A NON-GEOGRAPHICAL…WHAT?

Randy Freund

 

Guarded interest” may be the best words to describe the reactions voiced at the April WordAlone Convention when a non-geographical synod was discussed.  Clarifications, strengths and weaknesses were discussed before the groups were asked if they were interested in pursuing the idea further.  Despite many unanswered questions, the vast majority of the groups expressed an interest in pursuing the idea.  In a meeting following the convention, the WordAlone Board expressed its commitment to pursing a timeline towards August of 2005 that will include September (2004) conferences on the subject at 15-20 sites throughout the nation.

 

One thing that seems clear is that the WordAlone movement is at a crossroads.  Biblical and confessional concerns remain as the ELCA moves toward an important churchwide assembly in 2005.  Because of that timeline, if WordAlone wants to be proactive rather than reactive, it needs to find faithful ways to move forward and to better identify our goals.  Some congregations have been a part of WordAlone since the beginning, while some are just now coming on board.  Especially for new WordAlone congregations, the concept of a non-geographical synod is perhaps a case of “too much, too soon.”  For others, the language of “synod” is troubling and confusing.  Is it really possible to be a new synod in the ELCA?  Is that the goal of all who would subscribe to a non-geographical concept? 

 

From what I’ve heard from chapters, the WordAlone Board, pastors, and those at the convention, three words come to mind:  Proactive, flexible, and faithful.  Whatever this non-geographical concept becomes, it is clear that WordAlone members want to be seen as positively proactive.  Is this a time when (structurally speaking) something creative can happen?  Along with that, there is a deep concern for patience and flexibility as we discern what needs to form.  Finally, the question of being faithful stewards of the gospel must be the most compelling feature.

 

Whatever it is finally called and however it functions, I personally think it’s time for us to “think outside the box.”  WordAlone is currently a network of communication for individuals and congregations.  The impetus for a non-geographical concept arises from a need to find a better way for congregations to form an association that could further advance and support the Biblical and confessional witness WordAlone seeks to hold high.

 

 Randy Freund is pastor at

Faith Lutheran, Hutchinson

 and a member of the Board for WordAlone Network