To Revisit 2010 Restructuring

Official Workbook overture source text

9-14 
To Revisit 2010 Restructuring 
WHEREAS, The Synod has periodically reviewed and revised its 
structure to better serve its mission, with major restructuring efforts 
undertaken in 1959, 1979, 1995, and most recently in 2010; and 
W
HEREAS, The 2010 Synod c onvention enacted substantial 
structural reforms that significantly impacted the configuration and 
responsibilities of boards, commissions, and agencies within the 
Synod (2010 Res. 8-07, 8-08A, 8-10, 8-12A, 8-13, 8-14A, 8-15, 8-
16A, 8-17, 8-36, 8-39, 8-40, 8-41); and 
WHEREAS, These reforms have produced certain measurable 
benefits, including a reduction in corporate Synod’s debt, a 
streamlining of operations, and an increase in certain operational 
efficiencies; and 
WHEREAS, The same reforms also led to the elimination or 
consolidation of many long-established boards and commissions, 
decreased direct representation of member congregations within 
Synod governance, and concentrated significant authority within a 
small number of individuals or offices; and 
W
HEREAS, More  than a decade has passed since the 2010 
restructuring, providing sufficient time to assess both the gains and 
the drawbacks of the current structural model with respect to 
representation, theological accountability, fiscal stewardship, and 
mission effectiveness; therefore be it 
Resolved, That the Synod in convention commission a 
comprehensive reconsideration of the corporate Synod structure, 
including but not limited to: 
• the powers and composition of the Board of Directors  
(BOD); 
• the authority and operation of the mission boards and offices; 
and 
• the structure and responsibilities of s ynodwide councils, 
committees, and boards, including the Pastoral Formation 
Committee, seminary boards of regents, and Concordia 
University System boards of regents; 
and be it further 
Resolved, That this review be carried out with the express goal 
of increasing the theological, congregational, and regional 
representation in Synod governance; enhancing transparency and 
accountability; and reducing the potential for institutional overreach 
or misuse of authority; and be it further 
Resolved, That the President of the Synod be directed to establish 
a task force of no fewer than eight members, including: 
• the Secretary of the Synod; 
• the Chief Financial Officer; 
• the Chief Administrative Officer; 
• the Chief Mission Officer; and 
• additional representatives from the O
ffice of the President, 
the BOD, the Commission on Constitutional Matters, and the 
Commission on Handbook;  
and be it finally 
Resolved, That this task force present its findings and proposals 
no later than nine months prior to the 2029 Synod c onvention, in 
order that such proposals may be thoroughly reviewed and 
considered for appropriate action. 
South Lake 
League City, TX 
Ov.