CONSTITUTION FOR CONGREGATION
PREAMBLEWe, baptized members of the Church of Christ, responding in faith to the call of the Holy Spirit through the Gospel, desiring to unite together to preach the Word, administer the sacraments, and carry out God’s mission, do hereby adopt this constitution and solemnly pledge ourselves to be governed by its provisions. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
Chapter 1
NAME AND INCORPORATION
C1.01. The name of this congregation shall be Central Lutheran Church.
C1.02. For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the Central Lutheran congregation is hereinafter designated as “this congregation”.
C1.03. This congregation shall be incorporated under the laws of the State of Washington.
Chapter 2
CONFESSION OF FAITH
C2.01. This congregation confesses the Triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
C2.02. This congregation confesses Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and the Gospel as the power of God for the salvation of all who believe.
a. Jesus Christ is the Word of God incarnate, through whom
everything was made and through whose life, death and
resurrection God fashions a new creation.
b. The proclamation of God’s message to us as both Law and
Gospel is the Word of God revealing judgment and mercy through
word and deed, beginning with the Word in creation, continuing in
the history of Israel, and centering in all its fullness in the person
and work of Jesus Christ.
c. The canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the
written Word of God. Inspired by God’s Spirit speaking through
their authors, they record and announce God’s revelation
centering in Jesus Christ. Through them God’s Spirit speaks to
us to create and sustain Christian faith and fellowship for service
in the world.C2.03. This congregation accepts the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation, faith and life.
C2.04. This congregation accepts the Apostles’, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of the faith of this congregation.
C2.05. This congregation accepts the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as a true witness to the Gospel, acknowledging as one with it in faith and doctrine all churches that likewise accept the teachings of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession.
C2.06. This congregation accepts the other confessional writings in the Book of Concord, namely, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles and the Treatise, the Small Catechism, the Large Catechism, and the Formula of Concord, as further valid interpretations of the faith of the Church.
C2.07. This congregation confesses the Gospel, recorded in the Holy Scriptures and confessed in the ecumenical creeds and Lutheran confessional writings, as the power of God to create and sustain the Church for God’s mission in the world.
Chapter 3
NATURE OF THE CHURCH
C3.01. All power in the Church belongs to our Lord Jesus Christ, its head. All actions of this congregation are to be carried out under His rule and authority.
C3.02. The Church exists both as an inclusive fellowship and as local congregations gathered for worship and Christian service. Congregations find their fulfillment in the universal community of the Church, and the universal Church exists in and through congregations. This church, therefore, derives its character and powers both from the sanction and representation of its congregations and from its inherent nature as an expression of the broader fellowship of the faithful. In length, it acknowledges itself to be in the historic continuity of the communion of saints; in breadth, it expresses the fellowship of believers and congregations in our day.
Chapter 4
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
C4.01. The Church is a people created by God in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, called and sent to bear witness to God’s creative, redeeming, and sanctifying activity in the world.
C4.02. To participate in God’s mission, this congregation as part of the Church shall:
a. Worship God in proclamation of the Word and administration of
the sacraments and through lives of prayer, praise, thanksgiving,
witness and service.b. Proclaim God’s saving Gospel of justification by grace for
Christ’s sake through faith alone, according to the apostolic
witness in the Holy Scripture, preserving and transmitting the
Gospel faithfully to future generations.
c. Carry out Christ’s Great Commission by reaching out to all people
to bring them to faith in Christ and by doing all ministry with a
global awareness consistent with the understanding of God as
Creator, Redeemer and Sanctifier of all.
d. Serve in response to God’s love to meet human needs, caring for
the sick and the aged, advocating dignity and justice for all
people, working for peace and reconciliation among the nations,
and standing with the poor and powerless, and committing itself
to their needs.
e. Nurture its members in the Word of God so as to grow in faith and
hope and love, to see daily life as the primary setting for the
exercise of their Christian calling, and to use the gifts of the Spirit
for their life together and for their calling in the world.
f. Manifest the unity given to the people of God by living together in
the love of Christ and by joining with other Christians in prayer
and action to express and preserve the unity which the Spirit
gives.C4.03. To fulfill these purposes, this congregation shall:
a. Provide services of worship at which the Word of God is preached
and the sacraments are administered.
b. Provide pastoral care and assist all members to participate in
this ministry.
c. Challenge, equip and support all members in carrying out their
calling in their daily lives and in their congregation.
d. Teach the Word of God.
e. Witness to the reconciling Word of God in Christ, reaching out to
all people.
f. Respond to human need, work for justice and peace, care for the
sick and the suffering, and participate responsibly in society.
g. Motivate its members to provide financial support for the
congregation’s ministry and the ministry of other parts of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
h. Foster and participate in interdependent relationships with other
congregations, the synod, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church
in America.
i. Foster and participate in ecumenical relationships consistent with
church wide policy.C4.04. This congregation shall develop an organizational structure to be
described in the bylaws. The Congregation Council shall prepare
descriptions of the responsibilities of each committee, task force, or
other organizational groups and shall review their actions. (Such
description shall be contained in the continuing resolutions of the
Congregation Council.)
C4.05. This congregation shall, from time to time, adopt a mission
statement which will provide specific direction for its programs.Chapter 5
POWERS OF THE CONGREGATION
C5.01. The powers of this congregation are those necessary to fulfill its
purpose.C5.02. The powers of this congregation are vested in the Congregation
Meeting called and conducted as provided in this constitution and
bylaws.C5.03. Only such authority as is delegated to the Congregation Council or
other organizational units in the congregation’s governing documents is recognized. All remaining authority is retained by the congregation. The congregation is authorized to:a. call a pastor;
b. terminate the call of a pastor;
c. appoint or terminate the appointment of associate in ministry in
conformity with the applicable policy of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America;
d. approve the annual budget;
e. acquire real and personal property by gift, device, purchase, or
other lawful means;
f. hold title to and use its property for any and all activities
consistent with its purpose;
g. sell, mortgage, lease, transfer, or otherwise dispose of its
property by any lawful means;
h. elect its (officers), Congregation Council, boards and committees,
and require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the
constitution (and) bylaws, (and continuing resolutions); and
i. terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America as provided in Chapter 6.Chapter 6
CHURCH AFFILIATION
C6.01. This congregation shall be an interdependent part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or its successor, and of the Northwest Washington Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. This congregation is subject to the discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.C6.02. This congregation accepts the Confession of Faith and agrees to the Purposes of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and shall act in accordance with them.
C6.03. This congregation acknowledges its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in which:
a. This congregation agrees to be responsible for its life as a
Christian community.
b. This congregation pledges its financial support and participation
in the life and mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America.
c. This congregation agrees to call pastoral leadership from the
clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in
accordance with its call procedures except in special
circumstances and with the approval of the bishop of the synod.
d. This congregation agrees to consider associates in ministry for
appointment to other staff positions in the congregation
according to the procedures of the Evangelical Lutheran Church
in America.C6.04. Affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America may be terminated as follows:
a. This congregation takes action to dissolve.
b. This congregation ceases to exist.
c. This congregation is removed from membership in the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to the
procedures for discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America.
d. This congregation follows the procedures outlined in C6.05.C6.05. This congregation may terminate its relationship with the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America by the following procedure:a. A resolution indicating the desire of this congregation to
terminate its relationship must be adopted at a legally called and
conducted special meeting of this congregation by a two-thirds
majority of the voting members present.
b. The secretary of this congregation shall submit a copy of the
resolution to the synodical bishop and shall mail a copy of the
resolution to voting members of the congregation. This notice
shall be submitted within 10 days after the resolution has been
adopted.
c. The bishop of the synod shall consult with this congregation
during a period of at least 90 days.
d. If this congregation, after consultation, still desires to terminate
its relationship, such action may be taken at a legally called and
conducted special meeting by a two-thirds majority of the voting
members present, at which meeting the bishop of the synod or an
authorized representative, shall be invited to attend. Notice of the
meeting shall be mailed to all voting members at least 10 days in
advance of the meeting.
e. A certified copy of the resolution to terminate its relationship shall
be sent to the synodical bishop, at which time the relationship
between this congregation and the ELCA shall be terminated.
f. Notice of termination shall be forwarded by the synodical bishop
to the secretary of this church and published in the periodical of
this church.
Chapter 7PROPERTY OWNERSHIP
C7.01. If this congregation ceases to exist, title to undisposed property
shall pass to the Northwest Washington Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.C7.02. If this congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to its procedure for discipline, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation.
C7.03. If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a regularly called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to transfer to another Lutheran church body, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation. Before this congregation takes action to transfer to another Lutheran church body, it shall consult with representatives of the Northwest Washington Synod.
C7.04. If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a regularly called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to become independent or relate to a non-Lutheran church body, title to property of this congregation shall continue to reside in this congregation only with the consent of the Synod Council. The Synod Council, after consultation with the congregation by the synodical process, may give approval to the request to become independent or to relate to a non-Lutheran church body, in which case title shall remain with the majority of the congregation. If the Synod Council fails to give such approval, title shall remain with those members who desire to continue as a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Chapter 8
MEMBERSHIP
C8.01. Members of this congregation shall be those baptized persons on the roll of the congregation at the time that this constitution is adopted and those who are admitted thereafter and who have declared and maintain their membership in accordance with the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws.
C8.02. Members shall be classified as follows:
a. Baptized members are those persons who have been received by
the Sacrament of Holy Baptism in this congregation, or, having
been previously baptized in the name of the Triune God, have
been received by certificate of transfer from other Lutheran
congregations or by affirmation of faith.
b. Confirmed members are baptized persons who have been
confirmed in this congregation, those who have been received by
adult baptism or transfer as confirmed members from other
Lutheran congregations, or baptized persons received by
affirmation of faith.
c. Voting members are confirmed members. Such confirmed
members shall have communed and made a contribution of
record during the current or preceding year. Such voting
members must be 18 years or older to vote on money or corporate
matters.
d. Associate members are persons holding membership in other
Lutheran (Christian) congregations who wish to retain such
membership but desire to participate in the life and mission of
this congregation. They have all the privileges and duties of
membership except voting rights and eligibility for elected offices
or membership on the Congregation Council of this congregation.C8.03. All applications for confirmed membership shall be submitted to and
shall require the approval of the Congregation Council.C8.04. It shall be the privilege and duty of members of this congregation to:
a. make regular use of the means of grace, both Word and
sacraments;
b. live a Christian life in accordance with the Word of God and the
teachings of the Lutheran church; and
c. support the work of this congregation and of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America through contributions of their time,
abilities, and financial support as biblical stewards.C8.05. Membership in this congregation shall be terminated by any of the
following:a. death;
b. resignation;
c. transfer or release;
d. disciplinary action by the Congregation Council; or
e. removal from the roll due to inactivity as defined in the bylaws.
Such persons who have been removed from the roll of members
shall remain persons for which the church has a continuing
pastoral concern.Chapter 9
THE PASTOR
C9.01. Authority to call a pastor shall be in this congregation by at least a
two-thirds majority ballot vote of members present and voting at a
meeting regularly called for the purpose. Before a call is issued, the
officers, or a committee elected by this congregation to recommend
the call, shall seek the advice and help of the bishop of the synod.C9.02. Only a member of the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or who has been recommended for it by the synodical bishop my be called as a pastor of this congregation.
C9.03. Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, every ordained minister shall preach the Word, administer the sacraments, conduct public worship, provide pastoral care, and shall speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God’s love for the world. Each ordained minister with a congregational call shall, within the congregation, offer instruction, confirm, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead; supervise all schools and organizations of the congregation; shall install regularly elected members of the Congregation Council, and with the council administer discipline. Every pastor shall seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel and strive to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation, and abroad; shall impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry through distribution of its periodicals and other publications; and shall endeavor to increase the support given by the congregation to the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and of the synod of the ELCA.
C9.04. The specific duties of the pastor, compensation, and other matters pertaining to the service of the pastor shall be included in a letter of call.
C9.05. a. The call of a congregation, when accepted by a pastor, shall
constitute a continuing mutual relationship and commitment
which, except in the case of the death of the pastor, shall be
terminated only following consultation with the synodical bishop
and for the following reasons:1. mutual agreement to terminate the call or the completion of
a call for a specific term of years;
2. resignation of the pastor;
3. inability to conduct the pastoral office effectively in the
congregation in view of local conditions, without reflection
on the competence or the moral and spiritual character of
the pastor;
4. the physical or mental incapacity of the pastor:
5. disqualification of the pastor through discipline on grounds
of doctrine, morality, or continued neglect of duty; or
6. the dissolution of the congregation.
b. In the case of alleged physical or mental incapacity of the pastor
or ineffective conduct of the pastoral office, it shall be the
responsibility of the bishop of the synod, when such difficulties
are personally known or have been brought to the synod’s
attention by an official recital of allegations by the Congregation
Council, or by a petition signed by at least one-third of the voting
members of the congregation, to investigate such conditions
personally in company with a committee of even numbers of
ordained ministers and lay persons.
c. In case of alleged physical or mental incapacity, competent
medical testimony shall be obtained. When such disability is
evident, the bishop of the synod with the advice of the committee
shall declare the pastorate vacant. Upon the restoration of a
disabled pastor to health, the bishop of the synod shall take
steps to enable the pastor to resume the ministry, either in the
congregation last served or in another field of labor.
d. In the case of alleged local difficulties which imperil the effective
functioning of the congregation, all concerned persons shall be
heard, after which the bishop of the synod together with the
committee described in C9.05.b. shall decide on the course of
action to be recommended to the pastor and the congregation. If
they agree to carry out such recommendations, no further action
shall be taken by the synod. If either party fails to assent, the
congregation may dismiss the pastor by a two-thirds majority
vote of the voting members present at a regularly called meeting
after consultation with the bishop.
e. The foregoing procedure shall never be invoked when questions
of doctrine, morality, or continued neglect of duty are involved, all
such cases being treated as disciplinary matters.C9.06. At a time of pastoral vacancy, an interim pastor may be appointed by
the bishop of the synod with the consent of this congregation or the
Congregation Council.C9.07. During the period of service, an interim pastor shall have the rights
and duties of a regularly called pastor and may delegate the same in
part to a supply pastor with the consent of the bishop of the synod
and this congregation or Congregation Council. The interim pastor
and any ordained pastor providing assistance shall refrain from
exerting influence in the selection of a pastor.C9.08. This congregation shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to a former pastor before calling a successor. A pastor shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to this congregation.
C9.09. When a pastor is called to serve in company with another pastor or pastors, the privileges and responsibilities of each pastor shall be specified in documents to accompany the call and to be drafted in consultation involving the pastors, the Congregation Council, and the bishop of the synod. As occasion requires, the documents may be revised through a similar consultation.
C9.10. The congregation may depart from C9.05.a. and call a pastor for a specific term of years. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose and conditions involved. Prior to the completion of a term, the Congregation Council shall meet with the pastor and representatives of the congregation for a review of the call. Such call may also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of C9.05.a. Termination call may be renewed by congregational action.
C9.11. The pastor shall keep accurate parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members dismissed, or members excluded from the congregation, and shall submit a summary of such statistics annually to the synod and congregation.Chapter 10
CONGREGATION MEETING
C10.01. The meeting of this congregation shall be held at a time specified in the bylaws.
C10.02. A special Congregation Meeting may be called by the pastor, the Congregation Council, or the president of this congregation, and shall be called at the written request of twenty voting members. The call for each special meeting shall specify the purpose for which it is to be held an no other business shall be transacted.
C10.03. Notice of all meetings of this congregation shall be given at the services of worship on the preceding two consecutive Sundays and by mail to all (voting) members at least 10 days in advance of the date of the meeting. The posting of such notice in the regular mail, with the regular postage affixed or paid, sent to the last known address of such members shall be sufficient.
C10.04. Twenty voting members, excluding council members, shall constitute a quorum.
C10.05. Voting by proxy or by absentee ballot shall not be permitted.
C10.06. All actions by the congregation shall be by majority vote except as otherwise provided in this constitution.
a. Selling or buying property shall be 2/3 majority.
C10.07. Robert’s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of all meetings of this congregation.
Chapter 11
OFFICERS
C11.01. The officers of this congregation shall be a president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer and financial secretary.
a. Duties of the officers shall be specified in the bylaws.
b. The officers shall be voting members of the congregation.
c. Officers of this congregation shall serve similar offices of the
Congregation Council and shall be voting members of the
Congregation Council.C11.02. The officers shall be elected by the congregation by written ballot
and shall serve for one year. The term shall begin on June 1 and end
on May 31.C11.03. No officer shall hold more than one office at a time. No elected
officer shall be eligible to serve more than three consecutive terms in
the same office with the exception of the treasurer.C11.04. Candidates for position of officers, congregation council and committees must be a member who:
a. regularly attends worship services,
b. regularly partakes in Holy Communion,
c. regularly participates in a Bible study.Chapter 12
CONGREGATION COUNCIL
C12.01. The voting membership of the Congregation Council shall consist of
the pastor(s) and not more that thirteen members of the congregation and the officers of the congregation. Any voting member of the congregation may be elected, subject
only to the limitation of the length of continuous service permitted in that office. A member’s place on the Congregation Council shall be declared vacant if the member (a) ceases to be a voting member of this congregation or (b) is absent from three successive regular meetings of the Congregation Council without cause.C12.02. The members of the Congregation Council (except the pastor(s))
shall be elected at a legally called meeting of the congregation
during the month of April. Their terms of office shall be for three
years with the term of office beginning on June 1 and ending on May
31. Newly elected Congregation Council members shall be installed
at worship the Sunday prior to the date they assume office. Members shall be eligible to serve no more than two full terms consecutively.C12.03. Should a member’s place on the Congregation Council be declared
vacant, the Congregation Council shall elect, by majority vote, a
successor until the next annual meeting.C12.04. The Congregation Council shall have general oversight of the life
and activities of this congregation, and in particular its worship life,
to the end that everything be done in accordance with the Word of
God and the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America. The duties of the Congregation Council shall include the
following:a. To lead this congregation in stating its mission, to do long-range
planning, to set goals and priorities, and to evaluate its activities
in light of its mission and goals.
b. To seek to involve all members of this congregation in worship,
learning, witness, service and support.
c. To oversee and provide for the administration of this
congregation to enable it to fulfill its functions and perform its
mission.
d. To maintain supportive relationships with the pastor(s) and staff
and help them annually to evaluate the fulfillment of their calling,
appointment, or employment.
e. To be examples individually and corporately of the style of life
and ministry expected of all baptized persons.
f. To promote a congregational climate of peace and goodwill and,
as differences and conflicts arise, to endeavor to foster mutual
understanding.
g. To arrange for pastoral service during the sickness or absence of
the pastor.
h. To emphasize partnership with the synod and church wide units
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as well as
cooperation with other congregations, both Lutheran and non-
Lutheran, subject to established policies of the synod and the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
i. To recommend and encourage the use of program resources
produced or approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America.C12.05. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the financial and
property matters of this congregation.a. The Congregation Council shall be the board of this congregation,
and as such shall be responsible for maintaining and protecting
its property and the management of its business and fiscal affairs.
It shall have the powers and be subject to the obligations that
pertain to such boards under the laws of the State of Washington,
except as otherwise provided herein.
b. The Congregation Council shall not have the authority to buy,
sell, or encumber real property unless specifically authorized to
do so by a meeting of the congregation.
c. The Congregation Council may enter into contracts of up to
$2500.00 for items not included in the budget.
d. The Congregation Council shall prepare an annual budget for
adoption by this congregation, shall supervise the expenditure of
funds in accordance therewith following its adoption, and may
incur obligations more than $2500.00 in excess of the anticipated
receipts only after approval by a Congregation Meeting. The
budget shall include this congregation’s full indicated share in
support of the wider ministry being carried on the partnership
with the synod and church wide organization.
e. The Congregation Council shall ascertain that the financial affairs
of this congregation are being conducted efficiently, giving
particular attention to the prompt payment of all obligations and
to the regular forwarding of benevolence monies to the synodical
treasurer.
f. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for this
congregation’s investments and its total insurance program.C12.06. The Congregation Council shall see that the provisions of this
constitution (and) its bylaws (and the continuing resolutions) are
carried out.C12.07. The Congregation Council shall provide for an annual review of the
membership roster.C12.08. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the appointment
and supervision of the salaried lay workers of this congregation.C12.09. The Congregation Council shall submit a comprehensive report to
this Congregation at the annual meeting.C12.10. The Congregation Council shall normally meet once a month.
Special meetings may be called by the pastor or the president, and
shall be called at the request of at least one-half of its members. Notice of each special meeting shall be given to all who are entitled to be present.C12.11. A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of a majority
of the members of the Congregation Council, including the pastor or
interim pastor, except when such person requests or consents to be
absent and has given prior approval to an agenda of routine matters
which shall be the only business of the meeting.Chapter 13
CONGREGATIONAL COMMITTEES
C13.01. The president, vice-president, secretary and the pastor shall constitute the Executive Committee.
13.02. A Nominating Committee of six voting members of this congregation, two of whom shall be outgoing members of the Congregation Council, shall be elected at the annual meeting for a term of one year. Members of the Nominating Committee are not eligible for consecutive reelection.
a. This committee shall be called to its initial meeting each year by
the senior pastor.
b. This committee shall elect its own chairperson from its
membership.
c. The chairperson shall call a sufficient number of meetings prior to
the month of April to provide ample opportunity for the selection
by the committee of one qualified candidate (C11.04. Candidates
for Position) for each elected position of officers, congregation
council and committee members.
d. This committee shall present a full slate of candidates that are
qualified and willing to serve when presented for election at the
annual meeting.
e. This committee shall nominate person(s) to complete any
unexpired terms of elected officers, council or committee member
to be presented to the council for election.C13.03. An audit committee of three voting members shall be elected by the
congregation council. Audit committee members shall not be
members of the congregation council. Term of office will be three
years, with one member elected each year. Members shall not be
eligible for reelection. This committee shall elect its own chairperson from its membership.a. The committee shall make such interim audits of the
congregation’s accounts as the congregation council may
request.
b. It shall audit all accounts of the financial secretary and the
treasurer and report to the annual meeting its findings of the
accounts and condition of the records.
c. Audits shall include examination of existing insurance coverage.
C13.04. A Staff Support Committee shall consist of the vice-president,
chairperson from property management and senior pastor and any
member appointed as needed on a temporary basis by the church
council. The vice-president will chair this committee. This
committee shall:a. Evaluate annually, job performance of all paid employees.
b. Deal with job description or personnel problems of all employees.
c. Review annually the salaried and total financial package of paid
staff and make recommendations to the Budget Committee or
Council.C13.05. REPRESENTATIVES AND/OR DELEGATES
The congregation shall elect such representatives and/or delegates, and an alternate for, as it is entitled to have to represent the congregation of all official meetings of its affiliated church body.C13.06. When a pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee of six voting
members shall be appointed by the Congregation Council. Term of
office will terminate at installation of the newly-called pastor.C13.07. Other congregational committees may be formed as the need arises
by decision of the Congregation Council.C13.08. Duties of congregational committees shall be specified in the by-laws.
Chapter 14ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE CONGREGATION
C14.01. All organizations within this congregation shall exist to aid it in
ministering to the members of this congregation and to all persons
who can be reached with the Gospel of Christ. As outgrowths and
expressions of this congregation’s life, the organizations are subject
to its oversight and direction. This congregation at its meeting shall
determine their policies, guide their activities, and receive reports
concerning their membership, work and finances.14.02. Special interest groups, other than those of the official organizations
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, may be organized
only after authorization has been given by the Congregation Council
(and specified in a continuing resolution).Chapter 15
DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS
C15.01. Denial of the Christian faith as described in this constitution,
conduct grossly unbecoming a member of the Church of Christ, or
persistent trouble-making in this congregation are sufficient cause
for discipline of a member. Prior to disciplinary action, reconciliation
will be attempted following Matthew 18:15-17, proceeding through
these successive steps:a. private admonition by the pastor,
b. admonition by the pastor in the presence of two or three
witnesses, and
c. citation to appear before the Congregation Council.C15.02. A member charged with the offense shall appear before the
Congregation Council having received a written notice specifying the
charge(s) that have been made against the member, at least 10 days
prior to the meeting.C15.03. Should the allegations be sustained by a two-thirds majority vote of
the Congregation Council, the council shall impose one of the following disciplinary actions:
a. censure before the council or congregation;
b. suspension from membership for a definite period of time; or
c. exclusion from membership in this congregation. Disciplinary
actions b. and c. shall be delivered to the member in writing.C15.04. Disciplinary actions may be reconsidered and revoked by the
Congregation Council upon receipt of (a) evidence that injustice has
been done or (b) evidence of repentance and amendment.
Chapter 16BYLAWS
C16.01. This congregation may adopt bylaws. No bylaw may conflict with
this constitution.C16.02. Bylaws may be adopted or amended at any legally called meeting of
this congregation with a quorum present by a majority vote of those
voting members present and voting.C16.03. Changes to the bylaws may be proposed by any voting member
provided, however, that such additions or amendments be submitted
in writing to the Congregation Council at least 60 days before a
regular or special Congregation Meeting called for that purpose and
that the Congregation Council notify the members of the proposal
with its recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the
Congregation Meeting.Chapter 17
AMENDMENTS
C17.01. Amendments to this constitution may be proposed by at least twenty
voting members or by the Congregation Council. Proposals must be
filed in writing with the Congregation Council 60 days before formal
consideration by this congregation at its regular or special meeting
called for that purpose. The Congregation Council shall notify the
members of the proposal with their recommendations at least 30
days in advance of the meeting.C17.02. A proposed amendment to this constitution shall:
a. be approved at a properly called meeting according to this
constitution by a majority vote of those present and voting;
b. be ratified without change at the next annual meeting by a two-
thirds majority vote of those present; and
c. have the effective date included in the resolution and noted in the
constitution.Chapter 18
CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS
C18.01. The Congregation Council may enact continuing resolutions which
describe the function of the various committees or organizations of
this congregation.C18.02. Continuing resolutions shall be enacted or amended by a two-thirds
vote of all voting members of the Congregation Council.
BY-LAWSChapter 1
CONFLICTING LOYALTIES
BL 1.01 This congregation shall reject all fellowship or worship with organizations, secret or open, which are avowedly religious or practice form of religion without confessing faith in the Triune God and in Jesus Christ as the eternal Son of God incarnate to be our only Savior from sin. It shall declare such organizations to be anti-Christian.
BL 1.02 No lodge ceremonies are to be permitted in the church or on the church premises of this congregation; nor shall its pastor(s) take part in any such ceremonies wherever they are conducted.
Chapter 2
MEMBERSHIP – APPLICATION AND ACCEPTANCE PROCEDURE
BL 2.01 Baptized Members
a. A child, one or both of whose parents or guardians are members
of the congregation, shall, upon receiving Baptism, become a
baptized member.
b. A child, neither of whose parents or guardians is a member of the
congregation, shall, upon receiving Baptism, become a baptized
member of the congregation, unless for good reason he/she is to
be a baptized member of another congregation, in which case his
membership shall be transferred to that congregation.
c. A child baptized in another congregation shall be received as a
baptized member in the congregation when a transfer has been
received.
d. An unbaptized adult who has received instruction and has given
evidence of an adequate understanding and acceptance of the
teachings of the Word of God as confessed by the Lutheran
Church, shall, upon confession of faith and Baptism, become a
baptized member of the congregation.
e. When one or both parents of baptized children are received into
the membership of the congregation, such children should be
received as baptized members with the consent of the member
parent or parents.
f. Where a baptized child is an orphan or ward of someone and
these people move into the area served by this congregation, the
child may be received as a baptized member when it is
commended to the care of this congregation by the congregation
which baptized the child.
g. When the parents of a baptized child are not themselves members
of the Lutheran Church but move into the area served by this
congregation and desire to have their child put within the pastoral
care of this congregation, the child may be received as a baptized
member.
BL 2.02 Confirmed Membersa. A baptized adult, not previously a confirmed member of a
Lutheran congregation, shall become a confirmed member of this
congregation after having received instruction, having given
evidence of adequate understanding of the teachings of the Word
of God as confessed by the Lutheran Church, and having publicly
affirmed his faith.
b. A baptized member of the congregation shall become a confirmed
member through the rite of confirmation; except that an adult who
has become a baptized member in accordance with the provisions
of Section BL 2.01.d., of this part of the by-laws, shall be
considered a confirmed member without participation in the rite of
confirmation.
c. An applicant for membership who presents a Letter of Transfer
which certifies that he is a confirmed member in good standing of
a Lutheran congregation shall become a confirmed member of the
congregation upon approval by the Church Council. The
acceptance of the applicant shall be reported to the congregation.
d. An applicant for membership who presents evidence of
confirmation in a Lutheran congregation but does not have a
Letter of Transfer shall be admitted to confirmed membership
when the Church Council has determined that he meets the
standards of Christian faith and life indicated in the constitution
and by-laws and when he has reaffirmed his faith before the
congregation.BL 2.03 Voting Members
The Church Council shall determine the roster of voting members of
the congregation in accordance with the provisions of the
constitution and by-laws. The term “in good standing” shall be
defined to include:a. those who partake of Holy Communion;
b. those who contribute to the congregational treasury according to
the congregation’s record;
c. those who participate in the life and worship of the congregation.BL 2.04 Pastoral Care of Members
a. The congregation shall, in the event of the removal of a member
from the community it serves, encourage the member to request a
transfer to a Lutheran congregation which can serve him
effectively. Should the member fail to request a transfer, a
Lutheran congregation in the community of his residence shall be
notified.
b. A confirmed member in good standing desiring to change his
membership to another Lutheran congregation shall, upon
request receive a Letter of Transfer.
c. A confirmed member who does not, for a period of one year,
partake of Holy Communion; support the church with his
offerings; and does not in the judgment of the Church Council
appear to desire to participate in the life and worship of the
congregation, shall be visited first by the pastor, Evangelism
Committee and last by the congregation’s offices encouraging the
member to active participation. If, during the second year, the
confirmed member does not actively participate, his/her name
shall be removed from the membership roster of the congregation
but be retained on a responsibility list as one who is in special
need of the congregation’s prayer and concern.
d. A child, neither of whose parents or guardians is a member of the
congregation, may be removed from the roster of baptized
members if he/she fails to participate in the life and worship of the
congregation.Chapter 3
AUTHORITY AND DUTIES OF ELECTIVE OFFICES
BL 3.01 The President
The president shall preside at all meetings of the Congregation and
Church Council. It shall be his/her duty to make certain that all
meetings are conducted in a proper and orderly manner and in
accordance with the terms of this constitution and by-laws.
Furthermore it shall be the president’s duty to perform all of the
appropriate functions of this office for the best interests of the
congregation and as may be required by the Congregation and/or the
Church Council. The president shall be an ex officio member of all
committees comprising the Church Council.BL 3.02 Vice-President
The vice-president shall serve in the absence of the president. The
vice-president shall assist the president as required and attend all
meeting of the Church Council. The vice-president shall be the
personnel director of the lay staff employees of the Church and also
shall be the chairperson of the Staff Support Committee. The vice-
president shall keep the president informed of any problem that
might arise in the Church.BL 3.03 Secretary
The secretary shall perform and/or direct and supervise the
performance of all duties and functions appropriate to this office.
These duties shall include:a. The keeping of accurate minutes of all of the congregational
meetings.
b. The preserving of the archives of the congregation. Furthermore,
the secretary shall serve as a member of and secretary to the
Church Council.BL 3.04 Treasurer
The treasurer shall perform and/or direct and supervise the
performance of all duties and functions appropriate to this office.
These duties shall include:a. The receiving of all funds of the congregation and depositing the
same in a bank in the name of the congregation.
b. The disbursing of funds necessary to all authorized financial
obligations of the congregation. All disbursements shall be made
only upon approval of the Church Council or in accordance with
specific resolutions of the congregation.
c. The keeping of detailed and accurate records and ledgers, subject
to the approval of the Church Council, pertaining to all financial
affairs of the congregation, except, the keeping of records of the
contributions of the individual members of the congregation. This
duty is assigned to the financial secretary.
d. The presenting of a statement showing the financial condition of
the congregation to the Church Council each month.
e. The presenting of a complete and duly audited financial statement
of the congregation to the annual meeting of the congregation.BL 3.05 The clerical and bookkeeping work required by the office of treasurer may be, at the option, approval and direction of the Church Council, delegated to employees on the staff and performed in the church office. The treasurer, subject to the approval of the church, is eligible to serve as a staff employee for this purpose.
BL 3.06 The treasurer shall furnish a surety bond to the congregation (at the congregation’s expense) of not less than five thousand dollars ($5,000.OO). The exact amount shall be determined by the Church Council. The treasurer shall serve as a member of the Stewardship Committee and of the Church Council.
BL 3.07 Financial Secretary
The financial secretary shall perform and/or direct and supervise the performance of all duties and functions assigned to this office as follows.
a. The keeping of detailed and accurate records of contributions
made by the individual members of the congregation when such
contributions are made in a manner that individual identification
for the contribution can be made.
b. All funds of the congregation channeled through this office shall
be promptly turned over to the treasurer in exchange for a receipt
thereof.
c. The distribution of offering envelopes to the members of the
congregation.
d. The submitting of reports to the Church Council as requested and
a duly audited annual report to the annual meeting of the
congregation.The financial secretary shall serve under the direction of, and in accordance with the procedures established by the Church Council.
Chapter 4
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING AND ELECTIONS
BL 4.01 All congregational meetings shall open with the Word of God and
close with the Lord’s prayer.BL 4.02 The president, and in his/her absence, the vice-president of the
congregation shall preside.BL 4.03 The annual business meeting shall be called in the month of January.
BL 4.04 The order of business for the annual business meeting of the
congregation shall be:a. The reading of the minutes.
b. The reports of:
? the pastor,
? the Church Council,
? the Auditing Committee,
? the treasurer,
? the Church School,
? other reports.
c. Approval of the budget.
d. Unfinished business.
e. New business.BL 4.05 The election meeting shall be called in the month of April.
BL 4.06 The order of business for the election shall be:
a. The reading of the minutes.
b. The report of the nominating committee.
c. Nomination form the floor.
d. Election (A majority vote for a candidate shall constitute an
election).
e. Unfinished business.
f. New business.
g. Report of the election.BL 4.07 A special meeting may be called as specified in the Constitution,
Chapter 10, C 10.02.a. The reading of the minutes.
b. A statement of purpose for the meeting.
c. No other business shall be transacted at this meeting.
Chapter 5CONGREGATION COUNCIL
BL 5.01 The council shall meet each month.
BL 5.02 It shall be the duty of the council to carry on the church business
through its committees, to insure that the spiritual and material
affairs of the congregation shall be cared for in conforming with the
constitution, by-laws and regular adopted resolutions of the
congregation.BL 5.03 A council member will chair each parish committee listed in by-laws.
BL 5.04 Monthly Council meeting:
a. The meeting shall be opened with the Word of God.
b. The president, and in her/his absence, the vice-president, shall
preside.BL 5.05 The order of business shall be:
a. The reading of the minutes.
b. The report of the pastor.
c. The treasurer report.
d. Committee reports.
e. Approve all bills for payment.
f. Unfinished business.
g. New business.
h. Close with the Lord’s prayer.Chapter 6
COMMITTEES
BL 6.01 The Executive Committee will consist of the president, vice-
president, secretary, pastor(s) and other staff members as
designated by the council.a. The board shall meet monthly prior to the church council to
review work of the congregation.
b. Set agenda for the council meeting.
c. Suggest items for consideration to committees.BL 6.02 The Executive Committee shall be empowered to make emergency
decisions for the best interests of the church when an emergency
arises that cannot wait for the next regular scheduled council meeting. At least one lay member of the Executive Committee and one pastoral staff member must be involved in said decision and be held responsible for any action until the next council meeting.BL 6.03 Preamble of committee structure for Central Lutheran Church.
BL 6.04 The following committees shall be formed to facilitate the mission
and ministry of Central Lutheran Church:
a. Parish Education Committee
b. Worship and Music Committee
c. Evangelism Committee
d. Youth Committee
e. Property Management
f. Fellowship Committee
g. Stewardship CommitteeBL 6.05 Each committee member shall be elected by the congregation and
shall hold no more than one elected office at a time.BL 6.06 Each committee shall be made up of nine members; each serving a
three year term with one-third of the members being elected each
year. Two consecutive terms is the maximum anyone may serve on
an elected committee. A member of the Luther League may be
added to those committees where it would be desirable to have such
representation. Those terms would be for one school year.BL 6.07 A council person shall be elected to a three year term to chair each
committee.BL 6.08 The president of the congregation and pastoral staff shall be an ex-
officio member of all committees and shall receive minutes of each
committee meeting.BL 6.09 Each committee shall meet at least quarterly: January, April, July
and October. Additional meetings can be held when necessary.BL 6.10 It shall be the function of each committee to suggest various
programs and activities and to implement those that receive
approval of the church council.BL 6.11 Each committee will be represented at the annual budget setting
process.
WORSHIP AND MUSIC COMMITTEE
The Committee shall:1) A council member will chair this committee.
2) The chair person will delegate duties of this committee to its members.
3) The chair will appoint a secretary who will be responsible for:
a. Keeping minutes of all meetings.
b. Provide copies of the minutes to the chairperson, committee
members, congregational president and senior pastor.4) Responsible for preparation and planning of all regular and special worship
services.
5) Assist pastoral staff serving Holy Communion during services.
6) Responsible for the chancel paramend, linens, banners and sacramental
preparation.
7) Provide decorations for special seasons and occasions and for the
distribution of the seasonal flowers.
8) Establish ushering program, procedures and schedule.
9) Provide greeters for all services, and maintain the guest book.
10) Responsible for locating, setting up, removing, storage, maintenance and
inventory of all worship and program related material.
11) Responsible for the acolyte program.12) Provide driver for church van for the elderly, handicapped and disabled to
attend church service.13) Nominate candidates for organist and senior choir director to the church
council.14) Establish criteria for music to be used in the regular worship services, special
services, weddings and funerals.15) Recruit and maintain a choir and talent pool for special music.
16) Suggest line items to the budget committee.
PARISH EDUCATION COMMITTEE
The committee shall:1) A council member will chair this committee.
2) The chairperson will delegate duties of this committee to its members.
3) The chair will appoint a secretary who will be responsible for:
a. Keeping minutes of all meetings.
b. Providing copies of the minutes to the chairperson, committee
members, congregational president and senior pastor.4) Develop an effective teaching ministry which includes the training of
teachers and leaders, and provide opportunity for study by every member
of the congregation. Sunday School, Confirmation, Vacation Bible School,
Adult Education and other educational instruction.5) Nominate candidates for Sunday School superintendent to the council.
6) Issue letter of call to teachers of all educational programs of the
congregation.7) Responsible for all teaching materials and equipment used in the
educational programs.8) Maintain the church library.
9) Sunday School superintendent(s) will be an ex-officio member.
10) Pre-school shall report to this committee.
11) Responsible for nursery attendant program; including hiring, training and
being sure the attendant is on duty at all scheduled church functions that
require this service.12) Suggest line items to the budget committee.
EVANGELISM COMMITTEE
The committee shall:
1) A council member will chair this committee.2) The chairperson will delegate duties of this committee to its members.
3) The chair will appoint a secretary who will be responsible for:
a. Keeping minutes of all meetings.
b. Providing copies of the minutes to the chairperson, committee
members, congregational president and senior pastor.4) Seek out the inactive, negligent and partial members of the congregation
and use every means possible to restore these members to active
participation.5) Make witnessing and serving the foremost function of every member of the
congregation.6) Seek out the unchurched in the community and bring them to a personal
faith in Jesus Christ.7) Call on visitors attending the church services.
8) Make calls on shut-ins in home or hospital.
9) Responsible for holding orientation sessions for new members.
10) Responsible for getting members to sponsor new members, to make every
attempt to get new member to active participation.11) Responsible for the church publicity, communications and public relations
which includes, but not limited to, radio, television, newspaper, brochures
and church directory.12) Suggest line items to the Budget Committee.
YOUTH COMMITTEE
The Committee shall:1) A council member will chair this committee.
2) The chairperson will delegate duties of this committee to its members.
3) The chair will appoint a secretary who will be responsible for:
a. Keeping minutes of all meetings.
b. Providing copies of the minutes to the chairperson, committee
members, congregational president and senior pastor.4) Support youth director/minister in his/her work.
5) Develop an effective youth ministry program that will include, but not limited
to the following: Junior League (CAP), Luther League, scouting, camping,
retreats, recreation, athletics, music, bible study and other youth outreach
into the community such as service projects.6) Encourage a meaningful and balanced program that includes personal
faith, worship, education, witness, stewardship, service, fellowship and
recreation.7) Help to prepare congregational youth for occupational or academic training
beyond high school and maintain contact with them during such training.8) Require two Luther League students to serve on the Youth Committee.
9) Suggest line items to the Budget Committee.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
The Committee shall:
The Committee shall:1) A council member will chair this committee.
2) The chairperson will delegate duties of this committee to its members.
3) The chair will appoint a secretary who will be responsible for:
a. Keeping minutes of all meetings.
b. Providing copies of the minutes to the chairperson, committee
members, congregational president and senior pastor.4) Responsible for maintenance, repair and improvement of all physical
properties. This will include, but not limited to, church building, education
building, intern house and Rose Street house.5) Make a thorough inspection and written inventory of all physical properties
annually , and report the condition along with recommendation for repair to
the church council.6) Responsible for the general appearance and care of lawn, shrubs, flower
beds and parking lot.7) Provide for equipment needs of the congregation, including the planning for
future building and expansion.8) Maintain records and drawings of all church property.
9) Responsible for the church van. This will include, but not limited to, the
following: policy guidelines, scheduling, maintenance and repairs and
recruiting and instructing drivers.
10) Suggest line items to the Budget Committee.
STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE
The Committee shall:1) A council member will chair this committee.
2) The chairperson will delegate duties of this committee to its members.
3) The chair will appoint a secretary who will be responsible for:
a. Keeping minutes of all meetings.
b. Providing copies of the minutes to the chairperson, committee
members, congregational president and senior pastor.4) The congregation treasurer will be an ex-officio member.
5) Develop and execute scripturally a program in which every member
understands the church financial needs.6) Create annually a program to call on each member of the congregation for
pledge commitments and to encourage and challenge growth giving, which
should increase our giving by 1% each year.7) Establish, maintain and supply a talent inventory of each member listing
abilities, interests and service.8) Responsible for any special fund raising project to include, but not limited to,
church building fund and organ fund.9) Responsible for “Our World Mission” at annual budget setting process.
FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE
The Committee shall:1) A council member will chair this committee.
2) The chairperson will delegate duties of this committee to its members.
3) The chair will appoint a secretary who will be responsible for:
a. Keeping minutes of all meetings.
b. Providing copies of the minutes to the chairperson, committee
members, congregational president and senior pastor.4) Be composed of a representative of each of the following groups within the
congregation:
• Seniors,
• Roaring Twenties,
• Prime Time,
• MOC,
• CLCW,
• ACT,
• Luther League,
• New Member(s) Coordinator,
• Sunday School representative5) Coordinate the scheduling of all congregational fellowship activities and to
avoid scheduling conflicts.6) Coordinate the publicity of all such activities.
7) Post and maintain a scheduling calendar in a prominent place for all groups
to use in scheduling and publicizing their events.8) Suggest line items to the Budget Committee.
Chapter 7REPORTS OF ORGANIZATIONS
BL 7.01 All organizations affiliated with the congregation that handle funds
shall submit accounts at the annual meeting of the congregation.Chapter 8
AMENDMENTS TO THE BY-LAWS
BL 8.01 A proposed amendment to these by-laws must be presented at a
legally called meeting of the congregation. If the amendment is
approved at this meeting by a majority, it shall be referred to a
subsequent legally called meeting of the congregation, when a
majority vote shall be required for adoption.