This spring, two groups, Lutherans Restoring Creation and the Eco-Reformation Planning Team, are working to promote the passage of creation care-related resolutions at synodical assemblies. They have developed three model resolutions (summarized below), aimed at distinct but related ends.They are hoping to work in conjunction with other interested folks (such as creation care teams or social justice committees from churches) who might take leadership in adapting one or all of these for the upcoming synod assembly.
The models are beginning points to be adapted to each synod’s context. If you are interested in more information or about ways to get involved, contact Cynthia Moe-Lobeda at moe-lobc@seattleu.edu or the LRC Synodical Coordinator: Phoebe Morad at 617-599-2722 or pheebscongo@gmail.com.
Below is a summary of each of the three model resolutions:
The first: resolves that the Synod will include creation care concerns and attentiveness to eco-Reformation in its observance of the 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation and will memorialize the 2016 ELCA Churchwide Assembly in order to request that all ELCA entities do the same. This initiative has stemmed from a grassroots collection of theologians, clergy and lay people; all of whom are creating resources, events and materials to support a network of prayerful action and education. Access those resources here.
The second: resolves that a Synod become a “Lutherans Restoring Creation” synod by entering into partnership with Lutherans Restoring Creation (LRC). See samples of the LRC Synod Covenant here.
The third: offers sample language for a resolution related to transitioning from fossil fuels to clean energy, including divestment and reinvestment. This resolution is similar to the fossil fuel related resolution that we of NW WA synod passed in 2013, but the proposed resolution expands the scope of what is “resolved.”
If you want more information about this working group’s participants and plans to incorporate “eco-reformation” into observing the 500th anniversary of the Reformation visit: http://www.lutheransrestoringcreation.org/500th-anniversary-of-the-reformation