Rev. Jonathan Schroeder
Tuesday, Jan 24
3:15 – 4:30 pm
From Votes to Voices
WELS congregations have long relied on voting to conduct congregational business—motions, seconds, and majority rule. But increasingly, churches are exploring consensus-based decision-making as a way to foster unity, minimize division, and elevate trust. This session will help you understand how to lead with consensus while remaining fully grounded in biblical principles and confessional integrity. Participants will learn how to facilitate meaningful discussions, create space for all voices to be heard, and guide groups toward shared conclusions without endless debate. We’ll explore tools for framing complex issues, recognizing when consensus has been reached and knowing when a formal vote is still the wisest course. A consensus model will not work in every congregation; but in others, it is a powerful tool for Christ to work through us.
This session isn’t about avoiding hard decisions—it’s about making them in ways that strengthen relationships and reflect the unity of Christ’s body. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for leading collaboratively and confidently in your congregation’s unique context.
Rev. Jonathan E. Schroeder was assigned to serve as a church planter in Sharpsburg, Ga. From the first worship attendance of nine people, God has built a large congregation (700+), which Jonathan has served for 25 years. He currently also serves as the chairman of the Board for World Missions and as the first vice president of the South Atlantic District. Past service includes 12 years as pastor-at-large on the Synodical Council, member of the executive committee of the WELS Hymnal Project, moderator of the Institute of Worship and Outreach, consultant for the Schools of Worship and Outreach, and service on various other synodical boards and committees.
