Church Council



Mike Trowbridge,  President
Syliva Mills, Vice-President
Dennis Seefeldt, Secretary
Joan Detzler, Treasurer
Karen Ackerman
Aaron Aldrich
Tracey Emeott
Bruce Jungwirth
Yvonne Miller
Sandy Zenk

Draft of Constitution Changes

elim__constitution_compareresults_for_web.pdf
File Size: 708 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

General Position Description for a Church Council Member:

Overview of the Council: The purpose and general task of the church council is to enable the congregation to carry on its mission and ministries as a part of the church of Jesus Christ and to oversee the total life of the congregation. The church council consists of 10 members (including President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer) plus the pastor(s). All 10 plus the pastor(s) are voting members.

Responsibilities: The church council serves as a board of directors and also as the trustees of the congregation. Its responsibilities are indicated in Article IX of the ELCA Approved Constitution.

Relationships: The church council is directly responsible to the congregation. It shall be responsive to the will of the congregation, arrange regular communication with its members before and after its meetings, and involve as many members as possible in the life and ministries of the congregation. It shall submit a formal summary report of its activities to the congregation at an annual meeting.

Time Required:
  • The Council presently meets the 3rd Thursday of every month. Traditionally there is no meeting in July.
  • Service as chairperson or liaison to one of the ministry committees of the congregation (education, witness, worship, social service, support, tech, and others).
  • Lead devotions and prayers at council meeting about once a year.
  • Assist with serving communion in worship about four times a year.
  • Length of term: Three years. A member of the congregation may serve a maximum of two consecutive terms in a row.

Personal Obligations of a Church Leader:
  • To attend worship regularly.
  • To receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion and periodically assist the pastors with the distribution.
  • Bring the concerns of the congregation to the Council.
  • To give regular financial support to the church as God may prosper.
  • To support the pastor and other staff members in their mutual ministry.
  • To be a pattern of faithful living in words and deeds.

Training Expectations:
  • Participation in an annual church council retreat.
  • Become familiar with council and specific committee or position job descriptions.