Immanuel Lutheran Church, Grand Ledge, Michigan

 

CONSTITUTION FOR
IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH
OF GRAND LEDGE OF THE
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA

Revised November 2006

Note:  Where Committees are referred to in the Constitution, the Bylaws refer to them as Teams.

 

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.


PREAMBLE

Recognizing our unity in the Christian faith and our common practice of it, and desiring to express a fellowship in worship and work; knowing our spiritual needs, mindful of our Christian privileges and duties, and wishing to observe orderly cooperation, we adopt the following constitution.


TABLE OF CONTENTS:

PREAMBLE

Table of Contents

ARTICLE I - NAME

ARTICLE II - CONFESSION OF FAITH

ARTICLE III - NATURE OF THE CHURCH

ARTICLE IV - PURPOSE

ARTICLE V - SYNOD MEMBERSHIP

ARTICLE VI - MEMBERSHIP IN THIS CONGREGATION

ARTICLE VII - DISCIPLINE

ARTICLE VIII - THE PASTORAL CALL

ARTICLE IX - POWER OF THIS CONGREGATION

ARTICLE X - LEGAL OWNERSHIP

ARTICLE XI - MEETINGS OF THIS CONGREGATION

ARTICLE XII - THE CHURCH COUNCIL

ARTICLE XIII - BYLAWS

ARTICLE XIV - CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT


BYLAWS

SECTION 1 -  COMMUNION PARTICIPATION

SECTION 2 - CONFLICTING LOYALTIES

SECTION 3 - MEMBERSHIP

  A. ADMISSION TO BAPTIZED MEMBERSHIP
   B.  ADMISSION TO CONFIRMED MEMBERSHIP
  C. ADMISSION TO VOTING MEMBERSHIP
  D. ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP
  E. CARE OF MEMBERSHIP
  F. PROCEDURE FOR DISCIPLINE

SECTION 4 - THE PASTORAL CALL (Cf. Article VIII of the Constitution)

SECTION 5 - PROCEDURES FOR ANNUAL & SPECIAL MEETINGS (Cf. Article XI of Constitution)

SECTION 6  - THE CHURCH COUNCIL

  A. MEMBERSHIP OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL
  B. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL
  C. TEAMS
  D.

DUTIES OF THE OFFICERS AND TEAMS OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL

   

Gathering Resource Team
Preparing Resource Team
Serving Resource Team
Support Resource Team

  E. MEETINGS

SECTION 7 - THE SUNDAY SCHOOL

SECTION 8 - NOMINATING COMMITTEE

SECTION 9 - REPORTS OF ORGANIZATIONS

SECTION 10 - MINISTERIAL RECORDS

SECTION 11 - LEGAL AFFAIRS

SECTION 12 - MUTUAL MINISTRY SUPPORT TEAM

Appendix of Current Ministry Opportunities 

(NOTE:  The Appendix is NOT a part of the Bylaws; rather, the Appendix provides detailed information regarding the ministries at Immanuel).

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ARTICLE I - NAME

The name of this congregation shall be:  IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF GRAND LEDGE.

For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Grand Ledge congregation is hereinafter designated as "this congregation".

This congregation shall be incorporated in its own name, as a non-profit corporation, under the laws of the State of Michigan.

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ARTICLE II - CONFESSION OF FAITH

1.   This congregation confesses the Triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

2.   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.

3.   This congregation accepts all the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments as a whole and in all their parts as the divinely inspired, revealed, and inerrant Word of God and submits to this as the only infallible authority in all matters of faith and life.

4.   As brief and true statements of the doctrine of the Word of God, this congregation accepts and confesses the following symbols, subscription to which shall be required of all its members: (1) the ancient ecumenical Creeds; the Apostolic, the Nicene, and the Athanasian; (2) the Unaltered Augsburg Confession and Luther's Small Catechism.

5.   As further elaboration of and in accord with these Lutheran Symbols, this congregation also received the other documents in the Book of Concord of 1580; the Apology, Luther's Large Catechism, the Smalcald Articles, and the Formula of Concord; and recognizes them as normative for its theology.

6.   This congregation accepts without reservation the symbolical books of the evangelical Lutheran Church, not insofar as, but because they are the presentation and explanation of the pure doctrine of the Word of God and a summary of the faith of the Evangelical Lutheran Church.

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ARTICLE III - NATURE OF THE CHURCH

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.

As an expression of the unity of the church in Christ this congregation recognizes the desirability of conforming to the practices of other member congregations in using such forms of worship, including liturgies and hymn books, as are recommended by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Only such variations as are authorized by this congregation shall be permitted.

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ARTICLE IV - PURPOSE

The purpose of this congregation shall be:

1.  To glorify God;

2.  To proclaim the Word of God as interpreted by the Lutheran Faith;

3.  To proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior;

4.  To serve the community as a whole, i.e., city, area, state, nation and work.

5.  To provide:

a.    Fellowship - to be a gathering of God's people, to work, to listen, to share God's forgiveness and love;

b.     A place for worship and education and in which the fellowship may take place;

c.    A center of learning about God and of his love as demonstrated in Jesus Christ by the means of grace (the Bible, Holy Baptism and the Lord's Supper).

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ARTICLE V - SYNOD MEMBERSHIP

1.  For the better attainment of its objectives and purposes, this congregation shall hold membership in the North/West Lower Michigan Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and be subject to the policy and discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

2.   Being affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, this congregation is ready to be served by representatives of the Church in the various capacities for which they have been called or appointed

3.   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 by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation.

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 notice 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 present. 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 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.

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ARTICLE VI - MEMBERSHIP IN THIS CONGREGATION

1.   Members of this congregation shall be those who are designated as such at the time that this constitution is adopted, and those who are admitted thereafter; and who maintain their membership in accordance with the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws. There shall be no membership restrictions with respect to race or color.

2.   Members shall be classified as (a) baptized; (b) confirmed; (c) voting; (d) associate.

a.    Baptized members shall be those who, as provided in the bylaws, have been baptized in the name of the Triune God.

b.    Confirmed members are baptized persons who have been confirmed in this congregation, or by transfer as confirmed members from other Lutheran congregations, or baptized persons received by affirmation of faith.

c.    Voting members shall be those who are confirmed members in good standing, as provided in the bylaws.

d.    Associate members shall be those temporarily affiliated with this congregation. All rights and privileges of membership will be extended to them with the exception of voting and holding office.

3.   It shall be the privilege and duty of members of this congregation to:

a.     actively participate in worship services and programs of the Church;

b.     make diligent use of the Means of Grace - God's Word and the Sacraments - Baptism and the Lord's Supper;

c.     prayerfully consider giving a proportion of his/her substance to support the work of this congregation and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;

d.     live a Christian life and in accord with God's Word;

e.     assume a ministry for Christ as dictated by the individual's talents.

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ARTICLE VII - DISCIPLINE

1.   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.

2.   Discipline shall be administered by the Church Council on behalf of this congregation, with the right of appeal to this congregation.

 3.   Discipline in this congregation shall be exercised in accordance with Matthew 18:15-18.

Matthew 18:15-18 - If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the Church; and if he refuses to listen even to the Church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

4.   Procedures for the exercise of discipline shall be those provided in the bylaws.  Bylaw Section 3, Paragraph F.

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 ARTICLE VIII - THE PASTORAL CALL

1.  Authority to call a pastor shall rest in this congregation. Such authority to Call shall be exercised by at least a two-thirds majority vote of members present and voting at a meeting called for that purpose. Before a Call is issued, the officers, or a committee authorized by this congregation, shall seek the advice and help of the Synodical Bishop.

2.  Only clergy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in good standing, or one who is recommended for Call by the Synodical Bishop, may be called as pastor of this congregation.

3.   The pastor, as spiritual leader of this congregation, shall be an ex-officio member of the Church Council and of all boards, committees, and organizations of this congregation.

4.  No one shall be permitted to officiate in the pastoral office of this congregation who is not a member in good standing of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or who is not acceptable according to the standards of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

5.   If in the judgment of this congregation the pastor is not able to serve it satisfactorily, s/he may be requested to resign.  However, before the resignation is requested, the matter shall first be carefully considered at a meeting of the Church Council, the Pastor and the Synodical Bishop. The Synodical Bishop will act in accordance with the Synod Constitution, Section S14.13, which follows:

(S14.13)    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 specified term of years;

(2)   resignation of the pastor;

(3) inability to conduct the pastoral office effectively in that 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 Congregational 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 two ordained ministers and one lay person.

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 the 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 S14.13.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 majority vote of members present at a regularly called meeting and with the approval of the Bishop, or by a two-thirds vote 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 matter.

f.     If in the course of the proceedings, it should become apparent that the pastoral office cannot be conducted effectively in the congregation being served by the ordained minister due to local conditions, the Bishop of the Synod may temporarily suspend the pastor  from service in the congregation without prejudice and with pay provided through a joint churchwide/Synod fund and with housing provided by the congregation.

6.   Matters of discipline involving the pastor for alleged defection in doctrine or for alleged conduct unbecoming a pastor, shall be referred by the Church Council to the Synodical Bishop for action according to the Constitution and Bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

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ARTICLE IX - POWER OF THIS CONGREGATION

1.   In all matters of Christian faith and life, the authority of the Word of God shall be supreme.

2.   In all matters left undecided by the Word of God and not subject to civil laws, this congregation itself, and not any individual or group within it, shall have the right of ultimate decision.

3.   All schools, societies, and other organizations within this congregation shall be organized with the approval of this congregation and operate in harmony with its policies.

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ARTICLE X - LEGAL OWNERSHIP

1.  Title to all real or personal property acquired by this congregation, its organizations, or individuals for use by this congregation and its organizations, shall be held by this congregation as a corporation.

2.  Real property shall not be purchased, disposed of, or encumbered in any manner except by resolution adopted by vote of two-thirds or more of the members present and voting at a legally called meeting of this congregation.

3.  If this congregation ceases to exist, title to undisposed property shall pass to the North/West Lower Michigan Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

4.   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.

5.   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 North/West Lower Michigan Synod.

6.   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 established 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.

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ARTICLE XI - MEETINGS OF THIS CONGREGATION

1.  The power and authority of this congregation shall be exercised through the congregational meeting, called and held in conformity with civil laws and the provisions of the Constitution and Bylaws of this congregation.

2.   The Annual Congregational Meeting shall be held in accordance with Bylaws Section 5.

3.   This congregation shall also hold such special meetings as may be called by this congregation, or the pastor, or the president, or the Church Council, or the Synodical Bishop, or by petition of at least 10% of the individual voting members. The official call for all special meetings of this congregation shall state, in writing, the time, place and purpose of the meeting, and shall be signed by the proper officer or individuals authorized above and shall be posted prominently in the place where this congregation usually worships. The calling of such special meetings, including the time, place and purpose shall also be announced orally at all public services within 14 days prior to such meetings, or by notice mailed to the voting members at least ten days in advance; provided that written notice of meeting called to consider requesting the pastor resign must be mailed at least 14 days in advance; and provided that meetings to consider the disposition or encumbrance of real property must also be called and held in conformity with such specific provisions of civil laws as may be applicable.

4.   No special meeting of this congregation may be held without properly notifying the pastor, in view of his/her position as a member of this congregation and as advisor in all congregational affairs.

5.   No business other than that stated as the purpose of the meeting shall be acted upon at such special meetings.

6.   When necessary to complete the business of the meeting, a congregational meeting may, by majority vote, recess to reconvene at a specified time and place.  A Congregational Meeting may also decide to recess to reconvene upon call, but the time and place of such reconvened meeting must then be announced at no less than one public service in advance.

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ARTICLE XII - THE CHURCH COUNCIL

1.   At its Annual Meeting this congregation shall elect a Church Council of not less than seven (7) and not more than twenty-one (21) members for terms of two (2) years each. The election shall take place so that the standing committee vacancies are filled. (See Bylaws, Section 6, Paragraph C -Ministries). No member shall be eligible to serve more than two (2) terms as Council Member in succession.

2.   By virtue of his/her office, the pastor shall be advisor of this congregation and of its Church Council, and each organization of the Church, and a member of each, but without vote.

3.   The Church Council shall:

a.   Give a good and Christian example to their members of this congregation by regular participation in divine services, by hearing and doing God's work, by frequently partaking of the Lord's Supper, and, in general, possess the qualifications required by St. Paul in 1Timothy 3:8-13;

b.    Have only such authority as may be delegated to it by this congregation and exercise such authority in accordance with the Constitution, Bylaws and Resolutions of this congregation;

c.    Work with the pastor in providing for the Spiritual care of this congregation and in promoting its material welfare;

d.     Act upon such disciplinary matters as may be referred to it, provided; however, that no member shall be excommunicated without action of this congregation;

e.     See that all the rules and regulations of this congregation are rightly executed;

f.      Manage the financial affairs of this congregation;

g.     Be the legal board of trustees of the Church;

h.    Elect from its own membership a president and vice-president, who shall also be president and vice-president of this congregation; and shall also elect a recording secretary, a financial secretary and a treasurer who need not be members of the Church Council, but active members within this congregation;

i.     Appoint such committees as may be necessary and/or advisable to facilitate the discharge of the above responsibilities.

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ARTICLE XIII - BYLAWS

1.   This congregation shall adopt such bylaws as may be found necessary, except that no bylaws may conflict with this constitution.

2.   Bylaws may be amended at any legally called meeting of this congregation by a two-thirds majority vote of those members present and voting, provided the proposed amendment has been published and read at a public service or mailed to the voting members, in either case at least two (2) weeks prior to the meeting.

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ARTICLE XIV - CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

1.   A proposed amendment to this constitution shall be:

a.     read at a public service of this congregation or mailed to the voting members, not less than thirty (30) days before the legally called meeting at which it is to be considered;

b.     approved without change at the legally called meeting following its announcement, by a majority vote of those present and voting;

c.     ratified without further change at the next annual meeting, by a two-thirds vote of those present and voting.

2.   If a proposed amendment fails adoption, it may be amended by majority vote of those present and voting; and adopted without change by a two-thirds majority of those present and voting at the next following Annual Congregational Meeting.

3.   Any amendments to this constitution shall be sent by the secretary of this congregation to the Synod. The amendment shall become effective within 120 days from the date of the receipt of the notice by the Synod, unless the Synod informs this congregation that the amendment is in conflict with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, or the constitution of the North/West Lower Michigan Synod.

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BYLAWS 

SECTION 1 - COMMUNION PARTICIPATION

1.   This congregation invites all of its members, who have been prepared to receive the Sacrament, to participate regularly in Holy Communion.

2.     Preparation for Holy Communion will normally be provided for persons in the fifth grade.

3.     It shall be made known to prospective participants that the belief of this congregation is:

Participation in the Lord's Supper is the reception of "the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ given with bread and wine, instituted by Christ himself for us to eat and drink."

We hold that a "person is well prepared and worthy who believes these words, given and shed for you for the remission of sins.  But anyone who does not believe these words, or doubts them, is neither prepared nor worthy, for the words for you require simply a believing heart." *

4.     This congregation believes that the Body and Blood of Christ are really present in the bread and wine of Holy Communion.  In this way, Christ assures each of us that we are forgiven, accepted, and freed to serve him.  We come by his invitation.  Therefore, anyone who is baptized and trusts his Word, “given and shed for you for forgiveness,” may come to the Sacrament.  This is Christ’s Table.

5.     A record of participation in Holy Communion shall be maintained.  If a member of another congregation communes, notice shall be sent to his/her Church upon request.

* From The Small Catechism in Contemporary English, (Augsburg Publishing House and Fortress Press, 1968).

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SECTION 2 - CONFLICTING LOYALTIES

1.    While the buildings of this congregation shall be open to all people to share in its worship, instruction, pastoral care and fellowship, this congregation rejects all fellowship with organizations, secret or open, which are avowedly religious or which practice forms of religion without confessing faith in the Triune God and in Jesus Christ as eternal Son of God incarnate to be our only Savior from sin, and which thus teach salvation by works.

2.    Ceremonies of lodges or other such organizations, referenced in Paragraph 1, shall not be permitted in the buildings or premises of this congregation; nor shall this congregation's pastor(s) or on-staff pastoral assistant(s) take part in any such ceremonies wherever they are conducted. Any practice, ritualistic or ethical, which involves a denial or at least a blunting of our commitment or witness to this one and only gospel, must be avoided by pastors and lay persons alike.

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SECTION 3 - MEMBERSHIP

A.  ADMISSION TO BAPTIZED MEMBERSHIP

1.   Children, one or both of whose parents or guardians are members of this congregation, shall, upon receiving Christian Baptism, become baptized members of this congregation.

2.    A child, neither of whose parents or guardians is a member of this congregation, shall, upon receiving Baptism, become a baptized member of this congregation; unless for good reasons he/she is to be a baptized member of another congregation, in which case his/her membership shall be transferred to that congregation.

3.    Children baptized in other congregations (and baptized adults mentally incompetent for confirmation. shall be received as baptized members of this congregation upon admission of one or both parents or guardians to membership, or by consent of one or both parents or guardians, or by action of the Church Council. 

4.    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 this congregation.

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B.  ADMISSION TO CONFIRMED MEMBERSHIP

1.   Baptized adults, not previously members of this congregation, who have received instructions and given evidence of having adequate understanding and acceptance of the teachings of the Word of God as confessed by the Lutheran Church, shall be admitted to confirmed membership through the rite of confirmation.

2.     However, adults received as baptized members according to the provisions of the Bylaws, Section 3, A-4, shall be recognized as confirmed members, whether or not, at the discretion of the pastor, they participate in the rite of confirmation.

3.    Children who are baptized members of this congregation shall be admitted to confirmed membership through preparation for and participation in the rite of confirmation.

4.    Applicants for membership presenting letters of transfer showing them to be confirmed members in good standing in other Lutheran Churches shall be admitted to confirmed membership upon acceptance of their letters of transfer by the Church Council and the report of their names to this congregation.

5.     Applicants for membership who present evidence of confirmation in a Lutheran Church, but do not have letters of transfer, shall be admitted to confirmed membership when the Church Council has determined that they meet the standards of Christian faith and life indicated in the Constitution and Bylaws and when they have reaffirmed their faith before this congregation.

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C.  ADMISSION TO VOTING MEMBERSHIP

1.   The Church Council shall be responsible for determining the voting membership in accordance with the qualifications in the Constitution and Bylaws.  Any doubtful cases shall be decided by the Church Council. (Covered by Article VI of the Constitution).

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D.  ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP

1.   This category of membership shall consist of those who qualify under the following circumstances:

a.    such persons who temporarily reside in the greater Grand Ledge area for 6 months or more per year.

b.    students whose educational pursuits bring them into the greater Grand Ledge area for major parts of each year for several years;

c.    military and volunteer service personnel on active duty in the greater Grand Ledge area for assigned periods of time;

d.    persons whose permanent residence and church membership is more than 50 miles from Grand Ledge, but who spend extended periods of time in the Grand Ledge area.

      2.     Admission to Associate Membership:

a.   admission to associate membership shall be at the request of the person to be admitted, with the recommendation of the pastor and the approval of the Church Council;

b.    the Church Council shall annually conduct an Associate Membership review and shall act on recommendations of the pastor as to who shall be added to or dropped from the Associate Membership rolls. This will usually take place at the time of the review of the active membership rolls;

c.     Associate Members shall normally have their membership renewed unless they have failed to commune at least once during the year, or shall have permanently moved from the Grand Ledge area;

d.    the review shall not preclude Associate Members being admitted or dropped from membership at other times of the year.

3.  Associate Members shall continue to enjoy the rights and privileges of members with the exception of holding office in this congregation and of voting. (Associate Members shall not be simultaneously listed on the Active Membership Roster of this congregation).

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E.  CARE OF MEMBERSHIP

1.     If a member moves from the community, this congregation shall encourage the member to request a transfer to a Lutheran congregation which can help him/her grow in the Christian faith effectively. Should the member fail to request a transfer, a Lutheran congregation in the community of his/her residence shall be notified.

2.     A confirmed member in good standing desiring to change his/her membership to another Lutheran congregation shall, upon request, receive a Letter of Transfer.

3.     A confirmed member who does not, for a period of one year, partake of Holy Communion, support the Church with his/her offerings, and does not appear to have a desire to participate in the life and worship of this congregation shall become the special concern of the Church Council. The Church Council shall direct the Gathering Resource Team to visit the member and encourage him/her to active membership. If, during the second year, the confirmed member does not actively participate, after consultation with the pastor, he/she shall be notified in writing that his/her name shall be removed from the membership roster of this congregation, but be retained on a responsibility list as one who is in special need of this congregation's prayer and concern.

4.     A child, neither of whose parents or guardians is a member of this congregation, may be removed from the membership roster of baptized members if he/she fails to participate in the life and the worship of this congregation.

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F.  PROCEDURE FOR DISCIPLINE
  
 (Cf. Article VII of the Constitution)

Should it become necessary to discipline a member for the reasons as stated in the Constitution, the following shall be the procedure:

1.    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

c.  notification in writing to appear before the Church Council

               If for any reason, the pastor is unable to administer the admonitions required by a. and b. hereof, the president of the Church Council or vice president shall administer such admonitions.

2.    If the Pastor’s attempts at reconciliation fail, the member shall be requested to appear before the Church Council.  The member shall be notified in writing, no less than ten (10) days prior to the hearing with Church Council.  The written notice shall include the time and place of the hearing and shall specify the exact reason for the possible discipline.  If a person fails to appear at the time and place without a valid excuse, the Church Council may proceed with the hearing and may reach its conclusion in his/her absence.

3.    Members of the Church Council who participate in the preparation of the written charges or who present evidence or testimony in the hearing before the Church Council are disqualified from voting upon the question of the guilt of the accused member.  Should a person be found guilty by a two-thirds vote of the members of the Church Council who are not disqualified but are present and voting, the Council shall impose one of the following disciplinary actions:

a.     censure before the Church Council or this congregation;

b.    suspension from membership until proof is given of sufficient repentance and amendment;

c.     exclusion from membership and denial of the Sacraments.

      4.    Any disciplinary action imposed by the Church Council shall be in writing.

5.    The member against whom disciplinary action has been taken by the Church Council shall have the right to appeal the decision to the Synod Council. Such right may not be abridged and the decision of the Synod Council shall be final.

6.    Disciplinary actions may be reconsidered and revoked by the Church Council upon receipt of: a) evidence that injustice has been done; or, b) evidence of repentance and amendment.

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SECTION 4 - THE PASTORAL CALL
(Cf. Article VIII of the Constitution)

1.    This congregation, after it has voted to call a pastor by at least two-thirds majority of the votes cast, shall send a Letter of Call in a form approved by the Church, to the pastor-elect, which shall bear the signatures of the president of the Church Council and congregation and the recording secretary and shall be certified by the signature of the Synodical Bishop.  Calls to ordained clergy to the position of assistant to the pastor, visitation pastor, youth pastor, etc. shall be issued, in consultation with the pastor, in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph.

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 Church Council, and the Bishop of the Synod. As occasion requires, the documents may be revised through a similar consultation.

2.     The Call shall normally be for an indefinite time.

3.    Since the pastor ministers to this congregation primarily in the public preaching of the Word and the administration of the Sacraments, and since both pastor and congregation are parties of the call, no pastor shall announce his/her decision on any subsequent Call without first having consulted with this congregation or with its Church Council.  Should the pastor there upon resign to accept another Call, his/her resignation shall be presented to this congregation and mutually satisfactory arrangements sought for terminating his/her services, normally within 30 days.

4.    A desire for a change in pastorate; either by this congregation or pastor, shall be brought to the attention of the Synodical Bishop, who shall advise in the matter according to the Constitution (Article VIII and the established procedure of the Church).

5.    Every pastor serving this congregation shall have an undivided loyalty to the faith and purpose of the Church according to Articles II and IV of the Constitution.  Any question concerning loyalty shall be handled as follows:

a.   any question of the pastor's loyalty be referred to the pastor to meet with those who disagree with him/her for first attempt to resolve;

b.    if first attempt fails, the church president and one (1. other member with the pastor shall make a second attempt to resolve;

c.   if second attempt fails, the Church Council shall discuss the complaint in conference with the pastor;

(1)   if Church Council finds the complaint invalid, then Church discipline, as specified in the Constitution and these Bylaws, is to be administered to the complainant;

(2)   if the Church Council finds some basis, in fact, to the complaint, then the Synod Bishop shall be called for action according to the Constitution and Bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;

(3)  if Church Council is undecided, the Synodical Bishop shall be called to meet with the Church Council.

6.    Clergy qualified according to Article VIII, Paragraph 4 of the Constitution may occasionally perform pastoral functions of this congregation with the approval of the Church Council and its pastor, or case of vacancy in the pastorate, with the approval of the Church Council and the Synodical Bishop.

7.    In the Call, this congregation shall bind itself in accordance with the Word of God, to receive the pastor-elect as its pastor and spiritual advisor by tendering Christian respect, prayer and all manner of goodwill.

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SECTION 5 - PROCEDURES FOR ANNUAL & SPECIAL MEETINGS
(Cf. Article XI of the Constitution)

1.     The Annual Budget Meeting of this congregation shall be the second Sunday in November and the Annual Ministry Meeting of this congregation shall be the second Sunday in February. Announcement of the time and place of the Annual Meetings or a Special Meeting of this congregation shall be made at two (2) public services immediately preceding the meeting, said services to be at least a week apart; and in such publications as this congregation or the pastor may periodically issue; or by special written notice to the voting members mailed at least ten (10) days in advance.

2.    The current roster of voting, confirmed and baptized members shall be determined and published annually, and shall be available to the president and tellers at each meeting of this congregation.

3.     A quorum for the conduct of business at Annual and Special Congregational Meetings shall consist of the voting members present.

4.     The order of business at the Annual Meetings shall be:

             (a)  The Annual Budget Meeting:

  • Opening devotion

  • Approval of the Minutes

  • Opening of Nominations

  • Discussion of Nominations

  • Closing of Nominations

  • Elections

  • Discussion of budget

  • Approval of budget

  • Closing prayer

              (b)  The Annual Ministry Meeting:

  • Opening devotion

  • Approval of the Minutes

  • Review of this congregation’s goals in Ministry for the upcoming year

  • Unfinished business

  • New business

  • Closing prayer

5.     In the following cases, voting shall be by ballot:

a.    to elect the Church Council

b.    to adopt or amend the Articles of Incorporation, Constitution or Bylaws of this congregation;

c.    to call a pastor or to request his/her resignation;

d.    to remove a member from office in this congregation;

e.    to sever membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;

f.     to dispose of, encumber, or purchase real property;

g.    when requested by 10% or more of voting members present;

h.   to adopt or amend the budget.

6.    Except as otherwise provided in the Constitution and Bylaws, all matters shall be decided by majority vote of those present and voting.

7.     No one shall be declared elected unless s/he has received a majority of the votes cast.

8.     If more than one ballot is required in an election, it shall be in order by proper motion to limit the balloting after the first ballot to the three candidates receiving the highest number of votes on the first ballot and after the second ballot to limit the balloting to the two candidates receiving the highest number of votes.

9.     Voting by proxy or by absentee ballot shall not be permitted.

10.      In all matters not specifically provided for therein, procedure shall be according to “Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised."

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SECTION 6 - THE CHURCH COUNCIL
(Cf. Article XII of the Constitution)

A.  MEMBERSHIP OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL

In addition to the provisions of the Constitution, the following shall govern membership on the Church Council and the conduct of its meetings:

1.    Only voting members of this congregation shall be eligible for membership on the Church Council.

2.     Term of office for Church Council members will begin at the first council meeting in January, following their election.

3.     Installation ceremonies for the new Council members and officers shall, if possible, take  place no later than the first Sunday in February.

4.     If a vacancy occurs on the Church Council, the Church Council shall fill the vacancy for the remainder of the calendar year.

5.     If a member of the Church Council is unable to attend its meetings, s/he shall tender a written or verbal excuse to the president. If a member fails to attend two successive meetings without tendering an excuse, s/he shall be consulted by the president of this congregation. If s/he is absent from three consecutive regular meetings of the Church Council without a valid excuse, the Church Council shall declare the office vacant.

6.     Half of the members of the Church Council shall constitute a quorum at its meetings.

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B.  DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL

In addition to the duties and responsibilities provided in the Constitution, the Church Council shall:

1.    Secure, as approved by this congregation, necessary staff other than the pastor(s), such as Church Secretary, Youth Director, Choir Director(s), Organist(s), Custodian(s), and other positions as may become necessary and fix and review annually their salaries. 

2.  Review annually the salary of the pastor(s) and make adjustments, subject to this congregation's approval of the budget.

3.     Receive reports regularly from the treasurer to ascertain that the expenditures are within the budget approved by this congregation.  The Church Council shall, as far as possible, operate within the limits of the approved budget of this congregation. Any expenditure in excess of $1,000.00 for items not included in the budget must be approved by this congregation; except emergency expenditures where delay for congregational action could jeopardize the welfare of this congregation or its property.

4.     The Audit Committee, composed of three members of this congregation, shall be appointed by the president with the approval of the Church Council at the February meeting.  The Audit Committee shall audit all financial records of this congregation for the prior calendar year and present its audit to this congregation in the Annual Report.  If special audits are required, a Special Audit Committee shall be appointed by the Church Council or this congregation.

5.     The Church Council shall be responsible to report its activities to this congregation.

6.     Prepare a budget for submission to the Annual Meeting of this congregation.

7.    Assure itself that the treasurer and others who have access to the funds of this congregation are adequately bonded.

8.    Be responsible for the buildings and premises of this congregation.  Should groups or individuals not associated with this congregation desire to use the property, application  shall be made to the Church Council for its approval.

9.     Have authority between meetings of this congregation to choose delegates to any group or meeting in which this congregation is entitled to representation.

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C.  TEAMS

1.   In accordance with this congregation’s mission, and in order to fulfill this mission, 

Gathering people to faith in Jesus Christ;
Preparing
believers to live their faith daily;
Serving
Christ in home, church and world,

the Church Council shall establish the following teams and any additional committees or Teams of Council as may, from time to time, be deemed necessary:

a.  Gathering Resource Team;
b.  Preparing Resource Team;
c.  Serving Resource Team; and
d.  Support Resource Team.

2.    The Gathering, Preparing and Serving Resource Teams shall be comprised of two Council members, no less than two members of the Congregation, and an ex-officio staff member. The Support Resource Team shall be comprised of the President of the Congregation, one other Council member, no less than three members of the Congregation, and the following ex-officio members: one staff member and the Treasurer.

3.   Quorum of a Resource Team is greater than one-half of the current membership of the Team. 

4.     All permanent Resource Teams shall meet monthly, or more often if deemed necessary; perform such ministries as are prescribed by the Church Council and shall submit a monthly summary to the Church Council.

5.     All Resource Teams shall be brought up for reappointment or reorganization each year at the first Council meeting of the new calendar year.  Members of the Resource Teams serve for the year of their appointment at the pleasure of the Church Council.

6.     Resource Teams may delegate assigned ministries to Sub-Teams, which may in turn delegate to Sub-Sub-Teams.  (e.g. The Gathering Resource Team may establish a Hospitality Sub-Team to be responsible for the Greeters, the Guest Book and Coffee Hour).

7.     All levels of Sub-Teams will be responsible to and shall report to the delegating Team.

8.    All ministries of this congregation are comprised of interested individuals, led by their spiritual gifts and talents.

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D.  DUTIES OF THE OFFICERS AND TEAMS OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL

1.    The president shall preside at the meetings of the Church Council and congregation, shall be a member of the Support Resource Team, shall be a member of the Mutual Ministries Support Team, shall sign all reports and forms required by corporations by the State of Michigan, and shall execute the signing of all legal documents. (Cf. Section 11)

2.    The vice-president shall preside at the meetings of the Church Council and congregation in the absence of the president. The vice-president shall also act as the chairman of the Nominating Committee.

3.  The recording secretary shall keep the minutes of the Church Council and of this congregation, shall have responsibility for assuring the minutes of this congregation are archived for future reference, and shall execute the signing of all legal documents.  (Cf. Section 11)  If the recording secretary is not an elected member of the Church Council he/she shall be an ex-officio member of the Church Council.

4.    The treasurer shall have custody of all funds of this congregation.  S/he shall receive and disburse such funds in accordance with the decisions of this congregation and the Church Council.  The treasurer shall submit a monthly report to the Church Council and quarterly report to this congregation of all receipts and expenditures.  S/he shall submit a complete report for the year in the Annual Report. The books shall be open, at any time, for inspection by any member of this congregation, and the books shall be submitted for an annual audit.  (Cf. Section 6(B)(4))  If the treasurer is not an elected member of the Church Council he/she shall be an ex-officio member of the Church Council.

5.    At least two council-appointed tellers shall keep an accurate account of the offerings of this congregation; deposit received offerings in the church accounts; and promptly forward an accurate record of these deposits to the treasurer.  The tellers shall forward their account of offerings to the financial secretary who shall then record all offerings to this congregation in this congregation’s records.  Each January, the financial secretary shall provide congregational members with an annual giving statement for the prior year and shall regularly submit a report to the members of this congregation.

6.     Listed below are the areas of responsibility for the Teams:

a.  Gathering Resource Team

Key Elements: Inviting/Welcoming, Family, Fellowship, Uniting

The Gathering Resource Team shall seek to welcome persons and invite them to hear the Good News of God's love.  It shall provide resources to share the good news and publicize the outreach and evangelism of the church and its activities.  It shall provide for the reception and acceptance of new members.  It shall foster fellowship in the congregation and support ministries for men, women, youth and older adults.  It shall provide opportunities and resources for music and worship in accord with the teachings of the scriptures

b.  Preparing Resource Team

Key Elements: Teaching, Planning, Studying, Discovering

The Preparing Resource Team shall encourage people to grow in faith and deepen their personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  It shall assist members in determining their spiritual gifts and how to use those gifts in ministry with others.  It shall provide educational ministry, equip teachers and provide educational resources, seek to increase the understanding of biblical stewardship principles, and support participation in the ministries of the church.

c.  Serving Resource Team

Key Elements: Giving, Caring For, Attending To

The Serving Resource Team shall enhance the caring ministry of the congregation and equip members for God’s service in the world.  It shall oversee ministry to people who are homebound, hospitalized or have other special needs.  It shall administer programs to meet needs in the local community and around the world.  It shall support community projects, other benevolent activities and function as liaison to organizations sponsored or supported by the congregation.

d.  Support Resource Team

Key Elements: Fiscal, Building/Facilities, Business Office, Legal/Compliance

The Support Resource Team shall assure the overall business operations of the church.  It shall manage the fiscal and legal duties necessary for ongoing operation of the church.  It shall care for church property, grounds, facilities, and physical assets held by the congregation.

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E.  MEETINGS

1.     Meetings of the Church Council shall be held each month of eac