EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA

CONSTITUTION FOR THE IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH

DIXON, ILLINOIS

Based on 2000 synod model, ratified January 2001


Table of Contents
 Arrangement of Congregation's Governing Documents
 Term Explanations
 *Preamble
 Chapter 1 Name and Incorporation
 *Chapter 2 Confession of Faith
 *Chapter 3 Nature of the Church
 *Chapter 4 Statement of Purpose
 *Chapter 5 Powers of the Congregation
 *Chapter 6 Church Affiliation
 *Chapter 7 Property Ownership
 *Chapter 8 Membership
 *Chapter 9 The Pastor
 Chapter 10 Congregation Meeting
 Chapter 11 Officers
 Chapter 12 Congregation Council
 Chapter 13 Congregation Committees
 Chapter 14 Organizations within the Congregation
 *Chapter 15 Discipline of Members and Adjudication
 *Chapter 16 Bylaws
 *Chapter 17 Amendments
 *Chapter 18 Continuing Resolutions
 *Chapter 19 Indemnification
 *Chapter 20 Parish Authorization

*Indicates chapters containing required provisions that must be used without alteration or amendment of the text in any manner (neither additions nor deletions).

ARRANGEMENT OF CONGREGATION'S GOVERNING DOCUMENTS

1. The provisions of the constitution, the bylaws, and the continuing resolutions of a congregation that pertain to the same matter should be placed together for clarity in use.

2. A numerical codification indicates (a) general subject, (b) constitutional provisions, (c) bylaws, and (d) continuing resolutions.

    a. Major sections are designated as chapters. The chapter designation becomes the first number in the codification sequence and is followed by a period. Thus, the provisions in "Chapter 8. Membership" are preceded by "8."
    b. Constitutional provisions are codified with two sets of numbers: the chapter number and a two-digit number preceding the second period in the codification. Thus, one constitutional provision related to the "Membership" is codified C8.02.
    c. Bylaws are codified with three sets of numbers: the chapter number, the related constitutional provision number, and a two-digit number. Thus, one bylaw related to "Membership" would be codified C8.02.01.
    d. Continuing resolutions also are codified with three sets of numbers, except that the third set is preceded by a capital letter. Thus, a continuing resolution might be numbered C13. to designate the chapter; C13.07. to designate the subject matter within the chapter; and the third set might be numbered A95. in the codification C13.07.A95. to indicate by the "A" that it is the first continuing resolution regarding that subject and by the "95" that it was adopted in 1995.
    When many related provisions are parts of a unit that are considered inseparable, they are normally lettered "a," "b," "c," etc. When related provisions are part of a unit but considered separable, such as a list of duties, they are normally numbered in sequence. If the related provisions cannot be clearly judged to be separable or inseparable, preference may be given to a numbered sequence.
3. If chapter numbers are considered the major sequence number, constitution numbers as a fraction of the chapter number, and bylaw numbers as a fraction of the constitution number, the codification can be said to provide a progressive sequence. Thus C5.01. will precede C5.03.10., and C9.11.16. will precede C9.13.

4. All provisions in the Model Constitution for Congregations are prefaced with "C" to distinguish these provisions from comparable ones in the synodical and churchwide constitutions. An asterisk (*) preceding the "C" indicates that the provision is a required one.

5. Some numbers are missing. This is intentional. In the style followed here, the number ".10." and multiples thereof have been reserved for possible use as section headings in the future editions. Therefore, in the sequence, for example, of Chapters 1, 9, and 12, these ".10." numbers do not appear.


TERM EXPLANATIONS

References to church:
    In the governing documents, "Church" with a capital letter is used references to the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. In references to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the words "church" and "this church" in lower case letters are employed, although, for clarity in this constitution, the full name or "ELCA" normally is used.
    The specific congregation may be identified, as provided in C1.02., as "this congregation."

*PREAMBLE

We, baptized members of the Church of Christ, responding in faith to the call of the Holy Spirit through the Gospel, desiring to unite together to preach the Word, administer the sacraments, and carry out God's mission, do hereby adopt this constitution and solemnly pledge ourselves to be governed by its provisions. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

CHAPTER 1

NAME AND INCORPORATION

C1.01 The name of this congregation shall be Immanuel Lutheran Church of Dixon, Illinois.

C1.02 For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the Immanuel Lutheran Church congregation is hereinafter designated as "this congregation."

C1.11 This congregation shall be incorporated under the laws of the State of Illinois.

CHAPTER 2

CONFESSION OF FAITH

*C2.01 This congregation confesses the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

*C2.02 This congregation confesses Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and the Gospel as the power of God for the salvation of all who believe.

    a. Jesus Christ is the Word of God incarnate, through whom everything was made and through whose life, death, and resurrection God fashions a new creation.
    b. The proclamation of God's message to us as both Law and Gospel is the Word of God, revealing judgment and mercy through word and deed, beginning with the Word in creation, continuing in the history of Israel, and centering in all its fullness in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
    c. The canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the written Word of God. Inspired by God's Spirit speaking through their authors, they record and announce God's revelation centering in Jesus Christ. Through them God's Spirit speaks to us to create and sustain Christian faith and fellowship for service in the world.
*C2.03 This congregation accepts the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation, faith, and life.

*C2.04 This congregation accepts the Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of the faith of this congregation.

*C2.05 This congregation accepts the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as a true witness to the Gospel, acknowledging as one with it in faith and doctrine all churches that likewise accept the teachings of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession.

*C2.06 This congregation accepts the other confessional writings in the Book of Concord, namely, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles and the Treatise, the Small Catechism, the Large Catechism, and the Formula of Concord, as further valid interpretations of the faith of the Church.

*C2.07 This congregation confesses the Gospel, recorded in the Holy Scriptures and confessed in the ecumenical creeds and Lutheran confessional writings, as the power of God to create and sustain the Church for God's mission in the world.

CHAPTER 3

NATURE OF THE CHURCH

*C3.01 All power in the Church belongs to our Lord Jesus Christ, its head. All actions of this congregation are to be carried out under his rule and authority.

*C3.02 The Church exists both as an inclusive fellowship and as local congregations gathered for worship and Christian service. Congregations find their fulfillment in the universal community of the Church, and the universal Church exists in and through congregations. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, (ELCA), therefore, derives its character and powers both from the sanction and representation of its congregations and from its inherent nature as an expression of the broader fellowship of the faithful. In length, it acknowledges itself to be in the historic continuity of the communion of saints; in breadth, it expresses the fellowship of believers and congregations in our day.

CHAPTER 4

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

*C4.01 The Church is a people created by God in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, called and sent to bear witness to God's creative, redeeming, and sanctifying activity in the world.

*C4.02 To participate in God's mission, this congregation as a part of the Church shall:

    a. Worship God in proclamation of the Word and administration of the sacraments and through lives of prayer, praise, thanksgiving, witness, and service.
    b. Proclaim God's saving Gospel of justification by grace for Christ's sake through faith alone, according to the apostolic witness in the Holy Scripture, preserving and transmitting the Gospel faithfully to future generations.
    c. Carry out Christ's Great Commission by reaching out to all people to bring them to faith in Christ and by doing all ministry with a global awareness consistent with the understanding of God as Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier of all.
    d. Serve in response to God's love to meet human needs, caring for the sick and the aged, advocating dignity and justice for all people, working for peace and reconciliation among the nations, and standing with the poor and powerless, and committing itself to their needs.
    e. Nurture its members in the Word of God so as to grow in faith and hope and love, to see daily life as the primary setting for the exercise of their Christian calling, and to use the gifts of the Spirit for their life together and for their calling in the world.
    f. Manifest the unity given to the people of God by living together in the love of Christ and by joining with other Christians in prayer and action to express and preserve the unity which the Spirit gives.
*C4.03 To fulfill these purposes, this congregation shall:

    a. Provide services of worship at which the Word of God is preached and the sacraments are administered.
    b. Provide pastoral care and assist all members to participate in this ministry.
    c. Challenge, equip, and support all members in carrying out their calling in their daily lives and in their congregation.
    d. Teach the Word of God.
    e. Witness to the reconciling Word of God in Christ, reaching out to all people.
    f. Respond to human need, work for justice and peace, care for the sick and the suffering, and participate responsibly in society.
    g. Motivate its members to provide financial support for the congregation's ministry and the ministry of other parts of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
    h. Foster and participate in interdependent relationships with other congregations, the synod, and the churchwide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
    i. Foster and participate in ecumenical relationships consistent with churchwide policy.
*C4.04 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 in the section on the Congregation Council.)

*C4.05 This congregation shall, from time to time, adopt a mission statement which will provide specific direction for its programs.

CHAPTER 5

POWERS OF THE CONGREGATION

*C5.0l The powers of this congregation are those necessary to fulfill its purpose.

*C5.02 The powers of this congregation are vested in the Congregation Meeting called and conducted as provided in this constitution and bylaws.

*C5.03 Only such authority as is delegated to the Congregation Council or other organizational units in this congregation's governing documents is recognized. All remaining authority is retained by the congregation. The congregation is authorized to:

    a. call a pastor as provided in Chapter 9;
    b. terminate the call of a pastor as provided in Chapter 9;
    c. call or terminate the call of associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers in conformity with the applicable policy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;
    d. approve the annual budget;
    e. acquire real and personal property by gift, devise, purchase, or other lawful means;
    f. hold title to and use its property for any and all activities consistent with its purpose;
    g. sell, mortgage, lease, transfer, or otherwise dispose of its property by any lawful means;
    h. elect its Congregation Council and require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the constitution, bylaws and continuing resolutions; and
    i. terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as provided in Chapter 6.
*C5.04 This congregation shall choose from among its voting members laypersons to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly as well as persons to represent it at meetings of any conference, cluster, coalition, or other area subdivision of which it is a member. The number of persons to be elected by the congregation and other qualifications shall be as prescribed in guidelines established by this synod.

CHAPTER 6

CHURCH AFFILIATION

*C6.01 This congregation shall be an interdependent part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or its successor, and of the Northern Illinois Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. This congregation is subject to the discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

*C6.02 This congregation accepts the Confession of Faith and agrees to the Purposes of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and shall act in accordance with them.

*C6.03 This congregation acknowledges its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in which:

    a. This congregation agrees to be responsible for its life as a Christian community.
    b. This congregation pledges its financial support and participation in the life and mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
    c. This congregation agrees to call pastoral leadership from the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in accordance with its call procedures except in special circumstances and with the approval of the bishop of the synod.
    d. This congregation agrees to consider associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers for call to other staff positions in the congregation according to the procedures of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
    e. This congregation agrees to file this constitution and any subsequent changes to this constitution with the synod for review to ascertain that all of its provisions are in agreement with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and with the constitution of the synod.
*C6.04 Affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America may be terminated as follows:

    a. This congregation takes action to dissolve.
    b. This congregation ceases to exist.
    c. This congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to the procedures for discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
    d. This congregation follows the procedures outlined in C6.05.
*C6.05 This congregation may terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America by the following procedure:

    a. A resolution indicating the desire of this congregation to terminate its relationship must be adopted at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present.
    b. The secretary of this congregation shall submit a copy of the resolution to the synodical bishop and shall mail a copy of the resolution to voting members of this congregation. This notice shall be submitted within 10 days after the resolution has been adopted.
    c. The bishop of the synod shall consult with this congregation during a period of at least 90 days.
    d. If this congregation, after consultation, still desires to terminate its relationship, such action may be taken at a legally called and conducted special meeting by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present, at which meeting the bishop of the synod or an authorized representative shall be present. Notice of the meeting shall be mailed to all voting members at least 10 days in advance of the meeting.
    e. A certified copy of the resolution to terminate its relationship shall be sent to the synodical bishop, at which time the relationship between this congregation and Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be terminated.
    f. Notice of termination shall be forwarded by the synodical bishop to the secretary of this church and published in the periodical of this church.
    g. If this congregation was a member of the Lutheran Church in America, it shall be required, in addition to the foregoing provisions in C6.05., to receive synodical approval before terminating its membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
    h. If this congregation was established by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, it shall be required, in addition to the foregoing provisions in C6.05., to receive synodical approval before terminating its membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
*C6.06 If this congregation is considering relocation, it shall confer with the bishop of the synod in which it is territorially located before any steps are taken leading to such action. The approval of the Synod Council shall be received before any such action is effected.

CHAPTER 7

PROPERTY OWNERSHIP

*C7.01 If this congregation ceases to exist, title to undisposed property shall pass to the Northern Illinois Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

*C7.02 If this congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to its procedure for discipline, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation.

*C7.03 If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a legally 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 Northern Illinois Synod.

*C7.04 If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to become independent or relate to a non-Lutheran church body, title to property of this congregation shall continue to reside in this congregation only with the consent of the Synod Council. The Synod Council, after consultation with this congregation by the established synodical process, may give approval to the request to become independent or to relate to a non-Lutheran church body, in which case title shall remain with the majority of this congregation. If the Synod Council fails to give such approval, title shall remain with those members who desire to continue as a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

CHAPTER 8

MEMBERSHIP

*C8.01 Members of this congregation shall be those baptized persons on the roll of this 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.

C8.01.01 A copy of this constitution shall be made available to all members.

*C8.02 Members shall be classified as follows:

    a. Baptized members are those persons who have been received by the Sacrament of Holy Baptism in this congregation, or, having been previously baptized in the name of the Triune God, have been received by certificate of transfer from other Lutheran congregations or by affirmation of faith.
    b. Confirmed members are baptized persons who have been confirmed in this congregation, those who have been received by adult baptism or by transfer as confirmed members from other Lutheran congregations, or baptized persons received by affirmation of faith.
    c. Voting members are confirmed members. Such confirmed members shall have communed and made a contribution of record during the current or preceding year.
    d. Associate members are persons holding membership in other Christian congregations who wish to retain such membership but desire to participate in the life and mission of this congregation. They have all the privileges and duties of membership except voting rights and eligibility for elected offices or membership on the Congregation Council of this congregation.
C8.02.01 Admission to Baptized Membership

    1. Children baptized in other congregations shall be received as baptized members of this congregation upon admission of one or both parents or guardians to membership, or by consent of one or both parents or guardians.
    2. Unbaptized adults who have received instruction and have given evidence of having adequate understanding and acceptance of the teachings of the Word of God as confessed by the Lutheran Church, shall, upon confession of faith and Christian Baptism duly recorded as a ministerial act performed under the auspices of this congregation, be received as baptized members of this congregation.
    3. Baptisms shall occur at a worship service except those approved by the Congregation Council or pastor.
C8.02.02 Admission to Confirmed Membership

    1. Baptized adults, not previously members of the congregation, who have received instruction and have given evidence of having adequate understanding and acceptance of the teachings of the Word of God as confessed by the Lutheran Church, shall be admitted to confirmed membership through the rite of confirmation.
    2. Children who are baptized members of the congregation shall be admitted to confirmed membership through participation in the rite of confirmation.
    3. Applicants for membership presenting Letters of Transfer showing them to be confirmed members in good standing in other Lutheran congregations shall be admitted to confirmed membership upon acceptance of their Letters of Transfer by the Congregation Council.
    4. Applicants for membership who present evidence of confirmation in a Lutheran congregation but do not have Letters of Transfer shall be admitted to confirmed membership when the Congregation Council has determined that they meet the standards of Christian faith and life indicated in the constitution and bylaws and when they have reaffirmed their faith before the congregation. Exceptions to a personal appearance may be made by the Congregation Council.
C8.02.03 Admission to voting Membership

The Congregation Council shall be responsible for determining the voting membership in accordance with the qualifications specified in the constitution and bylaws.

*C8.03 All applications for confirmed membership shall be submitted to and shall require the approval of the Congregation Council.

*C8.04 It shall be the privilege and duty of members of this congregation to:

    a. make regular use of the means of grace, both Word and sacraments;
    b. live a Christian life in accordance with the Word of God and the teachings of the Lutheran church; and
    c. support the work of this congregation, the synod, and the churchwide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through contributions of their time, abilities, and financial support as biblical stewards.
*C8.05 Membership in this congregation shall be terminated by any of the following:

    a. death;
    b. resignation;
    c. transfer or release;
    d. disciplinary action by the Congregation Council; or
    e. removal from the roll due to inactivity as defined in the bylaws.
    Such persons who have been removed from the roll of members shall remain persons for whom the church has a continuing pastoral concern.
C8.05.01 Discontinuance of Membership

    1. Members who move away shall be encouraged to transfer their membership. A confirmed member in good standing desiring to change his membership to another Christian congregation shall, upon request, receive a Letter of Transfer.
    2. A confirmed member shall be presumed to no longer desire membership if, in the judgement of the Congregation Council, he:
      a) shows no interest in attending church services;
      b) has not partaken of Holy Communion in the current or proceeding year; and
      c) has not made a contribution of record during the current or proceeding year.
    A contribution of record shall be defined as either:
      a) a verifiable financial donation to the congregational treasury; or
      b) the verifiable completion of participation in a church activity requiring of the person’s time and talents.
    Such a person shall be encouraged by personal call and/or letter as directed by the Congregation Council to take part in the congregational life or to transfer elsewhere, as the situation may warrant. Should the above criteria for showing desire of membership not be met within 90 days, the person shall lose the right to vote and shall not be counted in the membership statistics of the congregation. This person’s name and record shall be kept thereafter in an archive. If the person resumes activity within a one year period, that person shall be restored to the active membership list. If not, the person shall be dismissed from the congregation and, if possible, shall be notified of this action.
    3. A non-confirmed minor of confirmation age shall be dropped from the active baptized membership roll if they fail to participate in the Christian education or worship programs of the congregation. Such children's names and records shall be kept thereafter in an archive file.
    4. Certain situations will result in termination of membership in the congregation, surrendering of all membership rights and removal from the church’s roll. These include members who:
      a) have been dismissed;
      b) have resigned;
      c) have transferred to other Christian congregations and do not wish to maintain an associate membership; or
      d) are known to have become members of other congregations without transfer.

CHAPTER 9

THE PASTOR

*C9.01 Authority to call a pastor shall be in this congregation by at least a two-thirds majority ballot vote of members present and voting at a meeting legally called for that purpose. Before a call is issued, the officers, or a committee elected by this congregation to recommend the call, shall seek the advice and help of the bishop of the synod.

*C9.02 Only a member of the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or a candidate for the roster of ordained ministers who has been recommended for the congregation by the synodical bishop may be called as a pastor of this congregation.

*C9.03 Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America,

    a. Every ordained minister shall:
      1) preach the Word;
      2) administer the sacraments;
      3) conduct public worship;
      4) provide pastoral care; and
      5) speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God's love for the world.
    b. Each ordained minister with a congregational call shall, within the congregation:
      1) offer instruction, confirm, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead;
      2) supervise all schools and organizations of this congregation;
      3) install regularly elected members of the Church Council; and
      4) with the council, administer discipline.
    c. Every pastor shall:
      1) strive to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation, and abroad;
      2) seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel;
      3) impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry through distribution of its periodicals and other publications; and
      4) endeavor to increase the support given by the congregation to work of the churchwide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and of the Northern Illinois Synod of the ELCA.
C9.03.01 The pastor(s) shall conduct marriage ceremonies in accordance with the current Wedding Policy Guidelines as approved by the Congregation Council.

*C9.04 The specific duties of the pastor, compensation, and other matters pertaining to the service of the pastor shall be included in a letter of call, which shall be attested by the bishop of the synod.

*C9.05
    a. The call of a congregation, when accepted by a pastor, shall constitute a continuing mutual relationship and commitment, which, except in the case of the death of the pastor, shall be terminated only following consultation with the synodical bishop and for the following reasons:
      1) mutual agreement to terminate the call or the completion of a call for a specific term;
      2) resignation of the pastor, which shall become effective, unless otherwise agreed, 30 days after the date on which it was submitted;
      3) inability to conduct the pastoral office effectively in the congregation in view of local conditions, without reflection on the competence or the moral and spiritual character of the pastor;
      4) the physical or mental incapacity of the pastor;
      5) disqualification of the pastor through discipline on grounds of doctrine, morality, or continued neglect of duty;
      6) the dissolution of the congregation; or
      7) the suspension of the congregation as a result of discipline proceedings.
    b. When allegations of physical or mental incapacity of the pastor or ineffective conduct of the pastoral office have come to the attention of the bishop of the synod, the bishop in his or her sole discretion may, or when such allegations 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, the bishop shall, investigate such conditions personally in company with a committee of two ordained ministers and one layperson.
    c. In case of alleged physical or mental incapacity competent medical testimony shall be obtained. When such disability is evident, the bishop of the synod with the advice of the committee shall declare the pastorate vacant. Upon the restoration of a disabled pastor to health, the bishop of the synod shall take steps to enable the pastor to resume the ministry, either in the congregation last served or in another field of labor.
    d. In the case of alleged local difficulties that imperil the effective functioning of the congregation, all concerned persons shall be heard, after which the bishop of he synod together with the committee described in C9.05.b. shall decide on the course of action to be recommended to the pastor and the congregation. If they agree to carry out such recommendations, no further action shall be taken by the synod. If either party fails to assent, the congregation may dismiss the pastor by a two-thirds majority vote of the voting members present and voting at a legally called meeting after consultation with the bishop.
    e. If, in the course of proceedings described in C9.05.d., the committee concludes that there may be grounds for disciplinary action, the committee shall make recommendations concerning disciplinary action to the synodical bishop who may bring charges, in accordance with the provisions of the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the constitution of this synod.
    f. If, following the appointment of the committee described in C9.05.b. or d., it should become apparent that the pastoral office cannot be conducted effectively in the congregation(s) 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(s) without prejudice and with pay provided through a joint synodical and churchwide fund and with housing provided by the congregation(s).
*C9.06 At a time of pastoral vacancy, an interim pastor shall be appointed by the bishop of the synod with the consent of this congregation or the Congregation Council.

*C9.07 During the period of service, an interim pastor shall have the rights and duties in the congregation 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.

*C9.08 This congregation shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to a former pastor before calling a successor. A pastor shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to this congregation.

*C9.09 When a pastor is called to serve in company with another pastor or pastors, the privileges and responsibilities of each pastor shall be specified in documents to accompany the call and to be drafted in consultation involving the pastors, the Congregation Council, and the bishop of the synod. As occasion requires, the documents may be revised through a similar consultation.

C9.09.01 Such revisions shall require full and signed approval by all parties involved.

*C9.11 With the approval of the bishop of the synod, the congregation may depart from C9.05.a. and call a pastor for a specific term. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose and conditions involved. Prior to the completion of a term, the bishop or designated representative of the bishop shall meet with the pastor and representatives of the congregation for a review of the call. Such a call may also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of C9.05.a.

*C9.12 The pastor of this congregation:

    a. shall keep accurate parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members dismissed, or members excluded from the congregation;
    b. shall submit a summary of such statistics annually to the synod; and
    c. shall become a member of the congregation upon receipt and acceptance of the letter of call. In a parish of multiple congregations, the pastor shall hold membership in one of the congregations.
C9.12.01 The pastor shall be responsible for providing a copy of all changes in the above records in the previous year for inclusion in the congregational report at the annual meeting.

*C9.13 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.


C9.20 Ecumenical pastoral ministry

C9.21 Under special circumstances, subject to the approval of the synodical bishop and the concurrence of this congregation, an ordained minister of a church body with which the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America officially has established a relationship of full communion may serve temporarily under contract as pastor of this congregation.

CHAPTER 10

CONGREGATION MEETING

C10.01 The annual and semi-annual meeting of this congregation shall be held at a time specified in the bylaws.

C10.01.01 The annual meeting shall be held on a Sunday in January and the semi-annual meeting shall be held on a Sunday in September each year. The current roster of voting, confirmed, and baptized members shall be determined prior to the January meeting.

C10.01.A00 The agenda at the annual meeting shall include:

    1. Opening devotion
    2. Establish a quorom
    3. Election or appointment of nominating committee
    4. Approval of the minutes of the previous meeting
    5. Approval of the minutes of any special congregational meetings
    6. Reports of pastor, Congregation Council, treasurer, boards, committees, and others
    7. Approval of the budget
    8. Unfinished business
    9. New business
    10. Closing prayer
C10.01.B00 The agenda for the semi-annual meeting shall include:

    1. Opening devotion
    2. Establish a quorom
    3. Election of council members whose term of office is to begin January 1st of the following year.
    4. Approval of the minutes of the previous meeting
    5. Approval of the minutes of any special congregational meetings
    6. Appointment of auditing committee
    7. Unfinished business
    8. New business
    9. Closing prayer
C10.01.C00 All minutes to be approved shall be distributed prior to the beginning of the meeting.

C10.02 A special Congregation Meeting may be called by the pastor, the Congregation Council, or the president of this congregation, and shall be called by the president of the congregation upon the written request of ten percent (10%) of voting members of the congregation. The call for each special meeting shall specify the purpose for which it is to be held and no other business shall be transacted.

C10.03 Notice of all meetings of this congregation shall be given at all services of worship on the preceding two consecutive weekends and by a mailing to all voting members at least 10 days in advance of the date of the meeting. The posting of such notice in the mail, with the postage affixed or paid, sent to the last known address of such members shall be sufficient.

C10.04 Five per cent (5%) voting members shall constitute a quorum.

C10.05 Voting by proxy or by absentee ballot shall not be permitted.

C10.06 All actions by the congregation shall be by majority vote of those present and voting except as otherwise provided in this constitution.

C10.06.01 In the following cases voting shall be by written ballot.

    1. To elect the members of the Congregation Council
    2. To adopt or amend the articles of incorporation, constitution, or bylaws of the congregation
    3. To call a pastor
    4. To request a pastor's resignation
    5. To remove a member from office in the congregation
    6. To sever membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
    7. To dispose of, encumber, or purchase real property
    8. When requested by ten or more voting members present
    9. To elect members of a Call Committee
C10.06.02 With the exception of the treasurer, the four candidates for council membership receiving the highest number of votes shall be declared elected. The candidate receiving the 5th highest number of votes shall be declared the first alternate and will serve in place of any council member unable to serve for a full term. The candidate receiving the 6th highest number of votes shall be declared the second alternate. In the event that there is a tie for the fourth place the tie shall be broken by a vote between the tying candidates. Should this vote end in a tie, the position shall be decided by coin toss.

C10.07 Robert's Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of all meetings of this congregation.

CHAPTER 11

OFFICERS

C11.01 The officers of this congregation shall be a president, vice president, secretary and treasurer.

    a. Duties of the officers shall be specified in the continuing resolutions.
    b. The officers shall be voting members of the congregation.
    c. Officers of this congregation shall serve the same offices of the Congregation Council and shall be voting members of the Congregation Council.
    d. A pastor may not serve as an officer of the congregation.
C11.01.A98 The duties of the president shall include but not be limited to:

    1. Chair Congregation Council meetings and congregational meetings;
    2. Establish the agenda for Congregation Council meetings and congregational meetings, in consultation with the pastor(s) and the Executive Committee;
    3. Show leadership in the congregation and church at large through participation in activities such as Synod Assemblies, Conference meetings, and Synod Congregational events;
    4. Along with the pastor(s) and the Executive Committee, plan any Congregation Council leadership retreat;
    5. Write a summary of Congregation Council business for publication in the newsletter,
    6. Appoint members of the Audit Committee; and
    7. Serve on the Call Committee, ex officio.
C11.01.B98 The duties of the vice president shall include but not be limited to:

    1. Chair Congregation Council meetings and congregational meetings in the absence of the president;
    2. Act as a member of the Executive Committee;
    3. Along with the pastor(s) and the Executive Committee, plan any Congregation Council leadership retreat; and
    4. Oversee the annual review of the membership roster.
C11.01.C00 The duties of the secretary shall include but not be limited to:

    1. Be responsible for and keep all minutes of congregational and Congregation Council meetings; distribute minutes to be approved to the Congregation Council prior to the beginning of the next meeting; and publish approved minutes to the congregation;
    2. Record minutes in the absence of the Parish Secretary;
    3. Act as a member of the Executive Committee;
    4. Along with the pastor(s) and the Executive Committee, plan any Congregation Council leadership retreat;
    5. Keep a copy of all official documents, correspondence, financial reports and work contracts;
    6. Monitor attendance of council members at council meetings and notify those with two consecutive absences without cause; and
    7. Send approved changes to the constitution to the Synod.
C11.01.D00 The duties of the treasurer shall include but not be limited to:

    1. Be custodian of all funds of the congregation;
    2. Disburse all such funds in accordance with the decisions of the congregation or the Congregation Council;
    3. Present an audited report to the annual congregational meeting and such other reports to the Congregation Council as may be required;
    4. Provide assistance to the treasurers of the approved organizations within the church; and
    5. Oversee the filing of tax reports and remittances.
C11.02 The Congregation Council shall elect its president, vice president and secretary from the elected membership of the council and they shall also be the officers of the congregation. These officers shall be elected by written ballot and shall serve for one year or until their successors assume their duties. The treasurer shall be elected by the Congregation for a term of three years and is eligible to serve two consecutive three-year terms. All officers terms shall begin as specified by the by- laws.

C11.02.01 Terms of all officers shall conclude on January 1. The outgoing officers will be responsible for conducting the annual meeting through the conclusion of unfinished business.

C11.03 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.

CHAPTER 12

CONGREGATION COUNCIL

C12.01 The voting membership of the Congregation Council shall consist of the pastor(s) and not more than 13 members of the congregation. Any voting member of the congregation may be elected, subject only to the limitation on the length of continuous service permitted in that office. A member's place on the Congregation Council shall be declared vacant if the member

    a) ceases to be a voting member of this congregation or
    b) is absent from three (3) successive regular meetings of the Congregation Council without cause. A member shall be notified by the Council Secretary after two (2) consecutive absences without cause.
C12.02 The members of the Congregation Council except the pastor(s) shall be elected by written ballot to serve 3 years or until their successors assume their duties. Their terms shall begin as specified in the by-laws.

C12.02.01 Members may not succeed themselves after two full terms. New members' terms shall begin January 1 following election at the previous semi-annual meeting.

C12.03 Should a member's place on the Congregation Council be declared vacant, the vacancy shall be filled by the next available alternate elected at the semi-annual meeting. Any further vacancies will be filled by majority vote of the Congregation Council.

C12.04 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:

    a. To lead this congregation in stating its mission, to do long-range planning, to set its goals and priorities, and to evaluate its activities in light of its mission and goals.
    b. To seek to involve all members of this congregation in worship, learning, witness, service, and support.
    c. To oversee and provide for the administration of this congregation to enable it to fulfill its functions and perform its mission.
    d. To maintain supportive relationships with the pastor(s) and staff and help them annually to evaluate the fulfillment of their calling, appointment, or employment.
    e. To be examples individually and corporately of the style of life and ministry expected of all baptized persons.
    f. To promote a congregational climate of peace and goodwill and, as differences and conflicts arise, to endeavor to foster mutual understanding.
    g. To arrange for pastoral service during the sickness or absence of the pastors.
    h. To emphasize partnership with the synod and churchwide units of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as well as cooperation with other congregations, both Lutheran and non-Lutheran, subject to established policies of the synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
    i. To recommend and encourage the use of program resources produced and approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
    j. To seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel.
C12.05 The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the financial and property matters of this congregation.

    a. The Congregation Council 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 Illinois, except as otherwise provided herein.
    b. The Congregation Council shall not have the authority to buy, sell, or encumber real property unless specifically authorized to do so by a legally called meeting of the congregation.
    c. The Congregation Council may enter into contracts totaling up to $5,000.00 for items not included in the annual budget.
    d. The Congregation 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 5% in excess of the anticipated receipts only after approval by a legally called Congregation Meeting. The budget shall include this congregation's full indicated share in support of the wider ministry being carried on in partnership with the synod and churchwide organization.
    e. The 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 to the synodical treasurer.
    f. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for this congregation's investments and its total insurance program.
    g. The Congregation Council may appoint a financial secretary whose term shall last three years with possible re-appointment for one additional term. Duties of this position may include:
      1. posting of all moneys given to the congregation;
      2. issue offering envelopes;
      3. register stewardship pledges; and
      4. prepare and distribute at years end financial statements for each member indicating their contributions for that year.
C12.05.01 All undesignated bequests received by Immanuel Lutheran Church shall be divided with one-half of the amount to be used for the Lord's work beyond the congregation and one-half to be used for non-budgeted work within the congregation. In the case of an undesignated bequest of $30,000 or under, the Congregation Council shall assume responsibility for distribution. In the case of an undesignated bequest of over $30,000, a task force shall be formed to study and make a recommendation concerning the use of the money. The size and composition of the task force shall be determined by the Congregation Council. The recommendation will first go to the Congregation Council and then to the congregation for a vote.

C12.06 The Congregation Council shall see that the provisions of this constitution, its bylaws and the continuing resolutions are carried out.

C12.07 The Congregation Council shall provide for an annual review of the membership roster.

C12.08 The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the employment and supervision of the salaried lay workers of this congregation.

C12.09 The Congregation Council shall submit a comprehensive report to this congregation at the annual meeting.

C12.11 The Congregation Council shall normally meet once a month. Special meetings may be called by the pastor or the president, or shall be called by the president at the request of at least one-half of its members. Notification shall be given to all Congregation Council members and pastor(s) of the time, place and purpose of each special meeting.

C12.11.01 Meetings of the Congregation Council shall be open to all members of the congregation.

C12.11.02 The Congregation Council may call for an executive session in matters pertaining to:

    1. personnel matters;
    2. litigation; or
    3. salaries.
C12.12 A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of a majority of the members of the Congregation Council, including the pastor or interim pastor, except when the pastor or the interim pastor requests or consents to be absent and has been given prior notice of the agenda. Any new business not on the agenda of notice shall not be voted on in the absence of the pastor(s).

CHAPTER 13

CONGREGATION COMMITTEES

C13.01 The officers of this congregation and the pastor(s) shall constitute the Executive Committee.

C13.01.98A The Executive Committee shall:

    1. propose agenda for Council and Congregation meetings;
    2. plan any retreat for the Congregation Council; and
    3. submit a list of candidates for consideration for the Mutual Ministry and Personnel Committee.
C13.02 A Nominating Committee of five voting members of this congregation, two of whom, if possible, shall be outgoing members of the Congregation Council, shall be elected at the annual meeting for a term of one year. Members of the Nominating Committee are not eligible for consecutive reelection.

C13.02.98A The Nominating Committee shall provide a sufficient list of qualified candidates who will serve on the Congregation Council if elected at the semi-annual meeting.

C13.03 An Audit Committee of three voting members shall be appointed by the Congregation President. Audit Committee members shall not be members of the Congregation Council. Term of office will be three years with one member appointed each year. Members shall be eligible to be reappointed.

C13.03.A99 A partial professional audit shall be performed every three years and as directed by the Congregation Council.

C13.04 The Mutual Ministry Committee shall act to affirm, review and strengthen the approved mission, aims and goals of the congregation and how the ministry staff, both rostered and non-rostered, is attaining these goals and provide recommendations to the Congregation Council. To accomplish this the committee shall at least annually review the job descriptions of the staff for appropriateness to the goals and provide recommendations for the continuing education of the pastor(s). In a confidential manner the committee shall at least annually provide an individual evaluation of the staff's performance and if necessary meet to resolve any disputes or misunderstandings of the staff. The committee may use the appropriate portions of the ELCA Mutual Ministry Committee handbook for suggested guidelines on its function and appropriate action.
The committee shall consist of six members from the congregation, the pastor(s) in ex officio and a Congregation Council liaison. The six members not on the Congregation Council shall be appointed by the Congregation Council from a list provided by the Executive Committee and the pastor(s). The term of office shall be two years with three members being appointed each successive year.

C13.05 When a pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee shall be created consisting of the Congregation Council President and six voting members elected by this congregation. Term of office will terminate upon installation of the newly called pastor.

C13.05.A98 If there is a change of Council Presidents during the call process, the outgoing Council President shall continue his/her position on the Call Committee through the current round of candidates being interview. The newly-elected Council President shall be an ex officio member without a vote until the conclusion of that round of interviews. Should the round in process not fill the pastoral vacancy, the outgoing Council President shall be replaced by the newly-elected Council President.

C13.06 The Congregation Council shall establish such standing committees as are necessary to perform the work of the congregation. The Congregation Council shall delegate such authority to those committees as is necessary for them to perform their work within the constraints of their defined areas of responsibility, their budgets and this Constitution. These committees shall be responsible to the Congregation Council.

C13.06.A00 The Finance Committee shall monitor the financial condition of the congregation and make appropriate recommendations regarding financial matters.

C13.06.B00 The Adult Ministries Committee shall provide opportunities for the Christian education of all adult members of the congregation.

C13.06.C00 The Confirmation Committee shall provide for the continuing education of the youth of this congregation in order to prepare them for confirmation and adult membership.

C13.06.D00 The Fellowship Ministries Committee shall help give identity to Immanuel within the community. Responsibilities include but are not limited to contacting visitors and prospective members, visitations, nursery, Pictoral Directory, and Website updates.

C13.06.E00 The Health, Wellness and Social Ministry Committee shall promote activities related to the physical, mental and spiritual health of the congregation.

C13.06.F00 The Personnel Committee shall deal with employment issues including but not limited to job descriptions, performance evaluations, safety and workplace details and shall make recommendations to the Congregation Council concerning hiring, compensation and termination.

C13.06.G00 The Property Committee shall provide for the ongoing maintenance and appearance of the Church buildings, furnishings and grounds. They shall make recommendations to the Congregation Council for needed improvements and provide cost estimates and bids when requested.

C13.06.H00 The Stewardship Committee shall promote financial support and encourage financial responsibility within the congregation. Their responsibilities shall include but are not limited to gathering current “Time, Talent and Abilities” data and the annual stewardship drive.

C13.06.I00 The Sunday School Committee shall provide for the Christian education of the children and youth.

C13.06.J00 The Worship and Music Committee shall be responsible for planning all worship services in consultation with the pastor(s). Responsibilities shall include but are not limited to music selection, choirs, usher, greeter and acolyte scheduling, and all worship-related activities.

C13.06.K00 The Youth Ministry Committee shall provide for Christian educational, fellowship and service opportunities for our 5th grade through high school age youth.

C13.07 The Congregation Council shall provide a means to adequately monitor the activities and effectiveness of the standing committees.

C13.07.A00 One Congregation Council member shall serve as Liaison to each of the standing committees. The vice-president shall serve as liaison-at-large.

C13.07.01 All committees and organizations handling funds within the congregation shall submit accounts to the church office at least ten days prior to the annual meeting, and the auditing committee shall include such accounts in their report to the meeting.

C13.08 A task force may be organized by the Congregation Council or a committee and shall be responsible to the group calling them.

CHAPTER 14

ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE CONGREGATION

C14.01 All organizations within this congregation shall exist to aid it in ministering to the members of this congregation and to all persons who can be reached with the Gospel of Christ. As outgrowths and expressions of this congregation's life, the organizations are subject to its oversight and direction. This congregation at its meeting shall determine their policies, guide their activities, and receive reports concerning their membership, work, and finances.

C14.02 Special interest groups, other than those of the official organizations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, may be organized only after approval has been given by the Congregation Council and specified in a continuing resolution.

CHAPTER 15

DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS AND ADJUDICATION

*C15.01 Denial of the Christian faith as described in this constitution, conduct grossly unbecoming a member of the Church of Christ, or persistent trouble-making in this congregation are sufficient cause for discipline of a member. Prior to disciplinary action, reconciliation will be attempted following Matthew 18:15-17, proceeding through these successive steps:

    a) private admonition by the pastor;
    b) admonition by the pastor in the presence of two or three witnesses, and
    c) citation to appear before the Congregation Council.
If for any reason, the pastor is unable to administer the admonitions required by a. and b. hereof, the president (if not the pastor) or vice president shall administer such admonitions.

*C15.02 The process for discipline of a member of the congregation shall be governed as prescribed by the chapter on discipline in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. A member charged with the offense shall appear before the Congregation Council having received a written notice, at least 10 days prior to the meeting, specifying the exact charges that have been made against the member.

*C15.03 Members of the Congregation Council who participate in the preparation of the written charges or who present evidence or testimony in the hearing before the Congregation Council are disqualified from voting upon the question of the guilt of the accused member. Should the allegations be sustained by a two-thirds majority vote of the members of the Congregation Council, who are not disqualified but who are present and voting, and renewed admonition prove ineffectual, the council shall impose one of the following disciplinary actions:

    a. censure before the council or congregation;
    b. suspension from membership for a definite period of time; or
    c. exclusion from membership in this congregation.
Disciplinary actions b. and c. shall be delivered to the member in writing.

*C15.04 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.

*C15.05 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.
*C15.10 Adjudication

*C15.11 When there is disagreement among factions within this congregation on a substantive issue that cannot be resolved by the parties, members of this congregation shall have access to the synodical bishop for consultation after informing the chair of the Congregation Council of their intent. If the consultation fails to resolve the issue(s), the Consultation Committee of the synod shall consider the matter. If the Consultation Committee of the synod shall fail to resolve the issue(s), the matter shall be referred to the Synod Council, whose decision shall be final.

CHAPTER 16

BYLAWS

*C16.01 This congregation may adopt bylaws. No bylaw may conflict with this constitution.

*C16.02 Bylaws may be adopted or amended at any legally called meeting of this congregation with a quorum present by a majority vote of those voting members present and voting.

*C16.03 Changes to the bylaws may be proposed by any voting member provided, however, that such additions or amendments be submitted in writing to the Congregation Council at least 60 days before a regular or special Congregation 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.

*C16.04 Approved changes to the bylaws shall be sent by the secretary of this congregation to the synod.

C16.04.01 Approved bylaws shall be made part of any constitution copy being handed out to members or otherwise circulated.

CHAPTER 17

AMENDMENTS

*C17.01 Amendments to this constitution may be proposed by at least 5% of 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 30 days in advance of the meeting.

*C17.02 A proposed amendment to this constitution shall:

    a. be approved at a legally called meeting according to this constitution by a majority vote of those present and voting.
    b. be ratified without change at the next annual meeting by a two-thirds majority vote of those present and voting; and
    c. have the effective date included in the resolution and noted in the constitution.
*C17.03 Any amendments to this constitution shall be sent by the secretary of this congregation to the synod. The amendment shall become effective within 120 days from the date of the receipt of the notice by the synod unless the synod informs this congregation that the amendment is in conflict with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, or the constitution of the Northern Illinois Synod of the ELCA.

C17.03.01 Approved amendments shall be made a part of any constitution copy being handed out to members or otherwise circulated.

*C17.04 Whenever the Model Constitution for Congregations is amended by the Churchwide Assembly, this constitution may be amended to reflect any such amendment by a simple majority vote at any subsequent meeting of the congregation without presentation at a prior meeting of the congregation, provided that the Congregation Council has submitted by mail notice to the congregation of such an amendment or amendments at least 30 days prior to the meeting. Following the adoption of an amendment, the secretary of the congregation shall submit a copy thereof to the synod, consistent with C17.03.

CHAPTER 18

CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS

*C18.01 The Congregation Council may enact continuing resolutions which describe the function of the various committees or organizations of this congregation.

*C18.02 Continuing resolutions shall be enacted or amended by a two-thirds vote of all voting members of the Congregation Council.

C18.02.01 Approved continuing resolutions shall be made public through church publications and made a part of any constitution copy being handed out to members or otherwise circulated.

CHAPTER 19

INDEMNIFICATION

*C19.01 Consistent with the provisions of the laws under which this congregation is incorporated, this congregation may adopt provisions providing indemnification for each person who, by reason of the fact that such person is or was a Congregation Council member, officer, employee, agent, or other member of any committee of this congregation, was or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed civil, criminal, administrative, arbitration, or investigative proceeding.

CHAPTER 20

PARISH AUTHORIZATION

*C20.01 This congregation may unite in partnership with one or more other congregations recognized by the synod named in C6.01. to form a parish. Except as provided in C20.02. and C20.03., a written agreement, developed in consultation with the synod and approved by the voting members of each congregation participating in the parish, shall specify the powers and responsibilities that have been delegated to a Parish Council.

*C20.02 Whenever a letter of call is being recommended for extension to an ordained minister of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or a candidate for the roster of ordained ministers who has been recommended to the congregation by the synodical bishop to serve the congregations of a parish, such letter of call shall be first approved by a two-thirds vote at congregational meetings of each of the congregations forming the parish. If any congregation of the parish should fail to approve extending this call, the other congregation(s) in the same parish shall have the right to terminate the parish arrangement.

*C20.03 Any one of the congregations of a parish may terminate the call of a pastor as provided in S14.13.d. of the synodical constitution of the synod named in C6.01. In such case, the other congregation(s) in the same parish shall have the right to terminate the parish arrangement.