A series of articles on why we do what we do here at St. John’s.

Why do we have Voters’ Assembly every summer?

Most LCMS congregations are ultimately governed by a Voters’ Assembly with other boards, councils and committees helping make decisions and manage the ministry of the congregation between the meetings of this assembly.

Our constitution includes the following:

“All matters of doctrine and of conscience shall be decided only by the Word of God. All other matters shall be decided by a majority vote of the Voters’ Assembly unless otherwise specified by this Constitution and Bylaws.”

And then, immediately, the constitution of the congregation reserves several items exclusively for the Voters’ Assembly that cannot be delegated to another body (like the Governing Board).  These include, among others, the calling of a pastor, teacher or church workers; property transactions, and approval of the annual budget.  

Elections are another critical item for the Voters’ Assembly. While the Governing Board can appoint someone to fill a vacancy in office, this must be ratified by the Voters’ Assembly at its next meeting… within six months.  

You are a member of the Voters’ Assembly IF “you are a communicant member of the congregation (not just attend, but have joined) and if you attend the meetings regularly, participate in the work of the congregation and willingly accept responsibility according to your ability.”  In other words, there are no “inactive” members in the Voters’ Assembly!

Previously the Voters’ Assembly met monthly throughout the year. Years ago it was decided to delegate many ongoing items of business to the Governing Board requiring fewer meetings, three per year. Oftentimes the spring meeting is cancelled when there are no pressing items of business, and so the summer Voters’ Assembly continues to be a necessary part of the continuation of our ministry.

Next month: Why and how do we celebrate lesser feasts and festivals?