LCMS Commission on Constitutional Matters — Minutes St. Louis, Missouri — May 25, 2021, Page 7

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In MNN Bylaw 3.26 (b)(1)(i), “as an assistant pastor” should read “to a congregation in an
assisting capacity” (cf. Synod Bylaw 3.3.1 [a])
In MNN Bylaw 3.32, there appear to be extraneous question marks, which should be removed.
In MNN Bylaw 3.34, regional (conference) membership of the regional board members is
determined not by residence but by congregational membership: “…shall reside hold membership
in a congregation within the conference…”
In MNN Bylaw 3.46, the commission notes that the provision that “no resolution may be passed
by less than six affirmative votes” is unusual, but theoretically permissible.
In MNN Bylaw 4.06, the commission notes a very broad definition of “staff,” which may impact
or be understood to impact broader service of these individuals in the district or Synod. Compare
Synod Bylaw 1.5.1.1.

The commission thanks the district and its secretary for submitting these bylaws for review and requests a
subsequent draft with the above issues addressed so that it can continue its review.
97. Correspondence: 2019 Res. 9-17: Voting Privilege in the LCMS
The Secretary shared with the commission an email from retired teacher Richard Cohrs, related to the work
of the noted committee. Separately, the Secretary responded to Cohrs that the committee has issued its
report and recommendations and that he may work through bodies able to submit overtures to the
conventions of his district or the Synod to offer his further suggestions for convention consideration.
98. Adjournment and Upcoming Meetings
The commission discussed items remaining on its agenda, including Ag. 21-2965, a question from the
Commission on Handbook, and longer-term projects of revising the congregational constitution and bylaw
templates and the possibility of proposing model district bylaws based on representative approaches drawn
from the various districts, as an aid to districts considering revisions. The commission will, while
performing preliminary work on these items, handle urgent business through the summer by additional
internet conference meetings, planning to meet in person after its vacancy is, Lord willing, filled in
September.
Having concluded its agenda, the commission adjourned with closing prayer by Rev. Bode.
99. Mid-South Bylaw Proposal, Revised (20-2958A)
By an email of May 26, the Mid-South District Secretary forwarded a revision of the district’s bylaws that
adopted the changes indicated as necessary in the commission’s previous review (Op. 20-2958) and
addressed, by way of amendment of Bylaw 8.5.1 and insertion of Bylaw 8.5.1.1, also the commission’s
suggestion regarding the distinction of temporary and permanent service of a vice-president in line of
succession in the case of presidential incapacity or departure from office before term expiration. Subsequent
to its meeting, the commission reviewed the changes to Bylaw 8.5.1 and unanimously consented to the
language as proposed. Thus this change, too, stands approved for presentation to and adoption by the
convention.
John W. Sias, Secretary

CCM Minutes – May 25, 2021 – Page 72