FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF  FORT DAVIS, TEXAS

As revised and approved by the church body on October 9, 2006.

COVENANT OF FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF FORT DAVIS, TEXAS

 

PREAMBLE:  We declare and establish this covenant for the preservation and security of the principles of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and to govern the body in an orderly manner according to New Testament models.  This covenant is intended to preserve the liberties of each member of this church and ensure freedom of actions and independence from any religious body or organization.

I.  NAME

 

The name of this church shall be the First Baptist Church of Fort Davis, Texas, having been organized into a sovereign church on the 24th day of September 1896, and having been incorporated under the Non-Profit Corporation Act of Texas, issued on July 8, 1994 (Attachment 1).

II.  PURPOSES

 

A.                  To promote and provide for the preaching, teaching, and witnessing of the Gospel of the   Lord Jesus Christ in order to win people to a personal faith in Him as Redeemer, Comforter, Guide, and the Lord of their lives, as well as of all creation.

B.                  To provide for the worship of God and the ministry of the word of God; to observe the ordinances of the New Testament; to build the spiritual improvement of our members; to minister to the people of our community, and to extend a ministry of the Gospel into all the world.

C.                  To work toward becoming what every church was meant to be:  The people of God (I Peter 2: 9-10); the body of Christ (I Corinthians 12:12-27); and the bride of Christ  (I Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 5:21-23).

III.   STATEMENT OF BASIC BELIEFS

 

We affirm the Holy Bible as the inspired word of God and the basis of our beliefs.  This church subscribes to the doctrinal statement of "The Baptist Faith and Message" as adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention in 1963 (Attachment 2).  We voluntarily band ourselves together as a body of baptized believers in Jesus Christ personally committed to sharing the good news of salvation to lost mankind.  The ordinances of the church are believers baptism by immersion in water and the partaking of the Lord's Supper by all redeemed believers.

IV. CHURCH 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 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, doctrines, and 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 through all nations.

 

We also encourage one another to develop the habit of reading God's Word and praying, to teach our children the Bible and its message, to introduce our families and friends to Christ that they might have a relationship with the Savior, to live as Christlike examples in all areas of our lives as outlined in the scripture, to treat our bodies as 'temples of the Holy Spirit' and to work towards the fulfillment of the Great Commission.

 

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 agree that when we leave 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.

CHURCH BY-LAWS:  MANUAL OF ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURE

Article I.  Church Membership

Section 1.  General Statement.

           

The membership of this church shall consist of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ who have been received according to the procedure outlined in this covenant and manual.  This is a sovereign and democratic church, subscribing to the congregational form of government and exercising its calling to minister in freedom under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

 

Section 2.  Candidacy for Membership

 

All candidates for membership shall be counseled concerning their faith and practice by ministers and/or deacons prior to presentation for membership.   Persons may offer themselves as candidates for membership in this church in any of the following ways:

 

1. By a profession of faith in Jesus Christ and as candidates for baptism by immersion.
2. By a letter or by promise of a letter of recommendation from another Baptist church of like faith and practice.
3. By a letter or by promise of a letter of recommendation from a Baptist church of like faith, but not of like practice.  In such cases each will be considered on an individual basis.
4. By a statement of conversion experience and New Testament baptism by immersion in a Baptist church of like faith and practice when no letter is obtainable.  In such cases each will be considered on an individual basis.
5. By statement of conversion experience by those individuals who have been scripturally baptized by immersion but who do not come from a church of like faith and practice.   In such cases each will be considered on an individual basis.

 

Section 3.   Privileges of Membership.

 

1. Only members of the church are entitled to vote in elections and on all questions submitted to the church in conference, provided the member is present or provision has been made for absentee balloting.
2. Only members of the church are eligible for consideration by the church as a candidate for elective office in the church.
3. Every member of the church may participate in the ordinances of the church.
4. Every member of the church has the right and responsibility to exercise the priesthood of the believer that properly belongs to every believer, priesthood meaning "unimpeded access to God the Father through Jesus Christ and unabating responsibility to contribute to the well-being of the body of Christ."

Section 4.  Termination of Membership

Membership shall be terminated in the following ways:

 

1. By granting a letter of recommendation to another church of like faith and practice upon request of said church.
2. By the uniting of a member with another church not of like faith and practice.  The names of persons joining churches of dissimilar faith and practice will be removed from the church roll.
3. By removal upon written request of a member.
4. By exclusion, as advised by the deacons, for reasons deemed sufficiently serious and injurious by a majority of the church members present at a business meeting to warrant expulsion from membership.
5. By death.

Article II.  Church Officers

 

The officers of this church shall be the pastor, the deacons, a moderator, a clerk, a treasurer, and trustees.

 

Section 1:  Pastor   1 Timothy 3:1-7

A.  Qualifications.  The pastor shall be:

1.       A person of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom.

2.       A person of sound doctrine, holding to the essentials of the faith as set forth in the Scripture and affirmed by the Baptist Faith and Message 1963.

3.       A person of exemplary character dealing fairly and honestly with all members of the church as well as with all people of the larger community.

4.       A person whose conduct reflects the ethical teachings of the Scriptures and who strives to demonstrate in daily life the essence and intention of the church covenant.

5.       A person who is fully sympathetic with the aims and purposes of the church.

6.       A person given to servant-hood and not desirous of power and authority.

7.       A person of marital fidelity whose family reflects Christian maturity.

 

      B.  Responsibilities:  The pastor is recognized as the under-shepherd of our Lord Jesus Christ in this church, and is responsible to:

1.       Preach and teach the Word of God.

2.       Administer the ordinances of the New Testament.

3.       Provide spiritual nurture and pastoral care for the church's members.

4.       Lead the church in the fulfillment of its divinely appointed task of carrying out the commission of its Lord.

(The specific job description and qualifications are cited in "Pastor's Job Description," created by the Personnel Committee and approved by church vote; these shall be on file in the church office).

 

C.  Pastoral Vacancies: 

1.       The pastor may relinquish his office by giving at least two weeks notice and with prior notification to the deacons.  Upon any vacancy in the pastorate, the church shall, without delay, take measures to secure a successor for an indefinite tenure.  No call of a pastor shall be made except at a meeting called for such purpose, for which at least one week's previous church-wide notice has been given.  A three-fourths (3/4) majority vote of those present and/or voting shall be necessary to extend a call.

2.  The church may declare the office of pastor to be vacant.  Such action shall take place only at a meeting called for that purpose, for which at least one week's church-wide notice has been given.  The meeting may be called upon the recommendation of the deacons or by written petition signed by not less than one fourth (1/4) of the resident church members.  The moderator for this meeting shall be designated by majority vote of the members present, and shall be someone other than the pastor.   The vote to declare the office vacant shall be secret ballot:  an affirmative vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the members present being necessary to declare the office vacant.  Severance compensation shall be recommended by the deacons and the Budget and Finance Committee and approved by a majority vote of the church.

 

 

 

 

Section 2.  Deacons (1 Timothy 3:8-13)

A.  Qualifications.  A deacon shall be:

1.  A person of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of                  wisdom.

2.       A person of sound doctrine, holding to the essentials of the faith as set forth in the Scripture and affirmed by the Baptist Faith and Message 1963.

3.       A person of exemplary character dealing fairly and honestly with all members of the church as well as with all people of the larger community.

4.       A person whose conduct reflects the ethical teachings of the Scriptures and who strives to demonstrate in daily life the essence and intention of the Church Covenant.

5.       A person who is fully sympathetic with the aims and purposes of the church and who is by disposition and conviction supportive of the pastoral office.

6.       A person given to servant hood and not desirous of power and authority.

7.       A person of marital fidelity whose family reflects Christian maturity and is appreciative of the servant role of a deacon.

 

B.  Responsibilities:

      1.  General:

                  (a) Lead the church in the achievement of its                                mission.

                  (b)  Proclaim the gospel locally and to the                                    'uttermost parts of the earth."

                  (c)  Care for the church's members and                                        other persons of the community.

      2.   Specific:

                  (a)  Assist the pastor in serving the Lord's                                    Supper.

                  (b)  Recommend persons to serve on the                                     Nominating Committee.

                  (c)  Nominate persons to serve on the                                          Pastor Search Committee.

                  (d)  Serve on designated committees as set                                 forth in this document.

                  (e)  Advise and consult with the pastor on                              any and all matters that are vital to the ministry                      of the church and the effectiveness of the pastor.

                  (f)  Prepare and submit to the Personnel Committee                an annual (September 1) written evaluation of                    the Pastor.

                  (g)  Serve as a benevolence committee.

     

      3.  Method of Selection.

 

Persons to serve as deacons shall be nominated, after consultation with the deacon body and pastor, by the nominating committee.  Criteria for nomination shall be the qualifications for deacon as set forth in this covenant and manual.  Deacons shall be elected by a majority vote of the members present at a regular business meeting.  Voting shall be by secret ballot.

   4.  Ordination.

   After the election of deacons, an ordination service shall be conducted as soon as practicable.  All ordination services will be planned and conducted under the supervision and direction of the pastor and the deacons.  There shall be no obligation to recognize as a deacon one who has been a deacon in another church but in such instances as one might be elected by this church to serve as a deacon, previous ordination by another church of like faith and practice shall suffice.

Section 3.  Moderator.

   The moderator for business meetings of the church shall be the pastor.  In the absence of the pastor, someone he designates shall preside as moderator.  When the church has no pastor, the chairman of the deacons shall call the church to order and a moderator pro-tem shall be elected from the membership.  In the absence of the chairman of deacons, the vice chairman of deacons or the church clerk shall call the church to order and a moderator pro-tem shall be elected.  In the absence of all of the above named officers, those present will select by general agreement a temporary presider who will serve until one of the members has been chosen as moderator pro-tem.

Section 4.  Clerk

A.  The Church Clerk shall be elected annually.

B.  Responsibilities:

1.       Keep full and complete records of church activities and report to the church at monthly business meetings.

2.       Keep an accurate church roll.

3.       Carry on the official correspondence of the church regarding the acquisition and granting of letters of membership, as approved at regular business meetings.

4.       Be responsible for completing and submitting the annual church letter.

5.       Be responsible for assisting persons who respond to the invitation in the worship service in completing decision cards.

6.       Serve on the Policy and History Committees.

 

Section 5.  Treasurer.

A.  The treasurer shall be elected annually.

B.  Responsibilities:

1.       Collect and disburse all monies as directed by the church.

2.       Make payment of payrolls and all bills for local expenses promptly and remit monthly all funds received for denominational or other causes.

3.       Make a written monthly report to the church at the regular business meeting and a similar report at the end of the church year.

4.       Be responsible for making the memorial committee aware of memorial gifts.

5.       Serve on the Budget and Finance Committee.

6.       Prepare and distribute annually the contribution statements.

7.       May enlist the services of an Assistant Treasurer.

 

Section 6:  Trustees

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Hold in trust the property of the church.

2.       Execute all deeds, debentures, mortgages, liens, transfers, leases, and other legal documents for and on behalf of the church.

3.       Shall have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, transfer, or encumber any property of the church without a specific vote of the church authorizing such action.

 

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       The committee shall have 3 (three) members.

2.       They shall be elected by the church for an indefinite period.

3.       Replacement of members will be recommended by the Nominating Committee and approved by the church.

ARTICLE III.  Organization and Program Leadership.

All Church Organizational and Program Leadership shall be elected annually.

 

Section 1.  Sunday School Director.  Responsibilities:

1. Assure each Sunday School class has a teacher each Sunday.
2. Oversee the keeping of weekly Sunday School records and post figures on attendance board.
3. Prepare and present a monthly report at regular business meetings.
4. Monitor Sunday School materials and literature.
5. Encourage the development of new classes as needed and bring recommendations to the church body.
6. Order quarterly Sunday School materials and monthly church magazines.
7. Oversee all Sunday School Departments to see that they have adequate supplies, space, and are running smoothly.
8. Promote Sunday School workers' meetings and programs of outreach.
9. Submit requests in writing to the Budget and Finance Committee for yearly budget needs.

           

 

 

Section 2.  Sunday School Secretary.  Responsibilities:

1. Assist the Sunday School Director in keeping weekly Sunday School records.
2. Fill the position of Sunday School Director in his/her absence.

 

Section 3.  Sunday School Teachers.   Responsibilities:

A.      Reach people, teach them the Word of God and win them to Christ.

B.      Exhibit exemplary Christian conduct and values.

C.      Prepare and present lessons applying basic Biblical Christian beliefs and doctrines of the Southern Baptist.

D.      Be faithful, on time, and in regular attendance.

E.      Secure a substitute when absent or contact the Sunday School Director when substitute cannot be found.

F.      Maintain classroom for a Christian learning environment.

G.     Promote and encourage attendance of members and prospective members.

H.      Cooperate whole-heartedly in the plans and activities of the Sunday School and church.

 

Section 4.  Minister of Music.  Responsibilities:

1. Provide worshipful music for all services and departments of the church.
2. Provide general oversight and direction of the music and cooperate with the pastor and other leaders in the selection of appropriate musical programs for all occasions where such services are needed.
3. Provide adequate training and rehearsals for the church choir.
4. Submit requests in writing to the Budget and Finance Committee for yearly budget needs.

 

Section 5.  Assistant Minister of Music.  Responsibilities: 

Take charge of the music in the absence of the Director or at the request of the Director to fulfill the duties as listed under Minister of Music.

 

Section 6.  Organist.   Responsibilities:

1. Provide accompaniment for the usual functions of the church or other meetings of the church.
2. Provide special music as needed.
3. Work with the Minister of Music and Pianist to provide a worshipful atmosphere at regular worship services

 

Section 7.   Assistant Organist.   Responsibilities: 

       A.  Be available for service when the organist is not present or at        the request of the organist.

       B.  Work with the Minister of Music to provide a worshipful     atmosphere at regular worship services.

 

Section 8.   Pianist.   Responsibilities: 

1. Provide accompaniment for the usual functions of the church or other meetings of the church.
2. Provide special music as needed.
3. Work with the Minister of Music and Organist to provide a worshipful atmosphere at regular worship services

 

Section 9.   Assistant Pianist.  Responsibilities:

       A.  Be available for service when the organist is not    present or          at the request of the organist.

       B.  Work with the Minister of Music and Organist to   provide a           worshipful atmosphere at regular worship services

 

The persons serving as music staff are considered members of the Music Committee and will meet with the pastor periodically to review and plan the music program.

Article IV. Standing Church Committees

 

General Responsibilities of All Standing Church Committees.

A.      Elect a chair-person at the beginning of the church year.

B.      Report to the church at regular business meetings as activity requires.

C.      Submit requests in writing to the Budget and Finance Committee for yearly budget needs.

D.      The pastor shall be an ex-officio member of all committees.

 

Section 1.  Baptism Committee.

            A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Move or have the furniture moved before and after baptisms.

2.       Ensure the filling, heating and the cleaning of the baptistry.

3.       Be present to help pastor and candidates prior to and during baptism and remain afterward to clean up.

4.       Notify the Building and Grounds Committee of any repairs needed to baptistry and equipment.

5.       Care for the baptismal robes when provided.

            B.  Committee Makeup.

                        1.  Shall have 4 members: two male, two                                       female.

                        2.  Elected annually.

 

Section 2.  Budget and Finance Committee.

            A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Prepare and submit to the church for approval an inclusive operating budget.

2.       Serve as the Finance Committee through the church year.

3.       Promote scriptural stewardship and give direction in the area of financial matters.

            B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 5 members.

2.       At least one member shall be an active deacon and rotates as specified in item six (6).

3.       One member shall be the Church Treasurer elected annually.  (If the Treasurer is a deacon, this member does not satisfy item 2.)

4.       The members are elected for 2 year terms with the exception of the Church Treasurer.

5.       Two will rotate off in year 1.

6.       Two will rotate off in year 2.

 

Section 3.  Building and Grounds Committee

A.  Responsibilities

1.       Regularly inspect and maintain all church property including grounds, buildings, houses, their grounds, and all mechanical equipment in same.

2.       Develop and recommend policies, insurance, and use of all buildings, properties, and equipment.

3.       Recommend to Budget and Finance committee all needs in budget form and as special needs arise.

4.       Designate a person to supervise and authorize payment of the cleaning and grounds keeping personnel.  All complaints and /or comments should be directed to the appointed supervisor.

5.       Prepare and submit to the Personnel Committee an annual (September 1) written evaluation for all cleaning and grounds keeping personnel.

6.       Recommend policy and procedures for cleaning and grounds-keeping personnel to the Personnel Committee.

7.       Work with staff in space allocation.

8.       Work with any committee that has the duty to build new buildings or purchase additional property and advise as to the best equipment, buildings, etc., that are in the church's best interest.

9.       Dispose of, in a fair and just manner, any equipment or property which the church no longer needs.

 

     B.  Committee Makeup

1.       This committee shall have 5 members.

2.       The members are elected for 3 year terms.

a)       One will rotate off in year 1.

b)       Two will rotate off in year 2.

c)       Two will rotate off in year 3.

 

Section 4.  By-Laws/Policy Committee

     A.  Responsibilities

1.       Prepare and submit to the church for approval a set of by-laws for the direction of the church, including principles, policies, and guidelines for the business operations and programs of the church.

2.       Serve as the procedural advisor for all church committees, meetings, and programs.

3.       Revise the by-laws as required by vote of the church.

   B.  Committee Makeup

1.       This committee shall have 5 members.

2.       At least one member shall be an active deacon.

3.       One member shall be the Church Clerk elected annually.  The members are elected for 2 year terms with the exception of the Church Clerk.

4.       Two will rotate off in year 1.

5.       Two will rotate off in year 2.

Section 5.   Flower and Decorating Committee.

A.  Responsibilities: 

1.       Be responsible for securing, arranging and disposing of all flowers and decorations used in services of the church.

2.       Order flowers, as needed, for church events, funerals, and other special occasions.

B.  Committee Makeup

1.       This committee shall have 2 members.

2.       Elected annually.

 

Section 6.  History Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:  Gather and preserve all records and information pertinent to the history of the church, which shall be added to annually.

 

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 3 members.

2.       Elected annually.

3.       One member shall be the Church Clerk, elected annually.

Section 7.  Hostess and Social Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Arrange dinners, teas, and receptions, etc., for the furtherance and strengthening of the bond of Christian fellowship among members.

2.       Set up tables, decorations, and contact members.

3.       Arrange meals and accommodations when necessary for visiting ministers, groups and organizations or families in crisis situations.

4.       Be responsible for the equipment and linens and for the organization of the church kitchen.

5.       Purchase and maintain kitchen staple supplies and items, including paper goods and janitorial supplies and equipment.

6.       Monitor items loaned/borrowed from church kitchen.

B.  Committee Makeup

1.       This committee shall have 5 members.

2.       Elected annually.

 

Section 8.  Library/ Media Center Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Promote the library and the purchase and selection of media.

2.       Set rules for the use of the media.

3.       See that all media materials are properly catalogued and files are kept.

4.       Maintain order of all materials.

 

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 3 members.

2.       Elected annually.

 

Section 9.  Lord's Supper Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Provide the elements and prepare the table for the supper.

2.       See that the vessels and linens used are cleaned and returned to the proper storage.

 

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 4 members.

2.       Elected annually.

 

Section 10.  Memorial Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Acknowledge gifts of memorials made to the church.

2.       Purchase cards and postage for memorial gift acknowledgements.

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 2 members.

2.       Elected annually.

 

Section 11.  Missions Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Create a climate within the church conducive to beginning new work.

2.       Identify needs for new mission work, including gathering and interpreting data, and plans for implementation, and present a report to the church body.

3.       Provide monthly reports concerning on-going mission work that this church supports financially.

 

 

 

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 5 members.

2.       At least one member shall be an active deacon.

3.       The members are elected for 3 year terms.

4.       One rotates off in year 1.

5.       Two rotate off in year 2.

6.       Two rotate off in year 3.

 

Section 12.  Nominating Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Contact and recruit workers, standing committee members, and Sunday School teachers before they are presented to the church.  Tell volunteers what their duties will be and be assured they will be active. Chairpersons shall be elected by the committee members at the beginning of the church year. 

2.       Recommend to the church for approval at the August business meeting a full and complete list of volunteer workers. Rotation schedules must be included in the recommendations.

3.       Recommend replacements throughout the year as needed.

4.       Members of committees with rotating membership shall have at least one year off the committee before serving on the same committee again.

 

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 5 members.

2.       The deacons shall recommend for approval in the August business meeting the members that need to be replaced.

3.       Member are elected for three year terms:

a)       One will rotate off in year 1.

b)       Two will rotate off in year 2.

c)       Two will rotate off in year 3.

 

 

 

Section 13.  Nursery Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Draw up policies for nursery use to be presented and adopted by the church.

2.       Help in seeing that policies are followed.

3.       Consider requests for equipment and supplies for the nursery.

4.       Share in the cleaning and care of the nursery room.

5.       Recommend and develop policies for paid nursery worker to the Personnel Committee.

6.       Prepare and submit to the Personnel Committee an annual (September 1) written evaluation for all nursery worker personnel

7.       Enlist volunteer workers for the nursery.

8.       Authorize payment of nursery worker.

 

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 3 members.

2.       Elected annually.

 

Section 14.  Personnel Committee

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Survey needs for additional staff persons or employees and make recommendations to the church based on findings of this committee.

2.       Prepare position descriptions for staff members and employees.

3.       In consultation with the Budget/Finance Committee develop and recommend to the church salary and benefits for all staff persons and employees.

4.       In consultation with appropriate committees, develop and recommend policies affecting staff members and/or employees.   These policies shall include such matters as work schedule, vacation time, holidays, areas of responsibility, lines and limits of authority.

5.       In issues pertaining to the Pastor, the Pastor shall exclude himself from participation in the proceeding of the committee.

6.       The Personnel Committee is charged with the responsibility of receiving and reviewing annual evaluations (by the end of September) for all ministerial (including Pastor) and all support staff personnel.

7.       Non-ministerial staff (nursery worker, janitor, church secretary, etc.) shall be employed as the church determines the need for their services.  The Personnel Committee shall recommend employment and termination of employees to the church for appropriate action.

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 5 members.

2.       At least one member shall be an active deacon.

3.       Elected annually.

 

Section 15.  Sound System Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Operate and maintain sound systems and visual systems.

2.       Make recommendations to upgrade system(s) as needed.

3.       Make and review policies for the use of equipment.

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 4 members.

2.       Elected annually.

 

Section 16.  Usher/Greeter.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Greet all who come to worship on Sunday mornings and evenings and present them with a bulletin.

2.       Ensure all lights, heating or air conditioning units are turned on and off before and after each service.

3.       Arrange for the taking of the offering.

4.       See that all windows and doors are closed after services.

5.       Sweep front walk and steps prior to morning service.

 

B. Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have at least 6 members.

2.       Each member may serve 2 months per year.

3.       Elected annually.

 

Section 17.  Van Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Maintain van, include checking for adequate fuel and oil levels.

2.       Schedule use of van.

3.       Ensure drivers list is up-to-date and only insured persons operate the van.

4.       Make policies in regard to the use of the van.

 

B.  Committee Makeup.

1.       This committee shall have 2 members.

2.       Elected annually.

 

Section 18.  Youth Committee.

A.  Responsibilities:

1.       Work with and support a Minister of Youth when the church has such a staff person.

2.       Assist in planning the church youth program and direct its accomplishments.

3.       Help enlist youth workers from the congregation or community to help with program activities.

4.       Give monthly reports to the congregation regarding past and future events.

5.       Coordinate the youth program as closely as possible with the overall church program/family.

 

B.  Committee Makeup.

      1.  This committee shall have at least 5 members.

      2.  Elected annually.

Article V.  Ad Hoc Committees

Ad Hoc Committees, formed to address special needs, may be created by the vote of the church body at a regular business meeting.

Article VI.  Pastor Search Committee

 

Section 1.  Composition.

      This committee shall be composed of 5 members and 2 alternates.

 

Section 2.  Selection Process.

A.      Members of the committee shall be nominated by the deacon body (see Article II, Section 2) and elected by the church in a business meeting convened in accordance with provisions for such meetings contained in this document (Article IX) within a period of one month following the resignation of the pastor.

B.      The chair shall be elected from within the committee.

 

Section 3.  Procedure.

A.      In calling a new pastor, the Pastor Search Committee (in consultation with the Budget & Finance Committee and Personnel Committee) may recommend changes in the salary and benefits packages presented to candidates.

B.      After prayerfully screening all candidates, the committee will invite a prospective pastor to visit and conduct a worship service in the church at a time mutually agreeable to the church and the proposed minister.  As soon as practicable after the candidate's appearance, the committee will make a recommendation to the church regarding extending a call in a business meeting convened in accordance with the provisions for such meetings as set forth in this document (see Article IX.)  The church will vote upon the committee's recommendation:  a seventy-five percent (75%) majority vote will be required to constitute a call.

C.      Prospective pastors will be considered and voted upon on a one-at-a-time basis.

D.      The Pastor Search Committee will also secure pulpit guests and/or recommend an interim pastor to serve in the interval between pastors.

 

Article VII.  Ministerial Staff Search Committee

 

 

Section 1.  Definition.  Ministerial Staff   (Hispanic Minister; Youth Minister, etc.) --those staff members of whom the church requires evidence of a personal call of God to minister.

 

Section 2.   Procedures. 

A.      Ministerial staff shall be called and employed as the church determines the need for such offices.

B.      When the need for a staff person is determined and approved by church action, a job description shall be written by the Personnel Committee.

C.      In calling a new ministerial staff member, the Ministerial Staff Committee, in consultation with the Personnel and Budget & Finance Committees, may recommend changes in the salary and benefits packages presented to the candidates.

D.      Vacancies.  Ministerial staff positions (excluding the pastor) may be vacated by resignation (no less than two week notice provided) or the church may vote to vacate such positions upon recommendation to the Personnel Committee, such termination being immediate. Severance compensation shall be recommended by the deacons and the Budget and Finance Committee, and approved by a majority vote of the church.

E.      Filling Positions.  A Staff Search Committee shall be convened in accordance with stipulations of this Article.

 

Section 3.  Composition.  This committee shall have five (5) members and 2 alternates.

Section 4.  Selection.  This committee shall be recommended by the Pastor and deacons and shall be presented for election by the church.

Section 5.  Proceedings.

A.      The committee shall elect from its membership one to serve as chair.

B.      After prayerfully screening all candidates, the committee will invite the prospective minister to visit and meet with committee(s), deacons, and church body at a time mutually agreeable to the church and the proposed minister. 

C.      Any recommendation of the committee shall be made to the church in a business meeting convened in accordance with the provision for such meetings as set forth in this document (see Article IX).

D.      An affirmative vote of seventy-five percent (75%) of members present will constitute approval of the committee recommendation.

E.      The Pastor shall serve as an ex-officio member of this committee.

Article VIII.  Church Discipline.

 

A.      Should any unhappy difference arise among members, the aggrieved member should follow, in tender spirit, the rules given by our Lord in the 18^th chapter of Matthew.

B.      Should any case of gross breach of covenant or of public scandal occur, the deacons shall endeavor to resolve the offense, according to Biblical teaching; and if their effort fails, they shall report the case to the church.

C.      All such proceedings shall be permeated by the Spirit of Christian kindness and forbearance, but should an adverse decision be reached, the church may proceed to admonish or declare the offender to be no longer in the membership of the church.

D.      Any person whose membership has been terminated for any offense may be restored by vote of the church upon evidence of repentance and reformation.

Article IX.  Church Meetings

 

A.      The time of the church conference will be on the second Sunday evening service of each month.  In the event the conference is postponed, it shall be held the next possible Wednesday or Sunday.

B.      When a called conference is needed, such must be announced on two successive days the church regularly meets.  The called conference must be held not more than ten days from the first announcement of the called meeting and must be held on a day the church regularly meets.  No other business is to be considered at the called session than that for which the meeting was called.

C.      The church will permit absentee balloting by any member on issues considered in a church conference provided a request is made for such by the member wishing to vote absentee and providing the request is made to a deacon of the church or to the pastor.  The ballot will be provided by the church and must be returned to a deacon or the pastor.

D.      All members of the church, regardless of age, will be permitted to vote in a church conference and only members of the church will be qualified to vote.

E.      Members present at any church conference shall constitute a quorum.

F.      Robert's Rules of Order will be used as the standard procedure in church conference.

Article XI.  Building Use Policy.

 

Requests for use of auditorium, education building and fellowship hall are to be placed on the church calendar through the church office pending approval of the deacons with confirmation letter sent including Building Use Guidelines.

 

Section 1.  General Regulations.

A.      Any and all (regular or dripless) candles will have plastic underneath to protect the carpet from wax.  Please notify the one providing the candles.

B.      Smoking is prohibited anywhere in the church buildings.  Please communicate this to all involved in the event.

C.      No alcoholic beverages or drugs are allowed on the premises.

D.      Move furniture as little as possible.  Do not move the piano or organ.  Pulpit, communion table, and choir furniture may be moved to the rooms adjacent the sanctuary.  Please move furniture carefully and return to original location.

E.      Assure that all lights, heat and air conditioners are off before leaving the building.

F.      No tables or chairs may be taken from the church without the approval of the Building and Grounds Committee.

 

Section 2.  Weddings.

A.      It is extremely important that arrangements be made for rehearsals and the ceremony so that neither will conflict with other scheduled activities of the church.

B.      The date should be set as soon as possible, and the hour of the wedding and rehearsal must be placed on the church calendar.  No dates should be announced until the wedding party has conferred with the Deacons and the Chairperson of the Hostess Committee and the dates confirmed.

C.      The church should be notified immediately of any changes.

D.      All music should be in keeping with the sacredness and dignity of the wedding service.  The Minister of Music may be consulted for those who desire guidance in this area.

E.      The couple shall make its own arrangements for an accomplished organist (consulting with the church organist if necessary), pianist and soloist.

F.      No person may participate in the rehearsal or wedding if under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.

G.     No rice or confetti may be thrown anywhere inside the church or on the outside walks.  Use birdseed, if desired, outside buildings.

H.      If you wish to leave the wedding flowers, please notify the church office.

I.         For Saturday weddings, the buildings will be vacated before 8:00 p.m. in order to make ready for Sunday services.

J.       A deposit of $50 is required from non-members.  Such deposit will be returned if the wedding party adequately takes care of janitorial needs.  If janitorial services are required, the deposit will be forfeited and applied to those services. One of the Deacons or a member of the Hostess Committee will inspect the building and approve the return of the deposit or whatever part is not forfeited.

 

Section 3.  Fellowship Hall. 

The Fellowship Hall is part of the church facilities.  Treat it with the same respect.

A.      A deposit of $50 is required from non-members unless other arrangements are made prior to using the building.  Such deposit will be returned if the user adequately takes care of janitorial needs and if there is no damage to property/equipment.  If janitorial services are required or property/equipment requires replacement, the deposit will be forfeited and applied to those services.  One of the Deacons or a member of the Hostess Committee will inspect the building and approve the return of the deposit or whatever part is not forfeited.

B.      If church serving items or dishes are used, they will be inspected/inventoried before and after use by a member of the Hostess Committee.  Users are responsible for replacement of broken items.

C.      The building is to be left in a clean and orderly condition, including bathrooms and kitchen.  Floors should be vacuumed.

D.      There will be no alcohol, smoking, or dancing in the building.

E.      All trash is to be taken from the premises by the users and placed in the dumpster at the church and not on the door step.

F.      There will be no charge for the use of the building; however, a contribution to the church would be appreciated to defray utility costs.

G.     No individual or group may use the building if there is a charge made by that individual or group for the services provided by that individual or group unless approved by the Deacons.

H.      The Fellowship Hall will not be used by any political group.

I.         No tables or chairs may be taken from the building.

 

 

Article XII.  Amendments

 

This covenant and manual of organization and procedure may be changed by a vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the members present and voting at a regular business meeting, provided the changes(s) shall have been offered in writing at a previous regular business meeting of the church.  Copies of the proposed amendments(s) shall be furnished to each member present at the business meeting in which such amendment(s) shall be discussed and voted upon.