RESOLUTION 18-04
Reports R1.2, R13 (CW, pp. 27, 74–76); President’s Report, Part 2 (TB, pp. 21–31)
WHEREAS, “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood” (Eph. 5:10–18) and these Satanic attacks on congregations, ministries, marriages, families, and individuals can lead to despair, loneliness, poor choices, and sin; and
WHEREAS, The most disciplined and faithful workers struggle with the weakness of the flesh (Rom. 7:18–25); and
WHEREAS, Many congregations and ministries are facing numerical decline and financial pressures leading to greater stress on workers; and
WHEREAS, Congregations and ministries know the value of healthy church workers; and
WHEREAS, Church workers know the gifts God has given to His own dear children even in the midst of struggles and suffering; and
WHEREAS, There is measurable value in forming and following an intentional and articulated plan; therefore be it
Resolved, That congregation and ministry leaders be encouraged to become informed of LCMS– and community–based resources in order to provide and assist church workers with emotional, physical, relational, and spiritual wellness; and be it further
Resolved, That congregations and ministries be encouraged to develop intentional plans for church worker care of body, mind, and spirit, drawing on the rich resources available including Concordia Plan Services, Grace Place Wellness Ministries, DOXOLOGY: The Lutheran Center of Spiritual Care and Counsel, and Shepherd’s Canyon; and be it finally
Resolved, That church workers be encouraged to develop an intentional self-care plan as part of their continuing education portfolio.