Workbook page: 302
PDF page: 337
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LCMS 2026 Convention Workbook: Reports and Overtures, PDF page 337
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the gifts of body and mind entrusted to them by God; and be it further
Resolved, That the Synod commend telehealth counseling services as trusted resources for addressing burnout, depression, anxiety, suicidality, marital and family distress, financial stress, and certain addictive behaviors among church workers; and be it further
Resolved, That districts, congregations, and employing entities be encouraged to become familiar with available counseling and telehealth services that are confessionally aligned with the doctrine and practice of the Synod and to share such information as part of a culture of care and support for church workers; and be it further
Resolved, That the Synod affirm that timely access to counseling services may assist church workers in remaining in their calls and continuing faithful service to Christ’s Church through the proclamation of the Gospel; and be it finally
Resolved, That such encouragement be offered in a manner that respects Christian freedom, confidentiality, and pastoral discretion, without mandate or compulsion.
St. John Oskaloosa, IA
Ov. 3-08
To Define Leadership and Its Priority for Worker Wellness
WHEREAS, The Synod and many of her districts have set worker wellness as a high priority; and
WHEREAS, Much of our work has focused primarily on resources/information, retreats, reactions to burn out, and counseling; and
WHEREAS, Research informs us that “58% of pastors report emotional exhaustion or burnout, but strong leadership growth is linked to greater resilience and ministry longevity” (Barna Group, 2025, barna.com); and
WHEREAS, The work in the Nebraska District with Leadership Learning Communities has shown that cultivating intentional environments and fostering relationships for proactive growth help bring health and can curb burnout; and
WHEREAS, There is not current agreement both on a clear definition of leadership and on the importance of leadership development for ordained, commissioned, or lay workers in the church; therefore be it
Resolved, That the Office of National Mission and those involved in worker wellness, in conjunction with Concordia Plan Services and d istrict worker wellness executives , establish a clear definition of leadership and its priority for worker wellness; and be it further
Resolved, That districts and the Synod shift wellness efforts towards a more proactive posture to focus on leadership formation for ordained, commissioned, or lay workers in the church to promote greater health and wellness in the church, both individually and congregationally.
Board of Directors Nebraska District
2026 Convention Workbook
302 MERCY
