"Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment" Matt. 10:8

Is there a healing work of the church in the world today? I would like to keep that question in mind, and then present some of the resolutions that were made at the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA’s Annual Assembly in St. Peter, MN June 6-8^th this year, at Gustavus Adolphus College.

One of the resolutions was concerned about the fact that many gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender members of our congregations continue to be hesitant to let their sexual orientation be known, fearing embarrassment and exclusion for themselves and their families. In 1999 the ELCA Minneapolis Area Synod declared itself to be a Reconciled in Christ Synod. The synod affirmed

- that gay and lesbian people share with all others the worth that comes from being loved, forgiven children of God

This year’s resolution encourages all congregations to have conversations about the Reconciling in Christ commitment. Also, Mindekirken is challenged to adapt this program. Could that be a part of the healing work of the church?

The synod also resolved recognition of "the Non-violent Peace Force movement." This is about recruiting and training volunteers to go into conflict situations to provide a non-violent peaceful presence. Violence is a bad way of solving a conflict. Jesus said: "Blessed are the peacemakers." Could this be a part of the healing work of the church today?

The Assembly also resolved that the Synod Council should develop an anti-racism statement to be presented for adoption at the 2003 Synod Assembly. The Synod Council was further directed to create a plan on how such a statement could be communicated in an ongoing manner to all member congregations. Could a renewed effort in seeking social justice be part of the healing work of the church today?

Pastor Jens Arne Dale

Read more about the Synod Assembly on the website: www.elca.org