Ferndale Alliance Church Bylaws
Our official relationship with our parent organization, The Christian and Missionary Alliance and as a corporation within the state of Washington require the adoption of and adherence to bylaws which flow out of a prescribed constitution set forth by the Christian and Missionary Alliance.
In short, the Constitutional parts of the following document (in italics) can be changed only by the denomination at the national level. Bylaws (in plain text) can be altered by the local church through the process prescribed in the document in order to meet the changing needs or convictions of the church.
(updated and conformed to C&MA bylaws and recent FAC changes in August 2005, JRM)
PREAMBLE
ARTICLE I-NAME
ARTICLE II-RELATIONSHIP
ARTICLE III-MEMBERSHIP (How to become a member)
ARTICLE-IV ORDINANCES (Baptism and Communion)
ARTICLE V-GOVERNMENT (Elections and Meetings)
ARTICLE VI-LOCAL CHURCH GOVERNANCE AUTHORITY (Leadership Structure at FAC)
ARTICLE VII-OFFICERS
ARTICLE VIII-PASTORAL STAFF
ARTICLE IX-DUTIES OF CHURCH OFFICERS
ARTICLE X-COMMITTEES AND ORGANIZATIONS
ARTICLE XI-MISSIONS CONFERENCE
ARTICLE XII-PROPERTY AND RECORDS
ARTICLE XIII-NOMINATING COMMITTEE (Nominating people to serve on Ministry Leadership Board)
ARTICLE XIV-ELECTIONS (Electing people to serve on Ministry Leadership Board)
ARTICLE XV-REVERSION OF PROPERTY
ARTICLE XVI-BYLAWS
ARTICLE XVII-AMENDMENTS
ARTICLE XVIII-CONFORMANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW
Original bylaws adopted January 17, 1990 by charter members. Revised, January 1991, January 1992, January 1994, August 1996, September 1998, June 2004.
(Note: Text in italicized print is copied verbatim from the Constitution of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, latest revision 2004. All other (plain) text are bylaws specific to Ferndale Alliance Church)
UNIFORM CONSTITUTION FOR ACCREDITED CHURCHES OF THE CHRISTIAN AND MISSIONARY ALLIANCE
Each accredited church of The Christian and Missionary Alliance shall adopt and be governed by the following Constitution.
PREAMBLE Back to the top
The New Testament teaches that the local church is the visible organized expression of the Body of Christ. The people of God are to live and serve in obedience to the Word of God and under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. The Christian and Missionary Alliance operates on the presupposition that the congregation finds broader meaning and outreach in fulfilling its biblical responsibilities within the life and witness of the denomination.
This Constitution has three objectives:
1. Set out in general an outline for organization and administration for this church.
2. Define the relationship of this church to the district of which it is an integral part.
3. Relate this church to the denominational framework through which the worldwide
work of The Christian and Missionary Alliance is carried out.
The Uniform Constitution for Accredited Churches has been framed and adopted by the General Council, the denomination’s highest governing body. The accredited churches of The Christian and Missionary Alliance have participated in this process through their authorized delegates. This church can, in accordance with this Constitution and in a manner that is consistent with the Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, formulate its bylaws so as to carry out its ministry appropriately and efficiently.
This church is an integral part of the district and worldwide fellowship and is united in governance, fellowship, and service in order to promote unity of faith in the fullness of Jesus Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King, and to facilitate the spread of the gospel at home and abroad under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Last Revision Council 2004
Back to the top
ARTICLE I-NAME Back to the top
The official name under which this church is incorporated or organized is Ferndale Alliance Church of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
ARTICLE II-RELATIONSHIP Back to the top
This church is connected with and subordinate to its parent religious organization, The Christian and Missionary Alliance, a Colorado nonprofit corporation. In consideration of the mutual benefits generated and derived from this relationship, and understanding that The Christian and Missionary Alliance is relying hereon in agreeing to initiate or continue such relationship, this church agrees to be subject to and abide by the terms and conditions of Article XV hereof relating to the reversion of property of accredited churches.
ARTICLE III-MEMBERSHIP
Qualifications for membership shall consist of:
1. Confession of faith in Jesus Christ and evidence of regeneration.
2. Belief in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; in the verbal inspiration of the Holy
Scriptures as originally given; in the vicarious atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ; in the
eternal salvation of all who believe in Him and the eternal punishment of all who reject Him.
3. Acceptance of the doctrines of the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and
Coming King.
4. Full sympathy with the principles and objectives of The Christian and Missionary
Alliance and cooperation by systematic support of its work.
5. Such other qualifications for membership as may be stated in the bylaws.
Section A: REQUIREMENTS FOR MEMBERSHIP
1. Applicants for membership must be 16 years of age. The minimum age for voting in all legal matters is 18 years.
2. Baptism: All applicants must be baptized before membership is granted. Believers baptism by immersion is strongly encouraged and is what is practiced at Ferndale Alliance (see ORDINANCE IV). However, upon the good conscience of the applicant, other Christian forms of baptism are accepted at Ferndale Alliance for membership. (1996, 2015)
3. Applicants to membership must attend the regular services of the church on a consistent basis for a period of three months prior to being given membership status. Exceptions shall be made for applicants transferring as members in good standing from another C&MA church. The Membership Committee shall determine whether the applicant meets this requirement.
4. All applicants will attend a “Welcome to Ferndale Alliance” orientation class which will instruct and discuss the following:
a. The importance of personal saving faith in Jesus Christ and the Biblical basis for assurance of salvation.
b. An introduction to Albert B. Simpson, The Christian and Missionary Alliance, and Ferndale Alliance. Emphasis will be placed on history, distinctives, and the Mission Statement for Ferndale Alliance.
c. An introduction to the Biblical picture of the church as “the body of Christ” with Christ as the “head” and all the other different body “parts” as working together “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12-14; Ephesians 4; Romans 12; 1 Peter 4; etc.).
d. An introduction to the missions emphasis of the C&MA, the Great Commission Fund, and the Faith Promise Card.
e. A brief introduction to the Fourfold Gospel, the C&MA logo, and the 11 Articles of Faith of the C&MA.
f. Note: Attendance in the “Welcome to Ferndale Alliance” class may be waived by the Membership Committee to applicants who are transfer members in good standing from another C&MA church. The Membership Committee may require the “Welcome” class to any and all transfer applicants.
5. A personal interview (families may be interviewed together) by the Membership Committee is required of all applicants (including all transfers). Applicant should demonstrate to the Committee…
a. Clear evidence of saving faith in Jesus Christ, usually through the sharing of applicant’s personal testimony.
b. Agreement and support of C&MA doctrines, emphasis, and ministry.
c. A desire to live for Jesus, to seek regular fillings of the Holy Spirit, and to be used by Him in the furtherance of God’s kingdom through the ministry of Ferndale Alliance Church.
d. A willingness, as God provides and enables, to support the regular ministries of the local church and the Great Commission Fund through regular attendance and financial support.
6. Upon recommendation of Membership Committee, applicant shall be received into membership and welcomed into fellowship at a regular public service of the church through the acceptance of the following Covenant of Membership:
COVENANT OF MEMBERSHIP
Having been redeemed by the blood of Christ, and born again by the Holy Spirit because of the love of God,
And recognizing the privilege, benefits, and responsibility of committing yourself unto the care of the local church,
By the grace and help of God, is it your intention . . .
1. To live for Christ by faith, seeking the infilling and refreshing of the Holy Spirit, promising to make the Scriptures the rule of your faith and practice, maintaining a godly home life by encouraging Bible study and prayer for such as may be under your care, and seeking by example to win unbelievers to Christ?
2. To attend, as far as possible, the regular services of the church; to uphold its program of worship, training and teaching; to pray for and honor those who pastor and lead the congregation; to observe its ordinances and affirm its doctrines; to be led with others by the Holy Spirit to minister together in and through the church peacefully, lovingly, humbly, and prayerfully?
3. To recognize that the Great Commission is incumbent upon every follower of Christ and, therefore, it is your responsibility to pray that the Lord of the Harvest will send forth laborers in missionary work from this church and to pray for those who represent us in the task of worldwide missions?
4. To give regularly and cheerfully of the means and resources that God has entrusted you with for (1) the ministry of the local church, (2) the worldwide work of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, and (3) the benefit of the needy?
Section B: MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE: The Membership Committee shall consist of at least two elders/pastors of the church. The board of elders shall meet at least once yearly to update the membership roll of the church.
Section C: YOUTH MEMBERSHIP: Youth in the church under sixteen (16) years of age may meet all the requirements of membership and upon being received into youth membership shall enjoy the privileges of full membership except the privilege of voting. At age sixteen such youth members in good standing shall be interviewed by the membership committee and shall become regular members of the church. They should be received into membership at a regular public service of the church.
Section D TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP: Membership in the local church may be terminated in one of five ways:
1. By death.
2. By written request of the member.
3. By transfer. Members in good standing may ask for and shall receive a letter of transfer from the pastor or Ministry Leadership Board. Upon granting of such letter membership is terminated.
4. By absence. If a member is inactive or absent from regular services of the church for a period of six months, and efforts from the Elders Board to communicate with and restore member to active fellowship have failed, then he/she may be given “inactive membership” status by the Elders Board. Inactive members shall have the full right of church membership without the right to vote. Inactive members will remain on the inactive list for up to two years after which their membership will be evaluated by the elders. Inactive members will be dropped from membership after two years by a majority vote of the Ministry Leadership Board if there is not just cause for their nonattendance and nonsupport of the church. Allowances may be made for special circumstances which would not allow active participation in the local church such as temporary job relocation, college, missionary work, illness, etc. Inactive members may be reinstated as active members at their request and upon action by the Elders Board (Rev. January 1991).
5. For heresy (teaching or promoting doctrine contrary to the C&MA statement of faith) or willful and persistent sin or conduct which disrupts the harmony of the congregation. Primary action and emphasis shall be placed on restoration and reconciliation based on such Biblical principles as found in Matthew 18:11-35 and Galatians 6:1. After which, member may be ejected from membership roll upon majority vote of the Ministry Leadership Board. The congregation shall be informed of all such dismissals.
Section E: RENEWAL OF MEMBERSHIP: The elders of the church shall decide upon the conditions of membership renewal.
ARTICLE-IV ORDINANCES Back to the top
Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are recognized as the two ordinances of the church. Believers’ baptism by immersion is taught and practiced as the scriptural mode. The pastor or other elders shall oversee baptism. They shall provide the instruction about baptism and shall administer the baptisms themselves or choose other spiritually respected people to do these ministries.
The Lord’s Supper is administered regularly. The pastor or other elders shall oversee Communion. They shall provide the instruction about Communion and shall administer the Communion themselves or choose other spiritually respected people to do these ministries.
ARTICLE V-GOVERNMENT Back to the top
There shall be an annual meeting of the members of this church to be held at a time specified in the bylaws at which time the members shall receive reports of ministries, including audited reports of the treasurers, and shall elect church officers, elders, and members of the governance authority. Additional ministry positions shall be filled as specified in the local church bylaws. The governance authority, as specified in the local church bylaws, shall conduct the affairs of the church between annual meetings and shall be amenable to the membership and the district superintendent as constitutionally defined. Other meetings of the members may be called by proper notice to the membership as specified in the bylaws. On general church matters in which no legal questions are involved, it is understood that all members in good and regular standing who have reached the age of 16 years are entitled to vote, but in matters involving titles of property or legal procedure, the laws of the state determine the age at which members are eligible to vote.
Section A: ANNUAL MEETING: The annual congregational meeting for Ferndale Alliance shall consist of two meetings:
1. A meeting shall be held in late May or June (date determined by the Ministry Leadership Board) to hear reports from the various ministries of the church as directed and prescribed by the pastor. Election of Ministry Leadership Board officers shall take place at this time. Officers shall begin serving July 1.
2. A meeting shall be held in January or February (date determined by the Ministry Leadership Board) for the purpose of conducting the financial business of the church, including a review of the previous year’s finances and the adoption of the new year’s budget.
Section B: NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETINGS: The notice for annual congregational meetings shall be made from the pulpit and in the church bulletin the two Sunday mornings before the meeting.
Section C: SPECIAL MEETINGS: Special meetings may be called by the senior pastor or by two-thirds of the Ministry Leadership Board. The purpose for the meeting shall be given and reasonable attempt must be made to inform the majority of the congregation.
Section D: CHANGE OF DATE: For reasonable cause the Ministry Leadership Board has the authority to reschedule the annual meeting(s) after meeting date has been set and announced, but must do so by letter, email, or phone call to each active member of the congregation.
Section E: QUORUM: The members present at the meeting shall be recorded and they shall represent a quorum.
Section F: CHAIRMAN: The chairman of the congregational meeting shall be the senior pastor, then the vice-chairman of the Ministry Leadership Board, then one appointed by the Ministry Leadership Board. Minutes shall be recorded by the secretary of the Ministry Leadership Board.
Section G: MOTIONS: Motions shall be passed according to a simple majority of the votes cast, with the exceptions of (1) the adoption or amending of bylaws and (2) the purchase or sale of land or buildings which shall require a two-thirds vote to carry.
Section H: FISCAL YEAR: The fiscal year of the church shall correspond to the calendar year.
ARTICLE VI-LOCAL CHURCH GOVERNANCE AUTHORITY Back to the top
Section 1. General. Each local church shall structure its governance authority in accordance with the governing documents of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the definition of elder authority, the bylaws of the district, and the laws of the state in which the church is located. The members of the governance authority shall satisfy the scriptural standards for church leadership and shall be members of this church. The senior pastor shall be chairman or, at his request, the governance authority shall elect an elder as chairman. An elder also shall be elected as vice chairman. Meetings shall be held for prayer and business, and abbreviated minutes shall be reported to the church as the church may decide. Special meetings may be called by the chairman or by written request of one half of the governance authority membership. All officers, committees, and organizations except the Nominating Committee are amenable to the collective oversight of the elders.
Section 2. Removal. In consultation with the district superintendent and the senior pastor, any officer or auxiliary official, except licensed pastoral staff, of this church, whether elected at the church annual meeting or appointed by the governance authority, or any individual member of the governance authority, may be removed by a two-thirds majority vote of the governance authority and the approval of the district superintendent if, in the judgment of the governance authority, the best interests of this church will be served thereby.
Section A: The Ministry Leadership Board (MLB) shall consist of the following 5-8 members who, except for the pastor shall be elected by the congregation:
Pastor/chairman
Three elders
1-3 Members at large
Church Financial Director (who may also be an elder or a member at large)
Section B: Qualifications:
1. MLB members shall been been active members in the church for at
least six months and meet the scriptural qualifications of church leadership.
2. MLB members shall be maturing Christians who demonstrate
faithfulness, service, grace and unity in church body life.
3. All MLB members shall demonstrate commitment and support of FAC
through their tithes to FAC and support of the Great Commission Fund
4. DIVORCE AND REMARRIAGE: The following statement of policy shall guide the
congregation on this important and sensitive issue:
a. We affirm the C&MA statement in the current Manual of the C&MA regarding divorce and remarriage (1989 C&MA Manual, pages 23-34, General Council 1977):
“Discretion…must be exercised in the choice of divorced and remarried persons for places of leadership in the church. While all believers are equal members of the body of Christ, not all members are qualified equally for every office in the church. The offices of elder (spiritual leader) and deacon (business leader) in the church are to be filled by those of high moral and spiritual qualifications, whose pattern of exemplary Christian living is so established that it may be followed.”
b. Past failures in marriage shall not, in and of themselves, disqualify a person for church leadership as long as candidate now demonstrates an attitude of repentance for past failures and confesses an understanding and conviction of the Biblical position on divorce and remarriage as reflected in the entire statement included in the current Alliance manual (1989, pages 227-234). In this allowance we affirm the restorative grace of God and the integrity and sanctity of marriage.
c. We insist that all married candidates for church office have healthy, growing, Christian marriages.
Section C: MINISTRY BOARD SECRETARY. At the earliest meeting a secretary shall be appointed by and from among the MLB members.
Section D: VICE-CHAIRMAN: At its first meeting of each year, the Ministry Leadership Board shall elect a Vice-Chairman and a second Vice-Chairman from among the elders to serve in the pastor’s absence.
Section E: TERMS: All terms for officers of the Ministry Leadership Board shall last one year except pastor and elders. Elders shall serve three-year terms with the election of elders occurring as such so that one elder is elected each year.
Section F: VACANCIES: All vacancies that occur during any term shall be filled by Ministry Leadership Board appointment.
Section G: QUORUM: A quorum for business shall be considered 51% or more of the MLB.
Section H: VOTING: All members shall have one vote except the chairman who shall vote only in the case of a tie. All motions shall be passed by a simple majority.
Section I: REPORT TO THE CONGREGATION: A report of the business conducted by the Ministry Leadership Board at each meeting shall be available to the congregation.
ARTICLE VII-OFFICERS
The officers shall be members of this church and shall satisfy the scriptural standards for church leadership. They shall consist of the following who, with the exception of the senior pastor, shall be elected at the annual meeting of the church: senior pastor, secretary, treasurer, assistant treasurer, and such other officers as may be designated in the church bylaws or in the state law.
The office of treasurer and missionary treasurer shall be filled by the same person. At Ferndale Alliance the treasurer is also called the Church Financial Director.
ARTICLE VIII-PASTORAL STAFF
The governance authority shall not give consideration to any candidate for the pastoral staff without the approval of the district superintendent. Pastoral staff members shall be called by the governance authority and appointed by the district superintendent. The district superintendent shall suggest to the governance authority the names of such workers as in his judgment have proper qualifications for pastoral staff. Upon appointment by the district superintendent, a pastoral staff member and spouse become members of this church. Pastoral staff include all those whose position calls for licensing as an “official worker,” as defined in the General Regulations in the Manual of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. Any member of the pastoral staff may resign from this church by giving due notice of this intention to the district superintendent and the governance authority. The governance authority may, in conjunction with the district superintendent, ask for the resignation of any member of the pastoral staff. Before such action is taken, the governance authority and that member shall follow the guidelines as prescribed by the district superintendent. The district superintendent, with the approval of the District Executive Committee, shall have the authority to remove or transfer a member of the pastoral staff when the governance authority is in disagreement or whenever circumstances make such removal or transfer advisable.
Section A: The elders of the church shall recommend to the Ministry Leadership Board job descriptions for any pastoral staff additions.
Section B: The Ministry Leadership Board and all the elders shall function collectively as a single board for the purpose of interviewing and hiring pastoral staff.
Section C: Any proceedings designed to call for the resignation of any pastor shall begin with the prayerful attempt to build up and make effective that pastor and his ministry.
ARTICLE IX-DUTIES OF CHURCH OFFICERS Back to the top
Section A. Senior Pastor. The senior pastor shall have oversight of this church. He shall be chairman of the governance authority except as he may choose to proceed according to the provisions in Article VI. He shall preside at all regular or special meetings of the church membership. He is a member ex-officio of all church committees and organizations. When the membership has no pastor, the chairman or vice chairman of the governance authority shall have oversight of the church in conjunction with the district superintendent. The senior pastor shall be the president of this church where such office is required by law.
Section B. Secretary. The secretary shall keep the minutes of membership meetings and conduct the correspondence of this church as directed by the governance authority. The secretary shall attend and keep minutes of other meetings as specified in the local church bylaws.
The secretary shall record minutes of all ministry board meetings which shall then be provided to the board before the next meeting for review. Once reviewed by the pastor, board chairman, or vice chairman, minutes shall posted for the congregation in a public area of the church. The secretary shall also record attendance and minutes of all congregational meetings. In his/her absence, the pastor or acting board chairman shall appoint from the Ministry Leadership Board a substitute secretary.
Section C. Treasurer. The treasurer shall receive all moneys of this church and shall be responsible for the payment of all bills on the order of the governance authority as specified by the local church bylaws, keeping proper book records of all transactions, and filing canceled vouchers and receipts for payments made. The governance authority shall determine where funds of this church shall be kept. No offerings shall be solicited from the membership except upon approval of the governance authority. (Note: The “Treasurer” is called the Church Financial Director-CFD-at Ferndale Alliance)
The CFD shall be accountable to the MLB and the congregation for the following ministries:
a. He/she shall insure that a qualified church member (to be called the Offerings Steward*)
oversees the counting, recording, and depositing of offerings and church income and that
all offerings are handled at all times by two church members. He/she will also insure that
accurate quarterly and yearly giving receipts are given to the congregation and that all
church finances are managed with absolute integrity.
b. He/she shall provide monthly financial reports to the MLB, finance committee, and
congregation.
c. He/she may, with MLB approval, appoint a “bookkeeper” to manage the churches
finances. The bookkeeper shall be accountable to the CFD, pastor, and MLB.
d. The CFD, along the with the MLB, shall appoint and lead a finance committee which will
meet not less than quarterly for prayer and review of church finances. The finance
committee will also present to the MLB the next years budget in a timely manner.
* The “Offerings Steward” was formerly the “assistant treasurer” and is no longer
an elected position at Ferndale Alliance.
Section D. Missionary Treasurer. When required by local church bylaws, the missionary treasurer shall account for all missionary moneys and oversee the forwarding of the same to the treasurer of The Christian and Missionary Alliance on or before the tenth of the following month.
Section E. Assistant Treasurer. The assistant treasurer shall, with another person or persons appointed by the governance authority, be responsible to count all moneys and keep a separate record of all receipts. The assistant treasurer may be empowered to issue receipts to the donors. The Assistant Treasurer is also called the Offerings Steward at Ferndale Alliance.
It is a policy of the local church that no offering moneys shall be handled by only one person. Moneys shall be counted and receipts signed by at least two persons approved by the Ministry Leadership Board.
Section F: Alliance Women President/Director of Women’s Ministries. Working with the Board of Elders, the Alliance Women President/Director of Women’s Ministries shall preside over the Alliance Women (formerly, Women’s Missionary Prayer Fellowship-“WMPF)” as prescribed by the Constitution of the Christian and Missionary Alliance and shall share in the spiritual oversight of the women of the congregation.
ARTICLE X-COMMITTEES AND ORGANIZATIONS Back to the top
Section A. Elders. The elders shall be male members of this church and shall be elected as specified in the church bylaws. With authority from Christ the Chief Shepherd and confirmed by the church membership, the pastor and the other elders are the highest level of servant leadership in the local church. As undershepherds, elders shall serve with the senior pastor to oversee the local church and its ministries to accomplish Christ’s mission. They shall constitute the Committee on Membership. They shall be the Committee on Discipline in accordance with the Uniform Policy on Discipline, Restoration, and Appeal of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
1. The Elders Board of the church shall consist of the pastor(s) of the church, the elders of the Ministry Leadership Board, and additional elders, known as associate elders, who shall be recognized and appointed by the Ministry Leadership Board.
2. An elder shall be recognized as a man who meets the scriptural qualifications of an elder as prescribed by the apostles in 1 Timothy 3, Titus 1 and 1 Peter 5. He shall be an active member of the church.
3. An associate elder shall be appointed by the Ministry Leadership Board to serve a two-year term. This term may end sooner by a decision of the Ministry Leadership Board.
4. The Elders Board shall be responsible for membership interviews and updating membership rolls.
5. The chair of the Elders Board shall be appointed by the Ministry Leadership Board.
6. The elders shall pray fervently and regularly for each pastor and his family.
7. There is no limit as to the number of qualified elders who may serve on the Elders Board.
Section B. Deacons. The deacons shall be members of this church and shall be appointed or elected as specified in the local church bylaws. The deacons shall have charge of those ministries and charities of the church as specified in the bylaws, receive offerings for such purposes and dispense the same, and make monthly reports as directed. Where there are no deacons, the governance authority shall assume responsibility for their ministries until such are elected or appointed.
1. Deacons shall be appointed by the Ministry Leadership Board to serve one-year terms (Rev. January 1991). Their term may end sooner by a decision of the Ministry Leadership Board. Their responsibilities shall be defined by the Ministry Leadership Board.
2. A deacon shall meet the scriptural qualifications as given in 1 Timothy 3 and shall be an active member of the church.
Section C. Deaconesses. Deaconesses shall be members of this church and shall be appointed or elected as specified in the local church bylaws. The deaconesses shall have charge of those ministries as specified in the bylaws. Where there are no deaconesses, the governance authority shall assume responsibility for their ministries until such are elected or appointed.
1. Deaconesses shall be appointed by the Ministry Leadership Board to serve one-year terms (Rev. January 1991). Their term may end sooner by a decision of the Ministry Leadership Board. Their responsibilities shall be defined by the Ministry Leadership Board.
2. A deaconess shall meet the scriptural qualifications as given in 1 Timothy 3:11 and Titus 3:3-5. She shall be an active member of the church.
Section D. Trustees. The trustees shall be members of this church and may be appointed or elected as specified in the local church bylaws. Trustees shall have charge of those ministries and duties as specified in the bylaws, or the laws of the state in which the church is located. Where there are no trustees, the governance authority shall assume responsibility for those ministries and duties until such are elected or appointed.
Section E. Missions Committee. A Missions Committee shall be appointed by the governance authority as specified in the local church bylaws. The purpose of the Missions Committee is to assist the pastor in administering the year-round missions program, planning and promoting the annual Missions Conference, recruiting candidates, and promoting the financial and prayer support of the worldwide ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
Section F. Sunday School/Bible Teaching. Each church shall have a Sunday school or a comparable disciplemaking ministry. The mission of disciplemaking ministries is to bring people to a saving knowledge of Christ, teach biblical principles emphasizing missions and the centrality of Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King, and equip people for evangelism and Christian service.
Section G. Disciplemaking Ministries Council. A Disciplemaking Ministries Council shall be appointed as specified in the local church bylaws. The Council shall oversee the disciplemaking ministries for children, youth, and adults.
Section H. Alliance Women Ministries. Local church Alliance Women Ministries may be established. They shall be organized according to the Alliance Women Ministries Local Constitution as contained in the Manual of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. The mission of Alliance Women Ministries is to support and pray for Alliance missionaries and their ministries.
Section I. C&MA Men’s Ministry. A C&MA Men’s Ministry may be established in the local church. They shall be organized according to the Local Constitution of C&MA Men’s Ministry as contained in the Manual of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. The mission of C&MA Men’s Ministry is to bring men to Christ and engage in ministries that are consistent with the objectives of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
Section J: Youth Council and Youth Ministries: Reserved
Section K: Missions Committee. A Missions Committee shall be appointed by the Ministry Leadership Board as specified in the church bylaws. The purpose of the Missions Committee is to assist the pastor in administering the year-round missions program, planning and promoting the annual missions conference, recruiting candidates, and promoting the financial and prayer support of the worldwide ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
Section L: Finance Committee. A finance committee shall be appointed annually by the Ministry Leadership Board and shall include the senior pastor, at least two members of the Ministry Leadership Board, and two other non-Ministry Leadership Board members of the congregation. The finance committee shall present to the Ministry Leadership Board the first draft of the new annual budget by its December meeting.
ARTICLE XI-MISSIONS CONFERENCE Back to the top
A missions conference shall be held annually for the promotion and support of the worldwide work of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
The missionary conference shall be considered a highlight of the church’s calendar year. The leadership of the church shall encourage generous participation in the Great Commission Fund by the congregation. A “Faith Promise” shall be received.
ARTICLE XII-PROPERTY AND RECORDS
Section 1. Property. This church may acquire, own, dispose of, improve, encumber, and convey property, real and personal, for church purposes, in conformity with the laws of the state where the property is situated. Real property may be purchased, sold, conveyed, exchanged, mortgaged, or encumbered only by order of the membership through the governance authority in consultation with the district superintendent. In states where trustees are required, the order of the membership shall proceed through them.
Section 2. Records. The official records of all officers of the church and all its departments are the property of the church. In the event of the death or resignation of the incumbent or upon the election of his successor, the current records of the office shall be passed on to the newly elected officer. All records other than current shall be kept in a secure repository selected by the governance authority.
Section 3. Audit. All financial records shall be examined annually or at more frequent intervals on order of the governance authority. At least three persons, none of whom is a financial officer or a church staff member, shall be appointed by the governance authority to conduct the examination. They shall follow procedures set forth in the current edition of the Manual for Alliance Church Treasurers (and Pastors). The governance authority shall authorize actions to conform with additional audit standards that may be required by the jurisdiction in which the church is located.
ARTICLE XIII-NOMINATING COMMITTEE Back to the top
A Nominating Committee shall consist of the senior pastor, two elected by but not necessarily from the governance authority, and two elected by the membership at least one month prior to the annual meeting. Members of the Nominating Committee shall be members of this church and shall be elected by ballot at a regular or special meeting of the governance authority or membership meeting, respectively. The governance authority and the membership shall elect by ballot from among at least four nominees.
A congregational meeting shall be held immediately before or after a Sunday service at least five Sundays before the annual election meeting of the congregation. Two non-Ministry Leadership Board members of the congregation from at least four nominees shall be elected at that time to serve on the Nominating Committee. The Ministry Leadership Board may choose to elect from the Ministry Leadership Board for one or both of its positions on the Nominating Committee. All members of the nominating committee should be faithful, mature, godly, and prayerful members of the congregation who will embrace the importance and seriousness of this ministry responsibility with humble dependence upon the Lord and a view toward church health, unity, vision, and growth.
ARTICLE XIV-ELECTIONS Back to the top
In consideration of elections, the Nominating Committee shall present at least one name for each office to be filled. Other nominations may be made from the membership. The officers shall be elected by ballot at the annual meeting. Where only one name is presented, the ballot may be waived by unanimous vote.
Section A: The Nominating Committee shall present to the congregation its nominees at least three Sundays before the annual election meeting.
Section B: After the posting of said nominees, members of the congregation may present to the Nominating Committee recommendations for other nominees. The Nominating Committee shall determine the eligibility of nominees for church office and may refuse to submit any recommendations to the congregation. The Nominating Committee may consult with the elders board.
Section C: Recommendations by members of the congregation for nomination shall be made to the Nominating Committee prior to contacting said individuals. The Nominating Committee shall then contact those nominated for their consent. This shall be done prior to the election meeting.
Section D: Members of the congregation or adherents may submit reasons in a signed statement to the Nominating Committee why a candidate may not be qualified for a given position prior to the election meeting.
Section E: No nominations shall be made from the floor.
Section F: All nominees shall be presented to the congregation in such a way as to indicate which nominees were selected by the Nominating Committee.
Section G: A nominee must receive at least 50% of the votes to become elected.
ARTICLE XV-REVERSION OF PROPERTY Back to the top
Recognizing the purpose of the members of this congregation to support both the doctrines and the mission of The Christian and Missionary Alliance through the contribution of their tithes, offerings, and special gifts, and to ensure that the future use of such assets and real property as this church may from time to time acquire shall not be diverted from this purpose, this church adopts the following property reversion clause.
1. Property Reversion Events. Any of the following shall constitute a “property reversion event:” (a) the decision or action of this church to disaffiliate or otherwise separate itself from The Christian and Missionary Alliance without the prior written approval of such decision or action by the District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) of the district in which this church is located, (b) the failure for any reason of this church to be subject to or abide by any of the purposes, usages, doctrines, or teachings of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, (c) the failure for any reason of this church to qualify as an “accredited church” of The Christian and Missionary Alliance (as such term is defined in the Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance), or (d) the termination of this church’s existence for any reason.
2. Determination of a Property Reversion Event. The determination of whether a property reversion event has occurred shall be considered and decided by the District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) of the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located in accordance with procedures established from time to time by the Board of Directors of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. The decision of such District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) shall be final and binding on The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, and this church, and may not be challenged by any party in the absence of fraud, collusion, or arbitrariness.
3. Consequences of a Property Reversion Event. Upon the occurrence of a property reversion event as determined in accordance with item 2 above, legal title to all real and personal property (tangible and intangible), appurtenances, fixtures, and effects of whatever type then owned, held, or used by this church, without regard to how or from whom acquired, shall, upon the demand of the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, revert to and become the property of such district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. During the period of time between the occurrence of the property reversion event and the complete and final transfer of legal title to the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, this church shall hold such property in trust for such district to be used exclusively to further the purposes, usages, doctrines, and teachings of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
4. Waiver of Certain Property Reversion Events. In the event of a property reversion event attributable to differences in doctrine between this church and The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the property reversion process set forth above may be waived upon the approval of (a) at least two-thirds of the active, attending members of this church, (b) the District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) of the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, and (c) the Division of National Church Ministries of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
ARTICLE XVI-BYLAWS
Church bylaws not in conflict with the provisions of the Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance or the laws of the state are required and will be adopted by a duly called meeting of the church. As a minimum, the church bylaws will include provisions for the composition and name of its governance authority that is in keeping with Article VI above. A copy of such bylaws shall be filed with the district superintendent.
Bylaws may be adopted, amended or rescinded by a two-thirds vote of the members present at any congregational meeting duly called for such a purpose. Proposed changes in the bylaws must first be submitted in writing to the membership at least three weeks in advance of said meeting, after having been approved by a two-thirds vote of the Ministry Leadership Board.
ARTICLE XVII-AMENDMENTS Back to the top
This Constitution may be amended only by the General Council of The Christian and Missionary Alliance by a two-thirds majority of the votes cast.
ARTICLE XVIII-CONFORMANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW Back to the top
In cases where any provision of this Constitution may not conform to state laws, the district concerned shall be authorized to make such adjustments as necessary in counsel with the vice president for National Church Ministries of The Christian and Missionary Alliance so as to conform to such laws.
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