Chapter 10. CONGREGATION MEETING

For many congregations, the Model Constitution will meet their needs as is. But for other congregations, the current layout may feel cumbersome and restrictive. Offered here is a layout that potentially organizes the chapter better.

The main purpose of this reorganization is to give congregations space to add constitutional provisions describing each regular meeting. Refer to the suggested provisions for Chapter 10 to understand what these provisions may contain.

C10.01.

Notice of all meetings of this congregation shall be given at the services of worship on the preceding two consecutive Sundays and by mail or electronic means, as permitted by state law, to all [voting] members at least 10 days in advance of the date of the meeting.

C10.02.

This congregation may hold meetings by remote communication, including electronically and by telephone conference, as long as there is an opportunity for simultaneous aural communication or its equivalent. To the extent permitted by state law, notice of all meetings may be provided electronically.

C10.03.

______ percent of the voting members shall constitute a quorum.

C10.04.

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

C10.05.

All actions approved by this congregation shall be by majority vote of those voting members present and voting, except as otherwise provided in this constitution or by state law.

C10.06.

Robert’s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of all meetings of this congregation.

C10.07.

“Ex officio” as used herein means membership with full rights of voice and vote unless otherwise expressly limited.

C10.10.

REGULAR MEETINGS

C10.11.

This congregation shall have at least one regular meeting per year. The regular meeting(s) of the congregation shall be held at the time(s) specified in the bylaws. Consistent with the laws of the State of ______, the bylaws shall designate one regular meeting per year as the annual meeting of this congregation.

C10.20.

SPECIAL MEETINGS

C10.21.

A special Congregation Meeting may be called by the [senior] pastor, the Congregation Council, or the president of this congregation, and shall be called by the president of this congregation upon the written request of [number][percent] of the voting members. The president of the Congregation Council shall call a special meeting upon request of the synod bishop.

Reorganization Map