Delegates act on marriage, same-sex marriage, outreach to Muslim neighbors

The Rev. Dr. John Denninger, vice-chairman of Floor Committee 14 on Church and Culture and president of the LCMS Southeastern District, reads a resolution on Tuesday, July 12, at the 66th Regular Convention of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in Milwaukee. (LCMS/Michael Schuermann)

By Sara Bielby

MILWAUKEE (July 12, 2016) – Action on issues raised within the church by changes in the culture continued on Tuesday at the 66th Regular Convention of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.

After discussion on Monday, the convention adopted Resolution 14-06A, “To Encourage Outreach to Muslim Neighbors,” Tuesday. In addition to condemning “illicit acts of violence” motivated by fear or religious conviction, the resolution calls for resources to assist the church in carrying out the task.

After pointing out that marriage was instituted by God, not the state, Resolution 14-02A confesses the sanctity of marriage of one man and one woman as an estate which cannot be altered. The resolution also charges pastors, commissioned workers and congregations to provide responsible care with mercy, gentleness and respect to those wounded by sin.

A third, related resolution, 14-03A, states that although the Supreme Court has ruled the legality of same-sex marriage, the LCMS confesses it to be contrary to Scripture and to “God’s design for His creation.” At the same time, it resolved compassion for persons experiencing same-sex attraction and their families.

Discussion revolved around friendly amendments to the resolutions, most of which were amenable to the committee. Delegates expressed a desire to love their neighbors while upholding Scripture. Both motions on marriage and same-sex marriage carried nearly unanimously.

Sara Bielby is a deaconess at University Lutheran Chapel, Ann Arbor, Mich., and at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Monroe, Mich.

(Posted July 12, 2016)

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