# Synodical Conference Convention Proceedings_St. Louis Missouri_1874_S37
# AI translation — CHI Digital Archive (demonstration)

— 37 —
union two things are to be understood, namely 1) a premature merging of two congregations of different synods into a single congregation, 2) but also a premature agreement for separate coexistence within certain common arrangements. Experience has taught that a premature union in this latter sense also is only harmful.

§ 3.

The Synodical Conference [*Synodalconferenz*] is, however, of the opinion that even in such conditions mutual substitute services by the pastors are not to be omitted, but rather are to be practiced as far as possible as a good preparation of the congregations.

§ 4.

Likewise the Synodical Conference warns, in such circumstances, especially against striving for union by the written route, since this has always proved disastrous in experience.

§ 5.

The Synodical Conference declares that in its conviction an attempt at an orderly coexistence can be made only when both have already begun to regard one another from the heart as sister congregations; and that an attempt at merging is not to be ventured until both are ready, in case of necessity, to enter the opposite synod.

In explanation it was remarked here: There are, unfortunately, congregations that stand so that, even if they no longer say so, as formerly, they nevertheless hold each other in their hearts to be factions [*Rotten*, i.e. sects]. A union of such congregations could only harm, never benefit. If they therefore do not stand so that both are ready and willing, in case of necessity, to pass over into the other synod too, then they should not yet attempt the union at all.

§ 6.

The Synodical Conference is convinced that the best, if not the only promising way is this: that first the two pastors concerned, after they have become altogether united in doctrine and practice, then come to complete agreement among themselves on the goal to be sought (coexistence or merging) and the way to be taken to it; that each then bring the same proposals to his board and his congregation, that thereupon both boards and congregations deliberate these proposals together, and only then draw up a written document on the agreement reached.

§ 7.

Public negotiation and decision by mixed investigating committees, especially if the congregations are to bind themselves in advance to this decision, the Synodical Conference deems unsuitable, indeed dangerous.