Make-Up
The Congregation Council is the “board of directors” of the congregation. Members of the Church Council are selected and nominated by an elected Nominating Committee. The congregation votes on a slate of proposed nominees during its annual meeting which usually occurs in December. Council comprises four At-Large members plus a President, Vice President, Secretary and the Pastor. The President, Vice President and Secretary serve as officers of the congregation and, along with Pastor, they form the congregation’s Executive Committee.
In addition to the At-Large members and officers, all of whom have voting privileges, the Council appoints a Treasurer and Financial Secretary who participate in all meetings, but do not have a vote.
Officers are elected to a two year term, and may serve a maximum of two terms. At-Large members serve for one year and are eligible to serve no more than three terms consecutively. Terms of office begin on January 1 and end on December 31.
In addition to the At-Large members and officers, all of whom have voting privileges, the Council appoints a Treasurer and Financial Secretary who participate in all meetings, but do not have a vote.
Officers are elected to a two year term, and may serve a maximum of two terms. At-Large members serve for one year and are eligible to serve no more than three terms consecutively. Terms of office begin on January 1 and end on December 31.
Responsibilities
The Council has general oversight of the life and activities of the congregation. It also ensures that the congregation’s worship life is in accordance with the Word of God and the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Council duties include, but are not limited to:
- Leading the congregation in its long-range planning, setting goals and priorities and evaluating activities in light of the CTS mission and goals;
- Overseeing and enabling the administration of functions to fulfill its mission;
- Maintaining supportive relationships with the pastor and staff;
- Exemplifying, personally and corporately, the style of life expected of all baptized persons;
- Promoting a congregational climate of peace and goodwill, and fostering mutual understanding as conflicts arise.
- Being responsible for the financial and property matters of the congregation.
Meetings
Regular Council meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month. All meetings are open to the congregation. Members of church staff are invited by the President to report monthly on their activities. Meeting minutes are posted publically.
Council monitors the financial operations of the church and prepares an annual budget which is presented to the congregation for approval. The budget is inclusive of all committee program expenses, designated ministries and business operating costs including staff compensation.
Council monitors the financial operations of the church and prepares an annual budget which is presented to the congregation for approval. The budget is inclusive of all committee program expenses, designated ministries and business operating costs including staff compensation.
