M I SS ION S TATEME NT & CODE OF CONDUCT
5.0 LCMS Schools and Ministries
Sc Mn 5.1 Mission Statement
5.2 Code of Christian Conduct
LCMS schools and ministries should articulate the distinctly religious purpose for their existence through a mission statement. This mission statement should be grounded on the organization’s religious beliefs and statement of belief. For example, a school’s purpose might be, in part, to “train the next generation of Christian leaders and equip them for a life of service to their Savior, homes, churches, vocations, and communities.”
LCMS schools and ministries should adopt a code of Christian conduct, grounded in the statement of belief, which establishes parameters for acceptable behavior.
When possible, include within the mission statement a speech component – some message the organization wants to communicate to the outside world through its speech and conduct. For example, a ministry operating a wedding chapel might see its purpose, in part, as communicating the theological belief that marriage is only the union of one man and one woman, which reflects Christ’s relationship with His Church. Also include an associational component within the mission statement – that is, a desire to associate with likeminded people who will further the organization’s religious purpose and beliefs. Place the mission statement in the organization’s bylaws, governing documents, and employee and student handbooks.
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In light of current issues with sexual orientation and gender identity, this code of conduct should address: (1) dressing in conformance with one’s biological sex; (2) using the restrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities conforming with one’s biological sex; and (3) abstaining from all intimate sexual conduct outside the marital union of one man and one woman. Cite the organization’s statement on marriage, gender, and sexuality to highlight why this conduct is biblically required. Wherever possible, tie these requirements to scriptural or ecclesiastical teaching. The code should also address non-sexual behaviors such as cheating, stealing, respect for authority, and so forth. Include a warning that the school has the right to discipline or ask a student to withdraw for any reason, but that failure to comply with expected standards of conduct will subject the student or employee to potential disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion or dismissal.
P R O T E C T I N G Y O U R M I N I S T R Y — from Sexual Orientation Gender Identity Lawsuits