BY-LAWS
of
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PINE, ARIZONA
Article I – Membership
Section 1 – Introduction
Any person who accepts Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour and Lord (Romans 10:8-10,13) and gives testimony of their new life in Christ through baptism by immersion following their conversion (1 Corinthians 12:12-14; Romans 12:4-5) is eligible for membership at First Baptist Church of Pine. Any such person who considers First Baptist Church of Pine to be their church is encouraged to publicly identify themselves with this local body of Christ through membership.
Section 2 – Admission
1.) Any person at least 18 years of age desiring church membership should make their request known to a member of the Board of Elders. They will be given a copy of: The Constitution, By-Laws, Statement of Faith, Membership Agreement and an Application for Membership. The application must be completed by the applicant and given to a member of the Board of Elders.
2.) Each applicant shall be required to share his/her salvation testimony before two or more Elders who shall report on his/her testimony to the Board of Elders.
3.) When the Board of Elders is confident of the applicant’s faith in Christ, assurance of salvation, desire to live the Christian life, and willingness to participate in the fellowship and discipline of the local church, then for three (3) consecutive Sundays the Board of Elders shall announce to the congregation that such person has requested membership.
4.) Any objections to an applicant’s membership must be submitted in writing and signed to the Board of Elders within the three (3) Sunday announcement period.
Such objections must include:
a.) The reason for the objections
b.) Scriptural basis for the objections
c.) Evidence that indicates the applicant participates in activities or holds to ideas that are unscriptural and
are contrary to our doctrinal Statement of Faith.
Objections are not to be discussed with anyone except the Board of Elders.
5.) If investigation by the Board of Elders substantiates any objection submitted according to the above, and the applicant will not repent of the wrong, they shall be denied membership. Presentation of new members will be made to the congregation two (2) weeks after the close of the three (3) Sunday announcement period.
6.) Denial of membership may include, but is not limited to: Those practicing adultery, fornication, homosexuality (including transgender changes), pornography, occult or illegal activities.
7.) Those who are admitted as members in this local church will be formally presented to the congregation and given the right hand of fellowship.
8.) Pastors and their wives will become members with full voting privileges on receipt and acceptance of a call from the church.
Section 3 – Non-voting Membership
1) Members who have not attended services of worship, or have no contributed financially to the church for a period of 6 months are considered inactive. Inactive members shall not participate or vote in Business Meetings called by the Church.
2) Restoration of a non-voting member(s) to voting privileges will be granted by the Elder Board upon examination, utilizing new member’s qualifications and requirements as discussed in these By-Laws.
Section 4 – Responsibilities
All members shall strive to:
1.) Live according to the principles established in God’s Word, the Bible.
1.) Live according to the principles established in God’s Word, the Bible.
2.) Respect and submit to the leadership of the church; praying for them regularly.
3.) Preserve the unity of the church; maintaining harmony with other members of the body of Christ.
4.) Be actively involved in the ministry of the church, contributing regularly in time, talents and resources.
5.) Build up and encourage other members of the body of Christ.
Section 5 – Congregational Record and Membership Roll
A current record will be maintained under the supervision of the Board of Elders, to define the membership roll every six (6) months, to determine voting rights and maintain communication with the congregation.
Section 6 – Discipline
1.) Causes for Discipline
a.) The primary Biblical cause for disciplinary action is persistence in sin. God’s people are to be characterized by holiness, as that standard is defined in His Word. Refusal to conform to God’s standards is a serious offense against God and must be dealt with by His people (1 Corinthians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 3:6; 1 Timothy 5:20-21; 2 Timothy 3:1-5).
b.) Any activity which is harmful to the church is also a Biblical reason for discipline.
The following causes are specifically defined:
i.) Teaching doctrines which contradict Biblical truth (1 Timothy 1:3; 2 Timothy 2:17-18).
ii.) Provoking divisions and quarrels within the church (Romans 16:17; Titus 3:10-11).
i.) Teaching doctrines which contradict Biblical truth (1 Timothy 1:3; 2 Timothy 2:17-18).
ii.) Provoking divisions and quarrels within the church (Romans 16:17; Titus 3:10-11).
c.) When a member of the church is in need of discipline for one or more of the causes mentioned above it is the responsibility of the other members of the body to seek their restoration. Disciplinary action is not meant as a means to accuse or condemn another, but rather to bring about restoration according to the process defined in Matthew 18:15-20.
d.) No call for disciplinary action shall be considered against any members of the church unless supported by at least two (2) witnesses (I Timothy 5:19).
2.) Procedure for Restoration
a.) Go to the offender in private and talk to him about the offense. If he listens and corrects the offense, it is to be carried no further (Matthew 8:15).
b.) If the offender refuses to correct the offense, take one or two mature believers along to talk with the person. They are witnesses to the process and may recommend corrective action to either the accused or the accuser. If the offender listens and corrects the offense no further action should be taken (Matthew 18:16).
c.) If the offender still refuses to correct the offense go to the church leadership (Matthew 18:17), which is the Board of Elders. The Board of Elders shall constitute a committee for discipline. They shall seek to interview the offender with the purpose to get the offender to correct his offense and to restore him to fellowship with the Lord and with his brothers and sisters in Christ. If the offender is an elder or pastor, the rest of the Board of Elders shall constitute a committee for discipline.
d.) If the offender still refuses to correct the offense, the Board of Elders shall:
i.) Take appropriate action to restore the offender.
ii.) As a final recourse, suspend the offender from membership and from participation in the activities of the church (Matthew 18:17-20). A suspended member does not have voting rights and may not hold any ministry position, elected or appointed.
iii.) Apart from continued efforts to bring about restoration, church members are to avoid fellowship with the offender after such action is taken (Matthew 18:17; 2 Thessalonians 3:6; Hebrews 12:14-16; 1 Corinthians 5:11-13).
iv.) Whenever such action is deemed necessary, it is understood that the offender has been suspended from membership because of failure to submit to the standards of God’s Word and/or to the authority of church leadership as defined in the church Constitution and By-Laws.
v.) The decision of the Board of Elders shall be communicated to the congregation. The decision of the Board of Elders is final in all matters of personal discipline.
e.) Since disciplinary action is for the correction and reconciliation of the offender, restoration is to be granted as quickly as possible. Upon evidence of repentance of the offender, the Board of Elders will seek to interview the offender. As soon as the Elders are convinced that repentance has occurred, they will restore the person to membership and announce the decision to the congregation as appropriate. Forgiveness and restoration to fellowship with the church body is to be granted with appropriate rejoicing (Matthew 18:21-22; Luke 15:21-32; 2 Corinthians 2:5-11).
Section 7 – Termination of Membership
1.) Any member in good standing who requests a transfer of membership will be given a letter of recommendation by the Board of Elders.
2.) When a member in good standing has been inactive for a period of six (6) months without manifesting interest in attendance or contributions in the church, the Board of Elders may remove the person from membership. Prior to this, every effort will be made to enlist the cooperation of the member in question. At least thirty (30) days prior to removal the person will be notified in writing. The congregation will be advised of this action at the next regular meeting.
Article II – Officers of the Church
Section 1 – Definition
The governing officers of the church shall be called Elders and shall serve on a single board designated Board of Elders. The number of Elders serving on this Board will not be less than three (3) and will be determined by the Board of Elders according to its evaluation of the spiritual and physical needs of the total church body. Input from the Ministerial Staff and the whole congregation will be sought in this evaluation.
Section 2 – Qualifications of Elders
The Elders shall be active members of the church who are mature, godly men, who subscribe to and live in accordance with Biblical principles (1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9), the Statement of Faith, Constitution and By-Laws of this church.
Scriptural Qualifications of Elders – The Elders shall be men possessing the qualifications described in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. This text identifies Elder as male (by birth, heterosexual).
He shall be:
1.) Blameless as a steward of God; above reproach (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6-7). One whose character or conduct is free from any damaging moral or spiritual accusations. This does not mean someone who is free from every fault, but one not marred by any disgrace that could compromise his authority. For FBC policy see the document – “Blameless”.
2.) Husband of one wife; a one-woman man (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6). This passage is in reference to a man’s faithfulness to his wife, sexual purity to one woman is necessary for an Elder. For Biblical exception to only one monogamous relationship, see FBC Policy – “Divorce and Remarriage”.
3.) Temperate, sober, vigilant (1 Timothy 3:2). Denotes self-control, balanced judgment and freedom from debilitating excesses or rash behavior, specifically in reference to an emotional balance or stability, self-restraint and clear-headed judgment.
4.) Sober-minded, prudent (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8). The ability to keep an objective perspective in the face of problems and disagreements. The opposite of pride, authoritarianism and self-justification.
5.) Of good behavior; orderly, respectable (1 Timothy 3:2). A sensible-minded person, reflected by being well-behaved around others, developing relationships that are peaceable, leading others to follow their leadership.
6.) Given to hospitality (2 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8). A loving, sacrificial serving spirit. An expression of Christian love and care.
7.) Apt to each; able to teach; he can exhort believers and refute false teaching (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9). The ability to guide and protect the flock by instruction from the Scripture. Three (3) requirements: 1) knowledge of the Word; 2) personal application of the Word; 3) ability to communicate life’s truths.
8.) Not given to wine (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7). This is not a prohibition against the use of wine (alcohol) but its abuse. Yet, in the spirit of self-restraint, self-control, the Elder should abstain from this socially damaging substance or any other addicting destructive behavior, being sensitive to those who have or even now are suffering the consequences of addictive behavior by substance.
9.) Not violent; not quarrelsome (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7). Due to the highly emotional interpersonal conflicts which can arise in a church setting, this characteristic describes a man who is not a fighter, out-of-control, or quick to strike back when accused.
10.) Patient; moderate; forbearing; gentle (1 Timothy 3:3). One who brings healing among God’s people. A man who exhibits a willingness to yield and patiently work with those who demonstrate weaknesses. One who does not retaliate in kind for wrongs done by others, nor does he insist upon his personal rights.
11.) Not a brawler; uncontentious; not soon angry or quick-tempered (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7). This characteristic is a negative emphasis, eliminating those who are bad-tempered, irritable or out of control emotionally.
12.) Not covetous; not a lover of money; not greedy of base gain (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7). Love of money deludes judgment, is a root of all sorts of evil. This would eliminate one who would need to control the money or refuse financial accountability as a leader in the church.
13.) Rules well his own house; his children are faithful, not accused of rebellion to God (1 Timothy 3:4; Titus 1:6). If he is married, he is to be a responsible Christian father, husband and household manager. His reputation must indicate that he provides for his family financially, emotionally, and spiritually. A man who is able to govern his children graciously and gravely by maintaining good discipline. He must be equally yoked with a believer in marriage.
14.) Not a novice; not a new convert (1 Timothy 3:6). A new convert is a beginner in the faith. Spiritual maturity requires time and experience for the arduous task of the Lord’s work.
15.) Has a good rapport or reputation with outsiders (1 Timothy 3:7). Often a man’s coworkers and relatives who are not believers have more daily contact with a prospective church leader. They may judge less sympathetically, but perhaps also more realistically and knowledgeably with an awareness of this man’s commitment and consistency with regards to his Christian faith.
16.) Not self-willed (Titus 1:7). This is a man who wants to be in charge, who must have control, lords it over others. This individual cannot work well in a group, especially in the household of God.
17.) A lover of good men and things (Titus 1:8). This is someone who rejoices over the morally beneficial things of this life. He is quick to point out the integrity of others and does not envy. His daily choices reflect a life of gratitude to God.
18.) Just and fair (Titus 1:8). An essential quality that identifies a balanced life of wisdom, which is applying truth to his decisions.
19.) Holy and devout (Titus 1:8). A man resistant to sin, self-pity and pride, but is a student of the Word and man of prayer.
20.) Self-controlled (Titus 1:8). There are many emotionally tense times when leading others, controlling one’s emotions is a great benefit; but self-control is much more, it identifies a man who has yielded himself to the power of God in his life. His decision making capacities reflect power under control (meekness).
Section 3 – Selection
1.) Elders will be approved for a three (3) year term. An Elder board member may not serve in excess of one (1) three (3) year term after which a sabbatical from the board of not less than one year shall be required.
2.) When the Elder Board appoints a new board member, or a replacement board member, the names of Elder candidate(s) must be submitted to the congregation two (2) weeks prior to an appointment by the Elder Board for ratification by the congregation.
3.) Any objections to the appointment must be submitted in writing and signed to the Board of Elders within the two (2) week’s announcement period.
Such objections must include:
a.) The reason for the objection.
b.) Scriptural basis for the objection.
c.) Evidence that indicates the applicant participates in activities or holds to ideas that are unscriptural and are contrary to our doctrinal Statement of Faith. Objections are not to be discussed with anyone except the Board of Elders.
4.) If investigation by the Board of Elders substantiates any objection submitted according to the above, then the appointment by the Board of Elders will not take place.
5.) Departing members of the Board of Elders will continue to serve as non-governing Elders of the church to the extent that they are willing and able to serve in that capacity.
6.) When the number of board members becomes less than that considered to be essential, the Board of Elders may appoint members from among the non-governing Elders to fill vacancies.
Section 4 – Responsibilities
1.) The Board of Elders will seek the Lord’s leading in their duties, by devotion to prayer and the study of God’s Word, the Bible. In doing this, the Elders will serve a four-fold function:
a. Build and develop their own families in the Lord (1 Timothy 3:4-5);
b. Feed and shepherd the church by proclaiming God’s Word, imparting truth, refuting error and administering discipline (John 21:15-17; Acts 20:17-32; 1 Peter 5:1-3).
c. Oversee all aspects of the church both temporal and spiritual (Titus 1:5-7; Timothy 3:4-5).
d. Represent the church in legal aspects with the government.
2.) The selection of officers and assignment of responsibilities within the Board of Elders will be determined by internal election. The board shall establish and oversee other church boards and committees.
3.) Primary responsibilities will reside in worship, evangelism, education, edification, missions, property, and finances.
Section 5 – Meetings
1.) The Board of Elders shall meet for the consideration of business not less than once per month. Special meetings may be called by the chairman as needed.
2.) A quorum of a simple majority is necessary to conduct business.
Section 6 – Accountability
1.) All Elders will participate faithfully in a mutual discipleship ministry with the Pastor.
2.) The Board of Elders shall evaluate itself and its members to assure that it is fulfilling its responsibilities in accordance with the Word of God and these by-Laws.
3.) The Board of Elders shall be responsible for disciplining its members, when the occasion arises, in accordance with the principles established.
4.) The Board of Elders shall be accountable to the congregation and ultimately to the Head of the Church, Jesus Christ, for all their actions and decisions (Ephesians 1:22-23; Hebrews 13:17; Peter 5:1-4).
Section 7 – Resignation
Any Elder who ceases to fulfill the Biblical qualifications for an Elder or is unable to fulfill the duties of his office, fails to attend three (3) consecutive Board of Elders meetings without good reason, or does not regularly attend the announced services of the church, shall be asked to resign from the Board of Elders.
Section 8 – Removal
Any Elder may be removed from office at any regular or special business meeting by a majority of the Board of Elders if he is found to be physically or mentally incapacitated or spiritually unqualified (according to pertinent Scripture, including 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9), after corroborating investigation by the Elders (or duly appointed Committee of the Board), in accordance with the procedures prescribed by pertinent Scripture, including Matthew 18:15-18 and 1 Timothy 5:19, he will be removed.
Article III – Ministerial Staff
Section 1 – Qualifications of Pastors
Each member shall have been called by the will of God into the ministry of serving God, proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ and edifying the people of God. Each shall be a mature, godly person of outstanding character whose reputation is beyond reproach. He must display the spiritual and personal qualities required of leaders by the Bible (1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9). In addition, he shall subscribe to and live in accordance with the Statement of Faith, Constitution and By-Laws of this church.
Section 2 – Selection
1.) When the need for Ministerial Staff arises, the Board of Elders shall evaluate the needs of the church and present a recommendation to the congregation which identifies the nature of the staff position to be filled.
a.) The Search Committee for Pastor(s) shall consist of regular members who are mature, discerning believers, representing as broad a spectrum as possible within the church body.
b.) An Elder shall be a member of all Search Committees.
c.) An outgoing pastor may not be a member of the search committee seeking his replacement, but may be a consultant to it.
2.) All search committees will consult with the Board of Elders and solicit recommendations from other members of the congregation to establish a prioritized list of qualifications to seek in selecting a candidate to fill the specific position under consideration.
3.) The search committee shall solicit names of candidates from the Ministerial Staff, the congregation and other sources.
4.) The search committee shall be responsible for investigating the background and qualifications of those it is considering.
5.) Those candidates who meet the criteria established by these By-Laws and by the Search Committee shall be placed on a list from which one candidate will be selected and invited for more thorough interviews and evaluation.
6.) After being selected by the Search Committee, the candidate shall then be presented to the Board of Elders for their approval. Both the search committee and Board of Elders must approve the candidate by no less than a two-thirds (2/3) vote of Board and committee members before the person may be presented to the congregation for election.
7.) The approved candidate must be presented to the congregation by means of written materials for no less than two (2) weeks prior to a personal visit by the candidate and family. Congregational evaluation shall include opportunities for personal contact, preaching or other activities as appropriate for the position being filled.
8.) Congregational approval shall be demonstrated by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of qualified voting members. The votes shall be cast by secret ballot. Any absentee ballots shall be signed and sent by certified mail, prior to the vote.
9.) All Ministerial Staff members shall be called for an indefinite term.
Section 3 – Responsibilities
1.) Senior Pastor
a.) The Senior Pastor shall be responsible for his area of ministry as defined by the Board of Elders and approved by the congregation. These duties will include: preaching regularly at scheduled church services, administering the ordinances of the church, caring for the spiritual needs of the body by training them for Christian living and for the work of the ministry (Ephesians 4:11-12).
b.) He shall be responsible for coordinating the ministries of the Ministerial Staff.
c.) He shall be a member of the Board of Elders and an ex-officio member of all other boards, committees and organizations. He cannot be elected to any other office in the church. He may delegate his ex-officio status to another member of the Ministerial Staff or Elder for participation in any meeting.
d.) He shall present a written report at each Annual Business Meeting, summarizing the progress of the church during the past year, and proposing goals for the future development of the ministry.
e.) He shall perform such other duties in connection with the work of the church as shall be delegated to him by the Board of Elders.
Section 4 – Meetings
The Ministerial Staff shall meet regularly for prayer, planning and coordination of activities.
Section 5 – Accountability
1.) He shall abide by the Word of God in his life. He shall teach and preach and guard his conduct as to be esteemed a mature and godly person, respected in the congregation and in the community.
2.) He shall be careful to carry out his assigned responsibilities to the best of his ability, according to the abilities which God has given him.
3.) He shall be accountable to the Senior Pastor related to his area of responsibility for the fulfillment of his duties.
4.) He shall be accountable to the Board of Elders for his personal walk with God and character and for encouraging the growth and spiritual development of the church.
5.) He is accountable to the Board of Elders in accordance with the principles established herein.
Section 6 – Resignation
1.) Service may be terminated upon ninety (90) days notification in writing by the staff members to the board or committee related to his area of responsibility and to the Board of Elders. By mutual agreement of the staff member and the Board of Elders, the notification period may be shortened.
2.) Consideration shall be given by the Board of Elders to the cause and alternatives prior to accepting a resignation. Resignations shall be considered final when accepted by the Board of Elders.
3.) Any member of the Ministerial Staff who ceases to fulfill the Biblical qualifications for an Elder, is unable to fulfill the duties of his office or does not regularly attend the services of the church, shall be asked to resign.
Section 7 – Dismissal
1.) All action to dismiss a member of the Ministerial Staff shall be directed to the Board of Elders for its consideration.
2.) A recommendation for dismissal can be made by the Board of Elders only when the requirements established under Qualification and Responsibilities of these By-Laws have not been met.
3.) The recommendation for dismissal from the Board of Elders shall be presented to the congregation for its consideration.
4.) A recommendation for dismissal must be announced two (2) weeks prior to the congregational meeting and confirmed by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the qualified members of the congregation present, cast by secret ballot, when the Ministerial Staff member is not present.
5.) At any time during the proceedings, the member of the Ministerial Staff may submit his resignation to the Board of Elders which would eliminate the need for additional public discussion or congregational vote.
6.) In the case of serious disciplinary problems, the Board of Elders shall be empowered to relieve the staff member of his duties until the dismissal process is completed.
Article IV – Church Boards and Committees
Section 1 – Qualification of Deacons
The Deacons are elected members of the body who are responsible for the physical and spiritual welfare of the members of the church (Acts 6:1-5). The number of deacons comprising the Board of Deacons shall not be less than three (3) and can be increased by action by the Board of Elders.
Scriptural Qualifications of Deacons –
The Deacons shall be men possessing the qualifications described in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. He shall be:
1.) Blameless as a steward of God; above reproach (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6-7). For FBC guidelines see the document – “Blameless”.
2.) Husband of one wife; a one-woman man (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6). For biblical exception to only one monogamous relationship, see document – “Divorce, Remarriage and Headship”.
3.) Temperate, sober, vigilant (1 Timothy 3:2).
4.) Sober-minded, prudent (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8).
5.) Of good behavior; orderly, respectable (1 Timothy 3:2).
6.) Given to hospitality (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8).
7.) Apt to teach; able to teach (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9).
8.) Not given to wine (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7).
9.) Not violent; not quarrelsome (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7).
10.) Patient; moderate; forbearing; gentle (1 Timothy 3:3).
11.) Not a brawler; uncontentious; not soon angry or quick-tempered (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7).
12.) Not covetous; not a lover of money; not greedy of base gain (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7).
13.) Rules well his own house; his children are faithful, not accused of rebellion to God (1 Timothy 3:4; Titus 1:6).
14.) Not a novice; not a new convert (1 Timothy 3:6).
15.) Has a good report or reputation with outsiders (1 Timothy 3:7).
16.) Not self-willed (Titus 1:7).
17.) A lover of good men and things (Titus 1:8).
18.) Just and fair (Titus 1:8).
19.) Holy and devout (Titus 1:8).
20.) Self-controlled (Titus 1:8).
Section 2 – Deacon Nominations
Deacons shall be nominated by the Elder Board each year at the 4th quarter business meeting. A Deacon will be considered elected when he receives a majority vote by the qualified members present. He will serve for a 3-year period at which time he will have at least a year sabbatical before re-election to the Board.
Section 3 – Deacon Responsibilities
The word Deacon as used in the Greek language means “servant”. His primary responsibility as described in Acts 6:1-3; Philippians 1:1 shall be to assist the Elders and Pastor in:
1.) Preparing and serving communion and caring for baptismal needs.
2.) Administering a fund for the manifold needs of the people.
3.) Be ready to step in with help during all kinds of crisis.
4.) Handle the greeting and welcoming ministries.
5.) Participate in a shepherding ministry of visitation and watch care over the people.
6.) Be ready to assist the Elders and others in any service that would support and promote the ministry of the Word.
Section 4 – Deacon Removal
Any Deacon may be removed from office at any regularly or special meeting of the Board of Elders after corroborating investigation by the Elders (or duly appointed Committee of the Board), finds him to be physically or mentally incapacitated or spiritually unqualified (according to pertinent Scripture, including Matthew 18:15-18 and 1 Timothy 5:19), are to be followed.
Section 5 – Other Boards and Committees
1.) Definition – The Board of Elders shall establish those committees and boards necessary to carry out the ministries and business affairs of the church. These boards and committees may be ongoing or temporary as need dictates.
2.) Qualification – The board and committee members shall be mature individuals who subscribe to and live in accordance with Biblical principles, the Statement of Faith, Constitute and By-Laws of this church.
3.) Selection of a Leader – Once the board or committee has been established a leader will be designated or affirmed by the Board of Elders or Deacons, whichever is applicable.
4.) Responsibilities –
a.) The board or committee shall seek the Lord’s leading in carrying out its duties.
b.) A board or committee may establish its own By-Laws or guidelines, which shall be subject to approval by the Board of Elders.
5.) Meetings – The board or committee shall meet as often as necessary to perform their assigned responsibilities.
6.) Accountability – All boards or committees shall be accountable to the established Board, through its designated representative.
7.) Removal – Board or committee members (other than Deacons) may be removed by the establishing board.
Article V – Meetings
1.) There shall be a general congregational business meeting every quarter with election of Deacons occurring at the fourth (4th) quarterly business meeting, which will be held in January. These meetings shall include reports from such committees and individuals as deemed necessary and desirable by the Board of Elders.
2.) Special meetings may be called by the Chairman of the Board of Elders.
3.) All meetings must have a minimum notification period of one (1) week, except the fourth (4th) quarter which shall have two (2) weeks.
4.) A simple majority of votes cast on any issue shall be necessary to pass any item of business unless stated otherwise in the Constitution or the By-Laws.
5.) All meetings shall have a quorum, which is one-quarter (¼) of qualified voting members.
6.) No new business, other than that submitted by the Board of Elders, shall be considered for action during the current meeting. Any new business to be presented, in a regular or special business meeting shall be reviewed by the Board of Elders prior to presentation at the next business meeting.