Dr. Zella Berry Case Ministries, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

THE PREAMBLE

We, the members of The Church of PROMISE, planted and founded  by Bishop Apostle Dr. Zella Berry Case, and Suffragan Bishop Dr. Martin W. Case do hereby unite for the public worship of God, the study and practice of the religion that is based upon the Holy Bible which is of Jesus, and the maintenance of the ordinances of Him as a Christian Church.  We hold firm that the local group of this church is a group of baptized believers in Jesus, and that the highest authority in all matters of running the affairs of this local church is God.  This is an autonomy doctrine.

Autonomy means that every local church is a self-governing and self-sustaining body. It is free from outside control. We as members believe, regardless of the circumstances, that every local body has the responsibility and the right of governing themselves as they see fit.  This is all in accordance to the Holy Word. This body believes that the local church, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit through its Senior Pastor, is solely and uniquely qualified to govern itself and this is a principle that we hold dear.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ARTICLE 1 - NAME AND DENOMINATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

 

The name of this religious structure is The Church of PROMISE. Whenever the word “Church” or “Ministry” is used in these Church Procedure, Bylaws, and Operations it shall signify the legal corporation as well as the body of members enrolled as hereinafter provided.

 ARTICLE II - PURPOSE

 Our purpose is to glorify God by conducting this church per the Word of God, the Articles of Faith, the covenant and the constitution of this local church; to promote the worship of our God, through edifying believers, teaching the whole counsel of God, and administering the ordinances and Biblical discipline while seeking to win the lost to Christ through personal witnessing and the preaching of the gospel; to carry on a vigorous missionary program around the world; to establish other churches; to defend the faith, and maintain a good testimony for Christ in our community by godliness and good works. 

ARTICLE III – MOTTO

We are preparing the people of God through the teaching of the Word of God, thereby uniting the people of God with the voice of God for daily life applications, for which the people of God can live out the ultimate structure of the will of God for His Kingdom enrichment.

ARTICLE IV – ASSOCIATIONS

Section 1. 

This church shall be an independent, autonomous, subject only to Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church.  It has the right to cooperate and associate with other Biblical groups voluntarily.  There shall be no cooperation with any group that permits the presence of apostates or apostasy, or that endorses groups that permit the presence of apostates or apostasy.

Section 2. 

This church shall fellowship with any organization or church, as long as the association's beliefs are the same as biblical convictions and vigorous opposition to apostasy and compromise. 

ARTICLE V – ARTICLES OF FAITH

Section 1. 

We believe in the authority and sufficiency of the Holy Bible, consisting of the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments, as originally written; that it was verbally and primarily inspired and is the product of Spirit-controlled individuals and therefore is infallible and inerrant in all matters of which it speaks.

We further believe the Bible to be the truth in Christian unity and the supreme standard by which human conduct, creed, and opinions shall be tried (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 2nd Peter 1:19-21)

 

Section 2. 

We believe there is one and only one living and true God, an infinite Spirit, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of Heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness, and worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love; that in the unity of the Godhead there are three Persons, The Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit, equal in every divine perfection and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption (Exodus 20: 2,3; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Revelations 4:11)

 

Section 3.  The Holy Spirit

      We believe that the Holy Spirit is a divine Person, equal with God the Father and God the Son and of the same nature; that He was active in the creation; that in His relation to the unbelieving world He restrains the Evil One until God’s purpose is fulfilled; that he convicts of sin, of righteous and judgment; that He bears witness to the truth of the gospel in preaching and testimony; that He is the Agent in the new birth; that He seals, endures guides, teaches, witnesses, sanctifies, and helps the believer (John 14:16, 17; Matthew 28:19; Hebrew 9:14, John 14:26; Luke 1:35; Genesis 1:1-3; John 16: 8-11; Acts 5:30-32; John 3:5,6; Ephesians 1:13, 14; Mark 1:8, John 1:33; Acts 11:16; Luke 24:49; Romans 8:14, 16, 26, 27). 

 

Section 4.  The Virgin Birth

      We believe that Jesus was begotten of the Holy Spirit in a miraculous manner, born of Mary, a virgin, as no other man was ever born or can be born of women, and that He is both the Son of God and God the Son (Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:35; John 1:14)

 

Section 5.  Salvation

      We believe the salvation of sinners is divinely initiated and wholly of grace through the mediatorial offices of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Who, by the appointment of the Father, voluntarily took upon Himself our nature, yet without sin, and honored the divine law by His obedience, thus qualifying Himself to be our Savior; that by the shedding of His blood in His death he fully satisfied the just demands of a holy and righteous God regarding son; that His sacrifice consisted not in setting us an example by His death as martyr, but was a voluntary substitution of Himself in the sinner’s place, the Just dying for the unjust.  Christ the Lord bearing our sins in His own body on the tree; that having risen from the dead He is now enthroned in Heaven and uniting in His wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfection.  He is uniquely qualified to be a suitable, compassionate, and all-sufficient Savior.

      We believe that faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the only condition of salvation.  Repentance is a change of mind and purpose toward God, prompted by the Holy Spirit, and is an integral part of saving faith (Jonah 2:9; Ephesians 2:8, Acts 15:11; Romans 3:24, 25; John 3:16; Matthew 18:11; Philippians 2: 7, 8; Hebrews 2:14-17; Isaiah 53: 4-7; John 4:10; 1st Corinthians 15:3; 2nd Corinthians 5:21; 1st Peter 2:24).

 

ARTICLE VI – MEMBERSHIP

 

Section 1.  This church shall be composed of members who profess to be saved by grace, through faith, and who have been baptized following their confession of faith in Christ, by single immersion in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.  All persons desiring to unite with this church shall give testimony of conversion and Christian experiences and affirm acceptance of and adherence to the Articles of Faith, constitution, and covenant of this church.

Upon the recommendation of the Senior Pastor and Deacons, candidates shall be presented to the church. 

 

Members may be received in four (4) ways:

1. By baptism, following salvation. 

2. By letter from a church of like faith and order. 

3. By confession of faith (when impossible to secure a church letter having been saved and immersed.) 

4. By restoration or having been received into fellowship from some other Church with similar beliefs.

 

Section 2.  The Church, under the direction of the Holy Spirit, shall have the power to receive Associate members (watch-care members) into its membership under these conditions: 

• The person will be temporarily in the area and return to their home church, where their membership is in good standing.

 

Section 3.  Only members of the Church shall have the right to vote at church legal meetings.  To hold an elective office, one must be a member of the Church and over eighteen years of age.

Section 3A.  Voting age should begin at 18 years old and up, and if a member is in good standing according to the Church Procedures, By-Laws, and Procedures.

 

Section 4.  Membership may be terminated for cause according to the Holy Bible, see Matthew 18, and according to the Church Procedures, By-Laws, and Operations.

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Section 5.  Discipline of Members

It is vital to the testimony of this church and the glory of our Lord that the church's purity be preserved and its peace protected.  With these ends in view, it shall be the duty of the Senior Pastor and deacons to seek diligently to reclaim any member known to be living in disregard of his Biblical and covenant obligations.  It is specifically directed that the Senior Pastor and Deacons move with promptness and vigor in dealing with anyone obstructing the work or disturbing the church's peace by slander, falsehood, gossip, conspiracy, or other unfair and unchristian methods.  This is not to supersede the authority of God in this matter.  It is recognized further that while the church body has the right of private opinion in all questions and the right of appeal in any constitutional and proper manner, it shall not have the right to engage in secret or open propaganda, or to deliberately disturb the peace and interrupt the work of the church.

 

It is further recognized that when the church, by regular order and proper vote, has determined upon a course of action, that course becomes the duty of every member of the church.  If any member cannot conscientiously follow the church's decision, he has to withdraw from the membership quietly and peacefully.

 

Suppose a member is walking disorderly in conflict with the above principles, or is involved in any known immorality, dishonesty, or public scandal, and such a member cannot be restored to fellowship through confession and correction of his sins. In that case, he shall be dealt with based on Matthew 18 and 1st Corinthians 5.  His case shall be brought before the church by recommendation of the Senior Pastor and Deacons.  He/she shall be stated the charges against him, and he shall have the opportunity to present his case before the church.  Per Matthew 18, the church may vote to remove him from the membership if the charges and evidence warrant such action.  In less serious matters, such a person may be placed under discipline and on the inactive membership list by the guidance of the Holy Spirit given to the Senior Pastor and the Deacons. He shall be restored to active membership only by church vote after satisfactory evidence of scriptural repentance and confession is given. The member shall be restored to active membership only by vote of the church after satisfactory evidence of scriptural repentance and confession is given.

 

1. During the last quarter of each year, the Senior Pastor and Deacons shall review the membership roll. Any member habitually absent from the church's services without due cause, and who is negligent in spiritual duties, shall be removed from active church membership, upon recommendations of the Senior Pastor and Deacons, and placed on the inactive membership list. The individual shall be informed of this action. This section shall be implemented only after faithful efforts to reclaim the members. Restoration to an inactive member shall be after discussing with members, and by vote of the church, upon recommendation of the Senior Pastor and Deacons, only after satisfactory evidence of a renewed spiritual walk.

2. No person on the inactive membership list can vote on any matters, hold office, or teach.

3. The Senior Pastor, Deacons, and members shall sincerely try to reclaim spiritually those on the inactive list. During the last quarter of each year, the Senior Pastor and Deacons shall review the inactive members. After one year of inactive status, they shall be recommended to the church to be dropped from the membership. A permanent card file of these former members shall be maintained for continued, prayerful effort to reclaim them for Christ and the church. 

4. Members with differences should be settled personally per Matthew 18: 15 and 16. 

5. If a member desires to prefer charges against another member, including violation of covenant obligations or immoral, improper, or unchristian conduct, such charges must be submitted to the Senior Pastor and Deacons in writing and duly signed by the accuser. 

6. To prevent unnecessary public scandal, the Senior Pastor and Deacons may hear the charges, pro and con, in any disciplinary case, if this is mutually satisfactory with the accused and the accuser.  If dismissal is recommended by the Senior Pastor and Deacons, the recommendation must be presented to the church, preferably without details, for final action.  The entire matter must be brought before the church at the request of the accused or the church.  No member may be dismissed unless done by and by Matthew 18 15-16 and disobedience (see Section 6 - Dismissal of Members) of Church Procedures, By-Laws, and Operations. 

7. No non-member shall be permitted in such a church meeting (as witness, defense or otherwise) without permission of three-fourths ¾ of the members present and voting.

 

Section 6. Dismissal of Members

 

1. Dismissal shall be by death or letter of exclusion.

2. Any member in good standing may be granted a letter of transfer to any church of like faith and order upon its request.  The letter shall be sent to the church with which the member wishes to unite. 

3. A dismissal letter without a recommendation may not be sent to any other church. 

4. No member who has conducted himself in such a manner as to be cited for disciplinary action may be dropped from membership at his own request since such a procedure would remove him from the church's authority.

 

Section 7.  Additional Regulations

1. Only active members 15 years or above shall be entitled to vote on any matter. 

2. Only those who are 18 years and above may hold office.

3. Only active members shall serve as regular teachers in the church, Sunday school, or other groups. The church shall conduct classes for new members regularly or periodically, according to need. The Senior Pastor or some other competent leader shall teach these classes. They shall include instruction on the ordinances, church government, responsibilities of church members, stewardship, prayer, Bible reading, and witnessing for Christ. 

4. 4. Receiving members or grant letters at any church meeting will be deemed proper. If disciplinary action is involved, it shall require a special business meeting of the church, the purpose of which shall be announced by letter to the members of voting age at least two weeks in advance. Sometimes, an emergency meeting will be called on such matters. This is left to the Senior Pastor.

 

ARTICLE VII – BAPTISM

 

      Upon authorization of the church, those professing faith in Christ shall be immersed in water by the Senior Pastor or someone else in authority and permitted to do so by the Senior Pastor or Deacon Ministry. Only those who are being received into the church membership shall be baptized.  Immersion, as a believer, shall be a prerequisite to church membership.

 

1. Jesus was Baptized: (Matthew 3:15)

2. Jesus baptized (and modeled the practice) (John 3:22)

3. Jesus taught about Baptism: (Mark 10:38)

4. Jesus Commanded to Baptize: (Matthew 28:19)

5. The Disciples Obeyed and Baptized: In Jesus’ Day (John 4:12) 

6. Day of Pentecost: (Acts 2:38)

7. Samaritans: (Acts 8:12) 

8. Philip and the Ethiopian. (Acts 8:36)

9. Paul. (Acts 9:18; 22:16) 

10. Cornelius’ Household. (Acts 10:47)

11. Lydia and Household. (Acts 16:15)

12. Philippians Jailer. (Acts 16:33) 

13. Corinthian. (1st Corinthians 1:13-17) 

14. The Ephesians 12. (Acts 19:5)

 

Doctrine Points:

 

1. We practice Baptism by Immersion.

2. Requirements are:

   • Having been born again

   • Willing to make a public confession.

   • Please have a basic understanding of its meaning.

 

ARTICLE VIII – THE LORD’S SUPPER

           

The Lord’s Supper shall normally be served to the assembled church by the Senior Pastor, Associate Minister, or some other person authorized by the church, on the first Sunday morning of each month, or at such other time as may be decided by the Senior Pastor.  Since it is the Lord’s Table, none that are His shall be barred, but the Senior Pastor shall frequently state the scriptural order, which places baptism as a prerequisite to the Lord’s Supper, and shall explain the meaning of the ordinances.  The elements shall be unleavened bread and grape juice.

ARTICLE IX – OFFICERS OF THE CHURCH

 

Section 1

1. The elected officers of the church shall be the Trustees, the clerk, the financial secretary, the treasurer, and the Bible school Superintendent.

2. No one shall be elected to office who has not been a member of this church for at least one year. Exceptions are made to this rule upon the Senior Pastor's recommendation.

3. All officers shall be spiritually mature, of unquestioned Christian character, loyal to the Word of God, dedicated and devoted to the Lord Jesus Christ and to this church's spiritual and material welfare.  They shall also be faithful in attendance and participation in regular services and church business meetings.  Their moral conduct shall be beyond reproach and free of carnal indulgences, such as the use of intoxicating beverages, tobacco in all forms, narcotic drugs, and other worldly practices.  In light of 1st Timothy 3, home and family relationships must be considered, as well as individual qualifications.

4. All officers shall usually assume their duties on January 1st.  Retiring officers shall hold office until the terms of newly elected officers begin.

5. Any officer unable or unwilling to fulfill the duties of his office shall resign.  If any officer refuses to subscribe to the Articles of Faith, the constitution and the church covenant, the deacons shall request his/her resignation.  The office shall be declared vacant if it is not received within a reasonable time.

Section 2: The Senior Pastor (Pastor of Authority)

      Pastoral authority is a two-fold combination of personal and spiritual qualities, making it likely that people will listen to what the Pastor says and follow his/her leadership. It is based upon specific characteristics or expertise that the Pastor has, or that the church members believe he/she has.  Without it, very little will be accomplished through the leader or the church he/she leads.   Jesus was one of “Charismatic (magnetic) Authority.”  Charismatic Authority is Practical Authority.  By explanation: A Senior Pastor should have the same “Charismatic Authority” (magnetic) Authority resembling Jesus.  A Senior Pastor does not have authority of the pastorship to simply be the Senior Pastor because he/she is spiritual, but because he/she is “engaged in practical activities that affect the lives of the people in his community or congregation.”  Certain things should be examined of the Pastor. 

The Senior Pastor should:

• Have a willingness to accept leadership.

• Confer authority.

• Do the will of God and motivate others to do the same.

• Be the main teacher.

• Be a crisis caregiver.

 

Mark 1:22 “The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law.”

Luke 4:14 “Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about Him spread through the whole countryside.”

Matthew 28:28,19, “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.’”

 

“Charismatic Authority” was given to the Disciples.

      Jesus appointed the apostles.  “One of those days, Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray and spent the night praying to God.  When morning came, he called his disciples to Him. He chose twelve of them, whom He also designated apostles: Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Phillip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James’s son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called Zealot, Judas son of James and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor/” (Luke 6:12-16 – also ch. 9, 10) He still does this today.

      Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.” (Luke 9:1)

      “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13)

      This includes Jesus’ authority to forgive sins, which He shared with the disciples.

      “Again Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you!  As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.’  And with that he breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.  If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven: if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven’” (John 20:21-23)

      “I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven   (Matthew 18:18) (Note: this has to do with church discipline.)

The Senior Pastor shall continue in office until he/she resigns or if dismissed with one of the reasons stated below, by a three-fourths (¾) majority of those present and voting at a special meeting called for that purpose.  Such a meeting shall be announced from the pulpit for two (2) Sundays immediately preceding the date of such a meeting.

 

What constitutes dismissal of a Senior Pastor?

1. Complete denunciation of the relationship between Jesus and him/herself.

2. Refusal to repent of a sinful act.

3. Judgment of an illegal procedure that constitutes imprisonment.

 

All acts concerning the Senior Pastor should come under constant prayer and fasting through the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

      The Senior Pastor shall give the church not less than thirty (30) days nor more than ninety (90) days’ notice of his/her intention to discontinue as Senior Pastor.  The church shall give the pastor not less than ninety (30) days’ notice of dismissal.  If, by the Holy Word, the conduct of the Senior Pastor justifies immediate termination of his/her ministry, the church may declare the pulpit vacant and pay three (1) months’ salary beyond that date.

      The Senior Pastor shall have charge of the spiritual welfare of the church.  He/she shall preach the gospel, teach the Word, and have charge of all services of the Church.  He/she shall administer the ordinances and perform the usual duties of a Minister.

      The Senior Pastor moderates the church's business sessions. In his/her absence, the Chairman Deacon or Associate Pastor appointed by the Pastor shall call the meeting to order, and the church shall elect a moderator. If the Senior Pastor is to be discussed in a business session, another moderator shall be elected, and the Senior Pastor and his/her family shall withdraw from the meeting.

      The Senior Pastor shall be an ex officio member of all boards and committees.  He/she shall also be a member of this church.

      Other workers, such as Christian educator director, Associate Minister, and Youth and Music director, may be called by the church. Still, they are to be individuals fully approved by the Senior Pastor and shall work under his/her direction.

 

Giving the Scripture references aforementioned of what the authority of the Senior Pastor will be, the Senior Pastor will have the authority to do the following in conjunction with those mentioned:

• Teach and Preach the Word of God according to the Holy Bible.

• Pray for all those who are under his/her leadership.

• Be a signer on all accounts of the church.

• Be privy to all church financial matters.

• Make decisions as necessary for the normal function of the church.

• Give direction to any church member concerning church properties in the sale or disbursement of materials.

• Conduct workshops and seminars to benefit the church body.

• Any other organizations affiliated with the senior pastor or a standing member will be granted permission to use the church facility.

• Conduct and be the moderator over all meetings at the Church.

• Review any matters that concern disputes among members.

• Make a financial decision for $1000.00 without consulting the church body. The church body must be informed in the amount of $1000.01.

• Approve all expenditures over the amount of $100.00 with a signature or with permitting any individual verbally to pay any such expenditures if the Pastor is not able to physically be present to sign expenditures.

 

Section 3. Associate Minister, Elders, Prophet(ess), Evangelist, Preachers, Teachers.

When Associate Minister is stated, it refers to Associate Ministers, Elders, Prophet(ess), Evangelist, Preachers, and Teachers.

The Associate Minister must be a member of the Church.  Associate Minister can be elevated to Assistant Pastor, but only after ordination.  The word “Associate” means that they are ministers with gifts about one of the Five-Fold ministries (Eph. 4:11) “And he gave some, apostles, and some, prophets; and some evangelists, and some, pastors and teachers.”  They are ministers licensed or ordained either by another like body or by this ministry.  The license will be accepted upon Senior Pastor approval. 

 

Associate Ministers described here will provide whatever service is needed in the presence or absence of the Pastor (services directed by the Pastor only).  He/she will be inspirational in worship service, Sunday School, Special Services, or any other activity that concerns the church's ministry.  This will all be under the leadership of the Senior Pastor.  The Associate Minister cannot make decisions concerning the church without the Senior Pastor.  Associate Ministers cannot counsel under the umbrella of The Church of PROMISE unless authorized by the Bishop, Apostle, or Senior Pastor.  This is for insurance purposes.  If the Pastor cannot counsel, the Chairman Deacon will be the next in line to do this service for The Church of PROMISE.

 

Associate Ministers will also possess:

 

1. A teachable spirit, desiring to grow as a person and as a leader;

2. A proven ability to involve others in planning and decision making;

3. The integrity of a person is demonstrated by the list of the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23, and a willingness to continue to grow in the development of such characteristics.

4. A pattern of spiritual growth is evidenced by a life of prayer, personal obedience to the Word of God, and the proven ability to discern the Lord’s will and guidance in decision-making.

5. Do not be boastful in words and deeds.

6. A basic understanding of the nature and operation of this church that is informed by Scripture only and compatible with that of the Senior Pastor;

7. An understanding of the Senior Pastor's ministry and willingness to follow the ministry God gave to the Senior Pastor.

8. Basic knowledge of the ministry development developed by the Senior Pastor and the discipline doctrine of the congregation.

9. Must study the Word;

10. Must also study related books and periodicals about the progress and development of the people of God.

11. Be faithful to the Senior Pastor and will seek the Lord in their own life, always striving to keep Christ as the vital focal point in his/her life.

 

Expectations

1. The Associate Minister to the Senior Pastor will conduct himself/herself in a way that represents a high standard of holiness and strives to live in a way that brings utmost respect to the pastor's office.

2. He/She will demonstrate strong loyalty to the Senior Pastor and other church leadership team members, endeavoring to cooperate in the ministry.  Upon differences in opinion or problems, the performance of work or relationships will not be noticed or detected by members.  Matters of concern will always be directed to the Senior Pastor before being discussed with a member. If the Associate Minister feels that his/her problems are not adequately addressed, he/she will request a meeting with the Senior Pastor and the Deacons.  The request will come from the desk of the Senior Pastor.

3. The Associate Minister will keep the Senior Pastor apprised of his/her whereabouts at all times when he/she is considered to be “on duty.” 

4. He/she will keep regular Sunday appearances.  When absent, please notify the Senior Pastor or a Deacon, preferably the Senior Pastor.

5. Attend meetings and special staff meetings at a time set by the Senior Pastor, as well as periodic church leadership meetings.

6. Give general oversight of all ministries that involve changes in previous overviews.

7. Prayerfully plan and provide leadership for the church’s weekly morning worship, as directed by the senior pastor. Conduct the morning worship program.

8. Serve communion, if ordained.

9. At the Pastor’s request, provide a brief summary statement of the Christian growth of ministries in which you are ministering to the personnel and participants.

10. Provide, either directly or through trained leaders, solid Scriptural teaching covering the issues related to worship.

11. Develop or assist with gathering times and events in such a way that the four main elements of the church are emphasized: WORSHIP, TEACHING, FELLOWSHIP, and EVANGELISM.

12. Develop adequate means of feedback and evaluation concerning your ministry.

13. Carry out any request of the Senior Pastor that relates to church ministry that is commonly understood to be a function that is related to pastoral ministry or is supportive to the overall ministry goals of the church, provided adequate time for discussion is given to assure that the carrying out of such requests will not unnecessarily impinge upon other duties and responsibilities.  Under normal conditions, such a request may include, but not be limited to, the following.

14. Teaching before either the entire congregation or designated groups within or outside the church, where the Senior Pastor may otherwise have the responsibility to do.

15. Assist with various matters related to worship services and special events.

16. Attend committee meetings, according to the suggestion or approval of the Senior Pastor.

17. Be available as a resource person to Deacons, as specifically assigned by the Senior Pastor.

18. Provide leadership for specified short-term projects.

19. In the pastor's absence, make phone and/or personal contact with members in crisis situations or who need a follow-up visit.

20. Assist with general office duties as requested by the Pastor.

 

ACCOUNTABILILTY (Associate Minister)

1. First responsibility is to God.  Always remember that if God placed them at this church, God expects them to carry out the instructions the church's Shepherd gives.

2. Secondarily, accountable to the Senior Pastor. The Associate Minister will keep the Senior Pastor fully informed of his/her work, seek counsel, and take instructions or corrections from the Senior Pastor when necessary.  This will primarily occur during a one-hour conference with the Senior Pastor, which will appear at least once a month as scheduled.  He/she will confer with the Senior Pastor about personal matters dealt with, to the extent that this information will aid the Senior Pastor in fulfilling his/her oversight of the church’s ministry.  The Senior Pastor suggests that no counseling be done with any member of The Church of PROMISE because no Associate Minister is on the church insurance for liability. Doing so will demote teaching and preaching privileges at The Church of PROMISE.

3. There will be a conference twice a year with the Senior Pastor.  This will involve discussing goals, program plans, resources needed, obstacles, calendar items, evaluation of ministry, and itemization of current reading.  An annual review will be based on: a self-evaluation, evaluation by the Senior Pastor and an assigned Deacon.  The evaluation will be based on this job description. Accountability to the church will take place on a one-page written annual report provided during the annual business meeting. He/she will submit such reports to denominational leaders(Pastor and Chairman  Deacon) if required for the maintenance of his credentials and a proper relationship with this church.

 

Section 4. Powers and Duties of Officers.

 

The Senior Pastor shall preside at all church legal meetings.  The Pastor shall designate a member of the Deacon’s Ministry or from the Associate Minister staff to chair each standing committee. 

The Secretary shall keep a record of all church meetings, give due notice of all legal meetings, and perform such other duties as are usually incident to the office.

 

The Treasurer, except as provided in Section 4 of this Article, shall have custody of all funds and evidence of property belonging to the church (financial papers), or other monetary documents.  The Treasurer shall receive all money receivable by the Church and pay out the same as directed by the Senior Pastor; shall keep accounts of all receipts and expenditures and render a full report of the Church's financial condition at any meeting designated by the Senior Pastor.

 

The Financial Secretary should write out all bills in assistance to the Treasurer.  He/she should be prepared to give a report to the Senior Pastor at any time on the condition of balances on accounts, paid bills, and upcoming expenditures.  Be able to administer funds as needed to the Senior Pastor for church expenditures in a reimbursement manner.

The Deacons - The board of Deacons shall consist of no more than nine (7) individuals appointed by the church.  Three (3) shall be appointed each year for three (3) years until the total of seven have been achieved.  As of this date (May 1, 2009), all deacons are to remain deacons unless they have abandoned their duties and responsibilities to the church and the Senior Pastor.  This only refers to any additional deacons appointed by the Senior Pastor.  EXCEPTION:  Deacon Martin Case shall maintain the status of Lifetime Deacon, should he desire said status.  The deacons are also considered trustees, with all responsibilities and rights as trustees.

 

Dismissal of a deacon.

            A deacon may be dismissed if in defiance of the Senior Pastor or not being responsive to the qualifications of a deacon as stated in 1st Timothy 8-13.  Dismissal will only be according to the Holy Scripture.  It will not be the Senior Pastor nor the church to dismiss the deacon, it will be the Word of God. Since the word man means mankind, any person, male or female, may hold the office of deacon.  Consider Phobe in the Bible, who was first called a deacon, which means in Greek, pastor, deacon, leader, bishop, etc. 

 

      It shall be the duty of the deacons to:

• assist the pastor in promoting the spiritual welfare of the church.

• be his/her helpers and counselors.

• exercise prudent watch care over the church membership,

• seek out members who need alms.

• visit the sick

• assist at baptisms.

• Supervise the preparation and distribution of the Lord’s Supper.

 

The deacons shall serve as trustees of this church, representing this corporation as its agent. They shall be responsible for the care and upkeep of the church's physical properties, including hiring and supervising all custodians. 

 

The Trustees

1. The province of the trustee is quite restricted.  They have nothing to do with the spiritual affairs of the church.  They cannot control the house of worship, saying how it shall be used, or what shall not.  The Senior Pastor must do this.

1. As church members, the trustees may, with other members and the guidance of the Senior Pastor, decide what shall be done with church property, whether the house of worship shall be sold and another built, etc. However, as trustees, they can do nothing in these matters. When the church so orders, they may convey or receive titles to property, sue in the courts, etc., but their business as trustees is exclusively secular. In the capacity of trustees, they cannot perform any spiritual function.

2. Trustees attend to the legal interests of the church.  They function in those matters where civil law specifically requires them to act on behalf of the church.  Just as the Senior Pastor and the Deacons are the spiritual officers of the church, the trustees are the legal officers.  This does not mean that they make decisions about legal matters.  It merely means that they meet the legal requirements for making business decisions involving law, such as buying or selling real estate, signing loan documents, and any other church business that requires a signature.

 

The Clerk

 

1. The church clerk shall be in charge of the official correspondence and keep a record of all church business meetings.  The clerk shall keep in a bound book a record of the membership of baptisms and of the reception and dismissal.  

2. The clerk shall perform such other duties as properly belonging to the office, making quarterly and annual reports to the church.

3. The clerk shall promptly provide the financial secretary and the treasurer with a transcript of the minutes of each church business meeting, in which authority is granted for the disbursement and transfer of funds.

4. Upon his retirement or removal from office, he shall deliver to his successor, or the chairman of the board of deacons, all records, files, and/or other papers belonging to the church. He shall present the same with all contents complete to the date of surrender of such documents.

 

The Financial Secretary

 

1. It shall be the duty of the financial secretary, together with one or more of the deacons, trustees, or appointed members, appointed by the Senior Pastor to count and record in a permanent record all monies received in the offerings of the church.  This shall be done following each service of the church.

2. When the treasurer cannot do so, the financial secretary deposits funds in the bank as instructed by the Senior Pastor.

3. The financial secretary shall provide the treasurer with a record of all monies collected and deposited, specifying their distribution into various accounts and those monies disbursed for bill payment.

4. The financial secretary shall write, sign, record, and mail all checks for payment of bills and notices.

5. A deacon appointed by the Pastor will assume the responsibility of the financial secretary in the absence of the former.

 

The Treasurer

1. The treasurer will deposit all monies from services at the church.

2. The treasurer is responsible for recording all financial transactions in permanent record and shall make quarterly and annual reports to the church.

3. The treasurer shall pay the church's bills without the financial secretary. He/she shall write, sign, record, and mail all checks for bills or notices in the financial secretary's absence.

4. The treasurer shall keep the books of record and report the financial transactions to the Senior Pastor as requested.

5. The treasurer will be paid $125.00 per month for duties, as agreed upon by the church.

 

THE Saturday Manna ELDER/SUPERINTENDENT

 

• The Elder/superintendent shall have general supervision over the Sunday Bible School, teachers, and officers.  He/she shall carry out the program established by the Senior Pastor and shall report quarterly and annually to the church.

• The Senior Pastor and Deacon Ministry shall appoint all teachers and officers of the Bible School.

 

ARTICLE X – MEETINGS

Section 1:  Public Worship

1. Worship services shall be held on Saturday at noon on Zoom on the Sabbath. These services shall not normally be given over to anything but prayer and the preaching and teaching the Word, with an appropriate musical ministry.  Any other special presentation shall be subject to approval by the Senior Pastor.

2. At least once a week, there shall be a prayer, praise, and Bible study meeting.

3. It shall be the practice of this church to observe the Lord’s Supper at least once a month, at which time it may be appropriate that the covenant be read.

 

Section 2:  Business Meetings

 

1. The official church year shall begin January 1st and close December 31st.

2. The annual meeting shall be held on the first (1st) Sunday in January.

3. The Senior Pastor may call special meetings.

 

Section 3:  Rules of Order of Business

    The ordinary rules of deliberative assemblies shall be observed in the transaction of business, as set forth in Parliamentary Law, F.J. Gregg, or Robert’s Rules of Order Revised, Henry M. Roberts.

 

ARTICLE XI – CHURCH ORGANIZATION

Section 1: Saturday Manna

 

1. The Bible school or Saturday Manna aims to win each pupil to the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Savior, and to instruct him in the Word and in Christian living, including church attendance and membership.

2. All school officers and teachers shall be appointed annually and shall be members of this church in good standing. The appointment should be by the Senior Pastor. Anyone whose conduct or teaching is considered injurious to the class, school, or church shall, upon recommendation of the superintendent, be referred to the Senior Pastor, and necessary actions taken.

3. All teachers and officers must first be approved by the church's Senior Pastor, who is also responsible for approving the literature.

 

ARTICLE XII – MISSIONS AND MISSIONARY MINISTRY

Mission: …to proclaim the Gospel in its fullness beyond this local church's immediate sphere of activity.

Vision: To glorify Jesus Christ by creatively and flexibly impacting all parts of our Acts 1:8 in a measurable and identifiable way and to incorporate every member of The Church of PROMISE body in the process.

 

The Great Commission: “Go therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age. (Matt. 28:19-20, NKJ).

 

It is the duty and privilege of every follower of Christ and every church of the Lord Jesus Christ to endeavor to make disciples of all nations.

This is also the primary duty and mission of the church.  God's Holy Spirit's new birth of man's spirit means the birth of love for others.

 

Missionary effort rests upon the spiritual necessity of the regenerate life, which is expressly and repeatedly commanded in Christ's teachings.

 

The Lord Jesus Christ has commanded the preaching of the gospel to all nations. Every child of God must constantly seek to win the lost to Christ through verbal witness, undergirded by a Christian lifestyle, and other methods in harmony with the gospel of Christ.

It shall be the policy of this church to support only approved missions.

 

ARTICLE XIII – MEETINGS

Section 1. 

The Church's Annual meeting shall be held on a date determined by the Senior Pastor each year.  Special legal meetings may be held at the call of the Senior Pastor.  No meeting may be held without informing the Senior Pastor.  The Secretary shall be an attendant at all meetings 

 

Section 2. 

The Church's fiscal year begins on the first day of January in each calendar year. At the annual meeting, the senior pastor, deacons, and trustees submit a budget of estimated income and expenses for the following fiscal year for the Church's approval.

 

Section 3. 

Seven members entitled to vote shall constitute a quorum at any legal meeting of the Church.

Section 4:  Order of Business Meetings

1. Reading and approval of minutes of previous meetings

2. Clerk’s report

3. Treasurer’s report

4. Deacon’s report

5. Trustee’s report

6. Reports from other committees

7. Unfinished business

8. New business

9. Pastor’s Reflections

10. Adjournment

 

ARTICLE XIV – CHURCH ORDINANCES

Section 1. 

            Communion or the Lord’s Supper shall be observed on the first Saturday of each calendar month.  Additional Communion Services may be added by the Senior Pastor. 

 

Section 2. 

In Christian fellowship, the Senior Pastor shall confirm that such persons will desire communion, which is only given after accepting Jesus Christ as the Son of God, confession, and repentance. 

 

ARTICLE XIV – GENERAL

 

1. The Senior Pastor shall first approve use of the property for anything other than regularly scheduled meetings.

2. All gatherings off church property held in the church's name must be approved by the Senior Pastor.

3. No secret society will be permitted to hold services in the church.

4. All funerals of any partner/member will be conducted by the Pastor unless approved by the Pastor for special reasons. 

5. No pastor or pulpit orator who fails to confess the fundamentals of faith will be permitted to preach in the church.  Any visiting speaker must have the approval of the Senior pastor to speak.

Section 2: Pastor’s Vacation, Salary & Pastor’s Petty Cash

 

1. The Senior Pastor shall have one month off for vacation, which he/she may take at his/her pleasure once a year.

2. The Senior Pastor’s salary shall be reviewed and determined at least once a year, with consideration given to the rising cost of living.

 

PETTY CASH

$150.00 shall be kept as petty cash by the Pastor to use for materials supporting the church. This may include food, supplies, or any other materials used for the church.  Receipts must be presented when a replacement for petty cash is needed.

 

Section 3:  Monetary Principles

 

1. The systematic giving of money for the support of the work of the Lord is worship as well as duty. It must be kept on the plane of voluntary, freewill offerings, untarnished by any hope of material gain. All members are expected to give regular financial support to the church and to the advancement of the projects it shall sponsor. In determining the Lord’s portion, we believe and affirm with the scripture that at least one-tenth (1/10) of one’s income should be faithfully and cheerfully given by each one (2nd Corinthians 9:6,7), and many can and should give more than the tithe, for all we have belongs to Christ (1st Chronicles 29: 14, 16; Acts 4:32-35). 

2. The financial secretary will give each donor a statement of his account at the end of each year. Numbered envelopes will be provided to enable proper record keeping.

 

Section 4:  Legal Provisions

1. This church shall have the right to own, buy or sell tangible properties, real and personal, in its name and through properly elected officers, when authorized by vote of the church.

2. No profit shall ever accrue to the benefit of any individual from the assets, holdings, or other transactions in which this corporation may become involved.

3. In the event of the dissolution of this corporation, all of its debts shall be fully satisfied.  None of its assets or holdings shall be divided among the members or other individuals, but shall be irrevocably designated by corporate vote before dissolution to such other nonprofit religious corporations as are in agreement with the letter and spirit of the Articles of Faith adopted by this church, and in conformity with the requirements of the United States Internal Revenue Service Code of 1954 (Section 501(C)(3)).

 

AMENDMENTS

            This constitution and Operational Procedures may be amended, altered, or revised at any business meeting by a ¾ fourths vote of the members present and of voting age.  The church may adopt from time to time such additional church procedures, bylaws, and operations, in amplification hereof as may be necessary or desirable, and shall provide therein for amendment of the same.

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