To Affirm and Engage Koinonia Project to Resolve Conflict Due to Differences in Ministry and Practice

WHEREAS, The Scriptures teach us to love one another and seek unity (1 Peter 1:3–8; Col. 3:12–14; Eph. 4:3); and

WHEREAS, In a fractured society, where division and discord are celebrated and encouraged, the church has an opportunity for witness; and

WHEREAS, The members of the church, including the workers, are to be the light of Christ and the example of forgiveness, restoration, and love; and

WHEREAS, The Koinonia Project materials were written by Rev. Dr. Herbert Mueller, are available for review (www.lcms.org/about/leadership/president/koinonia-project), is approved for use by the Synod Council of Presidents (COP), is currently being used successfully by the COP; and

WHEREAS, The Southeastern District in its 2022 convention voted to forward this overture to the Synod convention for consideration; therefore be it

Resolved, That the members of the Synod commit to seeking unity with each other, bearing with each other, putting the best construction on every situation, and offering the benefit of the doubt to each other; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod leadership provide training for all professional church workers and others across the Synod in the Koinonia Project during the next triennium; and be it finally

Resolved, That the members of the Synod affirm and engage in the Koinonia Project prior to and as part of the dispute resolution process.