To Expand Work of Revitalization and Encourage Use of re:Vitality Resources

WHEREAS, The Synod has prioritized revitalization of its congregations; and

WHEREAS, Many existing Synod congregations have plateaued or are declining in membership or worship attendance; and

WHEREAS, Less than five percent of existing Synod congregations have officially utilized a re:Vitality workshop; and

WHEREAS, Re:Vitality workshops provide practical training and theological rationale for planning strategically, intentional outreach to the community, and ministry to inactive members; and

WHEREAS, A forthcoming re:Vitality workshop provides practical training and theological rationale for intentionally incorporating members for increased involvement; and

WHEREAS, Re:Vitality is designed to meet a large-scale need for revitalization at little to no cost to congregations; and

WHEREAS, Re:Vitality workshops are faithful to the Scriptures and to the Lutheran Confessions; and

WHEREAS, Congregation revitalization is centered in thenew life that is found in God’s Word being proclaimed in purity and His Sacraments being rightly administered; and

WHEREAS, The 2013 and 2016 Synod conventions approved the increased focus on revitalization and the expansion of re:Vitality from the Office of National Mission (ONM) (2013 Res. 3-08A;

Resolved, That Synod congregations be regularly encouraged to engage in biblically based, confession ally faithful best practices concerning planning for the future, outreach to the community, caring for inactive members and intentionally incorporating current members into the life of the church (Matt. 28:19–20; 1 Cor. 3:6; 1 Cor. 14:40); and be it further

Resolved, That districts utilize the ONM’s “Exploring God’s Mission Here” Bible Study with congregations to help them discern their needs for revitalization efforts; and be it further

Resolved, That congregations be encouraged to make use of re:Vitality resources as these are made available; and be it finally

Resolved, That current revitalization efforts in our districts and local congregations be commended.