Constitution and Bylaws

Constitution and Bylaws (A Maryland Nonprofit Religious Corporation) October 30, 2014 Revision 2.0 5132 Doubs Road, Adamstown, Maryland 21710

Table of contents CONSTITUTION PREAMBLE.. ARTICLE I: NAME.... ARTICLE II: BUSINESS LOCATION.... ARTICLE III: MISSION AND VISION.... ARTICLE IV: AFFILIATION... ARTICLE V: ARTICLES OF FAITH.... ARTICLE VI: MEMBERSHIP.... ARTICLE VII: GOVERNANCE... ARTICLE VIII: MEETINGS.... ARTICLE IX: NONPROFIT STATUS AND LIQUIDATION.. ARTICLE X: AMENDMENTS AND RECORDATION.. Bylaws ARTICLE I: MEMBERSHIP.... 1.1 MEMBER CRITERIA.... 1.2 MEMBERSHIP CHANGES OF STATUS...... 1.3 VOTING.... ARTICLE II: SENIOR PASTOR... 2.1 SENIOR PASTOR.... 2.2 SENIOR PASTOR SELECTION AND TERMS..... ARTICLE III: EXECUTIVE PASTOR...... 3.1 EXECUTIVE PASTOR.... 3.2 EXECUTIVE PASTOR SELECTION AND TERMS.... ARTICLE IV: EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP MINISTRY.... 4.1 MEMBERS..... 4.2 REPORTING....... 4.3 STAFF...... ARTICLE V: DIACONATE MINISTRY FELLOWSHIP...... 5.1 NUMBER OF DEACONS AND DEACONESS..... 5.2 NOMINATIONS......... 5.3 INTERNSHIP.... 5.4 ORDAINED DEACONS/DEACONESS..... 5.5 TERM OF OFFICE....... 5.6 DUTIES..... 5.7 CONFIRMATION OF CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON. 5.8 REPLACEMENT OF CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON... 4 4 4 4 4 4 6 6 6 7 7 8 8 8 9 9 9 10 10 10 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 12 13 13 2

ARTICLE VI: TRUSTEE MINISTRY FELLOWSHIP.... 13 6.1 NUMBER OF TRUSTEES..... 13 6.2 NOMINATIONS.... 13 6.3 TERM OF OFFICE..... 13 6.4 DUTIES...... 13 6.5 CHURCH TREASURER..... 14 6.6 REMOVAL FROM OFFICE........ 14 6.7 CONFIRMATION OF CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON.. 15 6.8 REPLACEMENT OF CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON... 15 ARTICLE VII: LEADERSHIP MINISTRY FELLOWSHIP.... ARTICLE VIII: CHURCH TREASURER........ 15 15 ARTICLE IX: ASSISTANT CHURCH TREASURER..... 15 ARTICLE X: CHURCH ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT...... ARTICLE XI: INDEMNIFICATION OF OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES.... 15 16 ARTICLE XII: FINANCE COMMITTEE.... 16 12.1 PURPOSE.... 16 12.2 MEMBERS....... 16 12.3 RESPONSIBILITIES.. 16 ARTICLE XIII: AUDIT AND COMPLIANCE COMMITT... 16 13.1 PURPOSE.. 16 13.2 MEMBERSHIP. 17 13.3 TENURE.. 17 13.4 FINANCIAL AUDITS.. 17 13.5 COMPLIANCE AUDITS... 17 13.6 CONFORMANCE AUDITS.. 17 13.7 MEETINGS. 17 ARTICLE XIV: ARBITRATION BOARD.. ARCITLE XV: OTHER MINISTRIES 17 18 15.1 SCOPE. 18 15.2 MINISTRY LEADS. 18 15.3 MEETINGS.. 18 ARTICLE XVI: MODERATOR..... 18 ARTICLE XVII: CHURCH MEETING..... 18 ARTICLE XVIII: FISCAL YEAR.... 18 ARTICLE XIX: RULES OF ORDER..... 19 ARTICLE XX: AMENDING THE BYLAWS,... 19 ARTICLE XXI: DISSOLUTION OF THE CORPORATION..... ARTICLE XXII: VERSION HISTORY 20 RATIFICATION 21 19 3

Constitution (A Maryland Nonprofit Religious Corporation) Preamble In order to more harmoniously set ourselves apart and preserve the principles of our Christian faith, protect orderly government of our body in a manner consistent with Scriptures, and for the purpose of preserving the unity of this church, we do declare and establish this Constitution for Hope Christian Fellowship Church (herein referred to as HCFC in the remainder of this document). Article I: Name The name of this church shall be Hope Christian Fellowship Church (HCFC) of Adamstown, Maryland as duly chartered and incorporated by the laws of the State of Maryland on March 19, 2014. Article II: Business Location The principal office and worship location of HCFC in the State of Maryland shall be 5132 Doubs Road, Adamstown, Maryland 21710 and may be changed from time to time by the Trustee Ministry Fellowship. HCFC may have such other offices, within the State of Maryland, as the Trustee Ministry Fellowship may determine or as the affairs of HCFC may require. Article III: Mission and Vision The mission of HCFC is: Sowing seeds of hope, transforming lives, reclaiming the world for The Savior! The vision of HCFC is to become a body of mature believers in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, transformed through dynamic worship, fellowship, prayer, and evangelism, steadfastly sowing seeds to reclaim the world for The Savior! Article IV: Affiliation HCFC is a non-denominational, evangelical Christian church. Recognizing the benefits of cooperation with other local and national churches, HCFC may enter into association with other spiritually aligned evangelical organizations. Article V: Articles of Faith The Bible is the inspired Word of God. Therefore we submit our reason and will to the authority of Scripture. The Bible is our ultimate source for truth. It reveals the divine principles 4

and purposes that guide every genuine Christian community; and it is the basis for teaching, correction and training in righteousness. The revelation of Jesus Christ and His church in the New Testament is the inspired fulfillment and final interpretation of all God revealed to Israel in the Old Testament. There is one eternal, holy God; infinite, personal and knowable, who has revealed Himself in the Trinity of three distinct persons: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit...each of Whom possesses all of the attributes of deity. Our God is worthy of our complete trust, worship and obedience. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, fully human and fully divine, was born of a virgin and was sinless in nature and life. He died on the Cross bearing the penalty for our sins, then rose victorious over death from the grave. The life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, plus nothing, is the Gospel: the one, all-sufficient basis of human salvation. Eternal life is God s gift of grace for all who trust in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. The Holy Spirit is our Comforter and Counselor who guides us into all truth. He convicts us of sin and guides us toward the Savior. He then unites the believer to the Body of Christ [His church], making real and effective all that Christ promised in the believer s life. The power of the indwelling Holy Spirit enables us to obey and share the Lord Jesus Christ; calling us to purity, faithfulness and integrity in every area of our lives. The Holy Spirit also imparts gifts to every believer for works of ministry, but no one spiritual gift is the necessary evidence of salvation or of being filled with the Holy Spirit. Full devotion to Jesus as Lord is our joyful response to God s gift of salvation. Genuine discipleship to Christ flows from our security in Christ. It is the Spirit-led fruit of receiving Christ s salvation, never the root of salvation. Scripture teaches that our fruit (character and actions) is judged only to reveal the true root of our life (self or the Savior). The highest evidence of a life rooted in Christ is self-sacrificing love. We are a part of the universal Body of Christ...all those who trust Jesus as Lord and Savior. Every congregation gathered around the risen Lord and empowered by His Spirit for mutual growth, encouragement, evangelism, service and worship is a local expression of Christ s universal church. In obedience to Christ we express our faith in Him through the signs of the New Covenant: Believer s Baptism by immersion in water and celebration of the Lord s Supper. The Kingdom of God ushered in by Christ at His first Advent, will be fully realized (visibly and physically) at His Second Coming. Christ will appear in glory to end human suffering, to resurrect the dead, to receive all those who are His and to destroy those who refuse His salvation. 5

Article VI: Membership Membership in the church is granted to those who through professed faith in God s Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, have been baptized by immersion according to the Holy Scriptures, desire to live a Christian life, and promise to support the ministries of HCFC and to share in its fellowship and its obligations. Every Member has the right to vote on the following matters: Annual budget; Fellowship officers (Trustees, Deacons, Deaconess, Board of Christian Education, Finance); Acquisition of real property and related indebtedness; Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation, Constitution or Bylaws of HCFC; Other business matters deemed necessary by the Pastors, Diaconate and Trustee Ministry Fellowships; and Each Member is entitled to one vote. Voting by proxy is not allowed. Article VII: Governance The highest human authority of HCFC rests in its members. The affairs of HCFC and the management, administration and oversight of HCFC are delegated by members to the leadership: Senior Pastor, Executive Pastor, Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, Trustee Ministry Fellowship, as delineated in the Bylaws. The direction and oversight of HCFC, as a living community of people, with regard to both HCFC and covenant membership, is the responsibility of the Senior Pastor and Executive Pastor. The business transactions the financial administration, facility, administration, staff policies/compensation and affairs of HCFC shall be conducted and all corporate powers shall be exercised by or under the direction of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship (referred to as the Trustees within the remainder of this document). All leadership specified above shall be Members of HCFC. Article VIII: Meetings HCFC shall hold public meetings and services as it may decide. 6

Article IX: Nonprofit Status and Liquidation HCFC shall have the power to buy, own and sell real property in its own name. If a division occurs in the church, those adhering to this Constitution shall retain the name and all property. The Pastors, in concurrence with the Trustees, may determine to cease corporate activities of HCFC and dissolve and liquidate HCFC following an affirmative vote of three-fourths (75%) of members present in a manner described in the Bylaws. Upon dissolution of HCFC, the Trustees shall make provision for the payment of all liabilities of the church and its guarantors, and shall thereafter dispose of all assets of HCFC exclusively for the purposes stated in the Articles of Incorporation of Hope Christian Fellowship Church, or to such organization within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (or the corresponding provision of any future United States internal revenue law). Article X: Amendments and Recordation The Constitution may be altered, amended or repealed by an affirmative vote of a supermajority (67%) of members present in a manner described in the Bylaws. Each proposed or approved update to the Constitution will include a date code and revision level for identification. All adopted revisions of the Constitution will be recorded and kept in storage in the principal office of HCFC for review and for the life of the church. Upon request, printed or electronic copies can be made available. 7

Bylaws (A Maryland Nonprofit Religious Corporation) Article I: Membership Members of the HCFC shall consist of all covenant-signing participants according to the qualifications in this Article. The responsibilities of Members are described in the Membership Covenant. 1.1 Member Criteria The criteria for becoming a Member of HCFC are: A personal commitment of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation; One must trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and be baptized into Him. HCFC believes that the Biblical model of baptism is by immersion. We also believe baptism is the public expression of a personal decision to commit our lives to Christ; and Completion of the HCFC membership process 1.2 Membership Change of Status Once a person becomes a Member of HCFC, they remain a Member of HCFC indefinitely unless cancelled or revoked in a manner described within these Bylaws. A Member may cancel their membership by sending a signed and dated request to the principal office of HCFC. HCFC may change the membership status of a Member in cases where there has been a prolonged period (e.g. 6 months) of absence from active participation in the life of the congregation. Prior to taking this action, HCFC will make an attempt to establish contact with the non-participating Member to determine if there are steps that could be taken to re-activate their participation. HCFC understands that discipline is part of the discipling process. Grounds for Fellowship discipline include but are not limited to sexual immorality, unethical conduct, divisiveness that disrupts the peace of HCFC, and heresy. Protecting confidence is a sign of Christian love and respect. It also discourages harmful gossip, invites confession, and encourages people to seek needed counseling. Since these goals are essential to the ministry of the Gospel and the work of HCFC, all Members (including leadership) are expected to refrain from gossip and to respect the confidences of others. If deemed necessary, the Pastors may communicate an appropriate statement regarding status or withdrawal of membership according to Biblical guidelines outlined in the Bylaws supported by the Membership Covenant, to protect the unity of HCFC and preserve the integrity of decisions made by remaining leaders. 8

Former Members whose membership has been terminated for disciplinary reasons may request re-instatement of their membership status. Given the Biblical purpose of Fellowship discipline, this request will be welcomed and considered by the Pastors. 1.3 Voting Whenever Members are required to take any action, notice shall be given of the action using at least two (2) or more options available at the time (e.g. email, U.S. Postal Service, church website, verbally during church gatherings, etc.) to each Member identified on the membership roll no less than two (2) weeks prior to the deadline for voting. The affirmative vote of a majority (51%) of members present at the time of voting shall be an official action of the Members unless that specific action requires a greater number of votes as required by the Constitution or these Bylaws. Article II: Senior Pastor The duties of the Senior Pastor are pre-eminently Biblically based teaching and leadership. The Senior Pastor is first and foremost a preacher and teacher of the Word of God. As such, the Senior Pastor is: To lead HCFC in evangelism and discipleship; The visionary for HCFC seeking God s direction for the HCFC body; Responsible and has oversight for all worship of HCFC; The leader and supervisor of all HCFC staff; and An ex-officio member of all HCFC boards, organizations, auxiliaries, and committees The Senior Pastor may delegate leadership and supervisory responsibilities to the Executive Pastor as deemed necessary. 2.1 Senior Pastor The Senior Pastor is vocationally called by God to the pastoral ministry and is remunerated by HCFC for their services. A Senior Pastor s calling and gifting is verified by virtue of completing Seminary training as well as serving effectively in ministry, validated by those who have mentored or ministered alongside them. The criteria for the Senior Pastor shall be consistent with those listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7; such that they must be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentile, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. 9

2.2 Senior Pastor Selection and Terms A new Senior Pastor shall be chosen and called by HCFC whenever a vacancy occurs. In the event the current Senior Pastor retires, dies, resigns or becomes incapacitated, the Executive Pastor will serve as the Senior Pastor. The Senior Pastor shall be confirmed on an annual basis as long as he carries out the will of God and meets the standards of HCFC. The Diaconate Ministry Fellowship shall meet to confirm the established agreement and the Chairperson of the Diaconate Ministry shall notify the Church of the continuing agreement at the first Church business meeting held each year. The Senior Pastor may relinquish his called position by giving written notice to Diaconate Ministry Fellowship. Article III: Executive Pastor The duties of the Executive Pastor are pre-eminently Biblically based teaching and leadership. The Executive Pastor responsible for the overall leadership and direction of church staff, leading all functional areas in the accomplishment of the church s mission. As such, the Executive Pastor: Supports the Senior Pastor in the accomplishment of the church s mission through ministry effectiveness evaluation, discernment, decision making, planning and overall direction of church staff; Ensures the operational readiness of the church through leadership and oversight of the support staff performing duties in administration, finance, human resources, supply, and facilities management; Assists the Senior Pastor in leading HCFC in preaching, teaching, evangelism and discipleship; Shares the responsibility and oversight for all worship of HCFC as delegated by the Senior Pastor; Is the leader and supervisor of all HCFC staff as delegated by the Senior Pastor; and An ex-officio member of all HCFC boards, organizations, auxiliaries, and committees The Executive Pastor may delegate leadership and supervisory responsibilities to ordained clergy on the Pastoral Staff as deemed necessary. 3.1 Executive Pastor The Executive Pastor is vocationally called by God to the pastoral ministry and is remunerated by HCFC for their services. The Executive Pastor s calling and gifting is verified by virtue of completing Seminary training as well as serving effectively in ministry, validated by those who have mentored or ministered alongside them. 10

The criteria for the Executive Pastor shall be consistent with those listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7; such that they must be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentile, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. 3.2 Executive Pastor Selection and Terms A new Executive Pastor shall be chosen and called by the Senior Pastor whenever a vacancy occurs. The Executive Pastor may relinquish his called position by giving written notice to the Senior Pastor. Article IV: Executive Leadership Ministry The Executive Leadership Ministry shall be the authorized representative of the Church body between Church business meetings. 4.1 Members The members of the Executive Leadership Ministry shall be the Senior Pastor, the Executive Pastor, the Chairperson of the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, Chairperson of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship, and member(s) at large as appointed by the Pastors. 4.2 Reporting The Executive Leadership Ministry shall inform the HCFC body of all decisions made on their behalf at the next regularly scheduled HCFC business meeting or at a time deemed by the Board to be more appropriate. 4.3 Staff In order to meet the needs of the congregation adequately, the Executive Leadership Ministry is at liberty to fill positions compensated or uncompensated, with qualified personnel equipped for the various tasks unless otherwise indicated in these By-Laws. The Executive Leadership Ministry is also authorized to terminate the services of undesirable employees. Article V: Diaconate Ministry Fellowship 5.1 Number of Deacons and Deaconess The Pastors shall determine the number of Deacons and Deaconess that will comprise the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship. The Diaconate Ministry Fellowship is required to support the functions and operations of HCFC. 11

5.2 Nominations The Pastors shall submit the name(s) of candidates for the office of Deacon or Deaconess to the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship for approval. Once approved by the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, candidates shall be presented to the Church for final approval at a regularly scheduled HCFC business meeting. 5.3 Internship Candidate(s) approved by the Church for the office of Deacon or Deaconess shall receive formal training and instruction within the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship. After completion of training, the candidate shall undergo ordination and installation as a Deacon or Deaconess at a special service scheduled by the Pastors. 5.4 Ordained Deacons/Deaconess When a new member of the Church is an ordained Deacon or Deaconess, the Pastors may present him/her to the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship as a candidate. If recommended by the Pastors and approved by the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, the approved candidate will be presented to the church for final approval. 5.5 Term of Office Deacons and Deaconess shall be elected in accordance with Acts 6:1-3 and I Timothy 3:8-16, to serve a three (3) year term before re-election. Any Deacon/Deaconess who does not perform in a manner consistent with the Holy Scriptures, principles of the HCFC covenant and the Articles of Faith shall, after consultation with the Pastors and members of the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, be removed from office. HCFC membership shall be informed at the next regular or special HCFC business meeting. 5.6 Duties In accordance with the meaning of the Word and the practice of the New Testament, Deacons/Deaconess are to be servants of the Church. They are to be zealous in guarding the unity of spirit within the New Church in the bonds of peace. With the Pastors, they are to consider and formulate plans for the constant effort and progress of HCFC in all things pertaining to the saving of souls, the development of Christians, and the extension and growth of the Kingdom of God. By proper organization and method among themselves, they are to establish and maintain fraternal relationships with and inspiring oversight over all members of HCFC. Especially, they are to seek to know the physical needs and the moral and spiritual struggles of the brethren and sisters; and administer to all who are in need. In counsel with the Pastors, and by such methods as the Holy Spirit may direct, and in accordance with New Testament teachings, they are to have oversight over the discipline of the Church. They are to be guided always by the principles set forth in Matthew 18:15-17, 1 Corinthians 5:9-13, and Thessalonians 5:12-14. 12

5.7 Confirmation of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson Once each year, the Pastors shall, in consultation with the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, confirm the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson(s) of the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship. These positions shall then be presented for approval by a majority of those present and voting at a regularly scheduled HCFC business meeting. 5.8 Replacement of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson Should the office of the Chairperson and/or Vice Chairperson become vacant, the Pastors, in consultation with the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, will nominate a Chairperson and/or Vice Chairperson(s). The nominations shall then be presented to the Church for approval by a majority of those present and voting at a regularly scheduled HCFC business meeting. Article VI: Trustee Ministry Fellowship 6.1 Number of Trustees The Pastors shall determine the number of Trustees required to support the functions and operations of the Church. 6.2 Nominations The Pastors shall submit the name(s) of candidates for the office of Trustee to the Trustee Ministry Fellowship for approval. Once approved by the Trustee Ministry Fellowship, candidates shall be presented to the Church for approval by a majority of those present and voting at a regularly scheduled HCFC business meeting. 6.3 Term of Office Trustees shall serve three (3) year terms prior to being re-elected. In Paul's letter recorded in Romans 12:11 we find these words describing those who serve in the household of faith, "Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord." Likewise, in Colossians 3:23, we find these words, And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men. Any Trustee who does not perform in a manner consistent with the Holy Scriptures, principles of the HCFC covenant and the Articles of Faith shall, after consultation with the Pastors and members of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship, be removed from office. HCFC membership shall be informed at the next regular or special HCFC business meeting. 6.4 Duties The HCFC Trustee Ministry Fellowship shall be the legal representatives of HCFC in matters concerning the facilities and property management such as execution of deeds of trusts, mortgages, liens, promissory notes or other pecuniary obligations, upon official instructions of HCFC Senior and Executive Pastors as follows: Ensure HCFC will be able to meet its financial goals and objectives in fulfilling the spiritual needs of the congregation and the greater community which it serves; 13

Provide control and protection of all monetary assets deemed the property of HCFC; Consulted before any contract or agreement is entered into that will affect HCFC s financial position; Act responsibly by consulting with the Executive Leadership Ministry on significant financial matters defined as anything over $500.00; Prepare monthly, quarterly, semi-annual and annual financial statements showing details of all HCFC s income and expenditures. These statements should be accompanied by an analysis of all significant factors influencing HCFC s financial position; Oversee all special committees in terms of any committee transactions involving the receipt and disbursements of funds; Provide the care and custody of HCFC s property, including opening and closing the Church for all regularly scheduled services and special events; Along with Senior and Executive Pastors interview, employ, terminate, upgrade or modify the job description(s) of HCFC employees as required; Possess no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, transfer real estate property or make purchases over $10,000 without specific authority by the Executive Leadership Ministry Fellowship and vote of the congregation; Provide oversight of all management and maintenance of all buildings, grounds, vehicles, possession of HCFC; and Acquire as necessary supplies and materials The Trustee Ministry Fellowship shall be the legal representatives of HCFC in matters concerning the facilities and property management as follows: (a) Hold in trust the property of the church, sign all documents relating to the purchase, sale, mortgage, and lease or transfer of property (b) Oversee all matters of maintenance, refurbishing, etc., of HCFC building(s), grounds, vehicles, and possessions; and (c) Enter into contracts for maintenance supplies, materials, and services and pledge the credit of the church for items contained within the current year budget or other items approved by the HCFC body. 6.5 Church Treasurer The financial functions of the Church are vested in the Church Treasurer who shall be a member of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship. 6.6 Removal From Office Trustees shall be removed from office for acts of malfeasance, nonfeasance, or misfeasance by mutual consent or at the recommendation of the Executive Leadership Ministry. Removals shall be reported to the Church at a time deemed appropriate by the Pastors. 14

6.7 Confirmation of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson Once each year, the Pastors shall, in consultation with the Trustee Ministry Fellowship, confirm the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson(s) of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship. These positions shall then be presented for approval by a majority of those present and voting at a regularly scheduled Church business meeting. 6.8 Replacement of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson Should the office of the Chairperson and/or Vice Chairperson become vacant, the Trustee Ministry Fellowship shall in consultation with the Pastors, nominate a Chairperson and/or Vice Chairperson(s). The nominations shall then be presented to the Church for approval by a majority of those present and voting at a regularly scheduled HCFC business meeting. Article VII: Leadership Ministry Fellowship The Leadership Ministry Fellowship shall consist of the Executive Leadership Ministry Fellowship, the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, and the Trustee Ministry Fellowship. The Leadership Ministry Fellowship shall be convened at the call of the Pastors. The Leadership Ministry Fellowship may be convened for the purpose of disseminating information to all officers of HCFC and/or receiving input from the officers on HCFC related issues. Article VIII: Church Treasurer The Church Treasurer shall be elected annually. Election of the Treasurer shall require a majority vote of the Church members present and voting at Church business meeting. The Church Treasurer shall be a member of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship unless the position is outsourced. The Pastors and Chairperson of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship shall be authorized to outsource the position of Treasurer when the position cannot be filled from Church resources. Article IX: Assistant Church Treasurer The Assistant Church Treasurer shall be elected annually. Election of the Assistant Church Treasurer shall require the vote of a majority of Church members present and voting at a Church business meeting. The Assistant Church Treasurer shall be a member of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship. The Assistant Church Treasurer shall assist the Church Treasurer and stand-in for the Church Treasurer during periods of temporary absence. Article X: Church Administrative Assistant The HCFC Administrative Assistant shall be interviewed and selected by the Pastors. The duties of the Administrative Assistant will be as stated in the Administrative Assistant Position Description. 15

Article XI: Indemnification of Officers and Employees HCFC shall indemnify an officer or employee or any person who may have served at its request against expenses actually and necessarily incurred by him or her in connection with the defense of any action, suit or proceeding in which he or she is made part by reason of being or having been such officer or employee, except in relation to matters as to which he or she shall be adjudged such action, suit or proceeding to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance of duty. HCFC may also reimburse an officer or employee the reasonable cost of settlement of any such action, suit or proceeding if it is be found by a majority of a committee composed officers not involved in the matter in controversy to be in the best interest of HCFC that such settlement be made and that such officer or employee was not guilty of negligence or misconduct. Such rights of indemnification and reimbursement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other right to which such officer or employee may be entitled under any By-Law, agreement, or otherwise. Article XII: Finance Committee 12.1 Purpose The Finance Committee shall be responsible for the financial management and planning program; and complement the responsibilities of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship relating to the physical handling of HCFC monies. 12.2 Members The Finance Committee shall be comprised of the Executive Leadership Ministry, Church Treasurer, Budget Committee Chairperson, and the Audit Committee Chairperson and one member-at-large appointed by the Pastors. The Executive Pastor shall be the Chairperson. 12.3 Responsibilities (a) Develop and maintain the Financial Management Guide that establishes policies and procedures for budget preparation and management, accounting for and reporting of financial income and expense transactions, and auditing of HCFC financial records. (b) Meet at least quarterly to assess the financial health of the Church and make decisions on investments, funds management, and positioning HCFC to meet its financial obligations at all times. Article XIII: Audit and Compliance Committee 13.1 Purpose The Audit and Compliance Committee shall be responsible for performing all auditing functions within HCFC to include auditing of financial records and data; compliance audits to ensure HCFC complies with Internal Revenue code, rules, and regulations, and conformance audits of Church functions to ensure compliance with the Articles of Incorporation, Constitution, and By-Laws. 16

13.2 Membership The Committee shall be comprised of a Chairperson, appointed by the Chairperson of the Finance Committee. The Chairperson shall be responsible for the addition of one Deacon/Deaconess, one Trustee, and four members-at-large; who shall not be members of the Finance Committee. 13.3 Tenure At-large members of the Audit and Compliance Committee shall serve for a period of three years at which time they may be replaced or reappointed. 13.4 Financial Audits It shall be the duty of the Committee to perform an annual audit of HCFC financial records. The Committee is authorized, with approval of the Finance Committee, to employ an independent accounting firm to conduct audits as deemed appropriate and necessary. 13.5 Compliance Audits The Committee shall determine if HCFC is complying with the Internal Revenue Code, rules, and Regulations. 13.6 Conformance Audits (a) Periodically review and update the HCFC Constitution and By-Laws and make recommendations for amendments designed to improve the effectiveness and applicability of said documents; (b) Receive and review proposed changes to the HCFC Constitution and/or By-Laws submitted by individual HCFC members and ministries. Confer with the submitter(s) as necessary to establish the need for the recommended amendment(s) and, when necessary, provide alternative solutions when the amendment process is deemed to be inappropriate. (c) Review procedural statements by HCFC ministries for the purpose of assuring conformance with the HCFC Constitution and By-Laws. 13.7 Meetings Meetings of the Audit and Compliance Committee shall be held at least twice yearly and minutes and actions of the Committee shall be recorded and reported to the membership at a regularly scheduled HCFC business meeting. Article XIV: Arbitration Board In keeping with the spirit of 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, any and all disputes, relating to church matters, should be resolved in the church. In the event that disputes cannot be resolved per Article 5, Section 5.6, an Arbitration Board shall mediate disputes that have resisted resolution by HCFC 17

and that may have legal implications. The Pastors shall activate the Arbitration Board when directed by the Church. All decision(s) rendered by the Arbitration Board on all issues presented shall be binding and final. The Arbitration Board shall be comprised of one Deacon/Deaconess, appointed by the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship; one Trustee, appointed by the Trustee Ministry Fellowship; and one member-at-large, appointed by the Church at a designated HCFC business meeting. No member shall be appointed to the Arbitration Board that is in any way involved in the issue(s) to be resolved. Article XV: Other Ministries 15.1 Scope The Pastors and Executive Leadership Ministry shall establish standing and ad hoc boards, committees, societies, and groups, hereafter referred to as ministries, as necessary to ensure all aspects of HCFC operations are effectively carried out. Ad hoc ministries shall be established to accomplish a specific task or project and will be dissolved upon its completion. Ministries established under provisions of this article shall be conducted according to the following rules. 15.2 Ministry Leaders The Pastors shall establish Ministry leaders. In consultation with the Pastors, each Ministry Leader will select other supporting leaders as necessary, for effective ministry implementation. 15.3 Meetings All ministries shall meet on a regularly scheduled basis; minutes should be recorded at all meetings. Article XVI: Moderator The Executive Pastor shall be the Moderator at HCFC business meetings. In the absence of the Executive Pastor, the Senior Pastor shall preside; in the absence of both, the Chairperson of the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship shall preside as Moderator pro tem. Article XVII: Church Meetings The Church shall hold a business meeting at least once quarterly. Special meetings may be called on the basis of their gravity at such time as determined by the Pastors, the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, or the Church. A business meeting of the Church shall have the authority to transact all business as may properly come before it. Article XVIII: Fiscal Year The calendar year shall be the church fiscal year beginning July 1 to June 30 of each year. 18

Article XIX: Rules of Order Robert s Rules of Order shall prevail on all issues concerning maintenance of these By-Laws and the order of all HCFC business meetings unless inconsistent with these By-Laws or amended by Special Rules of Order. Article XX: Amending the Bylaws Proposed amendments shall be submitted in writing to the HCFC Administrative Assistant at least forty-five (45) days prior to the Church business meeting where the amendment(s) will be considered for ratification. A copy of the proposed amendments shall be made available to each HCFC member fifteen (15) days prior to the Church business meeting. These By-Laws may be amended by a majority vote of the members present and voting at a Church business meeting. Amendments shall be effective on the date of approval. Article XXI: Dissolution of the Corporation In the event of the dissolution of HCFC as a non-profit corporation, the assets of the corporation shall be given and paid over to non-profit organizations of like faith and order, approved by the remaining membership and that would qualify under the provisions of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or its successor provision, and the regulations attributable thereto. None of the assets or holdings shall be divided among HCFC members or among any individuals or groups not so qualified. The meeting to vote on dissolution shall be carried out according to the guidelines in Article XV, Church Meetings. 19

Article XXII: Version History Version Reason 1.0 Newly planted church Constitution and Bylaws adopted on May 20, 2014 2.0 Updates made per the Leadership Ministry Fellowship adopted on October 30, 2014; a table of contents was added; The church logo was removed from the first page of the Constitution and Bylaws; Adjustments were made in sections to enhance the configuration of the document. CONSTITUTION: ARTICLE V 4th paragraph, guides us toward as added in the second sentence. ARTICLE IX 2 nd paragraph, ballots collected from Members was deleted and members present was added ARTICLE X 1 st paragraph, ballots collected from Members was deleted and members present was added BYLAWS: ARTICLE I - Section 1.2 Bylaws supported by the was added in front of Membership Covenant ; Section 1.3 1 st paragraph, verbally during church gatherings was added. Returning the ballots was deleted from the end of the paragraph and voting was added; 2 nd paragraph, ballots collected was deleted and members present at the time of voting was added ARTICLE III - Section 3.2, 2 nd paragraph, The Executive Pastor shall serve until the relationship is terminated at their request was deleted ARTICLE IV Section 4.1 Pastor (at the end of the paragraph) is made plural by adding an s ARTICLE V - Section 5.4 was changed to state When a new member of the Church is an ordained Deacon or Deaconess, the Pastors may present him/her to the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship as a candidate. If recommended by the Pastors and approved by the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, the approved candidate will be presented to the church for final approval. ; Section 5.6 In the 3 rd sentence savings was made singular to list it as saving ; Section 5.7 Chairman was changed to Chairperson and Vice Chairman was changed to Vice Chairperson(s) ; Section 5.8 the 1 st sentence was changed to state Should the office of the Chairperson and/or Vice Chairperson become vacant, the Pastors, in consultation with the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship, will nominate a Chairperson and/or Vice Chairperson(s). ARTICLE VI Section 6.3, Likewise, in Colossians 3:23, we find these words, And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men. was added after the 2 nd sentence; Section 6.4, the 9 th bullet was changed to read Possess no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, transfer real estate property or make purchases over $10,000 without specific authority by the Executive Leadership Ministry Fellowship and vote of the congregation, In (a) and was deleted and of was added to state transfer of property ; Section 6.7 - Chairman was changed to Chairperson and Vice Chairman was changed to Vice Chairperson(s) ; Section 6.8 - Chairman was changed to Chairperson and Vice Chairman was changed to Vice Chairperson(s). ARTICLE VII Senior Pastor, the Executive Pastor was deleted and Executive Leadership Ministry Fellowship was added. ARTICLE XIV In keeping with the spirit of 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, any and all disputes, relating to church matters, should be resolved in the church. In the event that disputes cannot be resolved per Article 5, Section 5.6, an was added to the beginning of this section. ARTICLE XV Section 15.1 - and/or membership was deleted; Section 15.2 title changed from Officers to Ministry Leaders and now states The Pastors shall establish Ministry leaders. In consultation with the Pastors, each Ministry Leader will select other supporting leaders as necessary, for effective ministry implementation. ; Section 15.3, named Elections was deleted. Section 15.4, named Meetings is now Section 15.3. ARTICLE XVII beginning July 1 to June 30 of each year was added ARTICLE XXII Version History was added RATIFICATION the Chairperson of the Diaconate Ministry Fellowship and the Chairperson of the Trustee Ministry Fellowship signature line was added 20

RATIFICATION These Bylaws for HCFC have been ratified by a majority vote of the Church membership present and voting on October 30, 2014 in the year of our Lord 2014. Ronnie Henry Date Keith Harris Date Senior Pastor Executive Pastor Robert Naylor Date Wallace Bell Date Chairperson, Diaconate Ministry Fellowship Chairperson, Trustee Ministry Fellowship 21