Christ Lutheran Church Constitution & By-Laws
CHRIST EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
Natick, Massachusetts
CONSTITUTION
PREAMBLE
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
C 1.01 The name of this congregation shall be Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church.
C 1.02 For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church congregation is hereinafter designated as “this congregation”.
C 1.03 This congregation shall be incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Chapter 2.
CONFESSION OF FAITH
C 2.01 This congregation confesses the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
C 2.02 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.
C 2.03 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.
C 2.04 This congregation accepts the Apostles, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of the faith of this congregation.
C 2.05 This congregation accepts the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as a true witness to the Gospel, acknowledging as one with it in faith and doctrine all churches that likewise accept the teachings of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession.
C 2.06 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.
C 2.07 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
C 3.01 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.
C 3.02 The Church exists both as an inclusive fellowship and as local congregations gathered for worship and Christian service. Congregations find their fulfillment in the universal community of the Church, and the universal Church exists in and through congregations. This Church, therefore, derives its character and powers both from the sanction and representation of its congregations and from its inherent nature as an expression of the broader fellowship of the faithful. In length, it acknowledges itself to be in the historic continuity of the communion of saints; in breadth, it expresses the fellowship of believers and congregations in our day.
Chapter 4.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
C 4.01 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.
C 4.02 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.
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.
C 4.03 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 this congregation’s ministry and the ministry of other parts of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
H. Foster and participate in interdependent relationships with other congregations, the synod, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
I. Foster and participate in ecumenical relationships consistent with churchwide policy.
C 4.04 This congregation shall develop an organizational structure to be described in the bylaws. The Church Council shall prepare descriptions of the responsibilities of each committee, task force, or other organizational groups and shall review their actions.
C 4.05 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
C 5.01 The powers of this congregation are those necessary to fulfill its purpose.
C 5.02 The powers of this congregation are vested in the Congregation Meeting called and conducted as provided in this constitution and bylaws.
C 5.03 Only such authority as is delegated to the Church Council or other organizational units in this congregation’s governing documents is recognized. All remaining authority is retained by this congregation. This congregation is authorized to:
A. call a pastor;
B. terminate the call of a pastor;
C. appoint or terminate the appointment of associates in ministry in conformity with the applicable policy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;
D. approve the annual budget;
E. acquire real and personal property by gift, devise, purchase, or other lawful means;
F. hold title to and use its property for any and all activities consistent with its purpose;
G. sell, mortgage, lease, transfer, or otherwise dispose of its property by any lawful means;
H. elect its Church Council, boards, and committees, and require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the constitution and bylaws and continuing resolutions; and
I. terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as provided in Chapter 6.
Chapter 6.
CHURCH AFFILIATION
C 6.01 This congregation shall be an interdependent part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or its successor, and of the New England Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. This congregation is subject to the discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
C 6.02 This congregation accepts the Confession of Faith and agrees to the Purposes of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and shall act in accordance with them.
C 6.03 This congregation acknowledges its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in which:
A. This congregation agrees to be responsible for its life as a Christian community.
B. This congregation pledges its financial support and participation in the life and mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
C. This congregation agrees to call pastoral leadership from the Clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in accordance with its call procedures, except in special circumstances and with the approval of the bishop of the synod.
D. This congregation agrees to consider associates in ministry for appointment to other staff positions in this congregation according to the procedures of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
E. This congregation agrees to file this constitution and any subsequent changes to this constitution with the synod for review to ascertain that all of its provisions are in agreement with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or with the constitution of the synod.
C 6.04 Affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America may be terminated as follows:
A. This congregation takes action to dissolve.
B. This congregation ceases to exist.
C. This congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to the procedures for discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
D. This congregation follows the procedures outlined in C 6.05.
C 6.05 This congregation may terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America by the following procedure:
A. A resolution indicating the desire of this congregation to terminate its relationship must be adopted at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation by a two thirds majority of the voting members present.
B. The secretary of this congregation shall submit a copy of the resolution to the synodical bishop and shall mail a copy of the resolution to voting members of this congregation. This notice shall be submitted within 10 days after the resolution has been adopted.
C. The bishop of the synod shall consult with this congregation during a period of at least 90 days.
D. If this congregation, after consultation, still desires to terminate its relationship, such action may be taken at a legally called and conducted special meeting by a two thirds majority of the voting members present, at which meeting the bishop of the synod or an authorized representative shall be 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 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be terminated.
F. Notice of termination shall be forwarded by the synodical bishop to the secretary of this congregation and published in the periodical of this congregation.
G. As a congregation that was previously a member of the Lutheran Church in America, this congregation is required, in addition to the other provisions of C6.05, to receive synodical approval before terminating membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
C 6.06 If this congregation is considering relocation, it shall confer with the bishop of the synod before any steps are taken leading to such action. The approval of the Synod Council shall be received before any such action is effected.
Chapter 7.
PROPERTY OWNERSHIP
C 7.01 If this congregation ceases to exist, title to undisposed property shall pass to the Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
C 7.02 If this congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to its procedure for discipline, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation.
C 7.03 If a two thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a regularly called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to transfer to another Lutheran church body, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation. Before this congregation takes action to transfer to another Lutheran church body, it shall consult with representatives of the Synod.
C 7.04 If a two thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a regularly called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to become independent or relate to a non Lutheran church body, title to property of this congregation shall continue to reside in this congregation only with the consent of the Synod Council. The Synod Council, after consultation with this 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.
Chapter 8.
MEMBERSHIP
C 8.01 Members of this congregation shall be those baptized persons on the roll of the congregation at the time that this constitution is adopted, and those who are admitted thereafter and who have declared and maintain their membership in accordance with the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws.
C 8.02 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 shall have communed and made a contribution of record during the current or preceding year.
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. They have all the privileges and duties of membership except voting rights and eligibility for elected offices or membership on the Church Council of this congregation.
C 8.03 All applications for confirmed membership shall be submitted to and shall require the approval of the Church Council.
C 8.04 It shall be the privilege and duty of members of this congregation to:
A. make regular use of the means of grace, both Word and sacraments;
B. live a Christian life in accordance with the Word of God and the teachings of the Lutheran church; and
C. support the work of this congregation and of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through contributions of their time, abilities, and financial support as biblical stewards.
C 8.05 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 Church 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
C 9.01 Authority to call a pastor shall be in this congregation by at least a two thirds majority ballot vote of members present and voting at a meeting regularly called for that purpose. Before a call is issued, the officers, or a committee elected by this congregation to recommend the call, shall seek the advice and help of the bishop of the synod.
C 9.02 Only a member of the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or one who has been recommended for it by the synodical bishop may be called as a pastor of this congregation.
C 9.03 Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, every ordained minister shall preach the Word, administer the sacraments, conduct public worship, provide pastoral care, and shall speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God’s love for the world. Each ordained minister with a congregational call shall, within this congregation, offer instruction, confirm, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead; supervise all schools and organizations of this congregation; shall install regularly elected members of the Church Council, and with the Church Council administer discipline. Every pastor shall seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel and strive to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation, and abroad; shall impart knowledge of the Church and its wider ministry through distribution of its periodicals and other publications; and shall endeavor to increase the support given by this congregation to the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and of the synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
C 9.04 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.
C 9.05
A. The call of a congregation, when accepted by a pastor, shall constitute a continuing mutual relationship and commitment which, except in the case of the death of the pastor, shall be terminated only following consultation with the synodical bishop and for the following reasons:
(1) mutual agreement to terminate the call or the completion of a call for a specific term of years;
(2) resignation of the pastor;
(3) inability to conduct the pastoral office effectively in this 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 this 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 Church Council, or by a petition signed by at least one third of the voting members of this congregation, to investigate such conditions personally in company with a committee of two ordained ministers and one layperson.
C. In case of alleged physical or mental incapacity, competent medical testimony shall be obtained. When such disability is evident, the bishop of the synod with the advice of the committee shall declare the pastorate vacant. Upon the restoration of a disabled pastor to health, the bishop of the synod shall take steps to enable the pastor to resume the ministry, either in the congregation last served or in another field of labor.
D. In the case of alleged local difficulties which imperil the effective functioning of this congregation, all concerned persons shall be heard, after which the bishop of the synod, together with the committee described in C 9.05.B., shall decide on the course of action to be recommended to the pastor and this congregation. If they agree to carry out such recommendations, no further actin shall be taken by the synod. If either party fails to assent, this congregation may dismiss the pastor by a two thirds majority vote of the voting members present at a regularly called meeting after consultation with the bishop.
E. The foregoing procedure shall never be invoked when questions of doctrine, morality, or continued neglect of duty are involved, all such cases being treated as disciplinary matters.
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 this congregation, without prejudice and with pay provided through a joint churchwide/synod fund, and with housing provided by this congregation.
C 9.06 At a time of pastoral vacancy, an interim pastor may be appointed by the bishop of the synod with the consent of this congregation or the Church Council.
C 9.07 During the period of service, an interim pastor shall have the rights and duties of a regularly called pastor and may delegate the same in part to a supply pastor with the consent of the bishop of the synod and this congregation or Church Council. The interim pastor and any ordained pastor providing assistance shall refrain from exerting influence in the selection of a pastor.
C 9.08 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.
C 9.09 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 Church Council, and the bishop of the synod. As occasion requires, the documents may be revised through a similar consultation.
C 9.10 With the approval of the bishop of the synod, this congregation may depart from C 9.05.A, and call a pastor for a specific term of years. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose and conditions involved. Prior to the completion of a term, the bishop or a designated representative of the bishop, shall meet with the pastor and representatives of this congregation for a review of the call. Such call may also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of C9.05.A.
C 9.11 The pastor shall keep accurate parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members dismissed, or members excluded from this congregation, and shall submit a summary of such statistics annually to the synod.
C 9.12 The pastor(s) shall submit a report of his or her ministry to the bishop of the synod at least 90 days prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.
Chapter 10.
CONGREGATION MEETING
C 10.01 The annual meeting of this congregation shall be held at a time specified in the bylaws.
C 10.02 A special Congregation Meeting may be called by the pastor, the Church Council, or the president of this congregation, and shall be called at the written request of ten 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 10.03 Notice of all meetings of this congregation shall be given at the services of worship on the preceding two consecutive Sundays and by mail to all 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 10.04 Ten percent of the voting members shall constitute a quorum.
C 10.05 Voting by proxy or by absentee ballot shall not be permitted.
C 10.06 All actions by the congregation shall be by majority vote except as otherwise provided in this constitution.
C 10.07 Robert’s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of all meetings of this congregation.
Chapter 11.
OFFICERS
C 11.01 The officers of this congregation shall be a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and, if desired, a financial secretary.
A. The duties of the officers shall be specified in the bylaws.
B. The officers shall be voting members of this congregation; if any of them ceases to be such, that office shall at once be declared vacant by the Church Council, which shall fill the vacancy for the unexpired term.
C. The president and the vice president shall be chosen from the membership of the Church Council. The other officers, if not members of the Church Council, shall be accorded the privilege of voice without vote at its meetings.
C 11.02 The Church Council shall elect the officers of this congregation. The officers shall serve for one year or until their successors are elected. Their terms shall begin at the close of the meeting at which they are elected.
C 11.03 No officer shall hold more than one office at a time.
Chapter 12.
CHURCH COUNCIL
C 12.01 The voting membership of the Church Council shall consist of the pastor(s) and twelve members of this congregation. Any voting member of this 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 Church 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 Church Council without cause.
C 12.02 The members of the Church Council, except the pastor(s), shall be elected to serve for three years or until their successors are elected. If more than one candidate is nominated to fill a vacant position on the Church Council, the election shall be by written ballot. Such members shall be eligible to serve no more than two full terms consecutively. Their terms shall begin at the close of the annual meeting at which they are elected.
C 12.03 Should a member’s place on the Church Council be declared vacant, the Church Council shall elect, by majority vote, a successor until the next annual meeting.
C 12.04 The Church Council shall have general oversight of the life and activities of this congregation, and in particular its worship life, to the end that everything be done in accordance with the Word of God and the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The duties of the Church Council shall include the following:
A. To lead this congregation in stating its mission, to do long range planning, to set goals and priorities, and to evaluate its activities in light of its mission and goals.
B. To seek to involve all members of this congregation in worship, learning, witness, service, and support.
C. To oversee and provide for the administration of this congregation to enable it to fulfill its functions and perform its mission.
D. To maintain supportive relationships with the pastor(s) and staff and help them annually to evaluate the fulfillment of their calling, appointment, or employment.
E. To be examples individually and corporately of the style of life and ministry expected of all baptized persons.
F. To promote a congregational climate of peace and goodwill and, as differences and conflicts arise, to endeavor to foster mutual understanding.
G. To arrange for pastoral service during the sickness or absence of the pastor.
H. To emphasize partnership with the synod and churchwide units of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as well as cooperation with other congregations, both Lutheran and non Lutheran, subject to established policies of the synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
I. To recommend and encourage the use of program resources produced or approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
C 12.05 The Church Council shall be responsible for the financial and property matters of this congregation.
A. The Church Council shall be the board of trustees 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 Commonwealth of Massachusetts, except as otherwise provided herein.
B. The Church 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 Church Council may enter into contracts of up to 3% of the current approved budgeted income for items not included in the budget.
D. The Church Council shall prepare an annual budget for adoption by this congregation, shall supervise the expenditure of funds in accordance therewith following its adoption, and may incur obligations more than 10% in excess of the anticipated receipts only after approval by a Congregation Meeting. The budget shall include this congregation’s full indicated share in support of the wider ministry being carried on in partnership with the synod and churchwide organization.
E. The Church Council shall ascertain that the financial affairs of this congregation are being conducted efficiently, giving particular attention to the prompt payment of all obligations and to the regular forwarding of benevolence monies to the synodical treasurer.
F. The Church Council shall be responsible for this congregation’s investments and its total insurance program.
C 12.06 The Church Council shall see that the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws and continuing resolutions are carried out.
C 12.07 The Church Council shall provide for an annual review of the membership roster.
C 12.08 The Church Council shall be responsible for the appointment and supervision of the salaried lay workers of this congregation.
C 12.09 The Church Council shall submit a comprehensive report to this congregation at the annual meeting.
C 12.10 The Church Council shall normally meet once a month. Special meetings may be called by the pastor or the president, and shall be called at the request of at least one half of its members. Notice of each special meeting shall be given to all who are entitled to be present.
C 12.11 A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of a majority of the members of the Church Council, including the pastor or interim pastor, except when such person requests or consents to be absent and has given prior approval to an agenda of routine matters which shall be the only business of the meeting.
Chapter 13.
CONGREGATIONAL COMMITTEES
C 13.01 The officers of this congregation and the pastor shall constitute the Executive Committee.
C 13.02 A Nominating Committee of at least three voting members of this congregation, at least one of whom shall be a member of the Church Council, shall be elected by the Church Council for a term of one year. Members of the Nominating Committee shall be eligible for reelection.
C 13.03 An Audit Committee of three voting members shall be elected by the Church Council. Audit Committee members shall not be members of the Church Council. Term of office will be three years, with one member elected each year. Members shall be eligible for reelection.
C 13.04 When a pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee of six voting members shall be appointed by the Church Council. Term of office will terminate at installation of the newly called pastor.
C 13.05 Other congregational committees may be formed as the need arises, by decision of the Church Council.
C 13.06 Duties of congregational committees shall be specified in the bylaws and continuing resolutions.
Chapter 14.
ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE CONGREGATION
C 14.01 All organizations within this congregation shall exist to aid it in ministering to the members of this congregation and to all persons who can be reached with the Gospel of Christ. As outgrowths and expressions of this congregation’s life, the organizations are subject to its oversight and direction. This congregation at its meeting shall determine their policies, guide their activities, and receive reports concerning their membership, work, and finances.
C 14.02 Special interest groups, other than those of the official organizations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, may be organized only after authorization has been given by the Church Council and specified in a continuing resolution.
Chapter 15.
DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS
C 15.01 Denial of the Christian faith as described in this constitution, conduct grossly unbecoming a member of the Church of Christ, or persistent trouble making in this congregation are sufficient cause for discipline of a member. Prior to disciplinary action, reconciliation will be attempted following Matthew 18:15 17, proceeding through these successive steps: a) private admonition by the pastor, b) admonition by the pastor in the presence of two or three witnesses, and c) citation to appear before the Church Council.
C 15.02 A member charged with the offense shall appear before the Church Council having received a written notice, specifying the exact charges that have been made against the member, at least 10 days prior to the meeting.
C 15.03 Should the allegations be sustained by a two thirds majority vote of the Church Council, the council shall impose one of the following disciplinary actions:
A. censure before the council or congregation;
B. suspension from membership for a definite period of time; or
C. exclusion from membership in this congregation.
Disciplinary actions b. and c. shall be delivered to the member in writing.
C 15.04 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.
C 15.05 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.
Chapter 16.
BYLAWS
C 16.01 This congregation may adopt bylaws. No bylaw may conflict with this constitution.
C 16.02 Bylaws may be adopted or amended at any legally called meeting of this congregation with a quorum present by a majority vote of those voting members present and voting.
C 16.03 Changes to the bylaws may be proposed by any voting member provided, however, that such additions or amendments be submitted in writing to the Church Council at least 60 days before a regular or special Congregation Meeting called for that purpose and that the Church Council notify the members of the proposal with its recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the Congregation Meeting.
C 16.04 Approved changes to the bylaws shall be sent to the synod.
Chapter 17.
AMENDMENTS
C 17.01 Amendments to this constitution may be proposed by at least 10% of the voting members or by the Church Council. Proposals must be filed in writing with the Church Council 60 days before formal consideration by this congregation at its regular or special meeting called for that purpose. The Church Council shall notify the members of the proposal with their recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the meeting.
C 17.02 A proposed amendment to this constitution shall:
A. be approved at a properly called meeting according to this constitution by a majority vote of those present and voting;
B. be ratified without change at the next annual meeting by a two thirds majority vote of those present and voting; and
C. have the effective date included in the resolution and noted in the constitution.
C 17.03 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 New England Synod.
Chapter 18.
CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS
C 18.01 The Church Council may enact continuing resolutions which describe the function of the various committees or organizations of this congregation.
C 18.02 Continuing resolutions shall be enacted or amended by a two thirds vote of all voting members of the Church Council.
Constitution adopted January 29, 1989
Amended May 19, 1991
January 27, 2002
January 26, 2003
BYLAWS
Sec. 1. Statement of Mission.
In response to the love and grace of Christ Jesus in our lives, we, the members of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, Natick, Massachusetts, will encourage persons to grow together through God’s Word and the Sacraments, and will mutually engage in a ministry of caring for one another and for the diverse communities in which we live.
Sec. 2. Annual Meetings.
2.1 The Annual Meeting of the congregation shall be conducted in two sessions.
2.2 The first session shall be held on a Sunday in January designated by the Church Council. At this session, fiscal and statistical reports for the previous calendar year shall be received and acted upon, and a budget presented by the Church Council shall be voted upon.
2.3 The second session shall be held on a Sunday in May designated by the Church Council. At this session, reports on the program of the congregation shall be received, plans developed for the coming program year, and members of the Church Council shall be elected.
Sec. 3. Duties of the Officers.
3.1 The president shall preside at meetings of the congregation and the Church Council. In the event of the president’s inability to serve, the vice president shall preside.
3.2 The secretary shall keep accurate minutes of all meetings of the congregation and the Church Council in a volume provided by the congregation, which shall be preserved permanently in its archives.
3.3 The treasurer shall keep the books of account of the congregation, and shall receive all funds and disburse them on proper orders, making monthly remittance of benevolence receipts to the treasurer of the synod. The treasurer shall make written report of all financial transactions to the Church Council monthly and to the congregation, together with a satisfactory audit, at its annual meetings. All financial officers shall give corporate surety, in amounts determined by the Church Council, for which the premium shall be paid by the congregation. Fidelity coverage provided by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be deemed a fulfillment of this requirement.
3.4 The financial secretary shall keep records of all contribution income from members and other sources.
Sec 4. Commissions, Committees, and Task Groups.
4.1 At the first meeting of the Church Council after the annual election of Council members, the Church Council shall appoint as many additional committees and task groups as the local and wider concerns of the congregation require. Except for the Professional Leadership Committee and except as provided in the constitution of the congregation, each commission and committee shall be composed of at least one member of the Church Council, and, in addition, other voting members of the congregation. Although appointed by and responsible to the Church Council, each commission, committee, and task group shall be organized as representative of the interests of, and performing essential services for, the congregation as a whole. The pastor shall have voice and vote in commissions, committees (except as provided in the constitution of the congregation), and task groups.
4.2 Except as provided in these Bylaws, the duties of all commissions, committees, and task groups shall be assigned by the Church Council along with such instructions as in its judgment are in the best interests of the congregation. All actions of commissions, committees, and task groups shall be subject to review by the Church Council.
4.3 The executive committee shall advise the Church Council and shall be delegated such additional duties by the Church Council as shall be specified from time to time by the Church Council.
4.4 The nominating committee shall recruit qualified candidates to serve as members of the Church Council and shall provide a slate of qualified candidates to the congregation at the Annual Meeting in May of each year. In addition and to the extent directed by the Church Council, the nominating committee shall also recruit candidates to serve as officers or members of committees, commissions, and task forces.
4.5 The audit committee shall review the accounts of the congregation and the annual treasurer’s report, shall report thereon to the congregation, and shall advise the treasurer on such matters as the treasurer or the Church Council shall request.
4.6 The duties of any call committee appointed by the Church Council shall be specified by the Church Council.
4.7 There shall be a professional leadership committee, which shall assist the Church Council by maintaining supportive and confidential relationships with the pastor(s) and other professional leaders. The Professional Leadership Committee shall be made up of no more than five (5) people including the Pastor. The Professional Leadership Committee shall be appointed by the Church Council with the input of the Pastor and shall not be members of the Church Council. Term of office shall be two years and members shall be eligible for reappointment. In the case of a new Pastor one or two members shall be from the Call Committee. The Professional Leadership Committee shall meet quarterly or more often at the request of the pastor, council, other professional leader or at the request of a Professional Leadership Committee member. Professional Leadership Committee may make recommendations to council including salary adjustments based on criteria from the Synod and the results of any performance review prepared by the Church Council.
4.8 There shall be a parish life commission, which shall oversee the worship and learning activities of the congregation, except to the extent that the Church Council shall delegate parts of these functions to a worship committee. As part of its worship activities, the congregation, remembering God’s mighty acts in the past, celebrating His abiding presence, and moving toward His promised fulfillment, shall listen to the Word of God in Scripture and preaching, receive the Sacraments, and respond with liturgical acts of confession, prayer, praise, thanksgiving, and with tithes and offerings. In order to assist members to acknowledge God’s rule over their lives, their own unity as Christ’s body on earth, and to express their relationship with God in public and in private, the congregation shall gather for worship regularly, and, in accordance with the traditions of the Lutheran Church, recruit, equip, and support members for leadership in worship, use appropriate worship materials, and make certain that worship has a place in other functions of the congregation. As part of its learning activities, the congregation shall develop an education ministry to assist persons to perceive and respond to God’s self revelation in Jesus Christ, and, in the power of the Holy Spirit, to participate in God’s continuing activity and revelation as they develop as individuals, related to other individuals, groups, institutions, cultures, and the physical environment. To clarify its mission, the congregation shall study itself in relation to its community and to the church around the world. It shall provide schools and other learning activities; recruit, equip, and support members for educational leadership, use appropriate educational material, and make certain that adequate study undergirds the other functions of the congregation.
4.9 There shall be an outreach commission, which shall oversee the witness and service activities of the congregation. As part of its witness functions, the congregation, relying on the Holy Spirit, shall proclaim the Gospel by example and by programs to invite all people to repent and share the Lord’s Kingdom. The congregation shall motivate its members to witness to their faith at every opportunity in daily life. It shall try to restore those who have lapsed from active membership, bring new members in to the fellowship of the church, and recruit, equip and support members of the congregation for these activities. It shall provide for the communications of the Gospel through fellowship in the wider Christian community. It shall make certain that other functions witness to the faith of the church. As part of its service functions, the congregation shall live by faith active in love. It shall motivate, equip, and support its members to visit the sick, the infirm, and the imprisoned, and to minister to the poor and the distressed; to serve as Christians in all the institutions and structures of society of which they are a part; and individually and corporately to foster justice, overcome oppression, alleviate suffering, and care for the earth. In these efforts the congregation shall cooperate with the synod and the churchwide agencies of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, other Christian churches, and other groups in society. It shall make certain that its other functions strengthen the motivation and ability for service.
4.10 There shall be a resource commission, which shall oversee the support functions of the congregation, except to the extent that the Church Council shall delegate part or parts of these functions to a property committee. As part of its support functions, the congregation in faithfulness to God shall provide leadership, organizational structures, facilities, and funds to enable fulfillment of the functions to their maximum potential. The congregation shall evaluate regularly the total life and ministry of the congregation, and recruit, equip, and support members of the congregation to provide for these activities.
4.11 There shall be a stewardship commission, which shall oversee the activities associated with incorporating new members into the life and fellowship of the church, and will recruit, equip and support members of the congregation for this purpose. The congregation shall maintain effective communication among its members and with its community to inculcate the motives and practices of stewardship in new, prospective and current members of the congregation. The congregation will be encouraged to provide generously for the work of the church at home and elsewhere, and to evaluate regularly the effectiveness of its total life and ministry. To these ends, the stewardship commission will: (a) conduct an annual pledge campaign: (b) report to the congregation on a frequent basis as to the status of contributions; (c) support a new members program of education and involvement; and (d) seek ways to expand the stewardship ministry within the congregation through formal programs.
Sec. 5. Special Funds.
5.1 The congregation shall have a memorial fund to receive money donated as memorial gifts for use by the church. Tangible items may also be accepted and shall be recorded. No object intended as a permanent addition to the church or other property of the congregation, or to be used therein, shall be accepted as a gift or memorial without the approval of the pastor and the Church Council. All objects so accepted may be removed when deemed appropriate by the pastor and the Church Council. The names of donors of such gifts and memorials, the terms and conditions thereof, if any, and the dates of acceptance shall be recorded in the permanent records of the congregation. The memorial fund shall not be used to meet budgeted current operating expenses.
5.2 The congregation shall have a major maintenance fund for the purpose of the maintenance, rehabilitation, and/or replacement of the real property of the congregation which is not routine in nature. The congregation shall annually appropriate funds from its current budget to replenish and stabilize the fund at a level deemed appropriate by the Church Council.
5.3 The congregation shall have an endowment fund to be maintained for the purposes and to be operated in accordance with the Plan of Operation as adopted by special resolution of the congregation.
5.4 All funds of the congregation shall be held by the treasurer, or with respect to the endowment fund, by the endowment committee financial secretary, and disbursed upon authorization of the Church Council. A separate accounting for each fund shall be reported at the fiscal session of the Annual Meeting of the congregation each year.
Sec. 6. Membership Roll; Removal for Inactivity.
When members of the congregation have failed to receive Holy Communion and to make a contribution of record for a period of two consecutive calendar years, they may be removed from the roll of members by the Church Council, provided, however, that such removal shall only take place when there is a pastor under call to serve the congregation or with the approval of the bishop of the synod and after such inactive members have been counseled about the matter, if possible.
Sec. 7. Seal.
The seal of the congregation is circular in form and presents a cross growing out of the base of a tree bearing leaves and fruit. The name “Evangelical Lutheran Church in America” encircles the central motif. The outer edge contains the name “Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, Natick, Massachusetts.” The pastor shall be the custodian of the seal.
ByLaws Adopted January 29, 1989
Amended May 19, 1991
ENDOWMENT FUND PLAN OF OPERATION
1. The Committee.
Section 1. Membership of the Committee. The Committee shall consist of five members, all of whom shall be voting members of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church. Except as herein limited, the term of each member shall be three (3) years. After adoption of this resolution by the congregation, it shall elect five (5) members to the Committee: two (2) for an initial term of three (3) years; two (2) for an initial term of two (2) years; and one (1) for an initial term of one (1) year. Thereafter, at each annual meeting, the congregation shall elect the necessary number for a term of three (3) years to fill all expiring terms. No member shall serve more than two consecutive three (3) year terms. After a lapse of one (1) year, former Committee members may be re elected. The Nominating Committee of the congregation shall nominate candidates to be elected to the Committee and report at the annual congregational meeting in the same manner as for other offices and committees. In the event of a vacancy on the Committee, the Church Council shall appoint a member to fill the vacancy until the next annual meeting of the congregation, at which time the congregation shall elect a member to fulfill the remaining term of the vacancy.
Section 2. Meeting and Voting. The Committee shall meet at least quarterly, or more frequently as deemed by it in the best interest of the Fund. A quorum shall consist of three (3) members. A majority present and voting shall carry any motion or resolution.
Section 3. Fund Officers. The Committee shall elect from its membership a chairperson, a Fund recording secretary and a Fund financial secretary.
(a) Chairperson. The chairperson, or member designated by the chairperson, shall preside at all Committee meetings.
(b) Recording Secretary. The Fund recording secretary shall maintain complete and accurate minutes of all meetings of the Committee and supply a copy thereof to each member of the Committee. The recording secretary shall also supply a copy of the minutes to the Church Council.
(c) Financial Secretary. The Fund financial secretary shall act as the financial officer of the Fund, in consultation with the congregation’s treasurer, and shall maintain complete and accurate books of accounts for the Fund and shall sign checks and all other necessary documents on behalf of the congregation in furtherance of the purposes of the Fund. The books shall be audited annually by the Audit Committee or by a certified public accountant or other appropriate person who is not a member of the Committee.
Section 4. Reports. The Committee shall report on a quarterly basis to the Church Council and, at the fiscal session of each annual meeting of the congregation, shall render a full and complete audited account of the administration of the Fund during the preceding year.
Section 5. Advisory Members. The pastor and the president of the congregation shall be advisory members of the Committee. The Committee may request other members of the congregation to serve as advisory members and, at the expense of Fund income, may provide for such professional counseling on investments or legal matters as it deems to be in the best interest of the Fund.
Section 6. Limited Liability of Committee. Members of the Committee shall not be liable for any losses which may be incurred upon the investments of the assets of the Fund except to the extent such losses shall have been caused by bad faith or gross negligence. No member shall be personally liable as long as he or she acts in good faith and with ordinary prudence. Each member shall be liable only for his or her own willful misconduct or omissions, and shall not be liable for the acts or omissions of any other member. No member shall engage in any self dealing or transactions with the Fund in which the member has a direct or indirect financial interest and shall at all times refrain from any conduct in which his or her personal interests would conflict with the interests of the Fund.
2. Assets of the Fund.
Section 1. Ownership of the Fund. All assets of the Fund are to be held in the name of the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church Endowment Fund and shall constitute a designated fund of the congregation.
Section 2. Committee Empowered to Act. The Committee shall make all decisions to hold, sell, exchange, rent, lease, transfer, covert, invest, reinvest, and in all other respects to manage and control the assets of the Fund, including stocks, bonds, debentures, mortgages, notes, or other securities, as in their judgment and discretion they deem wise and prudent.
3. Distribution of Income.
Section 1. Determination of Principal and Income. The Committee shall determine what is principal and income according to generally accepted accounting procedures.
Section 2. Purposes. The income generated from the investment of the principal of gifts and bequests to the Fund shall be available to be expended. Income from the Fund shall be distributed at such times as the Church Council shall deem necessary and/or feasible to support the following:
(a) For scholarships or grants to members of the congregation for the purpose of attending college, seminary, nursing or medical school; for church related camping or leadership conferences; or such other training which enables members of the congregation to grow in Christian faith and service to God’s people.
(b) For missions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (“ELCA”) at home and overseas, including, but not limited to, grants to the ELCA for new mission development in North America, professional leadership, educational ministries, world mission and ecumenism, and capital financing.
(c) For outreach into the community, including, but not limited to, grants to ELCA colleges, seminaries, social service agencies, institutions and agencies to which the congregation relates, and to special programs designed for those persons in our parish area who are in spiritual and/or economic need.
(d) For capital improvements, debt reduction, or building program of the congregation.
The above list of programs which may be supported by the Fund is meant to be only suggestive, not restrictive.
Section 3. Authorization for Expenditures. Programs for support shall be recommended by the Committee and approved by the Church Council for funding.
4. Amendments. Any amendment to this Plan of Operation which will change, alter or amend the purpose for which the Fund is established shall be adopted by a two thirds vote of the members present at an annual meeting of the congregation or at a special meeting called specifically for the purpose of amending this Plan of Operation.
5. Disposition or Transfer of Fund. In the event that the congregation ceases to exist either through merger or dissolution, the disposition or transfer of the Fund shall be made in conformity with the constitution.
Endowment Fund Plan of Operation
Adopted January 28, 1990
Continuing Resolution Governing Gifts
• A 10 % tithe of all unrestricted gifts should be given as a first fruits offering to any appropriate entity outside the congregation that is consistent with the mission of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church.
• Gifts should not be used to offset or replace any part of the operating budget.
• The Council will appoint an ad hoc committee to make recommendations to the council for the use of any gift over $10,000. At its discretion, the council may appoint a committee to advise about smaller gifts. The ad hoc committee should include:
1. A member of Council
2. A member of Outreach Commission
3. A member of Resource Commission
4. A member of Endowment Committee
5. The Pastor
• The ad hoc committee should consider the following potential uses of the gifts
+ Contribution to the Endowment Fund
+ Ministry/Mission initiatives, i.e., funding of special projects not included in the congregational operating budget.
+ Contribution to the Building Fund
+ Other Outreach Efforts
EXAMPLE: THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE HELEN STUBBS’ GIFT
1. $11,850 TO LSS of NE: $10,000 for Resurrection Home Day Care Project and balance to area of greatest need
2. $75,000 to Building Fund
3. $21,000 to Parsonage improvements: kitchen and exterior maintenance
4. $10,500 to be used to establish a “Mustard Seed Fund”, as a reserve for ministry/mission indicatives.
Adopted by congregational vote at
Annual Meeting, May 20, 2001
Continuing Resolution of the Council on the Use of Facilities
Resource Commission shall review all Building Use Requests by non-members and by members for a non-church related function. The resource commission shall consider whether the requested use 1) furthers our mission; 2) will effect our tax exempt status, 3) create a budgetary dependency on outside revenue and 4) if the requested use will conflict with the use of the building for our mission.
The Resource Commission shall determine the appropriate fee for any incidental use of the building and ensure that someone, preferably a member of the church, takes responsibility for opening the building, cleaning and locking up.
Passed by council on April 22, 2008
BOS111 11070093.4
Created on 2009-05-26 15:55:57 by pastor
Updated on 2010-01-11 17:34:27 by danabu
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