Constitutional Matters

"The Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America reflect both the underlying theology of this church as well as its organizational principles and governance structures. They are ecclesial, legal, and missional documents. Thus, they commit this church in each of its expressions—congregations, synods, and the churchwide organization—to the centrality of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, carrying out Christ’s Great Commission, serving the neighbor in response to God’s love, worshiping God, nurturing members in the Word of God, and manifesting the unity given to God’s people in living together in Christ. " --ELCA Secretary David Swartling, September 15, 2011

Constitution and Bylaws for the Western North Dakota Synod (Updated April, 2011)

Current Model Constitution for Congregations (PDF) (Doc)
Amendments to the Model Constitution for Congregations(1989-2011)

Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America 2011