Resolution #10:

"THE PRESIDING BY LAYPERSONS AT HOLY COMMUNION"

WHEREAS, the Lutheran Church has historically affirmed the biblical understanding of the priesthood of all believers and the giftedness of each congregational member, and

WHEREAS, the effectiveness of the Sacrament of Holy Communion is dependent upon God's gracious action and not our faithfulness, ordination, or office, and

WHEREAS, the need for orderly administration of the Sacrament should not take precedent over the needs of the congregation or its authority, and

WHEREAS, each congregation is responsible for the mission and implementation of its ministry in its particular situation,

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Eastern Washington Idaho Synod recognize and affirm congregations to who identify and empower individuals within their faith community to be trained and appointed to preside at Holy Communion when an ordained or rostered leader is not available.

Respectfully submitted by

Pastor Michael B. Sager

Pastor David Droegemueller

Resolution Passed (A0306.19) as amended (A0306.21)

2003 Eastern Washington-Idaho Synod Assembly - June 21, 2003