1980-02 Resolution on Selective Service and the Draft

80-2 RESOLUTION ON SELECTIVE SERVICE AND THE DRAFT

BACKGROUND

The Federal Government requires men, and potentially women, to register for the Selective Service System. A registrant will have limited time to validate a claim for an exemption should classification become initiated. Some individuals are led by their consciences to refuse to cooperate with the draft, often at peril of legal penalty.

Lutheran Churches, through social statements, have recognized the right of government to call upon individuals to serve in the military if such service does not go against one’s conscience. They have also recognized conscientious objection and selective conscientious objection as legitimate positions for church members. Those social statements are available from individual Lutheran Church bodies.

RESOLVED:

1. That the LSM-USA Assembly recognize the legitimacy of those who decide to join the present voluntary military service and supports campus ministry and chaplaincy programs within it.

2. The LSM-USA Assembly expresses its opposition to registration for the draft and any further steps to implement classification or induction in the absence of a national emergency.

3. The LSM-USA Assembly through its regional conferences shall provide information on the options available to registrants and identify resources for those interested in pursuing conscientious objection.

4. The Lutheran Students of Rhode Island and LSM-NYC will establish a bibliography of studies on the Lutheran position on war and teaching on peace in light of contemporary arms developments and international situations and social dimensions of militarism.

5. The LSM-USA Assembly commends the January Seminar co-sponsored by National Lutheran Campus Ministry and LMHE-NYC on Peacemaking to be held January 2-10, 1981 in New York City.