THE CONSTITUTION

Of

The Congregation of Messiah Lutheran Church

The following is the constitution of
Messiah Lutheran Church
Vancouver, Washington

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

Chapter 1. NAME AND INCORPORATION

C1.01. The name of this congregation shall be Messiah Lutheran Church.

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

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

Chapter 2. CONFESSION OF FAITH

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

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. The canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the written Word of God. Inspired by God's Spirit speaking through their authors, they record and announce God's revelation centering in Jesus Christ. Through them God's Spirit speaks to us to create and sustain Christian faith and fellowship for service in the world.

C2.03. This congregation accepts the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation/faith, and life.

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

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

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

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

Chapter 3. NATURE OF THE CHURCH

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

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

Chapter 4. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

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

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

1. Worship God in proclamation of the Word and administration of the sacraments and through lives of prayer, praise, thanksgiving, witness, and service.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Serve in response to God's love to meet human needs, caring for the sick and the aged, advocating dignity and justice for all people, working for peace and reconciliation among the nations, and standing with the poor and powerless, and committing itself to their needs.
5. Nurture its members in the Word of God so as to grow in faith and hope and love, to see daily life as the primary setting for the exercise of their Christian calling, and to use the gifts of the Spirit for their life together and for their calling in the world.
6. Manifest the unity given to the people of God by living together in the love of Christ and by joining with other Christians in prayer and action to express and preserve the unity which the Spirit gives.

C4.03. To fulfill these purposes, this congregation shall:

1. Provide services of worship at which the Word of God is preached and the sacraments are administered.
2. Provide pastoral care and assist all members to participate in this ministry.
3. Challenge, equip, and support all members in carrying out their calling in their daily lives and in their congregation.
4. Teach the Word of God.
5. Witness to the reconciling Word of God in Christ, reaching out to all people.
6. Respond to human need, work for justice and peace, care for the sick and the suffering, and participate responsibly in society.
7. Motivate its members to provide financial support for the congregation's ministry and the ministry of other parts of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
8. Foster and participate in interdependent relationships with other congregations, the synod, and the church wide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
9. Foster and participate in ecumenical relationships consistent with church-wide policy.

C4.04. This congregation shall develop an organizational structure to be described in the bylaws. The Congregation Council shall prepare descriptions of the responsibilities of each committee, task force or other organizational groups and shall review their actions. (Such description shall be contained in continuing resolutions of the Congregation Council.) C4.05. This congregation shall, from time to time, adopt a mission statement which will provide specific direction for its programs.

Chapter 5. POWERS OF THE CONGREGATION

C5.01. The powers of this congregation are those necessary to fulfill its purpose.

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

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

1. Call a pastor as provided in Chapter 9;
2. Terminate the call of a pastor as provided in Chapter 9;
3. Call or terminate the appointment of associates, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers in ministry in conformity with the applicable policy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;
4. Approve the annual budget;
5. Acquire real and personal property by gift, devise, purchase, or other lawful means;
6. Hold title to and use its property for any and all activities consistent with its purpose;
7. Sell, mortgage, lease, transfer, or otherwise dispose of its property by any lawful means;
8. Elect its officers, Congregation Council, boards, and committees, and require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the constitution and bylaws, and any continuing resolutions; and
9. Terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as provided in Chapter 6. C5.04. This congregation shall choose from among its voting members laypersons to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly as well as persons to represent it at meetings of any conference, cluster, coalition, or other area subdivision of which it is a member. The number of persons to be elected by the congregation and other qualifications shall be as prescribed in guidelines established by the Southwestern Washington Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Chapter 6. CHURCH AFFILIATION

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

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

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

1. This congregation agrees to be responsible for its life as a Christian community.
2. This congregation pledges its financial support and participation in the life and mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
3. This congregation agrees to call pastoral leadership from the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in accordance with its call procedures except in special circumstances and with the approval of the bishop of the synod.
4. This congregation agrees to consider associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers for all to other staff positions in the congregation according to the procedures of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
5. This congregation agrees to file this constitution and any subsequent changes to this constitution with the synod for review to ascertain that all of its provisions are in agreement with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or with the constitution of the synod.

C6.04. Affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America may be terminated as follows:

1. This congregation takes action to dissolve.
2. This congregation ceases to exist.
3. This congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to the procedures for discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
4. This congregation follows the procedures outlined in C6.05.

C6.05. This congregation may terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America by the following procedure:

1. A resolution indicating the desire of this congregation to terminate its relationship must be adopted at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present.
2. The secretary of this congregation shall submit a copy of the resolution to the synodical bishop and shall mail a copy of the resolution to voting members of the congregation. This notice shall be submitted within 10 days after the resolution has been adopted.
3. The bishop of the synod shall consult with this congregation during a period of at least 90 days.
4. If this congregation, after consultation, still desires to terminate its relationship such action may be taken at a legally called and conducted special meeting by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present at which meeting the bishop of the synod or an authorized representative shall be present. Notice of the meeting shall be mailed to all voting members at least 10 days in advance of the meeting.
5. A certified copy of the resolution to terminate its relationship shall be sent to the synodical bishop, at which time the relationship between this congregation and Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be terminated.
6. Notice of termination shall be forwarded by the synodical bishop to the secretary of this church and published in the periodical of this church.

C6.06. If this congregation considers relocation it shall confer with the bishop of the synod in which it is territorially located before any steps are taken leading to such action. The approval of the Synod Council shall be received before any such action is effected.

Chapter 7. PROPERTY OWNERSHIP

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

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

C7.03. If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to transfer to another church body, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation. Before this congregation takes action to transfer to another Lutheran church body, it shall consult with representatives of the Southwestern Washington Synod.

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

Chapter 8. MEMBERSHIP

C8.01. Members of this congregation shall be those baptized persons on the roll of the congregation at the time that this constitution is adopted and those who are admitted thereafter and who have declared and maintain their membership in accordance with the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws.

C8.02. Members shall be classified as follows:

1. Baptized members are those persons who have been received by the Sacrament of Holy Baptism in this congregation or, having been previously baptized in the name of the Triune God, have been received by certificate of transfer from other Lutheran congregations or by affirmation of faith.
2. Confirmed members are baptized persons who have been confirmed in this congregation, those who have been received by adult baptism or by transfer as confirmed members from other Lutheran congregations, or baptized persons received by affirmation of faith.
3. Voting members are confirmed members. Such confirmed members, during the current or preceding calendar year, shall have communed in this congregation and shall have made a contribution of record to this congregation.
4. 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, or persons who wish to retain a relationship with this congregation while being members of other congregations. They have all the privileges and duties of membership except voting rights and eligibility for elected offices or membership on the Congregation Council of this congregation.

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

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

1. Make regular use of the means of grace, both Word and sacraments;
2. Live a Christian life in accordance with the Word of God and the teachings of the Lutheran church; and
3. Support the work of this congregation, the synod, and the church wide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through contributions of their time, abilities, and financial support as biblical stewards.

C8.05. Membership in this congregation shall be terminated by any of the following:

1. Death;
2. Resignation;
3. Transfer or release;
4. Disciplinary action by the Congregation Council; or
5. Removal from the roll due to inactivity as defined in the bylaws.

C8.05.01 The congregation shall, in the event of the removal of a member from the community it serves, encourage the member to request a transfer to a Lutheran congregation which can serve him/her effectively. Should the member fail to request a transfer, a Lutheran congregation in the community of his/her residence shall be notified.

C8.05.02 A confirmed member who does not for a period of one year partake of Holy Communion, support the church with his/her offerings, and does not appear to desire to participate in the life and worship of the congregation shall be encouraged to active membership. If, during the second year the confirmed member does not actively participate, his/her name shall be removed from the membership roster of the congregation.

C8.05.03 A child, neither of whose parents or guardians is a member of the congregation, may be removed from the roster of baptized members if he/she fails to participate in the life and worship of the congregation. Such persons who have been removed from the roll of members shall remain persons for whom the church has a continuing pastoral concern.

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

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

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

a. Every ordained minister shall:

1)Preach the Word;

2)Administer the sacraments;

3)Conduct public worship;

4)Provide pastoral care; and

5)Speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God's love for the world.

b. Each ordained minister with a congregational call shall, within the congregation:

1) Offer instruction, confirm, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead;

2) Supervise all schools and organizations of the congregation;

3) Install regularly elected members of the Congregation Council; and

4) With the council, administer discipline.

c. Every pastor shall:

1) Strive to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation, and abroad;

2) Seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel;

3) Impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry through distribution of its periodicals and other publications; and

4) Endeavor to increase the support given by the congregation to the work of the church wide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and of the Southwestern Washington Synod of the ELCA.

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

C9.05

a.)The call of a congregation, when accepted by a pastor, shall constitute a continuing mutual relationship and commitment which, except in the case of the death of the pastor, shall be terminated only following consultation with the synodical bishop and for the following reasons:

1) Mutual agreement to terminate the call or the completion of a call for a specific term;

2) Resignation of the pastor, which shall become effective, unless otherwise agreed, 30 days after the date on which it was submitted;

3) Inability to conduct the pastoral office effectively in the congregation in view of local conditions, without reflection on the competence or the moral and spiritual character of the pastor;

4) The physical or mental incapacity of the pastor;

5) Disqualification of the pastor through discipline on grounds of doctrine, morality, or continued neglect of duty;

6) The dissolution of the congregation; or

7) Suspension of the congregation as a result of discipline proceedings.

b.) When allegations of physical or mental incapacity of the pastor or ineffective conduct of the pastoral office, have come to the attention of the bishop of the synod, the bishop in his or her sole discretion may, or when such allegations have been brought to the synod's attention by an official recital of allegations by the Congregation Council, or by a petition signed by at least one-third of the voting members of the congregation, the bishop shall investigate such conditions personally in company with a committee of two ordained ministers and one layperson.

c.) In case of alleged physical or mental incapacity, competent medical testimony shall be obtained. When such disability is evident, the bishop of the synod with the advice of the committee shall declare the pastorate vacant. Upon the restoration of a disabled pastor to health/ the bishop of the synod shall take steps to enable the pastor to resume the ministry, either in the congregation last served or in another field of labor.

d.) In the case of alleged local difficulties that imperil the effective functioning of the congregation, all concerned persons shall be heard, after which the bishop of the synod together with the committee described in C9.05.b. shall decide on the course of action to be recommended to the pastor and the congregation. If they agree to carry out such recommendations, no further action shall be taken by the synod. If either party fails to assent, the congregation may dismiss the pastor at a legally called meeting after consultation with the bishop, either (a) by a two-thirds majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the bishop and the committee did not recommend termination of the call, or (b) by a simple majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the bishop and the committee recommended termination of the call.

e.) If, in the course of proceedings described in C9.05.d. the committee concludes that there may be grounds for disciplinary action, the committee shall make recommendations concerning disciplinary action to the synodical bishop who may bring charges, in accordance with the provisions of the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the constitution of this synod.

f.) If, following the appointment of the committee described in C9.05.b. or d., it should become apparent that the pastoral office cannot be conducted effectively in the congregation being served by the ordained minister due to local conditions, the bishop of the synod may temporarily suspend the pastor from service in the congregation without prejudice and with pay provided through a joint church-wide/synod fund and with housing provided by the congregation.

C9.06. At a time of pastoral vacancy, an interim pastor shall be appointed by the bishop of the synod with the consent of this congregation or the Congregation Council.

C9.07. During the period of service, an interim pastor shall have the rights and duties of a regularly called pastor and may delegate the same in part to a supply pastor with the consent of the bishop of the synod and this congregation or Congregation Council. The interim pastor and any ordained pastor providing assistance shall refrain from exerting influence in the selection of a pastor.

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

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

C9.10. With the approval of the bishop of the synod the congregation may depart from C9.05.a. and call a pastor for a specific term. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose and conditions involved. Prior to the completion of a term, the bishop or a designated representative of the bishop, shall meet with the pastor and representatives of the congregation for a review of the call. Such call may also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of C9.05.a.

C9.11.

C9.12. The pastor of this congregation:

a. Shall keep accurate parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members dismissed, and members excluded from the congregation;

b. Shall submit a summary of such statistics annually to the synod; and

c. Shall become a member of this congregation upon receipt and acceptance of the letter of call.

C9.13. The pastor(s) shall submit a report of his or her ministry to the bishop of the synod at least 90 days prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.

Chapter 10. CONGREGATION MEETING

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

C10.01.01 The annual meeting will be held at a time determined by the Congregation Council.

C10.02. A special Congregation Meeting may be called by the pastor, the Congregation Council, or the president of this congregation, and shall be called by the President upon the written request of five percent (5%) of all voting members. The call for each special meeting shall specify the purpose for which it is to be held and no other business shall be transacted.

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

C10.04. Ten percent, (10%), of all voting members shall constitute a quorum.

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

C10.06. All actions by the congregation shall be by majority vote except as otherwise provided in this constitution.

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

Chapter 11. OFFICERS

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

a. Duties of the officers shall be specified in the bylaws.

b. The officers must be voting members of the congregation.

c. Officers of this congregation shall serve similar offices of the Congregation Council and shall be voting members of the Congregation Council.

C11.01.01 The President shall preside at the meetings of the Congregation Council and of the congregation.

C11.01.02 The Vice President shall preside at the meetings of the Congregation Council and of the congregation in the absence of the President.

C11.01.03 The Secretary shall keep the minutes of the Congregation Council and of the congregation, and have custody of the archives of the congregation.

C11.01.04 The Treasurer shall have custody of all deposited funds of the congregation. The Treasurer shall receive and disburse such funds in accordance with the decisions of the congregation or the Finance Committee.

C11.01.05 The Financial Secretary shall have custody of all undeposited funds and maintain records of all contributions and make regular reports to the Congregation Council and to the members as required by the Congregation Council.

C11.02. No officer shall hold more than one office at a time. No elected officer shall be eligible to serve more than two consecutive terms in the same office except treasurer and financial secretary.

Chapter 12. CHURCH LEADERSHIP TEAM (Also known as CONGREGATION COUNCIL)

C12.01. At its annual meeting the congregation shall elect a Church Leadership Team of not less than eight or more than eleven members (not including Pastors) for terms of three years each with approximately one-third of the terms expiring annually. The lead pastor(s) shall, also, be voting members of the Church Leadership Team with one combined vote by virtue of the office. At its first meeting the Church Leadership Team shall:

a. Elect from its own membership a president, a vice president, and a secretary, who shall be president, vice president, and secretary of the congregation. These officers shall be elected by written ballot and shall serve for one year or until successors are elected.

b. Appoint a treasurer and a financial secretary of the congregation, who shall be/become members of the Church Leadership Team.

C12.01.01. The annual meeting of the congregation shall elect new members of the Church Leadership Team to fill vacancies from a slate of candidates presented by the Nominating Committee.

C12.02. The members of the Church Leadership Team, except the pastor(s), shall be elected by written ballot to serve for three years, or until successors are elected. Elected members shall be eligible to serve no more than two full terms consecutively.

C12.02.01 The terms of all officers and elected members shall begin May 1 following the annual meeting.

C12.03. Should a member's place on the Church Leadership Team be declared vacant, the Church Leadership Team shall appoint a successor to serve the remainder of that term.

C12.04. The Church Leadership Team shall have general oversight of the life and activities of this congregation, and in particular its worship life, to the end that everything be done in accordance with the Word of God and the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The duties of the Church Leadership Team shall include the following:

a. To lead this congregation in stating its mission, to do long-range planning, to set goals and priorities, and to evaluate its activities in light of its mission and goals.

b. To seek to involve all members of this congregation in worship, learning, witness, service, and support.

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

d. To maintain supportive relationships with the pastor(s) and staff and help them annually to evaluate the fulfillment of their calling, appointment, or employment.

e. To be examples individually and corporately of the style of life and ministry expected of all baptized persons.

f. To promote a congregational climate of peace and goodwill and, as differences and conflicts arise, to endeavor to foster mutual understanding.

g. To arrange for pastoral service during the sickness or absence of the pastor.

h. To emphasize partnership with the synod and church-wide units of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as well as cooperation with other congregations, both Lutheran and non-Lutheran, subject to established policies of the synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

i. To recommend and encourage the use of program resources produced or approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

j. To seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel.

C12.05. The Church Leadership Team shall be ultimately responsible for the financial and property matters of this congregation.

a. The Church Leadership Team shall be the board of directors of this congregation, and as such shall be responsible for maintaining and protecting its property and the management of its business and fiscal affairs. It shall have the powers and be subject to the obligations that pertain to such boards under the laws of the State of Washington, except as otherwise provided herein.

b. The Church Leadership Team shall not have the authority to buy, sell, or encumber real property unless specifically authorized to do so by a meeting of the congregation.

c. The Church Leadership Team may enter into contracts of up to five percent (5%) of current annual budget for items not included in the budget.

d. The Church Leadership Team shall prepare an annual budget for adoption by this congregation, shall supervise the expenditure of funds in accordance therewith following its adoption and may incur obligations more than five percent (5%) of current annual budget in excess of the anticipated receipts only after the approval by a Congregation Meeting. The budget shall include this congregation's full indicated share in support of the wider ministry being carried on in partnership with the synod and church-wide organization.

b. The Church Leadership Team shall ascertain that the financial affairs of this congregation are being conducted efficiently, giving particular attention to the prompt payment of all obligations and to the regular forwarding of benevolence monies to the synodical treasurer.

c. The Church Leadership Team shall be responsible for this congregation's investments and its total insurance program.

d. The Church Leadership Team shall annually appoint an Audit Team of not less than two members to audit the books.

C12.05 b.01 Real property shall not be purchased, disposed of, or encumbered in any manner except by resolution adopted, by not less than a two-thirds majority vote of the members present and voting at a legally called meeting of the congregation.

C12.06. The Church Leadership Team shall see that the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws and any continuing resolutions are carried out.

C12.07. The Church Leadership Team shall provide for an annual review of the membership roster.

C12.08. The Church Leadership Team shall be responsible for the appointment and supervision of the salaried lay workers of this congregation.

C12.09. The Church Leadership Team shall be responsible for the formation and supervision of all committees provided for in Chapter 13.

C12.10. The Church Leadership Team shall submit a comprehensive report to this congregation at the annual meeting.

C12.11. The Church Leadership Team shall normally meet once a month. Special meetings may be called by the pastor(s) or the president, and shall be called by the President at the request of at least one-half of its members. Notice of each special meeting shall be given to all who are entitled to be present.

C12.12. A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of a majority of the members of the Church Leadership Team, including the pastor(s), or interim pastor, except when the pastor or interim pastor requests or consents to be absent and has given prior approval to an agenda for a particular regular or special meeting, which shall be the only business considered at the meeting. Chronic or repeated absence of the pastor, or interim pastor, who has refused approval of the agenda of a subsequent regular or special meeting, shall not preclude action by the Church Leadership Team, following consultation with the synodical bishop.

Chapter 13. CONGREGATIONAL COMMITTEES

C13.01. [SKM1] All committees of the congregation will conduct their business in accordance with the bylaws.

C13.01.01. All committees will conduct meetings at such time, frequency, and location as the committee may determine.

C13.01.02. All committees will prepare a budget of its expenses and submit it to the Finance Committee for review and inclusion in the budget of the church.

C13.01.03. All committees will elect from its own membership a chairperson to report regularly to the Church Leadership Team.

C13.0. The officers of this congregation and the Lead pastor(s) shall constitute the Executive Committee.

C13.03. Four [SKM2] voting members of this congregation will constitute the Nominating Committee. Two members shall be appointed by the Church Leadership Team, and two shall be elected at the annual meeting. The term for all members shall be one year.

C13.03.01. The Lead Pastor shall serve as convener and as an advisory member of the Nominating Committee.

C13.03.02. The Nominating Committee shall nominate one or more candidates for each office to be filled, including the Nominating Committee for the following year. The consent of each candidate shall be secured before presenting candidates to the congregation.

C13.03.03. The Nominating Committee shall identify candidates who are members in good standing with demonstrated leadership capability for the Church Leadership Team. The committee shall, also, consider the following desirable attributes when selecting candidates.

a. Regular worship attendance

b. Involvement in Christian education growth opportunities

c. Involvement in Christian service opportunities

d. Faith builder in self and others

All potential candidates shall prayerfully consider their own commitment to the following before accepting nomination as a candidate.

a. Regular worship attendance

b. Commitment to tithing growth

c. Involvement in Christian education growth opportunities

d. Involvement in Christian service opportunities

e. Faith builder in self and others

C13.03.04. The Church Leadership Team shall fill vacancies on the Nominating Committee.

C13.04. A Mutual Ministry Committee shall consist of the pastor(s) and four voting members of the congregation. Term of office shall be two years with two members appointed each year. In the absence of a mutual ministry committee, the executive committee shall fulfill the duties

C13.04.01 The duties and responsibilities of the Mutual Ministry Committee shall be to affirm and strengthen the mission of the congregation through enhanced communications about expectations, attitudes, and concerns within the congregation, the community, and the staff. The Mutual Ministry Committee shall:

a. Be appointed by the Church Leadership Team from a list of candidates provided by the pastor(s)

b. Serve as a group with whom the pastor(s) can test new ideas and share confidential matters.

c. Be a sounding board for the pastor(s) and associates in ministry in times of personal or professional stress and in time of congregation crisis.

d. Provide a confidential listening source for congregation members to present concerns over ministry directions.

e. Review planned continuing education and sabbaticals of the pastor(s) to assure benefit to both the congregation and the ministry to the staff.

f. Report regularly to the Church Leadership Team on its activities while maintaining necessary confidentiality on matters and submit a written summary of financial activities to be included in the annual report.

C13.05. When a pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee of at least six voting members shall be appointed by the Church Leadership Team. Term of office will terminate at installation of the newly-called pastor.

C13.06. A Finance Committee of at least three voting members shall be appointed by the Church Leadership Team annually.

C13.06.01. The duties and responsibilities of the Finance Committee shall be to provide guidelines for control of the church expenditures, and assist the treasurer in disbursement of funds.

C13.07. Other congregational committees and ministry teams may be formed as the need arises.

C13.07.01. A Personnel Committee shall consist of at least four voting members of the congregation. Term of office shall be two years with at least two members appointed each year. The Personnel Committee shall:

a. Be appointed by the Church Leadership Team.

b. Develop and support annual reviews process and affirmation of staff.

c. Provide a confidential listening source for congregation members to present concerns over staff.

d. Complete and review the accuracy of all job descriptions for all staff and positions.

e. Recruit, interview, and make recommendations to the Church Leadership Team for hiring staff.

f. Develop and communicate personnel policies and monitor all policies for compliance with applicable laws and standards.

g. Report regularly to the Church Leadership Team on its activities while maintaining necessary confidentiality on matters and submit a written summary of financial activities to be included in the annual report.

C13.07.02. The Property Committee shall consist of at least three voting members of the congregation. Term of office shall be two years. The Property Committee shall:

a. Have charge of the general management of all matters relating to the physical property and equipment of the congregation.

b. Coordinate the maintenance of the properties of the congregation.

c. Ensure the building(s) and property comply with all applicable local, state, and federal codes.

d. Be responsible for long-range planning concerning property and equipment to evaluate continuity of character, function, and design.

e. Review proposed construction, renovations, and remodeling and forward their recommendations to the Church Leadership Team.

f. Submit a written summary of financial activities to be included in the annual report.

C13.07.03. A Preschool Committee (also known as the Preschool Board) shall exist to provide coordination, leadership and guidance to the preschool program. It shall consist of five to seven members, and at least three of these must be voting members of the congregation. Term of office shall be two years with at least two members appointed each year. The Preschool Committee shall:

a. Elect from its membership a chairperson and vice chairperson. These persons must be members of the congregation.

b. Prepare, and periodically review, the mission statement for the preschool that supports the mission of the congregation.

c. Assist the preschool in meeting its mission goals and objectives.

d. Adopt administrative and educational policies for the preschool.

e. Recruit students.

f. Determine the budget for the preschool and establish fees and tuition.

g. Hire school personnel with cooperation and support of the Personnel Committee.

h. Determine school employee salary and benefit programs with cooperation and support of the Personnel Committee.

Chapter 14. ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE CONGREGATION

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

Chapter 15. DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS

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 Church Leadership Team. If for any reason, the pastor is unable to administer the admonitions required by a. and b. hereof, the president (if not the pastor) or vice president shall administer such admonitions.

C15.02. The process for discipline of a member of the congregation shall be governed as prescribed by the chapter on discipline in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. A member charged with the offense shall appear before the Church Leadership Team after having received a written notice, at least ten days prior to the meeting, specifying the exact charges that have been made against the member. If the member charged with the offense fails to appear at the scheduled hearing, the Church Leadership Team may proceed with the hearing and may pass judgment in the member's absence.

C15.03. Members of the Church Leadership Team who participate in the preparation of the written charges or who present evidence or testimony in the hearing before the Church Leadership Team 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 Church Leadership Team who are not disqualified but who are present and voting, and renewed admonition proved ineffectual, the council shall impose one of the following disciplinary actions:

a. Censure before the council or congregation;

b. Suspension from membership for a definite period of time;

c. Exclusion from membership in this congregation.

Disciplinary actions b. and c. shall be delivered to the member in writing.

C15.04. The member against whom disciplinary action has been taken by the Church Leadership Team shall have the right to appeal the decision to the Synod Council. Such right may not be abridged and the decision of the Synod Council shall be final.

C15.05. Disciplinary actions may be reconsidered and revoked by the Church Leadership Team upon receipt of a) evidence that injustice has been done or b) evidence of repentance and amendment.

C15.06. For disciplinary actions in the congregation, "due process" shall be observed as specified in 20.41.03. in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

C15.07. No member of a congregation shall be subject to discipline for offenses that the Church Leadership Team has previously heard and decided, unless so ordered by the Synod Council after an appeal.

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

Chapter 16. BYLAWS

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

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

C16.03. Changes to the bylaws may be proposed by any voting member provided however, that such additions or amendments be submitted in writing to the Church Leadership Team at least 60 days before a regular or special Congregation Meeting called for that purpose and that the Church Leadership Team notify the members of the proposal with its recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the Congregation Meeting.

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

Chapter 17. AMENDMENTS

C17.01 Amendments to this constitution may be proposed by at least five percent (5%) of the voting members or by the Church Leadership Team. Proposals must be filed in writing with the Church Leadership Team 60 days before formal consideration by this congregation at its regular or special meeting called for that purpose. The Church Leadership Team shall notify the members of the proposal with their recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the meeting.

C17.02 A proposed amendment to this constitution shall:

a. Be approved at a legally called meeting according to this constitution by a majority vote of those present and voting

b. Be ratified without change at the next annual meeting by a two-thirds majority vote of those present and voting; and

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

C17.03. Any amendments to this constitution shall be sent by the secretary of this congregation to the synod. The amendment shall become effective within 120 days from the date of the receipt of the notice by the synod unless the synod informs this congregation that the amendment is in conflict with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, or the constitution of the Southwestern Washington Synod.

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

Chapter 18. CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS

CI8.01. The Church Leadership Team may enact continuing resolutions. Such continuing resolutions may not conflict with the constitution or bylaws of this congregation.

CI8.02. Continuing resolutions shall be enacted or amended by a two-thirds vote of all voting members of the Church Leadership Team.

Chapter 19. INDEMNIFICATION

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