To Encourage Armed Security at All Synod Schools

WHEREAS, Our Lord has entrusted children to families and the church, charging them to “bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4); and

Whereas, The Synod has established and maintained hundreds of early childhood centers, elementary schools, high schools, and universities as a vital mission to educate and catechize children in the one true faith; and

Whereas, The Fifth Commandment obligates us to protect life and care for our neighbor, especially the most vulnerable; and

Whereas, Violent attacks upon schools, especially church- affiliated schools, have tragically increased across our nation in recent years; and

Whereas, Armed protection is a proven deterrent and effective means of stopping threats to children and staff in educational settings; and

Whereas, Many Synod schools currently lack trained, armed security personnel and there by remain vulnerable to attack; and

Whereas, It is the responsibility of the Synod, in Christian love, to safeguard the lives of those entrusted to our care in our educational institutions; therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod in convention direct the Board of Directors and those working in LCMS School Ministry, in consultation with Concordia Plan Services and legal experts, to establish a synodwide standard encouraging all Synod educational institutions to provide trained, armed security personnel during school hours and at major school events; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod encourage and assist congregations, schools, and districts with securing the funding and the training necessary to implement such armed security, recognizing the diversity of school sizes and settings; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod commend congregations and schools that have already taken measures to ensure armed protection of students and staff; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod give thanks to God for those who serve as law enforcement officers, security personnel, and guardians of the innocent, and implore the Lord’s continued protection over our schools, children, and teachers.