To Encourage Synod to Develop Resources to Aid Congregations and Schools regarding Gender Identity Issues

WHEREAS, Before mankind’s fall into sin, God created Adam and Eve to be distinctly male and female (Gen. 1:27–28; Gen. 2:18– 25); and

WHEREAS, After mankind’s fall into sin, Jesus affirms that in the beginning God created mankind “male and female” (Matt. 19:4); and

WHEREAS, Our society includes many persons who are uncertain whether they are truly male or female, others who present themselves as a member of the opposite sex, some who participate in hormonal or surgical procedures in an attempt to change their God-given sex, and yet others who reject that there are only two genders; and

WHEREAS, Congregations, schools, and individuals in our Missouri District are experiencing mounting pressures as a result of cultural changes and legal challenges on this topic; and

WHEREAS, Many church workers and laity have asked for guidance in pastoral care for individuals and families struggling with matters of gender identity issues; and

WHEREAS, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) has recently produced resources such as the Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) document, Gender Identity Disorder or Gender Dysphoria in Christian Perspective (adopted 2014);

therefore be it

Resolved, That the district in convention affirm and faithfully confess the biblical truth that God creates people as male and female; and be it further

Resolved, That the pastors, congregations, and schools of the district continue to deal compassionately with those who experience gender identity issues through the proclamation of the Law and Gospel, the Sacrament of Holy Baptism, corporate and individual Confession and Absolution, and the proper administration of the Lord’s Supper; and be it further

Resolved, That the pastors, congregations, and schools of the district continue to deal compassionately with the family, friends, and all others impacted by those who suffer with gender identity issues through the Means of Grace; and be it further

Resolved, That church workers and congregations in the district be encouraged to study and discuss gender identity disorder or gender dysphoria in Christian perspective; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Missouri District memorialize the Synod in convention to direct the Office of National Mission, Concordia Publishing House, and the two seminaries of our Synod to continue to provide resources that enable the Church to confess the truth boldly and deal compassionately with those who struggle with gender identity issues as well as with those who care for them.