The Constitution of the Brotherhood of St Andrew

ARTICLE 1NAME, EMBLEM, OBJECTIVE, AND BASIS OF UNION
ARTICLE IIMEMBERSHIP AND ORGANIZATION
ARTICLE IIINATIONAL OFFICERS
ARTICLE IVGOVERNMENT
ARTICLE VOTHER PERMISSIVE ADMINISTRATIVE
SUBDIVISIONS AND OFFICIALS
ARTICLE VIRELATIONSHIP TO THE NATIONAL CHURCH
ARTICLE VIIFINANCE
ARTICLE VIII

NATIONAL OUTREACH

ARTICLE IXAWARDS
ARTICLE XAMENDMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BYLAWS OF THE BROTHERHOOD OF ST. ANDREW

1. CHAPTERS
2.DUES
3. ASSEMBLIES
4. CENTRAL OFFICE
5. VICE PRESIDENTS (OTHER THAN SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT)
6. ELIGIBILITY FOR NATIONAL OFFICE
7. NOMINATIONS
8. FINANCES
9. RECORDS
10. COMMITTEES
11. MEETINGS
12. STUDY AND TRAINING AIDS
13. BYLAW SUPPLEMENTS
14. AMENDMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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CONSTITUTION OF THE BROTHERHOOD OF ST. ANDREW, INC.

(Amended by the National Convention, Olando, Florida, July 2006)


ARTICLE I
NAME, EMBLEM, OBJECTIVE, AND BASIS OF UNION
Section 1
The name of this fellowship shall be the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, Inc. (hereafter referred to as the Brotherhood). It is a ministry to and for men and youth within the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society of the Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States of America or any church within the fellowship of the Anglican Communion (hereafter referred to as the Church). The Brotherhood's emblem shall be the CROSS OF ST. ANDREW.

Section 2
The Brotherhood acknowledges God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit; and accepts its responsibility for individual ministry to represent Jesus Christ and His Church; to bear witness to Him wherever we may be; and, according to the gifts given to us, to carry on Christ's work of reconciliation in the world; and to take our place in the life, worship and governance of the Church.

The objective of the Brotherhood shall be as stated in Section 2 of the Act of the US Congress which, on May 30, 1908, incorporated the Brotherhood in the District of Columbia: "That the sole object of said corporation shall be the spread of Christ's Kingdom among men." To this end, each member of the Brotherhood pledges himself to follow three Disciplines, which are: Prayer, Study, and Service.

The Discipline of Prayer is to pray daily for the spread of Christ's Kingdom, especially among men and youth, and for God's blessings on the work of the Brotherhood.

The Discipline of Study is to study the Holy Scriptures regularly and the teachings of the Church to attain a better understanding of how to follow Christ and bring others into His Kingdom.

The Discipline of Service is to make continuous efforts, week by week, to bring others nearer to Christ through His Church.

Section 3
Any group of men, or youth under the direction of a Brotherhood Chapter, in any parish or mission of the Church, institution, prison, military organization, or Veterans Administration facility, first having the approval of the rector, vicar, minister-in-charge or a Chaplain of the Church, is entitled to apply for a charter as a Chapter of the Brotherhood, and upon approval by the Central Office, to representation at Conventions of the Brotherhood. Withdrawal of clergy approval terminates the right to hold a charter, however, those individuals who elect may retain their membership status by becoming Members-at-Large. In any institution not of the Church or at any military or Veterans Administration facility not served by a Chaplain of the Church, a Chapter of the Brotherhood may be established only with the approval of the Bishop of the Diocese in which said institution is situated. Chapters so formed shall be under the supervision of the Bishop or of a deputy appointed by him. In any Diocese where three or more Members-at-Large desire to coordinate their efforts in behalf of the Brotherhood, a Bishop's Chapter of the Brotherhood may be established with the approval of the Bishop. Chapters so formed shall be under the supervision of the Bishop or of a deputy appointed by him.

Only men and youth baptized in the Christian faith may be admitted to active membership in the Brotherhood and only communicants of the Church may hold elective office or be designated as delegates to Brotherhood Conventions. In the case of a Youth Chapter, or a Chapter chartered in a Military, Veterans Administration facility, or penal institution, this requirement may be waived, but only with the approval of the rector, vicar, minister-in-charge or chaplain.

Membership in Youth Chapters shall be limited to young men and boys; only males may be members or officers of the Brotherhood. Women and girls may participate in Brotherhood activities as Associates, as provided in Article II, Section 2.

Section 4
In the event of the dissolution of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, Inc., all assets and real estate of the Brotherhood shall go into an investment trust under the control of the Executive Council of the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society of the Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States of America. Income from the trust, to be known as the St. Andrew's Trust, shall be used to support a program of evangelism among men and youth.

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ARTICLE II
MEMBERSHIP AND ORGANIZATION
Section 1
There shall be three classes of membership: Active, Life and Honorary. An "Active Member" is one who has pledged to follow the Disciplines of the Brotherhood and whose current annual dues have been paid, either individually or through his Chapter. Active members who cannot practically become affiliated with an active Chapter shall be known as Members-at-Large.

A "Life Member" shall be any person otherwise eligible for membership, who having made a contribution of a special amount of $600 will receive a certificate of Life Membership and will receive no further dues billings. A portion, not exceeding 20.0% of such contribution, shall be allocated toward current operating expenses with the remainder being invested in the Brotherhood Foundation, under control of the Trustees.

An "Honorary Member" is one who because of high eminence in the Church, or outstanding leadership in Brotherhood work at home or abroad, is deemed worthy of the highest honor the Brotherhood can bestow. A unanimous vote of the National Council, in meeting assembled, or of the National Convention will alone create such membership. Honorary members may by their own decision remain or become active members by the payment of annual dues. They will always be entitled to the floor at any Brotherhood meeting, but not to vote unless otherwise qualified for the particular type of meeting attended.

There shall be an honorary body known as "The Brotherhood Legion" to which all categories of members may be elected by the Executive Board in recognition of distinguished service in the Brotherhood. A special emblem shall be provided for members of this body.

Section 2
Women may be invited to all Brotherhood meetings as "Associates." Associates may attend Brotherhood meetings, and at Chapter and Assembly levels may participate in discussions and activities of the Chapter or Assembly; but Associates may not hold Chapter or Assembly office or have delegate status at national events and may not be recognized as "members" of the Brotherhood.

Section 3
The membership of the Brotherhood is organized into Chapters and Assemblies (of Chapters and Members-at-Large) with a Central Office as the administrative agent of the President. In addition, the President, with the consent and advice of the National Council or its Executive Board, may create Regional or Provincial subdivisions of the Central Office in order to facilitate the transaction or supervision of Brotherhood affairs.

Chapters shall be Senior (including youths) or Youth (under 20 years of age), depending on the age limits of their members and meeting of other Constitutional and Bylaw requirements. Each active Chapter is entitled to vote at National Conventions as prescribed in the Bylaws and in the Constitution (see Section 2, Article IV).

"Assemblies" shall be organized groups of four or more chapters within any diocese, or geographical area which, with the consent of the Bishop(s) concerned, band together for better coordination of Brotherhood activity in the area concerned. Assemblies are entitled to elect National Council Members and Delegates to the Convention as prescribed in the Bylaws. The National Council or its Executive Board may in particular cases waive the numerical requirement of four chapters for organization or continuation of an Assembly. Assemblies of less than four chapters shall, unless such waiver has been received, lose their right to elect National Council Members and Convention Delegates and the term of office of any National Council Member so elected shall be terminated coincident with the official discontinuation of the Assembly.

Provincial Councils may be established in those Provinces with two or more Assemblies. The Provincial Council shall consist of the Provincial President, Diocesan Coordinators, Associate Field Secretaries; each Chapter shall have a representative, and other National Council members in the Province, and Assembly Presidents. The Provincial Council shall meet at least once a year, prior to the annual Council meeting to review progress versus goals in establishing new chapters and, and for plans to better support the operations of chapters within the Province.

"The Central Office" of the Brotherhood shall consist of the President, Senior Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and such full time or part time administrative officers or employees as are necessary to transact Brotherhood business. No employee of the Brotherhood may be a member of the National Council but shall be entitled to be heard by it when matters within his cognizance are under discussion. The location of the Central Office shall be prescribed by the National Council.

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ARTICLE III
NATIONAL OFFICERS
Section I
To be eligible for election to National Office in the Brotherhood an individual must be an active member of the Brotherhood and of the National Council. Failure to remain active or termination of National Council membership automatically terminates tenure of any officer, except that the Presiding Bishop of the Church shall be the Honorary President of the Brotherhood regardless of any other requirements.

Section 2
The National elective officers of the Brotherhood shall be a President, a Chairman, a Senior Vice President, one or more other Vice Presidents as provided in the following sections 3 and 4, a Treasurer, a Secretary and a Chaplain who shall be a Bishop of the Episcopal Church. The National Officers shall be elected by the National Council at its annual meeting held coincidentally with and immediately following the National Convention.

Section 3
One or more Vice Presidents, not exceeding eight (8), may be elected by the National Council for specific supportive duties, as prescribed in the Bylaws, with the National Officer status.

Section 4
Provincial Presidents, who shall have corollary designation as Vice Presidents with National Officer status, shall be elected annually by their Provincial Council if one exists. Where a Provincial Council does not exist, the Provincial Presidents shall be elected by the National Council annually. Elections of Provincial Presidents shall provide one (1) for every National Province of the Church, or Region where a Province is divided; and may be so elected for overseas jurisdictions. The Provincial President shall administer Brotherhood affairs and promote the Brotherhood in his Province or Region under the supervision of the Senior Vice President and authority of the President.

Section 5
The terms of office for elected officers shall be one (1) or three (3) years as stated in the Bylaws for the particular office. Except for the Chaplain, for whom there is no term limit, and as otherwise provided in the Bylaws, No person shall serve more than nine (9) three (3) year terms or nine (9) one year terms. A two-thirds majority shall be required for election in the final three years in office. Any former officer, after a full term out of office, may be elected again to the office, which he previously held. Procedures for nomination, election, succession in office, including in special circumstances, and provisions for transitional support by retiring officers, are stated in the Bylaws.

Section 6
The National Officers listed in Section 2 above, and the Vice Presidents listed in Sections 3 and 4 shall be ex-officio members of the Triennial Convention, with full voice and vote, as delegates to Convention representing the National Council; on equal basis with elected Chapter and Assembly delegates.

Section 7
The Chairman, or in his absence the President, shall preside over the National Triennial Convention and all meetings of the National Council. The President shall chair meetings of the Executive Board. Committee appointments (except the Nominating Committee, which is to be elected as provided in the Bylaws) shall be made by the President.

Section 8
The President, or in his absence or incapacitation, the Senior Vice President, shall be responsible for the operation of the Brotherhood. He shall be ex-officio a member of all committees except the Nominating Committee. The Senior Vice President shall be the chief consultant of the President and, in case of inability of the President to perform his duties, shall immediately assume the duties, office and title of President, with the advice and consent of the National Council. Vice Presidents shall perform appropriate duties prescribed in the Bylaws and as assigned by the President. The Treasurer may be the Chairman of the Finance Committee and shall supervise all matters of finance. The Secretary, with the assistance of the Central Office employees of the Brotherhood, shall keep all corporate records and affix the corporate seal where required. The Chaplain shall advise the President and the National Council on religious and ecclesiastical matters.

Section 9
The Senior Vice President, under direction of the President and the National Council, may be deputized as the chief executive administrator of field work of the Brotherhood at Provincial (Regional) and Diocesan levels. When so deputized, he shall be responsible for the administrative organization of the Brotherhood field operations. The administrative organization shall be defined by an organization chart, to be approved by National Council and published as an exhibit to the Bylaws.

Section 10
All the National Officers shall take office on the day of their election at the annual National Council meeting and the day of their election at the Triennial Convention.

Section 11
If any national office except President becomes vacant due to resignation, death, incapacity, or for any other reason, the President shall appoint an interim replacement who shall serve until the next National Council Meeting. At the meeting, an election shall be held to fill the remainder of the term.
If both offices of President and Senior Vice President become vacant, the National Council Chairman shall serve as Interim President of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, Inc. until the next National Council Meeting. At the meeting an election shall be held to fill the remainder of the term.

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ARTICLE IV
GOVERNMENT
Section 1
Legislative and policymaking functions of the Brotherhood shall be vested in its National Convention, National Council and Executive Board as provided in this Constitution and the Bylaws. The President and all other elected or employed administrative officials will conduct affairs of the Brotherhood in conformity with the Constitution and Bylaws, and directives of these agencies.

Section 2
"The National Convention" of the Brotherhood shall have the sole power to legislate for the Brotherhood; except that action to amend the Constitution or Bylaws shall be limited to ratification or rejection of amendments proposed by the Executive Board as provided in Article X. It shall elect members of the National Council as prescribed in the Bylaws. Conventions shall be held at intervals of three years, at times and places determined by the National Council, except that for special events such as founding celebrations, etc., they may be held at shorter intervals. Only National Officers and properly accredited Chapter, Assembly and Provincial Delegates have the right to vote at meetings of the Convention. However, National Council members, Honorary members and members of Advisory Committees or Boards have the right to be heard. Every voting delegate must immediately upon arrival at Conventions present credentials so designating him to the Credentials officer of the Convention who shall prepare a voting roll of chapters, assemblies and provinces represented before any vote is taken. On demand of five accredited delegates, the vote on any question will be taken by roll call. National Officers and accredited Provincial, Assembly and Chapter Representatives shall be entitled to cast one (1) vote each on roll call. All members of the Brotherhood are encouraged to attend Conventions and will be seated without voice or vote at business sessions unless otherwise eligible or granted permission to speak on a particular issue by the Convention. Those delegates in attendance establish a quorum. The Chairman or the President must preside at any session at which a vote is taken.

Section 3
The "National Council" shall administer the affairs of the Brotherhood subject to this Constitution and the actions of the National Convention. It shall have the power: (a) to execute the provisions of this Constitution and the rules and orders of the Convention; (b) to enact and amend Bylaws for the transaction of Brotherhood business; (c) to fill vacancies in its membership caused by death, resignation or otherwise, except that vacancies occurring among its members who were elected by Assemblies/Provinces shall be referred to the appropriate Assembly/Province for filling; (d) to elect the national officers of the Brotherhood; and (e) to consider and adopt a budget for the ensuing fiscal year.

The National Council shall consist of: (a) Past National Chairmen and Past Presidents; (b) members elected by the Convention who shall serve through the next Convention and are eligible for re-election; and (c) members elected by Assemblies and (d) Provincial Presidents, Diocesan Coordinators and Assembly Presidents all of whom shall be ex-officio members of the National Council. Only active members of the Brotherhood shall be eligible for membership in the Council and evidence of lapse of active status, properly presented, serves to terminate membership. Limitations as to the number of members will be prescribed in the Bylaws.

The National Council shall meet annually to fulfill its prescribed functions, at a time and place to be set by the President; the time to be set in consultation with the Finance Committee and so correlated with the fiscal year as to facilitate preparation of a budget for the ensuing year, in the light of performance to date in the current fiscal year. In the year of the Convention, the National Council shall meet concurrently with the Convention, with agenda correlated as provided in the Bylaws with the convention agenda, to provide a final meeting for the incumbent Council at or near the opening of Convention, and an initial meeting of the newly elected (or re-elected) Council at or near the close of Convention. In addition, the National Council shall meet within thirty (30) days at the call of the Chairman or the written request of ten (10) members of the National Council filed at the Central Office. Except as designated herein and at the time of its annual meeting, the National Council may administer the affairs of the Brotherhood through its Executive Board including, if necessary, the election and installation of officers to fill vacancies caused by death, disability or resignation. Twenty (20) members shall constitute a quorum of the National Council.

In addition to legislative responsibilities, each member of the National Council has the individual responsibility of promoting the organization and effectiveness of Brotherhood Chapters in their respective areas and in assisting in raising funds for the support of the Central Office.
Section 4
"The Executive Board" shall exercise the powers of the National Council between sessions thereof. It shall screen all proposals for amendments to the Constitution & Bylaws and shall present recommended final revisions for ratification by the National Council or National Convention as provided in Article X. It shall elect a Nominating Committee annually. The Executive Board shall be composed of the elected National Officers of the Brotherhood listed in Article III, Section 2, the Vice Presidents and Provincial Presidents listed in Article III Section 3 and 4, and all Past Presidents of the Brotherhood. The Executive Board shall meet on call of the President, at such times or places as he may set. The business of the Executive Board may be conducted by correspondence, by telephone or other electronic communication means. Memoranda summarizing the matters discussed and decisions reached by the Executive Board shall be maintained in the Central Office files; except that records of personnel matters may be retained in the President's confidential files.

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ARTICLE V
OTHER PERMISSIVE ADMINISTRATIVE
SUBDIVISIONS AND OFFICIALS
Section 1
Whenever the President, after consultation with the National Council or its Executive Board, decides that a "Regional or Provincial subdivision" of the Central Office will facilitate administration of the Brotherhood, he shall appoint one of the Vice Presidents therein resident, as chief administrator of the subdivision and will provide the necessary means, including funds, to carry out responsibilities delegated to him. Before such subdivision is created, a specific Bylaw governing its extent, operation and responsibilities must have been adopted by the National Council (with budgetary justification).

Section 2
A Diocesan Coordinator shall be elected by an Assembly at one of its annual meetings, or in the absence of assembly action, shall be appointed by the President, or Senior Vice President. Duties and procedures for election, appointment or reappointment are as provided in the Bylaws. The Diocesan Coordinator shall further and coordinate the work of the Brotherhood under the direction of the Provincial President or Senior Vice President, and serve as a point of contact and resource to the Diocese. Assembly officers, if there be any, will work harmoniously with the Diocesan Coordinator.

Section 3
An "Executive Director, General Secretary, Field Secretaries" and other such officers may be employed with the consent of the National Council or its Executive Board, and Associate Field Secretaries may be appointed by the President with duties prescribed by him. Policies concerning employment, salaries, etc. shall be defined in the Bylaws.


Section 4
A National Missioner may be appointed by the President.

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ARTICLE VI
RELATIONSHIP TO THE NATIONAL CHURCH
Section 1
Every effort will be made at all levels of the Brotherhood to maintain harmonious relations with the National Church, clergy and church organizations. The guiding principle in such relations shall be that the Brotherhood is a part, rather than a competitor, of parish, diocesan, provincial or national programs.

Section 2
The President of the Brotherhood shall annually, immediately following the election of Brotherhood officers, request the Presiding Bishop to appoint a Bishop's Advisory Committee of seven members to serve for the succeeding year, and shall recommend that the Brotherhood Chaplain be included in the membership of the Bishop's Committee. Advisory Committee members are invited to attend and shall have a voice at all Brotherhood meetings, but shall have no vote unless otherwise eligible.

Section 3
The President may appoint an Advisory Council to be composed of Past National Chairmen and Presidents and up to ten (10) lay and clergy members, equally divided. This council will serve until a new President takes office or they are released from this assignment. Advisory Council members are invited to attend and shall have a voice at all Brotherhood meetings, but shall have no vote unless otherwise eligible.

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ARTICLE VII
FINANCE
Section 1
Members-at-Large and Chapter members dues, in the amount prescribed in the Bylaws, are payable annually on or before January 1st for each calendar year ending the following December 31st. Dues include contributions to publications cost of regular Brotherhood publications. Dues notices will be sent out to members each November 1st for the new calendar year. Dues not paid by January 31st are considered to be in arrears and delinquent members shall be considered to be in an inactive status. Each Member-at-Large and Chapter Members so involved shall be notified by the Central Office to that effect. Assembly Presidents concerned and National Council Members residing within the Diocese will also be notified.

Should unusual hardship conditions exist within any Chapter, the Chapter Director may request in writing that a reduction in annual dues be made for the Chapter members. Such a request will state the amount of dues per member that the Chapter feels can be paid and the period of time for which such reduction is requested. The President of the Brotherhood on receipt of such a request shall investigate and, if conditions warrant, authorize the reduction of dues for an appropriate period of time. Reductions so granted shall be reported to the Executive Board at its next meeting. Mitigation of individual dues may be granted as provided in the Bylaws.
Section 2
The general finance policy of the Brotherhood shall be to prepare a realistic budget and operate within its limits. Should the National program require more funds than are available from dues and income from endowments, the President, after having first obtained the consent of the Executive Board, may solicit the active membership or selected portions of it for gifts to satisfy a particular need.
The amount for annual dues will be evaluated at each annual meeting of the National Council, in comparison with the previous and future year's budgets, and appropriate adjustments will be made at such meetings.

Section 3
On October 24, 1939, the James L. Houghteling Memorial Fund, a trust, was established by the Brotherhood. Undesignated memorial contributions shall become part of this trust. This trust, as amended, is continuing and exists for the purpose of receiving and retaining funds, the income from which shall be used for the maintenance, benefit, and support of the Brotherhood. The National Council shall have the power to amend this trust from time to time as part of the powers delegated to it under Article IV, Section 3, of this Constitution. The names of all persons memorialized shall be inscribed in the Brotherhood Book of Remembrance and published in the Brotherhood magazine. The legal designation of this Trust is "The Brotherhood of St. Andrew Foundation (James L. Houghteling Memorial Fund)"; also referred to as "The Brotherhood Foundation." The Trustees of the Brotherhood Foundation shall be the National President and five (5) members elected by and reporting to the National Council in accordance with the terms of the Trust Agreement.

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ARTICLE VIII
NATIONAL OUTREACH
Section 1
A national outreach program of an evangelistic nature shall be adopted annually by the National Council. It should seek the advice of the Church in the selection of programs.


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ARTICLE IX
AWARDS
Section 1
The President may, with the advice and consent of the National Council, establish awards honoring and recognizing outstanding service by particular individuals, to be awarded from time to time (by the National Council upon nomination by the President or others) to other persons, who may or may not be members of the Brotherhood, for similar outstanding services. All awards and honors will be administered in conformity with the Constitution and Bylaws, and directives of the President and National Council.


Section 2
Each such award shall be cited in a specific Bylaw briefly naming the person honored, reason for recognition and basis for selection of succeeding recipients. Further procedural details for nomination, selection, and award shall be maintained in the Central Office, and made available to interested inquirers. The existence of each such award and identity of all current recipients shall be appropriately recorded and published in current Brotherhood directories.


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ARTICLE X
AMENDMENTS
Section 1
This Constitution may be amended or revised only by the National Convention and the Bylaws may be amended or revised by the National Council or by Convention. Amendment actions shall be limited to ratification or rejection of amendment proposals submitted by the Executive Board.
Section 2
Procedures for review, pre-approval and submittal of proposed Constitution or Bylaw amendments for action by Convention/Council shall be as defined in the Bylaws. The object of such procedures shall be the presentation to Convention for Constitution amendment, or to National Council for Bylaw amendment, of a considered recommendation by the Executive Board for adoption of amendments considered by the Executive Board to be needed for adoption or rejection by the acting body with minimal discussion.

Section 3
The Central Office shall, through its publications, notify the membership without delay of all changes made under the above procedures in either the Constitution or Bylaws.


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BYLAWS OF THE BROTHERHOOD OF ST. ANDREW

(As amended by the National Council, Orlando, Florida, July 2006)

1. CHAPTERS
(a) Upon approval of an application for a Chapter Charter, a number will be assigned to it by the Central Office, which numbers will remain with the Chapters in perpetuity, regardless of status.

(b) An active Chapter shall be one which (a) has forwarded to the Central Office an annual report on a form provided by the Central Office as of the past St. Andrew's Day (November 30), or whose application for charter has been approved since October 1, immediately prior to the past St. Andrew's Day: (b) its members have paid their current annual dues as hereafter prescribed: (c) meets regularly, preferable weekly, for prayer, study of the Holy Bible, plan for service and regular business: (d) holds regular corporate communions for its membership: and (e) endeavors to be represented at Assembly meetings (if there is one) and National Conventions.

(c) The officers of a Chapter shall be Director, Vice Director, Secretary, Treasurer and Advisor (if it is a Youth Chapter). The rector is ex-officio a Chapter member. In small chapters, two or more offices may be combined.

(d) Each Chapter is entitled to one voting delegate at National Conventions, except that when local conditions eliminate the possibility of multiple Chapters in a parish, a Chapter having more than twenty-five members may have one voting delegate for each twenty-five members or a major fraction thereof. When Chapter membership begins to approach twenty-five members, serious consideration should be given to forming a second Chapter within the parish.

(e) Each Chapter delegate to National Convention shall be furnished with a letter, signed by an officer of the Chapter, confirming his qualification as a delegate to the Convention.

(f) Women may be invited to all Brotherhood meetings as "Associates." Associates may attend Brotherhood meetings, and at Chapter and Assembly levels may participate in discussions and activities of the Chapter or Assembly; but Associates may not hold Chapter or Assembly office, or have delegate status at National events, and may not be recognized as "members" of the Brotherhood. Associates may contribute an annual amount of not less than $20.00, may make additional voluntary contributions, and on contribution of $600 or more may be recognized as a Life Associate. Associates may obtain from the Central office and are privileged to wear a suitable pin or emblem, similar to but distinguishable from that of an Active member. Life Associates, and Associates, who contribute $20.00 or more, will receive the St. Andrew's Cross magazine.

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2. DUES
(a) Each member of the Brotherhood shall pay to the National Treasurer a dues amount, set at the previous National Council meeting, to cover the operation of the Central Office and publication of the St. Andrew's Cross. Members below the age of 20 years or students shall pay a dues amount equal to 20% of the standard dues amount. All dues shall become due on St. Andrew's Day, November 30, and shall be paid before the following January 31st.

(b) Each member of the Brotherhood in a newly organized Chapter or reactivated after a lapse of at least one full year shall pay the full amount of dues if organization occurs more than six (6) months before St. Andrew's Day. If organization occurs within (6) months and more than three (3) months before St. Andrew's Day, the amount of dues shall be 50% of the annual rate. If organization occurs within three (3) months before St. Andrew's Day, the full annual amount of dues shall be paid and considered paid until the next following St. Andrew's Day. These arrangements shall be applicable to individual members joining a Chapter, or Members-at-Large joining the Brotherhood during the period preceding the next St. Andrew's Day.

(c) New members or reinstated individual members where membership has lapsed for at least one (1) full Brotherhood year shall be admitted for the same dues quota rate as new or reactivated Chapter members.

(d) Members-at-Large shall pay the same individual dues as are established above for Chapter members of the same category and age limits.

(e) Chapter members and Members-at-Large will be billed directly by the Central Office for individual annual dues quota amounts on or about November 1st of each year; such dues then become due and payable by each individual for the ensuing year beginning December 1. Each Chapter shall be responsible for ascertaining, and so noting on its annual report, which of its members had individually remitted dues direct to the Central Office, and for including with the report, payment for those members who have not remitted; each Chapter is responsible for the full Chapter quota.

(f) When a chapter recognizes that a member is in circumstances making it impossible for him to pay his dues, then the Chapter Director may, with the consent of the Chapter members, authorize payment of the member's dues from the Chapter treasury. If the chapter treasury contains no funds, then the Chapter Director may appeal to the President, on behalf of the member, for waiver of his dues for the current dues period, certifying with his appeal that the Chapter has no funds. Members-at-large may appeal directly to the President for waiver of their dues. Continuation of a waiver past the current dues period shall be subject to consideration of the circumstances on an annual basis.

(g) Any person otherwise eligible for membership, making a contribution of a special amount of $600 will receive a certificate of Life Membership and will receive no further dues billings. A portion, not exceeding 20.0%, of such contribution shall be allocated toward current operating expenses with remainder being invested in the Brotherhood Foundation, under control of the Trustees.

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3. ASSEMBLIES
(a) Assemblies shall not be numbered but shall be named for the ecclesiastical or geographical area they represent. Each Assembly organized under the provisions of the Constitution Article II, Section 3, shall prepare Bylaws, which shall govern its activities. (Samples of such documents may be obtained from the Central Office). As a minimum, provisions as to Assembly objectives, membership by both Chapters and Members-at-Large within the Assembly area, number of officers and their election, meetings and standing committees will be included. A copy of such Bylaws shall be forwarded to the Central Office.

(b) Each Assembly shall submit an annual report to the Central Office on a form provided.

(c) Each Assembly may elect one National Council member. An additional National Council member may be elected for every additional 100 Assembly members above the first 100. National Council members shall be elected to serve a three-year term commencing as soon as elected. All National Council members so elected or re-elected will be reported to the Central Office by name, address, and term of office. Assemblies are solely responsible for re-election or filling of a vacancy when a term expires for such National Council members.

(d) Each Assembly may elect one delegate to the Triennial Convention for each one hundred Assembly members or fraction thereof.

(e) At the option of the Assembly, or if no specific election of Convention delegates has taken place, the National Council member(s) elected by the Assembly may represent the Assembly as its delegate or alternate to the national Convention.

(f) It shall be the duty of the Central Office to keep each Assembly currently informed of the status (active or inactive), of Chapters and of the names and addresses of Members-at-Large within the area. Chapter annual reports together with dues payments and change of address notification from Members-at-Large will form the basis of such information.

(g) A position known as Assistant Diocesan Coordinator shall be established. Diocesan Coordinators may appoint one or two Assistant Diocesan Coordinators to assist in carrying out their duties.

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4. CENTRAL OFFICE
(a) The President, having first justified the positions to the National Council and secured or budgeted salaries for the positions, may from time to time appoint and employ, on a full-time basis or a part-time basis, such paid administrative officers and other employees as are deemed to be necessary for the effective operation of the Brotherhood. Such officers and employees may include but are not limited to Executive Director, General Secretary, Assistant Treasurer, Publications Editor, Field Secretaries, Office Manager, and stenographic and clerical help. Terms of office, duties and titles shall be determined by the President acting within budgetary limitations. Policies concerning employment, salaries, working conditions, employee benefits, termination of employment, and other personnel matters shall be prepared and kept current by the President, with the advice of the Personnel Committee, and shall be approved by the Executive Board. Up-to-date job descriptions shall be maintained for all employees. The President may authorize travel and other expenses for employees and other members of the Brotherhood or its Advisory Boards or Committees engaged in Brotherhood business within budget limitations.

(b) The President may appoint, or authorize Provincial Presidents to appoint, Associate Field Secretaries to serve without salary for the conduct of Brotherhood affairs within their Province under direction of the Provincial President. The President may authorize travel and other expenses within budget limitations for Associate Field Secretaries.

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5. VICE PRESIDENTS (OTHER THAN SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT)
(a) Vice Presidents, not exceeding eight (8), may be elected triennially to assist the President in the administration of the Brotherhood as he designates.

(b) Provincial Presidents may be elected annually to provide one (1) for every Province of the Church or Region, where a Province is divided. The Provincial President shall administer Brotherhood affairs and promote the Brotherhood in his Province or Region under the supervision of the Senior Vice President and authority of the President. A Provincial President may serve two three (3) year terms or six (6) one year terms. If a replacement cannot be found, he may continue to serve for an additional three (3) year term or three additional one-year terms. For the final three years, a two-thirds majority shall be required for election. No person shall serve as provincial President for more than nine (9) consecutive years.

(c) Regional Vice Presidents may be appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Executive Board, to represent the Brotherhood for work outside the United States of America and to establish the Brotherhood in particular areas in which the President sees that opportunity exists, and where there is presently no functioning organization of Brotherhood activity.

(d) A clear written statement of the authority, duty and responsibility of each Vice President, in the form of a position description, shall be prepared by the President, approved by the Executive Board and furnished to each respective Vice President at the time of his election, or as soon thereafter as conveniently practicable. A file of these statements shall be maintained in the Central Office, reviewed and updated by the President and re-approved by the Executive Board from time-to-time as appropriate and upon assumption of office by each new President.


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6. ELIGIBILITY FOR NATIONAL OFFICE
(a) All new nominees for National Office shall meet requirements of Article III of the Constitution. Names, addresses, and brief outline of Brotherhood activities, together with title of position for which nominated and letter from nominee stating willingness to serve, shall be submitted to the Chairman of the Nominating Committee at least sixty (60) days prior to any National Council Meeting or National Convention.

(b) All nominees for National Council shall meet requirements of Article IV Section 3 of the Constitution. All elected National Council members who have missed three (3) consecutive annual meetings shall not be eligible for re-election unless they attend the Triennial Convention or they submit an acceptable reason to the Central Office prior to the Convention.

(c) National Council Members elected by the National Convention may not exceed 100 except that each Diocese having at least three Chapters of the Brotherhood may have a nominee elected to the National Council by the National Convention. There shall not be more than six (6) additional Council members from a Diocese elected by National Convention. Additional National Council members may be elected by the Assembly as outlined in Bylaw 3.

(d) Regional Vice Presidents appointed for work outside the United States of America shall, while so functioning, be ex-officio members of the National Council, with full voice and vote, without respect to numerical limitations expressed in Section 6 (c).

(e) National Officers must retain their National Council status per Article III, Section 1, of the Constitution.

(f) Any National Officer who, through unwillingness or inability, does not fulfill the duties of his office or appropriate duties assigned by the President, may, after written notice from the President, or the Senior Vice President in the absence or incapacitation of the President, be replaced by a vote of the National Council or its Executive Board. Temporary incapacitation does not apply.

(g) The past National Chairmen and Presidents who desire to continue affiliation with the National Council with diminished participation may on their request be designated as honorary members of the National Council. The honorary council members when present at meetings shall have full privileges with voice and vote and shall receive all communications addressed generally to the council membership.

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7. NOMINATIONS
(a) A Nominating Committee of six (6) National Council Members, of which the President shall not be a member, shall be elected by the Executive Board to serve a three (3) year term. Two (2) members shall be elected each year and retiring members shall not be eligible for re-election to the Nominating Committee for a period of (1) year after expiration of their last term of membership. The Senior Vice President, whether a Committee Member or not, shall act as temporary Chairman and call for an organizational meeting to elect a Chairman. The organizational meeting shall be held at the annual meeting location, prior to or immediately following adjournment of the annual meeting at which the Committee has been elected.

(b) A Nominating Committee member who wishes to be nominated for an elective office will recuse himself from any actions taken by the Committee by leaving the place of discussions. The Nominating Committee shall take no action on nominations until they meet at the National Council or Triennial Convention. The Committee must have a majority of its members in order to act.

(c) The Nominating Committee's duties shall be to solicit nominations, determine eligibility of nominees and prepare a list of all nominees for each meeting of the National Convention, National Council, Executive Board or any meeting of the National Brotherhood at which elections are to be held, in accordance with Article III Section I of the Constitution. Nominations shall be submitted annually to the National Council for National Officer positions open for election at the designated meeting. Nominations for National Council membership shall be submitted triennially to the National Convention for convention election, and annually to National Council for interim replacement candidates to vacancies arising from death, disability or resignation of Convention elected members.

(d) The Nominating Committee shall screen all nominations submitted, initiate its own nominations if appropriate, and present for election a slate of a single nominee for each national office, selected as being in the judgment of the Committee best qualified for the office for which nominated. The Committee may, however, in its own discretion, or shall, if so directed by the Executive Board, submit a multiple slate of two (2) or more candidates for each office.

(e) Regardless of the number of nominees submitted by the Committee for consideration, the Committee shall include with its report a list of all nominees for whom nominations were duly received in accordance with the provisions of Bylaw 6(a), with identification of the nominator(s) for each. The Committee shall review every document submitted to it, on behalf of a nominee, for completeness and accuracy, and shall make request to the nominator(s) for any additional document or information which it may need before beginning its selection of nominees. The Committee shall reproduce and distribute to National Council members in attendance at the election session the resume of information on each nominee as submitted by the nominator(s). The Committee's summary report, listing all the nominees for each office, identity of the nominator(s), and the Committee's recommendations shall be published to the membership of the National Council, by direct mail or other appropriate means, not less than two (2) weeks prior to the election date.

(f) Nominations from the floor may be made after the report of the Nominating Committee if advance acceptance of the nomination has been obtained from the person to be nominated, as provided by Bylaws 7(g) and 7(h) following.

(g) Floor nominations for National Council may be made by any accredited Delegate, with second similarly qualified, at any session of the Convention not less than 24 hours prior to the time set for election unless a particular time for such nominations has been set in the published agenda or declared by the Chairman. It shall be the responsibility of the nominator(s) to ascertain and certify (in writing) the eligibility and willingness to serve of his nominee, unless the nominee is present and gives personal affirmation.

(h) Floor nominations for National office may be made only at a session of the National Council not less than 24 hours prior to the time set for election, and, unless such nominee has been previously listed by the Nominating Committee in accordance with Bylaw 7(e), shall be supported by no fewer than three (3) National Council members from no fewer than two (2) Dioceses. It shall be the responsibility of the nominators to ascertain and certify in writing the eligibility and willingness to serve of the nominee, and to prepare, reproduce and distribute to the National Council membership, at the time of nomination, an appropriate resume as prescribed in Bylaw 6(a).

(i) Election of National Council members shall be by voice vote of accredited Delegates to Convention at the time set for election, unless any nomination shall be challenged from the floor; in which case a roll call vote on the election of the nominee so challenged may be required as provided in Article IV Section 2 of the Constitution.

(j) Election of National Officers may be by voice vote, for acceptance of the Nominating Committee report and election by acclamation, if only a single candidate slate has been presented by the Nominating Committee, no nominations have been made from the floor and there is no dissent from the election by acclamation. Otherwise election shall be by written ballot, on successive ballots until a clear majority has been established for a single candidate for each office.

(k) The Nominating Committee shall, with the assistance of the Central office, review each year the list of National Council members and determine those who are no longer interested in performing the duties of the office. In the case of those elected by the National Convention, if it is a non-convention year, it shall take steps to seek their resignations in order to replace them; or, in Convention years, remove their names from the list of nominees. In cases of Assembly elected National Council members who are no longer interested, the Committee shall request the President of the Brotherhood to suggest to Assembly Presidents that the Assemblies replace members with those who are interested in serving.

(l) The Central Office shall inform the Chairman of the Nominating Committee of vacancies occurring among Brotherhood officers or Convention elected National Council members promptly so that immediate steps may be taken to find suitable replacements, and shall inform Assembly Presidents of vacancies created among Assembly elected National Council members.

(m) At least three months prior to the National Convention, the provisions governing election to the National Council shall be published by the Central Office and Chapters shall be advised of their right to nominate National Council members on the floor of the Convention and the restrictions thereon.

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8. FINANCES
(a) All personnel of the Central Office involved in handling of funds shall be adequately bonded.

(b) Checks issued by the Central Office will be signed by two individuals: the Assistant Treasurer and one other designated bonded person, or, in the absence of either one of these, the Treasurer or a bonded person designated by him.

(c) The Fiscal Year need not be coincident with the Brotherhood year: December 1, to November 30. The Fiscal Year shall be September 1 to August 31.

(d) The annual budget shall be submitted to the Executive Board by the Finance Committee for its review and possible modification and approval. The Executive Board shall submit the proposed budget to the National Council in writing as part of the Annual Report prepared and printed under the direction of the Central Office. The National Council members at the annual meeting of the National Council shall make a reasonable amount of time available for discussion of the proposed budget. The National Council will vote up or down for the approval or disapproval of the submitted budget without making amendments to the individual line items. In the event the National Council disapproves the proposed budget submitted by the Executive Board, the Executive Board will take whatever steps are necessary to revise and resubmit the budget for a second vote later in the National Council meeting.

(e) The Treasurer, acting if need be through the Assistant Treasurer, shall keep correct account of all funds received and paid out by the Brotherhood. He shall keep Brotherhood funds, except for small amounts of petty cash, in banks approved by the Finance Committee. He shall prepare and distribute to the Executive Board periodical financial reports on a form prescribed by the President.

(f) The Finance Committee shall keep watch over the financial condition of the Brotherhood including capital assets, receipts, expenditures, and preparation of and adherence to an annual budget.

(g) There shall be an annual audit of the books of the Brotherhood by an independent auditor selected by the Finance Committee. A similar audit shall be performed upon relief from employment of the Assistant Treasurer.

(h) The Treasurer shall establish rules and regulations governing all travel and expense vouchers and for other financial procedures subject to approval of the Finance Committee.

(i) The income derived from Thank Offering boxes and designated gifts shall be utilized in furtherance of the National Brotherhood Outreach Program conforming to Article VIII of the Constitution.

(j) The Trustees of "The Brotherhood Foundation," legally known as The Brotherhood of St. Andrew Foundation, (James L. Houghteling Memorial Fund) shall be the National President of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew and five (5) members elected by and reporting to the National Council in accordance with the terms of the Trust Agreement.

(k) No bank account shall be created or continued in the name of The Brotherhood of St. Andrew without the approval of the President and Chairman of the Finance Committee. However, an independent account by a recognized Chapter or Assembly may be allowed if it is designated by the chapter number and parish name or the words "Assembly of" before the Diocese name, then followed by "of The Brotherhood of St. Andrew." Thus, chapter 0456-S, St. Luke's Episcopal Church of The Brotherhood of St. Andrew: or Assembly of the Diocese of Western Massachusetts of The Brotherhood of St. Andrew.

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9. RECORDS
(a) All records of the Brotherhood, both financial and administrative, will be kept in the Central Office, except for such short periods of time that they may be required for official use elsewhere. The Senior Member of the Brotherhood staff in the Central Office shall be the custodian of records and shall turn them over to the successor upon termination of employment or transfer of custody and obtain a receipt thereon. A copy of this receipt will become part of the official records.

(b) No files or records of the Brotherhood are to be removed from the Central Office without authorization of the President. An inventory of all such files and records stored outside the Central Office is to be kept in the Central Office and available to National Officers. No such files and records are to be destroyed without approval by the President and vote by the Executive Board.

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10. COMMITTEES
(a) Committees, except the Nominating Committee, which is otherwise provided for, shall be appointed by the President in writing. The letter of appointment shall designate the Chairman and the term for which the Committee is to function. The President will also state clearly the duties and responsibilities of the Committee, its authority and the means available to it for the execution of its task. A list of Committee Chairmen and outline of Committee functions shall be furnished to the members of the Executive Board and Committee members. Each Standing Committee shall consist of at least three members including the Chairman. The President shall be a member ex-officio of all Committees except the Nominating Committee. Special Committees may be of any size commensurate with the task assigned.

(b) The Standing Committees shall be: (a) Evangelism; (b) Outreach; (c) Constitution and Bylaws; (d) Finance; (e) Personnel; (f) Nominating; (g) Convention; (h) Youth Program; (i) Leadership Training Programs; (j) Publications; (k) Brotherhood Legion; (l) Ministry Extension and (m) Education. Standing Committee reports shall be rendered by each Chairman as requested by the President and at the annual National Council Meeting.

(c) The Publications Committee shall constitute an Editorial Board for ST. ANDREW'S CROSS, the magazine of the Brotherhood. The CROSS shall be published quarterly and mailed to the entire Active and Associate membership of the Brotherhood and to such other recipients as the Executive Board may direct. The President, Chairman, Senior Vice President, and the Editor shall comprise the Editorial Board. Membership may be expanded to include one or more Past Presidents or other Brothers having particular expertise as the Executive Board may direct.

(d) At the discretion of the President, with the exception of the Nominating Committee, the function of two or more of the designated Standing Committees may be combined in a single committee under a single Chairman; the additional duties are to be specifically delineated in the President's letter of appointment of the Chairman of the dominant Committee. Such reassignment of Committee functions shall continue during the term and at the pleasure of the current President unless otherwise directed by National Council or Executive Board action.

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11. MEETINGS
(a) Business meetings of the Convention, National Council and Executive Board shall be conducted in conformity with Robert's Rules of Order.

(b) Meetings of the National Council at times of the National Convention shall be open joint sessions attended by both National Council Members and Convention Delegates, scheduled in the Convention agenda at times conveniently correlated with Convention business. At such joint sessions, only National Council members may vote on matters subject to National Council jurisdiction. When, during such sessions, matters are raised or presented which are appropriate for action by the Convention, these shall be voted on only by properly accredited Convention Delegates.

(c) The National Council meeting to be held prior to Convention (Article IV, Section. 3) shall be scheduled as an early agenda item following the formal opening of Convention. At this meeting, the Council shall present its recommendations to Convention regarding Nominations, Constitution amendments and other matters requiring Convention consideration. The Executive Board may meet in private session prior to the National Council meeting, for consideration of recommendations for National Council action prior to presentation to Convention.

(d) This session shall be the occasion for the National Council and/or Presidential reports to Convention, and for formal submission to Convention of Constitution amendment proposals and Nominations for National Council elections. Nominations for National Officer election shall also be announced, for later election by National Council.

(e) Committee reports to either the Convention or the National Council are to be written and included in the material to participants. Reports by Committee Chairmen are to be submitted by title unless there is a decision to be made by the National Council.

(f) The floor may be opened for other nominations immediately after the announcement of the Nominating Committee reports for National Council candidates, for election by Convention, and for National Officer candidates, for election by National Council; or, the receiving of floor nominations may be deferred until a later joint session to be scheduled no less than twenty-four (24) hours before the respective elections. Floor nominations shall conform to the requirements of Bylaw 7(g) for National Council nominees, Bylaw 7(h) for National Officer nominees.

(g) The National Council meeting to be held following Convention (and after the new National Council elections) (Article III, Section 2) shall be scheduled prior to formal closing of Convention, and conducted as a joint session as prescribed in Bylaw 11(b). Only National Council members may vote for the election of National Officers. Convention delegates may be granted the privilege of the floor for candidate endorsement or other comment pertinent to the elections.

(h) It shall be the Chairman's responsibility under the direction of the President and with the Central Office support and following the announcement by the President of the selection, location and time for the Council meetings to make all necessary arrangements for accommodations for Convention and Council meetings. This will include facilities, agenda, support services to assist him in this function the Chairman may appoint a local meeting, or convention Chairman or local support committees. The meeting or convention chairman shall be a National Council member.

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12. STUDY AND TRAINING AIDS
(a) The Ministry Committee shall be charged with the responsibility for preparing manuals and guides for the training of new members and officers, and for assisting both individuals and Chapters toward fulfillment of the Rules of Study and Service. The Manuals and Guides currently authorized, and available from the Central Office are:

" DEVOTIONAL HANDBOOK
" HOW TO MANUAL
" ALL PURPOSE TRAINING GUIDE
" CHAPTER OFFICER'S GUIDE
" CHAPTER TRAINING PROGRAM
" ORIENTATION PROGRAM FOR NEW CHAPTERS/MEMBERS
" THE ASSEMBLY PLAN
" NEW CHAPTER SPONSOR GUIDE
" CHAPTER STATUS & TRAINING EFFECTIVENESS PROCEDURES
" BROTHERHOOD OF ST. ANDREW REPORTING FORM
" QUESTIONNAIRE/CHAPTER STATUS & TRAINING EFFECTIVENESS
" ANSWERING QUESTIONS ABOUT THE BROTHERHOOD
" A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE BROTHERHOOD OF ST. ANDREW

(b) The Youth Program Committee shall be charged with the responsibility for preparing manuals and guides for the training of Youth Chapter Sponsors, members and officers, and for assisting both individuals and chapters toward fulfillment of the Brotherhood responsibility of "Bringing Boys to Christ." The Manuals and Guides currently authorized and available form the Central Office are:
" YOUTH PROGRAM MANUAL
" YOUTH CHAPTER BYLAWS

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13. BYLAW SUPPLEMENTS
(a) Promptly following each National Council meeting at which action has been taken to change the dues amount(s) or payment schedule, or to amend these Bylaws, the Central Office shall prepare a "Bylaws Supplement" which shall, after initial distribution to the Brotherhood leadership, be included as an insert with copies of the Constitution and Bylaws publication as distributed. The supplement shall contain two (2) sections:

(1) A statement of current dues and dues payment schedule; a supply of this section to be maintained at the Central Office for distribution on request by Brotherhood members or others interested in the Brotherhood.

(2) A summarization or digest of all current Constitution or Bylaws provisions which differ from those included in the current stocked edition of these documents: this section to be discontinued on publication of an updated edition of the Constitution and Bylaws.

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14. AMENDMENTS
(a) Any active chapter or Assembly may propose an amendment to the Constitution by forwarding a resolution embodying the exact wording of its proposal to the President of the Brotherhood not later than six (6) full months before the day on which a National Convention is to assemble.

(b) The Executive Board shall give full consideration to all proposed amendments to the Constitution at a meeting, or by mail if a meeting is not practicable, immediately following the President's receipt thereof and shall record its recommendations as to adoption, rejection or change of language without delay.

(c) The Executive Board may propose an amendment or revision of the Constitution by tendering to the President a resolution embodying the exact wording of the proposal not later than the publication deadline for a Brotherhood publication mailed three months prior to the date a National Convention will convene.

(d) Proposed Constitutional amendments or revisions shall be circulated to the Brotherhood membership by the Central Office in an issue of the Brotherhood publication mailed not less than three months prior to the day on which the National Convention will convene, with notice that it will be presented to the Convention for action. In the case of Chapter and Assembly proposals, the Executive Board recommendations thereon will immediately follow the text of the proposed amendment.

(e) Only proposed Constitutional changes or revisions thereof submitted according to the preceding sections shall be presented to the Convention. Adoption shall require a two-thirds vote taken on written ballot of the accredited chapter delegates present at a session of the Convention formally designated for this purpose in the Convention program and announced to the delegates at least forty-eight hours in advance of the vote. The attention of all chapters shall be called to this provision in the same Brotherhood magazine that publishes the proposed amendment or revision.

(f) Debate on a proposed amendment or revision to the Constitution may take place at any business session of the Convention prior to the designated time of voting. At this time, revision of the proposed changes may be made by a simple majority of the accredited delegates voting.

(g) Amendments to Bylaws may be proposed by a Chapter or Assembly at any time by forwarding a resolution embodying the exact wording of the proposal to the President of the Brotherhood. Such proposals will be reviewed by the Executive Board and presented to the National Council at its next meeting together with any recommendations thereon. The Executive Board and any National Council member may propose amendments to the Bylaws at any meeting of the National Council. A two-thirds vote of the National Council members present at a properly called meeting is required for adoption of proposed amendments.

(h) The Central Office shall, through publications, notify the membership without delay of all changes made under the above procedure in either the Constitution or Bylaws

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Last Update 03-31-2007