LCMS Commission on Constitutional Matters — Minutes St. Louis, Missouri — February 3–4, 2017, Page 8

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33. Discussion of Concordia University System (CUS) Procedures for Dealing with Disputes,
Complaints, and Accusations (16-2798B)
While Bylaw 3.10.6.7.1 requires CUS schools to have policies for dispute resolution, and Bylaw
3.10.6.5.7.2 requires “an appeal process established by the board of regents of the institution shall be in
place for use by faculty members who wish to challenge a termination decision,” the commission has
become aware that institutions have struggled to understand what policies are necessary and how they
interface with Synod Bylaw policies and requirements. Chairman Gude has prepared a discussion
document, which the Secretary will share with CUS to see how the commission might assist the system and
the schools in developing appropriate policies.
34. Review of Eastern District Governance Policy Manual (17-2807)
The commission began its review the Eastern District Governance Policy Manual, based on a draft
evaluation by one of its members. This and other recent reviews suggested creating a common document
indicating in summary the specific requirements of Synod’s Constitution and bylaws regarding the
respective rights and duties of district boards of directors and presidents.
35. Chaplain Endorsement Requirement (17-2809)
The Commission on Constitutional Matters has received a request for an opinion, which, after noting Const.
Art. VII 1, questions if the Synod’s Office of Specialized Pastoral Ministry has the constitutional authority
to impose additional qualifications, requirements, and/or training, beyond the qualifications for membership
in the Synod, in order for an individual to receive endorsement / certification from the Synod for a
specialized pastoral ministry. Input has been requested, under Bylaw 3.9.2.2 [b], from officers and agencies
involved in endorsement.
36. Review of Admission to the Pastoral Ministry of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod by
Colloquy (“General” Pastor) (17-2810)
The commission reviewed the manual for “general” (that is, non-specific ministry) pastor colloquy,
provided for review by the chairman of the Colloquy Committee for Pastoral Ministry. The commission
noted that the included checklist (p. 15) indicates (item 4) that commissioned ministers seeking admission
to the ordained minister roster are directed by the bylaws to apply for general pastor colloquy, while item
(2) on p. 11 indicated that a commissioned minister who is also a licensed lay deacon may instead apply
for Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP) colloquy under procedures in the other manual. This option is not
inconsistent with the bylaws or resolutions of the Synod. The apparent inconsistency should be corrected.
37. Review of COH Action Items
The Secretary reviewed action items identified by the Commission on Handbook as needing work in the
present triennium.
38. Future meetings and adjournment
The business before the commission being concluded, the commission adjourned Saturday at noon. The
next meetings of the commission are planned for May 5–6, 2017; Sept. 1–2 or 15–16, depending on
coordination with the Council of Presidents meeting on Sept. 15–16; and Nov. 10–11.

John W. Sias, Secretary

CCM Minutes – February 3-4, 2017 – Page 27