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)