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CONSTITUTION and BYLAWS
Of YAH’S TABERNACLE OF PRAISE AND WORSHIP
BRISTOL, TEXAS
Preamble
We, a fellowship of Christians, adopt this constitution for the expression of our shared
beliefs and for the democratic governance of our body. Under the guidance of the Holy
Spirit, this constitution guarantees the rights of all members to freely express their faith.
It provides a description of the organizations created to accomplish the ministries of the
church and guidelines and regulations for conducting the business of the church. We
declare that this is our only objective in adopting this Constitution and these Bylaws.
Article I. Name
Yah’s Tabernacle of Praise and Worship is a non-profit organization located in Bristol, Texas.
Article II. Nature
This is a local church known as the people of God, a body of Christ, a baptized
community of the forgiven and forgiving, a fellowship of love, guided by the Holy Spirit in
hearing and obeying the Word of God, and serving as our Lord’s priests on behalf of
others in a ministry of reconciliation.
Article III. Beliefs
These beliefs include, but are not limited to, the following:
We believe:
there is only one living and true God, and He exists eternally in three persons,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. He is God’s only Son, conceived by the
Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary.
the Holy Spirit Reveals God in Christ to us, leads us to repentance and faith in
Jesus Christ, is the power of God within believers that enables them to live for
Christ, and leads believers in making wise choices.
the Bible is the inspired and authoritative word of God.
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man was created by God in His own image. By his free choice, man ushered
sin into the world. Therefore, all people inherit a nature and environment
inclined toward sin.
the mission of Christ to the world was to redeem sinful mankind. This was
accomplished through His reconciling death on the cross for the sins of the
world.
mankind’s salvation is by God’s grace alone, through faith in Jesus Christ.
Christ was resurrected from the grave and is alive today with the Father in
heaven.
a person, who is saved, by faith, will follow Jesus in believer’s baptism by
immersion to show his or her identification with, and in obedience to, Christ.
the church is the Body of Christ and is commissioned by God to witness to His
love throughout the world.
all believers should actively unite with a local church for worship, service,
fellowship and support of one another.
Article IV. Mission
Section 1: The mission of our church is to share the Good News of redemption through
Jesus Christ with every person; to grow in Christian discipleship; and to minister to all in
need in the name of our Lord with Song and Preaching on and off line.
Section 2: Our mission includes, but is not limited to, the following:
advance and promote the worship of God as He is revealed in Jesus Christ.
engage in, and promote, the study of the Holy Scripture; teach its meaning and
train in living its message, help the sick and aging, visit out cast and forgotten.
advance the gospel of Jesus Christ in our community and around the world by
preaching, evangelizing, teaching, supporting charitable missions and by
administering the ordinances of the church.
create disciples and promote the development of Christian fellowship.
promote the highest standards of Christian living and stewardship.
promote the biblical principles of justice and righteousness in personal, social,
community and national life.
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organize and maintain Christian ministries including, but not limited to,
preschools, relief programs, social services and other programs which will
promote the religious principles set forth in this document.
Article V. Covenant
As a fellowship of Christians, all members of Yah’s Tabernacle of Praise and Worship do solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. Through the help of God’s Spirit, we promise to work together in Christian love for the growth of this church; to sustain its worship and ministries through our participation; to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the financial support of this church and, through it, to the community and the world.
We further agree to care for each other in joys and in sorrows, to sustain each other
through prayers and deeds of kindness.
As individuals, we promise to be Christians wherever we are, living according to Jesus’
ethics.
We agree that when we can no longer maintain the spirit of this covenant, or when we
have moved from this area, we will unite with another church.
Article VI. Character of the Church: Summary
Section 1: Polity. The governance of this church is vested in its Pastor. It is
subject to the control of no ecclesiastical body, but it recognizes and sustains the
obligations of mutual counsel and cooperation which are common among Early
churches.
Section 2: Doctrine. This church looks to the scriptures as its authority in matters of
faith and practice. Its understanding of Christian truths contained in the scriptures is in
essential accord with the belief of the early churches.
Section 3: This church has Ordination police where license and ordinates and trains Ministers.
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Bylaws
Yah’s Tabernacle of Praise and Worship
Bristol, Texas
Article I. Church Membership
Section 1: General. This is a sovereign Church under the
Lordship of Jesus Christ. The membership retains the exclusive right of self-governance
in all phases of the spiritual and temporal life of this church but Senior Pastor has final say. .
Section 2: Qualifications and Candidacy.
A. Individuals confessing Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord may offer themselves
as candidates for membership in this church. The church will receive members by
the following methods:
1. Profession of faith and subsequent baptism by immersion. If an individual
is physically incapable of receiving baptism by immersion, the pastor will
suggest an acceptable alternative.
2. Promise of a letter of recommendation from another church.
3. Statement of prior conversion experience and baptism by immersion in a
Christian church.
4. Student affiliate membership, upon the statement of present membership in
another Christian church. Student members are not considered voting
members of the church.
B. All candidates for membership are encouraged to participate in an orientation
session explaining the mission, beliefs, and expectations of YAH’S TABERNACLE OF PRAISE AND WORSHIP
Church.
C. Candidates become members upon the majority vote of the church membership at
either a regular or called business meeting.
Section 3: Duties. All members of this church strive to become increasingly aware of
their relationship to God through Jesus Christ, to sustain a vital, growing relationship with
Him and to be used of God to bring others into this same relationship. Members work
together in Christian love for the growth of this church in holiness, in knowledge and in
mission. Members also support the worship and ministries of this church by participation,
and contribute faithfully to the financial support of this church in order to minister to the
community and the world.
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Section 4: Rights of Members.
A. Except for student affiliate members, every member of the church who has
reached the age of sixteen is entitled to vote in all elections and on all
recommendations submitted to the church membership. Members must be in
attendance to vote. No proxies or absentee ballots are allowed.
B. Every member of the church is accorded all the rights and privileges contained
in these bylaws, including the right to attend and speak at Business Meetings.
C. Every member who has attained the age of sixteen is eligible for consideration
by the membership as a candidate for elective offices in the church. Student
affiliate members may be considered for election to church committees, but may
not serve as chairperson.
Section 5: Transfer of Membership. By vote of the Church Council, membership may
be transferred or terminated in the following ways:
A. By the request of a letter of recommendation from another church.
B. By request of the member that their names be removed from the membership
roster of this church
Section 6: Discipline. This church is guided by New Testament principles in all
disciplinary matters. Disciplinary action will be considered if the immoral or unchristian
conduct of a member becomes an offense to the church and to its good name. The
Senior Pastor, other members of the ministerial staff and the Deacons shall be available
for counsel and guidance and shall seek to lead the member back to the Christian walk.
All matters of discipline are referred to the Deacons for review and recommendation and,if all efforts for reconciliation are ineffective, they will recommend to the church a course
of action concerning the member’s continued relationship with YAH’S TABERNACLE OF PRAISE AND WORSHIP
Church.
Section 7: Restoration. A person whose membership has been terminated because of
some offense may, upon evidence of his repentance and reformation, regain that
membership by a vote of the church.
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Article II. Church Ministerial Staff, Officers and Supporting Staff
Section 1: Church Ministerial Staff. The ministerial staff of this church is the Senior
Pastor, supporting ministerial staff and the Deacons.
A. Senior Pastor: The Senior Pastor holds the principal ministerial staff position
in this church and is the leader of all pastoral ministries of the church.
1. Qualifications. The person selected and called by the church is an
ordained minister; The selection of a Pastor is guided by the scriptural qualifications found in 1Timothy 3:1-7.
2. Duties. The Senior Pastor prepares and delivers scripturally based
sermons at scheduled worship services, leads midweek prayer services, and
performs other duties consistent with his official job description. The Senior
Pastor works with the church staff, the Church Council and the Deacons to: (a)
lead the church in the achievement of its mission; (b) proclaim the gospel to all
people and; (c) provide pastoral care for church members. The Senior Pastor
may preside at business meetings in the event either the Moderator or
Chairperson of Deacons is unavailable. In addition, he is an ex-officio member
of all standing church committees.
3. Selection. Senior Pastor cannot be fired remove by the Church.
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4. Term. The Senior Pastor is called by the church for an indefinite term.
B. Supporting Ministerial Staff: Supporting ministerial staff is called and
employed as the church determines the need for such positions. When a
ministerial staff position has been approved by the Pastor, a job description is
written by the Senior Pastor. A search committee is then formed by the
Senior Pastor and elected by the church. Selection and term will be Determine Senior Pastor.
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C. Deacons: Deacons and Deaconess are to serve with the Senior Pastor and supporting ministerial staff in performing these pastoral ministries: (1) leading the church in the achievement of its mission, (2) proclaiming the gospel to all people, and (3)
caring for church members and other persons in the community.
1. Qualifications. In the nomination of Deacons, the church is guided by
the scriptural qualifications in Acts 6 and 1 Timothy 3. Persons elected as
Deacons must have been church members for at least one (1) year. Unless appointed directly from a Pastor
2. Duties. Deacons visit church members: to encourage them in Christian
worship, service and stewardship; and to offer support to them in times of
crises. Deacons support and participate in the worship and ministries of the
church and endeavor to promote harmony and a spirit of cooperation among
the members. They are responsible for serving communion and, in the
temporary absence of the Senior Pastor, are responsible for all scheduled
services. In any period when the church is without a Senior Pastor, the
Deacons arrange for an interim minister and
promptly nominate to the church a search committee.
3. Election. Each year the church nominates and elects church members to
fill vacant positions for the upcoming year. Deacons are generally elected to
three-year terms but may be elected to fill an unexpired term. The nomination
and election process are coordinated by the Deacon Election Committee.
Names of potentially qualified candidates submitted by the church membership
are screened and the required number is presented to the church, by secret
ballot, for a vote in the October Business Meeting. Nominees receiving a
majority of votes from those present and voting are elected and assume office
in January.
4. Deacon Installation and Ordination. A service is held to install newly elected
Deacons and to ordain any not previously ordained.
Section 2: Church Officers. The officers of this church are the Trustees, Moderator,
Clerk, Financial Secretary, Information Technology Manager, Wedding Coordinator and
the Associational Representative. Only church members may serve as officers of the
church. All church officers except the Trustees are nominated by the Nominating
Committee and elected by the church membership in a business meeting.
A. Trustees:
1. Purpose. Trustees are church members who are authorized to act for, and
on behalf of, this church, as provided by law and by the specific action of the
church membership. There are currently three Trustees.
2. Qualifications. A Trustee must have served a three-year term as a
Deacon and be generally knowledgeable in the affairs of the church unless selected by a Pastor.
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3. Duties. Upon a specific vote of the church in a business meeting
authorizing each action, any of the Trustees are authorized and empowered to
transfer, convey, endorse, sell, assign, set over and deliver any and all shares
of stock, bonds, debentures, notes, subscription warrants, stock purchase
warrants, evidence of indebtedness, or other securities now or hereafter
owned by Yah’s Tabernacle of Praise and Worship but can be overruled my Senior Pastor.
The Trustees are also responsible for conducting an annual review of the
church’s insurance coverage and any other duties that the Church Council may
assign to them.
4. Election and Term of Service. Trustees are elected to serve a six-year
term of office and must remain an active member of YAH’S TABERNACLE OF PRAISE AND WORSHIP
Church during that time. The Deacons and deaconess nominate candidates for election by the church membership when vacancies occur. If in the judgment of the Deacons,
a trustee has become incapacitated, is inactive, or is otherwise no longer
qualified to serve, they recommend a replacement to the church membership.
B. Church Moderator:
1. Purpose. The church Moderator presides at church business meetings
and serves as Chairperson of the Church Council.
2. Qualifications. The Moderator must be a church member in good standing
and must not be an active Deacon while serving as moderator.
3. Duties.
a. As Chairperson of the Church Council, the Moderator works closely
with the Senior Pastor to lead the Church Council in performing its
tasks. If the Moderator is unable to attend a Church Council meeting,
he/she appoints another Church Council to fulfill his/her duties.
b. When presiding at church business meetings, the Moderator
coordinates with the Senior Pastor in planning the agendas, evaluating
the meetings and ensuring follow-up on actions approved by the church
membership. In the event of the absence of the Moderator or during
meetings when there could potentially be a conflict of interest, either the
Chairperson of the Deacons or the Senior Pastor can act as Moderator.
4. Election. Each year the Church Council recommends to the Nominating
Committee a candidate to be elected at the July Business Meeting and to
assume office the following October 1st. If the Moderator is unable to complete
the full term of office, either the Chairperson of the Deacons or the Senior
Pastor serves in this capacity until a replacement has been elected by the
church membership.
C. Clerk: The Clerk to keeps an accurate record of the business transacted by
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the church at its regular and special business meetings. The Clerk also keeps an
accurate register of the members, with the dates of both joining and leaving the
church, along with baptisms and deaths. The Clerk sends notification of previous
membership to other churches when such notification letters have been requested
and authorized by the Church Council, preserves all communications and written
official reports, and gives notice of meetings when required.
The Clerk is a non-voting member of the Church Council. In that capacity, the
Clerk attends Church Council meetings and assists the Moderator with associated
administrative tasks (e.g., preparing agendas, distributing meeting materials,
recording minutes).
The Clerk reviews the membership roll annually to:
Identify members who have moved from the community and place these
names on the inactive, non-resident membership roll.
Identify resident members who have not participated in the life of the church
during a period of at least three years and place these names on the
inactive resident/non-resident membership roll.
Determine at the beginning of each church year the number of active
resident members. This number shall be used to determine the quorum for
the upcoming church year.
Prepare the annual letter to by Yah’s Tabernacle of Praise and Worship maintains a
current copy of the Church Constitution and Bylaws, and ensures that
copies are maintained in the church office.
D. Financial Secretary: The Financial Secretary keeps accurate records of
the gifts of members of the church and submits periodic statements to
contributors and to the Treasurer. The Financial Secretary ensures the
confidentiality of all contribution records and reports, complies with all IRS
regulations and monitors the eventual destruction of this data.
E. Information Technology (IT) Manager: The IT Manager is responsible for
coordinating the acquisition and maintenance of all information technology
equipment and software for the church. The IT Manager works with the church
staff and other church organizations to provide IT support for church ministries
on an as needed basis and is responsible for the development and maintenance
of the church web site. The IT Manager delegates responsibility to other
members of the IT Team as necessary.
F. Wedding Coordinator: The Wedding Coordinator guides couples who have
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chosen to be married at Yah’s Tabernacle of Praise and Worship through the entire planning
process. The Wedding Coordinator approves requests for use of the church for
weddings. In the absence of a Wedding Coordinator, the Pastor approves the
requests. The Church Council is responsible for selecting the person(s) filling
this position, subject to a vote of the church membership.
G. Left blank on purposes
Section 3: Supporting Staff. Non-ministerial staff members, including the Treasurer,
Assistant Treasurer, and Learning Center employees, are employed as required by the
church. New staff positions are recommended by the Personnel Committee, reviewed by the Church Council, and approved by the church membership and Senior pastor has last say.
Article III. Church Program Organizations
The church maintains programs of Bible teaching; church member training, church leader training, minister ordination; new member orientation; mission education, action and support; and music education and training. All organizations related to the church programs are under church control and all program activities are subject to church coordination and approval.
The program organization directors are church members and, unless otherwise noted,
are elected annually by a vote of the church membership. All program organization
members are, unless otherwise noted, elected to three-year terms and are able to serve
multiple terms.
Section 1: Audio/Visual Team. The Audio/Visual Team operates and maintains the
sanctuary and Hospitality Center sound systems and the associated audiovisual
equipment for all church services and other special functions; records (audio and/or
visual) sermons and other special programs as required; coordinates with the
Library/Media Center for the copying and distribution of recorded programs; and serves
as custodian of all audiovisual and video equipment belonging to the church. The Team is under the direction of the Praise and Worship Pastor
Section 2: Church Men. The Church Men is the organization for mission education,
mission action, and mission support for men, young men, and boys. Membership is open
to all men in the church.
Section 3: Bible Study/Sunday School. Bible Study/Sunday School is the basic
organization for the Sunday morning Bible teaching program of the church. The Director
serves as the coordinator of all Bible Study/Sunday School activities and advises the
Nominating Committee in the nomination of teachers and other workers required to
provide effective classes for all age groups and other special groups in the church
population.
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Section 4: Church Music Team. The Church Music Team provides music education
and training for all age groups and provides music performances for church worship
services and special events. The music program is normally headed by the Praise and Worship Pastor is in control of the praise and Worship Team. after that is the Phrase and worship leader. In the absence of Praise and Worship Pastor and Praise Leader, the Music Committee secures music leaders and musicians to implement an effective music program for the church.
Section 5: Discipleship Development Team. The Discipleship Development Team
provides study and training programs to augment those provided by the Bible
Study/Sunday School organization and the various missions’ organizations. It works with
the Minister of Education to provide new member orientation and with both the Minister of Education and the Moderator to provide leadership training. This team also plans and
coordinates educational opportunities relating to spiritual formation, Christian theology,
Christian ethics, Christian history and Godly life.
Leadership for this organization is provided by the Adult Christian Education Team, in
coordination with the Minister of Education. The Pastor Bible
Study/Sunday School and WMU are ex-officio members. The Adult Christian Education
Team works with the Minister of Education to 1) provide input and feedback for the
ongoing development of a balanced program that addresses the needs and interests of
members; 2) plan, coordinate, implement and evaluate educational experiences designed to address those needs and interests; 3) help identify, enlist and train leaders for the various classes and small groups
Section 6: Learning Center. The Learning Center is a Christian preschool ministry of
the church. The staff of the Learning Center, including its Director, is employed by the
Personnel Committee upon recommendation of the Learning Center Committee. The
Learning Center Director has the necessary education and credentials to achieve and
maintain an accredited program in Christian preschool education. The Director is a
member of the church unless no qualified member of the church is available.
Section 7: Library/Media Center. The Library/Media Center is a resource ministry of
the church, providing church educational and instructional materials and having
responsibility for collecting and archiving articles of historical importance in the life of the
church. The Library/Media Center Director has the necessary education and/or
experience to organize and direct an effective resource ministry, and to coordinate
operations with the Library/Media Committee.
Section 8: Missions and Evangelism Council. The Missions and Evangelism Council
strives to coordinate church-wide missions and evangelism activities. Working with
church leaders, other church mission’s organizations, and the ministerial staff, the council takes the lead in identifying both physical and spiritual needs and ways that individuals, groups, and/or the entire church can respond to those needs.
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The Council receives, reviews and approves church-wide missions and evangelism
projects that involve financial and human resource allocations from the church. If the
projects involve donations/fundraising and/or expenditure of money from the church
budget, other than those from the Council’s approved budget, they are submitted to the
Church Council for approval.
Becoming a member of the Missions Council is by an interest in, and passion for, an area of mission’s involvement rather than by nomination or as a result of involvement in another group. The number of members is intentionally fluid and open to additions as missions and ministries develop. A normal term is one year, but a Council member may serve for additional years if so desired. A member may also join the Council during a period when he or she is in charge of a specific missions-related project. Each year, the Missions and Evangelism Council recommends its Director to the Nominating Committee for election
by the church membership.
Section 9: Woman’s Missionary Union. The Woman’s Missionary Union is the mission
education and action organization for women, young women, girls and preschool
children. Its task is to teach missions; engage in mission action; recommend mission
projects; support world missions through praying and giving; and provide and interpret
information to the congregation regarding the mission work of the church and the Baptist
denomination. Membership is open to all women in the church.
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Article IV. Church Committees
Section 1: Committee Election and Responsibilities.
A. Establishment of Committees. The church establishes such committees as
may be necessary to efficiently carry on the various program and ministries of the
church. Committee membership is open to all active members, affiliate members
and to nonmembers with the approval of the Church Council.
1. Standing Committees. These are listed in Article IV, Section 2.
2. Special Committees.
a. Search Committees. When it is necessary to seek a candidate to fill a
ministerial position, a committee is nominated by the Deacons and elected
by the church membership to seek a qualified candidate. The committee
consists of seven members, at least three of whom are Deacons and at
least two of whom are women. The committee selects its own chairperson
who serves until a candidate is successfully elected to the vacant position.
b. Deacon Election Committee. This committee consists of the Senior
Pastor and the Deacon and Nominating Committee Chairpersons. The
The committee is responsible for coordinating the nominations and the election
of Deacons by secret ballot in a church business meeting.
c. Ad Hoc Committees. These committees are formed by the Church
Council and/or the church membership to address special needs, activities
or issues. These committees cease to exist when the purpose for which
they have been created has been accomplished.
B. Committee Meetings, Actions, and Responsibility. In addition to the
general duties proscribed for each of the individual committees, as delineated in
the Yah’s Tabernacle of Praise and Worship Operating Procedures and Administrative Policies
Manual, it is the responsibility of the committee chairpersons to have meetings of
the committee as needed in order to accomplish the work of the committee.
Chairpersons are encouraged to conduct discussions and exchange information
by email in order to minimize the number of face-to-face meetings required.
Recommendations from committees are approved by their current members prior
to being submitted to the Church Council, the Deacons, the Stewardship
Committee or the church membership.
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C. Terms of Service and Composition of Committee. All standing committees
operate on a three-year rotating principle. Members are allowed to serve
consecutive terms at the discretion of the Nominating Committee. This allows for
more flexibility (e.g., when other volunteers cannot be found) and for more efficient
utilization of the talents and abilities of church members. Each committee consists
of at least three members, and each committee elects its own chairperson
annually.
Section 2: Committee Description and Duties. Committees are classified in five
categories: Administrative, Worship Support, Education, Ministry, and Fellowship.
A. Administrative Committees.
1. Nominating Committee
a. Membership. All general church officers and directors are ex-officio
members of the Nominating Committee and participate as requested by
the committee, providing input and recommendations concerning potential
candidates. Each year, the Church Council nominates two (2) candidates
to fill the vacancies on the Nominating Committee.
b. Duties. Each year, the Nominating Committee nominates one person
for each standing committee vacancy, with the exception of the Deacons,
who are nominated as specified in Article II, Section 1.C(3) and the
Trustees, who are nominated as specified in Article II, Section 2.A(4). In
this process, the Nominating Committee strives to avoid obvious conflicts
of interest situations involving spouses and/or other family members (e.g.,
not appointing someone to the Personnel Committee if his/her spouse is a
staff member). Nominations are normally presented for election at the
October business meeting and are effective the following January.
2. Buildings and Grounds Committee. The Building and Grounds
The committee is responsible for the proper care, maintenance and security of the
church property and the oversight of any minor modifications and/or
remodeling. The committee is also responsible for the supervision of contract
maintenance and custodial personnel and/or their associated services.
3. Stewardship / Finance Committee.
a. The Stewardship / Finance Committee establishes and administers the
financial policies of the church.
b. The committee arranges for the church’s financial records to be
reviewed annually and for the results to be reported to the church
membership at the third quarterly business meeting after the beginning of
the fiscal year.
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c. The committee prayerfully promotes stewardship throughout the
church, conducts an annual stewardship emphasis, monitors church
giving, and provides additional stewardship emphasis, as required, during
the church year.
d. The committee drafts an annual budget under the plan known as the
“Unified Budget”, making provision for all current expenses, benevolent
and Mission contributions, capital improvements and other items as
required. The committee submits this draft budget to the church for
adoption before the end of the fiscal year.
e. The Church Treasurer and/or Assistant Treasurer serve as ex- officio
members of this committee.
4. Personnel Committee. The Personnel Committee develops and maintains
job descriptions for all ministerial staff and salaried employees and
recommends to the Stewardship / Finance Committee all pay policies, salaries, and fringe benefits. The Personnel Committee has the authority to employ and
to terminate services of non-ministerial staff members. Such employment and
termination of services are generally in consultation with the supervising
committee/staff members and the Church Council. At least one member of the
Personnel Committee is involved in the interviewing of all prospective staff
members.
5. Memorial Committee. The Memorial Committee decides what items will
be memorialized and ensures that donations toward such items are
appropriately handled and acknowledged. They are also responsible for the
maintenance of a Memorial Book, the Memorial Plaque case and individual
memorial plaques. The location and/or relocation of memorial items or plaques
is approved by the Church Council.
6. Publicity Committee. The Publicity Committee is responsible for informing
the church and the community regarding church programs through direct mail,
posters, brochures, special promotional materials, newspapers, radio,
television, and other media. In addition, this committee supports other
committees involved with specific publicity tasks.
7. Tellers Committee. The Tellers Committee takes custody of, counts, and
subsequently deposits, all monies received at church meetings, including
revivals. Tellers work in teams of no fewer than two to count the offerings and
segregate designated sums from the regular offering, following rules approved
by the Stewardship / Finance Committee for handling offerings. The tellers are
bonded in an amount determined by the Stewardship / Finance Committee.
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8. Endowment Fund Trustees. The Endowment Fund Trustees are
responsible for receiving and managing contributions, gifts, grants, devices,
bequests, and other transfers made to The Endowment Trust of Yah’s Tabernacle of Praise and Worship through the entire planning and for maintaining those gifts, or the proceeds
thereof, in several funds as they may establish from time to time.
B. Worship Support Committees.
1. Baptismal Committee. The Baptismal Committee assists the Senior
Pastor and baptismal candidates in the administration of the ordinance of
baptism. In addition, the Committee is responsible for preparing the baptistery
and for the on-going care of the baptismal robes.
2. Communion Committee. The Communion Committee prepares
communion, cleans up after the service, maintains all equipment and linens,
and purchases necessary supplies.
3. Flower Committee. The Flower Committee furnishes flowers for the
church sanctuary as required. The committee also decorates the church
during holiday seasons such as Easter and Christmas. It maintains a flower
calendar and solicits donors who may wish to memorialize family members and
friends and/or commemorate special occasions. It provides appropriate
flowers for funerals of church members and their immediate families. The
committee also ensures that notice is placed in the church bulletin recognizing
the donors and the occasion or persons commemorated.
4. Music Committee. The Music Committee, in conjunction with the Minister
of Music also known as praise and worship Pastor, oversees the music programs and activities of the church. They prepare a budget; recommend policies needed to implement an effective
music program; acquire, manage, and maintain all musical instruments,
hymnals, vestments and other supplies; recommend the employment of other
persons to assist in the music programs and activities; evaluate the overall
music program of the church at least once a year; and, they are available as a
resource in worship planning and evaluation. When the Minister of Music
position is vacant, this committee assists the Personnel Committee in
securing interim music leaders.
5. Ushers Committee. The Ushers Committee consists of as many members
as are needed to staff church services and meetings. Ushers assist in both
traffic control and in parking. They also provide assistance to those needing
help entering and exiting the sanctuary. They receive the offering and attempt
to prevent interruptions and distractions during church services.
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C. Education Committees.
1. Learning Center Committee. The Learning Center Committee is
responsible for the Learning Center ministry and its associated Christian
preschool. The members of this committee include the Minister of Education, a
representative of the Personnel Committee, and a rotating at-large member
who serves as chairperson. In addition, the Director of the Learning Center is
an ex-officio member of the committee. The committee is responsible for
making recommendations concerning the hiring/firing of preschool teachers,
overseeing all aspects of operations of the Learning Center ministry and the
preschool and recommending Learning Center policies to the church.
2. Library/Media Committee. The Library/Media Committee is responsible
for the church Library/Media Center and the archiving of information pertaining
to the history and growth of the church. The Director of the Library/Media
Center chairs this committee. The committee (a) selects, purchases, catalogs
and distributes church educational and instructional materials; (b) staffs and
maintains the church library; (c) coordinates announcements for bulletin boards
and special media displays; (d) provides information to church leaders on the
availability and use of special educational materials. The historical/archival
responsibilities include the collection of information (e.g., records, documents,
pictures, sound recordings, and video recordings) and articles of historical
importance in the life of the church. The committee also works with the Church
Clerk to capture and preserve important records (e.g., the church minute
books).
3. Nursery/Preschool Coordinating Committee. The Nursery/Preschool
The committee arranges for childcare (nursery through pre-K) during all worship
services, scheduled church meetings and for other activities when requested
by recognized church organizations. The committee coordinates all activities of
the nursery/preschool department. It recommends nursery/preschool policy
and posts this guidance in prominent places. It purchases equipment, supplies
, and snacks for the preschool. The committee also helps coordinate the use of
the preschool facilities.
4. Vacation Bible School Committee. The Vacation Bible School Committee
works with the Minister of Youth and Children to coordinate and direct the
annual Vacation Bible School.
D. Ministry Committees.
1. Children’s Ministry Committee. The Children’s Ministry Committee works
with the Minister of Youth and Children to coordinate the Children’s ministry of
the church in order to nurture our children in evangelism, fellowship, ministry,
discipleship, and worship.
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2. Inreach Ministries Committee. The Inreach Ministries Committee serves
to motivate and prepare each church member for greater participation in, and
commitment to, the total life of the church. The committee is sympathetic to
the crises and needs in the lives of church members. It also serves as the
coordinator of ministries to church families in times of illness and/or death of
family members.
3. Mission Benevolence Committee. The Mission Benevolence Committee
Administers funds the church budgets for benevolent purposes. They
respond to emergency requests both from church members and church facility
walk-ins.
.
4. Outreach Committee. The Outreach Committee coordinates the contact
of, and communications with, visitors and guests to the church, provides
visitation training and conduct surveys from time to time to locate unchurched
families for visitation.
5. Senior Adult Ministries Committee. The Senior Adult Ministries
Committee oversees and plans an effective ministry to senior adults. It looks at
senior adult needs in our church and community and works to develop
activities and programs to be incorporated into the church program.
6. Student Ministries Committee. The Student Ministries Committee
oversees an effective ministry to both those students at the College of
William and Mary who worship with us and to student members of the church
who are studying at other institutions.
7. Youth Ministries Committee. The Youth Ministries Committee works with
the Minister of Youth to coordinate the youth ministry of the church. In the
absence of a Minister of Youth, the committee is responsible for the youth
program. Members of this committee include at least one member from the
youth groups, at least one parent of a youth group member, and a youth Bible
Study teacher.
E. Fellowship Committees.
Hospitality Committee. The Hospitality Committee is responsible for
coordinating and/or supplementing all church-wide social functions (i.e.,
dinners and receptions), including preparing the Wednesday night suppers. It
is also responsible for all kitchen equipment and supplies and policies
regarding the use of the kitchen. The committee is responsible for planning and/or
coordinating the hospitality efforts (e.g., lodging and transportation) of the
church for visiting pastors, speakers, and musicians.
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Article V. Church Council
The Church Council is responsible for coordinating program plans for organizations,
committees and supporting ministries and for preparing and maintaining an up-to-date
Church Operating Procedures Manual. It leads to developing the goals and objectives for both near-term and long-term planning and provides guidance on the allocation of
resources.
The Church Council reviews input from church organizations/committees regarding the
use of personnel, program schedules, and funds, the use of facilities and other
resources, and implements a course of action within guidelines approved by the church.
The members of the Church Council are the Senior Pastor; Church Moderator;
Chairpersons of the Deacons, Personnel Committee, Stewardship / Finance Committee,
Buildings and Grounds Committee, Trustees; and three at large members. The at large
members are selected by the Nominating Committee and elected to serve three year
terms.
The Church Council meets at least monthly, and requests attendance and/or input from
the supporting ministries and committees as needed. Church Council meetings are
open, and members of the congregation are welcome.
Article VI. Worship and Ordinances
Section 1: Worship. Regular meetings for worship are held on Sundays and on
Wednesdays. Service may be canceled by the Senior Pastor, in consultation with the
Chairperson of the Deacons or by a vote of the congregation.
Section 2: Baptism. A baptismal service is scheduled without undue delay for those
individuals who have made a profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior.
Section 3: Communion. Communion is observed monthly.
Article VII. Meetings
Section 1: Business Meetings. Regular meetings for the transaction of business are
held during the first month of each quarter. The Senior Pastor and Church Moderator
may change or cancel the business meeting by giving notice the preceding Sunday.
Section 2: Called Business Meetings. Special Business Meetings can be called by the
Senior Pastor, Church Moderator, and/or the Deacons, either on their own or when
petitioned, in writing, by at least twelve voting members of the church. At least one public
notice must be given at least a week in advance of such meetings.
21
Section 3: Presiding Officer. The Church Moderator presides at all business meetings.
In the absence or the inability of the Church Moderator to preside, the Chairperson of the
Deacons, the Senior Pastor or another ministerial staff member may preside. In the event
that none of these is present or able to preside, a presiding officer is chosen by the
assembled church members.
Section 4: Quorum. Ten (10) percent of the active resident membership sixteen (16)
years of age and older constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any regular or special meeting. At a meeting during which the election of a new ministerial staff member is being considered, a quorum of at least twenty-five (25) percent of the active resident membership is required.
Section 5: Parliamentary Procedure. Business Meetings are conducted using Robert’s Rules of Order as a general guide.
Section 6: Other Meetings. With the exception of Church Council approved activities of the children’s mission organization, youth programs, and/or special training sessions, no meetings or activities of any kind are held on the church premises during the progress of any regular church service. Revivals, study courses, etc., are held at times scheduled by the Church Council. Any schedule changes require approval by the Senior Pastor or the
Church Council. No secular meetings are held on the church premises without
the permission of the Church Council unless the Senior Pastor has allowed it.
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Article VIII. General or Miscellaneous Provisions
Section 1: System of Finance. The system of finance used by the church is an annual
“Unified Budget” in conjunction with special budgets for capital expenditures and
designated missions. The unified budget includes expenditures for normal church
operations, salaried personnel, church organizations, committees, and payments to
church-approved missions’ organizations. Budgets for capital expenditures and
designated missions may also be supported by church-approved fundraising programs.
All weekly offerings are applied to the unified budget, to church-approved special budgets
for capital projects, and/or to designated accounts previously approved by the
Stewardship / Finance Committee.
Section 2: Designated Gifts. Donors wishing to make designated gifts will be
encouraged not to place restrictions on the use of the gift. Donors preferring to designate
a specific use will be encouraged to designate an existing account already approved by
the Finance Committee. Designations to other than previously approved funds will be
referred to the Finance Committee, which will either create a new designated account
and accept the gift or return the gift to the donor(s).
Section 3: Benevolent Offerings and Fund-Raising Campaigns. Either the Church
Council or Deacons may authorize the collection of benevolent offerings. Fundraising
campaigns require the approval of the Church Council.
23
Article IX. Adoption and Amendment of this Constitution
Section 1: Amendments. The Constitution and Bylaws may be altered or amended by a
two-thirds vote of the members present and voting at any business meeting, provided
that notification is given to the church membership at the immediately preceding business
meeting.
Section 2: Records. A copy of the Constitution and Bylaws is kept by the Church Clerk
and another copy is kept in the church office.
Section 3: Distribution. A copy of the Constitution and Bylaws is available to every
church member.
Section 4: Additional Documentation. The Constitution and Bylaws are amplified in
the Walnut Hills Operating Procedures and Administrative Policies Manual, a document
that is available to those wishing to view it. The Operating Procedures and
Administrative Policies Manual provides a more detailed look at church organizations and
committee responsibilities and does not conflict with nor contradict the Constitution and
Bylaws.
Attention and Further understanding
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Senior Pastor can change any of this document at any time.
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No person can order any one to do anything illegal.
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All Children will be left alone with no less than two adults. Only the guardian of a child can be alone.
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No member of Clergy and staff can be under any Substance and work it his or her function. They must be sober.
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All musicians must be Born again and saved to play worship music.
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Senior Pastor is president of any committee.
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Treasurer over all the finances.
-
Church comity and boards or comprised of the President, Vice President, Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary
F. Vice-Chairman and Elder can run the church if there is no minster and find a minster to Run the church.
G. The secretary is the Church clerk. The chain of command is in that order.
H. At any time, the Senior Pastor is not President He is still over ALL boards all comities and has the final say.
I. This stands for the Finding Pastor after that the Vice President Takes control and has the powers as the Finding Pastor for a year. Then the church votes on the Pastor only after the Mainboard member’s family has all passed away or abandoned the church.
J. The church will start as a house Church(s).
Church Legalities that are added to Bylaws we agree with the following
PROCEDURE FOR MEMBER DISCIPLINE/MEMBERSHIP REVOCATION
Generally speaking, a church cannot be held liable for disciplining a church member or
terminating his or her membership. The Ninth Circuit (which governs California) has explained
that “Courts generally do not scrutinize closely the relationship among members (or former
members) of a church. Churches are afforded great latitude when they impose discipline on
members or former members.”5 There are exceptions, however. The most common is when a
church disciplines a member/terminates a person’s membership because that person refuses to
stop engaging in sinful behavior, and the church leaders reveal the sinful behavior to the
1 Tomic v. Catholic Diocese of Peoria, 442 F.3d 1036, 1037 (7th Cir. 2006).
2 Paul v. Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., 819 F.2d 875, 880 (9th Cir. 1987).
3 Guinn v. Church of Christ of Collinsville, 775 P.2d 766, 779 (1989); accord Owen v. Bd. of Directors of
Rosicrucian Fellowship¸ 342 P.2d 424, 426 (Cal. App. 1959) (“A person who joins a church covenants expressly or
impliedly that in consideration of the benefits which result from such a union he will submit to its control and be
governed by its laws, usages, and customs”).
4 A tort is any wrongful act that results in injury to another’s person, property, or reputation. Examples include
breach of contract, assault, defamation, invasion of privacy, intentional infliction of emotional distress, etc.
-
5 Paul, 819 F.2d at 883.
Solution Church is urged to Do the following to perfect it self
First, a church should
have each step of its procedure for discipline and membership termination explained in its
bylaws. If the church believes that it may be necessary to reveal to the congregation the reason
for the discipline/termination, it is essential that this be a part of that procedure. Second, as part
of the process for becoming a member, a church should provide all prospective members a copy
of the bylaws and have them sign a statement that they have read them. And, of course, the
church should always follow the procedures in the bylaws.
If these steps are followed, then courts are much less likely to consider a tort claim against.
#3: PROCEDURE FOR RESCINDING MEMBERSHIP
Just as the church should have a written policy for terminating membership, it should also have a
written policy for how members can disassociate from the church. Indeed, courts have held that
church members have a First Amendment right to terminate their membership.8 Once a member
has rescinded her membership, she is no longer consenting to the church’s doctrine. This could
limit a church’s legal protection if it is sued for disciplining someone after they have revoked
their membership. With a formal revocation policy, it is easy for all parties involved, including
the court, to identify when the membership was terminated – otherwise a court will decide on its
own.
_____________
#4: JOB DESCRIPTIONS AND RELIGIOUS GROUNDS FOR LIMITING
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Federal law prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex,
national origin, or age.9 California non-discrimination laws are similar, but also ban
discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.10
However, the government is very protective of church autonomy and generally does not interfere
with church hiring practices. Federal law exempts religious organizations and allows them to
6 See, e.g., Snyder v. Evangelical Orthodox Church, 216 Cal.App.3d 297, 307 (1989) (allowing case against church
to go forward because the church’s bylaws were silent about whether confessions could be revealed to the
congregation).
7 Id. at 309.
8 See, e.g., Guinn, 775 P.2d at 776 (“Just as freedom to worship is protected by the First Amendment, so also is the
liberty to recede from one’s religious allegiance”).
9 See 42 U.S.C. § 2000e-2; 29 U.S.C. § 621 et seq.
10 Cal. Gov’t Code § 12921.
consider an applicant’s religious beliefs in hiring for all positions.11 And for hiring clergy, none
of the federal non-discrimination regulations apply.12 And under California law, religious nonprofit
organizations are entirely exempt from these regulations.13
However, should a dispute arise, churches can best protect themselves from discrimination
claims if they provide job descriptions in their bylaws and include the religious grounds for
limiting employment opportunities – especially if the limitations involve any of the categories
listed above. Thus, if the church’s beliefs require that only certain positions be held by men, for
example, this should be stated in the bylaws with support from Scripture. This firmly establishes
that there is a religious basis for the church’s limitations on employment, and is unlikely to be
questioned by a judge.
Solution all candidates must be allowed to hand in resumes. So all staff members must accept resumes and a department will review said application.
#5: STATEMENT OF RELIGIOUS BELIEF REGARDING MARRIAGE
With the rise of same-sex “marriage,” domestic partnerships, and civil unions, churches are
regularly being confronted with these marriage counterfeits and asked to recognize these
relationships. This can arise in the area of employment (see previous section) and whenever
churches offer classes, retreats, or other events designed for married couples. Churches should
include in their bylaws a Biblical definition of marriage and a statement that marriage is the only
legitimate and accepted sexual relationship. This will help protect the church if it is forced to
terminate/punish an employee for engaging in unbiblical sexual relationships,14 or if the church
declines to allow an unmarried couple to participate in events designed for married couples.
Solution: We only recognize Biblical definition of marriage and a statement that marriage is the only legitimate and accepted sexual relationship. Gays are welcome in church but must be Christ like at a glance but to be a member must understand it is a sin and must seek God for guidance.
_____________
#6: IDENTIFY GOVERNING BODY THAT IS THE SOLE AUTHORITATIVE
INTERPRETER OF SCRIPTURE
It is impossible to anticipate every doctrinal dispute that a church could encounter. Thus,
churches should include a statement in its bylaws that its governing body (e.g. elder board,
executive committee, etc.) is the church’s sole authoritative interpreter of Scripture. This will
allow the governing body to issue an interpretation of Scripture whenever a dispute arises that
cannot be questioned by courts.15
Solution any Pastor is the church’s sole authoritative interpreter of Scripture.
C_________
11 McClure v. Salvation Army, 460 F.2d 553, 558 (5th Cir. 1972).
12 Id. at 558-61; Scharon v. St. Luke’s Episcopal Presbyterian Hosp., 929 F.2d 360 (8th Cir. 1991).
13 Cal. Gov’t Code § 12926(d); also see Kelly v. Methodist Hospital of Southern Cal., 22 Cal.4th 1108, 1119 (2000)
(“If [an employer] is qualified as a ‘religious association or corporation not organized for private profit’ (§ 12926,
subd. (d)), it will be exempt from FEHA regardless of the nature of the employee’s job or the type of discrimination
it allegedly practiced”).
14 See, e.g., Gunn v. Mariners Church, 2005 WL 1253953 at *2 (Cal.App. 4 Dist. 2005). Gunn involved the
termination of a worship pastor who was engaging in homosexual conduct. The pastor tried to argue that the
church’s doctrine did not prohibit homosexuality. But because the church was able to demonstrate otherwise, the
court refused to second-guess the church’s employment decision. Id.
15 Id. (courts “cannot undertake...a mission” of finding what is and is not “moral” or “sinful” within the beliefs of a
particular church).
#7: DUE DILIGENCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS AND STAFF
WHO WORK WITH CHILDREN
Churches have a legal obligation to help protect the children in their care: “[C]churches and the
adult church workers who assume responsibility for the spiritual wellbeing of children of the
congregation, whether as paid clergy or as volunteers, have a special relationship with those
children that gives rise to a duty to protect them from reasonably foreseeable risk of harm from
those members of the congregation whom the church places in positions of responsibility and
authority over them.”16 Thus, churches need to do due diligence when selecting staff and
volunteers to work with children. This could include conducting background checks and
requesting references. It is also important to avoid situations where staff members or volunteers
are alone with children.
Solution there must be a two adults with in child under the age of 16. So no child or adult can be with just one Child unless that child is that Adults caregiver or parent. So a person 17 or older can be with an adult by them self. But a 17-year-old can’t be with one child. This is for any church outing. Exemption is if a direct blood relative has given permission for said child to escorted with said blood relative. However, rule of thumb is no one on the age of 16 and under can be alone with an adult.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this document is general in nature and is not intended to provide, or be a substitute
for, legal analysis, legal advice, or consultation with appropriate legal counsel. You should not act or rely on the information
contained in this document without seeking appropriate professional advice. By printing and distributing this guide, the Alliance
Defense Fund, Inc. (ADF) is not providing legal advice, and the use of this document is not intended to constitute advertising or
solicitation and does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and ADF or between you and any ADF employee.
16 Funkhouser v. Wilson, 950 P.2d 501, 509 (Wash.App. Div. 1 1998); accord Evan F. v. Hughson United
Methodist Church, 8 Cal.App.4th 828, 843 (1992).