ST. JOHN’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF BRIDGEWATER

CONSTITUTION

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 1NAME AND INCORPORATION

C1.01. The name of this Congregation shall be St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bridgewater.

C1.02. For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the Congregation of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bridgewater is hereinafter designated as “this Congregation”.

C1.03. This Congregation shall be incorporated under the laws of the State of Michigan.

Chapter 2CONFESSIONS OF FAITH

C2.01. This Congregation accepts all the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments as a whole and in all their parts as the divinely inspired, revealed, and inerrant Word of God and submit to this as the only infallible authority in all matters of faith and life.

C2.02. This Congregation accepts: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.

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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 Apostles’, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of the faith of this Congregation.

C2.04. 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.

C2.05. 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.

C2.06. 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 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

C3.01. The Church is a people of 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.

C3.02. To participate in God’s mission, this Congregation 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.

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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, committing itself to their needs.

e. Nurture its members in the Word of God so as to grow in faith, 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.

C3.03. 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.h. Foster and participate in relationships with other Christian

Congregations.

C3.04. This Congregation shall develop an organizational structure to be described in the Bylaws. The Strategic Planning Council shall prepare descriptions of the responsibilities of each committee, task force, or other organizational group and shall review their actions.

C3.05. This Congregation shall adopt a mission statement which will provide specific direction for its programs. The statement shall be reviewed and updated on a regular basis by Strategic Planning Council.

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Chapter 4POWERS OF THE CONGREGATION

C4.01. The powers of this Congregation are those necessary to fulfill its purpose.

C4.02. The powers of this Congregation are vested in the Congregation Meeting called and conducted as provided in this constitution and Bylaws.

C4.03. Only such authority as is delegated to the Strategic Planning Council or other organization 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 8.b. Terminate the call of a Pastor as provided in Chapter 8.c. Call or terminate the call of associates in ministry, deaconesses,

and diaconal ministers.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 officers, Strategic Planning Council, and committees; and

to require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the constitution, Bylaws, and continuing resolutions.

i. Associate and terminate relationship with a denomination or association in line with the Congregation’s purpose as provided in Chapter 3.

C4.04. This Congregation shall choose from among its voting members, persons to serve as voting members of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ as well as persons to represent it at meetings of any district, conference, cluster, coalition, or other area association of which it is a member. The manner of determining how representatives shall vote at any such meeting shall be decided by the Congregation.

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Chapter 5CHURCH AFFILIATION

C5.01. This Congregation shall be an independent, voluntary member of the Lutheran Congregations in Ministry for Christ (hereafter “LCMC”) association.

C5.02. This Congregation accepts the Statement of Faith and agrees to the Purposes of the LCMC and shall act in accordance with them.

C5.03. This Congregation acknowledges its relationship with the LCMC in accordance with the following: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 LCMC.c. This Congregation agrees to call Pastoral leadership whom are

eligible to be included in the clergy roster of the LCMC in accordance with its call procedures and ministry standards.

C5.04. This Congregation may terminate its membership with an association as follows:a. This Congregation takes action to dissolve.b. This Congregation ceases to exist.c. This Congregation adopts a resolution to terminate its relationship

or affiliation with any association at a legally called and conducted meeting of this Congregation by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present.

Chapter 6PROPERTY OWNERSHIP

C6.01. If this Congregation ceases to exist, title to its existing property shall pass to an entity to be determined by the Strategic Planning Council.

C6.02. If this Congregation is removed from membership in the LCMC or any other organization with whom it affiliates, property shall continue to reside in this Congregation.

C6.03. 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, relate to a non-Lutheran church body, or become independent, title to property shall continue to reside in this Congregation.

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Chapter 7MEMBERSHIP

C7.01. Members of this Congregation shall be those baptized persons on the roll of this Congregation at the time this constitution is adopted and those admitted thereafter and who have declared and maintained their membership in accordance with the provisions of this constitution and its Bylaws.

C7.02. Members shall be classified as follows: a. Baptized Members are those persons who have been received by

the Sacrament of Holy Baptism into this Congregation or, having been previously baptized in the name of the Triune God and have agreed to work toward following the Marks of Discipleship as outlined in C7.04.02. Baptized members are non-voting members.

b. Covenant Members are baptized persons who have agreed to commit themselves to the Marks of Discipleship as outlined in C7.04.02, being held accountable to this commitment by the Congregation and its leadership. Covenant Members are voting members. Such covenant members, during the current or preceding Congregational calendar year, shall have been fully committed to the Marks of Discipleship as outlined in C7.04.02.

c. 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 Strategic Planning Council.

C7.03. All applications for covenant membership shall be submitted to and shall require the approval of the Pastor and Strategic Planning Council. The roster of Covenant Members shall be reviewed annually by the Strategic Planning Council at the beginning of the calendar year.

C7.04. It shall be the privilege and duty of the 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

Marks of Discipleship as outlined in C7.04.02.d. Support the work of this Congregation through contribution of

their time, abilities, and financial support as Biblical stewards.

C7.04.01 Any member of this Congregation in disagreement with any policy, procedure, or practice of this Congregation and desiring resolution of that

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disagreement, after making ample effort to have questions answered and concerns resolved through contact with the Pastor or appropriate staff member or lay leader shall contact any member of the Strategic Planning Council who will request that the issue be placed on the agenda for the next regular Strategic Planning Council meeting. The Strategic Planning Council will assign the matter to the Conflict Resolution Committee who will work with the member(s) to resolve the issue and advise the Strategic Planning Council as to that resolution. The duties of the Conflict Resolution Committee are outlined in Chapter 13 and in the Bylaws.

C7.04.02 The Marks of Discipleship include: Having received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, being baptized in the name of the Triune God and being in agreement with this Congregation’s statements of faith and policies, I now feel led by the Holy Spirit to unite with this church family. In doing so, I will strive to commit myself as a member of this Congregation to the following: a. I will worship regularly. b. I will make prayer and Biblical study part of my daily life. c. I will give my “first fruits” to God and work toward tithing (10%)

of my income. d. I will serve in a ministry of this Congregation based on my

spiritual gifts and talents. e. I will be involved in a small group, class or ministry team that

meets on a regular basis (at least monthly) and includes Bible study and fellowship.

f. I will commit myself to sharing my faith with others in word and in deed.

g. I will protect the unity of our church by: Acting in love toward others members. Refusing to gossip. Supporting our leaders. Resolving conflict according to Matthew 18.15-17. Living a godly life.

C7.05. Membership in this Congregation shall be terminated by any one of the following:a. Death.b. Resignation. c. Transfer or release.d. Disciplinary action as defined in Chapter 15 or by action of the

Strategic Planning Council.e. Removal from the roll due to inactivity. Inactivity is defined as

attendance at fewer than 2 worship services per calendar year. Those members removed from the membership roll due to inactivity shall remain persons for whom the Congregation has a continuing Pastoral concern.

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Chapter 8

THE PASTOR

C8.01. Authority to call a Pastor shall be in this Congregation as outlined by the guidelines set forth in this constitution and through consultation with the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ.

C8.02. The Strategic Planning Council shall be free to set specific requirements for individuals to be considered for call as Pastor of this Congregation, so long as candidates are eligible to be included in the ordained clergy roster of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ. A Call Committee, as outlined in Chapter 13, shall oversee the call process and make a candidate recommendation to the Strategic Planning Council. If the Strategic Planning Council affirms the Call Committee recommendation with a two-thirds vote, the president shall call a special Congregation meeting to present the recommended candidate to the voting members of the Congregation. If the members present affirm the recommended candidate by a majority ballot vote of at least two-thirds of the members present, the Congregation shall extend an official call to the candidate.

C8.03. Consistent with the Scriptural mandates, marks of discipleship as outlined in Chapter 7, as well as faith and practice of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ, the Pastor shall perform and or oversee with the assistance of his/her designee(s) the:a. Preaching of the Word.b. Administering the sacraments.c. Conducting public worship.d. Providing Pastoral care.e. Speaking publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and

oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God’s love for the world.

f. Offering instruction, disciple, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead.

g. Advising all organizations of this Congregation.h. Installing regularly elected members of the Strategic Planning

Council.i. With the Strategic Planning Council and his/her designee(s),

administering discipline.j. Striving to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the

nation, and abroad.k. Seeking out and encouraging qualified persons to prepare for

ministry of the Gospel.

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C8.04. 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, drafted and approved by the Strategic Planning Council.

C8.05. The procedures for terminating the relationship between this Congregation and its Pastor are as follows:a. The call of a Congregation, when accepted by the Pastor, shall

constitute a continuing mutual relationship and commitment, which, except in the case of the death of the Pastor, shall be terminated only 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, criminal misconduct, or continued neglect of duty.

6. The dissolution of the Congregation.b. When allegations of physical or mental incapacity of the senior

Pastor or ineffective conduct of the Pastoral office have come to the attention of the Strategic Planning Council and are deemed plausible by the executive committee of the council, or when such allegations have been brought to the Strategic Planning Council’s attention by a petition signed by at least one-third of the voting members of the Congregation, the president shall investigate such conditions personally in company with a committee that includes the executive committee of the Strategic Planning Council apart from the Pastor and two ordained ministers from local Congregations whom are members of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ.

c. In the case of alleged physical or mental incapacity of the Pastor, competent medical testimony shall be obtained. When such disability is evident, the Strategic Planning Council president with the advice of the committee outlined above, shall declare the Pastorate vacant. Upon the restoration of a disabled Pastor to health, the Strategic Planning Council president shall take steps to determine if it is possible to enable the senior Pastor to resume the ministry, either in this Congregation 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

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heard by the committee as described in 8.05.b., after which the committee shall decide on the course of action to be recommended to the Pastor and the Strategic Planning Council. If the Pastor and Strategic Planning Council, by a two-thirds majority vote, agree to carry out such recommendation, no further action shall be taken by the committee. If either party fails to assent, the committee must consult with an agency that specializes in resolving conflict within a Congregation. If an agreement still cannot be reached, the Congregation may dismiss the Pastor at a legally called Congregation meeting either by two-thirds majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the president and the committee did not recommend termination of the call, or by a simple majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the president and the committee recommended termination of the call.

C8.06. At a time of Pastoral vacancy, an interim Pastor shall be appointed by the Strategic Planning Council.

C8.07. 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 Strategic Planning Council. The interim Pastor and any ordained Pastor providing assistance shall refrain from exerting influence in the selection of a Pastor.

C8.08. This Congregation shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to a former senior Pastor before calling a successor. A Pastor shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to this Congregation before beginning service in a call to another Congregation or employment in another ministry setting.

C8.09. After following procedures as defined in C8.05, the Congregation may depart from and call a Pastor for a specific term. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose and conditions involved.

C8.10. The parochial records of this Congregation, including records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members dismissed, or members excluded from the Congregation, shall be maintained by the Pastor or his/her designee(s) and shall remain the property of the Congregation. The secretary of this Congregation shall attest in writing that such records have been placed in his/her hands in good order by a departing Pastor before their departure from this Congregation.

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Chapter 9ASSOCIATE PASTOR(S) AND CHURCH STAFF

C9.01. Hiring. New employees may be hired and added to the church staff by recommendation of the Strategic Planning Council and the Pastor. The recommendation shall be approved by a 2/3 majority vote of the Congregation of voting members present at a duly called Congregational meeting. The specific duties, expectations, compensation and other matters shall be included in a letter of employment, drafted and approved by the Strategic Planning Council. Each associate Pastor and/or staff member should be reviewed annually by his/her direct supervisor as designated by the Strategic Planning Council. All individuals hired in a position of leadership in this Congregation shall become a voting member of this Congregation within the first 3 months of employment.

C9.02. Associate Pastor(s). The Strategic Planning Council shall be free to set the specific requirements for individuals considered for an associate Pastoral position in this church. Candidates must be eligible to become a voting member of this Congregation and to be included in the ordained clergy roster of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ, and shall be held to the same spiritual, moral, and ethical standards as the senior Pastor (see Chapter 8). If the associate Pastoral candidate will be called to serve more than 30 hours per week, a Call Committee as outlined in Chapter 13 shall oversee the call process and make a candidate recommendation with a two-thirds vote, the president shall call a special Congregation meeting to present the recommended candidate to the voting members of the Congregation. If the members present affirm the recommended candidate by a majority ballot vote of at least two-thirds, the Congregation shall extend an official call to the candidate. The responsibilities and authority of associate Pastor(s) shall be decided upon at the time of call by the Strategic Planning Council and documented in the Letter of Call.

C9.03. Dismissal. An associate Pastor or staff member’s employment may be terminated by the Strategic Planning Council. Termination of an associate Pastor will require confirmation by the Strategic Planning Council through a 2/3 majority vote. Termination of any other staff employment will require confirmation by the Strategic Planning Council through a simple majority vote. Severance pay shall be determined by a majority vote of Strategic Planning Council.

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Chapter 10CONGREGATION MEETINGS

C10.01. The Congregation president, with input from the Strategic Planning Council will plan and preside over Congregation meetings.

C10.01.01 The Congregation will hold two (2) annual meetings. A meeting to approve the budget will be held in October and a meeting in January to receive reports and elect Congregational officers and the members of the ministry boards as outlined in Chapter 12.

C10.01.02 The current rosters of voting, confirmed and baptized members shall be available at each meeting of the Congregation.

C10.01.03 The Congregation at the annual meeting shall receive reports, including a financial statement, which shall be submitted in writing to the Pastor not less than seven (7) days before such meeting.

C10.01.04 Ten (10) percent of voting members shall constitute a quorum.

C10.01.05 Voting by proxy or by absentee ballot shall not be permitted.

C10.01.06 All actions by the Congregation shall be by majority vote except as otherwise provided in this constitution.

C10.01.07 Robert’s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedures of all meeting of this Congregation.

Chapter 11OFFICERS

C11.01. The officers of this Congregation shall be a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurera. Duties of the officers shall be specified in the Bylawsb. The officers shall be voting members of the Congregationc. Officers of the Congregation shall serve similar offices on the

Strategic Planning Council. The Treasurer is a non-voting member of the Executive Committee

C11.02. Applies to all officer positions except treasurer: The Congregation shall elect its officers and they shall be the officers of the Congregation. The

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officers shall be elected by written ballot (or an approved alternate format) Their terms shall begin at the close of the annual meeting at which they are elected.

C11.03. The Secretary may be elected for two (2) consecutive terms only.

Chapter 12STRATEGIC PLANNING COUNCIL

C12.01. The members of the Strategic Planning Council (hereinafter the SPC) shall be elected by the Congregation and shall consist of the Officers of the Congregation (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer) and the Directors of the following ministry boards:a. Director of Board of Policyb. Director of Board of Financec. Director of Board of Stewardship/Membershipd. Director of Board of Worshipe. Director of Board of Generational Ministriesf. Director of Evangelism and Outreachg. Director of Board of FacilitiesThe Pastor shall serve as an advisory member of the SPC. Any voting member of the Congregation may be elected, subject only to the limitation on the length of continuous service permitted in that office.

C12.02. The SPC shall be elected by the Congregation as follows:a. The President first serves as Vice President and is elected as Vice

President for a 2 year term. Upon completion of this 2 year term, the Vice President shall become President and shall serve a 2 year term. The president votes only when necessary to break a tie vote between the other voting members of the SPC

b. The Vice President is elected by the Congregation for a 2 year term and is a voting member of the SPC.

c. The Secretary is elected by the Congregation for a 3 year term and is a voting member of the SPC.

d. The Treasurer is appointed by the SPC and approved by the Congregation and serves for an unlimited term under the direction of the SPC or until they no longer wish to serve. The position shall be compensated as determined by the Congregation. The Treasurer is a non-voting member of the SPC.

e. The members of the boards outlined in C12.01 shall be elected by the Congregation at the annual Congregational meeting. With the exception of the first year after the adoption of the constitution, when the Congregation will be electing all of the members of each board, the Congregation will vote to fill one vacancy per year per board. The first year after the adoption of this constitution, the

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Congregation shall elect the boards for staggered terms so that only one member’s term shall expire for each board per year.

f. The boards shall elect a chairperson each year who shall also serve on the SPC as a director for their board.

C12.03. A member’s place on the SPC shall be declared vacant if that member ceases to be a voting member of this Congregation or is absent without cause from 2 consecutive regular meetings of the SPC.

C12.04. Consistent with the laws of the State of Michigan, the Congregation may remove a member of the Strategic Planning Council in other circumstances.

C12.05. Should a member’s place on the SPC be declared vacant, the SPC shall appoint, by majority vote, a successor until the next annual meeting.

C12.06. The SPC shall have general oversight of the life and activities of the Congregation. The duties of the SPC shall include the following:a. To lead this Congregation in stating its mission, to do long range

planning, set goals and priorities, to evaluate its activities in light of its mission and goals and to report to the Congregation on its progress toward the goals.

b. To oversee and provide for the administration of this Congregation to enable it to fulfill its functions and perform its mission.

C12.07. The SPC shall be responsible for the financial and property matters of this Congregation. To this end, they shall:a. Be responsible for maintaining and protecting the Congregation’s

property and 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 Michigan, except as otherwise provided herein.

b. Be empowered to enter into contracts up to $1,000.00 for items not included in the budget.

c. Prepare an annual budget for adoption by this Congregation and shall supervise the expenditure of funds.

d. Prepare and submit a comprehensive report to the Congregation at the annual meeting.

The SPC shall not have the authority to buy, sell, or encumber real property unless specifically authorized to do so by a meeting of the Congregation.

C12.08. The SPC shall normally meet ten (10) times each calendar year, but will meet at a minimum every other month. Special meetings may be called by the Congregational President or Pastor, and shall be called by the President at the request of at least one-half of its members. Reasonable

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notice (not less than 48 hours) of each special meeting shall be given to all who are entitled to be present.

C12.09. A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of the majority of the members of the Strategic Planning Council. Chronic or repeated unexcused absence (more than 2 consecutive meetings or 4 total annually) can result in removal from the Strategic Planning Council.

C12.10. All policies, rules and regulations established by the ministries of this Congregation for the guidance of members and employees are subject to revision and final approval by the Strategic Planning Council.

Chapter 13CONGREGATIONAL COMMITTEES

C13.01. Executive Committee: The officers of this Congregation and the Pastor shall constitute the Executive Committee.

C13.02. Nominating Committee: A Nominating Committee of five (5) voting members of this Congregation (two of whom, if possible, shall be outgoing members of the Strategic Planning Council) shall be elected at the annual meeting for a term of one year. Members of the Nominating Committee are not eligible for consecutive re-election. When necessary, the Strategic Planning Council shall fill vacancies on the Nominating Committee:a. The Vice President shall serve as the convener; the Pastor shall

serve as an advisory member.b. The committee shall nominate at least one (1) candidate for each

office to be filled except when a person is eligible to succeed himself/herself. The candidates shall be voting members of the Congregation. The Nominating Committee shall secure the consent of each candidate. The list of nominees shall be announced to the Congregation in conjunction with the announcements of the meeting of the Congregation at which the elections are to take place. In addition to the names of candidates submitted by the Nominating Committee, other nominations may also be made by the Congregation at the meeting.

C13.03. Audit Committee: An Audit Committee of three (3) voting members shall be appointed by the Strategic Planning Council to audit the financial records of the Congregation. Audit Committee members shall not be members of the Strategic Planning Council. Term of office shall be three (3) years, with one member appointed each year. To ensure the availability of qualified membership of this committee, members shall be

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eligible for re-appointment to this committee at the discretion of the Strategic Planning Council.

C13.04. Cemetery Committee: A Cemetery Committee of three (3) voting members shall be appointed by the Strategic Planning Council to oversee the operation and maintenance of the Congregation’s cemetery. Committee members shall not be members of the Strategic Planning Council. One member of this committee shall be designated to serve as this committee’s treasurer. Term of office shall be three (3) years, with one (1) member appointed each year. To ensure the availability of qualified membership of this committee, members shall be eligible for re-appointment to this committee at the discretion of the Strategic Planning Council.

C13.05. Call Committee: When a Pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee of ten (10) voting members shall be identified by the Strategic Planning Council and approved by the Congregation. The vice president and the Director of the Board of Worship shall serve as members of this committee. The members of this committee shall elect their chairperson. Term of office will terminate upon the installation of the newly called Pastor.

C13.06. Conflict Resolution Committee: A Conflict Resolution Committee comprised of the Pastor, Congregational president, vice president, and two members at large of the Congregation (chosen jointly by the Congregational president and Pastor) shall be available to provide leadership in those times when conflict emerges within the Congregation. This committee will follow the guidelines set forth in the bylaws.

C13.08. Memorial Gifts Committee: A Memorial Gifts Committee shall be formed at the discretion of the Strategic Planning Council. This committee shall oversee disbursement of memorial gifts, contributions, arranging for purchases in accordance with Congregational needs, and provide correspondence to individuals contributing gifts as well as families being recognized and remembered.

C13.09. Mutual Ministry Committee: A Mutual Ministry Committee will be formed for the purpose of providing support to the Pastor. Membership shall be at the discretion of the Pastor in conjunction with the Congregational president who, while not a member of this committee, serves as its liaison to the Strategic Planning Council. To ensure the availability of qualified membership of this committee, members shall be eligible for continuing service to this committee at the discretion of the Pastor.

C13.10. Other standing committees of this Congregation may be formed, as the need arises, by the decision of the Strategic Planning Council. Duties of

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these standing committees of this Congregation shall be specified in the By-laws.

Chapter 14ORGANIZATIONS 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 annual meeting shall determine their policies, guide their activities, and receive reports concerning their membership, work, and finances.

C14.02. Special interest groups may be organized only after authorization has been given by the Strategic Planning Council (and specified in a continuing resolution).

Chapter 15DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS AND ADJUDICATON

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 Strategic Planning 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. A member charged with an offense shall appear before the Strategic Planning Council after having received a written notice, at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting, specifying the exact charges that have been made against the member.

C15.03. Members of the Strategic Planning Council who participate in the preparation of the written charges or who present evidence or testimony in the hearing before the Strategic Planning 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 Strategic Planning 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:

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a. Censure before the council or Congregation.b. Suspension from membership for a definite period of time.c. Exclusion from membership in this Congregation.Disciplinary actions b. and c. shall be delivered to the member in writing.

C15.04. Disciplinary actions may be reconsidered and revoked by the Strategic Planning Council upon receipt of a) evidence that injustice has been done or b) evidence of repentance and amendment.

Chapter 16BYLAWS

C16.01. This Congregation will 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 Strategic Planning Council at least sixty (60) days before a regular or special meeting called for that purpose. The Strategic Planning Council shall notify the members introducing the proposal of its recommendations if any, at least thirty (30) days in advance of the Congregation Meeting.

Chapter 17AMENDMENTS

C17.01. Amendments to this constitution may be proposed by at least five (5) voting members or by the Strategic Planning Council. Proposals must be filed in writing with the Strategic Planning Council sixty (60) days before formal consideration by this Congregation at its regular or special meeting called for that purpose. The Strategic Planning Council shall notify the members introducing the proposed amendment with any recommendations regarding the proposed amendment at least thirty (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.

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c. Have the effective date included in the resolution and noted in the constitution.

Chapter 18CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS

C18.01. The Strategic Planning 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 Strategic Planning Council.

Chapter 19INDEMNIFICATION

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 Strategic Planning 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 procedure

*Matthew 18:15-17 “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.”

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ST. JOHN’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF BRIDGEWATER

BYLAWS

DUTIES OF OFFICERS

The duties and responsibilities of the Strategic Planning Council members are as follows:

1. President:a. Shall preside at all business meetings of the congregation meetings and of

the Strategic Planning Council and see that they are conducted in an orderly and Christian manner;

b. Shall preside at meetings of the Conflict Resolution Committee;c. Insures movement toward progress related to congregational goals;d. Relates to all standing committees and to all compensated staff in

personnel matters;e. Serves as an ex-officio member of all boards and committees;f. Serves as a co-signer for banking transactions.

2. Secretary:a. Shall keep an exact record of all transactions and resolutions of the

General Assembly and the Strategic Planning Council in regular and special meetings of each;

b. Shall enter such minutes into a book provided by and remaining the property of this congregation, and submit the report for approval at the next regular meeting;

c. Shall provide for communication with congregational secretary related to congregational publications;

d. Shall be responsible for preparing all necessary applications and other papers required for affiliations or disaffiliations;

e. Shall also conduct the correspondence of this congregation when not otherwise provided.

3. Treasurer:a. Make all authorized payments, including establishing a schedule for

payment of all church employees;b. Maintain all records required by the IRS and Michigan Treasury;c. Maintain a record of all financial transactions and accounts;d. Regularly reconcile all accounts with bank statements and deposit

amounts with the Director of Finance;e. Produce reports for monthly meeting of Strategic Planning Council,

annual congregational budget meeting and a congregational annual report;f. Initiates preparation of the congregational annual budget;

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g. Shall serve as an advisory member of the Finance Committee and work in conjunction with the Director of Finance and Director of Stewardship and Membership in the provision of stewardship education and training;

h. Serves as a co-signer for banking transactions.

4. Vice President:a. Shall oversee the identification, development, and support of current and

potential congregation leaders;b. Shall serve on the Conflict Resolution committee;c. Shall serve on the Call Committee;d. Shall serve as convener of the Nominating Committee;e. Shall assist the President in assigned, selected duties and shall, in the

absence of the President, preside at any meeting;f. Serves as a co-signer for banking transactions

DUTIES OF STRATEGIC PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS

1. Director of Finance:a. Shall ensure a financial recording team is available following each

worship service to record and secure all offerings and financial records;b. Shall see that an annual audit of this congregation’s financial records is

conducted and the results reported to the Strategic Planning Council and the congregation;

c. Shall oversee (or delegate, as appropriate) negotiation of all congregational loans, working in conjunction with a Finance Committee;

d. Shall make provision for the availability of offering envelopes;e. Shall make year-end contribution reports to the members of the

congregation;f. Serves as Chairperson of the Finance Committee;g. Shall work in conjunction with the treasurer and Director of Membership

and Stewardship in the provision of stewardship education and training.h. Make all deposits to church accounts, maintaining deposit bags and other

supplies/equipment;

2. Director of Policies:a. Shall oversee the development, evaluation, publications, and archiving of

needed policies and procedures that support the mission and ministry of this congregation. (Such policies should be evaluated in light of any existing congregational mission and vision statements);

b. Shall provide written guidelines of these policies, as needed or requested to all volunteers, staff, and members;

c. Shall maintain a clear system of communication regarding all polices and procedures.

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d. Shall maintain a Calendar of Policies.  The calendar will maintain important dates of contract expirations, inspection dates, and dates of internal policy and financial reviews.  Establishment of internal policy and financial procedures will be the responsibility of the Board of Policies for approval by the SPC. 

e. Together with the President of the Congregation, the Pastor, and the SPC, the Director of Policies will work to enforce policies established by the Church and provide avenues for the congregation to know and follow Church procedure. 

f. Shall provide organizational oversight as to the policies and procedures set forth by other Boards of the Church and maintain those policies in a common location and in such a way the board can ensure clear and distinct limits on the oversight of each Board.

3. Director of Facilities:a. Shall be responsible for the stewardship of all worldly goods, real and

personal, with which this congregation shall be endowed.b. Shall be concerned with building and grounds, internal and external

maintenance and upgrades, and custodial supervision.c. Shall oversee a group of members (known as the Property Committee)

who will assist the Director of Facilities in carrying out these duties.d. Shall oversee the Cemetery Committee who will assist the Director of

Facilities in matters related to the congregation’s cemetery property, including maintenance and policy development.

e. Shall provide counsel to the Strategic Planning Council and/or Finance Committee in matters pertaining to property insurance coverage.

f. Shall hold regular meetings, as needed, with volunteers to understand existing ministries and developing ministry direction.

g. Shall provide counsel as needed for budgeting and goal setting sessions, and then interpret for Council current ministries and identify future growth and goals.

h. Approve/delegate normal everyday maintenance issues with the church and parsonage buildings, such as check salt level in water softeners, install or remove storm windows, change light bulbs, etc.

i. Organize clean-up Sundays (spring and/or fall) including window cleaning, painting, driveway stone clean up, tree/shrub trimming, weeding & edging, picking up sticks and brush.

j. Obtain bids and/or contracts for lawn mowing and snow removal.k. Be an “on call” person that has resources or man power to handle an

emergency that may arise.l. Oversee necessary equipment inspections for boiler, elevator, water well,

fire extinguishers, difibulator, grinder pump and any other equipment as mandated by law or as requested by Strategic Planning Council.

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4. Director of Board of Worship:a. Shall be a liaison between the worship and music teams/organizations and

the Strategic Planning Council, providing oversight and development in long-term ministry direction.

b. Shall hold regular meetings, as needed, with volunteers to understand existing ministries and developing ministry direction;.

c. Shall coordinate all worship duties that need to be handled by lay assistants such as greeters, sound system operator, lay readers, ushers, “time for children leader”, etc.

d. Make sure building is properly prepared for worship including preparation for Holy Communion, unlocking doors, checking heat, pews stocked with necessary Hymnals, Bibles, pencils communion cards, etc.

e. Shall provide counsel as needed for budgeting and goal setting sessions, and then interpret for Council current ministries and identify future growth and goals.

f. Shall serve as a member of the pastoral Call Committee.g. Responsible for maintaining a calendar for Sunday morning events.

5. Director of Board of Generational Ministries:a. Shall oversee ministries related to children and youth, including but not

limited to the nursery, Sunday School, and children’s aspects of congregational worship, ministries related to youth including middle school, high school, college and those engaged in military/international service.

b. Shall oversee ministries related to singles, families and couples.c. Shall oversee ministries related to seniors and those confined to their

homes and health facilities, insuring for regular visitation by the pastor as well as the congregation.

d. Shall hold regular meetings, as needed, with volunteers to understand existing ministries and developing ministry direction.

e. Shall provide council as needed for budgeting and goal setting sessions, and then interpret for Council current ministries and identify future growth and goals.

6. Director of Board of Evangelism and Outreach:a. Shall be liaison for all ministries in the area of Christian

education/learning as it relates to evangelism, fellowship and service.b. Shall serve as liaison to Sunday School Superintendent, Fellowship

ministries, Bible study ministries, ministries of prayer, ministries of service and social conscience, ministries of hospitality, and ministries of stewardship and evangelism at a local, national, and global level.

c. Shall hold regular meetings, as needed, with volunteers to understand existing ministries and developing ministry direction.

d. Shall provide counsel as needed for budgeting and goal setting sessions, and then interpret for Council current ministries and identify future growth and goals.

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7. Director of Stewardship and Membership:a. Shall oversee shepherding of new members.b. Shall be responsible for maintaining contact with inactive members.c. Shall provide maintenance of the membership database.d. Shall act as liaison between the pastor and potential new members and

provide new membership class as needed.e. Shall hold regular meetings with volunteers to understand existing

ministries and developing ministry direction with a focus on congregational growth in the areas of giving their “time, talent and treasures”.

DUTIES OF COMMITTEES

1. Conflict Resolution Committee

The primary purpose of the Conflict Resolution Committee is to oversee resolution of emerging conflict within the Congregation in accordance with Biblical principles, especially those outlined in Matthew 18: 15-17. To this end:

a. The pastor and/or Strategic Planning Council president shall intervene with concerned parties when deemed necessary, supporting private conversation between the parties and encouraging immediate resolution as a means of creating and preserving Biblically mandated congregational unity. The Strategic Planning Council vice president shall be informed of the concerns. The pastor and/or Strategic Planning Council president shall monitor the situation for progress.

b. Should private conversation fail to produce enduring resolution, the concerned parties shall meet with the pastor and Strategic Planning Council president to explore the continued conflict and work toward faithful resolution. This meeting shall set forth the expectations of Matthew 18: 15-17 and shall begin and end in prayer, with additional prayer and scriptural support provided as needed. The Strategic Planning Council Vice President shall be informed of the on-going concern. The pastor and/or Strategic Planning Council president shall monitor the situation for progress.

c. Should this intervention fail to produce enduring results, a Conflict Resolution Committee shall be constituted and convened as soon as possible. This committee shall consist of the pastor, Strategic Planning Council president, Strategic Planning Council vice-president and two congregation members chosen jointly by the pastor and the Strategic Planning Council president. This committee will meet with the concerned parties to explore the conflict and work toward faithful resolution. The meeting shall set forth the expectations of Matthew 18: 15-17 and shall begin and end in prayer, with additional prayer and scriptural support

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provided as needed. An agreement for faithful resolution of this conflict shall be established with this meeting and all parties shall agree to its conditions. The pastor and/or Strategic Planning Council president shall monitor the situation for progress.

d. Should continued agreement with this established resolution fail to be upheld by one, both or all parties concerned, a second meeting of the same Conflict Resolution Committee shall be convened. This meeting shall affirm the previously established resolution, set forth the expectations of Matthew 18:15-17 and shall begin and end in prayer, with additional prayer and scriptural support provided as needed. This meeting shall determine a faithful and appropriate response to a continued conflict, including (but not limited to) the exercise of discipline of congregational members in accordance with Chapter 15 of the Constitution.

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