III. The Task and Activities of the Church

C. Pastoral Care

Rules for Lapsed Membership

1. Synod declares that baptized or confessing members who move away from the area of their church so that a meaningful church relationship is no longer possible, may retain their membership in their home church at their request and with the consent of the consistory. If they fail to make such a request, and do not transfer to a church near them, the consistory, having made serious attempts to rectify the situation, may declare their membership lapsed after a period of two years from the date of their departure. The member concerned shall be notified by the consistory of its action if at all possible. This rule shall not apply to those whose absence from their home is temporary.
2. This regulation shall supersede the rules of 1881 and 1910.

(Acts of Synod 1974, pp. 81-82)

Rules for Lapsing of Nonattending and Nonsupporting Members

Synod decided that with respect to a baptized or confessing member who, for a period of at least two years, has not moved but fails to attend and support the congregation that holds the person’s membership, the consistory may declare that person’s membership has lapsed. This may be done when all the following conditions are present:
a. The person claims to be still committed to the Christian faith.
b. The person claims to be worshiping elsewhere.
c. The consistory is not aware of any public sin requiring discipline.
Appropriate announcements shall be made by the consistory to the congregation regarding such lapsed memberships and the person involved shall be notified.

(Acts of Synod 1976, p. 25)