# LCMS Convention Proceedings_St. Louis Missouri_2023_S133
# Machine transcription, uncorrected — CHI Digital Archive (demonstration)

3. MERCY
WHEREAS, Many of our teachers and school workers were
without the additional tuition or budget income needed to
support the immediate response to the transition and
additional regulations that were placed upon them; and
WHEREAS, Frontline workers, first responders, and
healthcare workers went above and beyond their regular
vocational obligations in serving those in need; and
WHEREAS, Congregations, church workers, and related
organizations were challenged with providing spiritual care
and the extension of mercy during this difficult time; and
WHEREAS, Many recognized service organizations (RSOs)
of our Synod were also without the means to adapt to these
additional burdens and struggled financially; and
WHEREAS, Many of our congregations and church workers
bore a great financial burden in adapting to new realities and
maintaining ongoing care for the members of our churches;
and
WHEREAS, The need for compassionate support and
financial assistance was great; and
WHEREAS, The districts of the Synod, the Office of National
Mission (ONM), and the Lutheran Church Extension Fund
worked together to identify funds for immediate assistance
for all who served in Lutheran ministries; and

WHEREAS, In response to the pandemic, ONM provided
the following grants of mercy and care: 221 Esther 4:14
national grants totaling $244,767 to congregations in 35
districts, $1.5 million for clergy and commissioned minister
“Take Heart!” respite retreats, 976 Soldiers of the CrossAmplified grants in 28 districts totaling over $1.6 million, and
15 district pandemic resiliency grants totaling $29,000 in
support of district-led pandemic care for non-clergy workers;
therefore be it
Resolved, That the Synod in convention publicly give
thanks to God for His mercy, faithfulness, and love to His
people during the pandemic; and be it further
Resolved, That the Synod in convention thank the Lord for
all of His people serving in their vocations during the
pandemic, the congregations, districts, recognized service
organizations (RSOs), and agencies of Synod for their works of
mercy, and for the generosity of His people for supporting all
who serve in our churches, schools, childcare centers, and
RSOs.
Action: Adopted (9)

Upon immediate closure of debate, as suggested by the chair, the
resolution was adopted by unanimous voice vote.

WHEREAS, Many of our church, school, and child
development workers, rostered and non-rostered, benefited
from this generous act of compassion; and

Resolutions

PROCEEDINGS OF THE 2023 (68TH) LCMS CONVENTION | 133