RESOLUTION 11-01
Overtures 11-43, 11-46–47 (CW, pp. 402, 404)
WHEREAS, We live in a hurried culture and there is a need for deeper study, conversation, and reflection on important matters on a local level that we rarely have time for; and
WHEREAS, Moving to a four-year convention cycle would provide the opportunity for theological and missional grassroots convocations between conventions by congregations, circuits, and/or districts to better engage congregations and church leaders on a local level, providing more time for theological reflection and study; and
WHEREAS, The overall cost to host a district or national convention has continued to increase over the years, largely borne by individual congregations, many of which are struggling financially, and impacting district and national budgets; and
WHEREAS, Moving to a four-year convention cycle would provide more time to implement convention actions; and
WHEREAS, Moving to a four-year convention cycle may provide opportunity for substantial financial relief to congregation, district, and national budgets; therefore be it
Resolved, That a four-year convention cycle be adopted for the national and district level; and be it further
Resolved, That the four-year schedule would be as follows: year one - circuits may hold convocations and/or local forums; year two - districts may hold or encourage regional theological and missional convocations; year three - district conventions; and year four - the national convention; and be it further
Resolved, That the President of the Synod, district presidents, and circuit visitors and their respective staffs utilize the extra year to accomplish visitation in a more reasonable and equitable fashion; and be it further
Resolved, That this become effective upon completion of the 2019 convention and shall effect every Synod and district convention thereafter; and be it further
Resolved, That bylaw provisions shall be determined for adoption at the 2019 convention for immediate implementation of election cycles, terms of office, staggering terms, and any other necessary issues that arise prior to the 2019 convention; and be it finally
Resolved, That Constitution Article VIII A 1 be amended as follows:
PRESENT/PROPOSED WORDING
See resolution for proposed wording