The ELCA governing documents clearly indicate that the presiding bishop is elected by the Churchwide Assembly and synodical bishops are elected by synodical assemblies. Only those ordained ministers on the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are eligible for election. Pastors of ELCA congregations will continue to preside at confirmations. The particular language used in The Episcopal Church's resolution was shaped by that church's legislative processes. The one ministry of Word and Sacraments remains focused in the office of pastor.
Bishops are pastors who serve a number of congregations in a geographical area.
The reference to the sharing of ministry recognizes the continuation of a three-fold pattern in The Episcopal Church and the continuation of the existing pattern affirmed in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. In other words, it is binding by reference in the document itself. Some items in the Tucson Resolution are addressed in the bylaws of the ELCA and, therefore, are binding upon this church under those bylaws. Each church body remains responsible for its internal governance and life. All amendments to the governing documents of The Episcopal Church require adoption by two consecutive General Conventions of that church.