To Expand Work of Revitalization and Encourage Use of re:Vitality Resources

Official Workbook overture source text

1-08 
To Expand Work of Revitalization  
and Encourage Use of re:Vitality Resources 
WHEREAS, The Synod has prioritized revitalization of its 
congregations; and 
WHEREAS, Many existing Synod congregations  have plateaued 
or are declining in membership or worship attendance; and 
WHEREAS, Less than five percent  of existing Synod 
congregations have officially utilized a re:Vitality workshop; and 
WHEREAS, Re:Vitality workshops provide practical training and 
theological rationale for planning strategically, intentional outreach 
to the community, and ministry to inactive members; and 
WHEREAS, A forthcoming r e:Vitality workshop provides 
practical training and theological rationale for  intentionally 
incorporating members for increased involvement; and 
WHEREAS, Re:Vitality is designed to meet a large-scale need for 
revitalization at little to no cost to congregations; and 
WHEREAS, Re:Vitality workshops are faithful to the Scriptures 
and to the Lutheran Confessions; and 
WHEREAS, Congregation revitalization is centered in the new life 
that is found in God’s Word being proclaimed in purity and His 
Sacraments being rightly administered; and 
WHEREAS, The 2013 and 2016 Synod conventions approved the 
increased focus on revitalization and the expansion of re:Vitality 
from the Office of National Mission  (ONM) (2013 Res. 3-08A ; 
2016 Res. 1-03); therefore be it 
Resolved, That Synod congregations be regularly encouraged to 
engage in biblically based, confessionally faithful best practices 
concerning planning for the future, outreach to the community, 
caring for inactive members and intentionally incorporating current 
members into the life of the c hurch (Matt. 28:19–20; 1 Cor. 3:6; 1 
Cor. 14:40); and be it further 
Resolved, That districts utilize  the ONM’s “Exploring God’s 
Mission Here” Bible Study with congregations to help them discern 
their needs for revitalization efforts; and be it further 
Resolved, That congregations be encouraged to make use of 
re:Vitality resources as these are made available; and be it finally 
Resolved, That current revitalization efforts in our districts and  
local congregations be commended. 
Board for National Mission 
Ov.