Excellence in education tops open forum
Filed Under: , Ad Hoc Commission, continuing education, Ministerial Education
Pursuing excellence among called workers and the cost of ministerial education dominated the discussion in Tuesday night's open forum on the recommendations of the Ad Hoc Commission, authorized by the 2007 synod convention to analyze the synod's problems and potential and provide a thorough analysis leading to a comprehensive, long-term plan.
"I was surprised that we stayed on that issue for the whole hour and a half," says Rev. John Braun, member of the Ad Hoc Commission. Braun says the commission thought discussion would instead revolve around its recommendation to reconfigure the Board for Parish Services. "But obviously excellence is on the minds of the delegates," he says. "I think the delegates wanted to make sure that we have high expectations for our called workers. And I think that's a good thing."
In an effort to ensure excellence among called workers, the Ad Hoc Commission provided recommendations on scholarship offerings at the high school and college levels, study fellowships at the seminary, and a flexible program of continuing education for pastors in the field. The commission also recommended that the cost of preparatory and college education at synod schools be comparable to schools in their region.
Districts also spent time on these two issues at their conventions last summer when the Ad Hoc Commission's report was first presented. In Tuesday night's discussion, many delegates sought clarification on specific points and offered their insights.
Other recommendations not discussed at the forum included the mission and purpose of the synod, synodical budget and finances, strengthening congregations, and a synodwide theological study. All recommendations of the Ad Hoc Commission are being considered by floor committees and will be brought before the entire convention.
For specifics about the Ad Hoc Commission's recommendations, read the complete report in the 2009 Book of Reports and Memorials.
