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sent by the spiritsent by the spiritsent by the spirit filled with fire filled with fire filled with fire gifted to grow gifted to grow gifted to grow EASTERN NORTH DAKOTA 2015 SYNOD ASSEMBLY

General InfoGeneral Info——2015 Synod Assembly2015 Synod Assembly

Voting Members

► All rostered leaders of the ELCA or full communion partners

under call or contract are voting members; attendance at the

assembly is expected.

► Retired and On Leave from Call rostered leaders have

voice, but no vote.

► Voting Members need to download, print, and

bring all required documents to assembly.

Some material posted is only for review and need not be printed.

► Inform the synod office (701.232.3381) of any Voting

Members substitutions as soon as possible.

Make sure you know the names of the individuals involved.

► When you check in to the assembly, you will receive your

nametag, voting cards, and a sample ballot.

Registration

► The Registration Fee is $145 for Voting Members which

includes all meals.

► All registration fees are non-refundable.

► All Voting Members must register.

► Visitors are welcome to attend all events.

Pre-registration is required for meals.

Housing

► Blocks of rooms are reserved in Fargo motels/hotels;

see the Housing Information document.

► To take advantage of our special pricing, please refer to the

room as Eastern North Dakota, ELCA Synod Assembly.

► A Fargo map is available on our website.

28th Annual Synod

Assembly will be at

the Holiday Inn in

Fargo, ND.

The synod assembly is the annual gathering of rostered leaders, lay voting members,

and visitors who represent the congregations that make up

the Eastern North Dakota Synod of the ELCA.

Childcare for K-6th

grade will be provided

by Red Willow.

PrePre--Assembly Assembly

Voting Member Voting Member

Business Materials Business Materials

will be available on will be available on

our website our website ((www.eandsynod.orgwww.eandsynod.org) )

April 1April 1stst. .

Items will NOT be mailed.Items will NOT be mailed.

Holiday Inn: 3803 13th Ave S, Fargo

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http://www.eandsynod.org/

Milestones in Ministry

► Pastors celebrating an anniversary of

ordination (25th, 50

th, 55

th, and 65

th), newly

assigned seminarians, and congregations

marking special anniversaries (50, 75, and 125

years) will be acknowledged during a plenary

session.

► Pastors celebrating 50, 55 & 60th

anniversaries of ordination will be

remembered during Sunday morning

worship (8:45 am) and acknowledged

during the initial Sunday plenary session (10:30

am).

► This year’s celebrants will receive an

invitational letter.

Remember to bring to assembly:

► Your congregation’s worship offering—offering will

be taken at the Sunday worship ONLY!

The offering collected will go to Campus Ministry and

1st Sudanese Worshiping Community.

► A Bible

► A sweater or light jacket

► Attire for your photograph for our directory(Rostered Leaders only)

► A spirit of openness and celebration!

Fundraiser for the Fundraiser for the

Central African Republic Central African Republic

Pre-Registration Required.

Please contact the synod office if you did not

register when you registered for the assembly

to check on availability: 701.232.3381

A limited number of tickets are available at the

Global Mission Table.

5:30 pm Social Hour & Silent Auction

6:30 pm Dinner

7:00 pm Silent Auction Closes

Questions? Check the website for 2015 Synod Assembly information,

forms and materials. Call (701) 232-3381 with any questions.

www.eandsynod.org

Registration information for

Voting Members & Visitors can

be found on our website:

www.eandsynod.org

You can register online

or print a form to send to

the synod office.

Payment can be mailed by

check to the synod office.

PO Box 2019 Fargo, ND 58107-2019

All proceeds benefit All proceeds benefit All proceeds benefit

the C.A.R.the C.A.R.the C.A.R.

3911 20th Ave S - In the Lutheran Social Services building

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http://www.eandsynod.org/index.php

http://www.eandsynod.org/


Saturday, April 18th

7:30 am Registration & Displays Open

8:30 am Opening Worship

Preacher: Bishop Terry A. Brandt

9:30 am Plenary 1

Opening of the Assembly

Announcements & Introductions

Report of the Credentials

Committee

Declaration of a Quorum

Adopt Agenda & Rules of

Procedure

Report of the Secretary,

Ms. Meridee Erickson-Stowman

Report of the Elections

Committee

Resolutions

10:00 am Break

10:15 am Bible Study, Dr. Troy Troftgruben,

Wartburg Seminary

10:45 am State of the Synod,

Bishop Terry A. Brandt

11:30 am Keynote, Pr. Nancy Nyland,

Director for Evangelical Mission,

Indiana-Kentucky Synod

Recognition of Church Anniversaries

50, 75, & 125 years

12:00 pm Lunch

Deadline for Vice President

Nominations

12:45 pm Breakout Session 1

1:30 pm Break

1:45 pm State of our Companion Synod,

Central African Republic

2:00 pm State of the ELCA,

Rev. Ron Glusenkamp, Director,

Always Being Made New:

The Campaign for the ELCA

Recognition of Ordination Anniversaries

25 years

2:30 pm Plenary 2 Report of the Credentials

Committee

Report of the Vice President,

Mr. Dave Molmen

Speeches from Vice President

Candidates

Resolutions

3:15 pm Break

3:30 pm Bible Study, Dr. Troy Troftgruben,

Wartburg Seminary

4:00 pm Plenary 3


Committee

Report of the Treasurer,

Mr. Darin Ohe

Presentation of the 2016 Proposed

Mission Plan (Budget)

Report from the Nominations

Committee

First Ballot for Vice President

election (simple majority required)

Resolutions

5:00 pm Breakout Session 2

6:00 pm Dinner on your own

Deadline for Nominations

& Resolutions

You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses...to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8

Pre-Registration Required.

Please contact the synod office if you did not register when you

registered for the assembly to check on availability: 701.232.3381

A limited number of tickets are available at the Global Mission Table.

5:30 pm-Social Hour & Silent Auction

6:30 pm-Dinner 7:00 pm-Silent Auction Closes

3911 20th Ave S, Fargo

3


8:00 am Registration & Displays Open

8:45 am Sunday Worship with

Holy Communion & Offering

Preacher: Pr. Charlie Axness,

Associate with the Bishop

10:00 am Break

10:15 am Plenary 4


Committee

Second Ballot for Vice President

election (if needed)

Other elections

Adoption of the 2016 Mission Plan

Resolutions

Recognition of Ordination Anniversaries

50+ years

11:00 am Keynote, Pr. Nancy Nyland,

Director for Evangelical Mission,

Indiana-Kentucky Synod

11:45 am Lunch

(bag lunch, return to plenary)

12:15 pm Plenary 5 Report of the Credentials

Committee

Resolutions

Closing of the Assembly

Sunday, April 19th

You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses...to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8

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2015 Synod Assembly Breakouts

Session 1: 12:45-1:30pm

1. Listening to the Spirit: Spiritual Discernment as Community Practice

(Acts 15:1-21) – Director’s Room, Main Level

Presented by: Dr. Troy Troftgruben, Wartburg Seminary

We are often interested in hearing the Spirit's voice, but what does that look like in practice?

Using texts from the book of Acts, we will consider ways that the earliest communities of faith

discerned the Spirit's voice through face-to-face dialogue, and think through how we engage

the same kinds of practices in community today.

2. Cultivating a Culture of Generosity and Gratitude – Board Room, Main Level

Presented by: Shar Gumke, Associate with the Bishop for Congregational Life and the EaND

Stewardship Committee

“Fruitful congregations are those who practice extravagant generosity.” “People who

practice what they believe exude a contagious energy.” How do you uncover the link

between these two statements? Are you willing to try a “holy experiment” within your

congregation? Find the connection used by congregations and individuals who’ve learned

what it means to practice contagious generosity within a culture of gratitude.

3. The Witness of Congregational Memory: Learning from the Stories of God’s Work Among Us

– Mezzanine I, Upper Level

Presented by: Paul A. Daniels, Archivist, ELCA Region 3

Acts 1:8 reminds us that when we are given the Holy Spirit we are given power and that we

are witnesses to God’s work in the world. Among the great blessings given by God is the gift of

memory. Each individual and each congregation is gifted with memory and story - shared

memory and story of God’s faithfulness among us, as well as tales of our all too human

responses and shortcomings. This workshop will provide practical, useful ways in which shared

congregational stories (received by us in the full range of church records) have much to

teach us. We will explore how memory is seldom a neutral thing - that stories can either hold

us back or can propel us forward in mission in new and creative ways. Additionally, we will

look at the many archival and records care services available to congregations from the ELCA

Region 3 Archives (for the 9 synods of North Dakota, Minnesota and South Dakota).

4. Part of the Conversation: Ministry with Young Adults – Mezzanine III, Upper Level

Presented by: Pastor Kristina Waters, CounterSpace Director

Whether it's over coffee or beer, CounterSpace (formerly The Project FM) has found that

young adults value being a part of the conversation. We will discuss ways that have worked

for us in creating space for conversation about faith and doubt.

5. Please Pass the Faith: How to Share Your Faith Story – Conference Room, Main Level

Presented by: Pr. Nancy Nyland, Director for Evangelical Mission, Indiana Kentucky Synod

How do we invite others to our faith communities? When the Holy Spirit gives us opportunities

to do so, how do we share our faith? This breakout will help you identify your own faith

stories. This can be scary business, but it can be fun, too. So let's have step out of our

comfort zones, share our faith stories with another person and see how the Holy Spirit fills us

with fire.

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Session 2: 5:00-5:45pm

1. A Future with Hope: Journeying with Youth in the Justice System - Why it Matters and What You

Can Do – Mezzanine I, Upper Level

Presented by: Pr. Renee Splichal Larson and Shera Nesheim, DM; Heart River Lutheran Church

Heart River Bridges of Hope is an outreach and re-entry ministry that partners with

congregations and local agencies to provide a network of relationships young people in the

justice system can rely upon for support and guidance. Please join us for conversation on how

you can be involved and why your relationships with these young people matter.

2. Mission Possible: Undercover Assets – Conference Room, Main Level

Presented by: Pr. Nancy Nyland, Director for Evangelical Mission, Indiana Kentucky Synod

The greatest asset you have in your congregation is the people and all they have to

offer. Your congregation is uniquely gifted with the people's gifts, skills, abilities, talents,

etc. How does discovering and using these assets lead to renewal and growth? This breakout

session will answer this question and more. And......don't be surprised if a little fun is sprinkled

throughout.

3. Cultivating Vitality: Best Practices for Multipoint Parishes – Mezzanine III, Upper Level

Presented by: Rev. Keith Zeh, Director for Evangelical Mission

The vitality of multipoint parishes is critical to the missional well-being of our synod. During this

session we'll affirm this importance and explore best practices in down-to-earth ways that you

can take home and use.

4. Social Ministry at Work in North Dakota: A New Option for Counseling Services

– Director’s Room, Main Level

Presented by: Charley Joyce and Jessica Thomasson, Lutheran Social Services of ND

Are there people in your congregation, or your community, who are looking for a counselor?

For someone who can work with a teenager who is struggling? Lutheran Social Services is

preparing to roll out a new initiative that would make counseling services in North Dakota

more accessible and, the most exciting part is how North Dakota congregations can be a part

of the new Abound Network. Join us to talk about ways churches can work together with

Lutheran Social Services to deliver healing, help and hope to people in need.

5. Cupcakes, Coffee, and Conversation : Practicing Things New – Board Room, Main Level

Presented by: Rachael Puttbrese and the EaND Synod Practice Discipleship Team

You may have come to realize that the culture is shifting. Church is not as important in

peoples’ lives as it once was. You may also think your congregation’s approach to ministry

needs to change. Maybe you even have some ideas! This session will help you frame a path

towards change in your congregation. We will help one another identify and plan the steps

we need to take to create the change in our congregations’ ministry.

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Rules of Procedure for 2015 Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly

1. The agenda and the rules of procedure will be adopted at the first session of the assembly. Once adopted, theymay only be changed by a two-thirds vote of the assembly.

2. Official voting members are to be seated at tables on the plenary floor. Persons granted voice, but not vote[S7.23.] may also be seated on the floor. Visitors, alternate voting members and all others are to be seated indesignated sections apart from the assembly voting members.

3. One-half of the members of the Synod Assembly shall constitute a quorum [S7.14.].

4. If the lack of a quorum prevents action on any item of business, the disposition of which is essential for theongoing work of the synod, that matter shall be referred to the Synod Council for action, and the action of theSynod Council shall be binding on the synod.

5. How to make a motion:a) The motion, amendment or referral must be in writing (forms available at the business table). Keep one

copy, send one to the assembly chairperson.b) Address the chairperson, “Mr. or Ms. Chairperson,” to be recognized. Give your name, congregation, and

city.c) State your motion, “I move that . . . .”.d) As a general rule, every motion shall be seconded.e) The chairperson will restate the motion as made and seconded before it is debated.

6. Unless otherwise determined by a two-thirds vote of the assembly, all speeches in general discussion shall belimited to two minutes, and no person shall speak more than twice on the same subject.

7. Only resolutions received 30 days prior to the assembly and distributed two weeks prior to the assembly shallcome before the synod assembly with the exception of resolutions dealing with events or issues originatingwithin 50 days prior to and including the assembly. The exceptional resolutions will be reviewed by theResolutions Committee, if received prior to the assembly, or by Committee on Reference and Counsel, ifsubmitted at the assembly, to ascertain whether it is permissible to grant exceptional status.

8. A Committee on Reference and Counsel (two clergy and three laypersons) shall be appointed by the bishop andannounced at the first session of the assembly. Its duties shall be:a) To review all resolutions of a general character which are not germane to the pending question or report.

The proposer shall submit the resolution to the synod secretary or to the committee. Resolutions submittedby voting members shall be reviewed by the Committee on Reference and Counsel, which when reporting tothe synod assembly may move:1) to adopt the resolution as submitted by (voting member’s name).2) to adopt the resolution, proposed by (voting member’s name) as amended by the Committee on

Reference and Counsel.3) to refer the resolution, submitted by (voting member’s name) to the Synod Council for (specify

expectation).4) to adopt the substitute resolution for the resolution submitted by (voting member’s name).5) to decline the resolution as proposed by (voting member’s name).

b) To recommend special orders for hearing by voting membersc) To grant or deny permission to distribute printed material not issued from the synod secretary.d) To give such assistance to the chairperson as may be desired in the course of the assembly.

In reviewing proposed memorials, resolutions, and main motions, the Reference and Counsel Committeemay edit, prepare an alternative memorial, resolution, or motion, or consolidate into a single proposed actionmultiple memorials, resolutions, or main motions on the same or similar subjects. Whenever the Referenceand Counsel Committee recommends an edited or alternative memorial, resolution, or motion, the report tothe assembly shall contain the text of the original motion.

9. No resolution shall be accepted by the Committee on Reference and Counsel after 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday,March 19

th without two-thirds vote of approval by the assembly.

7

10. The following election process shall be followed:a) The Nominating Committee shall present a slate of candidates for each vacancy to be filled by election

[S9.03.01, 9.05, 9.06].b) Nominations in addition to those submitted may be made from the floor by any voting member.

Nominations for the Synod Vice President will be accepted from the floor until 12:00pm (noon) on Saturday,April 18

th.

c) All elections shall be by ballot. Except where otherwise provided, a majority of votes cast on any ballot shallelect.

d) If more than two persons are nominated for any position and there is no election on the first ballot, the twocandidates receiving the highest number of votes on the first ballot shall be candidates on the succeedingballot.

e) The result of each ballot in every election shall be announced in detail to the assembly.

11. The latest edition (11th) of Robert’s Rules of Order shall govern parliamentary procedure of this Synod

Assembly, except as otherwise provided in the constitution or bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church inAmerica or of the Eastern North Dakota Synod.

12. Rostered leaders serving under contract who are currently rostered in a different synod shall have voice, butnot vote, at this assembly.

8

Parliamentary Procedure ... At a Glance

TO DO THIS: YOU SAY: Interrupt speaker?

Second needed?

Is it debatable?

Can it be amended?

What vote is needed?

Can it be Reconsidered?

ADJOURN MEETING

“I move we adjourn” No Yes No No Majority No

CALL AN INTERMISSION

“I move we recess for…”

No Yes No Yes Majority No

COMPLAIN ABOUT HEAT, NOISE, ETC

“I rise to a question of privilege”

Yes No No No No vote No

TEMPORARILY TABLE A MOTION

“I move to table the motion”

No Yes No No Majority No

END DEBATE/ CALL THE VOTE

“I move the previous question”

No Yes No No 2/3 No

POSTPONE DISCUSSION FOR A CERTAIN TIME

“I move to postpone the discussion

until…”

No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes

GIVE CLOSER STUDY TO ISSUE

“I move we refer the matter to

committee…”


AMEND A MOTION

“I move we amend the motion by…”


INTRODUCE BUSINESS

“I move that…” No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes

PROTEST A BREACH OF RULES

“I rise to a point of order”

Yes No No No No vote No

SUSPEND RULES TEMPORARILY

“”I move that we suspend the rules so

that…”

No Yes No No 2/3 No

VOTE ON A RULING OF THE CHAIR

“I appeal from the chair’s decision”

Yes Yes Yes No Majority Yes

TAKE UP A MATTER PREVIOUSLY TABLED

“I move to take from the table…”

No Yes No No Majority No

RECONSIDER A HASTY ACTION

“I move to reconsider the vote on…”

Yes Yes No Majority No

9

27th

Annual Assembly Minutes

of the

Eastern North Dakota Synod of the ELCA

Alerus Center, Grand Forks, ND

May 10-11, 2014

“Deeply Rooted: Together in Ministry”

Saturday, May 10, 2014 – 8:30 a.m.

OPENNING WORSHIP: Worship lead by

The music was led by Nate Houge and Micah Taylor

Bishop Rindy’s Sermon was based on Luke 24: 13- 35

PLENARY ONE:

OPENING OF THE ASSEMBLY:

The opening of this Assembly was called by Bishop Rindy.

INTRODUCTION OF SPECIAL GUESTS:

Bishop Rindy introduced our special guests: Rev. Chris Boerger, Churchwide representative;

Alice Senechal, parliamentarian; Paul Baglyos, Region 3 Coordinator; Nate Houge and Micah

Taylor, musicians; and Allison Beebe, ELCA Malaria Initiative; Bishop Mark Narum, Bishop

of Western ND Synod, serving as mentor to the newly elected bishop

INTRODUCTION OF NEWLY ASSSIGNED SEMINARIANS AND INTERNS:

Bishop Rindy introduced the newly assigned seminarians: Karl Breddin (Rebecca), Edwina

Landry, Erika Buller, Michael Buller, Jason Darty (Jessica), Alyssa Augustson, and Jenna

Pulkowski, seminarian interns; Natalie Carlson (Elim Lutheran), Liesebet E. Gravley

(Nordland and Trinity of Havana), Kristin Papson (Zion of Hoople), Rebecca Breddin (Our

Saviors, Valley City), Lori Pancratz (St. Olaf and Zion of Reynolds), and Kimberly Belken

(Peace Lutheran of Fargo)

Bishop thanked and introduced the Assembly Planning Committee: Val Teppo, Kathy Fick,

Amy Eisenmann, Karla Coen –Tuff, Chad Brucklacher, Cheryl Berg, Jake Anderson, Kim and Dave Adams, and Carma Lynn Hanson. Technology Team: Rev. Bob Bekkerus, Rev.

Nathan Strong and Genesis Gaule. Photographer: Searle Swedland

Bishop Rindy asked one person from each of the tables on the east side of the floor to act as

pages for the assembly.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Kathy Fick announced that the plants on the table can be taken home after the assembly for a

donation to the Malaria Campaign.

10

REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE: The Credentials Committee consists of

Rev. Jolene Knudson-Hanse, Chair; Rev. Susan Haukaas; Meganne Masko; Kelly Binfet;

and Tim Binfet. Rev. Jolene Knudson-Hanse, Chairperson of the Credentials Committee, gave

the first report of the Credentials committee as follows:

Voting Members Clergy/AiMs 92

Lay 302

Synod Officers 4

Total Voting Members 398

Guest and Visitors 67

Grand total 465

ADOPT AGENDA AND RULES OF PROCEDURE: The rules of procedure were amended by

the synod council as follows;

Rules of Procedure for 2014 Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly

10. The following election process shall be followed for the bishop election:

a) The names of the ordained ministers that were identified by the Nominating Committee, shall

be listed on the first ballot. In addition, any voting member of the Synod Assembly may submit

the name of any ordained minister of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as a nominee.

If there is no election of the first ballot, biographical information on the additional nominees

shall be obtained and distributed to voting members prior to the casting of the second ballot,

except for those who have asked following the first ballot that their names not appear on the

second ballot. S9.04 (h)

b) The bishop shall be elected by the Synod Assembly. Three-fourths of the legal votes cast

shall be necessary for election on the first ballot. If no one is elected, the first ballot shall be

considered the nominating ballot. Three-fourths of the legal votes cast on the second ballot shall

be necessary for election. The third ballot shall be limited to the seven persons (plus ties) who

receive the greatest number of legal votes on the second ballot, and two-thirds of the legal votes

cast shall be necessary for election. The fourth ballot shall be limited to the three persons (plus

ties) who receive the greatest number of votes on the third ballot, and 60 percent of the legal

votes cast shall be necessary for election. On subsequent ballots, a majority of the legal votes

cast shall be necessary for election. These ballots shall be limited to the two persons (plus ties)

who receive the greatest number of legal votes on the previous ballot. S9.04

c) Questions: Prior to the third ballot, the seven persons (plus ties) who received the greatest

number of votes on the second ballot will be invited to participate in a questions-and-answer

period. The period shall be moderated by the person designated to preside at the election. The

questions shall be asked in rotating order of the nominees, and the same questions will be asked

question. The time for the question-and-answer period shall be a maximum of 75 minutes.

d) Speeches by Nominees: Prior to the fourth ballot, the three persons (plus ties) who received

the greatest number of votes on the third ballot will be invited to address the assembly, with each

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speech limited to 5 minutes. If any such person is not present at the assembly, the individual may

address the assembly telephonically. The sequence of the speeches shall be determined by lot.

e) Presiding of the Assembly for the Election of the Bishop: The representative of the

churchwide organization shall preside over the assembly whenever the assembly is in session

and conducting business related to the election of the synod bishop. Upon conclusion of specific

business related to this election, the bishop shall resume presiding over the assembly.

SA.14.05.01 Motion by synod council, no second required, to adopt the agenda and rules of

procedure as amended. Motion Carried

REPORT OF THE SECRETARY: Meridee Erickson-Stowman presented the minutes from the

2013 Synod Assembly.

SA.14.05.02 Motion by synod council, no second needed to approve the 2013 Synod Assembly

minutes. Motion Carried

REPORT FROM THE BISHOP’S ELECTIONS COMMITTEE:

Dave Molmen and Secretary Chris Boerger came forward, Rev. Boerger shared a reflection of

what it is to be on the bishop election committee. Explaining that this is a call process and an

election. This assembly is a call committee, we need to reflect on the gifts the individuals have to

lead this synod. Throughout it all we invoke the Holy Spirit. Rev. Boerger led us in prayer and

then explained the ecclesiastical ballot.

Bishop Rindy introduced the executive committee: Shar Gumke, VP; Darin Ohe, Treasurer;

Meridee Erickson-Stowman, Secretary; Rev. Michael Jacobson, Wade Bloom and Rev. Beth

Peterson.

REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE: Rev. Jolene Knudson-Hanse, Chairperson

of the Credentials Committee, gave the second report of the Credentials committee as follows:


Lay 309

Synod Officers 4



Grand Total 479

FIRST BALLOT FOR THE ELECTION OF A BISHOP: Rev. Chris Boerger asked only voting

members be seated in the voting area. Rev. Boerger called for a time of silence and then prayer

before instructing the assembly on the voting procedure. After the first ballot was complete Rev.

Boerger returned the chair to Bishop Rindy.

12

ANNOUNCEMNENTS: Kathy Fick and Dave Adams made some general announcements.

BREAK

INTRODUCTION OF THE SYNOD STAFF: Bishop Rindy introduced the synod staff: Rev.

Terry Brandt, Associate with the Bishop; Rev. Lee Yarger, Interim Associate with the Bishop;

Jean Peterson, Administrative Assistant/Receptionist; Maren Jystad-Spar, Communications

Coordinator/Office Assistant

STATE OF THE SYNOD BISHOP WILLIAM RINDY:

Bishop Rindy thanked the assembly for their support and prayers and the opportunity to serve as

bishop. He thanked his wife for her support. Bishop Rindy used clips from the movie “Back to

the Future III” to highlight points in his address. Bishop Rindy said that we are hurdling toward

the future and not all goes as planned. He related two stories of missing children and how they

and those looking for them are on the road together. We go into life with plans, we think we

know what is going to happen and we see sometimes the glory of God revealed when the

community’s best is brought out in times of trouble. None of us would be where we are if we

didn’t have friends and family and those willing to stick their neck in our behalf and imagine

new ways of using resources. It takes the whole synod to accomplish the work of God. It’s not

always clean or easy. We never do this journey alone God is always with us and the Holy Spirit

is working things out behind the scene. We need to let go of the past and that can be scary. The

future is always in front of us. We need to be looking forward. When we get to normal we tend

to pause but we can’t we need to deal with the future. It might be tempting to go back to the way

it was but it is not possible. We get nostalgic, stuck in the past and that can be deadly.

A congregation in New Rockford asked Bishop Rindy to come out to witness the gifting

of money to 16 different organizations. They are being light, salt, leaven. Part of that gift was

over $70,000 for the fifth Sunday extra mile fund. That is life blood to those ministries. Craig

and Julie Johnson have been talking to a congregation that has been bequeathed 1.2 million

dollars plus land and other assets. If the congregation decided to put the money in an endowment

the 4% interest could pay for an entire synod assembly. God is so generous. Relationships are

also being transformed, being made new. Bishop Rindy recognized the pastors who are retiring

and thanked them for their faithful service.

He stated that it is not his job to set the vision for the next year that is the job of the

council and the newly elected bishop. We will be starting to work on the ELCA Capitol

Campaign. His hope is that we will have enough financial stability to imagine into the future.

Bishop Rindy has no idea what his next call will be but he knows God does. God is on the road

with all of us. He has loved praying with us over the years and closed by asking the assembly to

pray together the following prayer from Martin Luther.

Lord God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths

as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not

knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us; through

Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

RECOGNITION OF CHURCH ANNIVERSARIES (50 & 75YEARS):

13

Rev. Lee Yarger recognized the following church anniversaries;

50th

– Faith Lutheran, Starkweather

Calvary Lutheran, Hankinson

75th

– Trinity Lutheran, Sharon

Bishop Rindy introduced John Pederson of Mayville who serves on the ELCA Church Council.

Please seek him out during the assembly if you have any questions for him about the churchwide

council.

STORIES FROM THE MISSION FIELD:

Heart River Ministry: Pastor Renee Splichal Larson, Shera Nesheim –

Pastor Renee greeted the assembly and explained that she is the pastor of a unique congregation

that doesn’t own a building but have been holding services in the chapel at The North Dakota

Youth Correctional Facility for the last 30 years. They have trained around 75 adults as mentors

for the young people and to help them transition back into the community. She stated that these

are all of our kids. All the youth in the reentry ministry struggle with addiction. One of the verses

they are guided by is Jeramiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans

for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” A future of hope is very hard for

some of these kids to believe in. Many of these kids are scared to leave. Heart River Ministry is

trying to work as the body of Christ to wrap their arms around these people who are coming back

into our communities all across the state of North Dakota. The correction Facility has become

more open in how they can relate to the kids. The volunteers go into the cottages and play game

with the youth to develop relationships they also work together in their garden. Their goal is to

pair mentors with teens and to use the resources available to help the teens transition back into

their communities. . She showed a video about the ministry. They continue to reach out and

create new partnerships. She thanked Bishop Rindy and the synod for their support.

RESULTS OF THE FIRST BALLOT FOR ELECION OF BISHOP: David Molman presented

the results of the first ballot for bishop.

Number of Total Votes: 390

Number of Illegal Votes: 5

Number of Legal Votes: 385

Number of Votes Needed for Election: 293

1 Vote Rev. Michael R. Jacobson, Cooperstown, North Dakota

Rev. Jodi D Houge, St. Paul, MN

Rev. Kari L S Bahe, aurora, Colorado

Rev. John H. Fick, Grand forks, ND

Rev. Karen Hofstad, Baraboo, Wisconsin

Rev. Mattew Robert Masko, Fordville, ND

Rev. Philip L. Larson, Fargo, ND

Rev. Paul M Trenne, Grand Forks, ND

2 Votes Rev. Richard J. Foss, St. Paul, MN

Rev. Matthew O. Valan, Moorhead, MN

Rev. Timothy M. Stoa, Fargo, ND

14

Rev. Mark E. Narum, Bismarck, ND

9 Votes Rev. Roger H Dykstra, Grand Forks, ND

25 Votes Rev. Christopher S Gaule, Grafton, ND

44 Votes Rev. Mark A Strobel, Fargo, ND

64 Votes Rev. Lynn R Ronsberg, Grand Forks, ND

227 Votes Rev. Terry A Brandt, Fargo, ND

There was not an election on the first ballot

Instructions were given to those nominated.

STORIES FROM THE MISSION FIELD:

Lutheran Campus Ministry of North Dakota: Kathy Fick, Rev. Chad Brucklacher and

Kyle Thorson from Christus Rex in Grand Forks; Rev. Dan Heath from University Lutheran

Center(ULC) in Fargo

Kathy Fick thanked the assembly for their support and partnership. Kyle Thorson a graduate

student from UND told of his involvement in campus ministry. He had the opportunity to study

as deacon and work as an intern. As a direct result of this he applied to young adults in global

mission and spent a year in Mexico. The leadership he learned at Christus Rex has influence his

entire life.

Dan Heath introduced himself and Makayla, a student at NDSU. Dan related a story of a

young man who came into the ULC just because he needed a quiet place to think and how he

stayed and participated in worship and prayer for the first time. He thanked the synod and the

assembly for their support. He encouraged us to continue our prayers and support. They also

need our connections to students who will be coming to their campuses.

Kathy asked for prayers for the Minot Campus Ministry as they call a new pastor. Pastor

Chad Brucklacher related a story of student who got involved in a mission trip. She was just

discovering her faith and had not been baptized. She was baptized at their Easter service.

Lutheran Campus Ministry of North Dakota provided mugs for the assembly and pastor Dan

encouraged everyone to use the mug as a reminder to pray for all the students who are/have

been/ or will be a part of campus ministry.

The Project F-M: Sara Helgeson, Amy Crowford, and Pastor Ann Jacobson; The Project

FM board member.

Pastor Ann Jacobson explained that The Project FM is a community of faith and doubt making

space for conversation and exploration. A new name for the ministry is coming soon it will be

“Counter Space”. Pastor Jacobson further explained the ‘Culture Commute’ that takes place

between diverse work places and communities to the homogenous congregations. She further

explained the differences between the technology, language and references of the every changing

world and the church as most of us experience it. With this ‘cultural commute’ come many that

may feel they are on the outside. Sara shared her personal journey from being raised Catholic to

growing away from the church and faith and then finding The Project FM through a Facebook

posting. She has found a place where she can express her doubts and have her questions

considered without the fear of judgment. The Project FM continues to be this welcoming place in

her life. The vocation of The Project FM is to partner with local congregations, to be a

community of faith and doubt making space for conversation and exploration. They do this in

many ways; Theology Pub twice a month, WTF meaning ‘Where’s the Faith’ book club twice a

15

month, Sounds Sacred to Me once a month, Faith on Stage, Faith on Film, and various

community partnerships.

Support comes from various partners; the synod, congregations and individuals and like most of

the ministries in the synod there is a need for more. The majority of the finances go to the salary

of the pastor/director. The current leader has taken another call so they are beginning the search

for a new leader. To find out more about this ministry or to donate your support you can find

them on line. They closed with prayer.

HUNGER AWARD:

Pastor Elwood Riecke presented the Bread of Life Trophy to Trinity Lutheran in Cooperstown

for giving $36.22 per member towards ELCA World Hunger. He asked for Pastor Michael

Jacobson to come forward to accept the trophy. Pastor Riecke explained that the giving of the

trophy began last year as a way of encouraging congregations to give more support to ELCA

World Hunger. Currently the Eastern North Dakota Synod is at the bottom of list giving only

$1.99 per member. Seven other congregations gave over $10 per member they are: Skjeberg

Lutheran, Drayton; St. John Lutheran, Fargo; St. Petri Lutheran, Fingal; Trinity Lutheran,

Esmond; Trinity Lutheran Litchville; Union Lutheran, Hannaford; Washington Lutheran,

Northwood.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LUNCH

Meal prayer led by Amy Eisenmann

PLENARY TWO

ELCA MALARIA CAMPAIGN: Allison Beede, Campaign Assistant, greeted the assembly and

thanked the people of the synod for their support of the Malaria Campaign. The goal of the

campaign is to raise 15 million dollars by 2015. So far 11.7 million dollars have been raised. As

of the beginning of May the Eastern North Dakota Synod has raised $110,177.24 toward their

goal of $250,000. Nearly half of the congregations in the ELCA have participated in the

campaign in some way. Due to a generous grant all monies raised on college campuses will be

matched dollar for dollar. Christus Rex at UND have found creative ways to get the word out

about malaria and have raised over $8500. Allison highlighted some of ways the money we have

raised has been put to use to save the lives of children.

REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE – Rev. Jolene Knudson Hanse presented the

third credentials report.


Lay 310

Synod Officers 4



Grand total 483

16

SECOND BALLOT FOR THE ELECTION OF BISHOP

Sec. Boerger explained that those who wished to could withdraw their name. Nine candidates

will continue on for the second ballot. The ballot has ten names so he asked that the voting

members cross out Rev. Karen M. Hofstad. 75% of the vote is required for an election. If the

bishop is not elected on the second ballot the top 7 plus ties will participate in a question and

answer session. Sec. Boerger called for a moment of silence and then prayer before the second

ballot was cast.

STATE OF THE ELCA – Chris Boerger, ELCA Churchwide Secretary: Secretary Boerger

greeted the assembly on behalf of the Bishop Eaton and the Churchwide Council and staff. The

churchwide expression of this church has gone through a time of transition and he and Bishop

Eaton are grateful for the calls to serve your church at this time and they are grateful for our

support. Secretary Boerger explained Bishop Eaton’s four strategic intent statements. 1. We are

church. We do things many other organizations that aren’t the church do but we do them because

of the crucified and risen Lord who we gather to worship weakly, who empowers and sends us

out through the power of the Holy Spirit. We go where we go not just to do good but because

God has called us and sent us to be there. 2. We are Lutheran. We are convinced that God has

come to us through God’s grace through the words of law and gospel. Through the word and

sacrament we bring a distinctive note to the Christian symphony. 3. We are church together. This

may be a challenge for us. We are church together not just individuals baptized in the death and

resurrection of Jesus Christ we are parts of the body of Christ we are church together. We are

church together as part of the 64 other synods. 4. We are church for the sake of the world. Sec.

Boerger related how the EaND Synod has supported the Malaria campaign and ELCA World

Hunger. He encouraged the assembly to read Stories of Faith and Action which features stories

of people whose lives have been touched by ELCA ministries. He then went through statistics of

how the EaND Synod has impacted people around the world. He reminded the assembly of the

upcoming “God’s Work. Our Hands.” day of service coming up in September where we can go

out and help others in our community. He challenged us to see what we might do in our

community so that the world might know the love of Christ. There is a toolkit you can download

from churchwide to help you get things organized. Sec. Boerger explained the five year

churchwide campaign to raise 198 million dollars was approved at the churchwide assembly last

year. He explained how the monies raised for the Malaria Campaign and ELCA World Hunger

are included in the goal. Through this campaign we are going to invest in the future of this

church, we are going to expand our mission capacity, we are going to achieve things on a greater

scale and scope then we have done before, so together we can grow and evangelize. Give to

those things you are most excited about whether it is the fund for new leaders, World Hunger,

the malaria campaign, etc. This is going to be a challenge to the whole church. He invites us to

be a part of this challenge as we expand this churches outreach and ministry. Sec. Boerger

completed his report with a list of a few of the things the ELCA had accomplished in 2013

including 41 new mission starts-three in Eastern ND, supporting 224 seminarians, and 61

scholarships to leaders around the world-many of them women.

17

RECOGNITION OF ORDINATION ANNIVERSARIES (25YEARS)

Lee Yarger recognized the following for 25 years of ordained ministry and received a certificate

from Bishop Rindy; Rev. Daniel Heath, Rev. Mark Strobel, and Rev. Thomas Colenso.

Bishop William Rindy was also recognized for 22 years of ordained ministry and was presented

with a certificate signed by Bishop Eaton, Rick Foss and others.

PLENARY THREE

REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Rev. Michael Jacobson thanked the

members of nominating committee. The biographical information for the nominees for synod

council were included in your the voting materials.

REPORT OF THE VICE PRESIDENT: Shar Gumke, Synod VP, shared gratitude for being able

to serve as synod council Vice President. Shar thanked Bishop Rindy, the synod staff and the

synod council for all the work they do on behalf of the synod. She said one of the most

memorable moments from the past year was traveling with a group of people from North Dakota

to the 2013 Churchwide Assembly, in Pittsburg, and witnessing the election of Bishop Eaton and

Sec. Boerger and the approval of the Churchwide Campaign. She sees this campaign as a way of

showing our local congregations what we can do as a church together. She hopes that people

won’t just see it as another fundraiser because it’s not just about the money but about

stewardship. Stewardship as a way of life, a way of giving yourself to God. Shar shared some

thoughts of Walter Brueggemann on stewardship. He says stewardship is a lifetime piece of

work and that we live in ongoing daily tension between the narrative of scarcity and the narrative

of abundance. Shar pointed to several stories in the bible that show examples of this tension. The

feeding of the five thousand shows the thinking there won’t be enough and our generous God

showing that there is an abundance, with leftovers. What happens when we get trapped in a sence

of scarcity? We tend hold on we tend to look inward we tend to focus on our own needs ahead of

the neighbor. So how do we move ourselves away from that fear of scarcity to thinking we have

a generous heart? We need to talk about stewardship more than one or two times a year and it

should not be the pastor alone who does the talking. We should step up and talk about

stewardship, it’s right here in the bible let the book speak for itself. Brueggemann says we all

need Sabbath, a time set aside to connect with God so that God can speak through you. When are

gathered at the table and fed with bread of life we should come away with an enormous sense of

gratitude because we have a God who loves us so much he sent Christ into the world to die so we

didn’t have to so we might have eternal life. So when she thinks of all that God has given for her

she cannot imagine how I could not give back as all that I have is His. So as you consider the

Capital Campaign please keep three things in mind; you have a God of abundance, trust that Gad

will take care of you, and go out and share the story.

18

REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE: Rev. Jolene Knudson Hanse presented the

fourth credentials report.


Lay 311

Synod Officers 4



Grand total 486

RESULTS OF THE SECOND BALLOT FOR BISHOP: Dave Molman presented the results

from the second ballot.

396 votes cast; 1 illegal vote; 395 legal votes; 297 votes needed for election

1 vote Rev. Matthew Robert Masko

4 votes Rev. Philip Larson

Rev. Matthew O. Valan

5 votes Rev. Timothy M. Stoa

15 votes Rev. Roger H Dykstra

22 votes Rev. Christopher S Gaule

34 votes Rev. Mark A Strobel

55 votes Rev. Lynn R Ronsberg

255 votes Rev. Terry Brandt

There was not an election. The top seven plus ties will participate in a question and answer

session before the third ballot takes place.

RESOLUTIONS:

Resolution #1 World Food Sunday was presented by Denny Goetz.

RESOLUTION #1 World Food Sunday

WHEREAS, the UN has declared October 16th of every year World Food Day; and

WHEREAS, as Christians we hold up Matthew 25:40 where Jesus says, “Truly I tell you,

just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my

family, you did it to me…”; and

WHEREAS, the ELCA is committed to ending and preventing hunger around the

world; and

WHEREAS, the Eastern North Dakota Synod embraces the third Sunday in October as

World Food Sunday (which would be October 19th, 2014); and be it further

19

RESOLVED, that all congregations in the synod be called upon to dedicate that

Sunday to raise awareness, to educate, and to gather an offering for World Hunger.

Submitted by the Hunger and Justice Committee of the Eastern North Dakota Synod.

SA.14.05.03 Motion by the Hunger and Justice Committee, second by Rev. Siri Strommen-

Campell, to adopt Resolution #1. Motion Carried

Rev. Beth Peterson presented Resolution #2 To Reform and Revise the Call Process in the

ELCA.

Resolution #2 To Reform and Revise the Call Process in the ELCA

WHEREAS, The current call process can seem lengthy; and

WHEREAS, Congregational development can often lose momentum during

lengthy interims; and

WHEREAS, The life realities of seminary graduates result in large numbers

of clergy in metropolitan areas such as Chicago, Philadelphia,

and the Twin Cities; and There are hundreds of ordained clergy in major

metro areas; such as Chicago, the Twin Cities and Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, These factors disproportionally effect congregations in rural areas, defined

by the ELCA as congregations in zip codes of less than 10,000; and

WHEREAS, Rural congregations make up almost half of all ELCA congregations;

therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the 2014 Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly, through the Eastern

North Dakota Synod Council, request the ELCA Church Council, the

ELCA Conference of Bishops, and the Office of the Secretary of the

ELCA examine ways to expedite the call process and encourage pastors to

consider ministry in rural and non-metro areas; and

RESOLVED, that the congregations of the Eastern North Dakota Synod do everything

they can to make this synod a hospitable place for new graduates to

serve, stay, and raise their families; and be it further That the ELCA and

it’s relevant governing bodies consult with a wide range of laity from rural

areas in the process of making changes to the call process.

RESOLVED, that the congregations of the Eastern North Dakota Synod strive to offer

competitive compensation so that pastors who choose to serve in this

20

synod do not suffer financially for their willingness to serve in rural

parishes during their time of active pastoral service.

Submitted by Joseph Hoiberg, St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Devils Lake.

SA.14.05.04 Motion by Joseph Hoiberg, second by Mark Kobl to adopt Resolution #2.

Motion Failed

SA.14.05.05 Motion by Joseph Hoiberg, second by Steven Jacobson to amend the resolution as

follows: to strike the third whereas and replace it with “There are hundreds of

ordained clergy in major metro areas; such as Chicago, the Twin Cities, and

Philadelphia; without call; and”; and to strike the second resolve and replace it

with “That the ELCA and it’s relevant governing bodies consult with a wide

range of laity from rural areas in the process of making changes to the call

process.”; and to strike the third resolve. Motion Carried

Point of order by Paul Trenne for larger print. Larger print was provided.

SA.14.05.06 Motion by Peter Coen-Tuff, second by Tina Mills to call the question.

Motion Carried

CHURCHWIDE VIDEO: The assembly watched a video message from Bishop Eaton

Bishop Rindy asked the pages to distribute the bishop candidate’s biographical information for

the 7 plus ties that will be moving on to the third ballot.

Lee Yarger came forward to tell us about two Stewardship events; May 17, 9-noon at St. Mark’s

Lutheran in Grand Forks and May 18, 2-5PM at Living Waters Lutheran Church in Fargo.

Pastor Don Reynolds Edmore came forward to recognize Denny and Becky Goetz for their years

of service and leadership at Red Willow Bible Camp as Denny retires and a new director has

been called.

BREAK

STORIES FROM THE MISSION FIELD

Central African Republic (CAR) – A panel discussion moderated by Chad Brucklacher with

panel members Diane Billey-Eastern ND Global Mission Committee, Mark Warpmaeker-

Executive Director of Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry, Tim Iverson-Global Health

Ministries, Noel Tade and Sara Larson Tade began with a video message from Evangelical

Lutheran Church of CAR President Andre Golike. He thanked us for our support and prayers.

Diane Billey just returned from Cameroon. She wanted to see firsthand what our sisters and

brothers in the CAR needed. She said with the current unrest fear is prevalent. The church

mission is at least 80% of what it first was. How can we get Christians involved? The 20 Village

21

Education Schools are still operating in the midst of the unrest. They are getting the money we

send to them. Sara and Noel will speak about the bible school and their own personal view.

Noel Tade grew up in the CAR and he still has friends and family there. The Bible School and

seminary were targeted in the beginning of the unrest but no one was hurt. The fifteen

seminarians continue to study. A planned retreat for pastors had to be rescheduled because of the

violence but they hope to hold it in June. The focus of the retreat will be trauma care. He asks for

prayers for peace.

Sara Larson Tade thinks of the partnership we have shared with the Evangelical Lutheran Church

of CAR, as she looks at those assembled. Sara was a missionary in the CAR from 1993-2003.

She told of a partnership with the Women of the ELCA in Eastern and Western North Dakota

and the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod to build the Martha and Mary Women’s Center

which is still in use throughout the unrest. Another important partnership has been the Young

Women’s Scholarship Program. Currently there are 15 young women attending school through

this program. Because of this partnership there is now an educated group of women leaders in

the CAR. These partnerships are a holy thing and she thanks us for that.

Mark Warpmaeker spoke about the current peace efforts in the CAR. He helped arrange

President Golike’s recent visit to the North Dakota. Marks mindset was one of survival, now sees

that God is using the church and the gifts we give to transform that community, to bring Peace

and reconciliation to their country. The church leaders are coming together and reminding the

people that this isn’t how it used to be. The gifts that we have given are signs that people outside

of their country believe in and care about them. Because of our giving the church in CAR is able

to respond. He encourages us to continue to respond because it does make a difference.

Tim Iverson spoke about Immanuel Health Center in Gallo. Nine years ago the health center

dreams began and in 2008 ground was broken. 2010 was the dedication of the Health Center.

The center has remained open throughout the unrest. A brief question and answer period took

place. Chad concluded the panel discussion with prayer.

RECOGNITION OF CHURCH ANNIVERSARIES 125th

Lee Yarger recognized the following congregations who are celebrating 125 years of service:

Trinity Lutheran, Litchville; Milton Lutheran, Milton; Our Saviour’s, Park River; Valle

Lutheran, Rolette; and Walcott Lutheran, Walcott.

PLENARY FOUR


fifth credentials report.


Lay 311

Synod Officers 4



Grand total 488

22

REPORT OF THE TREASURER:

Darin Ohe, Treasurer for the Synod, presented the 2013 actual, the 2014 revised Mission Plan

and the 2015 proposed Mission Plan. Darin reported that we are trending a little downward.

Because the inflows were lower than planned giving to regional ministries had to be reduced as

well. The 2014 Mission Plan revisions include reducing the Congregational Mission Support to

$1,030,000; National ELCA support will increase to 40.5% from 40% which is well below the

average in our region and in all synods. He explained the Bishop Transition Fund and that

because of this we are expecting to spend $55K less than we bring in.

SA.14.05.07 Motion by Michael Jacobson second by Shar Gumke to accept the Treasurer’s

Report. Motion Carried

PRESENTATION OF 2015 PROPOSED MISSION PLAN

Darin Ohe presented the Proposed 2015 Mission Plan and explained that it is very similar to the

2014 Mission Plan. The national support is proposed to remain at 40.5%. Once again we will be

spending more than what is projected to come in. He believes we all have a responsibility to

ensure that the funds are there to support the ministry of the synod and churchwide.

Bishop Rindy reminded the assembly that additional nominations need to go to Michael

Jacobson by 6PM and additional resolutions need to come to the secretary by 6 PM.

BISHOP CANDIDATES QUESTION AND ANSWER SESSION:

There are eight candidates because of ties but only seven are present because Rev. Matthew

Valan is not here and chose not to speak. The candidates had two minutes to respond to the

following questions. Tell us about yourself what should we know about you. How would you

describe yourself theologically? What are the major issues our synod will be confronted with in

the next six years?


sixth credentials report.


Lay 311

Synod Officers 4



Grand total 490

THIRD BALLOT FOR THE ELECTION OF A BISHOP: Secretary Boerger gave instructions

for the third ballot for bishop. Two-thirds majority is needed to elect a bishop. If there is no

election then the top three move forward.

23

ANNOUNCENENTS: Kathy Fick came forward with a few announcements and some door prize

winners.

Terri Endres from Portico Benefits Services explained what Portico is and congratulated our

synod for reaching the health assessment goal of 65%. 72% of the synods rostered leaders have

completed the assessment. $30K has been saved because our pastors have participated in the

survey.

DINNER ON YOUR OWN

SUNDAY, MAY 11, 2014

GLOBAL MISSION BREAKFAST: The Central African Republic was the focus of the Global

Mission breakfast program.

WORSHIP WITH HOLY COMMUNION AND OFFERING:

Preacher, Rev. Chris Boerger

Worship Leader, Rev. Val Teppo

BREAK

PLENARY FIVE

Bishop Rindy announced that at the Global Mission Breakfast this morning we heard of the story

about the Sango Bibles in CAR. The bibles were stored and got moved and weren’t paid for. He

asked the people at the Global Mission breakfast if we should just pay for the bibles so they can

go out to the people. They said yes and so the Bishop will see that this happens.

Bishop Rindy announced the offering total for this morning’s worship totaled $17,094.82. One

half will go to the Central African Republic, the other half split evenly, will go to Red Willow

Bible Camp, Park River Bible Camp, and Oak Grove Schools.

*See note at the end of the document.

RESULTS OF THE THIRD BALLOT FOR THE ELECTION OF BISHOP: Dave Molman

came presented the results of the third ballot as follows: 383 total votes; 1 illegal vote; 382 legal

votes; 255 votes needed for an election.

0 votes Rev. Matthew Valan

5 votes Rev. Phillip Larson

7 votes Rev. Tim Stoa

11 votes Rev. Ghris Gaule

34 votes Rev. Mark Strobel

43 votes Rev. Lynn Ronsberg

51 votes Rev. Roger Dykstra


There was not an election. The top three will address the assembly before the forth ballot.

24

RECOGNITION OF THE ORDINATION ANNIVERSARIES: Lee Yarger came forward to

recognize ordination anniversaries as follows.

50th

Rev. James Hulberg

Rev. Wilbur Fisher

55th

Rev. Elmo Anderson

Rev. Norman Anderson

Rev. Reuben Schnaidt

65th

Rev. Warren Heggem

The Honorees and their families were invited to go to the hospitality room for a time of

fellowship.

BISHOP CANDIDATES ADDRESS THE ASSEMBLY

Secretary Chris introduced the candidates and explained that each candidate will have five

minutes. By drawing numbers it was decided the order in which they will speak as follows: Rev.

Lynn Ronsberg, Rev. Terry Brandt and Rev. Roger Dykstra.


seventh credentials report.


Lay 311

Synod Officers 4



Grand Total 507

FOURTH BALLOT FOR THE ELECTION OF A BISHOP

Secretary Boeger asked for silence while the ballots were being distributed and prayer before the

assembly voted. He explained that on this fourth ballot for Bishop 60% of the votes are required

for election.

ELECTIONS

Rev. Michael Jacobson, Chairperson of the Nominating Committee, presented the following

nominees to serve on the Synod Council.

Rev. Mark Kolbo – Devils Lake Conference (2nd

Term)

Rev. Tim Stoa – Fargo Conference (2nd

Term)

Mr. Mark Dravecky – Grafton Conference (2nd

Term)

Rev. Peter Coen-Tuff – Grand Forks Conference (2nd

Term)

Ms. Dianne Billey – Jamestown Conference (1st Term)

Rev. Dan Forsberg – Wahpeton Conference (Completing Rev. Terry Monson’s Term)

Ms. Sherry Horsford – Wahpeton Conference (1st Term)

Ms. Charlene Burthold – Multicultural Member to the Synod Council (2nd

Term)

Ms. Megan Roth – Youth Representative to Synod Council (1st Term)

Mr. Thomas Raymond – Youth Representative to Synod Council (1st Term)

25

SA.14.05.07 Motion by Michael Jacobson, second by Kevin Minor, to cast an unanimous

ballot for the synod council members listed above. Motion Carried

ADOPTION OF THE 2015 MISSION PLAN

SA.14.05.08 Motion by Darin Ohe, second by Paul Mathiason to adopt 2015 Mission Plan.

Motion Carried

RESOLUTIONS

Denny Goetz presented resolution #4 2015 Compensation and Benefits Guidelines for Pastors

and Lay Rostered Leaders as follows.

RESOLUTION #4 2015 Compensation and Benefits Guidelines for Pastors and Lay Rostered

Leaders

WHEREAS, congregations of the Eastern North Dakota Synod request and appreciate the aid

and counsel of their companion congregations in this synod and synod leadership

in ascertaining fair, equitable, and adequate compensation and benefits for pastors

and professional staff; and

WHEREAS, the Eastern North Dakota Executive Committee has discussed and approved these

guidelines and commends them to the 2014 Eastern North Dakota Synod

Assembly and to the congregations of this synod for deliberation and use;

therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the 2014 Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly adopt, approve, and

commend to the congregations of this synod these guidelines; and be it further

RESOLVED, that this assembly approve the publication and distribution of these

“Guidelines” to congregations of this synod through the usual and appropriate

means employed by the synod office.

Submitted by the Eastern North Dakota Synod Council.

SA.14.05.09 Motion by Synod Council, second by Rev.Chris Gaule to adopt Resolution #4.

Motion Carried


Park River and Red Willow Bible Camps – Luke Berntsen, Program Director Park River Bible

Camp talked about the importance of bible camps to our youth and adults. By passing the

Christian faith onto the next generation we enable those youth to say they believe in Jesus Christ.

He thanked

Pastor Jamie Desai, newly called director of Red Willow Ministries introduced Josh Silbernagle,

Program Director at Red Willow Bible Camp. Josh told of how important bible camp has been

throughout his life. Camping is foundational. He thanked us for our support and encouraged us

to keep sending your kids to camp because that is where our next bishop will come from. Pastor

26

Jamie added his hope to continue growing the ministry as well as the Goetz’s have done over the

last ten years.

Sudanese Worshiping Community

Jacob Mayen lay leader of First Sudanese Lutheran Church in Fargo explained that when he and

other Sudanese came to North Dakota the only thing that would keep them together was God.

Their ministry is named to honor First Lutheran of Fargo who first welcomed them. Three goals

for their ministry; 1) church, 2) leadership development, 3) community development. They are

trying to teach the young children about stewardship. They are working with Concordia College

to bring the youth together twice a week to help them with their homework. He worries that if

they don’t help the children they will not go to college and could become criminals. He implored

us to help them help their children. Jacob encouraged us to join them for worship on Saturdays at

First United Methodist church in Fargo.

Seminary

Rev. Stephanie Tollefson, Hope Lutheran, Fargo presented a video from Luther Seminary. She

told how Luther Seminary has walked though some dark days but Interim President Rick Foss

has helped them come into the light. New President Rev. Dr. Robin Steinke we begin her

presidency in June. After 20 years the seminary has launched a new curriculum. Watch the

seminary, for as the seminary goes there goes the church. Luther will close this fiscal year

stronger then we have ever been, in part due to the administration but also due to the support

they get from the synods. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Free resources; flowers to take for donation to malaria; drawing from Melbergs for a cup and

sweatshirt

LUNCH

PLENARY SIX

Pastor Judy addressed the assembly asking how could we as a synod help support kids from the

First Sudanese Lutheran Church to go to bible camp. Bishop Rindy ruled that a friendly

amendment to the agenda and suggested that a basket be passed to collect donations for that

cause.

Bishop Rindy explained that last year we had the first vote to change the name of the Carrington

Conference to Prairie Rose Conference and that a second vote is needed to make it official.

SA.14.05.08 Motion by synod council, second by Rev. Michael Jacobson to change Carrington

Conference to the Prairie Rose Conference. Motion Carried

27


Dacotah O’Yate - Rev. Larry Theile spoke about relationships and how the seven teachings of

the Dacotah, respect, honesty, generosity, honor, courage, wisdom, and truth, strengthen and

enhance relationships. They help them walk along side of those who are hurting. His is seeing

God at work in the community. He thanked the assembly for their support and invited us to stop

in for a visit so we can get to know each other and build those relationships.

Bishop Rindy reported that $2,721.02 has been raised for the Sudanese Bible Camp Fund, so far.

Lutheran Social Services(LSS) - Bob Sanderson, director of LSS related stories of how our

support effects the people in North Dakota. They just finished the 2.5 million dollar remodeling

of Luther Hall in Fargo and he thanked the Women of the ELCA for all their support. A new

office is being built in Fargo. He thanked the current and former bishops for their support over

the years and he thanked all the pastors and congregations for their support also.

Bishop Rindy reported that the Sudanese Bible School fund is now at $2992.08.

RESOLUTIONS: Bishop Rindy relinquished the chair to Vice President Shar Gumke. Shar

presented Resolution # 3 Thanks and Celebration for Bishop William “Bill” Rindy

RESOLUTION #3 Thanks and celebrations for Bishop William “Bill” Rindy

WHEREAS, Bishop The Reverand William Edwin“Bill” Rindy, child of God, has served as the

Bishop of the Eastern North Dakota Synod for six (6) years, from July 2008 to

July 2014; and

WHEREAS, Bishop Rindy has felt the Call of the Holy Spirit to serve elsewhere in God’s

Kingdom; and

WHEREAS, Bishop Rindy has bequeathed to us his love of people, his faith in Christ, and his

hope for our future; therefore be it

RESOLVED, that we follow Bishop Rindy’s example of life giving service to the Church and

Synod; and be it further

RESOLVED, that we thank Bishop Rindy for his thousands of phone calls, e-mails, letters, and

visits that would celebrate, encourage, inspire, and solve problems; and be it

further

RESOLVED, that we thank Bishop Rindy for his talented, hospitable, and serving staff; and be

it further

RESOLVED, that we thank Bishop Rindy for the gift of his person, his faith in the Lord, his

hope for our future, and so we say in unison, “Thank you Bishop “Bill” Rindy, for

all you have done; and be it further

RESOLVED, that all are encouraged to attend a farewell celebration for Bishop Rindy on July

17, 2014, from 4-7 PM at Living Waters Lutheran Church in Fargo, ND.

Submitted by the Synod Council on behalf of the Eastern North Dakota Synod.

SA.14.05.09 Motion by the synod council second Sherry Hosford to adopt resolution #3.

Motion Carried as Amended

28

SA.14.05.10 Motion by Rev. Michael Jacobson, second by Rev. Chris Gaule to ament the

resolution by adding a resolve after the last resolve as follow; RESOLVED, that

all are encouraged to attend a farewell celebration for Bishop Rindy on July 17,

2014, from 4-7 PM at Living Waters Lutheran Church in Fargo, ND.

Motion Carried

SA.14.05.11 Motion by Rev. Chris Gaule, second by Rev. Susan Haukaas to amend the

resolution by striking the first bishop in the first resolved and replacing it with

The Reverend William Edmond Rindy, child of God,.

Motion Carried

Bishop Rindy thanked the assembly and said farewell. He then recognized Bishop Larry

Wohlrabe and his wife from the Northwestern Minnesota Synod and thanked him for his support.

RESULTS OF THE FOURTH BALLOT FOR THE ELECTION OF A BISHOP

Sec. Boeger called on Dave Moman to give the results of the fourth ballot for bishop. Dave

reported that there were 364 total vote, 1 illegal vote, 363 legal votes, 218 votes needed for

election.

27 Votes Rev. Lynn Ronsberg

65 Votes Rev. Roger Dykstra


Secretary Boeger declared Terry Brandt Bishop-elect of the Eastern North Dakota Synod.

BISHOP-ELECT TERRY BRANDT ADDRESSED THE ASSEMBLY

Terry asked his family to come forward as his thanked Bishop Rindy, Synod Council, the

election committee, and the entire synod for their support. He introduced his family. Terry closed

with prayer.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Nametags, Flowers on tables

Next Assembly - April 18-19, 2015 Holiday Inn – Fargo, ND

CLOSING OF THE ASSEMBLY

Bishop Rindy led the closing of the Assembly with prayer followed by the official adjournment

of the 2014 EaND Synod Assembly

*There was a discrepancy in the amount of money that was announced during the assembly and

the amount of money that was actually collected. The collected amount was $12,529.82. As

stated in the minutes, one half went to the Central African Republic, the other half split evenly,

went to Red Willow Bible Camp, Park River Bible Camp, and Oak Grove Schools.

29

2014

Actual

(Unaudited)

2015

Adopted

Plan

2015

Revised

Plan

2016

Proposed

Plan

2014

Actual

(Unaudited)

2015

Adopted

Plan

2015

Revised

Plan

2016

Proposed

Plan

Revenue and Other Support Council/Board/Committee Expenses

Congregational Mission Support 1,027,049$ 1,040,000$ 1,040,000$ 1,070,000$ Synod Council 2,621$ 3,200$ 3,000$ 3,000$

Synod Only Support 93,110 60,000 60,000 60,000 Standing Committees:

Assembly Revenue 54,760 59,000 64,000 64,000 Candidacy 5,010 6,000 4,500 4,500

National ELCA Subsidies: Global Mission 326 1,000 1,000 1,000

Dacotah O'yate 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 Hunger & Justice 1,608 1,000 1,000 1,000

Stewardship 22,073 21,855 22,737 22,737 Youth & Family 1,374 500

Conferences 65,261 - 65,400 65,400 Other Committees/Task Force 90 90 90

First Call Support 15,000 Total Council/Board/Comm Expense 11,029$ 11,700$ 9,590$ 9,590$

Other Revenue 3,545 5,000 3,545 3,545

Total Revenue and Other Support 1,285,798$ 1,220,855$ 1,275,682$ 1,305,682$

Supporting Services

Ministry Support Detail Compensation & Allowances 435,336$ 437,000$ 412,000$ 401,000$

National ELCA Support* 415,955$ 421,200$ 421,200$ 438,700$ Office Rent & Utilities 28,644 20,000 37,096 52,310

Region 3 Support 14,020 12,910 14,000 14,000 General Office Expense 14,449 30,835 15,000 15,450

Campus Ministry 88,000 88,000 88,000 100,000 Professional Fees 55,571 20,000 32,500 30,000

Native American Ministries: Synod Assembly 52,284 29,000 35,000 35,000

Dacotah O'yate 70,533 64,500 72,649 74,828 Travel 32,719 29,000 20,008 20,008

Native American Christian Ministry 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 Insurance 8,131 6,600 8,375 8,543

Luther Seminary 40,000 40,000 40,000 40,000 Depreciation 5,465 5,415 5,500 5,500

DEM Support Staff 10,000 10,000 Discretionary Fund 1,360 1,000 1,300 1,300

First Call Theological Education 5,852 15,000 2,000 2,000 Credits/Refunds (39,165)

Resource Center Materials 200 3,000 200 200 Bishop Transition 18,172

Planned Giving 1,431 3,000 1,500 1,500 Total Supporting Services 612,966$ 578,850$ 566,779$ 569,111$

ND Conference of Churches 1,000

Conferences 63,278 50,000 50,000 Total Support of Congregations 623,995$ 590,550$ 576,369$ 578,701$

Pastoral Care 831 3,500 1,300 1,300

Total Ministry Support 706,100$ 658,110$ 706,849$ 738,528$ Total Ministry Support & Expenses 1,330,095$ 1,248,660$ 1,283,218$ 1,317,229$

Other Income 3,829$ 3,900$ 3,550$ 3,550$

Color Key *National ELCA Support

Mission Support & Revenue 2015 Budget: 40.5% of Mission Support Change in Net Assets (40,468)$ (23,905)$ (3,986)$ (7,997)$

Churchwide Ministries 2016 Budget: 41.0% of Mission Support

Synod Outreach

Support of Congregrations

Eastern North Dakota Synod of the ELCA

Mission Plan

2014 Actual, 2015 Revised Plan and 2016 Proposed Plan

30

2 8 t h a n n ua l Ea s t e r n N o r t h D ako t a S y no d A s sem b l y

2015 Bio Information

Nominee for VICE PRESIDENT to the SYNOD (four-year term):

Beth Christianson-Melby, Our Savior’s / Hillsboro

(1st term, 2019) Occupation: Marketing and advertising consultant, owner/creative director at The Idea Shop in Hillsboro,

ND.

Service to congregation: President, Church Council; Chair - Call Committee; Chair - Local Missions

Committee; Stewardship Committee; Band Leader; I currently serve as the secretary of our congregation.

Service to synod: Vice President - Mayville Conference

Other personal or occupational qualifications that would be of interest to voting members: Here are some

bullet points on my background:

History:

Minnesota farm girl from Halstad

Grew up in the ALC and then the ELCA at Halstad Lutheran Church

Education: Bachelor of Science, Marketing and Business, Minnesota State University Moorhead

Work History:

Department lead, Barnes & Noble, Edina, MN

Owner, e.b. christian fine fashions, Bismarck, ND

Store Manager, Barnes & Noble, Bismarck, ND

Marketing Director, Halstad Telephone Company, Halstad, MN

General Manager/Account Supervisor, Anchor Marketing, Grand Forks, ND

General Manager/Creative Director, Hometown Aditude, Hillsboro, ND

In 2014, I pioneered The Idea Shop providing creative marketing solutions to a wide variety of clients. My

work is seen locally, as well as internationally in countries such as Ukraine, China, and Egypt.

Since joining Our Savior’s I have been very active in our mission, serving as secretary, trustee, vice president,

and president of our congregation and chair of the call committee. Within the synod, I was a three-time

voting delegate to synod assembly and am the vice president of the Mayville Conference.

I strive to use my occupation to the glory of God. Spearheading our local missions efforts, I, along with our

pastors, publish two devotionals each year, place advertising for numerous events, and developed the Try

Church Again… marketing campaign to reach out to new residents, youth, and the unchurched within our

community. I also administer our church web site and Facebook page.

God only gives us what we can handle. Through personal, occupational, and church-related challenges, I

continuously look for what can be learned and how to grow. God has blessed me with patience, grace,

interpersonal and problem-solving skills. I look forward to putting them to work for the Eastern North Dakota

Synod.

Dee Jensen, Bethel Lutheran Church / Wahpeton

(1st term, 2019) Occupation: Retired– NDSCS – Associate Professor, Head Women’s Track & Field Coach

Service to congregation: Executive Director – completing my second term in January 2016. Executive

Committee and Planning Council Chairperson. Assisted the Senior Pastor in planning Leadership Retreats for

board members, staff, and pastors each of the last four years. Stewardship Campaign Spiritual Director

implementing stewardship prayer, visual prayer chain, and prayer vigil.

Service to synod: Voting delegate to Synod Assembly – 2, voting delegate to Wahpeton Conference Annual

Meeting – 3, Mission Networking Workshop, Stewardship Team.

Other personal or occupational qualifications that would be of interest to voting members:

Raised on our family farm with six older brothers, my parents instilled in us life values of honesty, integrity, and

respect. Teamwork became second nature. I grew up worshiping in a small congregation, Hoff Lutheran

Church, Heimdal, ND. The majority of my adult life I have worshiped at a mid-sized congregation, Bethel

Lutheran Church, Wahpeton, ND.

My formal education includes graduation from Fessenden High School, Valley City State University and

Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ. Currently, I serve on the VCSU Foundation Board. As a classroom

teacher and track and field coach career stops included Hatton, Midway-Inkster, and North Dakota State

College of Science, Wahpeton, ND. Nationally, I have served USA Track & Field as Vice President. 31

(Dee Jensen continued)

My entire career has focused on developing human potential and teambuilding. As the current Executive

Director at Bethel, I have gained a broader knowledge of how a programmatic church functions. The

Congregational Leadership Academy – Evangelism Leader emphasis and Via de Cristo weekend retreats,

especially as Prayer Rector, have more fully equipped me to live my faith and share my faith. Throughout my

life, my experience has been God does not call the equipped, He equips the called. I believe God will

equip me as your next Synod Vice President.

Phyllis E. Johnson, Calvary / Grand Forks

(1st term, 2019) Occupation: Retired (2014) Vice President for Research and Economic Development at UND; currently teaching

a class on global hunger at Concordia College, Moorhead, MN.

Service to congregation: Church Council; Capital Campaign Steering Committee; leadership of strategic

planning effort; Mutual Ministry Committee member; provision of funeral food.

Service to synod: Delegate to synod assembly; recently invited to join synod Hunger and Justice Committee.

Other personal or occupational qualifications that would be of interest to voting members: Member of North

Dakotans for Interfaith Acceptance. Current member of Boards of Directors for Grand Forks United Way and

the Grand Forks Senior Center. While living in the Baltimore area, I was actively involved in BRIDGE (Baltimore

Regional Initiative Developing Genuine Equality), an ecumenical, faith-based social justice organization in the

greater Baltimore area, and assisted in starting PRISCM—an interfaith community-organizing group in Prince

George’s County, MD. I was sent by the Delaware-Maryland synod to ELCA Congregational Based Organizing

Symposium in Chicago in 2009, and I was a member of the bishop’s task force on revitalizing inner-city

churches. I have been involved in congregational leadership in ND, CA, and MD throughout my adult life. I

worked for USDA for 30 years, first as a research scientist and then as a senior executive; I was recognized by

President Clinton as being in the top 5% of federal senior executives. I am a North Dakota native with a BS and

PhD from UND.

Nominees for EAND SYNOD COUNCIL (two-year term):

Rev. Michael Jacobson, Trinity / Cooperstown Prairie Rose

Conference (3rd term / 2017), incumbent

Mr. Eldo Haugen, Union / Hannaford

(2nd term / 2017), incumbent

Devils Lake Mr. Joseph Hoiberg, St. Olaf / Devils Lake

Conference (1st term / 2017) Occupation: Buyer, Hoiberg's Office Supply and Printing Centre, Inc.

Service to congregation: Chair; Outreach and Evangelism Board, St. Olaf Lutheran Church

(Current) President, St. Olaf Lutheran Church Council (2012-2014) Vice President, St Olaf Lutheran

Church Council (2011-2012)

Service to synod: Voting Member, Synod Assembly (2011-Current)

Service to community:

Fargo Mr. Stan Franek, St. Mark’s / Fargo

Conference (1st term / 2017) Occupation: Retired

Service to congregation: Church Council Vice President and Treasurer, Voting Member for Synod

Assembly, Active in outreach ministries

Service to synod: Synod Assembly Planning Committee, Synod Hunger and Justice Committee

Service to community: Social Service Administrator for 30 Years, Volunteer for Central Cities

Ministries, Volunteer Denver with the Urban Service Corps, Member of Chapter Vision of Hope in

Action, Managed the Thrivent Builds with Habitat for humanity Program

Grafton Rev. Beth Peterson, Northern Light Parish / Cavalier

Conference (3rd term / 2017), incumbent 32

Grand Forks Mr. Paul Mathiason, Calvary / Grand Forks

Conference (2nd term / 2017), incumbent

Jamestown Rev. JoAnne Moeller, Trinity / Valley City

Conference (1st term / 2017) – Previously completed another individual’s term

Mayville Rev. Tessa Hansen, Immanuel / Buxton; Highland / Cummings

Conference (2nd term, 2017), incumbent

Mr. Keith Rindy, Perry / Portland

(3rd term, 2017), incumbent

Wahpeton

Conference none

Nominee for multicultural member to SYNOD COUNCIL (two year term):

Ms. Bethlehem (Betty) Gronneberg, Olivet / Fargo

(2nd term, 2017), incumbent

Nominees for youth representatives to SYNOD COUNCIL (one year term):

33

Ballot - Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly 2015

Nominee for VICE PRESIDENT to the Eastern North Dakota SYNOD

(four-year term):

+S8.51

The vice president…of the synod elected by the Synod Assembly to a four-year term and may be re-

elected.

S8.51.02

The vice president…may be elected for a maximum of two consecutive terms.

S9.05.

The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least two persons for vice president; additional

nominations may be made from the floor.

*Nominations for the Synod Vice President will be accepted from the floor until 12:00pm (noon) on

Saturday, April 18th.

S9.08.

In all elections except for a bishop, a majority vote is required for election. If no majority is achieved on

the first ballot, the two persons receiving the highest number of legal votes shall be entered on the next

ballot.

Vote for one (1):

Beth Christianson-Melby, Our Savior’s / Hillsboro

(1st term, 2019)

Dee Jensen, Bethel Lutheran Church / Wahpeton

(1st term, 2019)

Phyllis E. Johnson, Calvary / Grand Forks

(1st term, 2019)

34


Nominees for EASTERN NORTH DAKOTA SYNOD COUNCIL (two-year term):S10.07.01 B.

One pastor and one lay person from each conference nominated at the Conference Assembly and elected by the Synod Assembly. The terms

of conference representatives shall be two years, with term of office arranged so that half of the terms expire annually. Each representative

shall be eligible for two consecutive re-elections.

S10.97.01.d

Two lay representatives who are persons of color and/or whose primary language is other than English. These person are elected the Synod

Assembly for a two-year term, eligible for two consecutive-re-elections.

S10.07.01.c

Each youth member of the Synod Council shall be a voting member, elected by the Synod Assembly for a one-year term and electable for two

consecutive re-elections.

Prairie Rose Conference:

Vote for two (2)

___ Rev. Michael Jacobson, incumbent

___ Mr. Eldo Haugen, incumbent

___

Devils Lake Conference:

Vote for one (1)

___ Ms. Patricia Freiji, incumbent

___

Fargo Conference:

Vote for one (1)

___ Mr. Stan Franek

___

Grafton Conference:

Vote for one (1)

___ Rev. Beth Peterson, incumbent

___

Grand Forks Conference:

Vote for one (1)

___ Mr. Paul Mathiason, incumbent

___

Jamestown Conference:

Vote for one (1)

___ Rev. JoAnne Moeller Previously completed another individual’s term

___

Mayville Conference:

Vote for two (2)

___ Rev. Tessa Hansen, incumbent

___ Mr. Keith Rindy, incumbent

___

Nominee for multicultural member to SYNOD COUNCIL (two year term): Vote for one (1)

___ Ms. Bethlehem (Betty) Gronneberg,

incumbent

___

Nominees for youth representatives to SYNOD COUNCIL (one year term): Vote for two (2)

___ ___

35


2016 Churchwide Voting Members August 8-15, 2016 – New Orleans, LA

PRAIRIE ROSE CONFERENCE:

Rev. Natasha Woitzel-Kolles

First Lutheran/Sheyenne, ND

Mr. Jared Kolles

First Lutheran/Sheyenne, ND

GRAND FORKS CONFERENCE:

Rev. Kristen Larsen-Schmidt

Calvary Lutheran/Grand Forks

Ms. Kathy Sukalske

St Mark’s Lutheran/Grand Fork

Mr. Kyle Thorson

/Grand Forks

DEVILS LAKE CONFERENCE:

Rev. Don Reynolds

Concordia Lutheran/Edmore

Ms. Michelle Reynolds

Lawton Lutheran/ Lawton

JAMESTOWN CONFERENCE:

Rev. Ryan Ferwerda

English Lutheran/Medina

Mr. James Storhoff

St Petri Lutheran/Nome

FARGO CONFERENCE:

Rev. Aanen Gjovik

St John/Fargo

Rev. Carroll Gjovik

St John/Fargo

Mr. Stan Franek

St. Mark’s Lutheran/Fargo

MAYVILLE CONFERENCE:

Rev. Julie Johnson

Elm River Lutheran/Galesburg

Ms. Inez Olson

Norman Lutheran/Clifford

GRAFTON CONFERENCE:

Rev. Beth Peterson

United Lutheran/Cavalier

Ms. Tammy Zidon

Trinity Lutheran/Edinburg

WAHPETON CONFERENCE:

Rev. Jule` Ballinger

Bethel Lutheran/Wahpeton

Mr. Kent Kirchenwitz

Trinity/Forman

MULTI-CULTURAL REPRESENTATIVES:

36


2016 Churchwide Alternate Voting Members

PRAIRIE ROSE CONFERENCE:

Rev. Jerry Rosin

Trinity Lutheran Parish/Hannaford

Ms. Candice Rosin

Union Lutheran/Hannaford

GRAND FORKS CONFERENCE:

Rev Peter Coen-Tuff

United Lutheran/Grand Forks

Julie Abrahamson

Dave Berger

DEVILS LAKE CONFERENCE:

Rev. Bonnie Weaver

Cando Lutheran/Cando

Mr. Thomas Weaver

Cando Lutheran/Cando

JAMESTOWN CONFERENCE:

Rev. Eric Weber

St John’s Lutheran/Jamestown

FARGO CONFERENCE:

Rev. Nichole Johnson

Maple Sheyenne/Harwood

Mr. Hank Trangsrud

Norman Lutheran/Kindred

Ms. Joyce Trangsrud

Norman Lutheran/Kindred

MAYVILLE CONFERENCE:

Rev. Nathan Strong

Perry Lutheran/Portland

Ms. Janice Olstad

Clifford Lutheran/Galesburg

GRAFTON CONFERENCE:

Rev. Jessica Merchant

Trinity Lutheran/Edinburg

WAHPETON CONFERENCE:

Rev. Michael Buller

Emmanuel Lutheran/Abercrombie

Dale Schultz

Bethel/Wahpeton

37

Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly 2015

RESOLUTION #1 World Food Day

WHEREAS, the United Nations has declared October 16th of every year World

Food Day; and

WHEREAS, as Christians we hold up Matthew 25:40 where Jesus says “Truly I tell

you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members

of my family, you did it to me”; and

WHEREAS, the ELCA is committed to preventing and ending hunger around

the world; and

WHEREAS, the ELCA Capital Appeal theme for 2016 is Hunger and Poverty;

and

WHEREAS, the Eastern North Dakota Synod is committed to World Hunger

efforts and has embraced World Food Sunday (October 18, 2015);

be it

RESOLVED, that all congregations in the synod be called upon to dedicate a

Sunday of their choice to raising awareness, education, and

gathering an offering for World Hunger.

Submitted by the Hunger and Justice Committee of the Eastern North Dakota

Synod

38


RESOLUTION #2 Location and Date of the Eastern North Dakota

Synod Assembly

WHEREAS, the Eastern North Dakota Synod has rotated the location of the

synod assembly between the cities of Grand Forks, Jamestown and

Fargo; and

WHEREAS, the demand for conference center space in North Dakota is

becoming increasingly competitive; and

WHEREAS, due to the three year rotation, the competition has resulted in less

than desirable weekends for the synod assembly; and

WHEREAS, there is a strong desire to be good financial stewards when it comes

to the cost of assembly; and

WHEREAS, the implementation of the assembly requires excellent audio and

visual capabilities; and

WHEREAS, having access to the synod office while in assembly increases

efficiency; and

WHEREAS, Fargo has several options for facilities to meet the needs of hosting

the synod assembly; therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly be held in Fargo,

North Dakota; and be it further

RESOLVED, that we commit to this location for five years; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the Eastern North Dakota Synod Council determine the date of

the Synod Assembly.

Submitted by the Grand Forks and Jamestown Conference Rostered Leaders

39


RESOLUTION #3 2016 Compensation and Benefits Guidelines for

Pastors and Lay Rostered Leaders

WHEREAS, congregations of the Eastern North Dakota Synod request and

appreciate the aid and counsel of their companion congregations

in this synod and synod leadership in ascertaining fair, equitable,

and adequate compensation and benefits for pastors and

professional staff; and

WHEREAS, the Eastern North Dakota Executive Committee has discussed and

approved these guidelines and commends them to the 2015

Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly and to the congregations of

this synod for deliberation and use; therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the 2015 Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly adopt,

approve, and commend to the congregations of this synod these

guidelines; and be it further

RESOLVED, that this assembly approve the publication and distribution of these

“Guidelines” to congregations of this synod through the usual and

appropriate means employed by the synod office.

Submitted by the Eastern North Dakota Synod Council

See Supporting Document on the next page.

40

Years of

Experience

Base

Salary

(2015)

Base

Salary

(2016)

30% for

Housing

(2015)

30% for

Housing

(2016)

Soc. Sec.

Offset

(2015)

Soc. Sec.

Offset

(2016)

Defined

Comp.

(2015)

Defined

Comp.

(2016)

Total

Increase

for 2016

3% Equity

Allowance

(2015)

3% Equity

Allowance

(2016)

Sem. Grad. 32,750 33,250 9,825 9,975 3,257 3,307 $45,832 $46,532 $700 1,375 $1,395.95

1 33,250 33,750 9,975 10,125 3,307 3,356 $46,532 $47,231 $699 1,396 $1,416.94

2 33,750 34,250 10,125 10,275 3,356 3,406 $47,231 $47,931 $700 1,417 $1,437.93

3 34,250 34,750 10,275 10,425 3,406 3,456 $47,931 $48,631 $700 1,438 $1,458.93

4 34,750 35,250 10,425 10,575 3,456 3,506 $48,631 $49,331 $700 1,459 $1,479.92

5 35,250 35,750 10,575 10,725 3,506 3,555 $49,331 $50,030 $699 1,480 $1,500.91

6 35,750 36,250 10,725 10,875 3,555 3,605 $50,030 $50,730 $700 1,501 $1,521.90

7 36,250 36,750 10,875 11,025 3,605 3,655 $50,730 $51,430 $700 1,522 $1,542.89

8 36,750 37,250 11,025 11,175 3,655 3,705 $51,430 $52,130 $700 1,543 $1,563.89

9 37,250 37,750 11,175 11,325 3,705 3,754 $52,130 $52,829 $699 1,564 $1,584.88

10 37,750 38,250 11,325 11,475 3,754 3,804 $52,829 $53,529 $700 1,585 $1,605.87

11 38,250 38,750 11,475 11,625 3,804 3,854 $53,529 $54,229 $700 1,606 $1,626.86

12 38,750 39,250 11,625 11,775 3,854 3,903 $54,229 $54,928 $699 1,627 $1,647.85

13 39,250 39,750 11,775 11,925 3,903 3,953 $54,928 $55,628 $700 1,648 $1,668.84

14 39,750 40,250 11,925 12,075 3,953 4,003 $55,628 $56,328 $700 1,669 $1,689.84

15 40,250 40,750 12,075 12,225 4,003 4,053 $56,328 $57,028 $700 1,690 $1,710.83

16 40,750 41,250 12,225 12,375 4,053 4,102 $57,028 $57,727 $699 1,711 $1,731.82

17 41,250 41,750 12,375 12,525 4,102 4,152 $57,727 $58,427 $700 1,732 $1,752.81

18 41,750 42,250 12,525 12,675 4,152 4,202 $58,427 $59,127 $700 1,753 $1,773.80

19 42,250 42,750 12,675 12,825 4,202 4,251 $59,127 $59,826 $699 1,774 $1,794.79

20 42,750 43,250 12,825 12,975 4,251 4,301 $59,826 $60,526 $700 1,795 $1,815.79

21 43,250 43,750 12,975 13,125 4,301 4,351 $60,526 $61,226 $700 1,816 $1,836.78

22 43,750 44,250 13,125 13,275 4,351 4,401 $61,226 $61,926 $700 1,837 $1,857.77

23 44,250 44,750 13,275 13,425 4,401 4,450 $61,926 $62,625 $699 1,858 $1,878.76

24 44,750 45,250 13,425 13,575 4,450 4,500 $62,625 $63,325 $700 1,879 $1,899.75

25 45,250 45,750 13,575 13,725 4,500 4,550 $63,325 $64,025 $700 1,900 $1,920.75

26 45,750 46,250 13,725 13,875 4,550 4,600 $64,025 $64,725 $700 1,921 $1,941.74

27 46,250 46,750 13,875 14,025 4,600 4,649 $64,725 $65,424 $699 1,942 $1,962.73

28 46,750 47,250 14,025 14,175 4,649 4,699 $65,424 $66,124 $700 1,963 $1,983.72

29 47,250 47,750 14,175 14,325 4,699 4,749 $66,124 $66,824 $700 1,984 $2,004.71

Supporting Document for Resolution #3

41


RESOLUTION #4 Bishop’s Election Process

WHEREAS, it is desirable for the synod to have adequate time to successfully

prepare for an election process; and

WHEREAS, the Eastern North Dakota Synod’s current constitution does not

require a date for notification from a sitting Bishop regarding their

sense of call to seek another term; and

WHEREAS, without a timeframe in place, it is challenging for the Nominating

Committee to successfully uphold the current constitutional

requirements for the synodical Bishop election process; therefore be

it

RESOLVED, that we amend the current constitution, S9.04, part a, to require that

a sitting Bishop must submit written notification to the Synod

Nominating Committee at least 120 days prior to Synod Assembly as

to their intentions for seeking another term; and be it further

RESOLVED, that if the motion carries, part a-h in the current constitution would

become part b-i; and be it further

RESOLVED, that if a sitting Bishop does not feel called to seek another term as

synodical Bishop, the nominating committee would move forward

with the Bishops election procedures outlined in part b-i; and be it

further

RESOLVED, that if a sitting bishop is eligible and feels called to serve another

term as synodical Bishop, the election process would change to a

straight ecclesiastical ballot on the synod assembly floor, thus not

requiring a conference election process.

Submitted by the Nominating Committee

42


RESOLUTION #5 Bishop’s Election Process:

Amendment to S9.04c

WHEREAS, it is desirable for the synod to have adequate information available

for the synod to prepare for an election process; and

WHEREAS, there has been concern raised at a conference level regarding the

lack of information available about candidates who have been

brought forward for consideration for synodical Bishop; therefore be

it

RESOLVED, that basic biographical information would be made available at the

conference assemblies for each of the candidates being brought

forward for consideration for synodical Bishop.


43


RESOLUTION #6 Bishop’s Election Process:

Amendment to S9.04c

WHEREAS, it is desirable to leave room for the Holy Spirt to work in the midst of

our synod’s election process; and

WHEREAS, currently, at the conference assemblies there is not an option for a

write in candidate for the position of synodical Bishop; therefore be

it

RESOLVED, that any voting member at the conference assembly may submit

the name of any ordained minister of the Evangelical Lutheran

Church in America as a nominee for consideration for the position

of synodical Bishop.


44


RESOLUTION #7 A Resolution to Rename the Devils Lake

Conference

WHEREAS, It has been customary to name a Conference of the Eastern North

Dakota Synod of the ELCA by the largest community within its

boundaries; and

WHEREAS, other factors may also be considered in naming the conference

such as natural resources (i.e. "Prairie Rose") or geographical

features; and

WHEREAS , the body of water from which the city of Devils Lake receives its

name has had a tremendous and lasting economic as well as

geographical impact within the area of that conference as well as

portions of other jurisdictions; and

WHEREAS, the Dakota name for this body of water (Mni Wakan) has been

mistranslated into English as "Devils Lake", while a more proper

translation is "Spirit Lake"; therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the Eastern North Dakota Synod of the ELCA, out of respect for,

and in solidarity with the First Peoples who gave the Lake its proper

name and used it for themselves, is requested by the undersigned

to rename the Devils Lake Conference as the Spirit Lake

Conference of the Eastern North Dakota Synod of the ELCA.

Respectfully submitted by the rostered leaders of the Devils Lake Conference

congregations

45

2016 COMPENSATION &

POLICY GUIDELINES

46

2016 Compensation & Policy Guidelines 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Financial Compensation…………………………………………………………………………... page 2

A. Salary………………………………………………………………………..… 2

B. Compensation Review…………………………………………………..…….. 3

C. Clergy Housing……………………………………………………………....... 4

a. Parsonage…4

b. Housing Allowance…4

D. Social Security………………………………………………………………… 5

E. Voluntary Salary Reduction…………………………………………………... 5

F. Auto Expense Reimbursement………………………………………………... 5

G. Profession Expense Allowance……………………………………………….. 5

H. Continuing Education Plan……………………………………………………. 5

I. Pension and Other Benefits: ELCA Plan and Medical/Dental Plan…………...6

J. Pulpit Supply………………………………………………………………….. 6

K. Interim and Contracted Ministries…………………………………………….. 7

Human Resource Policy…………………………………………………………………………... page 8

A. Vacation Time………………………………………………………………… 8

B. Sick Leave…………………………………………………………………….. 8

C. Family Medical Leave………………………………………………………… 8

D. Parental Leave………………………………………………………………… 8

E. Sabbatical Leave……………………………………………………………… 9

F. Military Leave………………………………………………………………… 10

G. Work Week…………………………………………………………………… 10

H. Transition Time……………………………………………………………….. 10

I. Pastoral Ethics………………………………………………………………… 10

Appendices & Worksheets…………………………………………………………………………page 12

A. Appendix A – “for pastors living in a parsonage”……………………………. 12

B. Appendix B – “Housing Allowance Calculator”……………………………... 13

C. Appendix C – “Annual Defined Compensation Agreement”………………… 14

a. Compensation………………………………………………………… 14

b. Pension and Other Benefits…………………………………………... 14

c. Expenses……………………………………………………………… 15

d. Agreement……………………………………………………………. 15

e. Other Provisions……………………………………………………… 16

f. Other Matters………………………………………………………… 16

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I. FINANCIAL COMPENSATION

A. SALARY

Years of experience are significant factors in determining compensation and benefits. Other factors

should be taken into account as Pastors/Lay Rostered Leaders (LRLs) and lay leaders discuss salary. Each

congregation is unique and offers a variety of challenges and rewards. For year beyond the first year of

service, we highly commend the process outlined in section B. In general, higher salary scale categories

include:

• Congregation/Parish Ministry Setting • Multiple point parish

• Complexity of the call • Ecumenically-yoked parish

• Member-to-staff ratio • Extent of programming

• Pastor/LRL • Related education beyond M.Div. or LRL certification

• Prior career experience • Staff supervision responsibilities

• Merit • Churchwide or synodical experience/participation

Years of

Experience

2016 Base

Salary

Years of

Experience

2016 Base

Salary

Years of

Experience

2016 Base

Salary

Sem. Grad. 33,250 10 38,250 20 43,250

1 33,750 11 38,750 21 43,750

2 34,250 12 39,250 22 44,250

3 34,750 13 39,750 23 44,750

4 35,250 14 40,250 24 45,250

5 35,750 15 40,750 25 45,750

6 36,250 16 41,250 26 46,250

7 36,750 17 41,750 27 46,750

8 37,250 18 42,250 28 47,250

9 37,750 19 42,750 29 47,750

Additional considerations for setting salaries: (formerly Appendix A)

While determining the base salary, excluding the housing allowance, please consider the following

situations:

In the event that a pastor comes to the ordained ministry with other career experience, which

enhances a person’s gifts for ministry, the value of those experiences should be strongly considered

in setting salary. An example would be to calculate the experience prior to ordination at the rate of

1⁄2 year for each year of experience, up to a maximum of ten years. In this example, a newly

ordained clergy with ten years of other career enhancing experience should start at the five year

guideline level.

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$500 - $1,000 for each additional earned degree,

For supervisory responsibilities

o $500 for supervision of 1 full time paid staff or equivalent,

o $750 for supervision of 2-3 full time paid staff or equivalent,

o $1,000 for supervision of 4+ full time paid staff or equivalent,

For multi-point parishes: If the pastor serves two or more congregations, add $1,500 per

additional congregation.

When determining compensation and benefits, the fundamental question should be, “How can we best

provide appropriate care for our pastors/LRLs, recognizing that financial compensation is an integral part

of that care?”

Lay leaders and pastors/LRLs need to talk openly, graciously, and productively with each other about

their ministry together, including the details of compensation.

B. COMPENSATION REVIEW

The establishment of a “Salary Review Committee” will enhance honest and open communication and

make the salary review process more effective. This committee may be composed of three to five

members appointed by the congregation council and represent all facets of the congregation.

The task of the committee is to:

A. Meet with the pastor and/or LRL to complete the “Annual Defined Compensation Agreement”

(see appendix C), hereafter referred to as the “Agreement.” This is intended to be a planning and

budgeting process not a review. If this planning process is completed and special emphases are

agreed upon for the coming year, the committee will have some basis for review the following

year and merit increases based on achievement of the established goals.

B. Present the completed Agreement document to the congregational council for approval in their

budgeting process and to recommend at the congregation’s annual meeting.

The following salary review process is suggested. These steps normally require more than one meeting

for satisfactory completion.

STEP ONE Purpose: Introduce and review the “Annual Defined Compensation Agreement.”

Suggested Tasks:

Organize the Salary Review Committee.

Familiarize the committee with synod guidelines and the “Agreement” documents.

Compare compensation of neighboring pastors with similar settings and/or experience

Pastor/LRL present a written response to the following questions:

Describe your theology/concepts of ministry. (For instance, why did you choose your

profession? What do you see as the most valuable contribution you can make in God’s church?)

How do you understand your basic responsibilities in this parish? How would you evaluate your

past year’s work?

What are your goals and objectives for the coming year?

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C. CLERGY HOUSING

1. Parsonage

When a congregation provides a parsonage, the congregation should assume all costs for maintenance,

heat and utilities. The congregation may pay these costs directly to the provider and not include them in

determining annual defined compensation. When a congregation chooses to pay a furnishings/utilities

allowance directly to the pastor, the allowance is included in determining annual defined compensation.

The congregation should provide major appliances in the parsonage and provide a regular program of

upkeep and maintenance of the property.

Housing Equity...If a parsonage is provided, the congregation is encouraged to help provide for the

future housing needs of the pastor at such a time when he/she decides to purchase a home by establishing

a Housing Equity Account. To accomplish this, the congregation may simply make additional employer

contributions through a housing equity agreement with Portico Benefit Services (formerly Board of

Pensions). It is recommended that these contributions be equal, at a minimum, to the amount of the

following calculation: 3% (base salary + 30% base salary + Social Security allowance). See Appendix B

for suggested calculations.

2. Housing Allowance

When a congregation provides a housing allowance, it should be enough to provide housing that is

adequate for the clergy family’s needs. The housing allowance may be determined by the fair rental

What are your community and church activities outside the parish?

What do you consider fair base salary, supplemental benefits, professional expense

reimbursements and non-financial compensation for the coming year for your position?

What is the reasoning for your response?

STEP TWO Purpose: The Salary Review Committee meets without the pastor/LRL to explore

specific duties and emphases pertaining to the pastor/LRL ministry and the congregation’s commitments

to them.

A. Each member of the committee presents a written response, offering any insights, reflections and/or

suggestions, as you review the mutual ministry of the congregation and its leadership.

1. As a church leader, how do you understand your basic responsibilities in this parish?

2. As a church leader, how would you describe and review your past year’s work?

3. As a church leader, what are your goals and objectives for the coming year?

4. How would you evaluate the congregation’s ministry in this past year?

5. How would you evaluate the ministry of the pastor/LRL in this past year?

6. What might be some goals/objectives for the congregation for the coming year?

7. What do you consider to be fair compensation for the pastor/LRL for the coming year?

B. A preliminary draft of the “Agreement” document will be prepared and presented to the pastor/LRL

prior to the final meeting.

STEP THREE

8. The committee, together with the pastor/LRL, prepares a final draft of the “Agreement” to be

presented to the congregation council.

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value of average-valued homes in the community, plus the cost of heat and utilities. See Appendix C for

more information.

Congregations must officially approve in advance allowances for housing, furnishings and utilities in

order for these to be excluded from income for IRS reporting. The pastor should determine the portion of

her/his annual compensation to be designated as housing allowance and assumes full responsibility for

compliance with IRS definitions of “cost to provide a home.” The council may adopt a continuing

resolution with the annual housing amount recorded in the minutes for future years until changed by the

pastor.

Congregations and pastors are facing increasingly complex Internal Revenue Service and state tax

regulations. Pastors/LRLs are strongly encouraged to engage in good tax planning with professional

advice in order to take full advantage of tax benefits and to proceed legally.

D. SOCIAL SECURITY

For clergy, congregations should provide the normal employer share in the form of a social security

allowance (roughly 7.65% of salary and housing). Congregations are required to pay social security taxes

for all lay employees and to file federal tax Form W-2 for both clergy and lay employees. Using the

Portico Benefit Services (formerly Board of Pensions) web page social security calculator is

recommended. (www.porticobenefits.org)

E. VOLUNTARY SALARY REDUCTION

If the congregation has established a pre-tax voluntary salary reduction program, the pastor/LRL can

request an amount be set aside for expenses such as housing allowance, medical expenses, child care, or

professional education expenses. The salary is reduced and the pastor/LRL submits bills directly to the

plan administrator. Good documentation is required.

F. AUTO EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT

This reimbursement is a reimbursement for expenses and not part of the pastor’s salary. It is

recommended that this reimbursement be paid in accordance with the rules of the Internal Revenue

Service. In lieu of such a reimbursement, the congregation might lease or purchase a vehicle for the

pastor’s use for parish business. When the parish vehicle is used for personal business, the value of that

use is considered reportable income.

G. PROFESSIONAL EXPENSE ALLOWANCE

Attendance at the synod assembly and synod professional leadership conferences is expected of all

pastors/LRLs; therefore, expenses should be reimbursed by the congregation. Professional expense

allowances such as books, vestments, periodicals, professional dues, church-related travel expenses, and

costs incurred in the performance of the duties of the pastoral office must be approved by the

congregation council at the beginning of the fiscal year to meet IRS requirements.

H. CONTINUING EDUCATION PLAN

It is strongly recommended that pastors/LRLs develop a continuing education plan together with a

pastoral support committee or other congregational leadership. This plan is funded jointly by the

51

www.porticobenefits.org


pastor/LRL and the congregation. A minimum of $1,000 per year ($300 by pastor/LRL, $700 by

congregation/agency) is recommended.

It is also recommended that a minimum of two weeks and two Sundays of continuing education time be

allowed for all pastors/LRLs. Continuing education time may be accumulated at a rate of two weeks per

year, up to a total of three years. Accumulated time is normally forfeited and not available as time with

pay between calls, unless otherwise negotiated by congregation and pastor/LRL.

First call pastors are required to participate in first call theological education during their first three years

of ministry. Congregations are expected to pay these costs.

I. PENSION & OTHER BENEFITS: ELCA PENSION PLAN &

MEDICAL/DENTAL PLAN

The congregation shall budget for and participate in the ELCA Pension Plan and the Medical and Dental

Plan for pastors and LRLs. This should provide coverage for the entire family unless members of the

family are covered by other employers. The Portico Gold+ coverage is recommended. See Appendix C

for calculation information.

1. DISABILITY LEAVE... In case of temporary disability due to accident, illness, surgery, etc., it is

expected the congregation will continue to pay full salary and housing for up to two months of

disability (see Appendix C; D-5) until disability benefits of the Portico plan commence. Any period

of disability (start date, length, and return to active duty) should be based on a physician’s

recommendation.

2. WORKER’S COMPENSATION... Congregations are not required by law to provide North Dakota

Work Force Safety and Insurance (www.workforcesafety.com) to employees or ordained pastors.

However, it could be a definite liability to the ministry of the congregation in the event of accidental

death or disability during the course of employment.

3. LIABILITY... It is recommended that all congregations carry a general “umbrella” insurance plan

which covers all the types of liability (including personal injury and professional liability) a

congregation may encounter.

J. PULPIT SUPPLY

The cost of pulpit supply in the pastor’s absence is borne by the congregation. In addition to mileage at

the standard IRS mileage rate, the following remuneration is recommended per Sunday: one service -

$125, plus $50 for each additional service.

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www.workforcesafety.com


K. INTERIM AND CONTRACTED MINISTRIES

When transition occurs in the pastoral office, it is often wise to provide for an interim period to give time

to deal with the emotions of transition and to define the needs and goals of the congregation before calling

another pastor. The following guidelines pertain to this interim pastoral ministry.

1. The interim pastor is appointed by the Bishop with the approval of the congregational council. The

terms of the contract are determined by the particular needs of the parish. The synod office will

provide sample contracts for this purpose.

2. The interim pastor is accountable to the congregation. The interim pastor is accountable to the synod

only as any other pastor is accountable to the synod.

3. The interim pastor will keep the synod staff informed of particular concerns or needs of the parish,

especially those which may affect the calling of a pastor.

4. Unless agreed upon in the interim contract, the interim pastor shall not be a candidate for call to the

parish in which he/she is doing interim ministry.

5. While serving as an interim pastor, he/she shall not participate in the call process.

6. Normally as a starting point, the interim pastor is compensated at the level of the previous pastor.

The contract between the interim pastor and the congregation(s) could include:

A. Full-time Interim

1. Congregation/agency furnishes housing for pastor, spouse and family.

2. Interim clergy serving a congregation between permanent pastorates should be compensated

as agreed upon by the pastor and all church councils involved, taking into account the

following:

a. The parish activities to be assumed during the interim.

b. The time needed to give leadership, including time of preparation.

c. The remuneration given the past pastor and promised the future pastor.

d. Mileage traveled to serve the parish.

e. The fringe benefits to be included in compensation, such as parsonage and pension.

B. Part-time interim (3/5, 1/2, 2/5, etc.) Remuneration: Proportionate to amount paid a full-time

interim pastor.

C. Sunday worship supply Single service $125. Each additional service that Sunday $50, plus

mileage at IRS guidelines, paid by the congregation.

D. Other services; i.e., weddings, funerals, etc. $125 per service, plus mileage at IRS guidelines,

paid by the congregation.

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II. HUMAN RESOURCE POLICY

A. VACATION TIME

It is recommended that vacation time be five (5) weeks (including five Sundays) for all pastors/LRLs

regardless of years of experience. Vacation time is in addition to attendance at official assemblies,

conferences, and continuing education. Special circumstances may be required that the pastors/LRLs and

church council negotiate the carryover of unused time into the following year.

Legally paid holidays (see G. Work Week) are not considered vacation days. When the pastor/LRLs’

services are required on recognized holidays, time off with pay may be taken at a more convenient time.

Vacation time is offered purely for the rest, relaxation, and renewal of pastors. The following should not

be considered part of a pastor’s vacation time: official synod events at which attendance by pastors is

required; continuing education; time spent in outdoor ministries and retreats with congregational youth

and family groups; work on synod or churchwide boards or committees.

*B. SICK LEAVE

Reasonable time away from work due to personal illness may be provided to staff without recording as

vacation. It is a common practice to give one (1) sick day per month. These are usually carried over and

accrued up to a maximum of 60-90 working days. For extended illnesses pastors should discuss needs

with parish leadership and reach a mutual understanding. Policies should be clear whether or not unused

sick leave is to be paid at the end of employment. (Sick leave longer than 2 weeks should be designated as

“short-term disability” for insurance and pension purposes.)

[Disability Leave: see FINANCIAL GUIDELINES; Section H.]

*C. FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE

Reasonable time off may be granted due to serious illness or a death in the family. Pastors, DMS and

LRLs should discuss needs and reach a mutual understanding with their parish leadership. This time

would not be charged against vacation. Rather, it should be subtracted from accrued Sick Leave. In the

event of a death in his/her immediate family (to include spouse, children, parents , brother, sister,

grandparents, grandchildren, mother-in-law, father-in-law or legal guardian) a pastor, DMS, or LRLs will

be allowed three (3) days with pay to attend the funeral and to deal with family affairs. In cases where

there is a special need related to circumstances following the death of an immediate family member, up to

a total of five (5) working days may be granted.

D. PARENTAL LEAVE

Maternity or adoptive leave for female employees with full salary, housing, and benefits for six weeks

and a one to two week parenting leave for males, is recommended.

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E. SABBATICAL LEAVE

Where a pastor has served a congregation longer than 5 years, the congregation is encouraged to grant

sabbatical leave to permit participation in a longer program of continuing education. The pastor should be

encouraged to take a one to three months sabbatical leave for study every 5 years.

1) In all study situations, it is important that the pastor be expected to plan a program of study and present

a detailed plan to the council for approval. The nature of the sabbatical is ultimately a matter of agreement

between pastor and council. The synod office is available to assist in such planning. When sabbatical

leave is taken, it is expected that the pastor give a report on the sabbatical to the church council and

include a report on the sabbatical in the annual report to the congregation.

2) How can we consider a sabbatical? Who would serve us during that time?

Congregations and pastors of neighboring churches might covenant together to support the program of

sabbatical leaves for pastoral staff members by assisting each other during times of sabbatical leave as

follows:

a. Provide pulpit supply as needed and requested.

b. Assist with other pastoral duties (hospital, nursing home, weddings, funerals, etc.) as needed.

c. Make special expertise available to assist in program areas as requested.

d. The clergy and congregations participating in this sabbatical program agree to provide such

assistance without compensation.

3) Sabbatical leave is offered as an opportunity for extended continuing education and is intended to

benefit both the individual and the congregation. Therefore, application for a sabbatical, including a

detailed description of the plan of study to be used (where, how, why and what) should be presented to

the council well in advance (3-6 months) for approval. Normally, the person commits him/herself to serve

the congregation for at least one year after the sabbatical. Exceptions may be granted by the church

council.

Rationale and Suggestions regarding Sabbatical Leaves

The Lutheran Church has a history of an educated and well-trained staff. The congregation should expect

their rostered leaders (Pastors, LRLs, and Diaconal Ministers) to be involved in continuing education

programs which will provide opportunity for personal development, enrichment of devotional life, and

growth in effectiveness and competency. Continuing education should be regarded as an essential

ongoing process which assists in maintaining and sharpening the professional skills required in a rapidly

changing world. Congregations should give consideration to a continuing education record when granting

salary increases and when in the call and appointment process.

Continuing education is understood to be “professional growth” and “self-renewal” as distinguished from

program development, vacation, or synod sponsored learning events. Both the pastor/rostered lay persons

and the congregation will benefit from involvement in continuing education. It is therefore suggested that

the continuing education program be mutually studied and agreed upon by the pastor/rostered lay persons

and the congregation. Continuing education may include courses, seminary classes, workshops, or

independent study, when directed toward a goal.

55


Time for Renewal-Sabbatical (extended study): Rostered leaders shall be eligible to take a sabbatical

leave after serving seven years in ministry—years spent in other synods are to be counted. Thereafter, a

congregation may grant 1 ½ months every 4 years; 2 months every 5 years; or 3 months every 7 years.

Rostered leaders shall not be eligible for a sabbatical until they have served in their present call at least

two years even if they have been in ministry seven years or longer.

Rostered leaders granted sabbatical leave are expected to return to their parishes for at least a year after

the leave unless there are compelling reasons to do otherwise.

The recommended time for a sabbatical is three months away from the parish. Vacation time is not

included as sabbatical but is granted as in any other year. Variations from the three months

recommendation are to be approved by both the congregation and in consultation with the bishop.

During the sabbatical, rostered leaders shall receive a minimum 75% of their current base salary, 100% of

the housing allowance, 50% of the car allowance and 100% of the pension and medical-dental benefits;

all other benefits remain unaffected. Congregations that make provision to continue salary at 100% are to

be commended.

*F. MILITARY LEAVE

A congregation whose pastor serves simultaneously as a chaplain in a military reserve unit must by law

grant leave time for the pastor to fulfill his/her military obligations. Such military leave time is to be

granted exclusive of vacation and continuing education time.

It is recommended that each congregation develop written policies relating to compensation issues for

pastors while on military leave. Policy guidelines are available from the ELCA Federal Chaplaincy

website (http://www.elca.org/Resources/Federal-Chaplains).

*G. WORK WEEK

At least one full day and preferably two days free of church responsibilities should be provided each

week. Paid holidays include New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving

Day and Christmas day. When holidays or days off are missed, these should be taken at another time.

*H. TRANSITION TIME

A pastor moving from one call to another may be permitted a transition period of one week (including a

Sunday) of paid leave time, paid by the calling congregation, during which no official duties would be

expected by the calling congregation, local conditions permitting.

*I. PASTORAL ETHICS —related to congregations previously served—

When a pastor accepts a call to a congregation, a sacred covenant is established between that pastor and

the people of God in that place. In order that the ministry might be strong and effective, it is important for

that relationship to be strengthened and nurtured until God calls that pastor to another sector of ministry.

When a pastor resigns, that call, that covenant, ends. How does a pastor relate appropriately to members

of congregations where one has previously served? We offer the following suggestions with the hope that

it will give guidance so that good choices are made which do not negatively impact the ministry of the

people of God.

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http://www.elca.org/Resources/Federal-Chaplains


1. It is the responsibility of a former pastor to decline invitations to conduct pastoral acts in any

former parish. It is important the former pastor does not pass the burden of such decisions back to

the pastor who currently holds that call. As professional people, pastors commit themselves to act

responsibly in these matters. For the sake of the church and the ongoing ministry of the

congregation, “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” When pastors do this, relating to

members of previous parishes can be used by God to build up the body of Christ.

(EaND Synod Constitution, S14.14 - Ordained ministers shall respect the integrity of the ministry of

congregations which they do not serve and shall not exercise ministerial functions therein unless invited to

do so by the pastor, or if there is no duly called pastor, then by the interim pastor in consultation with the

Congregation Council.)

2. It is the responsibility of a former pastor to be supportive of his/her successor, even when it is

difficult to do. The responsibility for the success of the current pastor is also the former pastor’s

responsibility. If it is not possible for the former pastor to be supportive of the new pastor’s

ministry, it is extremely important he/she to cut off contact with members of that congregation in

order not to become a hindrance to its ministry.

3. While the above statements are addressed to pastors, spouses of pastors must consider the same

factors, and also respect the recommendations made above. Spouses share a pastoral identity and,

as a result, can become hindrances as easily as a pastor can.

4. It is normally the former pastor’s responsibility to change his/her church membership and to

worship at a new church when possible.

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III. Appendices & Worksheets

Appendix A – “For pastors living in a Parsonage”

For pastors living in a parsonage, this table listed by years of service, can assist you in calculating the

defined compensation and a housing equity contribution. The suggested housing value and social security

allowance are calculated by Portico Benefit Services (formerly Board of Pensions). You can find out

more about how to arrive at these numbers at www.porticobenefits.org.

* Housing value is roughly 30% of the base salary and social security allowance is roughly 7.65% of base

plus housing. We encourage you to use the defined compensation calculator at their website:

www.porticobenefits.org. For pastors living in a parsonage:

58

www.porticobenefits.org


Appendix B – “Housing Allowance Calculator”

Housing Allowance Calculator: When a pastor purchases his/her own home

In some communities within our synod, congregations provide a housing allowance to the pastor to

purchase his/her own home. Real estate markets vary greatly across the synod and ebb and flow with the

market. The following is offered as a way of helping congregations determine a fair housing allowance

for both congregation and pastor. This number is for computing fair compensation only. The pastor is

responsible for designating the amount of the housing allowance for income tax purposes in accordance

with IRS standards.

Compensation Worksheet

A. Base Salary (from other table/discussion) $________________

B. Housing Allowance (from line “f” below) $________________

C. Social Security Allowance (7.65 % of A & B) $________________

D. Defined Compensation (sum of A,B, & C) $________________

Housing Allowance Calculator

A conversation with a local realtor or banker could be helpful in determining these figures.

1. Purchase price of a median house in community: $________________

(The median house: half of the homes in

the community cost more, half cost less)

2. Monthly Mortgage (Principal & Interest, 30yr fixed) $________________

Annualized Costs

a. Mortgage (P&I) $__________

b. Property Taxes for one year: $__________

c. Home Insurance (annual) $__________

d. Utilities: (annual figures) $__________

Electricity $__________

Heat $__________

Water/Garbage $__________

Basic Phone $__________

e. Upkeep (1% of #1) $__________

f. Total Annual Housing Allowance $__________ (transfer to line B above)

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Appendix C – “Annual Defined Compensation Agreement”

Prepared by_____________________________________________________________________

for____________________________________________________________________________

for the period _______________________________ to _______________________________

A. COMPENSATION

Line 1a. Annual Base Salary $ _________________

(before pre-tax deductions/investments)

Line 1b. Cash Housing Allowance, or $ _________________

30% of Line 1a, if parsonage is provided

Line 2. Total of 1a + 1b $ _________________

Line 3. Clergy Social Security Tax Allowance $ _________________

7.65% of Line 2 [salary + housing]

Line 4. Household Furnishings & Utilities Allowance $ _________________

(only if paid directly to a pastor in a parsonage)

Line 5. Annual Defined Compensation $ _________________

(total of Lines 2 + 3 + 4; this amount

is used by Portico and the IRS)

B. PENSION AND OTHER BENEFITS

The congregation will sponsor the pastor in the Pension and Other Benefits Program of the Evangelical

Lutheran Church in America, which provides retirement, disability, survivor, and medical/dental

coverage. (Sponsorship will include medical/dental coverage for the pastor’s spouse and children unless

they have other employer-provided group medical insurance coverage and the pastor consents to waiving

medical/dental coverage for them under the ELCA Pension and Other Benefits Program.)

1. ELCA Pension at _______ % of defined compensation (10, 11, or 12%)

2. ELCA Medical and Dental Insurance- Portico Gold+ recommended:

(Circle one)

a. Member only

b. Member/spouse

c. Member/children

d. Member/spouse/children

e. Coverage waived

3. Other insurance or benefits: ________________________________________________

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C. EXPENSES

The congregation will provide for the following expenses related to this pastor’s ministry.

1. Automobile and travel allowance $___________

2. Other professional expenses $___________

3. Expenses for official meetings of the synod, $___________

(e.g. Synod Assembly, Fall Theological Conf.)

4. Continuing Education $___________

($1000 recommended; minimum $700 from congregation)

5. Other (i.e. _____________________________) $___________

6. Pay moving expenses to this congregation/parish: $___________

D. AGREEMENT

1. Vacation time of _____________________ per year, including __________ Sundays;

five (5) weeks recommended five (5) Sundays recommended

2. Continuing education time of __________ weeks per year (recommended minimum of two (2) weeks

per year, including two (2) Sundays, that may be accumulated up to three years, as reflected in a

continuing education agreement developed by the pastor and congregation council);

3. Participation in a First Call Theological Education Program, where applicable;

4. Ongoing care through a Mutual Ministry Committee;

5. Up to two months of continued salary, housing, and contributions to the ELCA Pension and Other

Benefits Program in a 12-month period in the event the pastor is physically or mentally disabled*; and

6. Where applicable, parental leave up to six weeks with full salary, housing, and benefits.

Provision may be made for further unpaid time for disability recovery as agreed by the congregation, but

with the stipulation that unused accumulated sick * leave will not be compensated at the end of this call.

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E. OTHER PROVISIONS

A description of the particular responsibilities of this position may be attached to this “Annual Defined

Compensation Agreement.”

- OR THE FOLLOWING MAY BE COMPLETED -

Special emphases of the pastor and special encouragement by the congregation:

1) During this time period, the pastor will give special attention in ministry to the following:

a) _______________________________________________________________________

b) _______________________________________________________________________

c) _______________________________________________________________________

d) _______________________________________________________________________

e) _______________________________________________________________________

2) The congregation will encourage this pastor’s ministry in the following ways:

a) _______________________________________________________________________

b) _______________________________________________________________________

c) _______________________________________________________________________

d) _______________________________________________________________________

e) _______________________________________________________________________

F. OTHER MATTERS

(such as accountability matters, service on synodical or churchwide boards and committees, work in

church- camp programs, and other such details)

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

We, the undersigned, certify that the necessary approvals of the congregation and congregational council

have been granted for the provisions set forth above.

_______________________________________ Congregation President

_______________________________________ Council Secretary

Date: ____________________

I certify that I accept the above statement:

The Reverend ________________________________________ Date of signature: ________________

NOTE: Retain original of this form in congregational records. Make a copy for the pastor. Send a copy to

the synod office as a matter of information. A description of the particular responsibilities of this position

may be attached to this “Annual Defined Compensation Agreement.”

Annual defined compensation should include:

62


Housing equity contributions, if the congregation pays them directly to the pastor (include in base

salary).

Additional tax-sheltered annuity contributions, made by way of a voluntary salary reduction

agreement reached with the congregation (include in base salary).

Furnishings and/or utilities allowance, if the congregation pays it directly to pastor.

Annual defined compensation should not include:

Housing equity contributions made on pastor’s behalf to the Optional Pension Plan or to another

financial institution.

Furnishings and/or utilities allowance, if the congregation pays the utility companies directly.

Additional pension contributions made on a pastor’s behalf, in addition to salary.

Automobile allowance.

Continuing education allowance.

Book allowance.

Appendix C [continued]

I. EaND Synod Compensation and Benefit Guidelines Relative to Health Care

Reform in 2014 Adopted at 2013 Synod Assembly -- Resolution #4

Beginning January 1, 2014, the most significant changes brought about by the Affordable Care Act

(ACA), also known as health care reform, will take effect. This will have implications for many

employers, including congregations. It is difficult to predict the full implications of the ACA; however,

we want to be aware and well prepared. Our ministry partners at Portico Benefit Services will help us

through this change. This document will help you understand what health care reform means for you. You

can also continue to check the Portico website www.porticobenefits.org for updates. A representative

from Portico will be present at our synod assembly. Please feel free to ask questions related to health care

reform.

1. Each state will have a health insurance exchange, also called a marketplace, where individuals can

buy health insurance. In states that choose not to provide an exchange, the federal government will

manage one on the state's behalf, or the exchange may be operated by the state and federal

government jointly. The plans offered in the exchanges will be in four categories, and Portico intends

to offer four plan options that correspond to these categories: · Bronze · Silver · Gold (closest to

previous ELCA-Primary health coverage) · Platinum

2. Currently, ELCA-Primary health contribution rates are based on geographic region and salary. To

offer competitive pricing relative to the exchanges, Portico intends 2014 ELCA-Primary health

contribution rates to also reflect plan member age.

3. For 2014, each ELCA employer will need to select one ELCA health plan option for all employees

(rostered leaders and lay churchworkers) that they will pay for.

4. Once the employer makes a selection, the employee will 'confirm that choice or choose to buy up to

another plan option, and will be responsible for the cost difference. For example, if the employer

selects the option similar to the gold plan and the employee opts to buy up to the option similar to the

platinum plan, the employee would pay the difference in cost. Some generalities about the health

insurance exchanges:

63


Younger employees, generally speaking, will be less expensive to insure than older employees on

the exchanges.

Individuals may be eligible for federal subsidies that will help pay for health insurance purchased

on an exchange if his or her employer doesn't offer a minimum value, affordable plan. Affordable

means that an individual spends less than 9.5% of his or her income on premiums for single

coverage.

Depending on family income, employees who do not qualify for federal subsidies may pay higher

premiums for plans purchased on an exchange.

Other considerations:

1. It may be tempting to offer the least expensive health plan 'option. Collectively over the years, this

church has sought to provide benefits that support our shared ministry and overall well-being to all

rostered leaders and lay churchworkers. The ELCA Church Council at its April 6, 2013 meeting

acted to endorse as a benchmark the proposed plan option that approximates the current level of

benefits provided by ELCA-Primary health coverage, and to encourage congregations, synods, the

churchwide organization, other ELCA-related organizations, and other interested persons to

advocate for selection of this plan option.

2. Relative to the ELCA health plan, Portico is planning to have a final proposal and

recommendations on health care plan options and pricing considered by the Conference of Bishops

and acted upon by the ELCA Church Council at their respective August meetings. The ELCA

Church Council and the Conference of Bishops both met in August 2013; the Portico Gold+ policy

is the recommended coverage adopted and recommended by the ELCA Church council.

3. Given these changes, it may be tempting to come to call or employment decisions based upon

youth or marital status, and to avoid older, more experienced persons with families. However, this

church has always valued calling a rostered person and hiring a lay churchworker based upon his or

her gifts for ministry and the needs of the congregation, and we believe this practice should

continue.

4. Rostered leaders or lay churchworkers may have occasion to make a decision between two calls or

opportunities for employment based upon the plan options that are being offered, which has never

been a factor before.

Recommendation: To maintain the current level of health benefits for our rostered leaders and lay

churchworkers, we recommend that all of the congregations and parishes of the EaND Synod offer to pay

for the new ELCA health plan option that most closely resembles previous ELCA-Primary health

coverage for their rostered leaders and lay churchworkers. That coverage is Poritco Gold+ option. This is

the plan option that will be comparable to Gold plans offered on the exchanges, while the “+” part of the

plan retains all of the current coverages provided by the 2013 ELCA health coverage provided by Portico

Benefits above and beyond a standard “gold” plan offered on the exchange. This will both continue to

care for the health of all who serve under call or terms of employment and eliminate many of the

variables facing congregations and paid servants in the midst of change.

[Updated April 2015]

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CHART OF RANKING MOTIONS

Name of Motion in Order of Rank Section Interrupt? Second? Debatable? Amendable? Vote Reconsider?Privileged

Fix the time to which to adjourn 22 NO YES NO* YES M YES

Adjourn 21 NO YES NO* NO* M NO

Take a recess 20 NO YES NO YES M NO

Raise a question of privilege 19 YES NO NO NO CHAIR* NO

Call for the orders of the day 18 YES NO NO NO NO* NOSubsidiary

Lay on the table 17 NO YES NO NO M YES(-)

Previous question 16 NO YES NO NO* 2/3 YES*

Limit or extend limits of debate 15 NO YES NO YES 2/3 YES

Postpone to a certain time 14 NO YES YES YES M* YES

Commit or refer 13 NO YES YES YES M YES*

Amend 12 NO YES YES* YES*(x1) M YES

Postpone indefinitely 11 NO YES YES NO M YES(+)Main motion

Main motion 10 NO YES YES YES M YES

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CHART OF NONRANKING MOTIONS

Name of Motion Section Interrupt? Second? Debatable? Amendable? Vote Reconsider?

Incidental

Appeal 24 YES YES YES NO M YES

Consider by paragraph/seriatim 28 NO YES NO YES M NO

Division of the Assembly 29 YES NO NO NO DEMAND NO

Division of a question 27 NO YES NO YES M NO

Nominations and polls (reopen) 31 NO YES NO YES M YES ( - )

Nominations and polls (close) 31 NO YES NO YES 2/3 NO

Objection to consideration of a question 26 YES NO NO NO 2/3 YES ( - )

Parliamentary inquiry 33 YES NO NO NO NO-CHAIR NO

Point of information 33 YES NO NO NO NO-CHAIR NO

Point of order 10 YES NO NO* NO NO-CHAIR NO

Ratify/confirm 10 NO YES YES YES M YES

Requests to withdraw a motion, read a paper, etc. 33 YES NO* NO NO M* YES*

Suspend the rules 25 NO YES NO NO 2/3* NO

Voting 30 NO YES NO* YES M* YESBring Back Motions

Discharge a committee 36 NO YES YES YES 2/3* YES(-)

Reconsider 37 YES* YES YES NO M NO

Rescind or amend something previously adopted 35 NO YES YES YES 2/3* YES(-)

Take from the table 34 NO YES NO NO M NO

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RobertsRules.org | Robert's Rules of Order - Summary Version

For Fair and Orderly Meetings & Conventions

Provides common rules and procedures for deliberation and debate in order to place the whole mem-

bership on the same footing and speaking the same language. The conduct of ALL business is con-

trolled by the general will of the whole membership - the right of the deliberate majority to decide.

Complementary is the right of at least a strong minority to require the majority to be deliberate - to act

according to its considered judgment AFTER a full and fair "working through" of the issues involved.

Robert's Rules provides for constructive and democratic meetings, to help, not hinder, the business of

the assembly. Under no circumstances should "undue strictness" be allowed to intimidate members or

limit full participation.

The fundamental right of deliberative assemblies require all questions to be thoroughly discussed be-

fore taking action!

The assembly rules - they have the final say on everything!

Silence means consent!

Obtain the floor (the right to speak) by being the first to stand when the person speaking has finished;

state Mr./Madam Chairman. Raising your hand means nothing, and standing while another has the

floor is out of order! Must be recognized by the Chair before speaking!

Debate can not begin until the Chair has stated the motion or resolution and asked "are you ready for

the question?" If no one rises, the chair calls for the vote!

Before the motion is stated by the Chair (the question) members may suggest modification of the mo-

tion; the mover can modify as he pleases, or even withdraw the motion without consent of the sec-

onder; if mover modifies, the seconder can withdraw the second.

The "immediately pending question" is the last question stated by the Chair! Motion/Resolution -

Amendment - Motion to Postpone

The member moving the "immediately pending question" is entitled to preference to the floor!

No member can speak twice to the same issue until everyone else wishing to speak has spoken to it

once!

All remarks must be directed to the Chair. Remarks must be courteous in language and deportment -

avoid all personalities, never allude to others by name or to motives!

The agenda and all committee reports are merely recommendations! When presented to the

assembly and the question is stated, debate begins and changes occur!

The Rules Point of Privilege: Pertains to noise, personal comfort, etc. - may interrupt only if necessary!

Parliamentary Inquiry: Inquire as to the correct motion - to accomplish a desired result, or raise

a point of order

Point of Information: Generally applies to information desired from the speaker: "I should like to

ask the (speaker) a question."

Orders of the Day (Agenda): A call to adhere to the agenda (a deviation from the agenda re-

quires Suspending the Rules)

Point of Order: Infraction of the rules, or improper decorum in speaking. Must be raised immedi-

ately after the error is made

Main Motion: Brings new business (the next item on the agenda) before the assembly

Divide the Question: Divides a motion into two or more separate motions (must be able to stand

on their own)

67

Consider by Paragraph: Adoption of paper is held until all paragraphs are debated and

amended and entire paper is satisfactory; after all paragraphs are considered, the entire paper

is then open to amendment, and paragraphs may be further amended. Any Preamble can not

be considered until debate on the body of the paper has ceased.

Amend: Inserting or striking out words or paragraphs, or substituting whole paragraphs or resolu-

tions

Withdraw/Modify Motion: Applies only after question is stated; mover can accept an amend-

ment without obtaining the floor

Commit /Refer/Recommit to Committee: State the committee to receive the question or resolu-

tion; if no committee exists include size of committee desired and method of selecting the mem-

bers (election or appointment).

Extend Debate: Applies only to the immediately pending question; extends until a certain time

or for a certain period of time

Limit Debate: Closing debate at a certain time, or limiting to a certain period of time

Postpone to a Certain Time: State the time the motion or agenda item will be resumed

Object to Consideration: Objection must be stated before discussion or another motion is stated

Lay on the Table: Temporarily suspends further consideration/action on pending question; may

be made after motion to close debate has carried or is pending

Take from the Table: Resumes consideration of item previously "laid on the table" - state the mo-

tion to take from the table

Reconsider: Can be made only by one on the prevailing side who has changed position or

view

Postpone Indefinitely: Kills the question/resolution for this session - exception: the motion to re-

consider can be made this session

Previous Question: Closes debate if successful - may be moved to "Close Debate" if preferred

Informal Consideration: Move that the assembly go into "Committee of the Whole" - informal

debate as if in committee; this committee may limit number or length of speeches or close de-

bate by other means by a 2/3 vote. All votes, however, are formal.

Appeal Decision of the Chair: Appeal for the assembly to decide - must be made before other

business is resumed; NOT debatable if relates to decorum, violation of rules or order of business

Suspend the Rules: Allows a violation of the assembly's own rules (except Constitution); the ob-

ject of the suspension must be specified

© 1997 Beverly Kennedy

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