DRAFT 10/10/19

CONSTITUTION, BYLAWS, AND APPENDICES

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

JONESBORO ARKANSAS

701 NORTH MAIN STREET

JONESBORO, ARKANSAS 72401

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONSTITUTION ............................................................................................................................ 5

ARTICLE I - Name ......................................................................................................................... 5

ARTICLE II - Purpose .................................................................................................................... 5

ARTICLE III - Statement of Faith .................................................................................................. 5

ARTICLE IV - Covenant ................................................................................................................ 5

ARTICLE V - Character ................................................................................................................. 6

ARTICLE VI - Amendments .......................................................................................................... 6

ARTICLE VII - Bylaws .................................................................................................................. 6

ARTICLE VII - Effect..................................................................................................................... 7

BLAWS ........................................................................................................................................... 8

SECTION I – Church Membership ................................................................................................. 8

A. General ........................................................................................................................... 8

B. Requirements for Church Membership .......................................................................... 8

C. Voting Rights of Church Membership ........................................................................... 8

D. Watchcare………………………………………………………………………………8

E. Termination of Church Membership............................................................................... 9

F. Restoration of Church Membership ................................................................................ 9

G. Classification of Inactive Membership ........................................................................... 9

SECTION II – Church Business Conferences .............................................................................. 10

A. Place ............................................................................................................................. 10

B. Scheduled Church Business Conferences ..................................................................... 10

C. Called Church Business Conferences ........................................................................... 10

D. Notice Requirements .................................................................................................... 10

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E. Procedures ..................................................................................................................... 10

F. Quorum ......................................................................................................................... 11

G. Change in Affiliations, Dissolutions and Mergers ....................................................... 11

SECTION III – Church Officers and Staff .................................................................................... 11

A. Senior Pastor ................................................................................................................. 11

1. Qualifications and Responsibilities ......................................................................... 11

2. Composition and Selection ...................................................................................... 12

3. Term ........................................................................................................................ 13

B. Administrative Ministry Team (AMT) ......................................................................... 13

C. Other Church Officers .................................................................................................. 16

1. Moderator ................................................................................................................ 14

2. Treasurer .................................................................................................................. 14

3. Church Clerk/Secretary ........................................................................................... 14

SECTION IV – Ministry Leadership Teams ................................................................................. 14

A. Pastorial Leadership Team ........................................................................................... 15

B. Deacons. ....................................................................................................................... 15

C. Nominating Committee .............................................................................................. 15

D. Stewardship Committee ............................................................................................... 16

E. Other Church Staff ........................................................................................................ 16

SECTION V – Finance .................................................................................................................. 16

A. Annual Budget .............................................................................................................. 17

B. Church Financial Statements ........................................................................................ 17

C. Acquisition of Land, Buildings, Borrowing of Funds, Sale of Property ...................... 17

D. Review of Church Finances .......................................................................................... 17

E. Financial Integrity of the Church .................................................................................. 17

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SECTION VI – Records and Reports ............................................................................................ 18

SECTION VII – Policy and Fiscal Maintenance .......................................................................... 18

A. Year End ....................................................................................................................... 18

B. Policies and Procedures Manual ................................................................................... 18

SECTION VIII – Adoption and Amendment of Bylaws and Appendices .................................... 18

A. Amendment .................................................................................................................. 18

B. Records ......................................................................................................................... 19

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CONSTITUTION

CONSTITTION OF THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF

JONESBORO, ARKANSAS

ESTABLISHED IN 1852

PREAMBLE:

This constitution is established to proclaim and preserve the principles of our faith,

ensure the orderly government of this body, safeguard the individual liberties of

each member and maintain the freedom of this body to act in relation to other

church or organizations.

ARTICLE I. NAME:

The name of this body as established in 1852 shall be the First Baptist Church of

Jonesboro, Arkansas.

ARTICLE II. STATEMENT OF FAITH

The Holy Bible is the inspired Word of God to be used as the sole rule and regulation

of our faith and practice. This church subscribes to the doctrinal statement of The

Baptist Faith and Message as adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention in 1963,

acknowledging that statements of faith are only guidelines in the interpretation of the

Scriptures. · ·

ARTICLE III. MISSION

The purposes of this body are to promote and to facilitate: the worship of God as

revealed in Jesus Christ; the proclamation of His gospel; Christian education and

training;· ministry and fellowship with each other; and ministry and witness to the

community and the world.

ARTICLE IV. COVENANT

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ

as our Lord and Savior and,· on public profession of our faith, having been

baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy spirit, we do now

solemnly covenant with each other to w<:1,lk together in love; to strive for the

advancement of this church in knowledge, holiness, and comfort; to promote its

spirituality and prosperity; to sustain its worship, ordinances, doctrines, and

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discipline; to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the

expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel

throughout all the world.

We promise to be faithful in the assembling of ourselves and in praying for

ourselves and for others; to participate in each other's joys; to bear each other's

burdens and sorrows with tenderness and sympathy; to strive to bring up those

under our care in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; to seek divine guidance

to help us live responsibly and sensitively in the world; to endeavor, by example

and effort, to advance the Kingdom of God. We resolve that should we move from

this place we shall as soon as possible unite with another church where we can

carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God's Word.

ARTICLE V. CHARACTER

Section 1. Polity

This church is a democratic body governed solely by its members in accordance with

its bylaws. Each church member has the right to a voice in its government and programs. All groups and persons authorized by the church to implement its programs

shall report to the church. · ·

Section 2. Relationships

· This church is independent in organization and authority and is subject to no other

ecclesiastical control. However, in its autonomy, the church may choose to voluntarily

associate with other Christian groups whose missions are consistent with those of this

church.

ARTICLE VI. AMENDMENTS

This constitution may be amended at any business meeting of the church by a two-

thirds vote of those present and voting, provided thirty (30) days notice of the

proposed amendment(s) has been given in writing to members and notice of the

proposed amendment(s) has been read from the pulpit on the Sunday preceding the

date set for the proposed action.

ARTICLE VII. BYLAWS

The church shall adopt bylaws to carry out the purposes of the constitution and regulate the

affairs of the church.

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ARTICLE VIII. EFFECT

Adoption of this constitution abolishes, supersedes, and takes the place of any

constitution that precedes it. Adopted, Business Meeting, May 20, 1998.

________________________________

Morris Mays, Church Clerk

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BYLAWS

SECTION I – Church Membership

A. General

The members of the Church shall consist of all persons who have met the requirements for

membership and are listed on the Church membership roll.

B. Requirements for Church Membership

The requirements for Church membership are as follows:

1. A personal profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior; baptism by immersion

as a believer as a symbol of salvation; and affirmation by the majority of members

present;

2. Letter of transfer from another Baptist church of like faith and order;

3. Statement of experience of faith if the person has already received the ordinance of

Christian baptism by immersion as defined by the Baptist Faith and Message (1963

Edition); or,

4. Upon exceptional circumstances as recommended by pastor or moderator.

C. Voting Rights of Church Membership

Every member of the Church present in person at a Church business conference shall have the

right to vote on all matters presented to the Church for consideration at such Church business

conference. Each member of the Church is entitled to one vote. Voting by proxy or absentee

ballot is prohibited.

D. Watchcare

A person who has accepted Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior and who wishes to maintain

membership in or remain associated with another church or denomination but participate in the

fellowship of this church may come under the watchcare of this church. A person may request

and shall be accepted under the watchcare of the church upon majority vote of the members at any

church meeting. A person under watchcare may fully participate in the life of the church but may

not vote or hold any office limited to members of the church.

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E. Termination of Church Membership

A member shall be removed from the Church membership roll and his or her Church membership

shall be terminated for any one of the following reasons:

1. Death;.

2. Transfer of membership to another church. When FBC is informed that a member has

joined another church, the Church office will make contact for verification and adjust the

Church membership accordingly;

3. Personal written request by the member; and,

4. Exclusion by the action of the Church when the member’s life and conduct are

inconsistent with the Scriptures in such a way that the member hinders the ministry

influence of the Church. All matters of church discipline, including exclusion, shall be

guided by a concern for redemption, reformation, and reconciliation rather than

punishment, and shall be first handled by the Administrative Ministry Team in the spirit of

Matthew 18:15-17, before any presentation by the Administrative Ministry Team, only, to

the Church. If the Administrative Ministry Team determines that church discipline of any

member of the Church is appropriate, the Administrative Ministry Team, only, may

present to the Church a motion for church discipline of a member of the Church during a

Church business conference. Any church discipline of a member of the Church shall

require a two-thirds (⅔) affirmative vote of the members present and voting in favor of

such motion for church discipline. In every case, the person who is the subject of such

motion for church discipline shall have the privilege to address the Administrative

Ministry Team at a meeting at which the member’s church discipline is considered.

F. Restoration of Church Membership

Upon evidence of the excluded person’s repentance and reformation, such person excluded by

action of the Church shall be restored by a two-thirds (⅔) affirmative vote of the members present

and voting for such motion during a Church business conference, upon the recommendation of the

Administrative Ministry Team in the spirit of II Corinthians 2:5-11.

G. Classification of Inactive Membership

Failure to willingly participate in the life of the church as evidenced by no attendance and/or no

financial giving in a two-year period would qualify for inactive status. Exceptions would be made

for those who are dependent children, anyone away in school, jail, military or missionary service,

shut-ins, or those with limited incomes. Those in this status shall have no voting rights until

reinstated by a written request to the Administration Ministry Team and approval.

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SECTION II – Church Business Conferences

A. Place

Church business conferences shall be held at 701 South Main, Jonesboro, AR 72401, or such

other place as may be designated by the Administrative Ministry Team, in accordance to Section

II, D.

B. Scheduled Church Business Conferences

The scheduled business conferences of the Church shall be held quarterly with the annual Church

business conference being in October or November in accordance to Section II, D.

C. Called Church Business Conferences

The Senior Pastor or the Administrative Ministry Team shall have the authority to call the Church

to conference for business whenever it is deemed expedient.

D. Notice Requirements

Notice of scheduled and called Church business conferences shall be provided to members two

consecutive Sunday mornings prior to the Church business conference. Notice shall include place,

date, time, a general description of any business to be transacted. Notice may be given by

distribution of written material to the members in attendance at Sunday services, and/or by a

verbal announcement to the congregation in attendance at Sunday services. In the rare case of an

emergency, the Administrative Ministry Team may recommend to the church the suspension of

Section II. D. for stated purpose; allowing the church to act quickly.

E. Procedures

1. In conducting all Church business conferences, the Church shall be guided by Robert’s

Rules of Order, current edition, except in cases otherwise specifically provided for in the

Constitution and Bylaws. A person may be designated by the Chair of the Administrative

Ministry Team to serve as Parliamentarian.

2. The Senior Pastor shall serve as the moderator of all Church business conferences. In

the absence of or at the discretion of the Senior Pastor, the Chair of the Administrative

Ministry Team shall serve as moderator. In the absence of both, the Associate Pastor shall

serve as moderator. In the absence of all of these, the Chair of the Administrative Ministry

Team shall designate the moderator.

3. All matters requiring Church approval shall be brought to the attention of the

Administrative Ministry Team at least seven (7) calendar days before being placed on the

agenda of a Church business conference. The Administrative Ministry Team waive this

requirement if the matter is deemed urgent.

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4. The Chair of the Administrative Ministry Team and/or the Pastor shall establish the

agenda for each Church business conference. Items will be presented for agenda inclusion

by a church member as long as requirements of the Section II. E. 3 have been fulfilled and

include a written list signed by at least 25 church members.

F. Quorum

Those members entitled to vote and present and voting at a Church business conference duly

called shall constitute a quorum of the membership for the transaction of business.

G. Change in Affiliations, Dissolutions and Mergers

1. All matters relating to any proposal or plan:

The Administrative Ministry Team, only, may recommend a proposal or plan:

a. for affiliation with another church, convention, or association of churches other

than Southern Baptist churches; or,

b. for dissolution of the Church and for disposition of real and personal property

and other assets of the Church upon dissolution of the Church; or,

c. or merger of the Church with another church or entity; or,

d. to alter the incorporated charter of the Church, to the Church members entitled

to vote thereon during any Church business conference. If the Administrative

Ministry team recommends such a proposal or plan, a vote thereon shall be

required, and a two-thirds (⅔) affirmative vote of the Church members present and

voting shall be required to approve and adopt such proposal or plan.

2. In the event of the dissolution of the Church, all real and personal property and other

assets of the Church shall be distributed in accordance with applicable law.

SECTION III – Church Officers

A. Senior Pastor

1. Qualifications and Responsibilities

a. The Senior Pastor shall be a man called of God and set apart to the gospel

ministry, evangelical in theology, in accordance with the “Baptist Faith and

Message” (1963 edition), and committed to living and serving in a manner

consistent with the standards set forth in Scripture for such a leader.

b. The Senior Pastor shall be called to lead the Church to understand, embrace, and

accomplish its mission as defined by the primary biblical purposes of

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worship/magnification, evangelism/missions, fellowship/membership,

discipleship/maturity, and service/ministry. The Senior Pastor leads the Church

through his primary biblical roles of elder/overseer, preacher/teacher, evangelist,

shepherd, and equipper.

c. The specific responsibilities of the Senior Pastor may be outlined in terms of his

primary biblical roles as follows:

(1) Elder/Overseer–As elder/overseer, the Senior Pastor is the principal

leader and vision caster of the Church (cf. Acts 20:28; Philippians 1:1; I

Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; I Peter 5:1-4).

(2) Preacher/Teacher–As preacher/teacher, the Senior Pastor is the

principal communicator of God’s Word in public worship and ensures that

the Church is growing to maturity in Christ through the Spirit-anointed

teaching of sound doctrine (cf. Acts 6:4; Ephesians 4:11; II Timothy 4:1-4;

Titus 1:9).

(3) Evangelist–As evangelist, the Senior Pastor models the practice of

personal evangelism incumbent on every believer and ensures that the

Church is challenged and equipped to be obedient to the command of the

Lord Jesus Christ to “make disciples” locally and globally (cf. II Timothy

4:5; Matthew 28:19).

(4) Shepherd–As shepherd, the Senior Pastor models the heart of the Chief

Shepherd and ensures that the Church is well led, cared for, fed, and

protected (cf. Acts 20:28; I Peter 5:1-4).

(5) Equipper–As equipper, the Senior Pastor partners with other leaders to

empower and equip maturing members for significant service and ministry

by discovering, developing, and deploying their spiritual gifts (cf.

Ephesians 4:12; II Timothy 2:2).

2. Composition and Selection

a. In the selection of the Senior Pastor, a Senior Pastor Search Committee

composed of the current deacon chair and no less than three members from the

Administrative Ministry Team and no less than four members from the Church at

large shall be nominated by the Nominating Committee and elected at a scheduled

or called Church business conference. Members of the Pastoral Leadership Team

(ministerial staff) and their immediate family members (spouse, parents, and

children) are not eligible to serve on the Senior Pastor Search Committee. The

Senior Pastor Search Committee shall work to identify a Senior Pastor whose gifts,

character, and calling fit him for that office. A majority of the members of the

Senior Pastor Search Committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of

business. Action of the Senior Pastor Search Committee shall be approved by a

three-fourths (3/4) affirmative vote of all the members of the Senior Pastor Search

Committee.

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b. The selection of the Senior Pastor shall occur at a Church business conference

called specifically for that purpose. No name shall be considered or nominated

except as recommended by the Senior Pastor Search Committee. The vote for the

Senior Pastor shall be by secret ballot, with a “yes” and “no,” and shall require a

2/3 affirmative vote of the members present and voting for election. If the

recommendation of the Senior Pastor Search Committee does not receive the

required 2/3 affirmative vote, the Senior Pastor Search Committee shall continue

its duties and shall present another recommendation to the Church.

3. Term: The Senior Pastor shall serve at the pleasure of the Church and under continuing

call until the Church or the Senior Pastor requests otherwise. Upon recommendation of

the Administrative Ministry Team, termination of the services and employment of the

Senior Pastor shall require a two-thirds (⅔) affirmative vote of those members present and

voting for such motion at a Church business conference called specifically for that

purpose.

B. Administrative Ministry Team (AMT)

Qualifications and Responsibilities

The Administrative Ministry Team shall include men and women who are members of the

Church, exemplary in their conduct, discreet in judgment, of honest report, full of faith, a

generous giver, and conscious of the fact that they shall set worthy examples of cooperation, love,

and loyalty for all members of the Church. For details of responsibilities, composition, selection,

election, term, and meetings see Appendix I.

a. The Administrative Ministry Team shall be the Directors of the Church.

b. The Administrative Ministry Team, as officers of the Church, are authorized to

execute and deliver agreements, contracts, deeds, evidences of indebtedness, and

other legal documents on behalf of and binding to the Church, provided that all

such agreements, contracts, deeds, evidences of indebtedness, and other legal

documents shall be signed by not less than two such Officers.

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C. Other Church Officers

1. Moderator. See Section II.E.2.

2. Treasurer shall be nominated by the Nominating Committees. The treasurer shall serve

one year and may serve successive terms. The treasurer shall:

a. oversee the financial affairs of the church;

b. have access to all financial records of the church at all times and see that a

financial statement is presented monthly to the Stewardship Committee, deacons,

and church; and

c. cooperate with the Stewardship Committee and the church administrator as they

carry out their responsibilities.

3. Church Clerk/Secretary shall record and maintain the minutes and records of all

Administrative Ministry Team meetings and all Church business conferences, and the

Secretary, upon request, shall authenticate all such minutes and Church records.

SECTION IV – Ministry Leadership Teams

A. Pastoral Leadership Team

1. All Pastoral Leadership Team members shall be considered pastors and shall function in

similar roles as those stated for the Senior Pastor. They shall be called of God into the

gospel ministry, and are expected to be evangelical in theology, in accordance with the

“Baptist Faith and Message” (1963 edition), and committed to living and serving in a

manner consistent with the standards set forth in Scripture for such leaders.

2. The Pastoral Leadership Team Members shall be evaluated by the Senior Pastor,

Associate Pastor and the Personnel subcommittee of the Administrative Ministry Team.

3. All Pastoral Leadership Team positions shall be determined by the Senior Pastor and

Associate Pastor and approved by the Administrative Ministry Team.

4. All members of the Pastoral Leadership Team upon recommendation by the Search

Committee, are approved by the Senior Pastor, Associate Pastor and the Administrative

Ministry Team, and shall be accountable to the Senior Pastor. The vote for a Pastoral

Leadership Team member shall be by secret ballot, with a “yes” and “no,” and shall

require a three-fourths (3/4) affirmative vote of the members present and voting.

5. The services and employment of a member of the Pastoral Leadership Team may be

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terminated upon the recommendation of the Senior Pastor to, and approval by, the

Administrative Ministry Team. If the position of the Senior Pastor is vacant, the Associate

Pastor and the Chair of the Administrative Ministry Team shall jointly function in that

capacity for this limited purpose.

6. All interim staff positions shall be determined by the Senior Pastor in consultation with

the Associate Pastor.

B. Deacons

Deacons are to be servants of the church in accordance with the meaning of

the work and practice in the New Testament. They are to serve with the

pastor and staff in performing the pastoral ministry tasks of leading the

church in the achievement of its mission, proclaiming the gospel to

believers and unbelievers, and caring for the church members and other

persons in the community.

1. Deacons shall be men who are at least 21 years of age, have been

members of First Baptist Church, Jonesboro, Arkansas for at least one

year, and who meet the qualifications set forth for deacons in the New

Testament. Biblical guidelines for deacons may be found in Acts 6:3-7

and I Timothy 3:8-13. The specific process for selection of deacons

shall be set forth in the FBC Policies and Procedures Manual.

2. The provisions of this section may be amended at any business

meeting of the church by a majority vote of those present and voting,

provided thirty days notice of the proposed amendment(s) has been

given in writing to members and notice of the proposed amendment(s)

has been read from the pulpit on the Sunday preceding the date set for

the proposed action.

C. Nominating Committee

Qualifications and Responsibilities

The Nominating Committee shall include men and women who are members of the Church,

exemplary in their conduct, discreet in judgment, of honest report, full of faith, a generous giver,

and conscious of the fact that they shall set worthy examples of cooperation, love, and loyalty for

all members of the Church.

The Nominating Committee shall select nominees for the Administrative Ministry Team and the

Stewardship Committee; each, in accordance with the procedures as detailed in Appendix II.

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D. Stewardship Committee

Qualifications and Responsibilities

The Stewardship Committee shall include men and women who are members of the Church,

exemplary in their conduct, discreet in judgment, of honest report, full of faith, a generous giver,

and conscious of the fact that they shall set worthy examples of cooperation, love, and loyalty for

all members of the Church.

1. The Stewardship shall work with the Pastoral Leadership Team sponsor to develop an

Annual Budget and submit to the church for approval during the annual Church business

conference in October or November by a two-thirds (⅔) affirmative majority of the

members present and voting.

2. The Stewardship Committee shall receive and approve detailed monthly financial

statements for the Church.

3. The Stewardship Committee shall develop and approve written financial policies and

procedures for all financial activities of the Church and all related activities.

4. The Stewardship Committee in conjunction with the Administrative Ministry Team

shall be accountable to the Church for maintaining the financial integrity of all the

financial activities of the Church which includes:

a. Establishing operating and reserve funds that are adequate to operate the Church

efficiently. If anticipated receipts are less than the annual budget, the Stewardship

Committee will recommend the necessary changes in the annual budget to the

Administrative Ministry Team so the church may operate within the anticipated

receipts.

b. Reporting the prior year’s results and the disposition of any budget surplus

annually to the Church.

Detailed explanation of the Stewardship Committee composition, selection, election, term and

meetings are in Appendix III.

E. Other Church Staff

Church staff shall be employed according o the terms and conditions set forth in the Church’s

Personnel Policy Manual.

1. Church Support Staff. All Church support staff positions shall be determined by the

Senior Pastor and approved by the Administrative Ministry Team. All members of the

Church support staff shall be selected by, are accountable to, and serve at the discretion of

the Senior Pastor and Associate Pastor in consultation with the Administrative Ministry

Team.

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SECTION V – Finance

A. Annual Budget

The members of the Church shall approve general operating expenditures in excess of the

approved annual budgetary total. This shall not apply to emergency situations or to monies

previously set aside in a maintenance reserve fund.

B. Church Financial Statements

The Church shall distribute to members of the Church written quarterly financial reports on

Sunday morning of the regularly scheduled Church business conferences.

C. Acquisition of Land, Buildings, Borrowing of Funds, Sale of Property

The members of the Church shall approve all acquisition of land, buildings, borrowing of funds,

and sale of property by a two-thirds (⅔) affirmative vote of the Church members present and

voting for such motion at any Church business conference. In rare cases when it is prudent to

negotiate a business decision without public discussion, and only if the members of the

Administrative Ministry Team are in unanimous agreement with a proposed course of action, the

Administrative Ministry Team may negotiate a legal agreement without the Church’s prior

approval, but subject to the Church’s ultimate approval by a two-thirds (⅔) affirmative vote of the

Church members present and voting.

D. Review of Church Finances

The Church Business Administrator or Associate Pastor shall be responsible for selecting an

independent Certified Public Accountant to do a review of the Church’s finances every three

years. The auditor shall not be a member of the Church. The scope of services provided by the

independent Certified Public Accountant shall be determined by the Administrative Ministry

Team.

E. Financial Integrity of the Church

All individuals having access to funds of the Church shall be bonded in such amounts as the

Administrative Ministry Team determines, from time to time.

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SECTION VI – Records and Reports

The Church shall maintain and keep the following records and reports in the Church office:

1. An accounting system that provides financial records with actual and detailed

information on receipts, disbursements, balances, and the financial condition of the

Church;

2. Written minutes of all Church business conferences and all Administrative Ministry

Team meetings;

3. A listing of the Church’s real and personal property, fixed assets, and insurance records;

4. A record of the members of the Church, listing the names and addresses of all members;

5. Annual contribution statements for all contributors; and,

6. A certified written report from the independent Certified Public Accountant most recent

review of the Church.

SECTION VII – Policy and Fiscal Maintenance

A. Year End

The Church shall operate on a calendar year with respect to operation of the budget and for

committee and team service.

B. Policies and Procedures Manual

The Associate Pastor or Church Business Administrator shall be responsible for compiling and

maintaining a Policies and Procedures Manual for the day-to-day administrative functions of the

Church not covered in the Constitution and Bylaws. Subjects covered in the Policies and

Procedures Manual shall include, but are not limited to:

1. Personnel policies and procedures;

2. Financial policies and procedures;

3. Church property policies and procedures; and,

4. Child protection policies.

The Policies and Procedures Manual shall be available in the offices of the Church Business

Administrator or Associate Pastor for review by members of the Church. Any suggested changes

shall be recommended in writing to, and decided upon by, the Administrative Ministry Team.

SECTION VIII –Amendment of Bylaws and Appendices

A. Amendment

These Bylaws and appendices may be amended by a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative majority vote of

the members of the Church present and voting at any Church business conference. Any proposal

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to amend these Bylaws and appendices shall be brought to the attention of the Administrative

Ministry Team in accordance with Section II E.

B. Records

A copy of the most recent edition of the Bylaws and appendices at all times shall be kept with the

records of the Church. A copy of the Constitution and Bylaws and Appendices shall be made

available to any Church member upon request.

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Appendix I

Administrative Ministry Team (AMT)

Responsibilities, Composition and Selection, Election, Term, and Meetings

A. Responsibilities

The principal responsibilities of the Administrative Ministry Team shall serve as an

accountability group for the Senior Pastor, ensure the financial integrity of the Church,

develop and adopt policies relating to the operation of the Church, supervise personnel

matters of the Church, and, as the Directors, handle all corporate affairs and business

matters involving the Church.

1. Senior Pastor Accountability

a. The Administrative Ministry Team shall provide advice and counsel to the

Senior Pastor in the planning, budgeting, staffing, coordination, and

implementation functions of the various ministries of the Church.

b. The Administrative Ministry Team shall evaluate annually the overall

performance of the Senior Pastor in the context of his job description.

c. The Administrative Ministry Team, only, shall make a recommendation to the

Church, if necessary, regarding the dismissal of the Senior Pastor. The Church will

not act on any matter relating to the dismissal of the Senior Pastor without

affording the Administrative Ministry Team at least thirty (30) calendar days to

study the matter and make a recommendation to the Church. The Administrative

Ministry Team shall have the discretion to place the Pastor on administrative leave

during the (30) days.

2. Financial Integrity

The Administrative Ministry Team in conjunction with the Stewardship Committee

shall be accountable to the Church for maintaining the financial integrity of all the

financial activities of the Church which includes: establishing operating and reserve

funds that are adequate to operate the Church efficiently.

3. Policy and Legal Issues

a. The Administrative Ministry Team shall develop and adopt such policies and

procedures as are necessary for the effective and orderly functioning of the

Church.

b.The Administrative Ministry Team shall be responsible for handling all legal

issues of the Church.

3. Personnel Matters

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a. The Administrative Ministry Team shall update and maintain the Personnel

Policy Manual and make (or delegate) in consultation with the Senior Pastor and

Associate Pastor the following: hiring decisions, discipline decisions, pay

decisions, employment termination decisions, and deal with all other personnel

matters;

b. The Administrative Ministry Team shall recommend annual salary and benefits

for the Church staff as part of the annual Church budget.

5. Special Task Forces and ad hoc Committees

Whenever the Administrative Ministry Team determines that special task forces/ad

hoc committees need to be formed among the Church membership, the Administrative

Ministry Team shall initiate an appropriate recommendation to the Nominating

Committee, which, in turn, shall make the necessary appointments to such special task

force and/or ad hoc committee, including the appointment of a Chairman. Once

members are appointed to such special task force and/or ad hoc committee, they shall

function under the direction of and in communication with the Administrative Ministry

Team.

B. Composition and Selection

1. The Administrative Ministry Team shall be composed of twelve (12) members of

the Church along with the Deacon Chair and Vice Chair.

2. The Nominating Committee shall not nominate members for the Administrative

Ministry Team currently serving on the Nominating Committee. No more than five (5)

deacons (of any status) shall serve on this team. On an annual basis, the Nominating

Committee shall request recommendations for the Administrative Ministry Team from

the members of the Church. Members of the Nominating Committee may also submit

recommendations. Once the Nominating Committee has identified the names of

potential nominees, the following procedures shall be observed:

a. The names of all potential nominees shall be submitted to the Pastoral

Leadership Team for review. The members of the Pastoral Leadership Team may

request a potential nominee’s name be removed from the list if they believe that

the nominee does not meet the spiritual qualifications for service.

b. The names of the potential nominees shall be submitted to the Financial

Secretary to ensure that each nominee is a generous contributor.

c. Members of the Nominating Committee shall contact potential nominees to

determine if they are willing to serve if elected. Potential nominees must indicate

they believe that they meet the qualifications for service and are willing to serve.

d. The Nominating Committee shall present a slate of names to the members of the

Church to serve on the Administrative Ministry Team. The number of nominees

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presented to the members of the Church shall be the exact number of persons

needed for service.

3. Members of the Pastoral Leadership Team may advise the Administrative Ministry

Team but are not eligible to serve as members of the Administrative Ministry Team.

Neither paid Church staff nor immediate family members (spouse, parents, and

children) of the Pastoral Leadership Team or Church support staff shall be selected as

members of the Administrative Ministry Team.

4. The Administrative Ministry Team shall elect its Officers from among its members

on an annual basis.

C. Election

1. The election of the Administrative Ministry Team shall be held during the annual

Church business conference in October or November. Election shall require a three-

fourths (3/4) affirmative vote of the members present.

2. If vacancies occur on the Administrative Ministry Team, the Administrative

Ministry Team may decide to function with fewer members or request the

Nominating Committee fill the vacancy with a replacement. Such replacement shall

serve the remainder of that term.

D. Term

The elected members of the Administrative Ministry Team shall serve three-year terms, on

a rotating basis, beginning January 1 of each year, and shall not succeed themselves in

office for one year.

E. Meetings

The Administrative Ministry Team shall meet monthly or as necessary. Eight (8) members

in attendance shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Action of the

Administrative Ministry Team shall be approved by 80% affirmative vote of the members

present and voting.

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Appendix II

Nominating Committee

Responsibilities, Composition and Selection, Election, Term and Meetings

A. Responsibilities

The Nominating Committee shall select nominees for the Administrative Ministry Team

and the Stewardship Committee; each, in accordance with the procedures set forth in these

Bylaws and Appendixes.

The Nominating Committee is charged with the responsibility of selecting a search

committee for the Senior Pastor as described in Section III A. 2.

Search Committee members for other Pastoral Leadership Team positions shall be

selected by the Nominating Committee as relevant to the position’s responsibilities.

B. Composition and Selection

1. The Nominating Committee shall be composed of seven (7) members: the

Associate Pastor, Chairman of the Administrative Ministry Team, and five (5)

members of the Church at-large. On an annual basis, the Administrative Ministry

Team shall request recommendations for the Nominating Committee from the

members of the Church. An effort shall be made to ensure that such nominees

represent a broad cross-section of the Church. Members of the Administrative

Ministry Team are ineligible to serve on this committee. Once the Administrative

Ministry Team has identified the names of potential nominees, the following

procedures shall be observed:

a. The Administrative Ministry Team shall submit names of all potential nominees

for the Nominating Committee to the Pastoral Leadership Team for review. The

members of the Pastoral Leadership Team may request a potential nominee’s name

be removed from the list if they believe that the nominee does not meet the

spiritual qualifications for service.

b. The names of the potential nominees shall be submitted to the Financial

Secretary to ensure that each nominee is a generous contributor.

c. Members of the Administrative Ministry Team shall contact potential nominees

to determine if they are willing to serve if elected. Potential nominees must

indicate they believe that they meet the qualifications for service and are willing to

serve.

d. The Administrative Ministry Team shall present a slate of names to the

members of the Church to serve on the Nominating Committee. The number of

nominees presented shall be the exact number of persons needed for service.

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e. The Administrative Ministry Team will appoint the chairperson of the

Nominating Committee.

C. Election

1. Members of the Administrative Ministry Team shall contact potential nominees to

determine if they are willing to serve if elected. Potential nominees must indicate they

believe that they meet the qualifications for service and are willing to serve.

2. The Administrative Ministry Team shall present a slate of names to the members of

the Church to serve on the Nominating Committee. The number of nominees

presented shall be the exact number of persons needed for service.

D. Term

The members of the Nominating Committee shall serve three-year terms, on a rotating basis,

beginning January 1 of each year, and shall not succeed themselves in office for at least one (1)

years.

E. Meetings

The Nominating Committee shall meet monthly or as necessary. A majority shall constitute a

quorum for the transaction of business. Action of the Nominating Committee shall be approved

by a majority vote of members present and voting.

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Appendix III

Stewardship Team

Responsibilities, Composition and Selection, Election, Term and Meetings

A. Responsibilities

The Stewardship Team shall work with the Pastoral Leadership Team to develop an Annual

Budget and submit to the church for approval during the annual Church business conference in

November by a two-thirds (⅔) affirmative majority of the members present and voting. The

Stewardship Committee in conjunction with the Administrative Ministry Team shall be

accountable to the Church for maintaining the financial integrity of all the financial activities of

the Church which include:

Establishing operating and reserve funds that are adequate to operate the Church efficiently. If

anticipated receipts are less than the annual budget, the Stewardship Committee will recommend

the necessary changes in the annual budget to the Administrative Ministry Team so the church

may operate within the anticipated receipts.

B. Composition and Selection

1. The Stewardship Team shall be composed of nine (9) members of the Church.

2. The Nominating Committee shall not nominate members for the Stewardship Team who

currently serve on the Administrative Ministry Team, or the Nominating Committee. Once the

committee has identified the names of potential nominees, the following procedures shall be

observed:

a. The names of all potential nominees shall be submitted to the Pastoral Leadership Team

(Ministerial Staff) for review. The members of the Pastoral Leadership Team may request

a potential nominee’s name be removed from the list if they believe that the nominee does

not meet the spiritual qualifications for service.

b. The names of the potential nominees shall be submitted to the Financial Secretary to

ensure that each nominee is a generous contributor.

c. Members of the Nominating Committee shall contact potential nominees to determine if

they are willing to serve if elected. Potential nominees must indicate they believe that they

meet the qualifications for service and are willing to serve.

d. The Nominating Committee shall present a slate of names to the members of the

Church to serve on the Stewardship Team. The number of nominees presented to the

members of the Church shall be the exact number of persons needed for service.

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3.. The Stewardship Team shall elect its officers from among its members on an annual basis.

C. Election

1. The election of the Stewardship Team shall be held during the annual Church business

conference in October or November. Election shall require a three-fourths (3/4) affirmative

vote of the members present.

2. If vacancies occur on the Stewardship Team, the Stewardship Team may decide to function

with fewer members or request the Nominating Committee fill the vacancy with a

replacement. Such replacement shall serve the remainder of that term.

D. Term

The members of the Stewardship Team shall serve three-year terms, on a rotating basis, beginning

January 1 of each year, and shall not succeed themselves in office for at least one year (1)year.

E. Meetings

The Stewardship Team shall meet monthly. The Chairman and an appropriate Pastoral Leadership

Team member may determine additional meetings of the Stewardship Team, if deemed necessary.

A majority shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Action of the Stewardship

Team shall be approved by a majority vote of the members present and voting.