LCMS Commission on Constitutional Matters — Minutes St. Louis, Missouri — December 16,1999, Page 2

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II.
A word about the format of this booklet document which differs from previous editions:
In the first chapter subjects are listed which should be covered addressed in the constitution. Several
comments are offered under each subject, and then a sample article is included.
Then follows a chapter on bylaws. Here still more license latitude is accorded to available to
congregations, depending on their circumstances, their size, their location, and other distinguishing
unique factors.
Finally, a few words a few sentences are given regarding alternate forms of organization.
It will be noted that the document contains no sample set for the Articles of Incorporation of a
congregation. The Commission on Constitutional Matters is of the opinion that such articles should be
very brief and should contain only the necessary materials required by the laws of the individual states.
Congregations should consult an attorney familiar with such matters. If the congregation is not acquainted
with an attorney, names of attorneys can generally be obtained from District officials or the attorney for
the District.
Persons working with these documents of the congregation are reminded to also consult pertinent
sections of the Constitution and Bylaws of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.
III.
After long experience, the Commission on Constitutional Matters has come to the conclusion that
governing instruments, generally, not only the Articles of Incorporation but also the constitution and the
bylaws of a congregation, should be as brief as possible. Brief but adequate should be the watchword!
Brevity will therefore enable the congregation to develop additional structures and programs which meet
their its needs and mission goals without going through the time-consuming and arduous task of
constantly amending their its governing instruments.
It is our prayer hope that this little document will help the congregations of our beloved Synod to
carry out more effectively the great mission which our Lord Jesus Christ has given to us: to make
disciples of all nations and to teach them to observe all things whatsoever He has commanded us!
1. GUIDELINES FOR CONSTITUTIONS
We list some of the subjects that should ordinarily be included in a congregation's constitution, with
comments, together with a sample paragraph which need not be regarded as mandatory.
It should be noted that for ease of reference the Commission also recommends the use of a modern
Arabic numeral and decimal reference system.
1.0 NAME
Legal counsel should be consulted to make certain that this paragraph follows the requirements set forth
by the state for ecclesiastical corporations. It is desirable that the name Lutheran appear in the name of the
congregation (see Resolution 3-13A of Synod's 1995 convention, Proceedings, p. 125).
Example:
The name of this congregation shall be Trinity Lutheran Congregation Church of City,] [County,]
[State].
2.0 MISSION
In the constitution of a Christian organization it is desirable to have a paragraph stating the mission or
purpose for which the organization exists. This can be stated in many, different ways so long as it
contains all the fundamental purposes stated in the example below.
Example:
The purpose of this congregation shall be to give honor and glory to the Triune God, to carry out His
will, to assist in preaching proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all the world, to manifest the unity
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