Each of this church's expressions - congregations, synods, and the churchwide organization—has a constitution. These documents describe the purpose and function of each expression, and each constitution includes specific language that guides the work of that expression. Because these documents are so important to the work of the church, it is essential that constitutions are updated regularly.
The ELCA Churchwide expression releases new synod and congregational model constitutions every three years as approved by the Churchwide Assembly. Changes to the constitution are called “amendments.” Amendments to any synod constitution are approved by the synod assembly. Amendments to any congregation constitution are approved by the congregation at its regular meeting.
It is recommended that ELCA congregations and synods review the adopted amendments for their constitutions as soon as possible after each Churchwide Assembly to incorporate the required changes and to consider the recommended changes.