Constitutions

Each of this church's expressions—congregations, synods, and the churchwide organization—has a constitution.

• Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the ELCA

Synods

• 2019 Constitution for Synods
  

Congregations

• 2019 Model Constitution for Congregations
• 2019 Constitución Modelo para Congregaciones

Amendments
Each churchwide assembly has amended the constitutions.

• 2019 Amendments to the Model Constitution for Congregations
  
• 2019 Enmiendas a la Constitución Modelo para Congregaciones
• 2019 Recommended Amendments to the Constitution for Synods
• 2019 Required Amendments to the Constitution for Synods
• Rationale for the 2019 Amendments

It is recommended that ELCA congregations and synods review the adopted amendments for their constitutions as soon as possible after each churchwide assembly to incorporate the required changes and to consider the recommended changes.

Guide for Use of the Model Constitution for Congregations is a helpful reference for congregations reviewing their constitutions. Congregations are encouraged to work with their synod's Constitution Committee from the outset of their work; this may ensure a greater likelihood that the synod will approve the proposed changes (*C17.03., new *C16.03.).

The churchwide assembly meets every three years. Amendments to any synod constitution are approved by the synod assembly. Amendments to any congregation constitution are approved by the congregation at its regular meeting. These meetings are governed by parliamentary procedure. Basic information on parliamentary procedure can be found here.