One of the important pieces of work approved at the January 2024 Northwest Intermountain Synod Council meeting was an updated Misconduct Policy. God intends for the Church to be a safe place for all people to experience God’s love and mercy, grow in faith, and equip themselves for ministry in the world. And yet at times the church has not been a safe place and sexual misconduct has caused injury and pain to individuals and communities. As one expression of the church, the Northwest Intermountain (NWIM) Synod is committed to creating and maintaining a safe climate and working to prevent sexual harassment and misconduct in all its forms. Moreover, if violations occur, the NWIM will create a culture of safe reporting, promptly investigate, and support all those impacted.

The NWIM Synod has specific responsibilities related to rostered ministers. This includes managing the roster status of rostered ministers. The congregation has responsibility for employment matters for both rostered leaders and lay persons. The NWIM Synod will provide support and resources for congregational leaders in developing their own policies and practices on preventing and responding to misconduct by rostered ministers, employees, volunteers, or members.

In the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, there are two lists of professional ministers called within the church. These lists are called rosters. Pastors are ordained to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament. Deacons are ordained to the Ministry of Word and Service.

Thanks to synod council members Ryan Lawrence and Lisa Hale for taking the lead on this faithful and important work.