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Constitution


Updated & Approved November 25, 2001

CONSTITUTION OF
LEBANON EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
LEBANON CHURCH, VIRGINIA

*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

C1.01The name of this congregation shall be Lebanon Evangelical Lutheran Church.
C1.02For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the congregation of Lebanon Evangelical Lutheran Church is hereinafter designated as "this congregation."

Chapter 2.
CONFESSION OF FAITH

*C2.01This congregation confesses the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
*C2.02This 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.
*C2.03This 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.
*C2.04This congregation accepts the Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of the faith of this congregation.
*C2.05This 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.
*C2.06This 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.
*C2.07This 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

*C3.01All 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.
*C3.02The 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

*C4.01The 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.
*C4.02To 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.
*C4.03To 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 churchwide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
  9. Foster and participate in ecumenical relationships consistent with churchwide policy.
*C4.04This 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.
*C4.05This congregation shall, from time to time, adopt a mission statement which will provide specific direction for its programs.

Chapter 5. 
POWERS OF THE CONGREGATION

*C5.01The powers of this congregation are those necessary to fulfill its purpose.
*C5.02The powers of this congregation are vested in the Congregation Meeting called and conducted as provided in this constitution and bylaws.
*C5.03Only 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:
  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 call of associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers 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. authorize the trustees to hold title to the property;
  7. use its property for any and all activities consistent with its purpose;
  8. authorize, by congregational meeting, the trustees to sell, mortgage, lease, transfer, or otherwise dispose of its property by any lawful means;
  9. elect its Congregation Council, and require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the constitution, bylaws, and continuing resolutions; and
  10. terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as provided in Chapter 6.
*C5.04This 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 Virginia Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Chapter 6.
CHURCH AFFILIATION

*C6.01This congregation shall be an interdependent part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or its successor, and of the Virginia Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. This congregation is subject to the discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
*C6.02This 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.
*C6.03This 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 call 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 and with the constitution of the synod.
*C6.04Affiliation 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.
*C6.05This 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 this 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 the 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.
  7. 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.
*C6.06If 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 Virginia Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
*C7.02If 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.
*C7.03If 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 Virginia Synod.
*C7.04If 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

*C8.01Members 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.
*C8.02Members 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.
*C8.03All applications for confirmed membership shall be submitted to and shall require the approval of the Congregation Council.
*C8.04It 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, synod, and the churchwide organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through contributions of their time, abilities, and financial support as biblical stewards
.
*C8.05Membership 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. 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.
*C9.02.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,
  1. Every ordained minister shall:
    1. preach the Word;
    2. administer the sacraments;
    3. conduct public worship;
    4. provide pastoral care; and
  2. speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God's love for the world.
  3. 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
    4. with the council, administer discipline.
  4. 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 Virginia 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.
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. If, following the appointment of the committee described in *C9.05.b. or d., it should become apparent that the pastoral office cannot be conducted effectively in the congregation(s) being served by the ordained minister due to local conditions, the bishop of the synod may temporarily suspend the pastor from service in the congregation(s) without prejudice and with pay provided through a joint synodical and churchwide fund and with housing provided by the congregation(s).
*C9.06.At a time of pastoral vacancy, an interim pastor shall be appointed by the bishop of the synod with the consent of this congregation or the Congregation Council.
*C9.07.During the period of service, an interim pastor shall have the rights and duties in the congregation of a regularly called pastor and may delegate the same in part to a supply pastor with the consent of the bishop of the synod and this congregation or Congregation Council. The interim pastor and any ordained pastor providing assistance shall refrain from exerting influence in the selection of a pastor.
*C9.08.This congregation shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to a former pastor before calling a successor. A pastor shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to this congregation.
*C9.09.When a pastor is called to serve in company with another pastor or pastors, the privileges and responsibilities of each pastor shall be specified in documents to accompany the call and to be drafted in consultation involving the pastors, the Congregation Council, and the bishop of the synod. As occasion requires, the documents may be revised through a similar consultation.
*C9.11.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:
  1. shall keep accurate parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members dismissed, or members excluded from the congregation;
  2. shall submit a summary of such statistics annually to the synod; and
  3. 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.
C9.20.Ecumenical pastoral ministry
C9.21.Under special circumstances, subject to the approval of the synodical bishop and the concurrence of this congregation, and ordained minister of a church body with which the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America officially has established a relationship of full communion may serve temporarily under contract as pastor of this congregation.

Chapter 10.
CONGREGATION MEETING

C10.01.The annual meeting of this congregation shall be held at a time specified in the bylaws.
C10.02.A special Congregation Meeting may be called by the pastor, the Congregation Council, or the vice president of this congregation, and shall be called by the president of the congregation upon the written request of ten percent 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 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.
C10.04.25% of the 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, and treasurer.
  1. Duties of the officers shall be specified in the bylaws.
  2. The officers shall be voting members of the congregation.
  3. Officers of this congregation shall serve similar offices of the Congregation Council and shall be voting members of the Congregation Council.
  4. If the Congregation Council elects its officers, the vice president and secretary shall be selected from the elected membership of the Congregation Council.
C11.02.The pastor shall be ex officio president of the congregation and the Congregation Council. The Congregation Council shall elect by written ballot the other officers of the congregation who shall serve for one year or until their successors are elected. Their terms shall begin on January 1 and end on December 31.
C11.03No 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 with the exception of the treasurer, who may hold unlimited terms.

Chapter 12.
CONGREGATION COUNCIL AND TRUSTEES

C12.01.The voting membership of the Congregation Council shall consist of the pastor(s) and not more than seven (7) members of the congregation. Any voting member of the congregation may be elected, subject only to the limitation on the length of continuous service permitted in that office. A member's place on the Congregation Council shall be declared vacant if the member a) ceases to be a voting member of this congregation or b) is absent from four successive regular meetings of the Congregation Council without cause. Consistent with the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the congregation may adopt procedures for the removal of a member of the Congregation Council in other circumstances.
C12.02.The members of the Congregation Council except the pastor(s) shall be elected at a legally called meeting of the congregation during the month of November. Their term of office shall be for three (3) years, with the term of office beginning on January 1 and ending on December 31. Such members shall be eligible to serve no more than two full terms consecutively. Newly elected Congregation Council members shall be installed at worship the Sunday prior to the date they assume office.
C12.03.Should a member's place on the Congregation Council be declared vacant, the Congregation Council shall elect, by majority vote, a successor until the next annual meeting. Individuals who have served less than one-half of a regular term shall be eligible for nomination and possible election to a full term.
C12.04.The Congregation Council shall have general oversight of the life and activities of this congregation, and in particular its worship life, to the end that everything be done in accordance with the Word of God and the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The duties of the Congregation Council shall include the following:
  1. 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.
  2. To seek to involve all members of this congregation in worship, learning, witness, service, and support.
  3. To oversee and provide for the administration of this congregation to enable it to fulfill its functions and perform its mission.
  4. To maintain supportive relationships with the pastor(s) and staff and help them annually to evaluate the fulfillment of their calling or employment.
  5. To be examples individually and corporately of the style of life and ministry expected of all baptized persons.
  6. To promote a congregational climate of peace and goodwill, and, as differences and conflicts arise, to endeavor to foster mutual understanding.
  7. To arrange for pastoral service during the sickness or absence of the pastor.
  8. To emphasize partnership with the synod and churchwide organization 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.
  9. To recommend and encourage the use of program resources produced or approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
  10. 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.
  1. The Congregation Council shall be the administrative board of this congregation, and as such shall be responsible for maintaining and protecting its property and the management of its business and fiscal affairs.
  2. The Congregation Council shall not have the authority to authorize the trustees to buy, sell, or encumber real property unless specifically authorized to do so by a meeting of the congregation.
  3. The Congregation Council may enter into contracts of up to $2000 for items not included in the budget.
  4. 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 of more than $2000 in excess of the anticipated receipts only after 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 churchwide organization.
  5. 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.
  6. The Congregation Council shall be responsible for this congregation's investments and its total insurance program.
C12.06.The Congregation Council shall see that the provisions of this constitution, its bylaws, and the continuing resolutions are carried out.
C12.07.The Congregation Council shall provide for an annual review of the membership roster.
C12.08.The Congregation Council shall be responsible for the employment and supervision of the salaried lay workers of this congregation.
C12.09.The Congregation Council shall submit a comprehensive report to this congregation at the annual meeting.
C12.11.The Congregation Council shall normally meet once a month. Special meetings may be called by the pastor or the vice president, and shall be called by the pastor (president) or vice 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 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 the agenda for a particular regular or special meeting, which shall be the only business considered at that 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 Congregation Council, following consultation with the synodical bishop.
C12.13.The property of the congregation shall be held in trust by three (3) trustees elected by the congregation and appointed by the court according to the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
C12.14.Trustees shall serve for a term of five (5) years, without limit as to number of terms. However, the office shall be declared vacant upon the death, resignation, or failure to continue as a voting member on the part of the person serving as trustee. A trustee shall act in accordance with the direction of the congregation and, if the trustee does not do so, the position shall be declared vacant.
C12.15.When there is a vacancy in the office of trustee, the congregation shall elect a person who is a voting member and who is of legal age and the officers shall recommend to the court that the person so elected be appointed trustee.

Chapter 13.
CONGREGATION COMMITTEES

C13.01.The officers of this congregation and the pastor shall constitute the Executive Committee.
C13.02.A Nominating Committee of four (4) voting members of this congregation, two of whom, if possible, shall be outgoing members of the Congregation Council, shall be elected at the annual meeting for a term of one year. Members of the Nominating Committee are not eligible for consecutive reelection.
C13.03.An Audit Committee of three (3) voting members shall be elected by the Congregation Council. Audit Committee members shall not be members of the Congregation Council. Term of office shall be three years, with one member elected each year. Members shall be eligible for reelection.
C13.04.A Mutual Ministry Committee (in the absence of a mutual ministry committee, the duties shall be fulfilled by the executive committee) shall be appointed jointly by the vice president and the pastor. Term of office shall be two (2) years, with three (3) members to be appointed each successive year.
C13.05.When a pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee of six (6) voting members shall be elected by this congregation, or if in a parish setting, three (3) members from each congregation. Term of office will terminate upon installation of the newly called pastor.
C13.06.Other committees of this congregation may be formed, as the need arises, by decision of the Congregation Council.
C13.07.Duties of committees of this congregation shall be specified in the continuing resolutions.

Chapter 14.
ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE CONGREGATION

C14.01.All organizations within this congregation shall exist to aid it in ministering to the members of this congregation and to all persons who can be reached with the Gospel of Christ. As outgrowths and expressions of this congregation's life, the organizations are subject to its oversight and direction. This congregation at its meeting shall determine their policies, guide their activities, and receive reports concerning their membership, work, and finances.
C14.02.Special interest groups, other than those of the official organizations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, may be organized only after 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 vice president shall administer such admonitions.
*C15.02.The process for discipline of a member of the congregation shall be governed as prescribed by the chapter on discipline in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. A member charged with the offense shall appear before the Congregation Council 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 Congregation Council may proceed with the hearing and may pass judgment in the member's absence.
*C15.03Members 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:
  1. censure before the council or congregation;
  2. suspension from membership for a definite period of time; or
  3. 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 20.41.03 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 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 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 ten (10) voting members or by the Congregation Council. Proposals must be filed in writing with the Congregation Council 60 days before formal consideration by this congregation at its regular or special meeting called for that purpose. The Congregation Council shall notify the members of the proposal with the council's recommendations at least 30 days in advance of the meeting.
*C17.02.A proposed amendment to this constitution shall:
  1. be approved at a legally called meeting according to this constitution by a majority vote of those present and voting;
  2. be ratified without change at the next annual meeting by a two-thirds majority vote of those present and voting; and
  3. have the effective date included in the resolution and noted in the constitution.
*C17.03Any 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 Virginia Synod of the ELCA.
*C17.04.Whenever the Model Constitution for Congregations is amended by the Churchwide Assembly, this constitution may be amended to reflect any such amendment by a simple majority vote at any subsequent meeting of the congregation without presentation at a prior meeting of the congregation, provided that the Congregation Council has submitted by mail notice to the congregation of such an amendment or amendments at least 30 days prior to the meeting. Following the adoption of an amendment, the secretary of the congregation shall submit a copy thereof to the synod, consistent with *C17.03.

Chapter 18.
CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS

*C18.01.The Congregation Council may enact continuing resolutions. 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 two-thirds vote of all voting members of the Congregation Council.

Chapter 19.
INDEMNIFICATION

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

Chapter 20.
PARISH AUTHORIZATION

*C20.01This 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.
*C20.02Whenever 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.
*C20.03Any one of the congregations of a parish may terminate the call of a pastor as provided in S14.13.d. of the Synod 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.

Approved November 12, 2000

BYLAWS
TO THE CONSTITUTION OF
LEBANON EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

C4.05.01Annually, the Congregation Council and the committees of the congregation shall review the congregation's "Statement of Purpose" as outlined in Chapter 4 of the Constitution and evaluate their own faithfulness and the faithfulness of the congregation as a whole to that "Statement of Purpose."
C4.05.02The Congregation Council shall review the congregation's "Statement of Purpose" at the beginning of each year as it relates to the "Mission Statement" for the next year.
C4.05.03Mission Statement
  1. Our mission is to love God, to love our neighbor, to grow in faith, and to make disciples.
  2. Our mission is based upon the following scripture passages:
    1. "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." Matthew 22:37-40
    2. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you." Matthew 28:19-20

MEMBERSHIP

C8.05.01Confirmed members who have not received Holy Communion and made a contribution of record for a period of two (2) years shall be classified as inactive. An inactive member shall be restored to the roll of voting members when he/she receives Holy Communion and makes a contribution of record to the congregation.
C8.05.02Membership in this congregation shall be terminated if a member remains on the inactive roll for a period of two (2) years. Prior to removal, member(s) shall be contacted by letter or visit.

THE PASTOR

C9.07.01During a pastoral vacancy:
  1. The interim pastor appointed by the bishop of the synod in accordance with C9.06 shall be regularly consulted by the congregation and vice president, who will keep the interim pastor informed regarding pastoral care needs in the congregation, important developments in the congregation's life, and all impending meetings of the congregation, the Congregation Council, and the executive committee.
  2. The congregation vice president, with the support of the full Congregation Council, shall be responsible for seeing that the worship services of the congregation are regularly held and properly conducted with qualified worship leaders chosen in consultation with the interim pastor or with the bishop of the synod. The joint council chairperson, with the support of the full joint council, shall be responsible in a parish setting.
  3. The congregation vice president with the support of the full Congregation Council shall be responsible for seeing that adequate pastoral care and ministry by the congregation is extended to all members in need.
  4. The congregation vice president with the support of the full Congregation Council shall be responsible for overseeing the daily administration of the congregation, the management of its resources, and the conduct of its ministry.
C9.05.01When the congregation has a pastor but the pastor is unavailable because of sickness or temporary absence from the parish:
  1. The congregation vice president shall assume the pastor's responsibility for the administration of the congregation.
  2. In the event of an emergency requiring pastoral services, the congregation vice president shall be responsible for contacting the conference dean or a neighboring pastor with whom prior arrangements have been made by the congregation's pastor to respond in such emergencies.
  3. If the pastor is unable to lead or to arrange for the leadership of worship services, the congregation vice president shall be responsible for seeing that such worship services are held and properly conducted.

CONGREGATION MEETING

C10.01.01The annual congregation meeting of this congregation shall be held on the second or third Sunday of November.
C10.01.02The minutes of the annual congregation meeting will be approved by the Congregation Council at its next regular meeting and highlighted in the congregation's newsletter.
C10.01.03A written annual report of the preceding year shall be distributed to all members of the congregation no later than the third Sunday in February.
  1. The report may include a report from the pastor, vice president, treasurer, financial secretary, building fund treasurer, Sunday school treasurer, and each standing committee and organization of the congregation.
  2. The report may also include:
    1. A list of new officers, council members, and representatives of the congregation;
    2. New rosters of congregational committees; and
    3. A current directory of members with addresses and telephone numbers.

OFFICERS

C11.01.01Duties of the president (pastor):
  1. To preside at all meetings of the congregation, the Congregation Council, and the executive committee; and with the vice president, set the agenda for such meetings.
C11.01.02Duties of the vice president:
  1. To preside at all meetings of the congregation, the Congregation Council, and the executive committee in the absence of the president;
  2. To carry out the additional duties defined in C9.07.01 and C9.05.01 during a pastoral vacancy or when the pastor is unavailable;
  3. To perform those particular executive committee administrative duties recommended by the president and which are approved by the Congregation Council; and
  4. To assist the president when requested.
C11.01.03Duties of the secretary:
  1. To keep accurate minutes of all meetings of the congregation, the Congregation Council, and the executive committee in a volume provided by the congregation, which shall be preserved permanently in it's archives;
  2. To write or answer official Congregation Council correspondence as directed by the Congregation Council, or the president;
  3. To notify, as directed by the president or vice president; individuals by telephone or in person as soon as possible of actions of the executive committee or the Congregation Council which affect their church duties; and
  4. To schedule meetings and notify people of time and place.
C11.01.04Duties of the treasurer:
  1. To keep the books of account of the congregation, which shall include a checking account and additional separate accounts as directed by the Congregation Council and set forth in the continuing resolutions;
  2. To disburse funds on properly authorized expenses, including monthly remittance of mission support receipts to the treasurer of the synod;
  3. To make a written report of all financial transactions to the Congregation Council monthly, and to the congregation, together with a satisfactory audit, annually;
  4. To attend Congregation Council meetings if necessary to afford advice on questions concerning church finances;
  5. To serve as ex officio member of the Finance Ministry;
  6. To keep the Finance Ministry chairperson periodically apprised of the status of the church accounts; and
  7. To provide the executive committee and the Finance Ministry chairperson a list of all church account numbers.
  8. The treasurer may be a member of the Congregation Council.

CONGREGATION COUNCIL

C12.11.01The Congregation Council shall meet regularly on the first Wednesday of each month.
C12.11.02The agenda for the regular meeting of the Congregation Council shall be established by the pastor and vice president.
C12.04.01Each member of the Congregation Council will be appointed to serve on at least one standing committee of the congregation.

CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS

C13.01.01The purpose of the Executive Committee shall be to enable the Congregation Council to perform its responsibilities in the most efficient manner by organizing materials for presentation to the Congregation Council, and by overseeing the enactment of Congregation Council decisions. The chairperson of the Executive Committee shall be the president (pastor).
C13.02.01The Nominating Committee shall select its own chairperson. The duties of the Nominating Committee shall be to:
  1. Seek out capable voting members of the congregation who are eligible and willing to serve on the Congregation Council or as trustee.
  2. Obtain permission from each person prior to submitting his/her name in nomination and gather biographical data of the person nominated.
  3. Submit its slate of nominations for election to the Congregation Council or to the position of trustee to the congregation at its annual meeting in November. The number of nominations shall include twice the number of nominees needed for each vacancy.
C13.03.01The Audit Committee shall annually review the financial records and accounts of the congregation's treasurers and all organizations of the congregation and submit a report of its audit to the Congregation Council at its February meeting. The Audit Committee shall select its own chairperson.
C13.04.01The duties of the Mutual Ministry Committee are:
  1. to be a support group and a source of counsel, constructive criticism, and helpful evaluation for the pastor;
  2. to help keep the pastor informed about conditions in the congregation and matters of concern;
  3. to be a group with which the pastor can share concerns, receive support and advice; and
  4. to serve as a source of interpretation of the work of the pastor to the rest of the congregation.
C13.07.01Each ministry area shall submit a proposed roster to the Congregation Council at its February meeting.
C13.07.02Each ministry area shall submit a monthly written or oral report of its activities to the Congregation Council.
C13.07.03Each ministry area shall submit a written report of its activities during the previous year to the Congregation Council at its January meeting for inclusion in the congregation's annual report.
C13.07.04The Education and Outreach Ministry shall oversee and promote learning opportunities for all ages; and shall encourage all members to share the news of Jesus Christ with neighbors and to live out their Christian calling to the world. Its duties shall include:
  1. Recruiting, equipping, and supporting leaders and teachers.
  2. Reviewing educational materials and encouraging the use of materials published or approved by the ELCA.
  3. Providing learning activities for children, youth, and adults.
  4. Fostering an attitude that learning is important for all ages.
  5. Recommending to Congregation Council a person for Superintendent of the Sunday School.
  6. Recruiting, equipping, and supporting members who will intentionally seek out others to share with them the gospel of Jesus Christ.
  7. Encourage all members to witness to their faith at every opportunity in daily life.
  8. Promoting the news of the congregation, its activities, and the Gospel message to the community.
  9. Welcoming those who attend activities and worship, and seeking to integrate new members into the life and programs of this congregation.
  10. Reaching out to inactive members and encouraging a renewed involvement in the life of the congregation.
C13.07.05The Fellowship and Social Concern Ministry shall oversee and promote the fellowship activities of the congregation, and the caring ministry to those in need within the congregation, community, and the larger world. Its duties shall include:
  1. Planning and coordinating opportunities for fellowship within the congregation's life and ministry.
  2. Supervising the use of the church kitchen and equipment.
  3. Providing coffee and refreshments on Sunday morning when needed, and for other special occasions.
  4. Increasing awareness and understanding of the needs of others within the congregation, community, and the world.
  5. Encourage all members to embody the gospel of Jesus Christ and to compassionately respond to those dealing with family crisis (illness, death, separation, divorce, retirement), ministering to the handicapped, and coping with addiction or abuse.
C13.07.06The Finance Ministry shall oversee all the financial affairs of the congregation. Its duties shall include:
  1. Preparing an annual congregational budget for the coming year, presenting it to the Congregation Council for its review and modification, and submiting the reviewed budget to the congregation at its annual meeting in November.
  2. Monitoring the income and expenses of the congregation with monthly reports to the Congregation Council, and alerting them of any problems and the recommending corrective actions.
  3. Providing for safe and orderly handling of the congregation's funds.
  4. Overseeing the congregation's investments and total insurance program.
  5. The Finance Ministry shall over see the Financial (Recording) Secretary whose duties are: keeping records of all contributions from members and other sources, and making annual reports of these contributions to members.
C13.07.07The Property Ministry shall oversee the maintenance, repair, and protection of all property of the congregation. Its duties shall include:
  1. Maintaining an annually updated inventory of all property owned by the congregation.
  2. Supervising all paid and volunteer workers engaged in construction, maintenance, cleaning, or repair of the congregation's property.
C13.07.08The Worship and Music Ministry shall oversee the worship life of the congregation. Its duties shall include:
  1. Assisting the Congregation Council in seeing that worship services are regularly held and properly conducted in accordance with the teaching and traditions of the Lutheran Church.
  2. Encouraging all members to attend worship regularly.
  3. Ensuring that appropriate worship resource materials are provided and receive proper care.
  4. Recommending and properly maintaining items required for worship, such as: paraments, vestments, and musical instruments.
  5. Recruiting and training acolytes, crucifers, lay assistants, lectors, and greeter/ushers.
  6. Supervising all musicians and choirs.
  7. Supervising the altar guild.
  8. Supervising of a nursery during the worship service, if needed.
  9. The pianist for the Sunday School shall be elected by majority vote of the Sunday School.
  10. Obtaining a speaker and organizing the worship for the Lebanon Church Community Cemetery Memorial Service - Service is held the 2nd Sunday in June at 2:00 PM.
C14.01.01There shall be an organization for the women of Lebanon known as Lebanon Women of the ELCA. This organization shall be affiliated with the national movement known as "Women of the ELCA" and shall abide by its guidelines.