Those who represent this church are expected to present the positions of the social statements as those of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. This understanding recognizes their freedom to disagree with these positions. Social statements, intended to be used widely in the life and mission of this church, reflect awareness of the various audiences and ministries which they are to serve. To help stimulate consideration of social issues in congregations, their language is clear and appropriate for congregational life. They are a helpful resource for pastors, bishops, theologians, and other teachers and leaders in our church.
Social statements offer individual members guidance and support for their participation in society.
They address the broader society in ways fitting for public discussion of social issues. Social statements offer faithful and viable policy directives that have the support of the legislative authority of this church. The board of the Division for Church in Society shall oversee the development and implementation of social statements in accordance with the principle of interdependence. Selection of Topics 1. The board of the Division for Church in Society shall recommend topics for social statement development to the Church Council and the Churchwide Assembly for approval.