Warning: Illegal string offset 'itemurl' in /home/lutheran/www/www/admin/global_functions.inc on line 257
Talking Points
Abstract: Questions and Answers about the resolution to disclose and limit expenditures on discipline activities regarding gay and lesbian clergy.
Since we've been approached by representatives of several synods about our proposal, we feel a brief Q&A would be helpful.
Why is it important to disclose the cost of these disciplinary activities?
Disciplinary actions regarding gay and lesbian clergy are not part of the church's core mission and ministry. These disciplinary actions can also be very expensive, and the church does not have unlimited resources. Disclosure of the cost of enforcing the church's policy regarding gay and lesbian clergy provides a standard for evaluating this policy in relation to the church's other priorities.
If adopted, will this memorial handicap the ELCA in prosecuting cases of clergy sexual abuse?
No. This memorial seeks disclosure of and limits on the cost of only those disciplinary activities undertaken to enforce the requirement that gay and lesbian clergy remain celibate. There is a clear distinction between the enforcement of this requirement and enforcement of other standards for sexual conduct of people rostered by the ELCA.
Can the two "RESOLVEDS" be split into separate resolutions?
Yes! We understand that there may be people who support the disclosure the cost of disciplinary actions and do not wish to impose any cap on expenditures at this time.
Is this resolution a form of policy change?
No, this resolution does not address the question of policy change. This resolution seeks to make explicit the cost to the ELCA of enforcing the policy.
