Chartering Resources

Essentials to Incorporate and Charter an LCMS Congregation

• Steps in Forming a Congregation in the LCMS.  This is information concerning membership and eligibility and admission of congregations into the Synod.
• Guidelines for the Constitution and Bylaws of a Lutheran Congregation and information about submitting it for approval.
• Incorporating in Texas. Make a copy of this completed form for your records and for obtaining a bank account; submit the completed form to the Secretary of State in order to incorporate it.
• Getting your Federal Tax ID number. This is a recommended step for every church plant.
• LCMS Treasurer’s Manual to find complete information about accounting and legal matters related to your church start.
• Steps to take in order to achieve 501(c)3 Status.
• Group Tax Exempt Ruling (letter) for LCMS congregations.
• Sample Articles of Incorporation