Church Constitution

THE CONSTITUTION of the NORTH CLEVELAND BAPTIST CHURCH, CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

Revised by Church Order : 7/15/2006

CONSTITUTION

PREAMBLE

We, the members of the North Cleveland Baptist Church, Cleveland, Tennessee, in order that we may secure to ourselves and those who come after us the rich blessings of joining our efforts together that we may better serve Christ, the living Son of God, in peace, and in love; to provide for the preservation and security of the principles of our faith; to insure that this church may be governed in an orderly manner consistent with New Testament teachings; to preserve the liberties inherent in each individual member of this church and the freedom of action of this body with respect to its relation to other churches of the same faith; to preserve and protect the highest kind of spiritual unity and Christian love and fellowship which we seek to know and share with each other, and that we may not forget our privilege of taking Christ to the lost here and everywhere, do declare and establish this constitution. All previous action, customs, and procedures by the members of this church have either been embodied in or deleted from this constitution in their entirety and therefore become null and void upon the adoption of this article, except in the case of legal obligations of the church.

ARTICLE I - NAME

The body shall be known as the North Cleveland Baptist Church, Cleveland, Tennessee.

ARTICLE II - PURPOSE

The purpose of this church is to proclaim to all people the Good News that Christ is the way of salvation; to minister to spiritual and physical needs; to magnify God through the preaching and teaching of the Holy Bible, ministry of music, and the observance of Baptism and the Lord's Supper; to provide opportunities for training that lead to and enhance individual and collective divine worship; to protect and strengthen the family unit through the edification and training of adults and children in Christian ethics; to be a responsible steward of the resources God has granted; to provide welcoming, appealing facilities wherein a spiritual climate is readily felt and Christian fellowship promoted; to cooperate with sister churches in the proclamation of the Gospel; to permit the Holy Spirit to guide in all things.

ARTICLE III - ARTICLES OF FAITH

The articles of faith adopted by this church are contained in the tract, "The Baptist Faith and Message", and are usually referred to as the Memphis Confession, having been adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention in its meeting at Memphis, Tennessee, in 1925, and revised at Kansas City, Missouri, in 1963. These articles are adopted from the New Hampshire and Philadelphia Confessions, which in turn are based upon the London Confession of 1689. The Baptist Faith and Message tract is attached hereto.

ARTICLE IV - CHURCH COVENANT

Having been led, as we believe by the Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and, on the 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, in the presence of God, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another as one body in Christ.

We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this church, in knowledge, holiness, and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines; 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 through all nations.

We also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world: to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger; to abstain from the sale of, and use of, intoxicating drinks as a beverage; to use our influence to combat the abuse of drugs and the spread of pornography; to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior.

We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember one another in prayer; to aid one another in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and Christian courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation and mindful of the rules of our Savior to secure it without delay.

We moreover engage that when we remove from this place we will, as soon as possible, unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God's Word.

Also, that this Church Covenant be placed in the church vestibule.

ARTICLE V - CHARACTER

SECTION 1 - POLICY

The government of this church is vested in the body of believers who compose it, and the majority of active members shall rule unless otherwise stated. It is subject to the control of no other ecclesiastical or non-ecclesiastical body, but it recognizes and sustains the obligations and privilege of mutual council and cooperation which are common among Baptist churches. Insofar as is practical, this church will cooperate with and support the Bradley Baptist Association, the Tennessee Baptist Convention, and the Southern Baptist Convention in extending the work of our Lord's Kingdom.

SECTION 2 - DOCTRINE

This church accepts the Scriptures as its authority in all matters of faith and practice. Its understanding of Christian truth as contained therein is in essential accord with the belief of Baptist churches as indicated in the articles of faith.

ARTICLE VI - GENERAL

SECTION 1 - LICENSE

When a member or former member of this church announces that he feels the call to the ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ, and who--in the judgment of the church--gives evidence by his piety, zeal, and aptness to teach, and is willing to make further preparation, may be licensed to preach, after having been examined by a licensing council composed of ministers and ordained deacons of the church. if the council makes a favorable report of its examination to the church, such license shall be granted, provided a majority of the members present and voting at a regular or called business meeting shall agree thereto.

SECTION 2 - ORDINATION

In the event this church is requested to ordain a member or former member who has been called to a pastoral role in a Missionary Baptist Church of like faith and order, the following procedure shall be followed: The church shall call a council of ordained ministers and deacons from this church and may include ministers from sister churches to examine the qualifications of the candidate. Upon receipt of a favorable report from the council, the church shall proceed with the ordination, provided a majority of the members present and voting at a regular or called business meeting shall agree thereto. The ordination service shall include a charge to the candidate, a charge to the church, the ordination sermon, the laying on of the hands, and the extension of the hand of fellowship by the congregation.

SECTION 3 - PROPERTY HOLDING

All property of the North Cleveland Baptist Church, Cleveland, Tennessee, is to be held for the use of its membership who adhere to maintain, and propagate the doctrine, faith, and practices of Missionary Baptist Churches, and subscribe to the constitution adopted by the church.

SECTION 4 - FINANCIAL POLICY

All monies received by the church will be counted and recorded by a counting committee, deposited in the depository of the bank servicing the church account, then reconciled and deposited as soon as possible by the Treasurer. Monies shall be dispersed by the Treasurer or Assistant Treasurer under the church budget, designated funds, and/or itemized invoices for purchases made by authorized personnel. It is the duty and responsibility of each person designated to expend church funds to check his account and see if monies are available for the expenditure of any item before purchases are made. If the person finds that the purchase would overdraw that account, the conditions should be referred to the Stewardship and Budget Committee to take action to see if monies can be made available for the purchase. Except in the case of an emergency or routine expenditures, any purchases of goods and/or services by the church in excess of $2,500.00 must be approved by vote of the church at a regular or called business meeting.

Recommendations for the church to borrow money should come through the Stewardship and Budget Committee. The Stewardship and Budget Committee is responsible to recommend the amount and length of a loan under consideration. The Board of Directors should then investigate the various terms offered to the church for a loan from different banks and other lending institutions. The Board of Directors will then make a recommendation to the church concerning the specific terms of the loan, including the institution from which to borrow the funds.

ARTICLE VII - MEMBERSHIP

SECTION 1 - GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

The membership of this church shall consist of persons who believe in a sovereign, democratic and New Testament church, and who confess Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, and who have been accepted by vote of this church, and after baptism by immersion, if not previously baptized by a church of like faith, and who enter into the covenant and articles of faith as adopted by this church.

SECTION 2 - RECEIVING CHURCH MEMBERS

Any person may present himself or herself as a candidate for membership in this church, at any worship service in the following ways:

(A) By profession of faith in, and acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and requesting baptism according to the policies of this church.

(B) By promise of a letter of recommendation from another church of like faith, and assurance of baptism by immersion.

(C) By restoration upon a statement of prior conversion experience. By baptism by immersion in another church of like faith and no letter of recommendation is available. Should there be any question of dissent as to any candidate, such question or dissent shall be referred to the pastor and active deacons for investigation to the church within a period of thirty days. A majority vote of the church members present and voting shall be required to elect such candidate to membership.

(D) By requesting Associate Membership when he or she is living in our community on a temporary

basis. Associate Membership allows a person to share the full rights and privilege of church

membership without terminating his or her membership to the church in his or her home

community. Associate Membership from North Cleveland Baptist Church is terminated once the

individual relocates out of our area.

SECTION 3 - VOTING RIGHTS OF MEMBERS

Members who are in full and regular standing (and those only) are entitled to participate in discussion, voting, elections, and questions submitted to the church for consideration and action. Full and regular standing is defined as those members who faithfully participate in the ministries of our church unless they are providentially hindered. Such member must be present for the purpose of voting.

SECTION 4 - TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP

The termination of membership shall be subject to the following:

(A) When any member desires to unite with another Missionary Baptist church of like faith and order, and request is received from that church for letter of recommendation, such a letter shall be granted, unless there is an objection or question about granting such a letter of recommendation. if there is objection or question, then the whole matter shall be turned over to the church.

(B) When moving from this community, members are urged to unite with another church in accordance with the church covenant.

(C) If a member should unite with a church of another denomination and upon request from that church, a letter of dismissal shall be granted by a vote at a regular business session. In the case there is no request from that church, his name shall be removed from the church roll by a vote at a regular business session.

(D) If a member requests to be released from his covenant obligations to this church, the church -- after patiently and kindly endeavoring to secure his continuance in its fellowship -- shall grant his request and terminate his membership.

ARTICLE VIII - GENERAL CHURCH OFFICERS

All church officers, except the pastor, paid staff members and deacons shall be recommended by the Committee on Committees and elected by the Church annually.

When the church chooses to add other vocational ministers to the church staff, a Search Committee will be recommended by the deacons and elected by the church to seek out a suitable individual. This committee's recommendation shall constitute a nomination. The committee shall bring to the consideration of the church only one individual at a time. This election shall take place at a meeting called for that purpose, of which at least one week's notice to the active membership shall be given. The church will adopt a financial compensation package for the prospective minister prior to the vote for election. The prospective minister shall not be present at this meeting. An affirmative vote of 3/4 of the members present shall be necessary for election. Before being presented to the church for election, the perspective minister shall be shown by the Search Committee a copy of the constitution of this church. If after review and consideration, the candidate is willing to accept this constitution, then the individual shall be presented to the church for election.

SALARIED PERSONNEL

SECTION 1 - PASTOR

(A) Election

A pastor shall be chosen and called by the church whenever a vacancy occurs. A Pulpit Committee will be recommended by the deacons and elected by the church to seek out a suitable pastor, and their recommendation shall constitute a nomination. The committee shall bring to the consideration of the church only one man at a time. His election shall take place at a meeting called for that purpose, of which at least one week's notice to the active membership shall be given. The church will adopt a financial compensation package for the prospective pastor prior to the vote for election The prospective pastor shall not be present at this meeting. An affirmative vote of 3/4 of the members present shall be necessary for election. Before a proposed pastor is presented to the church for election, he shall be shown by the Pulpit Committee a copy of the constitution of this church. If after his review and consideration, he is willing to accept this constitution, then he shall be presented to the church for election.

(B) Termination

The pastor shall serve until the relationship is terminated by his resignation, or by majority vote of the members present at a business meeting called for that purpose of which at least one week's written notice shall be given to the active membership. If the pastor is terminated by his resignation, he shall give the church one month's notice, and in case he is terminated by majority vote of the church, the church shall give him one month's notice and/or one month's severance pay.

(C) Requirements

(1) He shall be a man who is well versed in the work of our denomination and who reveals himself to possess those qualities of leadership that will enable him to effectively administer the total program of the church.

(2) He shall meet the scriptural requirements as set forth in I Timothy 3:1-7.

(3) He shall be a man called of God and dedicated to the ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ.

(4) He shall be a man of spiritual discernment and insight.

(5) He shall be evangelistic in his preaching, visitation, and promotion of the church programs.

(6) He shall be missionary in spirit, seeking to lead the church in every area to carry out the "Great Commission" (Matthew 28:19-20).

(D) Duties

(1) The pastor shall be the "undershepherd" of the church, giving spiritual leadership and guidance to the church.

(2) He shall seek to comfort, counsel and guide the members of the church in spiritual matters.

(3) He shall be counsel of advice and prayer, and aid all church officers in carrying out their responsibilities.

(4) He shall be ex-officio member of all church organizations.

(5) He shall be ex-officio member of all committees, both special and regular.

(6) He shall be in charge of the preaching at regular and special services. He shall have freedom to proclaim the Word of God as he is led by the Holy Spirit.

(7) He shall arrange for supply speakers, evangelists for revivals, and other special speakers in cooperation with the deacons.

(8) He shall guide and direct the work of all paid personnel.

SECTION 2 - CHURCH STAFF

This church shall call or employ such staff members as the church shall need. Called staff members other than vocational ministers shall be recommended to the church by the Personnel Committee and employed by church action. At least two weeks' notice should be given before resignation. The secretaries and custodians shall likewise be recommended to the church by the Personnel Committee and employed by the church action.

OTHER OFFICES

SECTION 3 - DEACONS

(A) Election

This church shall have 15 active deacons. Five deacons shall be elected each year for the term of three years. After serving as an active deacon he shall not be eligible for re-election for at least one year. Active deacons shall be elected in the following manner: (Number to increase as needed)

(1) A list will be prepared for distribution two weeks prior to election listing in alphabetical order the names of all the men of the church who are residential members, in full and regular standing, at least 21 years of age, have been members of the church for at least two years, and are not currently serving as active deacons. People wishing to remove their name from the final deacon nomination form will be required to inform the church office of this decision by the Wednesday just prior to deacon election.

(2) The deacons shall be elected by the membership in a one-step process which shall take place on the second Sunday of the month preceding the beginning of the Church year. Any nominee chosen who has not been ordained will be examined by the active deacons and presented to the church.

(3) The deacon nomination form will be prepared with spaces for five names to be written in to serve as deacons for a three-year term. This form will also contain the listing of active deacons who are not eligible for election.

(4) Any vacancy shall be filled by Church action at the next regular deacon nomination. This term shall be for the remainder of the existing term.

(5) The current body of active deacons shall interview any candidates elected by the congregation who have never served as a deacon at North Cleveland Baptist Church. This interview may include, but not be limited to, questions of character, attitude, stewardship, family, and the responsibilities of deacon ministry. Upon approval by the deacon body, the candidate shall take office with the new church year. If needed, an ordination service shall be scheduled at the earliest convenient date. The chairman of deacons shall be elected annually by the deacon body.

(6) The chairman of the deacons shall be elected annually by the deacon body.

(7)    North Cleveland Baptist Church recognizes the challenge in understanding the Bible's teaching regarding divorce as it relates to the office of deacon.  The church acknowledges and respects that Christians have differing opinions on this question.  Therefore, the church calls upon each individual member to follow the Holy Spirit's prayerful guidance both in considering a church member's eligibility for this office and in considering for whom to vote.

(B) Qualifications and Duties

(1) A deacon shall have been a member of this church for at least two years.

(2) He shall measure up to the scriptural requirements as given in I Timothy 3:8-13 and Acts 6:3.

(3) He shall accept the Holy Bible as the inspired Word of God.

(4) He shall live a consecrated Christian life, bringing no reproach by his conduct upon the church or the cause of Christ.

(5) He shall be regular in attendance at all services of the church unless providentially hindered.

(6) He shall be a tither.

(7) In accordance with the meaning of the work and the practice of the New Testament, deacons are to be servants of the church. The duty of the deacon is to serve with the pastor and staff in performing pastoral ministries; proclaim the Gospel to believers and unbelievers; care for church members and other persons in the community; lead the church to engage in a fellowship of worship, witness, education, ministry, and application; and lead the church in fulfilling its ministry.

(8) A deacon shall be at least 21 years of age.

(C) Ordination

If the church elects to the office of deacon men who are not ordained deacons, the church shall upon examination and recommendation of the active deacons proceed with the ordination in the same Biblical manner as described for the ordination of a minister.

SECTION 4 - BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Board of Directors for North Cleveland Baptist Church, Inc. shall be composed of five members. Three at-large members shall be elected on a rotating basis with each member serving a three year term. In addition, the Church Treasurer and the Chairman of the Deacons shall automatically serve as members of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors will hold in trust the church property. They shall have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, or transfer any property without a specific vote by a majority of the church members present at the business session authorizing each action. It shall be the function of the Board of Directors to affix their signatures to legal documents involving the sale, mortgage, purchase or rental of property or other legal documents where the signatures of the Board of Directors are required. The Board of Directors shall investigate the various terms offered to the church for a loan from different banks and other lending institutions. The Board of Directors will then make a recommendation to the church concerning the specific terms of the loan, including the institution from which to borrow the funds. Members of the Board of Directors that fail to fulfill the wishes of the church shall automatically forfeit their right to be a member of the Board of Directors.

SECTION 5 - CLERKS

(A) Duties

(1) The Clerk of the church shall keep in a suitable book a record of all the actions of the church, except as otherwise provided.

(2) He or she shall keep a register of the names of members, with dates of admission, dismission or death, together with a record of baptism.

(3) He shall issue letters of recommendation voted by the church, preserve on file all communications and written official reports, and give legal notice of all meetings where such notice is necessary, as indicated by these by-laws.

(4) The clerk shall consider it a part of his responsibility to promote loyalty and efficiency in church life.

(5) A duplicate set of church minutes shall be prepared by the clerk and kept in the church office for record.

(6) The Clerk shall have a copy of the constitution available at all regular and

called business meetings.

(B) Records

All books, records and accounts kept by the Clerk shall be the property of the Church.

SECTION 6 - ASSISTANT CLERK

An assistant clerk shall be elected by the Church to assist the Clerk as needed.

SECTION 7 - TREASURER

It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to reconcile the monies counted and recorded by the Counting Committee and to keep an itemized account of all receipts and disbursements. The disbursements must be authorized under the church budget, designated funds, and/or itemized invoices for purchases made by authorized personnel. The Treasurer or Financial Secretary shall also post receipts on the receipts journal, post all disbursements in the disbursement journal and prepare financial statements as directed by the Church. He shall work in close accord with the Stewardship Committee in maintaining substantial balance.

SECTION 8 - ASSISTANT TREASURER

An assistant Treasurer shall be elected by the church to assist the Treasurer as needed, and shall serve as a member of the Counting Committee, and to also serve on the Stewardship Committee.

SECTION 9 - FINANCIAL SECRETARY

The Financial Secretary will receive the church offering envelopes, special offering envelopes, other evidences of money received, and a summary of receipts from the Counting Committee. The Financial Secretary will post the records to the individual accounts, complete and mail quarterly to each contributor a record of his or her contributions.

SECTION 10 - MODERATOR

The Moderators shall be the Pastor, Chairman of Deacons, and Vice Chairman, or in the absence of these, the Clerk shall call the church to order and an Acting Moderator shall be elected.

SECTION 11 - CHURCH HOST OR HOSTESS

(A) The Church shall elect annually a Church Host or Hostess.

(B) The Church Host or Hostess shall be chairman of the Kitchen Staff and shall be responsible for recruiting Kitchen Staff.

(C) He or she shall serve as Host or Hostess at church-wide functions, such as open-house, receptions and Associational meetings.

SECTION 12 - DIRECTOR OF LIBRARY & AUDIO VISUAL SERVICES

The Church shall elect annually a Church Director of Library Services. The Director shall be charged with the following duties:

(A) Serve as chairman of the Library Committee.

(B) Supervise the use of the library, and enforce its policies.

(C) Assure that all books and materials processed for the Church Library shall be in harmony with the Baptist faith, doctrine, and church policy.

(D) Supervise use, maintenance, storage and purchase of all audio-visual aids equipment in cooperation with all department heads.

SECTION 13 - BEREAVEMENT COORDINATOR

The church shall elect annually a Bereavement Coordinator(s). The Bereavement Coordinator(s) is responsible to administer food assistance for church families who have experienced the death of a loved one.

ARTICLE IX - PROGRAM ORGANIZATIONS

SECTION 1 - GENERAL

All organizations of the church shall be under church control, all officers being elected by the church and reporting regularly to the church. Names of program organizations shall be consistent with Southern Baptist Convention titles.

SECTION 2 - SUNDAY SCHOOL

There shall be a Sunday School, divided into department and classes for all ages and conducted under the direction of a General Director, for the study of God's Word. The tasks of the Sunday School shall be to teach the Biblical revelation; lead in reaching all prospects for the church; lead all church members to worship, witness, learn, and minister daily; provide and interpret information regarding the work of the church and the denomination. It will be the preferred and standard practice of this organization to use literature published by the Sunday School Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.

SECTION 3 - DISCIPLESHIP TRAINING

There shall be a Discipleship Training, divided into departments, for all ages and conducted under the direction of a General Director. The Discipleship Training shall serve as the training organization of the church. The tasks of the Discipleship Training shall be to teach systematic theology, Christian history, Christian ethics, and church policy and organization; to give orientation to new church members; train all church members to worship, witness, learn and minister daily; train leaders for the church and the denomination; discover, recruit, and train potential leaders; provide for specialized training; provide organization and leadership for special projects of the church; provide and interpret information regarding the work of the church and the denomination.

SECTION 4 - WOMAN'S MISSIONARY UNION

There shall be a Woman's Missionary Union under the leadership of a Director and such officers and organizations as needed (including promotion of all auxiliaries as recommended by the Southern Baptist Convention). The duty of the Women's Missionary Union shall be to teach missions, lead persons to participate in missions; provide organization and leadership for special mission projects of the church; provide and interpret information regarding the work of the church and the denomination.

SECTION 5 - BROTHERHOOD

There shall be a Brotherhood with such organizations as needed (including auxiliaries as recommended by the Southern Baptist Convention). The Brotherhood shall be under the leadership of a Director. The duties are to teach missions, lead all men and boys to participate in mission activities, etc.

SECTION 6 - CHURCH MUSIC PROGRAM

There shall be a Church Music Program under the direction of the Minister of Education and Worship. Such officers and/or organizations shall be included as needed. The music tasks shall be to teach music and hymnology; provide music and musicians for the congregational services and the organizations of the church; lead persons to participate in hymn singing; train persons to lead, sing, and to play music; provide organization and leadership for special projects of the church; provide and interpret information regarding the work of the church and the denomination.

SECTION 7 - VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

There shall be a Vacation Bible School with such officers and organizations as needed, and shall be under the jurisdiction of the Sunday School. The purpose of the Vacation Bible School shall be to give depth in Bible study to youth and children and preschoolers.

ARTICLE X - ORDINANCES

We believe the Lord Jesus Christ is the head of the church, law-giver of the Gospel dispensation. He is the only instituter of ordinances. It was optional with Him to institute many ordinances or few. It was His pleasure to appoint only two; namely, Baptism and the Lord's Supper.

SECTION 1 - BAPTISM

A person who receives Jesus Christ as Savior by personal faith; who professes Him publicly at a worship service; and who indicates a commitment to follow Christ as Lord, shall be received for baptism.

(A) Baptism shall be by immersion in water.

(B) Baptism shall be administered by the pastor or whomever the church shall authorize.

(C) Baptism shall be administered as an act of worship at any of the worship services.

(D) A person professing Christ and failing to be baptized after a reasonable length of time shall be counseled by the pastor and/or staff and deacons. If negative interest is ascertained, he or she shall be deleted from those awaiting baptism.

SECTION 2 - THE LORD'S SUPPER

The Lord's Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby baptized believers, through partaking of the bread and fruit of the vine, commemorates the death of Jesus Christ and anticipates his second coming.

(A) The Lord's Supper shall be observed quarterly, preferably the first Sunday of the quarter, beginning the first Sunday in October, or as otherwise scheduled.

(B) The Lord's Supper shall be observed in a morning or evening worship service.

(C) The pastor and deacons shall be responsible for the administration of the Lord's Supper.

(D) A Lord's Supper Committee elected by the church shall be responsible for the physical preparations of the Lord's Supper.

ARTICLE XI - CHURCH MEETINGS

SECTION 1 - THE CHURCH YEAR

(A) The church year shall be September 1 through August 31.

(B) The financial year shall be the same as the calendar year (January 1 through December 31).

SECTION 2 - WORSHIP SERVICES

The church shall meet regularly each Sunday morning, Sunday evening, and Wednesday evening for preaching, instruction, evangelism, and for the worship of Almighty God. These meeting will be open for the entire membership of the church and for all people and shall be conducted under the direction of the pastor.

SECTION 3 - SPECIAL SERVICES

Revival Services and any other Church meetings which will be essential in the promotion of the objectives of the church shall be placed in the church calendar.

SECTION 4 - REGULAR BUSINESS MEETINGS

Regular business meetings shall be held monthly on the Wednesday night following the Second Sunday, unless changed by action of the church.

SECTION 5 - SPECIAL BUSINESS MEETINGS

A specially-called business meeting may be held to consider special matters of significant nature. If possible, a one-week notice will be given from the Pulpit or in the bulletin of the subject, date, time and location for the specially-called business meeting unless extreme urgency renders such notice impracticable. Special business meetings may be called by the moderator or by an affirmative vote of the Deacon body.

SECTION 6 - QUORUM

The quorum consists of active members in attendance at a regular or properly-called business meeting.

SECTION 7 - PARLIAMENTARY RULES

Robert's Rules of order, Revised, is the authority for parliamentary rules of procedure for all business meetings of the church.

ARTICLE XII - CHURCH COMMITTEES

The church shall elect such standing committees and special committees as it may deem necessary to carry on the various phases of the church program effectively and efficiently. All committee members and the chairman of all regular committees-unless otherwise specified--shall be recommended by the Committee on Committees and elected by the church.

The committees shall be elected annually and presented to the church no later than the regular business meeting in September.

Special committees shall be elected as the church deems necessary and members of said committee shall be recommended by the Committee on Committees to the church for election.

The Deacons are to encourage and instruct all committees to meet. The Deacons are to be responsible for all church policies being carried out.

(A) Membership of committees shall consist of a well-rounded representation of church membership.

(B) Unless otherwise indicated, committees shall meet as often as needs merit.

(C) All committees are to report to the deacon body any recommendations intended to be brought before the church.

SECTION I - NOMINATING COMMITTEE:

DUTIES

The recommendations of the Nominating Committee shall be suggestive only, and any member of the church will have the privilege of nominating from the floor.

SECTION 2 - STEWARDSHIP and BUDGET COMMITTEE

The Stewardship and Budget Committee shall be comprised of the following church members: Church Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, and six members-at-large from the church body. Two members-at-large shall be recommended by the Nominating Committee to the Church body and elected each year on a rotating basis. Members at-large shall serve three year terms. No paid staff members shall be eligible to serve. The Church Treasurer shall call the first meeting and serve as moderator until a chairman is elected by the committee. This committee shall be charged with the preparation of a unified budget to be reviewed by the deacons then presented to the church for approval no later than the regular December business meeting nor earlier than the regular November business meeting. It shall be the duty of this committee to study and review the current budget situation at such intervals as deemed necessary by the chairman, and in recommending all needed adjustments in the budget during the year shall inform the deacon body of all recommendations prior to presenting same to the church. This committee and the deacon body shall also review all monthly Financial Reports. All budget purchases shall be submitted to this committee on requisition forms for approval before purchases can be made. All non-budgeted purchases cannot be made without the church body approval. Recommendations for the church to borrow money should come through the Stewardship and Budget Committee. This committee is responsible to recommend the amount and length of a loan under consideration.

SECTION 3 - COUNTING COMMITTEE

The Counting Committee shall be composed of the Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, and three members-at-large. One members-at-large shall be elected each year on a rotating basis. These shall serve three year terms. The duties of this committee are to count all monies or funds received in all services of the church, to be responsible for a record of all such receipts, indicating the budgeted and designated items separately, and for depositing funds as soon as possible.

SECTION 4 - BUILDING AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE

This committee shall be composed of three members - one elected each year for a three year term - and shall be responsible for the overseeing of all church properties. Insofar as possible, this committee should be composed of skilled workmen in their respective trade or profession. Their responsibilities include:

(A) Quarterly inspection of all properties and equipment.

(B) Supervision of such repair and maintenance that the committee feels necessary throughout the year.

(C) To make and enforce rules with reference to lending of church property.

(D) To see that proper provisions are made for heating and cooling the church buildings.

(E) To institute a schedule of work for all custodial employees, working with the pastor. The day by-day supervision of that personnel will be conducted by the pastor in consultation with the committee.

(F) The securing of bids and making of recommendations concerning all needs not included in the budget that pertain to church property.

(G) Determination of needs and recommendation to the Stewardship and Budget Committee the amount deemed necessary for repairs, upkeep, maintenance, and improvement of all properties and equipment for the year.

(H) To recommend to the Stewardship and Budget Committee an amount for the year's needs for janitor's supplies, fuel, utilities, etc.

(I) To clear all expenditures on major items with the Stewardship and Budget Committee before making purchase requisitions.

(J) In case of emergency caused by storm, etc., this committee shall take necessary action to have the building or grounds ready for the next service if at all possible.

SECTION 5 - MISSION COMMITTEE

This committee shall consist of five mission-minded individuals serving on a rotating basis with each committee member serving terms of three years. Their responsibilities shall be:

(A) To recommend financial amounts to be included in the World Mission section of our church's annual budget.

.(B) To recommend goals for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, Annie Armstrong Easter Offering, and/or any other special mission offerings received by the church.

(C) To recommend any special mission expenditure (such as support given to individuals from our church participating in short-term mission work.)

(D) To promote the overall mission work of the church.

SECTION 6 - FLOWER COMMITTEE

The committee shall shall be responsible for the floral decorations of the church for regular and special church services. The committee shall be "on call" whenever flowers are appropriate requirements for services or any part of our church program.

SECTION 7 - PRESCHOOL COMMITTEE

A. PERSONNEL

The Preschool Ministry Committee shall consist of Director of Preschool Ministries and six at-large members, each serving three year terms with 2 rotating off each year. The at-large members should be represented by parents, volunteers, and other members knowledgeable of and committed to our church's overall preschool ministry. The Director of Weekday Child Care Ministries will serve as an ex-officio member of this committee.

B. DUTIES

(1) The committee shall investigate and address any needs and/or opportunities which arise in relation to the church preschool ministry.

(2) They shall be familiar as possible with the duties and responsibilities of all preschool workers, volunteers and employees.

(3) This committee will serve as the Weekday Child Care Ministry Board.

SECTION 8 - USHER COMMITTEE

Ushers for our morning worship services shall be elected annually and will serve regularly on a rotating basis. Their duties will be as follows:

(1) They will be in position 15 minutes prior to the service.

(2) They will prepare, distribute, and receive any needed materials (Orders of Worship, Inserts, Registration Forms, Handouts, the offering, etc.)

(3) They will be responsible for seeing that the offering is properly placed in the hands of the Church Treasurer for bank deposit.

(4) They are responsible for counting the number of people in attendance at our worship hour.

(5) The ushers will be available to handle any special requirements during the service such

as material distribution, illness, disturbance.

introduce him to all visitors, passing along any information that might be helpful in later

contact with visitors.

SECTION 9 - BENEVOLENCE COMMITTEE

This committee shall be composed of the Chairman of the Deacons, a representative from the Woman's Missionary Union, a representative from the Brotherhood, the Pastor and the Church Treasurer. They shall have the supervision of all aid and assistance given by the church to any persons in financial or economic (food, clothing, etc.) need. The committee shall follow the guidelines listed below:

(A) The committee shall have a working knowledge of all the policies of local aid and welfare agencies, and shall acquaint themselves with the need for aid in the community.

(B) Before assistance is given, the committee shall try to ascertain what help is being received from the above referred to agencies.

(C) Extreme care shall be given to making funds available directly. Commodities shall be supplied whenever possible.

(D) Efforts should be made to see if the person or persons receiving assistance can be placed on a self-sustaining basis.

(E) Every encounter for the purpose of rendering such services as this shall be considered a doorway to speak to people about their relationship to Jesus Christ.

SECTION 10 - LIBRARY AND AUDIO VISUAL COMMITTEE

This committee shall be composed of the Director of Library and Audio Visual Services, and a minimum of four committee members and shall be charged with the following duties:

(A) Promote the use of the Church Library.

(B) Establish library policies.

(C) Screen all proposed literature and audio visual material for the library.

(D) Assist by recommending the securing of all audio visual equipment and usage thereof.

SECTION -11 - PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

This committee shall consist of five members, two women and two men to be elected by the Church. One man and one woman to be elected to serve a two-year term. One member to be appointed by the deacons from the active deacons to serve a one-year term.

This committee shall be charged with the following responsibilities:

(A) Recommendation to the church the employment of all church personnel except the pastor.

(B) Recommendation of all salary scales to the Stewardship and Budget Committee.

(C) Recommend to the church policies concerning vacations, holidays, sick pay, etc., for all paid personnel.

(D) Any change in paid personnel which the committee shall deem necessary will be discussed with the deacon body and any recommendation concerning the resignation of any personnel will be presented to the church by the deacons.

(E) The committee shall assist the pastor, if required, in the administration of all policies concerning paid personnel.

SECTION 12 - KITCHEN COMMITTEE

This committee shall be composed of the Church Hostess, who shall be the chairman, and the kitchen staff. This committee shall be charged with the following responsibilities:

(A) Establish a policy concerning all matters involved in the operation and use of the kitchen to present to the church for approval.

(C) To see that the facilities are maintained at the highest level of efficiency.

(D) To be responsible for the assignment of committees which are to plan and prepare meals approved by church action.

(E) Provide counsel to the group who prepares the family night supper.

(F) Make all budget requests relative to kitchen needs to the Stewardship and Budget Committee each year before the annual preparation of the budget.

(G) Be available at any time throughout the year for consultation whenever food services are required in any of the church programs.

SECTION 13 - STUDENT COMMITTEE

The Student Committee shall be composed of five members serving on a rotating basis with each committee member serving terms of three years. Their responsibilities shall be:

(A) To assist the Nominating Committee in selection of youth leaders for presentation to the church for election.

(B) To set policies concerning membership, advancement, discipline, etc. for the youth.

SECTION 14 - BAPTISMAL COMMITTEE

This committee shall be composed of four members (two men and two women), and shall be charged with the following responsibilities:

(A) See that the baptismal pool is prepared by seeing that the pool is filled and tempered.

(B) See that towels are available.

(C) Assist all candidates before, during, and after baptism.

(D) Guide and assist in the preparation when other church groups are using our pool.

SECTION 15 - THE LORD'S SUPPER COMMITTEE

This committee shall be composed of at least three members. Their responsibilities are as follows:

(A) Prepare the elements for the Lord's Supper.

(B) After the observance of the Lord's Supper, they shall be responsible for the gathering, cleaning and storing of the Lord's Supper materials.

SECTION 16 - TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE

(A) The purpose of the Transportation Committee shall be to oversee and direct the use and maintenance of any vehicles owned by the church for the purpose of transportation.

(B) This committee shall be composed of three members.

This committee shall have direct responsibility for securing drivers for all vehicles and seeing that notification of all drivers is made to the insurance carrier.

(D) The chairman of this committee shall be notified in regard to any request to use any vehicle by any organization. Drivers will be secured either by the chairman or by a representative of the organization in consultation with the chairman.

(E) This committee shall be directly responsible for all corrective and preventative maintenance of all vehicles and shall keep records of all maintenance work for future reference.

(F) This committee shall function in the area of purchasing additional vehicles at the authorization of the church, securing bids seeking the best possible equipment for our needs, and bringing recommendations to the church body.

(G) This committee shall assist in the renting of additional vehicles at such times when temporary needs exist or when our own vehicles are out of services or in use by another church group.

(H) This committee shall act in formulating policies for adoption by the church in regard to the loaning or renting of our transportation equipment.

(1) This committee shall make recommendations to the Stewardship and Budget Committee each year concerning anticipated expenses to be budgeted for the maintenance and operation of all vehicles.

SECTION 17 - INSURANCE COMMITTEE

(A) The purpose of the Insurance Committee shall be to be knowledgeable concerning all areas of the church's insurance needs, and shall make recommendations to the church in accordance with procedures provided for in the following instructions (Letters B-G).

(B) This committee shall be composed of three members.

(C) This committee shall make a yearly review of the coverage on the building, grounds and contents and terms of current coverage in replacement costs and make necessary recommendations.

(D) This committee shall be responsible for securing bids for adequate coverage for reputable carriers for our insurance needs.

(E) This committee shall work in cooperation with the transportation committee in providing adequate coverage for church vehicles.

(F) This committee shall work with various church organizations (for example: youth groups) in providing insurance coverage for trips, retreats and other outings.

(G) This committee shall make a yearly recommendation to the Stewardship and Budget Committee as to necessary funds to be budgeted for insurance needs.

SECTION 18 - AUDITING COMMITTEE

The Auditing Committee shall be composed of three members elected from the church-at-large upon recommendation of the Nominating Committee. One member shall be elected annually with each member serving a three year term. Neither members of the church staff or members of the Stewardship and Budget Committee are eligible to serve on this committee. The committee shall audit the Treasurer's financial records after the end of the church year and present their written report to the church at the regular February business meeting.

SECTION 19: COMMITTEE ON COMMITTEES

A. PERSONNEL

The Committee on Committees will consist of three members - one elected each year for a three year term.

B. DUTIES

(1) One member-at-large from the church body shall be nominated by the current Committee on Committees and elected by the church no later than the regular business meeting in April each year.

(2) They shall be responsible for presenting to the church nominations for church officers and committee members.

(3) They shall be as familiar as possible with the duties and responsibilities of all church offices and committees.

(4) They shall study scriptural and other qualifications of all church members while searching for prospective leaders (from members only).

(5) They shall have names of church officers and committee members ready to present to the church for election no later than the regular business meeting in August.

(6) They shall nominate to the church for election individuals to fill vacancies occurring during the year.

The recommendations of the Committee on Committees shall be suggestive only, and any member of the church will have the privilege of nominating from the floor.

(The revision of duties for the Nominating Committee and the creation of a Committee on Committees allow one committee to focus on recruitment for our education ministries and another committee for recruitment for administrative needs.)

ARTICLE XIII - ADOPTION, AUTHORITY AND AMENDMENTS

SECTION 1 - ADOPTION

This constitution shall be considered adopted and in immediate effect if and when this church votes in favor of same.

SECTION 2 - AUTHORITY

This constitution shall supersede any prior policies of the church that may be in conflict.

SECTION 3 - AMENDMENTS

This constitution may be amended, altered or repealed by a majority vote of the members present and voting at any regular business meeting of the church or at any specially called for that purpose, provided such proposals shall have been presented to the church in writing, and announced from the pulpit at a previous meeting.