The Central Southern Illinois Synod (“Synod”) of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (“ELCA”) is committed to preventing sexual misconduct within the Church and responding with justice and compassion when such misconduct occurs.
This Statement of Policy describes how the Synod intends to fulfill these commitments. The Synod recognizes that responding to allegations of sexual misconduct requires determination, sensitivity, flexibility, and respect for all persons affected, including the victim, the rostered person, their families and friends, the congregation, the Synod, and the whole church.
This policy is intended to provide a framework for guidance in dealing with these cases while preserving the Synod’s discretion to treat each person and each case in the manner necessitated by differing facts, circumstances, and needs of those affected. This policy cannot be imposed as rigid law, binding the Synod and others to its dictates; it must be interpreted and applied compassionately in accordance with the theological and biblical principles of the Gospel.
Anyone who knows or suspects that a pastor may have been involved in sexual misconduct should report that knowledge or suspicion to the bishop or an assistant to the bishop.
Bishop Greg Busboom
Office: 217-753-7915
Cell: 217-357-1529
Email:
Rev. Amy Ziettlow, Assistant to the Bishop for Transformational Leadership
Office: 217-753-7915
Cell: 217-972-0314
Email:
Deacon Jason Fisher, Director for Evangelical Mission
Office: 217-753-7915
Cell: 315-277-3703
Email:
The following individuals have agreed to be available to receive reports of sexual misconduct from complainants who are uncomfortable contacting the bishop and/or his assistants directly. However, it must be stressed that these people are acting on behalf of the synod and any information that they are given will be shared with the bishop (unless it is the bishop who is being accused of sexual misconduct, in which case the bishop of the ELCA will be contacted).
Mrs. Molly Berry, Synod Vice President
Cell: 217-521-6257
Email:
Ms. Kendra Stea, ELCA Director of Misconduct Prevention
Phone: 773-380-7142
Email: