vices and the ELCA churchwide office the evaluation of possible ways to invest in Palestinian economic endeavors and other projects that would promote peace and coopera- tion between Israelis and Palestin- ians. Voting members defeated an amendment requesting additional investment screens.
Among action relating to reference & counsel: • Eliminated (766-81) a 120-day win- dow for a synod to approve proposed changes to a congregation’s constitu- tion. Changes are effective as soon as
the congregation is notified of synod approval. • Amended (653-263) the constitu- tional requirements for elections to councils, boards and committees by allowing one nominee in some cases (a re-election, if authorized to do so, or a nominee from full communion bodies). • Called (811-39) upon local, state and federal governments to guarantee the right to vote to all citizens and to discourage or eliminate laws that effectively cause racial and ethnic discrimination in the exercise of that right.
Hanson urges ELCA to add to book of Acts I
n his report to the Churchwide Assembly, Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson urged members to let the Spirit continue to shape the ELCA so chapters would be added to the book of Acts.
“It is more than a prayerful long- ing of a bishop’s heart,” he said. “It is Jesus’ promise.”
Hanson called the church to be attentive to God’s future and the ways in which the Spirit’s power renews human lives and communities. With the help of photos and videos on the screen in front of the assembly, Hanson gave examples from his 12 years of witnessing the Spirit’s power in the ELCA and among global and ecumenical part- ners. He cited the energy and minis- tries of youth and young adults, and called for more lay theological edu- cation and year-round stewardship. Hanson referenced the tension and fallout following the 2009 sexu- ality decisions and economic plunge, praising bishops and synods, Church Council members and churchwide staff for weathering the storm and
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focusing on continued mission. As new chapters are added to the
book of Acts, “Does it matter that we show up as Lutherans?” Hanson asked. Yes, he said, but in doing so he called for gospel fluency, citing the reaffirmation of the Book of Faith initiative to study the Scriptures (
www.elca.org/bookoffaith). Hanson told members to con- tinue to witness to others, especially neighbors awaiting the good news: “We have something to say to people who are searching for the good life. It is the story of a gracious God who calls us by name … gathers us into the community of faith … and sends us forth … to love and serve the neighbor … and God’s creation.” He reminded members not to just talk, but to listen, especially to those not affiliated with the church. In reading Acts, Hanson said words such as “astonished,” “amazed,” “awe” and “wonder” leaped off the page. “Such was the response to the Spirit’s power and the good news of Jesus Christ. If then, why not now?” he asked. If we’re honest, he said, many
• Encouraged (770-35) ELCA mem- bers, as part of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, to read, discuss and engage the writings of Martin Luther and other reformers, such as the 95 Theses, Luther’s Large and Small catechisms, and the Augsburg Confession. • Referred (509-336) to Congrega- tional and Synodical Mission and Global Mission a request for the church to “go beyond apologies and begin working on renewed, healthy and responsible relationships with American Indian and Alaska Native Peoples.”
Mark S. Hanson
ELCA congregations are facing significant challenges: declining membership and resources, decreas- ing attendance, and changing com- munities and culture. Such a time can become a crossroads moment. Hanson called for a Pentecost of hospitality—especially to immi- grants—and renewal in caring for the homeless and hungry, those affected by disaster, violence, oppression and war. Such is the work of the Spirit in Acts and the ELCA, he said. “We are committed to respond to those who have been uprooted by war and famine, by natural disasters and political oppression, by pov- erty and ecological destruction,” he added.
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