Constitution And ByLaws
As you read through, please understand that Spiritual Messiah Ministries / Rev. Dr. Red Ministries is NOT a corporation. We are a “Free” Church. Though we are not a corporation listed as a 501(c)3 under the IRS, we have setup a constitution and bylaws for protection and security purposes.
1st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.Article 1 Section 3 of the Florida State Constitution
SECTION 3. Religious freedom.–There shall be no law respecting the establishment of religion or prohibiting or penalizing the free exercise thereof. Religious freedom shall not justify practices inconsistent with public morals, peace or safety. No revenue of the state or any political subdivision or agency thereof shall ever be taken from the public treasury directly or indirectly in aid of any church, sect, or religious denomination or in aid of any sectarian institution.
CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS OF SPIRITUAL MESSIAH MINISTRIES / REV. DR. RED MINISTRIES
Amended this 6th day of April, 2015.
Replaces and supersedes all previous versions of the Constitution and By-laws of Spiritual Messiah Ministries / Rev. Dr. Red Ministries
….PREAMBLE….
Spiritual Messiah Ministries was founded on Jan. 11, 2011 and officially opened April 6, 2011. The current location of the ministries headquarters and principle office is located in Crescent City, Florida.
The purpose of this ministry and its local churches is the salvation of the lost souls, the edification of the Christ-followers through the teaching of God’s Word, the encouragement of members to do the work of the ministry, the worldwide proclamation of God’s saving grace through the teachings and acceptance of Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour, the promotion of godly worship, the defense of the faith once delivered unto the saints (Jude 3), and cooperation with Christ-following activities functioning in harmony with God’s Holy Word, until Jesus comes for His church.
It is the intent of this ministry to function freely as a missionary, evangelistic, sovereign, independent, free church. Further, we will operate in true Scriptural, autonomous fashion. We have taken a stand against all worldly philosophies that seek to destroy the true Biblical and Scriptural message of Jesus Christ.
We adopt the following articles of ministry and church order as being scriptural in principle and agree to comply with them.
Spiritual Messiah Ministries uses the terms church and ministry interchangeably in this Constitution and ByLaws, both terms represent the Scriptural, common and legal views and definitions of the term church.
Some scriptural use of the terms are: Matt. 18:17, Acts 2:47, 6:4, 11:26, 14:27, 16:5, 20:24; 1 Cor. 10:32, 2 Cor. 4:1, 5:18; Eph. 4:12, Col. 4:17, 1 Tim. 1:12, 2 Tim. 4:5, Heb. 9:21
As defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary:
Ministry: the office, duties, or work of a religious minister; the body of ministers of religion: clergy
Church: the clergy or officialdom of a religious body; often capitalized: a body or organization of religious believers: as
a: the whole body of Christians
b: denomination
c: congregation
….CONSTITUTION….
ARTICLE I. NAME
The name of this church and ministry shall be: Spiritual Messiah Ministries, in the town of Crescent City, in the State of Florida. The church and ministry shall also be known as Rev. Dr. Red Ministries.
ARTICLE II. PREROGATIVES
Section 1. This congregation shall have the right to govern itself according to the standards of the Scripture, “…endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace…till we all come in unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Eph. 4:3-13).
Section 2. In connection therewith, or incidental thereto, it shall have the right to purchase of acquire by gifts, bequest or otherwise, either directly or as trustee, and to own, hold in trust, use, sell, convey, mortgage, lease or otherwise dispose of any real estate or chattels as may be necessary for the furtherance of its purposes; all in accordance with its Constitution and Bylaws or as the same may be hereafter modified or amended.
ARTICLE III. AFFILIATION
While maintaining its inherent rights to sovereignty in the conduct of its own affairs, this assembly shall voluntarily enter into a mutual, full cooperative fellowship with any churches and ministries that join the Messianic Spirituality denomination or joins the Spiritual Truth Movement & Coalition.
We also oversee, fully and completely, all Child-Churches/Ministries of this ministry.
ARTICLE IV. TENETS OF FAITH
We believe in:
Please view the Statement of Faith and Messianic Spirituality pages.
ARTICLE V. ORDINANCES
Section 1. The ordinance of Baptism by immersion in water (Matt. 28:19) is commanded in the Scriptures. All who repent and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ are to be baptized. This is a means of declaring to the world, the flesh and the devil that they have died in Christ and are raised with Him to walk in newness of life (Acts 10:47-48; Rom. 6:3-5; Col. 2:12).
Section 2. The ordinance of the Lord’s Supper shall be observed regularly as enjoined in the Scriptures (Luke 22:19, 20; 1Cor. 11:23-26).
ARTICLE VI. MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. All those who give evidence of saving faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; who regularly attend and take part in the services and ministries; who are living consistent Christian lives; who support the church with the complete tithe according to Scriptures; who give evidence of a cooperative, submissive, humble and Christ-like spirit as the Scriptures enjoin; and who are in agreement with the objectives of the assembly may be recognized as members, these being ones who God has added to the church (1Cor. 12:1-31; Mal.3:8-11; Matt. 23:23; 1 Tim. 5:1, 17-20; Acts 2:47).
Regular attendance shall consist of attendance of a minimum of one quarter (1/4) of the scheduled services.
Section 2. Voting Membership. The voting membership shall consist of all those who meet the Scriptural standards for membership whose names have been added to the roster of this assembly, provided they are 21 years of age or over, and are a member of a Board, Committee, or other governing body.
Section 3. Associate Membership. Associate Membership may be available for persons who, for various reasons, must have limited involvement in the church for a time, as well as for those under eighteen years of age (Junior Membership) who meet the Scriptural standards of membership established by this assembly.
Section 4. Automatic Termination of Membership. Members who without good cause absent themselves from more than 75% of the services, or who are out of harmony with its teachings, or its ministries, or who shall be under charges of misconduct, or who have fallen under condemnation through sinful practices, shall be considered as rescinding membership until they re-apply for and are restored to the fellowship, their standing to be settled by the definite action of the assembly through its Sr. Pastor and Leadership to whom such responsibility is designated.
ARTICLE VII. OFFICERS
Section 1. The officers of this church shall consist of the Sr. Pastor, Deputy Pastor, Elder(s), Deacon(s), a Secretary, a Treasurer, and such other officers as the church may deem advisable (Rom. 11:13, 12:4; 1 Tim. 3:10, 3:13; Eph. 4:11; Eph., Phil., and Col. subscripts). These shall be known collectively as the Leadership.
Section 2. An Elder is one who is active in one or more of the five fold ministries as listed in Eph. 4:11-14, and is qualified in accordance with 1 Tim. 3:1-16, 2:1; 1 Pet. 5:1-7. From among the Elders, one shall be recognized as presiding Elder or Sr. Pastor. The Sr. Pastor shall have the responsibility for the oversight of the church and ministry. The Elders shall be responsible for the delegated committees in the ministry. They shall function with special regard to spiritual matters and thus will delegate responsibilities to the staff and clergy as required. The Sr. Pastor, an Elder and Secretary shall also act as Trustees.
Section 3. Functional support for managing church affairs shall be provided to the Sr. Pastor and Eldership by the Deacons under the chairmanship of the Sr. Pastor and under the guidance of the Elders. The ministry of Deacon (1 Tim. 3:8, 12) and Deaconess (Rom. 16:1) is the ministry of Servant or Attendant. Deacons shall be recognized (Acts 6:3) from the voting membership of the church. These will have first been proven ( 1Tim.3:10) to have the heart for and evidences of being servants in the assembly. The tenure for Deacons shall be open, and reviewed annually for as long as each maintains the scriptural qualifications and has the heart for the ministry of Deacon.
Section 4. The Secretary/Treasurer shall be responsible for recording and maintaining the official records of the church and dispersing the finances of the church as directed by the Sr. Pastor and the Leadership entrusted with the responsibility for the appropriation of money.
Section 5. Designated Elders, two Deacons, and two lay members of the congregation, the Deputy Pastor, with the Sr. Pastor as chairman, shall act as the Nominating Committee. At least three weeks prior to the annual Leadership meeting, they shall meet and select those whom they have recognized as giving evidence over the previous year as being of proven heart and character for the offices open. A list of qualified candidates which will be presented to the members for recognition will be assembled. Recognition shall be established when two-thirds of the body is in agreement as to the gifting and calling of the person presented for the office in question. If an agreement cannot be reached, the Sr. Pastor may establish recognition as outlined in the ByLaws.
Section 6. All positions requiring ordination, such as the pastorate, will be handled through this ministries Eldership. Members of the ministry may be nominated or apply for an ordained position as outlined in the ByLaws.
ARTICLE VIII. MEETINGS
Section 1. Meetings for public worship shall be held on each Sunday and during the week as may be provided for under the direction of the Sr. Pastor. Revivals, missionary services, conferences and other special services shall be planned by the Sr. Pastor in conjunction with the Eldership as needed.
Section 2. There shall be an annual Leadership meeting, the specific date set by the Sr. Pastor and Leadership. The annual Leadership meeting may be postponed, for a valid reason, or for a period not to exceed 30 days, by action of the Sr. Pastor and the Leadership. Leadership meetings shall be governed by the accepted rules of parliamentary procedure in keeping with the spirit of Christian love, courtesy, and fellowship.
Section 3. Special Leadership and Eldership meetings of the church may be called when the Sr. Pastor or a two-thirds majority of the Leadership or Eldership (respectfully) deem it necessary, provided notice of the meetings are given to the assembly on the two Sundays immediately prior to the date of the said meeting. Special Leadership meetings may also be called by petition, signed by not less than twenty-five percent of the voting membership of the church . The petition shall be placed in the hands of the Sr. Pastor or the Secretary of the church. However, before the right of petition is exercised, the church must request the counsel and assistance of the Leadership.
Section 4. Notice of all annual and special Leadership and Eldership meetings shall be published by announcement on the two consecutive Sundays prior to such meeting.
Section 5. A quorum shall consist of those members who are entitled to vote who are present at any regular or specially called Leadership or Eldership meeting.
ARTICLE IX. DEPARTMENTS AND COMMITTEES
Section 1. All departments and committees shall be subordinate to the assembly and shall contribute to the harmony and development of the whole. They shall be under the general supervision of the Sr. Pastor and Elders. The Sr. Pastor shall be an ex-officio member of all departments and committees. A Department Head shall be appointed by the Sr. Pastor and Elders to direct each department in its routine operations. Department Heads shall be active members full of the Holy Spirit as illustrated in Acts 6. Departments may have sub-departments at the discretion of the Sr. Pastor and Eldership.
Section 2. As need arises, departments or committees may be established at the discretion of the Sr. Pastor and Elders.
ARTICLE X. FINANCES
Section 1. All funds and gifts received shall be used to promote the work, ministry and needs of the assembly (Ezra 7:18). Departments of the church may receive offerings and raise funds at such times and in such ways as agreed upon by the Sr. Pastor and the Leadership. No monies shall be collected by individuals or Departments of the church for any cause (including school, sports and civic fund-raisers) without the consent of the Sr. Pastor.
Section 2. The Sr. Pastor and Staff shall be given regular and adequate financial support, the amount and manner of which shall be determined by agreement between the Sr. Pastor, Staff and the Leadership.
ARTICLE XI. PROPERTY RIGHTS
Section 1. All property, real or chattel, shall be taken, held, sold, transferred, or conveyed in the name of the church/ministry and/or the name of the Sr. Pastor.
Any and all property (real estate and otherwise) of the church/ministry that may be in the Sr. Pastors name, shall be listed and recorded. A copy shall reside with the Sr. Pastor, a copy shall reside with the Secretary of the church/ministry, a copy shall reside with the attorney of the Sr. Pastor; for a total of 3 (three) copies in three locations.
Section 2. Authorization for purchase of real property shall be given by a two-thirds vote of a quorum present and voting at a regular or special Eldership meeting called for that purpose.
Section 3. The sale, lease, mortgage or alienation of the real property of this church shall be authorized by a two-thirds vote of members present at a regular or special Eldership meeting called for that purpose.
Section 4. Property shall not be sold, purchased, leased, mortgaged or alienated in the interim while the church has no Sr. Pastor, unless negotiations had begun before the vacancy occurred. In all cases during this period, guidance of the branches of the church must be sought.
Section 5. This church is not organized for profit. In the event of liquidation or dissolution of the ministry, all of its assets and property of every nature and description whatsoever shall be paid over and transferred at the direction of the Senior Pastor. All assets (properties, finances, etc) are property of the Senior Pastor. If for whatever reason the event of liquidation or dissolution arises, the Senior Pastor has full authority over and custody of any and all assets and property of every nature and description whatsoever. The Senior Pastor may keep in his or her name that which he or she added to or used for the ministry. Any and all other assets may be sold, donated, or otherwise handed over to any person or charity the Senior Pastor decides, beginning first with members of the ministry.
Section 6. Any and all property owned under the church/ministry name, as well as all other property held under the Sr. Pastor’s name and used for purposes the church/ministry, may only be used by and for this church/ministry.
ARTICLE XII. TEXTS AND SCRIPTURES
It is understood by this ministry that the canonized Bible contains Truth’s, but that such Truth’s may be also found, whether it be clearer or more in-depth, in other Scriptures utilized by the early church prior to canonization of the Bible. Therefore, these additional Scriptures are used in conjunction with the Bible.
The Authorized King James Version is to be used in the pulpit and by all teachers and workers. No other version or translation of the Bible is to be used in preaching or teaching in English language ministries. The Senior Pastor shall approve any translations used in non-English speaking ministries.
Other approved pre-Biblical/pre-Canonized (also known as Gnostic) scriptures and texts that shall be used in the ministry will be mentioned to all Child-Churches and Ministries and listed on the Ministries website on the ‘Texts and Scriptures’ page. No non-approved Gnostic scriptures are to be used.
ARTICLE XIII. AMENDMENTS
This Constitution may be amended by a majority vote of the members at any regular or special Eldership meeting called, provided due notice of such proposed change shall have been made on at least two consecutive Sundays immediately prior to the time of such meeting. Any proposed amendment must be presented to the Sr. Pastor and Eldership in writing one month before such Eldership meeting. Any changes will be on the basis of Scriptural evidence which would bring the Constitution more closely in accordance with the Word of God. The Sr. Pastor may amend this Constitution without a vote, after first making proposed changes and date amendments take affect known to the rest of the Eldership atleast two weeks before amendments take affect. The Sr. Pastor may also overturn or veto a majority vote if he/she feels changes are detrimental to this ministry.
….BY-LAWS….
ARTICLE I. OFFICERS AND DUTIES
Section 1. The Sr. Pastor shall be the spiritual overseer of the church and shall direct all of its functions. He shall act as chairman of all the meetings of the assembly and of all boards. He shall be an ex-officio member of all committees and departments. He shall provide for all the services of the church/ministry and shall arrange for all special meetings, conventions and revival campaigns. No person shall be invited to speak or preach in the church without his approval. The Sr. Pastor is directly responsible for the church as its administrative head or overseer. He shall be able to efficiently execute the fiduciary responsibilities that become his as leader of this church/ministry.
At no time shall any other officer, except for the Sr. Pastor, initiate an account in his name or in anyone else’s name, under the covering of the account name of the church. No board, committee, group or individual may supersede the authority vested by Scripture in the office and duties of the Sr. Pastor, or interfere in the relationship between the Sr. Pastor and the congregation. Conversely, the Sr. Pastor shall not in any way abrogate the Constitution and By-Laws of this assembly. As the leader of this church/ministry, he shall insure that all decisions made by himself or the leadership are in harmony with the Constitution and By-Laws.
The Sr. Pastor cannot be voted out or otherwise removed from his position. The Senior Pastor is in office until such time he retires and nominates a new Senior Pastor to replace him.
The Scriptural meaning of the word “pastor” being shepherd (Eph. 4:11); bishop (1 Tim. 3:1, Phil. 1:1, Titus 1:7); overseer (Acts 20:28, 1 Tim. 3:5, Heb. 13:7 & 17, 1 Peter 5:2); and being of divine appointment, these prerogatives shall not be delegated to those who are not in the Eldership, as this is contrary to the divine method.
Section 2. The Deputy Pastor is the direct assistant to the Sr. Pastor. The Deputy Pastor shall be appointed by the Sr. Pastor. The Deputy Pastor shall act on behalf of the Sr. Pastor in his absence. The Deputy Pastor shall be willing, able, and ready to take on the duties of the Sr. Pastor when required to do so.
As the Sr. Pastor is an Elder, so shall the Deputy Pastor be an Elder.
Section 3. Elders shall be persons of mature Christian experience and knowledge – set in the Body for building the body of saints for the work of the ministry (Eph. 4:11-16). They shall be persons known to be full of faith and the Holy Spirit as described in Acts 6 and who meet the requirements as set forth in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 in light of the principles established in Exodus 18:13-26. Elders must have been members of the assembly at least three years, unless otherwise appointed at the discretion of the Sr. Pastor. They shall function with special regard to spiritual matters and thus will delegate responsibilities to the Deacons as necessary. They shall fulfill New Testament functions as generally specified in 1 Peter 5:1-4, Acts 20:28, 1 Timothy 3:1-11, Romans 16:12 and Titus 1.
In particular, Elders shall:
a. Take careful oversight of the congregation’s spiritual condition and both advise the Sr. Pastor of any matters requiring his attention and assist him in addressing them.
b. Work with the Sr. Pastor as needed to bring all believers in the assembly to maturity in Christ and to equip them for service.
c. Strive to preserve the unity of the body.
d. Administer spiritual discipline in keeping with Scriptural standards.
e. Act in examination of applicants for membership.
f. Direct and oversee the activities of the Board of Deacons. Elders shall be appointed by the Sr. Pastor and shall be brought before the body for recognition. Functional Support for managing church affairs shall be provided to the Sr. Pastor and Elders by the Deacons, under the chairmanship of the Sr. Pastor and the guidance of the Elders.
The members of the Eldership, excluding the Sr. Pastor, shall be elected for a term of 5 years. The Terms shall be computed from the day of their election and each member may hold office until such time as an election by the members can be had, or Senior Pastor determines they need be replaced; in which case a vote of the other Elders will be cast.
The Eldership shall be at least 1 in number and shall have the power to exercise all powers necessary for the operation of the Ministry, expressed or implied, which shall be necessary and proper to carry out all the executive functions, and all other powers both civil and ecclesiastical as it may determine. Additional members will be added upon necessity.
Eldership members shall be invited to serve on the Eldership by the Senior Pastor. If invitation is accepted, invitee will begin serving his/her position on the Eldership. If Eldership has 3 or more members, Senior Pastor may opt to put invitee up for a vote with the Eldership.
Members of the Eldership (excluding the Senior Pastor) may be removed, with or without cause, by the Senior Pastor or a vote of the Eldership. Reasons for removal may include, but not limited to, the following:
-Refusal to follow Ministry regulations and laws
-Absence from 3 or more meetings
– No longer gives responsible incite or opinions
– Causing issues between other Eldership and/or Leadership members and/or congregants.
A member of the Eldership may resign from their position of Elder, which also removes the member from any appointed office(s), by writing a Notice of Resignation, signing and dating the Notice, and submitting it to the Sr. Pastor.
Until such a time should arise that additional persons are needed, the Senior Pastor has full authority and responsibility, thereby making up the entire Eldership.
In the event a vacancy in the Eldership occurs, remaining members of the Eldership shall fill such vacancy by a majority vote at a duly held meeting until the successor has been duly elected and qualified.
The Senior Pastor has authority over the Eldership, and may therefore overturn any decision or majority vote made by the Eldership.
Section 4. The office of Deacon is first mentioned in Acts 6:1-7. The primary purpose of the office is service (1 Timothy 3:8-13, Acts 6:1-7). Deacons are the assistants to the Sr. Pastor and Eldership.
Those selected as Deacons shall already meet scriptural qualifications for the office (1 Timothy 3:3-13). The Deacon/Deaconess must have an established track record of serving the Body of Christ.
a. The Deacons shall act in an advisory capacity to the Sr. Pastor and Elders in all matters pertaining to church life.
b. They shall assist in the examination of applicants for membership when called upon to do so.
c. They shall assist in the administration of discipline of the membership when called upon to do so.
d. They shall assist in the ministry of the church ordinances as needed.
e. They shall serve as a visiting committee in bedside ministry to the sick and for the spiritual uplift of the membership, and in all other ways requested by the Sr. Pastor in carrying out duties pertaining to the life of the church.
The Deacon is the Sr. Pastor’s advisor, helper and prayer partner as well as a loyal supporter to the Sr. Pastor, assisting him to fulfill the vision and goals God has given him for the church/ministry. The Deacon shall promote goodwill in the congregation and shall strengthen the people’s confidence in their Sr. Pastor and his leadership.
Section 5. The Secretary shall keep the minutes of the meetings of the annual and all special Eldership and Leadership meetings of the church. Records shall be kept at the principal office of the ministry. The Secretary shall keep a record of the membership of the church and perform any other administrative work necessary to the proper discharge of the duties of that office and the effective functioning of the Sr. Pastor and Eldership. The Secretary shall be the custodian of all legal documents. The Secretary shall be one of two signatories to every legal document executed by the church/ministry. The Secretary may also serve as Treasurer.
Section 6. The office of Treasurer may be combined with that of Secretary, or may be filled by a separate individual. The Treasurer shall be the steward of the finances of the church. The Treasurer shall keep an itemized account of the receipts and disbursements. He/She shall present an itemized report at the regular meetings of the Leadership and a detailed report to the church at its annual Eldership meeting.
All checks, drafts or orders for the payment of money, notes, evidence of indebtedness issued in the name of the ministry shall be signed by the Sr. Pastor or other officers or agents of the ministry, in such manner as shall from time to time be determined by resolution of the Eldership or the Sr. Pastor.
All funds of the Ministry shall be deposited as required to the credit of the ministry in such banks, trust companies or other depositories as the Eldership and/or the Senior Pastor may elect.
The Eldership or the Sr. Pastor may accept on behalf of the Ministry any contributions, donations, gifts, including real property, bequest or devise for any purpose of the Ministry. (Mal. 3:10; Luke 6:38; I Cor. 16:1; Il Cor. 9:6-8).
The Treasurer shall keep correct and complete financial records of all Ministry account(s). All books and records of the Ministry may be inspected by any member of the Eldership, or agent of the ministry, for any purpose at any reasonable time as requested by the Senior Pastor.
All records, financial and otherwise, are only viewable by the Senior Pastor at any given time. The Treasurer only has access during Treasurers work hours. The Treasurer shall not make records viewable to any agency or person without the notification and permission of the Senior Pastor.
No member of the Ministry outside the Eldership may view the records at any point, unless otherwise permitted by the Senior Pastor. Should an occasion arise where a member shall request records, said member must file a written complaint. The Eldership (including Senior Pastor) will review records to prove or disprove such complaint. Findings and answer to complaint will be given to said member. Unless otherwise permitted, records shall not be relinquished to said member nor any other member or person or agency.
The Treasurer shall be authorized to appoint persons to assist the Treasurer in carrying out the duties and functions of the Treasurers Office. The Senior Pastor will review such an appointee for approval.
Section 7. The Leadership shall consist of the Sr. Pastor, the Deputy Pastor(s), the Eldership and at least five Deacons and the head of each department. A Deacon may also be a department head.
Until such a time should arise that additional persons are needed, the Senior Pastor has full authority and responsibility, thereby making up the entire Leadership.
In the event a vacancy in the Leadership occurs, remaining members of the Leadership shall fill such vacancy by a majority vote at a duly held meeting until the successor has been duly elected and qualified.
Members of Leadership may be removed from office and position, with or without cause, by the Sr. Pastor. Leadership members may resign from their office and position by submitting a written, signed, and dated Notice of Resignation to the Sr. Pastor.
The Senior Pastor has authority over the Leadership, and may therefore overturn any decision or majority vote made by the Leadership.
Section 8A. Any member of this ministry may be nominated or apply for an ordained position.
Nominations are to be made by members of the Eldership and Leadership in a meeting to discuss an open position or the addition of a position within the church/ministry. Nominees will then be notified of their nomination. Upon nomination being accepted by nominees, a vote will be held to elect the best qualified candidate. Upon the election of a candidate, the candidate will then be trained for their office. Ordination will follow the training.
A member of this church/ministry may apply for an ordained position. The application process is as follows:
- Notify Sr. Pastor or other member of the Eldership or Leadership of the position/office they seek.
- Fill out a questionaire pertaining to the office sought.
- The questionaire will then be reviewed and discussed in a meeting of the Eldership and Leadership.
- Upon all qualifications being met, the Eldership and Leadership agree the applicant is suitable and ready for the office the applicant seeks, the applicant will then be ordained into the office of ministry applied for following proper training.
8B. At any time, an ordained officer of this church/ministry may resign from office following the procedure laid out in Article II Section 3. At any time an ordained officer may be terminated from their office following Article II Section 2 or violations of Article X. Ordained staff will subsequently have their ordinations revoked upon termination or resignation.
ARTICLE II. VACANCIES
Section 1. Should a vacancy occur for any recognized office other than the Sr. Pastor, the vacant position will be filled as deemed necessary by appointment of the Sr. Pastor and Eldership. The appointed person will serve until the next annual Eldership meeting. The position will then be filled by normal annual nominating and recognition processes.
Section 2. Any of the offices named in this Constitution may be declared vacated by the Sr. Pastor in the event of resignation, transfer, disability, death or unscriptural conduct.
Section 3. Members of the Eldership, Leadership, and Deacons may resign by submitting a written, signed, and dated Notice of Resignation to the Sr. Pastor.
ARTICLE III. MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Membership shall be recognized for all those whom the Lord has joined to this body (Acts 2:47; Acts 5:13; 1 John 2:19). These have given evidence of their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and agree to comply with the Constitution and By-laws as herein set forth.
Section 2. Persons desiring to become members of the church/ministry shall make the fact known to the Sr. Pastor, who with the designated Leadership, shall evaluate the applicant according to the standards of membership. The applicant shall then be given a membership application. All persons who shall have met the membership requirements shall be received publicly during any of the regular services. Their names shall be added to the church roster.
Section 3. In times of misunderstandings or strained relationships, members are to take the role of peacemakers, thereby manifesting the blessing of God on their lives (Matt.5:9). This is in compliance with the Scriptural injunction that there be no divisions in the body (Rom.16:17). If there is cause for dissatisfaction with the operation of the church Body, it shall be called to the attention of the Sr. Pastor and Eldership. At their discretion, necessary adjustments shall be made (Acts 6:1-7; Matt.18:15-18).
Section 4. Members will recognize and comply with the delegated authority that God has given to the Eldership as is stated in the Word of God, (Heb.13:7-17) that the principle of Christian fellowship may be kept inviolate and perpetuated, recognizing its fundamental importance.
Section 5. Scriptural standards of unity and conduct mandate that there are certain conditions that require the recognition of a loss of fellowship as members. Discipline shall be exercised by the Sr. Pastor and Elders together with input from others in Leadership. Some grounds for exercising discipline or declaring a loss from fellowship shall include the following:
a. Absence from the services of the church for an extended period (90 days) without reasonable cause. (Heb. 10:24-25)
b. Failure and neglect to support the work of this Body through the complete tithe. (Malachi 3:8-11; Matt. 23:3, 1Cor. 16:2)
c. Being out of harmony with the teachings or ministries of the church. (Romans 16:17; Heb.13:7 and 17; 1 Cor.11:18)
d. Causing or encouraging division, strife, discord or disunity. (Romans 16:17, Prov. 6:19; 1 Cor.1:10)
e. Falling under condemnation through sinful or carnal practices. (Romans 8:6-8; Gal. 6:8; Heb. 12:14)
These acts and practices bring reproach upon the Name of Christ, His people and the ministry. Moreover, they jeopardize the spiritual well-being of the offender. It is a responsibility of the Eldership in such cases to reprove, rebuke and exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine (2 Tim. 4:2; 1 Tim. 5:20; 1 Tim.1:20; 1 Cor. 5:3-5, 13). The goal of all church discipline is repentance and restoration. (Matt. 18:15-17; 2 Cor. 2:6-8).
Members may formally resign from membership by writing a membership resignation, signing their name and dating the resignation, and handing it to the Sr. Pastor or another member of the Eldership.
ARTICLE IV. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
The Christian Education Director shall be appointed by the Sr. Pastor and Elders for a period of two years and shall be responsible for the routine administration of the Christian Education Department. This includes the planning, organizing, staffing, directing and evaluating of all programs to ensure the department’s purposes and goals are accomplished. Selection of names for possible appointment to this office shall be done by the designated Leadership coincident with and in the same manner as the selection of Deacons and Deaconesses. The Sr. Pastor and Elders, after prayer and fasting, shall then make an appointment from this list and announce the final selection at the annual Leadership meeting.
Any and all staff of the Christian Education Department are to be hired from the membership of this church/ministry.
ARTICLE V. DEPARTMENTS AND COMMITTEES
All departments shall be conducted as branches of the church and shall contribute to the harmony and development of the whole church body. They shall be under the general supervision of the Sr. Pastor and Elders. Functional supervision and support shall be supplied to all departments and committees by the Leadership. If a vacancy shall occur in a department or a committee, the designated Leadership shall act to fill the vacancy. All financial activities of any department or committee shall be conducted under the supervision of the church Treasurer, in accordance with the policies and procedures of the church. Committees may be appointed to serve the church as the need may arise.
ARTICLE VI. PROPERTY RIGHTS
Section 1. All property, real or chattel, shall be taken, held, sold, transferred or conveyed in the name of the church and/or the Sr. Pastor.
Any and all property (real estate and otherwise) of the church/ministry that may be in the Sr. Pastors name, shall be listed and recorded. A copy shall reside with the Sr. Pastor, a copy shall reside with the Secretary of the church/ministry, a copy shall reside with the attorney of the Sr. Pastor; for a total of 3 (three) copies in three locations.
Section 2. The Sr. Pastor with the Eldership are authorized to initiate contracts in the name of the ministry. Final authorization for purchase of real property shall be given by a two-thirds vote of a quorum present and voting at a regular or special Leadership meeting called for that purpose. The Sr. Pastor may authorize a purchase of real property without a vote of a quorum or inclusion of the Eldership, if necessary.
Section 3. The sale, lease, mortgage or alienation of the real property of this church shall be authorized by a two-thirds vote of a quorum present at a regular or special Eldership meeting called for that purpose upon request by the Sr. Pastor. The Sr. Pastor has authority to initiate the sale, lease, mortgage or alienation of any and all real property of the church in the Sr. Pastors name.
Section 4. Property shall not be sold, purchased, leased, mortgaged or alienated in the interim while the church has no pastor, unless negotiations had begun before the vacancy occurred. In all cases during this period, guidance of the Child-Churches must be sought.
Section 5. In the event of liquidation or dissolution of the church/ministry, all of its assets and property of every nature and description whatsoever shall be paid over and transferred at the direction of the Senior Pastor. All assets (properties, finances, etc) are property of the Senior Pastor. If for whatever reason the event of liquidation or dissolution arises, the Senior Pastor has full authority over and custody of any and all assets and property of every nature and description whatsoever. The Senior Pastor may keep in his or her name that which he or she added to or used for the ministry. Any and all other assets may be sold, donated, or otherwise handed over to any person or charity the Senior Pastor decides, beginning first with members of the ministry.
If the Sr. Pastor is deceased, or otherwise permanently incapacitated, the Deputy Pastor shall handle the liquidation or dissolution of the ministry. The Deputy Pastor, acting on behalf of the Sr. Pastor, shall make certain that the only property liquidated, sold, donated, or otherwise dispersed, that is in the name of the Sr. Pastor, is only that property which was utilized as church/ministry property. The Deputy Pastor shall make certain that the Sr. Pastors personal property, such as his home, vehicle, etc, are not inadvertantly dispersed as part of church/ministry property, and that it remains with the Sr. Pastors family.
Section 6. Any and all property owned under the church/ministry name, as well as all other property held under the Sr. Pastor’s name and used for purposes the church/ministry, may only be used by and for this church/ministry.
Church/ministry property is only to be used by this church/ministry. All services, ceremonies, etc. which take place on church/ministry property is to be in accordance with the beliefs, doctrines, etc of this church/ministry.
ARTICLE VII. ORDER OF BUSINESS
The regular order of business for the annual meeting of the assembly shall be as follows:
1.) Devotional
2.) Roll Call
3.) Reading of previous Minutes by the Secretary
4.) Report by the Pastor
5.) Report by the Treasurer
6.) Unfinished Business
7.) Appointment of Officers
8.) New Business
9.) Adjournment
ARTICLE VIII. CHILD-CHURCHES AND MINISTRIES
Section 1. All Child-Churches and Ministries are under direct authority of the Parent Ministry. No Child-Church or Ministry shall act independant of the Parent.
Establishment. The Senior Pastor will elect and ordain a Lead Pastor for a Child-Church or Ministry. All workings and requirements of newly established Child-Church or Ministry will be discussed at preparation for Child-Church or Ministry.
The officers of a Child-Church or Ministry shall be Lead Pastor, Assistant Pastor, and Board of Members.
All officers of Child-Churches and Ministries shall report to the Senior Pastor and Eldership quartely. Each quarter shall begin in timing with founding of each Child-Church or Ministry.
The Lead Pastor. The Lead Pastor shall be selected by the Senior Pastor. The Lead Pastor shall have likewise duties over the Child-Church or Ministry as the Senior Pastor in description only. The Pastor is under direct authority and supervision of the Senior Pastor. The Lead Pastor shall report any and all issues or problems to the Senior Pastor. The Lead Pastor shall report all records and any other such information to the Senior Pastor quarterly, unless otherwise suggested or asked for such information.
The Assistant Pastor. The Assistant Pastor shall have likewise duties over the Child-Church or Ministry as the Deputy Pastor in description only.
The Board of Members will have likewise titles and duties over the Child-Church of the Eldership. Board of Members shall be elected by the Lead Pastor of said Child-Church or Ministry and approved by the Senior Pastor and Eldership. Any issues the Board of Members may have that cannot be settled amongst themselves shall be brought to the attention of the Eldership.
The Board of Members shall elect and remove members likewise to that of the Eldership. The Senior Pastor and Eldership shall oversee any issues or disputes over elections/appointments and removal of members of the Board of Members of all Child-Churches and Ministries.
Section 2. The Sr. Pastor may himself, or send a Deputy Pastor or Elder on his behalf, to any branch at any time, completely and entirely unbeknownst to the branch leadership, to check on any all services, properties, and functioning thereof, to determine if this Ministries laws and regulations are being followed. In the event a branch is breaking a law and/or regulation of this ministry, any and all property (real estate or otherwise) may be confiscated, whether it be in the name of this ministry, the Sr. Pastor, or the branch; and the branch services subsequently suspended until further notice.
Each Child-Church/Ministry shall put a clause in their branch constitution that should it be deemed necessary for their property to be confiscated and services suspended, and said property is in the name of the branch and/or individual of said branch, that all property shall be transferred into the name of the parent ministry and/or the Sr. Pastor, whichever the Sr. Pastor determines at that time.
In the event it is deemed necessary to suspend services of a child-church/ministry and confiscate said properties, the Eldership shall put a team together consisting of an Elder, two Deacons, and two members of the branches Board of Members. This team shall be the Ministry Rehabilitation Committee. The Committee shall take all authority and oversight over the branch. All leadership of the branch, except for the two Board of Members individuals chosen to be on the Committee, shall be dissolved. The Committee may re-appoint leaders to their positions at their discretion. The Committee shall reconvene services after transfer of properties is complete. The Elder shall act as Lead Pastor over the branch until such time the Committee re-establishes a Board of Members and Branch Leadership from qualifying members of the branch fellowship.
If no member of the Board of Members is deemed qualified to sit on the Committee, at the Elders discretion, two additional Deacons shall be sent to the branch.
Section 3. In the event this church/ministry shall be liquidated or dissolved, all Child-Churches/Ministries (also known as branches), may reserve the right to all property of said branch to continue functioning as it’s own sovereign entity. Each branch which determines to continue functioning as it’s own sovereign entity, may join in affiliation with other churches of this denomination, as well as form an association of churches to continue working together despite the dissolution or liquidation of the parent church.
If a Child-Church/Ministry (also known as a branch) decides to continue functioning, despite dissolution or liquidation of the parent, any and all property (real estate or otherwise) used for the branch that is in the name of the parent church, must be transferred to the Lead Pastor and Board of Members of the branch. The Child-Church is to take on full responsibility of all property, functioning, etc of itself under the direction of the branches Lead Pastor and Board of Members.
ARTICLE IX. TEXTS AND SCRIPTURES
Section 1. The Authorized King James Version is to be used in the pulpit and by all teachers and workers. No other version or translation of the Bible is to be used in preaching or teaching in English language ministries. The Senior Pastor shall approve any translations used in non-English speaking ministries.
Section 2. Other approved pre-Biblical/pre-Canonized (also known as Gnostic) scriptures and texts that shall be used in the ministry will be mentioned to all Child-Churches and Ministries and listed on the Ministries website on the ‘Texts and Scriptures’ page. No non-approved Gnostic scriptures are to be used.
Section 3. Any and all Gnostic Scriptures that are to be used in this church/ministry are to compliment the Bible. Any Scriptures that do not agree with the Bible and other pre-approved Gnostic Scriptures, are not to be used. Any Gnostic Scriptures that are dated post-canon, must be reviewed and discerned especially careful. Any and all Gnostic Scriptures under review are to be reviewed by the Sr. Pastor, Deputy Pastor, and the Christian Education Director to determine authenticity and whether the text is in agreement with the Bible and current approved Gnostic Scriptures. At the end of the review, the Sr. Pastor, Deputy Pastor, and Christian Education Director shall discuss their findings and the Sr. Pastor will then make a decision to approve or disapprove the text.
If the text is approved, it shall be added to list of Texts and Scriptures.
ARTICLE X. PROHIBITED
The following acts are prohobited by all Leadership, Eldership, and members of this church and ministry:
-No member is permitted to endorse any action or cause that goes in contrast to the beliefs of this church/ministry.
-No member is permitted to bring injustice to any member, including Leadership and Eldership.
-No ordained Leadership (including Eldership) is permitted to perform any ceremonies, services, rites, acts, deeds, etc that are contrary to the beliefs of this church/ministry.
If any prohibited actions are performed, the member (including Leadership and Eldership) will be removed as a member of this church. A member of Leadership will be removed from their office/position.
ARTICLE XI. AMENDMENTS
These By-laws may be modified, altered, or amended by a majority vote of the members at any regular or special Eldership meeting called, provided due notice of such proposed change shall have been made on at least two consecutive Sundays immediately prior to the time of such meeting. Any proposed amendment must be presented to the Sr. Pastor and Eldership in writing one month before such Eldership meeting. Any changes will be on the basis of Scriptural evidence which would bring the By-laws more closely in accordance with the Word of God.
The modifications, alterations, or amendments are ultimately approved or disapproved by the Senior Pastor at a special meeting. As soon as the proposed amendments have been adopted as herein provided, results of the vote shall be announced by the Sr. Pastor and declared adopted, whereupon such amendments shall be in full force of effect.
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Spiritual Messiah Ministries 