To Encourage Synod Transparency and Unity regarding Concluded Hot Chalk Litigation

WHEREAS, The Synod gives thanks to God for His mercy in Christ and prays for a life together marked by humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love, as we seek to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:2–3); and

WHEREAS, The structure of the Synod orders and supports our life together in the proclamation of Christ and Him crucified, such that decisions made at the Synod level regarding shared ministries, including Lutheran higher education and institutional closures, have real and lasting effects on congregations and the people they serve; and

WHEREAS, The Synod Board of Directors (BOD) has publicly stated that mediation has concluded litigation brought by Hot Chalk, Inc., relating to the closure of Concordia University, Portland, and that a financial settlement has been reached; and

WHEREAS, The BOD “is the legal representative of the Synod and the custodian of all the property of the Synod” and “shall be accountable to the Synod in convention for the discharge of its duties” (Bylaw 3.3.4); and

WHEREAS, Under Bylaw subsection, “Full Financial Disclosure,” “The Synod and each of its agencies shall fully disclose their financial books and records to any member congregation of the Synod,”while also recognizing stated limits and requiring written explanation where information is declined or limited (Bylaw 1.5.4); and

WHEREAS, Transparent communication regarding significant legal settlements involving Synod resources supports faithful stewardship, promotes trust among congregations, reduces rumor and confusion, and strengthens the Synod’s ability to proceed together with clarity in an uncertain season; therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod in convention give thanks to God for His continued work through the Synod even amid hardship and legal challenge, and exhort all members to continue in charity, patience, and confidence in Christ as we walk together in our common mission; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod in convention respectfully request that the appropriate Synod officers and/or the BOD disclose to the Synod the total amount paid by or on behalf of the Synod in settlement of the concluded Hot Chalk litigation, to the fullest extent permitted by law and any binding settlement terms, and that such disclosure be made available to member congregations in a readily accessible manner; and be it finally

Resolved, That if the settlement amount, or any portion there of, cannot be disclosed, the Synod officers and/or the BOD provide a written explanation describing the general nature of the restriction or restrictions and the reason or reasons disclosure is not possible, consistent with the Synod’s commitments to financial disclosure and clear communication.