Like essentially all churches, St. John’s Norwood is both a community of worship, ministry, and mission, and an underlying nonprofit legal entity that allows us to conduct the necessary temporal affairs of the parish such as banking, engaging in contracts, etc. St. John’s corporate entity was originally organized under the Maryland Vestry Act of 1798—a law that was largely repealed by the Maryland legislature in 2024. Therefore, we must now consider whether, and when, to update our form of organization and the associated foundational documents to comply with the new law.
What is the question before us?
At our January 26 Adult Forum, St. John’s Co-Chancellor Craig Ulman explained that we, along with other Maryland parishes within the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, now can—and indeed, are being encouraged to—reorganize as religious corporations as defined by the updated law and, in turn, be registered with the county government as a nonprofit religious corporation. Until this recent law change, we did not have that option available to us.
The Vestry has studied this matter and fully supports us moving forward, having unanimously approved a resolution to that effect at its January meeting. Making this change would require a vote of the congregation at the next Annual Parish Meeting (APM) on May 4.
How would this change affect St. John’s?
There would be no tangible change to our worship, ministry or mission.
What are the advantages and disadvantages?
No disadvantages have been identified to making this change. All the more, there are several advantages including enhanced liability protection for Vestry members and officers, and the eligibility to receive government grants if we choose to apply for them. The change would also make it easier for organizations such as banks, contractors, and vendors to verify our legal status as a corporate entity, because we would be registered as such with the state. Indeed, we anticipate that if this change is not adopted, such recognition will become increasingly difficult over time.
What needs to happen for St. John’s to become a religious corporation?
There are essentially two actions needed, and both will be presented at the APM on May 4. First, we need to vote on whether to become a religious corporation under Maryland law. Second, if we make that decision, we need to approve Articles of Incorporation and adopt a number of changes to our bylaws so they comply with the updated law.
We will be publishing the proposed Articles of Incorporation and bylaw changes as the APM approaches. We are also planning some Q&A sessions for any interested parishioners. The dates for those sessions will be published in the coming weeks.
How can I learn more?
- Watch the Jan. 26 Forum recording
- Read Co-Chancellor Craig Ulman's talking points for the January 26 Forum
- If you still have questions, contact Co-Chancellor Craig Ulman or Vestry Member Clara Lovett. (See below.)
Questions?
Complete this form to connect with Co-Chancellor Craig Ulman and Vestry Member Clara Lovett.