| St. Paul Lutheran Church Church Constitution |
January 2006
PREAMBLE
It is the will of our Lord Jesus Christ that His disciples should preach the Gospel to the whole world ("Go ye
therefore and teach all nations" Matt. 28:19, also Acts 1:8, and Mark 16:16). That Christ's mission for His
church might be carried out according to His will, He has commanded that Christians unite in worship ("Not
forsaking the assemble of yourselves together as the manner of some by whom ye were called into the
fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord." I Cor. 1:9), and to serve the needs of all men in Christian love
("By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." John 13:35, also
Ephesians 4:7-16, Mark 10:42:44 and Galatians 6:10). Since Christians are also to administer the Office of
the Keys as His church and to maintain decency and order ("Let all things be done decently and in order." I
Cor.14:40, also John 20:21-23) in the church.
Therefore we, a number of Lutheran Christians living in and around "Chuckery", Ohio, accept and subscribe to
the following Constitution and Bylaws, in accordance with which all spiritual and material affairs of our
congregation shall be governed.
ARTICLE 1: NAME
The name of this congregation shall be: St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, "Chuckery", Milford Center,
Ohio, (Union County, Darby Township).
ARTICLE 2: CONFESSION
This congregation as a body and all of its members as individuals declare unreserved acceptance of and
adherence to all canonical books of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired and revealed Word of God
and the only rule of faith and life; and to all Symbolical books of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, contained in
the Book of Concord of the year 1580, as the correct presentation and true expositor of Christian doctrine
drawn from the Holy Scriptures, viz:
A. The Three Ecumenical Creeds, viz., the Apostolic, the Nicene, and the Athanasian
B. The Unaltered Augsburg Confession
C. The Apology of the Augsburg Confession
D. The Smalcald Articles
E. Luther's Large Catechism
F. Luther's Small Catechism
G. The Formula of Concord
No Doctrine or practice in conflict, or inconsistent, with the above norms of our faith and life shall be taught or
tolerated in this congregation.
ARTICLE 3: SYNODICAL AFFILIATION
A. This congregation shall be affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod as long as the
confessions and constitution of said Synod are in accord with the confession and constitution of this
congregation as laid down in Article 2.
B. This congregation shall, to the best of its ability, collaborate with said Synod and assist it in effecting all
sound measures intended for the building up of the Kingdom of God.
ARTICLE 4: MEMBERSHIP
A. Baptized membership in this congregation is held by all those who are baptized in the Name of the
Triune God with water and are under our pastoral care.
B. Communicant membership in this congregation may be held only by those who:
1. Are baptized in the Name of the Triune God.
2. Have declared their acceptance of the confessions of this congregation as contained in Article 2
of this constitution.
3. Have been accepted into communicant membership in accordance with the Bylaws of this
congregation and shall remain faithful to the responsibilities of membership as contained in these
Bylaws.
4. Do not live in manifest works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21), but lead a Christian life.
5. Are not members of a secret society or of any other organization conflicting with the Word of
God and the conduct of a Christian (II Cor. 6:14-18).
6. Together with the congregation attend divine worship services and, being able to examine
themselves, partake of the Lord's Supper frequently.
7. Will accept brotherly admonition according to Christ's instructions (Matt. 18:15-18) when they
have erred.
C. Procedures and criteria for termination of membership shall be defined and specified in the Bylaws.
ARTICLE 5: ORGANIZATION
A. Voting Membership
1. This congregation shall be represented by, and administer all its affairs through the Voting
Assembly.
2. Only communicant members, who have qualified according to the membership provisions of the
Bylaws, shall be received as voting members of this congregation.
3. The Voting Membership of the congregation shall have supreme power in the management of
the congregation's affairs, but it shall not offer, enact, or decide anything contrary to Article 2.
Any such ordinance, enactment, or decision shall be considered null and void.
4. The actions and powers of the officers, boards/committees are at all times subject to the
instruction of the Voters Assembly and therefore, any actions and powers shall be subject to revision
or complete withdrawal by the Voting Membership at its discretion.
5. The Voters Assembly shall meet at least quarterly (four times) per calendar year as specified in
the Bylaws.
B. Elective Offices.
1. The elective offices of the congregation are defined in the Bylaws of this constitution.
2. The elective officers will be from among the communicant membership of the congregation and
who meet the criteria for office as specified in the Bylaws of this constitution.
3. Men only shall hold the office of President, Vice President, or Elder. (I Cor. 11:3, I Timothy 2:12-13)
4. Any officer may be removed from office by our Voters Assembly as outlined in the Bylaws of this
constitution.
C. Administrative Boards/Committees
1. Responsibility and authority for the daily administration of congregational affairs shall be
delegated to the Boards defined in the Bylaws of this constitution.
2. Each Board shall elect a chairperson and a secretary for that Board.
3. The President of the congregation (or Vice President when acting in the President's capacity) shall
have a voice on all Boards, but his right to vote shall be limited to such board or boards on which he
may hold membership.
4. The Pastor of the congregation shall be, ex-officio, a member of all boards and their
associated committees and may attend any or all meetings related to congregational activity of
any kind.
ARTICLE 6: CALLED WORKERS
A. Only such candidates shall be called and elected to serve as Pastor or Christian Professional, who
profess acceptance of, and pledge faithful adherence to, the confessions of this congregation as set forth
in Article 2 of this Constitution. The procedure for calling shall be defined in the Bylaws.
B. In the absence of adequate cause for dismissal, as defined in the Bylaws, the tenure of office of a
called or elected Pastor or Christian Professionals shall be the remainder of his active life, or until the
Lord calls him into another field of service.
C. The right of calling any and all persons for professional church office shall never be delegated by our
congregation to a smaller body or to an individual.
D. A description of the duties of all called workers shall be found in the Bylaws of this Constitution.
ARTICLE 7: SOCIETIES
Societies may be organized within the congregation only with the expressed approval of the Voting
Membership, and all such societies shall be under the supervision of the Pastor(s) and the appropriate Board
under whose jurisdiction they function. Only communicant members of this congregation shall be officers of
such societies or groups. Any decisions, enactment or performance of or by societies or groups shall be
invalid if they conflict with this constitution and its associated Bylaws. The Pastor(s) by virtue of his office, shall
be the advisor for such societies or groups within the congregation.
ARTICLE 8: PROPERTY RIGHTS
If at any time, a separation should take place with the congregation - which God forbid - the advice of the
officers of District and Synod shall be sought. If, despite all efforts to compose differences in peace and love,
a division into factions of the congregation shall occur, the property of the congregation and all benefits
therewith connected shall remain with those members who continue to adhere in confession and practice to
Articles 2,3,4, and 6 of this constitution.
ARTICLE 9: VALIDITY OF RESOLUTIONS
All congregation matters shall be decided by a simple majority vote of the qualified voting members present at
a properly convened meeting of the voting membership, except as otherwise provided in this Constitution and
its associated Bylaws for dealing with certain situations or matters therein specifically mentioned and defined.
ARTICLE 10: AMENDMENTS
A. Should change in this Constitution become desirable, it shall be necessary to consider these
changes in a quarterly meeting of the Voters Assembly and acted upon during a following meeting of the
Voters Assembly.
B. Proposed changes in the Constitution shall be announced in at least two (2) regular worship services
prior to the date upon which the change(s) will be presented for action.
C. It shall be necessary that the vote of at least two-thirds of the voting members present be cast in favor
of the change(s) before such change(s) can be put into effect.
D. Articles 2,3,4,6 and 8 are hereby made irrevocable.
THE BYLAWS OF THE CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE 1: COMMUNICANT MEMBERSHIP
A. Application for Membership - Procedure
1. Applicants for communicant membership in this congregation shall consult the Pastor who
shall determine whether such applicants are eligible for membership in accordance with Article 4 of
the Constitution. Applicants not familiar with the doctrines and confessions of the Lutheran Church
shall be required to attend a course of instruction, and to make profession of their faith before the
congregation. (In certain situations and at the pastor's discretion this can be done before
members of the Board of Elders before being received as members.)
2. Applicants from other Evangelical Lutheran churches shall submit a letter of transfer from
their former congregation to establish their eligibility for membership.
3. After applicants have given satisfactory evidence of their eligibility in accordance with the two
preceding paragraphs, their admission as communicant members shall be recommended by
the Pastor to the Board of Elders. The application(s) shall be acted on at the next regular meeting.
B. Privileges and Duties of Communicant Members shall be to:
1. Grow in the Christian faith and life through faithful use of the means of grace, searching the
Scriptures at home and in fellowship with other members of the congregation and its agencies,
and partaking of the Lord's Supper frequently.
2. Live a morally decent life before God and men, abstaining from open works of the flesh
(Galatians 5:18-21), and so conducting themselves at all times as to bring credit rather than
blame upon the Church of Jesus Christ.
3. Provide for the proper Christian training of their children by instruction at home and through the
agencies of the Church.
4. Contribute toward the maintenance of the congregation and the extension of the Kingdom of God
at home and abroad to the limit of their financial ability.
5. Place their God-given talents and abilities at the disposal of the Pastor, the offices, and other
agencies of the congregation as set forth in its Constitution and Bylaws, so that the purposes and
functions of the congregation may be effectively implemented.
6. To submit and conform to the rules and regulations established by the congregation.
ARTICLE 2: VOTING MEMBERSHIP
A. Any communicant member who has attained the age of 18 years may conscientiously and
prayerfully exercise his right to vote in all measures that will advance the work of Christ's Kingdom
both locally and in the church-at-large.
B. As a voting member, any person is entitled to hold public office in the congregation, but only men who
have reached the age of 24 may hold the offices of Elder, President, and Vice President. (I Cor.11:2-16;
I Cor. 14:33-38 and I Timothy 2:11-15) Any voting member who has reached the age of 24 may hold the
office of Treasurer.
C. Eligible voters shall encourage, by personal example, friendly interest, and judicious counsel, such
eligible communicant members who are not yet attending the Voters Meetings to consider seriously
accepting the responsibilities and privileges of Voting Membership.
ARTICLE 3: TERMINATION IN THE CONGREGATION
All discipline in this congregation shall be administered in accordance with the order of discipline laid down
in Matthew 18:15- 20, I Corinthians 5:1-5, and other related New Testament passages. The following
procedure shall be followed under the direction of the Pastor and the Board of Elders:
A. Communicant Membership - Termination
1. Transfers/Releases - A member desiring a transfer to another Lutheran congregation in
fellowship with us (or a release to those going to a Lutheran congregation not in fellowship) shall
apply to the Pastor. Upon approval by the Pastor and the Board of Elders, a letter of transfer (or
release) shall be issued by the Pastor. The Board of Elders shall report all transfers (or releases) to
the Voters Assembly at the next regular meeting of that body.
2. Joining Other Churches - In cases where communicant members of this congregation have joined
a non-Lutheran congregation, forfeiting all rights and privileges of such membership, their name(s)
shall be removed from the membership list of the congregation.
3. Whereabouts Unknown - The names of members whose whereabouts are unknown and cannot
be established within a period of six months shall be removed from the membership list of the
congregation. Such membership is terminated and shall be reported as such to the next regular
meeting of the Voters Assembly.
4. Excommunication and Self-Exclusion - When a member of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church
has not communed or gathered around the means of grace for three months, he or she will receive a
visit from their respective Elder, and shall be admonished and encouraged. If such a member has
not communed after six months, he or she will receive another visit by at least two members of the
congregation, one the respective Elder of the area and the Pastor or some other concerned member
of the congregation. Additional admonition and encouragement shall be given. If after nine months,
such a member still has not communed and is not attending the worship services of the Church, he
or she shall be evangelically admonished more firmly and told that if such neglect continues for
another three months, it shall be interpreted as impenitence, lack of faith in Jesus Christ, and
indifference to church membership, privileges, and responsibilities. If, then, after twelve months, the
member has not responded to Christian admonition as outlined above, the member's name shall be
turned over to the Board of Elders. The individual shall be notified of such action by certified mail and
shall be declared to have excluded him/her from this Christian congregation. Such self-exclusion
releases the individual from all responsibilities of this congregation, but it also excludes the member
from the privileges of church membership, and of any claim against the properties of this
congregation. SUCH A PERSON, HOWEVER, WILL AT ALL TIMES BE CORDIALLY WELCOME TO
ATTEND ALL DIVINE SERVICES IN OUR CHURCH. Excommunication is to be applied to any
member who conducts him/herself in an unchristian manner; i.e., to one who openly adheres to
false doctrines, gives evidence of an immoral and offensive life, or willfully despises the preaching of
the gospel and the Lord's Supper. The Board of Elders shall administer church discipline in behalf of
the congregation. Persons who have been removed from membership for whatever reason shall be
restored with all rights and privileges when they repent and ask forgiveness through the Pastor or the
Board of Elders. Both acts of discipline and restoration shall be made known to all communicant
members by whatever method the Pastor and the Board of Elders deem most suitable.
B. Provisions Pertaining to Church Officers and Chairpersons
Any officer or chair of the congregation who willfully neglects the duties of his/her office may be deposed
by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the voting members present in a regular meeting of the Voters
Assembly. The Board of Elders shall initiate such disciplinary action. When an office is made vacant by
deposition, resignation, death or excommunication of the incumbent, a successor to such officer or chair
will be appointed by the Council of Ministries to be approved by the Voters Assembly at the next regular
meeting.
C. Sufficient grounds for deposing a pastor or duly called or contracted teacher shall be persistent
adherence to false doctrine, scandalous life, and willful neglect of official duties or evident and protracted
incapacity to perform the function of the sacred office. Charges on any of these counts shall be carefully
investigated by the Board of Elders or in the case of a teacher, by the Board of Christian Education.
Should charges be substantiated by clear evidence, the individual involved shall first be given an
opportunity to resign his position in the congregation. Such opportunity having been given and declined,
the above mentioned Board or Boards shall, after consultation with the appropriate officers of the Ohio
District, notify the Voting Membership of the situation and shall submit the matter for action at a special
meeting of that body. A two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the Voting Membership present shall be required
to depose a pastor or teacher. Should the occasion to depose a teacher or pastor ever arise, the
intended deposition shall be announced by the chair of the Board of Elders at regular divine services on
the two Sundays preceding a special meeting of the voting members called for that purpose. All voting
members shall be notified by mail at least two (2) weeks in advance.
ARTICLE 4: MEETINGS OF THE VOTERS ASSEMBLY
A. Quarterly Meetings (Regular)
1. The regular meeting of the Voting Membership shall be held four times during each calendar year,
if possible on the first Sunday of January, April, July, and October. Dates and times shall be
published in the parish newsletter and bulletins.
2. The October meeting of the Voters Assembly shall include the election of officers and the
acceptance of the budget for the following year.
3. All communicant members of the congregation may attend the meetings of the Voters Assembly
and may, with recognition from the chair, submit recommendations, or participate in a discussion of
any given items of business before the Voting Membership.
4. Every meeting of the Voting Membership shall be either announced or published twice preceding
the time of the meeting.
B. Special Meeting
1. Special meeting of the Voters Assembly may be called by the President, Board of Elders, the
Pastor, any one of the Administrative Boards, or ten (10) voting members of the congregation.
2. Notice of the date and time of such a meeting, and of the nature of the business to be transacted,
shall be given at two Sunday worship services preceding the time of the meeting if possible.
3. The Order of Business may be abbreviated.
C. Order of Business at Quarterly Meetings
1. At regular meetings, the following Order of Business shall be observed:
a. Call to Order
b. Devotions
c. Minutes of previous meeting(s), including special meetings
d. Admissions and dismissals of members (The Pastor's Report)
e. Reports of Administrative Board Committees
f. Financial Reports
g. Unfinished Business
h. New Business
i. State of the Parish Report by Pastor or Elder (optional)
j. Adjournment
k. Closing Prayer
2. The presiding officer may, with the consent of the Voting Membership, vary the above order in the
interest of efficiency.
3. In general, for purposes of order, Robert's Rules of Order shall prevail.
D. Restriction Pertaining to Voters Assembly meetings
1. At any duly announced meeting of the Voters Assembly, the members present shall constitute a
quorum and shall be able to transact business.
2. In the event of a tie vote, the President may cast the deciding ballot.
3. There shall be no voting by proxy.
ARTICLE 5: THE OFFICE OF THE PASTOR & TEACHER
A. Procedure for Securing Called Workers
1. After consultation by the Board of Elders with the President of the Ohio District or his
representative, candidates for the pastorate shall be proposed at the next regular meeting of the
Voting Membership or at a special meeting called for that purpose. Additional candidates may be
proposed by any voting member at the meeting called to discuss the candidates. The voters shall
then adopt a list of candidates. At that meeting, or at a subsequent regular or special meeting of the
Voting Membership, the voters shall elect one of the proposed candidates by ballot and simple
majority. It shall be the duty of the President to see that notice of the election is delivered promptly to
the candidate in whatever manner the Voting Membership shall deem advisable.
2. Negotiations for contracted teachers (new or renewal) shall be delegated to the Board of Christian
Education and such negotiations and the terms agreed to shall come before the Voting Membership
for approval in regular or special meeting assembled.
3. Any call or assignment issued to a candidate from a synodical seminary or teacher's college shall
be extended through the proper district official.
B. The Pastoral Office
1. The Pastoral Office is the authority conferred upon pastors by God, through a call of the
congregation (the holder of the priesthood and of all congregational authority) to exercise in public
office the common rights of spiritual priesthood in behalf of all. The Pastoral Office is the primary
office in this congregation from which all other offices of the congregation issue. However, the
congregation may establish as many auxiliary offices as its needs require and determine what work
is to be assigned to such offices.
2. Upon being installed, the pastor is authorized and obligated to proclaim to the congregation, jointly
and severally, the Word of God in its full truth and purity as contained in the canonical writings of the
Old and New Testaments and professed in the Book of Concord of the year 1580. He is further:
a. To administer the sacraments in accordance with their divine institution;
b. To discharge toward all members of the congregation the functions of a minister and curate of
their souls in an evangelical manner, in particular to visit the sick and the dying and admonish
indifferent and erring members;
c. To spiritually guard the welfare of the younger members of the congregation and adults during
their preparation for acceptance of Holy Communion;
d. To guide the congregation in applying the divinely ordained discipline of the church;
e. To provide spiritual leadership and oversight in the educational agencies and the various
adult and youth organizations within the congregation;
f. To serve as an example by Christian conduct and to do all that is possible for the up-building
of the congregation and for the advancement of the Kingdom of Christ. By reason of his position
the pastor is not only a servant and steward of God, but also of the congregation. The pastor
shall have the authority and responsibility for supervising the musical portion of all worship
services in conjunction with the Board of Elders so that it is at all times in harmony with the
doctrine and practice of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Members of the congregation are
obligated to accord the pastor honor, love and obedience in his ministry of God's Word, and to
support him in the discharge of his duties by cordial one-mindedness, by willing readiness, by
peaceable conduct, and in every other way possible, and to provide for his maintenance
according to the ability of the congregation.
3. We have not called our pastor either to administer our work or to do the work of ministry in our
place. Rather, we have called him to be one who gives us the opportunity and the training necessary
to accomplish our ministry, not as one employed to keep the church going.
C. The Office of Teacher and Principal
1. The office of a called teacher or principal is the authority conferred by God, through a call of the
congregation, to perform duties of his/her office in all its parts according to the Word of God and the
needs of the congregation.
2. Upon being installed, a teacher who is either called or contracted is authorized and obligated to
instruct and train the children under his/her care diligently and faithfully in the Word of God as
contained in the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments and confessed in the
Confessional Writings of the Lutheran Church, and found in the Book of Concord of 1580, and to
base instruction on the Small Catechism of Dr. Martin Luther; to accord them also through Christian
Education in branches of learning prescribed by a course of study adopted or approved by the
congregation; to maintain Christian discipline in the school and to this end employ such means as
are in accord with the Holy Scriptures within the bounds of Christian reason and justice.
3. The teacher is to serve the congregation as an example of Christian conduct, to endeavor
earnestly to live in brotherly unity with the pastor and fellow teachers, to work under the supervision of
the pastor, principal, and the Board of Christian Education, and, by the grace of God, to do everything
possible within the sphere of his/her assignment towards the promotion of the school and for the
general advancement of the Kingdom of Christ, both locally and generally.
4. The principal/teacher is to perform such other offices as are in the interest of Christian Education
and to the welfare of church and school and as have been mutually agreed upon, as the
circumstances of the congregation may require and as time and ability may permit. He/she is further:
a. To represent the school whenever representation of the school as a whole is necessary and
endeavor to work for the efficiency of the entire school.
b. To exercise his/her office in a climate of brotherly unity, and serve as educational leader of the
school.
c. To lead his/her colleagues, in zeal for, and devotion to, his school, and its improvement as an
educational agency and a Christian institution.
d. To serve to keep the pastor fully informed as to school activities and problems, counsel with
the pastor and strive to manage and lead the school in accordance with the pastor's spiritual
advice based on the Word of God.
e. To serve as executive advisor to the Board of Christian Education. He/she shall keep the
Board informed as to the courses of study outlined by the Board for Parish Education of Synod,
the local and the State Department of Education. He/she shall administrate the policies
established by this board.
f. To periodically submit a report on some area of school work at regular meetings of the
congregation.
g. To supervise instruction in the school, have charge of enrollment, attendance, hygiene and
sanitation, decorum, safety, and records.
h. To be responsible for supervising the school lunchroom program.
i. To show interest in all endeavors of Christian Education in the congregation and perform such
other duties as are assigned by the congregation.
j. To endeavor to advance professionally.
k. To prepare and administer the school budget in cooperation with the staff and the Board of
Christian Education.
5. Members of the congregation are obligated to receive the teachers and principal as servants of
the Word, to honor and love them as such, to keep our children in true Christian submission to their
rule and training, and to support their work among us with diligent, faithful assistance and prayer.
6. Members are to help the teachers and principle discharge their duties and make it enjoyable for
them by their peaceful conduct in every way possible; to encourage them by word and deed; to aid in
the maintenance of Christian discipline in school; to show them love and respect; and to provide for
their maintenance according to the ability of the congregation.
ARTICLE 6: ELECTION OF OFFICERS AND ADMINISTRATIVE BOARDS
A. Nomination Procedure
1. The Nominating Committee shall consist of the president, the pastor, and third year member of
each board. The candidates will be drawn from among communicant members of the congregation
who are 18 years of age or over, either male or female, except where Article 2 of the Bylaws apply.
2. Prior to and within thirty (30) days of the October meeting, Council shall finalize a preliminary ballot
from submitted names. Council shall have noted the status of the proposed candidates and found
them spiritually eligible for office and willing to serve.
3. Prior to the date of the October meeting, the ballot shall be publicized.
4. At the October meeting, the final ballot shall be accepted by the Voters Assembly and elections
take place with the opportunity to nominate additional names from the floor.
5. If a position is vacated, that position shall be filled by the Nominating Committee. Such
appointment shall be approved by the voters.
6. There shall be at least one name nominated for each office to be elected.
B. Election Procedure
From a list of candidates for each elective office submitted by the Council, Voting Membership shall, at its
October meeting, elect by ballot and simple majority the following officers in the order herein indicated:
1. The officers to be elected in an odd year and take office in an even year to one two- year term, and
may succeed themselves for one more term.
a. President
b. Vice-President
c. Recording Secretary
d. Treasurer
e. Financial Secretary
2. One board member to be elected each year to one four year term and may not succeed
themselves for another term in that office.
a. Elder
b. Trustee
c. Education
d. Stewardship
e. Scholarship
f. LLL Representative
g. Head Usher
h. Sunday School Superintendent
3. Congregational delegates to be elected in the year of Synod Convention, to one three year term,
and may succeed themselves for another term.
a. Congregational delegate
b. Alternate Delegate
4. As per Article 12, section IV, A:
The Endowment Committee shall consist of five (5) members, all of whom shall be voting members
of St. Paul Lutheran Church. Except as herein limited, the term of each member shall be five (5)
years. The Voters shall elect a member for a term of five (5) years. No member shall serve more than
one consecutive term. After a lapse of one (1) year, the former committee members may be re-
appointed. The pastor and the president (or vice-president) of the church shall be advisory members
of the committee. In the event of a vacancy on the committee, Council shall appoint a member to fill
the term of the vacancy.
5. The lay delegates to the General Assembly of the Central Ohio Mission Association (COMA) shall
consist of two (2) voting layman, one of which shall be the vice president of the congregation. The
other layman shall be elected by the voter’s assembly for a term of three (3) years and may succeed
themselves.
C. Installation of Officers - Term of Office
The newly elected officers and board members of the congregation shall be installed on a Sunday before
the January quarterly meeting, and shall assume their duties of office at the said meeting. The term of
office of all Board Members shall be four years, terminating at the January meeting after the fourth year of
their term. No officer or board members shall serve more than four (4) years in that office consecutively,
unless for a special reason and determined by the council.
D. Budget Procedure
The Budget Committee shall consist of the pastor, principal, president, treasurer, financial secretary, and
fourth year member of each board.
1. Prior to and within thirty (30) days of the October meeting, Council shall finalize the preliminary
budget.
2. Prior to the date of the October meeting, the proposed budget shall be publicized.
3. At the October meeting the proposed budget shall be acted upon by the Voters Assembly.
ARTICLE 7: DUTIES OF OFFICERS
A. President shall:
1. Preside at all meetings of the Voting Membership.
2. To the best of his ability, enforce the Constitution and Bylaws of the congregation and carry out the
expressed will of the congregation as embodied in the resolutions of the Voting Membership.
3. Be welcomed at any and all meetings of all boards, committees, auxiliaries, groups, etc., in the
congregation, either in person or as represented by such person or persons as he may appoint.
4. Also call and attend the meetings of the Council and shall endeavor to coordinate the functions,
plans, and activities of the congregation in all its parts for the total furtherance of the work of Christ's
Kingdom in our midst.
5. Sign all contracts and legal documents in behalf of the congregation subject to the control of the
Voters Assembly.
6. Sign all checks in the absence of the treasurer.
7. Perform all such other duties as may be assigned to him by the Voters Assembly.
B. Vice President shall:
1. In the absence of the President act for and in the stead of the President.
2. Become the President if the office becomes vacated during his term as Vice President. Should the
office of Vice President become vacated the Voters Assembly shall elect another.
3. Be a delegate to Central Ohio Mission Association (COMA) and be available for whatever duties
the President or Voters assign to him.
C. Recording Secretary shall:
1. Be present at all Voters Meetings of the congregation and at all meetings of the Council and shall
enter and keep the minutes of all meetings of said groups in a permanent record book over his/her
signature.
2. Conduct all official correspondence of the congregational Boards and Committees under the
supervision of the President.
3. Supply digests of meetings for the congregational newsletter.
4. In general, perform all the duties normally pertaining to his/her office and such additional duties as
the Voting Membership may delegate to him/her.
D. Treasurer shall:
1. Be responsible for accurate recording of congregational receipts and disbursements, and
budgeted and actual expenditures according to proper accounting procedures and, as deemed
advisable, shall suggest for congregational consideration improved methods and systems for
keeping financial records.
2. Present a written, duplicated financial report at Voters Meetings and a preliminary report at the
Council meetings.
3. Submit permanent financial records. These records may be audited at the request of the
President, the Council or the Voters.
4. Be responsible for monthly remission of offerings for missions and church agencies and for
prompt payment of salaries and bills authorized by the congregation or the Boards and Directors as
duly constituted sources.
5. Sign all checks for payment of bills, salaries, and other financial commitments of the congregation
of any sort.
6. Have available for all Boards a current record of their accrued disbursements and budget
allotments.
E. Financial Secretary shall:
1. Be responsible for issuance of regular quarterly statements to members showing their offerings to
date.
2. Furnish the Treasurer with help as needed.
3. Be responsible for requisitioning and distribution of offering envelopes.
4. Evaluate the offerings of the congregation and share these evaluations with the congregation.
F. Lutheran Laymen's League Representative shall:
1. Represent the L.L.L. to the Voters and the congregation.
2. Recruit L.L.L. membership participation in the congregation.
3. Promote L.L.L. activity within the congregation.
4. Promote the ministry of the L.L.L. within the congregation.
5. Receive and disburse Lutheran Hour contributions.
6. Report to the Voters and Congregation all L.L.L. activity.
G. Head Usher shall:
1. Develop an annual ushers' schedule for publication each year.
2. Oversee the ringing of the bell, distribution of worship materials and other approved materials.
3. Carry out concerns for the comfort of the worshippers.
4. Oversee the counting and recording of attendance.
5. Secure ushers when absences occur.
H. Sunday School Superintendent shall:
1. Recruit Sunday School teachers.
2. Plan the mission for the month.
3. Promote the Sunday School program.
4. Order Sunday School material.
5. Make sure Sunday School bills are paid.
6. Work with the Pastor
7. Make quarterly reports to the Council of Ministries or as otherwise requested.
I. Congregational Delegate shall:
1. Represent congregation at Circuit Forums.
2. Represent congregation at District Meetings.
3. Report to congregation on issues from Synod, District, and Circuit meetings and newsletters
4. Search out and receive information on mission activity to share with the congregation.
J. Alternate Delegate shall:
1. In the absence of the Congregational Delegate represent the congregation at Circuit Forums and
District Meetings.
2. Assist the Congregational Delegate in collecting information to share with the congregation.
3. Become the Congregational Delegate if the office becomes vacated during his/her term as
Alternate Delegate.
K. The delegates to Central Ohio Mission Association will represent the congregation at the General
Assembly meetings and give reports to the voter’s assembly.
ARTICLE 8: FUNCTIONS, POWERS, ORGANIZATION OF THE COUNCIL OF MINISTRIES AND OF
ADMINISTRATIVE BOARDS
A. Council of Ministries and of Administrative Boards
The Council of Ministries shall consist of the President, Vice President, Treasurer, Recording Secretary,
Financial Secretary, and the Administrative Boards. The Pastor and Principal shall serve as advisory
members of the Council. A possible ex-officio member may come from any active board or committee or
auxiliary group. The Council shall meet on a quarterly basis prior to each Voting Assembly meeting. It
shall be the specific functions of the Council to:
1. Serve as the point of liaison between the Pastor, the officers of the congregation, and the various
Administrative Boards in planning the total work of the congregation.
2. Settle jurisdictional disputes between the several Administrative Boards.
3. Set dates, times, and the agenda for the four (4) meetings of the Votes Assembly. Each
chairperson shall submit a written report of his/her committee's activities for that quarter.
4. Clarify and enact resolutions passed by the Voters Assembly.
5. Finalize the Budget Committee's proposed budget before it comes before the voters.
6. Finalize the Nominating Committee's proposed ballot before it comes before the voters.
B. Board of Elders
The Board of Elders shall consist of four (4) members, one elected each year to one four- year term. The
nature of the duties of this board requires that only men noted for their Christian knowledge, zeal and
experience in the spiritual work of the Kingdom of Christ shall be elected to membership. The basic
objectives of this Board are the spiritual welfare of the Pastor and congregation members, individually
and corporately, and the supervision of everything pertaining to congregational worship. The Board shall
annually elect a chairman and secretary who shall keep a set of minutes for each meeting. The Board
shall meet on a monthly basis. That the objectives of this Board may be carried out, the Board, either
corporately or through specifically designated individuals, shall:
1. Pray for the Pastor and other spiritual leaders and encourage them in their work by word and
action.
2. Be concerned about the spiritual, emotional, and physical health and welfare of the Pastor and his
family (adequate compensation, housing, free time, vacation, assistance in times of illness), and to
that end specifically review these items once a year.
3. Review yearly the salary and/or performance of the Church Secretary(ies) and Organist, and make
appropriate recommendations to the Voting Membership, or, in case of vacancy, hire a replacement
in conjunction with the Pastor.
4. Exercise leadership in gathering call lists and calling a new Pastor when a vacancy occurs and
also arrange for interim pastoral assistance with the help of the circuit counselor.
5. Take spiritual charge and oversight of the geographical and familiar groupings assigned to them
in liaison with the Pastor and other concerned Boards of the congregation. (Shepherd Plan)
6. Insure that the congregation functions in accordance with the established doctrine of the Church
as listed in Article 2 of the Constitution.
7. See to the prompt transfer or release of all members who move away especially without a full-time
pastor.
8. Assist in carrying out church discipline according to Matthew 18:15-18.
9. Engage in continual review of the unbaptized and unconfirmed and unchurched members in our
community.
10. Engage in continual review of communion and church attendance of all members.
11. Supervise and help in the visitation of all sick, hospitalized, aged and shut-ins in the
congregation.
12. Investigate cases of severe financial need within the congregation and make specific
recommendations to the Pastor and the congregation.
13. Be concerned about and supervise thorough instruction of youth and adults for confirmation and
church membership.
14. Be responsible for a friendly personal welcome of visitors at worship and for orientation and
integration of new members.
15. Submit an annual budget request in the form and at the time requested by the Council of
Ministries.
16. For the worship of the congregation:
a. Provide for vicars, assistants, substitute pastors and guest speakers as needed.
b. Prepare for the Sacrament of Holy Communion and Baptism.
c. Assist the Pastor with Baptisms, Communion distribution, reading of Scripture, preaching, etc.
as required, and help at Funeral and Wedding Services as needed.
d. Set the time, schedule, and number of Communion services in conjunction with the Pastor.
e. Oversee the recording of the number in attendance for worship, Bible Class, and Holy
Communion.
f. Supervise the care, use, and maintenance of the sacred vessels, the altar, the altar
furnishings, and vestments.
g. Maintain an adequate supply of expendable items for worship such as Communion wine and
wafers. Baptismal napkins and candles are purchased through the LWML.
h. Supervise the ushering staff, acolytes, and greeters.
i. Coordinate the tape ministry and the distribution of the taped service to the sick and the
shut ins.
j. Plan and publicize the services for the year.
k. Arrange and publicize special services as required.
C. Board of Christian Education
The Board of Christian Education shall consist of four (4) members, one elected each year to one
four-year term, including the Sunday School Superintendent who will be specified as such on the
ballot. The Board will annually elect a chairperson, treasurer, and secretary who shall keep a set of
minutes for each meeting. The Board should meet at least on a monthly basis. The basic objectives
of this Board are to plan and administer the total educational program of the congregation, to
determine policies, to select personnel for the various agencies, to provide the necessary means
and facilities for the agencies, and to direct and supervise the entire educational program of the
congregation. That the objectives of this Board may be carried out, the Board, either corporately or
through specifically designated individuals, shall:
1. Be responsible for the Christian nurture of children, youth, and adults in the congregation.
2. Oversee and encourage the total education program for the congregation, including the
personnel, i.e., for the Christian Day School, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Confirmation
classes, Bible classes, and all other educational groups.
3. In conjunction with and under advisement of the teachers, provide adequate text books and other
related educational needs or materials.
4. Secure lists for vacant teaching positions in the school, be they called or contracted.
5. Supervise the conduct of professional teachers on the staff of the congregation.
6. Be concerned about the spiritual, emotional, and physical health and welfare of the professional
education staff and their families.
7. Annually review and make recommendations concerning the adequate compensation of all
professional teachers on the staff.
8. Provide for the professional growth of the educational staff through conferences, conventions,
continuing education and the like, and request the necessary funds for the same in the yearly budget
or Scholarship Committee.
9. Help maintain, improve, and cultivate the use of a library.
10. Study and adopt or adapt helps suggested by the education departments of Synod, District, and
Circuit, and help prepare policies for the school.
11. Annually examine the education facilities and equipment, and make recommendations to the
Board of Trustees as to upkeep, repairs, and replacements needed as well as new equipment
needed.
12. Check the safety of education facilities - steps, handrails, lights, exits, housekeeping practices,
fire drills and the like on a regular basis.
13. For administrative purposes and program development, supervise the work of the C.E.A.
14. Oversee its own expenses and financial responsibilities, report quarterly to Voters Meeting and
have an annual report.
15. Take charge of planning the annual church/school picnic.
16. Prepare and submit an annual budget request, if needed, in the form and at the time requested
by the Council of Ministries.
D. Board of Stewardship
The Board of Stewardship shall consist of four (4) members, one elected each year to one four-year term.
The Board shall annually elect a chairperson and secretary who shall keep a set of minutes for each
meeting. The Board shall meet at least on a quarterly basis. The basic objectives of this Board are to
strengthen the fellowship between congregation members spiritually and socially, and to initiate
programs for the development of good stewardship attitudes in the members of the congregation in
regard to members of the congregation for the work of Christ's Kingdom, and to ensure the financial
stability of the congregation and its work through a developed program of dedicated, proportionate, first-
fruit giving. That the objectives of this Board may be carried out, the Board, either corporately or through
specifically designated individuals, shall:
1. Study the Scriptural principles regarding the total stewardship calling of the Christian - as a
member of his family, as a neighbor and citizen, and as a congregation member - and share these
insights with congregation members.
2. Contact and encourage new members for service to the congregation and endeavor to stir up the
talents of present members for use in Christ's work.
3. Be responsible for maintenance of a congregational talent file and provide for the immediate
recording of the talents and abilities of incoming members.
4. Be responsible for doing a congregational pictorial directory when decided upon.
5. Encourage the Gospel-motivated practice of joyous, worshipful, liberal proportionate, first-fruit
giving in response to received blessings and recognized needs by way of written articles in the
newsletter, Bible studies, special mailings, etc.
6. Annually give every member an opportunity to make a commitment of his treasure for Kingdom
work through the congregation.
7. Evaluate and make recommendations for gifts of love by individuals and the congregation as a
whole when called upon to do so.
8. Plan, supervise, and implement gatherings of the congregation from time to time which will further
the goals of the congregation: such as dinners, workshops, fellowship nights, Bible studies, etc.
9. Decide on programs/processes from District and Synod to be used within our congregation to
help us in our stewardship life.
10. Submit an annual budget request in the form and at the time requested by the Council of
Ministries.
E. Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees shall consist of four (4) members, one elected each year to one four-year term.
The Board shall annually elect a chairperson and secretary who shall keep a set of minutes for each
meeting. The Board shall meet at least on a quarterly basis. The basic objectives of this Board are the
proper maintenance and repair of church property, and the representation of the congregation in all legal
matters, and the general protection of the congregation against loss or damage of whatever nature. That
the objectives of this Board may be carried out, the Board, either corporately or specifically designated
individuals, shall:
1. Make an annual inspection of church properties and equipment and recommend to the Voters
Assembly needed repairs, improvements, or replacements.
2. Conduct an annual inventory of all church properties, equipment, and supplies, including
acquisition date and approximate value of each item.
3. Carry out all resolutions of the Voters Assembly on purchases, repairs, replacement of church
property and equipment in conjunction with the congregation.
4. Determine and engage, with congregational approval, adequate custodial help. The Board shall
also meet periodically with custodian(s) to discuss the care of the buildings, needs and problems in
custodial service, and the like.
5. Prepare for the custodial help a detailed list of the required daily, weekly, monthly and/or annual
maintenance of the facilities and equipment of the congregation.
6. Annually review contracts for all custodial help.
7. Determine and establish with the approval of the Voters Assembly, regulations governing the use
of church property and equipment.
8. Coordinate the schedule of activities within the facilities in conjunction with the Board of
Stewardship. (ex. organizing workdays as well as enlisting persons to help)
9. Make and issue keys for church property, and keep and review annually a list of the keys issued.
10. Supervise, control, and recommend adequate storage facilities for all church property,
equipment, and supplies and the orderly maintenance of the same.
11. Annually check the adequacy of all types of insurance for church property and equipment, and
negotiate insurance contracts.
12. Check all property twice a year for fire hazards.
13. Enlist work crews for special repair, improvement, cleaning, painting, decorating, landscaping,
and other projects, including yard work schedule.
14. Arrange for immediate repairs of an urgent nature and all normal repairs and alterations for
which budget funds have been allocated not exceeding $1,500.00 without voters' approval.
15. Obtain legal information necessary for the wise consideration of contracts, deeds, and the like by
the congregation.
16. Negotiate service contracts for the organ, office machines, and the like.
17. Make an annual inventory of official documents in safekeeping, and enter its completion in the
official minutes of the congregation.
18. Sign official documents and contracts that have been negotiated and approved by the
congregation, and keep in a safe place all legal and other valuable documents of the congregation.
19. Obtain legal information on the laws governing non-profit organizations.
20. Set all policies and fees for rental, use, and lending of church properties.
21. Submit an annual budget request to the Council of Ministries in the form and at the time request
by that Board.
ARTICLE 9: QUORUM
At any duly announced meeting of the Voters Assembly, the members present shall constitute a quorum and
shall be able to transact business.
ARTICLE 10: EXPENDITURES
Expenditures in excess of $1,500.00 shall require a simple majority of the voting quorum. Capital
expenditures in excess of $10,000.00 shall require 60% majority vote.
ARTICLE 11: CEMETERY RULES AND REGULATIONS
July 2005
The purpose of St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery shall be to provide a final resting place for the family of believers,
members of St. Paul Lutheran Church of Chuckery, Ohio. Burial privilege shall be determined as follows:
1. Each member of St. Paul Lutheran Church may acquire a single grave site for his / her burial. A
married member may acquire a two grave lot for himself / herself and his / her spouse. The fee shall
be $150 per gravesite.
2. If a member has acquired the use of a lot in our cemetery and then moves away, this lot shall
remain hers / his as long as she / he is a member of a Lutheran Church. To maintain this privilege of
burial, she/ he must let this fact be made known to the caretaker of the cemetery by depositing an
additional $100 per grave site into the Church treasury. The deposit is non-refundable. If such a
person fails to make such a deposit, and later chooses to claim a grave site, the fee shall be an
additional $200 per grave site.
3. Any member who shall transfer / release to another Lutheran Congregation who has not acquired
a burial plot in our cemetery but wants to retain the privilege of burial, may do so by depositing $250
per grave into the St. Paul Church treasury at the time of such transfer. The deposit is non-
refundable. Any former member of St. Paul congregation who has left the church may be buried in an
unused spot in their existing family plot.
4. A fee for opening / closing a grave shall be paid by the family of the deceased. The amount of such
fee shall be approved by the voters assembly.
5. The lots shall generally be used in successive order or as deemed appropriate by the caretaker.
6. Any member of St. Paul Lutheran Congregation who has been a member of this Congregation for
five or more years, and is at least 50 years of age, may acquire a one or two grave lot and set a
marker, by paying the amount of grave site fee listed in paragraph 1 of this article.
7. The treasurer of the congregation shall serve as the treasurer of the Cemetery Turf Fund. The
$10,000 principal is to be preserved and interest gained shall be used for cemetery improvements,
including fertilization and weed control.
8. The foundations for headstones shall be at least 30 inches deep. All sides of the foundation must
be two inches larger than the base of the headstone. Footstones, including military markers, shall be
flush with the ground and foundation requirements are the same as for the headstones.
9. In order to facilitate mowing of the grass, the following rules shall apply to all grave sites:
No trees or shrubs may be planted on a burial plot.
Flowers, Christmas wreaths, and grave blankets from the previous year should be removed
by March 15.
Memorial Day, cut flowers, should be removed by June 15.
Live flowers may be planted, behind the headstone, in a bed no more than 12 inches wide.
Unkempt, weed and grass infested flower beds may be mowed off.
Faded, unsightly artificial flowers, wreaths, and anything that interferes with mowing may be
removed by the caretaker.
Metal staffs that hold small flower pots should be set close to the headstone.
The purpose of these rules is to enhance the dignity and overall appearance of the cemetery. In
doing so, we respect the memory of our deceased members.
ARTICLE 12: ENDOWMENT FUND
(Accepted January 5, 1997, as part of the congregation's existing bylaws)
I. NAME
A. This congregation shall have a Scholarship and Endowment fund. The funds are to be managed
and dispersed separately.
II. GENERAL PURPOSE
A. This fund's purpose shall be to receive gifts and bequests, and to use them for the mission and
ministry of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School, and the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, its
districts,seminaries, colleges, institutions, or agencies.
1. Encourage and recruit the young people of the congregation for full-time service in the church
as pastors, teachers, and the like.
2. Award funds to prospective students preparing for full-time church work at an LCMS
College according to availability of funds, or to any full-time church worker for any specialized
advanced education or its equivalent pertaining to full-time church work.
3. Make available any unused portions of funds for students outside St. Paul’s congregation
preparing for full-time work in the LCMS.
4. Annually provide recruitment materials to the youth of the congregation.
5. Provide financing for a student to investigate interests for a church vocation at a Synodical campus.
6. Personally contact and encourage members of the congregation to consider a church vocation.
7. Annually promote recruitment efforts through a special Sunday emphasis.
8. Keep an accurate record of all financial transactions of the committee and its fund, and report the
same at each Quarterly Meeting of the Voters and each printed annual report to the congregation.
B. Only the income from unrestricted gifts and bequests to the fund are to be used for the purposes,
projects, and programs recommended by the Endowment Committee to the Voters Meeting with the
recommendation by the Church Council and approved by a simple majority, provided that the purposes,
projects and programs shall be consistent with the general reason for which this fund has been
established. The list of approved purposes, projects and programs shall be appended to these Bylaws
and shall be distributed to the members of the congregation.
C. At least annually, the Endowment Committee shall make recommendations to the Voters Meeting with
the recommendation by the Church Council. None of the income from unrestricted gifts shall be
distributed to the congregation's operating budget. The distribution of the income from unrestricted gifts
for purposes other than the operating budget shall be determined by a simple majority of the Voters
Meeting.
D. Gifts and bequests may be made with limitations of directions as to the use of accumulation of the
income, provided that such are acceptable to the Endowment Committee. The Endowment Committee
may refuse any gift which places conditions upon the gift which the committee determines to be
inconsistent with the purposes of this fund or not in the best interest of St. Paul Lutheran Church.
III. DURATION
A. The St. Paul Lutheran Church Endowment Fund shall continue in existence and be used as herein
above provided, unless earlier revoked, so long as St. Paul Lutheran Church shall continue to exist.
If St. Paul Lutheran Church shall cease to exist, then the assets constituting the fund when St. Paul
Lutheran Church ceases to exist shall become the property of a successor Lutheran church or, if no
successor Lutheran church then it shall become the property of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod
Foundation (except that any and all properties held by the fund with limitations shall continue to be
subject to the limitations upon which such properties are held). If St. Paul Lutheran Church dissolves, it
shall, at the time of such dissolution, have the right and duty to determine the existence of a successor
Lutheran church, if any, providing such successor Lutheran church must qualify as an exempt
organization under the Internal Revenue Code, and St. Paul Lutheran Church shall execute the necessary
documents to effect such transfer.
IV. GOVERNING BOARD AND OFFICERS
A. The Endowment Committee shall consist of five (5) members, all of whom shall be voting members of
St. Paul Lutheran Church. Except as herein limited, the term of each member shall be five (5) years.
The Church Council shall appoint five members to the committee: one for a term of five years; one for a
term of four years; one for a term of three years; one for a term of two years; and one for a term of one
year. Thereafter annually, the Voters Meeting shall elect a member for a term of five (5) years. No member
shall serve more than one consecutive term. After a lapse of one (1) year, the former committee
members may be reappointed. The pastor and the president (or vice-president) of the church shall be
advisory members of the committee. In the event of a vacancy on the committee, Council shall appoint a
member to fill the term of the vacancy.
B. The Endowment Committee shall promote and manage the fund. The treasurer of the congregation
shall be responsible for receipts and disbursements from the fund, shall maintain complete and
accurate records, and shall provide, at least annually, a written financial report of the fund to the Voters
Meeting.
C. The Endowment Committee, if it deems it to be in the best interest of the congregation, may
recommend that the assets of the fund be delivered to the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod Foundation
for investment management. Any agreement entered into for the management of the fund shall be valid
only if approved by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the voting members present at a duly called and
constituted meeting of the Voters Meeting.
D. The Endowment Committee shall elect a committee chairperson and a secretary.
E. The Endowment Committee shall meet at least quarterly at the church at a time fixed by resolution of
the Endowment Committee, or as frequently as it may be deemed necessary in the best interests of the
fund. The Endowment Committee, when it deems it unnecessary to hold a particular meeting, may by
resolution cancel a meeting. Special meetings may be called on 24 hours written or oral notice to the
members of the Endowment Committee by the chairperson or any two members. No notice other than
recording of the resolution of the Endowment Committee fixing the time of the regular meetings need be
given the members.
F. A quorum shall consist of three (3) members. The affirmative vote of a majority present and voting shall
carry any motion of resolution.
G. The Endowment Committee shall establish such written rules and regulations as may be necessary
for the conduct of its business. It shall adopt standards and goals to guide in the expenditure of the
income from the fund, which it may amend, all within the stated purposes of the fund.
H. The Endowment Committee shall maintain accounts with such financial institutions as it, by
resolution, may determine and authorize. All checks and other documents transferring or expending any
funds or assets in the fund shall be executed by the treasurer of the congregation and the chairperson of
the Endowment Committee.
I. The chairperson of the Endowment Committee with check signing authority, at the expense of the fund,
may be covered by a corporate fidelity bond in a principal amount to be determined from time to time by
the Endowment Committee.
J. The Endowment Committee may ask other members of the congregation to serve as advisory
members and may employ, at the expense of income derived from the fund, such professional
counseling on investments and legal matters as it deems to be in the best interest of the fund.
K. The Endowment Committee shall maintain complete and accurate records, and may employ such
professional help as it deems necessary in this connection.
L. The secretary shall maintain complete and accurate minutes of all meetings of the Endowment
Committee and supply a copy thereof to each member within seven (7) days after the meeting. Each
member shall keep a complete copy of minutes to be delivered to his or her successor.
M. The chairperson, or the member designated by the chairperson, shall preside at all Endowment
Committee meetings.
N. No member of the Endowment Committee shall engage in any self-dealing or transactions with the
fund in which the member of the Endowment Committee has direct or indirect financial interest and shall
at all times refrain from any conduct in which his/her personal interests would conflict with the interest of
the fund.
V. DUTIES
A. The Endowment Committee shall render annually a full and complete account of the administration of
the fund. The itemized financial statement shall be printed and submitted to the St. Paul Lutheran
Church Quarterly Voters Meeting in January: list of assets, receipts, disbursements, and changes of
corpus accounts, since the inception of previous accounting.
B. Gifts and contributions (from any individual, firm, or corporation) in money, in securities, or in any other
form of property including by way of explanation and not in limitation, direct gifts for the purpose of the
fund, gifts in memory of any deceased person or in appreciation or recognition of any living person, gifts
in the form of a devise or bequest under will or trust instrument, and gifts or proceeds or portions of
proceeds of insurance, annuity, or endowment policies or contract, may be received by the fund at any
time.
C. Means for acknowledging the receipt of each gift and contribution shall be established and
maintained, including whenever feasible, a designation of the value ascribed to each gift.
D. Gifts and contributions may be with limitations or directions as to the use of accumulation of the
income, provided that such are acceptable to the Endowment Committee. Separate identification and
recording shall be made of all transactions with respect to any such special or restricted gift or gifts.
E. All funds and property shall be kept and maintained separate, distinct and independent from the funds
and property otherwise belonging to the church. However, the Endowment Committee shall in no event
be required to make physical segregation of the assets of the fund in order to conform to the directions of
any individual donors, but establish separate accounts in its accounting records.
F. The Endowment Committee is to inform the members of the congregation of the purpose of the fund,
and may periodically arrange for members of the congregation to meet with professional counselors in
the area of charitable giving, wills, bequests, insurance, etc.
G. All new members of the Endowment Committee are to receive a copy of the bylaws of the congregation
in order to become acquainted with the function and purposes of the fund.
VI. POWERS
The manager of the fund, whether the fund is managed and administered by the Endowment Committee, or
whether the fund is delivered to the Lutheran Church -Missouri Synod Foundation, shall have the following
powers and authority:
A. The property constituting the corpus of the fund shall be invested and reinvested in any kind of property
(whether real or personal, tangible or intangible, and/or domestic or foreign), including, but not limited to,
securities, real estate, oil, gas, and other natural resources and/or accounts or certificates of banks or
other lending institutions, and each investment shall be guided by the concept of a prudent investor
whose investment purpose includes both income and capital appreciation and shall not otherwise be
restricted by law, rule or custom: (1) requiring safety of a corpus as a primary consideration; (2) requiring
investment in income producing property; or (3) requiring diversification of investments. It is further
understood that any part of all of the fund may be invested in obligations of the Lutheran Church
Extension Fund - Missouri Synod, St. Louis, Missouri; or the Ohio District Church Extension Fund. In
amplification, but not limitation, of the foregoing, authority is granted:
1. to acquire interests in property by purchase, lease, rental or any other method; to sell, option,
exchange, redeem or convert any property interests; and to rent or lease property of the fund;
2. to exercise all rights and privileges accruing to a holder of securities, including all voting,
conversion, subscription and preemptive rights; to deposit any securities with, delegate discretionary
power to, and participate, cooperate and contract with, as a member or otherwise, any protective
committee of security holders; and to effectuate any merger, consolidation, dissolution,
reorganization or financial adjustment of the issuer of any securities and/or any transfer, demise, or
encumbrance of any of its properties;
3. to manage and/or develop any real property owned, leased or otherwise held by the fund; to erect,
repair, remodel, reconstruct, demolish, or remove buildings or other improvements on it; to partition
or subdivide it; to dedicate all or any part of it to public and semipublic use, and to grant easement of
other charges with respect to it;
4. to abandon any property interest deemed worthless or of insignificant value;
5. to borrow money from any source, to encumber property of the fund and to repay any loan due
by the fund;
6. to foreclose any mortgage, lien, or other encumbrance, and to purchase the encumbered property,
whether through foreclosure or private arrangement;
7. to establish and maintain, out of income, depreciation, depletion and/or amortization reserves;
8. to maintain a portion of all of the property constituting the fund in liquid or nearly liquid form, even
though little or no income is earned thereon;
9. to use income or corpus funds (irrespective of their derivation) for any purpose of the fund and with
respect to any property of the fund (irrespective of the income, if any, it produces) even if such funds
are derived from the sale of or income from other property of the fund or from a loan (from income or
an outside source) using such other property as security.
B. Without limiting the authority otherwise conferred, the following additional authority is hereby granted to
be exercised as is believed to be in the best interest of the fund:
1. to accept and receive for any inter vivos, testamentary of transfer of property to the fund;
2. to hold property, and to negotiate and execute documents on behalf of the fund, in the name of the
fund or in the name of a nominee(s) without disclosing any fiduciary relationship to anyone;
3. to allocate between income and corpus (in cases where reasonable doubt of the applicable law
exists) in equitable proportions, any money or other property received, and any loss or expenditure
incurred; it is expected that the Ohio Principal and Income Act should be applied.
4. to vote, or refrain from voting, securities having voting privileges, and to give any type of proxy (with
or without voting directions) to vote the same;
5. to make division and distribution of property held in the fund (whenever directed to do so) either in
kind or in cash, or partly in kind and partly in cash and for purpose to set values upon any property of
the fund;
6. to protect the fund and its property by insurance against damage, loss, and liability;
7. to establish checking account(s) in which may be deposited income and/or corpus cash; and
8. to employ, at the expense of the fund, attorneys, investment counsel, brokers, custodians of
assets, and other agents and employees.
VII. AMENDMENTS
Any amendment to this bylaw that will change, alter or amend the general purpose for which the fund is
established shall be adopted only if approved by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the voting members present at a
duly called and constituted meeting of the Voters Meeting, the notice of which has stated that such an
amendment will be proposed to the Voters Meeting.
ARTICLE 13: LIMITATIONS OF SPECIFIED DONATIONS
The congregation is always thankful for donations. However, it is necessary that the voters assemble shall
have the right of approval in the cases of designated of limited use gifts, be those gifts in the form of actual
material items or in the form of monetary gifts that are designated for the inception of a new fund that does not
exist at that time.
ARTICLE 14: AMENDMENTS OF THE BYLAWS
Amendments of the Bylaws may be determined by a simple majority vote of any qualified Voters Meeting
provided that such an amendment is published and properly studied prior to the decision of the vote. Such an
amendment will be instated effective immediately.
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