If the charges are not

sustained the statement of charge shall be dismissed. A judgment dismissing the charges

shall be final and not subject to appeal. In any case, the court shall report the filing of the

statement of charge and its disposition to the next convention of this church or, in the

case of a synod officer, of the synod.

Section 4. Notice of a decision by the court that the charges have been sustained shall be given the

accused officer, and unless the officer shall within thirty days after receipt of such notice,

file with the court an appeal of such decision to the next convention, the court shall enter

judgment that the officer has been recalled or dismissed and the office vacated, and the

National Church Council or, in the case of a synod officer, the synod council shall be

notified of the entry of such judgment.

Section 5. Upon appeal by the accused officer, the next convention may decide by a two- thirds

vote, after debate but without receiving testimony, that the officer shall be recalled or

dismissed and the office vacated.

Section 6. After a decision that the charges have been sustained, if it be deemed essential to good

order that the accused officer should be meanwhile suspended, the court, a majority of

members concurring, shall direct its chair to notify the National Church Council or synod

council, which in such case shall by a two-thirds vote suspend the accused officer from

performance of the duties of office pending action on an appeal, and may make provision

for performance of such duties ad interim.

Section 7. The Court of Appeal shall promulgate such additional rules of procedure, as it may deem

necessary for the performance of its duties under this item.

PART XII CONFERENCE OF BISHOPS

Section 1. There shall be a Conference of Bishops composed of the National Bishop and the

synodical bishops.

Section 2. The Conference of Bishops shall be convened by the National Bishop at least annually.

Section 3. The Conference of Bishops shall:

a. Attend to the spiritual and collegial nurture of its members;

b. Reflect and provide vision on issues that affect the life of the church;

c. Develop and share objectives and strategies concerning pastoral leadership;

d. Recommend policy and practice to the National Church Council;

e. Advise National Church Council on referred matters; and

f. Strive to achieve consistent practice across the synods.

PART XIII COLLEGES, UNIVERSITIES AND SEMINARIES

Section 1. Ownership and Governance of Schools

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Ownership of the colleges and universities of this church shall be vested in this church in

corporations whose membership shall be the same as that of the conventions of this

church.

Section 2. Ownership and Governance of Seminaries

Ownership of the Lutheran Theological Seminary Saskatoon shall be vested in the four

western synods. Ownership of the Waterloo Lutheran Seminary shall be vested in the

Eastern Synod. The Board of Governors shall be elected or appointed by the appropriate

synods.

PART XIV FINANCIAL MATTERS

Section 1. The fiscal year and the budget year of this church shall be the calendar year.

Section 2. The annual budget and financial reports of this church shall reflect the entire range of its

activities. The income listed shall include support from all sources.

Section 3. Each budget shall approve an amount for contingency not to exceed 7% of the budget.

Section 4. There shall be an operating reserve to be determined by the National Church Council.

Section 5. There shall be an annual consultation between representatives of the National Church and

the synods for the purpose of establishing benevolence targets for the following year.

Section 6. Special church-wide appeals to congregations for raising funds shall require the consent

of the convention or the National Church Council.

Section 7. The financial accounts of this church shall be submitted annually for audit to a chartered

accountant named by the National Church Council.

PART XV BENEFIT AND PENSION PLANS (Constitution, ARTICLE XV)

Section 1. Each synod, congregation, synodically recognized ministry, agency, institution and other

recognized organization associated with this church shall cooperate with the National

Church Council to ensure that the following pension and benefit plans are available for

their respective employees:

a. A contributory pension plan constructed on the money-purchase principle, in which the

accumulated contributions attributed to each member’s account are fully vested;

b. A group benefits plan that would provide death benefits, disability and such other

benefits as may be determined by the committee or board to administer the group benefits

plan; and

c. Vested rights of members and beneficiaries of the pension plan established for rostered

ministers of this church and lay employees shall not be abrogated by any action of this

church.

Section 2. The synods, congregations, synodically recognized ministries, agencies, institutions and

other recognized organizations associated with this church shall ensure that each eligible

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


rostered minister and each eligible lay employee is properly enrolled in the pension plan

referred to in Section 1a, and that all necessary documents are completed and all

necessary contributions are made in order to provide for such participation.

Section 3. The synods, congregations, synodically recognized ministries, agencies, institutions and

other recognized organizations associated with this church shall ensure that each eligible

rostered minister and each eligible lay employee is properly enrolled in the group benefits

plan referred to in Section1b, and that all necessary documents are completed and all

necessary payments are made in order to provide for such participation.

Section 4. The obligations established in these administrative bylaws with respect to participation in

the pension plan and in the group benefits plan referred to in Section 1 do not apply:

a. With respect to the pension plan, to an individual who was a rostered minister on

December 31, 1985 and was not actively contributing to a registered pension plan as of

that date; and

b. With respect to the pension plan or the group benefits plan, unless the rostered minister or

lay employee is eligible to join such plan in accordance with the terms of such plan.

PART XVI SPECIAL INTEREST CONFERENCES (Constitution, ARTICLE XVI)

Section 1. Upon receipt of formal notice from not fewer than six congregations and not fewer than

six rostered ministers of a desire for the formation of a Special Interest Conference

representing a specific national and cultural heritage, the bishop of this church shall

convene the interested persons for the purpose of organizing such a conference. As long

as at least four congregations and at least four rostered ministers desire the continuation

of the conference, it shall not be disbanded involuntarily.

Section 2. Other special interest conferences of a like character may be organized and continued in

existence by the convention or the National Church Council at its discretion upon the

expression of a similar desire on the part of any number of congregations and rostered

ministers of this church.

Section 3. The officers of a Special Interest Conference and the committee on arrangements for its

next annual or biennial meeting shall constitute the entire continuing organization of the

conference unless an exception to this rule is granted in a specific instance by the


PART XVII COURT OF APPEAL (Constitution, ARTICLE XVII)

Section 1. The Court of Appeal shall consist of five members, three lay and two rostered, who shall

be elected by the convention for a term of three years. No member may hold a position on

National Church Council, synod council or a synodical committee for theological

education and leadership. No member shall serve more than two consecutive terms. A

vacancy occurring ad interim may be filled by the National Church Council until the next

regular convention, which shall fill the unexpired term.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 2. A quorum shall consist of three members including at least one lay and one rostered

member. A majority must concur in any decision.

Section 3. The court shall elect its own officers.

Section 4. Due notice of the time and place of meetings of the court shall be given by its secretary to

all persons involved in the case and shall be posted on the official website of this church.

Section 5. The court may make rules and orders in any matter of procedure not provided for in this

bylaw in order to facilitate the proper and expeditious handling of its business.

Section 6. Disciplinary actions of synod councils may be appealed to the court. The decisions of the

court in such matters shall be final. Such decisions shall be reported to the parties

involved in the appeal and to the bishop of this church.

Section 7. An appeal must be filed with the secretary of the court within forty-five days from the

date of the decision, which is being appealed. The court shall hear and determine the

appeal on the data upon which the decision appealed was based and render its verdict in

writing. The court may for the purpose of hearing and determining the appeal receive

such further evidence and in such manner and form as it in its sole discretion may

determine.

Section 8. All decisions of the Court of Appeal shall be posted on the official website of this church

and in the Bulletin of Reports in full or in summary form, as directed by the chair of the

court.

Section 9. The court shall perform such other duties as prescribed in the administrative bylaws.

PART XVIII TRANSITION

Section 1. Where the provisions of Part XVIII conflict with provisions contained elsewhere in the

administrative bylaws, the provisions of Part XVIII shall prevail.

Section 2. The terms of all officers, National Church Council members, Court of Appeal

members and ELCIC Group Services Inc., elected at convention in 2015 shall be four

years.

Section 3. The convention of this church following 2015 shall be in 2017.

Section 4. The terms of all officers, National Church Council members, Court of Appeal

members and ELCIC Group Services Inc. directors elected at convention in 2017 shall be

five years.


Section 6. The term of the bishop if elected in 2019 shall be six years. The terms of all other

officers, National Church Council members, Court of Appeal members and ELCIC

Group Services Inc. directors elected in 2019 shall be three years.


________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Section 8. The individuals elected to the Court of Adjudication shall be deemed members of the

Court of Appeal and shall perform the duties of that court until their current term of

office expires. The number of members of that court shall be reduced to five commencing

with the convention in 2017.

M/S to substitute the following in Part VII: Section 7. The maximum number of voting delegates at convention shall be 150.

Eighty delegates shall be lay, 10 shall be youth, and 60 shall be rostered

ministers.

Section 8. Synods shall be entitled to elect 10 delegates from each synod; the

remaining delegates shall be apportioned among the synods based on

baptized membership 18 months prior to convention.

Section 7. The voting membership of convention shall consist of:

a. Two hundred rostered ministers elected by the conferences as

allocated by the National Church Council on the basis of baptized

membership;

b. A lay delegate may be elected by each parish not already represented

by a rostered minister. An additional lay delegate may be elected by

every parish with more than eight hundred baptized members. Any

parish with less than eight hundred members represented by a

rostered minister for two consecutive conventions may not be

represented by a rostered minister at the following convention; and

c. Twelve youth selected by the synods as members of the youth

assembly.

and re-numbering the remaining Sections.

DEFEATED.

M/S to remove the following in Part VIII, Section 3: b. (When the National Bishop is eligible for re-election, the first ballot shall contain

one name only in a yes or no vote on election of the incumbent National Bishop. Two-

thirds of the ballots cast shall be required for election.)

b. Should the election fail, the election shall proceed with an ecclesiastical ballot of

nominations from the floor. On this ballot for bishop, three-fourths of the votes cast shall

be required for election. …

DEFEATED.

M/S to call the question. CARRIED.

CARRIED.


- Ballot for Treasurer

National Church Council has nominated Ken Day as ELCIC Treasurer.

Yes 219 No 13

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Ken Day elected as the ELCIC Treasurer.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


-Election for National Church Council


Positions Required: BC – 1 Rostered, AB –1 Lay, SK – 1 Lay &

1 Rostered, MNO – 1 Lay, EAST – 1 Lay & 2 Rostered

Synod Type Term Nominee

BC Rostered 4 years Jane Gingrich

Rostered Erik Bjorgan

ABT

Lay 4 years Wayne Street

Lay Les Pearson

SK Lay 4 years Ed Miller

Lay Cole Guenter

SK Rostered 4 years Christopher Bishopp (e)

Rostered Stewart Miller

MNO Lay 4 years Jeffrey Buhse (e)

Lay Jennifer Jantz

EAST

Lay 4 years Pat Lovell (e)

Lay Judy von Wahl

Rostered 1 4 years Heather Spencer (e)

Rostered 1 Susan Climo

Rostered 2 4 years Jeffrey Smith (e)

Rostered 2 Steve Hoffard

BC Synod Rostered

Jane Gingrich - 126

Erik Bjorgan - 94

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Rev. Jane Gingrich elected.

ABT Synod Lay

Les Pearson – 127

Wayne Street – 78

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Les Pearson elected.

SK Synod Lay

Cole Guenter – 136

Ed Miller – 73

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Cole Guenter elected.

SK Synod Rostered

Christopher Bishopp – 146

Stewart Miller – 77

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Rev. Christopher Bishopp elected.

MNO Lay

Jeff Buhse – 141

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Jennifer Jantz – 85

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Jeff Buhse elected.

EAST Lay

Pat Lovell - 170

Judy von Wahl – 60

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Pat Lovell elected.

EAST Synod Rostered (1)

Heather Spencer - 125

Susan Climo – 101

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Rev. Heather Spencer elected.

EAST Synod Rostered (2)

Jeffrey Smith - 116

Steve Hoffard - 112

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Rev. Jeffrey Smith elected.

Announcements


National Bishop Susan Johnson declared Business Session #6 closed.

Business Session #7: Saturday, July 11, 2015, 1:30 p.m.—5:00 p.m.


Biennial National




Dorothy Frook presented the report as at 1:10 p.m.

120 lay delegates



132 visitors

Report of the Committee on the Conduct of Elections

-Election for ELCIC Group Services Inc.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


ELCIC Group Services Inc.

GSI Positions Elected at Convention: 1 Lay Plan Member

and 1 Rostered Plan Member

Lay Plan Member 4 years Pamela Giles (e)

Lay Plan Member Darla Wildfang

Rostered

Plan Member

4 years Mark Van House (e)

Rostered

Plan Member

Sebastian Meadows-Helmer

Lay Plan Member (4 years)

Pamela Giles – 124

Darla Wildfang – 65

Vice-President Sheila Hamilton declared Pamela Giles elected.

Rostered Plan Member (4 years)

Mark Van House - 120

Sebastian Meadows-Helmer – 68

Vice-President Sheila Hamilton declared Mark Van House elected.

-Election for Court of Adjudication

Lay 1

Tim Kurbis – 143

Stephen Thornton – 49

Vice-President Sheila Hamilton declared Tim Kurbis elected.

Lay 2

(first ballot)

Glen David Tait - 97

Joan Meyer - 97

Court of Adjudication

Positions Required: 2 Rostered and 2 Lay

Type Term Nominee

Lay 1 4 years Tim Kurbis (e)

Lay 1 Stephen Thornton

Lay 2 4 years Glen David Tait (e)

Lay 2 Joan Meyer

Rostered 1 4 years Patricia Giannelia (e)

Rostered 1 Eric Krushel

Rostered 2 4 years Allan Grundahl (e)

Rostered 2 Richard Pryce

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Lay 2

(second ballot)

Joan Meyer – 113

Glen David Tait – 94

Vice-President Sheila Hamilton declared Joan Meyer elected.

Rostered 1

Patricia Giannelia - 108

Eric Krushel – 97

Vice-President Sheila Hamilton declared Patricia Giannelia elected.

Rostered 2

Allan Grundahl – 111

Richard Pryce – 104

Vice-President Sheila Hamilton declared Allan Grundahl elected.

M/S That the 2015 National Convention destroy the election ballots. CARRIED.

Standing Order – Report of Luther College, Regina, SK

Presented by Dr. Bryan Hillis, President

Standing Order – Report of Lutheran Collegiate Bible Institute (LCBI), Outlook, SK

Presented by Wayne Hove, President

Bible Study led by Rev. Dr. Gordon Jensen, Lutheran Theological Seminary Saskatoon and Rev.

Dr. Allen Jorgenson, Waterloo Lutheran Seminary.


Rev. Paul Gehrs, ELCIC Assistant to the Bishop, Justice and Leadership and the following

National Church Council members were called on stage: Jeff Buhse, Cindy Hoppe, Pat Lovell,

Rev. Brian Wilker-Frey and Judy Wry.

-ELCIC Resolution on Welcoming the Stranger (Bulletin of Reports page F-62)

NC-2015-12 That the 2015 National Convention adopt the following “ELCIC Resolution on

Welcoming the Stranger:”

That the ELCIC in convention endorses the document “Welcoming the Stranger: Affirmations

for Faith Leaders.”

The ELCIC invites members and congregations to review the document and to sign the

affirmations.


Communicate this church’s endorsement of the document to the ELCIC’s key ecumenical

and interfaith partners, and to Canadian Lutheran World Relief; and

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Communicate this church’s endorsement to The Lutheran World Federation (LWF), and

thank the LWF for faithful work and leadership in promoting the values of hospitality,

protection, respect and equality.

WELCOMING THE STRANGER:

AFFIRMATIONS FOR FAITH LEADERS A core value of my faith is to welcome the stranger, the refugee, the internally displaced,

the other. I shall treat him or her as I would like to be treated. I will challenge others,

even leaders in my faith community, to do the same. Together with faith leaders, faith-based organizations and communities of conscience around the world, I affirm:

My faith teaches that compassion, mercy, love and hospitality are for everyone: the

native born and the foreign born, the member of my community and the newcomer. I will remember and remind members of my community that we are all considered “strangers”

somewhere, that we should treat the stranger to our community as we would like to be treated,

and challenge intolerance.

I will remember and remind others in my community that no one leaves his or her homeland

without a reason: some flee because of persecution, violence or exploitation; others due to

natural disaster; yet others out of love to provide better lives for their families. I recognize that all persons are entitled to dignity and respect as human beings. All those in my

country, including the stranger, are subject to its laws, and none should be subject to hostility or

discrimination.

I acknowledge that welcoming the stranger sometimes takes courage, but the joys and the

hopes of doing so outweigh the risks and the challenges. I will support others who exercise

courage in welcoming the stranger. I will offer the stranger hospitality, for this brings blessings upon the community, upon my family, upon the stranger and upon me. I will respect and honour the reality that the stranger may be of a different faith or hold beliefs different from mine or other members of my community. I will respect the right of the stranger to practice his or her own faith freely. I will seek to create

space where he or she can freely worship. I will speak of my own faith without demeaning or ridiculing the faith of others. I will build bridges between the stranger and myself. Through my example, I will encourage others to do the same. I will make an effort not only to welcome the stranger, but also to listen to him or her

deeply, and to promote understanding and welcome in my community.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


I will speak out for social justice for the stranger, just as I do for other members of my

community.

Where I see hostility towards the stranger in my community, whether through words or deeds, I

will not ignore it, but will instead endeavour to establish a dialogue and facilitate peace. I will not keep silent when I see others, even leaders in my faith community, speaking ill of

strangers, judging them without coming to know them, or when I see them being excluded,

wronged or oppressed. I will encourage my faith community to work with other faith communities and faith-based

organizations to find better ways to assist the stranger.

I will welcome the stranger.

Date Signature

Founding Principles The call to “welcome the stranger,” through protection and hospitality, and to honour the

stranger or those of other faiths with respect and equality, is deeply rooted in all major religions. In the Upanishads, the mantra atithi devo bhava or “the guest is as God” expresses the

fundamental importance of hospitality in Hindu culture. Central to the Hindu Dharma, or Law,

are the values of karuna or compassion, ahimsa or non-violence towards all, and seva or the

willingness to serve the stranger and the unknown guest. Providing food and shelter to a needy

stranger was a traditional duty of the householder and is practiced by many still. More broadly,

the concept of Dharma embodies the task to do one’s duty, including an obligation to the

community, which should be carried out respecting values such as non-violence and selfless

service for the greater good. The Tripitaka highlights the importance of cultivating four states of mind: metta (loving

kindness), muditha (sympathetic joy), upekkha (equanimity), and karuna (compassion). There

are many different traditions of Buddhism, but the concept of karuna is a fundamental tenet in

all of them. It embodies the qualities of tolerance, non- discrimination, inclusion and empathy

for the suffering of others, mirroring the central role which compassion plays in other

religions. The Torah makes thirty-six references to honouring the “stranger.” The book of Leviticus

contains one of the most prominent tenets of the Jewish faith: The stranger who resides with

you shall be to you as one of your citizens; you shall love him as yourself, for you were

strangers in the land of Egypt. (Leviticus 19:33–34). Further, the Torah provides that You

shall not oppress the stranger, for you know the soul of the stranger, having yourselves been

strangers in the land of Egypt (Exodus 23:9).

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


In Matthew’s gospel (25:35) we hear the call: I was hungry and you gave me food, I was

thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me….And

in the Letter to the Hebrews (13:1–2) we read, Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show

hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.

When the Prophet Muhammad fled persecution in Mecca, he sought refuge in Medina, where he

was hospitably welcomed. The Prophet’s hijrah, or migration, symbolizes the movement from

lands of oppression, and his hospitable treatment embodies the Islamic model of refugee

protection. The Holy Qur’an calls for the protection of the asylum seeker, or al-mustamin,

whether Muslim or non-Muslim, whose safety is irrevocably guaranteed under the institution of

Aman (the provision of security and protection). As noted in the Surat Al-Anfal: “Those who

give asylum and aid are in very truth the believers: for them is the forgiveness of sins and a

provision most generous.” (8:74) There are tens of millions of refugees and internally displaced people in the world. Our faiths

demand that we remember we are all migrants on this earth, journeying together in hope.

Background

In December 2012, UN High Commissioner for Refugees António Guterres organized a

dialogue with faith leaders, faith-based humanitarian organizations, academics and government

representatives from countries around the world on the theme of “Faith and Protection.” As the

high commissioner noted in his opening remarks, “…all major religious value systems embrace

humanity, caring and respect, and the tradition of granting protection to those in danger. The

principles of modern refugee law have their oldest roots in these ancient texts and traditions.”

At the conclusion of this landmark event, the high commissioner embraced a recommendation

for the development of a Code of Conduct for faith leaders to welcome migrants, refugees and

other forcibly displaced people, and stand together against xenophobia. In response to this call, from February through April 2013, a coalition of leading faith-

based humanitarian organizations and academic institutions (including HIAS, Islamic Relief

Worldwide, Jesuit Refugee Service, The Lutheran World Federation, Oxford Centre for Hindu

Studies, Religions for Peace, University of Vienna Faculty of Roman Catholic Theology, World

Council of Churches, World Evangelical Alliance and World Vision International) drafted

“Welcoming the Stranger: Affirmations for Faith Leaders.” The affirmations, which have been

translated into Arabic, Chinese, French, Hebrew, Russian and Spanish, inspire leaders of all

faiths to “welcome the stranger” with dignity, respect and loving support. Faith groups around

the world will use the affirmations and supporting resources as practical tools to foster

support for refugees and other displaced people in their communities. CARRIED.

-ELCIC Resolution on Climate Justice (Bulletin of Reports page F-65)

NC-2015-13 That the 2015 National Convention adopt the following “ELCIC Resolution on

Climate Justice:”

As members of The Lutheran World Federation (LWF)—A Communion of Churches, the

ELCIC commits to joining the global Christian community, and people of all faiths and

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


persuasions, on the journey for climate justice. This task is one that we can only achieve when

we unite in a common cause, living out our joint destiny in this fragile, beautiful world which we

all share.

The ELCIC affirms the position of the LWF and understands that:

Climate change is real and influenced by human actions;

Increasingly severe impacts are already being experienced on every continent, with

growing economic and social costs;

If we act now it will still be possible to keep global warming below the internationally

agreed danger-threshold of an increase of 2 degrees Celsius. To achieve this, carbon

pollution must be reduced quickly; and

Climate change is a matter of social and economic justice, as it most affects the poorest

people and displaces the most vulnerable.

As those who live in the resurrection hope of renewal and restoration for all of God’s creation,

we believe we cannot stand by and ignore the impacts of Climate Change. Creation groans

under the weight of human action and inaction (Romans 8:22). Our hope for justice and peace

for all, and our trust in God, forms the impetus for this statement. We believe that taking global

action now can make a difference.

The ELCIC supports the LWF in calling on world political and business leaders to:

Design and agree on elements of a strong global response to climate change that reflects

the strong and growing scientific and environmental evidence and draft an ambitious new

climate agreement to tackle climate change in the coming decades;

Urge heads of state and key decision makers to make it a personal priority to address the

human contribution to Climate Change, and make firm commitments for deeper cuts in

carbon pollution;

Make national contributions meaningful by ensuring that they feature convincing targets

to reduce carbon pollution while providing money to help poorer countries take climate

action as well; and

Respect the principles of equity, ensuring that the response includes provisions to assist

the most vulnerable communities to adapt to the impacts of Climate Change already

being experienced, and to account for the loss and damage being caused.

The ELCIC calls on its members, congregations, synods and the National Church to:

Take action now to initiate or strengthen policies and practices aimed at becoming

sustainable and eco-friendly, with the goal of becoming carbon-neutral at organizational,

congregational and personal levels by 2050;

Register as an Accredited Greening Congregation through the Stewardship of Creation

program of the ELCIC. http://elcic.ca/Stewardship/Stewardship-of-Creation/default.cfm

Encourage others in the communion by sharing good practices through the LWF

Facebook page “LWF for Climate Justice;”

Engage in sustained climate justice advocacy with local and national governments in the

perspective of COP20 in Lima, Peru, and all along the process leading to COP21 in Paris,

France. This advocacy would be based upon the advocacy call of the LWF and the policy

http://elcic.ca/Stewardship/Stewardship-of-Creation/default.cfm

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


papers on climate justice of the ACT Alliance; http://www.actalliance.org/what-we-

do/issues/climate-change/issueview?b_start:int=15

Participate in ecumenical and interfaith climate justice initiatives in the local, national

and regional contexts;

Sign up to the #fastfortheclimate campaign on the 1st day of each month until December

1, 2015, at the beginning of COP21 in Paris;

http://www.lutheranworld.org/fastfortheclimate

“We fast in solidarity with the poor and vulnerable who are unduly

affected by extreme weather events. We fast to underline the urgency of

the negotiations on climate change. We fast in many different places and

faith communities worldwide, united in a common practice. We fast for

climate justice.”


Write to the Prime Minister of Canada and other federal leaders expressing the ELCIC’s

concern for the climate and hopes for an effective global process through COP21 in Paris.

Write to the LWF sharing this resolution as one response to the Call for Commitment by

Member Churches.

CARRIED.

Right Relationships Mapping Tool

Rev. Paul Gehrs, ELCIC Assistant to the Bishop, Justice and Leadership gave a presentation.

Report of Committee on Minutes





-ELCIC Policy Regarding Authorized Lay Ministries

Bishop Larry Kochendorfer (ABT Synod), ELCIC Assistant to the Bishop for Ecumenical and

Interfaith André Lavergne and the following National Church Council members were called on

stage: Allyn Langager, Rev. Dr. Marc Jerry and Rev. Heather Spencer-Stoltz.

(ELCIC Policy Regarding Authorized Lay Ministries was lifted from the table)

M/S That the National Convention adopt the following policy regarding the provision of Word

and Sacrament ministry in under-served areas:




central to Lutheran worship and church life. …

http://www.actalliance.org/what-we-do/issues/climate-change/issueview?b_start:int=15

http://www.actalliance.org/what-we-do/issues/climate-change/issueview?b_start:int=15

http://www.lutheranworld.org/fastfortheclimate

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


M/S Ŧo amend the fifth paragraph from the bottom, page F-61 to:

Authorized lay ministers are permitted to proclaim the Word and preside at Holy

Communion. This authorization extends to baptisms, funerals or other activities at

the discretion of the bishop. DEFEATED.

NC-2015-14 That the National Convention adopt the following policy regarding the provision of

Word and Sacrament ministry in under-served areas:




central to Lutheran worship and church life.

We affirm that the normal means by which Word and Sacrament ministry is provided in

congregations is through a called and ordained pastor.

We recognize that, under particular local circumstances, the usual norm of pastor presiding over

Word and Sacrament ministry is not possible. In most of these circumstances congregations can

be served by one or more of the following:

• Interim/vice-pastors;

• Multi-point parishes or companion/yoked congregations;

• Wide-area parishes;

• Arrangements with our Anglican Full Communion partner;

• Assistance from ecumenical partners with whom we have an Ecumenical Shared

Ministry protocol (eg. United and Presbyterian);

• “Circuit riders” or itinerant ministers;

• Calling an individual who has been ordained through the Alternate Route for

Admission to the Roster of Ordained Ministers; or

• Partnering with other congregations to share their pastor.

In certain, rare circumstances none of these options is workable. In such cases:

1. The bishop of the synod may initiate a conversation with the congregational

council about authorized lay ministry and whether it may be appropriate to their

context.

2. The bishop of the synod would then seek approval of the Synod Council and the

Conference of Bishops for authorized lay ministry in this context.

3. The congregational council would normally identify more than one candidate to

serve in the ministry context. Candidates should have an aptitude for preaching

and presiding.

4. The bishop of the synod and the Synod Council would approve authorized lay

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


ministers subject to the following:

• Authorized lay ministers will be appointed for one-year renewable terms;

• The synod will provide appropriate preparation in Scripture, Lutheran

Confessions, preaching, worship and in appropriate boundaries;

• Authorized lay ministers will work under the supervision of a mentoring

pastor appointed by the bishop of the synod;

• The mentoring pastor will provide on-going support and review;

• Authorized lay ministers will normally be installed by the dean; and

• Authorized lay ministers will participate in a regular, on-going process of

formation and education.

Authorized lay ministry is non-stipendiary.

Authorized lay ministers are appointed to a specific ministry context and do not serve outside

that context.

Authorized lay ministers are permitted to proclaim the Word and preside at Holy Communion.

This authorization does not extend to baptisms, weddings, funerals, or other activities which are

normally in the purview of ordained or consecrated ministers.

Authorized lay ministers shall not wear clerical garb or vestments. When preaching or presiding,

authorized lay ministers may choose to wear an alb.

The title “Pastor” is reserved for ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament. There is no title

associated with authorized lay ministry.

In cases where pastoral counselling is needed, authorized lay ministers shall refer the

individual(s) to their mentoring pastor.

There shall be an annual review of both the authorized lay ministers and of the appropriateness

of the site for authorized lay ministry.

The synod will ensure that resources are available for preaching and worship leadership which

might include a sermon bank, seminary resources and synod workshops.

This policy, once adopted by the ELCIC in convention, will be reviewed and amended as

required by National Church Council.

CARRIED.



NC-2015-15 That any unfinished business from the 2015 National Convention Agenda be

referred to the National Church Council. CARRIED.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________


NC-2015-16 That the Fifteenth Biennial Convention having been Liberated by God’s Grace

through worship, study, reflection, work, food, shelter, and each other; and having been

challenged to go from here as reformed disciples journeying toward reconciliation, acting

faithfully and living in hope, the Convention desires to express its heartfelt gratitude to all who

have enabled this assembly to complete its tasks.

We thank the following:

National Convention Planning Team;

Local Arrangements Committee for their planning and tireless work;

Many volunteers who cheerfully greeted, ushered, “stewarded”, directed, transported,

hosted and served us;

Our convention chaplain;

The worship committee and all worship leaders, artists, musicians and servants for

renewing us through worship;

National Office Staff;

All who served on the communication team, helping us tell the story of being Liberated

by God’s Grace;

Shaw Conference Centre and all their staff;

Those who served on Convention committees;

Bible study leaders;

Presenters and special guests.

And that the Fifteenth Biennial Convention expresses its appreciation for the faithful leadership

of:

the members of our National Church Council

our National Bishop, The Rev. Susan Johnson

our Vice-President, Sheila Hamilton

our Secretary, Murray Walter

our Treasurer, Ken Day

CARRIED.

NC-2015-17 That the 2015 National Convention refer the following resolution to National

Church Council: That the ELCIC, with the same spirit as our policies to protect people from

sexual abuse, adopt policies to protect people (rostered ministers and lay) against physical,

emotional, spiritual abuse and bullying. CARRIED.


Church Council: That future National Conventions of the ELCIC in co-ordination with catering

services establish a method for any willing delegates to forego a meal and donate a meal to a

shelter or provide meals to some street people. CARRIED.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Church Council: That the ELCIC provide support to the Canadian Churches’ Forum (CCF) to

reflect the CCF's contribution to the mission and ministry of ELCIC

congregations. CARRIED.


Church Council: That the ELCIC urge the government to invoke the “Notwithstanding Clause”

in order to retain laws against euthanasia and assisted suicide. CARRIED.

National Bishop Susan Johnson thanked the convention for the excellent work they had done.

She told the convention that yet again they had proved to her that hope does not disappoint.

Announcements



Convention Banquet Saturday, July 11, 2015, 6:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m. Alberta Ballroom, Chateau Lacombe Hotel

Acknowledgement and Recognition of Service for:

Murray Walter, National Secretary; and outgoing National Church Council Members: Cindy

Hoppe, Allyn Langager, and Rev. Kathy Martin

Local Arrangements Committee—Chair, Margaret Sadler

Convention Worship Committee—Co-Chairs, Dr. Joy Berg and Rev. Trish Schmermund

Convention Chaplain, Rev. Craig Wentland

Parliamentarian, Don Storch

Closing Worship Service Sunday, July 12, 2015, 9:00 a.m.—10:30 a.m. Trinity Lutheran Church

A celebrative worship service took place at Trinity Lutheran Church. National Bishop Susan

Johnson presided and Archbishop Fred Hiltz, Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada,

preached. The offering was designated to the ELCIC Reformation Challenge.

National Bishop Susan Johnson declared the 15th

Biennial National Convention of the

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada closed.

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Minutes of the 15th...

Documents

Transcript of Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Minutes of the 15th...