Quiet, Crucial Work: Meet Consultation & Discipline Committees

Healthy churches tell the truth in love. In our synod, two committees quietly help us do that with care and accountability.

The Consultation Committee includes rostered ministers and lay leaders who serve six-year terms. When concerns arise, they help parties listen, reconcile where possible, and follow ELCA processes with pastoral sensitivity and procedural clarity. Our current members are Pr. Thaddeus Book, Pr. Jill Doherty, Ms. Annette Chavez, Pr. David Brandfass, Mr. Christopher Jacobson, Ms. Sarah Morris), Pr. Paul Block, Mr. Paul Gryniewicz, and Ms. Taylor Welch.

The Committee on Discipline carries the responsibility of formal accountability when matters cannot be resolved earlier in the process. Members also serve six-year terms, with equal participation of rostered and lay leaders. Current members are Ms. Joy Smiley, Pr. Mary Louise Frenchman, Pr. Tina Mills, Pr. Lourdes Olson, Pr. David Pavesic, Mr. Mark Myers, Pr. Arhiana Shek Dill, Pr. Scott Hackler, Ms. Mary Beth Baron, Ms. Janet Bleifer, Mr. Jerry Zaddack, and Mr. Jeff Musfeldt.

These committees exist so our common life reflects the Gospel: listening carefully, seeking reconciliation, and—when necessary—acting justly and transparently for the sake of Christ’s witness.