Lutheran Synod pauses to reflect on National Apology
The Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) is currently holding its triennial General Convention of Synod in Sydney. The 19th Synod meeting began on Tuesday 2 October and will end on Sunday 7 October 2018.
On Wednesday 3 October, the Synod paused as Pastor Andrew Brook led a prayer and reflection acknowledging the church's part in failing to protect the vulnerable in its care.
Delegates confessed:
"We acknowledge the harm suffered by victims of sexual abuse by pastors, other people in positions of trust, and members of the Lutheran Church of Australia and the synods that preceded it".
"...and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." (Luke 24:47)
- Read the Lutheran Church's article from the meeting http://www.convention2018.lca.org.au/national-apology-synod-pauses-to-reflect-and-repent/
- Read Bishop John Henderson's statement from his ‘Heartland’ eNews published 27 September regarding the National Apology http://www.lca.org.au/national-apology-to-victims-and-survivors-of-institutional-child-sexual-abuse-monday-22-october-2018/
Later this month, on Monday 22 October, Prime Minister Scott Morrison will deliver an apology, in the Australian Parliament, to people who were sexually abused as children in religious and non-religious institutions. On Sunday 21 October, LCA congregations will use worship resources prepared by the LCA Commission on Worship especially for the National Apology.
