To Encourage Prayer, Partnership, and Participation in International Mission

WHEREAS, Scripture exhorts believers to “pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (Matt. 9:38) and to be “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3); and

WHEREAS, Congregations of the Michigan District partner with Lutheran church ministries around the world, such as with Lutheran Church of Uganda through Women of the Pearl, Mission Opportunities Short Term Ministries, Lutheran Association of Missionaries and Pilots, and the Office of International Mission in Puerto Rico through the FORO model (international.lcms.org/events-foros); therefore be it

Resolved, That the district’s Gospel partnership with other Lutheran churches in the world be commended to all Synod congregations as a worthy focus for prayer and thanksgiving in corporate worship; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod encourage its congregations to commit to praying regularly for the Lord to raise up pastors and to prosper the ministry of the Lutheran churches in the world, and to consider supporting their works through their time, talents, and treasures as the Spirit moves them; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod adopt the already commended practice of participation in forums, such as the Latin American FORO, committing to regular support, including a financial commitment;

and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod consider how the FORO model could be employed to create partnerships between congregations in the Synod and the mission field, and inspire congregation members to be in mission at home and abroad; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod encourage its congregations to prayer fully explore the FORO model as a framework for deepening their connection to the global mission of the Church through financial support and personal involvement.