To Require Completion of Ecclesiastical Investigations and Strengthen Response to Clergy Sexual Misconduct/Abuse

Official Workbook overture source text

10-29 
To Require Completion of Ecclesiastical 
Investigations and Strengthen Response  
to Clergy Sexual Misconduct/Abuse 
Preamble 
This overture seeks to close a critical gap in the Synod’s current 
supervisory process regarding clergy sexual abuse. Under present 
bylaws, a pastor under ecclesiastical investigation may resign at any 
time, thereby halting the process and leaving the matter unresolved. 
Such resignation denies closure for the victims, weakens 
accountability, damages the Church’s public witness, and allows the 
possibility of further harm in future ministry contexts. 
By requiring completion of investigations even after resignation, 
establishing clear public designations, and introducing standardized 
terminology, and providing for preventive education, this overture 
aims to protect victims, preserve the integrity of the pastoral office, 
and strengthen the Church’s witness to the world. 
WHEREAS, The Office of the Holy Ministry is established by God 
(Jer. 3:15; 1 Tim. 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9) and entrusted to fallible men 
who must remain above reproach for the sake of Christ’s Church; 
and 
2026 Convention Workbook
516 ECCLESIASTICAL SUPER VISION AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION