My First Synod Paper…
Actually, to be fair, individuals do not present papers to Synod. Commissions present papers to Synod. Inevitably, however, an individual has the responsibility of writing those papers that a commission presents. This year I had the opportunity to write the report on our recommendation for a change in the Book of Church Order (R-29).
Essentially, we’ve recommended that the BCO be amended to allow congregations to use “approved occasional use liturgies” for the celebration of the Lord’s Supper. Currently the BCO requires that the constitutional liturgy is used (indeed, it requires that it “be read”). We’re hoping this will honor and respect the role of the constitutional liturgy while still providing some diversity and brevity to the liturgical options.
Anyhow, the recommendation passed! Now, if 2/3rds of the classes approve it, the BCO will be changed and we will (Lord willing) present the first batch of occasional use liturgies for approval next year!
Grace and Peace,
`tim
Note: The Reformed Church in America has a “Constitutional” liturgy. For us that means that the Liturgy for Lord’s Day Worship (which includes the sacrament of communion/Lord’s Supper) has the same level of authority as the BCO and our Theological standards. Don’t quote me on this, but I don’t know of any other denomination in the world whose liturgy holds that status… it’s an amazing thing.
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