NEW HOPE MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS
CONSTITUTION
The Preamble:
We the people of God, organized as New Hope Baptist Missionary Baptist Church recognize the sovereignty of God as the head of the Church, which was established through the blood of his son, Jesus Christ, declare and established this constitution for this church and a closer walk with God and with each other.
Article I - Name
Name: We are New Hope Missionary Baptist Church
Article II - Our Purpose:
To bring the lost souls to Christ. To be a shining light in a dark world -St. Matthew 5:16
Article III - Our Mission:
We are a body of baptized believers dedicated to the teachings of Jesus, who is the Christ. We aim to carry out His command, as set forth in St. Matthew 28:18-20; to reach the lost through preaching; convert the sinners through witnessing; train the saved, through teaching and edify the body of saints, through prayer. All done, for the Glory of God, while supporting local and international missionary work. We believe that in carrying out His command, we are a guiding force in our community.
Article IV - Polity
The government of this church, according to the New Testament plan and teaching, is independent in form, and the right of administration resides in the body itself. No other individual or body of people whatever, either civil or ecclesiastical , has any authority over it, or right to interfere with its affairs, unless requested to do so by a majority vote of its members. However, it recognizes and sustains the obligations of mutual counsel and cooperation which are common among Baptist churches.
Article V - Doctrine:
This church, a body of born again baptized believers, recognizes that Christ is Lord and head of the Church. We believe the Word of God is given under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The New Testament and its teaching is our rule of faith and practice.
Article VI - Marriage
“We also believe that the term 'marriage' has only one meaning and that is that marriage is sanctioned by God which joins one man and one woman in a single, exclusive union, as delineated in scripture.”
“We believe that God extends sexual intimacy to only occur between a man and a woman who are married to each other. We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and a woman.”
“We believe that any form of sexual immorality, such as adultery, fornication, homosexuality, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest pornography or any attempt to change one's sex, or disagreement with one's biological sex, is sinful and offensive to God.”
“We believe that in order to preserve the function and integrity of the church as the local body of Christ, and to provide a biblical role model to the church members and the community, it is imperative that all persons employed by the church in any capacity, or serve as volunteers, should abide by and agree to this Statement on Marriage and Sexuality and conduct themselves accordingly.”
“We believe that God offers redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking His mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.”
“We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect, and dignity. Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual are to be repudiated and are not in accordance with scripture, nor the doctrines of the church.”
“We uphold the biblical teaching that the marriage being attested before God is between one man and one woman and that any marriage outside those parameters will not be performed by our church ministers or on any church property belonging to our church.”
“We base these articles of faith on the Word of God as found in Genesis 2:21-25 and 1Corinthians 7:2.”
“Anyone desiring to be married by any of our ministers at our church must attend premarital counseling by an ordained Christian pastor or counselor.”
Our Church Covenant:
As appears in The New National Baptist Hymnal:
ARTICLE V – OFFICERS AND STAFF
See By-Laws Article I – Duties of Officers and Staff. The officers shall be the New Testament officers, pastor and deacons and those required by civil law, trustees, clerk, treasurer and etc.…
SECTION I – OFFICERS
Reference: I Tim. 3:1-7.
This church shall thrive to have a minimum of seven deacons, elected and ordained by this church (Acts 6:3 & 6). Any candidate for membership on the board shall be selected by the board of deacons. After being certain that the person selected possesses the qualifications set forth in I Timothy 3:8-13, the board of deacons shall recommend that the church vote affirmatively for the person to serve a trial period of at least six months followed by recommendation from the church for ordination.
Members shall be added to the board of trustees as deemed necessary by the church, upon recommendation by the Pastor or Deacon Board. Any member selected to the board shall possess personal qualities and characteristics that are deemed necessary by the church for the protection, management and upkeep of all property of the church. When necessary, any elections of officer positions within the board of trustees will be conducted during the month of November and newly elected officers will be presented to the church during that annual church business meeting held during the month of December.
This church shall elect, upon nomination by the church joint board, a church clerk. Any member chosen for this office shall possess qualities and skills that will provide the church with an efficient and complete record of all the actions of the church. The church clerk shall be a standing position for a minimum of 3 years.
The Finance Stewardship Board shall consist of a deacon, who will serve as Chairman, a member from the Board of Trustees, Finance Secretary and two lay members. Members shall be added to the Finance Stewardship Board as deemed necessary by the church, upon recommendation by the Pastor or Deacon Board. Members shall serve as a standing position for a minimum of 3 years.
The Finance Secretary works under the auspices of the Finance Stewardship Board. Any member chosen for this office shall possess skills necessary for receiving, preserving, disbursing and recording all financial transactions of the church and shall be bonded. When necessary, election of a new Finance Secretary will be held during the church annual business meeting, upon recommendation of the Finance Stewardship Board to the Joint Board.
Section II – Staff
Upon recommendation of the board of Deacons, with approval of the pastor, the church shall employ a secretary, possessing the secretarial skills needed to perform efficiently the duties set forth in the by-laws.
Upon recommendation of the board of trustees, with approval of the pastor, the church shall employ a custodian who shall be entrusted to carry out the duties set forth in the by-laws.
Upon recommendation of the board of deacons, the church shall approve a minister of music possessing the musical knowledge and skills that will enhance the spiritual witness of the church while performing the duties set forth in the by-laws.
Upon recommendation of the board of deacons, after conferring with the minister of music, the church shall approve pianist to serve under the supervision/direction of the minister music, according to the duties set forth in the by-laws.
ARTICLE VI – MEMBERSHIP
Section I – Qualifications and Admission
The membership of this church shall consist of such persons who confess Jesus Christ as their
Lord and Savior, and who meet one of the below requirements:
Section II – Spiritual Expectations
Members are expected above all, to live accordingly to biblical standards, to attend all regularly scheduled services of this church; to give of their tithes and offerings for the support of this church and to share in its organized work.
Section III – Rights
Members that are in full and regular standing may vote on all matters brought before the church. Full and regular standing members are those who attend Sunday Service regularly or who regularly support the church financially or through volunteer opportunities.
Section IV – Termination and Dismissal
Membership in this church may be terminated as follows:
Section V – Restoration
Any person who has lost his or her membership for any reason shall upon the recommendation of the board of deacons, after due examination be restored to membership.
ARTICLE VII – MEETING AND ELECTIONS
Section I – Worship
This church shall meet each Sunday morning for worship services. A meeting for prayer shall be held each Wednesday evening and Bible Study will be held each Thursday evening. The Pastor with concurrence of the Board of Deacons may designate meetings for the above purpose at other dates or times.
Section II – Lord’s Supper
The Lord’s Supper shall be observed at the morning worship service on the first Sunday of each month, or at such times as the Pastor may determine. The Lord’s Supper shall be served, upon request, to any member who is ill or infirmed.
Section III – Reception and Dismissal of Members during Worship Services
At any regular meeting for worship the church may, without notice, act upon the reception of members, and/or upon the dismissal of members to other churches. No other business may be acted upon at any worship service.
Section IV – Business Meeting
Four quarterly business meetings shall be held each year, with the fourth quarter meeting designated as the annual business meeting. The date and time of each meeting shall be announced two Sundays prior to the scheduled meeting.
Special business meetings may be called by the Pastor or Chairman of the Board of Deacons, as deemed necessary for the carrying out of church activities. The purpose of such meeting shall be clearly stated. The transaction of business at a special meeting shall be limited to the stated purpose. Members present and voting at regular or special business meetings shall constitute a quorum.
Section V – Elections
When elections are necessary, all officers for this church shall be elected and all auxiliary officers shall be approved at the fourth quarter business meeting. All elected officials will be duly installed during the first Sunday in January of the incoming year or at such times as the church may determine and will assume the duties and responsibility outlined in the constitution and by-laws.
ARTICLE VIII – CHURCH YEAR
The church shall operate on a calendar year. The calendar year shall include these special days with their activities:
Section I
The Church Anniversary, the second Sunday in October.
Section II
Loyalty Month
Section III
Pastor’s Anniversary at the end of his first year of service. All plans will be made and carried out by the church in honor of the pastor and for the glory of God. Pastor’s anniversary shall be recognized the second Sunday in August.
Section IV
Upon recommendation of the pastor and/or board of deacons and acceptance by the church, other special days shall become a part of the church year and discussed during the fourth quarter annual business meeting.
ARTICLE IX – AMENDMENTS
This constitution after adoption by majority vote may be amended by ¾ majority vote of all members present and voting at a meeting called for that purpose. The proposed change or changes must be presented in writing to the church, in a business meeting at least one month before the proposed action.
BY-LAWS
ARTICLE I – DUTIES OF OFFICERS AND STAFF
Section I – Officers
1 – 4 years - 2 weeks
5 – 9 years - 3 weeks
10 – Over - 4 weeks
Perform all functions of the clerk in the event of the clerk being unable to do so and assist the clerk when requested. He/she shall be elected during the annual fourth quarter business meeting.
Section II – Staff
ARTICLE II – FINANCE
Section I – Finance Stewardship Committee
The FSC committee shall prepare a budget each year and present it to the church for approval to the annual church meeting. The FSC committee should consist of church clerk, chairman of the deacon board, chairman of the trustee board and two lay members.
Section III – Audit Committee
Audit committee will examine the financial reports records and books for the purpose of checking their accuracy, will meet every six months and report their findings to the church at the next regular business meeting. The audit committee will be appointed by the pastor and deacon board and confirmed by the church. Members of the finance committee will not serve or participate in the selection process of the audit committee nor be on the committee.
Section IV – Handling of Offerings
All monies, regular and special offerings and all auxiliary funds will be accounted for by the Trustees or the Deacons and turned over to the finance committee.
Section V – Expenditure of Funds
No funds shall be spent except as approved by the finance committee upon the authority of the church. The church shall not make personal loans.
ARTICLE III – COMMITTEE
Section I – General Information
All standing committee members shall be nominated by the church unless otherwise stated in the by-laws. All committees shall have a minimum of three members unless otherwise stated in the by-laws. The chairman for each committee shall be elected by members of the committee unless set forth in the by-laws. The committees shall be elected by the church at the annual business meeting. Only persons present may be nominated from the floor to serve on a committee after all names have been presented by the nominating committee. Vacancies during the year in any office or committee shall be filled by appointment from the pastor and chairman of the board of deacons. All committee chairpersons shall submit their proposed budget to the budget committee when requested for approval.
Section II – Standing Committees
The following standing committee shall be elected:
See Article II – Section III above.
Shall be responsible for ordering or purchasing articles (normal supplies and general items) not to exceed a sum designated under the authorization of the church. Records and reports of all purchases are to be made to the finance committee. This may be a committee of one individual.
This committee will be responsible to assist other special occasion dinner and reception chairpersons to insure a gracious and orderly affair. This committee will also be responsible for the systematic use of the kitchen and its equipment.
A committee appointed by the deacons to insure a proper service for the pastor. This committee will work with the deacons and pastor for suggestions to see that this is a most memorable and spiritual occasion.
Shall be responsible for publicizing all activities connected with the church – especially special events and services.
Section III – Special Committee
Special committee may be established by the church whenever necessary or desirable for any purpose not inconsistent with the constitution and the by-laws.
The pastor, with the approval of the board of deacons, may at any time appoint a special committee. This committee shall be dissolved upon completion of it task.
A pulpit committee shall be elected by the church within sixty days after the pulpit is vacated to seek out a suitable pastor for nomination. This committee shall consist of five members. The committee shall bring to the consideration of the church only one man at a time. This committee shall investigate thoroughly, qualified persons for pastor ship and have background and references at their disposal. This committee shall share the duties of writing a job description and contract for the pastor with the trustees and deacons to coincide with the duties of the pastor as written in the by-laws. This committee shall be dissolved after the pulpit is filled.
ARTICLE IV – AUXILIARIES
Section I – General Information
All auxiliaries are responsible for submitting their budget to the budget committee when requesting for approval. All auxiliaries are to give a quarterly report at the business meetings. All auxiliaries will select their officers and present them at the annual business meeting for approval.
Section II – List of Auxiliaries and Responsibilities
Offers religious education for children, youth and adults.
Are to serve at the regular worship services to care for seating and comfort of the congregation, greeting and introduction of visitors, the prevention of interruptions and distractions, and similar needed services when necessary. To organize and supervise the junior ushers.
Responsible for the visitation of the sick, home prayer meeting, and to help in the home as requested or needed. When appropriate, they will prepare and serve dinner for the bereaved family when any member of our church or someone in a members’ immediate family (spouse, mother, father, mother-in-law, father-in-law, grandparents, brother, sister, son, daughter or grandchild) has passed following the funeral services.
Provide fellowship and work with the pastor, trustees and deacons for the spiritual uplift, financial support and maintenance of the church.
Provide care and instruction for children from infants to kindergarten during church services (when workers become available).
Provide medical assistance when needed.
Ministry through music.
An orientation and training class to make clear the understanding of the privileges and obligation involved in becoming a member of church and definite committal to specific responsibility for participation in Christian living and work of the church.
To provide fellowship and activities to aid to youth and children in spiritual growth.
ARTICLE V – RULES
All meeting shall be conducted according to Roberts Rules of Order.
ARTICLE VI – AMENDMENT
These by-laws after adoption may be amended by majority vote of all members present and voting at a meeting called for that purpose.
The Preamble:
We the people of God, organized as New Hope Baptist Missionary Baptist Church recognize the sovereignty of God as the head of the Church, which was established through the blood of his son, Jesus Christ, declare and established this constitution for this church and a closer walk with God and with each other.
Article I - Name
Name: We are New Hope Missionary Baptist Church
Article II - Our Purpose:
To bring the lost souls to Christ. To be a shining light in a dark world -St. Matthew 5:16
Article III - Our Mission:
We are a body of baptized believers dedicated to the teachings of Jesus, who is the Christ. We aim to carry out His command, as set forth in St. Matthew 28:18-20; to reach the lost through preaching; convert the sinners through witnessing; train the saved, through teaching and edify the body of saints, through prayer. All done, for the Glory of God, while supporting local and international missionary work. We believe that in carrying out His command, we are a guiding force in our community.
Article IV - Polity
The government of this church, according to the New Testament plan and teaching, is independent in form, and the right of administration resides in the body itself. No other individual or body of people whatever, either civil or ecclesiastical , has any authority over it, or right to interfere with its affairs, unless requested to do so by a majority vote of its members. However, it recognizes and sustains the obligations of mutual counsel and cooperation which are common among Baptist churches.
Article V - Doctrine:
This church, a body of born again baptized believers, recognizes that Christ is Lord and head of the Church. We believe the Word of God is given under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The New Testament and its teaching is our rule of faith and practice.
Article VI - Marriage
“We also believe that the term 'marriage' has only one meaning and that is that marriage is sanctioned by God which joins one man and one woman in a single, exclusive union, as delineated in scripture.”
“We believe that God extends sexual intimacy to only occur between a man and a woman who are married to each other. We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and a woman.”
“We believe that any form of sexual immorality, such as adultery, fornication, homosexuality, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest pornography or any attempt to change one's sex, or disagreement with one's biological sex, is sinful and offensive to God.”
“We believe that in order to preserve the function and integrity of the church as the local body of Christ, and to provide a biblical role model to the church members and the community, it is imperative that all persons employed by the church in any capacity, or serve as volunteers, should abide by and agree to this Statement on Marriage and Sexuality and conduct themselves accordingly.”
“We believe that God offers redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking His mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.”
“We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect, and dignity. Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual are to be repudiated and are not in accordance with scripture, nor the doctrines of the church.”
“We uphold the biblical teaching that the marriage being attested before God is between one man and one woman and that any marriage outside those parameters will not be performed by our church ministers or on any church property belonging to our church.”
“We base these articles of faith on the Word of God as found in Genesis 2:21-25 and 1Corinthians 7:2.”
“Anyone desiring to be married by any of our ministers at our church must attend premarital counseling by an ordained Christian pastor or counselor.”
Our Church Covenant:
As appears in The New National Baptist Hymnal:
ARTICLE V – OFFICERS AND STAFF
See By-Laws Article I – Duties of Officers and Staff. The officers shall be the New Testament officers, pastor and deacons and those required by civil law, trustees, clerk, treasurer and etc.…
SECTION I – OFFICERS
- Pastor
Reference: I Tim. 3:1-7.
- Board of Deacons
This church shall thrive to have a minimum of seven deacons, elected and ordained by this church (Acts 6:3 & 6). Any candidate for membership on the board shall be selected by the board of deacons. After being certain that the person selected possesses the qualifications set forth in I Timothy 3:8-13, the board of deacons shall recommend that the church vote affirmatively for the person to serve a trial period of at least six months followed by recommendation from the church for ordination.
- Board of Trustees
Members shall be added to the board of trustees as deemed necessary by the church, upon recommendation by the Pastor or Deacon Board. Any member selected to the board shall possess personal qualities and characteristics that are deemed necessary by the church for the protection, management and upkeep of all property of the church. When necessary, any elections of officer positions within the board of trustees will be conducted during the month of November and newly elected officers will be presented to the church during that annual church business meeting held during the month of December.
- Clerk
This church shall elect, upon nomination by the church joint board, a church clerk. Any member chosen for this office shall possess qualities and skills that will provide the church with an efficient and complete record of all the actions of the church. The church clerk shall be a standing position for a minimum of 3 years.
- Finance Stewardship Board
The Finance Stewardship Board shall consist of a deacon, who will serve as Chairman, a member from the Board of Trustees, Finance Secretary and two lay members. Members shall be added to the Finance Stewardship Board as deemed necessary by the church, upon recommendation by the Pastor or Deacon Board. Members shall serve as a standing position for a minimum of 3 years.
- Finance Secretary
The Finance Secretary works under the auspices of the Finance Stewardship Board. Any member chosen for this office shall possess skills necessary for receiving, preserving, disbursing and recording all financial transactions of the church and shall be bonded. When necessary, election of a new Finance Secretary will be held during the church annual business meeting, upon recommendation of the Finance Stewardship Board to the Joint Board.
Section II – Staff
- Secretary
Upon recommendation of the board of Deacons, with approval of the pastor, the church shall employ a secretary, possessing the secretarial skills needed to perform efficiently the duties set forth in the by-laws.
- Custodian
Upon recommendation of the board of trustees, with approval of the pastor, the church shall employ a custodian who shall be entrusted to carry out the duties set forth in the by-laws.
- Minister of Music
Upon recommendation of the board of deacons, the church shall approve a minister of music possessing the musical knowledge and skills that will enhance the spiritual witness of the church while performing the duties set forth in the by-laws.
- Pianist
Upon recommendation of the board of deacons, after conferring with the minister of music, the church shall approve pianist to serve under the supervision/direction of the minister music, according to the duties set forth in the by-laws.
ARTICLE VI – MEMBERSHIP
Section I – Qualifications and Admission
The membership of this church shall consist of such persons who confess Jesus Christ as their
Lord and Savior, and who meet one of the below requirements:
- Have been baptized by this church.
- If coming from another Baptist church, is able to present their letters of dismissal and recommendations.
- Have experienced the new birth and have been baptized, but for sufficient reason(s) is unable to present a letter, after due examination by the church.
- Members of another church expressing a desire to temporarily unite with this church, for spiritual guidance only, while away from their church. Such members will not be considered a full member and will not have the voting privileges of a full and regular member of this church.
Section II – Spiritual Expectations
Members are expected above all, to live accordingly to biblical standards, to attend all regularly scheduled services of this church; to give of their tithes and offerings for the support of this church and to share in its organized work.
Section III – Rights
Members that are in full and regular standing may vote on all matters brought before the church. Full and regular standing members are those who attend Sunday Service regularly or who regularly support the church financially or through volunteer opportunities.
Section IV – Termination and Dismissal
Membership in this church may be terminated as follows:
- By letter – any member in good standing who desires a letter of dismissal and recommendation to another church may receive it. The letter will be sent to the receiving church when requested.
- By exclusion – any member who should become an offense to the church and its good name by reason of immoral, or unchristian conduct, or by persistent breach of covenant vows, or non-support of the church may have the hand of fellowship withdrawn if the member fails to amend his or her ways. The board of deacons shall meet in private with the member and put forth faithful effort to help such member before recommending to the church the above action.
- By uniting with another church – any member who unites with another church has automatically withdrawn from the membership.
Section V – Restoration
Any person who has lost his or her membership for any reason shall upon the recommendation of the board of deacons, after due examination be restored to membership.
ARTICLE VII – MEETING AND ELECTIONS
Section I – Worship
This church shall meet each Sunday morning for worship services. A meeting for prayer shall be held each Wednesday evening and Bible Study will be held each Thursday evening. The Pastor with concurrence of the Board of Deacons may designate meetings for the above purpose at other dates or times.
Section II – Lord’s Supper
The Lord’s Supper shall be observed at the morning worship service on the first Sunday of each month, or at such times as the Pastor may determine. The Lord’s Supper shall be served, upon request, to any member who is ill or infirmed.
Section III – Reception and Dismissal of Members during Worship Services
At any regular meeting for worship the church may, without notice, act upon the reception of members, and/or upon the dismissal of members to other churches. No other business may be acted upon at any worship service.
Section IV – Business Meeting
Four quarterly business meetings shall be held each year, with the fourth quarter meeting designated as the annual business meeting. The date and time of each meeting shall be announced two Sundays prior to the scheduled meeting.
Special business meetings may be called by the Pastor or Chairman of the Board of Deacons, as deemed necessary for the carrying out of church activities. The purpose of such meeting shall be clearly stated. The transaction of business at a special meeting shall be limited to the stated purpose. Members present and voting at regular or special business meetings shall constitute a quorum.
Section V – Elections
When elections are necessary, all officers for this church shall be elected and all auxiliary officers shall be approved at the fourth quarter business meeting. All elected officials will be duly installed during the first Sunday in January of the incoming year or at such times as the church may determine and will assume the duties and responsibility outlined in the constitution and by-laws.
ARTICLE VIII – CHURCH YEAR
The church shall operate on a calendar year. The calendar year shall include these special days with their activities:
Section I
The Church Anniversary, the second Sunday in October.
Section II
Loyalty Month
- Women’s Day (Last Sunday in May)
- Men’s Day (First Sunday in June)
Section III
Pastor’s Anniversary at the end of his first year of service. All plans will be made and carried out by the church in honor of the pastor and for the glory of God. Pastor’s anniversary shall be recognized the second Sunday in August.
Section IV
Upon recommendation of the pastor and/or board of deacons and acceptance by the church, other special days shall become a part of the church year and discussed during the fourth quarter annual business meeting.
ARTICLE IX – AMENDMENTS
This constitution after adoption by majority vote may be amended by ¾ majority vote of all members present and voting at a meeting called for that purpose. The proposed change or changes must be presented in writing to the church, in a business meeting at least one month before the proposed action.
BY-LAWS
ARTICLE I – DUTIES OF OFFICERS AND STAFF
Section I – Officers
- Pastor
- The pastor shall have in charge the welfare and oversight of the church. He shall render to the church, its members and other persons in the community those services normally pertaining to his calling. He shall administer the ordinances of the church.
- The pastor will be an EX-OFFICIO member of all committees, by virtue of his office and become of his interest.
- The pastor shall preside as moderator at all business meeting of the church. In his absence, the chairman of the deacon board shall serve. However, in the event of matters of conflict between the pastor and church or officers, a district moderator from an association in which the church is a member shall be called to serve.
- The pastor is eligible to be away from the church in revivals, conventions for in other meetings four Sundays a year with approval of the board of deacons.
- The pastor is allowed to attend two conventions (one national and one state) a year with the church paying all reasonable and legitimate expenses if all circumstances are favorable. While absent, the pastor shall take care of supplying the pulpit with approval of the board of deacons. Shall the pastor be absent in excess of the Sundays stated in the by-laws, he may be expected to supply the pulpit at his own expense.
- The pastor is entitled to two weeks’ vacation with pay after his first full year. After the first full year with the church, the vacation entitlement will be as follows:
1 – 4 years - 2 weeks
5 – 9 years - 3 weeks
10 – Over - 4 weeks
- In the event the pulpit is declared vacant by vote of the church, which is taken in the same manner as when the pastor is elected, an interim pastor shall serve until the pulpit is filled.
- Any changes in procedures of the church are to be done through consultation of the Pastor and Board of Deacons with approval of the members of the church.
- After a Pastor is notified of the calling, he has ten (10) days from that date to accept or decline the call, unless a mutual understanding exists between the minister and the church.
- In event of the Pastor tendering his resignation or the congregation exercising the right of recall, two (2) weeks’ notice given shall be applicable unless the church agrees otherwise.
- Deacons
- They are to be zealous to guard the unity of the spirit within the church in the bonds of peace.
- They shall serve as counsel of advice and conference with the pastor in all matters pertaining to the welfare and work of the church. With the pastor, they are to consider and formulate plans for the constant effort and progress of the church in all things pertaining to the savings of souls, the development of Christians, and the extension and growth of the kingdom of God.
- In counsel with the pastor, and by such methods as the Holy Spirit may direct in accordance with the New Testament teachings, they are to have oversight of the discipline of the church guided always by the principles set forth in Matthew 18:15-17; I Corinthians 5:9-13; I Thessalonians 5:12-14.
- Deacons shall be responsible for visiting members, encouraging them to attend the service of the church regularly, care for the sick, needy and distressed recommending relief when necessary.
- The deacons shall take full responsibility of assuring that the ordinances of the church will be administered when the pulpit is vacant.
- The deacons shall provide the Lord’s Supper and aid in its administration; and shall assist the pastor in the ordinance of baptism.
- The deacons shall choose annually the chairman and secretary and shall meet regularly each month. Special meetings may be called by the chairman or secretary, who shall notify the other members.
- The deacons shall share the duties of writing a job description and contract for the pastor with the trustees and pulpit committee to coincide with the duties of the pastor as written in the by-laws.
- Trustees
- The trustees shall hold in trust all property belonging to the church and shall take all necessary measures for its protection, management and upkeep. The trustees shall be responsible for the safekeeping of all valuable documents which come under their jurisdiction. The trustees shall purchase new equipment. They shall have the power to buy, sell mortgage, lease or transfer any property after a specific vote of the church authorizing such action.
- The trustees shall designate the bank where the funds of the church will be deposited.
- The trustees shall secure and supervise the services of a custodian, secretary and other staff person(s) at a salary that is authorized by the church, unless otherwise stated at time of authorization.
- The trustees shall transact all legal matters on behalf of the church with consultation of the deacon board.
- The trustees shall choose annually a chairman, a secretary and should meet regularly each month.
- The trustees shall share the duties of writing a job description and contract for pastor with the deacons and pulpit committee and coincide with the duties of the pastor as written in the by-laws.
- Clerk
- The clerk shall keep a permanent record of all the business meetings of the church. Minutes shall be read for approval at the regular business meeting. He/she shall be responsible for keeping a file of all communications and written reports and giving legal notice of all meetings where such is required, and shall enter upon the records any current event pertaining to the history of the church. The clerk shall be responsible for keeping a record of church membership, with dates of admissions, dismissals, deaths, dedication and baptisms and ordination services.
- The clerk may also delegate some of the clerical responsibilities to the church secretary.
- All books and records kept by the clerk shall be considered the property of the church and may be called for inspection in the clerk’s office at established times to any member of the church.
- Assistant Clerk
Perform all functions of the clerk in the event of the clerk being unable to do so and assist the clerk when requested. He/she shall be elected during the annual fourth quarter business meeting.
- Financial Stewardship Board
- The FSB shall have custody of the funds of the church depositing them in the name of the church to the bank designated by the trustees. All checks shall be co-signed by two authorized signers. They shall keep accurate accounts of all funds raised or contributed for regular or particular purposes. They shall have custody of all valuable documents of the church which pertain to incoming or outgoing monies of the church. They shall present to the church an itemized report of receipts and disbursements showing the actual financial condition of the church at each regular business meeting. They shall make such other financial reports as may be desired by the church.
- The Finance Stewardship Board shall submit in writing a copy of all financial reports presented at any meeting to the clerk to become a part of the permanent church record.
- All books and records kept by the Finance Secretary shall be considered the property of the church. The books shall be available for inspection in the office at established times by any member.
Section II – Staff
- Secretary
- Custodian
- Minister of Music
- Pianist
- Other Staff
ARTICLE II – FINANCE
Section I – Finance Stewardship Committee
The FSC committee shall prepare a budget each year and present it to the church for approval to the annual church meeting. The FSC committee should consist of church clerk, chairman of the deacon board, chairman of the trustee board and two lay members.
Section III – Audit Committee
Audit committee will examine the financial reports records and books for the purpose of checking their accuracy, will meet every six months and report their findings to the church at the next regular business meeting. The audit committee will be appointed by the pastor and deacon board and confirmed by the church. Members of the finance committee will not serve or participate in the selection process of the audit committee nor be on the committee.
Section IV – Handling of Offerings
All monies, regular and special offerings and all auxiliary funds will be accounted for by the Trustees or the Deacons and turned over to the finance committee.
Section V – Expenditure of Funds
No funds shall be spent except as approved by the finance committee upon the authority of the church. The church shall not make personal loans.
ARTICLE III – COMMITTEE
Section I – General Information
All standing committee members shall be nominated by the church unless otherwise stated in the by-laws. All committees shall have a minimum of three members unless otherwise stated in the by-laws. The chairman for each committee shall be elected by members of the committee unless set forth in the by-laws. The committees shall be elected by the church at the annual business meeting. Only persons present may be nominated from the floor to serve on a committee after all names have been presented by the nominating committee. Vacancies during the year in any office or committee shall be filled by appointment from the pastor and chairman of the board of deacons. All committee chairpersons shall submit their proposed budget to the budget committee when requested for approval.
Section II – Standing Committees
The following standing committee shall be elected:
- Audit Committee
See Article II – Section III above.
- Decorating Committee
- Church Anniversary Committee
- Purchasing Agent
Shall be responsible for ordering or purchasing articles (normal supplies and general items) not to exceed a sum designated under the authorization of the church. Records and reports of all purchases are to be made to the finance committee. This may be a committee of one individual.
- Hospitality Committee
This committee will be responsible to assist other special occasion dinner and reception chairpersons to insure a gracious and orderly affair. This committee will also be responsible for the systematic use of the kitchen and its equipment.
- Pastor’s Anniversary Committee
A committee appointed by the deacons to insure a proper service for the pastor. This committee will work with the deacons and pastor for suggestions to see that this is a most memorable and spiritual occasion.
- Publicity Committee
Shall be responsible for publicizing all activities connected with the church – especially special events and services.
Section III – Special Committee
Special committee may be established by the church whenever necessary or desirable for any purpose not inconsistent with the constitution and the by-laws.
The pastor, with the approval of the board of deacons, may at any time appoint a special committee. This committee shall be dissolved upon completion of it task.
- Pulpit Committee
A pulpit committee shall be elected by the church within sixty days after the pulpit is vacated to seek out a suitable pastor for nomination. This committee shall consist of five members. The committee shall bring to the consideration of the church only one man at a time. This committee shall investigate thoroughly, qualified persons for pastor ship and have background and references at their disposal. This committee shall share the duties of writing a job description and contract for the pastor with the trustees and deacons to coincide with the duties of the pastor as written in the by-laws. This committee shall be dissolved after the pulpit is filled.
ARTICLE IV – AUXILIARIES
Section I – General Information
All auxiliaries are responsible for submitting their budget to the budget committee when requesting for approval. All auxiliaries are to give a quarterly report at the business meetings. All auxiliaries will select their officers and present them at the annual business meeting for approval.
Section II – List of Auxiliaries and Responsibilities
- Sunday School
Offers religious education for children, youth and adults.
- Ushers
Are to serve at the regular worship services to care for seating and comfort of the congregation, greeting and introduction of visitors, the prevention of interruptions and distractions, and similar needed services when necessary. To organize and supervise the junior ushers.
- Missionary Society
Responsible for the visitation of the sick, home prayer meeting, and to help in the home as requested or needed. When appropriate, they will prepare and serve dinner for the bereaved family when any member of our church or someone in a members’ immediate family (spouse, mother, father, mother-in-law, father-in-law, grandparents, brother, sister, son, daughter or grandchild) has passed following the funeral services.
- Brotherhood
Provide fellowship and work with the pastor, trustees and deacons for the spiritual uplift, financial support and maintenance of the church.
- Nursery
Provide care and instruction for children from infants to kindergarten during church services (when workers become available).
- Nurses Guild
Provide medical assistance when needed.
- Choirs
Ministry through music.
- Baptist Training Union
An orientation and training class to make clear the understanding of the privileges and obligation involved in becoming a member of church and definite committal to specific responsibility for participation in Christian living and work of the church.
- Youth and Children Departments
To provide fellowship and activities to aid to youth and children in spiritual growth.
ARTICLE V – RULES
All meeting shall be conducted according to Roberts Rules of Order.
ARTICLE VI – AMENDMENT
These by-laws after adoption may be amended by majority vote of all members present and voting at a meeting called for that purpose.