Three frameworks
A robust evaluation process was approved for use by the General Church Board and College of Bishops to generate the three frameworks and involved both quantitative and qualitative analysis. This followed the call for models from across the church in June. The three frameworks will be enhanced, with further details being added between October 2023 and July 2024.
Explore the frameworks:
The due date for feedback has been extended to Friday 23 February 2024.
Framework: District Alignment (DA)
Description
The framework proposes that there is a resolution at the General Convention of Synod 2024 to enable the ordination of women in one or more districts, be they geographical or non-geographical. In any district that resolves to ordain women the current options available to men would also be available to women: pastor, bishop, assistant bishop, special ministry pastor (SMP).
Read more >>
Principles upheld
This framework is underpinned by the following elements:
- If the District Synod resolves to ordain women, it would be expected that all district-owned entities of the district would adhere to the resolution.
- Should an individual congregation resolve, at a properly convened congregational meeting, that they do not want to adhere to a district decision, they would exercise an option to seek a peaceful dismissal from one district and seek to join another district that already exists.
- It is intended that current district geographical boundaries would be maintained; however it is noted that should any one district become non-viable, realignment or amalgamation of districts may need to be considered.
- The districts and the Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand would consider whether there is a need for a non-geographical district to be formed, either for those who want to maintain the status quo or for those who desire the ordination of women.
Components
- Pastors who find themselves located in a district whose view of ordination is at odds with their own view would be able to apply for reassignment to a district that aligns with their beliefs.
- A Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand committee might be established to consider all requests for relocation so that movements can be handled in an orderly matter. Current arrangements for call and transfer expenses would need to be suspended for this extraordinary (and one-time) relocation of pastors.
- Constitutions and policies of districts that resolve to ordain women would need to be amended.
- The Theses of Agreement would need to be revisited in light of district resolutions.
- Churchwide policies would need to be edited to have inclusive language.
Your opinion matters
The Way Forward team values your opinion on this framework. You may direct your feedback, reflections and questions to one or multiple working groups at a time, using the form below. To share general feedback about the project, please email wayforward2024@lca.org.au As you do so, please bear in mind the Principles of Engagement for this project.
How did we do?
Did you find what you were looking for? Did you find anything out of date or not working properly? Please tell us how we can improve this page.
Contact us
Where to now?
