When the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly convenes on July 28, part of the body’s business will be to consider memorials passed by synod assemblies. Memorials are one way the ELCA addresses broad policy issues or issues important to advancing God’s mission in the world.
Layers of preparation and follow-through may intersect with ELCA Witness in Society advocacy staff as synods’ intentions on policy and programs are advanced through an ELCA churchwide assembly.
Adopted synod assembly memorials are referred to a convened ELCA advocacy staff group with expertise on what is called for by a memorial. Months in advance, this group prepares background information needed by churchwide assembly voting members to cast an informed vote on decisions at hand. The role of such a group is to support the intent of the synod advancing the memorial; refinements made with the synod are to clarify matters of fact or likely impact, never to redefine the synod’s adopted objective or to recommend action the ELCA churchwide assembly should take or should not take.
Does a memorialized resolution call for an investment action? ELCA corporate social responsibility staff (part of the ELCA Witness in Society team) may participate. Does a memorialized resolution impact newcomers to the United States? The ELCA program director for migration policy (also part of the ELCA Witness in Society team) may participate.
As advances, individually or en bloc, the intent of ELCA members through synods is considered by churchwide assembly voting members. If a memorial is adopted and directs action on public policy, ELCA advocacy staff are ready to follow through.
Does a memorial ask for a letter to be sent to the U.S. president? Advocacy staff may help properly format and transmit such a message. Does a memorial ask for more resources? Advocacy staff may be tasked with creating these resources, such as the Human Rights Social Criteria Investment Screen.
Expression of the ELCA is visible through our congregations, synods and churchwide organization. Memorials passed by a churchwide assembly are an important way we act together as a church.
