By Deacon Kathleen Cartledge
Linda Shealy, Chair of Reference and Council, presented the Resolution on Refugee Resettlement to the Assembly. This resolution, rooted in Matthew 25:35, a call to hospitality and care, encourages the Synod to advocate for the good work of Lutheran Services Carolinas through prayer, financial support, volunteer work, and/or communication with elected representatives, urging our congressional and White House leaders to reinstate these vital services. The resolution urges all members of South Carolina Synod congregations to stand in solidarity with legal refugees and immigrants by contacting their representatives and to prayerfully support Lutheran Services Carolinas and Global Refuge in the holy work of welcoming the stranger, resettling refugees who have been vetted and entrusted to our care by the U. S. government. Rev. Mary Finklea, spoke, noting the resolution was thoughtfully prepared in consultation with Lutheran Services Carolinas and in conversation with the Bishop’s office. The motion passed and the resolution was adopted.
Rev. Christina Johnson presented the Resolution on child protection. This resolution notes that children are a treasure and a gift of God, and that we are called to faithful tending, intentional stewardship, and sacred responsibility, as we value the richness of God’s creation. Since as many as 1 in 4 children experience abuse or neglect, and offenders can be anyone, all congregations, ministries and institutions of synod are called to be equipped to implement and communicate safe policies which include screening and background checks for all staff and volunteers working with children and/or youth, a time of involvement in a congregation before working with children/youth, signed permissions before sharing photos or videos, an open door policy, and training for faith communities in these processes. After discussion, the motion was amended to include more specific language related to the “second adult” rule. The amendment was voted on and approved, and the resolution passed.
Presented by Linda Shealy, the third Resolution is titled Fulfilling our Baptismal Call through Truth, Unity, and Transparency in the South Carolina Synod. Acknowledging that Scripture calls us to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) and to avoid bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). In the living of our Baptismal promises, and rooted in these scriptures, the resolution invites all to the following: to resist divisive narratives, stand firm in the unity we share in Christ, continue working together to nurture one another in faith and prayer, proclaim Christ through word and deed, care for others and the world God made, and work for justice and peace. Congregations are encouraged to ensure that the rights and interests of every member are fully safeguarded through discernment processes. The South Carolina Synod Council, working with the Office of the Bishop, is encouraged to develop and share accessible resources to equip members and leaders to understand. The motion passed and the resolution was adopted.
