Committee on Constitution and Canons

The Committee on Constitution and Canons serves a vital role in maintaining the integrity and alignment of the Diocese’s governing documents. This committee ensures that the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese remain consistent with those of the Province and provides careful oversight of any proposed amendments.

• Responsibilities

  • Generation and Review of Amendments: The Committee may generate amendments to the Diocesan Constitution and Canons based on the changing needs of the Diocese. It also evaluates all proposed changes to the Diocesan Constitution and Canons arising from members of the Diocese and submits its recommendations to the Synod.

  • Alignment with Provincial Canons: The Committee is responsible for ensuring that all diocesan governance documents conform to the standards and requirements of the Province.

  • Annual Report: The Committee presents a formal report to the Synod each year regarding its activities and any proposed revisions.

  To allow for thorough review and preparation:

  • Proposed amendments must be submitted to the Committee no fewer than 120 days prior to the Synod.

  • The Committee will issue its recommendations to the Synod no fewer than 60 days before the Synod convenes.

• Meetings

  The Committee on Constitution and Canons currently meets monthly on the second Monday from 7-9 PM. The first meeting of the Committee is usually an in person with the remainder of the meetings conducted via Zoom. The Committee typically meets from February until October, and may meet at other times as needed.

• Membership

  The Committee is composed of 12 members, clergy and laity, plus the Chancellor, who serves as an ex officio member with voice but no vote.

  • 9 members are elected by the Synod to serve staggered three-year terms.

  • 3 members are appointed by the Bishop.

  The Standing Committee is authorized to fill any vacancies that arise between meetings of the Synod, with those appointments effective until the next annual Synod.

• Current Members

  2025

  Susan Fertig-Dykes
  Trevor McFadden**
  Doug Harper*
  The Rev. Becki Neumann**
  Andy Oravetz*

  2026

  Willie Deutsch
  Kimberly Maher
  The Rev. Andy Terry

  2027

  Kris Iverson
  Jodie Mueller
  Mike Harpster

  *Appointed by the bishop for a one-year term.
  **Committee Co-Chairs

“There shall be a Diocesan Committee on Constitution and Canons that shall be responsible for ensuring the conformity of the Diocesan Constitution and Canons with those of the Province. This Committee shall review and report its recommendation to the Synod regarding any proposed amendment to the Constitution or Canons.”

— Article IX