On Friday, Oct. 16 the ELCA released the initial draft statement for changes to the document Vision and Expectations.  For those who are not aware, Vision and Expectations is the published standards for rostered clergy members of the ELCA.  As one may expect, the changes made to V&E are proposed to begin the “Process for Fulfilling the 2009 Mandate to Change Policy.”[1] 

I am troubled by much of the language of these “proposed” changes, in particular a sentence that speaks to a pastor’s conduct and understanding of marriage.  The statement in question reads: 

“Ordained ministers, whether single, married or in a publicly accountable, lifelong monogamous, same-gender relationship, are expected to uphold an understanding of marriage and family in their public ministry as well as in private life that is biblically informed and consistent with the teachings of this church.”[2] 

I find it disconcerting that V&E calls for our understanding to be both “biblically informed” and “consistent with the teaching of this [ELCA] church.”  The new teaching of the ELCA with its passage of Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust (HSGT)[3] is not consistent with the model for sexual relationships between humans as revealed to us in Genesis chapter 2 and reaffirmed by Jesus in the synoptic gospels.  Furthermore, the biblical evidence concerning homosexuality condemns such sexual behavior. 

How is it that a pastor’s understanding of marriage be both biblically informed and consistent with the ELCA’s new teaching?  Even HSGT makes the claim that marriage is defined as being between one man and one woman.  To get around such complications caused by inconsistencies between Scripture and the ELCA’s new teaching document, another footnote to this paragraph in the draft for V&E states: 

This documents uses the terms “marriage “and “married” to refer to marriage between one man and woman. “Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust” has the same usage but acknowledges (p. ….) that some in this church understand the term as being appropriate also for the relationship of a same-gender couple. 

In effect, we mean to say one thing, but are willing to teach another.

 The problems with the new ministry policies of the ELCA regarding homosexuality just keep growing and there seems to be no end in sight.  It is becoming increasing evident that many obvious questions and concerns were not addressed fully before the ELCA brought these policy changes to the floor.  Even as new documents and policies are published, our church is faced with having to make up the rules as we go.  The revisions to V&E are only the tip of yet another iceberg when it comes to conduct and behavior of those serving as rostered clergy or seeking ordination within the ELCA.  As we “live in to our common future together”, I am certain more icebergs will become visible and unavoidable. 

The draft revisions to Vision and Expectations may be found on the ELCA website.  Other commentary is posted on Lutheran CORE’s blog.

 

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[1] This quote is the subheading for changes to be made reflecting the decisions of the ELCA CWA 2009.  It should be noted that the word “mandate” is perhaps misused in this instance in that the vote to allow ordination of GLTB persons was less than a super majority and has caused deep division within the ELCA.

[2] Draft revisions to V&E lines 109 – 112

[3] ELCA social statement on human sexuality adopted at the ELCA church wide assembly 2009.

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Lutheran CORE Vision & Expectations Human Sexuality 2009 ELCA Church Wide Assembly Lutheran Church Social Statement

About a week ago our congregation hosted a gathering of Lutheran seniors known as Lunch, Listen and Learn.  This event was a wonderful opportunity for those 55 years and older to gather for fellowship, a time of learning and worship.  Many local seniors attended, and the increased number of cars and pedestrians along our little corner of God’s kingdom in the middle of the week was certainly noticeable.  To the casual passer by, there could be no doubt that something was up at the church on the corner. 

It has been a long time since our congregation hosted such an event, and it was good to reconnect with the Lutheran community in the Charleston area.  I’m told that the last time there was such a buzz around the church took place during the funeral of my predecessor when he passed away due to complications from heart disease.  I’m sure our most recent event did not create anywhere near the same amount of commotion, but it did bring back memories of that sad day. 

One group of people who had no idea what was going on was the half dozen or so homeless men who frequent our doorstep.  These men have been a part of our community for some time now, and they usually tune in when something out of the ordinary is happening.  Having so many “church people” invade our little corner at midweek must have also spurred the memories of Pastor Rocky’s funeral for them as well. 

Pastor Rocky Hendrix shared many moments with the men on the street, ministering to them and becoming their friend.  His model for ministry in this neighborhood is something I have tried to carry on to some degree.  I’m not nearly as proficient as Rocky was, but I have made several friends on the street, and several of them do come in for worship from time to time.  Homeless folks making comparisons between Rocky and myself are something I have learned to live with and appreciate.  So imagine my surprise when I found out there was a rumor floating around the neighborhood that Pastor David had passed away and that was the reason for all the people visiting our church. 

One fellow who is best known in these parts as “Caveman” came into our parish hall during lunch with his head bowed slightly forward and holding his hat in his hand.  He approached one of the ladies serving as hostess and offered his condolences.  When asked what he was talking about, Caveman simply said he was sorry to hear that the pastor had passed away.  Pointing me out in the crowd, she simply smiled and said, “Better go tell him that!”  I don’t know who was more relieved, Caveman upon finding out that I was alive and well, or the band of men on the side walk when Caveman told them that the news they had received was totally wrong. 

To be honest, I was touched that these men felt the way they did.  Until fifteen months ago, I had never known any of them, and would have never imagined that I would have such friendships.  I am pleased that they consider me to be their friend and pastor as well. 

To bring this story to its fullest conclusion, I feel I must share the defining moment of the relationship I share with Caveman and the others.  As I walked down the sidewalk with Caveman, I assured him I was doing well and thanked him for his concern.  He looked back at me, glancing under the brim of his now replaced baseball cap and gave me the smile that only he can give.  What he said next I’ll never forget.  Caveman looked me straight in the eye and asked, “Can you fix me a plate of what their having when the meeting is over?” 

Gotta love ‘em!

Lutheran Church ELCA homelessness church ministry Christian

Since I attended the Lutheran CORE convocation back in September, one of the most frequently asked questions I have faced from clergy friends is “Are you going to leave, or stay in the ELCA?”  When approached with such a question, my standard answer is “It’s way too early to tell.”  Indeed, it is way too early.  Given the magnitude of the ELCA’s ministry policy changes concerning persons in same gendered relationships, there simply has not been enough time to see what this process will look like.  Stay?  Leave?  I can’t answer those questions right now.  There is no clear landing zone for a confessional, traditional ELCA Lutheran as of yet.  At best, all we can hope for in the present is a place to stand. 

The climate of the ELCA is such that as each day passes, the room for the dissenting voice becomes smaller and smaller.  From ELCA headquarters in Chicago on down, we are being asked to “live into” our common future together.  I’m not quite sure what “living into it” means, but I’m sure it doesn’t mean that the ELCA is willing to admit that a grievous error has been made.  Standing in opposition to the resolutions passed in Minneapolis means standing in opposition to the ELCA’s now officially adopted teaching documents on human sexuality as they address homosexual behavior and practice.  In my estimation, opposing these documents and policies is also not what the church wide office means by “living into our common future.” 

Like many others, I have been hoping to find a place to stand, a place where God’s Word revealed to us in Scripture is the source and norm for our proclamation, faith and life, not simply a source.  I have been searching for a place to stand where science, human experience and political correctness stand in awe of God’s Word, rather than putting the Word second in line behind society’s “bound conscience.”  Until recently, such a place to stand has not been identified. 

Yesterday, I met with several pastors from our synod with the purpose providing such a place.  The fruit of our meeting is that we have taken the initial steps toward the formation of a renewal movement within our synod.  Those present yesterday have formed an interim steering committee for such a group.  We adopted the name Orthodox Lutherans of South Carolina (OLSC) and look forward to our initial gathering of those interested in participating in such a movement.  Pastors of the SC Synod reading this post who may wish to attend are certainly welcome.  An official announcement will be forthcoming via the synod email system and synod news.  Other information regarding OLSC is available on Pastor Tony Metze’s blog and through our brand new website. (The website is running and forums are active.  Website format will not be complete until next week.) 

Our Ministerium Statement 

Today we gather in the name of our risen Lord Jesus Christ with all humility and boldness.  We unite our voices to express clearly our opposition to the seismic shift of change to ministry policies adopted at the 2009 ELCA church wide assembly.  We assemble as Bishop Hanson has allowed us, to teach and admonish this church.  We pray that our admonishment is expressed with deep compassion and love for this church.  Let us also be clear that we believe the ELCA has deeply erred in its teachings.  We ask today that our collective voices and dialogue be used for renewal of the orthodox and traditional understanding of our great faith.  If it is true that “bound conscience” means that we have the opportunity for free expression of our disappointment, then may today be the beginning for that vocal and united call for repentance.  Here we stand, we can do no other; our consciences are bound to the Word of God.

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ELCA Lutheran CORE Human Sexuality 2009 ELCA Church Wide Assembly Lutheran Church Social Statement Orthodox Lutheran

The whirlwind of the past two weeks is finally over, and at last there is a bit of time to relax and reflect.   Since the middle of September I have been to one meeting after another sharing ideas, comments, and concerns for a church that is in crisis.  Indeed, many orthodox pastors and lay persons throughout the ELCA have been struggling with questions and answers about the direction we should go.  Given that the ELCA has voted to depart from traditional Lutheran teaching with its decisions made during the 2009 church wide assembly in August, these sorts of meetings and conversations will likely continue until a way toward reformation is found. 

I attended the Lutheran CORE (Coalition for Renewal) convocation in Fishers, Indiana last week, and heard many compelling speeches making a case for a way forward.  Most speakers acknowledged that, whether a congregation, pastor, or lay person chooses to leave the ELCA or stay, it must be and can be a faithful decision.  Certainly there are many who feel they must leave the ELCA now that it has voted to place scripture behind reason and experience.  There are also many others who feel they must stay and fight the good fight, proclaiming the gospel in truth and love in order to bring about correction to a church that has wandered astray.  If anyone hears that the 2009 Lutheran CORE Convocation chose any other path, they are also being led astray. 

Though I do not agree with all of the arguments and ideas presented during the convocation, it was certainly clear to me that those who are leading the Lutheran CORE share a deep love for the Church catholic, and care deeply for the ELCA, its leaders and congregations.  Over 1200 ELCA pastors, lay persons and former bishops prayed together that God will strengthen the church where it is faithful, and correct the church where it is in error.  For the sake of our church we must believe that God will do this, providing a way forward for those who seek to remain faithful to his Word, whether they leave the ELCA or remain. 

At the most basic level, I view the events and decisions of the Lutheran CORE convocation as providing the first steps of a way forward (note I did not say “the” way forward).  It is a beginning and an invitation to all members of the ELCA who understand the events and decisions of the 2009 ELCA assembly to be contrary to the teaching of scripture and in conflict with the witness and tradition of the holy catholic and apostolic Church. 

As for me? I have not yet made any decision whatsoever as to the direction I will go.  I do believe that the ELCA has erred in its decision to place human experience and reason in a position over and above the authority of scripture and the teaching and tradition of the Christian church.  For the time being, my way forward is the way of prayerful discernment, faithful conversation, patient waiting, and full participation in the church and congregation who called me to the ministry of Word and Sacrament.  Here I stand, I can do no other.  God help me.

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Lutheran CORE Social Statement on Human Sexuality 2009 ELCA Church Wide Assembly Lutheran Church

I will be away for the next few days as I travel with several colleagues to the Lutheran CORE convocation in Indianapolis.  I am attending this meeting as part of my continued effort to hear as many voices as possible, and to further discern my response to the decisions made by the 2009 ELCA church wide assembly. 

By now, readers of this blog should know that I am not in favor of the social statement recognizing same sex relationships, or ministry policies allowing for gays and lesbians living in committed relationships to serve as clergy of this church.  I believe these actions run contrary to God’s intent for humanity and are not supported through the witness of the Bible.  I look forward to talking with others from around the ELCA and getting a sense of their response to these matters. 

I will post some of my reflections on the Lutheran CORE gathering, as well as other conversations that may take place upon my return.  Until such time, I pray for safe travel for all who are attending, that they may return home with a sense of wisdom and new insight.

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ELCA Human Sexuality Ordination of Gays and Lesbians Social Statement Lutheran CORE

About a year ago the new Augsburg Fortress Lutheran Study Bible became available to ELCA Lutherans, and for anyone else who wanted one for that matter.  I know several pastor friends who pre-ordered their copy and even encouraged parishioners to pre-order one as well.  Upon receiving their copy, several raved about this new study Bible.  I, on the other hand, seemed a little wary of making such a purchase.  I didn’t want to buy LSB sight unseen, especially since I really don’t care for the publisher’s most recent major contributions.  Evangelical Lutheran Worship (ELW) and The Lutheran Handbook seem to me very underwhelming. 

I wanted to see Lutheran Study Bible before I bought one.  I wanted to hold it in my hand to be sure it was sturdy and would stand up well against daily use.  I wanted to see the print quality and layout.  The light blue color with white lettering seems to render this book as just one more on the shelf.  The pages are thin (as with ELW) which suggests to me the publisher tried to cram as much content as possible between the covers.  This is a trend among publishers I find particularly annoying.  Quantity doesn’t always equal quality.  The text actually stands out well and is very easy to read, and the study notes placed in the margins is a nice touch.  But there are aspects of LSB that I don’t care for, the least of which is having the book titles at the bottom of the pages. 

Most disturbing for me was the study note concerning Matthew 28: 19-20 where Jesus gives the command for the disciples to go make disciples of all nations.  The study note in the margins reads: 

“Jesus now sends the disciples to make disciples of all nations. That does not mean make everyone disciples. Most people who are helped by Jesus and believe in him never become disciples. Jesus includes in salvation people who do not believe in him or even know about him.” (p. 1658; Augsburg Fortress Lutheran Study Bible, 2008). 

Now, I don’t know anyone who really believes this to be a faithful commentary on Matthew 28: 19-20, and it seems that the publisher has had second thoughts as well.  Without much publicity, AF has deleted this note from Lutheran Study Bible and in the second edition the study note now reads: 

“Jesus now sends the disciples to make disciples of all nations.  Disciples are students, called for the sake of the world to learn from Jesus and to bear witness to the kingdom.” (p. 1658; Augsburg Fortress Lutheran Study Bible, 2009). 

Now, this is a much better note concerning the text, but still falls short of Jesus’ command to go make disciples, baptizing them in the Trinitarian name of Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  Upon seeing and using LSB for a time, it soon became clear that, for me at least, Lutheran Study Bible did not live up to the hype.  I’m glad I did not pre-order one.  

Soon the Concordia Publishing House (LCMS) study Bible will be available.  Their product, The Lutheran Study Bible, also promises to be a welcome addition to any Lutheran’s book shelf.  Some pastors I know have received their pre-ordered copy and are raving about it.  They say it is sturdy with a very nice layout.  One pastor said The Lutheran Study Bible is the new centerpiece to his bookshelf.  Again, I am apprehensive to make such a purchase until I hold one in my hand and read it.  I grew up in the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, so I have a basic understanding what the content may include.  As with LSB, the Concordia Bible will include well written commentary, clear easy to read print, but it won’t be perfect either.  Differences concerning the role of women, homosexuality and biblical literacy will stand out. 

Still, I am interested in hearing what other Lutherans (LCMS, ELCA, WELS…) have to say.  Do you have the AF Bible?  Do you have the CPH Bible?  What are the strengths or weaknesses you find in each?  Please leave a comment with your thoughts and experiences concerning these two new study Bibles.

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ELCA Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Lutheran Study Bible Bible LCMS

There is a saying that implies “time will heal all wounds.”  If only that were truly the case.  Since the actions of the ELCA church wide assembly back in August, there have been numerous conversations, meetings, articles and debates.  The decision to recognize homosexual persons in committed relationships and allow for ordination of openly homosexual persons has created turmoil within our greater church body.  Many ELCA Lutherans are vigorously defending their positions while others have grown weary of the argument.  In my case, frustration seems to be a key word.  In any case, it is going to take a lot of work, a lot of persistence, but most of all a lot of prayer before any sort of healing can take place. 

I have several friends and colleagues on both sides of these issues, and I believe that our friendship and level of trust are much stronger than the force working for division of the church.  Still, during our annual synod convocation at Lutheridge I quickly noticed how many times I found myself, and others, simply being nice to one another.  It is easy for individuals to have conversations with those who believe and think in the same way, yet conversations with those who believe and think differently are quite another issue.  They are much more complex and require a certain amount of tap dancing so as not to offend a friend.  This is especially true when meeting someone new and you don’t know yet which “side they are on.” 

These days, the first few moments of a new collegial acquaintance are usually spent in small talk, skirting around the issues at hand.  However, in time the issues surrounding the decisions and actions of the ELCA do come up.  At this point we then move from small talk to respectful dialog.  I wish I could say conversation, but in so many cases, it is now dialog.  I refrain from calling such talk “conversation” because it seems that words are chosen very carefully and most comments are prefaced with some sort of disclaimer. 

Ordinarily I love to be at Lutheridge, but it didn’t take long before I found myself at odds with friends “on the other side.”  I quickly grew weary of the talk and of the wedge that seems to be aimed at driving us apart.  I left the convo a day early, hardly believing I could possibly be glad to get away from one of my favorite get aways. 

For now and the foreseeable future, my objective is to not allow my frustrations with the CWA actions spill over into my day to day responsibilities.  Yet, I fear that my most recent meeting at church was a futile attempt in guarding against the demon.  Perhaps it’s because I am physically and emotionally tired, or perhaps it’s due to a lack of understanding on my part.  Regardless of the circumstance, such animosity doesn’t belong here at the congregational level where we really just want to keep being a church called out in mission.  The wounds of the ELCA are going to take a long time to heal, that’s certain.  My prayer is that while I am engaged in the seemingly church wide debate, I am able to keep such woundedness from disrupting all of the good energy spent on mission and ministry here at the church on the corner.  This is my prayer, and I ask God to help and guide me.

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America relationships friendship Human Sexuality 2009 ELCA Church Wide Assembly Lutheran Church Social Statement

Here is a little gem that found its way into my “in box.”  It’s just too good not to share. 

To my Lutheran friends…  

With all of the problems the Major Airlines are having, here’s another flight option.

WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE LUTHERAN AIRLINES IS NOW OPERATING IN MINNYSOTA! ALSO SERVING VISCONSIN,  NORDERN MITCHIGEN, NORT & SOUT DAKOTA.

If you are travelin’ soon, consider Lutran Air, the no-frills airline.  You’re all in da same boat on Lutran Air, here flyin is an upliftin experience. Dair is no first class on any Lutran Air flight.

Meals are potluck. Rows 1 tru 6, bring rolls; 7 tru 15, bring a salad; 16 tru 21, a hot dish, and 22-30, a dessert. 

Sopranos and altos sit in da front of da aircraft, basses and tenors please sit in da rear of da aircraft.

Everyone is responsible for his or her own baggage.

All fares are by free-will offering, and da plane will not land til da budget is met.

Pay attention to your Flight Attendant, who vill acquaint you wit da safety system aboard dis Lutran Air flight. 

Okay den, listen up; I’m only gonna say dis vonce: In da event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, I am frankly gonna be real surprised and so vill Captain Olson, because ve fly right around two tousand feet, so loss of cabin pres sure would probably mean da Second Coming or someting of dat nature, and I wouldn’t bodder with doze liddle masks on da rubber  tubes–you’re gonna have bigger tings to worry about den dat.

Just stuff doze back up in dair liddle holes.  Probably da masks fell out because of turbulence which, to be honest wit you, we’re gonna have quite a bit of at two tousand feet, sorta like driving across a plowed field, but after a while you get used to it.

In da event of a water landing, I’d say forget it.   Start saying da Lord’s Prayer and just hope you  get to da part about forgive us our sins as we  forgive dose who sin against us, which some people say ‘trespass against us,’ which isn’t right,  but what can you do?

Da use of cell phones on da plane is strictly forbidden, not because day may confuse da plane’s  navigation system, which is by da pants all da way. No, it’s because cell phones are a pain in da wazoo, and if God had meant you to use a cell phone, He wudda put your mout on da side of your head.

We start lunch right about noon and it’s buffet style wit da coffeepot up front.  Den we’ll have da hymn sing; hymnals are in  da seat pockets in front of you. Don’t take yours wit you when you go or I am gonna be real upset and I am not kiddin!

Right now I’ll say Grace:

Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest and let deze gifts to us be blessed. Fader, Son, and Holy Ghost, May we land in Dulut or pretty close.  Amen!

Lutherans Lutheran Church airlines travel pot luck airports

Here is an interesting article concerning the ELCA’s full communion agreement with the United Methodist Church.  The Story comes from Lutheran CORE’s newsletter, CORE Connection. 

United Methodists make clear that ELCA decisions do not mean pastors serving UMC churches may be in same-sex relationships 

Leaders of The United Methodist Church are distancing their church from the Aug. 21 decision of the ELCA Churchwide Assembly to allow ELCA pastors to be in same-sexrelationships.  “The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s acceptance of pastors in same-sex relationships does not pave the way for noncelibate gay clergy to serve in United Methodist churches,” the church announced in an Aug. 26 news release. 

The ELCA assembly’s vote to change clergy standards came a day after the assembly approved a full-communion relationship with the UMC, raising the question among United Methodists of whether practicing homosexual Lutheran pastors would be permitted in United Methodist pulpits.  “Leaders of both churches said Aug. 26, however, that The United Methodist Church’s ban on noncelibate gay clergy is unchanged,” the release states. 

“Our Book of Discipline on that subject did not become null and void when they took that vote,” said Bishop Gregory Palmer, president of the United Methodist Council of Bishops.  “It still applies to United Methodist clergy.” 

The 2008 United Methodist General Conference, the denomination’s top policy-making body, upheld its decades-old policy that homosexual practice is “incompatible with Christian teaching” and that “selfavowed practicing homosexuals are not to be certified as candidates, ordained as ministers or appointed to serve in The United Methodist Church.” 

Michael Trice, ELCA associate executive for Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, said the full communion agreement “did not compromise” United Methodist ministerial standards.  If clergy in “same-gendered, long-term relationships in the ELCA . . . want to serve in a United Methodist Church, The United Methodist Church can say we are sorry but that does not fit our protocols,” Trice said. 

On Aug. 20, the ELCA Churchwide Assembly voted to enter into full communion with The United Methodist Church. The pact was approved by the 2008 United Methodist General Conference.

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Lutheran CORE Human Sexuality 2009 ELCA Church Wide Assembly Lutheran Church Social Statement United Methodist Church

As promised, here is a photo of the gift my confirmation class made and presented to me last year.  They are a great bunch of kids who ask great questions about living out their faith.