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Contents 1 CONSTITUTION OF GRACE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 1.1 CODIFICATION EXPLANATION 1.2 PREAMBLE 1.3 Chapter 1 - NAME AND INCORPORATION 1.4 Chapter 2 - CONFESSION OF FAITH 1.5 Chapter 3 - NATURE OF THE CHURCH 1.6 Chapter 4 - STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 1.7 Chapter 5 - POWERS OF THE CONGREGATION 1.8 Chapter 6 - CHURCH AFFILIATION 1.9 Chapter 7 - PROPERTY OWNERSHIP 1.10 Chapter 8 - MEMBERSHIP 1.11 Chapter 9 - THE PASTOR 1.12 Chapter 10 - CONGREGATIONAL MEETING 1.13 Chapter 11 - OFFICERS 1.14 Chapter 12 - CONGREGATION COUNCIL 1.15 Chapter 13 - CONGREGATION COMMITTEES 1.16 Chapter 14 - ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE CONGREGATION 1.17 Chapter 15 - DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS AND ADJUDICATION 1.18 Chapter 16 - BYLAWS 1.19 Chapter 17 - AMENDMENTS 1.20 Chapter 18 - CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS 1.21 Chapter 19 - INDEMINFICATION 1.22 Chapter 20 - PARISH AUTHORIZATION

CONSTITUTION OF GRACE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH

435 NW 21st STREET CORVALLIS, OREGON

Presented to the Congregation January 1990 Revised February 1992, February 1993, February 1999, February 2002, January 2009

CODIFICATION EXPLANATION

The provisions of the Constitution, the Bylaws and the Continuing Resolutions which pertain to the same matter have been placed together. This arrangement requires that the three types of material be identified by means other than physical separation. Provisions are identified by the following devices:

a. All constitutional provisions are in normal, upright print.

b. All bylaws provisions are printed in italic print.

c. All continuing resolutions are printed in italic print

d. A numerical codification indicates general subject, constitutional provisions, bylaw provisions and continuing resolutions.

Major sectors are designated as chapters. The chapters are numbered 1 through 20. The chapter designation becomes the first number in the codification sequence and is followed by a period. Thus, provisions in “Chapter 8. Membership” are preceded by “8.”

Constitutional provisions are codified with two sets of numbers: the chapter number and a two-digit number preceding the second period in the codification. Thus, for example, a constitutional provision related to “Membership”, is a subdivision of Chapter 8, and is codified *C8.02.

Bylaw provisions are codified with three sets of numbers: the chapter number, the related constitutional provision number, and a two-digit number identifying the related bylaw. Thus, for example, one bylaw provision related to “Membership” would be codified C8.02.01.

Continuing resolutions are codified with three sets of numbers except that the third set indicates the year of passage and is preceded by a capital letter which represents the order. Thus, a continuing resolution might be numbered C13. to designate Chapter 13 (“Congregational Committees”); C13.04. to designate the subject matter within the chapter (“Duties”); and C13.04.A07. to indicate by the “A” that it is the first continuing resolution regarding that subject and to indicate by the “07” that it was adopted in 2007.

If chapter numbers are considered the major sequence number, constitution numbers as a fraction of the chapter number, and bylaw numbers as a fraction of the constitution number, then the codification can be said to provide a progressive sequence. Thus, *C5.01. will precede C5.03.10., and C9.11.16. will precede *C9.13.

All provisions in this Constitution are prefaced with “C” to distinguish these provisions from comparable ones in the synodical and churchwide constitutions. Sections of this constitution marked by an asterisk [*] are required – in keeping with provisions 9.25.b. and 9.52. in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. These sections must be used without alteration or amendment of the text in any manner (neither additions nor deletions).

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 Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church. C1.02. For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the Grace Evangelical Lutheran congregation is hereinafter designated as "this congregation." C1.11. This congregation shall be incorporated under the laws of the State of Oregon. C1.12. The seal of this congregation presents the name, location, and church affiliation of the congregation.

Chapter 2 - CONFESSION OF FAITH

• C2.01. This congregation confesses the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
• C2.02. This congregation confesses Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and the Gospel as the power of God for the salvation of all who believe.

a. Jesus Christ is the Word of God incarnate, through whom everything was made and through whose life, death, and resurrection God fashions a new creation.

b. The proclamation of God's message to us as both Law and Gospel is the Word of God, revealing judgment and mercy through word and deed, beginning with the Word in creation, continuing in the history of Israel, and centering in all its fullness in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

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

• C2.03. This congregation accepts the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation, faith, and life.
• C2.04. This congregation accepts the Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of the faith of this congregation.
• C2.05. This congregation accepts the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as a true witness to the Gospel, acknowledging as one with it in faith and doctrine all churches that likewise accept the teachings of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession.
• C2.06. This congregation accepts the other confessional writings in the Book of Concord, namely, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles and the Treatise, the Small Catechism, the Large Catechism, and the Formula of Concord, as further valid interpretations of the faith of the Church.
• C2.07. This congregation confesses the Gospel, recorded in the Holy Scripture 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:

a. Worship God in proclamation of the Word and administration of the sacraments and through lives of prayer, praise, thanksgiving, witness, and service.

b. Proclaim God's saving Gospel of justification by grace for Christ's sake through faith alone, according to the apostolic witness in the Holy Scripture, preserving and transmitting the Gospel faithfully to future generations.

c. Carry out Christ's Great Commission by reaching out to all people to bring them to faith in Christ and by doing all ministry with a global awareness consistent with the understanding of God as Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier of all.

d. Serve in response to God's love to meet human needs, caring for the sick and the aged, advocating dignity and justice for all people, working for peace and reconciliation among the nations, and standing with the poor and powerless, and committing itself to their needs.

e. Nurture its members in the Word of God so as to grow in faith and hope and love, to see daily life as the primary setting for the exercise of their Christian calling, and to use the gifts of the Spirit for their life together and for their calling in the world.

f. Manifest the unity given to the people of God by living together in the love of Christ and by joining with other Christians in prayer and action to express and preserve the unity which the Spirit gives.

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

a. Provide services of worship at which the Word of God is preached and the sacraments are administered.

b. Provide pastoral care and assist all members to participate in this ministry.

c. Challenge, equip, and support all members in carrying out their calling in their daily lives and in their congregation.

d. Teach the Word of God.

e. Witness to the reconciling Word of God in Christ, reaching out to all people.

f. Respond to human need, work for justice and peace, care for the sick and the suffering, and participate responsibly in society.

g. Motivate its members to provide financial support for the congregation's ministry and the ministry of other parts of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

h. Foster and participate in interdependent relationships with other congregations, the synod, and the churchwide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

i. Foster and participate in ecumenical relationships consistent with churchwide policy.

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

C4.05.01. The Mission and Vision Statement and Values of Grace Lutheran Church:

a. Our mission is to follow Christ into our community and world, manifesting with caring hearts and helping hands the good news of the Kingdom of God.

b. Our vision is to be a Christ-centered community that welcomes all, grows in faith, and reaches out in love.

c. Our Values are: Prayer • Spiritual Growth • Christ-centered Living • Service • Community • Welcoming • Evangelism • Facility as Ministry Center • Worship • Wellness • Education and Learning • Children and Youth

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 this congregation's governing documents is recognized. All remaining authority is retained by the congregation. The congregation is authorized to:

a. call a pastor as provided in Chapter 9;

b. terminate the call of a pastor as provided in Chapter 9;

c. call or terminate the call of associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers in conformity with the applicable policy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;

d. adopt the amendments to the constitution, as provided in Chapter 17, and amendments to the bylaws, as specified in Chapter 16.

e. approve the annual budget;

f. acquire real and personal property by gift, devise, purchase, or other lawful means;

g. hold title to and use its property for any and all activities consistent with its purpose;

h. sell, mortgage, lease, transfer, or otherwise dispose of its property by any lawful means;

i. elect its Congregation Council, and require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the constitution, bylaws, and continuing resolutions: and

j. 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 Oregon 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 Oregon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. This congregation is subject to the discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
• C6.02. This congregation accepts the Confession of Faith and agrees to the Purposes of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and shall act in accordance with them.
• C6.03. This congregation acknowledges its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in which:

a. This congregation agrees to be responsible for its life as a Christian community.

b. This congregation pledges its financial support and participation in the life and mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

c. This congregation agrees to call pastoral leadership from the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in accordance with its call procedures except in special circumstances and with the approval of the bishop of the synod.

d. This congregation agrees to consider associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers for call to other staff positions in the congregation according to the procedures of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

e. This congregation agrees to file this constitution and any subsequent changes to this constitution with the synod for review to ascertain that all of its provisions are in agreement with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and with the constitution of the synod.

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

a. This congregation takes action to dissolve.

b. This congregation ceases to exist.

c. This congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to the procedures for discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

d. This congregation follows the procedures outlined in *C6.05.

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

a. A resolution indicating the desire of this congregation to terminate its relationship must be adopted at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation by a two thirds majority of the voting members present.

b. The secretary of this congregation shall submit a copy of the resolution to the synodical bishop and shall mail a copy of the resolution to voting members of this congregation. This notice shall be submitted within 10 days after the resolution has been adopted.

c. The bishop of the synod shall consult with this congregation during a period of at least 90 days.

d. If this congregation, after consultation, still desires to terminate its relationship, such action may be taken at a legally called and conducted special meeting by a two thirds majority of the voting members present, at which meeting the bishop of the synod or an authorized representative shall be present. Notice of the meeting shall be mailed to all voting members at least 10 days in advance of the meeting.

e. A certified copy of the resolution to terminate its relationship shall be sent to the synodical bishop, at which time the relationship between this congregation and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be terminated.

f. Notice of termination shall be forwarded by the synodical bishop to the secretary of this church and published in the periodical of this church.

g. Since this congregation was a member of the Lutheran Church in America it shall be required, in addition to the foregoing provisions in *C6.05., to receive synodical approval before terminating its membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

• 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 Oregon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
• C7.02. If this congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to its procedure for discipline, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation.
• C7.03. If a two thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to transfer to another Lutheran church body, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation. Before this congregation takes action to transfer to another Lutheran church body, it shall consult with representatives of the Oregon Synod.
• C7.04. If a two thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to become independent or relate to a non Lutheran church body, title to property of this congregation shall continue to reside in this congregation only with the consent of the Synod Council. The Synod Council, after consultation with this congregation by the established synodical process, may give approval to the request to become independent or to relate to a non Lutheran church body, in which case title shall remain with the majority of this congregation. If the Synod Council fails to give such approval, title shall remain with those members who desire to continue as a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Chapter 8 - MEMBERSHIP

• C8.01. Members of this congregation shall be those baptized persons on the roll of this congregation at the time that this constitution is adopted and those who are admitted thereafter and who have declared and maintain their membership in accordance with the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws.
• C8.02. Members shall be classified as follows:

a. Baptized members are those persons who have been received by the Sacrament of Holy Baptism in this congregation, or, having been previously baptized in the name of the Triune God, have been received by certificate of transfer from other Lutheran congregations or by affirmation of faith.

b. Confirmed members are baptized persons who have been confirmed in this congregation, those who have been received by adult baptism or by transfer as confirmed members from other Lutheran congregations, or baptized persons received by affirmation of faith.

c. Voting members are confirmed members. Such confirmed members, during the current or preceding calendar year, shall have communed in this congregation and shall have made a contribution of record to this congregation. Members of this congregation who have satisfied these basic standards shall have the privilege of voice and vote at every regular and special meeting of the congregation.

d. Associate members are persons holding membership in other [Lutheran] [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:

a. make regular use of the means of grace, both Word and sacraments;

b. live a Christian life in accordance with the Word of God and the teachings of the Lutheran church; and.

c. support the work of this congregation, the synod, and the churchwide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through contributions lf their time, abilities, and financial support as biblical stewards..

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

a. death;

b. resignation;

c. transfer or release;

d. disciplinary action by the Congregation Council; or

e. removal from the roll due to inactivity as defined in the bylaws.

Such persons who have been removed from the roll of members shall remain persons for whom the Church has a continuing pastoral concern.

Chapter 9 - THE PASTOR

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

C9.01.01. When a pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee of voting members shall be appointed by the Congregation Council and receive direction from the Congregation Council about the process and report to the Congregation Council. The term of office will terminate at the installation of the newly elected pastor.

• C9.02. Only a member of the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or a candidate for the roster of ordained ministers who has been recommended for the congregation by the synodical bishop may be called as a pastor of this congregation.
• C9.03. Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America,

a. Every ordained minister shall:

1) preach the Word;

2) administer the sacraments;

3) conduct public worship;

4) provide pastoral care; and

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

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

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

2) supervise all schools and organizations of this congregation;

3) install regularly elected members of the Congregation Council; and 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 churchwide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and of the Oregon 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(s) being served by the ordained minister due to local conditions, the bishop of the synod may temporarily suspend the pastor from service in the congregation(s) without prejudice and with pay provided through a joint synodical and churchwide fund and with housing provided by the congregation(s).

• C9.06. At a time of pastoral vacancy, an interim pastor shall be appointed by the bishop of the synod with the consent of this congregation or the Congregation Council.
• C9.07. During the period of service, an interim pastor shall have the rights and duties in the congregation of a regularly called pastor and may delegate the same in part to a supply pastor with the consent of the bishop of the synod and this congregation or Congregation Council. The interim pastor and any ordained pastor providing assistance shall refrain from exerting influence in the selection of a pastor.
• C9.08. This congregation shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to a former pastor before calling a successor. A pastor shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to this congregation before beginning service in a call to another congregation of employment in another ministry setting related to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
• 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.
• C9.11. With the approval of the bishop of the synod, the congregation may depart from *C9.05.a. and call a pastor for a specific term. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose and conditions involved. Prior to the completion of a term, the bishop or a designated representative of the bishop shall meet with the pastor and representatives of the congregation for a review of the call. Such a call may also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of *C9.05.a.
• C9.12. The pastor of this congregation:

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

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

c. shall become a member of this congregation upon receipt and acceptance of the letter of call. In a parish of multiple congregations, the pastor shall hold membership in one of the congregations.

• C9.13. The pastor(s) shall submit a report of his or her ministry to the bishop of the synod at least 90 days prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.
• C9.14 The parochial records of this congregation shall be maintained by the pastor and shall remain the property of the congregation. The secretary of this congregation shall attest in writing to the bishop of this synod that such records have been placed in his of her hands in good order by a departing pastor before the installation of that pastor in another field of labor of the granting by the synod of retired status to the pastor.

C9.15. If this congregation unites with one or more other congregations in calling a pastor, the Congregation Councils of all congregations in the parish shall meet jointly and agree on a single nomination for election, the balloting to be done separately in each congregation. Two thirds of all the votes cast, and a majority of the votes cast in each congregation, shall be required for election. The joint church council shall issue the call. C9.16. If this congregation receives current financial assistance from the Division for Mission in North America of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, approval of that division must be secured prior to the nomination of a pastor and the amount of compensation offered.

Chapter 10 - CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

C10.01. The annual meeting of the congregation shall be held on a date and time as stated in the bylaws.

C.10.01.01 The annual meeting of this congregation shall be held on the last or next to last Sunday of the month of January; or, in the event of an emergency, at a time to be determined by the Congregation Council, said emergency and time to be given in writing to all voting members pursuant to Chapter 10.03.

C10.02. A special Congregational Meeting may be called by the pastor or the Congregation Council, and shall be called upon the written request of one tenth of the 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 congregational meetings 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. C10.04. All voting members shall be eligible to vote in all congregational meetings. C10.05. A minimum of 10% of the voting members of the congregation shall constitute a quorum. C10.06 Voting by proxy or by absentee ballot shall not be permitted. C10.07 All actions approved by the congregation shall be by majority vote of those voting members present and voting, except as otherwise provided in this constitution or by state law.

C10.07.01. The request of any voting member for a secret ballot to be taken on an issue on which a vote is to be held shall be granted.

C10.08. Robert's Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of all meetings of this congregation.

Chapter 11 - OFFICERS

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

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

b. Officers of this congregation shall be voting members of the congregation.

c. Officers of this congregation, with possible exception of the treasurer, shall serve similar offices of the Congregation Council and, with possible exception of the treasurer, shall be voting members of the Congregation Council.

d. The president, vice president and secretary shall be chosen by the Congregation Council from within the membership of the Congregation Council. The treasurer if not a member of the council shall have voice but not vote in its meetings.

C11.01.01 The secretary shall keep accurate minutes of all meetings of the congregation and of the Congregation Council in a volume provided by the congregation, which shall be preserved permanently in its archives.

C11.01.02 The financial secretary, if such an office is activated, shall receive and keep records of all income from contributing members and other sources.

C11.01.03. The treasurer shall keep the books of account of the congregation and shall receive from the financial secretary all funds and disburse them on proper orders, making monthly remittance of benevolence receipts to the treasurer of the synod.

C11.01.04 The treasurer and the financial secretary shall make written report of all financial transactions to the Congregation Council monthly and to the congregation, together with a satisfactory audit, at its annual meetings. All financial officers shall give corporate surety, in amounts determined by the Congregation Council, for which the premiums shall be paid by the congregation. Fidelity coverage provided by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be deemed a fulfillment of this requirement.

C11.02. The Congregation Council, at its first meeting in each congregational year, shall elect its officers and they shall be the officers of the congregation. The officers shall serve for one year or until their successors are elected. C11.03. No officer shall hold more than one office at a time. C11.04. The president shall preside at meetings of the congregation and the Congregation Council. In the event of the president's inability to serve, the vice president shall preside.

Chapter 12 - CONGREGATION COUNCIL

C12.01. The voting membership of the Congregation Council shall consist of the pastor(s) and not more than twelve, nor fewer than nine, members of the congregation. Any voting member may be elected, subject only to the limitation on the length of continuous service permitted in that office. The member’s place on the Congregation Council shall at once be declared vacant if the member a)ceases to be a voting member of this congregation, or b)is absent from four successive regular meetings of the Congregation Council without excuse. C12.02. Members of the Congregation Council, except the pastor(s), shall be elected by a majority vote at the annual meeting of the congregation for a term of three years. Terms shall begin at the close of the annual meeting at which members are elected and no member may serve more than two full terms consecutively. Should the required number of members not be elected by a majority vote on the first or second ballot, the third and subsequent ballots shall consist of those candidates receiving the most votes, which number shall be limited to those nominees representing two times the number of remaining vacancies. Newly elected Congregational Council members shall be installed by the pastor at the next public worship service following election.

C12.02.01 A committee to nominate candidates for the Congregation Council shall be composed of persons chosen from among the voting members of the congregation, one person being chosen by each of the standing committees. Candidates nominated should be representative of the voting members of the total congregation.

C12.03. Should a member’s place on the Congregational Council be declared vacant, the Congregational Council shall elect, by majority vote, a successor until the next annual meeting of the congregation. C12.04 The Congregation Council shall have general oversight of the life and activities of the congregation, and in particular its worship life, to the end that everything be done in accordance with the Word of God and the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The duties of the Congregation Council shall include the following:

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

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

c. To oversee and provide for the administration of the 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 churchwide units of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as well as cooperation with other congregations, both Lutheran and non Lutheran, subject to established policies of the synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

i. To recommend and encourage the use of program resources produced or approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and to seek to introduce the church's periodicals and books of family devotion into the homes of the congregation.

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

C12.05. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the financial and property matters of this congregation.

a. The Congregation Council shall be the board of trustees of the 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 Oregon, except as otherwise provided herein.

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

c. The Congregation Council shall prepare an annual budget for adoption by this congregation, shall supervise the expenditure of funds in accordance therewith following its adoption, and may incur obligations more than 1% of the budget in excess of the anticipated receipts only after approval by a Congregation Meeting. The budget shall include the congregation's full indicated share in support of the wider ministry being carried on in partnership with the synod and churchwide organization.

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

e. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the congregation's investments and its total insurance program. It shall provide for annual review of all accounts of the congregation.

C12.06. The Congregation Council shall see that the provisions of this constitution, its bylaws, continuing resolutions, and resolutions are carried out. C12.07. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the employment and supervision of the salaried lay workers of the congregation. C12.08. The Congregation Council shall elect voting members in the congregation as delegates in the permitted numbers to the conventions of the synod and the meetings of the cluster to which this congregation belongs. The expenses incurred by such delegates in connection with their attendance, except for expenses reimbursed by the synod, shall be paid by the congregation. C12.09. The Congregation Council shall normally meet once a month. Special meetings may be called by the pastor or the president, and shall be called 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. C12.11. The Congregation Council shall submit a comprehensive report to the congregation at the annual meeting. C12.12. A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of a majority of the members of the Congregation Council, including the pastor or interim pastor, except when the pastor or 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 of the meeting. Chronic or repeated absence of the pastor of interim pastor who has refused approval of the agenda of a subsequent regular or special meeting shall not preclude action by the Congregation Council, following consultation with the synodical bishop.

Chapter 13 - CONGREGATION COMMITTEES

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

C13.01.01. The Executive Committee shall consist of the pastors, president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and financial secretary of the congregation. The Executive Committee will function under authority of the Congregation Council on issues delegated to it by the Congregation Council.

C13.02. The pastor of this congregation shall be ex officio a member of all committees and boards of the congregation. C13.03. Other committees of this congregation may be formed, as the need arises, by decision of the Congregation Council.

C13.03.01. At its first meeting in each congregational year, the Congregation Council shall appoint as many standing committees as the local and wider concerns of the congregation shall require. Each such (standing) committee shall be composed of one or more members of the council and, in addition, other voting members of the congregation. Although appointed by and responsible to the Congregation Council, these committees shall be recognized as representative of the interest of, and performing essential services for, the congregation as a whole. The pastor(s) shall have voice and vote in all committees.

C13.04. Duties of committees of this congregation shall be specified in the bylaws.

C13.04.01. Except as stipulated in the following Bylaws, on specific duties of committees, the duties of all committees shall be assigned by the Congregation Council, along with such instructions as in its judgment are in the best interests of the congregation. All actions of committees shall be subject to review by the council. The vice president of the church shall be responsible for support and coordination of the standing committees, and for encouraging church members to volunteer for committee service.

C13.04.02. There shall be a Finance Committee, of which the treasurer(s) shall be a member (members) ex officio. It shall prepare a draft budget for the succeeding year, including this congregation's full indicated share in support of the wider ministry being carried on in its behalf by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the synod, and shall submit such draft budget to the Congregation Council for its action and later presentation to a congregational meeting. The committee shall exercise oversight of all the financial affairs of the congregation to make sure that they 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. It shall, subject to the approval of the Congregation Council, be responsible for the congregation’s investments and its total insurance program. It shall also provide for the annual review of the accounts of the treasurer(s) and the financial secretary, if there be one, as well as of the accounts of the schools and organizations within the congregation.

C13.04.03. There shall be a Church Property Committee. This committee shall see to the proper maintenance and protection of all property of the congregation, and shall take care that the same is kept in good repair.

C13.04.04. There shall be a Personnel Committee, responsible to the Congregation Council, whose duties are: to assist the council in preparing current job descriptions for all salaried staff; to establish, revise, and maintain general personnel policies, such as hiring and evaluation policies and procedures, termination, benefits, and salary schedule; to provide for an annual evaluation of all salaried staff; and to review personnel needs and recommend changes to the Congregation Council.

C13.04.05. There shall be a Stewardship Committee, of which the financial secretary shall be a member ex officio. It shall be the function of this committee to evoke and promote the expression of Christian faith in daily living; to teach the Christian use of money; to diffuse knowledge of the congregation's local, national, and worldwide ministries and to lead all its members to higher levels of proportionate giving for the Lord's work. This committee shall also be responsible for the annual Every Member Visit or other congregational efforts which lead to informed and grateful giving.

C13.04.06. There shall be a Communications Committee. This committee shall function to provide channels for communications internally within the congregation and externally outside the congregation. Channels for communication may include pictorial directories of church membership, Sunday announcements, email lists, newsletters, website, advertisements, press releases, community bulletin boards, signs, banners, and electronic signs.

C13.04.07.. There shall be a Discipling Ministries Committee. This committee shall have general oversight for the organization of all activities and planning for Christian Education and Youth Ministry.

a. For Christian Education, this committee in association with the pastor(s), shall oversee the conduct and promotion of the school(s) and the activities of all organizations within the congregation. It shall encourage the use of teaching and worship materials published or approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and seek to introduce the church's periodicals and books of family devotion into the homes of the congregation. One of the primary aims of the Committee on Christian Education shall be to bring the call to the ministry of the Gospel and to other full time church vocations to the attention of the congregation.

b. For Youth Ministry, this committee shall assist and support the entire youth ministry of the congregation, except the catechetical ministry. It shall help establish policy, set long and short range goals, and help plan the yearly programs for the senior high youth. It shall also provide leadership for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade youth activities.

C13.04.08. There shall be a Outreach Ministry Committee. This committee shall have general oversight for the organization of all activities and planning for Global Missions, Social Ministry, and Evangelism.

a. For Global Missions, this committee shall publicize and promote the mission outreach of the ELCA; encourage congregational knowledge of and support for mission activities and programs of the congregation, both Lutheran and ecumenical; and to respond faithfully to our Lord's commission: "go, and make disciples."

b. For Social Ministry, this committee shall be to extend Christian compassion and helpfulness to the ill, the aged, the orphaned, the underprivileged, the imprisoned, and, in general, to persons of all ages in need of aid in body and soul. It shall strive to enlist in these efforts as many as possible of the individual members and organizations of the congregation. This committee shall further have the duty to study social conditions, primarily in the local community, in order to bring the cleansing and healing light of Christian truth to bear upon critical problems through thoughtful Christian discussion of facts and issues. It shall lay before the Congregation Council proposals for action issuing from such study and discussion.

c. For Evangelism, this committee shall stimulate and lead all members of the congregation in continuous and, from time to time, concerted endeavors to reawaken the spiritually indifferent and to reach others, who are as yet unwon, with the Gospel and attach them to Christ's Church. To this end, the committee shall devote itself to deepening spiritual life and shall periodically study the congregation in the context of its surrounding community.

C13.04.09. There shall be a Worship and Music Ministry Committee. It shall assist the Congregation Council in seeing that the services of God's house are conducted regularly and in accordance with the liturgy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, that competent ushers are recruited and trained, and that hymnals and other devotional materials are provided and properly cared for. This committee shall supervise, and strive to advance the welfare and effective service of, the choirs of the congregation. It shall arrange for the care of paraments, vestments, and musical instruments and, in consultation with the pastor(s), the organist, and the choir director(s), shall furnish music supplies appropriate for use in the worship of a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

C13.04.10. There shall be a Caring Ministry Committee. This committee, in close association with the pastor(s), shall oversee congregation visitation and parish life. For Visitation, this committee shall caring for the ill, the shut-in, the aged, and the concerned in need of visitation by pastor(s) or laity. For Parish Life, this committee shall help strengthen human relationships within Grace Church. General strategy to accomplish this goal may include, for example: retreats (camping, family, marriage, etc.), seminars, salmon bakes, potlucks, funeral and wedding hospitality, and small group Bible studies.

Chapter 14 - ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE CONGREGATION

C14.01. All organizations within the congregation shall exist to aid it in ministering to its members and to all whom it can reach with the Gospel of Christ. As outgrowths and expressions of the congregation's life, the organizations are subject to its oversight and direction. This organization at its meetings, or the Congregation Council, shall determine their policies, guide their activities and receive reports concerning their membership, work, and finances. C14.02. Special interest groups, other than those of the official organizations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, may be organized only after authorization has been given by the Congregation Council and specified in a continuing resolution.

Chapter 15 - DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS AND ADJUDICATION

• C15.01. Denial of the Christian faith as described in this constitution, conduct grossly unbecoming a member of the Church of Christ, or persistent trouble-making in this congregation are sufficient cause for discipline of a member. Prior to disciplinary action, reconciliation will be attempted following Matthew 18:15-17, proceeding through these successive steps: a) private admonition by the pastor, b) admonition by the pastor in the presence of two or three witnesses, and c) citation to appear before the Congregation Council. If, for any reason, the pastor is unable to administer the admonitions required by a. and b. hereof, the president (if not the pastor) or vide 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. If discipline against a member proceeds beyond counseling and admonition by the pastor, charges against the accused member(s) that are specific and in writing shall be prepared by member(s) of the cong¬regation who shall sign the charges as the accuser(s). The written charges shall be filed with the pastor, who shall advise the Congregation Council of the need to issue a written citation to the accused and the accusers that specifies the time and place of the hearing before the Congregation Council. The written charges shall accompany the written citation to the accused. A member charged with the offense shall appear before the Congregation Council after having received a written citation at least ten days prior to the meeting. If the member charged with the offense fails to appear at the scheduled hearing, the Congregation Council may proceed with the hearing and may pass judgment in the member’s absence.
• C15.03. Members of the Congregation Council who participate in the preparation of the written charges or who present evidence or testimony in the hearing before the Congregation Council are disqualified from voting upon the question of the guilt of the accused member. Should the allegations be sustained by a two-thirds majority vote of the members of the Congregation Council who are not disqualified but who are present and voting, and renewed admonition prove ineffectual, the council shall impose one of the following disciplinary actions:

a. censure before the council or congregation;

b. suspension from membership for a definite period of time; or

c. exclusion from membership in this congregation.

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

• C15.04. The member against whom disciplinary action has been taken by the Congregation Council shall have the right to appeal the decision to the Synod Council. Such right may not be abridged and the decision of the Synod Council shall be final.
• C15.05. Disciplinary actions may be reconsidered and revoked by the Congregation Council upon receipt of a) evidence that injustice has been done or b) evidence of repentance and amendment.
• C15.06 For disciplinary actions in this congregation, “due process” shall be observed as specified in 20.41.04. 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 Congregation Council has previously heard and decided, unless so ordered by the Synod Council after an appeal.
• C15.10. Adjudication
• C15.11. When there is disagreement among factions within this congregation on a substantive issue that cannot be resolved by the parties, members of this congregation shall have access to the synodical bishop for consultation after informing the chair of the Congregation Council of their intent. If the consultation fails to resolve the issue(s), the Consultation Committee of the synod shall consider the matter. If the Consultation Committee of the synod shall fail to resolve the issue(s), the matter shall be referred to the Synod Council, whose decision shall be final.

Chapter 16 - BYLAWS

• C16.01. This congregation may adopt bylaws. No bylaw may conflict with this constitution.
• C16.02. Bylaws may be adopted or amended at any legally called meeting of this congregation with a quorum present by a majority vote of those voting members present and voting.
• C16.03. Changes to the bylaws may be proposed by any voting member provided, however, that such additions or amendments be submitted in writing to the Congregation Council at least 60 days before a regular or special Congregation Meeting called for that purpose and that the Congregation Council notify the congregation’s members by mail of the proposal with the council’s 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. Unless provision *C17.04. is applicable, those sections of this constitution that are not required, in accord with the Model Constitution for Congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, may be amended in the following manner. Amendments may be proposed by at least five (5) voting members or by the Congregation Council. Proposals must be filed in writing with the Congregation Council 60 days before formal consideration by this congregation at its regular or special Congregational Meeting called for that purpose. The Congregation Council shall notify the congregation’s members by mail of the proposal with the council’s recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the meeting.
• C17.02. An amendment to this constitution, proposed under *C17.01., shall:

a. be approved at a legally called Congregation 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 that result from the processes provided in *C17.01. and *C17.02. shall be sent by the secretary of this congregation to the synod. The amendment shall become effective within 120 days from the date of receipt of the notice by the synod unless the synod informs this congregation that the amendment is in conflict with the constitution and the bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or the constitution of the Oregon Synod.
• C17.04. This constitution may be amended to bring any section into conformity with a section or sections, either required or not required, of the Model Constitution for Congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America – as most recently amended by the Churchwide Assembly – by a simple majority vote of those voting members present and voting at any legally called meeting of the congregation without presentation at a prior meeting of the congregation, provided that the Congregation Council has submitted by mail notice to the congregation of such an amendment or amendments, together with the council’s recommendations, at least 30 days prior to the meeting. Upon the request of three (3) voting members of the congregation, the Congregation Council shall submit such notice. Following the adoption of an amendment, the secretary of the congregation shall submit a copy thereof to the synod. Such provisions shall become effective immediately following a vote of approval.

Chapter 18 - CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS

• C18.01. The congregation in a legally called meeting of the Congregation Council may enact continuing resolutions. Such continuing resolutions may not conflict with the constitution or bylaws of this congregation.
• C18.02. Continuing resolutions shall be enacted or amended by a majority vote of a meeting of the congregation or a two-thirds vote of all voting members of the Congregation Council.

Chapter 19 - INDEMINFICATION

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

Chapter 20 - PARISH AUTHORIZATION

• C20.01. This congregation may unite in partnership with one or more other congregations recognized by the synod named in *C6.01. to form a parish. Except as provided in *C20.02. and *C20.03., a written agreement, developed in consultation with the synod and approved by the voting members of each congregation participating in the parish, shall specify the powers and responsibilities that have been delegated to a Parish Council.
• C20.02. Whenever a letter of call is being recommended for extension to an ordained minister of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or a candidate for the roster of ordained ministers who has been recommended to the congregation by the synodical bishop to serve the congregations of a parish, such letter of call shall be first approved by a two-thirds vote at congregational meetings of each of the congregations forming the parish. If any congregation of the parish should fail to approve extending this call, the other congregation(s) in the same parish shall have the right to terminate the parish arrangement.
• C20.03. Any one of the congregations of a parish may terminate the call of a pastor as provided in †S14.13.d. of the synodical constitution of the synod named in *C6.01. In such case, the other congregation(s) in the same parish shall have the right to terminate the parish arrangement.