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ADOPTED CONSTITUTION St. John's Lutheran Church Eau Claire, Wisconsin 02-02-97 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.
NAME AND INCORPORATION C1.10. The name of this congregation shall be St. John's Lutheran Church. C1.20. For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the St. John's Lutheran Church congregation is hereinafter designated as "this congregation." C1.30. This congregation shall be incorporated under the laws of the State of Wisconsin.
CONFESSION OF FAITH C2.10. This congregation confesses the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. C2.20. This congregation confesses Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and the Gospel as the power of God for the salvation of all who believe. C2.21. 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. C2.22. 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. C2.23. c. The canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the written word of God. Inspired by God's Spirit speaking through their authors, they record and announce God's revelation centering in Jesus Christ. Through them God's Spirit speaks to us to create and sustain Christian faith and fellowship for service in the world. C2.30. This congregation accepts the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation, faith, and life. C2.40. This congregation accepts the Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of the faith of this congregation. C2.50. This congregation accepts the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as a true witness to the Gospel, acknowledging as one with it in faith and doctrine all churches that likewise accept the teachings of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession C2.60. This congregation accepts the other confessional writings in the Book of Concord, namely, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles and the Treatise, the Small Catechism, the Large Catechism, and the Formula of Concord, as further valid interpretations of the faith of the Church. C2.70. 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.
NATURE OF THE CHURCH C3.10. All power in the Church belongs to our Lord Jesus Christ, its head. All actions of this congregation are to be carried out under his rule and authority. C3.20. 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.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE C4.10. The Church is a people created by God in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, called and sent to bear witness to God's creative, redeeming, and sanctifying activity in the world. C4.20. To participate in God's mission, this congregation as a part of the Church shall: C4.21. a. Worship God in proclamation of the Word and administration of the sacraments and through lives of prayer, praise, thanksgiving, witness, and service. C4.22. 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. C4.23. 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. C4.24. d. Service 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. C4.25. 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. C4.26. f. Manifest the unity given to the people of God by living together in the love of Christ and by joining with other Christians in prayer and action to express and preserve the unity which the Spirit gives. C4.30. To fulfill these purposes, this congregation shall: C4.31. a. Provide services of worship at which the Word of God is preached and the sacraments are administered. C4.32. b. Provide pastoral care and assist all members to participate in this ministry. C4.33. c. Challenge, equip, and support all members in carrying out their calling in their daily lives and in their congregation. C4.34. d. Teach the Word of God. C4.35. e. Witness to the reconciling Word of God in Christ, reaching out to all people. C4.36. f. Respond to human need, work for justice and peace, care for the sick and the suffering, and participate responsibly in society. C4.37. g. Motivate its members to provide financial support for the congregation's ministry and the ministry of other parts of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. C4.38. h. Foster and participate in interdependent relationships with other congregations, the synod, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. C4.39. i. Foster and particpate in ecumenical relationships consistent with churchwide policy. C4.40. This congregation shall develop an organizational structure to be described in the bylaws. The Congregation Council shall prepare descriptions of the responsibilities of each committee, task force, or other organizational groups and shall review their actions. (Such description shall be contained in continuing resolutions of the Congregation Council.) C4.50. This congregation shall, from time to time, adopt a mission statement which will provide specific direction for its programs. POWERS OF THE CONGREGATION C5.10. The powers of this congregation are those necessary to fulfill its purpose. C5.20. The powers of this congregation are vested in the Congregation Meeting called and conducted as provided in this constitution and bylaws. C5.30. Only such authority as is delegated to the Congregation Council or other organizational units in the congregation's governing documents is recognized. All remaining authority is retained by the congregation. The congregation is authorized to: C5.31. a. Call a pastor; C5.32. b. Terminate the call of a pastor; C5.33. c. Provide for the appointment of termination of associates in ministry in conformity with the applicable policy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; C5.34. d. Approve the annual budget; C5.35. e. Acquire real and personal property by gift, devise, purchase, or other lawful means; C5.36. f. Hold title to and use its property for any and all activities consistent with its purpose; C5.37. g. Sell, mortgage, lease, transfer, or otherwise dispose of its property by any lawful means; C5.38. h. Elect its officers, Congregation Council, boards, and committees, and require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the constitution, its bylaws, and continuing resolution; and C5.39. i. Terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as provided in Chapter 6.
CHURCH AFFILIATION C6.10. This congregation shall be an interdependent part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or its successor, and the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. This congregation is subject to the discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. C6.20. This congregation accepts the Confession of Faith and agrees to the Purposes of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and shall act in accordance with them. C6.30. This congregation acknowledges its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in which: C6.31. a. This congregation agrees to be responsible for its life as a Christian community. C6.32. b. This congregation pledges its financial support and participation in the life and mission of the Evangelical Church in America. C6.33. 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. C6.34. d. This congregation agrees to consider associates in ministry for appointment to other staff positions in the congregation according to the procedures of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. C6.35. 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. C6.40. Affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America may be terminated as follows: C6.41. a. This congregation takes action to dissolve. C6.42. b. This congregation ceases to exist. C6.43. 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. C6.44. d. This congregation follows the procedures outlined in C6.50. C6.50. This congregation may terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America by the following procedure: C6.51. 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. C6.52. b. The secretary of this congregation shall submit a copy of the resolution to the synodical bishop and shall mail a copy of the resolution to voting members of the congregation. This notice shall be submitted within 10 days after the resolution has been adopted. C6.53. c. The bishop of the synod shall consult with this congregation during a period of at least 90 days following the bishop's receipt of the resolution to terminate. C6.54. 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 ten (10) days in advance of the meeting. C6.55. e. A certified copy of the resolution to terminate its relationship shall be sent to the synodical bishop, at which time the relationship between this congregation and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be terminated. C6.56. f. Notice of termination shall be forwarded by the synodical bishop to the secretary of this church and published in the periodical of this church. C6.60. 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.
PROPERTY OWNERSHIP C7.10. If this congregation ceases to exist, title to undisposed property shall pass to the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. C7.20. If this congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to its procedure for discipline, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation. C7.30. If two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a regularly called and conducted Special Meeting of this congregation vote to transfer to another Lutheran church body, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation. Before this congregation takes action to transfer to another Lutheran church body, it shall consult with representatives of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. C7.40. 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 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.
MEMBERSHIP C8.10. Members of this congregation shall be those baptized persons on the roll of the congregation at the time that this constitution is adopted and those who are admitted thereafter and who have declared and maintain their membership in accordance with the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws. C8.20. Members shall be classified as follows: C8.21. 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. C8.22. 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. C8.23. c. Voting members are confirmed members. Such confirmed members shall have communed and made a contribution of record during the current or preceding year. C8.24. d. Associate members are persons holding membership in other Lutheran (Christian) congregations who wish to retain such membership, but desire to participate in the life and mission of this congregation. They have all the privileges and duties of membership except voting rights and eligibility for elected offices or membership on the Congregation Council of the congregation. C8.25. e. Non-participating members are those persons who do not particpate in any aspect of congregational life. For the purpose of synodical statistics, these persons shall not be counted. C8.30. All applications for confirmed membership shall be submitted to and shall require the approval of the Congregation Council. C8.40. It shall be the privilege and duty of members of this congregation to: C8.41. a. Make regular use of the means of grace, both Word and Sacraments. C8.42. b. Live a Christian life in accordance with the Word of God and the teachings of the Lutheran church; and C8.43. c. Support the work of this congregation and of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through contributions of their time, abilities, and financial support as biblical stewards. C8.50. Membership in this congregation shall be terminated by any of the following: C8.51. a. Death; C8.52. b. Resignation; C8.53. c. Transfer or release; or C8.54. d. Disciplinary action by the Congregation Council. C8.56. Such persons who have been removed from the roll of members shall remain persons for whom the church has a continuing pastoral concern. THE PASTOR C9.10. In this congregation, authority to call a Pastor shall be by at least two-thirds majority ballot vote of voting members present and voting at a meeting regularly called for that purpose. Before a call is issued, the officers or the appointed Call Committee shall seek the advice and help of the Bishop of the Synod. C9.20. Only a member of the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or who have been recommended for it by the synodical bishop may be called as a pastor of this congregation. C9.30. Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, every ordained minister shall preach the Word, administer the sacraments, conduct public worship, provide pastoral care, and shall speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God's love for the world. Each ordained minister with a congregational call shall, within the congregation, offer instruction, confirm, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead; supervise all school and organizations of the congregation; shall install regularly elected members of the Congregation Council, and with the council administer discipline. Every pastor shall seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel and strive to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation, and abroad; shall impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry through distribution of its periodicals and other publications; and shall endeavor to increase the support given by the congregation to the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and of the synod of the ELCA. C9.40. The specific duties of the pastor, compensation, and other matters pertaining to the service of the pastor shall be included in a letter of call. C9.50. 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. C9.51. b. In the case of alleged physical or mental incapacity of the pastor or ineffective conduct of the pastoral office, it shall be the responsibility of the bishop of the synod, when such difficulties are personally known or have been brought to the synod's attention by an official recital of allegations by the Congregation Council, or by a petition signed by at least one-third of the voting members of the congregation, to investigate such conditions personally in company with a committee of two ordained ministers and one layperson. C9.52. 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. C9.53. d. In the case of alleged local difficulties which imperil the effective functioning of the congregation, all concerned persons shall be heard, after which the bishop of the synod together with the committee described in C9.51. shall decide on the course of action to be recommended to the pastor and the congregation. If they agree to carry out such recommendations, no further action shall be taken by the synod. If either party fails to assent, the congregation may dismiss the pastor by a two-third majority vote of the voting members present at a regularly called meeting after consultation with the bishop. C9.54. e. The foregoing procedure shall never be invoked when questions of doctrine, morality, or continued neglect of duty are involved, all such cases being treated as disciplinary matters. C9.55. f. If in the course of the proceedings, it should become apparent that the pastoral office cannot be conducted effectively in the congregation being served by the ordained minister due to local conditions, the bishop of the synod may temporarily suspend the pastor from service in the congregation without prejudice and with pay provided through a joint churchwide/synod fund and with housing provided by the congregation. (For the purpose of this paragraph, 40% of present salary shall be deemed "providing housing.") C9.60. At a time of pastoral vacancy, an interim pastor may be appointed by the bishop of the synod with the consent of this congregation or the Congregation Council. C9.70. During their period of service, an interim pastor shall have rights and duties of a regularly called pastor and may delegate the same in part to a supply pastor with the consent of the bishop of the synod and this congregation or Congregation Council. The interim pastor and any ordained pastor providing assistance shall refrain from exerting influence in the selection of a pastor. C9.80. This congregation shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to a former pastor before calling a successor. A pastor shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to this congregation. C9.90. When a pastor is called to serve in company with another pastor or pastors, the privileges and responsibilities of each pastor shall be specified in documents to accompany the call and to be drafted in consultation involving the pastors, the Congregation Council, and the bishop of the synod. As occasion requires, the documents may be revised through a similar consultation. C9.100. With the approval of the bishop of the synod the congregation may depart from C9.50.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 the term, the bishop or a designated representative of the bishop shall meet with the pastor and representatives of the congregation for a review of the call. Such call may also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of C9.50.a. C9.120. 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.
CONGREGATION MEETING C10.10. The annual meeting of this congregation shall be held at a time specified in the bylaws. B10.10.10. The date and time for the St. John's Annual Meeting shall be set each year by the Congregation Council, with notice given to the congregation as specified in article C10.30. of the constitution. C10.20. A special Congregation Meeting may be called by a pastor, the Congregation Council, or the president of this congregation, and shall be called at the written request of ten percent (10%) 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. C10.30. Notice of all meetings of this congregation shall be given at the services of worship on the preceding two consecutive Sundays and sent by mail to the last known address of all voting members at least ten days in advance of the date of the meeting. C10.40. Five percent (5%) of the voting members shall constitute a quorum. C10.50. Voting by proxy or by absentee ballot shall not be permitted. C10.60. All actions by the congregation shall be by majority vote except as otherwise provided by this constitution. C10.70. Robert's Rule of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of all meetings of this congregation.
OFFICERS C11.10. The officers of this congregation shall be a president, vice-president, secretary, and a treasurer. C11.11. a. Duties of the officers shall be specified in the bylaws. B11.11.10. In addition to duties assigned elsewhere in the constitution, the president shall preside at meetings of the Congregation Council and of the Congregation. B11.11.20. In addition to duties assigned elsewhere in the constitution, the vice-president shall preside at meetings of the Congregation Council and of the Congregation in the absence of the president. B11.11.30. In addition to duties assigned elsewhere in the constitution, the secretary shall keep the minutes of the Congregation Council and of the congregation. It shall also be the responsibility of the secretary to be sure that all updates to policies and procedures, all continuing resolutions, and changes to the constitution are recorded in the appropriate documents. B11.11.40. In addition to duties assigned elsewhere in the constitution, the treasurer shall receive and disburse the funds of the congregation in accordance with the decisions of the Congregation Council and of the congregation. C11.12. b. The officers shall be voting members of the congregation. C11.13. c. Officers of this congregation shall serve similar offices of the Congregation Council and shall be voting members of the Congregation Council. C11.20. The congregation shall elect its officers. The officers shall be elected by written ballot and shall serve for one year or until their successors are elected. Their terms shall begin at the close of the annual meeting at which they are elected. C11.30. No officer shall hold more than one office at a time. No elected officer shall be eligible to serve more than two consecutive terms in the same office.
CONGREGATIONAL COUNCIL C12.10. The voting membership of the Congregation Council shall consist of the officers of the congregation and the chairpersons of each of the congregation's ministries as defined in the by-laws and two (2) members at large. Any voting member of the congregation may be elected, subject only to the limitation on the length of continuous service. A member's place on the Congregation Council shall be declared vacant if the member a) ceases to be a voting member of this congregation; b) is absent from four successive regular meetings of the Congregation Council without cause; or c) resigns. C12.20. A voting member of the Congregation Council shall serve for not more than six (6) years consecutively. They shall again be eligible for election after a lapse of two (2) years. Filling an unexpired term of less than one (1) year shall not be considered a term. C12.30. Should a member's place on the Congregation Council be declared vacant, the Congregation Council shall elect, by majority vote, a successor until the next annual meeting. C12.40. The Congregation Council shall have general oversight of the life and activities of this congregation, and in particular its worship life, to the end that everything be done in accordance with the Word of God and the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The duties of the Congregation Council shall include the following: B12.40.10. The Congregation Council shall inform, inspire and lead the congregation in biblical stewardship by providing on-going education and information about biblical teaching, the mission and ministry of our congregation and the larger church, by holding before our people needs and opportunities for service, by periodically conducting a significant stewardship emphasis, and related activities. C12.41. 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. C12.42. b. To seek to involve all members of this congregation in worship, learning, witness, service, and support. C12.43. c. To oversee and provide for the administration of this congregation to enable it to fulfill functions and perform its mission. C12.44. 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. C12.45. e. To be examples individually and corporately of the style of life and ministry expected of all baptized persons. C12.46. f. To promote a congregational climate of peace and goodwill and, as differences and conflicts arise, to endeavor to foster mutual understanding. C12.47. g. To arrange for pastoral service during sickness or absence of pastor. C12.48. 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. C12.49. i. To recommend and encourage the use of program resources produced or approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. C12.50. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the financial and property matters of this congregation. C12.51. a. The Congregation 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 State of Wisconsin, except as otherwise provided herein. B12.51.10. The Congregation Council shall ensure that the offerings of the congregation are counted each week. All members of the Council are designated as counters. The Congregation Council may appoint non-council voting members of the congregation as counters. All counters operate under the direction of the Treasurer. C12.52. b. The Congregation Council shall not have the authority to buy, sell, or encumber real property unless specifically authorized to do so by a meeting of the congregation. C12.53. c. The Congregation Council shall prepare an annual budget as defined in the by-laws, for adoption by this congregation. It shall supervise the expenditure of funds in accordance therewith following its adoption, and may incur obligations more than five percent (5%) in excess of the approved annual budget figures only after approval by a Congregation Meeting. C12.54. d. The Congregation Council may enter into contracts of up to ten percent (10%) of the total budget for items not included in the budget. C12.55. e. The Congregation Council shall ascertain that the financial affairs of this congregation are being conducted efficiently, giving particular attention to the prompt payment of all obligations and to the regular forwarding of benevolence monies designated for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to the synodical treasurer. C12.56. f. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for this congregation's investments and its total insurance program. C12.60. The Congregation Council shall see that the provisions of this constitution, its bylaws, and the continuing resolutions are carried out. C12.70. The Congregation Council shall provide for an annual review of the membership roster. C12.80. The Congregation Council shall provide for the appointment and supervision of the salaried lay workers of this congregation. C12.90. The Congregation Council shall see that a comprehensive report is submitted to this congregation at the annual meeting. C12.100. The Congregation Council shall meet regularly, at least quarterly. Special meetings may be called by a pastor or the president, and shall be called at the request of at least one-half of its members. Notice of each special meeting shall be given to all who are entitled to be present. C12.110. A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of a majority of the voting members of the Congregation Council.
CONGREGATIONAL MINISTRIES C13.10. In order to carry out its mission, the congregation shall establish not less than six (6) ministries. In accordance with the purpose and mission of the congregation, each ministry shall address the needs of specific groups of persons and assist the whole congregation to grow in faith by providing education, fellowship, service and related activities. C13.20. Each ministry shall be chaired by a person elected by the congregation, to serve for two (2) years or until a successor is elected. Such ministry chairperson 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. C13.30. Each ministry shall consist of a chairperson, and not less than four (4) additional members selected from the voting membership of the congregation. Associate members and non-member participants may participate as ministry members with voice but not vote in matters pertaining to congregation finance. C13.40. Each ministry shall hold regular meetings, not less than quarterly, and shall keep written minutes of their proceedings. They shall report to the Congregation Council through the chairperson. C13.50. Each ministry shall prepare a budget annually in accordance with procedures established by the Congregation Council, and subject to its approval. Ministries may re-allocate monies within their budgets as the need arises. Any expenditure in excess of a ministry's total budget requires approval in advance by the Congregation Council. C13.60. The congregation may establish, delete, or modify ministries by amending the by-laws. B13.60.10. THE WORSHIP MINISTRY shall support the congregation through the organization, implementation, supervision and evaluation of such activities as may be necessary to ensure that the worship life of the congregation takes place in an orderly manner. B13.60.20. THE EVANGELISM MINISTRY shall reach out to potential new members of the congregation by publicizing the worship schedule of the congregation, by welcoming visitors and strangers and by providing follow-up contacts among persons who have expressed an interest in membership. B13.60.30. THE CARING MINISTRY shall be supportive of those members of the congregation who face or who have gone through a major crisis in life and need an extra level of support during the period of adjustment to their new life situation. B13.60.40. COMMUNITY AND WORLD MINISTRIES shall encourage congregational and/or individual participation in programs which focus on the physical and spiritual well-being of those in need, both locally and around the world including mission programs of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. B13.60.50. COMMUNITY AND WORLD MINISTRIES shall encourage congregational and/or individual participation in programs which focus on the physical and spiritual well-being of those in need, both locally and around the world including mission programs of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. B13.60.60. SENIORS AND SHUT-IN MINSTRY shall seek to provide for the needs of the retired, elderly and/or homebound members of the congregation through programs and support. B13.60.70. THE FAITH FAMILY MINISTRY will provide resources and initiate opportunities for spiritual growth for the children and families of this congregation and the community through education programs and related activities. R13.60.70.10 adopted 01-09-97 Establishment of a preschool at St. John's and the rules of operation of said preschool, to be known as St. John's Christian Preschool, is given by the Congregation Council. This preschool will be placed under the Faith Family Ministry and will submit regular reports to the Congregation Council. (See document at end of constitution) B13.60.80. THE CONFIRMATION MINISTRY shall prepare baptized youth through Word and Sacrament to identify more closely with the Christian community as adult members and to participate more fully in its mission by providing classes, fellowship items, service opportunities, retreats, camps and related activities. B13.60.90. THE YOUTH MINISTRY will plan and implement a structure of programs, activities and staff to maintain intentional contact with our young people to encourage continued growth in faith and in ongoing participation in the life of the congregation. The ministry's focus will be on youth 7th through 12th grades. B13.60.100. THE CONGREGATION COUNCIL shall inform, inspire and lead the congregation in biblical stewardship by providing on-going education and information about biblical teaching, the mission and ministry of our congregation and the larger church, by holding before our people needs and opportunities for service, by periodically conducting a significant stewardship emphasis and related activities.
CONGREGATIONAL COMMITTEES C14.10. The officers of this congregation and the Senior Pastor shall constitute the Executive Committee. C14.11. The Executive Committee shall carry out duties and responsibilities as may be assigned through the by-laws or continuing resolutions. C14.20. The Treasurer and at least four (4) voting members of the congregation shall be the Finance Committee. Members of the Finance Committee, other than the Treasurer who will serve as chairperson, shall be appointed by the Executive Committee with ratification by the Congregation Council. The term of office for members shall be one year, and they may succeed themselves. Two members of the committee shall serve as Assistant and Second Assistant Treasurer whose responsibilities shall be outlined by the Finance Committee and approved by the Congregation Council. The Senior Pastor shall serve as a permanent member with voice but not vote. C14.21. The Finance Committee is charged with the responsibility of managing the congregation's financial resources under the direction of the Congregation Council. They shall meet at least quarterly and report to the Congregation Council through the Treasurer. B14.21.10. The Finance Committee shall review the congregation's monthly operating statement with comment for the Congregation Council. B14.21.20. The Finance Committee shall develop policies and procedures for managing the congregation's finances, and upon the adoption of those policies by the Congregation Council, administer them accordingly. B14.21.30. The Finance Committee shall receive budget proposals from the various ministries and committees of the congregation, and formulate from them a total budget for review by the Congregation Council. C14.30. The Vice-President, and at least four (4) voting members of the congregation shall be the Property Committee. Members for the Property Committee, other than the Vice-President who will serve as chairperson, shall be appointed by the Executive Committee with ratification by the Congregation Council. The term of office for members shall be one year, and they may succeed themselves. C14.31. The Property Committee shall manage the congregation's physical property under the direction of the Congregation Council. They shall meet at least quarterly and report to the Congregation Council through the Vice-President. B14.31.10. The Property Committee shall conduct on-going oversight of the congregation's resources and work with staff to see that these resources are adequately maintained and cared for. B14.31.20. The Property Committee shall work with staff to prepare a budget each year for physical operations in accordance with procedures established by the Congregation Council, and subject to its approval. It may re-allocate monies within its budget as the need arises. Any expenditures in excess of the committee's total budget requires approval in advance by the Congregation Council. B14.31.30. The Property Committee shall work with staff to prepare policies for the use of Church property by members and others, and upon approval of the Congregation Council, over-see the administration of those policies by staff. B14.31.40. The Property Committee shall work with staff to plan for future needs of the congregation, and help the congregation anticipate and prepare for major expenditures. B14.31.50. The Property Committee shall work with staff to assist in the enlistment of volunteers to participate in the care and maintenance of congregational property where feasible. C14.40. The President, the Secretary, and at least four (4) voting members of the congregation shall be the Personnel Committee. Members of the committee, other than the officers and pastor, shall be appointed by the Executive Committee with ratification by the Congregation Council. The term of office for members shall be one year, and they may succeed themselves. The Senior Pastor shall serve as a permanent member with voice but not vote. C14.41. The Personnel Committee shall provide for support, evaluation and review for all persons employed by the congregation, and provide a grievance procedure for all employees, except clergy. The committee shall meet as needed to carry out its functions. B14.41.10. The Personnel Committee shall conduct an evaluation at least once each year, of the Senior Pastor, and shall review with the Senior Pastor the evaluations of other employees, including clergy. B14.41.20. The Personnel Committee shall develop policies and procedures for all employees and submit them for review and approval by the Congregation Council. Once approved, the Personnel Committee shall have the oversight of the administration of these policies by the Senior Pastor. B14.41.30. The Personnel Committee shall prepare a budget annually for the expenses related to employees, in accordance with procedures established by the Congregation Council and subject to its approval. C14.50. A Nominating Committee of six voting members of this congregation, two of whom shall be outgoing members of the Congregation Council, shall be elected at the annual meeting for a term of one year. In addition, the Senior Pastor shall serve with voice but not vote, and be the convener. Members of the Nominating Committee are not eligible for consecutive re-election. C14.60. An Audit Committee of three voting members shall be elected by the Congregation Council. Audit Committee members shall not be members of the Congregation Council. Term of office will be three (3) years, with one member elected each year. Members shall be eligible for re-election. C14.70. When a Pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee of at least seven (7) or a greater uneven number of voting members shall be appointed by the Congregation Council. At least one half of this committee will consist of non-Congregation Council voting members. Term of office will terminate at the installation of the newly called Pastor. C14.80. Other congregational committees may be formed as the need arises, by decision of the Congregation Council. C14.81. Duties of congregational committees shall be specified in the form of continuing resolutions.
ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE CONGREGATION C15.10. 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 have the right to determine their policies, guide their activities, and receive reports concerning their membership, work, and finances. C15.20. Special interest groups, other than those of the official organizations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, may be organized only after authorization has been given by the Congregation Council and specified in a continuing resolution.
DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS C16.10. Denial of the Christian faith as described in the 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 a pastor, b) admonition by a pastor in the presence of two or three witnesses, and c) citation to appear before the Congregation Council. C16.20. A member charged with the offense shall appear before the Congregation Council having received a written notice, specifying the exact charges that have been made against the member, at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting. C16.30. Should the allegations be sustained by a two-thirds majority vote of the Congregation Council, the Council shall impose one of the following disciplinary actions: C16.31. a. Censure before the council or congregation; C16.32. b. Suspension from membership for a definite period of time; or C16.33. c. Exclusion from membership in this congregation. Disciplinary actions b. and c. shall be delivered to the member in writing. C16.40. The member against whom disciplinary action has been taken by the Congregation 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. C16.50. Disciplinary actions may be reconsidered and revoked by the Congregation Council upon receipt of a) evidence that injustice has been done or b) evidence of repentance and amendment.
BYLAWS C17.10. This congregation may adopt bylaws. No bylaw may conflict with this constitution. C17.20. 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. C17.30. Changes to the bylaws may be proposed by any voting member provided, however, that such additions or amendments be submitted in writing to the Congregation Council at least 60 days before a regular or special Congregational Meeting called for that purpose and that the Congregation Council notify the members of the proposal with its recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the Congregation Meeting. C17.40. Approved changes to the bylaws shall be sent to the Synod.
AMENDMENTS C18.10. Amendments to this constitution may be proposed by at least ten percent (10%) of the voting members or by the Congregation Council. Proposals must be filed in writing with the Congregation Council 60 days before formal consideration by this congregation at its regular or special meeting called for that purpose. The Congregation Council shall notify the members of the proposal with their recommendations at least thirty (30) days in advance of the meeting. C18.20. A proposed amendment to this constitution shall: C18.21. a. Be approved at a properly called meeting according to this constitution by a majority vote of those present and voting; C18.22. b. Be ratified without change at the next annual meeting by a two-thirds majority vote of those present and voting; and C18.23. c. Have the effective date included in the resolution and noted in the constitution. C18.30. 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 contradiction with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, or the constitution of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS C19.10. The Congregation Council may enact continuing resolutions which describe the function of the various committees or organizations of this congregation. C19.20. Continuing resolutions shall be enacted or amended by a two-thirds vote of all voting members of the Congregation Council. |
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