To Support Bi- and Co-vocational Pastors and Their Congregations

WHEREAS, The Christian Church exists in an increasingly secular and post-Christian world; and

WHEREAS, Small, faithful congregations can find themselves, for a variety of reasons, in the circumstance of needing a pastor but being unable to provide a full salary; and

WHEREAS, Some congregations of The Lutheran Church— Missouri Synod are served by pastors who work bi-vocation ally or co-vocation ally (often called tent maker pastors); and

WHEREAS, St. Paul himself provided for his physical needs as a tent maker (Acts 18:1–4) while he served the Church in Corinth, there by establishing bi-vocational ministry as a viable and honorable manner in which clergy may continue to serve the congregations to which they are called without bringing personal hardship to themselves or their families; therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod support men who obtain degrees, diplomas, certifications, or other means that can be used to supplement and/or complement the pastoral ministry, should the need arise; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod develop and commend best-practice guidelines, including appropriate fiscal support from congregations for the pastor and the pastor’s family, for congregations served by tent maker pastors; and be it further

Resolved, That a synodwide database of resources be compiled, to include current and retired tent maker pastors who can provide wisdom and encouragement from their experiences; and be it further

Resolved, That bi-vocational and co-vocational pastor candidates be encouraged to think strategically about how new vocational opportunities could support the mission and ministry of the congregation and the kingdom; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod provide or coordinate resources to support congregations, especially lay leadership, as they experience challenges related to their pastor having additional employment;

and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod continue to provide or coordinate coaching and wellness resources to those who serve as tent maker pastors; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod encourage its districts to aid congregations and tent maker pastors within the irrespective districts by using these resources and best practices to support their shared mission and ministry.