Congregations

The Model Constitution for Congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is a key component of the congregation’s governance. Each churchwide assembly of the ELCA has amended the Model Constitution for Congregations. Each ELCA congregation is encouraged to review these amendments, to incorporate changes to required provisions into their constitutions and to consider recommended changes. See the Constitutions page for details.

Each synod has an individual or committee that assists congregations as they review their constitutions. Congregations are encouraged to begin their review by contacting the synod office.

Amendments made by each churchwide assembly to the Model Constitution for Congregations are archived here.

Congregation leaders will find many other documents here to assist them in their work

• Recommendations for elected congregation secretaries

Calling a rostered minister

• Compensation and Benefits for a Pastor Guide
• Pasos Compensación Palabra y Sacramento
  
  
• Compensation and Benefits for a Pastor Form
• Compensación Beneficios Palabra y Sacramento
  
  
• Compensation and Benefits for a Deacon Guide
• Pasos Compensación Palabra y Servicio
  
  
• Compensation and Benefits for a Deacon Form
• Compensación Beneficios Palabra y Servicio

Managing congregation records

• Archiving in Congregations
• Attestation of Record and Financial Requirements
• Congregation Records Retention Schedule
• Dispose Records Disbanding Congregations
• Managing Congregation Records (PDF)
• Microfilm Digital Preservation
• Order for the Disposal of Deteriorating Bibles