BY-LAWS - Christ Lutheran Church
CONSTITUTION
Of
CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH
BY-LAWS REVISED 1-30-11
BY-LAWS
OF
CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH
Revised Jan. 30, 2011
PREAMBLE
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
Recognizing our unity in Christ and our common practice in the Christian faith; desiring to express our fellowship in worship and work; knowing our spiritual needs; mindful of our Christian privileges and duties; and wishing to observe orderly cooperation, we the members of Christ Lutheran Church, a congregation incorporated under the laws of the State of Minnesota, adopt the following bylaws which shall be interpreted in the accordance with Christian principles by the members of this congregation:
SECTION A RELIGIOUS DOCTRINE
ARTICLE I.
CONFESSION OF FAITH
01. The congregation accepts all the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments as a whole and in all of their parts as the divinely inspired Word of God and submits to this as the only infallible authority in all matters of faith and life.
02. As brief and true statements of the doctrines of the Word of God, this congregation accepts and confesses the following Symbols, subscription to which shall be required of all its members: (1) the ancient ecumenical Creeds: The Apostolic, the Nicene, and the Athanasian; (2)the unaltered Augsburg Confession and Luther's Small Catechism
03. As further elaboration of and in accord with these Lutheran Symbols, the congregation also receives the other documents in the Book of Concord of 1580: The Apology, Luther's Large Catechism, the Smalcald Articles, and the Formula of Concord; and recognizes them as normative for its theology.
04. This congregation accepts without reservation the symbolical books of the Evangelical Lutheran church in America, not insofar as, but because they are the presentation and explanation of the pure doctrine of the Word of God and a summary of the faith of the Evangelical Lutheran church in America.
ARTICLE II
RELATIONSHIP TO THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
01. For the better attainment of its purpose, this congregation shall be a member of the Evangelical Lutheran church in America or its successor and shall be on the roster of the Southeastern Minnesota synod or its successor. It shall be subject to the policy and discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran church in America.
02. This congregation claims for itself all the rights and privileges and accept all the duties and obligations connected with such membership.
03. This congregation covenants to support with prayer, personal service, and offerings, the common work of the church.
04. As an expression of the unity of the Church in Christ, this congregation recognizes the desirability of conforming to the practices of other member congregations in using such forms of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Only such variations as are authorized by this congregation shall be permitted.
05. Severance of membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America may be proposed at a meeting of the congregation at which two-thirds majority of the members present must vote for such a proposal. After this meeting the Synod Bishop shall be notified in writing of such proposal and the result reached at the meetings. If this congregation determines to sever itself from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, such severance shall not be effective until a second meeting of the congregation has been held. At both meetings a two-thirds majority of the members present must vote for the proposal. The second meeting must be at least ninety days subsequent to the first meeting at which severance was proposed and adopted.
ARTICLE III
MEMBERSHIP IN THIS CONGREGATION
01. Members of this congregation shall be those who are designated as such at the time that these bylaws are adopted, and those who are admitted thereafter; and who maintain their membership in accordance with the provision of these bylaws. There shall be no membership restrictions with respect to race, color, national origin, or sex.
02. Members shall be classified as (A) baptized; (B) confirmed; (C) voting.
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 proper transfer to this congregation.
B) Confirmed members are baptized persons who have been confirmed in this congregation, or by transfer as confirmed members from other Lutheran congregations.
C) Voting members shall be those who are confirmed members in good standing, as provided in these bylaws.
03. It shall be the privilege and duty of members of this congregation to:
A) make diligent use of the Means of Grace, both Word and Sacraments;
B) live a Christian life in accordance with the Word of God and the teachings of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;
C) support the work of this congregation, and of the Evangelical Lutheran church in America.
ARTICLE IV
COMMUNION PARTICIPATION
01. This congregation invites all of its members who have been prepared to receive the Sacrament, to participate regularly in Holy Communion.
02. Preparation for Holy Communion will normally be provided for persons as young as ten years of age.
03. Participation in Holy Communion shall be open to such person who accept the following statement concerning Communion;
Participation in the Lord's Supper is the reception of "the body and the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ given with bread and wine, instituted by Christ himself for us to eat and drink."
We hold that a "person is well prepared and worthy who believes these word, given and shed for you for the remission of sins. But anyone who does not believe these words, or doubts them, is neither prepared or worthy, for the words "for you" require simply a believing heart."
04. A visitors record of participation in Holy Communion shall be sent to the pastor of the visitors congregation.
ARTICLE V
CONFLICTING LOYALTIES
01. While the buildings of this congregation shall be open to all people to share in its worship, instruction, pastoral care, and fellowship, this congregation rejects all fellowship with organizations, secret or open, which are avowedly religious or which practice forms of religion without confessing faith in the Triune God and in Jesus Christ as the eternal Son of God incarnate to be our only Savior from sin, and which thus teach salvation by works.
02. Ceremonies of lodges or other such organizations that are rejected in 5.01 shall not be permitted in the building or premises of this congregation; nor shall the congregation, pastor (s) or lay assistant (s) take part in any such ceremonies wherever they are conducted.
SECTION B CHURCH GOVERNMENT
ARTICLE VI
MEMBERSHIP
01. Baptized members
(A) A child, one or both of whose parents or guardians are members of this congregation, shall upon receiving Baptism, become a baptized member of this congregation.
B) A child neither of whose parents or guardians is a member of this congregation, shall upon receiving Baptism, become a baptized member of this congregation;; unless for good reason the child is to be a baptized member of another congregation, in which case membership shall be transferred to that congregation.
C) A child baptized in another congregation shall be received as a baptized member into this congregation when a transfer has been received.
D) An unbaptized adult who has received instruction and has given evidence of and adequate understanding and acceptance of the teachings of the Word of God as confessed by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, shall, upon confession of faith and receiving Baptism, become a baptized member of this congregation.
E) When one or both parents of baptized children are received into the membership of this congregation, such children should be received as baptized members with the consent of the member parent or parents.
F) Where a baptized child is an orphan or a ward of someone and these people move into the area served by this congregation, the child may be received as a baptized member when it is commended to the care of this congregation by the congregation which baptized the child.
G) When the parents of a baptized child are not themselves members of this Lutheran Church but move into the area served by this congregation and desire to have their child put within the pastoral care of this congregation, the child may be received as a baptized member.
02. Confirmed Members
A) A baptized adult, not previously a confirmed member of a Lutheran congregation, shall become a confirmed member of this congregation after having received instruction, having given evidence of adequate understanding of the teachings of the Word of God as confessed by the Evangelical Lutheran church, and having affirmed their faith.
B) A baptized member of this congregation shall become a confirmed member through the rite of confirmation; except that an adult who has become a baptized member in accordance with the provisions of Section 10.01 (D), of these bylaws shall be considered a confirmed member without participation in the rite of confirmation.
C) An applicant for membership who presents a letter of Transfer which certifies that the applicant is a confirmed member in good standing of a Lutheran congregation shall become a confirmed member of this congregation upon approval by the Church council. The acceptance of the applicant shall be reported to this congregation.
D) An applicant for membership who presents evidence of confirmation in a Lutheran congregation but does not have a Letter of Transfer shall be admitted to confirmed membership when the Church Council has determined that the applicant meets the standards of Christian faith and life indicated in the Bylaws and has reaffirmed that faith with this congregation.
03. Voting Members
The Church Council shall determine the roster of voting members of this congregation in accordance with the provisions of the Bylaws. The term "in good standing' shall be defined to include those who partake of Holy Communion, those who contribute to this congregation treasury according to this congregation's record, and those who participate in the life and worship of this congregation.
04. Pastoral Care of Membership
(A) In the event a member leaves the community, this congregation shall encourage that member to request a transfer to a Lutheran congregation which can serve the member effectively. Should the member fail to request a transfer, a Lutheran congregation in the community of the member's residence shall be notified.
B) A confirmed member in good standing desiring to change their membership to another Lutheran congregation shall, upon request, receive a Letter of Transfer.
C) A confirmed member who does not, for a period of one year, partake of Holy Communion, support the church with offerings, and does not appear to desire to participate in the life and worship of this congregation shall be visited by a pastor and a Church Council representative. They shall encourage the member to become active in the church.
D) If, during the second year, the confirmed member does not actively participate, that member's name may be removed from the membership roster of this congregation but be retained on a responsibility list as one who is in special need of this congregation's prayer and concern.
E) A child; neither of whose parents or guardians is a member of this congregation, may be removed from the roster of baptized members if that child fails to participate in the life and worship of this congregation.
ARTICLE VII
DISCIPLINE
01. A member who advocates doctrines which are contrary to the Canonical books of the Old and New Testaments, the Confessions of the Church and the Bylaws of this congregation, or who is guilty of conduct that is grossly unbecoming a member of the Body of Christ shall be subject to discipline.
02. Discipline shall be administered by the Church Council in behalf of this congregation, with the right of appeal to this congregation.
03. Discipline in this congregation shall be exercised in accordance with Matthew 18:15-18 and in the spirit of John 13:34-35.
04. A person being considered for discipline and who is requested to appear before the Church Council, shall be advised in writing no less than ten days prior to the hearing. The written notice shall include the time and place of the hearing and shall specify the exact reason for the possible discipline. If that person fails to appear at the time and place without valid excuse, the Church Council may proceed with the hearing and may reach its conclusion in the absence of that person.
05. Should the person be found guilty by two-thirds vote of the members of the Church Council, the Council shall impose one of the following:
A) censure before the Church Council or this congregation;
B) suspension from membership until proof is given of sufficient repentance and amendment;
C) exclusion from membership and denial of Sacraments.
In the event of the imposition of (B) or (C) above, the action of the Church Council shall be in writing.
ARTICLE VIII
THE PASTOR
01. A Pastor of this congregation shall be a person whose soundness in the faith, aptness to teach, and education qualifications have been examined and approved by the church headquarters, and who has been properly ordained; who accepts and adheres to the Confession of faith of the Evangelical Lutheran church in America and of this congregation; and who strives in life and conduct to be above reproach.
02. Authority to call a Pastor shall rest in this congregation. Such authority to call shall be exercised by not less that a two-thirds majority ballot vote of members present and voting at a meeting legally called for that purpose. Before a Call is issued, the officers, or a committee authorized by the congregation, shall seek the advice and help of the Bishop of the Synod.
03. Only a member of the Clergy Roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in good standing or one who is recommended for Call by the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America may be Called as a Pastor of this congregation.
04. When this congregation has voted to call a Pastor, it shall issue a Letter of Call to the Pastor-elect, in a form approved by the Evangelical Lutheran church in America. It shall be signed by the chairman and the secretary of the meeting at which the Call was voted, and shall be attested by the signature of the Bishop of the Synod. A Call to a member of the clergy to be an Assistance Pastor, Associate Pastor, or Co-Pastor shall be issued only with the concurrence of the pastor of this congregation and in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph.
05. The Call shall normally be for an indefinite time. A Call issued to an Assistance Pastor or Associate Pastor may be for a definite time.
06. If a Pastor receives a Call to another ministry, the Pastor shall consult the Church Council, or if desired, this congregation, before reaching a decision. The Pastor shall announce a decision as quickly as possible, normally within three weeks. The Pastor shall also notify the Synod Bishop of such decision. When a Call has been accepted, the Pastor's ministry in this congregation shall be terminated as soon as feasible, normally within a month.
07. In the event of a vacancy in the pastoral office, the Church Council shall, in consultation with the Synod Bishop, provide for interim pastoral service.
08. If in the judgement of this congregation the Pastor is no longer able to serve it satisfactorily, the Pastor may be requested to resign. Before the resignation is requested, all parties, including the Pastor, shall have the opportunity of being heard at a specially called meeting of the Church council at which the Synod Bishop or an authorized representative shall be present. After the hearing before the Church Council, a special meeting of this congregation may be called to consider a request for the Pastor's resignation. A resolution requesting a Pastor's resignation must be adopted by a majority ballot vote of those present and voting. Notice of such meeting of a congregation must be given. If the Pastor's resignation has been requested in the manner here provided, the Pastor shall vacate the office at the time the congregation specifies. Should the Pastor fail to do so, the Church Council shall declare the Pastor office vacant.
09. In the event of alleged defection in doctrine or alleged conduct unbecoming a Pastor, the matter shall be referred by the Church council to the Synod Bishop for disciplinary action as provided in the Bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran church in America.
10. Clergy qualified according to these Bylaws may perform pastoral function in this congregation with the approval of the Church Council as the pastor(s) of this church.
ARTICLE IX
MEETINGS OF THIS CONGREGATION
01. An annual meeting of this congregation shall be held during the months of January or February each year. The exact date, time, and location shall be determined by the Church Council.
02. A Quorum for the annual meeting of this congregation shall be 8 percent of the voting members. The current roster of voting members shall be determined by the Church Council prior to each annual meeting.
03. Announcement of the date, time, and place of the annual meeting of this congregation shall be made at two public services immediately preceding the meeting, said services to be at least a week apart, and in such publications as this congregation or the pastor may periodically issue, or by written notice to the voting members mailed no less than ten days in advance of the meeting.
04. The order of business for the annual meeting shall be:
A) Opening devotions.
B) Approval of the minutes of the last annual meeting and any special meetings during the last year.
C) Reports of pastor(s), church council, treasurer, committees, and others.
D) Elections.
E) Approval of budget.
F) Unfinished business.
G) New business.
H) Closing prayer and adjournment.
05. At the annual meeting the congregation shall receive reports from all the organizations of this congregation. Such reports, including a financial statement, shall be submitted in writing to the congregation not less than fifteen days before such meeting.
06. There shall be a nominating committee composed of five members. The officers completing their term, and/or persons appointed by the church council, shall comprise this committee. The Pastor shall serve as an advisory member of this committee and as convener or its meetings. The nominating committee shall nominate one or more candidates for each office to be filled and shall secure the consent of each candidate. The list of nominees shall be announced to this congregation in conjunction with announcements of the meeting of this congregation at which the elections are to take place. In addition to the candidates submitted by the nominating committee, additional nominations may be made from the floor.
07. A special meeting of this congregation may be called by petition of at least ten percent of the voting members of this congregation, or by any one of the following: the Church Council, the President of this congregation, or the Pastor. The President or Church council shall call a special meeting upon the request of the Synod Bishop. The notice of the special meeting shall state the time, the place, and the purpose of the meeting. It shall be signed by the President and Secretary of this congregation, or by the person or persons who have called the meeting, as authorized by this paragraph. The notice of a special meeting shall also be read at all public services of this congregation held during the ten days preceding the date of the meeting and in such publications as this congregation or the Pastor periodically issue. Not less than five days written notice of such meeting shall be mailed to each member; provided, however, that not less than ten days written notice of a meeting called to consider a resolution requesting the Pastor to resign shall be given. A quorum for the special meeting of this congregation shall be 8 percent of the voting members.
08. Parliamentary procedures shall be in accordance with the latest edition of Robert's Rules of Order.
09. No member may vote by proxy nor may cumulative voting be allowed.
10. The Pastor(s) shall be notified of the time and place at which a special meeting of this congregation is to be held.
11. Only the business for which a special meeting has been called shall be transacted at the meeting.
12. A meeting of this congregation may, by majority vote, recess to reconvene at a specified time and place. A meeting may also recess to reconvene upon call; provided, however, that the time place of such a reconvened meeting must be announced at public service of this congregation, and not less than three days written notice shall be given of the reconvened meeting.
13. The current rosters of voting, confirmed, and baptized members shall be available at each meeting of this congregation.
14. In the following cases, voting at a congregational meeting shall be by written ballot;
A) To adopt or amend the Articles of Incorporation of Bylaws.
B) To call a pastor or request a resignation.
C) To excommunicate a member or remove an officer from office.
D) To sever membership from the Evangelical Lutheran church in America.
E) To convey real property.
F) Whenever requested at a church meeting by ten or more members.
ARTICLE X
CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP AND MEETINGS
01. Members of the Church council (Board of Directors) shall be elected by this congregation at the annual meeting to replace the members whose terms expire. In addition to the pastor(s). the church council shall be composed of 10 adults members and 2 confirmed youth. Adults will serve a three year term, and youth will serve a one year terms.
02. Only a voting member of this congregation shall be eligible for membership on the Church Council. No member shall be eligible for more than two successive terms, including any time spent the unexpired term of another member. The Pastor(s) shall be ex-officio members of the Church Council.
03. If vacancy occurs on the Church Council, the Council shall fill the vacancy until the next annual meeting of this congregation. Should the unexpired term be one year or less, it shall not be considered in determining eligibility for succession.
04. A member of the Church Council who is absent from two consecutive meetings shall be notified by the Secretary of this council; if a member is absent from three consecutive regular meetings without valid excuse, the Council may declare the office vacant. A member of the Church Council who is not an active member of this church may be removed form the Council by a two-thirds majority of the balance of the Council present when such a vote is taken.
05. A quorum for any regular or special meeting of the Church Council shall be a majority of its membership.
06. The Church Council shall hold a regular monthly meeting at a time and place to be determined by the Council. No member of the Council may vote by proxy. The Church Council shall not transact any business unless a quorum of the Council is present at the meeting.
07. A special meeting of the Church Council may be called by the Pastor, the President, or any three members of the Church Council. Notice of such meeting shall be given to each member not less than three days prior to the meeting and shall be announced at a public service if one is held during that period.
08. The Annual Report will be distributed at least one week prior to the Annual Meeting (at least one copy per family unit).
ARTICLE XI
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL
01. The Council shall manage the affairs of this congregation and shall have such authority as is granted by these congregation and shall have such authority as is granted by these bylaws and appropriate Minnesota Law including the right to form such other committees as are needed and the right to expand the duties of committees described in this Article XV. The Council shall be responsible for the buildings and premises of this congregation so that their use is normally limited to the functions of this congregation. Should groups or individuals not associated with this congregation desire to use such property, application shall be made to the Church Council for its approval.
02. The Church Council shall, at the first meeting following the annual meeting of this congregation, elect from its own membership a President, Vice-President, Secretary of the Council, Treasurer, Christ Lutheran Church Women (CLCW) Director, Building and Grounds Director, Education Director, Evangelism Director, Stewardship Director, Worship and Music Director, and Youth Director. The President and Vice-President shall respectively be President and Vice-President of this congregation.
03. The Council shall have general oversight of all congregational organizations, and all such organizations shall report to the Council whenever requested concerning their activities and finances. Any organization operating in this congregation shall submit a detailed written report at least annually concerning its activities and finances. The Church Council may request that the auditor of the church's financial records also audit the financial records of such organization. Any organization operating within this congregation shall be subject at all times to the control and direction of the Church Council.
04. The Church Council shall be responsible for the procurement of necessary staff other than the Pastor(s), including but not limited to, organist, choir director, Sunday School superintendent, custodians, secretary of the congregation, treasurer, parish workers, interim pastors, and intern pastors, and fix and review their salaries and duties.
05. The Church Council shall convene at least once a year a meeting of all committees, department heads and employees to meet jointly with the Council to review the life, and program of this congregation.
06. The Council shall have the authority between meetings of this congregation to chose delegates to any group or meeting in which this congregation is entitled to representation.
07. The Council shall be responsible for the financial and property matters of this congregation.
A) The Council shall be the board of directors this congregation, and as such shall be responsible for maintaining and protecting its property and the management of its business and fiscal affairs. It shall have the powers and be subject to the obligations that pertain to such boards under the laws of the State of Minnesota, except as otherwise provided herein.
B) The Council shall not have the authority to buy, sell, or encumber real property unless specifically authorized to do so by a meeting of the congregation.
C) The council may enter into contracts of up to 2% of the budget for items not included in the budget.
D) The Council shall prepare an annual budget for adoption by this congregation, shall supervise the expenditure of funds in accordance therewith following its adoption, and may incur obligations more than $3,000.00 in excess of the anticipated receipts only after approval by a Congregational Meeting. The budget shall include this congregation's full indicated share in support of wider ministry being carried on in partnership with the synod.
E) The Council shall ascertain that the financial affairs of this congregation are being conducted efficiently, giving particular attention to the prompt payment of all obligations.
08. The Council shall determine the rosters of the baptized, the confirmed, and the voting members of this congregation annually.
09. The Council shall appoint annually an auditing committee composed of qualified persons who shall audit the fiscal records of this congregation and report its findings in writing to the annual meeting. Such audits shall include examination of existing insurance coverage.
10. The Council may be resolution delegate any of its duties unless it is forbidden by law.
11. No member of the Church Council shall be paid for services as a Council member. A Council member may be employed by this congregation in other capacities and may be reimbursed for any authorized expenses on behalf of this congregation. At the option of the Council, any person who handles money belonging to this congregation may be bonded at this congregation's expense.
12. The Council shall see that the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws are carried out.
ARTICLE XII
DUTIES OF OFFICERS
01. The President shall be the principal executive officer of the church and, subject to the control of the Church Council, shall in general supervise and control all of the business and affairs of the church. The President shall, when present, preside at all meetings of the Council and of this congregation. The President may sign, with the Secretary of the Council or any other proper officer of the corporation thereunto authorized by the Council any deed, mortgages, bonds, contracts, or other instruments which the Council has authorized to be executed, except in cases where the signing and execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the Council or by these Bylaws to some other officer or agent of the Council of shall be required by law to be otherwise signed or executed; and in general shall perform all duties incident to the office of President and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Council from time to time. The President shall be ex-officio member of all committees.
02. In the absence of the President or in the event of the President's death, inability or refusal to act, the Vice-President shall perform the duties of the President, and when so acting, shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the president. The Vice-President shall perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the President or by the Council.
03. The Secretary of the Council shall:
A) Keep the minutes of the proceedings of the Council and of this congregation in one or more books provided for that purpose;
B) See that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these Bylaws or as required by law;
C) Be custodian of the corporate records of this congregation;
D) Keep a register of the post office address of each member which shall be furnished by each member;
E) Sign with the President, or Vice-President, such documents as are authorized by the Council;
F) In general perform all duties incident to the office of Secretary and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the President or by the Council.
04. The Treasurer shall:
A) have special responsibilities for the management of funds, for the preparation of the church budget, to report to the Council on financial activities and financial status of the Christ Lutheran Church at each Council meeting, reporting the bills to be paid, recommend auditing choices, write checks in the absence of the Disbursements Secretary and make recommendations thereon to the Church Council.
B) Have charge and custody of and be responsible for all funds and securities of the church;
C) Have responsibility to over see the Disbursement Secretary and the Receipts Coordinator.
D) In general perform all of the duties incident to the office of Treasurer and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the President or by the Council.
07. The Directors shall be responsible for their respective committee. They will assist the
chairman of their committee in discharging the duties assigned to the committee. They will
report to the Church Council on all activities of their committee and they will participate in the
Church Council activities.
ARTICLE XIII
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMITTEES
17.01. The following committees shall be elected by the congregation to administer their responsibilities under the direction of the Church Council:
A) Building and Grounds Committee
B) Education Committee
C) Evangelism Committee
D) Stewardship Committee
E) Worship and Music Committee
F) Youth Committee
G) Memorial Committee
H) Altar Committee
17.011. The following committees shall be selected by the Church Council:
A) The Executive Committee
B) The Finance Committee
C) The Personnel and Staffing Committee
The Nominating Committee (See Article IX Section 13.06)
02. Each committee with the exception of the Executive Committee, the Finance Committee, the Nominating Committee and Personnel and Staffing committee shall:
(A) Have not less than eight members elected by the congregation, one of which is the Director responsible for the committee and no more than two of whom shall be members of the Council. Vacancies may be filled through appointments made by the Council.
B) Elect from its own membership a chairperson and secretary.
C) Conduct regular meetings, at such time and place as the committee members determine.
D) Make recommendations to the Council within the committee's area of responsibility, for both immediate and long-range planning.
E) Maintain a document listing their responsibilities.
03. The Executive Committee shall be comprised of the President, Vice-President, the Secretary of the Council, and the Treasurer, together with the Pastor(s). Only the President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer are voting members.
A) The Executive Committee shall have the power to prepare input for the Council, at such times when Council action is required. The intent of the preparations shall be to make available the information necessary for Council decisions.
B) Regular meetings of the Executive Committee may be held without call or notice at such times and places as the Executive Committee from time to time may fix. Other meetings of the Executive Committee may be called by any member thereof either by oral, telegraph or written notice not later than the day prior to the date set for such meeting. Such notice shall state the time and place of the meeting and if by telegraph or in writing shall be addressed to each member at his address as shown by the records Secretary. Upon request by any member, the Secretary shall give the required notice calling the meeting.
C) A quorum of the Executive Committee shall be three members, of which two must be voting members. Any action of the Executive Committee must be authorized by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members thereof present.
D) The Secretary of the Council shall keep the minutes of the meetings of the Executive Committee. These minutes shall be presented to the Church Council at each meeting.
E) The Executive Committee is responsible for the Management Counseling, Manage long-range Planning, Council Meeting Preparations, and Managing Staff Personnel items.
04. The Committee on Worship and Music shall have the responsibility under the supervision of the Pastor for the development of programs pertaining to the worship life of this congregation as well as encouraging and developing an appropriate religious music program to enrich congregational worship services. They shall also appoint Head Ushers.
05. The Committee on Properties (Building and Grounds) shall have the responsibility for the management and maintenance of congregational buildings and real estate.
06. The Committee on Stewardship shall have the responsibility under the supervision of the Pastor for the implementation of scriptural principals of stewardship.
07. The Committee on Education, under the supervision of the Pastor, shall develop an effective teaching ministry for Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and Confirmation programs which includes the training of teachers and leaders, and provides opportunity for study by every member of this congregation.
08. The committee on Youth shall plan and carry out youth oriented activities that will enrich and broaden the Christian social life of the youth of this congregation.
09. The Committee on Evangelism shall have special responsibilities under the supervision of the Pastor(s) for the development of a sound program of evangelism for the congregation's general spiritual care.
10. The Finance Committee shall be comprised of the Treasurer, Disbursement Secretary,
Receipts Coordinator, and at least (2) two members selected by the Church Council.
These may be any members of the Congregation. The responsibility of the Finance
Committee is to oversee the financial affairs of the Congregation and to assist the
Treasurer in developing the budget and the maintenance of the budget. The Treasurer
shall be the Chair of the Committee.
A) The Disbursements Secretary shall:
1) receive and give receipts for monies due and payable to the church from any source whatsoever, and deposit all such monies in the name of the church in such banks, trust companies or other depositories as shall be selected by the Council;
2) pay monthly the committed percentage of benevolence, based upon the income for the previous month.
3) Any other duties which the Council may from time to time prescribe.
(C) the Receipts Coordinator shall:
1) assist the Treasurer in recording and depositing money received by the congregation, be responsible for the offering accounting and counters, and prepare and distribute the quarterly financial statements for each giving unit. And any other duties which the Council may from time to time prescribe.
11. The Personnel and Staffing Committee shall be responsible for advising the church council on all staff with the exclusion of pastors (unless directed otherwise by the church council). The basic areas of reporting shall include:
A) Church Staffing needs
B) Recommending salaries
C) Maintaining Job Descriptions
D) Staff Evaluations
E) Hiring Recommendations
Including, but not limited to secretarial and custodial positions and the disbursements secretary.
The Personnel and Staffing Committee shall consist of nine members serving three year terms. The members of the committee will be appointed by the Church Council. The President of the Church Council will be the council representative for the Personnel and Staffing Committee. The committee Chair and Vice Chair will be elected by the Personnel and Staffing Committee. The Personnel and Staffing Committee will take direction from the Executive Committee.
12. The Nominating Committee (Section 13.06) shall review the Articles of Incorporation and the present operations of the church. If the committee finds discrepancies between the Articles and the operations, they should prepare changes for the Articles of Incorporations to update them to the current operational needs of the church.
A) Upon approval, by the council, of any recommendations they will become part of the annual report that is distributed to the congregation. The approved recommendations will be brought before the congregation at the annual meeting in the form of a motion and a second by the Nominating Committee.
13. The Memorial Committee shall be responsible for receiving and recording all memorial gifts to the Congregation. The Committee shall keep records of all designated memorial gifts and, after communicating with Church Council, be responsible for the purchase of designated memorial items. The committee will also keep records of all undesignated memorials, advise the church council and committees on the use of such monies, and, after communicating with the Church Council, to purchase items.
14. The Altar Committee shall be responsible for the altar, pulpit, lectern and the whole chancel area to make sure that the proper seasonal changes are observed and that the sanctuary is prepared for worship. The committee will be responsible for making, caring for, and display of banners in the church making appropriate changes for the seasons of the Church Year. The committee will be responsible for the preparations for Holy Communion. This includes, but is not limited to: the preparations of bread and wine, care for the communion utensils and linens, preparing the Altar and Credence Tables for Holy Communion, and helping the Ushers and Communion Assistants during the distribution of Holy Communion.
ARTICLE XIV.
PARISH RECORDS
01. The records of this congregation shall be and remain the property of this congregation. The Pastor shall be responsible for the maintenance of the records, except as otherwise provided herein. Upon the termination of a Pastor's service to this congregation, the records shall have been brought up to date prior to departure. The records shall consist of:
A) The roster of baptized, confirmed, and voting members.
B) The ministerial acts performed by the pastor;
C) The handbook of the appropriate Synod and the Handbook of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;
D) Other records as requested by the Church Council.
02. The Pastor shall report to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America such statistics as may be requested and shall annually report to this congregation a summary of ministerial acts.
03. Should this congregation be dissolved, the official records of this congregation shall be deposited in the archives of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or its successor.
ARTICLE XV
AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS
01. An amendment to these bylaws shall be either approved or rejected by this congregation at a meeting at which such amendment has been validly brought before this congregation. Section A of these Bylaws shall not be amended without the prior written permission of the Synod Bishop.
02. An amendment to these Bylaws must be approved by a two-thirds majority of those present and voting.
ARTICLE XVI
MISCELLANEOUS
01. This congregation shall have no corporate seal.
02. The following policies are hereby adopted to govern the activities of the Church Council, committees, Pastors, other employees and agents and the congregation.
A) Use of Property (General)
1) The property of the congregation shall be for the use of the congregation in its normal function as a Lutheran Church and shall not be used in any way not in harmony with the purpose of the congregation.
2) Buildings which are the property of the congregation shall not be lent or rented to any group or individual not affiliated with the congregation or with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America unless application for such use has been approved by the Church Council by a two-thirds majority in the case of a request for occasional use or by a two-thirds majority vote of the congregation in the case of a request for request for regular use.
(B) Use of Property by Congregational members - The use of church property by congregational members is permitted with the following provisions:
1) Contact the church office prior to use.
2) When using any part of the church buildings for a large reception, make arrangements with the custodians regarding cleanup of the building.
a) There will be no charge for the use of the building if the cleaning is done by the party using the building.
b) There will be a minimum charge of $25.00 if the cleaning is to be done by the church custodians.
(C) Gambling - Gambling shall be prohibited on the church premises by members of this congregation (Christ Lutheran) or any other organization or persons. Gambling to be further defined as selling chances on games or raffles or monies without giving the person something of value for each chance or ticket. Any activity which may be classified as gambling must be submitted to the Church Council and approved or disapproved by the Church Council.
(D) Christ Lutheran Church declares that civil unions or public recognitions of persons in same- gender relationships will not be performed in this church building or authorized by this congregation.
ARTICLE XVII
Christ Lutheran Church Mission Endowment Fund
21.01 Christ Lutheran Church establishes the Christ Lutheran Church Mission Endowment Fund to receive, manage, and distribute long-term gifts to the fund.
21.02 A standing committee of six members is established to promote and manage the fund. Five of the members shall be elected by the congregation to serve three-year terms. The five congregational members shall be eligible for two consecutive terms only. Vacancies on the committee shall be filled at the next annual congregational meeting or special meeting called for that purpose. The first election shall be to staggered terms to provide for succession. The Senior Pastor shall serve as an ex-officio member of the committee with voice and vote. The committee is responsible to maintain the account of the fund and report to the Church Council as requested. A written report shall be provided to the congregation in the annual report showing the activity of the fund. Current balance, additions, distributions and other activities shall be provided in the report. Four votes to the affirmative shall be required to approve actions of the committee. The committee chair shall vote as a regular member. Voice votes may not be used to approve motions involving financial decisions. The chair and secretary of the committee shall be selected at the first meeting of the year following the congregational annual meeting. The Church Council shall appoint a liaison to the committee. The liaison serves without voice or vote, unless the person is already an elected member of the committee..
03. The duties of the committee shall include the following:
A. To fulfill the purpose of the fund by providing at least annual distributions beyond the operating budget of this congregation to ministries as stated below:
1. Minimum of twenty percent for outreach into the local community and/or synod as the committee determines;
2. Minimum of twenty percent for ELCA church wide ministries as the committee determines;
3. Minimum of twenty percent for extraordinary ministry programs and/or capitol improvements within this congregation as the committee determines.
4. Remainder distributed through any of the categories 1, 2, and 3 as the committee determines.
B. To determine how the fund assets will be invested, including asset allocation. The investment objective is to provide long-term growth so the annual distribution will keep pace with inflation. The intent is to maintain the purchasing power of the distribution. No fund investments should be made in any way that would financially benefit any member of the committee.
C. To make annual distributions of the ordinary income of the fund plus no more than five percent of the market value of the assets as the committee directs. This would enable realized gains in values and unrealized gains in value to be distributed. Additionally ten percent of new gifts shall be distributed as soon as practical through the fund and the remainder added to the endowment fund. If the fund assets exceed $500,000 in value on any year-end valuation date, an additional distribution of the year-end value may be made in the following distribution year. The committee may choose to disburse up to an additional five percent of the year-end value. The fund objective criteria, as listed in paragraph b. above, should be the guiding factor in the decision.
D. To encourage gifts to the fund through education and promotion.
E. To receive and celebrate gifts given for ministry though the fund. A permanent book of remembrance of donors shall be established and maintained by the committee. Written acknowledgement shall be provided to the donor/donors family of the gift and the ministry support given by the initial distribution of the gift. (Ten percent initial distribution) The committee has the discretion to decline a gift deemed not to be in the best interests of the fund and congregation.
F. To respond to a congregational request, under an unforeseen emergency situation, to use principal of the fund to help the congregation rectify an economically devastating situation.
These By-laws, as amended, were adopted as and for the By-laws of Christ Lutheran Church, a Minnesota Non-Profit Corporation, under Minnesota statute, Chapter 317A, at the annual congregational meeting held on 28th day of January, 2007.
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signed by Debra Fugleberg, Secretary
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