To Prioritize Revitalization Work

To Prioritize Revitalization Work

RESOLUTION 1-05 Report R1 (CW, 1–5); Overture 1-08 (CW, 281)

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, Congregational 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, “To Reaffirm Faithful Church Revitalization as a Priority of the Office of National Mission,” Proceedings, 118; 2016 Res. 1-03, “To Expand the Work of Revitalization and Encourage the Use of re:Vitality Program,” Proc., 132–33); and

WHEREAS, Congregations are encouraged to make use of revitalization resources as these are made available; therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod in convention pray to almighty God for those congregations in need of revitalization and give thanks for the ongoing revitalization efforts across the Synod; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod in convention direct the ONM to collaborate with district personnel to review and expand the revitalization resources and strategies available for congregations and circuits; and be it finally

Resolved, That congregations be encouraged regularly at the district and circuit levels 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 church (Matt. 28:19 –20; 1 Cor. 3:6; 14:40).