# LCMS Commission on Constitutional Matters Minutes_St. Louis Missouri_April 29 1983_S6
# Machine transcription, uncorrected — CHI Digital Archive (demonstration)

Ov. 5-85 - This would require the setting aside of the provisions for receiving individuals into
membership (Herman Otten case).
Ov. 5-87 - It is doubtful whether all of the references to Christian education as formerly found in
the Handbook really belong in a constitutional document. Other boards and
departments do not have philosophical or theological statements incorporated into
their bylaws.
Ov, 5-90 - To initiate an of f ice of "Called Lay Minister" seems to be a contradiction in terms as
well as a constitutional contradiction.
Generally speaking, the Commission found itself favorably disposed especially toward the following
overture proposals, in addition to the reports in Section 5 of the Workbook:
Ov. 5-23A- To Include Directors of Christian Education as Members of the Synod
Ov. 5-27 - Uniform Practices in Teacher Colloquy Programs
Ov. 5-38 - To Classify Ministers of Religion
Ov. 5-40 - Allowing Each Congregation in a Multiple Parish to Vote in District Conventions
Ov. 5-46 - To List Age Requirements for Youth Members of Board for Youth Services
Ov. 5-75 - The Use of "Hierarchical" for Legal Purposes
Ov. 5-77A- To Allow Six-Year Terms for District Board Members
Ov. 5-81A- To Refrain from Removing Names from Call Lists
Ov. 5-82 - To Add LCEF to Bylaw 8.09 a
Herbert Mueller, Secretary

Minutes of the Commission on Constitutional Matters - May 27-30, 1983
167. The Commission met at various times during the floor committee meetings and was asked to rule on
several questions.
168. Suspension of Bylaws: The Commission ruled that bylaws cannot be suspended, but that a new
bylaw setting forth the time segment to be covered and specific provisions must be adopted. This was in
answer to a request from Committee 4.
169. Hierarchy: At various times Gene Schnelz, Kermit Brashear, and the undersigned were involved
with Legal Counsel Draheim and an attorney on Committee 5 in drafting a resolution addressing itself to
the polity question (hierarchical vs. congregational).