Bylaws

The Christ Community Session determined it’s time to update our church bylaws, replacing the original 1986 bylaws..

Voting and discussion took place at the Congregational Meeting on August 24, 2025. During the meeting there was first a discussion, then we amended Section 7a of the updated bylaws to include the statement: "Nominations for elected church offices shall be held no less than every two years.

For a full explanation of why we’re making changes now, please read the below letter from the Session.

Summary of Changes

Recognition of Communing Members:
The new bylaws clearly state that all communing members are also legal members of the church corporation, as required by the Book of Church Order and state law.

Affirmation of the Book of Church Order as Our Constitution:
The bylaws now explicitly reference the Book of Church Order as our church’s primary governing document, ensuring transparency and continuity.

Clarity on Member Rights:
The revisions outline the rights of communing members to vote and participate in important church decisions, such as the election of elders and deacons, calling a pastor, and approving major financial or property actions.

Updated Church Structure:
The roles of the Session, Diaconate, church staff, and commissions are now better defined, reflecting changes and growth since the church’s founding.

Questions?

Email Elliott Wood, Clerk of the Session at [email protected]