Items of a spiritual nature
This ad appeared in the January /February 2007 edition of Canada Lutheran
Canada Lutheran is the official organ of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada.
In the same edition there were three other ads relating to the issue of homosexuality and blessing same sex couples - two on the same page and a third on the opposite page - making this a vital topic for discussion at this time.
Unlike its sister Communion (the Anglican Church) who will be putting the issue to a vote at their General Synod this summer; the ELCIC will not be voting on the issue at their 2007 National Convention - but only tabling a preliminary task force "progress report" on the topic for consideration at their 2009 National Convention. Presumably to be voted on at that time.
So there is more time for sober reflection and careful thought to be given to the consequences such a radical departure from the norm this innovation represents. It is my fond hope that all concerned will take into account my (on line) blog "An Alternate View of Gay Marriage" and its companion piece "Response to a Pertinent Enquiry" in their deliberations, as it has something pertinent to say that sheds new light on the subject.
The ads are as follows:
"Here We Stand" - "Concerned about the direction and future of the ELCIC and are taking a stand in accord with Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions in response to the winds of change in the ELCIC." www.herewestand
ca
"Solid Ground" - "Concerned about present trends and movements within the Church, particularly around the issue of Scriptural authority and human sexuality." www.solid-groundca
A Gay Rights Advocacy Group - "Same Gender Marriage" is here to stay in Canada. So why not in our Lutheran church?"
www.lutheransconcernedca
"Concerned" appears to be the operative word in all three of these ads, which is also my disposition in the matter - for the good of all concerned. Especially as it pertains to the group styling itself as lutheransconcerned. While I am obliged by divine imperative to stand with the herewestand/solid-ground faction, my overarching concern is for the long term well being of the lutheransconcerneds.
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News Release
"After much thoughtful, considerate and respectful discussion, reflection and prayer the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC) voted to defeat a motion before delegates at the Eleventh Biennial National Convention to encourage Synods to develop ways "to best minister to people who live in committed same-sex relationships, including the possibility of blessing such unions". The motion was voted on by secret ballot during the afternoon session on the third day of convention. The motion received 181 votes in favour and 200 votes in opposition."
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The ELCIC made a bold and courageous move by settling this thorny issue once and for all; rather than putting it off until the next biennial conference. By thus acting decisively, they have spared themselves untold grief and turmoil in the future. But more importantly, they have remained true to the Gospel and can only be blessed thereby.
A crucial point that may be lost on those who favoured the same gender blessing option, is that there is more at stake here than meets the eye. In the bigger picture and long term perspective, it is the lifestyle itself that is so detrimental to their souls' growth and spiritual progression.
While it may not be readily apparent on the surface, in the larger/broader scheme of things, that is the truth of the matter. It is the most compassionate pastoral position that can be proffered for those who are in active homosexual relationships. One day, however far off that may be, they will thank you for this tough love stance you have taken.
God bless the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada.
Earl Baerg