2001 Synod Assembly

Called to Common Mission Debate

Called to Common Mission, the agreement regarding full communion with the Episcopal Church, USA (ECUSA), was again discussed in the assembly. Though passed by the Churchwide Assembly in 1999, there has been support for an amendment that would allow for exceptions to the requirement that pastors be ordained by a bishop. There will be just such a recommendation coming before the assembly that meets in August.

The resolution, 2001-06, goes further and asks that bishops also be allowed to refuse the imposition of the historic episcopacy, the idea that bishops stand in a succession that is a sign of unity and continuity. Many Lutherans believe that the Word rightly preached and the Sacraments administered in accordance with the gospel are the only requirements for unity.

After some debate from both sides, the resolution, which memorializes the Churchwide Assembly to adopt such resolutions, procedures, and changes, was passed.

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