Resources

The following resources are available in PDF format:
Preliminary report of the Reference and Counsel Committee>

• 1: ELCA World Hunger Appeal Support>
• 2: A Memorial to Amend Policies on the ELCA's Ministry Rosters>
• 3: A Memorial Encouraging Same-Gender Couples' Promises of Lifelong Fidelity>
• 4: A Resolution Against Violence and Discrimination on the Basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity>
• 5: Resolution in Support of the ELCA Book of Faith Initiative>

Resolutions 101: Preparing resolutions for the conference and synod assemblies

One avenue of access for congregations, conferences, and synod committees to address issues and stimulate action is the resolution, defined in Robert’s Rules of Order as “a main motion submitted in writing because of its importance or its complexity.” Resolutions help organize the the work of the assembly by clarifying important issues or concerns. Resolutions are first reviewed by the reference and counsel committee, which will make recommendations to the assembly to facilitate its work, but the resolutions belong to the assembly. 

Who submits resolutions?
Resolutions may be submitted for assembly consideration by congregational councils, conferences of the synod, or committees of the synod.

Remember to sign it
Resolutions must be signed by the congregational council president, the conference dean, or the synod committee chair.

List a contact person
The reference and counsel committee requests that each resolution include the name and telephone number of a contact person in case committee members have questions or need information.

Guidelines for writing resolutions

1. Validate your idea.
2. Begin by discussing your proposed resolution with people. If you have a difficult time convincing other individuals that your resolution is necessary, you will find it even harder to convince the assembly.
3. Write the resolution.
4. Keep the resolution to one page. State the issue simply, concisely, and factually. Avoid argumentative, inflammatory, and emotional words.

Use this format
State the issue, concern, or problem in the WHEREAS clause(s). State the proposed solution in the RESOLVED clause(s). The solution (resolved clauses) should include:

1. What should be done.
2. Who should act.
3. How the action is to be funded, if cost is involved. For example, include the source of funding or, if it is to be covered by the synod budget, what current allocation should be reduced to provide funding.
4. When the action should be completed.
5. To whom the results should be reported.

Direct resolutions or requested actions to an appropriate committee (synod council, synodical leadership team, etc.). If the resolution is intended to have churchwide effect, memorials are generally not an effective method. Instead, direct the resolution to the appropriate churchwide board or committee. The synod office can assist you with identifying the appropriate body.

An effective resolution will

1. Help clarify our beliefs;
2. Propose a method for resolving an issue;
3. Give direction to the synod’s mission by recommending particular actions.

Some resolutions are more effective when data, statistics, or explanatory materials are provided on an information sheet. Copies of any document referred to in the resolution should be included when the resolution is submitted to the reference and counsel committee. If documentation is included, however, keep in mind the cost of mailing, use of excess paper, and readability. Shorter is generally better.

Anticipate reference and counsel review
The reference and counsel committee reviews proposed resolutions with the above principles in mind. The committee may return a resolution for further work if additional clarification is needed. The committee may also consolidate resolutions on the same topic and/or replace the ones submitted with another of the reference and counsel committee’s own making. All resolutions submitted will be considered by the committee and will be included in the matters to be before the assembly. 

Note the deadline!
This year all resolutions must be received electronically on or before March 12, 2008. This deadline enables all resolutions that will come before the assembly to be included in the pre-assembly booklet sent to voting members a month prior to the assembly. They and others in their congregations will then have opportunity to consider and discuss the proposed resolutions.

Submitting a resolution
Resolutions should be sent electronically to Beth Helgen at beth.helgen@spas-elca.org no later than 5:00 p.m., on Wednesday, March 12, 2008.

Resolutions received after March 12, 2008, will be reviewed by the reference and counsel committee, which will weigh the reasons given for the missed deadline. Assembly consideration of resolutions received after the deadline may be proposed by a motion to suspend the rules of procedure for the purpose of considering the resolution.

Members of the reference and counsel committee
Jerry Neilson, chair, Zion, Cottage Grove
Joan Duke, St. Paul-Reformation, St. Paul
The Rev. Greg Isaacson, Memorial, Afton
Duane Koski, St. James, Burnsville
Gail Olson, advisor and synod vice president, Trinity, Stillwater
Jay Brunner, advisor, Redeemer, White Bear Lake