BYLAWS OF OUR SAVIOUR'S LUTHERAN CHURCH
Last revised February, 2002.
SECTION I -
COMMUNION PARTICIPATION
(Cf. Chapter 2 of the
Constitution)
1. Participation in
Holy Communion we are nourished at the holy table of our
Lord Jesus Christ and called to be witnesses to his Gospel.
The gathered people of God celebrate the sacrament. In this
sacrament the crucified and risen Christ is present, giving
his true body and blood as food and drink. This presence is
a mystery. Admission to the Sacrament is by invitation of
the Lord, presented through the Church to those who are
baptized.(Revised January 1998)
2. Record of
Communion participation shall be entered upon the books of
the congregation and notice regarding members of other
congregations sent to the respective pastors of the
congregations of which they are members.
SECTION II -
MEMBERSHIP
(Cf. Chapter 8 of the
Constitution)
1. ADMISSION TO
BAPTIZED MEMBERSHIP
a. Children,
one or both of whose parents or guardians are members of
this congregation, shall, upon receiving Christian
baptism, be thereby received as baptized members of this
congregation.
b. Children,
neither of whose parents or guardians are members of this
congregation shall, upon Christian baptism duly recorded
as a ministerial act performed under the auspices of this
congregation, thereby be received as baptized members of
this congregation unless there is understanding that, for
good reason, they will be enrolled as baptized members of
another congregation, in which case notice of the baptism
shall be given to the congregation in which the child is
to be enrolled as a baptized member.
c. Children
baptized in other congregations (and baptized adults
mentally incompetent for confirmations) 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.
d. Unbaptized
adults who have received instruction and given evidence
of having 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 Christian
baptism duly recorded as a ministerial act performed
under the auspices of this congregation, thereby be
received as baptized members of this
congregation.
2. ADMISSION TO
CONFIRMED MEMBERSHIP
a. Baptized
adults, not previously members of the congregation, who
have received instruction 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 public
confession of faith.
b. However, adults
received as baptized members according to the provisions
of Section III, A, 4 of the By-laws, shall be recognized
as confirmed members.
c. Children who
are baptized members of the congregation shall be
admitted to confirmed membership through preparation for
and participation in the rite of affirmation of
baptism.
d. 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 pastor
and/or Board of Deacons and the report of their names to
the congregation.
e. 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 Board of
Deacons has determined that they meet the standard of
Christian faith and life indicated in the Constitution
and By-laws and when they have re-affirmed their faith
before the congregation.
3. DISCONTINUANCE
OF MEMBERSHIP
a.
Members who move away shall be encouraged to transfer.
Any confirmed member in good standing desiring to
change membership to another Lutheran church shall,
upon request, be entitled to a letter of transfer by
the pastor and/or Board of Deacons.
b. Any
confirmed member who shows no interest in attending
church services, or fails to partake of communion, or
fails to contribute to the congregational treasury
according to the congregation's records for a period
of one year, shall, by the judgment of the Board of
Deacons, lose the right of vote and voice, and shall
not be counted in the membership statistics of the
congregation. However, his/her name and record shall
be kept on the responsibility list for a period of
five years thereafter. Such a person shall be
encouraged to participate in the congregational life
or to transfer elsewhere, as the situation may
indicate to be advisable. If he/she resumes activity
within the five-year period, he/she shall be restored
to the active membership list; if not, he/she shall be
dismissed from the congregation and notified
accordingly by the Board of Deacons. If the person
requests to remain longer on the responsibility list,
it is permissible if deemed reasonable by the Board of
Deacons.
c. Children,
neither of whose parents or guardians are active
members of this congregation, shall be removed from
the baptized membership roll if they fail to
participate in the Christian education program of the
congregation.
d. Members who
have been excommunicated, dismissed, or who have
resigned, and members who have transferred to other
Lutheran congregations, or who are definitely known to
have become members of other congregations without
transfer, shall thereby have lost membership in this
congregation and all rights appertaining
thereto.
SECTION III - THE
ANNUAL MEETING
(Cf. Chapter 10 of
the Constitution)
1. The annual meeting
of the congregation shall be held in the month of January.
The Congregation Council shall set the exact date and time
at least two months in advance. Notice of the annual meeting
shall be given as provided in the constitution.
2. The current roster
of voting, confirmed, and baptized members shall be
determined prior to each annual meeting.
3. The order of
business at the annual meeting shall be:
a. Opening
Devotions
b. Approval of the
Minutes
c. Reports of the,
Pastor, Council, Treasurer, Boards, Committees, and
Others
d.
Elections
e. Approval of
Budget
f. Unfinished
Business
g. New
Business
h. Closing
Prayer
4. In the
following cases voting shall be by ballot:
a. To elect
the congregational officers and members of the
congregation boards
b. To adopt or
amend the Articles of incorporation, constitution, or
by-laws of the congregation
c. To call a
pastor or to request his/her resignation
d. To
excommunicate a member from the congregation or remove a
member from office in the 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 ten or more voting members present
5. 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.
SECTION IV -
DUTIES AND ELECTION OF CONGREGATION COUNCIL, OFFICERS, AND
BOARDS (Cf. Chapters 11, 12, 13 of the
Constitution)
1. CONGREGATION
COUNCIL
a.
Philosophy: We believe the Council exists to focus
on the mission of the congregation:
1) To
bring to life the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the lives
of members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church and the
community of Chippewa Falls
2) To use our
resources to help spread the Gospel to the world
community
b.
Purpose
- 1) Carry out
directives of the congregational meetings
- 2) To share
information by all groups and committees of the
congregation
- 3) To stimulate
long-range planning and vision for the
congregation
c.
Structure
1) The
Congregation Council shall be composed of the
President-elect, President and past-President of the
congregation, the chairpersons of congregation boards,
and a representative of the organizations authorized by
the congregation.
2) They shall meet
at least quarterly or more often as needed to consult and
advise on the workings of the committees and
organizations. Special meetings may be called by the
Senior Pastor or President or by the request of at least
one-half of the members.
3) The members of
the Council shall be informed of the meeting a minimum of
one week in advance except in the case of emergencies
when a 24-hour notice is sufficient.
4) Secretary of
the congregation shall be appointed by the Church Council
and shall keep accurate records of all congregational
meetings and all Council meetings.
d. Job
Description
1) To hear
reports of boards and organizations of the
congregation
2) To provide
consultation on existing programs and developing programs
from the boards and committees.
3) To delegate
business items to the appropriate committee or
board
4) To create ad
hoc committees for new ideas, emphasis, or
projects
5) To develop the
agenda for the annual meeting
6) To enable and
provide organization for long-range planning for the
congregational mission
7) To maintain
supportive relationships with the pastor(s) and staff and
help them annually to evaluate the fulfillment of their
calling, appointment, or employment.
8) To arrange for
pastoral service during the sickness or absence of the
pastor.
2.
EXECUTIVE / PERSONNEL COMMITTEE
a.
Philosophy
The
Executive / Personnel Committee exists to assist in
facilitating the mission and ministry of the
congregation.
b.
Purpose
The
Executive Committee acts on behalf of the congregation
and congregation council between meetings, and plans the
agenda for the congregation Council, and administers the
personnel policies adopted by the congregation Council
c. Board
Structure and Organization
1) They are
a committee of five (5), including the President-Elect,
President, Past President, the Chairperson of Board of
Trustees, and the Senior Pastor.
2) They will meet
prior to congregation Council meetings to plan Council
meeting agendas, and to review and address personnel
matters.
d. Job
Description
1) They will
administer the "Personnel Policies " of the
congregation
2) They will meet
with the Staff of the congregation annually for review
and evaluation of job descriptions and remuneration.
Normally, the Senior Pastor will meet with Staff member
and report to the committee in the spring.
Representatives of the committee will meet with the
rostered Staff in the fall for salary review.
3) They will hire
all non-rostered Staff upon recommendation of the Board
who relates to their area of work.
4) They will meet
at the call of the Senior Pastor or President to consider
and attend to emergency, urgent, or unusual situations
5) They will
prepare for and conduct an annual "congregation Council
& Boards" workshop on the mission and ministry of our
Saviours Lutheran Church
3
PRESIDENT OF THE CONGREGATION SHALL
a. Preside
over council meetings.
b. Chair the
annual meeting of the congregation.
c. Preside over
all special meetings that are called on behalf of the
congregation.
d. Act as chair of
the Executive Committee.
e. Act as chair of
the Personnel Committee.
f. Oversee the
following Boards: Stewardship, Trustees, and
Endowment.
g. Represent the
congregation when called upon to do so.
4.
PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE CONGREGATION SHALL
a. Attend
all council meetings.
b. Preside at all
meetings when the President is unavailable.
c. Be a member of
the Executive Committee.
d. Be a member of
the Personnel Committee.
e. Oversee the
following Boards: Youth, Education, and
Deacons.
5. PAST PRESIDENT
OF THE CONGREGATION SHALL
a. Act as
chair of the Nominating Committee.
b. Be a member of
the Executive Committee.
c. Be a member of
the Personnel Committee.
d. Attend council
meetings on an "as needed" basis.
e. Oversee the
following Boards: Worship & Music, Social Ministries,
Buildings & Grounds.
6. BUILDING AND
GROUNDS BOARD
a.
Philosophy
We recognize that
this world, our lives, and all we have belong to (are
owned by) God. The buildings and grounds in which our
congregation gathers belong to God and we are the
stewards (caretakers) of them. It is the responsibility
of the entire congregation to take care of the buildings
and grounds.
b.
Purpose
The purpose of the
Building and Grounds Board will be to exercise on behalf
of the congregation the care of the buildings and
grounds. The board will involve the members of the
congregation in the on going care of the building and
grounds.
c. Board
Structure and Organization
1) They
are a board of six (6), elected at the annual meeting
for a term of three (3) years
2) They shall
select a chairperson and a secretary at their first
meeting following the annual meeting.
3) They shall
meet monthly at a regularly scheduled time.
4) The
chairperson shall represent the Building and Grounds
Board in the Congregation Council.
d. Job
Description
1)
General
a)
Supervise the work and maintain the job description
of the custodian
b) Make
regular inspections of the building and
grounds
c) Annually
review the insurance policies of the
church
d) Establish
and maintain service contracts when and if
necessary
e) Organize
and direct the workdays as required
f) Be
appraised of future maintenance and capital
improvement projects
g) In the
month of December, prepare a report to the
congregation to be presented at the annual
meeting
h) In the
month of September to formulate a budget to support
the work of the board
2)
Buildings
a) Be
responsible for the security of the church
b) Overall
maintenance of the building's interior and
exterior
c) Maintain
the mechanical systems of the buildings
d) Maintain
the organ
e) Approve
permanent interior decorating
f) Be alert
for resources and procedures for conserving
energy
3)
Grounds
a)
Maintain the parking lot
b) Maintain
the lawn shrubs, trees, etc. on the church
property
c) Develop
plans for improvement on the grounds
e. Job
Description: Chairperson
1)
Preside over all board meetings
2) Establish an
agenda and submit it to the church office for typing
and mailing prior to the next meeting
3) Deliver the
board's budget to the Board of Trustees in the month
of October
4) Represent
the Building and Grounds Board on the Congregation
Council
7. BOARD OF
DEACONS
a.
Philosophy
As the
apostles of the early church first called deacons to
assist them in the ministry, so also you have been
called to this Purpose.
b.
Purpose
1) To
make sure that the workings and worship of Our
Saviour's are carried out in a manner that follows the
teachings and practices established by the synodical
body that we are a part of
2) To be an
ambassador of Our Saviour's in the
community
3) To provide
spiritual support to those who are in need
c.
Structure and Organization
1) The
Board of Deacons shall be composed of 10 members,
striving for a balance of men and women, who are
elected for a term of three (3) years at the annual
meeting of the congregation
2) In case of a
vacancy on the Board of Deacons, the vacancy shall be
filled by election at a meeting of the Church Council.
The person elected by the Council shall be permanently
elected to fill out the unexpired term at the next
regular annual meeting of the congregation
3) The Board of
Deacons shall choose of their own number a chairperson
and a secretary
4) The Board
shall meet at least on a monthly basis but may meet
more often if necessary
d. Job
Description
1) To
assist the pastor or pastors with the ministry of Our
Saviour's in the following ways:
a)
Distribution of Communion
b) The
congregation will be divided into groups of
families and a deacons will be assigned to a group
to enable ministry to the families of that
group
c) Reports
of the ministry concerns will be given at the
monthly deacons' meeting
d) Giving
Communion to the sick and shut-ins as
required
e) Greeting
of visitors and new members
f) To be a
resource for ministry in crisis
situations
2) To review
time and ministry with the pastor or pastors on at
least a quarterly basis or as may be deemed necessary
unless a Staff Support Committee has been created to
perform this function
3) To review
the active and responsibility roster of Our Saviour's
at their regular meetings in November and December
each year
4) To see to it
that the spiritual care of the church is not neglected
in the absence of the pastor or pastors or during the
vacancy of the pastoral office
5) The Board of
Deacons shall determine their budget needs for the
coming year at their October meeting
6) The Board of
Deacons shall review their structure and job
description at the monthly meeting following the
annual meeting of the congregation
e. Job
Description: Chairperson
1)
Preside over the meetings of the Deacons
2) Consult with
the pastors or other staff and establish an agenda for
monthly meetings. Submit the agenda to the church
office for mailing a week before the next regularly
scheduled meeting
3) Supervise
the scheduling and the training of the
deacons
4) Deliver the
needed budget for the coming year to the Trustees in
October
5) Serve as a
member of the Congregation Council. Review the work of
the Deacons with the Council and seek guidance for
future work
f. Job
Description: Secretary
1) Shall
keep accurate minutes of each meeting and submit to
the church office 10 days prior to the next
meeting
2) Shall keep
on-going minutes and reports in a loose-leaf record
book
3) Shall
preside at the monthly or special meetings when the
chairperson is absent
8. BOARD OF
YOUTH AND EDUCATION
a.
Philosophy
The
ministry of God's people needs to reach out to all the
baptized, who are learning and growing in their faith,
and enable them to identify more deeply with the
Christian community and participate more fully in its
mission and ministry.
b.
Purpose
1) The
board of Youth and Educational will provide basic
structured learning experiences for all ages.
Therefore, enabling our members to know the content of
their faith and be drawn to a commitment to God by
becoming and remaining active in serving Him.
2) The
Board will provide structure and resources to enable
the members of our congregation the opportunities for
Christian based education, activities, and ministry.
c.
Structure and Organization
1) The
Board of Education shall consist of eight (8) adult
members and (1-3) youth as active members. Terms will
be three (3) years and in such a manner that at least
two (2) members will be elected each year .
2) The Board
will elect a chairperson and secretary at the first
meeting following the annual meeting
3) The Board
will meet at least quarterly or more often as needed.
The meeting will follow the schedule set forth by the
congregational Council.
d. Job
Description
1) The
Chairperson shall represent the Board on the
congregation Council, shall preside over all Board
meetings, establish agendas, prepare a budget, and
prepare a report for the annual meeting.
2) The
secretary shall take and record minutes from all Board
meetings. Submit minutes to the office to be typed and
mailed to all Board members prior to the next meeting.
In the absence of the Chairperson, preside over the
Board meeting and/or represent the Board at
congregation Council meeting.
3) Two (2)
members will serve as a task force to oversee:
Education Programs, Wednesday classes Pre-8th, Friends
in Faith, Affirmation of Baptism, involving youth in
church ministry and service.
4) Two (2)
members will serve as a task force to oversee: Sunday
Education, Adult Education Programs, VBS, Pre-school
committee, Library, Study retreats, involving youth in
church ministry and service.
5) Two (2)
members will serve as a task force to oversee: Youth
activities, such as Youth Group, District and National
Youth gatherings, L.Y.E. events, Study retreats,
lock-ins and youth trips, Leadership school and
Y.E.T., involving youth in church ministry and
service.
e.
Additional Board Responsibilities
1) Board
members should attend the annual meeting of the
congregation and Council Retreat
2) Keep
positions filled and functioning on all sub-committees
and task forces.
3) Create
additional task forces as needed to run and oversee
other youth programs and special events.
9. Endowment
Board
a.
Philosophy (CF. Constitution, C19.01.)
b. Purpose
(CF. Constitution, C19.02.)
c. Board
Structure
1) The
Board shall consist of five (5) members, sit of whom
shall be voting members of our Saviour's Lutheran
Church. Except as herein limited, the term of each
member shall be three (3) years. After the adoption of
this resolution by the congregation, it shall elect
five (5) members to the board - two (2) for a term of
three (3) years; two (2) for a term of two (2) years;
and one (1) for a term of one (1) year. Thereafter at
each annual meeting the congregation shall elect the
necessary number for a term of three (3) years. A
partial term shall not be counted for this purpose. No
members may be reelected after two (2) consecutive
terms without a twelve (12) month lapse between the
most recent term.
2) In the event
of a vacancy on the board, the congregation council
may, by a majority vote, elect a member to fill the
vacancy until the next annual meeting of the
congregation, at which time the congregation shall
elect a member to fill the vacancy. In the event the
vacancy is not fitted within thirty (30) days after it
occurs, the congregation shall fill it at a special
meeting called for that purpose.
3) The
Nominating Committee of the congregation shall
nominate for this board and report at the annual
meeting in the same manner as it does for other
offices or boards. Nominations may also be made from
the floor. The person receiving the greater number of
votes at the annual meeting shall be elected. ALL
Endowment Fund Board members shall endeavor to
maintain a high degree of communication with the
church council, other organizations within the church,
and members of the congregation to nurture the total
mission of the church and of the Fund. Each board
member must be a member of Our Saviour's Lutheran
Church. An Endowment Fund Board member may not serve
concurrently on the congregation council. The senior
pastor of the church and the president of the
congregation council shall be ex-officio non-voting
members of the Endowment Fund Board.
4) An Endowment
Fund Board member may be removed by a two-thirds (2/3)
majority vote of those present at a Legally called
meeting of the congregation.
5) The Board
shall elect from its membership a chairperson,
treasurer, and secretary.
6) The Board
shall meet at Least monthly at the church at a time
fixed by resolution of the Board and more frequently
as it may be deemed by the Board in the best interests
of the Fund. The Board, when it deems it unnecessary
to hold a particular monthly meeting, may, by
resolution, cancel a meeting. Special meetings may be
called twenty-four (24) hours written or oral notice
to members of the Board by the chairperson or any two
members. No notice other than the recording of the
resolution fixing the time of the regular meetings
need by given the members. Each member is charged with
the knowledge of the contents of the minute
book.
7) A quorum
shall consist of three (3) members. The affirmative
vote of majority present and voting shall carry any
motion or resolution.
8) The Board
shall establish written rules and regulations as may
be necessary for the conduct of its business. It shall
adopt standards and goals to guide in the expenditure
of the income from the Fund which it may amend within
the stated purposes of this Fund.
9) The Board
shall maintain accounts with such financial
institutions as it may by resolution authorize and
determine. ALL checks and other documents transferring
or expending any funds or assets in the Fund shall be
executed by the 'treasurer and either the chairperson
or secretary of the Board.
10) If, at the
discretion of the Board, a corporate fidelity bond is
desired for committee members with check signing
authority, such expense shall be borne by the
Fund.
11) The Board
may ask other members of the congregation to serve as
advisory members and may employ, at the expense of the
Endowment Fund income, such professional counseling on
investments and Legal matters as it deems to be for
the best interest of the Endowment Fund.
12) The Board
shall maintain complete and accurate books of accounts
and may employ such professionals help as it deems
necessary in this regard. The books shall be audited
annually and such audit report will be on file at the
time of the annual meeting of the
congregation.
13) The
secretary shall maintain complete and accurate minutes
of all meetings of the committee and supply a copy
thereof to each member at least ten (10) days prior to
the next regular meeting. Each members shall keep a
complete copy of minutes to be delivered to his or her
successor.
14) The
chairperson, or the member designated by the
chairperson, shall preside at all Board
meetings.
15) No members
of the Board shall engage in any self-dealing or
transactions with the Fund in which the member of the
Board has direct or indirect financial interest and
shall at all times refrain from any conduct in which
his/her personal interests would conflict with the
interests of the Fund.
d. Board
Duties
1) The
Endowment Fund Board, at each annual meeting of the
congregation, shall render a full and complete account
of the administration of the Endowment Fund during the
preceding year.
2) The
Endowment Fund Board or church may receive funds
through gifts, memorials, bequests, wills, estates,
etc. from any individual or corporation or
organization or from any other source in cash or other
property acceptable to them.
3) ALL trust
funds and property shall be kept and maintained
separate, distinct, and independent from the funds and
property otherwise belonging to the church.
4) The
Endowment Fund Board shall in no event be required to
make physical segregation of the assets of the
Endowment Fund in order to conform to the directions
of any individual donors, but may establish separate
accounts in its accounting records.
5) The Board
shall inform the members of the congregation of the
purposes of the Fund, and may periodically arrange for
members of the congregation to meet with professional
counselors in the areas of charitable giving, wills,
bequests, insurance, etc.
6) All new
members of the Endowment Fund Board are to receive a
copy of the Endowment Fund format to become acquainted
with the function and purposes of the Fund.
e. Board
Powers
1) In the
administration of this Endowment Fund, the Endowment
Fund Board shall have all powers and authority
necessary to carry out the purposes of the Fund,
including the following powers and authority on behalf
of our Saviour's Lutheran Church:
a)
Take, have, hold, sell, exchange, rent, Lease,
transfer, convert, invest, reinvest, and in all
other respects to handle, manage and control the
Endowment Fund, or any part thereof, as they in
their judgment and discretion shall deem wise and
prudent.
b) retain
any property in the form in which received; to
convert and reconvert the Endowment Fund, or any
part thereof, into other kinds and forms of
property, real or personal or mixed; and to invest
or reinvest the Fund or assets therein, or any
thereof, as they shall deem wise and prudent,
including in such common or preferred stocks,
bonds, debentures, mortgages, notes or other
securities, investments or property, whether real
or personal, which they in their absolute
discretion may select or determine, and including,
without limitation, savings deposits of any bank,
mutual savings bank, federal home loan bank or
savings and loan association, or in the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America Mission Loan Fund, or
its successor, or in any common trust fund, mutual
fund, or any like fund, or any like fund, subject
to the usual standards of prudence required of
trustees of similar funds.
c) To
receive the income, profits, rents, and proceeds of
the Endowment Fund and to collect and receipt for
the same, and pay all administrative and necessary
expenses in connection with it. Expenses are to be
paid from the Endowment Fund income.
d) To make,
execute, and deliver at( instruments necessary or
proper for the accomplishment of the purposes of
Our Saviour's Lutheran Church Endowment Fund or of
any of the foregoing powers, including deeds, bills
of sale, transfers, leases, mortgages, assignments,
conveyances, contracts, purchase agreements,
waivers, releases, and settlements.
e) To
contribute, donate, support, or distribute, from
time to time for the purposes herein stated, such
payments or amounts as the Endowment Fund Board in
its discretion shall determine.
f) To take
any funds and property that any donor, grantor, or
contributor directs to be used for specific
purposes so Long as the purposes are consistent
with the purposes set forth herein and Article XIV
unless at the time the gift is received or
subsequently by a 2/3 majority vote of the full
Endowment Fund Board it is determined that the
specific purpose has been impractical, impossible,
obsolete, or inappropriate, in which event the
Board shall have the power to apply such funds,
property, arid income to such other purposes as
determined by the Committee and consistent with the
then existing Laws of the State of
Wisconsin.
g) To
determine what is principal and income according to
accounting procedures.
h) To hold
investments in the name of Our Saviour's Lutheran
Church Endowment Fund on behalf of the congregation
and to sign checks and all other necessary
documents on behalf of the congregation in
furtherance of the Endowment Fund
purposes.
i) To employ
and reasonably compensate from the Endowment fund
income, accountants, agents, and attorneys to
assist and advise in the execution of the Endowment
Fund without Liability for their omissions or
neglect, but using reasonable care in their
selection, and to rely on the advice of persons so
employed.
2) The
Endowment Fund Board shall not be Liable for any
Losses which may be incurred upon investments of the
Endowment Fund except to the extent that such losses
shall have been caused by bad faith or gross
negligence of the Board members. No member shall be
personally Liable as tong as he/she acts in good faith
and with ordinary prudence in discharging the duties
of the office. Each Board member shall be liable only
for his/her own willful misconduct or omissions of bad
faith. No Board member shall be Liable for the acts or
omissions of any other Board member, or of any
accountant, agent, attorney, or custodian selected
with reasonable care.
3) The
Endowment Fund Board shall not receive any
compensation, but may be reimbursed from the income of
the Endowment Fund for expenses reasonably
incurred.
4) References
herein to "Evangelical Lutheran Church in America',
shall also include its successors.
f. The
Congregation
1) In the
event that the principal is ever needed due to a
catastrophe, the congregation may, upon recommendation
of the 2/3 vote of the full Endowment Fund Board,
authorize the use of a specific sum of principal for a
specific purpose by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote
of those present at a legally called meeting of the
congregation. However, principal derived from
contributions for specific purposes may not otherwise
by used except as authorized pursuant to Section 5,
Paragraph 6.
2) This
Endowment Fund by-law may not be altered or amended
except by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the members
present at an annual meeting of the
congregation.
g. Tax
Exemptions
1) Any
gifts given to the Endowment Fund, as well as all
income derived therefrom, shall be used exclusively
for religious, charitable, and educational purposes
with Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internet Revenue Code
of 1954 or the corresponding provision of any future
United States Internet Revenue Law. This Endowment
Fund is created and shall be operated exclusively for
church purposes. No part of the income or property of
this Fund shall inure to the benefit of or be
distributable to any member, director, or officer of
the church or to any other private person, except that
the Endowment Fund Board is authorized and empowered
to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered
and to make payments and distributions in furtherance
of the purpose set forth herein. No part of the
activities of the Endowment Fund shall be the carrying
on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence
Legislation, and it shall not participate in or
intervene in (including the publishing or distribution
of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any
candidate for public office. Notwithstanding any other
provision of this document, the Endowment Fund shall
(a) not carry on any activities not permitted to be
carried on by an entity exempt from federal income tax
under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1954 or the corresponding provision of any future
Internal Revenue Lay or (b) do any act which would
render contributions to the Endowment Fund
nondeductible under Section 170 (c) (2) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or the corresponding
provision of any future United States Internal Revenue
Law.
2) This
Endowment Fund may be dissolved in accordance with the
Laws of the State of Wisconsin. Upon dissolution of
this Endowment Fund, and after the payment of all
Liabilities, obligations, costs, and expenses incurred
by this Endowment Fund, any remaining assets shall be
distributed to such entities organized and operated
exclusively for one or more purposes described in
Sections 170 (c) (2) and 501 (c) (3) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1954 or the corresponding provision of
any future United States Internal Revenue
Law.
3) This
Endowment Fund by-law, accepted by the congregation,
upon recommendation of the congregation council at a
legally called congregational meeting, is hereby
incorporated into the by-laws of Our Saviour's
Lutheran Church, Chippewa Falls, WI, and information
of its contents and uses made available to all
members.
10. Board of
Social Ministries
a.
Philosophy
In the
quest of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church to follow God's
commandment to "Love thy neighbor as thyself," and to
live a God-like life as described by Jesus in Matthew
25:31-40, a fundamental responsibility of all
Christians is revealed. The Social Ministries Board
recognizes that through the words contained in those
verses, "'Come, O blessed of my Father, inherit the
kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the
world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was
thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and
you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was
sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came
to me.' And the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when
did we see thee hungry and feed thee, or thirsty and
give thee drink? And when did we see thee sick or in
prison and visit thee?' And the king will answer them,
'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the
least of these my brethren, you did it to me.'" Herein
lies the truth of how God's love is carried into the
world.
b.
Purpose
1)
Through the Social Ministries Board, Our Saviour's
Lutheran Church extends care and Christian compassion
from our congregation into our community, nation, and
world.
2) The
ELCA constitution clearly defines its goals towards
social ministry in its Statement of Purpose. It
states, "To participate in God's mission, this church
shall: 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. To fulfill these purposes this church
shall: Life its voice in concord and work in concert
with forces for good, to serve humanity, cooperating
with church and other groups participating in
activities that promote justice, relieve misery and
reconcile the estranged," and: "Study social issues
and trends, work to discover the causes of oppression
and injustice, and develop programs of ministry and
advocacy to further human dignity, freedom, justice,
and peace in the world."
c. Board
structure
1) They
are a Board of no less than five (5) or no more than
seven (7)elected at the annual meeting. They shall
serve in rotating three-year terms.
2) They shall
elect a chairperson and secretary at their first
meeting following the annual meeting.
3) They shall
meet monthly at a regularly scheduled time.
d. Job
Description: Chairperson
1)
Preside over all meetings of the Board.
2) Establish an
agenda, and submit it to the church office for typing
and mailing prior to the meetings.
3) Deliver the
Board's budget to the Board of Trustees in the month
of October.
4) The
chairperson shall represent the Social Ministries
Board on the Congregation Council, or delegate that
responsibility to another Board member upon approval
of the Board.
e. Job
Description: Secretary
1) Take
and record accurate minutes of all meetings of the
Board.
2) Submit
minutes of the previous meeting to the church office
for typing and mailing prior to the next
meeting.
3) Maintain a
permanent record of all minutes and reports in a
loose-leaf binder.
4) In the
absence of the chairperson, preside at the Board
meeting and represent the Board at council
meetings.
f. Job
Description: Board
1) Seek
to discover the unmet human needs of those in our
congregation and community, and devise ways to meet
those needs.
2) Examine
international, national, state, and local issues and
present information to the congregation through the
bulletin, newsletter, temple talks, and forums;
encourage congregation members to respond to these
issues individually and collectively.
3) Pass along
to the congregation the views of the ELCA on issues of
concern to us as Christians.
4) Develop and
maintain an Emergency Aid Fund to provide financial
help for those in need.
5) Review
monthly list of Pastoral Fund recipients and offer
help in finding more permanent solutions to their
needs.
6) Develop a
resource/referral network for those in
need.
7) Coordinate
seasonal events and projects throughout the church
year.
8) Recruit
members of the congregation to participate in local
events that benefit others, i.e., CROP Walk, Food
drives.
9) Support the
local Food Pantry and the Transient Ministry by
maintaining an on-going food donation project at
OSLC.
10) Support the
Triniteam Caregivers; supply a liaison from
OSLC.
11) Seek ways
to work with other congregations of all denominations
in our community to achieve the goals defined by
OSLC's Mission Statement and Goals, and the bylaws of
OSLC.
12) Work in
harmony with the pastors and other OSLC Boards to
achieve common goals.
13) Prepare an
annual budget and submit it to the Board of Trustees
in October.
14) In December
prepare a report to the congregation to be presented
at the annual meeting.
15) Recruit and
encourage congregational participation in workshops
and seminars dealing with social issues.
16) Screen all
prioritized mail and act upon those issues that meet
the criteria as defined by the Board's
goals.
11. Board of
Stewardship
a.
Philosophy
The
Stewardship of each member of Our Saviour's Lutheran
Church is the result of the working of the Holy
Spirit. It is a growing process which needs to be
guided by the counsel of Scripture through Bible study
and prayer. It involves the whole of a person's being.
It is the management of time, talents, and
possessions. Christian stewardship also involves each
Christian in world-wide mission, carrying out the
mandate given to us by Christ (Matthew 28:19-20): "Go
therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing
them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of
the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I
have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to
the close of the age."
b.
Purpose
The
purpose of the Board of Stewardship is to provide
guidance for the development of Christian Stewardship.
The Board has the spiritual task of encouraging and
assisting members to understand their responsibility
as children of God.
c. Board
Structure and Organization
1) They
are a board of five (5) elected at the Annual Meeting.
They shall serve in rotating three-year terms.
2) They shall
select a chairperson and secretary at their first
meeting following the Annual Meeting.
3) They shall
meet monthly at a regularly scheduled time.
4) The
chairperson shall represent the Board of Stewardship
on the Congregation Council.
d.
Job Description: Board of Stewardship
1) Plan
and carry out a year-round stewardship program.
2) Study and
grow so that they can lead by example.
3) Be alert for
new sources and procedures.
4) Analyze
present and past trends so that they can interpret
for, and advise, the Church Council.
5) Work in
harmony with the pastor(s).
6) Promote
special gifts through wills and bequests.
7) Work with
other committees, auxiliaries, task forces, and
organizations within the congregation and
community.
8) Promote
benevolence giving by educating and informing the
members of the congregation about the work of the ELCA
and all of its divisions and other groups supported by
the congregation, such as Lutheran Social Services and
Luther Park Bible Camp.
9) Participate
in Conference and District workshops or seminars, for
learning and service.
10) Educate and
inform the congregation through Sunday morning
services, monthly newsletter, educational programs,
and church auxiliaries.
11) Solicit
every member's response in a time and talent survey,
and maintain a file which will be readily available to
the various boards and committees of the
congregation.
12) Annually
solicit every member's financial support for the
purpose of advising the congregation in establishment
of the budget.
13) In the
month of September, to formulate a budget to support
their work.
14) In the
month of December, to prepare a report to the
congregation, to be presented at the Annual
Meeting.
e. Job
Description: Chairperson
1)
Preside over all meetings of the board.
2) Establish an
agenda, and submit it to the church office for typing
and mailing prior to the meetings.
3) Deliver the
board's budget to the Trustees in the month of
October.
4) Represent
the Board of Stewardship on the Congregation
Council.
f. Job
Description: Secretary
1) Take
and record accurate minutes of all meetings of the
board.
2) Submit
minutes of the previous meeting to the church office
for typing and mailing prior to the next
meeting.
3) Maintain a
permanent record of all minutes and reports in a
loose-leaf binder.
4) In the
absence of the chairperson, preside at the committee
meeting and represent the committee at Congregation
Council meetings.
12.
Board
of Trustees
a.
Philosophy Statement
The
Trustees following, the Scriptural admonitions
concerning stewardship, exercise control of all
finances of the congregation. The focus of proclaiming
the "Good News" concerning Jesus Christ to all people
will guide the work of the Trustees of Our Saviour's
Lutheran Church. Their work will be to facilitate the
congregation's participation in God's redeeming work
in the world.
b.
Purpose Statement
The
Trustees are given the responsibility to act on behalf
of the congregation between Annual Meetings to carry
out the mission (or purpose) of the congregation in
the financial affairs of the church as authorized by
the congregation.
c.
Structure and Organization
1) The
Board of Trustees will consist of five (5) members
elected at the Annual Meeting for a term of three (3)
years.
2) The group
will appoint a Chairperson and a Secretary at the
first meeting following the Annual Meeting.
3) They will
meet monthly at a regularly scheduled time.
4) The
Chairperson will attend the meetings of the Church
Council.
d. Job
Description
1) On a
monthly basis, the financial report of the
congregation's Treasurer shall be reviewed by the
Board of Trustees.
2) They will
designate and authorize the manner in which all
receipts and disbursements are properly
allocated.
3) Exercise
authority in the acquisition and disposition of church
property and determine the need of securing loans as
authorized by the congregation.
4) On an annual
basis, a budget will be formulated and presented to
the congregation at the Annual Meeting.
5) They will,
in conjunction with the Board of Building and Grounds,
review all insurance policies; specifically
coverage's, premiums, and claims.
6) They shall
hire and supervise the work of a Treasurer for the
congregation.
7) They shall
hire and supervise the work of the Financial
Secretary.
8) Periodically
they shall inform the membership of the financial
condition of the congregation and make recommendations
to the various committees concerning their
expenditures.
9) In December
of each year, they shall designate undesignated
memorial funds which have been held for six (6) months
or more. Notification of such designation will be
given.
10) The Board
of Trustees shall provide through the annual budget,
or special seminary tuition fund, the tuition for
congregational members who wish to attend a seminary
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America.
11) The Board
of Trustees shall have the authority to spend up to,
but not more then 5% of the annual budget on a
non-budgeted project without congregational
approval.
12) All
committees and organizations handling funds within the
congregation shall submit a summary of income and
expenses and financial records for the year to the
Trustees or the church office by January 7 of the
following year.
e. Job
Description: Chairperson
1) Will
preside over the meetings.
2) Will
represent the board at Congregation Council
meetings.
3) Will be
responsible for submitting the budget and report to
the Annual Meeting.
f. Job
Description: Secretary
1) Will
accurately record the minutes.
2) Will preside
over any meeting in the absence of the
Chairperson.
g. Job
Description: Financial Secretary
1) The
Financial Secretary of the congregation shall be hired
by the Board of Trustees, not a member of the Board of
Trustees, and shall be bonded.
2) The
Financial Secretary shall receive from the Treasurer a
record of all income and keep accurate records.
Periodic reports of giving shall be made to the
members as directed by the Board of
Trustees.
3) The
Financial Secretary shall prepare annually an audited
report to the congregation. This report will agree
with the Treasurer's Report.
h. Job
Description: Treasurer
1) The
Treasurer of the congregation shall be hired by the
Board of Trustees, not one of its members, and be
bonded.
2) The
Treasurer shall receive all offerings and income of
the congregation and make accurate record and give
receipts where necessary. All monies shall be
deposited in the night depository of the
bank.
3) Receipt of
deposit and envelope records shall be given to the
Financial Secretary. The records kept by the Treasurer
and Financial Secretary shall be reconciled for an
Annual Report.
4) The
Treasurer will disburse such funds in accordance with
the decisions of the congregation or the Board of
Trustees.
5) The
Treasurer shall present a duly audited report to the
Annual Meeting of the congregation and other such
reports to the Board of Trustees as they may
require.
13.
Board of Worship/Music
a.
Philosophy
1) We
believe the focus of each worship experience is the
Word and Sacraments.
2) In worship
we are united with God's people of all times and
places.
3) Worship
belongs to and is the response of the congregation
regardless of age or calling.
b.
Purpose
1) To
ensure that the "Gospel is preached in its purity and
the Holy Sacraments are administered according to the
Gospel".(Augsburg Confession, Article VII)
2) To enhance
unity of the Church by using liturgical forms approved
by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America for
regular worship services (Cf. Chapter 4 of
Constitution).
3) To ensure
that special worship experiences are consistent with
our Lutheran heritage.
4) To enable
all ages to joyfully respond to Word and Sacraments
by:
a)
helping them understand the nature of worship and
our liturgies thereby equipping them for meaningful
participation.
b) utilizing
the congregation and clergy in planning and
developing all worship services.
c) providing
opportunities for each to participate according to
their calling.
d) providing
atmosphere conducive to prayer and meditation,
confession, offering, celebration and glorifying
God (I Cor. 6:20).
e) providing
a sense of tradition and foundation for our
children.
f) providing
opportunities for people to be nourished a
strengthened in a spiritual sense.
c. Board
Structure and Organization
1) The
board shall consist of six (6) members elected by the
congregation at its annual meeting
2) The term of
office shall be three (3) years. Two members shall be
elected each year.
3) A board
chairperson and secretary shall be elected at the
first meeting of the board following the annual
meeting.
4) The board
will meet monthly with the day and time determined by
the board.
5) The Director
of Music Ministries shall serve as an ex officio
member of the Worship and Music Board.
d. Job
Description
1)
Evaluate and support the music programs of the
church.
2) Evaluate
ushering in the church.
2) Select
liturgist and provide for their training.
4) Evaluate the
lector program
5) Secure a
babysitter for Sunday morning services.
7) Prepare a
yearly budget in October and present to
Trustees.
8) Evaluate and
establish times of worship services.
9) Approve and
evaluate appearances of outside individuals/groups to
participate in worship services.
10) Evaluate
worship materials for use in services.
11) Appoint a
committee for preparing the church for seasonal
worship.
12) Provide the
congregation opportunities to express concerns and
feelings regarding worship.
13) Be in
communication with the Altar Guild by sharing monthly
minutes.
14) Make
recommendations regarding hiring or releasing organist
and/or choir directors. Conduct auditions and
interviews.
15) Maintain
the music library.
16) Issue and
maintain choir robes.
17) Encourage
Sunday School to help students learn hymns.
18) Encourage
and support training workshops and music
seminars.
e. Board
of Worship & Music Chairperson: Job
Description
1)
Conduct Board of Worship and Music meetings.
2) Submit
agenda to church office ten (10) days prior to meeting
for distribution to members of the board.
3) Submit
budget for the board to Trustees.
4) Approve
invoices for budgeted items.
5) Serve as a
voting member of the Church Council.
f. Board
of Worship & Music Secretary: Job
Description
1) Take
minutes of all the meetings and submit to the church
office for distribution to board members one week
prior to next meeting.
2) Serve as a
voting member of the Church Council and chair the
board meeting when the chairperson is unable to do
so.
h. Board
of Worship & Music Agenda Calendar
January
Lent plans finalized
February Holy
Week plans finalized/Summer worship schedule/
Review
structure, organization, job descriptions of
Board
March Easter
plans: Festival & Season of
April Mother's
Day/Ascension/Pentecost/Summer outdoor
worship
May Finalize
Pentecost/Finalize Summer Worship
June/July Plan
for the Fall
August/Sept.
Thanksgiving/Confirmation/Advent/Budget
needs
October
Christmas/Advent/Thanksgiving finalized
November
Christmas/Advent/Epiphany plans/Annual meeting
items/Begin Lent Planning
December Lenten
Planning.
SECTION V:
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
1. The
candidates of the Nominating Committee shall be made known
to the congregation in conjunction with the announcement of
the Special or Annual Meeting at which the election is to
take place.
2. In addition
to the candidates submitted by the Nominating Committee,
additional nominations may be made from the
floor.
3. A vacancy in
the congregationally elected membership of the Nominating
Committee shall be filled by a special congregational
meeting called for that purpose.
History of
Changes: (starting 2002)
Updated: Summary
of Change Revised Section
Feb. 2002 Added
Executive / Personnel Committee sub-section to Section IV.
Incremented remaining numbers in Section IV. Combined prior
(IV) sub-sections 7 (Education) and 13 (Youth Board). As
approved during 2001 Annual meeting Section IV; Added
paragraphs 2a., 2b., 2c., 2d. Revised sub-section 8. Deleted
sub-section 13.
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