Congregations and their Constitutions

The Handbook of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod indicates that all changes to the constitution and bylaws of member congregations are to be reviewed and approved through the district board of directors as a qualification for continued membership in the Synod. In addition, the New England District charges the district’s Constitution Committee with reviewing all new constitutions and/or bylaws of a member congregation as well as all amendments to existing constitutions and bylaws. Any revisions to a constitution or bylaw are not effective until the board of directors has approved the changes.

The Constitution Committee looks to see if the constitution/bylaw helps a congregation accomplish its mission “decently and in good order.” The wording needs to be clear, concise, and unambiguous. The articles in the constitution/bylaw cannot conflict with each other or with the constitution and bylaws of the Synod and District.

Questions regarding constitution/bylaw changes can be directed to the Rev. Kevin Karner, chairman of the NED Constitution Committee. He can be reached at kkarner@juno.com.

Respectfully submitted,
The Rev. Kevin Karner
Chairman, NED Constitution Committee