Ways to organize
You have looked at all the things the women in your congregation are involved in. You have also determined that all those things coordinate well with the mission, purpose, and activities of Women of the ELCA. You want to part of something bigger that will enhance and support your ministries and activities in ways that would otherwise not be possible.
Now you are ready to organize!
Questions to ask before you organize
- What is your purpose for organizing or reorganizing? Is it to bring your congregation's women's activities together under one umbrella? Is it to involve women who have not been involved? Some of both?
- How much organization do you need to accomplish your goals? The organizational structure should serve the women and their mission and activities; it should never feel burdensome.
- Who is willing and able to provide leadership or coordinate ministries? What kind of structure will work best for these women and for all the women in your congregation?
- What mix of programming, groups, and subgroups will work best for you?
- How and when will you receive offerings to support this work?
Model constitution and bylaws for units
As background for planning, take a brief look at the
Model Constitution and Bylaws for Congregational or Intercongregational Units. Note the different sections. The constitution will help you identify the different aspects of a unit's life and relationships.
Principles of organization
Article III of the Constitution and Bylaws of Women of the ELCA outlines "Principles of Organization." Review these principles together as a group. Identify any particular principles your group needs to keep in mind as you proceed with your organizational plan.
Models for missionReview the six different models for organizing a unit. These are examples only; modify them or create other models to suit your circumstances. The models range from rather uncomplicated to more complex.