I.C.M. - SW MN WordAlone

Questions About a Non-Geographic Synod

The Editor

The WordAlone Board recently shared its proposal to develop an “association of confessing congregations [ACC] within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) with the intention of becoming a distinct non-geographic synod [NGS].”

Such concepts are nothing new. The ELCA already has one non-geographic synod, the “Slovak-Zion Synod,” consisting of 32 congregations over several states. The ELCA’s Study on Sexuality: Part II – Journey Together Faithfully (see p. 34) cites a non-geographic synod as an idea for congregations that want “…different ordination standards from the rest of the church,” regarding ordination of practicing homosexuals. The Lutheran Church of the Missouri Synod has two non-geographic districts.

Before WordAlone’s proposal gains widespread support, more information is needed. A number of questions need to be answered, including:

1.) What makes this proposal better than the options currently available through LCMC (Lutheran Churches in Mission for Christ)?

In addition to a non-geographic synod, LCMC also offers the option of separation from the ELCA. Is WA’s proposal a “half-way” house to what LCMC already offers?

2.) Does this proposal risk causing a split in the WordAlone movement?

Will congregations that join the ACC and/or NGS have any incentive to work with:

(a.) individual WordAlone members not connected to the new ACC or NGS

(b.) WordAlone congregations that choose to remain connected with their

present ELCA geographic synod?

3.) Are congregations that eventually join the Non-Geographic Synod prepared to lose their participation and vote in their current conference and synod?

Even if the ELCA allows the formation of a new NGS, it only makes sense that a congregation’s membership would be allowed representation in only one synod. What then happens to the “leavening effect” of WordAlone? Under the current WA Network system, WordAlone members have the opportunity to stand together and to get involved at all levels of their conference, their synod, and the churchwide organization; thus engaging the denomination with a particular point of view on the issues.

4.) How does the ACC and NGS enhance our witness to brothers and sisters in Christ within the ELCA?

Sure, the ELCA has its problems. That’s why WordAlone has built its reputation on Renewing, Reforming, and Reflecting. How will this continue without pulling away from various segments of the ELCA (just 2 examples include conferences and synods)? How will our relationships to institutions like church colleges be affected?

5.) How will congregations stay involved in a NGS?

It is easier and more economical to get involved in the life of the synod (committees, voting members to Synod Assembly, etc.) if the synod office is within driving distance. With this in mind, rather than forming just one NGS with 300 to 500 (an arbitrary goal) congregations spread across the nation. Why not blanket the country with a number of non-geographic synods with 50 to 80 congregations each. This would make it easier for congregations & synod staff to be involved with each other and offer mutual support. Plus, there would be more than one bishop from this perspective on the Council of Bishops.