Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Minutes of the National …€¦ · 3 NCC Minutes of the Meeting November 12–15, 2015 CC-2015-48 That NCC appoint the following to the Church

1 NCC Minutes of the Meeting ● November 12–15, 2015

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Minutes of the National Church Council Meeting November 12–15, 2015 Queen of Apostles, Mississauga, ON

Present:

Officers: National Bishop Susan Johnson

Sheila Hamilton, Vice-Chair

Linda Grainger, Secretary

Ken Day, Treasurer

Council: Vanessa Bergeron

Rev. Chris Bishopp

Jeff Buhse

Marie-Laure Collet

Bruce Cook

Rev. Jane Gingrich

Cole Guenter

Rev. Dr. Cameron Harder

Rev. Dr. Marc Jerry

Pat Lovell

Les Pearson

Rev. Jeff Smith

Jeanie Stann

Rev. Brian Wilker-Frey

Judy Wry

Synod

Bishops:

Bishop Greg Mohr, BC Synod

Bishop Sid Haugen, SK Synod

Bishop Larry Kochendorfer, ABT Synod

Bishop Michael Pryse, Eastern Synod

Bishop Elaine Sauer, MNO Synod

Staff:

Regrets:

In CoGS

Meeting:

Rev. Paul Gehrs, Assistant to the Bishop, Justice and Leadership

Rev. André Lavergne, Assistant to the Bishop, Ecumenical and Interfaith

Rev. Lyle McKenzie, Assistant to the Bishop, Worship

Trina Gallop Blank, Director of Communications and Stewardship

Gloria McNabb, Director of Finance and Administration

Desiree Mendoza, Meetings and Communications Coordinator

Rev. Heather Spencer-Stoltz

Cynthia Haines-Turner (ACC rep to NCC)

THURSDAY, NOV. 12, 2015, 1:00 P.M.

Worship Led by meeting chaplain Bishop Michael Pryse.

Bishop Susan Johnson called the meeting to order.

Check-In


NCC held a retreat to discuss the following items: 1. Review Strategic Plan and Convention Actions 2. Convention Planning for the Future 3. ELCIC Reformation Challenge

Closing Prayer FRIDAY, NOV. 13, 2015, 1:30 P.M. Approval of the Agenda (Tab 02) M/S That NCC adopt the agenda. CARRIED.

Declaration of Conflicts of Interest ─ No conflicts declared.

Approval of July 8−12, 2015 Minutes (Tab 03) M/S That NCC approve the July 8−12, 2015 NCC meeting minutes. CARRIED.

Approval of NCC E-vote Meeting Minutes for September 24 and 25, 2015 (Tab 04) M/S That NCC approve the e-vote meeting minutes—

CC-2015- 44 That NCC record the minutes of September 24, 2015 for e-vote no. 1:

“That NCC appoint the following:

i) Bishop Susan Johnson, Dr. Joy Philip and Rev. Paul Sartison to the Canadian

Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) and ELCIC Dialogue for a three-year term

beginning October 1, 2015.

ii) Rev. Dr. Marc Jerry, Rev. Dr. Robert Kelly, Bishop Larry Kochendorfer, Rev.

Michael Kurtz, Jackie Nunns, Deacon Gretchen Peterson, Rev. Dr. Kristine Ruffatto, and

Jeanie Stann to Faith Order and Doctrine for a two-year term beginning October 1, 2015.

iii) Rev. Paul Gehrs to the KAIROS Board for a two-year term beginning October 1,

2015.” CARRIED.

CC-2015- 45 That NCC record the minutes of September 25, 2015 for e-vote no. 2:

“That NCC appoint Marcus Busch to the CLWR Board for a three-year term from

September 2015 to September 2018.” CARRIED.

Report of the National Bishop (Tabs 05–19) Bishop Susan Johnson gave an oral report to NCC.

CC-2015-46 That NCC appoint the following as delegates to the Lutheran World Federation

Assembly which will take place in 2017. The delegation will include: National Bishop Susan

Johnson, Bishop Larry Kochendorfer, Rev. Katherine Altenburg and Dan LeBlanc (youth).

CARRIED.

CC-2015-47 That NCC appoint Rev. Ken Kuhn to serve on the Church Council on Justice and

Corrections Board (2015–2017). CARRIED.


CC-2015-48 That NCC appoint the following to the Church Extension and Capital Fund (CECF)

Advisory Board until October 1, 2017: Rev. Julianne Barlow (ABT Synod), Ken Day (ELCIC

treasurer), Rev. Paul Gehrs (ELCIC staff), Bishop Sid Haugen (SK Synod), Rev. Eric Krushel

(BC Synod), Bishop Michael Pryse (Eastern Synod), Rev. Larry Ulrich (MNO Synod) and

Gloria McNabb (ELCIC staff). CARRIED.

Report of the Officers (Tab 20) Secretary Linda Grainger presented the Report of the Officers to NCC.

CC-2015-49 That NCC approve the formation of a task force to review ELCIC’s Model

Constitution for Congregations. A representative will be appointed by each synod and the task

force will also include the ELCIC National Secretary. CARRIED.

Reports of the Synod Bishops (Tabs 21-25) The synod bishops gave their respective oral reports to NCC.

Report of the Council of General Synod (Tab 26)

2015 National Convention Report (Tab12) Gloria McNabb, Director for Finance and Administration presented the 2015 National

Convention Report to NCC.

Approval of the Minutes of the 2015 National Convention (Tab 27) CC-2015-50 That NCC approve the 2015 National Convention minutes. CARRIED.

Report of the Conference of Bishops Bishop Greg Mohr presented the Report of the Conference of Bishops to NCC.

Discussion Regarding Assisted Death (Tabs 13–14) Rev. Paul Gehrs, Assistant to the Bishop, Compassionate Justice and Leadership led the

discussion on ELCIC’s Resolution on Decisions At-The-End-Of-Life.

SATURDAY, NOV. 14, 2015, 10:30 A.M. NCC Committee Meetings The various committees of the National Church Council met together.

SATURDAY, NOV. 14, 2015, 1:30 P.M.

Discussion Regarding Assisted Death (Tabs 13–14) CC-2015-51 That NCC establish a Task Force to encourage conversations across our church

regarding the needs of people in times of death and dying, and to review our current Resolution

on Decisions-At-The-End-Of-Life (1997).


The Task Force will prepare a study guide, and submit it to NCC by March 2017, that lifts up

emerging realities with consideration being given to:

Vocabulary and definitions

Legislation

Core theological values

Faith questions.

A final report will be submitted to NCC by September 2018 including recommended updates to

the current resolution.

NCC asks the officers to appoint 3 to 5 persons, who collectively have the following:

Palliative care expertise

Medical ethics

Theological expertise

Member of NCC

Member of the Anglican Church of Canada.

CARRIED.

Prayers for Those Leaving the Church CC-2015-52 That the petition of prayers for individuals and congregations that have departed

our church be communicated through ELCIC’s E-communique.

“God of all, as Jesus prayed for unity among his followers, we acknowledge with

sadness the people and congregations formerly of the ELCIC, and we pray for their

wellbeing and our continuing partnership in ministries to alleviate suffering and to care

for the communities and world we serve together. Amen.” CARRIED.

Criminal Justice CC-2015-53 That NCC add “Address the challenges of the criminal justice and correctional

systems in Canada and affirm support for restorative justice” as a new item under Section 5.3 of

the ELCIC Strategic Plan 2013–2017. CARRIED.

(See Appendix A: Revised ELCIC Strategic Plan 2013–2017)

Climate Justice

Motion in discussion: NC-2015-13 (5.3 and 5.4) CC-2015-54 That NCC amend the ELCIC Strategic Plan 2013–2017 (under Section 5.3) –

“Promote Climate Justice through right relationships with the earth.” CARRIED.

(See Appendix A: Revised ELCIC Strategic Plan 2013–2017)

Funding for Canadian Churches Forum (CCF) CC-2015-55 That the discussion on NC-2015-19 be deferred until NCC has heard back from

Global Mission Task Force.

“NC-2015-19 That the 2015 National Convention refer the following resolution to

National Church Council: That the ELCIC provide support to the Canadian Churches’


Forum (CCF) to reflect the CCF’s contribution to the mission and ministry of ELCIC

congregations.”

CARRIED.

SATURDAY, NOV. 14, 2015, 7:00 P.M. Committee Reports—

Report of the Audit Committee Jeff Buhse presented an oral report of the Audit Committee to NCC.

CC-2015-56 That NCC approve the audit fees for 2015 in the amount of $23,000. CARRIED.

Report of the Constitution Committee Secretary Linda Grainger presented the report of the Constitution Committee to NCC including

the proposed changes in the ELCIC Corporate Bylaws (Tab 08).

CC-2015-57 That NCC approve the ELCIC Corporate Bylaws as presented to NCC pending

review by ELCIC lawyer. CARRIED.

Note: The vote was unanimous.

(See Appendix B: Revised ELCIC Corporate Bylaws)

Finance Committee (Tab 12) Gloria McNabb, Director for Finance and Administration presented the report of the Finance

Committee to NCC.

Faith Order and Doctrine Rev. Dr. Marc Jerry presented the report of the Faith Order and Doctrine to NCC.

Women of Faith Fund Marie-Laure Collet presented the report of the Women of Faith Fund.

CC-2015-58 That NCC approve the following new appointments to the Committee:

• For a second term – Sandra Pederson (SK Synod) (2015-2017); and

• For a first term, Marquise Sopher (Eastern Synod) (2015-2017) and Melissa Ulrich (MNO

Synod) (2015-2016). CARRIED.

Preparation for Reporting to the Anglicans

NCC agreed that the following be reported during the joint session with the Council of General

Synod.

Task force on End-Of-Life

Strategic Plan

Climate Justice (…right relationships with the earth) – noting that the language of the

baptismal covenant encouraged us in this work.

International involvements


Updates on Reformation Challenge

Rev. Jane Gingrich, Sheila Hamilton, Rev. Dr. Cam Harder, Rev. Dr. Marc Jerry, Bishop Larry

Kochendorfer, Pat Lovell and Rev. Jeff Smith were appointed to present the reporting during the

joint session with CoGS on behalf of NCC.

SUNDAY, NOV. 15, 2015, 1:00 P.M. Unfinished Business— Report of the Governance Committee (Tab 09) Vice-Chair Sheila Hamilton presented the report on the 2015 NCC Evaluation to NCC.

Important points gathered from the 2015 NCC Evaluation include:

That all points of views are reviewed before policies are being developed.

Do more preparatory work before we meet when dealing with matters related to GSI (e.g.

short and long term disability, continuing education, etc.).

Went through current process and appointments (the process is working but cost is an

issue in appointing for a committee).

Suggestion to include a bio for appointments.

Invite synod NCC reps to Synod Council meetings.

Update from Global Mission Task Force (Tab 03) Vice-Chair Sheila Hamilton presented an update on the Global Mission Task Force to NCC. A

draft report to be presented to NCC in March 2016. Feedback in spring/summer and present

results.

CC-2015-59 That NCC extend the mandate of the Global Mission Task Force to September

2016. CARRIED.

Authorized Lay Ministries CC-2015-60 That the Officers appoint an advisory group of three to develop guidelines for

Authorized Lay Ministries by the March 2016 NCC meeting and to provide advisory support to

the Conference of Bishops (COB). The advisory group will consist of one member from each of

the Program Committee for Leadership Ministry (PCLM), The Program Committee for Worship

(PCW) and a synod bishop, consulting with the seminaries and others as appropriate. The

mandate of this advisory committee is three years and there will be a review at that time.

CARRIED.

Policies to Protect People (Rostered and Lay) Against Physical, Emotional, Spiritual Abuse and Bullying CC-2015-61 That the Officers appoint a working group led by an ELCIC member with an HR

designation to review existing policies and to develop recommended new policies to protect

people (rostered and lay) against physical, emotional, spiritual abuse and bullying. This will be

accomplished by a review that includes existing ELCIC policies, ACC resources, especially Safe


Church and other organizations with best practices. Review to begin with discussion with Pastor

Kirk Tastad to ensure full intent of motion is understood. Recommendations to be reviewed by

Director of Finance and Administration, a Synod Bishop and others as appropriate for report to

NCC at September 2016 meeting. CARRIED.

2017 National Convention CC-2015-62 It was recommended that the following be considered for the 2017 National

Convention: University setting; one less day; no budgeted separate space for worship; 500th

commemoration of the Reformation; shared costs between synods and National Church;

celebration component in lieu of banquet and dates in early July. CARRIED.

TRC Statement on Implementing UNDRIP Rev. Paul Gehrs, Assistant to the Bishop for Compassionate Justice and Leadership, gave further

explanation on this topic. NCC thanked Paul for the excellent work done.

Reporting Out NCC members discussed items to be included in talking points.

New Member Orientation A word of thanks was expressed to the mentors of the new NCC members.

NEXT MEETINGS: March 3−5, 2016

Chaplain—Rev. Chris Bishopp

Bible Study—Sheila Hamilton

September 8−10, 2016

2017

March 2-4

September 7-9

NATIONAL CHURCH STRATEGIC PLAN 2013-2017

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada revised November 2015

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Typewritten Text

Appendix A

ELCIC Strategic Plan (revised November 2015) 2

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada National Church

Strategic Plan 2013-2017

Table of Contents

1.0 Strategic Context 3

1.1 Historical Context 3

1.2 Environmental Context 3

2.0 Values 4

3.0 Vision 4

4.0 Mission 4

5.0 Strategic Directions and Goals for Service 4

5.1 In Mission for Others, we will practice Spirited Discipleship

5.2 In Mission for Others we will nurture a Healthy Church

5.3 In Mission for Others, we will practice Compassionate Justice

5.4 In Mission for Others, we will practice Effective Partnerships

6.0 Work Plan 5

7.0 Reporting 5


1.0 Strategic Context

1.1 Historical Context

Our denominational identity dates from the Lutheran Reformation, but we have always

considered ourselves to be part of the continuity of catholic history. We hold to the

essentials of apostolic tradition, Word and Sacrament, but consider church governance,

ritual forms and orders of ministry to be discretionary.

Remaining in conversation and communion with other churches is essential to our self-

understanding as catholic Christians. Such communication occurs through bilateral

initiatives, full-communion agreements and membership in ecumenical councils and

agencies.

The ELCIC has come about as a result of multiple mergers of independent Canadian and

United States (US) church bodies and has, in the process, attempted to combine church

polities and traditions from a broad initial spectrum. These multiple polities and changes

in historical conditions have challenged this church’s sense of internal unity and external

identity. Geographic regionalism creates further tensions.

The ELCIC was incorporated by an act of the Parliament of Canada in 1986.

1.2 Environmental Context

The place of the church and religion in general has undergone a dramatic shift in relation

to politics and culture. Christianity is no longer a definitive voice in Canadian society and

finds itself to be seen as simply one of a variety of faiths and ideologies. Materialism,

individualism and lifestyle demands impact the way in which Canadians view the

importance of the church. An expressed interest in spiritual matters remains part of the

Canadian makeup, but the church, as institution, is of declining interest to many.

An erosion of trust in public leadership along with political and ideological polarization

of the church’s membership makes it difficult to present a single front on some issues. At

the same time, the church’s theology of ethics and justice is confronted with complex

domestic and international issues.

The ethnicity of the original Lutheran immigrants to Canada was once a defining aspect

of the church’s identity, but has waned due to the multicultural and regional evolution of

the nation. The church within the nation is multicultural in some areas while retaining its

ethnicity in others.

The Canadian church, in its desire for autonomy, was prepared to accept loss of financial

support from the US parent churches. This reduction in income has led the church to

adopt an infrastructure appropriate to its economies of scale.

Although almost half of all ELCIC congregations are located in centres with populations

under 25,000, 80% of the general population lives in larger urban areas. (Millennium

Study of Leadership Needs, p. 219)


It has become readily apparent that we are in a resource crisis in this church. This is

demonstrated by the continued decline in church membership and in the reduction of

budgets and staffing at the synodical and national levels of the church. A plan for

amalgamation of synods which was part of a larger plan for structural renewal was turned

down by the synods.

2.0 Values

The scriptures, as the highest authority in this church, are understood as the traditional

repository of the gospel. Lutheran doctrine and practice constitute the ELCIC’s highest

values. The central authority of the gospel, expressed in the doctrine of justification by

grace through faith, is the core of its proclamation and the spirit of its practice. This

doctrinal position is preserved in the writings of the Lutheran Confessions and forms the

basis for proclamation and sacramental practice. Lutheran tradition further values

theological education for ordained and lay members, rational theological discourse and a

healthy balance between the gospel of grace and the civil use of the law.

In order that we might remain in conversation and communion with other churches, we

understand ecumenical work to be intrinsic to this church’s self-identity.

The ELCIC’s structure is constitutionally defined and characterized by clarity of

definition between the roles of congregations, synods and the National Church. Decision-

making occurs in a representative parliamentary manner with a high degree of

accountability to the constituency. Diversity of experience and opinion is viewed in a

positive light so that the church’s processes are designed to be inclusive and receptive.

3.0 Vision

To be a church In Mission for Others.

4.0 Mission

The mission of this church, as an expression of the universal Church and as an instrument of the

Holy Spirit, is to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to people in Canada and around the world

through the proclamation of the Word, the administration of the Sacraments and through service

in Christ's name.


5.0 Strategic Directions and Goals for Service

5.1 In Mission for Others, we will practice Spirited Discipleship 1. Continue and grow the call to Spiritual Renewal

2. Speak publically and witness for the gospel as a National Church

3. Undertake corporate leadership by encouraging energy for Spiritual Renewal for

communities

5.2 In Mission for Others, we will nurture a Healthy Church

1. Develop and articulate a common vision for the Church

2. Model good leadership in the National Church

3. Develop and promote a culture of mutual trust and accountability

4. Cultivate an environment for growth

5. Improve communications concerning the National Church

6. Improve the financial health of the Church

5.3 In Mission for Others, we will practice Compassionate Justice

1. Challenge the causes and respond to the consequences of injustice through

effective partnership with Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR)

2. Continue to pursue right relationships with Indigenous peoples

3. Promote climate justice through right relationships with the earth

4. Support and work for justice and peace in the Holy Land

5. Address issues of injustice as identified in the Social Statement on

Human Sexuality

6. Address issues of homelessness and affordable housing

7. Address the challenges of the criminal justice and correctional systems in Canada

and affirm support for restorative justice

5.4 In Mission for Others, we will practice Effective Partnerships

1. Enhance the Church’s ability to be In Mission for Others internationally

2. Enhance the Church’s ability to be In Mission for Others in the North American

Region of the LWF

3. Enhance the Church’s ability to be In Mission for Others in Canada

4. Enhance the Church’s ability to be In Mission for Others through partnerships

6.0 Work Plan

This document shall be supplemented by a Work Plan detailing the means, activities,

status, responsibility and timing of how to accomplish this strategic plan.

7.0 Reporting NCC will receive reporting against this Work Plan at its regular meetings.

NCC will report the progress of this Strategic Plan to the church in convention.

0 ELCIC Corporate Bylaws (Revised January, 2011)

CORPORATE BYLAWS

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Last amended November, 2015

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Appendix B

1

ELCIC Corporate Bylaws (Revised November 2015)

EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN CANADA

CORPORATE BYLAWS

BE IT ENACTED as a bylaw of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada as follows:

INTERPRETATION

Definitions:

1. In these bylaws unless the context otherwise requires:

“Act” means the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Act;

“baptized member” means a member of a congregation;

“this church” means the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada;

“congregation” means a community established for worship by baptized members organized

and operated in accordance with these bylaws;

“convention” means the general or special meeting of delegates;

“delegate” means an individual elected in accordance with these bylaws to attend a convention;

“director” means a member of the National Church Council;

“lay person” is a baptized member who has not been ordained or consecrated;

“member congregation” means a congregation or several congregations which are served by a

common pastoral ministry and which is a member of this church in accordance with these

bylaws;

“National Church Council” means the board of directors of this church;

“synod” means a body corporate organized in a manner acceptable to the National Church

Council to advance the mission of this church in the region established for it in accordance with

these bylaws and the constitution and the administrative bylaws; save as aforesaid, words and

expressions defined in the Act have the same meanings when used herein; and words importing

the singular number include the plural and vice versa; words importing gender include the

masculine, feminine and neuter genders; and words importing persons include individuals,

bodies corporate, partnerships, trusts and unincorporated organizations; and

“synodically recognized ministry” means a ministry recognized by any synod of this church as a

worshipping, learning, witnessing and serving community of persons.

2

ELCIC Corporate Bylaws (Revised November 2015)

CORPORATE SEAL

2. The seal, an impression whereof is stamped in the margin hereof, shall be the seal of this

church which said seal shall be retained in the head office, in the custody of the secretary,

unless otherwise directed by the National Church Council.

HEAD OFFICE

3. The head office of this church shall be in the City of Winnipeg in the Province of Manitoba

and at such location therein as the National Church Council may from time to time

determine.

FISCAL YEAR

4. Unless otherwise ordered by the National Church Council the fiscal year end of this church

shall be the last day in December of each year.

AUDITORS

5. The National Church Council shall appoint an auditor within six (6) months following each

fiscal year-end of this church to audit the accounts of this church for the then current fiscal

year of this church. The remuneration of the auditor shall be fixed by the National Church

Council.

NATIONAL CHURCH COUNCIL

6. The National Church Council shall be comprised of the following individuals elected as

members of the National Church Council (directors) at a convention in accordance with

these bylaws:

• The bishop, the vice-chair, the secretary, and the treasurer (Executive Committee);

• 5 rostered members, one from each synod; 5 lay persons, one from each synod; and 1

lay person at large from the synod with the most baptized members;

• One additional member appointed by the Council of General Synod (COGS) of the

Anglican Church of Canada for a term to be determined by COGS.

• The synod bishops shall be advisory members of the council.

A person shall not be qualified for election as a director if that person is less than eighteen

(18) years of age; is not a baptized member, has been found by a court in Canada or

elsewhere to be of unsound mind; or has the status of a bankrupt.

7. Each director shall be elected for a term of three (3) years, until that director’s successor

assumes office. Directors of this church shall assume office at the conclusion of the

convention following election. Directors are eligible for re-election but may not serve more

than three (3) consecutive terms. For the purpose of this paragraph, a term of office of

eighteen (18) months or more shall be counted as a full term.

1 ELCIC Corporate Bylaws (last amended November 2015)

8. An individual elected as an officer (other than bishop) shall be elected for a term of three (3)

years. The bishop shall serve for a term of six (6) years. An officer of this church shall be

eligible for re-election as an officer of this church at the end of that officer’s term of office.

Officers (other than bishop) shall assume office at the conclusion of the convention

following election. The term of bishop shall begin on the first day of September following

election.

9. The office of director shall be automatically vacated:

a. if the director resigns from office by delivering a written resignation to the secretary of

this church;

b. if the director is found by a court to be of unsound mind;

c. if the director becomes bankrupt or suspends payment or compounds with that director’s

creditors; or

d. on the director’s death;

provided that if any vacancy shall occur for any reason in this paragraph contained, the

National Church Council may by majority vote, fill the vacancy by appointment until the

next convention or may call a special convention to fill the vacancy.

10. Meetings of the National Church Council may be called by the bishop or by the Executive

Committee and shall be called by the bishop upon the written request of a majority of the

directors.

Meetings of the National Church Council may be held at such time and place in Canada as

is determined by the bishop or by the Executive Committee, provided that 48 hours written

notice of such meeting shall be given, other than by mail, to each director. Notice by mail

may be sent fourteen (14) days prior to the meeting. There shall be at least one (1) meeting

per year of the National Church Council.

No error or omission in giving notice of any meeting of the National Church Council or any

adjourned meeting of the National Church Council shall invalidate such meeting or make

void any proceedings taken thereat and any director may at any time waive notice of any

such meeting and may ratify, approve and confirm any or all proceedings taken or had

thereat. Each director is authorized to exercise one (1) vote.

The quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the National Church Council

shall consist of a majority of the directors.

If all the directors consent thereto generally or in respect of a particular meeting, a director

may participate in a meeting of the National Church Council or of a committee of the

National Church Council by means of such communication facilities as permits all persons

participating in the meeting to hear each other, and a director participating in such a

meeting by such means is deemed to be present at the meeting.

A resolution in writing, signed by all the directors entitled to vote on that resolution at a

meeting of the National Church Council or committee of the National Church Council, is as

valid as if it had been passed at a meeting of the National Church Council or committee of

the National Church Council.


11. The National Church Council may appoint such agents and engage such employees as it

shall deem necessary from time to time and such persons shall have such authority and shall

perform such duties as shall be prescribed by the National Church Council at the time of

such appointment.

REMUNERATION

12. The directors and members of committees appointed by the directors shall serve as such

without remuneration and no director or committee member shall directly or indirectly

receive any profit from such position; provided that a director or a committee member may

be paid reasonable expenses incurred by such individual in the performance of that

individual’s duties. Nothing herein contained shall be construed to preclude any director or

committee member from serving this church as an officer or in any other capacity and

receiving compensation therefor.

INDEMNITIES TO DIRECTORS AND OTHERS

13. Every director or officer of this church or other person who has undertaken or is about to

undertake any liability on behalf of this church or any company controlled by it and their

heirs, executors and administrators, and estate and effects, respectively, shall from time to

time and at all times, be indemnified and saved harmless out of the funds of this church,

from and against;

a. all costs, charges and expenses which such director, officer or other person sustains or

incurs in or about any action, suit or proceedings which is brought, commenced or

prosecuted against that individual, or in respect of any act, deed, matter or thing

whatsoever, made, done or permitted by that individual, in or about the execution of the

duties of that individual’s office or in respect of any such liability;

b. all other costs, charges and expenses which such individual sustains or incurs in or about

or in relation to the affairs thereof, except such costs, charges or expenses as are

occasioned by that individual’s own willful neglect or default.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

14. There shall be an Executive Committee composed of the bishop, the vice-chair, the

secretary and the treasurer. During the intervals between meetings of the National Church

Council, the Executive Committee shall possess and may exercise (subject to any

restrictions which the National Church Council may from time to time make) all of the

powers of the National Church Council in the management and direction of the day-to-day

operation of this church (save and except only such Acts as must by the Act or these bylaws

be performed by the National Church Council itself) in such manner as the Executive

Committee may deem best in the interest of this church in all cases in which specific

direction shall not have been given by the National Church Council. All actions of the

Executive Committee shall be reported to the National Church Council at the meeting next

succeeding such actions and shall be subject to revision or alteration by the National Church

Council; provided that no acts or rights of third parties shall be affected or invalidated by

any such revision or alteration.


15. Meetings of the Executive Committee shall be held at such time and place in Canada as is

determined by the members of such committee provided that forty-eight (48) hours written

notice of such meeting shall be given, other than by mail, to each member of such

committee. Notice by mail shall be sent at least fourteen (14) days prior to the meeting.

Three members of such committee shall constitute a quorum. No error or omission in giving

notice of any meeting of the Executive Committee or any adjourned meeting of the

Executive Committee shall invalidate such meeting or make void any proceedings taken

thereat and any member of such committee may at any time waive notice of any such

meeting and may ratify, approve and confirm any or all proceedings taken or had thereat.

Each member of the committee is authorized to exercise one (1) vote.

PENSION PLAN AND GROUPS BENEFITS PLAN

16. A pension plan and group benefits plan shall be maintained through a wholly owned

subsidiary of this church. The board of directors of such subsidiary shall be elected by the

National Church Council and such board of directors shall manage and supervise the

administration of the pension plan and group benefits plan and their portfolios.

In addition to reporting to the National Church Council, the board of directors of the

subsidiary shall report on its activities to the convention. The board of directors of such

subsidiary shall also obtain the view of the National Church Council from time to time on

proposed amendments to any pension plan or group benefits plan managed and supervised

by it and shall, whenever practical, obtain the view of a convention to any proposed

amendment to such plans.

EXECUTION OF DOCUMENTS

17. Contracts, documents or any instruments in writing requiring the signature of this church,

shall be signed by any two officers and all contracts, documents and instruments in writing

so signed shall be binding upon this church without any further authorization or formality.

The directors shall have power from time to time by resolution to appoint an individual or

individuals on behalf of this church to sign specific contracts, documents and instruments in

writing. The directors may give this church’s power of attorney to any registered dealer in

securities for the purposes of the transferring of and dealing with any stocks, bonds, and

other securities of this church. The seal of this church when required may be affixed to

contracts, documents and instruments in writing signed as aforesaid or by any officer or

officers appointed by resolution of the National Church Council.

MINUTES OF THE NATIONAL CHURCH COUNCIL AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEES

18. The minutes of the National Church Council and the minutes of the Executive Committee

shall be available to the directors, and such others as the National Church Council shall

determine, each of whom shall receive a copy of such minutes.

OFFICERS OF THIS CHURCH

19. The officers of this church shall be the bishop, the vice-chair, the secretary, and the

treasurer. The vice-chair, the secretary, and the treasurer shall be lay members of this

church.


The National Church Council shall adopt a compensation plan for the officers and staff of

this church and shall set the salaries of officers.

In the event of the death, resignation or incapacity of any officer, the National Church

Council shall fill the vacancy until the next convention that shall elect a successor to fill

the unexpired term.

DUTIES OF OFFICERS

20. The bishop shall be this church’s chief pastor and chief executive officer. The bishop shall

be selected from among individuals who are on the roster of ordained ministers of this

church. The bishop shall serve full-time in office at a remuneration to be fixed by the

National Church Council.

21. The vice-chair shall, in event of the death, resignation or incapacity of the bishop,

convene the National Church Council to fill the vacancy, and shall perform such other

duties as shall from time to time be directed by the National Church Council.

22. The treasurer shall keep or cause to be kept proper accounting records and shall be

responsible for the deposit of money, the safekeeping of securities and the disbursement of

the funds of this church; the treasurer shall keep or cause to be kept a proper set of books

showing accurately the financial position of this church and shall render to the National

Church Council whenever requested by them an account of all transactions as treasurer and

of the financial position of this church; the treasurer shall have prepared for submission to

the convention a set of financial statements of this church since the previous convention

and when requested to do so by the National Church Council, prepare or have prepared

interim financial statements; the treasurer shall also perform such other duties as may from

time to time be directed by the National Church Council.

23. The secretary shall attend and be the secretary of all meetings of the National Church

Council, of the Executive Committee and of conventions, and shall enter or cause to be

entered in the records kept for that purpose minutes of all proceedings thereat; the secretary

shall conduct or cause to be conducted the correspondence of this church; the secretary

shall give or cause to be given notice of all meetings of the National Church Council, the

Executive Committee, and conventions; the secretary shall be the custodian of the corporate

seal and of all books, papers, records, documents and instruments belonging to this church,

except when some other officer or agent has been appointed for that purpose; the secretary

shall perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the National Church Council or the

bishop and shall be supervised by the bishop.

24. In addition to the above duties, the officers of this church shall perform those duties as stated

in the constitution and the administrative bylaws passed by a convention.

CONGREGATIONS AND SYNODICALLY RECOGNIZED MINISTRIES

25. Each congregation shall operate in accordance with a constitution which has been ratified by

the synod to which it is assigned; it shall own its own property, make decisions in regard to

its programming, call its own pastor(s) after consulting with the bishop of the synod, and

retain authority in all other matters that have not been committed to this church or to the


synods. Each congregation shall agree to abide loyally by these bylaws and the constitution

and the administrative bylaws of this church and of the synod of which it will be a part. A

synod may allow a congregation to sever its participation in this church,

or may exclude a congregation from participation in this church, as provided in the

constitution and the administrative bylaws.

Each synodically recognized ministry shall operate in accordance with their governing

documents which has been ratified by the synod to which it is assigned. Each synodically

recognized ministry shall agree to abide loyally by these bylaws and the constitution and the

administrative bylaws of this church and of the synod of which it will be a part. A synod may

suspend or exclude a synodically recognized ministry from participation in this church, as

provided in the constitution and the administrative bylaws.

Baptized members shall exercise their privileges and responsibilities through participation

in the congregation or synodically recognized ministry in which they are a member.

26. The membership of this church shall consist of congregations and synodically recognized

ministries which have been admitted or recognized as members of this church by the synod

on whose territory it is located.

SYNODS

27. There shall be five (5) synods namely:

- Alberta and the Territories Synod

- British Columbia Synod

- Eastern Synod

- Manitoba/Northwestern Ontario Synod

- Saskatchewan Synod

28. Each synod shall be incorporated and shall operate in accordance with a constitution which

has been ratified by the National Church Council, shall have its own roster of ordained

ministers, and its own roster of diaconal ministers and its own bishop, and shall discharge

those responsibilities and otherwise operate in accordance with these bylaws, the

constitution and the administrative bylaws.

DELEGATES

29. The maximum number of voting delegates at convention shall be one hundred and fifty

(150). Eighty (80) delegates shall be lay, ten (10) shall be youth and sixty (60) shall be

rostered ministers. Such delegates shall be elected as follows:

a. Synods shall be entitled to elect ten (10) delegates from their respective synod. The

remaining delegates shall be apportioned among the synods based on baptized

membership eighteen (18) months prior to convention.


b. Youth delegates shall be baptized members between the ages of sixteen (16) and twenty-

five (25) inclusive on the first full day of the convention.

The secretary of each synod shall forward to the secretary of this church a certified list of the

regular and alternate delegates elected at least ninety (90) days before the convention.

Changes in the roll of delegates must be authorized by the synod concerned prior to the commencement of the convention.

MEETINGS OF DELEGATES—CONVENTIONS

30. A convention shall be held triennially at a time and place determined by the National Church

Council.

Special conventions shall be called for specified purposes by the bishop within ninety (90)

days of receiving a request in writing from two-thirds (2/3) of the members of the National

Church Council or from two-thirds (2/3) of the synods.

31. The secretary shall publish the time and place of each triennial convention. The secretary

shall give written notice of any special convention to each delegate and shall make such

notice available through the website of this church at least thirty (30) days prior to the

opening date of the convention.

32. A quorum for a convention shall consist of at least twenty per cent of the eligible delegates

provided that such delegates represent member congregations assigned to at least two-

thirds (2/3) of the synods.

33. Those eligible to attend and vote at a special convention shall be those delegates seated in

the preceding convention providing they have not been disqualified by termination of

membership in the member congregation or synodically recognized ministry which they

represent. A vacancy in the position of a delegate shall be filled by appointment by the

respective synod council.

34. At every triennial convention, in addition to any other business that may be transacted, the

National Church Council shall present a report on the activities of the National Church

Council since the last triennial convention, including a report on the financial position of this

church.

35. No error or omission in giving notice of any triennial or special convention or any adjourned

convention, whether triennial or special, shall invalidate such convention or make void any

proceedings taken thereat and any delegate may at any time waive notice of any such

convention and may ratify, approve and confirm any or all proceedings taken or had thereat.

For purpose of sending notice to any delegate, director or officer for any convention or

otherwise, the address of the delegate, director or officer shall be such individual’s last

address recorded on the books of this church.


CONSTITUTION AND ADMINISTRATIVE BYLAWS

36. The delegates may adopt a constitution and administrative bylaws establishing the Articles

of Religion of this church, the structure of this church for carrying out its mission and

ministry, the establishment of standards for admission and continuance of ministers on the

roster, the manner of determining questions of principle, practice, doctrine or conscience,

procedures at conventions not otherwise provided in these bylaws, and such other matters as

are provided in these bylaws.

AUXILIARIES, SPECIAL INTEREST CONFERENCES AND

RECOGNIZED INDEPENDENT ORGANIZATIONS

37. A convention may provide in a constitution and in administrative bylaws for the

interrelation of this church with auxiliaries; may recognize special conferences and special

congregational relationships and independent Lutheran organizations and institutions.

PROCEDURE

38. Bourinot's Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern the procedure at all meetings of the

National Church Council, committees of the National Church Council, and conventions,

except as otherwise provided in these bylaws with respect to the National Church Council

and its committees, or in the constitution and administrative bylaws with respect to other

proceedings.

REPEAL

39. The bylaws of this church dated December 31, 1985 are repealed.

AMENDMENT OF THE BYLAWS

40. These bylaws may be repealed or amended by bylaw enacted by a majority of at least two-

thirds of the directors at a meeting of the National Church Council duly called and held for

such purpose provided that the repeal or amendment of such bylaws shall not come into

effect or be acted upon until such repeal or amendment has been accepted for filing by the

Minister of Consumer and Corporate Affairs.

ENACTED by a majority of at least two-thirds of the members of the National Church Council

at a meeting duly called and held for such purpose this 9th day of April, 1994.

Documents

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Minutes of the National …€¦ · 3 NCC Minutes of the Meeting November 12–15, 2015 CC-2015-48 That NCC appoint the following to the Church