The new policy statements from the ELCA concerning the denomination's expectations for clergy are now published and available. The changes were necessary in order to accomodate the most recent Churchwide Assembly's vote to allow publicly LGBT (Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered) individuals in a committed relationship to serve as clergy in the ELCA. You can find an article concerning these changes on page two of the "Core Connection" newsletter available at lutherancore.org. The full documents are available from the ELCA's web site (use the search engine and enter "Visions and Expectations."
I knew it was coming, but was still a bit shocked when I read it. It somehow seems ... starker ... when the policy changes actually appear in print. Especially the substitution of "this church" for "scripture."
If you're a member of the ELCA, continue to reflect on the role of scripture in the daily life of those who follow Christ. If you're not an ELCA member, pray for us: this division in our communion runs deep.
Blessings,
Pastor Garry
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