LCMS Commission on Constitutional Matters — Minutes St. Louis, Missouri — May 18–20, 2007, Page 5

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Scriptures, the Lutheran Confessions, the Constitution and Bylaws of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, and this
Standard Operating Procedures Manual.
B.

Governing Principles
Matthew 18 and the Eighth Commandment undergird this process for bringing and resolving complaints against
members of faculties and administrations of the Synod’s colleges and universities. While Matthew 18 provides the
structure for carrying out church discipline in a local congregation, it also provides guidance and a pattern that is to be
observed in this procedure whenever applicable. And in accord with the Eighth Commandment, everything possible
should be done to protect the reputations of complainants and respondents.

C.

Primary Purpose
The primary purpose of this procedure is to achieve reconciliation and, when necessary, repentance, and to bring
healing to the college or university community. The goal will be to resolve matters of complaint in an amicable
manner, if possible without resorting to the use of a Review Committee. The process is intended to provide opportunity
for the ministry of law and gospel, for teaching, and for the practice of Christian love.

D.

Removal of Members of Faculties or Administrations
Whereas Bylaw 3.8.3.8.9 (a) allows for complaints “concerning any matter,” only those complaints associated with
Bylaw 3.8.3.8.5 may result in the dismissal of a faculty or administration member.
IV. Flow Chart of Bylaw 3.8.3.8.9 Process

1.

Reception of Complaint
1.1
1.2
1.3

2.

Request for Formal Process
2.1
2.2
2.3

3.

Selections of two committee members by each party
Selection of fifth committee member by Secretary of the Synod
Possible limitation on activities of respondent

Review Committee Formal Hearing
4.1
4.2
4.3

5.

Complainant prepares written statements
Respondent submits written reply
Board of regents forms Review Committee

Formation of Review Committee
3.1
3.2
3.3

4.

Board of regents receives complaint
Complainant directed to have face-to-face meeting
Complainant receives assistance from president or chairman of board

Arrangements for hearing
Opinions from CTCR and CCM
Conduct of hearing

Review Committee Decision
5.1
5.2
5.3

Committee issues decision
Board of regents takes appropriate action
Board of Regents actions are final and binding
V. Detailed Bylaw 3.8.3.8.9 Process

1.

Reception of Complaint
1.1

Board of regents receives complaint

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