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adherence to the Synod’s stated norms for pastoral formation, and increased strain on ecclesiastical oversight.

This resolution does not adjudicate specific cases, nor does it reflect upon the faithfulness, calling, or service of men currently serving as specific ministry pastors. Rather, it proposes a suspension of new SMP admissions as a prudent and proportionate corrective measure, while allowing those already enrolled or serving to continue under the terms of their admission. Such action honors prior decisions by the Synod, prevents further nonconformity, and preserves the possibility of the SMP program’s continued use should the Synod determine that it can be administered in full conformity with the limitations previously adopted by the Synod in convention.

WHEREAS, The 2007 Synod convention established the SMP program (2007 Res. 5-01B) to replace the DELTO program as a limited and exceptional pastoral formation pathway for specific ministry needs, not as a general route to the Office of the Holy Ministry; and

WHEREAS, The 2013 Synod convention adopted the “ Sattgast Amendment” (2013 Res. 5-04B, “To Continue and Strengthen Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP) Program”), directing district presidents not to approve specific ministry sites which could reasonably be expected to support a general pastor or sites where a minister of religion—commissioned could fulfill the duties pending reception of the recommendations from the SMP committee; and

WHEREAS, The SMP program has been utilized in contexts not authorized by the Synod in convention and contrary to the limitations adopted by the Synod in convention; and

WHEREAS, Such misuse reflects deficiencies in program structure and oversight rather than in the faithfulness or diligence of the men currently serving as SMP pastors; therefore be it

Resolved, That no new candidates shall be admitted into the SMP program after a date determined by the Synod; and be it further

Resolved, That individuals already enrolled in or who have completed the SMP program prior to that date may complete their formation and serve according to the terms under which they were admitted; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod seek and implement alternative means, consistent with what has been adapted in convention, to support congregations and ministries unable to support a general pastor, as required by 2013 Res. 5-04B; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod’s Bylaws be amended as necessary to implement this resolution; and be it further

Resolved, That should the Synod determine that the SMP program can be administered in full conformity with the limitations previously adopted by the Synod in convention— particularly that it be restricted to congregations and ministries unable to support a general pastor—then the Synod Bylaws may be amended to permit the continued use of the SMP program in that limited and exceptional form; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod’s seminaries, districts, and congregations conform all pastoral formation practices to those programs explicitly authorized by the Synod in convention.

Good Shepherd Lincoln, NE

Ov. 6-54

To Strengthen Post-Ordination Supervision for Specific Ministry Pastors

WHEREAS, The Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP) program includes post-ordination supervision as an essential component of ongoing pastoral formation and accountability; and

WHEREAS, The Synod has consistently emphasized the necessity of continued mentorship and oversight for pastors formed through contextual and limited-curriculum pathways; and

WHEREAS, Such supervision serves both pastors and congregations by promoting doctrinal fidelity, pastoral competence, and integration into Synod life; and

WHEREAS, Holy Scripture commends accountability among those entrusted with the care of souls (Prov. 27:17; Heb. 13:17); and

WHEREAS, The Lutheran Confessions recognize the Church’s responsibility to exercise faithful oversight of those who preach and administer the Sacraments; therefore be it

Resolved, That districts be encouraged to strengthen post - ordination supervision of specific ministry pastors through regular reviews, continuing education, and assigned mentors; and be it further

Resolved, That guidance be provided to assist districts in fulfilling this responsibility faithfully; and be it further

Resolved, That specific ministry pastors be encouraged, where appropriate, to pursue additional theological study toward broader certification for service; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod give thanks to God for supervisors and mentors who faithfully support specific ministry pastors in their ministry.

Trinity (Decatur Rd)

Fort Wayne, IN

Ov. 6-55

To Nullify Restrictive Policies Imposed on Specific Ministry Pastor Program and Restore Its Original Scope

WHEREAS, The Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP) program was established by the 2007 Synod convention to address urgent needs for Gospel proclamation in specific ministry contexts where full - time residential seminary formation was not feasible, emphasizing flexibility to serve small congregations, missions, and emerging needs without undue restrictions on applicants’ age, prior membership duration, or mandatory consultations that could deter participation (2007 Res. 5 -01B, “To Establish Specific Ministry Pastor Program”); and

WHEREAS, The SMP program has faithfully produced called and ordained pastors who serve valid ministries, as affirmed in the Pastoral Formation Committee’s (PFC) recent premises (PFC, Policy Requirements for the Specific Ministry Pastor Program:

Admission, Administration and Supervision , Nov. 2025, files.lcms.org/dl/f/smp-policy-requirements), and has been a blessing to the church by providing basic theological and pastoral formation under supervision, honoring the Divine Call while adapting to real -world economic and contextual pressures (2007 Res. 5-01B; cf. PFC Premise 3); and 2026 Convention Workbook

397PASTORAL MINISTRY AND SEMINARIES