December 1, 2008
PREAMBLE
Since it pleased Almighty God, by His Holy Spirit, to call certain of His servants to unite here under the name CrossView Church, for the worship of God and the spread of the gospel of Jesus Christ, we, the members of CrossView Church do hereby organize ourselves and adopt this Constitution as our articles of governance, to be interpreted at all times to reflect the character of and bring glory to Jesus Christ, as revealed in the Holy Bible and articulated in the Statement of Faith (2008) and Covenant of this church (2008).
Since it pleased Almighty God, by His Holy Spirit, to call certain of His servants to unite here under the name CrossView Church, for the worship of God and the spread of the gospel of Jesus Christ, we, the members of CrossView Church do hereby organize ourselves and adopt this Constitution as our articles of governance, to be interpreted at all times to reflect the character of and bring glory to Jesus Christ, as revealed in the Holy Bible and articulated in the Statement of Faith (2008) and Covenant of this church (2008).
ARTICLE 1 – STATEMENT OF FAITH (SEE SEPARATE DOCUMENT)
ARTICLE 2 – CHURCH COVENANT (SEE SEPARATE DOCUMENT)
ARTICLE 3 – NAME
3.1 The name of this church is CrossView Church Los Angeles.
ARTICLE 4 – MISSION
4.1 This church’s mission is to know Christ and make him known in all things for the joy of the people of L.A. and all peoples.
4.2 The church knows Christ and makes him known through living out our core values:
1. God-exalting Worship – God is to be worshiped only through Jesus Christ at all times and in all places as the supreme treasure of our lives individually and as a community. We will seek to exalt God in all things because in exalting him we find our greatest and deepest pleasures.
2. Gospel-driven – Rooting all of life and thought in the gospel and doing everything via the gospel, living out the implications of the person and work of Jesus Christ and justification by faith alone, making disciples and baptizing them;
3. Bible-saturated – Trusting in the authority and sufficiency of Scripture, memorizing, meditating on, preaching, and seeking to understand and tremble at the word of God in order to be doers and not hearers only;
4. One another-practicing – Keeping the church covenant, staying committed to fellow members, building relationships, keeping one another accountable as we observe communion;
5. Church-planting – Planting dozens of churches in the city of L.A. and the greater L.A. area by training church planters, hosting church-planting internships, networking, working with the Southern Baptist Convention, funding, and modeling;
6. City-serving – Doing good to our neighbors and using our resources to serve the needs of the city. We want to seek the peace and prosperity of the city while at the same time respecting and learning from the city. We will seek to clarify the gospel message to them as we serve them.
7. Missions-mobilizing – Praying for and adopting unreached people groups, while supporting, calling and sending missionaries to unreached people groups.
ARTICLE 5 – MEMBERSHIP IN THIS BODY OF CHRIST
Section 1 – Qualifications
5.1.1 To qualify for membership in this church body, a person
5.1.1 To qualify for membership in this church body, a person
1. must be a believer in Jesus Christ who gives evidence of regeneration,
2. who has been baptized in obedience to Christ, following his or her regeneration,
3. and who wholeheartedly believes in the Christian faith as revealed in the Bible.
4. Each member must sustain the doctrines of our church and not hold any settled convictions contrary to them, in accord with our Statement of Faith,
5. and must promise to keep the commitments expressed in the Church Covenant.
5.1.2 The normal process for becoming a member of the church body is
1. completion of all sessions of Members of the Body Considered (membership class),
2. an assessment of a person’s qualification for membership of the church body in an interview with an elder (pastor),
3. and a vote by the entire church on the basis of the person’s profession of faith.
Section 2 – Admission of Members into this Body of Christ
5.2 To be admitted as a member of the church body, applicants shall be recommended by the elders (pastors) for admission and accepted by vote of at least two-thirds of the members present at any regular or special meeting of the church body. At that point newly confirmed members shall relinquish their formal commitment in other churches.
5.2 To be admitted as a member of the church body, applicants shall be recommended by the elders (pastors) for admission and accepted by vote of at least two-thirds of the members present at any regular or special meeting of the church body. At that point newly confirmed members shall relinquish their formal commitment in other churches.
Section 3 – Duties and Privileges of Membership in the Church Body
5.3.1 In accord with the duties enumerated in the Church Covenant, each member of the body shall be privileged and expected to participate in and contribute to the ministry and life of the church, consistent with God's leading and with the gifts, time, and material resources each has received from God. Only those who are members of this church body shall be entitled to lead in the ministries of the church. Non-members may serve on an ad-hoc basis with the approval of the elders. Notwithstanding, non-members may serve the church for purposes of administration and professional consultation.
5.3.2 It is the privilege and responsibility of members to attend all church body meetings and vote on the confirmation of officers, on decisions regarding membership status, and on such other matters submitted to a vote.
5.3.1 In accord with the duties enumerated in the Church Covenant, each member of the body shall be privileged and expected to participate in and contribute to the ministry and life of the church, consistent with God's leading and with the gifts, time, and material resources each has received from God. Only those who are members of this church body shall be entitled to lead in the ministries of the church. Non-members may serve on an ad-hoc basis with the approval of the elders. Notwithstanding, non-members may serve the church for purposes of administration and professional consultation.
5.3.2 It is the privilege and responsibility of members to attend all church body meetings and vote on the confirmation of officers, on decisions regarding membership status, and on such other matters submitted to a vote.
Section 4 – Watchcare Membership of the Body of Christ
5.4.1. Students and others temporarily residing in the Los Angeles area who are members of an evangelical church may apply for watchcare membership. Qualifications are identical to those for full membership as set out above, except that home church membership must be retained. A letter of commendation will be sought from the applicant's home church.
5.4.2 Duties and privileges of watchcare members are the same as for other members of the church body except that:
5.4.1. Students and others temporarily residing in the Los Angeles area who are members of an evangelical church may apply for watchcare membership. Qualifications are identical to those for full membership as set out above, except that home church membership must be retained. A letter of commendation will be sought from the applicant's home church.
5.4.2 Duties and privileges of watchcare members are the same as for other members of the church body except that:
1. when absent from the Los Angeles area for extended periods of time they are released from the responsibility to attend our church gatherings;
2. while they will be encouraged to participate in church body meetings, they will not be eligible to stand for any office or to vote.
5.4.3 Termination of watchcare membership as a disciplinary measure will be as it is for other members of the body, except that the elders (pastors) shall notify the pastor(s) of the home church of that termination. Watchcare membership will normally terminate immediately upon the ending of the period of temporary residence in the Los Angeles area.
Section 5 – On Church Discipline
5.5.1 Formative discipline is inherent in the preaching, teaching, and exercise of other ministries in the church. When formative discipline fails due to sin, corrective discipline is then necessary. Corrective discipline is for the good of the church and the member of the church body who has sinned. It is never to be entered into lightly or quickly. The goal of corrective discipline is always remedial, that is, the goal is always the salvation and holiness and good of the one being disciplined.
5.5.2 Any member of this church body consistently neglectful of his or her duties or guilty of conduct by which the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be dishonored, and so opposing the welfare of the church, shall be subject to the admonition of the elders (pastors) and the discipline of the church, according to the instructions of our Lord in Matthew 18:15-17 and the example of Scripture. Church discipline, then, should only be contemplated after individual private admonition has failed.
5.5.3 Church discipline can include admonition by the elders or congregation, suspension from communion for a definite period, deposition from office, and excommunication (see Matthew 18: 15–17; 2 Thessalonians 3: 14–15; 1 Timothy 5: 19–20; 1 Corinthians 5: 4–5).
5.5.1 Formative discipline is inherent in the preaching, teaching, and exercise of other ministries in the church. When formative discipline fails due to sin, corrective discipline is then necessary. Corrective discipline is for the good of the church and the member of the church body who has sinned. It is never to be entered into lightly or quickly. The goal of corrective discipline is always remedial, that is, the goal is always the salvation and holiness and good of the one being disciplined.
5.5.2 Any member of this church body consistently neglectful of his or her duties or guilty of conduct by which the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be dishonored, and so opposing the welfare of the church, shall be subject to the admonition of the elders (pastors) and the discipline of the church, according to the instructions of our Lord in Matthew 18:15-17 and the example of Scripture. Church discipline, then, should only be contemplated after individual private admonition has failed.
5.5.3 Church discipline can include admonition by the elders or congregation, suspension from communion for a definite period, deposition from office, and excommunication (see Matthew 18: 15–17; 2 Thessalonians 3: 14–15; 1 Timothy 5: 19–20; 1 Corinthians 5: 4–5).
5.5.4 The purpose of such discipline should be:
1. For the repentance, reconciliation, and spiritual growth of the individual disciplined (Heb. 12:1-11; Matt. 18:15-17; 1 Cor. 5:5; Gal. 6:1);
2. For the instruction in righteousness and good of other Christians, as an example to them (1 Cor. 5:11; 1 Tim. 5:20; Heb. 10:24-25);
3. For the purity of the church as a whole (1 Cor. 5:6-7; Eph. 5:27; Rev. 21:2);
4. For the good of our corporate witness to non-Christians (Matt. 5:13-16; John 13:35; Acts 5:10-14); and
5. Supremely for the glory of God by reflecting His holy character (Deut. 5:11; John 15:8; Eph. 1:4; 1 Pet. 2:12).
5.5.5 It is desirable in the case of public sin that a confession be made before the church in a specially called meeting, so that the church can freely extend forgiveness. Such public confession is especially necessary in the case of elders (pastors) and deacons/deaconesses (1 Tim. 5:19-20; Gal. 2:11-14).
Section 6 – Termination of Membership in the Body of Christ
5.6 Termination of membership in the body of Christ shall be recognized by the church following the death, transfer of membership, or voluntary resignation of any church member. Membership may be terminated as an act of church discipline at the recommendation of the elders (pastors) and with the vote of two-thirds of the body of Christ present at any regular or special meeting of the church. Voluntary resignation will not be recognized by the church when the member seeking to resign is in the process of corrective church discipline. Despite seeking to resign, the church will continue with the disciplinary process.
ARTICLE 6 – MEETINGS
Section 1 – Worship Meetings
6.1 Worship gatherings shall be held each Lord's Day, and may be held throughout the week as the church determines.
Section 2 – Church Body Meetings
6.2.1 In every meeting together, members of the body shall act in that spirit of mutual trust, openness, and loving consideration which is appropriate within the body of our Lord Jesus Christ.
6.2.2 There shall be a regular church body meeting at least every quarter, at some time apart from the Sunday morning service, and at a time acceptable to the church body. The elders (pastors) shall see that the stated meetings of the church are regularly held and that required reports are submitted to the church by the responsible members of the church body.
6.2.3 Special church body meetings may be called as requested by the elders (pastors), or at the written request, submitted to the elders (pastors), of five percent of the voting membership. In the event of a written request from the members of the body, the elders (pastors) shall call a special meeting to be held within one month of their receipt of the request.
6.2.4 There shall be an annual church body meeting, at which normally officers are elected, positions filled, and a budget approved by the membership no more than three nor less than one month prior to the start of the fiscal year. The fiscal year will commence on January 1.
6.1 Worship gatherings shall be held each Lord's Day, and may be held throughout the week as the church determines.
Section 2 – Church Body Meetings
6.2.1 In every meeting together, members of the body shall act in that spirit of mutual trust, openness, and loving consideration which is appropriate within the body of our Lord Jesus Christ.
6.2.2 There shall be a regular church body meeting at least every quarter, at some time apart from the Sunday morning service, and at a time acceptable to the church body. The elders (pastors) shall see that the stated meetings of the church are regularly held and that required reports are submitted to the church by the responsible members of the church body.
6.2.3 Special church body meetings may be called as requested by the elders (pastors), or at the written request, submitted to the elders (pastors), of five percent of the voting membership. In the event of a written request from the members of the body, the elders (pastors) shall call a special meeting to be held within one month of their receipt of the request.
6.2.4 There shall be an annual church body meeting, at which normally officers are elected, positions filled, and a budget approved by the membership no more than three nor less than one month prior to the start of the fiscal year. The fiscal year will commence on January 1.
6.2.5 An elder designated by the elders shall preside as moderator at all church body meetings. The date, time, and purpose of any regular or special meeting shall be announced at all public services of the church at least two weeks preceding the meeting. Provided all constitutional provisions for notification have been met, a quorum shall be understood to be met by those members of church body present.
6.2.6 On any matter that is brought to vote, a two-thirds vote is needed for it to pass (unless this constitution specifies otherwise). Abstentions will not be considered as votes cast. Only votes cast by members of the body present at the time of the meeting will be counted.
6.2.7 Resolutions adopted by the elders (pastors) shall be reported to the church at church body meetings and may be reversed by the church by a majority vote of the members present.
6.2.6 On any matter that is brought to vote, a two-thirds vote is needed for it to pass (unless this constitution specifies otherwise). Abstentions will not be considered as votes cast. Only votes cast by members of the body present at the time of the meeting will be counted.
6.2.7 Resolutions adopted by the elders (pastors) shall be reported to the church at church body meetings and may be reversed by the church by a majority vote of the members present.
ARTICLE 7 – OFFICERS
Section 1 – Summary
7.1.1 Jesus Christ is the Lord and head of this church, the chief Pastor, and He rules primarily through the Scriptures.
7.1.2 The biblical offices in the church are elders (pastors) and deacons/deaconesses, but the church is ultimately governed by the congregation. In addition, our church recognizes the administrative positions under this constitution of clerk and treasurer. All officers must be members of this church prior to assuming their responsibilities.
7.1.1 Jesus Christ is the Lord and head of this church, the chief Pastor, and He rules primarily through the Scriptures.
7.1.2 The biblical offices in the church are elders (pastors) and deacons/deaconesses, but the church is ultimately governed by the congregation. In addition, our church recognizes the administrative positions under this constitution of clerk and treasurer. All officers must be members of this church prior to assuming their responsibilities.
Section 2 – Elders (Pastors)
7.2.1 Subject to the will of the congregation, the elders (pastors) shall provide broad oversight to the ministry, financial management, and resources of the church. In keeping with the principles set forth in Acts 6:1-6; 1 Tim. 3:1-7; 5:17; Tit. 1:5-9; Jas. 5:14; and 1 Pet. 5:1-4, the elders (pastors) shall seek the mind of Christ through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the word of God as they undertake the work of shepherding God's flock. The elders (pastors) shall teach and exhort; refute those who contradict the truth; pray for the sick; care for the church’s members; devote themselves to prayer, to the government of the church and to ministry. The elders (pastors) shall provide oversight of the congregation and lead the church to fulfill its ministries.
7.2.2 The elders (pastors) shall not have a minimum of men who satisfy the qualifications for the office of elder (pastor) set forth in 1 Tim. 3:1-7 and Tit. 1:6-9[1]. Only men may serve as elders (pastors) in accord with 1 Tim. 2:12; 3:2. No elder (pastor) shall hold the office of deacon/deaconess during his tenure. Those elders (pastors) not receiving compensation from the church will be called “bi-vocational” for the purpose of this constitution, although biblically and functionally there is no difference among the elders (pastors).
7.2.3 The church shall recognize men gifted and willing to serve in this calling, in accordance with the constitutional provisions on elections. These men shall be received as gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as elders (pastors). This recognition shall be reaffirmed by the church triennially. After a bi-vocational elder (pastor) has served two consecutive three-year terms, he shall not be eligible for re-election to the eldership for at least one year.
7.2.4 An elder’s (pastor’s) term of office may be terminated by resignation or by dismissal. Any two members with reason to believe that an elder (pastor) should be dismissed should express such concern to the elders (pastors) and, if need be only afterwards, to the congregation. Any such action shall be done in accordance with the instructions of our Lord in Matt. 18:15-17 and 1 Tim. 5:17-21. Any elder (pastor) may be dismissed by a two-thirds vote of the members at any formally called church body meeting.
7.2.5 The elders (pastors) shall take particular responsibility to oversee worship services, administer the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper, equip the church body for the work of the ministry, encourage and teach sound doctrine, admonish and correct error, oversee the process of church discipline, coordinate and promote the ministries of the church, mobilize the church for domestic church-planting and world missions, examine and instruct prospective members, examine and recommend all prospective candidates for offices and positions, and oversee the work of the deacons/deaconesses and appointed church agents and committees. The elders (pastors) are further to ensure that all who minister the word to the congregation, including outside speakers, share our fundamental convictions.
7.2.6 The elders (pastors) may establish and oversee ministry positions and committees to assist them in fulfilling their responsibilities. The elders (pastors) shall also have primary responsibility for the employment, supervision, and evaluation of staff members. The outworking of this responsibility may, on a case-by-case basis, be delegated to deacons/deaconesses or another staff member.
7.2.7 A paid or volunteer staff position does not in and of itself constitute an elder’s (pastor’s) position.
7.2.8 In proposing paid staff positions, the elders (pastors) shall present a job description for each position to the church for approval. The church may approve all candidates to fill such positions or may delegate this responsibility, on a position-by-position basis, to the elders (pastors), deacons/deaconesses, or other staff members. The elders (pastors) shall present a request to dismiss paid ministerial staff (i.e., those paid to do ministry) to the congregation. The elders (pastors) may hire and fire non-ministerial staff, or delegate that responsibility on a case-by-case basis.
7.2.9 The elders (pastors) may choose to operate among themselves by consensus, but they must have at least two-thirds approval of the elders (pastors) in order to proceed with an action.
7.2.10 The elders (pastors) shall elect a chairman who shall serve as chairman of elders’ meetings. In his absence, the elders (pastors) shall appoint another elder (pastor) to fulfill these duties.
7.2.11 For purposes of compliance with the nonprofit corporation laws of the state of California, the chairman of the elders (pastors) shall serve as the president of the corporation.
Section 3 – The Preaching Elder (Pastor)
7.3.1 The preaching elder (pastor) shall perform the duties of an elder (pastor) described in Section 2, above. He shall be recognized by the church as particularly gifted and called to the Sunday ministry of preaching and teaching the word of God.
7.3.2 In the absence or incapacity of the preaching elder (pastor), the other elders (pastors) shall assume responsibility for his duties, any of which can be delegated.
Section 4 – Deacons/Deaconesses
7.4.1 The office of deacon/deaconess is described in 1 Tim. 3:8-13 (cf. Acts 6:1-7). The church shall recognize, in accordance with the constitutional provisions on elections, men and women who are giving of themselves in service to the church, who possess gifts of ministry, and who are called to further service and care for the church’s members or ministries to the city. The number of deacons/deaconesses shall be determined by the needs of the ministry and the call and qualifications of men and women in the church. These members shall be received as gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as deacons/deaconesses. This recognition shall be reaffirmed by the church triennially. After a deacon/deaconess has served two consecutive three-year terms, he or she shall not be eligible for re-election to the diaconate for at least one year.
7.4.2 Deacons/deaconesses shall advise and assist the elders (pastors) in any service that shall support and promote the ministry of the word, new and existing ministries of the church, and the care of the members of the congregation. The deacons/deaconesses may be organized in the most fitting way to accomplish the mission of the church. Thus the ministry of deacons/deaconesses may involve several diaconal committees. There is no requirement that the deacons/deaconesses meet as a committee of the whole.
7.4.3 The responsibilities of deacons/deaconesses do not include preaching, teaching, or spiritual oversight, which are the responsibilities of the elders (pastors), or financial control of the church. Deacons/deaconesses exercise a ministry of service, not a ministry of spiritual oversight. Although they may teach and preach in contexts in which they are not infringing upon the oversight duties of elders (Acts 6-7:53; Titus 2:3), the responsibilities of deacons/deaconesses include the following:
7.2.1 Subject to the will of the congregation, the elders (pastors) shall provide broad oversight to the ministry, financial management, and resources of the church. In keeping with the principles set forth in Acts 6:1-6; 1 Tim. 3:1-7; 5:17; Tit. 1:5-9; Jas. 5:14; and 1 Pet. 5:1-4, the elders (pastors) shall seek the mind of Christ through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the word of God as they undertake the work of shepherding God's flock. The elders (pastors) shall teach and exhort; refute those who contradict the truth; pray for the sick; care for the church’s members; devote themselves to prayer, to the government of the church and to ministry. The elders (pastors) shall provide oversight of the congregation and lead the church to fulfill its ministries.
7.2.2 The elders (pastors) shall not have a minimum of men who satisfy the qualifications for the office of elder (pastor) set forth in 1 Tim. 3:1-7 and Tit. 1:6-9[1]. Only men may serve as elders (pastors) in accord with 1 Tim. 2:12; 3:2. No elder (pastor) shall hold the office of deacon/deaconess during his tenure. Those elders (pastors) not receiving compensation from the church will be called “bi-vocational” for the purpose of this constitution, although biblically and functionally there is no difference among the elders (pastors).
7.2.3 The church shall recognize men gifted and willing to serve in this calling, in accordance with the constitutional provisions on elections. These men shall be received as gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as elders (pastors). This recognition shall be reaffirmed by the church triennially. After a bi-vocational elder (pastor) has served two consecutive three-year terms, he shall not be eligible for re-election to the eldership for at least one year.
7.2.4 An elder’s (pastor’s) term of office may be terminated by resignation or by dismissal. Any two members with reason to believe that an elder (pastor) should be dismissed should express such concern to the elders (pastors) and, if need be only afterwards, to the congregation. Any such action shall be done in accordance with the instructions of our Lord in Matt. 18:15-17 and 1 Tim. 5:17-21. Any elder (pastor) may be dismissed by a two-thirds vote of the members at any formally called church body meeting.
7.2.5 The elders (pastors) shall take particular responsibility to oversee worship services, administer the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper, equip the church body for the work of the ministry, encourage and teach sound doctrine, admonish and correct error, oversee the process of church discipline, coordinate and promote the ministries of the church, mobilize the church for domestic church-planting and world missions, examine and instruct prospective members, examine and recommend all prospective candidates for offices and positions, and oversee the work of the deacons/deaconesses and appointed church agents and committees. The elders (pastors) are further to ensure that all who minister the word to the congregation, including outside speakers, share our fundamental convictions.
7.2.6 The elders (pastors) may establish and oversee ministry positions and committees to assist them in fulfilling their responsibilities. The elders (pastors) shall also have primary responsibility for the employment, supervision, and evaluation of staff members. The outworking of this responsibility may, on a case-by-case basis, be delegated to deacons/deaconesses or another staff member.
7.2.7 A paid or volunteer staff position does not in and of itself constitute an elder’s (pastor’s) position.
7.2.8 In proposing paid staff positions, the elders (pastors) shall present a job description for each position to the church for approval. The church may approve all candidates to fill such positions or may delegate this responsibility, on a position-by-position basis, to the elders (pastors), deacons/deaconesses, or other staff members. The elders (pastors) shall present a request to dismiss paid ministerial staff (i.e., those paid to do ministry) to the congregation. The elders (pastors) may hire and fire non-ministerial staff, or delegate that responsibility on a case-by-case basis.
7.2.9 The elders (pastors) may choose to operate among themselves by consensus, but they must have at least two-thirds approval of the elders (pastors) in order to proceed with an action.
7.2.10 The elders (pastors) shall elect a chairman who shall serve as chairman of elders’ meetings. In his absence, the elders (pastors) shall appoint another elder (pastor) to fulfill these duties.
7.2.11 For purposes of compliance with the nonprofit corporation laws of the state of California, the chairman of the elders (pastors) shall serve as the president of the corporation.
Section 3 – The Preaching Elder (Pastor)
7.3.1 The preaching elder (pastor) shall perform the duties of an elder (pastor) described in Section 2, above. He shall be recognized by the church as particularly gifted and called to the Sunday ministry of preaching and teaching the word of God.
7.3.2 In the absence or incapacity of the preaching elder (pastor), the other elders (pastors) shall assume responsibility for his duties, any of which can be delegated.
Section 4 – Deacons/Deaconesses
7.4.1 The office of deacon/deaconess is described in 1 Tim. 3:8-13 (cf. Acts 6:1-7). The church shall recognize, in accordance with the constitutional provisions on elections, men and women who are giving of themselves in service to the church, who possess gifts of ministry, and who are called to further service and care for the church’s members or ministries to the city. The number of deacons/deaconesses shall be determined by the needs of the ministry and the call and qualifications of men and women in the church. These members shall be received as gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as deacons/deaconesses. This recognition shall be reaffirmed by the church triennially. After a deacon/deaconess has served two consecutive three-year terms, he or she shall not be eligible for re-election to the diaconate for at least one year.
7.4.2 Deacons/deaconesses shall advise and assist the elders (pastors) in any service that shall support and promote the ministry of the word, new and existing ministries of the church, and the care of the members of the congregation. The deacons/deaconesses may be organized in the most fitting way to accomplish the mission of the church. Thus the ministry of deacons/deaconesses may involve several diaconal committees. There is no requirement that the deacons/deaconesses meet as a committee of the whole.
7.4.3 The responsibilities of deacons/deaconesses do not include preaching, teaching, or spiritual oversight, which are the responsibilities of the elders (pastors), or financial control of the church. Deacons/deaconesses exercise a ministry of service, not a ministry of spiritual oversight. Although they may teach and preach in contexts in which they are not infringing upon the oversight duties of elders (Acts 6-7:53; Titus 2:3), the responsibilities of deacons/deaconesses include the following:
1. The ministry of mercy is a particular responsibility of deacons/deaconesses. They shall see that the sick, the sorrowing, the aged, and the infirm receive spiritual and physical comfort.
2. Deacons/deaconesses shall also attend to the benevolence ministries of the church. They shall receive, hold, and disburse a fund for benevolence, reporting on its use to the elders (pastors) at their request, and reporting to the church its total receipts and total disbursements only.
3. Deacons/deaconesses shall attend to the accommodations for public worship. Deacons/deaconesses may assist in providing for the elements during the Lord's Supper.
4. Deacons/deaconesses shall attend to the normal care and maintenance of church properties.
5. Deacons/deaconesses shall attend to the welcoming and greeting ministries of the church.
6. Deacons/deaconesses of finance shall attend to the budgeting process of the church.
7. At the elders’ (pastors’) recommendation, the church may recognize deacons/deaconesses to serve in other specific capacities as needs arise in the church.
7.4.4 Each year the deacons/deaconesses of finance, with the approval of the elders (pastors), shall present to the church an itemized budget at the regular church body meeting preceding the annual church body meeting. This budget shall be presented for discussion at that time and called up for a vote at the annual church body meeting.
7.4.5 No money shall be solicited by or on behalf of the church or any of its ministries without the approval of the elders (pastors) or the deacons/deaconesses responsible for the church’s finances.
Section 5 – Clerk
7.5.1 It shall be the duty of the clerk to record the minutes of all regular and special church body meetings, to preserve an accurate roll of the church, and to render reports as requested by the elders (pastors), deacons/deaconesses, or the church.
7.5.2 In the absence or incapacity of the clerk, the elders (pastors) shall appoint a member to perform the duties of the church clerk.
7.4.5 No money shall be solicited by or on behalf of the church or any of its ministries without the approval of the elders (pastors) or the deacons/deaconesses responsible for the church’s finances.
Section 5 – Clerk
7.5.1 It shall be the duty of the clerk to record the minutes of all regular and special church body meetings, to preserve an accurate roll of the church, and to render reports as requested by the elders (pastors), deacons/deaconesses, or the church.
7.5.2 In the absence or incapacity of the clerk, the elders (pastors) shall appoint a member to perform the duties of the church clerk.
7.5.3 For purposes of compliance with the nonprofit corporation laws of the state of California, the clerk shall serve as the secretary of the corporation.
7.5.4 The church clerk shall ensure that dated copies of the most recent revision of this constitution shall be available for all church members.
Section 6 – Treasurer
7.6 The treasurer, who shall not be an active elder (pastor) or a paid church staff member, shall ensure that all funds and securities of the church are properly secured in such banks, financial institutions, or depositories as designated by the church. The treasurer shall also ensure that full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements are kept in books belonging to the church, and that adequate controls are implemented to guarantee that all funds belonging to the church are appropriately handled by any officer, employee, or agent of the church. The treasurer shall render to the elders (pastors) annually, or whenever they may require it, an account of all transactions as treasurer and of the financial condition of the church. The treasurer shall also be responsible for presenting regular reports of the account balances, revenues, and expenses of the church at regular church body meeting. The responsibility may be delegated with the approval of the elders.
7.5.4 The church clerk shall ensure that dated copies of the most recent revision of this constitution shall be available for all church members.
Section 6 – Treasurer
7.6 The treasurer, who shall not be an active elder (pastor) or a paid church staff member, shall ensure that all funds and securities of the church are properly secured in such banks, financial institutions, or depositories as designated by the church. The treasurer shall also ensure that full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements are kept in books belonging to the church, and that adequate controls are implemented to guarantee that all funds belonging to the church are appropriately handled by any officer, employee, or agent of the church. The treasurer shall render to the elders (pastors) annually, or whenever they may require it, an account of all transactions as treasurer and of the financial condition of the church. The treasurer shall also be responsible for presenting regular reports of the account balances, revenues, and expenses of the church at regular church body meeting. The responsibility may be delegated with the approval of the elders.
ARTICLE 8 – APPOINTING OFFICERS
Section 1 – Principles
8.1 The process for church elections shall be interpreted and carried out to fulfill the following principles:
8.1 The process for church elections shall be interpreted and carried out to fulfill the following principles:
1. Substantial prayer, both individually and corporately, shall be an integral part of the election process.
2. Nominations shall proceed with the support of the elders (pastors).
3. All candidates for church office shall be treated with the grace, kindness, and honesty appropriate in evaluating fellow members.
4. The choosing process shall express that spirit of mutual trust, openness, and loving consideration which is appropriate within the body of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Section 2 – Selection of Officers
8.2.1 The choosing of officers shall be held at any church body meeting. Two months prior to the choice(s) the elders (pastors) should seek recommendations and involvement from the church in the nomination process.
8.2.2 A slate of names of nominees to serve as elders (pastors), deacons/deaconesses, clerk, and treasurer shall be presented by the elders (pastors) and made known to the church at least one month prior to voting. Any member of the body with reason to believe that a nominated candidate is unqualified for an office should express such concern to the elders (pastors). Members of the body intending to speak in opposition to a candidate should express their objection to the elders (pastors) as far in advance as possible before the relevant church body meeting at which the church votes on the candidates.
8.2.3 The moderator of the church body meeting shall declare elected persons receiving a 75% majority of all votes cast for the office of elder. For all other offices, the moderator shall declare elected all persons receiving a simple majority of all votes cast; abstentions will not be considered as votes cast.
8.2.4 The persons elected shall assume their respective offices at the beginning of the fiscal year (unless another date has been specifically designated). Choices to fill any need that may occur during the course of the year may be held at any church body meeting, upon recommendation of the elders (pastors).
Section 3 – Calling of Vocational Elders (Pastors)
8.3.1 In the calling of any man to a vocational elder (pastor) position, the same basic process of calling an elder (pastor) must be followed, and the elders (pastors) shall encourage members of the congregations to submit names. In addition, the church shall be given adequate opportunity to assess the gifts and spiritual life of any potential vocational elder (pastor).
8.3.2 In selecting a vocational elder (pastor) his gifts in preaching and teaching and his commitment to minister personally to the members of this church will be prerequisites. The ability to preach will be assessed with particular care when selecting a potential preaching elder (pastor). Assessment of any candidate shall be made by a committee consisting of an elder (pastor) plus four members of the congregation, including at least two women. In addition, the church shall receive assurance from the elders (pastors) that, having interviewed the man concerned, they are in no doubt as to his wholehearted assent to the Statement of Faith and Church Covenant. The elders (pastors) shall bring only one recommendation to the church at a time.
8.3.3 Notice of the nomination of a man to be confirmed to membership of the body and called as a vocational elder (pastor) shall be given at two Sunday morning services following the nomination, prior to the vote at a church body meeting. The call of a vocational elder (pastor) shall take place at a business meeting set aside for that purpose. The extension of a call shall be made upon an affirmative vote of 75% of the members present.
ARTICLE 9 – INDEMNIFICATION
Section 1 – Mandatory Indemnification
9.1 If a legal claim or criminal allegation is made against a person because he or she is or was an officer, employee, or agent of the church, the church shall provide indemnification against liability and costs incurred in defending against the claim if the elders (pastors) determine that the person acted (a) in good faith, (b) with the care an ordinarily prudent person in a similar position would exercise under similar circumstances, and (c) in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in the best interest of the church, and the person had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The church shall purchase appropriate insurance to meet these potential liabilities.
Section 2 – Permissive Indemnification
9.2 At the discretion of the elders (pastors), the church also may indemnify any person who acted in good faith and reasonably believed that his or her conduct was in the church's best interest and not unlawful.
Section 3 – Procedure
9.3 If a quorum of the elders (pastors) is not available for an indemnification determination because of the number of elders (pastors) seeking indemnification, the requisite determination may be made by the church or by special legal counsel appointed by the church.
9.1 If a legal claim or criminal allegation is made against a person because he or she is or was an officer, employee, or agent of the church, the church shall provide indemnification against liability and costs incurred in defending against the claim if the elders (pastors) determine that the person acted (a) in good faith, (b) with the care an ordinarily prudent person in a similar position would exercise under similar circumstances, and (c) in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in the best interest of the church, and the person had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The church shall purchase appropriate insurance to meet these potential liabilities.
Section 2 – Permissive Indemnification
9.2 At the discretion of the elders (pastors), the church also may indemnify any person who acted in good faith and reasonably believed that his or her conduct was in the church's best interest and not unlawful.
Section 3 – Procedure
9.3 If a quorum of the elders (pastors) is not available for an indemnification determination because of the number of elders (pastors) seeking indemnification, the requisite determination may be made by the church or by special legal counsel appointed by the church.
ARTICLE 10 – DISPUTE RESOLUTION
10.1 Believing that the Bible commands Christians to make every effort to live at peace and to resolve disputes with each other in private or within the Christian church (see, e.g., Matt. 18:15-20; 1 Cor. 6:1-8), the church shall urge its members to resolve conflict among themselves according to biblically based principles, without reliance on the secular courts. Consistent with its call to peacemaking, the church shall encourage the use of biblically based principles and the avoidance of suits of law to resolve disputes between itself and those outside the church, whether Christian or pagan and whether individuals or corporate entities. The elders (pastors) shall adopt policies and procedures to effect these aspirations.
ARTICLE 11 – AMENDMENTS
11.1 The Statement of Faith and Church Covenant may be amended by a three-quarters vote of the members present and voting at a church body meeting, provided the amendment shall have been offered in writing at the previous church body meeting, and shall have been announced from the pulpit at church services two successive Sundays prior to such vote.
11.2 This constitution may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the members present and voting at a church body meeting, provided the amendment shall have been offered in writing at the previous church body meeting, and shall have been announced from the pulpit at church services two successive Sundays prior to such vote.
[1] This is at this stage of the church’s life, until it is more established with qualified elders, then we should look into having a minimum to maintain a plurality of elders.
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