To Prohibit District Conventions and Pastors Conferences during Lent and Advent

WHEREAS, It is both necessary and required to meet together for the regular business of the districts; and

WHEREAS, It is important and required for the pastors of the districts to regularly meet together and study God’s Word and matters of importance; and

WHEREAS, These things ought not to interfere with the exercise of the pastoral office as outlined in the Book of Concord, the Synod Constitution, and ordination rite; therefore be it

Resolved, That Bylaw 4.2.1 be amended as follows:

PRESENT/PROPOSED WORDING

4.2.1 Conventions of the districts shall afford opportunities for worship, nurture, inspiration, fellowship, and the communication of vital information. They are the principal legislative assemblies, which amend the district’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, consider and take action on reports and overtures, and handle appropriate appeals. …

(h) The convention of districts shall not be held during Lent, so as to not interfere with the increased duties of pastors, commissioned workers, and those laity who assist with services, such as elders and musicians.

and be it further

Resolved, That Bylaw 4.8.2 be amended as follows:

PRESENT/PROPOSED WORDING

4.8.2 Official conferences for all ordained and commissioned ministers on the respective rosters of the Synod shall meet, if possible, in plenary sessions at least once each year. …

(e) No official conferences shall be held during the seasons of Lent or Advent, so as to not interfere with the increased duties of pastors and commissioned workers during those periods.