To Affirm and Protect Freedom to Exercise Religion

WHEREAS, The government shall make no law prohibiting the free exercise of religion (First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution); and

WHEREAS, The natural right of all people to worship God according to their conscience is fundamental to human flourishing; and

WHEREAS, The free exercise of religion is not limited to the ability to think religious thoughts, but also entails the ability to participate freely in religious rituals; and

WHEREAS, Public gathering is essential to Christian religious practice (Heb. 10:25) and that of many other religions; and

WHEREAS, During the COVID-19 crisis of 2020 many government actions in New York state and elsewhere limited the free exercise of religion; and

WHEREAS, These actions have resulted in real harm to members of congregations in the Atlantic District of The Lutheran Church— Missouri Synod and others residing in our communities; and

WHEREAS, The Synod, and therefore the Atlantic District, shall “provide protection for congregations, pastors, teachers, and other church workers in the performance of their duties and the maintenance of their rights” (Synod Constitution Article III 9);

therefore be it

Resolved, That the congregations of the Atlantic District continue to perform the responsibilities of boldly proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ to seek and save the lost and continue to perform the spiritual care required for her members and community with all necessary caution in light of whatever circumstances may arise; and be it further

Resolved, That the 2022 Atlantic District in convention directs the Atlantic District Board of Directors to petition the governor and legislature of New York state to codify in state law that houses of worship be deemed “essential businesses/entities/services” and clergy and church workers be deemed essential workers so that the freedom of conscience and free exercise of religion may be protected; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Atlantic District memorialize the Synod in convention to pass a similar resolution at the next regular Synod convention.