To Create Process for Initiatives and Referenda

Ov. 9-40

To Create Process for Initiatives and Referenda

WHEREAS, The Michigan District is organized under the laws of the state of Michigan; and

WHEREAS, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod is organized under the laws of the state of Missouri; and

WHEREAS, Our church body is based on a common constitution;

and

WHEREAS, The laws of Missouri (and Michigan) recognize the constitutional power of initiative and referendum; and

WHEREAS, Under these constitutional principles, the people reserve to themselves the power to propose laws and to enact and reject laws —called the initiative —and the power to approve or reject laws enacted by the legislature—called the referendum; and

WHEREAS, Under these constitutional principles, our congregations reserve to themselves all constitutional powers not previously granted, including the power to propose laws and to enact and reject laws —called the initiative —and the power to approve or reject laws enacted by the legislature—called the referendum; therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod shall, within six months from the close of this convention, submit bylaw provisions to the congregations , setting forth procedures by which congregations can submit initiatives and referendums to the Secretary of Synod for approval by the congregations.

Huntington Woods, Huntington Woods, MI;

Circuit 18 (Birmingham), Michigan District