Yesterday’s business began with a report on the proposed social statement “Faith and Civic Life: Seeking the Wellbeing of All,” a social statement that originated with a memorial from the Minneapolis Area Synod in 2019. This social statement seeks to ground the action of people faith called to civic engagement for the sake of the neighbor, reminding the church that God acts for the wellbeing of all through civic life, and calls all people to robust civic participation. The assembly will vote on adoption of this social statement on Friday morning.

In 2016, the ELCA Churchwide Assembly voted to repudiate the Doctrine of Discovery, a 15th century papal bull that supported racism, colonialism, and the oppression of Indigenous Peoples. Manuel Retamoza and Bishop Amy Odgren from the Repudiation of the Doctrine of the Discovery task force gave a report on the work that the ELCA has done to build, repair, and restore relationship with Indigenous communities across the country. Including:

There are many opportunities for your congregation to participate in these collective healing efforts, and you can learn more at Truth and Healing Movement.

Vice President Imran Siddiqi gave his report, passionately calling on the church to affirm and support the ministry of the laity, embracing our church’s commitment to the priesthood of all believers. Vice President Siddiqi provided updates on the work of the ELCA Church Council, including actions outlined in recommendations from the Commission for A Renewed Lutheran Church, and expressed gratitude to Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, Secretary Sue Rothmeyer, and Church Council Members.

In the afternoon, voting members cast the second ballot for Presiding Bishop. More than 75 Ministers of Word and Service were nominated on the first ballot. With the withdrawal of a number of candidates yesterday morning, the second ballot had 38 nominees remaining. Results from second ballot

Editorial edits to the social statement “Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust” were introduced, and will be considered on Friday. Members of the task force were clear that amendments proposing substantive changes to the social statement would not be considered at this Churchwide Assembly, but would be addressed at the Assembly in 2028.

The Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC) presented on their work and recommendations. Rev. Carla Christopher and Mr. Leon Schwartz, co-chairs of the CRLC, outlined several recommendations including;

  • Actions related to dismantling racism and establishing accountability structures in the ELCA
  • the formation of task forces related to Interdependence and Purpose, Financial Coordination, and Congregational Management and Governance
  • Action to strengthen the framework for Ministers of Word and Service
  • Changes to the ELCA’s governing documents
  • You can read the report here

Vice President Siddiqi and Rev Joanne Engquist offered a reflection on the Church Council actions related to the CRLC recommendations, including:

  • Expanding opportunities for further listening and feedback from marginalized communities
  • Creating handbooks with recommended DEIA standards for congregations
  • Focusing on more support for underrepresented communities
  • And more – you can read the full Church Council report

The Memorials Committee moved to have the Assembly approve a number of memorials en bloc, including the memorials related to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, DEIA Efforts at the ELCA Youth Gathering, and Youth and Vulnerable Adults submitted this past year at the Minneapolis Area Synod Assembly. This action passed.

Memorials considered separately:

  • Indian Boarding School Remembrance – Passed overwhelmingly
  • Consideration of Recommendation 1 of the CRLC (mutual accountability and compliance incentives to ensure centering of dismantling racism within the denomination) – Passed

The assembly also heard from and recognized leaders from ELCA Colleges and Universities and ELCA Seminaries, heard the Report of the Churchwide Treasurer, Lori Fedyk,  and began to cast votes on the first common ballot for Church Council and Churchwide Committees.

In the evening, Churchwide Assembly voting members and attendees were invited to an exhibition Powwow with dancers and drummers from Indigenous communities in the Phoenix area. Vance Blackfox, the director for Indigenous ministries and tribal relations, spoke to the power of passing the Boarding School Remembrance memorial and gathering then for a Powwow in a church that has not always recognized or acted justly in relationship with Indigenous siblings.

The Minneapolis Area Synod’s own, Rev. Dick Magnus, was honored at the Powwow for his many years of ministry, advocacy, and support for Indigenous peoples and ministries in the Lutheran Church. Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and Rev Manuel Retamoza, pastor at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in San Diego, were also honored.

In the evening, the Minneapolis Area Synod voting members gathered to debrief the day and look forward to today’s actions and agenda. A full and rich day.