The Constitution and By-laws of Trinity Baptist Church Manchester, TN Last Revised December 12, 2015 *** Draft Copy ***

Transcription

1 The Constitution and By-laws of Trinity Baptist Church Manchester, TN Last Revised December 12, 2015 *** Draft Copy ***

2 Table of Contents Constitution.. 4 Preamble.. 4 Article 1 Name Article 2 Polity & Governance Article 3 Articles of Faith 4 Article 4 Membership Covenant Section 4.1 Advancement of the Church... 4 Section 4.2 Christian Stewardship Section 4.3 Personal Growing Relationship.. 5 Section 4.4 Lifestyle of Witness Section 4.5 Church Service By-laws Article 1 Membership 7 Section 1.1 Privileges of Membership.. 7 Section 1.2 Establishing a Membership Subsection Presentation for Membership Subsection Verification of Eligibility Subsection Approval of Membership... 7 Section 1.3 Continuation of Membership... 7 Section 1.4 Removal from Membership... 8 Article 2 Church Leadership 8 Section 2.1 Lead Pastor Subsection Qualifications Subsection Duties Subsection Calling of Lead Pastor Section 2.2 Associate Pastors Subsection Qualifications Subsection Duties Subsection Calling of Associate Pastors... 9 Section 2.3 Deacons Subsection Qualifications Subsection Duties Subsection Calling of Deacons Section 2.4 Other Church Staff Article 3 Ministry Teams 11 Section 3.1 Children s Ministry Team. 12 Section 3.2 Fellowship Ministry Team Section 3.3 Men s Ministry Team.. 12 *** Draft Copy *** 2

3 Table of Contents (Continued) Section 3.4 Mission Ministry Team.. 12 Section 3.5 Senior Adult Ministry Team Section 3.6 Sunday School and Discipleship Ministry Team Section 3.7 Student Ministry Team Section 3.8 Women s Ministry Team Section 3.9 Worship Ministry Team Article 4 Committees 14 Section 4.1 Budget & Financial Stewardship Committee.. 14 Subsection Members Subsection Recording Financial Secretary. 14 Subsection Treasurer 15 Subsection Qualifications Subsection Duties Section 4.2 Deacon Personnel Committee Subsection Members Subsection Qualifications Subsection Duties Section 4.3 Nominating Committee.. 16 Subsection Members Subsection Qualifications Subsection Duties Section 4.4 Trustee Committee.. 17 Subsection Members Subsection Qualifications Subsection Duties Article 5 Church Meetings 18 Section 5.1 Worship Meetings Section 5.2 Business Meetings Subsection Calling a Meeting. Subsection Voting Requirements Section 5.3 Church Clerk Article 6 Church Discipline 20 Article 7 Church Policies 21 Article 8 Amendments 21 *** Draft Copy *** 3

4 Constitution Preamble This constitution has been established to outline and honor the principles of our faith, to describe the rights and privileges of each member of this church, and to preserve the cooperation of this church with others. Article 1 Name This body shall be known as Trinity Baptist Church of Manchester in accordance with its certification in the Secretary of State s office. Article 2 Polity & Governance The government of this church is vested in the body of believers who compose it. It is subject to the control of no other ecclesiastical body. This church does, however, recognize and sustain the obligations of mutual counsel and cooperation which are common among Southern Baptist Churches. This church will cooperate with and support the local Duck River Association of Missionary Baptists, the Tennessee Baptist Convention, and the Southern Baptist Convention as long as these bodies shall remain doctrinally grounded. This church was organized in 1964 and incorporated by Charter under the Tennessee Non- Profit Corporation Act on March 17, It is a tax-exempt entity under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code. When continuing as a Cooperating Baptist Church with the Tennessee Baptist Convention the non-profit status is documented by the Group Exemption Determination letter issued to the Tennessee Baptist Convention. Article 3 Articles of Faith This church receives the scriptures provided by God through the Old and New Testaments of the Christian Bible as its sole and sufficient authority in all matters of faith and practice. This church s understanding of basic Christian doctrine is expressed in the Baptist Faith and Message 2000 as adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention. A copy may be requested from the church office. Article 4 Membership Covenant Being a member of Trinity Baptist Church is about being part of a family unified by identity in Christ. This unity is expressed in the way each person collaborates in loving God, fellow Christians, and non-christians. Those who enter into membership with this church are called to a high degree of responsibility and service as outlined in the covenant below. Members of Trinity Baptist Church will be active in fulfilling the responsibilities outlined in this covenant in order to advance the Kingdom of God and to fulfill the mission of Trinity Baptist Church. Section 4.1 Advancement of the Church As the Holy Spirit leads, members will strive to advance the Kingdom of God both within the walls of this church and as a part of the global church. Members will minister to other church members through prayer, sympathy, and other aid. Members will be active in worshipping, observing the ordinances, upholding church discipline, sharing the love of God, and witnessing to the community. Members will share the Gospel by evangelizing friends and neighbors and by participating in mission efforts as led by the *** Draft Copy *** 4

5 Spirit. (Hebrews 10:24-25, Acts 2:42, Hebrews 10:24, Luke 22:14-23, 1 John 3:11-24, Matthew 18:15-20, Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:18-20, 2 Corinthians 5:18-20, Acts 1:8). Section 4.2 Christian Stewardship Members will regularly, cheerfully, and obediently support the ministries of this church through tithes and offerings, sacrifices of time, and support in prayer. These actions will help sustain the expenses of the church ministries, aid the poor, and promote the spread of the Gospel through missions locally and globally (Malachi 3:8-10, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Deuteronomy 15:10). Section 4.3 Personal Growing Relationship Members will commit to a growing relationship with Jesus through consistent personal prayer and Bible study. Members will support and nurture discipleship within their families. Members will develop an ever-deepening understanding of sound doctrine as stated in the Scriptures and as expressed by the church in its doctrinal statements (2 Corinthians 3:18, Colossians 1:10, Colossians 2:6, Galatians 5:22-23, John 15:1-15, 1 Timothy 4:7-8, 1 Timothy 4:16). Section 4.4 Lifestyle of Witness Members will commit to living life as solid witnesses, thereby ensuring a testimony that upholds Biblical standards. This will include, but is not limited to, the following standards commanded in the scripture to live with purity and integrity. Members covenant to: Protect the unity of this church through attitude, speech, and behaviors toward other church members, and through reconciliation with others due to personal sin or the sin of others (Philippians 2:1-11, Ephesians 4:3, Romans 15:5-6, Romans 12:9-21, Matthew 18:15-35) Reject gossip, slander, and excessive anger both in choice of words and in what is listened to and tolerated from others (James 3:1-13, Ephesians 4:29-42, 2 Corinthians 12:20, Matthew 15:19-20, Colossians 3:8) Condemn drunkenness and the abuse of alcohol and drugs, and avoid idolatrous behaviors of all types that take focus off Christ (1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Ephesians 5:18, 1 Corinthians 5:11, Romans 13:13, Galatians 5:21, 1 Peter 4:3) Respect and honor the covenant of marriage, seeking reconciliation rather than divorce (Matthew 19:9, Matthew 5:31-32, Genesis 2:24) Avoid all sexual immorality (e.g., fornication, cohabitation, pornography, homosexuality, sex outside the bounds of Christian marriage, etc.) (Matthew 5:27-30, Romans 1:26-27, Romans 13:13, 1 Corinthians 5:11, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Galatians 5:19-21, Ephesians 5:5, Colossians 3:5-8, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-18, 1 Timothy 1:10, Jude 1:7) When struggling with sin, members will reach out to brothers or sisters in Christ for encouragement needed to walk in personal holiness. In order to guard the purity and integrity of this church, members will submit to restorative church discipline regarding standards commanded in scripture (Matthew 18:15-20, Hebrews 10:24, James 5:16). *** Draft Copy *** 5

6 Section 4.5 Church Service A commitment to membership will be reflected in consistent church attendance and involvement in Bible study (e.g., Sunday school, small group, home group, discipleship class, etc.) (Hebrews 10:25). This commitment will also be reflected by seeking and sustaining a place of service in the church (1 Corinthians 12:27). In addition, members will support the Church Leadership in prayer, attitude, and fellowship (Hebrews 13:17) and do the portion of the work that God has called and equipped him/her to perform (Romans 12:6-8). *** Draft Copy *** 6

7 By-laws Article 1 Membership Jesus is committed to the church. He loves the church so much He gave His life for her (Ephesians 5:25). The more we become like Jesus, the more we will love the church. Just as the first believers were highly committed to the local church (Acts 2:42-47), all believers should commit to local church membership and active participation in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:1-31, Hebrews 10:25, John 15:1-17, and Ephesians 4:4-16). Section 1.1 Privileges of Membership Church membership positions a person to be used by God in a significant manner (1 Corinthians 12:7-11 and Ephesians 4:11-16). A form of church government outlined in these By-laws allows church members to influence the doctrine and direction of the church. Because of this, only active church members having affirmed the Membership Covenant will be allowed to vote in business meetings, hold office in the church, serve on committees, lead a ministry team, or teach regular Bible study. Section 1.2 Establishing a Membership The membership of this Church shall consist of persons who have received Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior, who accept the Articles of Faith as adopted by this Church, and who have voluntarily entered into the Membership Covenant. Subsection Presentation for Membership A membership candidate shall be presented: By Baptism: On his/her public confession of faith and believer s baptism by immersion By Transfer: Members of other Southern Baptist Churches who publically affirm their personal conversion and baptism by immersion By Statement: Candidates who make a public statement of their personal conversion experience with Jesus Christ and subsequent baptism by immersion As was the case for the thief on the cross (Luke 23:39-43), special circumstances such as physical hindrance or handicap may arise that prevent scriptural baptism by full immersion or public presentation for membership. Such cases will be considered by the Deacons on an individual basis. Subsection Verification of Eligibility The Deacons will contact all candidates and confirm their conversion, baptism, and willingness to fulfill the Membership Covenant. Subsection Approval of Membership After being contacted by the Deacons, the candidate will be recommended for membership at the next business meeting. If an objection occurs during this process, the issue will be immediately referred to the Deacons for investigation. Section 1.3 Continuation of Membership There are 2 types of membership classifications: Active and Inactive. Active members are those who regularly attend the services of this church and exercise the *** Draft Copy *** 7

8 privileges and duties outlined in the Membership Covenant and By-laws. Special considerations will be given to those who are in primary health care facilities, are homebound, are serving in the military, are seeking education, are serving on the mission field, etc. Inactive members are those who have not met the definition of active membership. These individuals will not be counted in consideration of the quorum for business meetings. Inactive members cannot vote in business meetings, hold office in the church, serve on committees, lead a ministry team, or teach regular Bible study. A review of the church membership roll will be done at least once annually at the direction of the Deacons. Upon notice of inactivity, the Deacons and other active members shall, in love, make all efforts to reunite the members into the active fellowship of this church. Those who have not returned into active fellowship of the church may be placed on the Inactive Membership List. A letter informing such members that they have been placed on the Inactive Membership List will be sent. The church may vote to remove inactive members from the roll based upon the recommendation of the Deacons after all restorative measures have occurred. Persons on the inactive list may be restored to full active membership by action of the Deacons upon the member s request. Section 1.4 Removal from Membership Members shall be removed from church membership: By joining another church: A person can move their membership to another church. By request: A person has the right to request their membership be terminated. By action of this church: A person can be removed due to inactivity or church discipline processes. See By-laws Article 6 Church Discipline for more details. By death: A person will be removed from membership upon his/her death. Article 2 Church Leadership This church will be led by the pastoral staff and the Deacons as established in Scripture (1 Timothy 3:1-13, Titus 1:5-9, Acts 6:1-6). The pastoral staff is responsible for leading the church, and the Deacons are responsible for serving the church. Section 2.1 Lead Pastor Subsection Qualifications The Lead Pastor shall possess the qualifications set out in 1 Timothy 3:1-7: high moral character, the husband of one wife, able to teach, not partaking in the use of illegal drugs or intoxicating beverages, one who leads his home well, and one who is patient and hard working. More importantly, the Lead Pastor must be aware of a clear calling from God to the office of Pastor and to his position of responsibility at this church. The Lead Pastor, like all members, will adhere and commit to the Membership Covenant. Subsection Duties The Lead Pastor is responsible for leading the church as led by God. He shall: Serve the church eagerly and desire good work for the Lord (1 Peter 5:2) Spread the Gospel throughout the world (1 Timothy 5:17) through personal evangelism and encouraging and equipping the people *** Draft Copy *** 8

9 Seek God s vision for the local body and guide the people to fulfill the functions of a New Testament church as established in Scripture (Ephesians 4:12, Proverbs 29:18) Be responsible to the Good Shepherd, lead and care for the people, and provide protection by guarding against bad influence and false doctrine (Acts 20:28-31, Titus 1:5-9, Acts 15, 1 Peter 5:2) Oversee the congregation and provide unifying direction so that the ministries of the church work together to promote God s Kingdom, and attend ministry team meetings when possible and necessary (Acts 20:28, 1 Timothy 3:1, 5) Disciple those God entrusts to him and provide guidance for spiritual decisions based on sound doctrine (Acts 15, Titus 1:5-9) Lead the church through baptism and the Lord s Supper Be responsible for supervision of the pastoral, ministerial, and administrative staff Cooperate with the Deacons to serve the church Serve as moderator of business meetings and ex officio member of all committees Serve as the President of the corporation as required by the Tennessee Non-Profit Corporation Act. Subsection Calling of Lead Pastor When there is a vacancy, the Nominating Committee shall recommend to the church that a Search Committee be formed consisting of 5 active church members. Upon church approval of the Search Committee, the committee will develop an appropriate job description, identify qualified candidates, and bring 1 candidate at a time to the church for consideration. Section 2.2 Associate Pastors Associate Pastor positions can be developed and filled as church needs arise. Job titles and descriptions will be determined once approved by the church. Subsection Qualifications An Associate Pastor shall possess the qualifications set out in 1 Timothy 3:1-7: high moral character, the husband of one wife, able to teach, not partaking in the use of illegal drugs or intoxicating beverages, one who leads his home well, and one who is patient and hard working. More importantly, an Associate Pastor must be aware of a clear calling from God to the office of the Associate Pastor and to his position of responsibility at this church. An Associate Pastor, like all members, will adhere and commit to the Membership Covenant. Subsection Duties Duties will be defined by the Associate Pastor s job description. Subsection Calling of Associate Pastors When there is a vacancy, the Nominating Committee shall recommend to the church that a Search Committee be formed consisting of 5 active church members. Upon church approval of the Search Committee, the committee will develop an appropriate job description, identify qualified candidates, and bring 1 candidate at a time to the church for consideration. *** Draft Copy *** 9

10 Section 2.3 Deacons Subsection Qualifications A Deacon should be committed to the Christian principles of the Membership Covenant. Men who have previously been set apart and ordained as Deacons by a sister Southern Baptist Church of similar faith and order must be members of this church for at least 1 year before they are eligible to be elected as Deacons. All other Deacon candidates must be members of this church for a period of at least 2 years before they are eligible to be elected as Deacons of this church. The basic qualifications for a Deacon are found in Acts 6:1-7 and 1 Timothy 3:7-13 and are always to be held over and above the specific requirements for Deacons of this church. A Deacon shall: Be a man of moral integrity and spiritual maturity. His life shall be clean and pure with no question mark concerning his basic Christian character. He shall realize that he is a representative of Christ s church and shall be willing to assume the responsibility of conducting himself in a manner that will honor the name of God in every area of his life. Maintain his business life in harmony with Christian principles. This church should never be embarrassed with the business life of a Deacon. Be in agreement with and participate in the financial program of this church. The Deacon shall be a good steward of his income, recognizing the tithe as a minimum. Lead his family well and ensure that his wife shares in Christian consecration and church loyalty (1 Timothy 3:11) Subsection Duties A Deacons primary duties are those outlined in the New Testament. A Deacon shall: Guard the unity of this church (Acts 6:3b) Cooperate with the pastoral staff and support the development of plans to meet the calling of this church (Acts 6:4) Offer support and care to the membership of this church in times of spiritual, physical, and emotional need (Acts 6:3, Acts 6-7) Administer and maintain the benevolence ministry of this church (Acts 6:3) Assist in the preparation and administration of the Lord s Supper Ensure that potential candidates for church membership are in accordance with the Membership Covenant and present those candidates for vote by this church Review the church membership roll at least once annually as described in Section 1.3 Be in counsel with the pastoral staff while providing oversight of church discipline and restoration as set forth in Matthew 18:15-17, 1 Corinthians 5:9-13; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-14, and other relevant passages. See By-laws Article 6 Church Discipline for more details. Be regular in attendance at monthly Deacons meetings to plan and conduct their duties as servant leaders of this church. In addition, be faithful in attending church business meetings, worship services, and in the full teaching and training programs of this church (1 Corinthians 4:2). Organize into groups or teams in order to efficiently accomplish their duties Participate in electing a Chairman at the beginning of the church year from among the body to lead the Deacon ministry. The Chairman will serve as moderator of *** Draft Copy *** 10

11 church business meetings in the absence of the Lead Pastor. The Chairman may not succeed himself. Serve on the Deacon Personnel Committee and Nominating Committee as approved by the Deacons. See By-laws Section 4.2 Deacon Personnel Committee and Section 4.3 Nominating Committee for more details. Organize and arrange for pulpit speakers when necessary Subsection Calling of Deacons In preparation for the new church year or if the need arises, the Nominating Committee will seek out candidates who meet the qualifications of a Deacon who can perform the duties and are willing to serve. If the Nominating Committee selects a candidate that has not previously served as a Deacon at this church, the candidate must first be tested by the Deacon body (1 Timothy 3:10). Qualified candidates will be presented to the Church for approval. Upon church approval, the newly elected Deacons will begin their term of service at the beginning of the new church year. See By-laws Section 4.3 Nominating Committee for more details. Section 2.4 Other Church Staff In addition to pastoral staff, other staff positions can be developed and filled as church needs arise. Job titles, qualifications, and duties will be created by the Deacon Personnel Committee once the position is approved by the church. Article 3 Ministry Teams Every Christian has been called by God to advance the Gospel and is gifted by the Holy Spirit for work in the church (Matthew 28:19-20, Ephesians 4:16, 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, 27-28, Romans 12:3-8). Therefore, the purpose of ministry teams is to equip the saints for the work of the ministry (Ephesians 4:12) by involving as many people as possible in ministry, missions, and evangelism. Since the pastoral staff is called by God to oversee (1 Timothy 3:1) the work of the church, they will have direct responsibility for the oversight of all ministry teams. They will coordinate the work of all ministry teams ensuring that the building up of the body of Christ is accomplished in a unified, faithful, and spiritually mature fashion (Ephesians 4:12-13). Each ministry team will be led by a Team Director who: is an active church member is a person of strong Biblical character (Galatians 5:22-24, Matthew 23:11-12) has leadership qualities specific to the team he/she directs has effective organizational and interpersonal skills is effective at recruiting and equipping team members for ministry The Nominating Committee will recommend a Ministry Team Director for each team. Ministry Team Directors will serve a term of 1-year but can succeed themselves if requested by the Nominating Committee. The church will vote to approve each Ministry Team Director. Once approved by the church, the Ministry Team Director will report to the pastoral staff. Each Director will be responsible for recruiting, equipping, and organizing the ministry for their team. They will recruit additional leadership as needed and will plan, coordinate, and oversee the work of the team. Team members should be active participants *** Draft Copy *** 11

12 in worship meetings and/or Bible studies at this church. Ongoing Bible teaching positions will require the approval of church vote. Each team will align the work of their ministry with the stated mission of this church. They will conduct their ministry in a manner that is consistent with the church s doctrinal statement. They will willingly work alongside other ministry teams when needed or requested. If the need arises and as God leads the church to new ministries, the pastoral staff will create additional ministry teams. Below are established ministry teams and their basic functions. Section 3.1 Children s Ministry Team The team will be responsible for ministry geared toward evangelism and spiritual development of children ages birth through fifth grade. This may include: Children s Sunday School Bible study Children s Wednesday night Bible study Children s church Nursery coordination Vacation Bible School Camps / trips Seasonal and outreach family activities Section 3.2 Fellowship Ministry Team The team will coordinate or assist church members with the planning of fellowship events and assist with the preparation of church facilities as needed. This may include: Kitchen crew Baby and bridal shower coordination Bereavement such as meals, use of facilities, etc. Special church-wide events & meals Wednesday night meal coordination Section 3.3 Men s Ministry Team The team will be responsible for ministry geared toward evangelism and spiritual development of men. This may include: Men s fellowship activities Bible studies Prayer groups Special trips Section 3.4 Mission Ministry Team The team will plan and lead the mission efforts of the church locally and globally. The team will coordinate team efforts in order to support the mission of this church. The team will assist with: Mission trips SHARE Ministry Backpack Summer Food Program Bonnaroo Ministry *** Draft Copy *** 12

13 Representatives to outside organizations (e.g., Good Sam, Crisis Pregnancy) Section 3.5 Senior Adult Ministry Team Team will be responsible for ministry geared toward evangelism and spiritual development of senior adults. This may include: Fellowship activities Bible studies Special trips Section 3.6 Sunday School and Discipleship Ministry Team The team will be responsible for the discipleship activities and resources of the church. The team will be led by one or more directors and will coordinate both continual and shortterm classes whenever they occur. Teachers recruited by any ministry team must be assessed by the Sunday School and Discipleship Ministry Team Director as well as the Nominating Committee. Recommended teachers will then be voted on by the church. This team will be responsible for: Sunday School Bible study Wednesday night Bible study Home groups Church library Section 3.7 Student Ministry Team The team will be responsible for ministry geared toward evangelism and spiritual development of students ages sixth through twelfth grade. The Associate Pastor of Students will be the team director when one is on staff. This may include: Student Sunday School Bible study Student Wednesday night Bible study Student trips College students Section 3.8 Women s Ministry Team The team will be responsible for ministry geared toward evangelism and spiritual development of women. This may include: Women s activities Bible studies Prayer groups Special trips Section 3.9 Worship Ministry Team The team will be responsible for the ministries that directly impact the corporate worship of the church. The Associate Pastor of Worship will be the team director when one is on staff. The pastoral staff will lead the team in the absence of an Associate Pastor of Worship. This ministry will include: All choirs (adult, children, preschool) Musicians Media group Banner Ministry Baptism group Ushers *** Draft Copy *** 13

14 Floral/sanctuary decorations Other worship ministries as needed Article 4 Committees All committees will operate on the church year calendar beginning in September. Committees will report to the church and will coordinate their work with Church Leadership, ministry teams, and other committees as necessary. All committee members serve a 3-year rotating term unless otherwise noted below and must be active church members as described in the Membership Covenant. Members set to rotate off a committee may be asked to stay on for the duration of an on-going project for duties directly related to that project only. Each committee may elect their own chairman as needed. Members who agree to serve but do not attend or participate in called meetings should take the initiative and ask to be removed from the committee. The committee may also contact that member and ask them if they are able to participate or would prefer to be replaced. The standing committees for this church are listed below. Other committees can be formed by the Nominating Committee as recommended by the Deacons. The church will vote to approve each new committee. Section 4.1 Budget and Financial Stewardship Committee Subsection Members This committee is composed of a minimum of 10 members including the Recording Financial Secretary and the Treasurer. The Nominating Committee will recommend replacement members prior to a serving member s term expiring or in the event of an unplanned opening. The church will vote to approve each new member. At the beginning of each church year calendar, the committee will elect its chairperson. Subsection Recording Financial Secretary The church will elect a Recording Financial Secretary based on the recommendation of the Nominating Committee. Once elected, the Recording Financial Secretary will automatically become a member of the Budget and Financial Stewardship Committee. At the conclusion of the 3-year commitment, the Nominating Committee will determine whether to ask the Recording Financial Secretary if he/she is willing to serve again or to recommend another active church member as described in the Membership Covenant. If for some reason the Recording Financial Secretary is unable to finish his/her term or fulfill the duties, the Nominating Committee will recommend a replacement to the church for vote and approval. The Recording Financial Secretary shall: Encourage people with special tithe and offering instructions to use an envelope with instructions included Record contributions based on instructions provided Record all contributions using the list of checks and copies of envelopes provided by the tellers Will serve as a Teller on a rotational schedule *** Draft Copy *** 14

15 Distribute statements summarizing the contributions of each member for the calendar year in time for the members to use as an aid to filing their federal income taxes Keep all giving confidential. No member, staff, committee, or person may have access to the records of giving of other individuals. Subsection Treasurer The church will elect a Treasurer based on the recommendation of the Nominating Committee. Once elected, the Treasurer will automatically become a member of the Budget and Financial Stewardship Committee but should not serve as a Teller. At the conclusion of the 3-year commitment, the Nominating Committee will determine whether to ask the Treasurer if he/she is willing to serve again or to recommend another active church member as described in the Membership Covenant. If for some reason the Treasurer is unable to finish his/her term or fulfill the duties, the Nominating Committee will recommend a replacement to the church for vote and approval. In the event a replacement cannot be identified, the accounting functions of the Treasurer may be outsourced except for the internal financial controls (e.g., receipt verification, financial reconciliation) which shall remain the responsibility of the Treasurer. The Treasurer shall: Keep an itemized account of all receipts and disbursements Make disbursements based on the established financial policy of the church and the established budget Open and close bank accounts as approved by the church Keep record of special designated funds Draw from the account designated by the line item steward Provide a monthly financial report to the church Train the new Treasurer when elected Provide an annual report showing total receipts, disbursements, and financial balances to the designated auditing or reviewing body or entity within 30 days of the end of each budget year Preserve an annual report and external annual/review report in the permanent record of the church All books, records, and accounts kept by the Treasurer shall be considered the property of the church. The books are open to inspection by any member of the church except for personal giving records. Personal giving records are protected to maintain an individual s privacy. If a member desires to review the church books, he/she may contact the Treasurer to schedule a review. If a member desires to review his/her personal giving records, he/she may contact the Recording Financial Secretary to schedule a review. Subsection Qualifications Committee members shall: Be good stewards of personal finances Be generous and cheerful givers to the mission of the church Possess a general knowledge of financial management and a willingness to learn the financial policies and procedures of this church *** Draft Copy *** 15

16 Possess the ability to apply principles of biblical stewardship to financial decisions *** Draft Copy *** 16

17 Subsection Duties This committee shall: Prepare the annual budget of the church Arrange for an annual external review of all books and accounts Organize tellers for the counting and weekly deposit of all tithes and offerings (The treasurer must not be a teller.) The Church will furnish bond insurance for all tellers. Provide the Recording Financial Secretary with weekly account deposits and individual giving Provide the Church Treasurer with the deposit slip from all deposits Prepare and maintain financial policies and procedures for the church Provide 2 or more tellers to count, properly record, and deposit all funds for any and all purposes in a church-approved bank or similar financial institution Provide authorized check signers to include the chairman of the committee, Treasurer, and up to 2 other committee members selected by the committee. All checks require 2 signatures. Section 4.2 Deacon Personnel Committee Subsection Members This committee is composed of 3 active Deacons who serve a 1-year term. The Deacons will recommend replacement members prior to a serving member s term expiring or in the event of an unplanned opening. Subsection Qualifications Committee members shall be active Deacons. Subsection Duties This committee shall: Define job descriptions of all paid staff Determine staffing needs and make employment recommendations Recommend salaries and benefits for all paid staff in coordination with committees or responsible persons Evaluate job performance, complaints concerning job performance, treatment of staff, and address performance improvement in coordination with committees or responsible persons Develop personnel policies concerning sick leave, vacation allotments, holidays, etc. for all paid staff Recommend all non-ministerial paid staff to the church for vote Section 4.3 Nominating Committee Subsection Members This committee is composed of 2 pastoral staff members, 2 active deacons, and 3 active church members. The Deacons will elect the active Deacon representatives. The active church members will be recommended by the Deacons to the church body and shall be voted on by the church body. Each Deacon and church member will serve for a 1-year term. *** Draft Copy *** 17

18 Subsection Qualifications Committee members shall: Be a member of the pastoral staff, an active Deacon, or a spiritually mature church member Understand the leadership needs of the church Possess the ability to match individuals to fill leadership positions based on spiritual wisdom and discernment Subsection Duties This committee shall: Present names to the church body for approval to fill the following responsibilities based on the qualifications listed for each position: - Deacons - Trustee Committee - Budget & Financial Stewardship Committee to include Financial Recording Secretary and Treasurer - Ministry team leaders - Teachers as recommended by the leaders of the ministry teams - Church Clerk - Pastoral search committees (when needed) Review the current position holders and recommend any changes to these positions as necessary each year Begin their duties no later than May 1 st to ensure positions are filled for the upcoming church year beginning September 1st. Section 4.4 Trustee Committee Subsection Members This committee is composed of a minimum of 5 members. The Nominating Committee will recommend replacement members prior to a serving member s term expiring or in the event of an unplanned opening. The church will vote to approve each new member. At the beginning of each church year, this committee will elect its chairperson. Subsection Qualifications Committee members shall be trustworthy, mature, knowledgeable, and possess wisdom in the handling of both real and personal property placed in their care. Subsection Duties This committee shall: Perform or secure maintenance and improvement of the church grounds and building Ensure that church facilities are available and ready for use by the church body for worship and other regular events of this church Ensure that church facilities are locked and secure after use Recommend building use policy to the church Represent this church in the negotiation of purchase and sale of property and buildings as approved by the church Have supervision over all the deeds, titles, bonds, insurance policies, and other *** Draft Copy *** 18

19 similar important papers of the church. They shall have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, or transfer any church property without specific vote of the church authorizing such action. Sign legal documents on behalf of the church Supervise the church custodian and the grounds-maintenance staff Oversee church beautification projects Oversee the church sign Oversee and maintain a policy for personal use of church property Oversee and maintain a policy for weddings on church property Oversee and maintain an emergency/safety plan Article 5: Church Meetings Section 5.1 Worship Meetings This church will hold regular worship and prayer services at established times for the glory of God and the edification of the body of Christ. This church will also have times for teaching, training, fellowship, outreach, and other types of activities as determined by the Church Leadership. Baptism and the Lord s Supper will be regular elements of worship services. This church will practice open communion (1 Corinthians 11:28-29), allowing all believers to participate in the Lord s Supper, regardless of membership. The Pastors and Deacons will administer the Lord s Supper at least once a quarter. The Lead Pastor or his designee will administer all baptisms. Special services may be called by the Pastors or by vote of the church. Regular services can be cancelled by the Pastors or by vote of the church in certain circumstances such as inclement weather, holidays, etc. Section 5.2 Business Meetings The purpose of business meetings is for the body of Christ to seek the will of Jesus, the Head of the church (Ephesians 1:22, Ephesians 5:23, Colossians 1:18). These meetings are to be for God s glory (Colossians 3:17, 1 Peter 4:10-11). The outcome of a business meeting should serve to advance God s Kingdom (Acts 15), be a demonstration of unity among the church body (Ephesians 4:1-6), and be an example of love to a watching world (John 13:35). Any active church member can speak and vote in any meeting as he/she is led by the Holy Spirit. The church moderator will lead the meeting based upon Parliamentary Procedure. All members of the meeting should conduct themselves with the same reverent fear of the Lord as in a worship service (Romans 12:1-3). Subsection Calling a Meeting The church moderator is required to schedule and call quarterly business meetings. These meetings will be placed on the church calendar and must be duly announced in worship gatherings and promoted in church media. The quarterly business meeting immediately preceding the start of the church year shall be designated as the Annual Meeting for the purpose of meeting requirement of the Tennessee Non-Profit Corporation Act. Additional business meetings may be called by the moderator, the Pastors, or Chairman of Deacons if a need arises or at the request of the Deacons, committees, or ministry teams. As minimum notice, all business meetings must be announced 1 week in *** Draft Copy *** 19

20 advance. Subsection Voting Requirements The following items require church vote in the manner stated below: Items Requiring Church Vote Call or remove Pastor/Ministerial Staff Member Quorum Required 50% of active members Approval Requirements Special Voting Procedures 85% of those voting - Paper ballot - Sunday morning service - One week notice Dissolution of Church 50% of active members 85% of those voting - Paper ballot - Sunday morning service - One week notice Sell/Purchase Real Estate/New construction/debt 30% of active members 65% of those voting - Sunday morning service - One week notice Changes to the Constitution/By-laws 30% of active members 65% of those voting - Sunday morning service - One month notice Call or remove Deacons 30% of active members Majority of those voting - Paper ballot - Sunday morning service - One week notice The following items will require church approval during an established business meeting by majority vote of members present and voting: Annual budget Changing weekly worship schedule Church policies Committee members Designated funds Fundraisers Ministry team leaders Paid positions Receive or remove members Representatives to conventions/associations Starting a local mission church Teachers Unbudgeted expenses The Pastors and Deacons may determine that other items be brought to the church for voting. These may include items brought to their attention by committees, ministry teams, or other church leaders. Such items require 1-week notice and a majority vote of members present and voting. *** Draft Copy *** 20

21 Section 5.3 Church Clerk The church will elect a Church Clerk based on the recommendation of the Nominating Committee. Once elected, the Church Clerk will fulfill a 3-year commitment beginning in September of the church year. At the conclusion of the 3-year commitment, the Nominating Committee will determine whether to ask the Church Clerk if he/she is willing to serve again or to recommend another person at that time. The Church Clerk shall: Be responsible for attending business meetings Keep minutes of the formal actions of the church Present minutes at business meetings Serve as Secretary of the Corporation to meet the requirements of the Tennessee Non-Profit Corporation Act Section 6 Church Discipline Church discipline is required anytime there is sin, divisiveness, false doctrine, or any other offense that is inhibiting the church from accomplishing the mission of God or threatening the purity and integrity of the church. In such cases, Church Leadership is obligated to intervene. The goal of church discipline should not be punitive. In every case, church leaders should pursue a healthy resolution involving restoration and reconciliation. Just as God disciplines those He loves, church discipline should always be carried out in a loving manner (Hebrews 12:6, Revelations 3:19). Church discipline in this church will follow the pattern given by Jesus in Matthew 18:15-20 and as outlined below. Along with the clear teachings of Scripture, the Membership Covenant will be used in all cases of church discipline. When an offense arises among the membership, the Pastors and/or Deacons shall make every effort to deal with the offense. If the matter cannot be resolved in this manner, the offending member shall be brought before the Deacons who shall seek to remove the offense. If the matter cannot be resolved in this manner, the offense of the member shall be brought before the church at a church business meeting. If the offending member does not then make amends, the church may vote, on recommendation of the Deacons, to remove him/her from membership. Since Deacons are servant leaders of this church, they are held to a higher standard. Any Deacon charged with failing to perform his duties or violating the Membership Covenant shall be examined privately by the Pastors, Chairman of Deacons, and Vice Chairman of Deacons, who shall make every effort to deal with the offense. If the matter cannot be resolved in this manner, the offending Deacon shall be brought before the whole Deacon body who shall seek to remove the offense. If the matter cannot be resolved in this manner, the offense of the Deacon shall be brought before the church at a church business meeting. If the offending Deacon does not then make amends, the church may vote, on recommendation of the other Deacons, to remove him from the office of Deacon and/or membership. Because the Pastors/Ministers are the spiritual leaders of this church, they are held to the highest standards. A Pastor or Minister shall be disciplined for: 1) Violation of the Membership Covenant 2) Failure in a moral standard of Scripture 3) Ceasing to meet the qualifications for overseer outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 *** Draft Copy *** 21

22 4) Teaching or affirming false doctrine or doctrine contrary to this church s doctrine statement 5) Not performing the duties outlined in his written job description If a pastoral staff member fails to meet these obligations, he will be examined privately by the Deacon Personnel Committee who shall make every effort to deal with the offense. If the matter cannot be resolved in this manner, the offending staff member shall be brought before the Deacon body who shall seek to remove the offense. If the matter cannot be resolved in this manner, the Deacons will recommend to the church that the staff member be removed from office. Section 7 Church Policies In keeping with the scriptural admonition that all things be done decently and in order (1 Corinthians. 14:40), church policies will supplement the By-laws as church needs arise. Prior to implementation, new church policies or modifications to existing church policies must be reviewed by Church Leadership and approved by the church body in accordance with Subsection All church policies are stored in the church office for reference purposes and available to any church member upon request. Section 8 Amendments When amendments to the Constitution or By-laws become necessary, the Nominating Committee will recommend to the church that a committee be formed to study any proposed amendments. Proposed amendments must be reviewed by Church Leadership and approved by the church body in accordance with Subsection *** Draft Copy *** 22