Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church CONSTITUTION

Transcription

1 Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church CONSTITUTION Table of Contents Chapter 1. Name and Incorporation Chapter 2. Confession of Faith Chapter 3. Nature of the church Chapter 4. Statement of purpose Chapter 5. Powers of the congregation Chapter 6. Church affiliation Chapter 7. Property ownership Chapter 8. Membership Chapter 9. The Pastor Chapter 10. Congregation meeting Chapter 11. Officers Chapter 12. Congregation council Chapter 13. Congregation committees Chapter.14 Organizations within the congregation Chapter 15. Discipline of members and adjudication Chapter 16. Bylaws Chapter 17. Amendments Chapter 18. Continuing resolutions Chapter 19. Indemnification Chapter 20. Parish authorization (not applicable for Faith) Codification C for Constitution, followed by the chapter number, example C12 for Congregation Council. B for Bylaw, followed by the bylaw number and referenced chapter or the constitution, example B1 (ref. C12.01) R for Resolutions, followed by the resolution number and referenced chapter of the constitution, example R1.(ref.C12.01) A for Amendment, followed by the year it was amended, examples B1 (ref.c12.01.a04) or R1 (ref. C12.01.A04) 1

2 *PREAMBLE (* Required provision) We, 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 Faith Evangelical Lutheran of Silver Creek Township, in Wright County, Minnesota. The address shall be Clementa Avenue, NW, Monticello, Minnesota. C1.02. For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the congregation of Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church is hereinafter designated as this congregation. C1.11. This congregation shall be incorporated under the laws of the State of Minnesota. This congregation shall be incorporated as a non-profit under the laws of the State of Minnesota. 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 2

3 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. 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 a 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. 3

4 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. h. Foster and participate in interdependent relationships with other congregations. i. Foster and participate in ecumenical relationships consistent with churchwide 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 group and shall review their actions. Such descriptions shall be contained in continuing resolutions in the section on 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 this congregation s governing documents is recognized. All remaining authority is retained by the congregation. The congregation is authorized to: a. call a pastor as provided in Chapter 9; b. terminate the call of a pastor as provided in Chapter 9; c. call or terminate the call of associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers. d. adopt amendments to the constitution, as provided in Chapter 17, and amendments to the bylaws, as specified in Chapter 16; e. approve the annual budget; f. acquire real and personal property by gift, devise, purchase, or other lawful means; 4

5 g. hold title to and use its property for any and all activities consistent with its purpose; h. sell, mortgage, lease, transfer, or otherwise dispose of its property by any lawful means; i. elect its Congregation Council, and require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the constitution, and, continuing resolutions. *C5.04. This congregation shall choose from among its voting members laypersons to serve as voting members of the Broader Associations as well as persons to represent it at meetings of any conference, cluster, coalition, or other area subdivision of which it is a member. C5.05. This congregation may have a mission endowment fund that will operate as specified in this congregation s bylaws. The purpose of the mission endowment fund is to provide for mission work beyond the operational budget of this congregation. C5.06.A07 This congregation may have a scholarship fund that will operate as specified in this congregation s bylaws. The purpose of the scholarship fund is to provide an incentive to individuals whom may enter into the Lutheran ministry. Chapter 6.CHURCH AFFILIATION *C6.01. The congregation is a member of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC) and is subject to its policies and disciplines. *C6.02. This congregation may terminate its relationship with the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC) 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. To become effective, the decision to sever must be ratified at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present held at least ninety days after the initial vote was taken. *C6.03. To join another synod, the same procedure in *C6.02. will be followed. Chapter 7.PROPERTY OWNERSHIP *C7.01. All property that is acquired by the congregation will be held, owned, and titled in the name of the congregation. The congregation s real property will not be purchased, disposed of, or encumbered in any manner except as approved at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present. *C7.02. If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a legally called and conducted special 5

6 meeting of this congregation vote to terminate the congregation s existence, title to its land and other estates, real and personal, must be used for charitable purposes as directed by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present. *C7.03. If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a legally 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. *C7.04. If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a legally 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. Chapter 8.MEMBERSHIP *C8.01. Members of this congregation shall be those baptized persons on the roll of this 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 by 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, during the current or preceding calendar year, shall have communed in this congregation and shall have made a contribution of record to this congregation. d. Associate members are persons holding membership in other Christian congregations who wish to retain such membership but desire to participate in the life and mission of this congregation, or persons who wish to retain a relationship with this congregation while being members of other congregations. 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 6

7 c. support the work of this congregation, and its broader associations 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 whom 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 legally called for that purpose. *C9.02. Only a member of the clergy roster of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC) or a candidate for the roster of ordained ministers who has been recommended for the congregation by the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC) may be called as a pastor of this congregation. *C9.03. Consistent with the faith and practice of the Lutheran Church, a. Every ordained minister shall: 1) preach the Word; 2) administer the sacraments; 3) conduct public worship; 4) provide pastoral care; and 5) speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God s love for the world. b. Each ordained minister with a congregational call shall, within the congregation: 1) offer instruction, confirm, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead; 2) supervise all schools and organizations of this congregation; 3) install regularly elected members of the Congregation Council; and 4) with the council, administer discipline. c. Every pastor shall: 1) strive to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation, and abroad; 2) seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel; 3) impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry through distribution of its periodicals and other publications; and 7

8 *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 for the following reasons: 1) mutual agreement to terminate the call or the completion of a call for a specific term; 2) resignation of the pastor, which shall become effective, unless otherwise agreed, 30 days after the date on which it was submitted; 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; 6) the dissolution of the congregation; or 7) suspension of the congregation as a result of discipline proceedings. b. In the case of alleged local difficulties that imperil the effective functioning of the congregation, all concerned persons shall be heard, after which 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. If either party fails to assent, the congregation may dismiss the pastor at a legally called meeting, either (a) by a two-thirds majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the committee did not recommend termination of the call, or (b) by a simple majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the committee recommended termination of the call. c. If, in the course of proceedings described in *C9.05.d., the committee concludes that there may be grounds for disciplinary action, the committee shall make recommendations concerning disciplinary action. *C9.06. At a time of pastoral vacancy, an interim pastor shall be appointed by the Congregation Council. *C9.07. During the period of service, an interim pastor shall have the rights and duties in the congregation of a regularly called pastor and may delegate the same in part to a supply pastor with the consent of the 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 before beginning service in a call to another congregation or employment in another ministry setting. 8

9 *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. As occasion requires, the documents may be revised through a similar consultation. *C9.11. The pastor of this congregation: a. shall keep accurate parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members dismissed, or members excluded from the congregation; b. shall become a member of this congregation upon receipt and acceptance of the letter of call. In a parish of multiple congregations, the pastor shall hold membership in one of the congregations. Chapter 10.CONGREGATION MEETING C The annual meeting of this congregation shall be held at a time specified in the bylaws. C A special Congregation Meeting may be called by the pastor, the Congregation Council, or the president of this congregation, and shall be called by the president of the congregation upon the written request of 10 percent of the voting members. The call for each special meeting shall specify the purpose for which it is to be held and no other business shall be transacted. C 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. C C permitted. 10% of the voting membership shall constitute a quorum. Voting by proxy or by absentee ballot shall not be C All actions approved by the congregation shall be by majority vote of those voting members present and voting, except as otherwise provided in this constitution or by state law. C Robert s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of all meetings of this congregation. Chapter 11.OFFICERS C The officers of this congregation shall be a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. 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. 9

10 C The Congregation Council shall elect its officers, the president, vice president and secretary and they shall be the officers of the congregation. The officers shall be elected by the Congregation Council and shall serve for one year or until their successors are elected. This term shall begin at the first regularly scheduled council meeting following the annual congregational meeting. C No officer shall hold more than one office at a time. No elected officer shall be eligible to serve more than two consecutive terms in the same office, with the exception of the treasurer. C11.04 The roles and responsibilities for other church positions shall be contained in the Bylaws. Chapter 12.CONGREGATION COUNCIL C The voting membership of the Congregation Council shall consist of the pastor(s),and not more than 12 members of the congregation. Any voting member of the congregation may be elected, subject only to the limitation on 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 four successive regular meetings of the Congregation Council without cause. Consistent with the laws of the state in which this congregation is incorporated, the congregation may adopt procedures for the removal of a member of the Congregation Council in other circumstances. C The members of the Congregation Council except the pastor(s) shall be elected to serve for three years or until their successors are elected. Such members shall be eligible to serve no more than two full terms consecutively. Their terms shall begin at the start of the first regularly scheduled council meeting following the annual meeting. C 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. Individuals who have served less than one-half of a regular term shall be eligible for nomination and possible election to a full term. C 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 Lutheran Church. 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 or employment. 10

11 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 its broader associations as well as cooperation with other congregations, both Lutheran and non- Lutheran. i. To recommend and encourage the use of program resources consistent with the Confession of Faith in Chapter 2. j. To seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel. C The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the financial and property matters of this congregation. a. The Congregation Council shall be the board of directors 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 Minnesota, 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 $ 2, for items not included in the budget. d. The Congregation Council shall approve an annual budget for adoption by this congregation, shall supervise the expenditure of funds in accordance therewith following its adoption, and may incur obligations of more than $2, 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. 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. f. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for this congregation s investments and its total insurance program. C The Congregation Council shall see that the provisions of this constitution, its bylaws and the continuing resolutions are carried out. C The Congregation Council shall provide for an annual review of the membership roster. C The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the employment and supervision of the salaried lay workers of this congregation. C The Congregation Council shall submit a comprehensive report to this congregation at the annual meeting. 11

12 C The Congregation Council shall normally meet once a month. Special meetings may be called by the pastor or the president, and shall be called by the president 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. C 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 the pastor or interim pastor requests or consents to be absent and has given prior approval to the agenda for a particular regular or special meeting, which shall be the only business considered at that meeting. Chronic or repeated absence of the pastor or interim pastor who has refused approval of the agenda of a subsequent regular or special meeting shall not preclude action by the Congregation Council. Chapter 13.CONGREGATION COMMITTEES C The officers of this congregation and the pastor shall constitute the Executive Committee. C13.02.A08 A Nominating Committee of six voting members of this congregation as follows: -Two outgoing church council members (if possible), one of which will be selected as the chairperson by the church council. -Four members elected at the annual meeting by the congregation for a term of one year. -Members of the nominating committee are not eligible for consecutive reelection. C13.03.A08 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 shall be three years, with one member elected each year. The chairperson will be the senior committee member (senior meaning number of years on the audit committee). Members shall be eligible for reelection. C A Mutual Ministry Committee (in the absence of a mutual ministry committee, the duties shall be fulfilled by the executive committee) shall be appointed jointly by the president and the pastor. Term of office shall be two years, with three members to be appointed each successive year. C When a pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee of six voting members shall be elected by the Congregation Council. Term of office will terminate upon installation of the newly called pastor. C Other committees of this congregation may be formed, as the need arises, by decision of the Congregation Council. C Duties of committees of this congregation shall be specified in the continuing resolutions. Chapter 14.ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE CONGREGATION C 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 12

13 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. C Special interest groups may be organized only after authorization has been given by the Congregation Council. Chapter 15.DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS AND ADJUDICATION *C 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. If for any reason, the pastor is unable to administer the admonitions required by a. and b. hereof, the president or vice president shall administer such admonitions. *C If discipline against a member proceeds beyond counseling and admonition by the pastor, charges against the accused member(s) that are specific and in writing shall be prepared by member(s) of the congregation who shall sign the charges as the accuser(s). The written charges shall be filed with the pastor, who shall advise the Congregation Council of the need to issue a written citation to the accused and the accusers that specifies the time and place of the hearing before the Congregation Council. The written charges shall accompany the written citation to the accused. A member charged with the offense shall appear before the Congregation Council after having received a written citation, at least ten days prior to the meeting. If the member charged with the offense fails to appear at the scheduled hearing, the Congregation Council may proceed with the hearing and may pass judgment in the member s absence. *C Members of the Congregation Council who participate in the preparation of the written charges or who present evidence or testimony in the hearing before the Congregation Council are disqualified from voting upon the question of the guilt of the accused member. Should the allegations be sustained by a two-thirds majority vote of the members of the Congregation Council who are not disqualified but who are present and voting, and renewed admonition prove ineffectual, 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. *C 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. 13

14 *C For disciplinary actions in this congregation, due process shall be observed. *C No member of a congregation shall be subject to discipline for offenses that the Congregation Council has previously heard and decided. Chapter 16.BYLAWS *C This congregation may adopt bylaws. No bylaw may conflict with this constitution. *C 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. *C 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 is called for that purpose and that the Congregation Council notify the congregation s members by mail of the proposal with the council s recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the Congregation Meeting. Chapter 17.AMENDMENTS *C Amendments may be proposed by at least five (5) 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 a regular or special Congregation Meeting called for that purpose. The Congregation Council shall notify the congregation s members by mail of the proposal together with the council s recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the meeting. *C An amendment to this constitution, proposed under *C17.01., shall: a. be approved at a legally called Congregation 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 voting; and c. have the effective date included in the resolution and noted in the constitution. Chapter 18.CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS *C The Congregation Council may enact continuing resolutions. Such continuing resolutions may not conflict with the constitution or bylaws of this congregation. *C Continuing resolutions shall be enacted or amended by a two-thirds vote of all voting members of the Congregation Council. Chapter 19.INDEMNIFICATION *C Consistent with the provisions of the laws under which this congregation is incorporated, this congregation may adopt provisions 14

15 providing indemnification for each person who, by reason of the fact that such person is or was a Congregation Council member, officer, employee, agent, or other member of any committee of this congregation, was or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending, or completed civil, criminal, administrative, arbitration, or investigative proceeding. Chapter 20.PARISH AUTHORIZATION [*Required provisions when congregation is part of a parish] *C This congregation may unite in partnership with one or more other congregations. to form a parish. Except as provided in *C and *C20.03., a written agreement approved by the voting members of each congregation participating in the parish, shall specify the powers and responsibilities that have been delegated to a Parish Council. *C Whenever a letter of call is being recommended for extension to an ordained minister of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC) or a candidate for the roster of ordained ministers who has been recommended to the congregation by the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC) to serve the congregations of a parish, such letter of call shall be first approved by a twothirds vote at congregational meetings of each of the congregations forming the parish. If any congregation of the parish should fail to approve extending this call, the other congregation(s) in the same parish shall have the right to terminate the parish arrangement. *C Any one of the congregations of a parish may terminate the call of a pastor In such case, the other congregation(s) in the same parish shall have the right to terminate the pastor 15

16 Bylaws B1 (ref. C12.04) The Congregation Council members are expected to attend worship services 50% of the time or voluntarily resign from the council. B2 (ref. C12.01) A Husband and Wife shall not serve on the council at the same time. B3 (ref. c10.01) The date of the annual meeting of Faith Luthearn Church shall be either the third or fourth Sundays in January. Date and time to be determined by the church council at the October meeting each year. B4 (ref. N/A) The fiscal church year shall be from January 1 through December 31. B5 (ref. C4.04) Orgainizational structure chart is attachment 1. This organizational structure can be revised annually by the Church Council. B6 (ref. C11.01a) President 1. To provide leadership and direction to the council and congregation. 2. To perform the duties of Chairman at all Council meetings. Prepare the agenda in consultation with the Pastor. 3. To perform the duties of Chairman at the annual Congregational meeting and all special Congregational meetings, and prepare the agenda for these meetings. Vice-President 1. To perform the duties of the President when the President is unable to perform those duties. Council Secretary 1. To document what is discussed at council and congregational meetings. 2. To keep council meeting records organized and inform the membership of the most recent approved minutes by posting or newsletter. Treasurer 1. To manage the congregation s general operating funds, checking account and the long term building fund account. 2. To make payments for the church as necessary and within the approved budget. This includes all salaries, utilities, supplies, outreach, building funds and miscellaneous. 3. To provide the church council with a monthly Treasurer s report and submit it at the monthly council meeting. 4. To provide an annual report for the congregational annual meeting and present an annual summary of the previous year s financial transactions. B7.A08 (ref. C11.04) Roles and responsiblilities of other Church postitions: Although these positions are appointed by the church council, a notice of when the selection will be made should be 16

17 published. This will allow all interested parties to submit a letter of interest to the council. Church Secretary 1. The Church Secretary shall be hired by the Congregational Council, the Pastor or a committee suited for this purpose. 2. Duties include, but are not limited to the following: a. Prepare worship service bulletins, monthly newsletters, mailings, and scheduling b. Keep up-to-date membership records c. Enter pledges and contributions into the computer. d. Assist committees and groups with various projects e. Back-up and assist the Financial Secretary, when needed. f. Maintain office supplies. Financial Secretary 1. Collect the offering after Sunday and special services, count the offering, and monitor computer contribution entries. 2. As soon as possible after the service deposit the offering in the bank and notify the Treasurer of the deposit. 3. Print and distribute quarterly offering statements. 4. Record designated contributions to the appropriate funds, such as memorial, building, music, youth, and a pastor s discretionary. Parish Nurse 1. The Parish Nurse is an experienced registered nurse who uses health education, and spiritual maturity to promote a healthy body, mind, and spirit. This calling is fulfilled in and lived though the community of faith. 2. The role of Parish Nurse is: a. Integrator of faith and health b. Health educator c. Personal health counselor d. Referral source e. Facilitator of volunteers f. Health advocate Sunday School Superintendent 1. Recruit and train teachers 2. Responsible for choosing and maintaining curriculum during the year. 3. Sets Sunday School schedule 4. Schedules events such as recital and Lunch Box Social. 5. Recruits a director for Vacation Bible School and assists when needed. 6. Recruits a leader for the Christmas program and assists if needed. 7. Substitutes for last minute teacher cancellations. 8. Prays for teachers and students. 9. Responsible for training the Assistant Sunday School Superintendent. 10. Other duties deemed necessary as needed 17

18 Sunday School Assistant Superintendent 1. Assist the Sunday School Superintendent with the duties as outlined above. 2. Be given preferential consideration for the position of Sunday School Superintendent. Sunday School Teachers 1. Teach the word of God. 2. Nurture their students in the word of God, so as to grow up in the Christian faith. 3. Follow established curriculum through out the school year as determined by the Sunday School Superintendent. 4. Adheres to the Sunday School schedule. 5. Participates in the Christmas program, recital, lunch box social and all other Sunday School events. 6. Be responsible for nurturing the interest of future Sunday School Superintendents. 7. Pray for their students. 8. Encourage Sunday School students to become involved in youth activities. Cemetery Board The non-denominational Lake Side Cemetery Association was formed on February 11, The original Cemetery had 96 lots, each large enough for four gravesites. An additional 24 lots were added in Reasonably complete records from 1889 to 1940 exist. Records from 1940 to 1983 have not been located and are presumed lost. During this period the cemetery was neglected and the association seems to have been inactive, although burials continued to be made. The Lake Side Cemetery Association was re-organized in The new association refurbished the grounds, summarized the old records to the extent that they were available, and solicited donations to establish a perpetual care fund. The cemetery was resurveyed in 1984 and 69 additional lots (now called blocks) were added and the sale of gravesites resumed. The complete records of the Association from 1889 through 1994 are in the archives of the Wright County Historical Society. There are two indexed notebooks: Number 1 with records from 1889 through 1940, and Number 2 with records from 1940 to The cemetery association retains records from In 1994 the Association members were getting older and several had moved out of state. The Association asked Faith Lutheran Church if it would be willing to take over administering the cemetery. Although retaining the status of a Public Cemetery regulated by Minnesota Statues Chapter 306, Lake Side Cemetery is now overseen by Faith Lutheran Church. The Cemetery Board consists of three (3) members with selection and terms as follows: 1. An Administrator chairs the cemetery board and oversees the day to day operations of the cemetery and its perpetual care fund. This position is appointed by the Church Council. 2. Two Cemetery Board Members serving staggered, two (2) year terms are elected by the congregation at the annual meeting. 18

19 B8 (ref. C5.05) Bylaws for the Mission Endowment Fund Plan 1. Committee Membership. The committee shall consist of six members to be appointed by the Council. In addition, the president of the Congregation, or his/her authorized representative, shall be an exoficio member with full voting rights. The term of each regular member shall be three years, with no member serving more than two consecutive three-year terms except as explained below. At the option of the Council, the first named members may be named for varying terms of one, two, or three years, allowing continuity on the committee. Any initial member named for less than three years shall be eligible for two additional full three-year terms. The Church Council will appoint a person to fill the remaining term for any vacancy that may occur. This will be considered a partial term and the person appointed will be eligible for two additional three-year terms. The committee shall meet as frequently as deemed in the best interest of the fund but not less than semi-annually. 2. The committee shall elect from its membership a chairperson, recording secretary, and financial secretary. a. The chairperson shall preside at all committee meetings. b. The recording secretary shall maintain complete and accurate minutes of all meetings and supply a copy thereof to each member. Each member shall keep a complete copy of minutes to be delivered to his or her successor. The recording secretary shall also supply a copy of the minutes to the Church Council. c. The financial secretary shall maintain a complete and accurate accounts for the fund. The books of the fund shall be audited annually by a certified public accountant or other appropriate person who is not a member of the committee. 3. The committee shall file a written report to be presented to the congregation at the annual meeting and at any time upon special request by the Church Council. Such a report shall be a full and complete account of the administration of the fund during the preceding year. 4. The committee may request at the expense of the fund, income to have such professional investment counseling, legal advice, or related advice as it deems to be in the best interest of the fund. 5. In the best interest of the income fund, the committee may request and seek professional investment counseling, legal advice, or related advice at it deems necessary. Expenses for these services will be taken from the fund. 6. All assets will be held in the name of the Faith Lutheran Church Endowment Fund. The construction of the fund are to be separate from the church itself and not be considered an asset of Faith Lutheran Church for legal liability purposes, particularly in consideration of the charitable designations intended for its use by donors. Assets of whatever kind considered part of the fund are to be owned separately by the fund. 19

20 7. Recommendations to hold, sell, exchange, rent, lease, transfer, convert, invest, reinvest, and in all other respects to manage and control the assets of the fund, which may include stocks, bonds, debentures, mortgages, notes, or other securities, using wise and prudent judgment, will be at the sole discretion of the committee. Any input from other sources will be in and advisory capacity only. Distribution of Income 1. The Committee shall distribute the fund income with the general purposes and ministry of Faith Lutheran Church as the focus. These purposes include but are not limited to seminaries, colleges, students, social service agencies, congregational development, capital improvements, disaster relief, or any and all similarly related worthy designation. 2. The perceived intent of the committee is to keep the principal of the fund intact as well as allowing for inflation. With this in mind, the committee shall use the standard endowment philosophy of distributing five percent of the corpus of the fund annually as its distribution policy. 3. When, in the opinion of the Committee, circumstances are so dire, and of such an emergency nature that the future of Faith Lutheran Church is at stake, and the only recourse seems to be the use of the funds principal, the committee may recommend such authorizing action to the Congregation. 4. The Faith Lutheran Church Endowment Fund has separate accounts (which are also called funds), and the investment income is allocated to each account in proportion to the dollars in these separate accounts. 5. The Faith Lutheran Church Endowment Fund will allow individuals to establish a named (restricted) fund within the endowment as long as the following conditions are met. A. The fund must have a purpose consistent with that of the Faith Lutheran Church Endowment Fund. B. The fund must have a minimum starting balance of at least $20,000 and/or, on its own, must support the purpose for which it was created. 6. If the purpose no longer exists for any restricted funds within the endowment, the Committee will recommend to the Church Council that the fund be terminated. Monies remaining in the fund would be transferred to another fund consistent with the donors intent. If possible the donor or donors family will be contacted for advice for the reallocation of said funds, but the decision shall be by the Committee and shall be consistent with the original terms of the gift. Disposition of Principal The Committee shall evaluate the purpose and objectives of the fund five (5) years from the date of its creation and every five (5) years thereafter. At such time consideration shall be given to the amount of accumulated principal and the designated benevolent mission of the Fund. The results of the five-year evaluation shall be reported to the Church Council. If it is determined that the amount of accumulate principal has grown to the point that Christ s mission could be better served through a principal reduction, or that the designated benevolent missions are in need of change, such 20