Feb 19th, 2026MCEC Bylaw Update Conversation 1
MCEC is considering updates to our bylaws—an important part of how we live and work together as a church community. Bylaws help shape our shared life: they express our values, guide our practices and ensure that what we do—and how we do it—reflects our calling as followers of Jesus. As we continue growing as a diverse, inclusive and intercultural body, this season of review invites us to be intentional, thoughtful and prayerful about the structures that support our common ministry.
Join us for a conversation where we will learn about the proposed updates, ask questions, reflect together and consider how our bylaws can best support our shared mission into the future. Executive Council invites your questions and comments about these proposed changes before making a decision to proceed with bringing them to Annual Church Gathering in April. Join the Zoom conversation
Summary of Changes:
- Updates of language, terminology and general corrections
- Extending the number of terms an individual may serve on the Executive Council members are eligible to serve from the current limit of 2 three-year terms to a maximum of 3 three-year terms.
- This proposed change to the number of terms is rooted in the responsibility of Executive Council to provide good and wise governance to MCEC. This change would provide opportunity for council members to develop a deeper understanding of the vision, purpose, and role of MCEC and its congregations. MCEC would benefit from individuals on the Executive Council who have more experience, longer organizational memory and greater institutional knowledge.
- This change would allow more time for members of Executive Council to participate in or provide leadership for longer term initiatives or projects, or to move into officer roles within the council. It takes considerable time for council members to fully understand MCEC’s scope and complexity. We believe that the possibility of a longer length of service would contribute to organizational stability and continuity, acknowledging that not all council members would be available to serve 3 three-year terms.
- This proposed change to the number of terms is rooted in the responsibility of Executive Council to provide good and wise governance to MCEC. This change would provide opportunity for council members to develop a deeper understanding of the vision, purpose, and role of MCEC and its congregations. MCEC would benefit from individuals on the Executive Council who have more experience, longer organizational memory and greater institutional knowledge.