Final Steps

Congratulations! It is time to celebrate all your hard work! Find a way to enjoy the moment. But before you celebrate, there are a few housekeeping things that need your attention.

Inform the Synod

Once the amendments are approved and, if need be, ratified, inform the synod's constitution revision committee. Make sure that everyone is on the same page.

Submit Your Governing Documents to the Synod Office

ELCA provision 9.53.03. requires that copies of all governing documents be submitted to the Synod Office. After any revisions, the congregation must submit current copies of all of the following:

• The articles of incorporation (or charter)
• The constitution, bylaws, and continuing resolutions
• The resolution(s) amending such documents as approved by the congregation

It is preferred that these documents be delivered electronically whenever possible.

Update All Copies of Governing Documents

Make sure all governing documents are updated in all locations of the congregation:

• In the office records and safe
• In any locations where they are made accessible to the congregation
• On all computers and other electronic file systems
• With all council members, staff, and any other persons who may have copies
• On the congregation website and any other online locations
• In any archive locations
• If updating the incorporation documents, file the updates with the State

Final Advice

A congregation's governing documents are living documents that both reflect and guide the life of the congregation. These documents are never "complete" or "final" and will always be in need of revision. Though changing constitutional provisions should be relatively rare and even bylaw amendments an occasional item, congregations that let their constitution breathe will often find themselves making amendments, especially to continuing resolutions. Creating a governance team for the Congregation Council might be a wise step going forward.