In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

We baptized members of the Church of Christ, responding in faith to the call of the Holy Spirit through the Gospel, desiring to unite together to preach the Word, administer the sacraments, and carry out God's mission, do hereby adopt this constitution and solemnly pledge ourselves to be governed by its provisions.

Chapter 1.

C1.01. The name of this congregation shall be Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church.

C1.02. For the purpose of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church congregation is hereinafter designated as "this congregation."

C1.03. This congregation shall be incorporated under the laws of the State of Ohio.

Chapter 2.

C2.01. This congregation confesses the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

C2.02. This congregation confesses Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and the Gospel as the power of God for the salvation of all who believe.

1. Jesus Christ is the Word of God incarnate, through whom everything was made and through whose life, death, and resurrection God fashions a new creation.
2. The proclamation of God's message to us as both Law and Gospel is the Word of God, revealing judgment and mercy through word and deed, beginning with the Word in creation, continuing in the history of Israel, and centering in all its fullness in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
3. The canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the written Word of God, inspired by God's Spirit speaking through their authors, they record and announce God's revelation centering in Jesus Christ. Through them God's Spirit speaks to us to create and sustain Christian faith and fellowship for service in the world.

C2.03 This congregation accepts the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation, faith, and life.

C2.04. This congregation accepts the Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of the faith of this congregation.

C2.05. This congregation accepts the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as a true witness to the Gospel, acknowledging as one with it in faith and doctrine all churches that likewise accept the teachings of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession.

C2.06. This congregation accepts the other confessional writings in the Book of Concord, namely, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles and the Treatise, the Small Catechism, the Large Catechism, and the Formula of Concord, as further valid interpretations of the faith of the Church.

C2.07. This congregation confesses the Gospel, recorded in the Holy Scriptures and confessed in the ecumenical creeds and Lutheran confessional writings, as the power of God to create and sustain the Church for God's mission in the world.

Chapter 3.

C3.01. All power in the Church belongs to our Lord Jesus Christ, its head. All actions of this congregation are to be carried out under his rule and authority .

C3.02. The Church exists both as an inclusive fellowship and as local congregations gathered for worship and Christian service. Congregations find their fulfillment in the universal community of the Church, and the universal Church exists in and through congregations. This church, therefore, derives its character and powers both from the sanction and representation of its congregations and from its inherent nature as an expression of the broader fellowship of the faithful. In length, it acknowledges itself to be in the historic continuity of the communion of saints; in breadth, it expresses the fellowship of believers and congregations in our day.

Chapter 4.

C4.01. The Church is a people created by God in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, called and sent to bear witness to God's creative, redeeming, and sanctifying activity in the world.

C4.02. To participate in God's mission, this congregation as a part of the Church shall:

1. Worship God in proclamation of the Word and administration of the sacraments and through lives of prayer, praise, thanksgiving, witness, and service.
2. Proclaim God's saving Gospel of justification by grace for Christ's sake through faith alone, according to the apostolic witness in the Holy Scripture, preserving and transmitting the Gospel faithfully to future generations.
3. Carry out Christ's Great Commission by reaching out to all people to bring them to faith in Christ and by doing all ministry with a global awareness consistent with the understanding of God as Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier of all.
4. Serve in response to God's love to meet human needs, caring for the sick and the aged, advocating dignity and justice for all people, working for peace and reconciliation among the nations, and standing with the poor and powerless, and committing itself to their needs.
5. Nurture its members in the Word of God so as to grow in faith and hope and love, to see daily life as the primary setting for the exercise of their Christian calling, and to use the gifts of the Spirit for their life together and for their calling in the world.
6. Manifest the unity given to the people of God by living together in the love of Christ and by joining with other Christians in prayer and action to express and preserve the unity which the Spirit gives.

1. Provide services of worship at which the Word of God is preached and the sacraments are administered.
2. Provide pastoral care and assist all members to participate in this ministry.
3. Challenge, equip, and support all members in carrying out their calling in their daily lives and in their congregation.
4. Teach the Word of God.
5. Witness to the reconciling Word of God in Christ, reaching out to all people.
6. Respond to human need, work for justice and peace, care for the sick and suffering, and participate responsibly in society.
7. Motivate its members to provide financial support for the congregation's ministry of other parts of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
8. Foster and participate in interdependent relationships with other congregations, the synod, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
9. Foster and participate in ecumenical relationships consistent with churchwide policy.

C4.05. This congregation shall, from time to time, adopt a mission statement which will provide specific direction for its programs.

Chapter 5.

C5.01. The powers of this congregation are those necessary to fulfill its purpose.

C5.02. The powers of this congregation are vested in the Congregation Meeting called and conducted as provided in this constitution and bylaws.

C5.03. Only such authority as is delegated to the Congregational Council or other organizational units in the congregation's governing documents is recognized. All remaining authority is retained by the congregation. The congregation is authorized to:

1. call a pastor;
2. terminate the call of a pastor;
3. appoint or terminate the appointment of associates in ministry in conformity with the applicable policy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;
4. approve the annual budget;
5. acquire real and personal property by gift, devise, purchases, or other lawful means;
6. hold title to and use its property for any and all activities consistent with its purpose;
7. sell, mortgage, lease, rent, transfer, purchase or encumber any of its real property by resolution adopted by not less than a 2/3 majority ballot vote of the members present and voting at a legally called meeting of the congregation.
8. elect its officers, Congregational Council, boards, and committees, and require them to carry out their duties in accordance with the constitution and bylaws, and continuing resolutions and
9. terminate its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as provided in Chapter 6.

C6.01. This congregation shall be an interdependent part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or its successor, and of the Northwestern Ohio Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. This congregation is subject to the discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

C6.02. This congregation accepts the Confession of Faith and agrees to the Purposes of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and shall act in accordance with them.

C6.03. This congregation acknowledges its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in which:

1. This congregation agrees to be responsible for its life as a Christian community.
2. This congregation pledges its financial support and participation in the life and mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
3. This congregation agrees to call pastoral leadership from the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in accordance with its call procedures except in special circumstances and with the approval of the bishop of the synod.
4. This congregation agrees to consider associates in ministry for appointment to other staff positions in the congregation according to the procedures of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
5. This congregation agrees to file this constitution and any subsequent changes to this constitution with the synod for review to ascertain that all of its provisions are in agreement with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or with the constitution of the synod.

1. This congregation takes action to dissolve.
2. This congregation ceases to exist.
3. This congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to the procedures for discipline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
4. This congregation terminates its relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America by the following procedures:

1. A resolution indicating the desire of this congregation to terminate its relationship must be adopted at a legally called and conducted special meeting of this congregation by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present.
2. The secretary of this congregation shall submit a copy of the resolution to the synodical bishop and shall mail a copy of the resolution to voting members of the congregation. This notice shall be submitted within 10 days after the resolution has been adopted.
3. The bishop of the synod shall consult with this congregation during a period of at least 90 days.
4. If this congregation, after consultation, still desires to terminate its relationship, such action may be taken at a legally called and conducted special meeting by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present, at which meeting the bishop of the synod or an authorized representative shall be present. Notice of the meeting shall be mailed to all voting members at least 10 days in advance of the meeting.
5. A certified copy of the resolution to terminate its relationship shall be sent to the synodical bishop, at which time the relationship between this congregation and ELCA shall be terminated.
6. Notice of termination shall be forwarded by the synodical bishop to the secretary of this church and published in the periodical of this church.

Chapter 7.

C7.01. If this congregation ceases to exist, title to undisposed property shall pass to the Northwestern Ohio Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

C7.02. If this congregation is removed from membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America according to its procedure for discipline, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation.

C7.03. If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a regularly called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to transfer to another Lutheran church body, title to property shall continue to reside in this congregation. Before this congregation takes action to transfer to another Lutheran church body, it shall consult with representatives of the Northwestern Ohio Synod.

C7.04. If a two-thirds majority of the voting members of this congregation present at a regularly called and conducted special meeting of this congregation vote to become independent or relate to a non-Lutheran church body, title to property of this congregation shall continue to reside in this congregation only with the consent of the Synod Council. The Synod Council, after consultation with the congregation by the established synodical process, may give approval to the request to become independent or to relate to a non-Lutheran church body, in which case title shall remain with the majority of the congregation. If the Synod Council fails to give such approval, title shall remain with those members who desire to continue as a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Chapter 8.

C8.01. Membership of this congregation shall be those baptized persons on the roll of the congregation at the time that this constitution is adopted and those who are admitted thereafter and who have declared and maintain their membership in accordance with the provisions of this constitution and its bylaws.

C8.02. Members shall be classified as follows:

1. Baptized members are those persons who have been received by the Sacrament of Holy Baptism in this congregation, or, having been previously baptized in the name of the Triune God, have been received by certificate of transfer from other Lutheran congregations or by affirmation of faith.
2. Confirmed members are baptized persons who have been confirmed in this congregation, those who have been received by adult baptism or by transfer as confirmed members from other Lutheran congregations, or baptized persons received by affirmation of faith.
3. Voting members are confirmed members who have communed during the prior twenty four months.
4. Associate members are persons holding membership in other Christian congregations who wish to retain such membership and also desire to participate in the life and mission of this congregation. They have all the privileges and duties of membership except voting rights and eligibility for elected offices or membership on Congregational Boards of this congregation.

C8.04. It shall be the privilege and duty of members of this congregation to:

1. make regular use of the means of grace, both Word and sacraments;
2. live a Christian life in accordance with the Word of God and the teachings of the Lutheran church; and
3. support the work of this congregation and of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through contributions of their time, abilities, and financial support as biblical stewards.

1. death;
2. resignation;
3. transfer or release;
4. disciplinary action by the Congregation Council; or
5. removal from the membership roll due to inactivity as defined in the bylaws.

Chapter 9.

C9.01. Authority to call a pastor shall be in this congregation by at least a two-thirds majority ballot vote of members present and voting at a meeting regularly called for that purpose. Before a call is issued, the officers, or a committee elected by this congregation to recommend a call, shall seek the advice and help of the bishop of the synod.

C9.02. Only a member of the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or who has been recommended for it by the synodical bishop may be called as a pastor of this congregation.

C9.03. Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, every ordained minister shall preach the Word, administer the sacraments, conduct public worship, provide pastoral care, and shall speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming God's love for the world. Each ordained minister with a congregational call shall, within the congregation, offer instruction, confirm, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead; supervise all schools and organizations of the congregation; shall install regularly elected members of the congregational council, and with the council administer discipline. Every pastor shall seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel and strive to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation, and abroad; shall impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry through distribution of its periodicals and other publications; and shall endeavor to increase the support given by the congregation to the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and of the synod of the ELCA.

C9.04. The specific duties of the pastor, compensation, and other matters pertaining to the service of the pastor shall be included in a letter of call.

C9.05.

1. mutual agreement to terminate the call or the completion of a call for a specific term of years;
2. resignation of the pastor;
3. inability to conduct the pastoral office effectively in the congregation in view of local conditions without reflection of the competence or the moral and spiritual character of the pastor;
4. the physical or mental incapacity of the pastor;
5. disqualification of the pastor through discipline on grounds of doctrine, morality, or continued neglect of duty; or
6. the dissolution of the congregation.
b. In the case of alleged physical or mental incapacity of the pastor or ineffective conduct of the pastoral office, it shall be the responsibility of the bishop of the synod, when such difficulties are personally known or have been brought to the synod's attention by an official recital of allegations by the congregational council, or by a petition signed by at least one-third of the voting members of the congregation, to investigate such conditions personally in company with a committee of two ordained ministers and one layperson.

c. In case of alleged physical or mental incapacity competent medical testimony shall be obtained. When such disability is evident, the bishop of the synod with the advice of the committee shall declare the pastorate vacant. Upon the restoration of a disabled pastor to health, the bishop of the synod shall take steps to enable the pastor to resume the ministry, either in the congregation last served or in another field of labor.

d. In the case of alleged local difficulties which imperil the effective functioning of the congregation, all concerned persons shall be heard, after which the bishop of the synod together with the committee described in C.9.05.b. shall decide on the course of action to be recommended to the pastor and the congregation. If they agree to carry out such recommendations, no further action shall be taken by the synod. If either party fails to assent, the congregation may dismiss the pastor by a two-thirds majority vote of the voting members present at a regularly called meeting after consultation with the bishop.

e. The foregoing procedure shall never be invoked when questions of doctrine, morality, or continued neglect of duty are involved, all such cases being treated as disciplinary matters.

f. If in the course of the proceedings, it should become apparent that the pastoral office cannot be conducted effectively in the congregation being served by the ordained minister due to local conditions, the bishop of the synod may temporarily suspend the pastor from service in the congregation without prejudice and with pay provided through a joint churchwide/synod fund and with housing provided by the congregation.

C9.06. At the time of pastoral vacancy, an interim pastor may be appointed by the bishop of the synod with the consent of this congregation or the congregational council.

C9.07. During the period of service, an interim pastor shall have the rights and duties of a regularly called pastor and may delegate the same in part to a supply pastor with the consent of the bishop of the synod and this congregation or congregational council. The interim pastor and any ordained pastor providing assistance shall refrain from exerting influence in the selection of a pastor.

C9.08. This congregation shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to the former pastor before calling a successor. A pastor shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to this congregation.

C9.09. When a pastor is called to serve in company with another pastor or pastors, the privileges and responsibilities of each pastor shall be specified in documents to accompany the call and to be drafted in consultation involving the pastors, the congregational council, and the bishop of the synod. As occasion requires, the documents may be revised through a similar consultation.

C9.10. With the approval of the bishop of the synod the congregation may depart from C9.05.a and call a pastor for a specific term of years. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose and conditions involved. Prior to the completion of a term, the bishop or a designated representative of the bishop, shall meet with the pastor and representatives of the congregation for a review of the call. Such call may also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of C9.05.a.

C9.11. The pastor shall keep accurate parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received, members dismissed, or members excluded from the congregation, and shall submit a summary of such statistics annually to the congregational council and the synod.

C9.12. The pastor(s) shall submit a report of his or her ministry to the bishop of the synod at least 90 days prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.

Chapter 10.

C10.01. The annual meeting of this congregation shall be held at a time specified by the bylaws.

C10.02. A special Congregational Meeting may be called by the pastor, the Congregational Council, the president of this congregation, or shall be called at the written petition of 10% of the voting members. The call for each special meeting shall specify the purpose for which it is to be held and no other business shall be transacted.

C10.03. Notice of all meetings of this congregation shall be given at the services of worship on the preceding two consecutive Sundays and by mail to all voting members at least 10 days in advance of the date of the meeting. The posting of such notice in the regular mail, with the regular postage affixed or paid, sent to the last known address of such members shall be sufficient. Such notice shall state the time, the place, and the purpose of the meeting. It shall be signed by the president and the secretary of the congregation, or by the person or persons who have called the meeting, as authorized by Chapter 10.02.

C10.04. A quorum shall be 20% of the voting members of the congregation.

C10.05. Voting by proxy or by absentee ballot shall not be permitted.

C10.06. All actions by the congregation shall be by majority vote except as otherwise provided in this constitution.

C10.07. The pastor shall be notified of the time and place at which the annual meeting or a special meeting of the congregation is to be held.

C10.08. Robert's Rule of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of all meetings of this congregation.

Chapter 11.

C11.01. The officers of this congregation shall be a president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer.

1. Duties of the officers shall be specified in the bylaws.
2. The officers must be voting members, age 18 or older and in good standing, of the congregation.
3. The officers shall be responsible for matters relating to the legal and corporate affairs of the congregation. The president and the secretary shall execute legal documents for the congregation.
4. Officers of this congregation shall serve similar offices of the Congregational Council and shall be voting members of the Congregational Council.

C11.03. The boards of this congregation shall be; Board of Deacons, Board of Education, Board of Evangelism, Board of Fellowship, Board of Finance, Board of Music and Worship, Board of Stewardship, Board of Trustees, and Board of Youth.

1. The chairpersons of the boards, determined in accordance with the bylaws, shall be the voting members of the Congregational Council.
2. Duties and responsibilities of the boards shall be specified in the bylaws.
3. The board members must be voting members, in good standing, of the congregation.
4. Each board shall be made up of three elected members, one member being elected annually.

C11.05. All of the elected officers and board members shall be installed at a regular worship following their election.

C11.06. No officer or board member shall hold more than one office or be a member of more than one board at a time. No elected officer or board member shall be eligible to serve more than four consecutive terms in the same office or on the same board.

C11.07. The order of election of officers and board members shall be as follows:

Elected in Years

Officers and Board Members EvenOdd

President 1 -

Vice-President - 1

Treasurer 1 -

Secretary - 1

Board of Deacons 1 1

Board of Education 1 1

Board of Evangelism 1 1

Board of Fellowship 1 1

Board of Finance 1 1

Board of Music and Worship 1 1

Board of Stewardship 1 1

Board of Trustees 1 1

Board of Youth 1 1

C11.08 The Boards of the Congregation;

1) The Board of Deacons

There shall be a Board of Deacons consisting of three members elected at the annual meeting of the congregation. The pastor(s) shall be an advisory member by virtue of his office but without a vote. The Board of Deacons shall be responsible for providing spiritual leadership in the congregation, assisting the pastor(s) in visitations and for service of the congregation in the community and in the world.

There shall be a Board of Education consisting of three members elected at the annual meeting of the congregation. The pastor(s) shall be an advisory member by virtue of his office but without a vote. The Board of Education shall be responsible for the leadership and supervision of the educational programs of the congregation.

There shall be a Board of Evangelism consisting of three members elected at the annual meeting of the congregation. The pastor(s) shall be an advisory member by virtue of his office but without a vote. The Board of Evangelism shall be responsible for the ministry of witness and outreach of the congregation.

There shall be a Board of Fellowship consisting of three members elected at the annual meeting of the congregation. The pastor(s) shall be an advisory member by virtue of his office but without a vote. The Board of Fellowship shall be responsible for promoting social activities among the members of the congregation.

There shall be a Board of Finance consisting of six members. The Vice-President shall be the chairperson, a representative of the Board of Trustees and the Board of Stewardship shall be members along with three members elected at the annual meeting of the

congregation. The treasurer and the financial secretary shall serve in an advisory capacity to the board. The Board of Finance shall be responsible for the fiscal planning and the administration of the finances of the congregation.

There shall be a Board of Music and Worship of three members elected at the annual meeting of the congregation. The pastor(s) shall be an advisory member by virtue of his office but without a vote. The Board of Music and Worship shall be responsible for the various elements contributing to the edification of the worship services.

There shall be a Board of Stewardship consisting of three members elected at the annual meeting of the congregation. The pastor(s) shall be an advisory member by virtue of his office but without a vote. The Board of Stewardship shall be responsible for promoting the concept of tithing and encouraging members of this congregation to exercise their privilege of supporting the church by assuming their responsibilities as Christian stewards of their time, talents and possessions.

There shall be a Board of Trustees consisting of three members elected at the annual meeting of the congregation. The pastor(s) shall be an advisory member by virtue of his office but without a vote. The Board of Trustees shall be responsible for the general management of the church properties and to supervise the maintenance of the properties of the congregation.

There shall be a Board of Youth consisting of three members elected at the annual meeting of the congregation. The pastor(s) shall be an advisory member by virtue of his office but without a vote. The Board of Youth shall be responsible for providing leadership and supervision for the youth programs of the congregation.

C12.01. The voting membership of the Congregational Council shall consist of the officers of the congregation and the chairpersons of the respective boards, and the pastor(s) serving as an advisory member by virtue of his office. A member's place on the Congregational Council shall be declared vacant if the member

a. ceases to be a voting member of this congregation

b. is absent from three successive regular meetings of the Congregational Council without cause.

C12.03. The Congregational Council shall have general oversight of the life and activities of the congregation, and in particular its worship life, to the end that everything be done in accordance with the Word of God and the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The duties of the Congregational Council shall include the following:

1. To lead this congregation in stating its mission, to do long-range planning, to set goals and priorities, and to evaluate its activities in light of its mission and goals.
2. To seek to involve all members of this congregation in worship, learning, witness, service, and support.
3. To oversee and provide for the administration of this congregation to enable it to fulfill its functions and perform its mission through coordinating the activities of the various boards and committees of the congregation.
4. To maintain supportive relationships with the pastor(s) and staff and help them annually to evaluate the fulfillment of their calling, appointment, or employment.
5. To be examples individually and corporately of the style of life and ministry expected of all baptized persons.
6. To promote a congregational climate of peace and goodwill and, as differences and conflicts arise, to endeavor to foster mutual understanding.
7. To arrange for pastoral service during the sickness or absence of the pastor.
8. To emphasize partnership with the synod and churchwide units of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as well as cooperation with other congregations, both Lutheran and non-Lutheran, subject to established policies of the synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
9. To recommend and encourage the use of program resources produced or approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

1. The Congregational Council shall be the board of directors of this congregation, and as such shall be responsible for maintaining and protecting its property and the management of its business and fiscal affairs. It shall have the powers and be subject to the obligations that pertain to such boards under the laws of the State of Ohio, except as otherwise provided herein.
2. The Congregational Council shall not have the authority to sell, mortgage, lease, rent, transfer, purchase or encumber any congregation real property unless specifically authorized to do so by a legally called meeting of the congregation.
3. The Congregational Council may enter into contracts of up to $5,000 (for items not included in the budget).
4. The Congregational Council shall submit an annual budget for adoption by the congregation, shall supervise the expenditure of funds in accordance therewith following its adoption, and may not incur expenditures in excess of the approved budget without approval by a congregational meeting. The budget shall include thiscongregation's full indicated share in support of the wider ministry being carried on in partnership with the synod and churchwide organization.
5. The Congregational Council shall ascertain that the financial affairs of this congregation are being conducted efficiently, giving particular attention to the prompt payment of all obligations and to the regular forwarding of benevolence monies to the synodical treasurer.
6. The Congregational Council shall be responsible for this congregation's investments and its total insurance program.

C12.06. The Congregational Council shall determine annually the rosters of the baptized, confirmed, and voting members of the congregation.

C12.07. The Congregational Council shall be responsible for the appointment and supervision of the salaried lay workers of this congregation.

C12.08. The Congregational Council shall submit a comprehensive report to this congregation at the annual meeting.

C12.09. The Congregational Council shall meet once a month. Special meetings may be called by the pastor or the president, and shall be called at the request of at least one-half of its members. Notice of each special meeting shall be given to all who are entitled to be present.

C12.10. A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of a majority of the members of the Congregational Council, including the pastor(s) or interim pastor, except when such person requests or consents to be absent and has given prior approval to an agenda of routine matters which shall be the only business of the meeting.

Chapter 13.

C13.01. The officers of this congregation and the pastor(s) shall constitute the Executive Committee.

C13.02. A Nominating Committee of five voting members of the congregation, two of whom shall be members of the Congregational Council, appointed each year by the Congregational Council, and the remaining three shall be elected at the annual meeting for a term of one year. The pastor shall serve as convener and as an advisory member of the committee. Members of the Nominating Committee are not eligible for re-election.

C13.03. An Audit Committee of three voting members shall be appointed by the Congregational Council. Audit Committee members shall not be members of the Congregational Council. Term of office will be three years, with one member appointed each year. Members shall be eligible for reappointment.

C13.04. A Staff Support Committee of three members shall be appointed by the president and approved by the Congregational Council. Term of office shall be three years, one member to be appointed each successive year. Committee members will hold no other office in the congregation.

C13.05. When a pastoral vacancy occurs, a Call Committee of six voting members shall be appointed by the Congregational Council. Term of office will terminate at installation of the newly-called pastor.

C13.06. Other congregational committees may be formed as the need arises, by decision of the Congregational Council.

C13.07. Duties of congregational committees shall be specified in the bylaws or specified in continuing resolutions.

Chapter 14.

C14.01. All organizations within this congregation shall exist to aid it in ministering to the members of this congregation and to all persons who can be reached with the Gospel of Christ. As outgrowths and expressions of this congregation's life, the organizations are subject to its oversight and direction. This congregation at its meeting shall determine their policies, guide their activities, and receive reports concerning their membership, work, and finances.

C14.02. Special interest groups, other than those of the official organizations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, may be organized only after authorization has been given by the Congregational Council.

Chapter 15.

C15.01. Denial of the Christian faith as described in this constitution, conduct grossly unbecoming a member of the Church of Christ, or persistent trouble-making in this congregation are sufficient cause for discipline of a member. Prior to disciplinary action, reconciliation will be attempted following Matthew 18: 15-17, proceeding through these successive steps:
 

C15.02. A member charged with the offense shall have a hearing before the Congregational Council having received a written notice, specifying the exact charges that have been made against the member, at least 10 days prior to the meeting.

C15.03. Should the allegations be sustained by a two-thirds majority vote of the Congregational Council, the council shall impose one of the following disciplinary actions:
 

C15.04. The member against whom disciplinary action has been taken by the Congregational Council shall have the right to appeal the decision to the Synod Council. Such right may not be abridged and the decision of the Synod Council shall be final.

C15.05. Disciplinary actions may be reconsidered and revoked by the Congregational Council upon receipt of
 

Chapter 16.

C16.01. This congregation may adopt bylaws as may from time to time be necessary. No bylaws may conflict with this constitution.

C16.02. Bylaws may be adopted or amended at any legally called meeting of this congregation with a quorum present by a majority vote of those voting members present and voting.

C16.03. Changes to the bylaws may be proposed by a voting member provided, however, that such additions or amendments be submitted in writing to the Congregational Council at least 60 days before a regular or special Congregational Meeting called for that purpose. The Congregational Council shall notify members of the proposal with their recommendations by reading the proposal and recommendation at a public service of the congregation and mailing to the voting members at least 30 days in advance of the Congregation Meeting.

C16.04. Approved changes to the bylaws shall be sent to the synod.

Chapter 17.

C17.01. The doctrinal basis and the confessional subscription contained in Chapter 2, and this paragraph of Chapter 17, shall be unalterable; and no amendment to this constitution shall conflict therewith.

C17.02. Amendments to this constitution may be proposed by at least 10% of the voting members or by the Congregational Council. Proposals must be filed in writing with the Congregational Council 60 days before formal consideration by this congregation at its regular or special meeting called for that purpose. The Congregational Council shall notify the members of the proposal with their recommendations by reading the proposal and recommendation at a public service of the congregation and mailing it to the voting members at least 30 days in advance of the meeting.

C17.03. A proposed amendment to this constitution shall:
 

C17.04. Any amendments to this constitution shall be sent by the secretary of this congregation to the synod. The amendment shall become effective within 120 days from the date of the receipt of the notice by the synod unless the synod informs this congregation that the amendment is in conflict with the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, or the constitution of the Northwestern Ohio Synod.

Chapter 18.

C18.01. The Congregational Council may enact continuing resolutions which describe the function of the various committees or organizations of this congregation.

C18.02. Continuing resolutions shall be enacted or amended by a two-thirds vote of all voting members of the Congregational Council.

C18.03. The Congregational Council shall be responsible for maintaining and updating records of all continuing resolutions to be known as the Procedures and Policy Manual. A current copy of this manual shall be provided to each member of the Congregational Council.

Article 1.

A1.01. The members of this congregation, who have been prepared to receive the Sacrament or have made the affirmation vow, promise to participate regularly in Holy Communion.

A1.02. Instruction for Holy Communion must be provided for persons as young as ten years of age.

A1.03. Participation in Holy Communion shall be open to all who believe in Jesus Christ as Savior and desire a new life in Christ.

A1.04. Participation in the Lord's Supper is the reception of the "Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ given with bread and wine, instituted by Christ himself for us to eat and drink." We hold that a "person is well prepared and worthy who believes these words, given and shed for you for the remission of sins. But anyone who does not believe these words, or doubts them, is neither prepared nor worthy, for the words for you require simply a believing heart."

A1.05. A record of member participation in Holy Communion shall be maintained. If a member of another congregation communes, notice shall be sent to his or her congregation.

Article 2.

A2.01. The buildings of this congregation shall be open to all people to share in its worship, instruction, pastoral care, and fellowship. The congregation rejects all fellowship with organizations, secret or open, which are avowedly religious or which practice forms of religion without confessing faith in the Triune God and in Jesus Christ as the eternal Son of God incarnate to be our only Savior from sin, which teach salvation by works.

A2.02. Ceremonies of lodges or other such organizations shall not be permitted in the buildings or premises of the congregation; nor shall its pastor(s) or lay assistant(s) take part in any such ceremonies wherever they are conducted.

A2.03. Nationally recognized youth organizations, sanctioned by the Church, may meet and hold activities in the church.

Article 3.

A3.01. Baptized Membership

1. Children, whose parent or guardian is a member of this congregation shall, upon Christian baptism, become a baptized member of this congregation.
2. Children, whose parent or guardian is not a member of this congregation shall, upon Christian baptism, become a baptized member of this congregation unless said parent or guardian designate another congregation as the place of membership.
3. Children baptized in other congregations shall be received as baptized members of this congregation when request for membership is made by parent or guardian.
4. Adults who receive baptism and desire membership in this congregation shall be received as baptized members.

1. A baptized adult shall upon request be received as a confirmed member of this congregation when they give evidence of adequate understanding of the teachings of the Word of God as confessed by the Lutheran Church, and having publicly affirmed their faith.
2. Children who are baptized members of this congregation shall be admitted to confirmed membership, following adequate instruction in the Word of God as confessed by the Lutheran Church by participation in the rite of confirmation.
3. Applicants presenting Letters of Transfer showing them to be members in good standing in other Lutheran congregations shall be admitted to confirmed membership in this congregation.
4. Applicants for membership who present evidence of confirmation in a Lutheran congregation but do not have Letters of Transfer shall be admitted to confirmed membership by reaffirmation of faith.

The Congregational Council and the Board of Stewardship shall determine the voting membership of this congregation in accordance with the provisions of the constitution. The roster of voting members shall be available at all regularly called meetings of the congregation.

A3.04. Associate Membership

Individuals who show an understanding of the Lutheran Confessions but do not desire to become a Baptized, Confirmed, or Voting member of this congregation may be carried as an Associate member.

A3.05. Discontinuance of Membership (See C8.05)

1. When a baptized or confirmed member moves out of the service area of Zion congregation, the Congregational Council shall encourage the member to seek membership in a Lutheran congregation or other Christian Church located in the community of their residence.
2. A baptized or confirmed member desiring transfer of membership to another Lutheran or Christian congregation, upon request, shall receive a Letter of Transfer.
3. A confirmed member, who for a period of 24 months prior to a congregational meeting, does not commune shall be visited by the pastor(s) and members of the Board of Deacons to encourage participation in the Sacrament of the Altar. If after the visitations by the pastor(s) and members of the Board of Deacons there is no response, their name shall be submitted to the Congregational Council for consideration for removal from membership. Notification of said action shall be made to the member by a letter.

All membership changes should be duly noted in the Congregational Council minutes.

Article 4.

A4.01. When the congregation has voted to call a pastor, it shall issue a Letter of Call to the pastor-elect, in the form approved by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. It shall be signed by the president and the secretary of the congregation and shall be attested by the signature of the Bishop of the synod. A Call to a clergyperson to be an assistant pastor shall be issued only with the concurrence of the pastor of the congregation and in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph.

A4.02. The Congregational Council shall review, annually, with the pastor(s) their specific responsibilities and the congregation's support of their ministry as contained in their Letter of Call of Appointment to evaluate performance, emphasis and on going needs to be served.

A4.03. The Call shall normally be for an indefinite time. A Call to an assistant pastor may be for a definite time.

A4.04. If a pastor receives a Call to another ministry, they shall consult the Congregational Council, or, if they desire, the congregation, before reaching a decision. They shall announce their decision as quickly as possible, normally within three weeks. They shall notify the Bishop of the Synod of their decision. When a Call has been accepted, the pastor shall terminate their ministry as soon as feasible, normally within a month.

Article 5.

A5.01. The annual meeting of this congregation shall be held in January. Announcement of the time and place of the annual meeting shall proceed according to the directives contained in Chapter 10.03.

A5.02. An annual congregational report containing all financial, officer, board and committee reports as required by these bylaws, shall be published in sufficient quantity for mailing to all confirmed members of the congregation at least 10 days in advance of said congregational meeting at which they are to be presented.

A5.03. The order of business at the annual meeting shall be:

1. Opening devotion
2. Approval of the minutes of all previous meeting(s)
3. Election of congregational officers, board members, and Nominating Committee
4. Auditing committee reports
5. Annual reports of pastor(s), Congregational Council, Treasurer, Financial Secretary, boards, and other committees
6. Reports of organizations
7. Special reports
8. Unfinished business
9. New business
10. Closing prayer

1. to adopt or amend the articles of incorporation, constitution, or bylaws of the congregation;
2. to call a pastor or to request their resignation;
3. to excommunicate a member from the congregation or to remove a member from office in the congregation;
4. to sever membership in The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;
5. to dispose of, encumber, or purchase real property;
6. when requested by ten or more voting members present.

A6.01. The President

1. shall preside at the meetings of the Congregational Council and of the congregation.
2. shall be the administrative leader of the congregation working in close harmony with the pastor.
3. shall appoint and dissolve special committees except those committees authorized by the congregation.
4. shall not vote except in the event of a tie.
5. shall be permitted to temporarily relinquish his chairmanship when he desires to speak on an issue or when he deems it in the best interest of the congregation.

1. shall preside at the meetings of the Congregational Council and of the congregation in the absence of the president.
2. shall serve as Chairperson of the Board of Finance.
3. shall serve as an advisory member of all special committees.

1. shall keep the minutes of the Congregational Council and of the congregation.
2. shall be responsible for the security of the legal documents and archives of the congregation.
3. shall execute and maintain copies of communications as directed by Council and the congregation.

1. shall receive and disburse congregational funds in accordance with the decisions of the Congregational Council.

A7.01. Organization of Boards and Committees

1. After the annual elections and before the following Congregational Council meeting, each board shall meet to organize and elect from its members a chairperson and secretary. The chairperson shall serve as the permanent voting member of the Congregational Council until such time as they are no longer chairperson of the board. In the absence of the chairperson, a board member shall attend Congregational Council meetings to give the board report.
2. Each board shall conduct regular meetings not less than once each month at such time and place as the boards may determine.
3. A quorum for any meeting of a board shall be a majority of its members.
4. Each board and committee shall maintain a formal record of details, procedures and activities to be passed on to the succeeding board or committee.
5. Each board and committee shall report its activities to a meeting of the congregation as described in these bylaws or at such other times as the congregation or Council may decide.
6. Each board shall annually submit to the Board of Finance a statement of proposed expenditures related to the individual boards responsibilities and duties.

The Board of Deacons shall:

1. Assist the pastor(s) and the Board of Music and Worship in seeing that worship services are conducted in an effective manner, in planning regular and special services, and in electing worship materials.
2. Co-ordinate and supervise programs of witness, membership visitation and Bible study within the congregation.
3. Consider matters relating to worship and worship services and make recommendations to the Congregational Council and congregation as necessary.
4. Assist the pastor(s) in the administration of the Sacraments in the manner and to the extent decided by the Congregational Council. In case of necessity a Deacon may conduct all or portions of the worship service.
5. Co-ordinate with and assist the pastor(s) in visiting the sick and shut-ins.
6. Assist the pastor(s) in the performance of their duties of pastoral care of the membership.
7. At least one Deacon should be present at each worship service.
8. Appoint a head usher, assist in recruiting ushers, maintain a standard ushering policy, and be responsible for performance of their duties.

The Board of Education shall:

1. Develop with the help of the pastor(s) an effective teaching ministry which includes the training of teachers and leaders.
2. Provide the opportunity for study by every member of the congregation through various teaching agencies such as Sunday Church School, confirmation instructions, adult instruction, Vacation Bible School, Bible study groups, and related study and teaching activities.
3. Appoint the Sunday School superintendent, teachers and any other leadership person(s) necessary for the education program of the congregation.

The Board of Evangelism shall:

1. Develop, co-ordinate and supervise programs of witness, evangelism and spiritual outreach into the community.
2. Assist the pastor(s) in visitation of non-members who have visited our church and develop a program to encourage their membership in our congregation.

The Board of Fellowship shall:

1. Promote congregational activities at which new members are given recognition.
2. Promote activities that will provide fellowship among the membership of the congregation.
3. Promote social activities among the congregational membership.

The Board of Finance shall:

1. Plan, supervise, co-ordinate and implement the fiscal policy and financial programs of the congregation and be responsible for the administration of the finances of the congregation.
2. Make regular reports and recommendations to the Congregational Council relating to the status of the financial programs.
3. Receive regular reports from the Treasurer to ascertain that the expenditures are within the budget approved by the congregation.
4. Interview and recommend candidates for Financial Secretary.
5. Assure that the Treasurer, Financial Secretary and others who have access to the funds of the congregation are properly bonded.
6. Supervise the Financial Secretary and receive regular reports from the Financial Secretary regarding all contributions and receipts of the congregation.
7. Supervise the counting and depositing of all offerings and funds received by the congregation and be responsible for maintaining a committee to count these funds.
8. Receive reports of budget needs from the various boards and committees to prepare a budget draft for the succeeding year.
9. Submit the budget draft to the Congregational Council for approval and present the budget for approval at the annual congregational meeting.
10. Recommends to the Congregational Council the salaries and fringe benefits together with basic work and vacation policies for all clergy and lay employees of the congregation.
11. Exercises responsibility for the congregation's investments, bookkeeping, and banking procedures under the direction of the Congregational Council.
12. Arranges annual audit of the congregation to include the accounts of the Treasurer, the Financial Secretary as well as the accounts of the various organizations within the congregation.

The Board of Music and Worship shall:

1. Assist the pastor(s) and the Board of Deacons in seeing that the worship services are conducted in an effective manner, in planning regular and special services, and in selecting worship materials.
2. Furnish and maintain appropriate worship and related materials such as music for choir, bulletin folders, candles, communion elements, flowers, church decorations, hymnals and service books.
3. Interview and recommend candidates for organist and choir director, and assist the choir director in recruiting choir members.
4. Increase the awareness of meaningful worship through educational means.
5. Recruit and train acolytes, maintain a standard acolyting policy, and supervise their performance.
6. Advise trustees when maintenance and repair of musical instruments is necessary.
7. Direct, assist and provide opportunities to serve on the altar guild.
8. Provide facilities and helpers to supervise church nursery during worship services whenever necessary.
9. Inform congregation about special services through letter or phone.
10. Co-ordinate scheduling of participation of choirs and musical groups in worship services.

The Board of Stewardship shall:

1. Co-ordinate and supervise, programs of stewardship by educating and encouraging members of the congregation to exercise their responsibilities and privileges as stewards of Christ by supporting the church with their time, talents, and material possessions, and these may include every member visitation programs as approved by the Congregational Council.
2. Assist the pastor(s) in maintaining records of the vital statistics of each member of the congregation.
3. Maintain a roster of voting members as defined in the constitution and together with the pastor(s) recommend to the Congregational Council that a member's status be changed as provided by Chapter 8 of the constitution.
4. Prepare and distribute periodically, as directed by Congregational Council, a directory of the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the members of the congregation.
5. Maintain a list of members' talents for use by boards and committees of the congregation.

The Board of Trustees shall:

1. Be responsible for the buildings and premises of the congregation so that their use does not limit the functions of the congregation. Should groups or individuals not associated with the congregation desire to use such property, application shall be made to the Board of Trustees for its approval.
2. Be responsible for the maintenance and repair of the Church's appliances, musical instruments, grounds, buildings, and physical properties.
3. Interview and recommend candidates for maintenance personnel and contract services.

The Board of Youth shall:

1. Develop, co-ordinate and be responsible for the various youth programs and related activities.
2. Provide the opportunity for the youth of the congregation to participate in programs such as scouting, Lutheran Youth Organizations and related activities.
3. Enhance co-ordination and cooperation by having at least one of the members on the Board of Youth periodically attend activities of the various groups.

The Executive Committee shall:

1. Meet at the call of the president or upon written request of any two (2) members thereof.
2. Have the power to meet in session and approve the agenda of any congregational meeting other than the annual meeting.
3. Have the responsibility to select persons to be appointed when individuals resign from the boards or committees of the church.
4. Three members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of all business.

The Nominating Committee shall:

1. Submit a ballot to the Congregational Council prior to the annual meeting nominating one or more candidates for each office to be filled. Consent of each candidate shall be secured prior to their nomination.
2. The ballot shall be published to the congregation in conjunction with the announcement of the annual meeting.

The Auditing Committee shall:

1. Audit all financial records of the congregation and its organizations and report its findings in writing at the annual meeting. Said audits shall include examination of existing insurance policies.

The Staff Support Committee shall:

1. Annually recommend to the Board of Finance the salaries, fringe benefit packages, and specific continuing education appropriate for the pastor(s) and lay employees of the congregation.
2. Moderate any relational difficulties between staff persons hired by the congregation. These moderations shall be kept confidential.
3. Assist each staff person to have a written position description.
4. In situations of conflict between staff person(s) and congregational members, the Staff Support Committee shall de-emphasize the points of disagreement and seek to expand the areas of agreement.

The Call Committee shall:

1. Upon appointment perform its duties according to guidelines received from the Bishop of the Northwestern Ohio Synod and the Congregational Council.