Approved
resolution says PCUSA more interested
in shepherding sheep, not property litigation
The
Layman
Saturday, June 28,
2008
218th General Assembly
San Jose, California
June 20-28, 2008 |
SAN JOSE -- The 218th General Assembly voted Friday night to
call for steps involving congregations and disputed property claims that
show "consistency, pastoral responsibility, accountability,
gracious witness, openness and transparency."
"We are more interested in shepherding the sheep than litigation,"
said the Rev. Robert Austell, one of the sponsors of the commissioner's
resolution.
The resolution asked the commissioners to express their "will"
on what has become explosive property disputes involving congregations
that vote to leave the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Approved in a vote of 519-157-8, the resolution was a response to PCUSA
churches, especially those in the New Wineskins Association of Churches
(NWAC) leaving the denomination for the more conservative Evangelical
Presbyterian Church (EPC).
The resolution urges congregations considering leaving the PCUSA,
presbyteries and synods to "implement a process using the following
principles:
- "Consistency: The local authority delegated to presbyteries
is guided and shaped by our shared faith, service, and witness to
Jesus Christ.
- "Pastoral Responsibility: The requirement in G-11.0103i to
consult with the members of a church seeking dismissal highlights
the presbytery's pastoral responsibility, which must not be
submerged beneath other responsibilities.
- "Accountability: For a governing body, accountability
rightly dictates fiduciary and connectional concerns, raising
general issues of property (G-8.0000) and specific issues of schism
within a congregation (G-8.0600). But, full accountability also
requires preeminent concern with "caring for the flock." o
"Gracious Witness: It is our belief that Scripture and the Holy
Spirit require a gracious witness from us rather than a harsh
legalism.
- "Openness and Transparency: Early, open communication and
transparency about principles and process of dismissal necessarily
serve truth, order, and goodness, and work against seeking civil
litigation as a solution."
Rev. Matthew Schramm of Newton Presbytery, spoke against the
resolution. "I have a plan for gracious separation. Leave the keys
for the people who want to stay in the PCUSA." |