The Lutheran Congregational Support Network (LCSN) has recently released three more videos which tell of big changes that are on the horizon for the ELCA.    

HERE is a link to Part 5 – “Changing the Constitution: The Fast Track Proposal.”

In July 2025, key constitutional amendments will be up for a vote – amendments that could reshape the church’s future.  This video explains what is at stake and what these changes could mean.  We urge you to watch this video so that you will understand the ELCA’s fast-track proposal and why it matters. 

HERE is a link to Part 6 – “The ELCA’s Game Changer?”

This video unpacks a seemingly simple question posted by ELCA Vice President Imran Siddiqui: “If you were to change the organizational structure of the ELCA, how would you do it?” It explores how a single footnote in a recent report could have significant implications for congregational autonomy.

What does it mean when a lawyer-vice president calls a proposal to “eliminate congregational home rule” a “game changer (esp. in the legal sphere)”?  This video takes a close look at:

• How and why Section 9.22 of the ELCA constitution could be used in new ways
• How a simple footnote could point toward a path for imposing churchwide mandates without congregational consent
• The growing tension between local autonomy and centralized authority in the ELCA

HERE is a link to Part 7 – “Churchwide Assembly: Who Gets to Vote?”

This video tells of another change that will be voted on at the triannual gathering this summer – adding voting members who are not part of congregations. Instead, they represent Synod-Authorized Worshiping Communities (SAWCs), which are groups that are directly created and controlled by the Synod.  You will also hear about other aspects of the amendment like the addition of voting members based on demographic categories and how this continues a broader institutional shift that sidelines congregational voice.

These changes are not theoretical. They could reshape how your ELCA congregation operates, makes decisions, and defines its mission.

If you have not already done so, I highly recommend that you go to the LCSN’s website (LINK) and sign up to be on their email mailing list.  On their website you will find videos they have already released about the ELCA’s quest for ever greater control.  The LCSN very intentionally approaches matters related to the ELCA not in terms of theology, and not in terms of cultural issues and Biblical moral values, but in terms of the ELCA’s Constitutions and the whole matter of congregational autonomy. 

“The Lord will count when He registers the peoples, “This one was born there.” Then those who sing as well as those who play the flutes shall say, “All my springs of joy are in you.” (Psalm 87:6-7)

Ultimately, the Lord knows those who are His. In the final count, those who dwell in Zion will count it as joy. Do not worry about whom the Lord knows, but be thankful that He has called you. He who knows all things will guide those whom He has called into the goodness of His grace and mercy. Abide in Him, with Him in You, and know the truth of the ages which He has revealed.

Lord, I do worry, but is that not my desire to control? Help me to learn how to trust that I would now and forever turn to You in all things. Guide me according to Your goodness that I may live life in a way that is pleasing to You. Help me now and always to be guided by Your will which You have established and do those things which are pleasing in Your sight.

Savior of all, You have come to bring life and light to all who know Your voice. Guide me, O Lord, in the way You have established which leads to everlasting life. Help me through the struggles I will encounter this day to simply abide in the love You have shown, sharing with others as you have shared with me. Help me abide in You today, doing what is pleasing in the Father’s sight. Amen.

“The Lord gives the command; the women who proclaim the good tidings are a great host: “Kings of armies flee, they flee, and she who remains at home will divide the spoil!”  (Psalm 68:11-12)

The Lord is in control.  The Lord will not be thwarted.  For a time, the enemies of the Lord may seem to prevail, but their days are numbered.  The Lord creates all days, they are His and He will bless whom He will bless.  The one who remains in the House of the Lord will be forever blessed.  Come then into the Lord’s protection and rest in the One who is Lord and King.

Lord, this world is in constant turmoil.  I see so many things and hear so many more about this and that.  The world tries to convince me that You have no power.  For a time they seem to prevail, but I know their day is coming with wailing and gnashing of teeth.  Help me, O Lord, to remain in Your house and hold true to what You have taught me.  Guide me, Lord, in the way I should go today and every day.

Lord Jesus, you are the King who has come and conquered death.  I am the woman who divides the spoil.  Your enemies flee before You.  In this world I do not see this as Your enemies rail all around.  Bring my eyes to see and my ears to hear the simple truth that You are King of kings and that all things are in Your hands, including me.  Lead me today, O Lord, to follow where You lead.  Amen.