RELEASED August 15, 2007

RE: 2007 Churchwide Assembly Highlights

Dear Rostered Leaders and Friends in the NT-NL Synod:

+ Grace and peace be unto you from God our heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. +

   It is my hope and intention to write an issue of LifeLines within the next several weeks in which I can reflect on the 2007 Churchwide Assembly at greater length. It appears, however, that an early letter of reflection may be in order based on what I have been hearing from some of you about conversations taking place within your congregations as a result of media publicity this past Sunday, the day following the conclusion of the Assembly.

   In fact, Bishop Peter Rogness from the St. Paul Area Synod wrote his reflections on Saturday night and shared them with his synod and the Conference of Bishops. They encapsulate (with some personal updating) my perspective as well. As he granted us permission to share them, I do so now.

What happened at the assembly in a nutshell

   First, contrary to some news postings, sexuality wasn’t the only thing we talked about by any means. Former bishop of the Saint Paul Area Synod, Mark Hanson, was re-elected on the second ballot to a second term, with a resounding 86 percent vote! And in the far more dramatic election, attorney David Swartling of Seattle, a delightful, warm, intelligent, deeply spiritual, and deeply involved person of faith, was elected to succeed the only secretary the ELCA has had in its 20 years, the Rev. Lowell Almen. In addition, voting members worshiped; we committed ourselves to a far-reaching emphasis on deepening our church’s immersion in Scripture; we deliberated Iraq and the Middle East; we adopted a social statement on education; and we took on new resolve in fighting the HIV-AIDS pandemic. We celebrated rapid growth in responding to world hunger and disasters and pledged to do even more. In short, we celebrated the vast array of ministries we do together as a church, and it’s a wonderful sight! It was a fine assembly.

The sexuality discussion

   Now to unpack the sexuality discussion. I was amused, dismayed, and perplexed by news reports. Among a collection of headlines already posted online are these two:
  • “Lutherans to Allow Pastors in Gay Relationships”
  • “Lutherans Don’t Change on Gays”

Any wonder people might be confused? Let me set the background, and quickly walk you through what unfolded and what, sound bytes aside, we actually did.

The Background

  In 2001 the Churchwide Assembly (CWA) set in place a task force to bring back recommendations to the 2005 CWA regarding blessing same-gender relationships and ordaining faithfully partnered gay clergy and to bring a social statement on human sexuality to the 2009 CWA. The 2005 CWA received three recommendations on these issues, and in response (1) voted to “continue to find ways to live together faithfully in the face of our differences,” (might be a paraphrase, but close); (2) declined to support the concept of blessing of same sex relationships and did not establish such a rite for the whole church, but urged “pastoral care” for gays and lesbians in committed same gender relationships; and (3) continued to affirm our stand against allowing partnered gay and lesbian clergy to be ordained and serve in the church.

   The general expectation was that these matters would be discussed in 2009 in connection with the social statement. However, last winter a discipline committee in Atlanta, in acting to remove a partnered gay pastor, recommended that synods memorialize this assembly to change policy. So it was before us again. Twenty-one synods took actions asking that the process for such change be set in motion.

What Happened

   The memorials committee bundled these resolutions together and recommended that they simply be referred as information to the task force in their deliberations leading up to 2009. Not surprisingly, a substitute motion was made on the floor reflecting the 21-synod request to set in motion a change in policy. (Now here’s where you should pay attention if you’re trying to sort out what news sound bytes are saying in different directions!)

   After lengthy debate, both in a non-legislative “committee of the whole” and formal parliamentary proceedings, the assembly defeated the motion to change policy, and instead supported the recommendation to simply refer all this to the task force working on the social statement. The motion to change the policy failed 450-581.

   Then a motion was made to allow a process of exceptions to the policy for the sake of mission in local situations, patterned after the exception process to the requirement of ordination by a bishop. This exception proposal was also rejected, 472-520.

   So it was clear the assembly was staying with the process to come forward with a social statement in 2009, and not to consider any change in policy until such a statement is adopted and policy is made consistent with that statement. So the study process continues. (An amending action was taken to specifically ask the social statement to address these matters.)

  Then, on a later set of memorials, the assembly passed a motion which is the basis for the news reports suggesting ELCA policy has changed. An action was taken in which the assembly “prays, urges, and encourages synods, synodical bishops, and the presiding bishop to refrain from or demonstrate restraint in disciplining those” congregations and pastors that are out of compliance with the existing policy. Bishop Hanson was asked if this was in conflict with existing governing documents, and Secretary Almen explained that it was not.

   This is, frankly, where reporters not familiar with the nuances of ELCA governing documents got it all wrong. Our documents regarding discipline have within them a number of possibilities of response to policy non-compliance, including personal consultation, admonition, formal charges, and suspension, with few timelines and no “sentencing guidelines” (to use the secular image). The effect of this action is not to give permission to defy policy, but to ask bishops and others who ponder responses to these situations, to lean in the direction of a less harsh rather than a more harsh response.

So What Does This Mean?

   My sound byte, were someone to ask, would be this: This assembly chose to stay with the process we’ve put in place that will lead us to a far reaching (i.e., much broader than simply homosexuality) discussion of human sexuality in 2009, and in that light we will consider these policy matters. Until that time, the assembly said, let’s stay with current policy, and let’s walk gently with each other.

  It was an action, I believe, that honored the most strongly supported action of two years ago: our commitment to find ways to live together faithfully in the midst of our disagreements. It was a respectful expression of our commitment to continue to find ways to be a church together.

  This brings me to a final image I want to share. The image comes from the “committee of the whole” open discussion, where long lines of people stood at the microphones waiting to express their views. Since CWA rules indicate we alternate speaking pro-and-con, a set of two microphones stands at each station—one green, one red. There were people of great faith and passion for their stand at both sets of microphones. I was proud of that. We, as a church, have been together enough to enjoy and respect each other, and we went to different lines. And then we worshiped together, ate together, did other work together. This synod—and this church—is not simply a red line synod or a green line. We are church together. We can commit ourselves to living together, faithfully.

  While these words are mostly those of Bp. Rogness, they speak of my own observations and reflections. I urge you to study this issue further by using the third study document in the Journey Together Faithfully series. We as a church have much we need to say about human sexuality, its abuses in our world and culture, and the gift is provides to us as human being. Our conversation needs to go beyond the singular issue that is dividing our church these days.

  I hope these comments are helpful. You would be proud of the eight people you sent to his year’s CWA, for their hard work and good spirit. I am grateful for our ministry together.

Grace and Peace in Christ’s Love,

Kevin S. Kanouse, Bishop

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PDF Version of this press release

RELEASED May 14, 2005

Reflections from the Holy Land Bishop Kevin S. Kanouse

Our pilgrim group traveling to the Holy Land has arrived safe and sound on Tuesday. There are 24 people in our group, including 3 bishops (Bishop Roy Almquist from Southeastern PA and Bishop Jerry Mansholdt from Central States Synod) plus a number of clergy, AiMs, and laity from our synod and Central States.

First of all, the places we are visiting are absolutely safe. There has not been a single sign of any kind of trouble anywhere...at least for us. The situation facing the Palestinians and especially the Christians (who are all pretty much Palestinians) is so bleak, though, it is gut-wrenching! The walls being constructed across the country are incredibly oppressive and especially so here in Bethlehem where we have arrived this afternoon (Friday). Today we drove into a world of bleakness and oppression as we arrived at the city of the birthplace of our Lord, through an Israeli military checkpoint and then a tiny opening in the massive, unrelenting wall. The hotel where we are staying experienced closure for nearly five years, just reopening in January of this year. Commerce is down and businesses are closed throughout the city. This city which was significantly Christian until recent years has turned decidedly Muslim as Christians have fled.

After our first morning visiting some of the Palestinian sites in and around Jerusalem, seeing how the Israelis are building settlements that are driving the Palestinians (Christian and Muslim) out of Jerusalem, we headed to the Jordan River and up to the Sea of Galilee, stopping in Nazareth where we spent two nights. We stayed at St. Margaret's guest house (an Anglican retreat center in Nazareth) which sits above Nazareth and provided an awesome view of the city. We visited the Church of the Annunciation that sits above some caves that were homes in the time of Jesus. With only about 15 homes in Nazareth at the time, there's a good chance that it was close to his...or very like his.

Yesterday, we went to the sea of Galilee and saw where the Sermon on the Mount was preached, Capernaum where Jesus taught in the synagogue and where Peter healed his mother-in-law, the church of the "Loaves and Fishes" where Jesus may have fed the 5,000 with five loaves and 2 fish. Then we circled around the Sea and stopped at two places in the Jordan River. Some in our group scooped up some water to bring home for baptisms for grandchildren. It was corny...but fun.

Today (Friday) we visited a school started by Father Chacour. He is truly a prophet and astounded us with his story telling about the battles he has fought for 40 years. He has built a school, starting with young children, adding a high school, a college, and now a university. It is a truly an interfaith experience including Muslims, Christians, and Jews. He has been working hard to raise awareness for Palestinians in the Holy Land in the midst of fear and hatred with and from the Jewish people. He spoke of the realities faced not only by the Palestinians, but by the Israeli people as well. I would love to get him to come to our synod.

We also visited Megiddo (site of the battle of Armageddon in Revelation). This is perhaps the most ancient archaeological dig ever with at least 17 layers of city that have been built and destroyed over time. Then we went to Caesarea and saw the ruins of Herod's palace right on the Mediterranean. It is an outstanding site with a hippodrome, a theater that is in use today, the remnants of an aqueduct that extended up to Mount Hermon, and other outstanding archaeological ruins that have been unearth in the past 40 years. We then arrived in Bethlehem tonight. The hotel where we are staying is the nicest place we've stayed, with televisions in every room...and two or three English speaking channels. The rest are Arabic language stations.  

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PDF Version of this press release

Dear Secretary Rice:

We write to you as concerned citizens and as three of the sixty-five Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, a church body of over five million members throughout the United States. Our purpose in writing to you is to share with you our concerns after completing a ten-day official visit to Israel and Palestine from May 9-19, 2005. We made our trip at the invitation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, our sister Lutheran Church in that region. We traveled at our own personal expense.

We would like you to know that we were profoundly distressed to discover the great harm that the people of Palestine are enduring as a result of the Israeli occupation, and particularly, Israel’s recent actions that have established arbitrary limitations on the movement of Palestinian people among the West Bank, Jerusalem, and the region of Gaza, a policy that has encouraged and is symbolized by the erection of the “Security Wall.”

During our stay in Israel and Palestine we had an opportunity to speak with many of our fellow Lutherans in the region of Bethlehem, with Father Elias Chacour, a prominent educator and Melkite priest in the Galilee region, and with many others in Jerusalem, including many Jews, who are working to secure justice and humane treatment for the Palestinian people.

The people of Palestine are suffering because of arbitrary and discriminatory practices and policies by the State of Israel. In what we believe is a clear violation of international law, Israel is placing the Security Wall in such a way as to clearly sever Arab people from their fields and their livelihoods. Israel refuses to grant reasonable requests for building permits for Palestinian people. At the same time, almost nothing is done to prevent illegal placement of Jewish settlements on Arab land and, once established, these settlers are granted many advantages, including protection through Security Walls and fences. The checkpoints that are a daily event for Arab people cause terrible disruptions and delays, even death, often for no apparent reason.

All three of us are strong supporters of the State of Israel and its right to exist within secure borders without threat from its neighbors. We endorse the policy of our nation, in effect for over fifty years, that maintains a strong alliance between the United States and Israel, a democratic nation. We regret that only Jordan and Egypt have recognized Israel and established diplomatic relations with her.

You should know that the three of us also strongly condemn all acts of brutality and terrorism, focused on innocent civilians. We were very clear in conversations with our friends in Palestine that such actions and the so-called second intifada are futile and undermine the legitimate Palestinian cause.

But we write to you now, Secretary Rice, because we truly believe that the United States of America is the only force that can encourage Israel to cease and desist from actions that are creating the following unacceptable realities:

• Economic distress and persecution are raising a legitimate concern that a viable Christian presence in what we call the “Holy Land” may end in our lifetime. At the present time the Christian population in Bethlehem, once almost half of the population, is down to only 5,000 people with more and more emigrating all the time. The “Christian Quarter” in Jerusalem’s Old City is also experiencing a slow destruction as people are forced from their homes and Jewish tenants move into a place that had been a “homeland” for Christians for over a thousand years.

• Religious sites, such as Rachel’s Tomb in Bethlehem, are cut off from visitation by Arab people and other Christians and Muslims who would like to visit them. The Rachel’s Tomb site has now been annexed to a Jewish settlement that is spreading into Arab Bethlehem.

• The Security Wall is a frightening and a saddening reality. In theory it is for security, but it is creating such universal anger and outrage among the Palestinians that it is more of a provocation to violence than a limitation. But our major concern is that the Wall is not placed on the “green line,” the truce agreement line of separation between Israel from Palestine, but rather weaves around and has the effect of stealing valuable land from the Palestinian people.

• Finally, the highly arbitrary policy of the State of Israel in destroying Palestinian homes is a great source of pain and sadness. Again such demolitions are always in the name of security, but even Israeli studies have indicated that they only breed anger and resentment toward Israel. The demolitions often seem to violate the common precept of international law that group punishment for the act of an individual is unacceptable.

We would also like to add our voices to Lutheran partners and others around the world who are concerned about the future of Palestinian institutions in East Jerusalem and, most urgently, the Augusta Victoria Hospital owned and run by the Lutheran World Federation. We are aware that our Presiding Bishop, Mark Hanson, has written to you, Madam Secretary, requesting a meeting on the subject of the Augusta Victoria Hospital. Not only is Bishop Hanson the Presiding Bishop of the ELCA, he is also the President of the Lutheran World Federation and therefore gravely concerned about the future of its ministry.

We seek your help in encouraging the State of Israel to reaffirm the rights and privileges accorded the LWF under previous agreements with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 1966 and the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1967. For Israel to revoke the long-standing tax-exemption agreement at this time would do harm to the LWF's capacity to provide humanitarian services to refugees and others living in poverty in Jerusalem and the West Bank. It would also damage the historic Palestinian connection to Jerusalem and thereby undermine President Abbas and Palestinians generally who are trying to build momentum toward a negotiated two-state solution. We call on you to encourage the Government of Israel to preserve the LWF’s comprehensive tax exemption as per the 1967 agreement with Israel.

We know that you have great burdens that you must address, but we truly believe that a successful resolution of the conflict in Israel and Palestine is essential for any long-term peace in the Middle East. Many we talked to already believe it is too late for a two-state solution.

In the hope that it is not too late, we urge you and the Bush Administration to do all that you can to encourage Israel to stop the excessive acts that diminish the life of the Palestinian people and expropriate from them land that is vital for Palestinian expansion and agriculture. We say in a precious American statement that we are committed to “liberty and justice for all.” That is what we seek for both the people of Israel and the Palestinian people. That is not being experienced in Palestine at this time.

May you be blessed and strengthened as your serve our nation and the cause of peace through out the world!

Sincerely yours,

The Rev. Kevin S. Kanouse, Bishop North Texas – North Louisiana Synod, ELCA

The Rev. Gerald L. Mansholt, Bishop Central States Synod, ELCA (Kansas & Missouri)

The Rev. Roy Almquist, Bishop Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA (Greater Philadelphia Area)

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PDF Version of this press release

RELEASED JAN 13, 2005

+ Grace and peace be unto you from God our heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. +

On January 13, 2005, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) received the Report and Recommendations from the fourteen-member Sexuality Task Force. You can download a copy by visiting the task force website at www.elca.org/faithfuljourney/tfreport. The Report addresses issues related to the blessing of same sex relationships and the call or approval of partnered gay or lesbian candidates for ministry. I want to share with you some reflections, a review of the upcoming process, and encouragement for offering your response to this Task Force Report.

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PDF Version of this press release

RELEASED JAN 7, 2005

Northern Texas – Northern Louisiana Synod Statement Regarding Settlement in the Gerald Thomas Case

The Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has reached a final settlement with the plaintiffs and their families in a case involving former pastor, Gerald Patrick Thomas, in Marshall, Texas. The synod’s insurance carrier, AIG will pay the victims $6 million in a settlement concluded on Thursday, January 6, 2005.

Thomas was arrested in May 2001, immediately left the congregation and the Lutheran Church Clergy Roster, and was later found guilty of 14 counts of sexual misconduct with a child. He is serving a prison sentence of 397 years. In a civil trial that concluded last April, a jury awarded nine victims and their families over $34 million, much of which was offset by previous settlements with Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Michigan Candidacy Committee, and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Marshall. In October 2004 Judge Bonnie Legatt entered a final judgment against the synod in an amount just over $14 million. Mediation led to the final settlement on January 6.

Bishop Kevin Kanouse of the Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod has expressed regret that the children were harmed and hopes that the final settlement will help provide a measure of support and long-term help for Thomas’ victims.

The Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod joins the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in condemning the acts for which Thomas was found guilty and strives to uphold the highest standards of pastoral integrity. Since the conclusion of the trial the candidacy process of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the synod has been tightened to include background checks and other measures designed to help ensure that such persons are not ordained to serve in the church in the future.

Bishop Kevin S. Kanouse
Northern TX – Northern LA Synod
7 January 2005

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PDF Version of this press release

RELEASED SEPT 17, 2004

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As I think of you today I am reminded of the words of the psalmist in Psalm 46:

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be moved,
and though the mountains be toppled into the depths of the sea;
though its waters rage and foam, and though the mountains tremble at its tumult.
The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold.”

You who live in Florida, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, the southeastern states, and up the Atlantic coast know full well the tumultuous experience of waters raging and foaming. You have experienced the earth trembling beneath your feet, as your homes and belongings are damaged or swept away before your eyes. With you I take comfort in the knowledge that The Lord of hosts is with us. The one who is all powerful is there with you in these days, sharing your tears of sorrow and grief, providing comfort when you are weary, patience as you wait in fear of the next possible storm, and giving you the courage you need to rebuild your homes and your lives. Know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of your brothers and sisters in Christ throughout the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You do not face the fear, the uncertainty, and the devastation alone. We are with you in thought and prayer, and in our gifts to Lutheran Disaster Response. The Lord of hosts is with you in presence and power. May our gracious and merciful Lord grant you strength and courage now and in the days to come.

Living in God’s amazing grace,
The Reverend Mark S. Hanson Presiding Bishop

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PDF Version of this press release

RELEASED APRIL 28, 2004

 
Official Statement from the Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Follow up to the Civil Trial in Marshall, Texas
April 28, 2004

 The Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod (NT-NL Synod) of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is thankful that a civil trial that arose due to the
criminal conduct of former pastor, Gerald P. Thomas Jr. has concluded. We grieve for
and continue to pray for the victims and their families who suffered from Thomas’
unconscionable acts. We also remember in our prayers the members of Good Shepherd
Lutheran Church in Marshall and St. John’s Lutheran Church in Wilson, Texas. We trust
and hope that the compensation awarded to the victims will provide them and their
families support, care and an opportunity to heal their anguish.
 The lawsuit is deeply troubling to all involved and we acknowledge the
seriousness of the events surrounding Thomas’ arrest and conviction. Thomas received 5
years in prison on a federal charge and 397 years in prison on the state charges related to
his molestation of fourteen plaintiffs in Wilson, Marshall, Texas and Columbus, Ohio.
News organizations and others have misconstrued a few facts, as a result of the
plaintiffs’ attorneys’ comments.
 Here are the facts, as we know them: No one in the NT-NL Synod leadership
knew that Thomas had molested children until after his arrest. There was an “incident” in
Wilson, Texas that had occurred during Thomas’ internship in which he gave alcohol to
minors at the parsonage and the youth found a pornographic video. His internship
supervisor, Pastor Melvin Swoyer, along with local law enforcement authorities,
investigated the incident, confronted Thomas, and Swoyer subsequently passed him on
his internship, recommending him for call. The law enforcement authorities filed no
charges, but a memo was sent to Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio,
requesting leadership there to ensure that Thomas was debriefed about this incident and
that he receive counseling. Thomas subsequently passed his senior year of seminary and
was approved by the Michigan Multi-synodical Candidacy Committee for ordination. He
received his first call to Marshall, Texas, and was ordained in 1997. We had no
additional information regarding any misconduct by Thomas either from internship or
from his years in seminary.
 Upon Thomas’ arrest, I visited the congregation in Marshall and encouraged them
to place him on leave from call without pay until his resignation from the roster, which
we were assured, would come the following day. During that visit I took with me a
counselor and another pastor to provide care for anyone who would come forward to
indicate they were victimized. I granted a television interview for the express purpose of
reaching out to the victims, to offer assistance, and asked the detective who knew the
identity of some of the victims to convey our concern for them and to invite them to
contact me. No one from the congregation came forward to seek help and no victims
from the community ever contacted our synod office or me to seek help. None of the
victims were members of St. John Lutheran Church in Wilson, nor Good Shepherd
Lutheran Church in Marshall.
 In May of 2002, Earl Eliason, who had served as Bishop Assistant to retired
Bishop Mark Herbener, came forward to acknowledge his third arrest on charges of
indecent exposure. I immediately sought his resignation from the roster of the ELCA.
He indicated at that time that he had been arrested on two previous occasions, including
one time when he was serving as a pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Dallas and one
time when he was serving as Bishop Assistant to Bishop Herbener. On both of those
occasions, he handled his legal problems through a lawyer and no one in leadership, nor
in his family, found out about the arrests. It must be made clear that Bishop Herbener
had no idea of Earl Eliason’s misconduct until several months after his third arrest and
resignation from the roster. Eliason has asked me to say on his behalf that he is in
counseling for sexual addiction.
 Many have asked how the folks at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church are doing.
Pastor Sandra Niiler contracted as their interim pastor shortly after Thomas’ arrest and
was subsequently called to serve as their part time pastor. Last year the congregation
received 11 new members. As they struggle to make sense out of this difficult situation,
they have banded together in mission and ministry and are to be commended for their
vision to move forward and to reach out into the community.
 I take the matter of sexual misconduct very seriously in the NT-NL Synod.
Misconduct of any sort, but especially the sort in which Gerald Thomas engaged, cannot
be tolerated in our church.
 When allegations of misconduct are brought to my attention, the synod will
provide care for the victims as we are able and confront those who are accused, with
compassion and an aim to bring about a fair resolution. If evidence is compelling, I will
seek the resignation of the rostered person or file disciplinary charges against them. Our
concern and care must be focused on supporting the victims who are willing to come
forward. I call on all congregations of our synod to implement strategies for ensuring
that each of our congregations is a safe haven for all members and especially children.

Kevin S. Kanouse,
Bishop
April 28, 2004

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PDF Version of this press release

RELEASED APRIL 22, 2004

Official Statement from the Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Conclusion of the Civil Trial in Marshall, Texas
 
 The Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in 
America is thankful that a civil trial that arose due to the criminal conduct of former pastor, 
Gerald P. Thomas Jr. has concluded. We grieve for and continue to pray for the victims and 
their families who suffered from Thomas' unconscionable acts. We also remember in our 
prayers the members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Marshall and St. John's Lutheran 
Church in Wilson, Texas. We trust and hope that the compensation awarded to the victims will 
provide them and their families support, care and an opportunity to heal their anguish.

 This lawsuit is deeply troubling to all involved and we acknowledge the seriousness of 
the events surrounding Thomas' arrest and conviction. I join the people of the Northern Texas-
Northern Louisiana Synod in expressing deep sorrow for anyone victimized by Gerald Thomas. 
We will strive to do everything within our power to ensure that the congregations of our synod 
and the church are safe havens for people of all ages, especially for the youngest children who 
are entrusted into our care.
 
Kevin S. Kanouse,
Bishop
April 22, 2004

RELEASED MARCH 12, 2003

The ELCA Conference of Bishops met March 6-11, 2003 in Charleston, South
Carolina and adopted the following:

A war against Iraq, led by the United States and a coalition of other
nations, seems more and more likely. In response, the conference urges
that this church engage in special Lenten disciplines of prayer and
fasting in behalf of peace. The conference asks that on the remaining
Sundays in Lent each congregation make peace a particular focus in the
Prayers of the Church. 

Because the prospect of war is of concern to the entire global community,
this is also an appropriate time to join with fellow Christians and
persons of other faiths in times of worship, prayer, and deeds which bear
witness to our faith that God cares for all of creation and the whole
human family.

The following prayers are provided for use in worship:

 Let us pray that God will hasten the day when swords are beaten into
plowshares, spears into pruning hooks, and people will learn war no more.

 Let us pray for the people of Iraq, including fellow members of the
Body of Christ in the churches there, who have already suffered for so
long under an oppressive regime.

 Let us pray for the United States service men and women in and
around Iraq, that they will be preserved in health and safety. 

 Let us pray for US military chaplains, especially ordained ministers
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, thanking God for their
courage and asking God to bless their ministry among our nation's military
forces.

 Let us pray for President George Bush and the leaders of our nation,
that God will give them wisdom and compassion, enabling them to preserve
the security of our nation while also sparing the people of Iraq from the
devastations of war.

 Let us pray for Saddam Hussein and the leaders of Iraq, that they
will choose peace, comply with the international mandate to destroy
weapons of mass destruction, and end the oppression under which their
people are forced to live.

+ Bishop Kevin Kanouse

PRESS RELEASE FROM THE ELCA DATED MARCH 29, 2002

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) maintains a "zero tolerance" policy for cases of sexual abuse involving clergy. The ELCA's longstanding clergy standards policy states: "Ordained ministers are expected to reject sexual promiscuity, the manipulation of others for purposes of sexual gratification, and all attempts at sexual seduction and sexual harassment, including taking physical or emotional advantage of others." When a bishop is presented with an allegation of improper conduct, he or she investigates these matters promptly. If there is credible evidence to support such a charge, the bishop will immediately seek the pastor's resignation from the ELCA's clergy roster. ELCA bishops do not move known perpetrators to other ministry locations, and do not have the authority to reassign clergy. Bishops do not allow improper behavior to continue unchecked once it is discovered. Allegations of sexual contact with children by ELCA clergy are extremely rare. Molestation of children is a crime, and the ELCA cooperates fully with law enforcement authorities. The ELCA urges its congregations to report cases of alleged sexual misconduct to authorities. The ELCA complies with state laws regarding the reporting of child abuse to state agencies. In the case of Gerald P. Thomas, Jr., Bishop Kevin S. Kanouse of the ELCA Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod worked with Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Marshall, Texas, to seek Thomas' resignation as pastor immediately after Thomas' arrest in May 2001 on charges of inappropriate sexual conduct involving minors. Thomas also resigned from the ELCA's clergy roster. Bishop Kanouse condemned the alleged conduct in this case, and met with the congregation and its leaders to offer pastoral counseling and support. He also said the synod was prepared to work with the families of the alleged victims to help provide appropriate counseling and care. Because the alleged victims were not members of any ELCA congregation, the synod was unaware of their identities. The victims apparently chose to go to court rather than contacting the church. The ELCA is confident that when the evidence is presented in court the church will be exonerated from these charges. Until that time, we will not comment on the matters that are before the court.

A Statement by Bishop Kevin S. Kanouse,
Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

+ Holy Cross Day +

14 September 2001

+ Grace and peace be unto you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. +

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea…”

Psalm 46, vs. 1

            We have all been terribly shaken by the tragic acts of violence in our nation this week.  No family, no individual has been beyond the touch of the terrible acts of destruction perpetrated on innocent people.  I join with the churches of our synod, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, other denominations, and voices around the world decrying the hatred that brought about such a tragedy.  We have been confronted with evil in ways beyond our deepest ability to comprehend.

            We lift our prayers to the God of the cross who fully experienced this same kind of hatred in the betrayal, condemnation, and death of Jesus, God’s only son.  God has experienced our sorrow, knows our pain, and promises to walk with us through the grief of the days and months to come.  Our God, who died on the cross, is the God who rose from the grave and lives to carry us in consolation and to nurture us in ways of peace.  God is, indeed, our refuge and our strength, a very present help in these times of trouble.  We will not fear the future for God’s grace is sufficient to sustain us and assure us that there is nothing in creation that will separate us from God’s love that will dwell in the hearts of the faithful.

            I encourage your continued prayers for the victims of the tragedy and their families.  Pray that in the midst of despair, they would experience the peace of faithfulness.  May those who have fallen victim to the violence receive their eternal rest in the One who has secured that gift, Jesus Christ our Lord.  Pray for the heros, those who are working still to rescue the injured and to bring forth the dead from the rubble.  May those who work be guided and fortified by God’s hand in the massive clean-up weeks ahead.  Pray for our nation, our leaders, and everyone who is experiencing anger and pain because of these event.  May we not be guided by a spirit of vengeance which leads to the destruction of innocent people; but may we seek to bring those who are responsible to justice.  May our hearts be focused in love, so that we do not seek individual retribution against others because of their race or ethnicity.

            Let us join together focusing our of faith on God, trusting that in the Spirit of love and peace we will be led through this nightmare into the light of God’s day of grace.

“The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.”  Psalm 46:11

ELCA Churchwide Assembly Summary

Summary of Actions
Making Christ Known: Sharing Faith in a New Century was the theme of the 2001 Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The 1,039 voting members met at the Indiana Convention Center to act on issues before this church. The Rev. H. George Anderson, ELCA presiding bishop, was chair.

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson Elected Presiding Bishop
Voting members elected the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, 54, presiding bishop of the ELCA on the fifth ballot Aug. 11. Hanson is presently bishop of the ELCA Saint Paul Area Synod, a position in which he has served since 1995, and is vice chair of the Conference of Bishops. Hanson was elected 533-499 over the Rev. Donald J. McCoid, bishop of the ELCA Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod and chair of the Conference of Bishops. "I do not regard this as an election won but a call received," Hanson said in his brief address to the assembly after the election. "Thank you for this holy calling. I accept it with grace and gratitude." Hanson and his wife, Lone, are parents to six children.

The Rev. Lowell G. Almen Re-Elected Secretary
The Rev. Lowell G. Almen, 59, was re-elected on the fourth ballot as secretary of the ELCA. Almen has served as secretary since the ELCA was formed in 1987. Almen received 605 votes on the fourth ballot. Second was Glenndy L. Sculley, assistant to the bishop of the Saint Paul Area Synod, with 379 votes. Third was Dr. Addie J. Butler, ELCA vice president, Reformation Lutheran Church, Philadelphia, with 18 votes. "I accept the renewal of the call of this church as expressed by you, to serve as secretary," Almen said to the assembly after his election. "I have had a privilege I will cherish all my life--that is the privilege of having served with Presiding Bishop H. George Anderson."

Honors for Bishop Anderson, Treasurer Richard L. McAuliffe
The ELCA Church Council conferred the Servus Dei Medal to Bishop Anderson and Richard L. McAuliffe, ELCA treasurer, for their service as officers of this church. Bishop Anderson will conclude his six-year term Oct. 31 and McAuliffe will conclude his service Jan. 31, 2002. Anderson and his wife, Jutta, were honored in a social gathering on Aug. 10 at the Indianapolis Zoo. Retiring Executive for Administration the Rev. Robert N. Bacher was also honored.

Bylaw Adopted
Voting members adopted a bylaw amendment on ordination in "unusual circumstances," 683-330 or 67.4 percent of the vote, slightly more than the two-thirds vote required to pass the proposal. The bylaw will allow a synodical bishop, under certain circumstances, to authorize another pastor of this church to preside at an ordination. The bylaw resulted from concerns of some Lutherans related to "Called to Common Mission" (CCM), the full-communion agreement of the ELCA and Episcopal Church. "We are concerned that the ELCA has decided to adopt the bylaw," said Presiding Bishop Frank T. Griswold III of the Episcopal Church, in a written statement. "This appears to be a unilateral alteration of the mutual commitment that both our churches have solemnly made to enter into full communion based on CCM. Obviously, it is too early to tell how frequently the ordination in `unusual circumstances` will occur, or what the Episcopal Church`s likely response will be. Only our General Convention can speak officially on that." Later, the assembly adopted a resolution requesting that the ELCA presiding bishop "engage in continuing consultation with the presiding bishop and other representatives of the Episcopal Church," to affirm the dedication of the ELCA to live fully into CCM.

Evangelism, Ministry Strategies Adopted
Voting members adopted a new evangelism strategy for the next decade, and heard a report on the strategy for the previous 10 years. The resolution provides guidance to Lutherans to "clarify their sense of purpose and mission, seek new ways to be open to innovation and change, and share new or existing evangelism plans with the whole church prior to the 2003 Churchwide Assembly." One amendment called for establishment of a "Blue Ribbon" task force by Jan. 3, 2002, to develop a comprehensive evangelism strategy for presentation and possible action at the 2003 Churchwide Assembly. The assembly adopted a Latino Ministry Strategy by an overwhelming vote Aug. 11. Latinos are the fastest-growing ethnic group in ELCA congregations. The assembly also adopted a ministry strategy to reach out to Asian and Pacific Islanders, by recommitting the ELCA to partnership with existing Asian and Pacific Islander congregations, intensifying outreach with the gospel among the Asian and Pacific Islander communities.

Homosexuality Study Authorized, Final Report and Recommendations Due in 2005
In response to memorials from synods, voting members, by a vote of 899-115 called for a churchwide study on homosexuality, including matters related to the blessing of same-gender relationships and ordination of gay and lesbian people in committed relationships. The action also calls for a final report and an action plan for implementation to be presented to the 2005 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. The document is to include study of the Lutheran understanding of the Word of God and biblical, theological, scientific and practical material on homosexuality. In a related and separate action, voting members, by vote of 624-381, asked the Church Council, the Conference of Bishops, and the Division for Ministry to create a specific plan and time line leading toward a decision concerning the rostering of homosexual persons in committed relationships. The plan and any changes that would require assembly approval will be placed before the 2005 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. Presently, ELCA policy states that ordained ministers who are homosexual in their self-understanding are expected to abstain from homosexual sexual relationships. The assembly also asked, by a vote of 581-386, for initiation of a process leading to a development of a social statement on human sexuality.

ELCA Initiatives Concluded, Reports Offered
The ELCA`s seven Initiatives for a New Century, were the subject of reports throughout the assembly. Work on the initiatives has concluded. The initiatives are deepening worship life, teaching the faith, witnessing, mutual support, helping the children, connecting with youth and young adults, and developing leaders.

ELCA Affirms Ecumenical Relationships
The assembly affirmed, by a vote of 892-25, that the ELCA accept an invitation to become a "partner in mission and dialogue" with Churches Uniting in Christ (CUIC), a fellowship of nine churches that share ministry together. During the assembly, leaders of the ELCA and the Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Confession of Brazil (IECLB) signed a "Covenant for Cooperative Mission."

Memorials, Resolutions Adopted
The assembly acted on a variety of issues through memorials from synods and resolutions from assembly voting members. Actions included:
* support for Stand With Africa, a three-year Lutheran campaign that focuses on issues significant to Africa, including HIV and AIDS, economic justice, food security, and peace and reconciliation. The assembly also received a report about the ELCA World Hunger Appeal and Program.
* an expression of concern about the plight of family farms and the economic conditions in rural communities. The proposal reaffirmed a 1999 Churchwide Assembly action that urged prayer and advocacy for those caught in the family-farm crisis, along with study of the challenges they face.
* a call for continued prayer for peace in the Mideast, including an ecumenical prayer vigil; support for those in the region affected by strife, affirmation of the work of the ELCA`s Division for Global Mission and Division for Church in Society in efforts to organize more ecumenical response to the crisis; and commendation of Middle East Lutherans for their efforts for peace and aid for those caught in the crisis. The resolution requested the presiding bishop to send a letter to the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, urging that diplomatic pressure be placed on those opposing peace in the Middle East; and it acknowledges the pain and suffering of all those involved in Middle East tensions.
* a call for immediate cessation of U.S. Navy operations on Vieques, an island eight miles east of Puerto Rico. The action also directs the ELCA`s Lutheran Office for Governmental Affairs to advocate for cessation, as well as decontamination of the island from effects of bombs and other ordnance, and "prompt return of the island to its people."

Budgets for 2002-2003, Policy Adopted
Proposals totaling more than $103 million for fiscal year 2002 and more than $105 million for fiscal year 2003 were adopted. These budgets include ELCA World Hunger Appeal income proposals of $16.5 million for 2002 and $17 million for 2003. The assembly also adopted a policy on criteria to assess school voucher proposals, affirming an interim policy of the church council.

The eighth biennial assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America will be held on August 11-17, 2003, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Info Contact: Synod Office (214-637-6865; NTNL Synod Office)

The ELCA and
Middle East Conflict

Attention all Back 4-D and website readers please read the following letters from Bishop H. George Anderson and note that the NT-NL Synod's date for the noted prayer vigil is the 14th of every month.

This memo was sent to synod bishops last week.  Although the memo and attachments look much better on paper, we thought you would appreciate receiving them electronically also.

More information can be found at the Lutheran Office for Governmental Affairs Web site

Rev. Dr. Kevin S. Kanouse
-----------------------------------

TO:  Synodical Bishops
FROM:     George Anderson
DATE:     November 14, 2000

As the flames of hatred and revenge threaten to consume the birthplace of the Christian faith, we all wonder what we might do to help break the cycle of violence and hasten the day of peace.  I am seeking your assistance in beginning and maintaining a prayer vigil for peace in the Middle East.

As you know, the numbers of killed and wounded in clashes between Palestinians and Israelis continue to rise and the peace talks between them have been suspended.  The Rev. Munib Younan, bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan (ELCJ), headquartered in Jerusalem, sent a letter to partner churches dated October 25, 2000.  In the letter, he explained how grave the situation is right now, for his congregations and the area as a whole.  Movement is restricted, certain foodstuffs are becoming difficult to find, transport of industrial and agricultural products is not allowed, farmers can't get in their fields to pick olives, most Palestinian hotels are closed, hospitals lack supplies and equipment, unemployment is high, and ELCJ schools are facing shortages of operating funds.  Bishop Younan reports that the Israeli army has attacked residential areas using tanks and helicopters, particularly in the area around Bethlehem.  The attacks are having a traumatic impact on Palestinian children and others who are under siege.

Bishop Younan's letter called on the ELCA and other LWF partners "to intensively pray for the Christian Churches in Jerusalem and their prophetic role for a lasting, comprehensive, just peace and reconciliation in our area." In response, the ELCA Church Council, at its November 2000 meeting, approved a resolution calling for "coordinated days of prayer and fasting for an end to the violence in Israel and Palestine."   A copy of  the resolution is enclosed for your information.

I propose that we organize a continuous prayer vigil throughout this church. To accomplish this, please use the enclosed prayer vigil schedule to pray not only for our brothers and sisters in the ELCJ, but for all those who are suffering in the Holy Land.  The schedule begins on the first Sunday of Advent and will continue until the violence ends and we can celebrate a just and lasting negotiated resolution to the conflict.

Suggestions for implementing the vigil might include: 
* praying together as a synod staff on the dates designated for your synod.
* inviting the pastors and congregations of your synod to join in this prayer vigil on the days assigned to your synod.
* partnering and collaborating with other synods located within the same state.
* sharing ideas for implementation in the electronic synod bishops' meeting.
* promoting ELCA participation at ecumenical prayer services being organized in your area.

In addition, staff in Washington, DC, tell me that a number of other denominations such as The Episcopal Church, the United Church of Christ, and the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) are likely to join us in this vigil and that participation will grow over the coming months.

Resources are available from the Division for Global Mission, including the Palestine Packet mailed to congregations in September 2000.   There will soon be  prayers for congregational use on DGM's Web site.  You will also find information and resources on the Web site of Lutheran Office for Governmental Affairs, www.loga.org.

Thank you for joining us in this effort. May God bless you in this ministry of prayer for reconciliation and peace.

-----------------------------------------

SCHEDULE FOR PRAYER VIGIL FOR PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Beginning the First Sunday in Advent, December 3, 2000

          STATE - Day of the month

          Alabama / New York - 3
          Alaska / North Carolina - 4
          Arizona / North Dakota - 5
          Arkansas / Ohio - 6
          California / Oklahoma - 7
          Colorado / Oregon  - 8
          Connecticut / Pennsylvania - 9
          Delaware / Rhode Island - 10
          Florida / South Carolina - 11
          Georgia / South Dakota - 12
          Hawaii / Tennessee - 13
          Idaho / Texas - 14
          Illinois / Utah - 15
          Indiana / Vermont - 16
          Iowa / Virginia - 17
          Kansas / Washington - 18
          Kentucky / West Virginia - 19
          Louisiana / Wisconsin - 20
          Maine / Wyoming - 21
          Maryland / District of Columbia - 22
          Massachusetts / Puerto Rico - 23
          Michigan / Virgin Islands - 24
          Minnesota - 25
          Mississippi - 26
          Missouri - 27
          Montana - 28
          Nebraska - 29
          Nevada - 30
          New Hampshire - 31
          New Jersey - 1
          New Mexico - 2

---------------------------

Background and Action taken by the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America at its November 11-13, 2000, meeting held in Chicago, Illinois
                                                                '
Resolution on Conflict in the Middle East

 In their October 12, 2000, letter to President Bill Clinton, Presiding Bishop George Anderson and the Conference of Bishops encouraged the President in his "efforts to bring an end to the violence in Israel and the Palestinian territories, renew negotiations, and forge a just and comprehensive peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinians."  The letter continued:

 "We have watched, heartbroken, as the numbers of killed and injured rise. We are particularly aware of the impact the fighting is having on the Palestinian community because of our church's closeness to Lutheran congregations in and around Jerusalem and our involvement with the Augusta Victoria Hospital on the Mount of Olives.   "Our Palestinian church partners have repeatedly appealed to the international community for protection for the Palestinians in Jerusalem and in the Palestinian territories. They fear for their safety because of the presence and activities of armed settlers, often protected by Israeli troops, and vigilante patrols. We ask that you help to put into place the protection that is needed for those who are vulnerable in this context."
 
In an October 3, 2000, statement, Presiding Bishop Anderson said:  On behalf of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, I would like to express my condolences to all those who have lost loved ones in these recent clashes and ask God to comfort them in their time of grief. We will continue to work and pray for an end to the violence, seek to bolster those
who search for a negotiated end to the conflict, and support those who provide pastoral care, emergency medical assistance, and other services in this time of crisis.
 
The board of the Division for Global Mission, in October 2000, approved a resolution and referred the resolution to the Church Council for action.

CC ACTION
Whereas, we have witnessed with deep distress, sorrow, and concern the recent resurgence of violent conflict in the Middle East; and   Whereas, we have heard from our sisters and brothers in the churches in the region, in particular the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan (ELCJ) (and Palestine), of the tangible effects of the violence and imposed closure on their daily lives that affects access to food and other basic necessities, the land for harvesting, hospitals, employment, places of worship, and schools; and

Whereas, the ELCJ (and Palestine) and the Lutheran World Federation's Augusta Victoria Hospital have been and continue to provide vital spiritual, medical, and other assistance to those most severely affected by the conflict; and

Whereas, we are grateful that our presiding bishop and the Conference of Bishops have conveyed our concerns to members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the President of the United States; and

Whereas, statements and letters from church leaders in Jerusalem, the Middle East Council of Churches, the Lutheran World Federation, the World Council of Churches, and the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. have been received by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; and

Whereas, our missionaries in the area have been given the option to leave but have elected to stay to accompany the local church even at risk to themselves and their families; therefore, be it RESOLVED, that the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA):
 (1)  encourage members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to support through prayer and material assistance the people in the region affected by civil strife;
 (2)  request staff to explore with the Office of the Presiding Bishop, relevant churchwide units, and the inter-unit working group on the Middle East the possibilities for particular expressions of concern, such as: (a) a letter from the presiding bishop to all congregations; (b) coordinated
days of prayer and fasting for an end to the violence in Israel and Palestine; (c) an ELCA delegation visit to the region as soon as feasible; and (d)  financial support in coordination with the International Disaster Fund and the Division for Global Mission;  
(3)  affirm the expressions of concern for peace, justice, and reconciliation conveyed to U.S. policy-makers and strongly encourage members of the ELCA to engage in similar advocacy, utilizing resources available through the Division for Church in Society's Lutheran Office for Governmental Affairs, and Churches for Middle East Peace, as well as educational resources available through the Division for Global Mission;  
(4)  request staff to work with other churchwide units to encourage all congregations to utilize the Palestine packet and "Mosaic" video (Fall 1999) to help them better understand the issues facing this region;  
(5)  commend our mission staff in the region, continue to raise them up in prayer, and recommit ourselves to their support;  (
6)  commend the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan (and Palestine), Bishop Munib Younan, its congregations, and schools for steadfastness in faith and courage in witness throughout this time of crisis; for their ministries of reconciliation and peacemaking; for their tireless assistance
and service, including ministries with traumatized children, stranded students, and congregation members;  
(7)  express to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan (and Palestine) the solidarity of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in prayer, fellowship, and material and financial support in this critical time; and  
(8)  request that the Division for Global Mission bring a report to the  April 2001 meeting of the Church Council regarding the material and financial support made available to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan (and Palestine). Below is the text of the letter sent to President Clinton by ELCA Presiding Bishop H. George Anderson on behalf of the ELCA Conference of Bishops:
------------------

October 12, 2000

President William Jefferson Clinton
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20500 

Dear President Clinton:

On behalf of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) we, the 67 members of the ELCA's Conference of Bishops, wish to encourage you in your efforts to bring an end to the violence in Israel and the Palestinian territories, renew negotiations, and forge a just and comprehensive peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinians.   Please  know, Mr.  President, that you and your negotiating team are in our prayers daily along with the Palestinians and Israelis who are suffering in so many ways these days.

We have watched, heartbroken, as the numbers of killed and injured rise. We are particularly aware of the impact the fighting is having on the Palestinian community because of our church's closeness to Lutheran congregations in and around Jerusalem and our involvement with the Augusta Victoria Hospital on the Mount of Olives.  In a statement released last week, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America  called on all sides  to end the fighting and at the same time protested "the disproportionate and excessive use of lethal force by Israeli forces, their increasing use of live ammunition, their firing of  rubber-coated bullets into the faces and heads of Palestinian youth, and their disregard for humanitarian institutions, such as the Augusta Victoria Hospital on the Mount of Olives."   It is extremely disturbing that the premises of this hospital were occupied by Israeli forces and then used to fire upon Palestinian protesters, and that access to this and other hospitals continues to be seriously impeded for the wounded and dying, as well as the hospital staff itself.  

Unfortunately, the situation has continued to escalate due in large measure to the excessive use of lethal force by the Israeli military and the introduction of tanks and attack helicopters into the conflict.  We oppose Israel's use of U.S. supplied Apache and Cobra helicopters against Palestinian civilians and  Israel's use of Blackhawk helicopters in its attack on the electrical grid in Lebanon in May.  We ask that the recently approved sales of Blackhawk and Apache helicopters by the United States to Israel be suspended.

We call upon you, Mr. President, to support a full, impartial,international investigation of the recent violence.  Please press Prime Minister Barak to restrain his troops as you urge President Arafat to do all in his power to stop the violence. 

We appreciate your efforts which brought the Palestinians and Israelis together at the July Camp David Summit and, for the first time, to discuss openly the concept of sharing the city of Jerusalem.  Now, with the spiral of violence, the disproportionate use of force, and the ensuing protests at the United Nations and in the streets of numerous Arab nations, it is clear that there must be a broader involvement of the international community in promoting and protecting the rights of all the inhabitants of Jerusalem. 

We encourage you to be open to a greater role for the United Nations in resolving Jerusalem's status and other issues such as the future of the refugees.  The ELCA supports the call, since 1994, of the twelve Patriarchs and Heads of Jerusalem churches for a special statute for Jerusalem that would "allow Jerusalem not to be victimized by laws imposed as a result of hostilities or wars but to be an open city which transcends local, regional or world political troubles.   This statute, established in common by local political and religious authorities, should also be guaranteed by the international community."

We are hopeful that a lasting Arab-Israeli peace can be achieved.  At the core of this agreement will be an equitable solution for Jerusalem that respects the human rights of Palestinians and Israelis as well as the three religious communities.  The process of negotiating the future of Jerusalem, as well as the final product, must be firmly rooted, therefore, in the
United Nations Security Council resolution 242, which calls for Israel's withdrawal from land occupied in 1967, and in the Fourth Geneva Convention, which prohibits an occupying power from transferring its population into occupied territories and deals with the protection of civilians under occupation.

Attacks on holy sites, perpetrated both by Israelis and Palestinians, is another unsettling development in the past days.  We believe UNSC resolution 242 and the Fourth Geneva Convention, as well as a special statute for Jerusalem to assure freedom of religion and conscience for all and access for all to places of worship and other institutions, are more relevant now than ever and need to be embraced by the Israeli and Palestinian negotiators.

Our Palestinian church partners have repeatedly appealed to the international community for protection for the Palestinians in Jerusalem and in the Palestinian territories.  They fear for their safety because of the presence and activities of armed settlers, often protected by Israeli troops, and vigilante patrols.  We ask that you help to put into place the protection that is needed for those who are vulnerable in this context. Thank you for hearing our concerns.  May God bless and strengthen you as you work for justice and reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians in the challenging days ahead.

Sincerely,

The Rev. H. George Anderson
Presiding Bishop
on behalf of the ELCA Conference of Bishops

NTNL Synod Parish Lay Ministry Receives $12,500 Grant from AAL and Announces Dates for 2001 Semesters 

Aid Association for Lutherans (AAL) has awarded a $12,500 grant to train Hispanic parish lay assistants in the Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). 

Funds were provided through an AAL Synodical Initiative Grant, which helps church body judicatories, or regional divisions, and their ministries develop projects to extend the outreach mission of the church. They’re awarded by AAL in conjunction with the ELCA Synodical-Churchwide Relations Committee. 

AAL, based in Appleton, Wis., is a fraternal benefit society of nearly 1.8 million members who are joined together for insurance, education and volunteer opportunities. 

The Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod has established the Lay Ministry Academy, a two-year program to train parish lay ministers to serve in a variety of settings.  Theology, church history, pastoral care, mission and stewardship will be some of the areas taught. The two-year program consists of four semesters with three classes taught each semester.  The Spring Semester meets the third Saturday in March, April and May.  The Fall Semester meets the third Saturday in September, October and November. 

All classes are at Calvary Lutheran in Fort Worth.  The fee is $150 for each semester which includes books and lunches.  Individuals can begin the Academy at the beginning of any semester. 

Additional information about the NTNL Parish Lay Ministry Program and Academy can be obtained from Pastor Susan Rodriguez (St. John Lutheran Church, 509 NE 4^th St., Grand Prairie, TX 75050,Ph: 972.262.1931,Fax: 972.262.1952,e-mail: stjohnlc@flash.net), Deacon Dave Heise (5209 Alexander Drive, Flower Mound, TX 75028,Ph: 972.539.2427,Fax: 972.539.5568, e-mail dheise1042@msn.com),or Registrar Gael Golden (3707 Silver Oak Cluster, Irving, Texas 75060,Ph: 972.790.1772,e-mail: goldone@flash.net)