ELCA seeks input on genetics statement

Date:Mar 18, 2010

The ELCA Task Force on Genetics has prepared a draft of the social statement on genetics for feedback and response in advance of the 2011 ELCA Churchwide Assembly.

This draft is available on the ELCA website. There is also an executive summary and frequently asked questions (FAQs) available for download.

From the ELCA News Service release:

"The draft is not so much a list of specific decisions on particular genetic issues as it is a framework to discuss specific topics," said Janet Williams, a genetics counselor, Salt Lake City, and task force co-chair. "My hope is that it actually does generate discussion and a recognition that these topics are important."
     The document was carefully crafted, she said, noting that the task force is a diverse group of agribusiness professionals, clergy, ethicists, physicians, researchers, teachers and theologians.  "As we came to the end of the draft process, we were very pleased with how we as a group had debated and reached a consensus on the specific set of diverse topics that were critical to include in this draft," Williams said.
     "This document tries to formulate a moral framework that can encompass questions about human genetics, and plant and animal genetics," said Dr. Per Anderson, professor, Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and task force co-chair.
     For many genetics is a complex topic, Anderson said. "The one challenge we faced is that genetics is a technical matter and it requires some knowledge. We're talking about something technical.  This is a new matter for the church in that respect."

The draft has five general themes, said the Rev. Roger A. Willer, director, Department for Studies, ELCA Church in Society:
+ Christians view genetic developments in light of God's work "that is ever creative and steadfast"
+ Humans are responsible as "imaginative stewards," called to dedicate themselves to the flourishing of the creation
+ Ethics in genetic advances requires respect and promotion of the community of life with justice and wisdom
+ The ELCA is called to be a community that engages public issues intentionally and deliberatively while supporting "with care and respect" individuals who must make difficult decisions
+ The draft offers broad convictions regarding genetic developments and discusses how those convictions relate to a few particular advances in medicine, stem cell research and genetic engineering of plants, animals and humans

Please keep in mind these points about the draft and the response process:

  • The document is a draft, and is subject to change.
  • In the coming months, the task force seeks response from this church. The means of response include the comment form attached to the draft booklet and reports from synodical hearings. Please check with your synod or visit the ELCA website for specific information about a hearing near you.

The task force will receive comments until Oct. 15, 2010.

Following an extensive review and comment period, the draft will be revised by the task force. A proposed social statement will be prepared by the task force one year from now. It will be reviewed by the ELCA Church Council in April 2011 for recommendation to the 2011 Churchwide Assembly.

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