At a congregational meeting on June 6, Bethlehem congregation voted to end its relationship with the ELCA and TULP. The vote was 47 in favor of leaving the ELCA and TULP, and 15 against, with 2 blank ballots, for a total of 64 votes. This was far more than the 2/3 majority required.

This vote needs to be ratified at a second congregational meeting, which will take place at least 90 days after this vote. In the meantime, the congregation has to have an official consultation with Bishop Justman concerning the vote and the consequences of this action. The earliest that the second vote could happen is early September, but it has not been scheduled at this time. If the vote is ratified, Bethlehem’s relationship with the ELCA and TULP will end when Bishop Justman is informed of the results of the second vote. If it is not ratified, Bethlehem will remain a member of the ELCA and TULP.

In light of the vote, the presidents of the other TULP congregations met with Pastors Doug and Dennis, and TULP president Roger Kucksdorf to be informed of the action that Bethlehem has taken, and to discuss what this would mean for the future of TULP. At that meeting it was suggested that a Task Force be set up to study the options that would be available to the TULP congregations without Bethlehem’s presence in the parish. At the June Advisory Council meeting, it was decided to set this Task Force into motion, consisting of the Presidents of the congregations, and a financial representative from each congregation. Other members of the congregations are welcome to participate in this Task Force. Please contact the TULP office if you are interested in being part of the Task Force. (See page 5 in newsletter for more details)

Please be in prayer as the members of Bethlehem go through this process, that their decision will reflect the will of God for them and for The United Lutheran Parish.

In Christ’s love,
Pastor Dennis