LCMS Commission on Constitutional Matters — Minutes St. Louis, Missouri — October 31–November 1, 2009, Page 6

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Question 2: May informational meetings designed to assist delegates understand the issues, such as
these are described, preclude alternate delegates or interested visitors from attendance? If
so, based upon what part of the Constitution or Bylaws? Are advisory delegates allowed
to attend these meetings and have voice, as they would at a convention?
Opinion: It is the commission’s understanding that a two-way flow of information is intended at
these meetings. Those in attendance will receive a presentation regarding the final report of the task
force. They will also be provided opportunity to respond to the chairman and vice-chairman of the
convention floor committee to which the task force report will be assigned. The President may invite
whom he chooses to accomplish these purposes.
Question 3: Bylaw 3.1.2.2 says that delegates begin their term “with the convention.” Would these
meetings conflict with that by moving the start of their terms to these regional meetings?
Opinion: The commission notes that it is not unusual for delegates to be involved in convention
activity prior to the official opening of a convention, e.g., when they are appointed to serve on
convention floor committees.
128. Clarification of Opinion 02-2309 (09-2570)
In a letter dated November 5, 2009, the President of the Synod referenced Opinion 02-2309 and the
on-going conversation in the Synod regarding it and related opinions. He stated his belief that it
would be “helpful and even necessary to assist the Synod in its understanding of matters addressed by
these opinions” by preparing “ a succinct yet comprehensive review and summary of the topics
addressed by CCM Opinion 02-2309 and any subsequent opinions, reports, resolutions, or other
documents that pertain thereto.” After discussing the President’s concern with him in executive
session, the commission agreed to give consideration to a draft of the requested review at its next
meeting.
129. 2007 Convention Omnibus Resolution Assignments
The commission reviewed the overtures referred to it by 2007 Omnibus Resolution A:
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Regarding Overtures 3-93, “To Determine Status of 2001 Res. 3-07A re Church
Fellowship,”and 3-94, “To Consider 2001 Res. 3-07A Not a Doctrinal Resolution,” the
commission noted that it has provided an opinion regarding said resolution’s application (022294), an opinion that remains unchanged.
Regarding Overture 8-44, “To Request Reconsideration of Opinion 99-2157 re Art. VII,” the
commission agreed to place this matter on the agenda of its next meeting under the title,
“Reconsideration of Opinion 99-2157.”

130. Blue Ribbon Task Force on Synod Structure and Governance Report
The commission discussed the final report of the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Synod Structure and
Governance at length. The commission agreed to look for an early opportunity to discuss the content
of the report with the appropriate floor committee leaders. The Secretary was asked to provide a sideby-side comparison of proposed bylaw changes to facilitate the discussion.
The commission also discussed the implementation of the proposals in the report, to be continued at
its next meeting. The Secretary noted ramifications from the report for the Committee for Convention
Nominations, scheduled to meet in early December. Steps will be proposed to allow the committee to
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