Background on NW MN synod resolutions
To add some context to the resolutions:
Resolution 1A was a substitute resolution by the
Synod Council that set down my original Resolution 1 about the Sexuality
Studies. The original resolution called for 16 months of sharing all
responses, reflections and concerns -- the substitute will put in 7 months of
sharing of responses to the Task Force recommendation.
Resolution 2 was from Mark Olson (SPOC, Detroit
Lakes) on Presiding of Laypersons. The floor debate was quite good.
Resolution 3 was from American Lutheran Church, Long
Prairie (Pastor John Beem). Some folks wanted it brought to the floor for
a vote ('right here, right now'), but the Synod Council recommendation to pass
it on to the Task Force was endorsed.
Resolution 6 passed 310-225-10. The move to
count it was delayed for a break. I think that after the break, the vote
turned out better. The Admonition was passed by inclusion. Bishop
Wangberg expressed frustration to me that the word "participation" was
used -- he chose to interpret that word as meaning that he as a bishop might not
be allowed to be at an ordination service even as a regular worshipper.
Resolution 8 failed. I think the Ordination
with Integrity resolution may have had good intentions, but the whereas clauses
can be seen as unhelpful speech. The tone of hearsay or possibility of
discrimination was easy for the opponents to point out.
Daniel Ostercamp
Badger, MN