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MINUTES of the ELCA-SOUTHEASTERN SYNOD COUNCIL Cross of Life Lutheran Church, Roswell, GA

September 9-10, 2011 I. CALL TO ORDER. Synod Vice President Doris Underwood, chair of the meeting, called to order the September 9-10, 2011 meeting of the Synod Council at 1:00 p.m. Eastern time. Bishop Gordy led the opening devotion. A. Attendance. The following persons were marked in attendance for the meeting:

COUNCIL MEMBERS: President Bishop Julian Gordy

Vice President and Chair Ms. Doris Underwood Secretary Rev. Terri Stagner-Collier Treasurer Mr. Lee Smith Conference 1 Rev. Ed Myers

Conference 4 Mr. Hilton Austin Conference 5 AIM Michelle Angalet

Conference 6 Mr. Gary Tustison Conference 7 Mr. Duane Brookhart

Conference 8 Rev. Dr. Ann Bassett Conference 9 Rev. Dr. Michael Huntley At-Large Rev. John Beckman

At-Large Ms. Catalina Ontiveros At-Large Mr. Michael Krekling

At-Large Mr. Monroe Herring At-Large (Youth) Ms. Stephanie Gaines COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT:

Conference 2 Mr. Stan Semmler Conference 3 Rev. Bradley Schmeling

At-Large (Young Adult) Ms. Crystal Rowe STAFF PRESENT (for some or all of the meeting): Ms. Rachel Alley Director for Youth Ministries Rev. Dr. Delmer Chilton Assistant to the Bishop

Rev. Darrel Peterson Assistant to the Bishop Dr. Everett Flanigan Assistant to the Bishop/Director for Evangelical Mission

Dr. Sandra Gustavson Fiscal Advisor Ms. Elaine Schwartz Exec Asst to the Bishop/Communications Director OTHERS PRESENT (for some or all of the meeting):

Rev. Dr. Marcus Miller President, Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary Dr. Wayne Powell President, Lenoir-Rhyne University Ms. Amira Hernandez Regional Director, Lutheran Volunteer Corps Following the introductions, Pastor Terri Stagner-Collier extended greetings on behalf of the Cross of Life congregation and briefly commented on logistical matters associated with the facility. Thanks were expressed by Council members to Cross of Life for hosting this meeting.

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B. Orientation & Review. For the benefit of new Synod Council members and as a review for continuing members and staff, Bishop Gordy reviewed the purpose of the Synod Council, summarized in EXHIBIT 3. Vice President Doris Underwood reviewed the structure of meetings, commenting on the organization of the agenda, the role of the “en bloc” motion and how proposals may be removed from en bloc consideration, the nature and purpose of executive sessions, the role of special guests, and the inclusion of devotions and prayers as part of the meeting. Bishop Gordy explained the process of consensus decision-making (summarized in EXHIBIT 4) and Secretary Terri Stagner-Collier explained the purpose of the meeting minutes and the ways in which they are made available to Council members and others. Dr. Sandra Gustavson called the group’s attention to EXHIBIT 5, which summarizes the legal responsibilities of non-profit boards of directors. Pastor Stagner-Collier noted that excerpts from the synod’s constitution, bylaws, and continuing resolutions are contained in EXHIBITS 6.40 and 6.50. She explained the numbering system used to distinguish among the different provisions. Treasurer Lee Smith noted that EXHIBIT 7 contains a compilation of existing financial policies, and he reviewed the structure of the synod’s financial reports. Finally, Dr. Gustavson and Ms. Elaine Schwartz explained several logistical items for Council members, including meals, communications, lodging with host families, and expense reimbursements. C. Adoption of Agenda. Without dissent, the Council began work from the printed agenda, with additions and corrections provided and incorporated within these minutes. D. Removal of Proposals from En Bloc Consideration. Council members considered the list of proposed actions contained in EXHIBIT 9.01. Requests were made to consider the following proposals separately:

Change Status of Messiah Korean Church, Norcross, GA (Agenda, page 5) Guidance to Nominating Committee for 2012 Elections (EXHIBIT 11) Bylaw Amendment Regarding Conference Nominations for Synod Council (EXHIBIT 20) Guidelines for Grants from Linn Fund (EXHIBIT 28) Advisory Group for Allocation of Disaster Response Grants (EXHIBITS 49 and 49.5) Principles for Merger of LTSS with Lenoir-Rhyne University (EXHIBIT 55)

Proposals listed in EXHIBIT 9.01 that were not removed from en bloc consideration were approved via one en bloc motion. An additional proposal (Resolution for Visibility, EXHIBIT 65) was presented later during the meeting; it was not listed in EXHIBIT 9.01 and was not included in the en bloc motion. To provide clarity within these minutes, all proposals and their associated actions are reported separately; those that were approved en bloc are so noted. E. Minutes of the June 2011 Meetings. As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and

AGREED To approve the minutes of the June 2, 2011 and June 5, 2011 Synod Council meetings.

II. OFFICERS A. President - Bishop H. Julian Gordy

1. Report of the Bishop (EXHIBIT 62). Bishop Gordy referred Council members to his written report. He highlighted recent staffing changes, which include the resignation of Pastor Nancy Christensen as one of the Directors for Evangelical Mission and the completion of service by Lutheran Volunteer Corps intern Kyle Cristofalo. The bishop

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also reviewed his summary of the economic viability of synod congregations; according to widely used benchmarks, more than 75 percent of synod congregations are only marginally viable. 2. 2011 Churchwide Assembly (EXHIBIT 42). Bishop Gordy reported that there was a good spirit during the 2011 Churchwide Assembly and that there was a noticeable increase in the number of young persons in attendance. Council members Lee Smith, Doris Underwood, and Michelle Angalet also spoke about their very positive experiences as voting members of the Assembly.

3. Synod Council Pledges for Lutheranch. Information packets about the current capital campaign for Lutheranch were distributed to new Council members and others who did not receive them at the June 2011 Synod Council meeting. Bishop Gordy explained that it is important that all Council members make a pledge for this campaign, as an indication of support by synod leadership. Pledging and giving something is more important than the actual amount contributed. Because some Council members cannot locate the information they received at the June 2011 meeting, synod staff will contact Lutheridge-Lutherock Executive Director Keith Johnson and request that new pledge cards be mailed to all current Synod Council members.

4. Roster Status Changes (EXHIBIT 30).

a. Clergy On Leave from Call: As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and

AGREED SC11.09.01AR That the ELCA-Southeastern Synod ordained

ministers listed be granted On Leave from Call status in accordance with the terms stated:

The Rev. Nancy K. Christensen – first year beginning 8/22/11 The Rev. Michael E. Jenkins - extension of OLFC status, beginning 6/1/11 ending in retirement 8/1/12 The Rev. Ricki A. Mason – first year beginning 9/1/11 The Rev. Devin L. Strong - Disability Status, fourth year beginning 1/1/12 The Rev. David G Webb – first year beginning 7/4/11 The Rev. Jennifer P. Weetman – OLFC-Graduate Study, third year beginning 10/21/11

b. Associates in Ministry/Diaconal Ministers/Deaconesses on Leave from Call: As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and AGREED SC11.09.02AR That the ELCA-Southeastern Synod Associate

in Ministry listed be granted On Leave from Call status in accordance with the term stated:

Ms. Melody R. Simpkins – 2nd year beginning 7/19/11

c. Clergy, Expiration of On Leave From Call Status: As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and AGREED SC11.09.03AR That the ELCA-Southeastern Synod ordained

minister listed be removed from the ELCA

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roster as of the date stated, due to expiration of On Leave from Call status:

The Rev. Hans-Jürgen Hoeppke – 10/15/11

d. Letter of Call – Term Call: As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and AGREED SC11.09.04AR That the ELCA-Southeastern Synod ordained

minister listed be granted a call to serve as a Synod Transition ordained minister in accordance with the term stated:

The Rev. Sharon A. Johnson – Faith, Warner Robins, GA, August 1, 2011 – July 31, 2012

e. Clergy Retirements: As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and AGREED SC11.09.05AR That the ELCA-Southeastern Synod ordained

minister listed be granted retirement status as of the date stated:

The Rev Daniel W. Phifer – 8/1/11

f. Synodically Authorized Minister: As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and AGREED SC11.09.06AR That Mr. James Choi be appointed as a

synodically authorized minister for Messiah Korean Church, Norcross, GA, effective August 23, 2011.

5. Congregations Leaving the ELCA (EXHIBIT 47). Council members reviewed the status of decision-making in synod congregations that have actively considered withdrawing from the ELCA. No congregations have been added to the list contained in EXHIBIT 47 since the June 2011 Synod Council meeting. 6. Advisory Group, Disaster Response Grants (EXHIBITS 49 and 49.5). Bishop Gordy and Pastor Terri Stagner-Collier explained that the Executive Committee had modified the original proposal (EXHIBIT 49) for appointing an advisory board to allocate funds contributed to the Southeastern Synod in response to the tornado and flood damage experienced in the synod during Spring 2011. Because there is a substantial amount of funding (approximately $32,000) yet to be distributed, Executive Committee members determined that it would be helpful to provide the advisory group with principles to guide the allocation of the grants. The suggested principles are contained in EXHIBIT 49.5. The Executive Committee PROPOSED and the Synod Council

AGREED SC11.09.07TF 1. To approve the appointment of Pastor Scott

Peterson (Messiah, Madison, AL) and Pastor Rick Ohsiek (Reformation, Greeneville,TN) as an advisory group to work with Bishop Gordy to allocate funds contributed to the Southeastern Synod in response to

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the tornado and flood damage experienced in the synod during Spring 2011;

2. To encourage the following priorities in making grants for disaster response:

* Support congregational programs which provide direct rebuilding aid for families (building materials, required professional sub-contractors, etc.) * Support rebuilding efforts in congregations through hiring a construction supervisor or volunteer coordinator, with hours of employment being consistent with scope of project * Support congregations in the set-up of volunteer housing and volunteer management structures (shower trailers, bedding, consultation support, etc.);

3. To discourage using these funds to pay for administrative costs, staff salaries (with the exception of construction supervision), preparedness development and training, and general expenses; and 4. To discourage using these funds to cover substantial administration costs in designated social ministry organizations.

B. Vice President – Ms. Doris Underwood (EXHIBIT 31). The Council reviewed the Vice President’s listing of recent activities. C. Secretary – Rev. Terri Stagner-Collier. The Secretary reported that the minutes from the 2011 Synod Assembly and the June 2011 Synod Council meetings had been completed and that she had been involved with several follow-up tasks associated with those meetings. D. Treasurer – Mr. Lee Smith. The Council reviewed the financial reports through July 2011, as provided in EXHIBIT 27 and the mission support receipts through August 2011, as reported in EXHIBIT 59. The current trend suggests that mission support receipts this year may exceed the $2.1 million budgeted in Level 1 of the 2011-12 Ministry Funding Plan. III. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. A. Notification of Executive Committee Actions. The Vice President reported that the Executive Committee had not met between its regularly scheduled meetings preceding the June 2011 and September 2011 Synod Council meetings.

B. Representation on Committees, Task Forces, and Boards. Council members reviewed EXHIBIT 51, which contains a summary of committee and task force vacancies, as well as progress toward achieving the synod’s inclusivity goals. As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and

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AGREED SC11.09.08EC To elect the following persons as specified: Candidacy Committee Ms. Allison Ward, Redeemer, Savannah, GA, to fill unexpired term, Nov. 2011-June 2013 Kessler Scholarship Committee Ms. Melissa Fuller, Atonement, Atlanta, GA, second two-year term to June 2013 Youth Ministry Team Mr. Michael Glor, St. Timothy, Hendersonville, TN, unexpired term to June 2012 Southeastern Lutheran Holding Corporation Board of Directors AIM Michelle Angalet, Good Shepherd, Woodstock, GA, unexpired term to June 2012 Disaster Preparedness & Response Task Force Ms. Allison Ward, Redeemer, Savannah, GA, open-ended term Ms. Joanne Webb, Grace, Long Beach, MS, open-ended term Mr. John Boettner, Shepherd of the Hills, Birmingham, AL, open-ended term Mr. Ron Turney, Lutheran Ministries of Alabama, open-ended term Ms. Suzie Harvey, Christus Victor, Ocean Springs, MS, open-ended term as advisory member Dr. Roland Welmaker, Atonement, Atlanta, GA, open-ended term Rev. Robert Blanton, Lutheran Episocopal Services in Mississippi, open-ended term

C. Congregational Constitutions. Upon the recommendation of the Rev. Randy Jones, reviewer of congregational constitutions and as part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and

AGREED SC11.09.09CS To approve the constitutional amendments of the following congregation:

Triumphant Cross, Dothan, AL

D. Great Commission Grants (EXHIBITS 10 and 61). As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and

AGREED SC11.09.10GC (1) To approve a $3,000 Great Commission Fund grant for Advent, LaGrange, GA to support its “English as a Second Language” project and (2) to approve a $3,000 Great Commission Fund grant for Resurrection, Newnan, GA to support its “Community Early Childhood Education” program.

E. Conference Nominations for Synod Council (EXHIBIT 20). Council members reviewed the proposed amendment to bylaw S10.07.12, which proposes that conferences report their nominations for synod council conference representatives at least one week prior to the synod assembly at which the election is scheduled. Questions and discussion of the proposal focused on the feasibility of this change if conferences are not meeting other than at the synod assembly. Two conferences reported that conference meetings have not been possible during the past year. Issues include a lack of money for planning and programs, bad past experience

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encouraging attendance by lay persons, distance required for travel to meetings, and some unhappiness among conference members. Bishop Gordy reminded the Council that it has the responsibility to do whatever is needed to fix problems if the current structure is not functioning consistent with the synod’s governing documents. He suggested that conferences offer programs at their meetings to make attendance worthwhile. The bishop also stated that he would like to have synod staff present at conference meetings if they are invited. Treasurer Lee Smith reminded the Council that eight of the nine conferences have some funds in designated accounts held by the synod office. These funds are available to help pay for conference meeting expenses. It was PROPOSED and the Synod Council

AGREED SC11.09.11CT To recommend that the 2012 Synod Assembly approve the following amendment to Bylaw S10.07.12, where underlining denotes the proposed wording to be added:

Each conference shall nominate one representative to serve on the Synod Council. In order to allow equal representation among lay persons and clergy from the conferences, one half of the Conferences shall nominate a lay representative and one half of the conferences shall nominate a clergy representative. When two terms are completed, whether by the same person or not, those conferences previously nominating lay persons shall nominate clergy, and those conferences previously nominating clergy shall nominate lay persons. Each person so nominated shall be a voting member of a congregation in the nominating conference. No officer of any conference may serve as a member of the Synod Council. Nominations may take place at the Fall or Spring Conference Assembly, shall normally be reported to the synod office at least one week prior to the next Synod Assembly, and are subject to election at the next Synod Assembly. Conference representatives shall take office immediately after the Synod Assembly following election.

It was noted that conference officers should be alerted of this proposed change as soon as possible. Secretary Terri Stagner-Collier will write letters to the conference officers notifying them of the proposed amendment. F. Guidance to Nominating Committee (EXHIBIT 11). Pastor Terri Stagner-Collier explained portions of EXHIBIT 11, containing proposed guidance for the Nominating Committee in connection with the elections scheduled for the 2012 Synod Assembly. It was noted that the number of churchwide assembly voting members allocated to the Southeastern Synod has decreased to 11 for the 2013 Churchwide Assembly. At its meeting prior to the Synod Council meeting, the Executive Committee discussed the continuing problem of many synod congregations not submitting completed parochial reports; this failure affects the number of churchwide voting member positions allocated to the synod. One strategy that might be helpful would be for letters to be sent to all congregations that do not submit their reports by the first deadline in 2012. The Synod Vice President could write to the Congregation Council presidents,

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and the Bishop could write to the pastors; both sets of letters should encourage completion of the reports. As guidance for the Nominating Committee, it was

PROPOSED That the following guidelines be provided to the Nominating Committee for its use in planning for the elections to take place at the 2012 Synod Assembly:

1. The Nominating Committee is requested to recruit potential lay female and lay male nominees for two at-large positions on the Synod Council. Because the Synod Council is the nominating body for these positions, all biographical forms received for these positions should be forwarded to the Synod Council, without additional action by the Nominating Committee. 2. The Nominating Committee should nominate at least two but no more than four persons for each of the following positions to be elected at the 2012 Synod Assembly:

1 young adult lay member of the Synod Council 9 voting members of the 2013 Churchwide Assembly, in addition to the positions for the bishop and the vice president

3. As part of its written report to the 2012 Synod Assembly, the Nominating Committee should specify the demographic requirements associated with each churchwide assembly voting member position to be elected. The minimum demographic requirements for the churchwide assembly voting members should be:

1 Bishop 3 Clergy, with both male and female representation 1 Vice President 1 Lay male person of color or primary language other than English 1 Youth (under age 18) 1 Young adult lay person (ages 18-30) 3 Other lay persons, selected so that the total number of lay voting members is half male and half female

4. It is requested that the Nominating Committee specify opposite gender requirements for the Youth and Young Adult churchwide assembly voting member positions. Such designation may be done after the deadline for the submission of biographical

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materials but should be included in the Nominating Committee’s written report to the Assembly. 5. At the beginning of the nominations process, the Nominating Committee should publish its criteria for narrowing the field of candidates to from two to four people for each position. 6. Recruiting of candidates is an important role of the Nominating Committee. The Committee is urged to recruit more than the minimum number of candidates necessary to meet each of the inclusivity requirements. 7. Biographical forms for nominees for 2013 Churchwide Assembly voting members should include the same content as those used at the 2010 Synod Assembly, with the following two changes:

• Add the following two open-ended questions for candidates to complete: “Why do you want to attend the Churchwide Assembly?” and “What are your hopes for the ELCA?”

• Rather than listing every assembly for candidates to check, ask “Please list all churchwide assemblies you have attended,” with blank lines to follow.

8. The nominations process should be conducted with the goal of issuing a final, complete list of nominees no later than May 1, 2012. 9. At the conclusion of its deliberations, the Nominating Committee should notify those who are and are not nominated.

10. The following elections process values should be emphasized in materials provided to Synod Assembly voting members and in the verbal report of the Nominating Committee to the Assembly:

• Transparency in the application of Synod Assembly rules and constitutional mandates throughout the election process

• Assurance that all inclusivity goals (as stated in the constitution, bylaws, continuing resolutions, and Rules of Organization and Procedure) will be fully achieved • Flexibility for synod assemblies to elect more than the minimum number of churchwide assembly voting members required to meet the inclusivity goals

Treasurer Lee Smith questioned the wording of the third item in the list of proposed guidelines, noting that it is not possible to select an odd number of lay persons that is exactly half male and

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half female. The wording of the third guideline was modified to reflect this reality. It was then PROPOSED and the Synod Council

AGREED SC11.09.12NO That the following guidelines be provided to the Nominating Committee for its use in planning for the elections to take place at the 2012 Synod Assembly:

1. The Nominating Committee is requested to recruit potential lay female and lay male nominees for two at-large positions on the Synod Council. Because the Synod Council is the nominating body for these positions, all biographical forms received for these positions should be forwarded to the Synod Council, without additional action by the Nominating Committee. 2. The Nominating Committee should nominate at least two but no more than four persons for each of the following positions to be elected at the 2012 Synod Assembly:

1 young adult lay member of the Synod Council 9 voting members of the 2013 Churchwide Assembly, in addition to the positions for the bishop and the vice president

3. As part of its written report to the 2012 Synod Assembly, the Nominating Committee should specify the demographic requirements associated with each churchwide assembly voting member position to be elected. The minimum demographic requirements for the churchwide assembly voting members should be:

1 Bishop 3 Clergy, with both male and female representation 1 Vice President 1 Lay male person of color or primary language other than English 1 Youth (under age 18) 1 Young adult lay person (ages 18-30) 3 Other lay persons, selected so that the total number of lay voting members is as near as possible half male and half female

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4. It is requested that the Nominating Committee specify opposite gender requirements for the Youth and Young Adult churchwide assembly voting member positions. Such designation may be done after the deadline for the submission of biographical materials but should be included in the Nominating Committee’s written report to the Assembly. 5. At the beginning of the nominations process, the Nominating Committee should publish its criteria for narrowing the field of candidates to from two to four people for each position. 6. Recruiting of candidates is an important role of the Nominating Committee. The Committee is urged to recruit more than the minimum number of candidates necessary to meet each of the inclusivity requirements. 7. Biographical forms for nominees for 2013 Churchwide Assembly voting members should include the same content as those used at the 2010 Synod Assembly, with the following two changes:

•••• Add the following two open-ended questions for candidates to complete: “Why do you want to attend the Churchwide Assembly?” and “What are your hopes for the ELCA?”

•••• Rather than listing every assembly for candidates to check, ask “Please list all churchwide assemblies you have attended,” with blank lines to follow.

8. The nominations process should be conducted with the goal of issuing a final, complete list of nominees no later than May 1, 2012. 9. At the conclusion of its deliberations, the Nominating Committee should notify those who are and are not nominated.

10. The following elections process values should be emphasized in materials provided to Synod Assembly voting members and in the verbal report of the Nominating Committee to the Assembly:

•••• Transparency in the application of Synod Assembly rules and constitutional mandates throughout the election process

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•••• Assurance that all inclusivity goals (as stated in the constitution, bylaws, continuing resolutions, and Rules of Organization and Procedure) will be fully achieved •••• Flexibility for synod assemblies to elect more than the minimum number of churchwide assembly voting members required to meet the inclusivity goals

G. Principles for 2013-14 Ministry Funding Plan (EXHIBIT 12). As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and the Synod Council

AGREED SC11.09.13BF That the following guidelines be provided to the Budget and Finance Committee for its use in formulating a proposed 2013-14 Ministry Funding Plan:

1. Assumed mission support from congregations should

be estimated using a conservative philosophy.

2. Proposed income and expenses should be equal, to yield a balanced budget proposal.

3. A 2-level budget is requested.

4. Designated giving as a planned source of revenue should be used sparingly.

5. Transfers from designated accounts as a planned source of revenue is acceptable if consistent with the purpose of the designated accounts.

6. ELCA churchwide mission support (benevolence) should be 50 percent of all undesignated mission support from congregations, contributions to the synod’s Planting New Congregations Fund should be at least 3 percent of undesignated mission support, and support of Region 9 should be 0.455 percent of undesignated mission support.

7. Funding for committees and task forces should be stated on a lump-sum basis, with allocation to specific groups to be determined at the January 2013 Synod Council meeting.

8. Allocations for operating expenses should be at levels that will maintain essential operations.

9. As funding permits, a process should be started to begin restoring the reductions imposed the past several years in critical areas, with emphasis on the following:

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• Staff salaries • Contributions to the Planting New Congregations Fund, up to a maximum of 5 percent of all undesignated mission support from congregations • Support for institutions and agencies that is consistent with the principles approved in January 2009, and subsequently modified in January 2010.

H. Resolution for Visibility (EXHIBIT 65). Mr. Hilton Austin, Synod Council representative from the Magi Conference, distributed the following resolution for consideration by the Synod Council:

PROPOSED Whereas, the synod council is the governing board of the Southeastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, representing 156 congregations across 4 states;

And whereas, the synod council, as well as the ELCA’s good works, are invisible to most of the people who make up those 156 congregations; And whereas, giving to the ELCA is down overall, which is limiting the good works that can be accomplished,

Be it resolved that the members of the synod council will visit each of these congregations throughout the year to heighten the visibility of the synod council and the programs and resources of the organization,

Be it further resolved that each member be equipped with a letter of greetings from the Bishop and the synod council and a DVD highlighting the good works of the synod and the Church, as well as resource materials to leave behind, Be it further resolved that the deans of each conference work diligently to increase participation in conference meetings by requesting all pastors and presidents of congregations to encourage councils and committee chairs to attend these meetings, thereby creating a grassroots movement.

Mr. Austin explained that the intent of his proposal is to make congregations more aware of what the church is doing. During the ensuing discussion, Ms. Elaine Schwartz reported that John Thomas, who was one of the Southeastern Synod’s voting members to the 2011 Churchwide Assembly, wants to produce a video about the Southeastern Synod. He will also be writing an article for the synod’s supplement in the December 2011 issue of The Lutheran. As a substitute for the resolved clauses in Mr. Austin’s original proposal, but with the same intent of increasing awareness of the Southeastern Synod’s mission and ministries, it was PROPOSED and the Synod Council

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AGREED SC11.09.14SC That members of the Synod Council will visit with

congregations and leaders in their conferences throughout the year to heighten the visibility of the Synod Council and the programs and resources of our church,

Members of the Synod Council will be equipped with letters of greetings from the bishop and the Synod Council and will distribute and promote videos and other mission interpretive materials highlighting the good works of our synod and our churchwide organization;

Members of the Synod Council will work with deans and conference officers to increase participation at conference meetings by requesting all pastors and presidents of congregations to encourage councils and committee chairs to attend these meetings, thereby creating a grassroots movement.

In response to a question, Bishop Gordy stated that in addition to conference representatives, the at-large members of the Synod Council should be involved in the visitation activities agreed to. Pastor Michael Huntley requested that someone write an article for the synod’s E-News to report about the current meeting of the Synod Council. It was suggested that Pastor Huntley would be a good author for such an article; he agreed to write an article for the synod blog. IV. COMMITTEES The Synod Council reviewed the written reports submitted by synod committees, as noted below. A. Audit Committee - Mr. Dennis Wieckert, Chair (EXHIBIT 32). As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and

AGREED SC11.09.15SC To appoint the firm of Marshall Jones and Co. to audit the 2011-12 financial statements at a price of $10,350.

B. Budget and Finance Committee – Rev. John Rossing, Chair (EXHIBITS 13, 53, and 54). As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and

AGREED SC11.09.16BF To approve the following amendments to the synod’s investment policy, to recognize action by the 2011 Synod Assembly to convert the Dr. Charles A. Linn Fund from a loan fund to an endowment fund:

1. Add “Linn Fund” to the list of endowment funds 2. Delete “Linn Fund” from the list of non-endowment funds

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3. Delete the paragraph labeled “Linn Fund Special Rules” in the section on Permitted Investments.

C. Campus Ministry Team – Rev. Robb Harrell, Chair (EXHIBIT 33). Commenting on the written report, Pastor Ed Myers emphasized that the churchwide organization will not be providing any money for campus ministry support beginning in 2013-14. Pastor Myers asked about the process for synod-wide appeals to help replace lost funding. Bishop Gordy noted that there is an existing synod policy specifying that only one capital funds appeal may take place at a time. But nothing prohibits the designation of campus ministry Sundays with requested special offerings. The complete synod policy on the financial solicitation of congregations is stated in Appendix B of the compilation of financial policies contained in EXHIBIT 7. It was also noted by Mr. Hilton Austin that WELCA is now providing additional financial support for campus ministry. D. Candidacy Committee – Dr. Anne Fottrell, Chair (no report) E. Compensation Guidelines Committee – Rev. Scott Seeke, Chair (no report) F. Consultation Committee (no report)

G. Discipline Committee (no report) H. Global Mission Committee – Mr. Larry Schultz, Chair (no report)

I. Kessler Scholarship Committee – Ms. Melissa Fuller, Chair (no report) J. Mission Outreach & Renewal Committee – Rev. Laurie Williams, Chair

1. Linn Fund Grants (EXHIBIT 28). The Executive Committee reviewed the proposed guidelines and application form for Linn Fund grants, submitted by the Mission Outreach and Renewal Committee. As a recommendation from that Committee, it was PROPOSED and the Synod Council AGREED SC11.09.17LF To approve the following guidelines for grants from

the Linn Fund:

1. Congregations must be either new mission starts, or actively engaged in renewal. 2. Congregations can apply for grants up to $5,000 every year. 3. Preference will be given to those congregations who are working on leadership development, or who are addressing specific mission goals.

The Executive Committee noted that the actions taken by the 2011 Synod Assembly do not require Synod Council approval for individual grants. Because a quick response is often necessary in connection with proposed Linn Fund grants, the Executive Committee PROPOSED and the Synod Council AGREED SC11.09.18LF To request that the Mission Outreach and Renewal

Committee revise the application for Linn Fund grants

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to eliminate references to Synod Council approval, replacing such references with a note that the Mission Outreach and Renewal Committee shall make the final determination concerning grants and shall report its decisions to the Synod Council at the next scheduled meeting following each decision.

2. Christ Kiswahili Lutheran Mission as SAWC (EXHIBIT 58). As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and the Synod Council

AGREED SC11.09.19OR To designate Christ Kiswahili Lutheran Mission,

Nashville, TN as a Synodically Authorized Worshipping Community of the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA.

3. Messiah Korean Church, Norcross, GA. Bishop Gordy provided information about recent developments concerning the Messiah Korean Church. He reported that the group is no longer viable as a new mission start. Options include disbanding or operation as a Synodically Authorized Worshiping Community (SAWC). The Executive Committee PROPOSED and the Synod Council

AGREED SC11.09.20OR To approve a change of status for Messiah Korean

Church, Norcross, GA from a new mission start to a Synodically Authorized Worshiping Community of the Southeastern Synod.

K. Mutual Ministry Committee – Mr. Ed Ringer, Convener (no report) L. Nominating Committee - Ms. Krista Helgerson, Chair (no report) M. Personnel Committee – Mr. Michael Franklin, Chair (no report) N. SMO Allocations Committee – Rev. David Hardy, Chair (no report) O. Southeastern Lutheran Holding Corporation – Mr. Lee Smith, President (EXHIBIT 14). Mr. Smith reported that events subsequent to the June 2011 meeting of the Board of Directors included receipt of $5,000 from AT&T for an easement on the property in Jackson, Mississippi. That same property is now leased to the Cathedral of Faith Church, since Lutheran-Episcopal Services in Mississippi was not interested in renting it. P. Synod Assembly Committee – Ms. Jan Levengood, Chair

1. Age Distribution at 2011 Synod Assembly (EXHIBIT 15). In accordance with continuing resolution S7.21.A09, the Synod Council reviewed the information provided about the age distribution of voting members of the 2011 Synod Assembly, noting that approximately 5.8 percent of them were age 30 or under. This percentage is thought to be an improvement over the percentage achieved in 2010. 2. 2011 Synod Assembly Evaluations (EXHIBITS 16 and 17) 3. 2012 Synod Assembly Workshop Topics (EXHIBIT 63). The Rev. Dr. Ann Bassett led the Council in a discussion of synod assembly workshop topics. She provided historical

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background information from the past three years and invited discussion, to be used as input for synod staff and the Synod Assembly Committee in planning for workshops at the 2012 Synod Assembly. Points voiced during the discussion included:

• Workshop presenters are not paid. However, perhaps we should pay some of them, so that we have fewer but better workshops. • We must determine what we want from the workshop time. Should it be sharing of information (top-down approach) or a way to encourage networking among congregations? If networking is to be encouraged, the workshops must be advertised in that way. • An article in the E-News could request suggestions for desired workshop topics. • Are workshops a correct use of assembly time? We could have fewer workshops and more time for networking. • The continuation of content from one workshop to another in the next time slot is not appropriate. • A past workshop on church growth was very popular. The presenter received feedback on it for months afterwards. • How can we share some of what was shared at the churchwide assembly? • It would be helpful to offer networking opportunities with congregations who have sponsored international mission trips. Such a workshop would need a facilitator, but not a leader. A similar concept could be applied to the topic of branding/marketing plans in congregations. Such workshops must be advertised as, “Come to share your ideas.” Assuring that some people with ideas are indeed present to share them would also be important. • One topic could be a panel discussion about working with refugees. • We could experiment and designate one workshop session as a networking conversation about various topics. Voting members could list their top topics during assembly registration. A good facilitator would be needed for these conversations. • One of the workshop sessions could be used for Bible study, rather than doing it during the plenary sessions. Voting members could be assigned to tables, as was done at the churchwide assembly. Each table might have a facilitator, and Book of Faith materials could be used. • Plenary seating might be done alphabetically. • A professional on worship technology might be a good resource for a workshop. • Congregations that use technology in worship could be called on to share information about best practices.

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• Lay voting members like the workshops best when they receive information they can take back to their congregations or when they learn new things. Pastors want to be inspired. • What is the process for picking workshops and assigning space? It’s hard to move workshops to larger rooms once the assembly begins. • The backgrounds and attitudes of workshop attendees make a big difference in the success of workshops. • Do we ask presenters for feedback? Yes, but it is done informally. • We could provide more time for networking, perhaps in a larger room or in the plenary hall. • Would two sessions of 75 minutes each be better than three sessions of 45 minutes each? But if the sessions are too long, more voting members might leave to do something else during that time. • 45 minutes is a good goal for presenters. • A social network forum to continue conversations after the initial networking sessions at the assembly would be helpful. • It might be helpful to have a workshop discussing “How do we walk together as a synod?” Discussion could include committee support, mission support, and ways to share skills and gifts. • “How to walk together” could be the theme for one session, followed by different, more specific topics in different rooms.

Q. Youth Ministry Team – Rev. Amy Figg, Chair (EXHIBITS 34 and 56). In response to the Synod Council’s request in June 2011 that the Youth Ministry Team review a grant request received from the Lutheran Association of Christian Educators (LACE), it was noted that the Team recommended against providing funding. No additional action on the LACE request is required. V. TASK FORCES The Synod Council reviewed the written reports submitted by synod task forces, as noted below. A. Welcoming & Inclusion Task Force – Mr. Bob Gibeling, Chair (no report). It was noted that this Task Force will cease to exist after its authorization expires on September 30, 2011.

B. Disaster Preparedness and Response Task Force - Rev. Dr. Morgan Gordy, Chair (EXHIBIT 35). In response to a request from the Task Force and as part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and the Synod Council

AGREED SC11.09.21TF To extend authorization of the Disaster Preparedness and Response Task Force through January 31, 2014.

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C. African Descent Strategy Task Force – Dr. Andrea Green, Chair (no report) D. Worship Ministries Team – Rev. Kevin Strickland, Chair (no report) E. Immigration Task Force – Rev. Kent Lewis, Chair (no report) F. Care for the Troops Task Force (no report) G. Health Ministries Task Force – Ms. Connie Pearson, Chair (no report) H. Poverty, Hunger & Justice Task Force – Mr. Jonathan Trapp, Chair (EXHIBIT 36). Pastor Darrel Peterson encouraged attendance at the Hunger Huddle conference, which will be offered by the Poverty, Hunger, and Justice Task Force on October 21 at Redeemer, Atlanta. I. Anti-Racism Task Force – Ms. Cathy Crimi, Chair (EXHIBIT 43) VI. CONFERENCES & CLUSTERS A. Reports from Conferences. The Synod Council reviewed the written conference reports that had been submitted in advance.

1. Ebenezer Conference – Ms. Alice Schunemann (no report) 2. Good N.E.W.S. Conference – Rev. Dena Lane (no report) 3. Trinity Conference – Ms. Emma Clark (no report)

4. Magi Conference – Ms. Carolyn Davis (no report) 5. Mission Conference – Rev. Paul Baumgartner (EXHIBIT 21) 6. Life Together Conference – Rev. Michael Jannett (EXHIBIT 37) 7. Diaspora Conference – Ms. Doris Underwood (no report) 8. The King Conference – Mr. Gary Wicks (no report) 9. Ruach Conference – Rev. Marcia Schultz (no report)

B. Cluster Deans (no report) VII. REPORTS OF SYNOD STAFF Council members thanked the synod staff for their work and reviewed the written staff reports that had been provided in advance. A. Rev. Dr. Delmer Chilton – Assistant to the Bishop (EXHIBIT 38) B. Rev. Darrel Peterson - Assistant to the Bishop / Pastor for Stewardship (EXHIBIT 22)

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C. Dr. Everett Flanigan – Director for Evangelical Mission (EXHIBIT 60). Dr. Flanigan also reported verbally that a cross-cultural conversation is scheduled for Trinity, Lilburn, GA on October 28-29. D. Rev. Deborah Halter – Coordinator for Pastoral Care (EXHIBIT 23) E. Ms. Rachel Alley - Director for Youth Ministries (EXHIBIT 39). Ms. Alley also announced that Project Connect had received a $10,000 grant to encourage young adults to enter rostered ministry. The grant will fund some presence at youth events. There will also be a dessert reception for all young adults attending the synod assembly. F. Ms. Elaine Schwartz – Executive Assistant to the Bishop / Communications Director (EXHIBIT 24) G. Dr. Sandra Gustavson – Fiscal Advisor (EXHIBIT 25) H. Ms. Holly Liersch – Office Manager (EXHIBIT 29) VIII. AGENCIES, INSTITUTIONS, and ORGANIZATIONS A. Presentations To The Synod Council

1. Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary (EXHIBIT 55). As a special order following dinner on Friday evening, the Rev. Dr. Marcus Miller, President of LTSS, and Dr. Wayne Powell, President of Lenoir-Rhyne University, met with the Synod Council to discuss the forthcoming merger of LTSS with Lenoir-Rhyne. The merger is scheduled to become effective for the 2012-13 academic year. The presidents provided the Council with background information about conversations between the two institutions, described how the merger is expected to be implemented, explained how the seminary will function following the merger, and responded to questions. Upon request by the presidents, it was PROPOSED and the Synod Council

AGREED SC11.09.22SE To approve the following guiding principles for

governance and administration of Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary as it becomes a part of the School of Theology of Lenoir-Rhyne University:

1. Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary will continue as a Seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, fulfilling all expectations for Seminaries of the ELCA and receiving support directly from the Synods of Region 9 and the Churchwide organization through the Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries. The doctrinal basis for the Seminary shall continue to be identical to, and its teachings shall be in harmony with, the doctrinal basis of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. 2. LTSS will be a part of the School of Theology of Lenoir-Rhyne University. The Board of Trustees of LRU oversees and governs all programs of the

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University. Amendments to University governing documents that affect the authority and integrity of the Seminary shall be submitted to supporting Synods for review and comment and shall be submitted to the appropriate Churchwide unit for endorsement and the ELCA Church Council for approval. 3. A Seminary Advisory Board will be elected following a pattern similar to the pattern now used to elect the Seminary Board of Trustees. The University Board will appoint the chair of the Advisory Board and will provide for input from the Advisory Board in the conduct of their business. The Advisory Board shall participate in the following:

• Election of the Seminary Provost • Election of seminary faculty • Oversight of the Seminary budget and endowment • Stewardship of seminary property • Seminary curriculum • New Seminary programs • Church and donor relations

4. The Seminary Provost shall be an ordained pastor on the roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. 5. The University administration shall administer all assets of the Seminary. All planned gifts, donations, endowments, and contributions designated for Seminary education shall be used solely for the support of the Seminary, its students, and its programs.

2. Lutheran Volunteer Corps (LVC). As a special order on Saturday morning, Ms. Amira Hernandez, Regional Director of the Lutheran Volunteer Corps, met with the Synod Council. She explained that LVC is a community of faith working for peace with justice. Its three core principles are building community, working for justice, and living simply and sustainably. The focus for the coming year is to grow the program locally by cultivating new placement partners. LVC would like to have about 22 volunteers in the Atlanta area in the future. It seeks to match the gifts of volunteers with the needs of the placements. Ms. Hernandez answered questions from Council members. She was invited to attend the All Georgia Youth Gathering in Spring 2012 and to be in conversation at gatherings sponsored by the Lutheran Theological Center in Atlanta.

B. Written Reports. Synod Council members reviewed the written reports submitted in advance by the agencies, institutions, and organizations, as noted below:

1. Day 1 (EXHIBIT 40)

2. ELCA Campus Ministry

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a. Atlanta University Campus Ministry (no report) b. Lutheran Campus Ministry at Georgia Tech (EXHIBITS 45 and 48)

c. East Tennessee State Lutheran Campus Ministry (no report) d. Tyson House, University of Tennessee (no report) e. University of Georgia Campus Ministry (no report)

3. Evangelical Lutheran Coalition for Mission in Appalachia (EXHIBIT 46) 4. Georgia Christian Council (no report) 5. James R. Crumley, Jr. Archives (EXHIBIT 41) 6. Lutheran Men in Mission (no report) 7. Lutheran Theological Center in Atlanta (EXHIBIT 64). Dr. Everett Flanigan spoke about the events listed in the exhibit, highlighting the synod-wide Bible studies scheduled for December 3 and 4, 2011. The Bible studies represent the beginning of an effort for LTCA to serve the entire synod by conducting seminars and training sessions in major metropolitan areas outside of Atlanta. It is the first attempt to re-envision the role of LTCA. 8. Lutheran Youth Organization (no report) 9. Lutheridge-Lutherock Ministries; Lutheranch (EXHIBIT 18) 10. Mississippi Religious Leadership Conference (no report) 11. Newberry College (no report) 12. Region 9 (no report) 13. SESYALL (no report) 14. Social Ministry Organizations:

a. Lutheran Services of Georgia (LSG) (EXHIBIT 26) b. Lutheran Ministries of Alabama (no report)

c. Lutheran Episcopal Services in Mississippi (LESM) (no report)

d. Lutheran Services in Tennessee (EXHIBIT 44)

e. All Things New Ministry (no report)

f. ALMS (no report)

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15. Southeastern Women of the ELCA (EXHIBIT 19) IX. PLANNING SESSIONS: SYNOD MISSION INTERPRETATON. As a special order on Friday afternoon, Bishop Gordy and Pastor Delmer Chilton led Council members and staff in thinking about several aspects of the synod’s mission and focus. Written notes from each of three small discussion groups were submitted to the bishop, who agreed to summarize and distribute them to Council members. Upon request, the bishop also agreed to make his Powerpoint presentation available to the Council. The following additional points were made on Saturday morning, as Council members reflected on the Friday afternoon conversations:

• Bishop Gordy suggested that conference representatives discuss concerns about the functionality of conferences with their conference officers. Synod staff will provide each conference representative with contact information for his or her conference chairperson. • It was noted that WELCA conferences have been meeting and that their meetings have been well attended. • Pastor John Beckman and Bishop Gordy will discuss ways that synod staff might provide short clips of success stories that could be shared with congregation councils. • There may be a lay/clergy dynamic that is causing some conferences to be dysfunctional. This is a good example of the culture not changing, even though the synod structure has changed. • Pastor Terri Stagner-Collier suggested that the Council think about how to build on the functional parts of the current culture in the synod, rather than trying to change it. Pastor Ed Myers noted that a culture change is impossible if relationships are not built first.

As a special order on Saturday morning, Mr. Mike Krekling presented some of what he learned while attending a recent churchwide workshop on mission interpretation, which he defined as “telling the story of what is happening in the ELCA.” He envisions having several mission interpreters throughout the synod and emphasized that we should use language such as “our church” and “our synod” rather than “the ELCA” and “the synod.” Mr. Krekling reported that one synod is dropping the word “synod” from common use and is using the term “missional territory” instead. Mr. Krekling is seeking additional mission interpreters to connect with congregations to help tell the stories, based on the Gospel. The goal is to have 1 mission interpreter for each conference, plus 1 in every congregation. Training is necessary. Because part of the training is hearing other stories, Council members were invited to share 30-second stories about how they arrived at their current positions in the church and synod. Mr. Krekling described some aspects of effective storytelling. He stated that stories should end with an invitation to action. Important components of the work of mission interpreters include: thanking people for ministry; informing them of how their offerings are used; teaching; inspiring; making connections among synod, community, congregation, and the wider church; and gathering in groups. Mr. Krekling asked Council members to e-mail him about how their congregations thank people. He distributed a brochure about mission interpreters and inquired about the possibility of having time at other events to recruit mission interpreters. Bishop Gordy suggested that the synod officers, synod staff, and Mr. Krekling prepare a proposal about how to advance the concept of mission interpreters, and that the proposal be presented at the January 2012 Synod Council meeting.

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X. FUTURE MEETINGS A. Synod Master Calendar. It was noted that the synod’s master calendar is available online at www.elca-ses.org, under the “Synod Info” tab. B. Synod Council and Assembly Meetings (EXHIBIT 50). As part of the en bloc motion, it was PROPOSED and

AGREED SC11.09.23SC To:

1. Schedule the September 7-8, 2012 meeting of the Synod Council at Good Shepherd, Woodstock, GA 2. Schedule the September 6-7, 2013 meeting of the Synod Council at Holy Trinity, Marietta, GA 3. Schedule the January 17-18, 2014 meeting of the Synod Council at Resurrection, Marietta, GA

The list of approved future meeting dates and locations is as follows:

Synod Council January 13-14, 2012 Messiah, Montgomery, AL May 31 & June 3, 2012 Renaissance Waverly Hotel, Atlanta, GA September 7-8, 2012 Good Shepherd, Woodstock, GA January 18-19, 2013 Community of Grace, Grayson, GA May 30 & June 2, 2013 Chattanooga, TN September 6-7, 2013 Holy Trinity, Marietta, GA January 17-18, 2014 Resurrection, Marietta, GA May 29 & June 1, 2014 Chattanooga, TN September 5-6, 2014 Location to be determined January 16-17, 2015 Location to be determined Synod Assembly June 1-3, 2012 Renaissance Waverly Hotel, Atlanta May 31-June 2, 2013 Chattanooga Convention Center, Chattanooga, TN May 30-June 1, 2014 Chattanooga Convention Center, Chattanooga, TN

Churchwide Assembly

August 12-18, 2013 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania XI. ADJOURNMENT - The meeting was adjourned at 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, September 10, 2011 with a prayer by Associate in Ministry Michelle Angalet.