Bulletin of Reports 2017

Bulletin of Reports for the Thirtieth Annual Assembly

Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

MAY 5 - 6, 2017

Franconia Mennonite Church 613 Harleysville Pike Telford, PA 18969 Welcome to the Synod Assembly

******************* IMPORTANT INFORMATION *******************

For Those Staying Overnight:

Directions to Homewood Suites by Hilton Lansdale, 1200 Pennbrook Parkway, Lansdale, PA 19446.

Turn left out of Franconia parking lot onto Harleysville Pike/PA-113. Go 0.4 of a mile to first traffic light. Turn right onto Allentown Road. Go 7.4 miles on Allentown Road, which will end at an intersection. Turn left onto Sumneytown Pike (Route 63 West). Get into left lane. Go only 0.3 mile on Sumneytown Pike. Turn left onto Church Road. Go 1 mile on Church Road (Traffic Light /Shopping Center/ Clock Tower on right). Turn left onto Pennbrook Parkway and keep toward right as drive will take you directly into hotel parking lot.

Hotel check-in will not be available until after 4:00 p.m. and since we will be in Assembly session then and throughout the evening, you should plan to check into the hotel following the recess of the Assembly at about 9:00 p.m., Friday.

You must check out of the hotel before the beginning of the Assembly session on Saturday.

PLEASE NOTE:

The Assembly begins with registration from 8:30-9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 5th . The program begins at 9:30 a.m. Friday morning. We will conclude by approximately 3:45 p.m., Saturday, May 6th .

Note first time attendees are invited to a pre-assembly orientation beginning at 8:30 a.m.

If you have any questions prior to the Assembly: Registration questions: Cynta Outterbridge, Registrar 267-323-3742 or [email protected] All other questions: The Rev. Susan Lang, Events Planner 267.323.3756 or [email protected] . FRANCONIA MEETING HOUSE WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU AT THE ASSEMBLY 613 Harleysville Pike (Route 113) Telford, PA (215) 723-3220

Conveniently located 30 miles South of Allentown and 30 miles North of Philadelphia …

From Allentown – South on Route 309, exit at Souderton Route 113, turn right. Follow Route 113 approximately 3 ½ miles through the town of Souderton and Franconia. The church is on the right side of the road.

From Philadelphia – Take the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, Route 476 North to Exit 31. After exit at traffic light turn right onto Route 63 Sumneytown Pike, follow Route 63 approximately 3 miles through the town of Harleysville and turn right onto Route 113. Follow Route 113 approximately 1 ½ miles, the church is on the left.

Note: directions to the Homewood Suites Lansdale are located on the prior page.

Table of Contents

Program…………………………………………………………… .…………… .…i

Rules of Procedure ………………………………………………………………….v

Report of the Bishop ……………………..…………………………………… .BR-1

Anniversary Celebrants………………………………………………………..AC -1

Report of the Secretary. ………………………………………………………...SR -1

Report of the Synod Council. …………………………………………………. .SC-1

Report of the Nominating Committee.. ………………………………………….A -1

Report of the Constitution Committee ……………….………………………..… B-1

Report of the Treasurer and Budget Proposal……………………….………..… C-1

Report of the Statistician ………………………………………………….…..… D-1

Reports of Committees and Task Forces....……….…………………………...... E-1

Reports of Social Ministry Organizations.….….……………………………..…F-1

Reports of Colleges and Seminaries.. ……..……………………………………. .G-1

Reports of Agencies.……………………...………….………………….………H-1

SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD

PROPOSED PROGRAM FOR THE THIRTIETH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE ASSEMBLY

MAY 5-6, 2017

FRANCONIA MENNONITE CHURCH 613 HARLEYSVILLE PIKE TELFORD, PENNSYLVANIA 18969

FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

8:30 a.m. Registration Refreshments in Upper Fellowship Hall

8:45 a.m. Orientation (optional) to Assembly Proceedings The Rev. Dr. Larry V. Smoose, Parliamentarian

9:30 a.m. Service of Holy Communion Commemoration of the Faithful Departed Installation of Rostered Ministers called to Specialized Ministries Order for the Opening of Assembly

10:50 a.m. Welcome and Introductions

11:05 a.m. Report of the Registrar – Ms. Cynta Outterbridge

11:10 a.m. Report of the Secretary – The Rev. Karl Richard Presentation of the Program Rules of Procedure Reception of Reports Constitution Committee

11:25 a.m. Report of the Nominating Committee The Rev. Laura Tancredi, Chairperson Nominating Committee

11:40 a.m. Address by The Rev. Claire S. Burkat, Bishop

12:10 p.m. The Rev. Dr. J. Jayakiran Sebastian Dean, The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia

12:20 p.m. Portico Benefit Services – Ms. Barbara Debski, Regional Representative

12:25 p.m. Prayer

12:30 p.m. Lunch and Mission Center

1:25 p.m. Prayer

1:30 p.m. Balloting The Rev. Rebecca Schanely, Chairperson Committee on Elections

1:50 p.m. Report of the Treasurer – Ms. Janet Huber Neff Report of the Finance Committee – Ms. Sue Massey, Chairperson

2:10 p.m. Keynote – Ms. Judith Roberts ELCA Program Director, Racial Justice

3:40 p.m. Recognition of Anniversary Celebrants Recognition of Congregational Anniversaries

3:55 p.m. Prayer

4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Forums Mission Center Dinner

7:00 p.m. Prayer

7:05 p.m. Report of the Committee on Elections and Balloting The Rev. Rebecca Schanely, Chairperson

7:20 p.m. First Report of the Committee on Reference and Counsel The Rev. Raymond Miller, Chairperson

7:40 p.m. Introduction of Candidates Deacon Allison Wilcox, Director of Candidacy Mr. Fred Renigar, Chairperson of Candidacy Committee

8:00 p.m. Evening Prayer Adjournment of Friday Session

SATURDAY, MAY 6, 2017

8:30 a.m. Refreshments in Upper Fellowship Hall

9:00 a.m. Worship Ingathering Send Off

9:45 a.m. Second Report of the Committee on Reference and Counsel The Rev. Raymond Miller, Chairperson

10:00 a.m. Report of the Vice President of SEPA Synod Ms. Tracey A. Beasley

10:15 a.m. SEPA Anti-Racism Team

10:45 a.m. ELCA Churchwide Representative-- Ms. Judith Roberts ELCA Program Director, Racial Justice

11:15 a.m. Report of the Committee on Elections and Balloting The Rev. Rebecca Schanely, Chairperson

11:30 a.m. Forward Together in Faith Campaign Update

11:50 a.m. SEPA Anti-Racism Team

12:25 p.m. Prayer

12:30 p.m. Lunch

1:40 p.m. Prayer

1:45 p.m. Report of the Committee on Elections and Balloting The Rev. Rebecca Schanely, Chairperson

2:00 p.m. 50 th Anniversary Celebrants

2:20 p.m. Third Report of the Committee on Reference and Counsel The Rev. Raymond Miller, Chairperson

2: 45 p.m. Final Report of the Registrar -- Ms. Cynta Outterbridge Announcement of 2018 Assembly Dates

2:50 p.m. Recognition of Outgoing Synod Council Members Installation of Synod Council Members

3:30 p.m. Order for Closing of Assembly Adjournment

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RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR THE SYNOD ASSEMBLY OF THE SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD

Chapter 7 SYNOD ASSEMBLY +S7.01. This synod shall have Synod Assembly, which shall be its highest legislative authority. The powers of the Synod Assembly are limited only by the provisions in the Articles of Incorporation, this constitution and bylaws, the assembly’s own resolutions, and the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

+S7.11. A regular meeting of the Synod Assembly shall be held at least triennially.

S7.11.01. A regular meeting of the Synod Assembly shall be held annually.

S7.12. Special meetings of the Synod Assembly may be called by the bishop with the consent of the Synod Council, and shall be called by the bishop at the request of one-fifth of the voting members of the Synod Assembly.

a. The notice of each special meeting shall define the purpose for which it is to be held. The scope of actions to be taken at such a special meeting shall be limited to the subject matter(s) described in the notice.

b. If the special meeting of the Synod Assembly is required for the purpose of electing a successor bishop because of death, resignation, or inability to serve, the special meeting shall be called by the Synod Council after consultation with the presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

S7.13. Notice of the time and place of all meetings of the Synod Assembly shall be given by the secretary of this synod.

S7.13.10. Notice of the time and place of the regular meeting or of an adjourned meeting of the Synod Assembly shall be sent by the secretary not less than four weeks preceding the meeting. Notice of the time and place of a special meeting shall be sent by the secretary not less than two weeks preceding the meeting.

S7.14 One-half of members of the Synod Assembly shall constitute a quorum.

†S7.21. The membership of the Synod Assembly, of which at least 60 percent of the voting membership shall be composed of laypersons, shall be constituted as follows:

a. All ministers of Word and Sacrament under call on the roster of this synod in attendance at the Synod Assembly shall be voting members.

b. All ministers of Word and Service, under call, on the roster of this synod shall be voting members in the Synod Assembly, in addition to the voting membership of lay members of congregations provided in item †S7.21.c.

c. A minimum of one lay member elected by each congregation with fewer than 175 baptized members and a minimum of two lay members elected by each congregation with 175 or more baptized members related to this synod, normally one of whom shall be male and one of whom shall be female, shall be voting members. The Synod Council shall establish a formula to provide additional lay representation from congregations on the basis of the number of baptized members in the congregation. The Synod Council shall seek to ensure that, as nearly as possible, 50 percent of the lay members of the assembly shall be female and 50 percent shall be male. Additional members from each congregation normally shall be equally divided between male and female.

d. Voting membership shall include the officers of this synod.

+S7.21.01. Voting members shall begin serving with the opening of a regular Synod Assembly and shall continue serving until voting members are seated at the next regular Synod Assembly.

S7.21.11 In addition to the congregation’s election of voting member(s) of the Synod Assembly as established by S7.21.c, each congregation may elect one additional voting member of the Synod Assembly who shall be a voting member of the congregation up to the age of 25.

S7.22. Retired ordained ministers on the roster of the synod in attendance at the synod Assembly may serve as voting members of this synod consistent with 7.21 above, and as specified in the bylaws.

S7.22.10. Retired ordained ministers, retired associates in ministry, retired deaconesses, and retired diaconal ministers who have indicated to the bishop their willingness and availability to serve in the synod and whose intent meets with the concurrence of the bishop shall be permitted to vote at meetings of the Synod Assembly.

S7.22.11 In establishing a formula pursuant to Chapter 7.21.c of the Constitution, the number of retired ordained ministers permitted to vote at meetings of the Synod Assembly shall be a factor in determining the number of additional lay representatives necessary to comprise at least 60% of the membership of the Synod Assembly.

S7.23. The presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and such other official representatives of this church as may be designated from time to time by the Church Council shall also have voice but not vote in the meetings of the Synod Assembly. Like privileges shall be accorded to those additional persons whom the Synod Assembly or Synod Council shall from time to time designate.

S7.24. Ordained ministers under call, or on leave from call but available for call, as determined by the Office of the Bishop, on the roster of this synod shall remain as members of the Synod Assembly so long as they remain under call, or on leave from call but available for call, as determined by the Office of the Bishop, and so long as their names appear on the roster of ordained ministers of this synod. Associates in ministry, deaconesses of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal ministers of this church serving under call, or on leave from but available for call, as determined by the Office of the Bishop, on the roster of this synod shall remain as members of the Synod Assembly so long as they remain under call, or on leave from call but available for call, as determined by the Office of the Bishop, and so long as their names appear on the official lay roster of this synod. Lay members of this Synod Assembly representing congregations shall continue as such until replaced by the election of new members or until they have been disqualified by termination of membership. Normally, congregations will hold elections prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.

+S7.25. Except as otherwise provided in this constitution or in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America , each voting member of the Synod Assembly shall be a voting member of a congregation of this synod.

S7.26. This synod may establish processes through the Synod Council that permit representatives of mission settings formed with the intent of becoming chartered congregations and authorized worshiping communities of the synod, which have been authorized under ELCA bylaw 10.02.03., to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly, consistent with +S7.21. Authorized worshiping communities, acknowledged under criteria, policies, and procedures approved by the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, shall accept and adhere to the Confession of Faith and Statement of Purpose of this church, shall be served by leadership under the criteria of this church, and shall be subject to the discipline of this church.

S7.27. This synod may establish processes through the Synod Council to grant an ordained minister from a church body with which a relationship of full communion has been declared and established by the Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America the privilege of both voice and vote in the Synod Assembly during the period of that ordained minister’s service in a congregation of this church.

S7.28 Duly elected voting members of the Synod Council who are not otherwise voting members of the Synod Assembly under +S7.21. shall be granted the privilege of both voice and vote as members of the Synod Assembly.

S7.29 All ordained ministers, on leave from call but available for call, as determined by the Office of the Bishop, on the roster of this synod in attendance at the Synod Assembly shall be voting members. All associates in ministry, deaconesses of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal ministers, on leave from call but available for call, as determined by the Office of the Bishop, on the official lay rosters of this synod shall have both voice and vote as lay voting members in the Synod Assembly, in addition to the voting membership of lay members of congregations as provided in item S7.21.c. +S7.31. Proxy and absentee voting shall not be permitted in the transaction of any business of this synod.

S7.32. Robert’s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of the Synod Assembly, unless otherwise ordered by the assembly.

S7.32.10. At any time during a meeting, the Synod Assembly may resolve to go into executive session, in which case only the voting body shall be present.

S7.32.A01 The Synod Assembly shall be governed by the following Rules of Procedure:

1. Rule Regarding Distribution

The distribution of any materials that do not come to the Assembly through regular reports, synod committees, agencies, institutions, or Synod Council must be approved by the Committee on Reference and Counsel. Therefore, no materials may be distributed to the Assembly without the prior approval of Reference and Counsel.

2. Rule Regarding Resolutions Not Meeting the Deadline for Reference and Counsel

The assembly, by a two-thirds vote, may grant permission for consideration of a resolution that a voting member wishes to bring to the floor, but which has not met the imposed deadline of the Reference and Counsel Committee.

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3. Rules Regarding Floor Nominations

a. For all positions to be elected at this assembly, nominations from the floor shall be made at the time of the first report of the Nominating Committee during the first business session of the Synod Assembly. After the nominations have been closed no further nominations shall be accepted. b. As nominations are made from the floor, the nominator must present a typed or printed biography to the synod secretary on the special form provided immediately after the report of the Nominating Committee. c. In accordance with +S6.04 of the Synod Constitution, at least 10% of the representation on the Synod Council, ELCA Assembly voting membership, and other elected boards is required to be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. In the event such representation is not accomplished through normal voting procedures, the nominated person of color or whose primary language is other than English and who has the next highest number of votes shall supersede the elected individual with the least number of votes.

4. Rules for Dealing with Memorials and/or Resolutions Submitted to the Committee on Reference and Counsel

(1) The deadline for submitting memorials and/or resolutions to the Committee on Reference and Counsel shall be one month before the opening of the Synod Assembly. (2) The Committee on Reference and Counsel shall publish all memorials and/or resolutions, submitted by the deadline, at the synod website no later than two weeks before the opening of the Synod Assembly. (3) The Committee on Reference and Counsel shall make available to Synod Assembly voting members when they register at the Synod Assembly hard copies of all memorials and/or resolutions, submitted to the committee by the deadline, and the committee’s recommendations.

S7.33. “Ex-officio” as used herein means membership with full rights of voice and vote unless otherwise expressly limited.

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Chapter 8 OFFICERS

†S8.41. The treasurer may be elected by the Synod Assembly or may be appointed by the Synod Council. The treasurer shall be a voting member of a congregation of this synod. The treasurer may be either a layperson or a minister of Word and Sacrament.

S8.41.01. The Synod Council shall appoint the treasurer.

Chapter 9 NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS †S9.01. The Synod Assembly shall elect such officers of this synod and such other persons as the constitution and bylaws may require, according to procedures set forth in the bylaws. The Synod Assembly shall elect members of the Churchwide Assembly in accordance with bylaw 12.41.11. of the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

†S9.02. In all elections by the Synod Assembly, other than for the bishop, a majority of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election.

S9.02.01. All elections shall be by ballot, except in those categories where no contest exists, in which case the bishop shall direct the secretary to declare the nominees to be elected.

S9.02.02. No ballot for an ineligible person shall be counted as a vote cast in any election.

S9.03. There shall be a Nominating Committee which shall be appointed by the Synod Council to serve for each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly in accordance with the bylaws. Additional nominations may be made from the floor for all elections for which nominations are made by the Nominating Committee.

S9.03.01. Nominating Committee. a. The Synod Council shall appoint a Nominating Committee. The committee shall be composed of members of the Synod Council and others with the goal of having representation from each conference.

b. For positions to be filled by election, the committee shall present nominations to the Synod Assembly and to the Synod Council, except in such instances as are specifically distinguished herein or in the Constitution and Bylaws of the ELCA. The term of office for committee members shall be no more than one year, beginning with the meeting of the Synod Council at which they are appointed. The committee shall be appointed not later than the second regular meeting of the Synod Council following the Synod Assembly.

S9.04. The bishop shall be elected by the Synod Assembly by ecclesiastical ballot. Three-fourths of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election on the first ballot. If no one is elected, the first ballot shall be considered the nominating ballot. Three-fourths of the legal votes cast on the second ballot shall be necessary for election. The third ballot shall be limited to the seven persons (plus ties) who received the greatest number of legal votes on the second ballot, and who are willing to serve if elected. Two-thirds of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election. The fourth ballot shall be limited to the three persons (plus ties) who receive the greatest number of legal votes on the third ballot, and 60% of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election. On subsequent ballots a majority of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election. These ballots shall be limited to the two persons (plus ties) who receive the greatest number of legal votes on the previous ballot.

S9.04.A94. 1) Following the first ballot, reasonable efforts shall be made to contact nominees in order to determine their willingness to serve. The assembly shall be informed of those efforts as well as the responses of the nominees. A nominee may withdraw from the process by informing the Committee on Bishop Elections by one of the following means: a. written notification b. email notification c. verbal notice, in person or by electronic means, to 2 members of the election committee

2) For the purpose of S9.04 of the Synod Constitution, a nominee shall be presumed willing to serve unless he or she has expressed an unwillingness to do so.

3) When reasonable efforts have been made to contact a nominee, but have been unsuccessful, it shall be assumed that the nominee is willing to serve.

4) No nominee willing to serve shall be a member of the contacting group.

5) Biographical information about the nominees included on the third ballot shall be distributed to voting members of the assembly prior to that ballot.

6) At a plenary session prior to the fourth ballot, the agenda shall include a forum at which nominees shall be permitted to respond to written questions posed by voting members to the Committee on Bishop Elections.

7) Prior to the fifth ballot, the agenda shall include time for nominees to address the assembly for up to five minutes each.

8) Implementation of these rules of procedure shall be the responsibility of the Committee on Bishop Elections unless otherwise delegated by the Synod Council.

S9.04.B17 Process for preparing the Synod for the election of a Bishop

When there is an election for a bishop where there is no incumbent, this synod shall use a three-stage process which will allow for those who will be voting members to the Synod Assembly at which a bishop will be elected to consider both the needs of the synod and persons who might exhibit the gifts to serve as bishop. This process shall begin the year prior to such election and conclude with the ecclesiastical ballot for bishop at the appointed Assembly. This process will not be required in the event of a special election for a bishop. The teams for this process shall be appointed by the Executive Committee in consultation with the Bishop and approved by the Synod Council. The teams shall be chaired by laypersons.

A. Stage One. A Transition Team shall develop a Synodical Mission Profile. Included in such a Mission Profile might be the latest demographics and vitality indicators of the congregations on the territory of the synod, updated demographic information on the rostered leaders serving in the synod, and an assessment of the hoped for direction of the synod and its ministry. This Synodical Mission Profile shall be completed by December 1 st of the year prior to the election and made available upon completion.

B. Stage Two. A Discernment Team shall develop a prayer-filled process for conversation and discernment across the synod. This process shall include ways to discuss the gifts for ministry that might be helpful to advance the Synodical Mission Profile and how to identify persons who might possess these gifts. The structure for this prayerful conversation shall include consideration of:

The process for these conversations shall be completed and shared by the time the Synodical Mission Profile is completed. These conversations shall begin after the completion of the Synodical Mission Profile and be completed at least one month prior to the election.

C. Stage Three. The Committee on Bishop Elections shall oversee the process of ecclesiastical ballot as specified in S9.04. No names raised in stage two of xi

this process shall be on the ballot at the start of the Assembly. Any names to be placed in nomination shall be made from the floor of the Assembly on the first ballot.

S9.05. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for Vice President only if there is an incumbent; otherwise the Nominating Committee shall nominate at least two persons for Vice President. Additional nominations may be made from the floor.

S9.06. The Synod Council shall nominate at least one person for Secretary only if there is an incumbent; otherwise the Synod Council shall nominate at least two persons for Secretary. Additional nominations may be made from the floor.

S9.07. If the treasurer is elected, the Synod Council shall nominate at least one person for treasurer only if there is an incumbent; otherwise the Synod Council shall nominate at least two persons for Treasurer. Additional nominations may be made from the floor.

S9.08. In all elections except those by ecclesiastical ballot, the names of the persons receiving the highest number of legal votes, but not elected by a majority of legal votes cast on the first ballot, shall be entered on each subsequent ballot up to the number of two for every vacancy unfilled. On any ballot when only two names appear, a majority of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election.

S9.08.01. Synod Council

a. The nominating and election process for the 24 persons, not including the four officers of this Synod and the two youth and the two young adult representatives, elected as members of Synod Council shall proceed in a manner that will assure that at least three members so elected will be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English, nine of the 24 elected members shall be ordained ministers and 15 shall be lay persons. Terms for members other than the youth member shall be for three years and shall be arranged so that the terms of three ordained ministers, three conferences and two at-large lay members expire each year. None of the 24 elected members shall be eligible to serve for more than two terms consecutively. Terms of office for the youth members shall be two years, and for the young adult members three years, subject to a two-term limitation.

b. Representatives of congregations in each conference shall meet prior to the annual meeting of the Synod Assembly and shall nominate at least one lay person from their conference for the Synod Council, one nominee per conference to be elected by the assembly at the annual meeting. These lay seats assigned to conferences shall alternate every six years (or two terms) between male and xii

female Council members. The Nominating Committee shall receive these nominations from the conferences to include in its reports. Voting members at the annual meeting of the assembly may nominate from the floor persons from the assigned conferences for election to the Synod Council.

c. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for each clergy seat and lay at-large seat. Geographic consideration shall be given in proposing nominees, as well as the need to assure an adequate number of persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. Balloting for the conference lay positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. Nominees not elected to represent conferences shall be added to the at- large ballots. Balloting for at-large lay members shall be by male and female panels; each year a male and female at-large lay representative shall be elected.

d. No nomination for Synod Council shall be made if that nominee’s congregation already has a member on the Synod Council or if a member of a congregation has already been nominated, provided, however, that no nominee shall be ineligible if the Synod Council member from that congregation is an officer of this Synod and/or one of them is a Synod Council youth or young adult member. The Synod Council may make exceptions to this requirement in order to promote greater diversity and/or inclusivity.

S9.08.02. Nominations and elections for voting members of the Churchwide Assembly, for members of the Committee on Consultation, and the Committee on Discipline shall be by panels of laymen, laywomen and clergy. The number of persons elected by the synod to those positions and their terms shall be as specified in the bylaws of the ELCA.

S9.08.03. Each Board of an agency or institution related to the synod, whose membership is elected in whole or in part by the Synod Assembly or the Synod Council, may nominate one or more persons for each vacancy on its Board. Such nominations shall be submitted to the Synod Assembly or Synod Council, as appropriate, by the Nominating Committee, together with other nominees, as the Synod Institution Agreement permits.

S9.08.04 The Synod Council shall elect members to the boards of the Gettysburg Seminary, the Philadelphia Seminary, Gettysburg College and Muhlenberg College according to procedures established with each of the institutions.

S9.08.05. Members of the boards of Social Ministry Organizations shall be elected according to the requirements of those organizations governing documents.

S9.09. The result of each ballot in every election shall be announced in detail to the assembly.

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S9.09.01. The report of the Nominating Committee shall be printed in the bulletin of reports for the meeting of the Synod Assembly at which its nominees are to be submitted. Its report shall indicate the congregation of membership for each nominee and the source of the nomination. In addition, those nominees who are persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English shall be specifically designated.

S9.09.02 The ballot preparation for use in synod elections shall list the nominees for each position in chance order.

†S9.10. When notified by the secretary of this church, on behalf of the Nominating Committee of the Churchwide Assembly, the Synod Assembly shall nominate two persons in the specified categories for possible election by the Churchwide Assembly to the Church Council.

+S9.12. Background checks and screening shall be required and completed for persons nominated as synodical officers prior to their election, if possible, or as soon as practical after their election. The specific procedures and timing of background checks and screening shall be determined by the Synod Council.

S.10.01.01 Membership. The Synod Council shall consist of 32 members: four officers (as set forth in 8.01. of the Synod Constitution), two youth (a youth is defined as a voting member of a congregation who has not reached the age of 18 at the time of election or appointment to service), two young adults (voting members of a congregation between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of election or appointment for service), and 24 other members (nine clergy and 15 lay members). The Synod Council shall consist of no more than one member of the same congregation at the same time, provided, however, that two or three members of the same congregation may serve on the Synod Council concurrently if one of them is either an officer of this synod and/or one of them is a Synod Council youth or young adult member.

S14.25. All ordained ministers under a call shall attend meetings of the Synod Assembly, and the pastors of congregations shall also attend the meetings of the conference, cluster, coalition, or other area subdivision to which the congregations belong.

Revised April 2017

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Report of the Bishop

2017 SYNOD ASSEMBLY REPORT OF THE BISHOP

Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA

Written April 12, 2017

The Reverend Claire Schenot Burkat, Bishop

At the center of our shared partnership in the Gospel, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod exists to “equip the saints and congregations for the work of ministry, for building up the Body of Christ.” This report will highlight some of the significant ways in which I have been privileged to serve as bishop throughout the year since our last Assembly in May of 2016. The many other responsibilities: leading worship, preaching, teaching, visiting, meetings with SEPA leaders, global partners, social ministry agencies, ELCA institutions, regional and national gatherings, as well as ecumenical and interfaith meetings are noted in my report to the Synod Council on a regular basis. As we gather together in Assembly to worship, learn, deliberate, decide and discern, we will celebrate our life together in Christ, and explore the opportunities and challenges of our Lutheran witness today.

2017 Synod Assembly Theme “For Such a Time as This.”

Reforming Hearts Through Racial Justice

“So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God” - 2 Corinthians 5:20

At this Synod Assembly, we will begin the hard conversations about the need to reform our hearts, minds and actions to promote racial justice for all people. Christ has sent us as ambassadors of His mission to love, heal, bless and reconcile the world. Recognition of racism and confession that leads to racial reconciliation in our homes, our congregations, our conferences, synod and ELCA is a high priority for this year of the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation. It starts with us, facing hard truths and learning again and again how and why to love one another as our Lord commanded. For this time, and for our American context, the reforming of our hearts to love, protect and promote justice for all people especially, Black, Brown and Native people is a 21st reformation the Church is called to promote and defend, even as we celebrate the diversity of God’s created people.

Evidence of instances of racist and hate speech particularly directed at persons of color, Muslims, Jews and immigrants have escalated particularly in the last year. For Such a Time as This, we need to unite as people of faith to learn how and when to fight racism and bigotry, and to eradicate the conditions in which it thrives.

At the 2016 ELCA Churchwide Assembly we also passed a resolution repudiating the “Doctrine of Discovery.” This doctrine declared that indigenous land was “unoccupied” as long as (European) Christians were not present. Land deemed “unoccupied” was, therefore, BR - 1

“discovered,” as if it had been previously unknown to humankind. This doctrine was used as justification for European monarchies, and later the U.S. government to take land from Native Peoples. Many of us in this Church whose families were immigrants, have benefitted from the injustices done to the original inhabitants of this land where we now live and worship. Our Church includes American Indians and Alaskan Native Peoples, who have been on the receiving end of the injustices done. When we repudiated the Doctrine of Discovery, we Lutherans pledged to do better together in the future than we have in the past.

Ms. Judith Roberts who serves as the ELCA Program Director for Racial Justice will be our keynote speaker leading our 2017 Assembly. She and other leaders have been working with our Racial Justice Team to equip our synod to begin courageous conversations about race that leads to transformation of our denomination, our communities, and ourselves. Ms. Roberts led our synod staff in a daylong seminar on racial justice that was very well received by our staff. Last summer at the 2016 ELCA Churchwide Assembly two important resolutions were passed by our Church in response to systemic and personal racism directed towards people of African Descent and Native Peoples. The first resolution submitted by The ELCA African Descent Lutheran Association (ADLA) was overwhelmingly approved at our own 2016 Synod Assembly, and called for a number of actions to renounce, repent of and in all ways possible to eradicate racism, and to honestly acknowledge its permutation in the ELCA.

The two days of Synod Assembly will move quickly as we worship, pray, deliberate, vote, learn and meet new and old friends from the other 154 congregations of our Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod.

Let me take this opportunity to thank and bless those leaders who have faithfully served on Synod Council and are not eligible for re-election: Ms. Sue Massey and Mr. Rod Rothermel. We know the leadership Sue and Rod have given, and the experience of working on the synodical level, has increased their faith, even as their gifts have strengthen synod ministries.

In and among our learning and discussions, you will be receiving reports from your elected officers, our Vice President Ms. Tracey A. Beasley, our Secretary Pastor Karl Richard, our Treasurer Ms. Janet Neff, and me your bishop.

Let me take this opportunity to thank our synod staff and volunteers in advance for the hard work and attention to making everyone feel welcome at our 2017 Synod Assembly.

Rev. Susan Lang is our coordinator of Special Events, which includes the Synod Assembly. Preparations and reservations start a year in advance to make all the many components of this two day gathering a success. Ms. Yvonne Curtis, Director of Operations, Ms. Cynta Outterbridge, Ms. Dionne Jackson, Mr. Bill Harp, Rev. Rachel Anderson, Mr. Martin Schwab, Mr. Bob Fisher, Rev. Patricia Davenport and Rev. Brad Burke, as well as many other volunteers will all be available to assist you in any way, before during and after the Assembly.

Looking forward to seeing you May 5 and 6.

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Spring 2016

2016 Synod Assembly Theme: Forward Together in Faith: “Still Reforming”

So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 2 Corinthians 15:17

Our attention last year was centered on two rather ancient looking red doors that were propped high behind the altar at our Synod Assembly. Formerly the church doors of Christ Ascension Lutheran, they were borrowed to represent the Wittenberg Castle Church Doors for our Assembly theme: Forward Together in Faith Still Reforming…500 years after the Protestant Reformation. I referred to the doors several times in my Assembly sermon and then later in my Assembly presentation. A choir of students from the Martin Luther Silver Springs Home delighted us with song and their energetic presence. Their joy and confidence was contagious. After a rousing service of Holy Communion, we began our Assembly business with the unfortunate announcement that Vice President Tracey A. Beasley was too ill to attend. She was missed, however we prayed for her and covered her responsibilities at the Assembly with other able leaders.

Our keynote speaker, The Rev. Dr. Kirsi Stjerna, Professor of Lutheran History and Theology at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, showed us how the major reforms of the 16th Century still affect our lives and mission as Lutherans in the 21st Century.

Her first presentation “Major Reforms in the 16th Century” highlighted four principal theological Principles of the Reformation:  Reformation as a Word event  Reformation of Spirituality  Reformation of Sexuality and Marriage and  Reformation of Biblical Interpretation In her second presentation after lunch “Still Reforming Today: On Hospitality of Grace” Dr. Stjerna took the themes in the first presentation and showed how these same principles are still important and worthy of continuing attention and action in the 21st Century context.

We also learned from The Rev. Martin Seltz, Publisher for Worship, Music and Congregational Life at Augsburg Fortress Publishers, who shared with us the many resources to help our congregations and conferences observe the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation.

Our ELCA representative was The Rev. Albert Starr, Jr., Director, Ethnic Specific and Multicultural Ministries and Program Director, African Descent Ministries, ELCA. Mr. Clarance Smith a member of the ELCA Church Council from the New England Synod was our special guest and brought greetings to support and accompany our ministry as one of the 65 synods of the ELCA. He and Pastor Starr also led forums Friday afternoon.

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Flint Water Crisis Response

As you may recall the Southeast Michigan Synod is a domestic partner with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod. Our synod acted immediately and generously last year in response to the Flint contaminated water crisis. We initially raised more than $5,000 at our 2016 Assembly and in subsequent months the total grew to $ 23,810. Bishop Donald Kreiss called the gift “a true indicator of the ties that bind our hearts together, and a recognition that when one part of the body suffers, we all suffer.” The funds went toward re-plumbing Salem Lutheran in Flint so that it became a source of safe drinking water to its neighbors. - See more including Bishop Kreiss’ thank you letter: http://ministrylink.org/22k-raised-for-flint/#sthash.IA6KdrDX.dpuf

For more detail highlights of the 2016 Synod Assembly follow this link https://ministrylink.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/sepasynodassembly2016_FINAL.pdf

With Gratitude

Many thanks from a grateful synod go to our officers: Vice President Tracey A. Beasley, Secretary Pastor Karl Richard, and Treasurer Janet Neff. To our ELCA Parliamentarian, Pastor Larry Smoose; Ms. Joyce Brown Adams, Chair of the Nominating Committee; Pastor Ray Miller, Chair of the Committee on Reference and Counsel; Pastor Rebecca Schanely, Chair of the Committee on Elections; Ms. Sue Massey, Chair of the Finance Committee; Pastor Sandra Brown, distribution of lunches to food banks; Ms. Doreen Kinzler, Coordination of Pages and all Synod Council members who assisted with registration. Pastor Jennifer Phelps Ollikainen, Chair of Worship Committee and a team of more than 80 people who led the worship services over the two-day Assembly—we are most appreciative.

Pastor Susan Lang ably coordinated all the many details, made the arrangements, and navigated all the issues in putting together an Assembly for the first time.

Thanks to Ms. Cynta Outterbridge our Synod Registrar and Statistician for her dedication to this important work. Mr. Bob Fisher, the communications team and CCI Communications for the excellent coverage. And to our entire synod staff who together made this Assembly run well and seamlessly: Ms. Yvonne Curtis, Mr. Bill Harp Ms. Dionne Jackson, Mr. Martin Schwab, Pastor Pat Davenport, Pastor Brad Burke and Pastor Rachel Anderson.

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Summer 2016

ELCA Churchwide Assembly

The 2016 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, held in the New Orleans Convention Center was, in my opinion, the best I ever attended for a variety of reasons. I am so very proud of the delegation from SEPA Synod. Our group of 18 was mentioned in Secretary Boerger’s report as the only synod with 50% representation by people of color. Further, our group was diverse in terms of age and gender. And because our own Vice President Tracey A. Beasley was one of the seven top candidates for the election of a new Vice President of the ELCA, she had the opportunity to address the whole Assembly as the SEPA Synod Vice President. After her presentation at the Assembly, we received a whole lot more attention from all parts of the country. Congratulations, prayers and blessings flowed in our direction all week, but especially support, admiration and encouragement for Tracey’s presence and leadership. Additionally, I found that after more than a decade of often rancorous and church dividing floor discussions, this year the assembled people were respectful, prayerful, and thoughtful as they made their positions public. The worship services each and every day were a highlight of the Assembly. Powerful word, witness, sacrament and prayer, gorgeous visuals and music, and at times a full body experience of worship, awe and praise for the Lord we love and serve.

Vice President Tracey A. Beasley and I arrived a couple of days before the Assembly began to attend a meeting of the ELCA Vice Presidents, Bishops and Church Council, and to honor Carlos Peña as he stepped down as ELCA Vice President after 13 years, leading as the highest elected lay officer during a very difficult and contentious chapter of our Church.

Attending the 2016 Churchwide Assembly from SEPA Synod:

Officers- Claire S. Burkat, Bishop and Tracey A. Beasley, Vice President

Clergy-Sandra J. Brown, Moses S. Dennis, Regina Goodrich, Marissa Krey, Jennifer Phelps Ollikainen, and Carlton E. Rodgers

Lay-Joyce Brown Adams, Emanuel Alves, Filomena Alves, Amos Garsaynee, Douglas Parry, Susan M. Pursch, Thomas W. Salber, Karl A. Segletes, Elizabeth Stewart, and Sandra A. Zimmermann

Visitors-Yvonne Curtis (synod staff), Nate Curtis (spouse), Patricia Davenport (DEM), Gwen King (WELCA), Dick Mathisen (CORE), and Keith Anderson (led workshop at Grace Gathering)

Significant Actions and Highlights of 2016 Churchwide Assembly in New Orleans: William B. Horne, II was elected to a six-year term on the fourth ballot as our ELCA Vice President. He was Vice President of the Florida Bahamas Synod, a member of the ELCA Church Council since 2009, City Manager of Clearwater Florida and a member of St. Paul Lutheran in Clearwater, FL.

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By a vote of 931 to 9, the Assembly overwhelmingly accepted the “Declaration on the Way,” a bi-lateral document that describes a path toward greater unity between Catholics and Lutherans. At the heart of the document are 32 "Statements of Agreement" that state where Lutherans and Catholics do not have church-dividing differences on topics about church, ministry and the Eucharist. The document also explores differences that remain, and issues that need to be addressed in order to find greater unity in Christ.

Read more about it here - http://www.elca.org/Declaration-on-the-Way

In another major consideration, the Assembly voted 921 to 11 in favor of AMMPARO – the ELCA’s strategy to Accompany Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities.

Other important decisions included:

Approved the Ministry of Word and Service roster. Since Jan. 1, 2017, ELCA associates in ministry; deaconesses and diaconal ministers are on a single, unified roster called Ministry of Word and Service.

Adopted budget proposals for 2017 – 2019

Voting members voted to approve the following memorials – also known as proposals – from the ELCA’s 65 synods:

Repudiation of the Doctrine of Discovery, Deepening Relationships with Historic Black Churches, Peace with Justice in the Holy Land, African Descent Lutheran Memorials, Welcoming Refugees, Toward a Responsible Energy Future, Justice for the Holy Land through Responsible Investment, Call to Discernment on U.S. Foreign and Military Policy, Supporting Military Personnel, Veterans and their Families.

“United Lutheran Seminary”

At the joint August meeting of the boards of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) and Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg (LTSG) a new name and continuing momentum to accomplish this new initiative by July 2017 was affirmed. “United Lutheran Seminary sums up our vision of the future into which we believe God is calling us,” reported Bishop James Dunlop of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Chair of the Transition Team.

The corporate entity of the seminary in Gettysburg as the continuing educational corporation will continue in accordance with accreditation regulations. The Trustees of LTSP and LTSG affirmed the Transition Team’s recommendation to launch a search in early fall for the individual who will serve as the first president of the united school. Both current presidents, The Rev. Drs. David Lose of Philadelphia and Michael Cooper-White of Gettysburg have declined to be candidates. I agreed to serve on the search committee for the new president.

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SEKOMU

On the evening of Thursday, September 1st, several men armed with automatic weapons and grenades attacked the Sebastian Kolowa Memorial University (SEKOMU), an institution of higher learning operated by our Tanzanian companion diocese, the North Eastern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT). They raided the property, shot and killed a guard protecting the university, and shot and injured another. They then proceeded to set fire to two hostels housing approximately 40 students and faculty, threatening to shoot and kill any of them should they attempt to flee. Finally, after several minutes and additional damage to the university, the perpetrators fled the scene, thankfully allowing all of the students and faculty within the hostels to escape with their lives and attempt to extinguish the fires. The loss of life and property was far less than it could have been, but the overall damage was extensive.

By chance, a delegation from our synod, led by Assistant to the Bishop Rev. Bradley Burke and former Assistant to the Bishop Ms. Joanne Carlson, was in the North Eastern Diocese visiting our sisters and brothers there at the time of this attack. Having visited SEKOMU just two days prior and shared dinner with Dr. Anneth Munga, the Vice-Chancellor of the school, just hours before the attack, they were able to pray with, grieve with, and stand in solidarity beside our hurting sisters and brothers as they began the difficult task of recovering from this hateful tragedy. They also shared a letter I had written to Bishop Munga, Dr. Anneth Munga, and the people of the diocese to be read that Sunday morning in worship, sharing our grief and prayers with them in their hour of need. The ministry of presence, prayer, and partnership that they were able to offer our friends in the North Eastern Diocese was a simple, beautiful testament to this longstanding partnership between our two synods.

In the months following the attack, the members of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod sent more than $20,000 to North Eastern Diocese to help them build a gate and a fence around the property. Please continue to stand with us as we stand with them – in solidarity, in prayer, and in relationship. Any additional gifts for increased physical security for the university are always appreciated. Contributions may be sent anytime to Martin Schwab at our business office.

Fall 2016

2016 Bishop’s Convocation - Crossing Bridges: Interfaith Relationships in a Pluralistic World

For the second year rostered leaders met for the Bishop’s Convocation at Bear Creek Mountain Resort and Conference Center in Macungie, PA, October 17-19. The theme of the 2016 Convocation was Interfaith Relationships in a Pluralistic World, which was an especially timely topic during this Presidential Election year.

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We invited our Lutheran colleagues to take the first steps across centuries of divisions, suspicions, and stereotypes to cross bridges in our neighborhoods and spheres of influence.

We had four distinguished speakers, all prominent leaders in interfaith dialog and relations: Imam Anwar Muhaimin, Rabbi David Straus and I serve as Co-Conveners, of the Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia (RLC). The Rev. Dr. David Grafton, former Associate Professor for Islamic Studies and Christian/Muslim Relations at LTSP, represented SEPA Synod on the Administrative Council of the RLC as our Lutheran representative. He now serves in a new position as Professor of Islamic Studies at Hartford Seminary. In addition we invited The Rev. Nicole Diroff, Associate Director of the Interfaith Center of Greater Philadelphia, to share her insights and experiences with interfaith relationships. Together through plenary and informal conversations, these four leaders informed and guided our explorations of Christian, Jewish and Muslim engagement.

I want our Lutheran leaders to be courageous, comfortable, and confident when speaking with other religious traditions in this pluralistic world before incidents of religious hatred invade our communities. Religious leaders from the three Abrahamic traditions can be powerful allies and a unified public voice in promoting peace, respect, justice and understanding.

Joint Catholic-Lutheran Commemoration of the Reformation Lund, Sweden

The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and the Catholic Church held a joint Commemoration of the Reformation on October 31, 2016 in Lund, Sweden. Pope Francis, LWF President Bishop Dr. Munib A. Younan, and LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr. Martin Junge led the Common Prayer service in Lund and the event in Malmö in cooperation with leaders from the Church of Sweden and the Catholic Diocese of Stockholm.

The event took place in anticipation of the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation in 2017. It highlighted the solid ecumenical developments between Catholics and Lutherans and the joint gifts received through dialogue.

I commend for your reading this joint statement following this most historic worship service and press conference attended also by our own Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton. http://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/joint_commemoration_joint_state ment_en.pdf?_ga=1.87017880.1606715714.1428973124

Rev. Jehu Jones, Jr. Rededication of Marker

On November 19, 2016, I joined a gathering of over 50 people who met at 310 Quince Street in Philadelphia to rededicate the historical marker in honor of the Rev. Jehu Jones, Jr. the first African American Lutheran pastor in the United States and founder of St. Paul’s Colored Lutheran Church -- the first African American Lutheran Church established in 1834.

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The building is now the Mask and Wig Club of the University of Pennsylvania, but the cornerstone is still clearly visible in the front vestibule.

The Rev. Jehu Jones, Jr. was born enslaved in 1786 in Charleston, SC, but his father, a tailor and owner of a hotel, bought his, his wife and mother’s freedom in 1798.

His family was originally Anglican, but he was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Charleston, SC. He was ordained in New York by the New York Ministerium to serve as a missionary in Liberia, but upon returning to Charleston to gather his family he discovered that a freedman was prohibited from returning to the State. He was able to rescue himself and his family and travelled to Philadelphia to accept a call as missionary to the city’s Black population. With the assistance of nearby Lutheran congregations he was able to purchase two lots on Quince Street to build the church. The Rev. Dr. Richard Stewart has kept his legacy and historicity alive and gave us a snapshot of his life and ministry. The Rev. Dr. Timothy Wengert also made remarks about Rev. Jones. I was also honored to speak and to participate in a short worship service in his honor sponsored by the African Descent Lutheran Association – Philadelphia Chapter, The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Thrivent Financial, The Lutheran Seminary at Philadelphia, and The City of Philadelphia. Ms. Joyce Adams is the Philadelphia ADLA Chapter President.

Winter 2017

Award from Quba Institute, Philadelphia PA

Last fall Imam Anwar Muhaimin nominated me as a recipient for the Excellence in Service Award conferred by the Quba Institute, a Muslim Educational Center in Philadelphia, for my work with and support for the Muslim community in Southeastern Pennsylvania. I was honored to be chosen for this recognition and pleased to be accompanied by my son, Alex. We were warmly welcomed by those participating and leading the event. I brought greetings and blessings from our synod as well as the ELCA, and pledged continuing accompaniment and support in the current divisive and Islamophobic atmosphere. I have also been asked to attend the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) national convention in Chicago June 30-July 1. I will be representing the ELCA and possibly offering a workshop with Imam Muhaimin on Lutheran/Muslim relations.

ELCA Bishops Academy Charleston, SC

The Reformation theme for the 2017 Academy was planned more than a year ago to be held in Charleston, SC, but no one could have anticipated that the sentencing trial of Dylan Roof, the killer of the nine members of Mother Emanuel AME Church on June 19, 2015, would be going on the whole week we were there. The ELCA Bishops were able to offer prayer and support to the pastor and some key lay members at an Epiphany prayer service we led and held at Mother

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Emanuel. I skipped attending a Lutheran congregation Sunday morning to join three other bishops at Mother Emanuel again when the whole congregation was gathered. At their invitation each of us was asked to introduce ourselves at the service. I brought blessings from our synod and their sister church, Mother Bethel AME in Philadelphia. I also shared that I attended the AME National Conference in Philadelphia as an ecumenical guest last summer.

During our time at the Academy morning lectures on Reformation themes past, present and future were developed by presenters: Dr. Timothy Wengert, retired Reformation scholar at LTSP; Dr. Susan McArver, Professor of Lutheran Church History at Southern Seminary; and Dr. Kathryn Lohre, Director of ELCA Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations.

First Call Theological Leadership Guild

All first call rostered leaders are required to attend a four-day/three night retreat annually for three years with their colleagues throughout the seven synods of Region 7. (Synods in Region 7 include: New Jersey, New England, Metropolitan New York, Upstate New York, Northeastern Pennsylvania, Southeastern Pennsylvania, and Slovak Zion – a non-geographical synod.)

The Region 7 bishops rotate our attendance at this annual event. This year Bishop Robert Rimbo of the Metropolitan New York Synod, and I were designated as visiting bishops. We were asked to speak to the whole plenary twice, and participate in the event.

Seventeen people from SEPA Synod attended, including our first call pastors as well as more seasoned leaders who designed the program and worship. There were approximately 85 from the whole region. With the downsizing in the Churchwide office of the Regional Coordinators this event will be reviewed by the Bishops of Region 7, the leaders, and the participants of the gathering for ideas and suggestions for future planning.

Secretary Wm Chris Boerger’s Visit to SEPA Synod Executive Committee and Synod Council

At the invitation of the Synod Executive Committee Secretary Wm Chris Boerger was invited to visit our Synod Council on January 31st. We invited him to advise us on best practices for designing a process for election of the next bishop at our 2018 Synod Assembly. As many are aware, I am finishing my second 6-year term as bishop and will be retiring in the summer of 2018. ELCA Secretary Boerger was pleased with our hospitality and openness for candid conversation. Synod Secretary Karl Richard will be giving us an update on the process and plans we are submitting to the 2017 Assembly.

United Lutheran Seminary Presidential Search Committee

Last November I stepped down from my place as Region 7 Liaison Bishop on the Church Council of the ELCA in order to make time to serve on the Search Committee for president of the new United Lutheran Seminary (ULS).

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Good news: By our May Synod Assembly a new president of United Lutheran Seminary will have been called by the ULS Board at its April meeting. There were many excellent candidates for the call to review and interview over the past 6 months, and so now I am very pleased and relieved that we have chosen an excellent leader for this important chapter in the span of theological education in Pennsylvania. This person will be introduced by video at our Synod Assembly and will begin July 1, 2017.

The new seminary includes sponsorship from Regions 7 and 8, where formerly the seminary at Philadelphia was connected to Region 7. This means the new school will now be supported by 15 synods. www.newschooloftheology.info

Coming Together: Interfaith Dialogue for Clergy

After the November Presidential Election, I was in touch with my interfaith colleagues to offer assistance and accompaniment to the Jewish and Muslim communities. As we talked we realized that our clergy need support leading their faith communities. Most congregations are also divided along political lines just like our country. In addition, we clergy need help navigating our own partisan reactions and coaching in order to make safe space for conversations in our congregations, churches, mosques and synagogues. So on February 27th, at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia’s Brossman Center eight interreligious groups hosted a seminar for clergy of all faiths called – Coming Together: Organizing and Pastoring to our Members (and one another) in this New Political Environment. The presenters are skilled at conducting and framing difficult conversations, and finding ways to break down barriers and divisions. In addition to offering concrete examples and resources for promoting healthy conversations, the seminar is designed for clergy of various traditions to meet one another in a confidential setting and to share contact information in order to encourage relationship building among faith leaders. More than 180 clergy; pastors, rabbis and imams registered for this event. Following the event we held a press conference to draw public outcry to the desecration of the Mount Carmel Cemetery, a Jewish cemetery in Philadelphia’s Wissinoming section, which happened the weekend before our interfaith event.

Forward Together in Faith

It’s not easy being the Church today. That’s why our synod campaign, Forward Together in Faith is raising $2.5 million to help equip your congregation for the future of ministry. It’s an investment in our synod’s leaders and congregations. This investment will help change the culture of our synod, to advance networking, innovating, communicating and equipping among leaders and congregations. We will help you network with other communities of faith and your neighborhood to serve people in need. We will help your congregation think creatively about ministry as we support innovative new communities of faith. We will help you develop better communication practices to engage social media, websites, video, and new channels that are just emerging. We will equip leaders to empower healthy congregations by offering mission assessments, developing learning events and more fully supporting our seminarians, who are tomorrow’s leaders. http://www.forwardtogetherinfaith.org

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In our synod 100% of our synod staff, deans and Synod Council have pledged gifts in support of the campaign. Over $500,000 has been raised so far, but we have a ways yet to go to fund this initiative. Some of the funds raised will be spent now to advance these key ministry areas. The rest will be invested to resource congregations in years to come. But we can’t do it without you! We need congregations and individuals to step forward and make generous gifts to help us continue investing in you. Ambassadors are willing to visit your congregation to advance the campaign at a council meeting, adult forum or at a Sunday service. To find out more about how your congregation can participate contact Rev. Rachel Anderson at [email protected]

Finally, the day to day operation of the Office of the Bishop, and the many ways our leaders and congregations are equipped and supported would not be possible without our excellent team of deans and synod staff. Let me take time in this report to thank them for their collaboration, hard work, patience and love for Christ, His Church and the people of God.

Committee of Deans

The work of the Committee of Deans is critical to the effective functioning of our synod, particularly as we are working with fewer synod staff than in previous years. In addition to monthly meetings to discuss congregational transitions, mobility for rostered leaders, and current issues facing leaders and congregations, we meet annually in retreat for scripture, prayer, worship, and time reflecting on and discerning God’s direction for our work. Their services to our synod are invaluable assets to staffing our missional priorities. This past year we said goodbye to: The Reverend Serna Sellers and the Rev Benjamin Krey, as they both received new calls to congregations and thanked them for their time of service as dean.

Deans who served in 2016 and 2017 since last year’s Assembly are:

The Rev Marcia Bell, Director of Mobility

The Rev. Julie DeWerth, Lower Montgomery Conference

The Rev. Paul Sorcek, Lower Bucks Conference

The Rev. Carlton Rodgers, Central Philadelphia Conference

The Rev. Ron Wesemann Chester Conference

The Rev. Leslie Richard, Delaware Conference

The Rev. Jane Marston, Northeast Philadelphia Conference (Newly Elected)

The Rev. Carolann Hopcke, Upper Bucks Conference (Newly Elected)

The Rev. Rebecca Schanely, Upper Montgomery Conference

The Rev Christian McMullen, Director of Interim Ministry

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The Rev. Marcia Bell serves as Director of Mobility on a part time basis, to assist me and Mr. Bill Harp, with the administrative and confidential work of the Committee of Deans. The Rev Donna Wright has recently been appointed chair of the Transitional Ministry Team.

In the winter of 2016 The Rev. Nancy Brown, stepped aside as Director of Candidacy to take care of family matters as she also serves her congregation. We thank and bless Pastor Brown for her dedication and leadership of the Candidacy Committee for six years. In January 2017, I appointed Deacon Allison Wilcox to serve as Director of Candidacy on a part time basis and Mr. Fred Renigar who serves as the Chair of the Candidacy Committee to oversee the many requirements and administration of the candidacy process.

Synod Staff

The synod staff deserves kudos, congratulations and prayers for serving this Church with resilience, patience, tenacity, good humor and commitment to God’s mission on our territory. Please join me in thanking the staff for their tireless efforts and love for Jesus Christ, His Church and the people of God in the ministry we share together.

Ms. Yvonne Curtis - Our Director of Operations makes sure the internal side and Office of the Bishop runs smoothly so the assistants to the bishop and I can be out in the conferences and congregations equipping, supporting and encouraging our synod leaders. She organizes my work and schedule, oversees the operation of the office and staff, and deftly handles the many demands that come our way every day. Our business office is under the excellent leadership and watchful stewardship of Mr. Martin Schwab our Senior Accountant.

Pastor Patricia Davenport - continues to serve as our Director for Evangelical Mission and brings her contagious faith and vision to the many ways we are being challenged to attend to evangelical outreach and the proclamation of the Gospel in these new times. Pastor Brad Burke has renewed and revisioned his staff position as our Assistant to the Bishop for Youth, Young Adult Ministry and Faith Formation. Brad also serves as our liaison to the Tanzania Companion Team.

Mr. Robert Fisher - our Assistant to the Bishop for Communication and Mission Interpretation has been recognized by the Religion Communicators Council (RCC) for his work as a synod communicator. The Rev. Susan Lang works part time to coordinate major synod events, most importantly, Synod Assembly and the Bishop’s Convocation for rostered leaders.

Our Administrative Staff: Mr. Bill Harp, Ms. Cynta Outterbridge, and Ms. Dionne Jackson have demonstrated their willingness to adapt to the necessary changes in our office. They come together as a team with a strong faith commitment to our shared ministry, collaboration in all areas, and a sense of pride and competence in managing the many day-to-day challenges and opportunities that come our way. Pastor Rachel Anderson works part time as the administrative

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Please take time to thank our synod staff members as you greet them at Assembly for their excellent work as they serve our synod graciously and willingly, motivated by their love for Jesus Christ and His Church.

With the collaboration and gifts of our program staff we are finding new ways to equip the saints and congregations for the work of ministry, in order to build up the body of Christ.

My appreciation for the support and guidance I have received in leading this synod are extended to the Synod Council, and especially to the Executive Committee: Ms. Tracey A. Beasley (Vice President), Pastor Karl Richard (Secretary), Ms. Janet Neff (Treasurer), Mr. Robert Hensil, Ms. Joyce Maloney and Pastor Tyler Rasmussen. These leaders and other volunteers bless our work and make it possible for us to share ministry broadly, deeply, and faithfully. Please thank them during the Assembly for their volunteer service to our Lord and this synod. May Christ continue to bless them with enthusiasm and energy for continued witness to His Church.

With and in Christ,

Claire S. Burkat, Bishop

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Anniversary Celebrants

THE REVEREND ROY ALMQUIST

IT STARTED IN A FIRE HOUSE

Several months after his confirmation in 1954, a blonde teenager (he had hair then) set up chairs for a Lutheran mission congregation in a fire house in Wyckoff, New Jersey. This primal missionary endeavor encouraged this second- generation Swedish-American toward a life of fascination with Jesus Christ and his Church. The history department at Muhlenberg College did their best to direct him toward an academic career and a possible doctorate at Indiana University (not in PA). But the siren song of the theological muses enticed him back East to the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia and a life-long love affair with the Delaware Valley.

Roy’s time in Indiana did not put “Dr.” in front of his name but it did bring Nancy Shannon Smith into his life. They married in 1964 and Shannon shared two years of the Mt. Airy experience, teaching at Cheltenham High School. After seminary graduation in 1966, a Lutheran World Federation fellowship gave the Almquists an opportunity to spend a year at Oxford University in England back when they had pounds, shillings, and pence.

The call of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in New Milford, NJ, was the prelude to Roy’s ordination in 1967. The people of Gloria Dei helped him become a pastor and celebrated the birth of the two Almquist daughters, Ingrid (1968) and Karin (1970)... and the death of their son Erik (1969). In 1973 the Almquists moved fifteen miles to the north to serve Zion Lutheran Church in Saddle River, NJ.

In 1984 an exciting opportunity to develop a staff ministry persuaded Roy to change synods and accept a call to Calvary Lutheran Church in West Chester. Thus began ten very satisfying years of service with wonderful colleagues in grand congregations. During this time Roy was an active Rotarian, a member of the SEPA Candidacy Committee, and Chairman of the Board of the Lutheran Home at Germantown . In 1992 Muhlenberg College conferred on him the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity

Life took a very different direction for the Almquists in 1994 when the Synod Assembly elected Roy to a six-year term as Bishop of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod . In May of 2000 Roy’s call was renewed, providing him the honor of serving this Synod for a total of twelve years. This was an exciting opportunity for him to experience the national and international dimensions of the Church, working to deepen relationships in Tanzania and Czech Republic and to gain acceptance for Called To Common Mission, an ecumenical agreement that brought Lutherans and Episcopalians into a spirit of cooperation.

Retirement from the Office of Bishop launched Roy into a final career as an Interim Minister, serving St. Peter's Episcopal, Malvern , a short, second tour at Calvary Lutheran in West Chester , and since 2009 as Interim Rector and now Priest-in-Charge at Washington Memorial

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Chapel, Valley Forge. Last year Roy was honored by the Lutheran Seminary at Philadelphia with the Distinguished Service Award.

Thus the experience of setting up the folding chairs for a mission congregation in 1954 set a pattern and direction for Roy's life and ministry that continues to this day, a journey that has been blessed and shared by his wife and partner in ministry, Shannon.

The Rev. Roy Almquist

THE REVEREND FREDERICK HENRY HOPKE, JR. 1964 Graduate of Upsala College

1967 Graduate of The Lutheran School of Theology at Philadelphia

June 9, 1967 Ordained at Oneonta, NY –UNYS

1967 Called to serve as Co-Pastor, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Hatboro, PA

1972 Called to serve as Pastor, Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Endwell, NY

1979 Called to serve as Senior Pastor, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Hatboro, PA

August 1997 Retired

Currently Doing Financial Planning

Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Liberty Lutheran Services.

Married to Joan A. Hopke and living in Glenside, PA

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THE REVEREND DR. ROBERT H. LINDERS

50th Anniversary of his Ordination

I was in the sixth grade and for reasons I shall never fully understand decided to stay for church after Sunday school. My parents were not churchgoers. Something happened during that Sunday service which changed my life. A few years later, three members of our 1956 confirmation class decided to study for the ministry. Our pastor, Glenn H. Rudisill, surely played a major role.

After sixth grade, my life moved on at a much faster pace. My dad had been a national sprint champion at Cornell in the 1930s and in the 10 th grade, without pressure, I took the risk of going out for track. This venture opened doors for me that I had not anticipated. My senior year I was recruited by Brown, Duke, Michigan and Georgetown. I accepted the full ride to Georgetown. I made lasting friends as a Hoya, but soon realized in 1960 that the nation’s oldest Jesuit College was not a good fit for me. Leaving Georgetown meant I would be ineligible to compete for one year; thus the other track scholarships offered me were no longer available. Yet I had the fever to run. It was in blood.

Moving apprehensively forward, I transferred to Gettysburg College, after much soul searching and the council of my home pastor, Glenn Rudisill. Since track is an individual sport, I was fortunate to compete against all levels of competition. To my surprise, after 53 years I still hold the 800 meter record at Gettysburg College. In 1964 I was able to represent the United States in a dual meet against Great Britain in London. Since hanging up my running shoes, I’ve been inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame at both my high school and college.

After my ordination, I served Holy Trinity Church in Leonia, New Jersey from 1967—1970 and Reformation Church in West Long Branch, New Jersey from 1970—1977. During this decade, I earned an M.A. in English from Monmouth University and master’s and doctoral degrees from Princeton Seminary. My dissertation, “The Theological, Psychological and Homiletical Dimensions of the Theodicy Question,” was favorably reviewed by Martin Marty and my findings published in several journals, including Theology Today. In 1985, I was invited to teach Homiletics at Catholic University and have also preached or lectured at Princeton, Cornell, Penn State, and our Philadelphia seminary, as well as conducting numerous seminars on preaching. This past year I’ve enjoyed being a guest lecturer in the English department at North Penn High School in Lansdale.

Today, I feel as lucky as the fellow who played the bass tuba the day it rained gold! This August, I mark my 40 th year as pastor of St. Paul’s Church in Doylestown. I still eagerly anticipate each Sunday when it is my privilege to preach to this wonderful, astute congregation. My wife reminds me of the wisdom of “leaving when they want you to stay and not staying when they want you to leave.” I’m a sucker for clever aphorisms (especially when I’ve used them myself on other people!) but I’m quick to remind her that Grandma Moses did her best work at 80 and “old” Tom Brady is still at the top of his game!

Robert H. Linders

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THE REVEREND RALPH E. PETERSEN

Ordained June 18, 1967 Niobrara, Nebraska

In the hours, when most of the city slept, a bus driver completed her rounds. She turned off her sign and headed back to the terminal. The temperature was well below freezing. Snow was piled along the street. Though tired at the end of her shift, she was quiet comfortable in her heated bus, wearing her heavy jacket. She stopped at an intersection and from the corner of her eye she saw a five year old boy, barefoot, wearing only his underwear. She stopped opened the door and picked up the shivering little boy, wrapped him in her jacket and brought him aboard. She fed him and learned later that he had simply gotten up from his bed and decided to go for a walk.

If you caught the event on network news, perhaps you remember her comment to a reporter. “God puts us in a place to do his work.”

The story is a reminder to us all, pastor and congregant, God puts us in a place to do his work, even retired pastors whose shift is ended.

Upon retirement my wife and I became more heavily involved in the community. Her shift in the corporate world ended and I hung up my alb and stole. Judy combined her skills as a corporate leader with her art and organized the local artists in the Oxford areas for mutual support. She now is the managing director of the Oxford Arts Alliance that inclusively reaches out to the community with its various groups to teach and exhibit the arts from the fine arts to the performing arts. It is a mission that becomes increasingly more important, enhancing self- esteem and a sense of accomplishment in children, as public schools cut back on the arts.

I took up real estate because there are too many families and individuals who know what it means to be in the dark and all alone. They struggle to fine adequate shelter; some living in their cars. And on my side of the equation it gives me a meaningful opportunity to serve others.

We live in an area with various immigrant groups, high opiate addiction and human trafficking. Sometimes, I admit, we are tired and just want to get some rest and we need to remind ourselves that we need balance. Then it happens again. We catch someone in our peripheral vision or smack in front of us and we stop because God has put us in this place to do his work.

Someday we’ll retire.

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Report of the

Secretary

DEATHS OF ROSTERED LEADERS

The Reverend Dr. Allan Hart Jahsmann

Pastor Jahsmann died December 13, 2016. He was born November 3, 1916.

A graduate of Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and numerous other universities, Jahsmann received a Ph.D. in education and psychology from St. Louis University and a diploma in religion and psychiatry from the Menninger School of Psychiatry. He served as a Senior Research Scholar at Oxford University. Jahsmann spent a summer hitch-hiking across the USA and studied with the poet, Robert Frost. Jahsmann spent much of his pastoral career in education, writing and editing books and articles for the Lutheran Church. His family devotion book, "Little Visits with God," has been translated into 19 languages and sold millions of copies worldwide. Among Christian educators, Jahsmann was known as "Mr. Sunday School," although he taught in a wide variety of settings with ages from preschool children to senior adults. He was also listed as one of the top Christian educators of the 20th Century by the Talbot School of Theology. At the time of his death, he was still teaching a weekly class at his home in Westwood, California and had celebrated his 100th birthday in November.

Pastor Jahsmann is survived by his second wife, Lois Snyder, and was preceded in death by his first wife, Lois Herbert. He is also survived by his three daughters, Lucia, Hila and Alicia, his stepson, Kent, and two grandsons, Luke and Jake.

Funeral service held Friday, December 16, 2016 at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Santa Monica, CA.

The Rev. John L. Kinzel

Pastor Kinzel died August 7, 2016. He was born March 9, 1925.

Pastor Kinzler grew up in Greenwich, Connecticut where he attended the public schools. He graduated from Greenwich High School in June 1942 and was enrolled in Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio in September of that same year. After completing his first year, he was inducted into the United States Navy and served until May 1946. He returned to Wittenberg and completed his studies in August, 1948. In September of that year, he entered the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia and graduated in May, 1951. He was ordained by the United Lutheran Synod of New York in Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Brooklyn, NY on May 23, 1951 and called to St. John's Lutheran Church of New Utrecht, Brooklyn, NY where he served for two years. He then received a call to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Eggertsville, NY where he served until 1967. He then accepted a call to serve as the Lutheran Campus Pastor for metropolitan Philadelphia and during that time, University Lutheran Church of the Incarnation was organized and he served as its first pastor. In 1975 he was called to be the pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Norristown, PA where he served until his retirement in 1990.

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Throughout his ministry, John was involved in many synodical committees, programs and served on several boards. He was a member of the Wayne Oratorio Society and also volunteered for several years at Bryn Mawr Hospital.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris in January of 2012 and his brother, Dr. Raymond Kinzel in 2014. He is survived by daughter, Joni Cox and her husband, Edmund; daughter, Julie Kinzel and spouse, Amy Smith; several cousins, nieces, nephews and grandnephews.

Funeral service held August 13, 2016 at Saint Luke Evangelical Lutheran Church, Devon, PA.

The Reverend Jay Donald Rea

Pastor Rea died October 2, 2016. He was born on November 25, 1928.

Pastor Rea attended high school in Buffalo, New York and received his B.A. in history and government from the University of Buffalo in 1950. He earned his B.D. from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia in 1953. He was awarded the Samuel Trexler Fellowship of the New York and New England Synod for study for philosophic and systematic theology at New College at the University of Edinburg in 1953. He was ordained in 1955 at Perkasie Lutheran in Buffalo. He served as pastor at Church of the Messiah in Schenectady, NY; St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Syracuse, NY and St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Conshohocken, PA. Upon retirement from St. Mark’s, he served as interim pastor in several congregations in the SEPA Synod.

He is survived by his wife, Diane; son, John and his wife, Pastor Stacey-Kyle Rea; son, David and his wife Grace Paulus; son, Jay Jr. and his partner Darima Dugersuren; sister, Carol and her husband Jim Sullivan; 10 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Pastor Rea was a resident of Audubon, Pennsylvania at the time of his death. His rose and vegetable gardens at Shannondell were enjoyed by many.

His memorial service was on November 11, 2016 at St. Mark’s in Conshohocken, PA.

The Reverend Daniel A. Shook

Pastor Shook died November 5, 2016. He was born August 20, 1931.

He graduated from Liberty High School and Lehigh University both in Bethlehem, PA. He was also a graduate of the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. Parishes served include the Bowman-Dinkey Parish in Carbon County; Christ Lutheran Church, Upper Darby; Zion Lutheran Church, Zion Hill; Emmanuel Lutheran Church, St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church; St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church all in Philadelphia; Christ Lutheran Church, Barnesville; St. John’s Lutheran Church, East Jim Thorpe. In addition, he served as Chaplain in the waterfront ministry in the Port of Philadelphia and also as director of The Family Life Counseling Center in Richboro, PA. He was the husband of Mary (Shock) Shook of Summit Hill.

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Pastor Shook is survived by his wife, Mary (Shock) Shook, his son, Timothy Mark, nieces and a nephew. He was predeceased by his parents, Dr. Clarence and Camille (Northrup) Shook, a son David Anson Shook, a brother Theodore Shook. Memorial service held Saturday, November 12, 2016 at Reformation Lutheran Church, Media, PA. . Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA Report of the Secretary – Changes to the Roster April 21, 2016 – April 17, 2017

Ordinations/Consecrations Posselt, Lydia from New Jersey Synod to Anderson, Rachel (6/4/16) Pastor, Family of God Buckingham Bailey, Rachel (2/18/17) (1/29/17) Jester, Lisa Bambino (8/20/16) Rossi, Ashley from Upper Susquehanna Lembo, David (10/29/16) Synod to on leave effective (8/1/16) Steinly, Katherine I. (6/25/16) Transfers to Other Synods Deaths Krey, Benjamin Thomas Nathan to North Jahsmann, Allan Hart (12/13/16) Carolina Synod, Pastor, Christus Kinzel, John L. (08/7/16) Victor, Durham (3/15/17) Rea, Jay Donald (10/2/16) Lang, Thomas M. to Northeastern Shook, Daniel A. (11/5/16) Pennsylvania Synod, Pastor, St. Paul Fleetwood (2/27/17) Transfers from Other Synods Naschke, Peter (Retired) to Delaware- Barkhau, Beth Ann from Delaware- Maryland Synod (5/20/16) Maryland to Deacon, Reformation Weisser, Stephen J. to Northeastern Media (1/15/17) Pennsylvania Synod, Director Casey, Jennifer from North Carolina Synod Chaplaincy, Reading Health Systems to Pastor, Holy Trinity Wallingford (2/14/17) (2/15/17) Xander, Paul J. to Northeastern Finney, Matthew from Allegheny Synod to Pennsylvania Synod, Chaplain, Good St. Paul Sassamansville ((8/1/16) Shepherd Rehab Network (1/18/16) Genszler, David Allen (Retired) from Ziegler, Jeffrey B. to New Jersey Synod, Northeastern Ohio Synod (2/24/17) Pastor, Holy Communion Berlin Hahn, Norbert F. from Southeastern Synod (7/26/16) to Immanuel Somerton (4/1/16) Lee, Scott from Delaware-Maryland to Roster Changes Pastor, Immanuel Norwood Anderson, Rachel from seminary to Pastor, (1/11/17) St. John Ambler (6/4/16) McKinstry, Christopher from New England Bailey, Rachel from seminary to Synod to Pastor, St. James Limerick Chaplain, Seasons Hospice and (7/5/16) Palliative Care of PA (2/18/17) Peterman, Janet S. from Delaware Maryland Synod to on leave (5/20/16)

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Baly, Anita from candidacy process to Mueller, David from on leave to Retirement Pastor, Prince of Peace Plymouth (7/18/16) Meeting (8/14/16) Oppold, David regularized called Pastor, Beck Paul, Interim Ministry to Retirement Trinity South Philadelphia (7/1/16) (6/1/16) Peterman, Janet from on leave to Interim Cheedie, Heeralal Mukesh from, Pastor Pastor, Trinity Fairview Village Emmanuel Souderton to Pastor, (8/22/16) Redeemer Penndel (3/1/17) Rex, William from Chaplain, Seafarers Emmert, Dee from Pastor, St. John Mayfair, Institute for Retirement (1/1/17) to Retirement (9/1/16) Rossi, Ashley from on leave to Associate Folks, Susan from on leave to Interim Pastor, Carmel Presbyterian Pastor, Advent Harleysville (7/5/16) Glenside, PA (9/22/16) George-Guiser, Asha from Associate Pastor, Selinger, Nancy from on leave to removed Trinity Fairview Village to from the roster (6/9/16) Retirement (9/1/16) Sellers, Serene from Pastor, Peace-Tohickon Glod, DeBorah from candidacy process to to Pastor, Christ Kulpsville (12/1/16) Pastor for Visitation, Trinity Shelor, Wayne from Interim Pastor, St. Paul Lansdale (1/3/17) Red Hill to Interim Pastor, New Guider, Shirley from Interim Ministry to Hanover Gilbertsville (8/4/16) Pastor St. Paul Telford (11/27/16) Shibo, Mathewos from Pastor, Oromo to Guiser, Kim from Pastor, Trinity Fairview resigned from roster (1/30/17) Village to Retirement (9/1/16) Shin, Jonathan from Pastor, Korean Gulotta, James from Pastor Messiah Philadelphia Ministry to on leave Downingtown to Retirement (6/1/17) (2/1/16) Hatcher, Linda from Artman Home to Steinly, Katherine from seminary to Retirement (3/1/17) St. John, Richlandtown (6/25/16) Ingram, Andrena from St. Michael’s Tancredi, Laura from Associate Pastor, St. Germantown to long term disability Paul Ardmore to Pastor, St. Paul (2/20/16) Ardmore (1/22/17) Jester, Lisa from seminary to Pastor, Thorne, Margaret from on leave to Emmaus Road (8/20/16) Retirement (12/8/16) Krueger, Karl from Faculty, Lutheran Todd, Robert Bruce from Pastor, St. Peter Theological Seminary at Lafayette Hill to Retirement (7/1/17) Philadelphia to on leave (7/1/16) Whitener, B. Daniel regularized call to Lang, Thomas from New Hanover Lutheran Church of God’s Love Gilbertsville to on leave (5/23/16) (3/26/17) Lembo, David from seminary to Community Wright, Donna from Interim Pastor, of Love Oxford (10/29/16) Holy Trinity Wallingford to Interim McDowell, Harry from Pastor St. Paul Pastor, St. Matthew Perkasie Ardmore to Retirement (7/1/16) (5/24/16)

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Report of the Synod Council

Report of the Synod Council to the Thirtieth Annual Assembly of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America May 5-6, 2017

Included: 1. Process for the election of a Bishop

2. Minutes of the 139th Meeting of the Synod Council of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, April 21, 2016 - Approved by the Synod Council June 9, 2016

3. Minutes of the Proceedings of the Twenty-ninth Annual Assembly of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America “Forward Together in Faith” May 6-7, 2016 - Approved by the Synod Council June 9, 2016

4. Minutes of the 140th Meeting of the Synod Council of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, June 9, 2016 - Approved by the Synod Council September 22, 2016

5. Minutes of the 141 st Meeting of the Synod Council of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, September 22, 2016 - Approved by the Synod Council December 8, 2016

6. Minutes of the 142 nd Meeting of the Synod Council of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, December 8, 2016 - Approved by the Synod Council February 23, 2017

7. Minutes of the 143 rd Meeting of the Synod Council of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, January 31, 2017 - Approved by the Synod Council February 23, 2017

8. Minutes of the 144th Meeting of the Synod Council of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, February 23, 2017 - Approved by the Synod Council April 6,2017

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Process for the Election of a Bishop Our synod will be electing a new bishop at the 2018 Synod Assembly. Bishop Claire S. Burkat is concluding her second six-year term and will not stand for a third term. Following consultation with the Rev. Wm. Chris Boerger, Secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Synod Council has adopted a Continuing Resolution outlining a process to help us prepare for this election. There will be three teams established to handle three different aspects of this important decision: A Transition Team will develop a Synodical Mission Profile, which will assess the vitality of and hoped-for missional direction of the synod. A Discernment Team will determine a process for discussing the profile and considering persons who may have the gifts to serve as bishop. Finally, the Committee on Bishop Elections will oversee the process of the election at the Assembly. Vice President Beasley and the Executive Committee seek out persons who may have interest in serving on one of these teams. An application form has been created for those who would like to be considered to serve in this process. Forms will be received through May 10 th . The Executive Committee will review these requests, and make recommendations to the Synod Council for approval at the June 2017 meeting of the Synod Council. The Synod Council has approved chair persons for two of the teams, and is seeking to have the chair of the final team appointed by the 2017 Synod Assembly. Co-chairs of the Transition Team: Ms Patricia Robinson and Ms Julie Kinzel Chair of the Discernment Team: Ms Tracey A. Beasley Chair of the Committee on Bishop ’s Elections: to be named The Synod Council requests that the entire Synod keep this process in prayer as we go through this year of discernment. Following is the continuing resolution which the Synod Council adopted at its February 23, 2017 meeting, and the application form for those who may be interested in serving in this process. S9.04.B17 Process for preparing the Synod for the election of a Bishop

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This process shall begin the year prior to such election and conclude with the ecclesiastical ballot for bishop at the appointed Assembly. This process will not be required in the event of a special election for a bishop. The teams for this process shall be appointed by the Executive Committee in consultation with the Bishop and approved by the Synod Council. The teams shall be chaired by laypersons.

C. Stage Three. The Committee on Bishop Elections shall oversee the process of ecclesiastical ballot as specified in S9.04. No names raised in stage two of this process shall be on the ballot at the start of the Assembly. Any names to be placed in nomination shall be made from the floor of the Assembly on the first ballot.

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Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Request to be considered for a Team in the process to elect a Bishop

Name: ______Team(s) for which you would like to be considered: Transition ____ Discernment ____ Committee on Bishop Election _____ I am: Female ____ Male ____ Clergy ____ Lay _____ African American ____ Asian American ____ European American _____ Latino American ____ Native American ____ Other (please specify) _____ Date of Birth ____/____/______First Language, if other than English ______Member of (congregation and city) ______Personal Information Address: Street ______City ______State ______Zip Code ______Phone – Work (____) ______Home or Cell (____) ______Email ______Current Position/Employment ______Education or other Experience ______List congregational service/positions, with dates: 1______2______3______List community service/positions, with dates: 1______2______3______Describe your work/participation in synodical ministries ______

Please return completed form by May 10 th to Tracey A. Beasley at: Email: [email protected] - or - Mail: c/o Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, 7241 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia PA 19119

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MINUTES of the 139th MEETING of the SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD COUNCIL of the EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA April 21, 2016 St. Paul’s Luthera n Church, Ardmore, PA The Synod Council was welcomed at 4:08 PM by Pr. Harry “Skip” McDowell and Pr. Laura Tancredi of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Ardmore. Pr. Leslie Richard, Dean of the Delaware Conference, led the Council in devotions. Vice President Tracey A. Beasley called the meeting to order at 4:21 p.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES The Minutes of the 138th meeting of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council were approved as presented. SETTING THE AGENDA Vice President Beasley presented the agenda for the meeting. An addition was made to include a report of the Investment Committee. The agenda was then adopted as amended by the Synod Council.

BISHOP’S REPORT The Bishop referenced her written report to the Synod Council, and highlighted the following:

Award Received Bishop Burkat shared that Mr. Robert Fisher, Assistant to the Bishop for Mission Interpretation and Communications, was recognized by Religion Communicators Council, which conveyed to him the DeRose-Hinkhouse Award for Communications Excellence. The award was given for the video Mr. Fisher produced describing and promoting Living Gospel Ministries. The Synod Council responded with applause for Bob and his staff.

Recognition of Synod Council Members The Bishop thanked those members of the Synod Council whose terms come to an end at the upcoming Synod Assembly. She expressed her appreciation for those who will not be continuing on the Council, including: Ms Emily Fowler, Ms Adrienne Nash-Meledez, and Sister Jane Roper. Bishop Burkat also thanked those who are allowing their names to be considered for second term, including: Pastor Sarah Anderson-Rajarigam, Pastor Dwight Mason, Mr. Emanuel Alves, Ms Joyce Brown Adams, Mr. Amos Garsaynee, Ms. Doreen Kinzler and Mr. John Ungerman.

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Reflections from the Conference of Bishops Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton is planning to have a Rostered Leaders Gathering in August 2017 in Atlanta GA. There has been growing interest in having such a gathering, and it is being planned for August 7 – 10. More details will be shared in the fall. The new venture between the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia and the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg generated a significant amount of discussion. As the Theological Education Advisory Council report has illustrated, there is a need to do something to save costs and be more efficient for training future leaders of the church. The very bold steps being taken by these two seminaries generated a great deal of hope, as well as a sense of loss. But all involved recognized that continuing along the same path we have been following is not sustainable.

Congregation Council Officers Meeting The annual gathering of lay leaders from the congregations of our Synod was very positive and affirming. 100 leaders from 41 of our congregations attended. There was a good variety of congregations represented, from urban to suburban to small towns. Bishop Burkat was able to share the story of the Forward Together in Faith campaign with them, and it was well received by those present.

Lutheran Children and Family Services This longstanding ministry has decided to shut down much of their work, particularly that related to refugee resettlement and adoption services. This was due to two very large contracts which were not renewed, funding from the state drying up due to the budget impasse, and dwindling support from donors. Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services is now working with Bethany Christian Services to pick up the role that LCFS is no longer able to perform. Ms Susan Pursch raised the question of our responsibility for this ministry. In what ways does the Synod pick up this work, and to what degree do the Social Service agencies work independently of our Synod? Secretary Richard pointed out that we are separate entities constitutionally and structurally. While many of the Social Service agencies have their roots in our Lutheran congregations, or even to some degree in our Synod, they are now independent organizations. While they still have a Lutheran identity, many of the persons on their governing boards are Lutheran, and we as a Synod place a person on their boards, w e do so according to the agency’ s constitution. Over time the way in which these ministries have been able to operate has necessitated them to rely most heavily on grants and government funding. A very small portion of their funding comes from the Synod or the congregations of the Synod. Ms Pursch asked us all to please pray for these staff people in their time of uncertainty.

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Professor from our Synod Bishop Burkat shared the exciting news that The Rev. Dr. Leah Shade is now a member of the faculty at Lexington Theological Seminary in Kentucky. Dr. Shade had come through our candidacy process, and served in our Synod alongside Pr. Larry Smoose at Reformation Lutheran Church, Media.

Sabbatical for Pastor Patricia Davenport, D.E.M. After serving our Synod faithfully for 40 years in various capacities, lay and ordained, from Synod Support Staff, to Parish Pastor at Spirit and Truth in Yeadon, and currently as Director of Evangelical Mission, Pr. Patricia Davenport will be on sabbatical from June 1, 2016 through September 1, 2016. On this sabbatical she will take time for reading and retreating. She will be reconnecting with women of faith across the country and in her own family. She will be about renewal through pottery class and dance. In all things she will look to be refreshed in the Spirit of the Living God who has led her and so many women of faith along the way. The Synod Council wishes her a blessed and refreshing time in these coming months.

Actions on the roster Secretary Richard presented the following actions on the roster Call to Specialized Ministry: S. C. 16.04.01 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve a one year term call to the Rev. William Rex as Port Chaplain effective May 1, 2016, renewable on an annual basis. The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution. Renewal of call to Specialized Ministry: S. C. 16.04.02 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council renew, in accord with bylaw 7.41.15., in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, a call as Spiritual Director to the Rev. Leslie M. Richard under Unusual Circumstance for a period of one year effective June 1, 2016, renewable on an annual basis. The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution. Secretary Richard abstained, as this involved his wife. S. C. 16.04.03 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council renew a one-year term non-stipendiary call to Ms. Kathie Afflerbach to serve the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia as Coordinator for Non-Credit Education, effective June 7, 2016 for a period of one year, renewable on an annual basis. The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution.

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Call to Interim Ministry: S. C. 16.04.04 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council call the Rev. Elaine Quincey to interim ministry at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Riegelsville, PA beginning February 22, 2016, and extending until a pastor is called by the congregation or until Pastor Quincey resigns this call, whichever comes first. The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution. On leave from call request: S. C. 16.04.05 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants on leave from call status for graduate study to the Rev. Margaret Ainslie effective June 30, 2016. Related information: Conference of Bishops Extension Approval: CB16.03.01 The Conference of Bishop approved an on leave extension for Pastor Margaret Ainslie as provided in bylaw 7.31.16.d in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, extension of on-leave-from-call status, renewable by the Synod Council on an annual basis up to a maximum of two years. The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution.

Retirement Requesst: S. C. 16.04.06 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants retirement status to the Rev. Peter Naschke effective March 1, 2016 The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution. S. C. 16.04.07 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants retirement status to the Rev. Marjorie Neale effective May 1, 2016 The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution. S. C. 16.04.08 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants retirement status to the Rev. Stephen Godsall-Myers effective July 1, 2016 The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution.

Information not requiring action: Transfer: The Rev. Paul Hagedorn (Retired) from Metro New York Synod, effective March 17, 2016

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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT Vice President Tracey A. Beasley thanked the members of the Synod Council for their service this year. She also thanked the members of the Executive Committee for their service over the past year. Vice President Beasley shared that she had the opportunity to present the Forward Together in Faith campaign with Pr. Brad Burke describing where are we going, and why are we asking for money. Bishop Burkat shared that our Vice President is a candidate for Vice President of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Twenty-eight names have been put forward; to date only thirteen biographies have been received. Vice President Beasley’s is one of those thirteen. Please keep her in prayer as we approach the Churchwide Assembly this August.

SECRETARY’S REPORT Pr. Karl Richard, Secretary, brought before the Synod Council a proposal to amend the Constitution, By-Laws and Continuing Resolutions of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA by deletion of the by-law regarding Dean of Interim Ministry: S12.01.12 . The interim pastors rostered in this synod in assembly shall elect a dean, who shall be an interim pastor under call by the Synod Council, or actively seeking placement for an interim call, serving within the territory of this synod. The term of the Dean of Interim Ministry shall be the same as specified in S12.01.12. It is understood that the Dean of Interim Ministry advises, assists, and confers with the Bishop of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod as specified in S12.01.13 and relates to, consults with, and convenes the Interim Ministry gatherings of this synod. In the event of a vacancy in the office of the Dean of Interim Ministry, the interim pastors rostered in this synod in assembly shall elect a dean for a new three-year term. After referencing the background information shared in his written report, Pr. Richard put forward the following: S. C. 16.04.09 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the following resolution to place before the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly for adoption: WHEREAS the number of trained Interim Pastors has decreased over the past decade, and WHEREAS the way in which we are approaching the Interim process has changed, utilizing more part-time persons, including lay persons, as consultants in the process, and WHEREAS the Synodical Staff position which oversaw personnel aspects of the Interim Pastors no longer exists, and WHEREAS the Bishop of this Synod needs the ability to have oversight of the personnel issues related to Interim Pastors and flexibility over how to best receive the insights of Interims in the Mobility process, and

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WHEREAS this may be more effectively accomplished through an appointed person as Director of Interim Ministry rather than in the current configuration of a Dean of Interim Ministry, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod in Assembly amend the Constitution, By-Laws and Continuing Resolutions of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA by deletion of by-law S12.01.12. The Synod Council unanimously approved this resolution. Secretary Richard shared that Mr. Charlie Horn, one of our Synod’s Lay Male Voting Members to the Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is not able to attend. As the time before the Synod Assembly is very short, and we would like to commission our Voting Members to the Churchwide Assembly at the Synod Assembly, and we need to have those Voting Members certified by the E.L.C.A. before our next Synod Council Meeting, Secretary Richard made the following motion: MOVED that the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council authorize the Executive Committee of the Synod Council to find a replacement for Mr. Charlie Horn as Lay Male Voting Member to the Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America The Synod Council unanimously approved this motion. TREASURER’S REPORT Ms Janet Neff, Synod Treasurer shared information from her report and the financial statements. We are only two months into the new fiscal year. Giving by congregations is better than last year, but still behind what we need. Many churches have not stated an intended amount for Synod Support. The property of the former Redeemer, East Falls has finally closed. The gross sale amount was $450,000. As is our policy, 15% of the proceeds from the sale went to the Synod’s Unrestricted Fund. From the remainder the expenses of all the properties under management were paid, and the rest was added to the Fund for Mission. The amount that went to the Fund for Mission is $236,414. Ms Neff reminded the Synod Council that the Fund for Mission is established in order to fund mission. This is where we get some of the resources for the Mission portion of our budget. The Welcome Church will not make money. Living Gospel Ministry will not make money. But these are important ministries for us to provide, and the Fund for Mission helps us to do this. The Stewardship Committee is looking to increase giving by congregations, but we still need other avenues of revenue. Our Unrestricted Funds are fine. The Temporarily Restricted Fund looks good at the moment, but we have not yet had the expenses for Synod Assembly and Youth Event.

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A question was raised regarding the Executive Committee minutes, which indicated that funds from the sale of the former Redeemer were needed to make payroll. This was a mistake. Funds from the sale of Redeemer were set in escrow because we needed to make a large real estate tax payment, not payroll. Secretary Richard will make the correction to the Executive Committee minutes.

COMMITTEE REPORTS Administration Committee A revised agenda for the upcoming Synod Assembly was placed before the Synod Council. The proposed action on the by-law was added under the Report of the Secretary. The revised agenda for the Twenty-ninth Assembly of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA was adopted.

Constitution Committee The Constitution Committee is currently working with nine congregations. At this time they are bringing forward the constitutions of two of them for approval by the Synod Council. S. C. 16.04.10 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the Congregational Constitution for Trinity Lutheran Church, Pleasant Valley, PA. The Synod Council unanimously approved this resolution. Pr. Tyler Rasmussen abstained, as this involved the congregation he serves. S. C. 16.04.11 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the Congregational Constitution for Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Narberth, PA. The Synod Council unanimously approved this resolution. Nominating Committee The written report of the Nominating Committee was reviewed. There are only two slots without any nominee: Youth Lay Female and Upper Montgomery Lay Female. The Synod Council expressed its sincere thanks to Ms Joyce Brown Adams, chairperson, and her committee for their hard work. Forward Together in Faith Update Mr. Robert Fisher, Assistant to the Bishop for Mission Interpretation and Communications shared two new videos for the campaign. The intent is to make an engaging presentation so that we can have Congregation Communicators and other leaders use them in the congregations of the Synod. Following the videos he asked the Synod Council for their reflections and suggestions. The feedback on the two videos was very positive. They help explain what we are using the money for. They convey a positive message. They come across as hopeful. Some other comments:

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Pr. Jane Marston and Mr. Rod Rothermel both felt we need to put the “ask” in it. We need to be very direct in our ask for congregations to pledge now. Mr. Phil Tackett said the message needs to be clearly “Help us help you” so people do not think we are asking the congregations to help the Synod fund its operations. Mr. Fisher said this first year has been intentionally building the support. We now have in gifts and pledges a little more than we have spent. We are now in the Year of the Ask, so we are looking for this to be moving to the next level of support. Ms Susan Pursch said we need to be careful in the way we say “we are helping our congregations” as many congregations are in trouble and may look for help we are not offering. Bishop Burkat suggested perhaps we can share some stories about how we have helped some congregations, such as University Lutheran and Trinity, South Philadelphia. Pr. Brad Burke noted we are looking to help congregational ministry, not save every congregation. Mr. Rothermel stated we are targeting those congregations that are not closing, and that have money to make this campaign happen. We don’t need to worry at this point about those who are closing, as they are not the target audience. Ms Pursch added that there should be something about Jesus in there! Mr. Rothermel emphasized the plac e where salesmen fail is when they don’t ask for the order. We NEED THE ASK. Help us help you. PLEDGE NOW! Investment Committee Mr. Rod Rothermel, chairperson, shared the overall portfolio, showing each of the accounts and the amounts in them. Oppenheimer is not an account, but a management agency, and our representative has not done anything with this account for some time. Mr. Rothermel will be sitting down with the person responsible for our funds to discuss strategy. He then discussed the various types of accounts. He thinks the Oppenheimer disbursement needs significant revision. The Mission Investment Fund is the lowest performer, but has benefit that it invests in the Church. Mr. Rothermel went over his proposed portfolio guidelines from his written report: He feels the Synod has no business being invested in individual, personally managed stocks. Unless one is able and willing to spend a lot of time monitoring them, one should not be involved in such stocks. Mutual Funds are a much better option for an organization like the Synod. He asked if the Synod Council is in general agreement on these Guidelines, and if people have suggestions on what we do with the funds.

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Pr. Tyler Rasmussen recommended that we look into the ELCA Pooled Endowment Fund. Vice President Beasley expressed her sense that we were falling into acting as a “committee of the whole.” She recommended that the Investment Committee review various options and make proposal to the Synod Council at a future meeting. Pr. Dwight Mason, a member of the Investment Committee, suggested the committee gather tonight to set a meeting to discuss guidelines and investment strategies, and then bring the information to the Synod Council. The Committee will also consider whether to reinvest the Fund for Mission moneys for better return. Audit Committee Ms Susan Pursch, chairperson, made the report. Our auditors had a very positive response to the cooperation by the Synod office, and a positive response to Mr. Martin Schwab, Senior Accountant in particular. Ms Pursch expressed a concern that we be clear about the Temporarily Restricted Funds, and the ways in which they may or may not be used. MOVED that the Synod Council receive the audit for presentation to the Synod Assembly The Synod Council unanimously approved the motion. Comments on the management letter we received from the Auditors: Bishop Burkat noted that the letter indicates we are down $415,000 which we are not. Ms Janet Neff said this number negates the amount we received from sale of a congregational property. While it is true that omitting this from Income is an approved Accounting practice, it is also true that a large part of our deficit is because of the maintenance costs related to these closed congregations. The Audit Committee submitted a signed recommendation which generated significant discussion. A copy of this recommendation is attached. Bishop Burkat relayed responses to each part of the recommendation from Vice President Beasley and herself. Her main concerns were 1. the negative tone which gave the impression that we as a Synod are on the verge of closing, and 2. the impression that we are making our budget by closing congregations. Bishop Bukat pointed out that the Synod is not on the verge of closing. Further, we do not close churches to sell them and fill our budget gap. In reality, we don’t close churches, they close themselves. We then receive the buildings, but need to maintain them until they sell. When they sell, we apply 15% of the sale to the operation of the Synod. The remaining 85%, after expenses, goes to the Fund for Mission. Discussion ensued about the concern of the Audit Committee that more attention and priority needs to be given by the Finance Committee, Stewardship Committee and the Office of the Bishop regarding either raising money or cutting expenses to keep a realistic and balanced budget.

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Stewardship Committee Pr. Patricia Davenport shared some of the thoughts and guiding principles of the Committee: We need to change our language from speaking of scarcity to celebrating abundance. We need to be about creating a culture of Spiritual Generosity. There will be a resource table at the Synod Assembly. Congregations give in response to Acts of Thanksgiving. Workshops are being held in the Northeast Philadelphia and Chester Conferences. A new initiative called “ Rekindle ” is being introduced, and is designed especially for African Descent congregations. The Committee met to rekindle themselves for the work of encouraging generosity.

OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: None The meeting adjourned at 7:13 PM with prayer by Pr. Dwight Mason The 140 th meeting of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council will be June 9, 2016, at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, 4:00 PM The Reverend Karl M. Richard, Secretary Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA approved by Synod Council June 9, 2016

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RECOMMENDATION FROM THE SYNOD AUDIT COMMITTEE TO THE SYNOD COUNCIL

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MINUTES of the 140th MEETING of the SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD COUNCIL of the EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA June 9, 2016 The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia

The Reverend Sarah Anderson-Rajarigam led the Council in devotions. Vice President Tracey A. Beasley called the meeting to order at 4:24 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The Synod Council approved the minutes of the 139 th meeting of the Synod Council as presented. The Synod Council approved the minutes of the 29 th Annual Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly as presented. SETTING THE AGENDA Vice President Beasley presented the agenda for the meeting. She stated that she will include descriptions of the various committees of the Synod Council during her report. The Reverend Jane Marston noted that the Constitution Committee has two congregational constitutions to present for approval. One of the positions on Synod Council not filled at the Synod Assembly was for Upper Montgomery Lay Female. Ms Cheryl Detweiler of Grace, Pottstown was put before the Synod Council to fill the open seat. The Synod Council unanimously elected Ms Detweiler, who then took her seat for the meeting. MISSION MOMENT The Reverend Dr. David Lose, president of the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, shared about the initiative of the new school venture with the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. Dr. Lose expanded on what he had shared at the Synod Assembly, and opened the floor for questions from the Council. An energetic conversation ensued. The Synod Council thanked Dr. Lose for his vision and his courage in helping the Seminary respond to the realties we face in this new day. Dr. Lose thanked Bishop Burkat, the Council, and the congregations of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod for their support, and requested our ongoing prayers for the staff of both schools as the process unfolds. BISHOP’S REPORT Welcome New Synod Council Members Bishop Burkat extended words of welcome to those new to the Synod Council: the Reverend Regina D. Goodrich, Mr. Adam Clark, Ms Cheryl Detweiler, Mr. David Ehret, and Mr. William Graham. The Bishop also acknowledged those who have been re-elected to serve on Synod

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Council: the Reverend Sarah Anderson-Rajarigam, the Reverend Dwight Mason, Mr. Emanuel Alves, and Ms Emily Fowler.

Synod Assembly Review Bishop Burkat expressed how glad she is that our Vice President, Tracey A. Beasley is back to health. This was the first time Vice President Beasley was not able to attend the Assembly. It is never the same without her energy and enthusiasm. The Bishop also shared her great appreciation to Dr. Lose for his presentation at the Assembly. Comments regarding Assembly, and particularly the use of the phone app: Pr. Jane Marston: using the app worked well, but there were members of her congregation who did not have access, and so some info wasn’t available except through app. Mr. Adam Clark: I had no problem with the app on my phone, but another person with the same phone had issues. It might be helpful to have emergency hard copies. Pr. Bryan Penman: Stating the Assembly is paperless very early would be helpful so voting members know, and have the information downloaded early. Ms Emily Fowler: Perhaps we can post on the door – did you download the app? Offering for Flint, Michigan The offering from the worship service at the Synod Assembly was designated to the Southeast Michigan Synod, our domestic partner synod, to give assistance to the water crisis in the city of Flint. We received $5,400 at assembly, and the receipts as of this meeting are now over $22,000! The funds are going to re-plumb Salem Lutheran Church in Flint so that it can be a source of safe drinking water to its neighbors.

Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities (SAWC) Bishop Burkat put forward two ministries to be considered as Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities. The first was the Well, a ministry extension of the Welcome Church in Philadelphia. S.C. 16.06.01 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve The Well as a Synodically Authorized Worshipping Community effective November 2016 to April 2017. Discussion was held about the nature of The Well, what a SAWC is, and how The Well differs, or is separate from, the ministry of the Welcome Church. The Well will be a ministry focused particularly on women in need of shelter, particularly during the winter months, and addressing the needs of these women. It is a venture which is being supported by the Philadelphia Diocese of the Episcopal Church and the Philadelphia Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church (USA). The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution.

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The second proposal regarded the Kairos Community. This is a “house church” that has been meeting in the Quakertown area for about 9 years, and is looking to grow into an intentional alternative for those for whom “church” has become foreign or off -putting. Mr. Robert Fisher has been leading this group, and is in process to be authorized for Word and Sacrament ministry through the TEEM (Theological Education for Emerging Ministries) program. S.C. 16.06.02 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve Kairos Community as a Synodically Authorized Worshipping Community effective September 2016 to August 2017. Ms Janet Neff, treasurer, asked what the financial ramifications might be for the Synod in regard to the Kairos Community. Bishop Burkat responded that there is no financial liability for the Synod at this time. Both the Kairos Community and the Well are receiving some grant money from the ELCA for starting up, but we as a Synod do not have any obligations. We don’t know all of what this will be, but we want to give it a try for a year. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution. Actions on the Roster The following actions on the roster were presented, all of which were unanimously adopted by the Synod Council. Renewal of Specialized Call: S.C. 16.06.03 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve a one-year renewable term call for the Reverend Violet Little as Mission Developer at The Welcome Church effective September 1, 2016 and ending August 31, 2017. Call to Interim Ministry: S.C. 16.06.04 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council call the Rev. Donna M. Wright to interim ministry at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Perkasie, PA beginning May 24, 2016, and extending until a pastor is called by the congregation or until Pastor Wright resigns this call, whichever comes first. On Leave from Call Requests: S.C. 16.06.05 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants Ms. Suzanne M. Rigg, Diaconal Minister, on leave from call status, 2nd year, effective June 1, 2016 S.C. 16.06.06 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Wende Bleam on leave from call status, 3rd year, effective June 14, 2016

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S.C. 16.06.07 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Althea M. Tysk on leave from call status, 3rd year, effective July 1, 2016 S.C. 16.06.08 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Bruce Thorsen on leave from call status, 3rd year, effective September 15, 2016 Retirement Requests: S.C. 16.06.09 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Paul Beck retirement status effective June 1, 2016 S.C. 16.06.10 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Kim Guiser retirement status effective September 1, 2016 Information Not Requiring Action Transfers: The Reverend Janet Peterman from Delaware-Maryland Synod effective May 19, 2016 The Reverend Peter Naschke to Delaware-Maryland Synod effective May 20, 2016 New Bishop Elected Bishop Burkat asked the Synod Council to keep the Delaware-Maryland Synod in prayer as they are transitioning to a new Bishop. The Reverend William J. Gohl, Jr. will succeed the Reverend Wolfgang Herz-Lane as Bishop, following a 227 to 225 vote by the Synod Assembly. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT Vice President Tracey A. Beasley expressed her thanks for the prayers, the fifteen cards and the flowers she received when she was ill during the Synod Assembly. Bishop Burkat noted that Vice President Beasley will be on the ballot for Vice President of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America at the Churchwide Assembly this August. The Vice President passed out a sheet describing the committees of the Synod Council. She then asked the current committee chairs to describe their committees: the Reverend Jane Marston, Constitution Committee; Ms Susan Pursch, Audit Committee; Mr. Rod Rothermel, Investment committee; Ms Sue Massey, Finance Committee. There is not currently a chair of the Nominating Committee, nor of the Administration Committee, as the previous chairpersons’ terms on Synod Council have ended. Vice President Beasley then asked the members of Synod Council to list their top three choices of committees on which they would like to serve. The Bishop and the Vice President will use these preferences in making committee assignments.

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Question Regarding Committee Terms Vice President Beasley shared that two different members of Synod Council, Pr. Tyler Rasmussen of the Executive Committee and Mr. Rod Rothermel of the Audit Committee, had independently raised a similar question about the terms of Synod Council members on committees, and the functioning of committees between the time of the Synod Assembly and the reorganization of the Synod Council following its first meeting in June. By tradition the committees have ended their work with the Assembly, and then were reconstituted after the new Council has been seated. We now have several new realities: we have more clarity on what the committee responsibilities are, the committees have been more active than they have been in the past, and we now have committees with members that are not on Synod Council. The Executive Committee will discuss how we might revise our process to more effectively empower the service of the committees.

SECRETARY’S REPORT Open Items for Synod Council from Assembly Secretary Richard described the Summary of Actions from the Synod Assembly. At the end of the Assembly there were two open seats on the Council, which fall to the Council to fill. One of the open positions was Upper Montgomery Lay Female, which the Council filled at this meeting by electing Ms Cheryl Detweiler. The second position is Youth Female. Contacts were made with regard to the Youth Female position, but as of this meeting a candidate willing to serve had not been ascertained. Since the time of the Assembly we learned that Ms Jessica Smith, elected to be Lay Female at Large, is ineligible, as she is not currently an active member of a congregation in the Synod. As a result we need to find a person to fill this seat. The news of the open position of Lay Female at Large came too close to the meeting date to approach possible candidates.

Churchwide Assembly Position Just prior to this meeting Ms Jill Meuser informed the Synod Office that she will not be able to attend the Churchwide Assembly this August. Discussion ensued on how this position would be filled. A question was raised whether the person who had received the next highest number of votes would be the replacement. Bishop Burkat indicated that this is not always the case. There is no automatic process for filling open positions; the Synod Council is entrusted with the choice of who the replacement might be. After continued discussion without clear resolution, the Reverend Thomas Lang moved that the matter be referred to the Executive Committee for action.

The Synod Council approved the motion. TREASURER’S REPORT Ms Janet Huber Neff, treasurer, referred the members of the Council to her previously submitted report. She briefly reviewed the categories listed in the budget and reports. These include the Unrestricted, Temporarily Restricted, and Permanently Restricted Funds. Ms Neff described the differences between, and uses of, these various funds. She also noted that there would be the

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opportunity for new members of the Council to go into deeper detail if desired at an orientation session following the meeting. Ms Neff noted our receipts from congregations are $53,000 behind budget, and $12,000 behind what we had received last year at this time. When compared with the support from 2014, we are experiencing significant decreases in this support each year. Forward Together in Faith Update We have received donations of $114,563, of which $32,150 comes from pledges. The total amount of pledges received to date is $166,408. The pledge balance at the current time is $134,258. COMMITTEE REPORTS Constitution Committee The Reverend Jane Marston, chair, brought forward two congregational constitutions for approval by the Synod Council: S. C. 16.06.11 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the Congregational Constitution for Tabernacle Lutheran Church, West Philadelphia, PA. S. C. 16.06.12 RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the Congregational Constitution for St. John Lutheran Church, Folcroft, PA. The Synod Council unanimously approved these constitutions. OLD BUSINESS Ms Susan Pursch asked if it would be possible to receive an update on more than just the financial piece of the Forward Together in Faith Campaign. Could a report come from the Team? Bishop Burkat shared that there are twenty churches asking for ambassadors. The use of Congregational Connectors did not work. This concept of Ambassadors seems to be getting a better response. NEW BUSINESS 500th Anniversary of the Reformation Pr. Sarah Anderson-Rajarigam asked if there are any plans for the Synod to mark the 500 anniversary of the Reformation. Bishop Burkat stated that Conferences are being encouraged to make plans to celebrate with their congregations. We as a Synod are approaching the Philadelphia Diocese to see if we might do a similar service as what will be done in Lund, Sweden with the Pope. We are doing a second Lutherland trip. We may have other speakers such as Dr. Kirsi Stjerna. Are we doing a big celebration at the Convention Center? Probably not. We don’t have the time or the finances.

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Election of the Executive Committee Clergy nominations: The Reverend Tyler Rasmussen, nominated by the Reverend Jane Marston The Reverend Sarah Anderson-Rajarigam, nominated by The Reverend Lyzette Rios-Sanchez The Reverend Regina D. Goodrich, nominated by Ms Emily Fowler Lay female nominations: Ms Joyce Maloney, nominated by Ms Sue Massey Ms Emily Fowler nominated herself Ms Susan Pursch, nominated by Mr. Rod Rothermel; declines nomination Lay male nominations: Mr. Rod Rothermel, nominated by Ms Susan Pursch Mr. Adam Clark, nominated by Ms Emily Fowler Mr. Robert Hensil, nominated by the Reverend Jane Marston The following persons were elected to the Executive Committee: The Reverend Tyler Rasmussen, Ms Joyce Maloney, and Mr. Robert Hensil The meeting adjourned at 6:50 P.M. The 141st meeting of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council will be September 22, 2016, 4:00 PM The Reverend Karl M. Richard, Secretary Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA Approved by Synod Council September 22, 2016

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MINUTES of the 141 st MEETING of the SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD COUNCIL of the EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA September 22, 2016 St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Perkasie, PA The Reverend Dr. Phil Krey, pastor of St. Andrew, gave words of welcome and greeting to the Synod Council. He shared that enthusiasm is high at St. Andrew. Attendance is growing, new and reactivated people are becoming involved and commitment to ministry is strong. The use of affinity groups for new members is helping integrate these new people into the life of the congregation. The Reverend Serena Sellers, Dean of Upper Bucks Conference, led the Council in devotions that were based on Upper Bucks Conference’s identity as “the Koinonia Conference.” There are 25 congregations in the Conference. One third (8) predate the U. S. Constitution. The youngest congregation in the Conference is celebrating 110 years of ministry this year. One third of the congregations are in pastoral transition. One third are less than fulltime ministry. As a Conference they are doing much together as rostered leaders, as lay leaders, and as congregations. Cooperative efforts and ministries are common, as congregations share administrative staff, confirmation and youth programs, and hold education events for adults. There is also a great deal of cooperation as clusters of congregations work on efforts to feed and care for residents of the area. Vice President Tracey A. Beasley called the meeting to order at 4:35 p.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES The Synod Council approved the minutes of the 140 th meeting of the Synod Council as presented. SETTING THE AGENDA Vice President Beasley put forward the following revisions to the previously published agenda: The Constitution Committee will come under new business. T he Vice President’s Report will move down to Committee appointments. The report of the Compensation Committee will be placed where the Vice President’s report was to be. The agenda was adopted as adapted.

BISHOP’S REPORT Churchwide Assembly Bishop Burkat highlighted that our representation at the Churchwide Assembly was 50% persons of color and/or whose primary language is other than English. We are becoming a model for the ELCA with our commitment to diversity.

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Vice President Beasley was a nominee for Vice President of the ELCA. She did very well in presenting herself, and earned respect and praise by many at the Churchwide Assembly. Bishop Burkat expressed congratulations to William B. Horne, II who was elected to the position of Vice President of the ELCA. Other comments from CWA participants: Pleasant surprise that so many of the SEPA delegation “hung out” with each other. There were many young people; great fellowship; and no drama!

Closing of St. Michael This was a sad day as such a longstanding congregation came to the end of its ministry. We as a Synod paid to have the sanctuary cleaned. The people of St. Michael were not initially sure if this was worth it, as they have not worshipped in the sanctuary for years, but it was a wonderful sight to have it cleaned for this occasion, and it was important to do this. It was a vibrant closing service; very poignant, but a wonderful celebration. Consideration is being given to how we might be able to re-purpose this space for ministry in Germantown; perhaps not word and sacrament, but some form of ministry. Dr. Phil Krey stated that the government is downloading social services on local congregations. Many sites are becoming social service centers, but he called us to remember we are first and foremost a center for worship. When we focus on service, we miss our purpose and many people walk away, leaving only a small core as the actual congregation. It is hard to continue ministry in this way. United Lutheran Seminary The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia and the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg have come together on a new name and processes for moving forward. The new name, United Lutheran Seminary, is intentionally not tied to a place like Philadelphia, Gettysburg, or even Pennsylvania because we do not know in what ways the Seminary will be “non -geographical” in the future.

SEKOMU On September 1, 2016 the Sebastian Kolowa Memorial University, an institution of Higher Education operated by our companion Synod, the North Eastern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania, was attacked by several men armed with automatic weapons and grenades. We of the SEPA Synod have been supporters of this ministry since its inception, and have helped to build and financially support this University. Bishop Burkat wrote a letter to Bishop Munga and his wife Dr. Anneth Munga that was read to the congregations of the Diocese. She expressed our grief and concern for the people of the School, the Diocese and Tanzania, and shared that our prayers are rising on their behalf. Bishop Burkat told the Mungas that she would not share the news until they in Tanzania had the chance to talk to their people and bring the news forward themselves. It is their story to tell, not ours.

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The Reverend Brad Burke, Assistant to the Bishop, was in Tanzania at the time of the incident. He shared these details: “eight armed men, all Tanzanians, made the attack. This is very unusual, as Tanzania has a history and reputation for being a very peaceful society. We (the SEPA Synod contingent of six people) never felt we were in danger, but it was very disconcerting as the events unfolded and as we determined how we could best be of help. We decided to hold off our sharing because we knew the details of the attack were still being determined.” We want to have an appeal to help. Other international Lutheran Church partners from Germany, Sweden and Finland have also been asked to help. A proposed flyer about the need to help will go out tomorrow if the Synod Council approves the concept.

By consensus the Synod Council expressed its support of this effort. Further comments about the attack: Ms Susan Pursch – I was saddened that we did not share the need for prayer more quickly. I recognize the need for care regarding details, but I wish we had received a generic request to be in prayer for Tanzania and the University. Bishop Burkat – I did send prayers on our behalf, but was leery about sending a request which might raise concerns and questions that were not yet able to be answered. Pastor Burke – I appreciate your sentiments, and we are to be partners in prayer; yet in the midst of the circumstances, I feel it was important to be more discreet and less revealing in our conversation. I feel we were appropriate in how we handled this situation. Bishop Burkat – my protocol is to have a conference call with the Executive committee, which encouraged Pr. Burke to immediately have a conference call with the committee so that it could be known prior to the Synod Council meeting. Adam Clark – When I heard Ms Pursch’s comment I thought of the persistence of the unjust judge. If we could have prayed more, maybe something more could have been done. Bishop Burkat – When Pr. Burke and five other people of SEPA Synod are present, it counts. When I sent a letter within hours, it counts, and it represents all of us. Pastor Tom Lang – I want to affirm what Pr. Burke and the Bishop have said. Safety needs to be first. The people in Tanzania knew of our prayers. Bishop Burkat then prayed for Tanzania, Charlotte, NC (the site of another death of a black man by police), our nation and all victims of violence.

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/Actions on the roster The following actions on the roster were presented, all of which were unanimously adopted by the Synod Council. Ecumenical Call:

S.C. 16.09.01 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council extend an Ecumenical Call to the Rev. Ashley B. Rossi as Associate Pastor at Carmel Presbyterian Church of Glenside, PA, effective September 22, 2016.

Non-stipendiary Call:

S.C. 16.09.02 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council extend a one-year non-stipendiary call to Dr. Anita Baly as pastor at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Plymouth Meeting, PA beginning August 14, 2016 to August 13, 2017.

Renewal of Specialized Call:

S.C. 16.09.03 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve a one-year renewable call to the Rev. Linda Manson as Mission Developer at Living Gospel Ministries effective November 1, 2016 and ending October 31, 2017.

Calls to Interim Ministry:

S.C. 16.09.04 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council call the Rev. Janet Peterman to interim ministry at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fairview Village beginning August 22, 2016, and extending until a pastor is called by the congregation or until Pastor Peterman resigns this call, whichever comes first.

S.C. 16.09.05 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council call the Rev. Dr. Susan Kay Folks to interim ministry at Advent Lutheran Church in Harleysville, PA starting July 5, 2016 and extending until a pastor is called by the congregation or until Pastor Folks resigns this call, whichever comes first.

S.C. 16.09.06 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council call the Rev. Wayne R. Shelor to interim ministry at New Hanover Lutheran Church in Gilbertsville, PA starting August 4, 2016 and extending until a pastor is called by the congregation or until Pastor Shelor resigns this call, whichever comes first.

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On Leave from Call Requests:

S.C. 16.09.07 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Thomas Lang on leave from call status, 1 st year, effective May 23, 2016 S.C. 16.09.08 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Andrena Ingram on leave from call status, 1st year, medical disability, effective June 17, 2016 S.C. 16.09.09 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Karl Krueger on leave from call status, 1 st year, effective July 1, 2016

Retirement Requests:

S.C. 16.09.10 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend David Mueller retirement status effective July 18, 2016

S.C. 16.09.11 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Asha George-Guiser retirement status effective September 1, 2016

Information Not Requiring Action:

Transfer:

Pastor Ashley Rossi from Upper Susquehanna Synod effective August 1, 2016

Deaths:

The Rev. John Louis Kinzel, retired pastor, died August 7, 2016 REPORT OF THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE Vice President Beasley called on the Reverend Paul Jann, chairperson of the Compensation Committee, to present the Committee’s report Pastor Jann shared the following information as background to the suggested guidelines which had been distributed to the Synod Council. It has been several years since we have had a formal review of our compensation guidelines. Over these years there has been adjustment to the guidelines, but there has not been an intentional review of the numbers for our area with regard to a fair salary and accurate estimation of housing costs. The Committee looked at other Synods, and realized that we are, on the whole, paying less than they are. As a result, we are having a difficult time attracting and keeping clergy. The Committee considered what might make sense as a number for salary. At McDonald’s you earn $8 per hour. The Committee felt $20 per hour would be sensible for a salary rate. The

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Committee also felt that $18,000 would be a fair average of housing costs across our Synod. $20 per hour for a 40 hour week, plus $18,000 for housing, and ½ the social security for this amount would make a total Defined Compensation of $64,160. The Committee also recommends the Gold plan for health coverage, 12% for pension contributions, the congregation should cover the costs of Synod Assembly, Bishop’s Convocation, and provide funds for Continuing Education, and provide 4 weeks of vacation, including 4 Sundays. Pr. Jann stated we need a standard so that congregations realize what is fair for the work they are expecting. It is not fair or right to expect pastors to simply take a cut in pay when congregations are experiencing fiscal strain. In such a situation there may be a need to discuss other options, such as going part-time, but that needs to be a fair conversation between the parties. This document is intended to be a guide for these conversations. Several members of the Council felt this number was too high, and their congregations could never afford this new package. Several questions were raised about the housing number, and asked if there was an awareness of how low this number is for several areas of the Synod. A suggestion was made that perhaps more vacation time might be an offer made in light of lower compensation. Pr. Jann stated that this is a guideline, and that all these issues would need to be a part of the negotiation process for the candidate. Several members asked what the purpose of this document is; how and for whom is this document to be used? Pr. Jann stated this is a document particularly for initial calls. Issues related to long serving pastors, those with advanced degrees, added responsibilities such as head of staff, etc. still need to be addressed by the committee. The Committee recommends that these guidelines be adjusted annually to reflect the rate of inflation.

Recommendations regarding Clergy Compensation Guidelines: This does not need Assembly approval. The Committee should clarify what this particular document is for – if for First Call, as Pastor Jann indicated, make that clear in the header and be consistent throughout the document. For instance, concerns about housing costs varying in different areas of the Synod should be clarified on page two, but other issues such as advanced degrees, amount of responsibility, and length of time in service in the ministry may need to be removed from this First Call document, and included in a separate guideline for second or subsequent calls. A suggestion had also been offered to consider whether extra time off may be a benefit offered if compensation is lower than what is recommended for a full-time position.

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Vice President Beasley called the discussion to an end to move the agenda forward, and indicated that there would be further discussion at the next Synod Council meeting if needed.

MISSION MOMENT Ellen Daneke, chairperson of the Forward Together in Faith Campaign, presented an update on the Campaign. She reminded the Council that the “silent phase” of the program began in 2014, and the celebration of the conclusion of the Campaign is anticipated in 2019. The goal of the Campaign is $2.5 million. We currently have commitments from 35 of 55 leaders of our Synod. We are working to get that to 100%. Currently we have received gifts and pledges in the amount of $361,000. The start-up costs have been $214,000. This includes the cost for Kairos Associates, Church Assessment Tool surveys, and administrative costs. We still need $1.9 million to meet our goal, but we feel we can do this. The number of congregations pledging so far is 20 of 154, including 3 of 26 Synod Council congregations. We will have Ambassadors going out in the next 90 days. Since the Synod Assembly we have had several congregations request Ambassadors to assist them in the process of explaining the Campaign to their congregations. Be an advocate for the campaign! Tell the story, make the ask! Secretary’s Report Secretary Richard shared from his report, which was distributed to the Synod Council.

Open positions on Synod council We currently have two open positons on the Synod Council. The Nominating Committee has been asked to assist with the search for candidates to fill these positons. We will bring these names to the Synod Council for approval when persons have been identified.

Resolution regarding the closing of St. Michael’s, Germantown When we have a closing of a congregation, we adopt the following resolution so that the Office of the Bishop has formal authority to divest the property as appropriate. S.C. 16.09.12 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council acknowledges with sadness the action of St. Michael Lutheran Church, Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, to close, effective September 11, 2016, on which date the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod received the property of St. Michael, Philadelphia, in accordance with the Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, specifically 9.71.b., +S13.23., and *C7.01.; and, on this date, September 22, 2016, authorizes the Bishop of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, or the Bishop’s representative(s), to sell the property on behalf of the Southea stern Pennsylvania Synod. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution.

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Revisions to the Synod Constitution At the Churchwide Assembly in August there were significant revisions to the Constitution, By- laws and Continuing Resolutions for the Synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The revisions which apply to required provisions take effect by action of the Churchwide Assembly, and do not need ratification by this Council nor our Synod Assembly. These revisions are being incorporated into our Constitution and will be posted when completed. There are some revisions which are not in required provisions, and will need consideration by the Synod Assembly for ratification. We will also review our entire Synod Constitution as there are other provisions which need amendment or revision. We will be entering a process to review these options and bring recommendations to this Council for consideration prior to sending them to the Assembly.

Congregational Constitutions There have also been changes to the Model Constitution for Congregations which were approved at the Churchwide Assembly. It is important for all of our congregations to update our constitutions to reflect the legal, structural and theological language adopted at the CWA. This is an especially good time to enter into this important process, especially for those congregations that have not updated their constitution for some period of time. Treasurer’s Report Ms Sue Massey, chairperson of the Finance Committee made this report. Partnership support is $47,000 behind budget, but we are not overly worried about this; it is comparable to previous years. The Finance Committee will be meeting with the Stewardship Committee in the near future regarding receipts. The Reverend Larry Smoose and the Stewardship team will be making follow-up contacts, particularly with congregations that have not made any commitments/gifts to the Synod.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT Vice President Beasley reflected on her experience at the Churchwide Assembly in August. She said, “I’ve been a few times. This was the most spiritual group I ever went with. The best group I ever attended with. We had strong support for each other. It was a wonderful experience to be a candidate. The support and help I received from Bishop Burkat and Susan Pursch was tremendous. On the last Friday a representative from the “Always Being Made New” Campaign for the ELCA came up to thank me for how I represented the Synod, and the way our Synod has given.” Vice President Beasley then referred the Synod Council to the Executive Committee Report.

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Committee Appointments As there had been discussion about terms of service on these Committees at the previous Synod Council meeting, it was determined that membership on a Synod Council Committee will not end with the Synod Assembly, unless a member of the Synod Council has either completed his/her term, or is not re-elected by the Assembly to the Synod Council. The members of the Committees will continue to serve on their respective Committees until the reassignment process is completed. If the chairperson of a Committee is not re-elected the Bishop and Vice president will appoint a new chairperson as soon as possible so that the Committee can continue to function. Vice President Beasley then reviewed the list of the Synod Council Committees and the assignments as proposed. S.C. 16.09.13 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council confirms the appointments to the Synod Committees for 2016-2017 as recommended by the Bishop and Vice President. The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution. CONSTITUTION COMMITTEE The Reverend Jane Marston, chairperson of the Constitution Committee, brought forward the recommendation that the Synod Council approve the Constitution of Trinity, South Philadelphia. S.C. 16.09.14 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the Congregational Constitution of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Trinity, South Philadelphia. The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution. The meeting adjourned at 6:44 pm with prayer by the Reverend Dr. Philip D. Krey The 142nd meeting of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council will be December 8, 2016, 4:00 PM The Reverend Karl M. Richard, Secretary Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA Approved by Synod Council December 8, 2016

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MINUTES of the 142 nd MEETING of the SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD COUNCIL of the EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA December 8, 2016 Living Word Lutheran Church, Roslyn, PA Welcome from the Reverend Daniel Spigelmyer, pastor of Living Word; devotions by the Reverend Julie DeWerth, Dean of Lower Montgomery Conference Vice President Tracey A. Beasley called the meeting to order at 4:28 p.m.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES The Synod Council approved the minutes of the 141 st meeting of the Synod Council as presented.

SETTING THE AGENDA Vice President Beasley brought forward the Agenda, which was adopted as presented. BISHOP’S REPORT Bishop Burkat highlighted the following items from her report: Bishop’s Convocation The annual Bishop’s Convocation was very timely. The topic, “Crossing Bridges: Interfaith Relationships in a Pluralistic World,” was decided prior to the recently held national election, but turned out to be highly relevant in light of the tenor of the political discourse at this time. The Bishop emphasized how it is important to build relationships before negative incidents occur. Knowing each other, and about each other, is critical for how we live in community with each other in a bitterly divided nation. Two of our presenters, Imam Anwar Muhaimin, Rabbi David Straus, along with Bishop Burkat and some other denomination leaders are planning a day to bring our clergy together to learn how to pastor our congregations in this partisan post-election environment. The conversation is planned to be held in February. The intention is to meet in the Brossman center at LTSP. Bishop Burkat is being honored (on Christmas Eve) by our Muslim neighbors for her work in interfaith efforts.

2017 Synod Assembly

The topic for the 2017 Synod Assembly has been set: “For Such a Time as This.” We will be in deep conversation on issues of racial justice. Included in the discussion will be issues of concern to the Native American population. Our Racial Justice team will be working on this with our keynote presenter, Ms Judith Roberts, ELCA Program Director, Racial Justice Ministries.

We will be conducting Anti-Racism training across the Synod. This is in response to actions by the August 2016 Churchwide Assembly. Training will be held for the Synod Staff, Deans, and

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Synod Council, and will also be offered in various ways across the synod for rostered leaders and lay persons.

500th Anniversary of the Reformation Bishop Burkat shared her excitement over the Joint Commemoration of the Reformation in Lund, Sweden, which included Pope Francis and the President of the Lutheran World Federation. Bishop Burkat had hoped to use this as a model for a joint celebration in our area. Archbishop Charles Chaput of the Philadelphia Archdiocese does not seem ready to pursue such an event at this time. We have the opportunity locally to build bridges and make conversation as we are able, and we are encouraged to do so. We as a Synod will not have a large event; we will join with and emphasize what is growing up from the Conferences.

First African American Lutheran Pastor The Reverend Jehu Jones, who, in 1834, was the first African American Lutheran pastor in the United States, was recognized as a new marker was placed where the first African American congregation was established in 1834 in Philadelphia. The placing of this marker brings attention to a significant person in the life of the Church, and in the formation of the country. SEKOMU Update As of the date of this meeting, $14,000 has been raised to help rebuild the school. Bishop Burkat stated her belief that we can do better than this. The University needs to build a gate and a fence, and rebuild the dorms. In this day and age we need to protect this school as they train people to protect the most vulnerable citizens.

United Lutheran Seminary Bishop Burkat is on the board of the new United Lutheran Seminary, which has now posted the position description for the president of the new school. President David Lose is stepping down, and is taking a call as Senior Pastor of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, MN. We are on schedule with the transition, and we have 25 more candidates exploring seminary as a result of the new venture and the offer of free tuition for ELCA candidates. Ms Susan Pursch thanked the bishop for her sharing, and asked about whether there can be a regular “state of the synod” report; an overview of what is going on in the Synod, good or bad, so that we can stay informed and involved.

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Actions on the Roster The following actions on the roster were presented, all of which were unanimously adopted by the Synod Council.

Specialized Ministry

S.C.16.12.01 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council extend a one year renewable call to Specialized Ministry to Ms. Rachel Bailey as part- time Chaplain at Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care of Pennsylvania in King of Prussia effective December 8, 2016 and extending for one year from the date of her consecration.

On Leave from Call Requests

S.C. 16.12.02 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Kristine Peterson on leave from call status, 3rd year, effective July 14, 2016

S.C. 16.12.03 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Christopher Weidner on leave from call status, 2nd year, effective December 7, 2016

Retirement Requests

S.C. 16.12.04 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Dee Emmert retirement status effective September 1, 2016

S.C. 16.12.05 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants Sister Margaret Thorne retirement status effective December 8, 2016

S.C. 16.12.06 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend William Rex retirement status effective January 1, 2017

S.C. 16.12.07 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Linda Hatcher retirement status effective March 1, 2017

Information Not Requiring Action

Transfers:

The Rev. Christopher McKinstry from New England Synod July 5, 2016 The Rev. Matthew Finney from Allegheny Synod August 1, 2016

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Deaths:

Mrs. Mary Ann (Pat) Hand – November 10, 2016 (wife of former Bishop Lawrence Hand, Sr.) The Rev. Donald Rea – October 2, 2016 The Rev Daniel A. Shook – November 5, 2016 VICE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORT Change of date The June 2017 meeting of the Synod Council is changed to June 8. Please make a note of this.

Consideration of creating a Ministry Profile Three pastors from our interim ministry network suggested that there be a process for creating a Synod ministry profile prior to the election of a bishop next year. A proposal to create such a profile was submitted to the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee decided the discussion would benefit from insight of what has been used in other Synods. To this end, the Executive Committee has invited the Secretary of the E.L.C.A., the Reverend Wm Chris Boerger, to come to our Synod on January 31. The Executive Committee will meet with him at 11:00 a.m. and the Synod Council will meet with him from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Pr. Jane Marston would like the conversation to emphasize the character of persons who might serve as well as the needs we have for the Synod. Bishop Burkat said that there is no bishop sitting among you; you elect a pastor, and the Bishop grows. Pr. Patricia Davenport, Assistant to the Bishop pointed out that we need to consider diversity across the whole church as we consider leadership for our Synod. There are many people in our Synod who are persons of color, many who are millennials, and we need to consider these as we choose our leaders. But we also need to be aware that there are few leaders of diversity in the broader expression of the Church. This is a broader issue than just what we do in Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod. Regarding diversity across the Church and in congregational life, Vice President Beasley shared that she was recently in Chicago for a meeting of the multicultural team. She was able to attend the first meeting of the Church Council at which our new Vice President was present. She noted that having a person of color in that seat is significant for us as a Church as we strive to be a more inclusive expression of the Body of Christ. Vice President Beasley encouraged members of the Council to be aware of how we welcome others. She shared that if you are looking to increase your awareness of what to do when you have people attend your congregation who do not look like you, realize that there are resources on the E.L.C.A. web site. You can search there to find strategies and plans for how to incorporate diverse persons into your congregation.

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MISSION MOMENT Mr. Peter Smith, Associate Director of Bear Creek Camp, made a presentation. Thank you SEPA Synod for your support and participation. The camp has had its highest summer enrollment in many years. There have been four years of growth, following seven years of declining attendance. The hope is that our campers will continue to live out their faith in their lives. Henry Strobel, member of Synod Council, is a great example of this: an active camper who is active in the Church. The Camp has a goal for scholarships: we want to be sure any kid who wants to go to camp, can go. There has been a great response from people to make this possible. Project Connect has been very helpful in allowing inner city youth to attend at a discounted rate. It is now called “Philly Connect.” We are excited to have new cabins instead of tents! We will keep some tent platforms, but we are thrilled to have increased capacity and safety for the campers. We hope to be able to us these, and our new activity building, for rental to churches and groups at other times in the year. By summer we should have 16 new cabins. Each sleeps 10 people: 8 youth and two counselors. Family Camp is Memorial Day and Labor Day. We are adding a Family Camp over the 4 th of July week when enrollment is lower. SECRETARY’S REPORT Revisions to the Synod Constitution Updates to the Synod Constitution are continuing to be prepared. The team that is working on these will have proposals for the Synod Council at the February 23 rd meeting. United Lutheran Seminary Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod has the role to appoint a person to a seat on the Seminary Board. The name of Christopher Mondics has been brought forward for the Council’s consideration. S.C. 16.12.08 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council appoints Christopher Mondics to the board of directors of the United Lutheran Seminary. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution. TREASURER’S REPORT Ms Janet Neff, treasurer, highlighted the following from her written report: We currently have a surplus, but this is because of the sale of the properties of the former Redeemer, East Falls, and Messiah, Newtown Square. Per our policy, fifteen percent of these sales went to the General unrestricted funds

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Mission support is down $37,700 compared to last year. The Stewardship Committee is working on encouraging congregational partnership support. Expenses for properties of former congregations continue: the former First, Collingdale has an offer in process; the former St. John’s, Pottstown has an offer in process; Chalfont’s cemetery continues to need support for perpetual care; St. Michael’s, Germantown is being assessed for how it might be re-purposed, but the costs may be too high. The desire is to make it a social ministry center. Among the concerns that we have been addressing so far are sewer repairs, cleaning, landscaping, water leaks, and fencing the property. So far more than $35,000 has been spent. Much more will need to be invested before the property will be suitable for re-use. Expenses for the form er St. Michael’s also include large expenses associated with the cemetery. This will be an ongoing expense for the Synod as there is not a sizable enough fund for perpetual care associated with the cemetery. Ms Neff encouraged members to check that you know where your deeds are, and what property you have. Cemeteries and day cares are a source of difficulty if or when congregations close. Ms Susan Pursch asked how many congregations are in imminent danger of closing. Bishop Bukat replied there may be two. Several congregations are looking at going to part time calls. Forward Together in Faith Ms Neff had an update on the Campaign in her written report. At this meeting she highlighted the following uses of money from this campaign for the goals of the effort: $13,800 has been used for Ministry Assessment Profiles; a $10,000 grant has been made to Living Gospel Ministry; $1,439 has been used for scholarships to the Bishop’s Convocation. Mr. Rod Rothermel expressed his concern about congregational giving, stating that from 2014 to 2015 it went down $200,000 and from 2015 to 2016 it went down again. He requested a report from the Stewardship Committee to see just what efforts are being made to increase the resources and close the gap. Not only would this let the Synod Council see what is being tried, but we may be able to take some of these ideas to use in our congregations. Pr. Patricia Davenport said the committee is doing several workshops and events on giving patterns, strategies for increasing giving, and other related topics. Vice President Beasley asked Pr. Davenport to ask Pr. Larry Smoose, chair of the Stewardship Committee, to attend the February meeting of the Synod Council. Ms Susan Pursch stated that with one quarter to go, she is concerned, and does not know who has the responsibility to deal with the gap so that we end the year with some fiscal integrity. Pr. Davenport said Pr. Smoose is working to have calls made to congregations that are behind. COMMITTEE REPORTS Audit Committee Chairperson Susan Pursch stated we will use Tait Weller again for the audit. SC - 37

Nominating Committee Chairperson Pr. Regina D. Goodrich referenced her written report submitted at the meeting.

Administration Committee Chairperson Pr. Bryan Penman presented agenda for Assembly. S.C. 16.12.09 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the Agenda for the 2017 Synod Assembly. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution. Forward Together in Faith Pr. Bryan Penman referenced the report he passed out at the meeting. To date we have $484,000 in gifts and pledges, nearly all from individuals. Support from Synod Leadership: 86% have pledged or given. Vice President Beasley has pledge cards available at the meeting for those who need one. Support from the Staff is 100%, as is support from the Deans at 100%. The Synod Council is asked to also come to 100% of its membership support the Campaign. A team has been started to cultivate major donors. There are thirty people on the list already. Eleven congregations are currently in MAP process at one phase or another. Ambassadors are now going out to congregations. Six congregations have requested an ambassador, and three have had an ambassador. Resources continue to be added to the website for use in congregations. We are discovering a large number of congregations are also in capital campaigns. We need to realize that we are not trying to “rob Peter to pay Paul.” This is a campaign to invest in the future of all our congregations. Constitution Committee Chairperson Pr. Jane Marston brought forward two constitutions for approval. S.C. 16.12.10 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the congregational constitution for Augustus Lutheran Church, Trappe. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution. S.C. 16.12.11 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the congregational constitution for Resurrection Lutheran Church, Yardley The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution.

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Investment Committee Chairperson Rod Rothermel reviewed choices for investment. He noted that one of the firms in which the Committee suggests investing, T. Rowe Price, needs approval by the governing board of the organization to engage in such a financial relationship. The Committee made the following motion: S.C. 16.12.12 THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council authorizes the investment of funds in T Rowe Price. The Synod Council unanimously adopted this resolution. OLD BUSINESS Ms Susan Purcsh requested the Forward Together in Faith report be posted.

NEW BUSINESS None The meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m. A special meeting of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council will be held January 31, 2017, 4:00 p.m. at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council will be February 23, 2017, 4:00 p.m. at University Lutheran, Philadelphia

The Reverend Karl M. Richard, Secretary Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA Approved by Synod Council February 23, 2017

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MINUTES of the 143rd MEETING of the SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD COUNCIL of the EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA Brossman Center, Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia January 31, 2017

This meeting of the Synod Council was called to order by Vice President Tracey A. Beasley at 4:06 pm. This meeting was called for the purpose of discussing processes for the election of a bishop as they have been done in other Synods, and to determine how Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod might proceed as we enter this process at next year’s Synod Assembly. Also present in addition to members of the Synod Council and the Synod Staff were President David Lose, Secretary Wm Chris Boerger, the Reverend Donna Wright and the Reverend Sandra Brown. Secretary Richard began the meeting with prayer. Vice President Beasley introduced Dr. David Lose, President of the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, who offered words of welcome, thanks and encouragement. Welcome, Secretary Boerger Vice President Beasley introduced the Reverend Wm Chris Boerger, Secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and invited him to share some words about our Church. Secretary Boerger expressed his appreciation for being able to be present and help in the discussion in which we will engage. He pointed out that we in the E.L.C.A. are not like most other Christian denominations. We are neither Congregational nor Presbyteral in our polity. We are one Church in three expressions, each expression being fully the church, but not the whole church. When discussing the work of the Church we do not say what ar e “they” doing, for we are all they. This interdependent nature makes us stronger, as we have the support and resources of each expression to do the work before us. But it also makes it confusing, in that there is not always a clear sense of what each expression “has” to do in every instance. He noted some of the things we do well as we do them together. We raise up leaders. We are very good about World Hunger. We recognize we are a country of immigrants. When we speak of “them” we are speaking of us. And our outreach ministries to those in need are incredibly strong and important. Secretary Boerger expressed his thanks to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod for our leadership in the Church, particularly in showing that multicultural representation is not only possible, but happening.

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Overview of past Bishop Elections Mr. Bob Hensil shared some of the process from previous elections of a bishop. The organizing team was basically a group of tellers. In the year when Bishop Burkat was first elected Bob met with Bishop Hanson the night before the election, but as far as planning, that was it. Some Conferences had meetings to discuss the issue, but nothing formal had been planned. He noted that unlike the packet available today, the guidelines for this process were not very detailed in the past. After the first ballot, the Committee on Elections attempted to contact the prospective candidates to see if they were willing to stand for election. If they were not able to be contacted, their names went forward. The Committee made sure to say it is the responsibility of voting members to be on the floor whenever the Assembly is in session. The agenda is a guideline only, and voting times may move, as was the case in a previous election of a bishop, when some were not present at the time of a vote. The Committee provided a questionnaire to allow voting members of the Assembly to submit questions for the candidates to answer after the 3 rd ballot. In the most recent election this was not necessary as Bishop Burkat was re-elected on first ballot.

Options and Insight from other Synods Secretary Boerger stated there are four ways that Synods elect bishops. Two of them require Constitutional revision, and so they are not possible for us. The first of these two ways involves a system in which candidates are Pre-nominated in various processes prior to the Assembly, and they comprise the candidates on the first ballot of the Ecclesiastical Balloting. No other names are brought forward for consideration. The second is when candidates are Pre-nominated in various processes prior to the Assembly, and they comprise the candidates on the first ballot of the Ecclesiastical Balloting, but additional name are able to be placed in nomination at the first ballot at the Assembly. Again, these two are not available to us because of Constitutional constraints. The two options available to us as a Synod include what we have done all along, the “model ecclesiastical ballot,” which is used by the vast majority of Synods, or a system of Pre - identification, in which persons and characteristics are lifted up, but there are no nominations made. The first ballot at the Assembly is open. For those Synods that choose the Pre-identification system, it is usually a three stage process. The following names of the stages are S ecretary Boerger’s designation s, and are not official or definitive. There is a “Transition Team” which develops a Mission Profile for the Synod. This may include a Position description for the Bishop. The description in the Constitution is so expansive no one can do it. The Transition team may work to narrow the focus to those areas which are most critical in this place and at this time.

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A “Bishop’s Election Team” supervises and oversees the process of pre -identification. This team addresses such issues as who can identify candidates, by what process, and what deadlines might be imposed. Then there is an “Elections Committee” – which runs the actual balloting process at the Assembly. Chair persons should be lay people so that the clergy, who may receive a vote, do not have to recuse themselves. It is also strongly recommended that Synod Staff not be involved in the process to avoid any conflict of interest. Discussion followed Secretary Boerger’s comments. Pr. Donna Wright: is it permissible to have candidates speak or answer questions prior to the Assembly? Secretary Boerger: It is possible; there are questions and concerns about it. How do you not penalize those who are unable to attend the forum, causing it to seem as though they are not invested? Mr. Bob Hensil: If we have a pre-identification process we want to do so in a way that does not seem as though we are pushing a particular candidate. As a result we want to be careful about whether persons should be encouraged to or invited to speak and or answer questions prior to Assembly. Ms Susan Pursch: Some were on a committee prior to Bishop Burkat’s election. The whole process included many people and much prayer as we saw Claire being elevated to bishop. Secretary Boerrger; I recommend you be in weekly prayer for the year after the conclusion of this Synod Assembly. This is a call process. We are the Church. He also referenced the E.L.C.A. website where there is a tool kit for the election of a bishop. Pr. Brad Burke, Assistant to the Bishop: How should we make use of social media? Secretary Boerger: If you do this, a team needs to be aware of this and set some parameters. In one Synod an anonymous post was uploaded which stated they had information about a candidate and that this person should be contacted before the candidate continued. Fortunately this was pulled down before many people saw it. Pr. Jane Marston: What about vetting or background checks? Secretary Boerger: You should be clear that this is a needed part of the process. Whether you do this prior to the election, or get permission of identified persons but run the checks after you get to the round of 3 candidates, it should be made clear that the candidates will need to submit to a background check. This has sometimes caused people to remove their name from nomination. If not done before election the Executive Committee needs to see and evaluate the background checks and discuss the steps if there are any issues. You may want to do a financial background check as well, so that you know how to structure the Synod staff for effective service.

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Mr. Rod Rothermel: What if there is something in a background check that is ambiguous or borderline? Secretary Boerger: Churchwide attorneys are available to advise. Ultimately the Synod Council will need to make the decision. Mr. Dave Ehret: Are any synods doing drug testing? Secretary Boerger: Not that I am aware of. Mr. Adam Clark: What if the background check has false information? Secretary Boerger: As with the previous comment, this would be shared with the Executive Committee, who then meets with the candidate. Then a determination can be made of what the issue may be and what steps if any are necessary to resolve it. Vice President Beasley called on Secretary Richard to place before the Synod Council the recommendation of the Executive Committee. Secretary Richard placed before the Council the recommendation that we adopt a three stage pre- identification process for selecting a bishop, and that these stages include those steps outlined by Secretary Boerger above: a Transition Team to draft a Mission Profile; a Bishop Election Team to discern how to raise up persons with the gifts for this ministry, and the Committee on Elections to oversee the Ecclesiastical Balloting at the Assembly. The motion was seconded. Discussion ensued, and included a desire to be certain that this was not a nominating process; that the stages be defined and a timeline be developed; that we avoid the sense that we are placing endorsement status on anyone in this process; and that we surround the process with openness and prayer. The Synod Council unanimously approved the recommendation. Secretary Richard was directed to draft a Continuing Resolution to be reviewed by the Executive Committee, and then presented to the Synod Council for review and adoption. Bishop Burkat closed the meeting with words of thanks for Secretary Boerger, words of thanks for the work of the Synod Council, and words of encouragement as we go forward together proclaiming the good news of Christ. The meeting adjourned at 6:11 pm

Respectfully submitted, The Rev. Karl M. Richard, Secretary Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA Approved by Synod Council February 23, 2017

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MINUTES of the 144th MEETING of the SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD COUNCIL of the EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA University Lutheran, Philadelphia February 23, 2017 Vice President Tracey A. Beasley introduced the Reverend Fritz Fowler, host and pastor of University Lutheran. Pr. Fowler passed out a packet about the ministry at “UniLu, ” and led the Synod Council in devotions based on the Transfiguration texts. “We do not need to be afraid, because the God of love and mercy and forgiveness goes with us. We are called as people of this God to listen to and walk with the people in our city and our world, not be a people of fear, but a people of faith. ” Bishop Burkat stated that Pr. Fowler has been appointed to the Interfaith Network and has been doing a fine job with it. Vice President Beasley called the 144 th meeting of the SEPA Synod Council to order at 4:32 pm

APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes of the 142 nd and the 143 rd meetings of the Synod Council were brought before the Council for approval. In the Minutes of 142 nd meeting of the Synod Council Vice President Beasley noted one correction: she had asked Pr. Davenport to ask Pr. Larry Smoose, chair of the Stewardship Committee, to attend the February meeting of the Synod Council Meeting. The Synod Council approved the minutes of the 142nd meeting of the Synod Council as corrected, and the minutes of the 143 rd meeting of the Synod Council as presented. SETTING THE AGENDA The Synod Council adopted the Agenda with reports received from the Audit and Constitution Committees. BISHOP’S REPORT Interfaith Relationships Bishop Burkat was honored by the Muslim Quba Institute of Philadelphia with the Excellence in Service Award for the work she has done in the Interfaith Community. Bishop Burkat has been asked to attend the Islamic Society of North America national convention in Chicago this coming July with Imam Muhaimin to share how Lutherans and Muslims in Southeastern Pennsylvania have worked together to promote peace. The Bishop stated she is excited to see these interfaith efforts growing strongly as we live into the next phase of being the Lutheran Church in this diverse American arena . The “Coming Together” event on February 27 th that will bring together leaders from the Muslim, Jewish and

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Christian traditions in Philadelphia is a great example of how we can speak openly and learn from each other.

Conference of Bishops The Conference of Bishops met in Charleston SC, and was present at the time when Dylan Roof was being sentenced for his crime of the shootings at the Mother Emmanuel AME Church. Bishop Burkat attended worship there along with three other ELCA bishops. She brought greetings to the congregation from SEPA Synod and from Mother Bethel AME in Philadelphia.

United Lutheran Seminary The work of the search committee for a president for the new seminary has been moving forward, and the committee has some great candidates. The new school will begin July 1st . The offer of full tuition for ELCA candidates has resulted in over thirty people inquiring about attending seminary next year, with fifteen seriously in discernment, just from SEPA Synod alone. Bishop Burkat will challenge all fifteen supporting synods to raise up at least two candidates each year. If we can do this it will be a tremendous gift for the whole Church. Bishop in Residence Bishop Burkat was given the opportunity to be Bishop in Residence at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. She spoke with several professors who have commented on how effectively the hybrid of online learning and on site class time is working as the faculty also lives into a new model of teaching students at a distance.

Anti-racism Retreat The hoped for retreat to train Synod Council and the Committee of Deans needed to be rescheduled due to an inability to find suitable space at a feasible cost. The desire was to have the Synod Council trained before the Assembly. This was not possible. An alternate time will be arranged as soon as possible. Brave New Church Pr. Brad Burke, Syn od Staff described the “Brave New Church” initiative. He noted the tremendous shifts in the culture around us, and how particularly the millennial generation is not connecting with the Church. This is not just a concern of, or about, the millennial generation. We all need to consider this shift in the culture. To address some of these concerns and shifts, a synod wide, on-line initiative is being launched. There are four components to this initiative: A Podcast – weekly on Mondays dealing with texts of upcoming week A Blog – featuring a rotation of voices wrestling with the changing dynamics of ministry Community Forums – a space for civil conversations on our changing communities and experiences

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A Resources Page – links offered to quality, engaging tools to address these changing times. Congregational connections will also be developed here. This initiative will be one of the topics discussed at the council officers gathering in March, as well as at the Cross + Gen event at the Seminary March 10 th & 11 th . Actions on the Roster Requests for extensions of On Leave from Call status

S.C.17.02.01. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Reverend Wende Bleam, the Reverend Dr. Harold Evans, the Reverend Gwendolyn King, the Reverend Kristine Peterson and the Reverend Bruce Thorsen be granted an extension for On Leave From Call from the ELCA Conference of Bishops Roster Committee, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council request an approval of these extensions from the ELCA Conference of Bishops Roster Committee. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution. On Leave from Call Requests S.C. 17.02.02. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend Jonathan Shin on leave from call status, 1 st year, effective February 1, 2017

The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution.

Retirement Requests

S.C. 17.02.03. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council grants the Reverend James E. Gulotta retirement status effective May 1, 2017 The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution. Authorization of Housing Allowances S.C. 17.02.04. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the 2017 housing allowance for the Reverend Violet Little and the Reverend Linda Manson, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT that the recipients be reminded that the amounts so designated as rental/housing allowance are excludable from the gross income of the respective recipients only to the extent that said amounts are used to rent or provide a home. Further the amount eligible for the Section 107 exclusion may not exceed the fair rental value of the minister’s home (including furnishings and appurtenances) plus the cost of utilities. To the extent a greater amount is designated as rental/housing allowance, the designation will be ineffectual with respect to such amount. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution.

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Information Not Requiring Action

Transfers The Reverend Paul Xander to Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod effective January 18, 2017 The Reverend Stephen Weisser to Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod effective February 14, 2017

Deaths The Reverend Dr. Allan H. Jahsmann, which occurred December 13, 2016 Ms Susan Pursch thanked the Bishop for her report. She shared that she is proud of our Bishop and the work she does to represent us across denominations and in interfaith dialogues. Still, she would like a report on what is happening within the Synod as well. Bishop Burkat asked the Council to clarify what might be helpful. Mr. Phil Tackett said that, as an example, we have a new Dean in Upper Bucks, but we do not have any notification of this at Synod Council. Pr. Sarah Anderson-Rajarigam suggested perhaps a sense of the finances of congregations beyond finance report. Bp. Burkat noted the Deans do work, the Staff does work, and various Teams do work. What does Council need? Perhaps we have Pr. Marcia Bell, Director of Mobility, write a summary of the work of the Deans for the Synod Council? Ms Pursch thought that might be helpful. Vice President Beasley suggested perhaps we have Pr. Bell attend twice a year to give us an impression of what is going on. We need to be very careful of confidentiality. Perhaps she could give list of congregations in transition, and perhaps list the congregations that are now part-time. Mr. Rod Rothermel suggested perhaps the Deans could share what is going well, and what challenges they have in their Conferences. Some consideration will be given to this, particularly to if it is best to have a written report, or just an occasional visit from Pr. Bell. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT Vice President Beasley alerted members of the Synod Council that information for the upcoming Synod Assembly is on MinistryLink. She reminded members that if a member of Synod Council wishes to attend the Assembly and is not a Voting Member of their congregation, the Synod will cover their registration. However, members will still need to fill out the registration form and submit it to the Synod office. Vice President B easley then welcomed the Reverend Larry Smoose, Chair of the Synod’s Stewardship Committee, to present the Mission Moment.

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MISSION MOMENT Pr. Smoose gave an overview of the Synod’s financial history over the past thirty years. In 2016 partnership support (the regular offerings from congregations to the Synod) was down $119,000 from the amount given in 2015. Likewise, partnership support in 2015 was down from the amount given in 2014. This is nothing new. It is part of at least a 30 year trend from the time the ELCA began. This leaves us in difficult straits financially, as the Synod has received fewer actual dollars, not just dollars adjusted for inflation, than were received in 1986. Pr. Smoose than addressed some of the causes of this decline. As a visual aid, he provided each member of the Council a copy of the ELCA trend report of their congregation, covering the last 8 years. Some general information about the 27 congregations represented on the Synod Council: Regular giving by members:

· In 14 congregations regular giving by members to the congregations went down · In 11 congregations regular giving went up · In the remaining 2 regular giving stayed the same Partnership Support:

· For 18 congregations partnership support went up · For 3 congregations partnership support stayed the same · For 6 congregations partnership support went down Percent of regular giving shared as Partnership Support

· For 11 congregations, 2015 partnership support was 8% or more · For 16 congregations 2015 partnership support was less than 8%, and some gave nothing

· 22 congregations share a lower percentage now than in 2008 · 4 congregations share a higher percentage now than in 2008 · 1 had no change What are the attitudes and concerns that contribute to this overall decline of support for the Synod?

· Some have memories of conflict from 30 years ago · Shrinking membership · Buildings that need care · A trend, not necessarily in these congregations, to give to local needs · Not as much denominational loyalty · Active worship is now 2x/month rather than weekly · Connection to own location causes resistance to cooperative ministry. Multiple factors have contributed to the decreased level of support, but:

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What is the Stewardship Team trying to do? 1. Rescue the term Stewardship. If “stewardship” is manag ing what has been entrusted to you, then every congregation needs to be involved with that, as does every member. 2. We want to help congregations develop a culture of generosity. It is more than just asking for money, but learning how to manage all your assets. The resources we have to share drive our mission and our ministry. We need people time and money. If we do not develop generous sharing of these we are in trouble. 3. We are going to the Conferences – what do your congregations need? How can we provide training, information, or events to help with that?

4. Workshop on 4/29 – Representatives from Vanco will discuss electronic giving. 60% of our congregations have some form of electronic giving, but most are using “Simply Giving” style of donations. How can we effectively reach millennials, who don’t use checks or carry cash?

5. We are offering a Pilot program with NEPA Synod – each synod is getting 8 congregations of varying sizes to engage in a 2 year program to cultivate a culture of generosity. The cost of the program will be about $2,000/year, covered in part by a grant. Congregations will contribute a portion, based on size of congregation. These congregations will also commit to sharing with the Synod financially and sharing the information with other congregations.

6. Other ways the Stewardship Team is reaching out: Stories of Generosity contest; Stewardship Tip of the Month in MinistryLink; workshop on how to make a narrative budget to tell the story of the congregation through its budget; forum on e-giving at Assembly; teaching basic biblical principles of stewardship, such as why see 10% as a mark for sharing our financial resources. What is needed to do? It is a long process to turn this around. We need to tell the story of what the Synod is doing. This needs to be more than MinistryLink. It needs to be personalized. No group knows more about the Synod than the Synod Council. We need to commit to this work. We need to tell the story!

The Synod Council thanks Pr. Smoose for his presentation, and his work on behalf of our Synod. SECRETARY’S REPORT Secretary Richard brought to the Synod Council the following resolution concerning the closing of St. John Lutheran Church, Pottstown. St. John has already closed, and the Synod Council did act to recognize this fact, but the bank that is working with the Synod for the sale of the property has requested this specific language.

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S.C. 17.02.05. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council acknowledges with sadness the action of Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. John of South Pottstown, PA to close, effective January 6, 2015, on which date the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod received the property of Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. John, in accordance with the Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, specifically 9.71.b., +S13.23., and *C7.01.; and, on this date, February 23, 2017, authorizes Rev. Claire Burkat, the Bishop of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, or the Bishop’s representative(s), to sign the Deed and all Seller Affidavits and other closing documents and sell the real property having an address of 75 E. Main Street in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, on behalf of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod to the Living Hope Mennonite Fellowship at a sales price of Two Hundred Sixty Thousand Dollars ($260,000.00). The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution. Secretary Richard thanks Pr. Jane Marston for taking over the recording of the minutes as he presented numerous resolutions affecting the Synod’s Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions. Actions on Synod Constitution Synod Secretary Karl Richard presented a series of proposed amendments to our Synod’s Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions. Some of these changes were recommended by a committee formed to review the existing constitution in light of changes in the Model Constitution for Synods adopted by the 2016 Churchwide Assembly as well as in the number of Conferences in our Synod. Pr. Richard; Pr. Jane Marston, chair of the Synod Constitution Committee; and Pr. Tyler Rasmussen, member of the Executive Committee, served on this committee. The ad hoc committee also drafted a continuing resolution describing procedures for electing a bishop based on the discussion with ELCA Secretary Wm. Chris Boerger with the Executive Committee and at the special meeting of the Synod Council held on January 31, 2017. This continuing resolution was reviewed by the Executive Committee, which recommended it to the Synod Council for adoption. The following amendments were discussed and voted on:

1. SEASONAL MEMBERS: Secretary Richard noted that the Model Constitution for Congregations now allows for seasonal members when the Synod Council has approved this on its territory. The ad hoc committee recommended the following resolution:

S.C. 17.02.06. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council adopt the following Continuing Resolution regarding seasonal members of congregations:

S13.02.A17. This synod allows congregations to provide for seasonal membership in accordance with *C8.02.e. of the Model Constitution for Congregations.

The Synod Council unanimously adopted CR S13.02.A17.

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2. PROCESS FOR WITHDRAWAL FROM ECCLESIASTICAL BALLOT FOR BISHOP Secretary Richard reported that ELCA Secretary Boerger had suggested we clarify the process for how those nominated for the office of bishop may withdraw their name from consideration. The ad hoc committee recommended the following resolution:

S.C. 17.02.07. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council amend Continuing Resolution S9.04.A94.1) by addition as follows: (suggested additions are underlined)

A nominee may withdraw from the process by informing the Committee on Elections by one of the following means: a. written notification b. email notification c. verbal notice, in person or by electronic means, to 2 members of the election committee.

The Synod Council unanimously adopted the amended version of CR S9.04.A94.

3. PROCESS FOR PREPARING THE SYNOD FOR THE ELECTION OF A BISHOP

Secretary Richard reported that, following discussions with ELCA Secretary Boerger on January 31, 2017, the Executive Committee proposed the following resolution to the Synod Council:

S.C. 17.02.08. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council adopt the following Continuing Resolution for the process of electing a Bishop:

S9.04.B17 Process for preparing the Synod for the election of a Bishop When there is an election for a bishop where there is no incumbent, this synod shall use a three- stage process which will allow for those who will be voting members to the Synod Assembly at which a bishop will be elected to consider both the needs of the synod and persons who might exhibit the gifts to serve as bishop. This process shall begin the year prior to such election and conclude with the ecclesiastical ballot for bishop at the appointed Assembly. This process will not be required in the event of a special election for a bishop. The teams for this process shall be appointed by the Executive Committee in consultation with the Bishop and approved by the Synod Council. The teams shall be chaired by laypersons. A. Stage One. A Transition Team shall develop a Synodical Mission Profile. Included in such a Mission Profile might be the latest demographics and vitality indicators of the congregations on the territory of the synod, updated demographic information on the rostered leaders serving in the synod, and an assessment of the hoped for direction of the synod and its ministry. This Synodical Mission Profile shall be completed by December 1st of the year prior to the election and made available upon completion. B. Stage Two. A Discernment Team shall develop a prayer-filled process for conversation and discernment across the synod. This process shall include ways to discuss the gifts for ministry that might be helpful to advance the Synodical Mission Profile and how to identify persons who might possess these gifts. The structure for this prayerful conversation shall include consideration of: SC - 51

1) how persons with gifts for this ministry might be identified, e.g., who might raise up names, by what authority, and by what mechanism; 2) how the names of those persons might be brought forward for discussion, e.g., through conference meetings, cluster meetings, or synod-wide gatherings; 3) how the conversations about those brought forward might be structured so that their gifts for ministry might be explored; 4) how these conversations might be shared across the synod for the edification of the whole. The process for these conversations shall be completed and shared by the time the Synodical Mission Profile is completed. These conversations shall begin after the completion of the Synodical Mission Profile and be completed at least one month prior to the election. C. Stage Three. The Committee on Bishop Elections shall oversee the process of ecclesiastical ballot as specified in S9.04. No names raised in stage two of this process shall be on the ballot at the start of the Assembly. Any names to be placed in nomination shall be made from the floor of the Assembly on the first ballot.

Secretary Richard noted that the names of the teams conducting the three stages of the process had been changed from those initially suggested by ELCA Secretary Boerger at our meeting with him on January 31. This was something Secretary Boerger had specifically said we would be free to do.

Ms Susan Pursch stated that she continues to have concerns about lifting up specific names before the ecclesiastical ballot.

Secretary Richard replied that the conversations identifying potential nominees would be concluded at least one month prior to the Synod Assembly and that the Discernment Team will be charged with removing names and biographical information from the synod’s social media prior to the electio n, as was done at the most recent Churchwide Assembly.

Mr. Bob Hensil noted that in his experience these kinds of conversations were already being held in previous elections and that the proposed continuing resolution formalizes what has already been occurring.

Bishop Burkat noted that she has already been approached by groups asking her to reflect on the personal characteristics needed for serving as bishop. She reported that she will refuse all invitations to participate in the discernment process.

Pr. Larry Smoose asked for and received permission to speak as a visitor. He wanted to know whether the conversations led by the Discernment Team would include opportunities to reflect on the spiritual gifts and skills needed in a bishop. Secretary Richard replied that this is the desire. The Team will determine the way in which this might take place.

Secretary Richard noted that the proposed continuing resolution specifies a framework of times for completing each of the phases of the work.

Vice President Beasley reiterated the point that much of what is being proposed is not really new, but rather establishes guidelines for our usual practices. The Synod Council unanimously adopted CR S9.04.B17.

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4. CLARIFICATION OF COMMITTEE TITLE

Secretary Richard reported that the Executive Committee suggested that there be a distinction between the committee that coordinates the election of a bishop and the committee that coordinates the election of other positions at the Assembly. To that end, the Executive Committee proposed the following resolution to the Synod Council:

S.C. 17.02.09. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council amend Continuing Resolution S9.04.A94. by addition as follows: (suggested additions are underlined)

S9.04.A94. 1) Following the first ballot, reasonable efforts shall be made to contact nominees in order to determine their willingness to serve. The Assembly shall be informed of those efforts as well as the responses of the nominees. A nominee may withdraw from the process by informing the Committee on Bishop Elections by one of the following means: a. written notification b. email notification c. verbal notice, in person or by electronic means, to 2 members of the election committee 2) For the purpose of S9.04 of the Synod Constitution, a nominee shall be presumed willing to serve unless he or she has expressed an unwillingness to do so. 3) When reasonable efforts have been made to contact a nominee, but have been unsuccessful, it shall be assumed that the nominee is willing to serve. 4) No nominee willing to serve shall be a member of the contacting group. 5) Biographical information about the nominees included on the third ballot shall be distributed to voting members of the Assembly prior to that ballot. 6) At a plenary session prior to the fourth ballot, the agenda shall include a forum at which nominees shall be permitted to respond to written questions posed by voting members to the Committee on Bishop Elections. 7) Prior to the fifth ballot, the agenda shall include time for nominees to address the assembly for up to five minutes each. 8) Implementation of these rules of procedure shall be the responsibility of the Committee on Bishop Elections unless otherwise delegated by the Synod Council. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the amended version of CR S9.04.A94.

5. MOVEMENT OF PERSONS FROM THE YOUTH BALLOT TO THE AT LARGE BALLOT. Secretary Richard noted that currently Continuing Resolution S6.04.D10. has those nominated for the youth position who are not elected on that ballot to move forward to the ballot for lay person at large. The Youth term is a two year term, where the at large term is a three year term. As the terms are not commensurate, the ad hoc committee recommended that the Synod Council amend the continuing resolution as follows:

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S.C. 17.02.10. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council amend Continuing Resolution S6.04.D10. by deletion as follows: (suggested deletions are struck through)

S6.04.D10. The Synod Assembly shall elect two Synod Council youth representatives, one female and one male, and two Synod Council young adult representatives, one female and one male. At least one of the youth and young adult representatives shall be a person of color and/or person whose primary language is other than English. The terms of the two youth representatives shall be two years and staggered so that one of the terms expires every year shall expire at the same time. The youth representatives may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. The terms of the young adult representatives shall be three years. The young adult representatives may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. Those nominated for the youth and young adult representative positions and not elected shall be added to the nominees for the Synod Council “at large” positions. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the amended version of CR S6.04.D10.

6. DIVERSITY AMONG THE YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MEMBERS OF THE SYNOD COUNCIL Secretary Richard reminded the Council that our goal is to have at least one of the four positons of youth and young adult members held by a person of color and/or whose primary language is other than English. Currently the way in which the youth and young adult positions are staggered potentially limits the number of persons we may consider for a particular position. To that end, and because the Youth Female position is currently unfilled, the ad hoc committee recommended that the Synod Council amend this continuing resolution so that the youth positions are elected in the same year, rather than be staggered as follows: S.C. 17.02.11. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council amend Continuing Resolution S6.04.D10. as follows: (suggested additions are underlined, suggested deletions are struck through):

S6.04.D10. The Synod Assembly shall elect two Synod Council youth representatives, one female and one male, and two Synod Council young adult representatives, one female and one male. At least one of the youth and young adult representatives shall be a person of color and/or person whose primary language is other than English. The terms of the two youth representatives shall be two years and staggered so that one of the terms expires every year shall expire at the same time. The youth representatives may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. The terms of the young adult representatives shall be three years. The young adult representatives may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. Those nominated for the young adult representative positions and not elected shall be added to the nominees for the Synod Council “at large” positions. Mr. Bob Hensil observed that the wording at the beginning of the second sentence, “At least one of the youth and young adult representatives” co uld be interpreted to mean that we need a person of color and/or a person whose language is other than English for both categories. He proposed that we change the word “and” to “or.” This change was adopted. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the amended version of CR S6.04.D10.

7. AMENDING BYLAWS CONCERNING REPRESENTATION ON SYNOD COUNCIL Secretary Richard noted that the reduction of the number of Conferences in 2016 requires that we also amend our bylaws to reflect the number of people serving on Synod Council. He compared the process of

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updating these bylaws to repainting one wall in a room: you start to notice other things that need to be fixed as well. The ad hoc committee addressed the following additional issues in its proposed revision: · Move all items pertaining to composition and term limits of the Synod Council to S10.01. o Change S6.04.D10 from a continuing resolution to a bylaw, in accordance with S10.01.a, which specifies that the process for election and term of office for all members of the Syn od Council “shall be specified in the bylaws”. · Move all items pertaining to the process for nominations and elections to the Synod Council to S9.08. · When referring to a Synod Council member, always use the word “member” (consistent with language throughout Chapter 10). When referring to the position on Synod Council someone might fill, always use the word “position” (consistent with S10.06). Remove all language pertaining to “seats.”

S.C. 17.02.12. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council recommends the Synod Assembly amend the Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod as follows: (suggested additions are underlined, suggested deletions are struck through, (notes are in red) ):

S6.04.D10. (moved to S10.01.02)

S9.08.01. Synod Council a. The nominating and election process for the 24 persons, not including the four officers of this Synod and the two youth and the two young adult representatives, elected as members of Synod Council members of the Synod Council shall proceed in a manner that will ensure the composition of the Synod Council meets the requirements set forth in Chapter 10 of this constitution. shall proceed in a manner that will assure that at least three members so elected will be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English, (moved to S10.01.01.c) nine of the 24 elected members shall be ordained ministers and 15 shall be lay persons. (moved to S10.01.01.a) Terms for members other than the youth member shall be for three years (moved to S10.01.02) and shall be arranged so that the terms of three ordained ministers, three conferences and two at-large lay members expire each year. (moved to S10.01.01.b) None of the 24 elected members shall be eligible to serve for more than two terms consecutively. (moved to S10.01.01.b) Terms of office for the youth members shall be two years, (moved to S10.01.02) and for the young adult members, three years, subject to a two-term limitation. (moved to in S10.01.02) b. Representatives of congregations in Each conference whose lay position is up for election shall meet prior to the Synod Assembly and shall nominate at least one layperson from their conference for the Synod Council position, one nominee per conference to be elected by the assembly at the annual meeting. Every conference may nominate laypeople for the at-large lay positions. (new) Normally, these nominations will take place at a full assembly of the conference. (new, language borrowed from S7.24 and S12.01.05) These lay seats assigned to conferences shall alternate every six years (or two terms) between male and female Council members. (moved to S10.01.01.b) The Nominating Committee shall receive these nominations from the conferences to include in its report. Voting members at the annual meeting of the assembly may nominate from the floor persons from the assigned

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conferences for election to the Synod Council. Additional nominations may be made from the floor. (new, language borrowed from S9.05 thru S9.07) c. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for each minister of Word and Sacrament and lay at-large position up for election. (new, removes implied need to nominate people for positions not up for election) Geographic consideration shall be given in proposing nominees, as well as the need to assure an adequate number of persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. Balloting for the conference lay positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. Nominees not elected to represent conferences shall be added to the at large ballots. Balloting for at-large lay members shall be by male and female panels; (moved to S9.08.01.e) each year a male and female at-large lay representative shall be elected. (moved to S10.01.01.b) Additional nominations may be made from the floor. (new, language borrowed from S9.05 thru S9.07) d. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for each youth and young adult position up for election. (new, repeats pattern from previous provision) Additional nominations may be made from the floor. (new, language borrowed from S9.05 thru S9.07) e. Balloting for the The election of conference lay positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. Nominees not elected to represent conferences lay positions shall be added to the at-large ballots. The election of young adult positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. (new, repeats pattern from previous sentences) Nominees not elected to the young adult positions shall be added to the at-large ballots. (moved here from S6.04.D10, language changed to match previous sentences) Balloting for at-large lay positions shall be by male and female panels. (moved here from S9.08.01.c). d f. No nomination for Synod Council shall be made if that nominee’s congregation already has a member on the Synod Council or if a member of a congregation has already been nominated, provided, however, that no nominee shall be ineligible if the Synod Council member from that congregation is an officer of this Synod and/or one of them is a Synod Council youth or young adult member. The Synod Council may make exceptions to this requirement in order to promote greater diversity and/or inclusivity. (moved to S10.01.01.d) If a nominee is ineligible or becomes ineligible for a position on the Synod Council, as defined in †S10.01 and related bylaws, that nominee shall be removed from the ballot. S10.01.01. General Membership (new, best term we could find to describe the “other members”, as listed in †S10.01) a. With the exception of the officers, the youth members, and the young adult members, the general membership of the Synod Council shall consist of 32 members: four officers (as set forth in 8.01. of the Synod Constitution), two youth (a youth is defined as a voting member of a congregation who has not reached the age of 18 at the time of election or appointment to service), two young adults (voting members of a congregation between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of election or appointment for service), (already defined in †S10.01) and 24 other members (nine ministers of Word and Sacrament, and 15 lay members). one

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layperson from each conference of this synod, and six at-large laypersons, three male and three female. (more clearly spells out the conference and at-large positions than was previously stated) The Synod Council shall consist of no more than one member of the same congregation at the same time, provided, however, that two or three members of the same congregation may serve on the Synod Council concurrently if one of them is either an officer of this synod and/or one of them is a Synod Council youth or young adult member. (moved to S10.01.01.d) b. The terms for the general membership other than the youth member shall be for three years and of the Synod Council shall be arranged staggered (language borrowed from †S11.05) so that the terms of three ministers of Word and Sacrament, three conferences approximately one-third of conference lay positions, and two at-large lay members positions, one male and one female, (moved here from S9.08.01.c) expire each year. None of the 24 general membership of the Synod Council shall be eligible to serve for more than two terms consecutively consecutive terms. (moved here from S9.08.01.a) These lay seats The lay position assigned to each conferences shall alternate every six years or two terms between male and female Council members. (moved here from S9.08.01.b) c. At least three members of the general membership so elected of the Synod Council will shall be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. (moved here from S9.08.01.a) d. The general membership of the Synod Council shall consist of no more than one member of the same congregation at the same time, provided, however, that two or three members of the same congregation may serve on the Synod Council concurrently if one of them is either an officer of this synod and/or one of them is a Synod Council youth or young adult member. (moved here from S9.08.01.d; simplified based on the whole section only referring to the general membership) The Synod Council may make exceptions to this requirement in order to promote greater diversity and/or inclusivity Exceptions may be made to this requirement only if necessary to meet the requirements of S10.01.01.c. (moved here from S9.08.01.d) S10.01.02. The Synod Assembly Council shall elect include two Synod Council youth representatives members, one male and one female, and two Synod Council young adult representatives members, one male and one female. At least one of the youth or young adult representative members shall be a person of color and/or person whose primary language is other than English. The terms of the two youth representatives members shall be two years and shall expire at the same time. The youth representatives members may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. The terms of the young adult representatives members shall be three years and shall expire at the same time. (new, describes current practice) The young adult representatives members may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. (moved here from S6.04.D10) Those nominated for the young adult representative positions and not elected shall be added to the nominees for the Synod Council “at large” positions. (moved to S9.08.01.e)

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Final Result S9.08.01. Synod Council a. The nominating and election process for the members of the Synod Council shall proceed in a manner that will ensure the composition of the Synod Council meets the requirements set forth in Chapter 10 of this constitution. b. Each conference whose lay position is up for election shall nominate at least one layperson from their conference for the position. Every conference may nominate laypeople for the at-large lay positions. Normally, these nominations will take place at a full assembly of the conference. The Nominating Committee shall receive these nominations from the conferences to include in its report. Additional nominations may be made from the floor. c. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for each minister of Word and Sacrament and lay at-large position up for election. Geographic consideration shall be given in proposing nominees, as well as the need to assure an adequate number of persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. Additional nominations may be made from the floor. d. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for each youth and young adult position up for election. Additional nominations may be made from the floor. e. The election of conference lay positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. Nominees not elected to conference lay positions shall be added to the at-large ballots. The election of young adult positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. Nominees not elected to the young adult positions shall be added to the at-large ballots. Balloting for at-large lay positions shall be by male and female panels. f. If a nominee is ineligible or becomes ineligible for a position on the Synod Council, as defined in †S10.01 and related bylaws, that nominee shall be removed from the ballot. S10.01.01. General Membership a. With the exception of the officers, the youth members, and the young adult members, the general membership of the Synod Council shall consist of nine ministers of Word and Sacrament, one layperson from each conference of this synod, and six at-large laypersons, three male and three female. b. The terms for the general membership of the Synod Council shall be staggered so that the terms of three ministers of Word and Sacrament, approximately one-third of conference lay positions, and two at-large lay positions, one male and one female, expire each year. None of the general membership of the Synod Council shall be eligible to serve for more than two consecutive terms. The lay position assigned to each conference shall alternate every two terms between male and female. c. At least three members of the general membership of the Synod Council shall be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English.

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d. The general membership of the Synod Council shall consist of no more than one member of the same congregation at the same time. Exceptions may be made to this requirement only if necessary to meet the requirements of S10.01.01.c. S10.01.02. The Synod Council shall include two youth members, one male and one female, and two young adult members, one male and one female. At least one of the youth or young adult members shall be a person of color and/or person whose primary language is other than English. The terms of the youth members shall be two years and shall expire at the same time. The youth members may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. The terms of the young adult members shall be three years and shall expire at the same time. The young adult members may serve two consecutive terms if eligible.

The Synod Council voted unanimously to recommend the proposed revisions to the Synod Assembly for adoption.

8. ADDITIONAL UPDATES TO ALIGN CONSTITUTION WITH THE MODEL

Finally, Secretary Richard noted updates to the Model Constitution for Synods that will be brought to this year’s Synod Assembly for adoption. Since these come from the model constitution, a vote of the Synod Council was not necessary.

S8.42.f. Giving of corporate surety in the amount determined by the Synod Council, which shall be in the custody of the secretary, and the premium therefore shall be paid by this synod. Obtaining a fidelity bond in the amount determined by the Synod Council for persons handling synod funds, which bond shall be in the custody of the secretary. The premium for the bond shall be paid by this synod. Fidelity coverage provided by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be deemed a fulfillment of this requirement. †S10.02. The Synod Council shall be the board of directors of this synod and shall serve as its interim legislative authority between meetings of the Synod Assembly. It may make decisions that are not in conflict with actions taken by the Synod Assembly or that are not precluded by provisions of this constitution or the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Need to add, as these are not in our constitution, yet we have Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities

S13.40. Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities S13.41. Authorized worshipping communities, acknowledged under criteria, policies, and procedures approved by the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, shall accept and adhere to the Confession of Faith and Statement of Purpose of this church, shall be served by leadership under the criteria of

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this church, and shall be subject to the discipline of this church. Need to delete S14.29., as the new S14.30. supersedes it.

S14.29. The provisions in the churchwide documents and such provisions as may be developed by the appropriate churchwide unit governing associates in ministry shall apply in this synod.

Secretary Richard said that he will post a revised version of our Synod’s constitution reflecting the changes to required sections of the model constitution (which were in effect immediately following the Churchwide Assembly) and the continuing resolutions adopted at this meeting.

TREASURER AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT Ms Sue Massey, chair of Finance Committee and Mr. Martin Schwab, the Synod ’s Senior Accountant, were recognized to present the financial reports and the proposed budget. The fiscal year ended (1/31/17) with an overall surplus of $18,842. There was no need to draw from Fund for Mission. We have two more years of prepaid rent to the Seminary. Ms Susan Pursch asked who discusses this issue, and do we need to do something proactive to address it. Mr. Schwab indicated the Finance Committee discusses this concern at its meetings. Bishop Burkat stated the Executive Committee has decided that we need to wait see what the Seminary does to see our options. We may be able to renegotiate rent. There is no “drop dead” date for a decision from the school’s perspective . Ms Pursch asked if we should get an extension now that would hold through transition. Bishop Burkat noted that it is premature to deal with this before we know what the Seminary plans to do, but that steps would be taken to address this before our prepaid lease is completed. Due to reduced Partnership Support, the 2017 spending plan has been reduced to anticipate no increase over 2016. The number anticipated for Partnership Support for 2017 and the 2018 Budget remains at the actual level given in 2016. Each of the four areas of the budget are anticipating less income than in 2017, and the expenses have been adjusted to reflect this. S.C. 17.02.13. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approves the 2018 budget, and presents the same to the Synod Assembly for adoption. The Synod Council unanimously adopted the resolution.

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COMMITTEE REPORTS Forward Together in Faith Vice President Beasley welcomed Ms Ellen Daneke to present on the status of the Forward Together in Faith Campaign 2016 was the year of the “ask.” As we enter 2017 we will still ask, but will also gather gifts and recognize both the response and the work we are doing. Bishop’s Advancement Team has strategies and procedures for prospective (major) donors. Am bassadors are going out to make the “ask.” There are new videos on the Forward Together in Faith website. One of the videos has an ask, one is about Christ the King Deaf Church. These are available for congregations to use to promote the campaign. Navigators have been out working with MAP congregations. Six congregations have completed a mission plan and submitted them to Pr. Bryan Penman. The Communication Audit Team plans to be able to launch by the end of March or the beginning of April. Obstacles to the Campaign: many churches are in transition, others in decline; some are short- staffed and are low in volunteers for this process; several congregations are in the midst of their own capital campaigns. A challenge from the Campaign team: We still don’ t have 100% response from leadership or congregations of leadership. What is keeping leadership congregations from getting on board? We still have $2 million to raise by the end of 2018.

Investment Committee Mr. Rod Rothermel, chair of the committee, shared that the investments are doing well. However, the portion allocated to T. Rowe Price was delayed as they wanted approval from our governing body since we were a new account. During this delay the market increased strongly, and we are investing with T. Rowe Price on a gradual basis. Nominating Committee Vice President Beasley encouraged all members of Synod Council who are eligible to serve again to please consider this and submit your form to the Synod Office. OLD BUSINESS None

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The meeting adjourned at 7:01 p.m. The next meeting of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council will be April 6, 2017, 4:00 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, Blue Bell, PA

The Reverend Karl M. Richard, Secretary Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA Approved by Synod Council April 6, 2017

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Report of the Nominating Committee

REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD, ELCA SYNOD ASSEMBLY 2017

1. Nominations from the floor shall be made at the time of the first report of the Nominating Committee during the first business session of the Synod Assembly for all positions to be elected at this assembly. 2. A person making a nomination from the floor must immediately present to the Synod Secretary, or to the Assembly office, a clearly printed copy of the nominee’s biographical information.

TICKETS 1-9: To elect Representatives to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council, which functions as the board of directors of the synod and as an interim legislative authority between meetings of the Synod Assembly.

S9.05. The Synod Council shall nominate at least one person for Vice President only if there is an incumbent; otherwise the Synod Council shall nominate at least two persons for Vice President. Additional nominations may be made from the floor .

TICKET 1: SYNOD COUNCIL, VICE PRESIDENT (One lay person to be elected for a term ending 2020) NAME CONGREGATION Tracey Beasley Reformation, Philadelphia

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor.

TICKET 2: SYNOD COUNCIL, CLERGY (Three ordained ministers to be elected for terms ending 2020)

NAME CONGREGATION Sarah Stobie St. John’ s, Blue Bell Lydia Posselt Family of God, Buckingham

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor.

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S9.08.01.b. Representatives of congregations in each conference shall meet prior to the annual meeting of the Synod Assembly and shall nominate at least one lay person from their conference for the Synod Council, one nominee per conference to be elected by the assembly at the annual meeting. These lay seats assigned to conferences shall alternate every six years (or two terms) between male and female Council members. The Nominating Committee shall receive these nominations from the conferences to include in its reports. Voting members at the annual meeting of the assembly may nominate from the floor persons from the assigned conferences for election to the Synod Council.

TICKET 3: SYNOD COUNCIL, LOWER BUCKS CONFERENCE REPRESENTATIVE, LAY WOMAN (One lay woman to be elected for a term ending 2020)

NAME CONGREGATION Elizabeth Young Resurrection, Yardley

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor. Those not elected on this ticket shall be added to the nominees on Ticket 9.

TICKET 4: SYNOD COUNCIL, CHESTER CONFERENCE REPRESENTATIVE, LAY WOMAN (One lay woman to be elected for a term ending 2020)

NAME CONGREGATION Sandra Zimmermann St. John’s, Phoenixville

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor. Those not elected on this ticket shall be added to the nominees on Ticket 9.

TICKET 5: SYNOD COUNCIL, LOWER MONTGOMERY CONFERENCE REPRESENTATIVE, LAY MAN (One lay man to be elected for a term ending 2020)

NAME CONGREGATION Bert Glenn St. John, Melrose Park Henry Geyer, Jr. Living Word, Roslyn

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor. Those not elected on this ticket shall be added to the nominees on Ticket 8.

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TICKET 6: SYNOD COUNCIL, YOUTH, LAY MAN Voting member of a congregation who has not reached the age of 18 at the time of election. (One lay man to be elected for a term ending 2019

NAME CONGREGATION

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor.

TICKET 7: SYNOD COUNCIL, YOUTH, LAY WOMAN Voting member of a congregation who has not reached the age of 18 at the time of election. (One lay woman to be elected for a term ending 2019)

NAME CONGREGATION Raine Bedeaux Trinity, Perkasie

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor.

TICKET 8: SYNOD COUNCIL, AT LARGE REPRESENTATIVE, LAY MAN (One lay man to be elected for a term ending 2020)

Nominees on this ticket also include those not elected on Ticket 5.

NAME CONGREGATION Donald Gleiter Redeemer, Jamison

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor.

TICKET 9: SYNOD COUNCIL, AT LARGE REPRESENTATIVE, LAY WOMAN (One lay woman to be elected for a term ending 2020)

Nominees on this ticket also include those not elected on Tickets 3 and 4.

NAME CONGREGATION

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor.

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TICKETS 10-12: To elect Representatives to the Committee on Discipline, which functions in accordance with Chapter 20 of the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America .

TICKET 10: COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINE, CLERGY (Two ordained ministers to be elected for a term ending 2022)

NAME CONGREGATION Moses Dennis Faith Emmanuel, East Lansdowne

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor.

TICKET 11: COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINE, LAY WOMAN (One lay woman to be elected for a term ending 2022)

NAME CONGREGATION Charlene Jenkins Reformation, Philadelphia

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor.

TICKET 12: COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINE, LAY MAN (One lay man to be elected for a term ending 2022)

NAME CONGREGATION Tom Salber Prince of Peace, Philadelphia

The Synod Assembly may make nominations from the floor.

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BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

BEASLEY, TRACEY A. (F-P): Corporate Tax Supervisor, Asplundh Tree Expert Company. Reformation Lutheran Church, Philadelphia. MBA from West Chester University. BS from Gwynned-Mercy University. Vice President SEPA Synod; Treasurer, African Descent Lutheran Association: ELCA and Philadelphia Chapter; Treasurer, Lutheran Settlement House; Member of the African Descent Strategy Team, ELCA, Financial Associate for Reformation Lutheran Church, Philadelphia; Minister of Music and Choir Director; SEPA Synod Candidacy Committee; President of Congregation Council; Treasurer Congregational Council; Chair of Congregation Sunday School and Stewardship; SEPA Synod Tanzania Companionship Team and SEPA Synod Lay Leadership Training Committee; Tutor for Liberty Lutheran Services; Consultant to churches on how to handle finances and financial software.

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts: Proclaiming the Gospel and prayerful over all things; Experienced Facilitator; Collaborator with other ministry leaders; Managing conflict and able to bring people together for the common good; Exceptional at team building and managing people and committees.

I have used these gifts as Vice President of the Synod now for 4 years by prayerfully chairing over our Synod Council Meetings and our Executive Committee Board Meetings. I am an experienced facilitator for the meetings. I collaborate with the lay persons and Pastors within the committees that serve on Synod Council. Even as a Tax Supervisor in my daily work and over a staff of 12 people I am managing conflict and able to bring people together for the common good and always Proclaiming the Gospel.

BEDEAUX, RAINE A. (F-W): Student. Pennridge High School. Trinity Lutheran Church, Perkasie. Youth representative on Congregational Council; Member of the Youth Core Leadership Team and member of the former LYO Board of SEPA; Member of Pennridge’s NHS and Key Club.

Spiritual Gifts and/or Personal Gifts : Leadership - I am extremely capable of taking charge of a situation if it is needed. Solid Communication Skills – I’m easy to talk to and usually can get along with anyone. Good Listener – I am a great listener and I always try to understand both vie wpoints even if I don’t agree with one of them. Positive – I have a contagious positive attitude and outlook on situations. Welcoming – I am welcoming and can make anyone feel comfortable.

I use all my gifts in everything that I do whether it ’s church stuff, personal stuff or school. I use my gifts to make others feel included and comfortable with talking to other people who might be strangers. In Youth Core Leadership Training I have developed my leadership skills immensely and can now apply them pretty much everywhere.

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DENNIS, MOSES S. (M-P): Pastor, Faith-Immanuel Lutheran Church. BA from Ghana University. M. Div. from The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. D. Min. from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. SEPA Synod Delegate to 2016 Churchwide Assembly, New Orleans, LA; SEPA Synod Candidacy Committee Member. 2014- present; SEPA Synod Bishop’s Conv ocation Planning Team Member, 2014- present; ELCA 2012 Churchwide Gathering Domestic Mission Moments Presenter; Convener, Liberian Ministerial Alliance in North America (LIMANA), 2016-present; Board Member, Urban Seeds, 2015-present; President, Association of Liberian Lutherans in the America (ALLIA), 2012 – present; President, Liberian Ministers Association of the Delaware, Valley, 2012-present; Member, African Descent Lutheran Association (ADLA), 2006 – present.

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts: Experience from serving as an evangelist in Liberia and Ghana and as a Mission Developer/Pastor, Faith-Immanuel Lutheran Church. Serving on SEPA Candidacy Committee and Bishop’s Convocation Team will enriched my leadership. Passion for outreach and discerning solution to conflicts also part of my spiritual gifts.

Being available to the committee and attending meetings.

GEYER, HENRY (M-W): Retired. Living Word Lutheran Church, Roslyn. Sunday School Teacher and Superintendent; Vacation Bible School Teacher; Education Committee Chair; Mutual Ministry Committee member; Community Outreach Committee Chair; Lector; Communion Assistant; Lay Reader; Worship Assistant; Usher; Currently the congregation’s liaison to the Abington Community Taskforce and the Roslyn Valley Business Association. Active in the Abington Township Community for 46 years; Past President of Friends of Briar Bush Nature Center; Boy Scout Troop Leader and Cub Pack Leader; Youth Fishing Skills Instructor with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission; Pennsylvania Senior Environment Corps Chapter Co —Leader; Aid for Friends Coordinator; Boy Scouts’ Washington District Nominating Com mittee Member; Boy Scouts’ Cradle of Liberty Council Voting Member’ Boy Scouts’ Washington District Friends of Scouting Solicitor.

I believe that my organizational and personnel management skills, attention to details, personal commitment, common sense and open-mindedness have collectively been the basis of my success in life. (Throw a little humor in there too.)

I believe God has always been there for me in all of my trials. I would like to do what I can to help others grow in their faith and help the church expand both in my community and worldwide.

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GLENN, BERT (M-W): Assistant US Attorney. St. John Lutheran Church, Melrose Park. B.S. from University of California, Berkeley. M.S. from University of California, Berkley. J.D. from UCLA School of Law. Congregation Mutual Ministry Committee; Congregation Finance Committee; Call Committee (2015); President of the Congregation: 2006-2008, 2012-2013 Moderator, Synod Discussion of Draft Statement on Criminal Justice: October 2012 Chair, Congregation Intern Committee: 2004-2007; High School Mock Trial coach, Mt. St. Joseph Academy, Flourtown: 2009-present; Participant, ACE (legal community outreach to Philadelphia high schools): 2011 – present; Bicycle Advisory Committees in Washington DC (1986-89) and San Francisco (1991-98).

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts: I walk the same spiritual path as do all in the greater community of faith and would apply the learnings of my own journey, as well as my experience as a Congregation President, to questions of synod mission and administration as we seek to witness, worship and serve together. As to spiritual gifts, others have commented that I have gifts in listening and discerning. As to personal gifts, I offer the logical thinking and organizational abilities one might expect of one with formal engineering and legal training.

The life of faith is challenging, elusive, and ever-changing. I try to discern a faith-based outlook and to translate the teachings of our faith into application in my daily decisions living in the world.

GLEITER, DONALD P. (M-W): Retired, Senior Staff Engineer. Redeemer Lutheran Church, Jamison. Sc.B. from Brown University. M.Div. from The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. I am a current member of synod council and a current member of church council in my home congregation, where I also teach a weekly Bible study. In the past I have served my home congregation as stewardship chairman, vice president of church council, and Sunday school teacher. I have also served various congregations as a home communion minister, visitation pastor, vicar, supply preacher, bridge pastor, and stated supply pastor.

Having served on Church Council in my home congregation for many years, I have a good understanding of not only the trials and tribulations, but also the joys that may be found in congregational ministry. From my work as a home communion minister and from having presided at many funerals, I have been able to participate in sharing the gifts that the church can offer to those who are in need of spiritual support. As a bridge pastor and supply preacher, I have been blessed with the opportunity to share the Good News with many congregations in the synod, and I have come to know these congregations in a way that gives me some insight into the issues that concern them and what support the synod might offer.

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HAND, LISA (F-W): Assistant School Director/Principal/Dean of Students, Martin Luther School. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, King of Prussia. B.S. from Lock Haven University. M.Ed. from Temple University. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Council; Stewardship Committee; Worship Assistant; Montgomery County CYS Citizens Advisory Committee.

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts: Love of God and Jesus Christ, my commitment to be a servant of God and Jesus Christ through my continued work in the church and my profession. My skills and talents acquired in my profession that serve to enlighten, engage, lead and teach and communicate God’s word sacrament. My passion and involvement in my church as a worship assistant, church council member, and stewardship committee member helping to keep the people of Good Shepherd connected and centered in Jesus Christ and the love God. Leadership Skills: Honest, trustworthy, knowledgeable, prepared, compassionate, empathetic, positive, creative and a sense of humor.

Everything I learned and believe comes from God’s message of love and hope for all people, It is from my experience in life, the church, the scriptures and my above gifts that I use these in my everyday work, as a worship assistant, church council member, chair of the Stewardship Committee, Chancel Choir, Chancel Ringers and in the Summer of 2018 will be going with a group of people from Rwanda to visit the Nibakure Community Village. We will visit former children of this village, attend a Lutheran Service in Kigali and learn about the genocide that happened in this country and to the children and people we visit. In addition, this helps me share in the work of the Lord that is happening there and bring this back and share with the people of my church.

JENKINS, CHARLENE (F-P): Retired, Director. Reformation Lutheran Church, Philadelphia. B.S. from Delaware State University. Congregational Council President, Council Member.

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts: Musician; Children’s Ministry (VBS)

I was the organist/choir director for 25 years. I also lead STRETCH ACADEMY (after school program for at risk youth children). I also coordinate and run VBS for children in K-6 grades .

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POSSELT, LYDIA (F-W): Pastor, Family of God Lutheran Church, Buckingham. B.A. from Wartburg College. M. Div. from Luther Seminary. 2017 – 1 of 10 international preaching contest finalist for Lutheran World Federation May 2017 General Assembly; 2016 – Chaplain of “Friends and Family Weekend” at Cross Roads Camp, NJ; 2015 – Leader/Coordinator for Mercer, NJ Cluster congregations for ELCA National Youth Assembly in Detroit; 2014 – Chaplain /Leader of annual NJ Synod HS retreat weekend; 2013 – Chaplain/Leader for NJ Synod HS summer service trip for Sandy clean up; 2012 – 2016 started annual Congregational Young Adult Get Together, Holden Evening Prayer, and “Advent Selfie Hunt” Mercer cluster youth event. Ecumenism: Windsor Hightown Area Ministerium (WHAM) Secretary from 2013-2016; Facilitator for WHAM “I Stand with my Neighbor” community Town Hall August 2016; A member of the Young Clergy Women Project Creativity; Summer devotional for congregational use for 2015 and 2016; Contributor for Sundays and Seasons (Prayer of Int., Advent 2017), Bread for the Day, Devo’Zine, Christ In Our Home Devotionals, and the Word in Season.

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts : In no particular order 1. Creativity and Innovation, 2. Empathy/Connection, 3. “Big Picture”/”On the balcony” thinking, 4. Identify and developing gifts in others, 5. Teaching and learning

I love reading about and researching new and creative ideas of what other churches are doing to be both faithful and innovative in our current context. I adapt ideas to my own context and see if something comes of these “Holy Experiments.” I have done experiments with devotionals, sermons, youth retreats, classes, and worship.

SALBER, TOM (M-W): 2A Nurse, Education Specialist. Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Philadelphia. A.A. Philadelphia Community College. Congregational: President, Vice President, Finance, Music and Worship; Synod: Council, Candidacy, Discipline, Social Ministry; ELCA: Discipline, Lutheran AIDS Network; Association of Nurses in AIDS Care: President, Secretary.

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts : Good listener, thinks outside the box, open-minded, welcoming the stranger, inclusive.

Yes. Role as president to listen, lead, encourage and support. Candidacy being able to discern and work with others on their call and journey in ministry.

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STOBIE, SARAH (F-W): Pastor, St. John Lutheran Church, Blue Bell. B.A. from Western Michigan University. M.Div. from Western Theological Seminary. In Michigan, I served on the Consultation Committee as an elected member with the synod. I also served on the Education Committee at the synod level. I was a voting member as a lay person for many years before ordination. My interests have always centered on education and children/youth. I was very involved with both in Michigan, and continue to bring those skills here in PA. I am a strong supporter of camp ministries as well as creating and engaging our members in classes, discussions, and workshops that challenge and enhance our faith journeys. My many areas of service reflect these interests.

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts : My top 5 spiritual gifts are administration, mercy, teaching, writing and faith. All of these gifts provide me the foundation as serving as a called pastor. I am grateful to God for being equipped for ministry, and use my gifts to meet the needs of my parish and community.

Being a pastor is no longer a preaching and visiting vocation. I find my administration, writing and teaching skills used in many ways daily – from keeping up with the latest social media expression, to writing an employee handbook. Pastors now are called to fill many roles. In my current position, I am excited that all of my skills are needed. I have appreciated my first 18 months here in SEPA and am grateful that I can use my gifts here.

YOUNG, ELIZABETH M. (F-W): IT Program Manager, Johnson & Johnson. Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Yardley. B.S. /B.A. from Boston University. M.B.A. from Boston College. President Council.

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts : Leadership in Change Management, Stewardship/ People Organizational talents, Finance.

Multi-Million Dollar program delivery, Christian Education and Youth Ministry, Treasury.

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ZIMMERMANN, SANDRA A. (F-W): Retired. St. John Lutheran Church, Phoenixville. I taught the children's Sunday School class for 35 years, and taught an adult class for 4 years. Additional roles I have at St. John's in Phoenixville are: Coordinator of the Kitchen, Chair of the Fellowship Committee, Altar Guild, Property Committee, and Church Council, Weekly Knitting Circle I have lead Bible study at St. John's, Served as a member of the SEPA Faith Formation Team. Community activities: Executive Committee for Relay for Life, planning committee for the Holiday House Tour in Phoenixville. Co-chair for the Breast Cancer Coalition, serve on the Healthy Women Committee for the Phoenixville Hospital, Currently, I serve as President of the Board for the Phoenixville Area Children's Learning Centers. In this role, I have worked with St. John's to host various dinners and events, which bring the faith community and local community together for fellowship.

Spiritual and/or Personal Gifts: Listening, Leadership, Compassion, Faith, Wisdom

I feel that the spirit is at work in my life, and in my service to the church and local community. I value the opportunity to expand this calling to serve as either the lay female representative from Chester Conference, or as the lay female at large, with terms ending 2020.

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Report of the Constitution Committee

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE TO REVIEW THE SYNOD CONSTITUTION Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly May 5-6, 2017

A committee was formed to review the Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod for the Synod Council in light of the changes adopted at the 2016 Churchwide Assembly and other issues that may have needed attention. Those who served on this committee are the Reverend Karl Richard, Secretary of the Synod, the Reverend Jane Marston, chairperson of the Synod Constitution Committee, and the Reverend Tyler Rasmussen, member of the Synod Executive Committee. This committee reported their findings and recommendations to the Synod Council, which presents them to the Synod Assembly for adoption.

AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD

Additions are underlined. Deletions are struck through in the text.

Section 1

†S18.11. AMENDMENTS

Under †S18.11., required provisions are to be introduced at once into the synod’s constitution upon this formal certification by the secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Required provisions become effective immediately upon their adoption by the Churchwide Assembly and this subsequent formal notification of their adoption. Therefore, no vote of the Synod Assembly is needed for such required provisions; neither is such a vote to be taken. Required provisions are those that are marked by a dagger (†) in this summary of amendments adopted by the 2016 Churchwide Assembly. Such required provisions may be amended only by the Churchwide Assembly. Required provisions adopted by the 2016 Churchwide Assembly are now in force; the text of the amendments of required provisions should be incorporated immediately into your synod’s constitution.

In coordination with the following amendments, the 2016 Churchwide Assembly authorized the secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to: • strike the words “ordained minister/s” and replace with the words “minister/s of Word and Sacrament”; • strike the word “clergy” and replace with the words “minister/s of Word and Sacrament”; • strike the words “pastor/s” and replace with the words “minister/s of Word and Sacrament” where appropriate;

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• strike the words “associate in ministry, diaconal minister and deaconess” and replace with the words “minister/s of Word and Service”; and • make editorial corrections that identify the rosters of this church and implement the creation of the ministers of Word and Service roster.

The text of the following amendments of required provisions has been incorporated in the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod’s constitution and is reported as information:

†S3.02. “Determined by the Churchwide Assembly,” as stipulated by †S3.01., is understood to include the reported changes in synod relationship made by any congregation in a border area agreed under ELCA bylaws 10.01.101. and 10.02.02.

†S5.02. This church confesses the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church and is resolved to serve Christian Unity throughout the world. †S5.03. The Church exists both as an inclusive fellowship and as local congregations gathered for worship and Christian service. Congregations find their fulfillment in the universal community of the Church, and the universal Church exists in and through congregations. This church, therefore, derives its character and powers both from the sanction and representation of its congregations and from its inherent nature as an expression of the broader fellowship of the faithful. In length, it acknowledges itself to be in the historic continuity of the communion of saints; in breadth, it expresses the fellowship of believers and congregations in our day. †S5.04. This church, inspired and led by the Holy Spirit, participates in the Lutheran World Federation as a global communion of churches, engaging in faithful witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ and in service for the sake of God’s mission in the world. †S6.03. Each synod, in partnership with the churchwide organization, shall bear primary responsibility for the oversight of the life and mission of this church in its territory. In fulfillment of this role and consistent with policies and procedures of this church, the synod shall: a. Provide for pastoral care of congregations and rostered leaders ministers in the synod; . . . †S6.03.01. In providing for pastoral care of congregations and rostered leaders ministers in the synod, the responsibilities of the synod include the following: a. providing for pastoral care of congregations, ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament, and ministers of Word and Service, associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers in the synod, including: 1) approving candidates for the ordained ministry of Word and Sacrament in cooperation with the appropriate seminaries of this church, which may be done through multi-synodical committees; 2) authorizing ordinations and ordaining ministers of Word and Sacrament on behalf of this church; 3) approving associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers of Word and Service, which may be done through multi-synodical committees;

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4) authorizing the commissioning of associates in ministry, the consecration of deaconesses, and the consecration of diaconal consecrations and consecrating ministers of Word and Service on behalf of this church; and 5) consulting in the calling process for ordained rostered ministers, associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers. . . . c. providing for discipline of congregations, ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament, and persons on the official lay rosters ministers of Word and Service; as well as for termination of call, appointment, adjudication, and appeals consistent with Chapter 20 of this church’s constitution. d. providing for archives in conjunction with other synods.

†S6.04. Except as otherwise provided in this constitution and bylaws, the Synod Council shall establish processes that will ensure that at least 60 percent of the members of the synod assemblies, councils, committees, boards, and other organizational units shall be laypersons; and that, as nearly as possible, 50 percent of the lay members of assemblies, councils, committees, boards, or other organizational units shall be female and 50 percent shall be male; and that, where possible, the representation of ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament shall be both male and female. This synod shall establish processes that will enable it to reach a minimum goal that 10 percent of its assemblies, councils, committees, boards, or other organizational units be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. †S6.04.A01. [continuing resolution becomes bylaw] †S6.04.01. It is the goal of this synod that 10 percent of the membership of synod assemblies, councils, committees, boards and/or other organizational units be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. †S6.04.B09. [continuing resolution becomes bylaw] †S6.04.02. It is the goal of this synod that at least 10 percent of the voting members of the Synod Assembly, Synod Council, committees, and organizational units of this synod be youth and young adults. The Synod Council shall establish a plan for implementing this goal. For purposes of the constitution, bylaws, and continuing resolutions of this synod, the term “youth” means a voting member of a congregation who has not reached the age of 18 at the time of election or appointment for service. The term “young adult” means a voting member of a congregation between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of election or appointment for service.

†S7.11. A regular meeting of the Synod Assembly shall be held at least biennially triennially. . . . †S7.21. The membership of the Synod Assembly, of which at least 60 percent of the voting membership shall be composed of laypersons, shall be constituted as follows: a. All ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament under call on the roster of this synod in attendance at the Synod Assembly shall be voting members. b. All associates in ministry, deaconesses of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal ministers of Word and Service, under call, on the official lay rosters of this synod shall have both voice and vote as lay be voting members in the B-3

Synod Assembly, in addition to the voting membership of lay members of congregations provided in item †S7.21.c. . . .

†S8.11. The bishop shall be elected by the Synod Assembly. The bishop shall be a pastor who is an ordained minister of Word and Sacrament of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. †S8.12. As this synod’s pastor, the bishop shall be an ordained minister of Word and Sacrament who shall: a. Preach, teach, and administer the sacraments in accord with the Confession of Faith of this church. b. Have primary responsibility for the ministry of Word and Sacrament in this synod and its congregations, providing pastoral care and leadership for this synod, its congregations, its ordained ministers, and its other rostered leaders ministers of Word and Sacrament, and its ministers of Word and Service. c. Exercise solely this church’s power to ordain (or provide for the ordination by another synodical bishop of) approved candidates who have received and accepted a properly issued, duly attested letter of call for the office of ordained ministry of Word and Sacrament (and as provided in the bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America). d. Commission (or provide for the commissioning of) approved candidates who have received and accepted a properly issued, duly attested letter of call for service as associates in ministry; consecrate (or provide for the consecration of) approved candidates who have received and accepted a properly issued, duly attested letter of call for service as deaconesses; and consecrate Consecrate (or provide for the consecration of) approved candidates who have received and accepted a properly issued, duly attested letter of call for service as diaconal ministers of this church ministers of Word and Service. e. Attest letters of call for persons called to serve congregations in the synod, letters of call for persons called by the Synod Council, and letters of call for persons on the rosters of this synod called by the Church Council. f. Install (or provide for the installation of): 1) the pastors of all congregations of this synod; 2) ordained ministers called to extra parish service within this synod; and 3) persons serving in the other rostered ministries within this synod rostered ministers whose calls the bishop has attested. . . . h. Practice leadership in strengthening the unity of the Church and in so doing: . . . 2) Be responsible for administering the constitutionally established processes for the resolution of controversies and for the discipline of ordained rostered ministers, other rostered leaders, and congregations of this synod; . . . i. Oversee and administer the work of this synod and in so doing: . . . B-4

8) Provide for preparation and maintenance of synodical rosters containing: a) the names and addresses of all ordained rostered ministers of this synod and a record of the calls under which they are serving or the date on which they become retired or disabled; and b) the names and addresses of all other rostered persons of this synod and a record of the positions to which they have been called or the date on which they become retired or disabled; 9) Annually bring to the attention of the Synod Council the names of all rostered persons ministers on leave from call or engaged in approved graduate study in conformity with the constitution, bylaws, and continuing resolutions of this church and pursuant to prior action of this synod through the Synod Council; 10) Provide for prompt reporting to the secretary of this church of: a) additions to and subtractions from the rosters of this synod and the register of congregations; b) the issuance of certificates of transfer for rostered persons ministers in good standing who have received and accepted a properly issued, duly attested, regular letter of call under the jurisdiction of another synod; and . . .

†S8.31. The secretary shall be elected by the Synod Assembly. The secretary shall be a voting member of a congregation of this synod. The secretary may be either a layperson or an ordained minister of Word and Sacrament.

†S8.57. The recall or dismissal of an officer may be effected in accordance with the procedure established by the Committee on Appeals of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the vacating of office may be effected for willful disregard or violation of the constitutions, bylaws, and continuing resolutions of this church; for such physical or mental disability as renders the officer incapable of performing the duties of office; or for such conduct as would subject the officer to disciplinary action as a rostered minister or as a member of a congregation of this church. a. Proceedings for the recall or dismissal of a synodical bishop shall be instituted by written petition by: 1) the Synod Council on an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of its elected members present and voting; 2) the Synod Assembly on an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of its members present and voting; 3) at least 10 synodical bishops; or 4) the presiding bishop of this church. b. Proceedings for the recall or dismissal of an officer of a synod, other than the synodical bishop, shall be instituted by written petition by:

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1) the Synod Council on an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of its elected members present and voting; 2) the Synod Assembly on an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of its members present and voting; or 3) the synodical bishop. c. The petition shall be filed with the chair of the Committee on Appeals (in care of the secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 8765 West Higgins Road, Chicago, Illinois 60631) and shall set forth the specific charge or charges. d. Upon the filing of a written petition, the Executive Committee of the Synod Council may temporarily suspend the officer from service in the synod without prejudice, but with continuation of compensation, including benefits, if the officer is a salaried employee of the synod. e. In the case of alleged physical or mental incapacity of an officer of the synod, the procedures outlined in †S8.56. shall be followed, and such officer shall comply with the decision of the Synod Council. If such officer fails or refuses to comply, the Synod Council may proceed to petition for recall or dismissal as follows: 1) the Synod Council will submit a written report of their findings and the basis of their decision to the Committee on Appeals. 2) the Committee on Appeals, other than those who are disqualified, shall review the findings and decision of the Synod Council and by an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of those present and voting may adopt the findings and grant the petition. f. If the synod officer is a minister of Word and Sacrament, grounds for recall or dismissal include those set forth in ELCA bylaw 20.21.01. and as defined under the process described in ELCA constitutional provisions 20.20. and 20.21. as grounds for discipline. If the officer is a minister of Word and Service, grounds for recall or dismissal include those set forth in ELCA bylaw 20.22.01. and as defined under the process described in ELCA constitutional provisions 20.20. and 20.21. as grounds for discipline. g. If the officer is a layperson, grounds for recall or dismissal include those set forth in ELCA bylaw 20.41.01. as grounds for discipline. h. If the case of alleged willful disregard or violation of the constitutions, bylaws, and continuing resolutions or of alleged conduct as would subject the officer to disciplinary action, the following procedures shall apply: 1) the petition shall be referred to the Committee on Appeals, which shall function as the discipline hearing committee that shall conduct a hearing in accordance with the rules provided for in ELCA bylaw 20.21.16. except to the extent that those rules are in conflict with the provisions of this bylaw; and 2) the members of the Committee on Appeals, other than those who are disqualified, may grant the petition by an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of those present and voting. i. Written notice of a decision by the Committee on Appeals that the charges have been sustained shall be given to the affected officer and to the Synod Council, and the office shall be vacated.

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†S8.58. If the bishop is to be temporarily absent from the synod for an extended period, the bishop, with the consent of the Synod Council, may appoint as acting bishop for such period an ordained minister of Word and Sacrament of this church. Except as limited by action of the Synod Council, an acting bishop shall possess all of the powers and authority of a regularly elected bishop other than authority to ordain or to authorize the ordination of properly approved candidates for ordination.

†S9.01. The Synod Assembly shall elect such officers of this synod and such other persons as the constitution and bylaws may require, according to procedures set forth in the bylaws. The Synod Assembly shall elect members of the Churchwide Assembly in accordance with bylaw 12.41.11. of the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

†S10.01. The Synod Council, consisting of the four officers of the synod, 10 to 24 other members, and at least one youth and at least one young adult, shall be elected by the Synod Assembly. a. Each person elected to the Synod Council shall be a voting member of a congregation of this synod, with the exception of ordained ministers on the a roster of this synod who reside outside the territory of this synod. The process for election and the term of office when not otherwise provided shall be specified in the bylaws. A member of the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, unless otherwise elected as a voting member of the Synod Council, may serve as an advisory member of the Synod Council with voice but not vote. . . . †S11.02. The Consultation Committee of this synod shall consist of at least six persons and not more than 12 persons, of whom half shall be ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament and half shall be laypersons, who shall each be elected by the Synod Assembly for a term of six years without consecutive re-election. The functions of the Consultation Committee are set forth in Chapter 20 of the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and in Chapter 17 of this constitution. The size of the Consultation Committee, in accord with this provision, shall be defined in this synod’s bylaws. †S11.03. The Committee on Discipline of this synod shall consist of 12 persons, of whom six shall be ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament and six shall be laypersons, who shall each be elected by the Synod Assembly for a term of six years without consecutive re-election. a. The functions of the Committee on Discipline of this synod are set forth in Chapter 20 of the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

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b. The terms of committee members shall be staggered so that the terms of four committee members (two clergy and two lay) expire every two years. c. The Synod Council shall fill vacancies on the Committee on Discipline for any unexpired term.

†S14.011. The time and place of the ordination of those persons properly called to congregations or extra parish non-congregational service of this synod shall be authorized by the bishop of this synod. †S14.012. Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, a. Every ordained minister of Word and Sacrament shall: . . . 4) provide pastoral care; 5) seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel; 6) impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry though distribution of its communications and publications; 7) witness to the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation and abroad; and 58) speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God’s love for the world. b. Each ordained minister pastor with a congregational call shall, within the congregation: 1) offer instruction, confirm, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead; 2) supervise relate to all schools and organizations of the congregation; 3) install regularly elected members of the Congregation Council; and 4) with the council, administer discipline. c. Every pastor shall: 1) strive to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation, and abroad; 2) seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel; 3) impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry through distribution of its periodicals and other publications; and 45) endeavor to increase the support given by the congregation to the work of the ELCA churchwide organization and of this ELCA synod. †S14.116. When a congregation of this church desires to call a pastor or a candidate for the pastoral office in the ordained ministry of Word and Sacrament of this church: . . . b. For issuance of a letter of call to a pastor or pastoral candidate by a congregation of this synod in accord with ELCA constitutional provision 7.41., a two-thirds majority ballot vote shall be required of voting members of the congregation present and voting at a meeting regularly called for the purpose of issuing such a call. . . . †S14.138. The provisions for termination of the mutual relationship between a minister of Word and Sacrament and a congregation shall be as follows: a. The call of a congregation, when accepted by a pastor, shall constitute a continuing mutual relationship and commitment which shall be terminated only by death or, following consultation with the synodical bishop, for the following reasons: . . . B-8

6) resignation or removal of the pastor from the roster of ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament of this church; . . . b. When allegations of physical disability or mental incapacity of the pastor under paragraph a.4) above, or ineffective conduct of the pastoral office under paragraph a.3) above, have come to the attention of the bishop of this synod, 1) the bishop in his or her sole discretion may investigate such conditions personally together with a committee of two ordained rostered ministers and one layperson, or 2) when such allegations have been brought to the synod’s attention by an official recital of allegations by the Congregation Council or by a petition signed by at least one-third of the voting members of the congregation, the bishop personally shall investigate such conditions together with a committee of two ordained rostered ministers and one layperson. c. In case of alleged physical disability or mental incapacity under paragraph a.4) above, the bishop’s committee shall obtain and document competent medical opinion concerning the pastor’s condition. When a disability or incapacity is evident to the committee, the bishop of this synod may declare the pastorate vacant and the pastor shall be listed on the clergy roster as disabled. When the pastorate is declared vacant, the Synod Council shall list the pastor on the roster of ministers of Word and Sacrament as disabled. Upon removal of the disability and restoration of the pastor to health, the bishop shall take steps to enable the pastor to resume the ministry, either in the congregation last served or in another appropriate call. . . . e. If either party fails to assent to the recommendations of the bishop’s committee concerning the pastor’s call, the congregation may dismiss the pastor only at a legally called meeting after consultation with the bishop, either (a) by a two-thirds majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the bishop and the committee did not recommend termination of the call, or (b) by a simple majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the bishop and the committee recommended termination of the call. . . . †S14.149. Ordained mMinisters of Word and Sacrament shall respect the integrity of the ministry of congregations which they do not serve and shall not exercise ministerial functions therein unless invited to do so by the pastor, or if there is no duly called pastor, then by the interim pastor in consultation with the Congregation Council. †S14.1521. The parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members transferred or dismissed, members who have become inactive, or members excluded from the congregation shall be kept accurately and permanently. They shall remain the property of each congregation. At the time of the closure of a congregation, such records shall be sent to the regional archives. The secretary of the congregation shall attest to the bishop of this synod that such records have been placed in his or her hands in good order by a departing pastor before: a. installation in another field of labor call, or B-9

b. the issuance of a certificate of dismissal or transfer approval of a request for change in roster status. †S14.1622. The pastor shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to a former congregation before: a. installation in another field of labor call, or b. the issuance of a certificate of dismissal or transfer approval of a request for change in roster status. †S14.1723. During service to a congregation, an interim pastor shall have the rights and duties in the congregation of a regularly called pastor. The interim pastor may delegate the same in part to an interim supply pastor with the consent of the bishop of this synod. The interim pastor and any ordained rostered minister who may assist shall refrain from exerting influence in the selection of a pastor. Upon completion of service, the interim pastor shall certify to the bishop of this synod that the parochial records, for the period for which the interim pastor was responsible, are in order. †S14.1824. With the approval of the synodical bishop expressed in writing, which sets forth a clear statement of the purpose to be served by such a departure from the normal rule of permanency of the call as expressed in †S14.1318., a congregation may call a pastor for a specific term. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose and conditions involved. Prior to the completion of a term, the bishop of this synod or a representative of the bishop shall meet with the pastor and representatives of the congregation for a review of the call. Such call may also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of †S14.1318.

†S14.31. The provisions in the churchwide documents and such provisions as may be developed by the appropriate churchwide unit governing associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers of this church shall apply in this synod. a. When a congregation of this synod desires to call an associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal minister or a candidate for these official rosters of laypersons of this church: 1) Such a congregation of this synod shall consult the synodical bishop before taking any steps leading to extending such a call. 2) Issuance of such a letter of call shall be in accord with criteria, policies, and procedures developed by the appropriate churchwide unit, reviewed by the Conference of Bishops, and adopted by the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. 3) When the congregation has voted to issue a call to an associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal minister, the letter of call shall be submitted to the bishop of this synod for the bishop’s signature. b. An associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal minister shall confer with the bishop of this synod before accepting a call within this synod. c. The call of a congregation, when accepted by an associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal minister, shall constitute a continuing mutual relationship and commitment which, except in the case of the death of the individual, shall be terminated only following consultation with the synodical bishop in accordance with policy developed by the appropriate churchwide unit, reviewed by the Conference of B-10

Bishops, and adopted by the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. d. Associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers on the roster of this synod who are serving under call shall attend meetings of the Synod Assembly. The time and place of the consecration of those persons properly called to congregations or non-congregational service of this synod shall be authorized by the bishop of this synod. †S14.32. Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, every Minister of Word and Service shall: a. Be rooted in the Word of God, for proclamation and service; b. Advocate a prophetic diakonia that commits itself to risk-taking and innovative service on the frontiers of the Church’s outreach, giving particular attention to the suffering places in God’s world; c. Speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God’s love for the world, witnessing to the realm of God in the community, the nation, and abroad; d. Equip the baptized for ministry in God’s world that affirms the gifts of all people; e. Encourage mutual relationships that invite participation and accompaniment of others in God’s mission; f. Practice stewardship that respects God’s gift of time, talents, and resources; g. Be grounded in a gathered community for ongoing diaconal formation; h. Share knowledge of the ELCA and its wider ministry of the gospel, and advocate for the work of all expressions of this church; and i. Identify and encourage qualified persons to prepare for ministry of the gospel. †S14.41. When a congregation of this church desires to call a minister of Word and Service or a candidate for the ministry of Word and Service of this church: a. Each congregation of this synod shall consult the bishop of this synod before taking any steps leading to the extending of a call to a prospective minister of Word and Service. b. For issuance of a letter of call to a minister of Word and Service or candidate by a congregation of this synod in accord with ELCA constitutional provision 7.71., a two- thirds vote shall be required of members of the congregation present and voting at a meeting regularly called for the purpose of issuing such a call. c. When the congregation has voted to issue a call to a prospective minister of Word and Service , the letter of call shall be submitted to the bishop of this synod for the bishop’s signature. †S14.43. a. The call of a congregation, when accepted by a minister of Word and Service, shall constitute a continuing mutual relationship and commitment which shall be terminated only by death or, following consultation with the synodical bishop, for the following reasons: 1) mutual agreement to terminate the call or the completion of a call for a specific term; 2) resignation of the minister of Word and Service, which shall become effective, unless otherwise agreed, no later than 30 days after the date on which it was submitted; B-11

3) inability to conduct the office effectively in that congregation in view of local conditions; 4) physical disability or mental incapacity of the minister of Word and Service; 5) suspension of the minister of Word and Service through discipline for more than three months; 6) resignation or removal of the minister of Word and Service from the roster of ministers of Word and Service of this church; 7) termination of the relationship between this church and the congregation; 8) dissolution of the congregation or the termination of a parish arrangement; or 9) suspension of the congregation through discipline for more than six months. b. When allegations of physical disability or mental incapacity of the minister of Word and Service under paragraph a.4) above, or ineffective conduct of the ministry of Word and Service under paragraph a.3) above, have come to the attention of the bishop of this synod, 1) the bishop in his or her sole discretion may investigate such conditions personally together with a committee of two rostered ministers and one layperson, or 2) when such allegations have been brought to the synod’s attention by an official recital of allegations by the Congregation Council or by a petition signed by at least one-third of the voting members of the congregation, the bishop personally shall investigate such conditions together with a committee of two rostered ministers and one layperson. c. In case of alleged physical disability or mental incapacity under paragraph a.4) above, the bishop’s committee shall obtain and document competent medical opinion concerning the minister of Word and Service’s condition. When a disability or incapacity is evident to the committee, the bishop of this synod may declare the position vacant and the minister of Word and Service shall be listed on the roster of ministers of Word and Service as disabled. Upon removal of the disability and restoration of the minister of Word and Service to health, the bishop shall take steps to enable the minister of Word and Service to resume the ministry, either in the congregation last served or in another appropriate call. d. In the case of alleged local difficulties that imperil the effective functioning of the congregation under paragraph a.3) above, the bishop’s committee shall endeavor to hear from all concerned persons, after which the bishop together with the committee shall present their recommendations first to the minister of Word and Service and then to the congregation. The recommendations of the bishop’s committee address whether the minister of Word and Service’s call should come to an end and, if so, may suggest appropriate severance arrangements. The committee may also propose other actions that should be undertaken by the congregation and by the minister of Word and Service, if appropriate. If the minister of Word and Service and congregation agree to carry out such recommendations, no further action need be taken by the synod. e. If either party fails to assent to the recommendations of the bishop’s committee concerning the minister of Word and Service’s call, the congregation may dismiss the minister of Word and Service only at a legally called meeting after consultation with the bishop, either (a) by a two-thirds vote of the voting members present and B-12

voting where the bishop and the committee did not recommend termination of the call, or (b) by a majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the bishop and the committee recommended termination of the call. f. If, in the course of proceedings described in paragraph c. or paragraph d. above, the bishop’s committee concludes that there may be grounds for disciplinary action, the committee shall make recommendations concerning disciplinary action in accordance with the provisions of this church’s constitution, bylaws, and continuing resolutions. †S14.44. Ministers of Word and Service shall respect the integrity of the ministry of congregations which they do not serve and shall not exercise ministerial functions therein unless invited to do so by the Congregation Council. †S14.45. The minister of Word and Service shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to a former congregation before: a. installation in another call, or b. approval of a request for change in roster status. †S14.46. With the approval of the synodical bishop expressed in writing, which sets forth a clear statement of the purpose to be served by such a departure from the normal rule of permanency of the call as expressed in †S14.43., a congregation may call a minister of Word and Service for a specific term. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose and conditions involved. Prior to the completion of a term, the bishop of this synod or a representative of the bishop shall meet with the minister of Word and Service and representatives of the congregation for a review of the call. Such call may also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of †S14.43.

†S15.11. Since the congregations, synods, and churchwide organization are interdependent units that share responsibly in God’s mission, all share in the responsibility to develop, implement, and strengthen the financial support program of the whole church. The gifts and offerings of the members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are given to support all parts of this church and thus partnership in this church should be evidenced in determining each part’s share of the gifts and offerings. Therefore: . . . b. This synod shall receive the proportionate share of the mission support from its congregations, and shall transmit that percentage or amount of each congregation’s mission support as determined by the Churchwide Assembly to the treasurer of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in consultation with the churchwide organization and approved by the Synod Assembly as part of its budget consideration. c. Should the Synod Assembly not approve the proportionate share of mission support determined in consultation with the churchwide organization, a new consultation with the churchwide organization shall take place. The Synod Council is authorized to amend the budget adopted by the Synod Assembly to reflect the results of this consultation. †S15.12. The annual budget of this synod shall reflect the entire range of its own activities and its commitment to partnership funding with other synods and the churchwide organization. Unless an exception is granted upon the request of this synod by the Church Council,

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each budget shall include the percentage of congregational mission support assigned to it by the Churchwide Assembly.

†S16.04. When written charges against an ordained minister or a layperson on an official roster a rostered minister of this church are made in disciplinary proceedings under Chapter 20 of the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America by the synodical bishop or when written charges against a congregation are made in disciplinary proceedings by the Synod Council or the synodical bishop, and the discipline hearing committee determines that no discipline shall be imposed, then if such determination is not reversed or set aside on appeal, indemnification shall be made by the synod to the accused for reasonable attorney’s fees and other reasonable expenses related to the defense of the charges. The determination of the reasonableness of such fees and expenses shall be decided by the Synod Council.

†S17.02. The synodical bishop and the Executive Committee of the Synod Council shall receive expressions of concern from ordained ministers, associates in ministry, or other persons on the official lay rosters rostered ministers of this church, congregations, and organizations within this synod; provide a forum in which the parties concerned can seek to work out matters causing distress or conflict; and make appropriate recommendations for their resolution. When the matter at issue cannot be resolved in this manner, the prescribed procedures for investigation, decision, appeal, and adjudication shall be followed. Allegations or charges that could lead to the discipline of an ordained minister or a person on the official lay rosters a rostered minister of this church shall not be addressed by the Executive Committee but shall be resolved through the disciplinary process set forth in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. †S18.12. Whenever the secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America officially informs this synod that the Churchwide Assembly has amended the Constitution for Synods, this constitution may be amended to reflect any such amendment by a simple majority vote at any subsequent meeting of the Synod Assembly without presentation at a prior Synod Assembly. An amendment that is identical to a provision of the Constitution for Synods shall be deemed to have been ratified upon its adoption by this synod. The Church Council, through the secretary of this church, shall be given prompt notification of its adoption.

Section 2

†S18.12. AMENDMENTS

Amendments that are not required (i.e., those not marked by a dagger) may be adopted by the Synod Assembly on a majority vote at one assembly under †S18.12. The Church Council, through the secretary of this church, shall be given prompt notification of adoption.

The following are in sections that are not marked with a †, but include language that is necessary to keep consistent with the newly required provisions of the Synod’s Constitution, Bylaws and B-14

Continuing Resolutions, and also include grammatical corrections which bring us in line with the Model Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions for Synods. Also included are sections S14.30., 33., 34., 42. and 47., which are new and delineate further the expectations and responsibilities for Ministers of Word and Service (deacons) as they are called minsters of this Church. To that end,

Therefore be it resolved that the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly adopt the following amendments, as well as grant permission to correct language regarding the new roster language in sections which may have been inadvertently omitted from the following: (A majority vote at one Synod Assembly is required)

S7.22. The This synod may establish processes that permit retired ordained rostered ministers, retired associates in ministry, retired deaconesses, and retired diaconal ministers on the roster of this synod to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly, consistent with †S7.21.c. above. The synod may establish processes that permit ordained ministers, associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers who are on leave from call, or those designated as disabled, or on leave from call, on the roster of the synod to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly, consistent with †S7.21.c. above. If the synod does not establish processes to permit the rostered leaders ministers specified above to serve as voting members, they shall have voice but not vote in the meetings of the Synod Assembly.

S7.24. Ordained ministers Ministers under call on the rosters of this synod shall remain as members of the Synod Assembly so long as they remain under call and so long as their names appear on the rosters of ordained ministers of this synod. Associates in ministry, deaconesses of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal ministers of this church serving under call on the roster of this synod shall remain as members of the Synod Assembly so long as they remain under call and so long as their names appear on the official lay roster of this synod. Lay members of the Synod Assembly representing congregations shall continue as such until replaced by the election of new members or until they have been disqualified by termination of membership. Normally, congregations will hold elections prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.

S7.27. This synod may establish processes through the Synod Council to grant an ordained minister of Word and Sacrament from a church body with which a relationship of full communion has been declared and established by the Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America the privilege of both voice and vote in the Synod Assembly during the period of that ordained minister’s service in a congregation of this church.

S8.55. Should the vice president, secretary, or treasurer die, resign, or be unable to serve, the bishop, with the approval of the Executive Committee of the Synod Council, shall arrange for the appropriate care of the responsibilities of the officer until an election of a new officer can be held or, in the case of temporary disability, until the officer is able to serve again. The term of the successor officer, elected by the next Synod Assembly, B-15

shall be four years. If the treasurer is appointed by the Synod Council, the Synod Council shall appoint a new treasurer to a four year term.

S10.03. The functions of the Synod Council shall be to: . . . d. Provide for an annual review of the roster of ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament and the roster of ministers of Word and Service and of other official rosters, receive and act upon appropriate recommendations regarding those persons whose status is subject to reconsideration and action under the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and make a report to the Synod Assembly of the Synod Council’s actions in this regard. e. Issue letters of call to ordained rostered ministers and letters of call to associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers as authorized by Chapter 7 of the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. . . .

S11.11. This synod shall in its bylaws or by continuing resolution establish a process to ensure that the members of its committees and other organizational units will be persons possessing the necessary knowledge and competence to be effective members of such units, and to meet the requirements of †S6.04. With the exception of ordained ministers on the rosters of this synod who reside outside the territory of this synod, each member of a committee of this synod, or any other organizational unit created by this synod, shall be a voting member of a congregation of this synod.

S13.11. When a pastor or when an associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal rostered minister resigns, the Congregation Council shall receive the letter of resignation, report it to the congregation, and at once notify the bishop of this synod. S13.12. A congregation under financial obligation to its former pastor or associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal rostered minister shall make satisfactory settlement of the obligation before calling a successor.

Chapter 14. ORDAINED MINISTERS AND LAY ROSTERED MINISTERS S14.10. Ministers of Word and Sacrament

S14.013. The pastor (a) shall keep accurate parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members dismissed, or members excluded from the congregation, (b) shall submit a summary of such statistics annually to this synod, and (c) shall become a member of the congregation upon receipt and acceptance of the letter of call. In a parish of multiple congregations, the pastor shall hold membership in one of the congregations. S14.014. Whenever members of a congregation move to such a distance that regular attendance at its services becomes impractical, it shall be the duty of the pastor to commend them, upon their consent, to the pastoral care of a Lutheran congregation nearer to their place of residence. B-16

S14.015. Each ordained minister of Word and Sacrament on the roster of this synod shall submit a report of his or her ministry to the bishop of the synod at least 90 days prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly. S14.127. No ordained minister of Word and Sacrament shall accept a call without first conferring with the bishop of this synod. An ordained minister of Word and Sacrament shall respond with an answer of acceptance or declination to a letter of call within 30 days of receipt of such call. In exceptional circumstances with the approval of the bishop of this synod and the chair of the Congregation Council of the congregation issuing the call, an additional 15 days may be granted to respond to a letter of call. S14.215. All ordained ministers of Word and Sacrament under a call shall attend meetings of the Synod Assembly, and the pastors of congregations shall also attend the meetings of the conference, cluster, coalition, or other area subdivision to which the congregation belongs. S14.30. Official Rosters of Laypersons Ministers of Word and Service S14.33. The minister of Word and Service shall become a member of the congregation upon receipt and acceptance of the letter of call. In a parish of multiple congregations, the minister of Word and Service shall hold membership in one of the congregations. S14.34. Each minister of Word and Service on the roster of this synod shall submit a report of his or her ministry to the bishop of the synod at least 90 days prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly. S14.42. No minister of Word and Service shall accept a call without first conferring with the bishop of this synod. A minister of Word and Service shall respond with an answer of acceptance or declination to a letter of call within 30 days of receipt of such call. In exceptional circumstances with the approval of the bishop of this synod and the chair of the Congregation Council of the congregation issuing the call, an additional 15 days may be granted to respond to a letter of call. S14.47. All ministers of Word and Service under a call shall attend meetings of the Synod Assembly, and the ministers of Word and Service of congregations shall also attend the meetings of the conference, cluster, coalition, or other area subdivision to which the congregation belongs.

Section 3

The following are changes to bring us in line with the Model Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions for Synods. They reflect actions from a previous Churchwide Assembly which were not incorporated into our Synod’s constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions.

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Therefore be it resolved that the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly adopt the following amendments to Sections S8., S10., S13., and S14.: (A majority vote at one Synod Assembly is required)

S8.42.f. – The language on bonding has been updated

S.8.42. The treasurer shall provide and be accountable for S8.42.f. Obtaining a fidelity bond in the amount determined by the Synod Council for persons handling synod funds, which bond shall be in the custody of the secretary. The premium for the bond shall be paid by this synod. Giving of corporate surety in the amount determined by the Synod Council, which shall be in the custody of the secretary, and the premium therefore shall be paid by this synod. Fidelity coverage provided by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be deemed a fulfillment of this requirement.

S10.02. – Adds language covering actions of the Synod Assembly

†S10.02. The Synod Council shall be the board of directors of this synod and shall serve as its interim legislative authority between meetings of the Synod Assembly. It may make decisions that are not in conflict with actions taken by the Synod Assembly or that are not precluded by provisions of this constitution or the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

S13.40. – Need to add as these are not in our constitution, yet we have Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities

S14.29. is no longer needed as the new S14.30. supersedes it.

S14.29. The provisions in the churchwide documents and such provisions as may be developed by the appropriate churchwide unit governing associates in ministry shall apply in this synod.

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Section 4

The following changes to the Bylaws were approved by the Synod Council for presentation to the Assembly for adoption. The intent is to re-align segments of the Synod Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions that are related to Synod Council.

Issues addressed:

1. Address the 2015 change in number of Conferences as it pertains to the Synod Council positions. 2. Move all items pertaining to composition and term limits of the Synod Council to S10.01. a. Change S6.04.D10 from a continuing resolution to a bylaw, in accordance with S10.01.a, which specifies that the process for election and term of office for all members of the Synod Council “shall be specified in the bylaws.” 3. Move all items pertaining to the process for nominations and elections to the Synod Council to S9.08. 4. When referring to a Synod Council member, always use the word “member” (consistent with language throughout Chapter 10). When referring to the position on Synod Council someone might fill, always use the word “position” (consistent with S10.06). Remove all language pertaining to “seats.”

Therefore be it resolved that the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly adopt the following amendments to Sections S6. S9. And S10.: (A two-thirds majority vote at one Synod Assembly is required)

(suggested additions are underlined, suggested deletions are struck through, (notes are in red)):

English, (moved to S10.01.01.c) nine of the 24 elected members shall be ordained ministers and 15 shall be lay persons. (moved to S10.01.01.a) Terms for members other than the youth member shall be for three years (moved to S10.01.02) and shall be arranged so that the terms of three ordained ministers, three conferences and two at-large lay members expire each year. (moved to S10.01.01.b) None of the 24 elected members shall be eligible to serve for more than two terms consecutively. (moved to S10.01.01.b) Terms of office for the youth members shall be two years, (moved to S10.01.02) and for the young adult members, three years, subject to a two-term limitation. (moved to in S10.01.02) b. Representatives of congregations in Each conference whose lay position is up for election shall meet prior to the Synod Assembly and shall nominate at least one layperson from their conference for the Synod Council position, one nominee per conference to be elected by the assembly at the annual meeting. Every conference may nominate laypeople for the at-large lay positions. (new) Normally, these nominations will take place at a full assembly of the conference. (new, language borrowed from S7.24 and S12.01.05) These lay seats assigned to conferences shall alternate every six years (or two terms) between male and female Council members. (moved to S10.01.01.b) The Nominating Committee shall receive these nominations from the conferences to include in its report. Voting members at the annual meeting of the assembly may nominate from the floor persons from the assigned conferences for election to the Synod Council. Additional nominations may be made from the floor. (new, language borrowed from S9.05 thru S9.07) c. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for each minister of Word and Sacrament and lay at-large position up for election. (new, removes implied need to nominate people for positions not up for election) Geographic consideration shall be given in proposing nominees, as well as the need to assure an adequate number of persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. Balloting for the conference lay positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. Nominees not elected to represent conferences shall be added to the at large ballots. Balloting for at-large lay members shall be by male and female panels; (moved to S9.08.01.e) each year a male and female at-large lay representative shall be elected. (moved to S10.01.01.b) Additional nominations may be made from the floor. (new, language borrowed from S9.05 thru S9.07) d. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for each youth and young adult position up for election. (new, repeats pattern from previous provision) Additional nominations may be made from the floor. (new, language borrowed from S9.05 thru S9.07) e. Balloting for the The election of conference lay positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. Nominees not elected to represent conferences lay positions shall be added to the at-large ballots. The election of young adult positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. (new, repeats pattern from previous sentences) Nominees not elected to the young adult positions shall be added to the at-large ballots. (moved here from S6.04.D10, language changed to match previous sentences) Balloting for at-large lay positions shall be by male and female panels. (moved here from S9.08.01.c). B-20 d f. No nomination for Synod Council shall be made if that nominee’s congregation already has a member on the Synod Council or if a member of a congregation has already been nominated, provided, however, that no nominee shall be ineligible if the Synod Council member from that congregation is an officer of this Synod and/or one of them is a Synod Council youth or young adult member. The Synod Council may make exceptions to this requirement in order to promote greater diversity and/or inclusivity. (moved to S10.01.01.d) If a nominee is ineligible or becomes ineligible for a position on the Synod Council, as defined in †S10.01 and related bylaws, that nominee shall be removed from the ballot.

S10.01.01. General Membership (new, best term we could find to describe the “other members”, as listed in †S10.01) a. With the exception of the officers, the youth members, and the young adult members, the general membership of the Synod Council shall consist of 32 members: four officers (as set forth in 8.01. of the Synod Constitution), two youth (a youth is defined as a voting member of a congregation who has not reached the age of 18 at the time of election or appointment to service), two young adults (voting members of a congregation between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of election or appointment for service), (already defined in †S10.01) and 24 other members (nine ministers of Word and Sacrament, and 15 lay members). one layperson from each conference of this synod, and six at-large laypersons, three male and three female. (more clearly spells out the conference and at-large positions than was previously stated) The Synod Council shall consist of no more than one member of the same congregation at the same time, provided, however, that two or three members of the same congregation may serve on the Synod Council concurrently if one of them is either an officer of this synod and/or one of them is a Synod Council youth or young adult member. (moved to S10.01.01.d) b. The terms for the general membership other than the youth member shall be for three years and of the Synod Council shall be arranged staggered (language borrowed from †S11.05) so that the terms of three ministers of Word and Sacrament, three conferences approximately one-third of conference lay positions, and two at-large lay members positions, one male and one female, (moved here from S9.08.01.c) expire each year. None of the 24 general membership of the Synod Council shall be eligible to serve for more than two terms consecutively consecutive terms. (moved here from S9.08.01.a) These lay seats The lay position assigned to each conferences shall alternate every six years or two terms between male and female Council members. (moved here from S9.08.01.b) c. At least three members of the general membership so elected of the Synod Council will shall be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. (moved here from S9.08.01.a)

B-21 d. The general membership of the Synod Council shall consist of no more than one member of the same congregation at the same time, provided, however, that two or three members of the same congregation may serve on the Synod Council concurrently if one of them is either an officer of this synod and/or one of them is a Synod Council youth or young adult member. (moved here from S9.08.01.d; simplified based on the whole section only referring to the general membership) The Synod Council may make exceptions to this requirement in order to promote greater diversity and/or inclusivity Exceptions may be made to this requirement only if necessary to meet the requirements of S10.01.01.c. (moved here from S9.08.01.d)

S10.01.02. The Synod Assembly Council shall elect include two Synod Council youth representatives members, one male and one female, and two Synod Council young adult representatives members, one male and one female. At least one of the youth or young adult representative members shall be a person of color and/or person whose primary language is other than English. The terms of the two youth representatives members shall be two years and shall expire at the same time. The youth representatives members may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. The terms of the young adult representatives members shall be three years and shall expire at the same time. (new, describes current practice) The young adult representatives members may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. (moved here from S6.04.D10) Those nominated for the young adult representative positions and not elected shall be added to the nominees for the Synod Council “at large” positions. (moved to S9.08.01.e)

Final Result

S9.08.01. Synod Council a. The nominating and election process for the members of the Synod Council shall proceed in a manner that will ensure the composition of the Synod Council meets the requirements set forth in Chapter 10 of this constitution. b. Each conference whose lay position is up for election shall nominate at least one layperson from their conference for the position. Every conference may nominate laypeople for the at-large lay positions. Normally, these nominations will take place at a full assembly of the conference. The Nominating Committee shall receive these nominations from the conferences to include in its report. Additional nominations may be made from the floor. c. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for each minister of Word and Sacrament and lay at-large position up for election. Geographic consideration shall be given in proposing nominees, as well as the need to assure an adequate number of persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. Additional nominations may be made from the floor. d. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least one person for each youth and young adult position up for election. Additional nominations may be made from the floor.

B-22 e. The election of conference lay positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. Nominees not elected to conference lay positions shall be added to the at-large ballots. The election of young adult positions shall be completed before balloting for at-large positions begins. Nominees not elected to the young adult positions shall be added to the at-large ballots. Balloting for at-large lay positions shall be by male and female panels. f. If a nominee is ineligible or becomes ineligible for a position on the Synod Council, as defined in †S10.01 and related bylaws, that nominee shall be removed from the ballot.

S10.01.01. General Membership a. With the exception of the officers, the youth members, and the young adult members, the general membership of the Synod Council shall consist of nine ministers of Word and Sacrament, one layperson from each conference of this synod, and six at-large laypersons, three male and three female. b. The terms for the general membership of the Synod Council shall be staggered so that the terms of three ministers of Word and Sacrament, approximately one-third of conference lay positions, and two at-large lay positions, one male and one female, expire each year. None of the general membership of the Synod Council shall be eligible to serve for more than two consecutive terms. The lay position assigned to each conference shall alternate every two terms between male and female. c. At least three members of the general membership of the Synod Council shall be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English. d. The general membership of the Synod Council shall consist of no more than one member of the same congregation at the same time. Exceptions may be made to this requirement only if necessary to meet the requirements of S10.01.01.c.

S10.01.02. The Synod Council shall include two youth members, one male and one female, and two young adult members, one male and one female. At least one of the youth or young adult members shall be a person of color and/or person whose primary language is other than English. The terms of the youth members shall be two years and shall expire at the same time. The youth members may serve two consecutive terms if eligible. The terms of the young adult members shall be three years and shall expire at the same time. The young adult members may serve two consecutive terms if eligible.

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Reports of Committees and Task

Reformation at 500 Committee

2017 has arrived, and on October 31, many will remember that a University Professor, Martin Luther, posted his 95 Theses seeking debate and discussion about the Church practice of selling indulgences. The debate did not 'stay on campus' and the world and the Church would never be the same.

The Reformation at 500 Committee began meeting in 2012, long before most were thinking about October 2017. We met and shared ideas for ways that members of our Synod could think historically of how the Reformation became a movement that challenged many practices of the medieval church and consider the continuing impact of reformation on the Church.

Our planning and meeting together did not lead to major events within our Synod, but raised consciousness about the coming 500th anniversary and encouraged pastors, congregations, clusters and conferences to plan events and learning opportunities around Reformation themes and Martin Luther and other reformers. We did encourage our members to plan for trips to "Luther Land" - where participants were given a chance to explore both history and the contemporary religious landscape in Germany. Synod sponsored trips took place in 2103, 2014, 2015, 2016 and a trip led by Pastor Phil Krey is taking place this year.

From the beginning, we have encouraged networking and sharing ideas. We have a web page on the Synod website (http://ministrylink.org/resources/reformation-500/) and a Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/518118854920866/) that allow for sharing. We continue to hear from colleagues in the Synod that events are being planned by congregations, clusters and conferences. We understand that pastors have and are making presentations on many reformation related topics. We encourage conversation among leaders and congregations to share ideas and invite others to planned events. One larger event scheduled for our Synod is an event sponsored by the Lower Montgomery Conference. It will be an educational presentation and worship service to commemorate the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation. It will take place on Saturday, Oct. 21, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lansdale .

For a broader picture of what is happening in this 500th Anniversary year, there is an ELCA website (https://www.elca500.org/about/) and Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/ELCAReformation500Planners/), a LWF website (https://www.lutheranworld.org/reformation-2017) and there are several German websites with English pages (https://www.luther2017.de/en/) and (https://r2017.org/en/).

We hope you take time with others to consider how the Church has changed and will continue to change as it responds to calls, old and new, to be a reforming

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Candidacy Committee Report to the 2017 SEPA Synod Assembly

It is a time of change and challenge for those who are moving toward rostered leadership in the life of the ELCA. Congregational life is changing and God requires that the leaders of the Christian community change as well. Our committee, working together with our seminaries, congregations, and candidates seeks to nurture each individual to prepare them for the mission of God’s church today.

Those called to be rostered leaders of our church begin their journey in local congregations where fellow members and the called leaders of the congregation nurture them. These future leaders then formally enter the Candidacy Process through the Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) Synod. Guided by seminary faculty and staff, as well as, the Candidacy Committee and with the input of Field Education Supervisors, Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisors and internship congregations, a candidate comes to serve as a Minister of Word and Service (Deacon) or a Minister of Word and Sacrament (Ordained Pastor).

The Candidacy Committee serves at the pleasure of Bishop Claire Schenot Burkat. Our Bishop appoints the members of the committee, so we represent her and our synod in the candidacy process. It is the intention of the ELCA that candidacy has a uniformity of the practice across all synods. To that end, the three major steps of candidacy – Entrance, Endorsement and Approval are prescribed by the wider church. The committee also manages the process of Reinstatements to the ELCA Roster as well as the process that reviews and approves pastors ordained by other Lutheran or Christian traditions that desire to be rostered in the ELCA.

The committee and the candidates are experiencing a season of many significant changes in the candidacy formation process that helps prepare church leaders for the changing needs of the God’s church and community. Listed below are some of those changes. • The ELCA has been updating, revising and refining the Churchwide Candidacy process to be more adaptive and competency based. • Seminaries are offering o new and expanded curriculum o new Masters Degrees programs such as the M.Div. Co-Op program o new education delivery methods such as distance learning and online learning • This summer the Lutheran Theological Seminaries at Philadelphia and Gettysburg will consolidate to form the United Lutheran Seminary (ULS) opening July1, 2017.

In 2016 the seminaries in Philadelphia and Gettysburg adopted a new class fee structure that among other things provides for free tuition to fulltime ELCA students taking classes in residence. The plan is to continue that ULS will continue that practice. This reduction in the burden of debt in the form or student loans has resulted in large increase of new candidacy applicants being raised up by our congregations in the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod (SEPA). We are on goal to interview and entrance 12-15 new students in time to start seminary the 2017 Fall Semester.

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To meet the needs of the sudden influx of candidates and to help understand and live into the changes in the ELCA processes for Deacons and Ordained Ministers, and the ongoing changes of the seminary programs, The committee, under the leadership of our new Director of Candidacy , Deacon Allison Wilcox and the Candidacy Committee Chair Mr. Fed Renigar, are reviewing to refine and re-define our practices to allow the Committee to become more flexible and adaptable. The changes include adding additional committee members, instituting term limits refining our interview practices and strengthening training of the committee members to enable them to become more effective and well versed in the array of educational and formation opportunities offered to our seminarians.

This year we said goodbye to our former Director the Nancy B. Brown, our Region 7 Coordinator, Rev. Peggy Wuertele and committee members Ms. Jacquie Cannon and Rev. Matthew Ollikainen. We thank them for sharing their wisdom, leadership and undying faith with this crucial ministry,

At the present time, there are 12 rostered leaders on the committee: this includes: Deacon Allison Wilcox, Director , Rev. Dr. Bob Robinson, LTSP representative, Rev. Dr. Gregory Villalon, , Churchwide Representative,, Rev. Thadd Book, Deacon Beth Barkhau, Rev. Mukesh Cheedie, Rev. Dr. Moses Dennis, Dr. Shirley Guider, Rev. Noah Hepler, Rev. Nathan Krause, Rev. Thomas Rusert, Rev. Serena Sellers. The following 9 lay members make up the remainder of the committee roster: Mr. Fred Renigar, Chairperson , Ms. Diane Casey, Mr. Rick Eberts, Mr. Chase Ferguson, Ms. Charmaine Hamilton, Ms. Margie Pendarvis-Wright, Mr. Tom Salber, Ms. Arlette Stansbury and Ms. Elizabeth Stewart.

The committee meets 6 times annually, including a Candidacy Retreat and a Fall Gathering Workshop with the candidates. Committee members are also assigned to contact teams of 3 diverse members. Amongst the members of the committee as a whole otr diversities are represented including but not limited to rostered ministers and lay people, age, gender, race LGBTQ, and ecumenical representatives. Each contact team relates to a number of candidates and is in conversation with each of these individuals on a regular basis to provide support and guidance. We give a thank you to all members of the committee for the work they do on behalf of SEPA.

At present, we have a total of 15 candidates in active pursuit of rostering. Twelve are on the Minister of Word and Sacrament track, and three are on the Minister of Word and service track. The 2016 class of approved candidates includes • Minister of Word and Sacrament - Leah Woehr-Grande and Micah Krey, • Minister of Word and Service – Shirley Keiter and Rachel Bailey • Rev. Chris Gold, who was ordained in another Christian tradition was approved for the to join the roster of Word and Sacrament

I would like to thank Bishop Burkat for her support of the work we have been called to do and for her appointment of dedicated and discerning members to the committee. Thank you also to Rev. Steve Keiser and Rev. Gwen King for their prayerful “Initial Interviews” of applicants to the candidacy process. I extend many thanks to Rev. Susan Lynch and Ms. Bobbie Hoffman for their insightful facilitation of the “LifeKeys" discernment event.

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I would also like to thank The Rev. Jane Marston for her compassionate service as Chaplain to the candidates and the committee. We will be saying farewell to Pr. Marston at our July meeting as she begins her term as the Dean of the Northeast Philadelphia Conference. At the July meeting we will also welcome our new Chaplain, The Rev. Maggie Ainslie.

A very special thank you to Bill Harp for his energy and commitment to detail and communication that makes the work of the committee more efficient. He is an integral part of the Synod Staff as support to the work of the candidacy committee.

In closing, I would like to appeal to all congregations in SEPA Synod. Nationally there is a great shortage of Ordained Ministers in the ELCA. At the spring 2017 assignment gathering. The synodical Bishops were only able to fill about 1/3 of the first call pastoral openings with the total of first call candidates available. The ELCA is in great need of many bright, creative, dedicated and hardworking people of faith to become pastors.

It is the mission and responsibility of each and every church and their members to help identify, raise up, form and support new leaders for the future church. Look around your congregation and communities. Do you see any leaders that tend to stand out in their passionate service to God? Do you see a potential pastor in your midst? Share the information with your pastor and share your thoughts with the person. Sometimes it is just that little external nudge from somebody else that helps a person realize that the voice they hear within really is God calling them to serve in His church.

Respectfully submitted by, Fred Renigar, Candidacy Committee Chairperson

The Committee of Deans

Deans are generally elected by the conference (on occasion appointed by the Bishop) and serve three- year terms. The Committee of Deans meets with Bishop Burkat on a monthly basis. In June of each year, the deans participate in a two-day planning meeting. In 2016, that meeting was held at Paradise Falls Lutheran Association near of Cresco in the Pocono Mountains.

Much of the responsibility of the Committee of Deans centers on mobility situations in our synod. This work includes conducting exit interviews when a pastor retires or takes another call, explaining the basics of the transition time, interviewing candidates interested in serving in SEPA Synod, reviewing Ministry Site Profiles and Rostered Minister Profiles, and making recommendations of possible candidates in congregations. In addition, deans conduct installations, work with congregations in times of conflict and unfortunately also walk with congregations through the steps of closing if they have voted to end their ministry.

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The following pastors are currently serving as deans: The Rev. Carlton Rodgers (Central Philadelphia), The Rev. Ronald Wesemann (Chester), The Rev. Leslie Richard (Delaware), The Rev. Paul Sorcek (Lower Bucks), The Rev. Julie DeWerth (Lower Montgomery), The Rev. Carolann Hopcke (Upper Bucks), The Rev. Rebecca Schanley (Upper Montgomery). In the past year we said good-bye to two of our deans; The Rev. Serena Sellers, former Dean of the Upper Bucks Conference, who accepted a call in another conference and The Rev. Ben Krey, who was the Dean of the Northeast Philadelphia Conference, accepted a call in the North Carolina Synod. The Rev. Carolann Hopcke was elected to serve Upper Bucks, and we anticipate that the Northeast Philadelphia Conference will soon be electing a new dean.

Working closely with the Committee of Deans is The Rev. Christian McMullan (Director of Interim Ministry), The Rev. Marcia Bell (Directory of Mobility), Rev. Pat Davenport (Director, Evangelical Missions), The Rev. Bradley Burke (Director of Youth and Young Adult Faith Formation), Mr. William Harp (Coordinator, Vocation and Leadership), and Bishop Claire Burkat.

Interim Ministry

Synod Assembly Report 2017

Intentional interims are experienced pastors who have gone through specific training to work with congregations through a transition time. Intentional interims are assigned by the Director of Mobility in consultation with the Director of Interim Ministry and the Bishop. Throughout the transition the interim pastor attends required continuing education consultations, submits quarterly reports and at the end of each transition process an evaluation is conducted. This is far more scrutiny than most settled pastors receive. In addition to guiding the congregation through the transition process and the preparation of the Ministry Site Profile, interim pastors are responsible for all of the normal pastoral responsibilities of the church.

Some topics of our consultations this past year: The interim ministers and consultants were led by Jeff Kjelberg of the Joshua Group on how to employ the Missional Assessment Profile with congregations in transition. At another, we discussed the expectations and standards we have of ourselves in relation to the congregation’s needs. We also discussed how to approach transitional ministry with “at-risk” congregations. As a group we are very intentional about being responsive to changing ministry contexts and learning new tools for the benefit of the people we serve.

Intentional Interims: The Rev. Paul Beck, The Rev. Marcia Bell, The Rev. Katherine Cartwright- Knodel, The Rev. George Detweiler, The Rev. Ghislaine Cotnoir, The Rev. Susie Folks, The Rev. Arlene Greenwald, The Rev. Kim Guiser, The Rev. Dick Mathisen, The Rev. Christian McMullan, The Rev. David Mueller, The Rev. Daryl Nelson, The Rev. Janet Peterman, the Rev. Kris Peterson, The Rev. Elaine Quincey, The Rev. Jack Saarela, The Rev. Wayne Shelor, The Rev. Bruce Thorsen, The Rev. Donna Wright.

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In recent years we have used interim consultants in congregations that are in transition but for various reasons, do not have an interim pastor. In some cases, these congregations are being served by bridge pastors who are contracted for pastoral services. Interim consultants have participated in extensive interim training and work with congregations on a limited, part-time basis. Our interim consultants are: Ms. Teri Lanan, The Rev. David Mueller, and the Rev. Jack Saarela. The Rev. Christian McMullan, Director of Interim Ministry

Transitional Ministry Development Team (TMDT)

The synod's Transitional Ministry Development Team updates the transition guide, develops and supports policies beneficial to transition ministry in the synod, conducts exit interviews at the end of transitions, and works on issues that impact congregations and leaders in transition. We arrange for lunch at synod assembly so congregations currently in transition get to know each other and share where they are in the process.

Issues we are working on this year include: paying more attention to Phase IV of the guide (strategies for implementing the plans made during the transition during the early months of the new pastor's tenure); facilitating part-time and consultant options for interim staffing; recruiting and supporting new interim and bridge pastors; recruiting and supporting persons of color as interim pastors and interim consultants.

Let us know if there are other ways we can help to make transition ministry more successful in SEPA Synod.

Thanks to Barry Stock, leaving the team after many years of service.

Welcome to new members Pastor Fritz Fowler, Pastor Regina Goodrich, and Karl McClellan. Thanks to continuing members Pastor Marcia Bell, Pastor Sandra Brown, Teri Lanan, Pastor Christian McMullan, and our staff support person, Bill Harp.

Pastor Donna Wright, Chair

Vitality Task Force aka Evangelical Outreach Team

“Jesus looked her in the eye. “Didn’t I tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” Then, to the others, “Go ahead, take away the stone.” They removed the stone. Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and prayed, “Father, I’m grateful that you have listened to me. I know you always do listen, but on account of this crowd standing here I’ve spoken so that they might believe that you sent me.” Then he shouted, “Lazarus, come out!” And he came out, a cadaver,

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wrapped from head to toe, and with a kerchief over his face. Jesus told them, “Unwrap him and let him loose.” John 11:40-44

Beloved, we have been called out: “Jesus told them, “unwrap him and let him loose.”

John P. Kotter writes in Leading Change: Why Transformation Efforts Fail , “Half of all change efforts fail at the start. There is enough urgency when 75% of management (leadership) is genuinely convinced that the status quo is more dangerous than launching into the unknown.”

Beloved, this is urgent! We can no longer do or be church as usual, we have been loosed from all the things that keep us bound, “we have always did it this way.” Please note some of the new ways we are being “Church in the world” through Vital Communities of Faith. Communities unbound, unleashed and let go to serve through the lens of Jesus and the Theology of the Cross. These communities are moving with a true sense of urgency to embody God’s presence as they welcome all to worship in spirit and truth. Each group invites others to bring and share their faith stories. All are committed to show mercy, promote healing and do justice.

Open your spirit to the stories of our Vital Communities of Faith supported by all three expressions of our Evangelical Lutheran Church in America:

Living Gospel and LIFE Ministry

Pr. Linda Manson: Living Gospel and the LIFE Ministry moved to our new location in July, 2016 and began renovations. We became fully operational in our new site in September. This move has enabled us to increase the operational hours of the LIFE ministry and most importantly, moving forward in 2017, we will be resuming bible study while continuing to offer support and resources through the LIFE Ministry.

We received two substantial grants during 2016. One from the SEPA Synod and the other from the St. Andrews Mission Endowment Fund. These grants together gave us the needed funds to renovate the area of the Sauer House at Trinity Lutheran Church in Germantown where we operate the LIFE Ministry. In addition, the grants are also funding our operations.

Our efforts to establish partnerships with sister congregations within our synod, ecumenical partners and the local business community seem to finally be paying off. We have been able to increase our team of volunteers due to the folks from SEPA and other denominational partners stepping forward to assist with the work of the LIFE Ministry. Additionally, we have established a partnership with Lowe’s and they are working with us to offer our participants in the LIFE Ministry employment opportunities which pay a living wage and offer benefits.

Continued support through, prayers, participation and financial support are welcomed and encouraged as we continue to work for transformation and justice in our community.

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Rhawnhurst Turning Point

Ms. Kim Hibbs: Rhawnhurst Turning Point is a center for 6th to 12th grade youth, where youth can learn, grow, serve, and have fun in a safe environment supported by caring volunteers and Christian staff. Located in a storefront on Castor Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia, Rhawnhurst Turning Point celebrated the 5th anniversary of their opening for service at this location this year.

One big accomplishment of this past year has been the successful navigation of a change in leadership. After being involved since the first discussion about the mission outpost that would be Rhawnhurst Turning Point, Cheryl Lafferty resigned as Executive Director in June. The Board hired Kim Hibbs, a volunteer since opening day, and Rev. Keith McClain, a founding Board member, as Co-Directors.

This year has been significant in some other ways. First, the center has welcomed 36 new students this year, and has extended it work to younger students; 17 of the 64 youth who have come to the center so far this year are in 6th and 7th grade. The center is packed with 20 youth every day it's open. Second, through a partnership with Settlement Music School, we have offered two professionally-led music classes this year. Considering all Rhawnhurst Turning Point offers is free to the youth, this expands the diversity of learning experiences that youth in the greater Rhawnhurst area can now access. Finally, Rhawnhurst Turning Point continues its collaboration with Feast of Justice, begun last year, helping to lead Feast Nights, community meals, twice a month, continuing a valuable and meaningful partnership.

In the coming year, Rhawnhurst Turning Point intends to increase its reach to youth throughout the Northeast, seeking to welcome 100 youth to the center, continuing to expand opportunities for youth at a time when less is available to more and more, opportunities, to learn, grow and serve.

Welcome Church Accomplishments

Pr. Violet Little, ELCA and Pr. Schaunel Steinnagel, PCUSA: The mission statement of The Welcome Church is to “proclaim the love and hope of a gracious God to all people, but especially to people experiencing homelessness.” As an ELCA congregation under development serving people in poverty, the good news of Jesus Christ is at the core of everything we do. Not only has our own congregation continued to grow in strength and numbers, but this past year we have received recognition from the city of Philadelphia’s Office of Homeless Services. This recognition was based upon our winter initiative, The Well, which is a place of hope and healing for women living on the street.

Numbers at our Monday “Tea and Talk” and Tuesday Bible Study (with weekly Eucharist) slightly increased this past year from 135 weekly contacts last year to approximately 150 weekly contacts. The move from one to two Sunday worship services with coffee hour on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway puts us in touch with nearly 200 contacts per month for worship alone. Our two women’s groups (Women’s Dinner and Sanctuary Angels) continue to thrive and build

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strong community among our women who represent 25% of those who are chronically street homeless. We intentionally limit our women’s groups to twelve participants to ensure the safety and comfort level of those involved.

Two newer initiatives this year include the expansion of The Well and our new “Welcome to Work” program.

In 2015 The Well began as a pilot program in response to the need for our women to have a consistent and safe place to sleep during the coldest of the winter months. The idea was to build community among the women who might otherwise refuse to go inside in spite of life threatening conditions posed by the weather. The Welcome Church partnered with an Episcopal congregation to shape a space in a church where the women might each have a bed, a locker for their things, dinner, breakfast, “fixins’” for lunch, and a supportive staff. The women were also asked for their input to help shape the principles of how they might live together in community. The high attendance rate of this three month pilot encouraged us to expand the program to six months for the 2016-17 season. We also included Bethesda Project (founded by Father Dominic Rossi) to assist with staffing. This year, four of our twelve women have thus far signed leases for permanent housing with several others in the process. This is somewhat miraculous in light of the prior life experiences of the women. As mentioned earlier, the city affirmed the model and has paid for a social worker to staff The Well; they have also offered to work on a church that has closed down that it might be used to house women next year. Another unexpected bonus was the connection I made for one of our Lutheran churches to be in conversation with Bethesda about a property the church owned but wasn’t using. This will be a possible site for year round housing for our women. The Well has also been designated as a “SAWC Exploration” recognized by the SEPA Synod as well as the ELCA.

Many of our folks long to be employed in spite of the various difficulties they face. While we have partnered with West Kensington Ministries (Presbyterian) to print tee shirts, a new initiative “Welcome to Work” will offer our folks an opportunity to apprentice and train with a licensed building contractor. This program was shaped in accordance with an Episcopal student studying for the diaconate who spent two years with The Welcome Church. He got to know folks first hand and sought ways that he might use his contracting business as a training site. The Presbyterian Church USA recognized the project with a small grant and Welcome to Work was launched.

Cooperation with other organizations: There is no aspect of The Welcome Church that does not include a partner. Sunday worship is led by an ecumenical worship team which now includes two Episcopal priests, a Presbyterian minister, a United Methodist pastor, myself as a Lutheran, and a Minister of Music from the Seventh Day Adventist tradition. Our coffee hours are hosted by congregations from the Lutheran, Episcopal, and Presbyterian traditions. We work with the city around issues of advocacy, and also with the Outreach Coordination Center and project HOME.

As mentioned earlier, The Well is a partnership between The Welcome Church and Trinity Memorial Episcopal Church; the staff of The Well is from Bethesda Project. Our employment initiatives are in partnership with secular as well as faith based groups; and we are closely connected with folks from Jefferson Hospital as well as Pennsylvania Hospital. We are known by the Dept. of Behavioral Health and have direct access to its Director, David Holloman. We

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are also in close touch with the various housing initiatives such as Pathways to Housing, Interfaith Hospitality Network, Project HOME, and the Philadelphia Housing Authority.

Because education and breaking down stereotypes is so important to our congregation, we also offer speakers from within our community to visit various churches and confirmation groups. We are strong advocates for racial and economic justice and have close contact with Lutheran Advocacy in Harrisburg as well as in Washington DC.

Kairos Communities

Mr. Robert Fisher: Kairos Communities’ vision is to form a network of small, home-based house churches starting in Bucks and Montgomery counties. As an outreach to people known as “brokenhearted Christians” or, less ceremoniously as “the Dones,” we focus on holding a space for people who have left or are on their way out of church. We hold interactive worship gatherings at which the leader and people dive deeply into Scripture and prayer. Our vision is to nurture vibrant communities of Christians (and others) living faith in authentic relationships, exploring spirituality and discipleship, accepting everyone, and participating in God’s reign.

Kairos launched as a synodically authorized worshipping community in late 2016. Robert Fisher, currently a TEEM candidate at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, is the mission developer. Initially there was one house church averaging 7 people at worship. There are now two house churches gathering, one weekly and one twice a month, with an average of 14 gathering. We held an open Advent Taizé service in December at Chimayo Gallery in Perkasie, and partner with The Welcome Church for coffee hours, meals for the women of The Well, and Welcome Home Kits on a regular basis. We also have service relationships with Mitzvah Circle and local refugee families. Through these activities there are now about 35 people in our circle of contacts.

Please contact Rev. Patricia A. Davenport, 267-323-3746 or [email protected] if your congregation is interested in building, supporting or becoming a Vital Community of Faith.

The Report of the Forward Together in Faith Campaign:

The Forward Together in Faith Campaign of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod continues to generate excitement throughout our synod. Kicked off at Synod Assembly 2015, nearly two years later we are more committed than ever to generating resources in order to support the church of the 21 st century. Generous individuals, lay people, rostered leaders, and congregations of all sizes and capacities are participating in this exciting campaign, offering the gifts of their financial resources, their time offered to share the many blessings already being realized through this campaign, their energy and expertise in generating exciting within small groups and congregations, and much more. This is a vital, innovative campaign, created in anticipation of the changes, challenges, blessings, and growth faced by the modern church.

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The Missional Assessment Profile (MAP) continues to be a great success of the campaign. Many congregations have already participated in the MAP, a congregational ministry survey taken by every member of a congregation. The goal of the MAP may be different for every congregation, but most congregations who take the MAP find a robust and helpful tool to generate ministry ideas, find out the overall energy level of the congregation, and to discover the invaluable input of a congregational Navigator. The Navigator is a rostered-leader who helps to guide a congregation in the best use of the results of their MAP findings, meeting with congregational leaders several times and generating next-steps together. The MAP is a key component in the mission of the Forward Together in Faith campaign, and all congregations are encouraged to apply for the MAP or to seek more information from a campaign representative.

The Ambassador program was launched following Synod Assembly 2016, and at this point several congregations have hosted Ambassadors. The Ambassador is a person who is well-versed in the importance of the campaign, and who can assist your congregation in discerning how you can get involved. By preaching on a Sunday morning, leading a Bible study or forum, speaking at a council meeting or talking with a congregation over coffee, the Ambassadors represent the Forward Together in Faith campaign and share the story of all of the incredible things that have already been realized as a result of the campaign, and the story of our hope in the future of ministry in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

The Bishop’s Advancement Team was organized at the beginning of 2017, in order to best reach individuals who are interested in getting involved in the campaign but may not know how or where to start. These are helpful, friendly people who would be happy to speak to you about the ways you can invest in the future of ministry. Additionally, the Communications Team is being organized in order to hold “communications audits” for congregational websites, social media pages, and more, in order to assist the congregations of SEPA with their web presence. These talented people will soon be able to work with your congregation to best communicate your mission and ministry to web-visitors. There are many dedicated people working behind the scenes of the campaign, actively engaged in furthering the mission of the campaign, sharing the successes, and creating more successes along the way.

The time is now to focus on supporting sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ by networking together within and beyond our communities, creating innovative opportunities to share our faith, communicating our faith in effective ways with each other and with our neighbors, and equipping future leaders and current leaders to tell the story of our faith in the 21 st century. In order to find out how you can become involved in this vital campaign, this ministry for the present and the future, please speak to a campaign representative.

Hunger Ministry Team 2017 Report

One in four children in Pennsylvania lives in food insecure households. Food insecurity may be caused by either a loss of household income, sudden family illness, mounting medical bills or increasing child care expenses, which can mean having to decide whether to pay for housing or buy food for the week.

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According to a 2014 Gallup survey, one in six Americans said they could not afford food at times within the past year. Statistics from the ELCA World Hunger Appeal reports that 868 million people in our world are hungry; 1.2 billion live in extreme poverty on less than $1.25 a day; and 49 million people in the United States—one out of every six people—including 16 million children experience hunger or the risk of hunger.

In August 2014, the SEPA Synod Hunger Ministry Team was formed. Comprised of clergy and lay people from across the synodical territory, the Hunger Ministry Team seeks to address hunger and food insecurity. The Hunger Team’s mission is to educate congregations about hunger; initiate, support and enhance hunger ministries, and advocate together for God’s promised justice . To deliver this mission, the Hunger Ministry Team facilitates four objectives:

Hunger 101 Simulation Workshops . The Hunger Ministry Team Ministry organizes and conducts the Hunger 101 Workshop, a one-day session that is designed to provide participants with a first-hand, up-close education about the challenges faced by those experiencing food insecurity.

Best Practices . The Hunger Ministry Team identifies and shares best practices and resources that are available to congregations that wish to begin or enhance its hunger ministry within the SEPA Synodical region.

Hunger Grants . The Hunger Ministry Team reviews Domestic Hunger Grant applications on behalf of the SEPA Synod. Congregations are encouraged to apply for these grants.

Advocacy. The Hunger Ministry Team, in partnership with LAMPa, provides materials and training to equip congregations to lobby elected public officials and governmental agencies for fair laws and just public policies to help people resolve their food security issues.

Every congregation is uniquely gifted and called to respond to the hunger needs of their communities and neighbors as an expression of Christ’s abundant love. We invite your congregation to join in helping to deliver God’s blessings to those in need of food.

Ministries of Chaplaincy, Pastoral Care, and Clinical Education (MCPCCE) Report to Synod Assembly – May 2017 The mission and ministry of the SEPA Synod includes service by approximately twenty rostered leaders who have been engaged in a variety of specialized Ministries of Chaplaincy, Pastoral Care, and Clinical Education (MCPCCE) representing the Synod in unique and demanding contexts wherein the presence of the Gospel addresses God’s people in the face of difficult and extraordinary circumstances.

Members of MCPCCE currently provide pastoral care in diverse venues including hospitals, rehab centers, retirement communities, nursing homes, hospice facilities, counseling services, prisons, veteran centers, mental health facilities, spiritual guidance programs, et al. across the territory of the Synod. Those so engaged meet several times throughout the year (including an

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annual breakfast with the Bishop) for fellowship, light repast, and the sharing of challenges, concerns, rewards, frustrations, and joys of such a calling.

ELCA policy currently provides three criteria for anyone seeking a call from Synod Council to specialized ministry:

1) APC (Association of Professional Chaplains) certification 2) ELCA endorsement 3) Confirmation of employment in a chaplaincy position

Several recent retirements have reduced the number of Chaplains on the Synod roster currently active. Anyone interested in considering specialized ministry may contact Chaplain Linda Hatcher (Synod liaison) or Chaplain Maggie Ainslie (local convener) for information regarding the required procedures

Congregations seeking adult forum or other topical programs are encouraged to invite a MCPCCE member as a helpful and informative resource. Respectfully submitted, Chaplain Maggie Ainslie MCPCCE convener

Report of the Stewardship Team

The synod stewardship team would like to thank the congregations of our synod for their Mission Support, and especially for those congregations that are modeling good stewardship to their members by giving at least 10% of their regular giving towards Mission Support. Remember, half of these offerings are used by the synod for its mission and half are sent by the synod to the ELCA in support of the work of national church. The specific uses of these funds are outlined on annual report covers used by many congregations for their annual meetings, and reports on how your Mission Support dollars are used by the ELCA can be found at www.elca.org , and our synod work can be viewed at www.ministrylink.org .

This year, our support from congregations declined by $119,176, on top of a decrease of $178,496 in 2015. It once again shows that just as our congregations rely on the continued faithfulness of all of our members, the synod relies on the faithful response and proportional gifts of all of our congregations and the Synod Stewardship team urges congregations to model good stewardship by committing a proportional amount of its regular giving to Mission Support, with intentional efforts to grow that proportional amount until your congregation is giving at least 10%. If each congregation would practice this principle of good stewardship, the only time Partnership Support would suffer is when congregational giving also suffered, and when congregation’s experienced the joy of increased giving, the synod would share that joy.

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Your synod stewardship team is partnering with you efforts to strengthen congregational stewardship. Here are some of the programs and resources for our congregational partners during the past year:

• A Resource Table and workshops at the Synod Assembly • Sent four rostered leaders to the ELCA Coaching seminar (Supported by your Mission Support dollars) to equip two synod leaders in Stewardship coaching and two in Discipleship coaching. • Sent one Stewardship team member to the 3-day Ecumenical Stewardship Center leadership Seminar, to gain new insights and knowledge on stewardship and resulted in two major new opportunities for our synod (See Below “ESC”) The ELCA helped fund our participation through Mission Support. • Provided a copy of Giving magazine for each congregation which included a detailed Stewardship response option. • Worked with our Conference stewardship teams (developed last year) to resource three events, one in the Upper Montgomery conference in May; one in the Chester Conference in August and one in Upper Bucks Conference in January. • Sponsored a major workshop on Electronic Giving (ESC provided the contact) with Vanco leadership that includes incentives for congregations to develop and/or expand opportunities for electronic giving. • Initiated a pilot program and recruited eight congregations to participate in “Developing a Culture of Generosity” (ESC sparked the concept). In a similar pilot in the United Church in Canada, congregations that participated saw on 82% increase in giving over the following five years. • Established the Stewardship “Tip of the Month” which can be seen on www.ministrylink.org and are archived with other valuable stewardship tips and information on the synod website, www.sepa.org . • Partnered with our Youth, Young Adult Ministry staff (Bradley Burke) to help underwrite the Money, Mission and Media conference. This was attracted over two hundred people as a joint venture of our synod, the Lutheran Seminary at Philadelphia and Philadelphia Presbytery. • Sent three rostered leaders to the ESC Spring event, Generosity NOW in Washington D.C. to expand skills and develop new workshop possibilities. • Met with congregational officers to encourage renewed efforts in our congregations to utilize best practices in stewardship and move beyond a single, annual appeal as our primary stewardship effort.

If you are interested in serving on our Stewardship Team or one of our conference teams, contact me at [email protected]

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Our thanks to those serving in the past year on the Conference Stewardship sub-teams:

Chester Conference Bill McAdoo, Pr. Mark Singh-Hueter, Pr. Cynthia Muse Delaware Conference Noel Smyth, Pr. Tim Ness, Pr. Wayne Matthias-Long Lower Bucks Conference Carl Reitz, Pr. Michael McKillip, Pr. Eric Reimer Lower Montgomery Conference Joe Tumolo, Pr. Jim Goodyear, Teri Lanan, Northeast Philadelphia Conference Carolyn Edwards, Pr. Rod Kopp, Doreen Kinsler Upper Bucks Conference Pr. Dave Deal. Tom Hebel, Pr. Axel Kaegler Upper Montgomery Conference Pr. Karen Sease Peter Huber, Pr. Paul Chapman

Members of the Synod Stewardship Team are Larry Smoose, chair, Bob Hensil, and Mike Carlson. We also want to thank our Synod Support staff member, The Rev. Patricia Davenport, along with Bill Harp, Martin Schwab, Bob Fisher, and Cynta Outterbridge who do so much with so little to support congregational ministry.

Larry Smoose, Chairperson

Tanzania Companionship Team Report

The Tanzania Companionship Team promotes and supports relationships between SEPA Synod and the North-Eastern Diocese (NED) of Tanzania.

Over the past year, the Tanzania Companionship Team has been busy recruiting new members and having conversations both internally and with our Tanzanian brothers and sisters around the changing needs and opportunities for partnership between our synod and the North-Eastern Diocese. Here are some of the high points from this work:

2016 Companionship Visit to Tanzania

This past August, a group of 6 representatives from Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod travelled to the NED in Tanzania and visited with our brothers and sisters in the NED office in Lushoto, Tanga. We travelled to several of the cornerstone ministry sites of the Diocese, including Irente School for the Blind and Children’s Home, Irente Biodiversity Reserve, the Rainbow School, and Sebastian Kolowa Memorial University (SEKOMU). We also visited several parishes in the diocese, including a parish of the Massai people, and had incredible conversations about ministry, evangelism, the massive growth of the Tanzanian Lutheran Church, and the future of our

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partnership with our Tanzanian friends in the North-Eastern Diocese. Members from Reformation Lutheran Church in Media travelled with us and visited their congregation’s companion parish in the Pangani Region along the shores of the Indian Ocean, and we all came back with moving, inspiring, and challenging stories to share from our visit. Members of the team would love to talk with you about how your congregation can get involved in this meaningful, powerful ministry of partnership with our friends in Tanzania!

Fall Fundraising Drive to Support SEKOMU’s Rebuilding and Protection Efforts

As you may be aware, while our team was visiting the NED on September 1, 2016, several men armed with automatic weapons and grenades attacked Sebastian Kolowa Memorial University (SEKOMU). They raided the property, shot and killed a guard protecting the university, and shot and injured another. They then proceeded to set fire to two hostels housing approximately 40 students and faculty, although all were able to safely escape. The loss of life and property was far less than it could have been, but the overall damage was extensive. Throughout the fall, congregations and individuals from across SEPA prayed for the faculty, students, and staff touched by this disaster and collected resources to help them rebuild from the ashes and install much needed security measures around the university. Together, SEPA congregations raised over $20,000 to help support them in this effort. Additionally, the support continued in Lent. Lenten Focus on Mission

Last year, during Lent – and at Synod Assembly – funds were collected to refurbish and send much-needed braillers to SEKOMU and Irente School for the Blind to help sight-impaired students learn how to read, write, and develop skills necessary to succeed and develop a livelihood. This past year, we have shipped 6 fully refurbished braillers to SEKOMU and 6 to Irente School for the Blind, with plans to send more in 2017. We are blessed by the generosity that supported this project and the enthusiasm behind it. This year during Lent, as our annual “Focus on Global Mission”, congregations held special collections throughout the season to support SEKOMU in their ongoing rebuilding and security efforts. At the time of this report, we do not have an update on how much was raised, but we have no doubt that it will greatly help SEKOMU as they continue to provide a safe place for all to learn how to serve and provide for the most vulnerable members of Tanzanian society.

2017 Visits to Tanzania

In the coming months, there are three groups planning to visit our brothers and sisters in Tanzania, and our various congregational partners there. In June, Rev. Bradley Burke will accompany Bishop Claire Burkat to the NED for her last official visit to Tanzania in her term as Bishop. The relationship that Bishop Burkat has built with Bishop Stephen Munga, Bishop of the NED, has been a strong and meaningful one, and this will be a bittersweet visit for all. Then in July and August, groups from St. Luke’s in Devon and Upper Dublin in Ambler will travel to the North- Eastern Diocese to visit with our friends in the NED and their companion parishes, Mikanjuni and Cathedral parishes. We welcome your prayers and well wishes as we journey to visit our friends in ministry on the other side of the world!

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If you or your congregation are interested in exploring a congregational partnership with one of our sister parishes in Tanzania – please let us know! It is a rich and rewarding experience for any church, and every companionship is different. You can start a partnership without investing any money or sending a group to Tanzania – although we’re sure you’ll eventually want to go! If there is an energetic group of folks in your church interested in growing this ministry – that is all you need! Please reach out to Pastor Brad Burke, Assistant to the Bishop, or any member of the Tanzania Companionship Team, for more information.

Respectfully Submitted,

Tanzania Companionship Team: Alice Bell, Rev. Bradley Burke, John Chesters, Jr., Sheldon Erb, Julie Leinhauser, Susan MacPherson, Tom MacPherson, Adrienne Nash-Melendez, Ralen Robinson, Sharon Smith, Rev. Christopher Weidner

Women of the ELCA SEPA Synod - Region 7 Annual Report 2016-2017

The Synodical Board of the Women of the ELCA has been working diligently for many years to support the congregational units throughout the synod. Our recent goals have been to evaluate and strengthen our purpose within the Church and increase our communications with and support of the women of the Southeastern PA Synod.

“Renewal Through the Holy Spirit” was the theme of our biennial Synodical Convention held June 4, 2016 at Silver Springs-Martin Luther School. We welcomed our Executive Director, Linda Post-Bushkovsky, and Anissa Canova of the Churchwide Executive Board, as our guests. Our keynote speakers were representatives of the school, and we offered a workshop on ways we can help to prevent human trafficking. In-kind gifts of hygiene supplies were presented to the school. A new synodical board was elected and installed: President: Joy Grace Vice President: Beatrice Parker Treasurer: Elaine Keller Secretary: Carol Herstine Board Members: Phyllis Boyer, Cindy Ryan, Liz Harmon We also elected and installed voting members to the 2017 Women of the ELCA Triennial Convention: Joy Grace, Carol Herstine and Lisa Brown

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In Fall 2016, we offered 4 conference events on the theme of Repentance, drawing inspiration from Martin Luther’s 95 theses. Conferences will meet this Spring for fellowship and discussion on the accompanying theme of Salvation. In November 2016, our board was invited to host a synod-wide workshop on the power of women’s giving at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Springfield, presented by InFaith Community Foundation. We plan to offer more opportunities for engaging and empowering women of faith, as this one was so well-received by the attendees.

As I write this report, we’re in the midst of planning our Synodical Gathering - “Luther’s Ladies – 500 Years of Women in the Church”, to be held at Christ Ascension Lutheran Church on June 3. We’re excited to have Pastor Violet Little as our keynote speaker that day, and plan to offer workshops in addition to a tour of LTSP, located just up the street. Look for more information about this regional event on our webpage and in our newsletter.

Looking forward to July, 3000+ ELCA women will meet in Minneapolis, MN for the Triennial Convention and Gathering, “All Anew”. If you’ve never attended a Women of the ELCA Gathering before, there’s still time to register. This has been called a ‘youth event for adults’ by several past attendees, due to the opportunities for worship, learning, service and fellowship. Information and registration materials for this life-altering experience can be found at www.welcatg.org .

As a member of the Churchwide organization, we’re especially proud of our scholarships; our Raising Up Healthy Women and Girls initiative; the ways in which we address racism, domestic violence, human sex trafficking, bullying and immigration issues; and our many resources, magazines, and publications, including Gather and Café. You can find many of these resources and information on scholarships and advocacy at www.womenoftheelca.org .

We continue to look for ways to serve and support the women of the Southeastern PA Synod. We’re actively working on an assessment of our active congregational units, and we’re committed to rebuilding our conference structure to strengthen networks of women throughout the synod. You can find us at http://ministrylink.org/women , where we’ll post events and other news in an effort to reach more SEPA women. Be Bold and connect with us!

Your sister in Christ, Joy Grace WELCA Board President, SEPA Synod

Youth, Young Adult & Spiritual Formation Ministry

This is an exciting and eventful time for faith formation and discipleship in Southeastern Pennsylvania, as we are well on our way towards becoming a pioneer in the ELCA when it comes to shaping faith among young people – and people of all ages – in the 21 st century world. The world has changed greatly in the past 50 years, and here in the Northeast U.S. we are rapidly

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learning that the church must now play catch-up with the culture, or the institutional church will be relegated to an increasingly marginal place in American spirituality. The measure of the church is not its size – but perhaps now, more than ever, the church has a relevant and vital voice to sound in today’s world. In this Reformation year, we are finding new, exciting ways here in SEPA to move our church forward for the next 500 years.

Here are the ways that we are leading the charge in the ELCA to engage faith formation and discipleship in a changed and changing world:

Youth Ministry: From Ministry to Youth to Ministry Led by Youth

When it comes to Youth Ministry, we are flipping the script. For many years, “Youth Ministry” across the church has meant planning classes and activities, events, programs and mission trips for young people. All these things are great. But increasingly, more and more young people just aren’t going to show up for someone else’s “program” – they want to be leaders. Experts in faith, culture, and the spirituality of young people point to the year 2005 as when this all changed – the first year young people spent more time on the internet than watching television. Young people are simply no longer interested in showing up for someone else’s “show” – no matter how well we design it. Instead, young people today want to download and upload, experience the events but also contribute to the very shape that ministry takes. And not just when it comes to Youth Ministry – but in the ministry of the church as a whole. So just this March we launched a new, reimagined version of our synod’s Lutheran Youth Organization (LYO) – the SEPA Youth Leadership Program . Youth from across the synod are now able to participate in this new, exciting program that engages them as leaders, lets them chart the course of our synod’s youth ministry events, and equips them to be ministry leaders back home in their congregations and communities.

As always, we of course also had some amazing events, trip, and retreats this past year. From the 84 youth, young adults, and adult leaders who traveled to serve at the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota last summer, to the 150 Confirmation students who learned about Racial Justice and the Gospel at JYG, to the nearly 400 people who rocked out and learned how to embrace our true identity in Christ at this past year’s Harvey Cedars Retreat – we had a GREAT year! And with 75 people from our congregations participating in our upcoming Urban Servant Trip in Philadelphia, the launch of our new Youth Leadership Program, and preparations beginning for the National Youth Gathering next Summer we have high hopes for the year ahead! It is an exciting time for Youth Ministry and Leadership Formation in SEPA – and we are excited to have you as partners on this journey.

Young Adult Ministry & Spiritual Formation : Not Just for Millennials Anymore

As Albert Einstein famously said, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” The church in America is rapidly declining. The sad truth, witnessed to by our own experience and mountains of data – is that we are now essentially missing whole generations from the church, and that across all generations more and more people are leaving the institutional church (Pew Religious Landscape Study). Both inside and outside our

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congregations, the fastest growing group of people in America today are those who are “Spiritual, but Not Religious”.

This presents tremendous challenges for how we as a church engage young adults in particular – but in a much larger sense, how we do ministry in general.

The conversation about Young Adult Ministry in our synod began (just over a year ago) with small group conversations among synod young adults about why they did – or for the majority of them, didn’t – feel engaged in meaningful ways by their home congregations. What we found, as we began to have conversations with Young Adults, is that – like teenagers – they are NOT looking for a flashy program, or a high-level class. No, they are not even looking for a cool contemporary service (although an openness to contextual and group led worship really does matter). What young adults are looking for today is simply to be welcomed to contribute to the conversation and exploration of how we do ministry and what it looks like – and not just by being plugged into existing ministry models and committees.

As a church, we have a great deal of work to do to bring our ministry models forward into a 21 st century world so that we can accomplish our mission in this brave new world. And what that means is that we need to start a conversation about what God is already up to in this changing, 21 st century world. To that end, Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod has launched an exciting new online ministry that we hope will engage and support ALL our congregations and members in having this crucial conversation – www.bravenewchurch.org , the NEW Spiritual Formation Ministry of Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod . The website will host a variety of tools for engaging questions of ministry and meaning in a rapidly changing world – and help us to engage not only younger generations, but also the growing number of people of all ages who are deeply spiritual, but not all that interested in institutional church.

The tools on the website include a weekly podcast that follows the lectionary and wrestles with these questions, a blog where a diversity of voices work to discern what the Holy Spirit is up to in the church today, an online forums page to cultivate critical conversations, and resources to equip congregations to wrestle with questions of faith in a changing world. We hope that you will add your voices to the conversation and learn how your church can begin to reimagine its ministry in new, exciting and powerful ways – for younger generations and all God’s people.

Be sure to check out our workshop during Synod Assembly all about Brave New Church and how we can come together to shape the future of the church in Southeastern PA and beyond. We can’t wait to walk with you as we all work to create a Brave New Church – for a Brave New World.

Yours in Christ, Unchanging from Age to Age,

Rev. Bradley R. Burke Assistant to the Bishop

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Zones of Peace: 2017

Report to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA

Please make our commitment your commitment

I commit as an individual: to promote peace in my home and community.

I commit to work with others: to eliminate the causes of hatred, to honor the dignity of all people, to lay down our weapons, and to find non-violent solutions when tempted to hurt another.

I commit to be an instrument of God’s peace: to make my home and Neighborhood Zones of Peace, free from fear, filled with respect, and marked by deeds of kindness.

Zones of Peace exists to encourage those who are exemplary in the creative ways they address root causes of violence in their own neighborhoods. Since 2009, 59 Zones of Peace have been recognized and four more have been nominated. Honorees include local and region-wide initiatives, large and small congregations, synagogues, mosques, museums, and government agencies. The most recent honorees include the Aquinas Center’s Community Literacy Project (empowering immigrant families through education); Redemption / Forgiveness / Peace (a conflict resolution and mentoring effort headquartered in the Jazz U Up Barbershop in South Philadelphia); and Mindfulness Through Movement (which uses yoga and mindfulness to transform the culture of 15 schools in our region.)

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Zones of Peace is an initiative of the Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia: senior leaders from 33 religious traditions representing more than two million people in our region. Bishop Burkat is one of the Co-Conveners of the Council, serving with Archbishop Charles Chaput, Rabbi David Strauss, and Imam Anwar Muhaimin.

Surely you know of a congregation or agency that is exemplary in its efforts to support youth, respond to grieving victims of violence, feed the hungry, curb drug activity, mediate conflicts, address illiteracy, welcome immigrants, or some other community outreach that stops violence before it starts. To find out more about Zones of Peace or nominate a congregation or organization, visit http://www.interfaithcenterpa.org/zop or contact Pastor John Hougen, [email protected] .

Rev. John B. Hougen, PhD Coordinator: Zones of Peace

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Reports of Social Ministry Organizations

Bethesda House / Lutheran Knolls

Bethesda House Corporation was established by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod (SEPA) of the Lutheran Church in America for the purpose of custodial and operating management of the assets bequeathed to the Synod by Charlotte A. Ragotzky’s last will and testament to establish a nursing or convalescent home in Delaware County. In 1981, Bethesda House Corporation, working with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), established an independent living housing community in Boothwyn, Pennsylvania that today includes 220 apartments known as the Lutheran Knolls community. This community provides affordable housing for the elderly and disabled.

In 1981, ground was purchased in Boothwyn, Delaware County. Construction of Lutheran Knolls began in 1982.

In February 1983 the Bethesda House Corporation opened the doors to its 100-unit, independent living housing community, Lutheran Knolls. Located in Boothwyn, Pennsylvania, Lutheran Knolls serves the elderly and mobility-impaired.

Due to the overwhelming response to Lutheran Knolls, Bethesda House Corporation added Lutheran Knolls North in 1991. A 60 unit facility, Lutheran Knolls North also provided affordable housing for the elderly and mobility impaired.

In March of 1995, Lutheran Knolls West offered 60 additional affordable apartment homes exclusively for the elderly. The new three-story facility was made possible by a HUD grant. Residents of this new building also receive Section 8 subsidies

Lutheran Knolls, Lutheran Knolls North, and Lutheran Knolls West are financed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), with federal funding provided under HUD’s Section 8 Housing Assistance Program to help tenants meet their housing needs.

Ten of the units in Lutheran Knolls, 6 units in Lutheran Knolls North, and 4 units in Lutheran Knolls West have been especially designed to meet the requirements of mobility impaired accessibility.

Many factors contribute to make the Lutheran Knolls Community a pleasant living experience. There are very active Residents' Associations that sponsor numerous activities including: Arts and Crafts, Ceramics, Bingo, Bible Study, Holiday Festivities, Exercise Classes, and Movie Nights to name a few. These programs are very well attended. We invite you to visit the Lutheran Knolls community and would be happy to answer your questions to provide you with additional information about our community. Go to our website. www.LutheranKnolls.com for more details.

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Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries & Diakon Child, Family & Community Ministries

Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries and Diakon Child, Family & Community Ministries celebrate our partnership with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod and its congregations as we live out our mission to demonstrate God’s command to love our neighbor through acts of service. Through Many Hands, guided by One Heart, Diakon continues a nearly 150-year tradition of care for people of all ages, especially those with limited financial resources. In 2016, Diakon provided more than $19 million in benevolent care including $2.8 million within the synod, increases over 2015 figures.

Last year was the second full year in which Diakon’s two “sister” organizations operated separately, with individual boards of directors guiding each. Both experienced a successful year, with their dedicated staff members achieving significant service, operational, quality, and financial goals— critical to growth and to the two Diakon service organizations’ ability to help more people.

Twining Village , a Diakon Lutheran Senior Living Community in Holland, Bucks County, continued renovation of senior living accommodations in its apartments and finalized work for the 2017 opening of a short-term memory-care unit in its personal care building. Manatawny Manor in Pottstown maintained its emphasis on caring for older adults with memory-related illnesses. Diakon Adult Day Services at Manatawny continued to offer daytime care for those living at home or with a relative, helping 54 older adults and their families. Several grants assisted the program in serving people who could not otherwise afford the full cost of care.

Based in Media, Diakon Youth Services’ Bridge Program serves youths in Delaware, Chester, and Lancaster counties. The program aids at-risk youths ages 11 to 18 by providing accountability- focused counseling and monitoring programs to prevent out-of-home placement. Participants frequently are served by the Weekend Alternative Program , located at the Diakon Wilderness Center , Boiling Springs. In 2016, the Bridge Program’s community service activities included Darby’s clean-up-the-streets effort. In all, Diakon’s programs for adjudicated youths served approximately 400 teens from within the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod’s territory. An additional specialized Diakon Youth Services component aids young adults from Bucks County; those who successfully complete the program can have their felony charges reduced or eliminated.

In 2016, Diakon integrated within its child and family programming two services previously offered by Lutheran Children and Family Service of Eastern Pennsylvania, a family-reunification service and a family-preservation service, both aiding children and families in Bucks County. Diakon hopes eventually to expand these types of services into other locales. Additional services aiding those in the synodical area include Diakon Adoption & Foster Care , which continued to host monthly information sessions at Manatawny Manor in Pottstown, with a goal of expanding services in Montgomery and Chester counties and surrounding areas. In addition, as prime contractor for the Statewide Adoption & Permanency Network , Diakon helps to coordinate all public adoptions.

We thank God for the gifts of staff, volunteers, congregations, donors, and board members who, together, enabled us to serve tens of thousands of people last year, including several thousand within the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod.

Mark T. Pile, MSHA, MSW President/CEO

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Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network

Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network, now the eighth largest rehabilitation provider in the United States (according to Modern Healthcare magazine), has executed its mission to communities within the Lehigh Valley and beyond. Last year, Good Shepherd (including Good Shepherd Penn Partners, our joint venture with Penn Medicine in Philadelphia) helped more than 65,000 men, women and children recover from accident, illness or surgery. We provided service at more than 57 total locations, including 36 in the greater Lehigh Valley and 21 in the Philadelphia area.

Over the past few years, Good Shepherd has solidified its reputation as an international destination for recovery, expanding the reach of our mission and core values to hundreds of patients from around the globe.

Patients and families choose Good Shepherd because the organization’s outcomes are better than regional and national competitors, and also because of the compassionate care and excellent service they receive from our experienced clinical team.

In fact, Good Shepherd’s inpatient hospital and outpatient services finished the fiscal year at the 95 th percentile for patient satisfaction, as measured by Press Ganey. More than 94 percent of patients would recommend Good Shepherd to a family member or friend.

Other highlights from 2016 include: • Good Shepherd earned an astounding seven CARF (Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) accreditations during Fiscal Year 2016. Accreditation is the gold- standard for quality care in rehabilitation. Good Shepherd’s accreditations include: o Comprehensive Integrated Inpatient Rehabilitation Program o Brain Injury Inpatient Rehabilitation Program o Inpatient Stroke Program o Pediatric Specialty Program o Amputation Specialty Program o Spinal Cord System of Care o Interdisciplinary Outpatient Medical Rehabilitation Programs: Spinal Cord System of Care Additionally, Good Shepherd’s inpatient pediatric Feeding Program was recognized for exemplary conformance to CARF standards.

• Good Shepherd’s two long-term care homes earned U.S. News and World Report’s Best Nursing Homes highest rating – five stars – for the sixth year in a row.

• After an exhaustive search for an electronic health records (EHR) system that would best support our specialized post-acute care needs, Good Shepherd signed an agreement to purchase the Millennium system from Cerner. The new EHR will make patient information more readily accessible for our Associates, partners and patients. The anticipated go-live date is late 2017.

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• Good Shepherd entered into a two-year agreement to manage two Lehigh County nursing homes, collectively referred to as Cedarbrook. The approximately 670 Cedarbrook residents will benefit from Good Shepherd’s expertise in providing excellent care in a home-like environment, and Lehigh County benefits from Good Shepherd’s proven quality and cost-effectiveness in providing long-term care.

• The Physician Group executed strategic growth of sub-acute rehabilitation consults and saw patients in seven facilities throughout the Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia.

• The outpatient footprint expanded through the addition of outpatient acquisitions and start up physical therapy practices. Good Shepherd added outpatient locations in Conshohocken and Lansdale during Fiscal Year 2016. Additionally, an agreement of sale was signed for a practice in Pottsville, expanding Good Shepherd’s services into Schuylkill County.

• Good Shepherd signed agreements to provide therapy services for SpiriTrust Lutheran Homecare and Hospice. Good Shepherd is now the home health provider for SpiriTrust in Northampton and Lehigh Counties.

• Since people are at the core of Good Shepherd’s reputation for high quality service, our emphasis on employee satisfaction continued: o Employees who work at Good Shepherd ranked in the 84 th percentile for Workforce Commitment (an indicator of job satisfaction) in a recent Press Ganey survey. o Ninety-five percent of Good Shepherd’s employees agreed that the organization provides high quality care and service, which ranks Good Shepherd in the 92 nd percentile of health-care organizations nationally.

Thank you for your support, which is vital in helping Good Shepherd continue its mission and the legacy of our founders, the Raker family.

John Kristel, MBA, MPT, President and CEO David G. DeCampli, MS, Chair, Board of Trustees

KenCrest

In 2016, KenCrest sustained the core purpose of our Lutheran deaconess founder, Sister Maria Roeck – to serve our neighbors . We provided services to over 11,000 individuals in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware. We helped 987 children get a great start in early education. We provided life changing support to 8,893 infants and toddlers. Over 800 adults with developmental disabilities pursued life in our communities, making friends, going to church, working, and helping their neighbors. We received the gracious support of over 1,500 volunteers and benefitted from the hard work of nearly 2,000 employees. As we look back at the success of the people we served, we measure our success in the dreams that they realized. Here is the story of one child who went home this year:

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Julio came to live in one of our homes when he was a few months old. He needed around-the-clock care for a heart condition and he relied on a ventilator to breathe. His parents were able to visit with him often, and were clearly anxious for the day he would be able to come home. Julio received early intervention supports from us and was able to see the last of his ventilator. Today he is 6; he rides his Big Wheel, goes to school, and lives each day with his loving family.

KenCrest continues to be an active member of Lutheran Services in America. Our staff participate in educational opportunities, service development, and advocacy work made possible by the LSA staff and more specifically the LSA-Disability Network. The network keeps us up-to-date on new approaches in our field, helps us think strategically about our future, and brings us together to wrestle with the significant challenges we face like workforce shortages and donor engagement.

KenCrest remains an active member of Lutheran Charities, the non-profit organization that helps our congregations understand the depth of the Lutheran social ministry supports in our region. We remain committed to helping congregations understand our proud heritage and to engage them in our mission.

The Services of Liberty Lutheran Synod Assembly Report 2017

Artman, The Becoming Center, Liberty at Home, Liberty Hospice, Lutheran Congregational Services, The Hearth at Drexel (formerly the Mary J. Drexel Home), Paul’s Run Retirement Community, The Village at Penn State and LCFS’ West Philadelphia Senior Center

Liberty Lutheran faithfully accompanies and empowers individuals and families by honoring choices and promoting well-being. We do this through our unique approach to housing, healthcare, and wellness services that address every stage of the advancing years. Together, we are following God’s call to serve our neighbors alongside the congregations of eastern and central Pennsylvania.

Liberty Lutheran is responding to the changing needs of older adults through its ongoing development and refinement of programs that enhance health and well-being. The entire family of Liberty senior living communities—Artman, Paul’s Run, The Hearth at Drexel, and The Village at Penn State—has been undergoing a complete transformation that combines newly renovated residential, social and/or clinical spaces with a new approach to care and service that focuses on each resident’s unique individuality and the kind of activities and interactions that bring them meaning and purpose. Each of our senior living communities nurture an atmosphere of genuine fellowship and camaraderie between residents, staff, and the more than 100 volunteers who generously give of their time to enrich the lives of residents.

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Artman , which provides personal care, memory care, and rehabilitation and skilled nursing, celebrated its 100 th anniversary in 2016, a year that also marked the end of a wide-scale, five-year renovation project resulting in a new, state-of-art short-term rehabilitation facility, new personal care and memory care households, and new dining rooms and leisure spaces.

Paul’s Run , which provides independent living, personal care, and rehabilitation and skilled nursing, earned recognition in 2016 by the Associate Builders and Contractors Eastern PA chapter for a major renovation project that resulted in new social and leisure spaces, as well as a full health care center redesign that facilitates the community’s delivery of person-centered care. Additionally, in late 2016, the health care center earned a Best Nursing Home designation by US News and World Report.

The Hearth at Drexel , a personal care and memory care community, recently opened an enclave of 20 new one-bedroom apartments that echo the historic and majestic architecture of the property. Unlike many personal care communities, the Hearth enables residents to remain in the comfort of their own apartment with all the necessary medical supports if their health should progressively decline. In 2016, t he American Institute of Architects 2016 Design for Aging Review presented The Hearth with a special recognition award for renovation of its historic property, citing how the transformation is an “an excellent adaptation of an older, yet historic structure” that embodies a “neighborhood feel with residential character.”

The Village at Penn State , a university-based senior living community that provides independent living, personal care, and rehabilitation and skilled nursing, recently opened a new personal care home featuring an intimate, home-like ambience that includes common areas for sharing meals, enjoying social activities, and accommodating family visits. Additionally, and in tandem with the designation of its health care center as a Best Nursing Home by US News and World Report , The Village opened a new suite of rooms focusing on the needs of short-term rehabilitation.

For senior adults in the broader community, the licensed and accredited Liberty at Home and Liberty Hospice are able to provide critical services in homes throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. These services include nursing, physical therapy, speech language therapy, occupational therapy, medical social services, hospice care, home health aides, certified home assistants, transportation services, personal household management, and home maintenance.

For the last 10 years, Liberty’s LCFS has provided leadership for the West Philadelphia Senior Community Center, a beloved neighborhood hub that represents a vital presence to thousands of underserved seniors, many of whom cope with severe economic hardship and/or food insecurity. Since its establishment, WPSCC has grown by more than 500% and today improves the lives of 4,000 individuals through social services, support groups, fitness and life enrichment programs, initiatives that help to remediate food insecurity and poor nutrition, and outreach to homebound seniors. In 2016, LCFS transitioned its child, family, and refugee programs to other faith-based or civic partners.

Lutheran Congregational Services continues to offer educational opportunities to congregations including Lay Eucharistic Visitor Training, especially with congregations in pastoral transition,

F - 7 and Journeys through Grief. This year, we increased our repertoire of ministries around grief by offering educational opportunities for congregations exploring how we all support those who are grieving in our community. Lutheran Disaster Response – Eastern Pennsylvania (LDR-EPA) works with congregational leaders in response to any size disasters affecting the community. LDR-EPA continued our Disaster Spiritual Partners program accompanying congregational leadership with support and guidance so that the local congregation can take a leadership role in the healing of the community after disasters large and small.

We are honored to steward the generosity of congregations and individuals who support our work. Together, we make a vital difference in the lives of the most vulnerable among us. To further explore how we can help build your congregational capacity to serve the most vulnerable among us, contact the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Phelps Ollikainen, Executive Director of Lutheran Congregational Services, at 610.425.2981 or [email protected].

In Christ,

Luanne B. Fisher, PhD. CEO/President Liberty Lutheran

Lutheran Charities builds resources to support Lutheran Social Ministry Organizations in our region. These charities serve over 100,000 people every year – one in 49 in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Working together we offer help, hope and the light of Christ to those who need it most.

These social ministry organizations are long established Lutheran led sources of excellent care, advocacy, education and encouragement. The five SMO's that fall under Lutheran Charities’ umbrella are: Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries, KenCrest, Liberty Lutheran family of services, Lutheran Settlement House and Martin Luther – Silver Springs School.

In June of 2016 Lutheran Charities named Barbara Stechert as their Manager of Donor Relations and Ministry Partnerships. Barbara reaches out to donors - both individuals and congregations, volunteers and community leaders to share the message of Lutheran Charities. Barbara visited

F - 8 more than twenty churches since she began and hopes to visit many more in 2017. Additionally she works to build relationships between Lutheran Charities and pastors, lay leaders, the Synod and others.

Thank you for your generosity! Individuals and churches respond generously to our mission and the future of Lutheran charities looks bright. Our final quarter giving rose 100% between 2015 and 2016. Because of your generosity, Lutheran Charities distributed $121,000 to the member organizations this spring!

During Synod Assembly, we invite congregations to pick up a resource folder at the Lutheran Charities table in the Mission Center. The resource folders contain a wealth of information about the ministries and services of our Lutheran Charities organizations. We hope that you will use this folder when someone comes to your congregation seeking help and support to which our social ministry organizations respond.

Lastly, mark your calendars for the Lutheran Charities 24th Bike Steeple Chase and Community Day on October 14, 2017 . Find out more at our Mission Center table.

Thank you for your continuing support of Lutheran Charities! God is writing an exciting new chapter for our ministry and you are a part of it. Contact Barbara Stechert with your questions or ideas at [email protected] or 855–323–4673.

Respectfully submitted, Barbara L. Stechert Manager of Donor Relations and Ministry Partnerships

Lutheran Settlement House 2016 Senior Center LSH Senior Center offers classes, activities, and trips that keep members connected to their community and living independently in their homes. In December 2015 we launched our new and successful Senior Center Tech Café. • 22 regular tech class attendees • 35 tech classes • 46 clients using wi-fi/the • 30 tablets/laptops available for seniors

CARES Program The CARES program provides resources, advocacy, and support groups to caregivers of elderly adults. According to recipients of CARES resources: “CARES made me see that others are in similar situations and made me stronger in dealing with my mom.” And, “my goals were met through the CARES counselor and the support group. Total lifesaver for me!”

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Jane Addams Place Jane Addams Place provides food, shelter, housing placement, and job and life skills trainings in order to help mothers achieve self-sufficiency. The average length of stay is 6.5 months, and 89% of Jane Addams families moved to stable housing. We also have Animal Assistant Play Therapy, where children interact with our certified play therapy dog, Winston, doing training tasks for emotional and behavioral development. Hungry 2 Healthy • 62 healthy cooking lessons attended by 77 teens & seniors • 26 seniors participated in subsidized Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) • Farm 2 Shelter project brought fresh and nutritious meals to Jane Addams families • Over 76,000 pounds of food distributed to neighbors through our food pantry • Over 900 pounds of produce grown on our intergenerational urban farm

Adult Education & Career Development • 45 learners enrolled with 78% retention rate • 37 clients benefited from Pathways to Employment Project, 37% of which were domestic violence clients and 30% were shelter clients

Bilingual Domestic Violence Program • 574 survivors received in-person support • 5,005 individuals received hotline counseling • 22 families provided emergency housing

Volunteer hours for all programs • Adult Education & Career Development: 1,096 • Bilingual Domestic Violence Program: 598 • Senior Center: 1,122 • Jane Addams Place: 3,315

Seafarers International House - Harbor of Hospitality 123 East 15th Street, New York, NY 10003 212-677-4800 (seven days a week, 24 hours a day) — [email protected] — www.sihnyc.org

Year in Review We stand with seafarers. We stand with immigrants. Since 1873! Always Have, Always Will.

Our mission began as an outreach to Swedish seafarers and Swedish immigrants. Over the years, the mission evolved, based on the needs of the time. After the great wave of immigration from 1870 to 1920, the emphasis focused on seafarers for whom we provided safe, affordable lodging and a ministry of presence in the ports.

In the last ten years, the number of vulnerable immigrants coming to our shores and their harsh treatment by Government officials caused Seafarers International House to enlarge the use of its Guesthouse as a mission resource.

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Today, we are proud of this dual mission for seafarers and vulnerable immigrants. Our port mission for seafarers consist of seven port chaplains serving in ports in Baltimore, Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Rhode Island. The number of ships coming into these ports has decreased slightly in response to international trade levels and shipping routes. Moreover, new ships are designed for smaller crew sizes. Accordingly, the number of seafarers coming into our ports and staying at our Guesthouse has decreased over the last few years. Our immigrant mission focuses Mission Highlights primarily on asylum seekers, Seafarers 2016 2015 2014 people who are forced to flee Ships Visited 1,686 1,852 2,086 their homelands. There is Seafarers Visited 18,970 21,500 22,738 considerable turmoil in the Van Trips 3,145 4,074 5,202 world, and today one out of Seafarers Transported 7,661 11,478 13,813 every seven persons are Christmas-at-Sea Gifts 1,771 2,226 2,100 displaced from their homelands due to war, insurrection, Immigrants oppression, collapsed Refugees - Asylum Seekers 23 12 18 economies and natural Lodging Nights 805 709 512 disasters. Moreover, the United

States has become increasingly Community fearful of the arrival of these Domestic Violence– 8 14 4 folks arriving at our borders and Human Trafficking our airports, seeking asylum. Local Disaster Victims 72 56 62 We risk becoming a Youth Service Gatherings 5 4 7 Xenophobic nation with only a Church Gatherings 181 179 163 core of citizens and institutions Community Gatherings 398 447 397 practicing philoxenia– welcoming the stranger.

This mission of welcome consists of visiting asylum seekers in the prisons and detention centers where they are held upwards of six months and more while they wait for the Immigration Court to hear and adjudicate their claims for asylum. After they are released, we are able to offer them temporary lodging in our Guesthouse. Last year, we visited 80 detained asylum seekers and provided needed lodging for 23 released ‘asylees” over a period of 805 nights.

I get to know nearly all the asylees who come and stay with us for 3-9 weeks. In every single case I see the resilience, the agency, and the sheer determination of each person released from detention. They find jobs and apartments. They support themselves and become productive members of society. Without exception, they “pay their own way”, contrary to the stereotype that migrants are parasites on our country. And so it often comes to pass: time and time again, I visit detainees in the detention center one month and find that they are released to our care a month or two later. We stand with immigrants and seafarers in whatever number and with whatever need they are presented to us. Always Have. Always Will.

Remember, our Guesthouse also accommodates church gatherings and civic groups traveling to New York City in connection with their missions and needing safe, affordable lodging. Through these accommodations, we support your missions. And by staying here, you help to support our mission to seafarers, immigrants and other displaced persons.

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Entertaining Angels Unawares Hebrews 13:2

Let’s be candid. Today, a good portion of the American public is deeply concerned about entertaining any stranger and likely is reluctant to take a chance of receiving an angel for fear of getting instead a diluter of our American culture or even a terrorist.

Indeed, in some government circles nowadays, it is suggested that we should not receive any foreigners unless they practice Christianity, speak English, are affluent and look a little like white caucasians.

Since most of the seafarers and immigrants we encounter and serve have few, if any, of those traits, we feel the need to speak up: we stand with refugees and immigrants.

We’re not alone here.

Martin Luther taught that the church is called to be present in both kingdoms — law and gospel, and that its members have a calling to be good citizens by their conscientious participation in the political process.

ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has reminded us that “many of our ancestors faced the pain of having to flee their homes and the joy of being welcomed in new communities . . . We honor our shared biblical values as well as the best of our nation’s traditions by offering refuge to those most in need.” Emma Lazarus has given this country an immigrant mission statement —

Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, to me: I lift my lamp beside the golden door

Seafarers International House is speaking up: We serve a multinational, multi-faith community of seafarers and immigrants. Thanks be to God that we might so serve! Blessings,

Rev. Marsh Luther Drege. Executive Director

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SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD ASSEMBLY REPORT, 2017

Motivated by Christ’s Love and command to extend that Love, Silver Springs – Martin Luther School (Silver Springs) was founded in 1859 as an orphanage. Today, Silver Springs provides educational, residential, and community based mental health services that promote resilience, stability, and bright futures for children, and families, who face steep challenges. Through trauma- informed care, Silver Springs helps children to manage overwhelming memories, feelings, and behavior problems caused by the frightening and sad things that have happened to them.

In Fiscal Year 2015/2016 (FY 15/16) Silver Springs served just over 2,400 children and their families from throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania and surrounding counties and the state of Delaware. All programs have a strong mental health component that brings an opportunity for trauma recovery and healing to children who range in age from day-old infants to college students, and families of all ages, in a child-centered, family-focused ministry. Silver Springs is non- denominational with regard to who is served.

Residential Treatment Program – During FY 15/16, the Residential Treatment (RT) Program served 133 boys and girls, ages six through 14 (and 200 families/caregivers) struggling with severe emotional and behavioral difficulties. Most of the children have experienced significant traumas including physical and/or sexual abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Many have experienced poverty, parental mental illness, domestic violence, homelessness, and other challenging family situations.

The RT Program provides a therapeutic living environment that includes individualized treatment, supervision, care, and nurturing for children on a 24-hour-a-day basis through outcome-oriented treatment, psychiatric evaluation, trauma-informed therapy, case management, behavior management, and health care. Available therapies include individual, family, group, a highly structured milieu, counseling, behavioral, and medication. Children participate in recreational activities and interact, if they desire, with a Lutheran Vicar on staff available to advise the children. All services are provided with the valued participation of biological, adoptive, and/or foster families.

Community Based Programs – During FY 15/16, our Community Based Programs served 722 children, ranging in age from birth to 21 years old, and 873 foster and/or biological parents. Children in Foster Family Care (FFC) benefit from community placements that address their emotional, behavioral, medical, social, and developmental needs. The FFC Program offers structured home living with foster parents trained to provide for the specific, identified needs of each child. Case management, various clinical therapies, and outreach services are extended to each child’s foster family and biological family. Children are encouraged to participate in specialized summer experiences depending upon their individual, educational, medical, and/or emotional needs.

Through community-based Behavioral Health Rehabilitative Services (BHRS), Silver Springs provides Mobile Therapy, Behavior Specialist Consultants, and Therapeutic Staff Support services

F - 13 that include individual and family therapy for children in home, school, and community settings, assessment of a child’s behavior in these settings, consultation, one to one supervision, modeling, coaching, and support to children based on a behavioral plan.

Outpatient Mental Health Services provides individual and family therapy at two locations, Plymouth Meeting and Philadelphia. This program helps children, and their families, ages two to 18 years old achieve and maintain emotional and behavioral stability.

Martin Luther School – During FY 15/16, Martin Luther School served 248 students and 185 caregivers. A Pennsylvania Department of Education “Approved Private School,” Martin Luther School provides an individualized educational program designed to meet the needs of emotionally disturbed students, students with autism or PDD, and intellectually disabled students in grades K- 8, and also to provide elementary education for grades 1-6. Students are referred to Martin Luther School from public school districts and the Silver Springs RT Program. In addition to academic, social, and emotional deficits, many students attending Martin Luther School have significant learning disabilities. Individual Educational Plans identify their instructional needs. School facilities include a gymnasium, outdoor recreational facilities, a library, technology instruction, tutoring in reading and mathematics, and art and music classrooms.

Family Resource Services (FRS) – Family Resource Services, which served 52 clients last year, primarily assists children and families currently served by one of Silver Springs’ programs. FRS represents Silver Springs’ focused response, on a case-by-case basis, to those extenuating circumstances that can debilitate a family and jeopardize the well-being of a child. Through FRS, Silver Springs provides direct financial assistance for families. Some examples of this assistance include but are not limited to: paying utility bills to keep the heat on in a home, providing a parent with support for transportation costs so s/he can get to work, providing families with assistance with unforeseen medical expenses, and more. Through FRS, Silver Springs also assists families as we are able to provide special holiday experiences for their children. When funds are available, Silver Springs also provides scholarship assistance to alumni of our programs for post-secondary education expenses.

Your Partnership: More than 50 Lutheran congregations of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod actively assist Silver Springs in meeting the needs of a challenging population. We are grateful for these generous and supportive partners. Relationships with congregations of other denominations, community groups, and philanthropic organizations extend a mosaic of funding that demonstrates “fervent love is an action.”

To learn more about our programs, please visit www.silver-springs.org . If you would like to schedule a visit and tour of our campus, please contact Lynn Unipan, CFRE, Development Director, at (610) 825-4440 x206 or [email protected] .

Thank you for partnering with us to help vulnerable children learn, heal, and reach for bright futures! Kristen E.M. Gay, Ph.D., President/CEO

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Reports of Colleges and Seminaries

Muhlenberg College Continues its Momentum and Upward Trajectory

The 2016-17 academic year saw Muhlenberg College develop many exciting new initiatives, receive many accolades and win a lot of athletic honors. The College continued to gain more national recognition, highlighted by its theatre department being named #1 in the country by Princeton Review. Princeton Review also ranked the College's dining service #16, which complemented the top rankings by the Daily Meal. The College was judged a best value by Kiplinger's and Money Magazine, received a silver rating in sustainability and ranked #5 in water conservation by Sustainable Campus Index.

The College continues its major networking initiatives to enhance student outcomes. Career road trips to New York and Washington were among the highlights in the Career Center, which has already added more than 1,300 alumni and parents to the Muhlenberg Network. Public health became a full-fledged major at the College and shortly thereafter signed an agreement with Boston University School of Public Health. The College also added an agreement with the Lehigh University School of Management and is exploring new medical, law and business school partnerships. Also, Muhlenberg became the first undergraduate institution to offer the course Copyright X, taught in collaboration with a professor at Harvard Law School.

THAW, the Toast Heard Around the World, was again a success. Thousands of alumni across the country gathered at more than 40 sites – and on seven continents (yes Antarctica too) – to toast their alma mater. Coupled with the College's Day of Giving, which saw more than 2,200 people make a gift in a 24-hour period and Mule Madness, an alumni athletic challenge, the College's advancement efforts have soared during the past year.

Another highlight this year was a campaign visit by Vice Presidential candidate Tim Kaine, which drew an overflow crowd.

As usual, the College's Summer Music Theatre drew large audiences with "In the Heights" getting rave reviews. "Pirates of Penzance" and the Master Choreographers dance concert also garnered excellent coverage during the academic year.

On the athletic front, the Muhlenberg football team earned another post-season bid and the field hockey team won the ECAC championship. Cross country runner Jaryd Flank earned All- American honors as did football player Willie Britt and women's basketball player Brandi Vallely.

Muhlenberg College has a new strategic plan for Religious Life, which includes five major goals. One goal is to articulate what it means that Muhlenberg is a college in the Lutheran intellectual tradition, both today and as we move into the future. We hope various College constituents will better understand the Lutheran intellectual tradition and affirm the College’s relationship with the ELCA. Thank you for your partnership in this work.

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Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia Report to Synod Assemblies, 2017

United Lutheran Seminary Launches July 1! Imagine one Lutheran seminary in Pennsylvania that is stronger than its combined separate predecessors in Philadelphia and Gettysburg. Imagine an unprecedented level of student support. Imagine a seminary educating students across two campuses in residential, online, and hybrid formats and with a superb faculty. Imagine a state of the art school that provides a leading-edge curriculum with the deepest, classical roots on the continent. Imagine United Lutheran Seminary, opening July 1, 2017! Fifteen month ago, we announced a bold and forward-looking proposal to create a new school of theological education and leadership formation in collaboration with our colleagues at LTSG. I am very excited to announce that we are on schedule to launch ULS according to schedule on July 1, 2017. The new school is financially sustainable, more accessible to our students through Distributed Learning and Accelerated Cooperative pathways, and more affordable, as a key component is significantly higher levels of financial aid for all students. In addition, the constituting faculty at ULS has been working hard on a creative and integrative curriculum that focuses on developing leadership competencies geared toward renewing our congregations in a time of rapid cultural change.

Full Tuition Scholarships Making an Impact Determined to make it possible for seminary graduates to focus on their studies while in seminary and serve where the church needs them most upon graduation, we announced last year an initiative to make full tuition scholarships available to all full-time, residential, ELCA candidates for rostered ministry, and to help all other students also receive full tuition support by matching the contributions of congregations and church bodies up to 100%. This effort is paying off. LTSP had a 50% increase in MDiv candidates this past fall, with students reporting that stronger financial aid, along with the availability of Distributed Learning options and the excitement around the new school, were key motivations for coming to LTSP. Thus far, we are exceeding all of our benchmarks from last year, so things look very promising for the inaugural class of ULS. We can do this only because of the generous support of the ELCA church wide office, synods, congregations, and individuals. Thank you!

New Leadership A search to find the new president of United Lutheran Seminary is progressing well, with the anticipated goal of bringing an exceptional candidate to the April meeting of the ULS Board. Look forward to an exciting update at the Synod Assembly as we introduce the leader who will guide ULS into its exciting future.

Heritage and Continuity Assured In the midst of newness is a reminder of the richness and value of the two seminaries’ distinct and complementary heritages. Even as we bid farewell to faculty and staff members who are retiring or moving to new callings, we celebrate that almost the entire initial United Lutheran faculty will be comprised of current members of the Philadelphia and Gettysburg teaching theologians. Both the Urban Theological Institute and Town and Country Church Institute carry forward, as well as beloved traditional annual events like Advent Vespers and Music Gettysburg!

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Concerts. While anticipating bold pathways forward, we also give thanks for our “goodly heritage.”

Renewed Lifelong Learning We continue to offer timely Lifelong Learning events to strengthen congregational ministry. In September, 150 leaders gathered for our third free “Ministry Resource Day,” this year focused on creative stewardship. In February, and with the strong support of one of our local congregations, we drew more than 200 leaders to the second annual – and this year free! – “Preaching Days” with Anna Carter Florence and Will Willimon. And in March, Rich Melheim helped us imagine creating vibrant cross-generational worship experiences. Through these and other events, LTSP – and ULS! – is committed to being a trustworthy partner in equipping you for more effective leadership in order to renew our congregations.

UTI Grows & Preaching With Power Turns 35 The Urban Theological Institute was founded thirty-six years ago as a partnership between LTSP and numerous African American churches in Philadelphia to educate leaders for these congregations. It continues to grow both in terms of students and impact. Over the years, one of the signature events of this program has been “Preaching with Power,” an annual celebration of the history and ongoing importance of the Black Preaching Tradition. This spring, we hosted our 35th annual event with strong and enthusiastic attendance. To ensure the continued vitality of the UTI, the ULS Board affirmed the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Quintin Robertson as Director.

Campus Redevelopment LTSP is engaged in a comprehensive and community-oriented process to re-imagine and redevelop the perimeter of its campus to help reduce debt, strengthen the endowment, and steward its resources to better serve its mission and the surrounding community. The anticipated timeline for the completion of this redevelopment is 4-6 years, with some projects possibly starting in 2018. Expect regular updates as we move forward to ensure the vitality of our mission in Philly.

2017 Report of the Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries to the Synods of Regions 7, 8 and 9

In the rapidly changing landscape of theological education, “status quo” has less and less meaning. Instead, we might talk about a “fluxus quo,” as change and flux seem to be the “new normal.” The Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries is no exception.

For those less familiar with the Eastern Cluster, this was the separately incorporated entity created by Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, and the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia to create efficiencies by inviting shared use of resources and greater interaction between the faculty and staff of our institutions. Since its founding in 1995, the Eastern Cluster has fostered strong collaboration

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Across its history, the Cluster has successfully received grants from a number of foundations – Lilly Endowment, Luce Foundation, Teagle Foundation, Thrivent – as well as ELCA research and development grants made available by the Division for Ministry. Over the course of its life, in excess of $6 million has been garnered for Clusterwide projects. Among other projects, the creation of One Library Under Three Roofs (linking the three campus libraries into a unified system), Project Connect (a vocational discernment and recruitment effort), and various attempts to build a robust coordinated Cluster program of continuing education received the largest grants, and probably had the greatest impact. Most recently, the Cluster has received a renewal and extension of the Lilly-Endowment funded Abundant Life grant to help reduce student debt, teach greater financial acumen among our students, and promote holistic stewardship in the personal lives and congregations of our graduates.

Other major emphases and programs include Cluster sponsorship of the annual Diaconal Ministry Formation Event (with faculty from the three schools contributing), significant Cluster budgetary support for the Atlanta program (an Afro-centric studies project in collaboration with the Interdenominational Theological Center), and a collaborative Doctor of Ministry program centered at Philadelphia. Most recently, the schools have worked with colleagues from the ELCA on carrying out a consultation on the Cluster archives, and an upcoming LWF trip to Namibia supported in part through funds designated for use in the Cluster (the Marple Fund).

In recent years, there have been a number of changes to the Cluster. In 2009, the Cluster was “downsized” to reduce administrative costs. In 2012, it adapted to the incorporation of Lutheran Southern Seminary into Lenoir-Rhyne University. And today it is responding to the unification of LTSG and LTSP into United Lutheran Seminary. Despite these changes, the goals of the Cluster – to foster shared resources and encourage collaboration in order to enhance and broaden theological education – remain the same, even as the form of that cooperation continues to evolve. Currently, the governing board is considering whether the administrative structure of the Cluster is a help or hindrance to continue our shared library system, support our faculty fellows, facilitate the opportunity to seek impactful grants, and increase the potential to create cooperative systems of education for the larger church. As we explore various possibilities for faithful and efficient sharing of resources, we are grateful for the encouragement, prayers, and support of our synods and larger church. Theological education for the whole church has never been more important, and the Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries has been privileged to support that endeavor.

David J. Lose, Executive Director William B. Trexler, Board Chair

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Reports of Agencies

Greetings from Bear Creek Camp the Lutheran Outdoor Ministry for the Southeast and Northeast Pennsylvania Synods of the ELCA.

The summer of 2016 was a great one at Bear Creek Camp!

- For the first time in over 20 years our summer camp attendance increased FOUR years in a row. 2016 saw an increase of 5% over the previous summer and we are up 51% since 2013. - 39 summer staff members did an excellent job of showing and sharing the Gospel through activities, Bible studies, games, team building moments and having fun! - Campers, parents and chaplains were very encouraging of the current program that is in place at BCC. o Among the comments we received: ° I really enjoyed hearing some of the songs the kids sang throughout the week as well as the Bible verses in the closing program. Camper Parent ° This was my daughter's first time at BCC. She LOVED it and can't stop talking about it. She said that the counselors "made it" and I was thoroughly impressed with her counselor when I met her. Being so comfortable with the counselor made it MUCH easier to leave my daughter on the first day. Camper Parent ° 3 words - Best. Camp. Ever. Camper ° This place helps me learn and grow in my faith. Camper ° During the week I enjoyed watching the youth build relationships with each and strengthen their relationship with God. The team of counselors were a terrific group of young adults ... they were committed to making each and every young person's week at camp fun and meaningful. Pastor

- Our Church Day Camp program continues to grow as we will serve 13 churches this summer with our “on the road” day camp program.

Thank you Northeast and Southeast PA Synods and congregations for your ongoing support of the ministry at Bear Creek Camp. We are grateful to work in partnership with each of you and to be an extension of your ministries at our location near Wilkes-Barre. The enthusiasm for the ministry of Bear Creek Camp is spreading we are very excited about the months and years to come.

Our associate director, Pete Smith, and I have been very busy visiting congregations to promote BCC and our summer programs. If you are interested in a visit, please contact us after our summer season ends and we will be happy to find a date that works.

Please continue to pray for Bear Creek Camp this summer as we have a great time exploring, celebrating and growing in God’s creation. Respectfully submitted, Dan Scharnhorst, Executive Director

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In response to God’s love in Jesus Christ, we advocate for wise and just public policies in Pennsylvania that promote the common good. Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania is a shared ministry of seven Pennsylvania synods, the ELCA Domestic Mission unit, and Pennsylvania ELCA agencies and institutions. Through LAMPa, Lutherans are supported to voice their faith convictions in the public square with and on behalf of our most vulnerable neighbors and the world we share, while seeking to create a more just Commonwealth.

In 2016, LAMPa celebrated 37 years of advocacy ministry that supported and deepened your congregational efforts to address hunger, poverty, immigration, school funding inequity, racism and environmental injustice. Thanks be to God for the support of our Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Policy Council representatives, Annette Sample and the Rev. Jennifer Ollikainen. The Rev. Ollikainen is this year’s Policy Council Chair.

LAMPa advocacy takes place through staff work in the capital, partnerships with coalitions and engagement of Lutherans in letter-writing, email and call-in advocacy, legislative visits, offering of testimony, editorial writing, social media campaigns, press conferences and rallies. In 2016, we identified seven issue areas around which to build teams of advocates: Hunger, Mental Health/Addication, Racial Justice, Creation Justice, Immigration, Poverty/Housing/Employment and Education. Please consider offering your gifts or experience to any of these teams and contact LAMPa to become engaged!

Highlights of LAMPa advocacy in 2016 include:

Feeding the Hungry: Pennsylvania Lutherans helped secure a 4.1 percent increase in the line item that supports the commonwealth’s most critical anti-hunger programs – one of the most significant funding increases in years in our fight against hunger in Pennsylvania. The State Food Purchase Program increased from $18.438 million to $19.188 million. SFPP remains one of the commonwealth’s most important tools in the fight against hunger and a lifeline for food banks across Pennsylvania. Many of our Lutheran food pantries rely on this program to supplement their ministries. The program provides cash grants to counties for the purchase and distribution of food to low-income individuals, including seniors. For years, the program has suffered from stagnant funding even as need rose dramatically.

The SFPP line item is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and supports programs such as the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System (PASS) and The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). After completing a successful first year, PASS received $1 million in continued funding.

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In addition, staff continued to work with statewide anti-hunger advocates to inform the work of the Governor’s Food Security Partnership. That partnership produced a “Blueprint for a Hunger- Free Pennsylvania” in the fall. LAMPa continues to work with policymakers and anti-hunger advocates to implement the recommendations found in the blueprint, and the governor’s 2017 budget proposal included a $2 million increase in funding for school breakfast.

Giving All Children a Better Chance at Academic Success – Pennsylvania Lutherans pressed lawmakers as part of the Campaign for Fair Education Funding to address the state’s rating as the least equitable in the country for education funding,. This inequity has been leading to widening achievement gaps between wealthy and poor districts, as well as along racial lines. The efforts saw a tremendous win in 2016 with the passage of HB 1552. The bill, which amends the Public School Code of 1949, requires all new funds in the K-12 allocation to be passed through the BEFC-approved formula, received overwhelming bipartisan support. The formula passed through the Senate with a vote of 49-1 and passed the House with a vote of 188-3. Although we sought an additional $400 million, last year’s budget did see a $200 million increase in basic education funding – a step toward alleviating the state’s inadequate and inequitable school funding situation.

LAMPa staff continued to work toward coalition building for policies to promote trauma- responsive schools.

Addressing Poverty : LAMPa continued to fight attempts by predatory lenders to gain a foothold in Pennsylvania through proposals to introduce payday lending to the state.

Standing for Welcome – LAMPa worked to successfully stop legislation that sought to punish municipalities that adopted policies against honoring requests from Immigration and Customs Enforcement to detain undocumented persons without a warrant. Many Pennsylvania municipalities adopted such policies, citing increased work and cost for local law enforcement erosion of trust between local police and immigrant communities – threatening public safety for all.

LAMPa advocated for the closure of the Berks County detention center, where immigrant families, including small children, are held while awaiting decisions on their requests for asylum. The administration maintains that the facility is not licensed for that purpose, but the operator is appealing the decision. LAMPa advocates have been attending vigils at the center to show support for the families inside.

Connecting Service to Advocacy: LAMPa provided information, resources and support for congregations and conferences participating in the Churchwide Day of Service in September. This practice is being lifted up church-wide for this year’s Day of Service.

In 2017, LAMPa will again be developing service-and-advocacy projects for congregations to engage in for the Churchwide Day of Service on Sept. 10. We would be glad to help your congregation plan to make that day one of “God’s work. Our hands. Our voices.”

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Public Witness: In 2016, LAMPa coordinated the first “Ashes-to-Go” at the state capitol to mark the beginning of Lent. Clergy and lay leaders from several denominations offered prayers and anointing on the sidewalk and in the rotunda and were extremely well received.

The traditional Lutheran Day in the Capitol became a two-day event in 2016, with a day of service, learning and an interfaith blessing of the waters on Sunday, followed by a day of preparation for advocacy on Monday. The event was an official part of Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettyburg’s Spring Academy, and featured participation by Lutheran Camping Corp. and ELCA Glocal musicians – collaboration that LAMPa seeks to grow as we work to be church together, for the sake of the world, in Pennsylvania. We invite you to join us for Lutheran Day in the Capital on May 22, as we do just that.

Lutheran Archives Center at Philadelphia President’s Letter to Synod Assemblies

Towards the end of 2016 I had the opportunity to travel to Armagh, in Northern Ireland. Armagh is the ancient ecclesiastical center of Ireland, and it was the episcopal seat of St. Patrick. In Armagh I toured the Cardinal Thomas O’ Fiaich Library and Archive, which is the headquarters of the Armagh Diocesan Archives. The Archives Director, Roddy Hegarty, was kind enough to show me their facility and a sampling of their collection that dates back to the 16 th century. One of the fascinating items that I viewed was a scroll that looked like it was one of the Dead Sea Scrolls when it was rolled up on its shelf. The scroll was actually one of a number of similar items in their collection, and it dated back to the 17 th century. This scroll was a genealogical chart that attempted to prove that the owner had a legitimate claim to the Irish nobility, and it was produced by an Irish Earl who had fled to France after he was deprived of his station. This Earl had been on the “wrong side” of history during a time of religious and social unrest in his homeland, and he had to flee to another country to try and rebuild his life after he lost practically everything in the turmoil of that era. What the Archives Director noted was that, despite his impressive pedigree that was presented on that scroll, this Earl’s attempts to gain a comparable order of nobility in France had been denied. Somehow, many years later, one of this nobleman’s descendants found his way back to Armagh, where he dutifully deposited this historic relic into their Diocesan repository.

While many items in an ecclesiastical archive do not often take such a circuitous route to find their way home, I cite this example for a reason: church archives often bear witness to much more than parish council decisions of what color to paint the parish hall. The great variety of documents in our collection at the Lutheran Archives Center bear witness to the full range of human life in our congregations, Synods, agencies, and institutions, as well as in the personal papers contained in our repository. Your regional archive bears witness to the more than 375 years of Lutheran history in the northeast. While we do not preserve genealogical scrolls from 17 th century deposed Irish nobility, we do have the records and papers of generations of Lutherans who sought to spread the Gospel in the northeastern portion of this country from the 17 th century to the present. If you have never visited the Lutheran Archives Center, I invite you to do so. If you have visited before, please come again! If we can be of any assistance, please

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feel free to contact us. Your Synod Archivists are Affiliated members of our Board of Directors, and they are willing and able to help with any questions you may have about the preservation of your congregational archives. Make sure to pick up a copy of our Archives Advocate newsletter at your Assembly that gives you our latest news and developments.

As 2017 marks the 500 th commemoration of the Reformation, the Lutheran Archives Center at Philadelphia joins with the Synods, agencies, and institutions of the northeast region in remembering this anniversary. Together, we are all part of this 500-year-old heritage within this portion of the Church Catholic, and we ask your prayers and your support as we continue our ministry of preserving the archival heritage of this region.

Wishing you blessings on your Synod Assembly!

The Rev. J. Francis Watson, Ph.D. President of the Board, Lutheran Archives Center at Philadelphia

Lutheran Home at Germantown Foundation Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly Report 2017

Lutheran Home at Germantown Foundation receives, holds, and invests all endowment and similar funds of the corporation and raises, holds, and invests contributions for the support of social ministry organizations affiliated with the Church with particular reference to Silver Springs – Martin Luther School, recognizing the common heritage and historical ties between the corporation and Silver Springs – Martin Luther School.

The Foundation's continuing interest and investment in helping to meet the compelling needs of children who have faced steep challenges and pain, and so early in their lives, is the focus of its attention and the heartbeat of its mission.

Kristen E.M. Gay, Ph.D., President/CEO

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The Mission Investment Fund (MIF), the lending ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, makes low-interest loans to ELCA congregations and ELCA-related ministries for building and renovation projects.

At year-end 2016, MIF had 860 loans outstanding, totaling $524 million.

To fund these loans, MIF offers a portfolio of investments for congregations, their members, synods and ELCA-related ministries to purchase. At year-end 2016, MIF investments by congregations, their members, synods and ELCA-related ministries totaled $474 million.

The Mission Investment Fund is a financially strong and stable organization, with a record of steady, controlled growth. With total assets of $678 million and net assets of $198 million at year-end 2016, MIF maintains a capital ratio of 29 percent - positioning MIF in the top tier of well-capitalized church extension funds.

MIF Loans and Investments in the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod (as of Dec. 31, 2016) • 23 Mission Investment Fund loans, with a balance of $16,802,702 • $10,474,806 in Mission Investment Fund investments by 150 individuals, 78 congregations, 6 ministries and the synod

MIF representative Gerry Lauro, Regional Manager, and Tel: (312) 805-6502; e-mail: [email protected] Mission Investment Fund | 8765 West Higgins Road | Chicago, Illinois 60631 Tel: 877-886-3522 | Web: mif.elca.org

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Region 7 Synod Assembly Report Southeast Pennsylvania Synod

As you gather in assembly, let me take this opportunity to thank God for you my brothers and sisters in the Southeastern Pennsylvania synod and thank your bishop The Rev. Claire Burkat for her continued support and partnership.

My name is Greg Villalon and I serve you as the Director for Candidacy and Leadership in the churchwide organization, and with the staffing changes that occurred March 1, will also serve Region 7 as the new candidacy resource person. As a native New Yorker, it is good to be back in an area of the country that I call home. I was born and raised in New York City, a member of Transfiguration Lutheran Church in the Bronx. I graduated from Hunter College in New York, and attended the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. My first call was to Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Jamaica, Queens and later accepted a call to Puerto Rico where I was later elected bishop of the Caribbean Synod. I have been married for 45 years to my wife Letty and have been blessed with 2 children and 3 grandchildren.

On March 1, 2017, the churchwide organization renewed its focus and energy on accompanying all our congregations as vital centers for mission led by vital leaders, while at the same time facing a decline in mission support. Because of this renewed emphasis and the financial challenges we faced, a restructuring of the candidacy regional staffing was needed to maintain our capacity to resource synod Candidacy Committees in their work to accompany candidates through their formation journey.

In the new staffing configuration, I will work directly with Region 7 which is comprised of six geographic synods: New Jersey, New England, Metro New York, Upstate New York, Northeastern Pennsylvania and Southeastern Pennsylvania, and a non-geographic synod, the Slovak Zion Synod. To assist me in this important work, a candidacy and leadership advisory group has been created to continue the areas of work previously done by the Regional Coordinators. The advisory team includes churchwide staff working together with 4 deployed Candidacy Leadership Managers who will be a part of my team. The advisory group will include: the Program Director for Candidacy Resources and Data, the Program Director for Assignments and Candidacy, the Program Director for Support of Rostered Ministers and Candidacy, and the Program Director for Multicultural Leadership and Candidacy. This new group configuration will intentionally connect the work of these related candidacy program areas.

Thank you for giving me this opportunity to introduce myself and to present the new way in which we will walk together to identify and support vital rostered and lay leaders for God’s mission through the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod. May God continue to richly bless you. The Rev. Dr. Greg Villalon Director for Candidacy and Leadership

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The Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia

The Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia was founded in March 2006 aiming to build relationships of mutual support, offer a moral and spiritual voice in the region, and identify issues of concern for dialogue and action. Co-convened by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, Rabbi David Straus, Imam Anwar Muhaimin, and Bishop Claire Schenot Burkat, the Council is the first of its kind in the city, with more than 30 member communities, representing more than two million people of diverse faith traditions from across the greater Philadelphia region.

I was appointed to sit on the Administrative Group on behalf of Bishop Burkat to represent her and the SEPA Synod. I follow in the footsteps of The Rev. Dr. David Grafton who held this position before me. Dr. Grafton was an instrumental voice in the Administrative Group and is greatly missed. The Administrative Group meets at least four times a year and advises the staff of the Interfaith Center to plan the agenda of the Religious Leaders Council Meetings.

This past year our work included the Interfaith Inaugural Prayer Gathering for Mayor Jim Kenney. The gathering included sharing sacred texts, music, and prayers for the new mayor and elected officials of Philadelphia. Over 200 people including more than 60 members from the region attended.

At our September meeting, the Administrative group gathered together to discuss the best practices for putting together multi-faith services as well as to explore ways that the council can be most responsive to the city in times of need and crisis.

In October the Interfaith Center’s Rev. Nicole Diroff, Associate Executive Director, joined Bishop Burkat, Rabbi David Straus, Imam Anwar Muhaimin, and the Rev. Dr. David Grafton at the 2016 Bishop’s Convocation. During these two days clergy and rostered leaders engaged in conversations promoting interfaith dialogue, understanding and respect, in order to bridge and connect our religious communities in the holy bonds of peace and justice.

During the November meeting of the Council, Council leaders were joined by special guests from the Mayor’s Office of Adult Education to discuss the Council’s commitment to raising awareness of the educational needs of our citizens and advocating to make literacy a reality for everyone in our region.

One of the key initiatives of the Religious Leaders Council is the Zone of Peace Communities. With this initiative the Council commits the resources of its congregation, members, and rich religious traditions to imagining our city as a zone of peace, free of fear, filled with respect, and marked by deeds of kindness.

I am humbled by the public witness that our Synod is playing in the Council and as leaders in our city in making interfaith work a priority. Members of the ELCA and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod can be proud the work our Synod is doing to make our city a better place for all citizens. To learn more about the Religious Leaders Council or the Interfaith Center please check out http://www.interfaithcenterpa.org/ .

Respectfully Submitted, The Rev. Fritz E. Fowler, Pastor , University Lutheran Church

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Zones of Peace: 2017 Report to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA

Please make our commitment your commitment I commit as an individual: to promote peace in my home and community.

I commit to work with others: to eliminate the causes of hatred, to honor the dignity of all people, to lay down our weapons, and to find non-violent solutions when tempted to hurt another.

I commit to be an instrument of God’s peace: to make my home and neighborhood Zones of Peace, free from fear, filled with respect, and marked by deeds of kindness.

Lutheran congregations named Zones of Peace are: St. John’s, Ambler; St. John’s, Melrose Park; Grace, Wyndmoor; Prince of Peace, Lawndale; Rhawnhurst Turning Point (co-sponsored by Redemption, Rhawnhurst); and Upper Dublin, Ambler. University Lutheran is a recent nominee. Zones of Peace is an initiative of the Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia: senior leaders from 33 religious traditions representing more than two million people in our region. Bishop Burkat is one of the Co-Conveners of the Council, serving with Archbishop Charles Chaput, Rabbi David Strauss, and Imam Anwar Muhaimin.

2017 SYNOD ASSEMBLIES Churchwide report in detail Synod Assembly Detailed Packet

Table of Contents

Editor’s Note: Contained within this document is detailed report for ELCA ministries and programs, from which the Synod Assembly talking points were drawn.

This document is organized in alphabetical order for ease of use, with the exception of Called Forward Together in Christ Strategic Directions 2025. It is listed first as it serves as the basis for our future direction together as a church.

Called Forward Together in Christ 500th anniversary of the Reformation Advocacy Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA AMMPARO (Accompanying Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities) Bishop Eaton’s Leadership Initiative Book of Faith Congregational vitality Ecumenical and inter-religious relations ELCA Federal Credit Union ELCA Foundation – partnerships and gift planners ELCA Fund for Leaders ELCA World Hunger Entrance rite discernment Global church Global church sponsorship “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday Human rights social message Leadership development Lutheran Disaster Response Mission Investment Fund New congregations Office of the Secretary Office of the Treasurer Refugees and migrants (see also AMMPARO) Rostered Ministers Gathering South Sudan outreach Women and Justice Called Forward Together in Christ

Propelled by a commitment to Lutheran traditions and to being a community of faith that is always forming and being renewed, the ELCA’s presiding bishop, Church Council and Conference of Bishops initiated Called Forward Together in Christ Strategic Directions 2025 for this church. The process sought to engage all ELCA members and partners in conversation about future directions so that this church can journey faithfully and effectively together in the years ahead. Many of you participated – THANK YOU!

Five goals came out of the of Called Forward Together in Christ process. These are the priorities that were shaped by the voices across this church: 1. A thriving church spreading the gospel and deepening faith for all people Priority areas for action. 2. A church equipping people for their baptismal vocations in the world and this church. 3. An inviting and welcoming church that reflects and embraces the diversity of our communities and the gifts and opportunities that diversity brings. 4. A visible church deeply committed to working ecumenically and with other people of faith for justice, peace and reconciliation in communities and around the world. 5. A well-governed, connected and sustainable church.

The Conference of Bishops, Church Council and Churchwide Organization have all affirmed two main focus areas for the next few years: • Congregational Vitality • Leadership

You can learn more about all of this at ELCA.org/future.

We invite you to continue to engage with Called Forward Together in Christ as we live into God’s call for the future of this church. 500th anniversary of the Reformation

2017 is well underway, which means we’re quickly approaching the Reformation anniversary date of Oct. 31. Here are a few things to keep in mind as your congregation and community plan for the year.

Reformation anniversary resources There are three ways to stay up-to-date on Reformation anniversary activities. These are: ELCA500. org, ELCA500 Facebook page and ELCA500 Twitter. Please take a moment to check them out, “Like” or “Follow” and use the resources to engage your congregation or participate in an event.

Now on the ELCA500.org site are two new resources to help congregations (and synods) plan and promote Reformation anniversary activities. Located under “Resources,” the how-to-guide for Reformation anniversary planning and promotion provides tips and tools for planning and promoting your activities. The Reformation Ideas list provides four categories of activities to consider or use as a brainstorming launch pad for events from now through October.

This January, travel expert Rick Steves provided a copy of his new Reformation documentary to every ELCA congregation.

Reformation storytelling projects Several storytelling projects are underway to help tell our collective Lutheran experience. Each is unique in its purpose, but all provide opportunities to share and learn from each other. You can read, watch or listen to the stories at livinglutheran.org/Reformation and find submission information at ELCA500.org/more. Consider submitting your story today.

Advocacy

The ELCA advocates for fair and just public policies that overcome poverty, promote peace and dignity, and defend God’s creation.

During the past year, this church encouraged faithful and nonpartisan voter participation by providing faith-based resources around voting.

Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA We are now in the fourth year of the ELCA’s first comprehensive five-year campaign,Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA. As of Jan. 31, we have collectively raised more than $113.4 million in cash and multi-year commitments for churchwide ministries and are so grateful for the continued support and partnership of ELCA synods and congregations.

Since the campaign’s launch in 2014, we have accomplished amazing things with the help of ELCA members, congregations and synods. Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA (cont’d)

More than 300 domestic hunger grants support sustainable solutions that get at the root causes of hunger and poverty across the U.S. In addition, nearly 60 countries around the world have ELCA World Hunger supported programs.

The ELCA Fund for Leaders provided 250 students with more than $2 million in seminary scholarships during the 2016-2017 academic year.

With $759,000 in support from the campaign, Renewing Congregations grants are being implemented across the ELCA, including 13 Synodical Renewing Congregations Strategies, four Area Ministry Strategies and four Fast Growth Congregations initiatives.

Funding from the campaign for the ELCA has expanded the work of ELCA congregational new starts by funding ten additional new ministries in a variety of contexts and with creative strategies.

The International Women Leaders initiative has reached 100 international Lutheran women with access to academic scholarships, training and networking opportunities.

Thirteen new global ministry evangelism projects were initiated by companion churches in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Latin America.

Twenty-one new or enhanced youth and young adult ministries have received a grant to grow existing programs or start new ones.

Young Adults in Global Mission launched four new country programs – Rwanda, Cambodia, Australia and Senegal, with 84 young adults sent into service during the 2016/2017 year. This represents a 45% growth in the first 3 years.

The 2017 campaign theme, Global Church, includes a focus on Missionaries and Young Adults in Global Mission, International Women Leaders and Global Ministries. Through a variety of learning and giving opportunities around three days – International Women’s Day, Pentecost Sunday and Global Church Sunday – we are lifting up this important work. Congregations and synods received a kickoff packet in early January with materials and ideas to get involved in the 2017 theme. A Pentecost Sunday packet will arrive in mid-April.

For additional resources, including the campaign case statement, videos and more, visit the campaign resources website at ELCA.org/Campaign-for-the-ELCA/Resources. For more information as you plan your involvement in the campaign, please contact us at 800-638-3522 or email us at [email protected].

AMMPARO

The AMMPARO Strategy was overwhelmingly adopted by the Churchwide Assembly last August. This strategy is unique among U.S. churches and provides a holistic, whole church response to Accompany Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities (AMMPARO). This initiative encompasses accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy at AMMPARO (cont’d) every moment of the migrant journey, from working with companions to providing protection and opportunities to potential migrants in their countries of origin, to migrants along their journey from Central America through Mexico, and to arriving migrants as they transition to a new phase of life in the U.S. It also includes accompaniment of companions who work with those migrants who have been deported to their countries of origin. As a whole church response, all ELCA expressions, strategic allies and ecumenical partners are included.

AMMPARO is a movement of people that is supported and facilitated by communication, funding and systems to organize the work.

The ELCA is accompanying international companions in Central America and Mexico who address the root causes of this migration -- principally violence, poverty and climate change.

In the spirit of AMMPARO’s guiding principles, synods and congregations are invited to accompany migrant children and families through synod AMMPARO or immigration task forces, as Welcoming Congregations, through the creation of Guardian Angel programs and through prayer. All ELCA members are encouraged to continue awareness-building and advocacy for the protection of these vulnerable children and families.

Bishop Eaton’s Leadership Initiative

Created in November 2016, the Leadership Initiative encourages all of us to seek out and inspire gifted people in our congregations, communities and networks to consider a call to the ministry of the gospel, supported by growing levels of scholarships for seminary tuition.

At the same time, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton announced a generous $3 million gift to the ELCA Fund for Leaders, which provides seminary scholarships for 60 additional students over the next three years.

If you know someone who shows a gift for ministry, help mentor and foster them. Together - pastors, deacons, lay people – we can bring the word of God to the world.

For more information, visit ELCA.org/leaders to find resources to guide discussions and offer inspiration for conversations and individual reflection on becoming a leader within the ELCA. Book of Faith

Getting the word out We give thanks to God for all of the individuals, congregations, synods, and churchwide ministries and institutions for their deep and abiding commitment to God’s transforming word in Christ, in proclamation and in Scripture!

The Book of Faith Initiative is a continuing priority of the ELCA, dedicated to encouraging all ministries and people of the church to continually renew and enrich our broad and deep engagement with Scripture for our own sakes and for the sake of the world.

The Book of Faith Initiative has operated using a decentralized, grass-roots approach centered on our common vision in which all are invited to open Scripture and join the conversation. We invite leaders to continue and boldly further this effort in their places of involvement.

From the beginning, the goal of the initiative has been two-fold: 1. to meet the continuing challenge of widespread biblical illiteracy; and 2. to renew the teaching of our rich theological heritage of scriptural understanding, interpretation and engagement.

To help realize the above goals and address the challenges listed below, we want to further encourage engagement of Scripture, especially using the “multiple lenses” approach. We seek your help and support as partners in this effort, in addressing the challenges that are currently serving to shape our calling. Some of the larger challenges are: • the growing number of people in society claiming to be “spiritual but not religious;” • the need to address and learn from the great variety of cultures that make up this church and world; • the role of the Bible in mission outreach; • the importance of family and home as centers of faith development; • the need for creative use of social media; • continued biblical illiteracy.

Despite the challenges, Christ is present as we engage Scripture, and this promise calls us forward together. Please join us in getting the word out and in encouraging all to open Scripture and join the conversation!

Learn more at bookoffaith.org. Find us on Facebook @bookoffaith and Twitter #bookoffaith.

Four lenses for engaging Scripture. Open Scripture. Join the conversation.

The initiative has emphasized that biblical engagement is greatly enriched by the use of multiple lenses in conversation with Scripture and other people. This suggested method is centered on four ways of reading the Bible and asking questions: devotional, historical, literary and theological reading. Four lenses for engaging Scripture. Open Scripture. Join the conversation.

The initiative has emphasized that biblical engagement is greatly enriched by the use of multiple lenses in conversation with Scripture and other people. This suggested method is centered on four ways of readingBook the of Bible Faith and asking(cont’d) questions: devotional, historical, literary and theological reading.

We begin. We read, ask questions, reflect on the meaning of the Bible from wherever we are – in place, time or state of mind. No matter where we are, our Book of Faith meets us there. DEVOTIONAL

We pay close attention to how the passage is written. We notice what kind of literature it is. We notice all the details, themes, characters, storyline, poetry and logic. We compare and contrast these with our understanding LITERARY and experience of life. In this process we discover meaning.

We seek to understand the world of the Bible. We explore the world of the writers and the original readers, the rulers, slaves, women, men and children. All the people in our Book of Faith. How do we understand their social and cultural contexts? How were their

HISTORICAL lives different from or the same as ours today?

As we open Scripture and join the conversation, we ask our deepest questions and listen for God’s voice. We hear God’s demands as well as God’s words of comfort and promise. We see Christ alive yesterday and today. We feel the movement of the Spirit and are moved to respond. THEOLOGICAL God is present in the word. Congregational vitality

The church is working with more than 35 synods on intentional strategies for improving congregational vitality. In addition, the unit has partnered with synods to start 124 new congregations and communities of Jesus over the past two years. The Directors for Evangelical Mission continue to engage synodical leaders, structures and strategies and coordinate and staff the education of all evangelical mission, mission support, and stewardship ministries in each synod.

Point out the Director for Evangelical Mission – a colleague who works with the synod to enhance collaboration and work together to grow the church.

Ecumenical & inter-religious relations

Lutheran-Catholic relations/500th anniversary of the Reformation The 500th anniversary of the Reformation was launched by a joint ecumenical commemoration in Sweden on October 31, 2016, that was led by the president and general secretary of Lutheran World Federation and The Pope. It included a service of Common Prayer at the Cathedral in Lund and a public stadium event lifting up areas of common service and public witness. (See lutheranworld.org/lund2016)

The service of Common Prayer was adapted for a service that took place on March 2 at the Lutheran Center between the ELCA Conference of Bishops and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Ecumenical & Interreligious Affairs Committee.

The co-chairs and members of the Declaration on the Way Task Force have been active in providing leadership for many synodical events to discover, explore and deepen understanding about Lutheran-Catholic relations and to consider the ecumenical dimensions of the 500th anniversary – with focus on the “Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification, From Conflict to Communion,” and “Declaration on the Way”. We welcome these invitations as opportunities for partnership.

We are grateful to 1517 Media for creating an online study guide for “Declaration on the Way”. This is a resource for deepening our reception of the agreements, and strengthening local Lutheran- Catholic relations. Available from the 1517 Media website and ELCA.org/ecumenical.

Other resources: • Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton’s webcast, “Ecumenical Witness and the Reformation:” ELCA.org/webcast • Joint Ecumenical Commemoration of the Reformation in Sweden: lutheranworld.org/lund2016 • Press conference: https://vimeo.com/189685569 Ecumenical & inter-religious relations (cont’d)

Lutheran-Orthodox relations On Nov.15, the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago ceremoniously returned a rare 9th century Greek manuscript of the complete New Testament to the Greek Orthodox Church. His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOA), Bishop Demetrios of the Chicago Diocese, and members of the staff of the GOA were also present. Conversations have led to the possibility of renewed dialogue between the ELCA and the GOA, possibly on the topic of care of creation.

Lutheran-Muslim relations Our Lutheran-Muslim relations have taken two forms in recent months: rapid response to anti-Muslim bigotry and continued engagement in long- term relationship-building, education, dialogue, and cooperation for the common good.

We are working in partnership with the Islamic Society of North America on church-mosque pilot projects in three synods: Southeastern Pennsylvania, Southwestern Washington, and Southeast Michigan. Thanks to Bishop Donald Kreiss, Bishop Rick Jaech, and Bishop Clarie Burkat for leading. The hope is that by taking these steps and expanding out to include other existing and new initiatives across this church, we will build out stronger local relations across the country.

We are also partnering with the Shoulder to Shoulder Campaign to respond to increased incidents of anti-Muslim bigotry over the past year and to concerns about anti-Muslim policies, including the recent and anticipated executive orders. We have participated in statements, press conference, events and strategic planning sessions. Bishop William Gafkjen, representing the ELCA as chair of the Conference of Bishops, gave a statement at the Nov. 18 press conference in Washington, D.C.: youtu.be/ijoNgnI8Er8. Learn more at shouldertoshouldercampaign.org.

Inter-Religious Task Force Chaired by Bishop Patricia Lull, the Inter-Religious Task Force is developing an inter-religious policy statement that will complement the 1991 ecumenism vision statement. A first draft is expected to be completed by the end of summer 2017, at which time a consultative process for input and feedback will unfold across this church. Under proper governance, a proposed statement is intended for presentation at 2019 Churchwide Assembly.

Please consider how you might take up Presiding Bishop Eaton’s invitation for conversation about our inter-religious calling and commitments in your synods. Apart from their own value, these events can be used to provide input into the work of the task force. EIR staff and Lutheran Ecumenical & Inter-Religious Representatives Network reps are available to offer leadership and support: [email protected]. Information about Ecumenical & inter-religious relations (cont’d)

“Engaging Others, Knowing Ourselves: A Lutheran Calling in a Multi-Religious World,” including downloadable workshop templates is available: ELCA.org/Faith/Ecumenical-and-Inter- Religious-Relations/Inter-Religious-Relations/Case-Studies. The book is also now available for Kindle on Amazon.

Historic Black Church relations As we work on racial justice and reconciliation within the ELCA, we are also working in partnership with Historic Black Churches in coalitions and bi-laterally.

For a second year, the ELCA was a co-sponsor of the cross- racial dialogue convened by the Conference of National Black Churches (CNBC) in Charleston, S.C. Dec. 13-15, 2016. The CNBC is the annual conference of the Historic Black Churches in the United States. This continues to be an area of growing partnership between Racial Justice Ministries, the African and European Descent Lutheran Associations, and Ecumenical & Inter-Religious Relations.

A significant dimension of the Bishops’ Academy was the presence of Bishop John White, president of the African Methodist Episcopal Council of Bishops. We are exploring possibilities for re-engaging our churches’ dialogue, which took place in the 1990s. It will be important to consider fresh models that combine theological dialogue and common action for the sake of the gospel. The initiatives in your synods will continue to be critical for shaping this future together.

Formula of Agreement 20th anniversary On March 26 at 3 p.m., the United Church of Christ Center in Cleveland hosted a worship service in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Formula of Agreement, the full communion agreement between the ELCA and three Reformed bodies the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the Reformed Church in America, and the United Church of Christ. Heads of communion, local judicatory leaders, ecumenical officers, and local clergy and lay leaders participated. This service was held in conjunction with a heads of communion meeting to explore the next chapter of our life together as full communion partners.

Churches Uniting in Christ - UPCOMING On the evening of June 4 in Dallas, heads of communion, local judicatory leaders, ecumenical officers, and local clergy and lay leaders will participate in a national worship service of recognition of ministries among the Churches Uniting in Christ. A public forum on race relations will be held on June 3, along with a pulpit exchange between local clergy and national Church Uniting in Christ leadership on the morning of June 4. ELCA Federal Credit Union

• Our credit union is approaching its one-year anniversary in June and is off to a great start • Currently serves members in 43 states and in the Caribbean • Offers a variety of consumer loan, credit card and deposit accounts • To date, those who have refinanced or consolidated debt have saved an average of more than $1,400 in finance charges

To learn more, visit elcafcu.org

ELCA Foundation – partnerships and gift planners

ELCA Foundation: Your life. Your faith. Your gift to the future. The ELCA Foundation works in partnerships to strengthen the financial capacities of our broader ELCA-related ministries through: • lifelong stewardship including annual, major and deferred giving; • financial education, resources and a variety of planned giving tools; • investment management services for congregations, synods and related ministries.

The ELCA Foundation supports 20 regional gift Planners throughout the U.S. These gift planners provide a number of services: • They help congregations, synods and other Lutheran ministries identify their financial needs and wants and develop a Ministry Funding Plan. • They help members of the congregations align their passions with the ministry funding needs through planned giving. • Gift planners help donors make decisions about whom they want to help. • Gift planners make sure everything is in place to fulfill the donor’s wishes.

In 2016, our regional gift planners secured $56 million in planned gifts (this is up from $39 million in 2015). Of these gifts, $10.5 million will directly benefit ELCA congregations and $2.8 million will benefit ELCA synods. Anyone who wants to help ministry in any way after they pass, should meet with a regional gift planner.

ELCA Fund for Leaders

2016-2017 statistics As of July 1, a new staff team is growing the ELCA Fund for Leaders. The endowment has reached $48.7 million, allowing Fund for Leaders to provide more than $2 million in scholarship assistance to 250 seminary students, approximately 25 percent of all seminary-enrolled candidates for rostered ministry in the ELCA in 2016-2017. Synodical scholarships represent nearly $540,000 of the $2 million distribution, disbursed in 147 different awards by 38 participating synods. ELCA Fund for Leaders (cont’d)

Supporting diverse ministries Among the funds awarded in 2016 are scholarships specifically geared toward students of color and/or first language other than English, scholarships for new mission developer candidates, and scholarships for seminarians pursuing chaplaincy ministry in military, prison, or VA hospital settings. • One of these students is Elle Dowd, an M.Div. student at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, who says, “It is for freedom that Christ set us free. We use that freedom, not for our own benefit, but to help free others. None of us are free until all of us are free.” From current students and alumni, who serve as pastors, chaplains and rostered leaders in all areas of the church, we hear again and again that the freedom from crushing student debt has allowed them to serve in ministry more freely and proclaim the gospel.

Fundraising and strategy For the fiscal year 2016, Fund for Leaders reached a fundraising total of $2.66 million as of Dec. 31, 2016. A $3 million gift commitment in 2016 catalyzed the introduction of an expanded scholarships program, which will provide an additional 60 full-tuition scholarships over the next three years (in collaboration with Presiding Bishop Eaton’s Leadership Initiative). Fund for Leaders staff are working with students, seminaries, synods and our new grant-making software to restructure the application and the selection process to best support future ministers as they go and serve where the church needs and the Holy Spirit leads.

For 2017, Fund for Leaders will be concentrating on three primary goals: 1) continued development work with new and existing donors, toward the goal of raising $4 million in the next two years (and $15 million overall during The Campaign for the ELCA); 2) the implementation of new interim award process and planning for the transition to a direct application and award process for subsequent years; and 3) planning related to recognizing and highlighting the 20th anniversary of the Fund for Leaders with its multiple constituencies, beginning in fall 2017.

ELCA World Hunger

2016 was the Campaign focus year for ELCA World Hunger, and we are grateful to report that over $21.9 million was given in support of our church’s ministry for projects in 60 countries including the U.S. - working for a world in which all are fed. Thank you!

From participation “ELCA World Hunger’s 40 Days of Giving” during Lent to special efforts in over 45 synod assemblies and gifts of goats, pigs and latrines during the Advent and Christmas season, thank you for being part of the growth in giving – especially the growth in giving from congregations and synods.

This church currently funds almost 350 domestic hunger and poverty programs across the church. ELCA World Hunger (cont’d) ELCA World Hunger (cont’d)

Entrance rite discernment

The Entrance Rite Discernment Group continues the work of moving toward a recommendation for a final entrance rite for the new roster of Word and Service.

Word and Service resources on the ELCA website include: • a new FAQ describing the work of the Entrance Rite Discernment Group; and • a Bible study “Mission, Ministry, and Leadership” to encourage discussions across the church.

Worship resources on the website include: • a liturgy of welcoming and; • an adapted consecration rite to be used until the next churchwide assembly. Global church

Evangelism and outreach: Some of the youngest and fastest growing Lutheran churches are found in Asia in the countries of Indonesia, India, Nepal, Cambodia and Myanmar. It is long-time ELCA companion churches that are driving much of this growth, with strong support from ELCA Global Mission that builds on long-term relationships. • The ELCA has joined with the Lutheran Church in Singapore to accompany the birth of the Lutheran Church in Cambodia. Because of the ELCA’s work with and through others, evangelism in Cambodia is vibrant and is centered around young adults whose enthusiasm for proclaiming and living the gospel is catching. • In Malaysia, with generous support from Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA, we are helping the Lutheran church in this country reach the Orang Asli indigenous peoples who are now becoming faithful and gifted leaders in their own cultural context. • In China, we are accompanying the Lisu ethnic minority in Yunnan Province with a particular focus on developing evangelists, Bible teachers and music leaders. • In The Gambia in West Africa, ELCA Global Mission is coming alongside Lutherans in neighboring Senegal to help a new Lutheran church grow in a 90 percent Muslim context.

ELCA missionaries: “ELCA missionaries are ambassadors,” Malpica Padilla (ELCA Global Mission Executive Director, the Rev. Dr. Rafael Malpica Padilla) said. “Paul writes to one of the communities, ‘Receive one another.’ We send missionaries today because ‘sentness’ is a sign of being the church, of being part of the body of Christ.” 225 ELCA pastors, doctors, nurses, teachers, theological educators, communicators and community organizers are serving as missionaries in 44 countries on every continent of the world. For brief personal stories about the ways ELCA missionaries accompany companion churches around the globe, see the February Living Lutheran: livinglutheran.org/2017/02/called-gathered-sent/.

Sustainable development: Global Mission supports projects and programs across a variety of sectors including water, agriculture, livelihoods, food security, and peace and reconciliation. In 2015, approximately $5 million was provided to 78 projects with a water-work component (e.g. wells, boreholes, spring boxes, water for irrigation, sanitation and hygiene, etc.). Food security and its link to health and nutrition underscore many projects. • For example, in Burure, Zimbabwe Global Mission supports not only a health clinic, but education, HIV and AIDS education, life-skills training, agriculture and food preservation and livelihoods. Together these foster a broad impact in the lives of people in the Burure. • In Cambodia, people who had been landless have been able to acquire new land and grow new crops, leading to improved nutrition, increased incomes and the ability to send their children to school. • Also in Zimbabwe, a peace and reconciliation program has helped participants heal from the trauma of conflict and is enabling the delivery of humanitarian assistance and the promotion of development.

Health care: ELCA engagement strengthens the life-saving and healing ministries of hospitals and clinics in countries such as Liberia, Madagascar and Zimbabwe. With support through the The Campaign for the ELCA, ground was broken in 2016 in Juba, South Sudan, for a new clinic focused on maternal-child health. A large and growing area of our work across the globe is Global church (cont’d) disease prevention and health promotion through community-based, primary health projects. For example, in Chile, Educacion Popular en Salud - EPES (Popular Education in Health) receives World Hunger support for this grass-roots work and is accompanied by an ELCA long-term missionary. Morever, the ELCA seeks to make the HIV and AIDS and malaria pandemics history by addressing underlying injustices with a focus on poverty.

The Global Mission unit receives the gifts of companions and channels them for the re-formation of global mission engagement narratives and practices in our own U.S. context. This work is done through approximately two dozen “glocal” events offered to synods and congregations each year. The events are a venue for trainings and experiential learning that increase participants’ understanding and build new capacities in the use of accompaniment as a narrative, lens and method for global and local mission engagement.

Women represent 70 percent of the world’s population living in poverty. Yes, in church and society, women often lack access to opportunities to realize their full potential because they lack access to educational opportunities. The ELCA’s International Women Leaders initiative is our church’s strong effort to create opportunities that support women leaders in church and society. With support from The Campaign for the ELCA, from winter 2014 to fall 2016, the International Women Leaders benefitted 91 women with study and leadership opportunities. Awards were granted to participants of five leadership seminars in Wittenberg, Germany, and to students studying at ELCA colleges, universities, seminaries and academic institutions closer to their homes.

Global church sponsorship

• Missionaries and Young Adults in Global Mission • Global Ministries • International Women Leaders

In 2017, Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA is lifting up the Global Church as its theme. We invite every member and every congregation to join us in celebrating the ways in which our church lives into God’s mission of building bridges and living as one body of Christ in the world! We began 2017 with a celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8 and there are two additional celebrations coming up:

Key 2017 dates for Global Church Sponsorship June 4 – Pentecost Sunday Pentecost Sunday is the opportunity to reflect on the global community of which we are a part—a community of people living out our faith, serving our neighbors and sharing God’s love with the world. This Pentecost Sunday we will lift up life-changing ministries with our global companions working to grow the global Lutheran church. The Pentecost Sunday packet arrived at your congregation in mid-April. Global church sponsorship (cont’d)

Global Church Sunday – pick a Sunday in October! Global Church Sunday is about celebrating our church’s connections and common mission within Christ’s global church. It is a day to rejoice in our relationships with companions around the world, to learn more about how the ELCA is connected globally and to support our church’s missionaries who work in partnership with our companions in Christ. The Global Church Sunday packet will arrive at your congregation in July.

Other resources (available at ELCA.org/resources) • Global Church Minutes: prayers to be incorporated in weekly worship in 2017 • Global Church Passport: educational activities for youth and young • Global Church Story Series: 12 stories from our global companions

“God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday

“God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday is an opportunity to celebrate who we are as the ELCA – one church, freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor. Since 2013, thousands of ELCA congregations have participated in this opportunity and dedicated one day to serve communities in ways that share the love of God with all people.

The date for 2017 is Sunday, Sept. 10. Mark your congregation’s calendar today! If your congregation cannot participate on Sept. 10, please consider another time that works best.

This year we observe the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. The ELCA’s anniversary theme, “Freed and Renewed in Christ,” reminds us of the gospel’s promise that we are freed in Christ to love and serve our neighbors. This is work that you do every day – serving your community in ways that share the love of God with all of God’s people. Vist ELCA.org/dayofservice for more information.

Human rights social message

The ELCA Church Council has initiated the development of a social message on human rights. This message will meet the long-recognized need for the ELCA to robustly address human rights in light of global complexities. For more information, go to ELCA.org/socialmessages.

Leadership development

The churchwide organization partners with synods, seminaries, outdoor and campus ministries, and others to identify and prepare new Ministers of Word & Sacrament (pastors) and Ministers of Word & Service (deacons). During the past year, a new Candidacy Manual for Synod Candidacy Committees and a revised Candidacy Process was developed and is now being implemented. In addition, the unit helps to encourage and support lay leadership efforts in many synods. Lutheran Disaster Response

Lutheran Disaster Response brings God’s hope, healing and renewal to people whose lives have been disrupted by disasters in the United States and around the world. When the dust settles and the headlines change, we stay to provide ongoing assistance to those in need.

Key areas of work Lutheran Disaster Response strives to help the church continue to be church in the midst of disaster — following Christ’s call to bring hope and healing to our neighbor in need. Some key areas of work include: • providing emotional and spiritual care for people who have been affected by disasters and for leaders who respond to disasters; • coordinating volunteers through local affiliates; • assisting refugees in a holistic way that meets the varied needs of each community; • promoting disaster preparedness and disaster-risk reduction; • addressing unmet needs that could exist months, even years after a disaster and would help assist a family in their recovery. Unmet needs can include things such as furniture and appliances; • supporting disaster case managers who work one-on-one with individuals or families as they navigate their recovery efforts, such as applying for FEMA assistance or filing insurance claims.

International work • Provided support for 47 disaster relief and recovery projects in 31 countries in FY2016. • These were initiated in response to a wide variety of disasters including the drought in Africa. • Importantly, support for refugees and migrants has become even more critical in the current sociopolitical context; efforts are focused on AMMPARO as well as responding to the refugee crisis in the Middle East and Europe. • Last fall, Hurricane Matthew hit in the Caribbean, and LDR’s collective response spanned across international and domestic work. • Internationally, we responded by supporting emergency relief in Haiti and Cuba (the first time LDR responded to a disaster in Cuba). • Support for recovery efforts after the earthquake in Nepal is ongoing, with completion of this phase of work planned for dedication in summer 2017. • We have also worked with companion churches to build capacity for disaster preparedness through workshops in Malaysia (July) and Madagascar (October).

Domestic work • Provided support for 12 disaster relief and recovery projects in 10 states in FY2016. • AMMPARO was affirmed at the Churchwide Assembly, and we continue to support programing such as Pro-Bono Lawyers and the Guardian Angel’s program to support unaccompanied minors from Central America. Lutheran Disaster Response (cont’d)

• Continuing to coordinate with the four states affected by Hurricane Matthew. • Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia • We are coordinating with social ministry organizations and synods to work toward long-term recovery efforts. • The West Virginia flooding • Coordinating with our affiliate for long-term recovery efforts. Several congregations, pastors and individuals supported the recovery efforts. • South Dakota reservation flooding • We continue to work with Native American communities to accompany them through the recovery process from disasters that received little to no media attention. • Louisiana flooding • Coordinating with affiliate Upbring, which is implementing a major disaster case management program for survivors. The disaster team is operating out of First Lutheran Church in Lafayette, La. • This flood started during the 2016 Churchwide Assembly in New Orleans and was declared one of the worst U.S. disasters since Hurricane Sandy.

Mission Investment Fund

• The Mission Investment Fund (MIF) is the lending ministry of the ELCA. MIF makes low- interest loans to ELCA congregations and ELCA-related ministries for building and renovation projects. With MIF loans, congregations and ministries can purchase property, construct new buildings, build expansions and make renovations. • MIF loans expand the capacity for ministry. MIF loans help create expanded worship spaces, updated space for education and youth ministry, new kitchens for community meals and soup kitchens, affordable housing units for the community and much more. • At year-end 2016, MIF had 860 loans outstanding, totaling $524 million. • To fund these loans, MIF offers a portfolio of investments for congregations, their members, synods and ELCA-related ministries to purchase. At year-end 2016, MIF investments totaled $474 million.

The MIF is a financially strong and stable organization, with a record of steady, controlled growth. With total assets of $678 million and net assets of $198 million at year-end 2016, MIF maintains a capital ratio of 29 percent—positioning MIF in the top tier of well-capitalized church extension funds. New congregations

We share Christ’s love by extending our welcome through new congregations and by supporting them as growing centers for evangelical mission.

As we seek to grow God’s church and extend our welcome to all God’s people, we are worshiping in pews, city parks, cafes and libraries; we are breaking bread in homes and in shelters, and we are equipping our neighbors with both spiritual and physical sustenance. With our hands, we are doing God’s work of restoring and reconciling communities in God’s name.

There are 372 ELCA new ministries currently under development in the United States and the Caribbean through the work of 65 synod mission tables made up of local leaders, directors for evangelical mission and bishops.

But there is more work to be done and communities to reach. In order to reflect the diversity in our country, we are actively engaged in God’s mission with the goal of becoming an evangelizing, multicultural and multigenerational church. New congregations (cont’d) New congregations (cont’d)

ELCA new congregations key statistics: • 384 new ministries are currently under development • 62 new starts were approved in 2016 • 12 new starts were approved in 2017 as of March 2, 2017 • 136 total new starts total approved in last 26 months • 514 new ministries have been organized as congregations since the birth of the ELCA in 1988 • 56 percent of all new starts are among ethnic- multicultural communities • 18 percent of 2016 new starts are with ecumenical partners • 21percent of 2016 new starts are young adult- millennial leaders and communities

What YOU can do …

SHARE AN IDEA: If you have an idea for a new church—contact your synod office. Ask for the director for evangelical mission or your bishop.

PRAY: Be a prayer partner for the new start and its mission developer.

GIVE: Share your resources to propel a new congregation in its development. You can support ELCA new congregations today by making a gift online at: ELCA.org/newcongregations/donate

Office of the Secretary

Congregations should amend their constitutions to incorporate the changes made to the Model Constitution for Congregations that were adopted by the 2016 Churchwide Assembly. Amendments made in conformity to the model require action at one congregational meeting and require a majority vote for adoption.

Deacons are still counted as laypeople when looking at the representational principles of this church. This status is being addressed by the Entrance Rite Discernment Working Group and any change would come before the 2019 Churchwide Assembly. Office of the Treasurer

• ELCA total operating revenue and support for 2016: $69,001,013 • ELCA total expense and allocations for 2016: $67,370,338 • ELCA World Hunger total income: $21,922,250

Campaign-to-date • Congregations: $2,276,568 • Leadership: $12,259,243 • Global Church: $14,049,115 • Hunger and Poverty: $79,789,649 • “Where needed most”: $4,989,452

Total revenue and commitments: $113,364,026, 57.3 percent of goal – on target

Refugees and migrants

ELCA Global Mission is responding to several critical refugee or migration crises in the global context. Through relationships with global companions and partners, we provide humanitarian assistance, extend a welcome to the stranger and encourage those in power to work for peace with justice. Here are some examples: • Support has been provided to companions and partners in Hungary, Serbia, northern Iraq, Egypt, Syria and Jordan to assist people in transit and those living in refugee camps and host communities. • With ELCA support, Asylum Protection Center in Serbia provides critical information, humanitarian supplies and psychosocial support to refugees from countries such as Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan. • Also in Serbia, Lutheran Disaster Response provided $100,000 in 2016 to build a temporary shelter and supply acute humanitarian needs of refugees during the winter months. The shelter is insulated and heated and can be used by approximately 200 single mothers with children, and/or families on a daily basis. • In Sub-Saharan Africa, an ELCA missionary is accompanying Sudanese refugees in Gambella, while additional support is provided for refugee camps in Kakuma and Daabab.

Global migration story: Safety net for refugee children in Cairo, Egypt Yohannes was 16 when he arrived in Cairo, Egypt, alone. He made his way to Egypt from Eritrea, in East Africa. He crossed the Sudan and with food hard to come by he found himself going without food for two days. Upon arriving in Cairo, Yohannes came to St. Andrew’s Refugee Services (StARS) seeking help. StARS, a program supported by gifts to ELCA World Hunger, offers unaccompanied refugee children food, education and psychosocial support. First order of business for Yohannes: a warm, home-cooked meal. Refugees and migrants (cont’d)

Through your gifts to ELCA World Hunger, StARS feeds 350 refugee children two meals a day, four days a week. And, with the help of the program, Yohannes has learned about nutrition, budgeting, services available to him in Cairo, and how to get around this city of 7.7 million.

The program also offers him a safe space for playing sports and building friendships. “If StARS did not exist, I would go without food for the entire day,” Yohannes said. “Nobody can study with an empty stomach.”

“And here I get the chance to learn and to be with my friends.”

Today Yohannes is attending school. He has a brighter future thanks to your support of ELCA World Hunger.

Rostered Ministers Gathering

The ELCA will host its first Rostered Ministers Gathering in Atlanta (Aug. 7-10, 2017). This is an opportunity for Word and Service and Word and Sacrament ministers to gather for continuing education, fellowship, fun, service and worship. Keynote speakers include: Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, the Rev. Dr. James Forbes and Rachel Held Evans.

Our theme, “On the Way — Together,” uses the Emmaus road story (Luke 24:13-35) to guide our time together. It’s an opportunity to gather rostered ministers from around this church to remind one another that we are far better together than we are apart. We are on our way together as a church with our ecumenical partnerships, with our continued conversations around racism and reconciliation, and toward continued reformation.

We will gather in Atlanta in the name of Jesus, the crucified and risen Christ. We will center ourselves each day around Word and Sacrament in worship. We will have opportunities to be in fellowship and to dwell in God’s Word. We will hear from keynote speakers. Then we will be sent forth into this world to love and serve the world in Christ’s name.

There will be two event pre-gatherings: federal chaplains and young rostered ministers (20s and 30s).

For more information, please visit ELCA.org/RMG. Email questions to 2017MinistersGathering@ elca.org or you can call 773-280-2552 or toll free at 800-635-3522. Registration closes on July 23. South Sudan outreach

In South Sudan, we find the youngest nation and the newest Lutheran Church – in the midst of extremely difficult circumstances.

The ELCA is committed to its ongoing work in South Sudan to help cultivate peace and a sustainable future for millions affected by civil war and famine. There are 3 focus areas for our work: • We are working together with others to deliver immediate famine relief: Right now, more than seven million people need humanitarian assistance in South Sudan. The ELCA is poised to respond to this need. Through our long-standing relationships in the region, we are prepared to accompany communities through food distribution, water and sanitation, and psychosocial support. Your gifts to Lutheran Disaster Response are critical to implementing this work. Together, we can provide life-saving aid to our brothers and sisters in South Sudan when they need it most. • Sustainable food security: In efforts to build resilience of communities, we are working through the Lutheran World Federation to enhance food security and improve livelihoods of poor and vulnerable households. With support from ELCA World Hunger, community members are increasing food production through development of new agricultural practices and skills, and women and youth are increasing their economic capacity by initiating businesses through savings clubs and small loans. • Sustained ministry: In November of 2016, we broke ground on a Lutheran center and clinic in Juba, in an area that lacks basic health and education services. The center will be a place for the community to find hope by providing classes, including computer training, and a health clinic – which will be the country’s first and only place for fistula surgery for women and girls. For many South Sudanese adults, this will be their first educational experience.

There is a congregational toolkit online with resources to lift up this work in your communities. Go to ELCA.org/SouthSudanNow.

Women and Justice

Join the conversation!

The ELCA Women and Justice Task Force is developing a social statement and wants to hear from you!

Participate with the Faith, Sexism, Justice: Conversations toward a Social Statement study with a group or on your own.

Divided into seven modules, topics include: • Justice • Gender-based violence • Sexism • Words and images for God • Economics • Scripture usage

Feedback on the study is accepted through Aug. 31, 2017. For more information, go to ELCA.org/womenandjustice.