PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE 11

2021 Convocation of the North American Lutheran Church

The 2020 Convocation voted to postpone proposed amendments to Article 11, Regional Subdivisions, of the NALC Constitution. The amendments proposed last year would have named Mission Districts as the regional subdivisions.

There was support for naming them as Mission Districts. The reason for postponing consideration of the amendments was to revise the amendments so the Constitution clearly allows for Mission Districts to form mission regions. Several mission regions have already been formed in the NALC.

In light of the reasons for postponing the amendments to Article 11, the Executive Council proposes the following constitutional amendments to the 2021 Convocation:

11.01 Congregations shall join in collaboration as Mission Districts to fulfill most effectively the ministry and mission of the NALC, normally based on common geographic boundaries. Mission Districts may form Mission Regions for more effective ministry and mission as needed. Mission Regions shall have such organizational form and functions as shall be determined by the constituting Mission Districts. Such organization shall be done in consultation with the Bishop and subject to the approval of the Executive Council.

11.02 Each regional group Mission District of congregations shall adopt appropriate governing documents that are consistent with the governing documents and practice of the NALC and shall include election of a Dean, adoption of a budget, and provision for supervision, mutual support of member congregations, and procedures necessary for carrying out its mission and ministry.

11.03 The Deans, who shall be ordained ministers of the NALC, shall be accountable to the Bishop and work with the Bishop by conducting similar functions in their respective areas Mission Districts. Deans shall serve as pastor to ordained ministers, their families, and congregations, and will conduct a ministry of teaching and visitation with ordained ministers and congregations. Deans may continue to serve under the call of a congregation.