our Mission
To love God supremely and to love others as ourselves; teaching them to love and obey Christ as we endeavor to follow Him.
our Vision
To be a Christ-centered, disciplemaking, and praying church that worships Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and welcomes others to join us.
A Christ-centered church is committed to Jesus Christ as Lord. That commitment motivates its decision-making and ministries.
A Disciplemaking church proclaims the gospel, calls men and women to repentance and faith in Christ, and teaches believers how to obey everything that Jesus commanded.
A Praying church cultivates communion with God in both private and corporate prayer.
A Worshipping church adheres to God’s Word and follows the leading of the Holy Spirit.
A Welcoming church provides a safe place for everyone to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and to care for one another.
A Christ-centered church is committed to Jesus Christ as Lord. That commitment motivates its decision-making and ministries.
A Disciplemaking church proclaims the gospel, calls men and women to repentance and faith in Christ, and teaches believers how to obey everything that Jesus commanded.
A Praying church cultivates communion with God in both private and corporate prayer.
A Worshipping church adheres to God’s Word and follows the leading of the Holy Spirit.
A Welcoming church provides a safe place for everyone to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and to care for one another.
Our Core Values
Obedience to the Word of God
The Bible is God’s Word and the only blueprint for what we believe and do. Bible teaching permeates every program. We believe the Bible is both timeless and timely, relevant to the specific needs of all people at all times. We understand that the Bible can only be truly known through living an obedient life. As D.L. Moody said, “The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation.” (Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:16- 17; Hebrews 4:12)
Gospel Focused Worship
Worship is our heartfelt response to the gospel, through which we receive the saving message of Jesus love, grace, and forgiveness for all who repent and put their faith in Christ. We worship together each Sunday morning and in private through song, prayer, and hearing God's Word, as well as our daily obedience. As the Scriptures say, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Col. 316-17) (See also Psalm 34:1-3 and Psalm 100.)
Loving Others as Christ Loves Us
Jesus said the greatest commandment is to love God above all else and to love our neighbor as we love our self. (Matthew 22:37-40) Love is the greatest evidence of genuine faith. Jesus said, "By this, all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another." (John 13:35) This sort of love does not come naturally. It is a fruit of the Holy Spirit living within us. "But the fruit of the spirit is love..." (Galatians 5:25)
The Christian Community
Fellowship with other believers is essential to spiritual growth and discipleship. We encourage believers to study God’s Word in small groups, to exercise the gifts God’s Spirit has given to them, to share their experiences, to pray together, and to encourage one another in their walk with Jesus. “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
The Bible is God’s Word and the only blueprint for what we believe and do. Bible teaching permeates every program. We believe the Bible is both timeless and timely, relevant to the specific needs of all people at all times. We understand that the Bible can only be truly known through living an obedient life. As D.L. Moody said, “The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation.” (Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:16- 17; Hebrews 4:12)
Gospel Focused Worship
Worship is our heartfelt response to the gospel, through which we receive the saving message of Jesus love, grace, and forgiveness for all who repent and put their faith in Christ. We worship together each Sunday morning and in private through song, prayer, and hearing God's Word, as well as our daily obedience. As the Scriptures say, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Col. 316-17) (See also Psalm 34:1-3 and Psalm 100.)
Loving Others as Christ Loves Us
Jesus said the greatest commandment is to love God above all else and to love our neighbor as we love our self. (Matthew 22:37-40) Love is the greatest evidence of genuine faith. Jesus said, "By this, all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another." (John 13:35) This sort of love does not come naturally. It is a fruit of the Holy Spirit living within us. "But the fruit of the spirit is love..." (Galatians 5:25)
The Christian Community
Fellowship with other believers is essential to spiritual growth and discipleship. We encourage believers to study God’s Word in small groups, to exercise the gifts God’s Spirit has given to them, to share their experiences, to pray together, and to encourage one another in their walk with Jesus. “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Statment of Faith
Section 1.1. There is one God (Deut. 6:4), Creator of all things (Rev. 4:11), who is infinitely perfect (Matt. 5:48), existing eternally in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matt. 28:19).
Section 1.2. Jesus Christ is the true God and true man (Phil. 2:6–11). He was sent by the Father (John 20:21), conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin, Mary (Luke 1:34–38). He died on the cross, the Just for the unjust (1 Pet. 3:18), as a substitutionary sacrifice (Heb. 2:9), and all who believe in Him are justified on the ground of His shed blood (Rom. 5:9). He rose from the dead according to the Scriptures (1 Cor. 15:3–4). He is now at the right hand of the Majesty on high as our great High Priest (Heb. 8:1). He will come again to establish His Kingdom of righteousness and peace (Isa. 9:6–7).
Section 1.3. The Holy Spirit is a divine person (John 14:16–18), sent to indwell, guide, teach, gift, empower, and bear His fruit in every believer (John 16:13; 1 Cor. 12:4, 11; Acts 1:8; Gal. 5:22–23). He convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment (John 16:7–11).
Section 1.4. The Old and New Testaments, inerrant as originally given, were verbally inspired by God and are a complete revelation of His will for our salvation. They constitute the divine and only rule of Christian faith and practice (2 Pet. 1:20–21; 2 Tim. 3:15–17).
Section 1.5. Man was originally created in the image and likeness of God: 16 he fell through disobedience, incurring thereby both physical and spiritual death. All men are born with a sinful nature, 17 are separated from the life of God, and can be saved only through the atoning work of the Lord Jesus Christ.18 The portion of the impenitent and unbelieving is existence forever in conscious torment; 19 and that of the believer, in everlasting joy and bliss.20 (16Genesis 1:27, 17Romans 3:23, 181 Corinthians 15:20–23, 19Revelation 21:8, 20Revelation 21:1–4)
Section 1.6. Salvation has been provided through Jesus Christ for all people (1 John 2:2). Those who repent and believe in Him are justified by grace through faith (Rom. 3:21–24), born again of the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:4–7), delivered from the dominion of darkness, transferred into the Kingdom of God’s Son (Col. 1:13), granted the gift of eternal life, and adopted as the children of God (Rom. 8:14–16; John 1:12).
Section 1.7. It is the will of God that each believer should be filled with the Holy Spirit and be sanctified wholly, 22 being separated from sin and the world and fully dedicated to the will of God, thereby receiving power for holy living and effective service.23 This is both a crisis and a progressive experience wrought in the life of the believer subsequent to conversion.24
(221 Thessalonians 5:23, 23Acts 1:8, 24Romans 6:1–14)
Section 1.8. Provision is made in the redemptive work of the Lord Jesus Christ for the healing of the whole person (Isa. 53:4–5; Matt. 8:16–17). Prayer for the sick and anointing with oil are taught in the Scriptures (James 5:13–16) as privileges for the Church in this present age (Acts 4:30).
Section 1.9. The Church consists of all those who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, are redeemed through His blood, and are born again of the Holy Spirit. Christ is the Head of the Body, the Church, 27 which has been commissioned by Him to go into all the world as a witness, preaching the gospel to all nations. 28 The local church is a body of believers in Christ who are joined together for the worship of God, for edification through the Word of God, for prayer, fellowship, the proclamation of the gospel, and observance of the ordinances of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. 29 (27Ephesians 1:22–23, 28Matthew 28:19–20, 29Acts 2:41–47)
Section 1.10. There shall be a bodily resurrection of the just and of the unjust; for the former, a resurrection unto life; 30 for the latter, a resurrection unto judgment. 31 (301 Corinthians 15:20–23, 31John 5:28–29)
Section 1.11. The Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ is imminent 32 and will be personal, visible, and premillennial. 33 This is the believer’s blessed hope and is a vital truth which is an incentive to holy living and faithful service. 34 (32Hebrews 10:37, 33Luke 21:27, 34 Titus 2:11–14)
NOTE: Edits to Sections 1.5, 1.7, 1.9, 1.10, and 1.11 (including a Preamble) were presented to 2023 General Council. All but one was adopted but need to be adopted verbatim at 2025 General Council in order to be final. The proposal to Section 1.7 was sent back to the Board of Directors and their new proposal, if any, will be brought to 2025 General Council.
Constitution & Bylaws
CONSTITUTION and BYLAWS FOR FAITH COMMUNITY CHURCH
OF
THE CHRISTIAN AND MISSIONARY ALLIANCE
INTRODUCTION
The bylaws adopted by Faith Community Church have been combined with the Uniform Constitution for Accredited Churches of The Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA). The Uniform Constitution is shared by all accredited Alliance congregations. The provisions which appear in a smaller typestyle and bold print are bylaws unique to Faith Community Church. They are numbered to identify them with the article of the Uniform Constitution to which they apply.
In the context of this document, the words 'male', 'men' or 'man' refer exclusively to individuals who are born biological males. The words 'female', 'women' or 'woman' refer exclusively to individuals who are born biological females.
Each accredited church of The Christian and Missionary Alliance shall adopt and be governed by the following Constitution.
PREAMBLE
The New Testament teaches that the local church is the visible organized expression of the Body of Christ. The people of God are to live and serve in obedience to the Word of God and under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
The Christian and Missionary Alliance operates on the presupposition that the congregation finds broader meaning and outreach in fulfilling its biblical responsibilities within the life and witness of the denomination.
This Constitution has three objectives:
1. Set out in general an outline for the organization and administration for this church.
2. Define the relationship of this church to the district of which it is an integral part.
3. Relate this church to the denominational framework through which the worldwide work of The Christian and Missionary Alliance is carried out.
The Uniform Constitution for Accredited Churches has been framed and adopted by the General Council, the denomination's highest governing body. The accredited churches of The Christian and Missionary Alliance have participated in this process through their authorized delegates.
This church can, in accordance with this Constitution and in a manner that is consistent with the
Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, formulate its bylaws so as to carry out its ministry appropriately and efficiently.
This church is an integral part of the district, national, and worldwide fellowship of The Christian and Missionary Alliance and is united in governance, fellowship, and service in order to promote unity of faith in the fullness of Jesus Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King, and to facilitate the spread of the gospel at home and abroad under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
ARTICLE I
NAME
The official name under which this church is incorporated or organized is Faith Community
Church of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
ARTICLE II
RELATIONSHIP
This church is connected with and subordinate to its parent religious organization, The Christian
and Missionary Alliance, a Colorado nonprofit corporation. In consideration of the mutual benefits generated and derived from this relationship and understanding that The Christian and Missionary Alliance is relying hereon in agreeing to initiate or continue such relationship, this church agrees to be subject to and abide by the terms and conditions of Article XVI hereof relating to the reversion of property of accredited churches.
ARTICLE III
MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Qualifications
1. Confession of faith in Jesus Christ and evidence of regeneration.
2. Belief in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; in the verbal inspiration of the Holy Scriptures as originally given; in the vicarious atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ; in the eternal salvation of all who believe in Him and the eternal punishment of all who reject Him.
3. Acceptance of the doctrines of the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and
Coming King.
4. Full sympathy with the mission and core values of The Christian and Missionary Alliance and cooperation by systematic support of its work. 5. Such other qualifications for membership as may be stated in the bylaws.
Section 2. Removal
Persons may be removed from membership under one or more of the following circumstances:
1. Submission of a written letter of resignation to the elders of the church.
2. Failure to meet the qualifications of membership as stated above.
3. Disciplinary action taken under the Uniform Policy for Discipline, Restoration and
Appeal of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
An appeal of decisions made to remove a person from membership for reasons of qualification or a disciplinary action may be submitted to the district superintendent within 30 days of the action.
Section 3. Additional qualifications
1. Prospective members shall faithfully attend Faith Community Church and support its ministries for no less than six months before seeking membership so that the body may establish fellowship with them and observe their life and testimony prior to becoming a member.
2. Individuals who have reached the age of 12 or above and who have made a profession of faith in Christ, may be received into membership after completing the membership requirements.
3. Persons seeking membership shall be required to attend a membership class to become familiar with the history, doctrine, government, ministries and other distinctives of Faith Community Church. Prospective members will be encouraged to explore their spiritual gifts and become involved in ministry within the church. They shall be required to endorse the congregation's Covenant of Membership, and acknowledge the Uniform Policy on Discipline, Restoration, and Appeal of the Christian and Missionary Alliance and give testimony to their faith in Christ to the elders.
4. With the approval of a majority of the elders, individuals seeking membership may request to have their membership transferred from another Alliance church, or like-minded evangelical congregation. However, they will be encouraged to complete the membership class.
Section 4. Membership Standing
There shall be three classifications of membership: Active members, Inactive Members, and Members-at-Large. The elders shall review and update the membership list bi• annually. A current membership list shall be published at least one month prior to the Annual Meeting of the Church.
1. Active Members
Active members shall be defined as those members who support the fellowship of the church by regularly attending its worship services and other church functions (unless physically unable to do so), who are involved in ministry in the church and/or community, and who regularly support the church financially through giving tithes and offerings. Active members are members in good standing.
2. Inactive Members
Members who have ceased participating regularly in worship services and other church functions, or who are absent from the community for a period of four months or more, may be considered inactive at the discretion of the elders. Their names will be placed on the inactive membership list at the discretion of the elders, after having been informed of the intent to do so in writing. Inactive members shall not have the right to vote on matters related to Faith Community Church. Members who remain inactive for one-year may be removed from membership at the discretion of the elders.
Inactive members may ask the elders to be restored to Active membership standing after attending Faith Community Church faithfully for at least four months once again, and resuming financial support as much as they are able. If the majority of the elders approve the request, the inactive member may be restored to Active membership.
3. Members-at-Large
Members who are absent from Faith Community Church due to Christian service, enlistment in the military, health reasons, educational pursuits, temporary requirements of their vocation, or the decision of the majority of the elders shall be considered members-at-large. Members-at-large shall not be eligible to vote on matters related to Faith Community Church. They may be restored to active membership at the discretion of the elders when they have returned to the community and resumed regular participation in church activities.
ARTICLE IV ORDINANCES
Baptism and the Lord's Supper are recognized as the two ordinances of the church.
Believers' baptism by immersion is taught and practiced as the scriptural mode. The pastor or other elders shall oversee baptism. They shall provide the instruction about baptism and shall administer the baptisms themselves or choose other spiritually respected people to do these ministries.
The Lord's Supper is administered regularly. The pastor or other elders shall oversee Communion. They shall provide instruction about Communion and shall administer the Communion themselves or choose other spiritually respected people to do these ministries.
ARTICLE V
GOVERNMENT
There shall be an annual meeting of the members of this church to be held at a time specified in the bylaws at which time the members shall receive reports of ministries, including audited reports of the treasurers, and shall elect church officers, elders, and members of the
governance authority. Additional ministry positions shall be filled as specified in the local church
bylaws. The governance authority, as specified in the local church bylaws, shall conduct the affairs of the church between annual meetings and shall be amenable to the membership and the district superintendent as constitutionally defined. Other meetings of the members may be called by proper notice to the membership as specified in the bylaws. On general church matters in which no legal questions are involved, it is understood that all members in good and regular standing who have reached the age of 16 years are entitled to vote, but in matters involving titles of property or legal procedure, the laws of the state determine the age at which members are eligible to vote.
Section V.1 Congregational Meetings
1. Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting of Faith Community Church shall be held each year during
the month of June. The date, time and location of the meeting shall be determined by the governance board and announced to the church both in writing and orally at least one month prior to the date of the meeting. An agenda, written reports to
the church, and the proposed budget for the new fiscal year shall be distributed to the membership at least two weeks before the date of the Annual Meeting.
2. Special Congregational Meetings
Special congregational meetings may be convened by the governing board as necessary to conduct the business of the church. The governing board shall announce the time and place of the special meeting, along with an agenda and other relevant documents, at least two weeks in advance of the date the meeting is to be held. Notice shall be given both in writing and orally.
3. Rules of Order
Congregational meetings shall be conducted in keeping with the most recent edition of Roberts Rules of Order.
4. Quorum
A quorum of any properly called church business meeting shall consist of one third of the active members of the church.
ARTICLE VI
GOVERNANCE AUTHORITY
Section 1. General
Each local church shall structure its governance authority in accordance
with the governing documents of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the responsibilities of elders as defined in Article X, Section 1, the bylaws of the district, and the laws of the state in which the church is located. The members of the governance authority shall satisfy the scriptural standards for church leadership and shall be members of this church.
The lead pastor shall be chairman, or, at his request, the governance authority shall elect an elder as chairman. An elder also shall be elected as vice chairman. Meetings shall be held for prayer and business, and abbreviated minutes shall be reported to the church as the church may decide. Special meetings may be called by the chairman or by written request of one-half of the governance authority membership. All officers, committees, and organizations except the Nominating Committee are amenable to the collective oversight of the elders.
1. Governance Authority
The Governing Board of Faith Community Church shall be designated as the governance authority of the Church. It shall be responsible for the legal, financial, and operational needs of the church.
The Governing Board shall consist of seven members including the lead pastor, who serves as chairman, one additional staff pastor chosen by the elders, the secretary of the church and the treasurer of the church, who serve by virtue of their office. The additional elders shall be elected by the congregation.
2. Tenure
Governing board members elected by the church shall serve a three-year term. They may serve a maximum of six years (two three-year terms). Former board members shall be eligible for election to the board again following a one-year absence from the board.
3. Meetings Held Electronically
Special and regular monthly meetings may be conducted by telephone or by other electronic means when the chairman of the board has secured the consent of a majority of governing board members to do so, or when two-thirds of the governing board members order such a meeting.
Electronic meetings shall be subject to all rules of order adopted by the Board to govern such meetings. When an in-person meeting is requested, a majority of the board members must be present in person to conduct business.
Section 2. Removal
In consultation with the district superintendent and the lead pastor, any officer or auxiliary official, except licensed pastoral staff, of this church, whether elected at the church annual meeting or appointed by the governance authority, or any individual member of the governance authority, may be removed by a two-thirds majority vote of the governance authority and the approval of the district superintendent if, in the judgment of the governance authority, the best interests of this church will be served thereby.
ARTICLE VII
OFFICERS
The officers shall be members of this church and shall satisfy the scriptural standards for church leadership. They shall consist of the following who, with the exception of the lead pastor, shall be elected at the annual meeting of the church: lead pastor, secretary, treasurer, assistant
treasurer, and such other officers as may be designated in the church bylaws or in the state law.
1. Vacancies
The governing board shall have the authority to appoint persons to vacant offices until the next Annual Meeting of the Congregation at which time an election shall be held.
ARTICLE VIII
PASTORAL STAFF
The governance authority shall not give consideration to any candidate for the pastoral staff without the approval of the district superintendent. Pastoral staff members shall be called by the governance authority and appointed by the district superintendent. The district superintendent
shall suggest to the governance authority the names of such workers as in his judgment have proper qualifications for pastoral staff. Upon appointment by the district superintendent, a pastoral staff member and spouse become members of this church. Pastoral staff include all those whose position calls for licensing as an "official worker," as defined in the General Regulations in the Manual of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
Any member of the pastoral staff may resign from this church by giving due notice of this intention to the district superintendent and the governance authority. The governance authority may, in conjunction with the district superintendent, ask for the resignation of any member of the pastoral staff. Before such action is taken, the governance authority and that member shall follow the guidelines as prescribed by the district superintendent. The district superintendent, with the approval of the District Executive Committee, shall have the authority to remove or transfer a member of the pastoral staff when the governance authority is in disagreement or whenever circumstances make such removal or transfer advisable.
1. The Title 'Pastor'
The New Testament assigns the responsibility for shepherding the church to men who are the congregation's elders (I Peter 5:1-3). The terms 'pastor' and 'shepherd' are synonymous in the Bible. Ephesians 4:11 is the only place in the New Testament where, in some, but not all English translations, the Greek term for this leadership responsibility is rendered 'pastor' rather than 'shepherd.' In keeping
with this biblical understanding, as well as Article X, Section 1 of the Uniform Constitution which states that "Elders shall therefore be male members of this church," the title 'pastor' shall not be applied to, or assumed by, female members of the church.
2. The Title 'Reverend'
We affirm the vital role that believing women play in the church's ministry. We recognize that God calls women to vocational service and that its appropriate for the church to set them apart for that ministry by an act of public consecration. In The Christian and Missionary Alliance, this act of consecration allows local churches apply the title 'Reverend 'to women who are serving as ministers at their discretion. However, Faith Community Church understands the title 'Reverend' to popularly suggest that its bearer is a pastor (shepherd). Since the primary responsibility for shepherding God's people is given to the elders of the church who are men, women who have been ordained/consecrated by The Christian and Missionary Alliance or other ecclesiastical entities, shall not assume the title 'Reverend' or identify themselves as such while a member of the congregation, or
serving as a member of the congregation's ministry staff. Women who are serving on the church's staff (either volunteer or salaried), will be given titles in keeping with the ministry responsibilities assigned to them by the elders.
ARTICLE IX
DUTIES OF CHURCH OFFICERS
Section 1. Lead Pastor
The lead pastor shall have oversight of this church. He shall be chairman of the governance authority except as he may choose to proceed according to the provisions in Article VI. He shall preside at all regular or special meetings of the church membership. He is a member ex officio of all church committees and organizations. When the membership has no pastor, the chairman or vice chairman of the governance authority shall have oversight of the church in conjunction with the district superintendent. The lead pastor shall be the president of this church where such office is required by law.
Section 2. Secretary
The secretary shall keep the minutes of membership meetings and conduct the correspondence of this church as directed by the governance authority. The secretary shall attend and keep minutes of other meetings as specified in the local church bylaws.
1. The corporate secretary of the church shall be elected by the congregation from among the elders. The secretary serves as a member of the governing board as well as the corporate secretary of the congregation. The corporate church secretary shall not serve more than four consecutive years (two two-year terms). They may be eligible for re-election after a one-year absence from the governing board.
Section 3. Treasurer
The treasurer shall receive all monies of this church and shall be responsible for the payment of all bills on the order of the governance authority as specified by the local church bylaws, keeping proper book records of all transactions, and filing canceled vouchers and receipts for payments made. The governance authority shall determine where funds of this church shall be kept. No offerings shall be solicited from the membership except upon approval of the governance authority.
1. The treasurer of the church shall be elected by the congregation from among the elders. The treasurer serves as a member of the governing board and shall perform the duties of the missionary treasurer. The church treasurer shall not serve more than six consecutive years (two three-year terms). They may be eligible for re-election after a one-year absence from the governing board.
Section 4. Missionary Treasurer
When required by local church bylaws, the missionary treasurer shall account for all missionary monies and oversee the forwarding of the same to the treasurer of The Christian and Missionary Alliance on or before the tenth of the following month.
Section 5. Assistant Treasurer
The assistant treasurer shall, with another person or persons appointed by the governance authority, be responsible to count all monies and keep a separate record of all receipts. The assistant treasurer may be empowered to issue receipts to the donors.
1. The assistant treasurer of the church shall be elected by the congregation. The assistant treasurer shall not serve more than six consecutive years (two three• year terms). They may be eligible for re-election after a one-year absence from the office.
ARTICLE X
COMMITTEES AND ORGANIZATIONS
Section 1. Elders
The call of Christ the Chief Shepherd to men to serve as elders is both discerned and confirmed by the church membership. Elders shall therefore be male members of this church and shall be elected as specified in the church bylaws. The lead pastor and the
other elders are the highest level of servant leadership in the church. As undershepherds, elders shall serve with the lead pastor to oversee both the temporal and spiritual affairs of the local church in order to accomplish Christ's mission. They shall constitute the Committee on Membership. They shall be the Committee on Discipline in accordance with the Uniform Policy on Discipline, Restoration, and Appeal of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. All officers, committees, and organizations except the Nominating Committee are amenable to the collective oversight of the elders through the governance authority.
1. Number of Elders
The congregation shall elect a minimum of five elders from among the qualified men in the church. One additional elder may be elected for each 20 members/regular participants in excess of 100 persons, determined by a six month's average, 90 days prior to the annual meeting of the church. Elders shall be elected for three-year terms, but they may serve an unlimited number of terms as an elder.
Section 2. Deacons
The deacons shall be members of this church and shall be appointed or elected as specified in the local church bylaws. The deacons shall have charge of those ministries and charities of the church as specified in the bylaws, receive offerings for such purposes and dispense the same, and make monthly reports as directed. Where there are no deacons, the governance authority shall assume responsibility for their ministries until such are elected or appointed.
1. Combined Deacon/Deaconess Board
Faith Community Church shall have a deacon/deaconess board. There shall be no less than two deacons and two deaconess, elected by the congregation at the annual meeting of the church. The deacons/deaconess shall be qualified as church leaders in keeping with 1 Timothy3:8-13. They shall serve two-year terms.
2. Chairperson
The chairperson of the board of deacons/deaconess shall be appointed by the Governing Board.
3. Responsibilities
The Governing Board shall adopt a ministry task description which indicates the scope of the deacons/deaconess ministry consistent with Article X in the Uniform Constitution for Accredited Church.
Section 3. Deaconesses
Deaconesses shall be members of this church and shall be appointed or elected as specified in the local church bylaws. The deaconesses shall have charge of those ministries as specified in the bylaws. Where there are no deaconesses, the governance authority shall assume responsibility for their ministries until such are elected or appointed.
1. Combined Deacon/Deaconess Board
Faith Community Church shall have a deacon/deaconess board. There shall be no less than two deacons and two deaconess, elected by the congregation at the annual meeting of the church. The deacons/deaconess shall be qualified as church leaders in keeping with 1 Timothy3:8-13. They shall serve two-year terms.
2. Chairperson
The chairperson of the board of deacons/deaconess shall be appointed by the Governing Board.
3. Responsibilities
The Governing Board shall adopt a ministry task description which indicates the scope of the deacons/deaconess ministry consistent with Article X in the Uniform Constitution for Accredited Church.
Section 4. Trustees
The trustees shall be members of this church and may be appointed or elected as specified in the local church bylaws. Trustees shall have charge of those ministries and duties as specified in the bylaws, or the laws of the state in which the church is located. Where there are no trustees, the governance authority shall assume responsibility for those ministries and duties until such are elected or appointed.
Section 5. Alliance Women
Local church Alliance Women may be established. They shall be organized according to the Alliance Women policies as contained in the CM Handbook.
ARTICLE XI
MISSIONS MOBILIZATION
The church shall participate in the worldwide missions and church planting ministries of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, and the support of the Great Commission Fund. The Governance Authority shall specify the means by which it purposes to mobilize members' involvement, including prayer, recruitment of men and women for vocational ministry both at home and abroad. A Missions Conference or congregation-wide event for missions mobilization shall be held each year.
ARTICLE XII
DISCIPLEMAKING MINISTRIES
A major ministry of this church shall be making disciples of Jesus Christ. The disciplemaking process includes evangelism, building up believers, equipping workers, and multiplying leaders, among adults, youth, and children. The Governance Authority shall specify how disciplemaking
is to be pursued. The purpose of disciplemaking ministries is to bring people to a saving knowledge of Christ, teach biblical principles emphasizing missions and the centrality of Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King, and equip people for evangelism and Christian service.
ARTICLE XIII
PROPERTY AND RECORDS
Section 1. Property
This church may acquire, own, dispose of, improve, encumber, and convey property, real and personal, for church purposes, in conformity with the laws of the state where the property is situated. Real property may be purchased, sold, conveyed, exchanged, mortgaged, or encumbered only by order of the membership through the governance authority in consultation with the district superintendent. In states where trustees are required, the order of the membership shall proceed through them.
Section 2. Records
The official records of all officers of the church and all its departments are the property of the church. In the event of the death or resignation of the incumbent or upon the election of his successor, the current records of the office shall be passed on to the newly elected officer. All records other than current shall be kept in a secure repository selected by the governance authority.
Section 3. Audit
All financial records shall be examined annually or at more frequent intervals on order of the governance authority. At least three persons, none of whom is a financial officer or a church staff member, shall be appointed by the governance authority to conduct the examination. They shall follow procedures set forth in the current edition of the Manual for Alliance Church Treasurers (and Pastors). The governance authority shall authorize actions to conform with additional audit standards that may be required by the jurisdiction in which the church is located.
ARTICLE XIV
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
A Nominating Committee shall consist of the lead pastor, two members from the church membership, selected by, but not necessarily from the governance authority, and two elected from the church membership in a manner stipulated by the local church bylaws, at least one month prior to the annual meeting.
1. Nominations
The Nominating Committee shall prepare a preliminary report of nominations for elected offices at least eight weeks in advance of the annual meeting. The Committee shall present at least one name in nomination for each office to be filled, including two nominees to serve on the following year's Nominating Committee. A final report shall be distributed at least two weeks prior to the annual meeting.
2. Nominations by the Congregation
No nominations may be made from the floor during the annual meeting of the church. Members of the church may submit the names of possible candidates to the nominating committee for its consideration within two weeks following the distribution of the Committee's preliminary report.
Any active member of the church may submit the name of a qualified individual to the nominating committee as follows:
1. After reviewing the qualifications for office and securing the nominees' permission, the member wishing to nominate a candidate for office may
present his/her name to the nominating committee in writing, within the time provided for nominations from the church.
2. The Nominating Committee shall review the qualifications of the suggested nominee and if the individual is qualified, his/her name shall be included on the final report of the nominating committee to the church. When more than one candidate for an office is presented, the nominating committee shall designate the candidate chosen by the committee.
ARTICLE XV
ELECTIONS
In consideration of elections, the Nominating Committee shall present at least one name for each office to be filled. Other nominations may be made by the membership as stipulated in the church bylaws. The officers shall be elected by ballot at the annual meeting. Where only one name is presented, the ballot may be waived by unanimous vote.
1. A two-thirds affirmative vote of the members present shall be required to elect elders.
ARTICLE XVI
REVERSION OF PROPERTY
Recognizing the purpose of the members of this congregation to support both the doctrines and the mission of The Christian and Missionary Alliance through the contribution of their tithes, offerings, and special gifts, and to ensure that the future use of such assets and real property as this church
may from time to time acquire shall not be diverted from this purpose, this church adopts the following property reversion clause.
1. Property Reversion Events
Any of the following shall constitute a "property reversion event:" (a) the decision or action of this church to disaffiliate or otherwise separate itself from The Christian and Missionary Alliance without the prior written approval of such decision or action by the District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) of the district in which this church is located, (b) the failure for any reason of this church to be subject to or abide by any of the purposes, usages, doctrines, or teachings of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, (c) the failure for any reason of this church to qualify as an "accredited church" of The Christian and Missionary Alliance (as such term is defined in the Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance), or (d) the termination of this church's existence for any reason.
2. Determination of a Property Reversion Event
The determination of whether property reversion event has occurred shall be considered and decided by the District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) of the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located in accordance with procedures established from time to time by the Board of Directors of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. The decision of such District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) shall be final and binding on The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, and this church, except an appeal from such decision may be taken, within 30 days of the declaration of a reversionary event, to a committee of three members of the Board of Directors of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. Such appeal shall be limited to the issues of fraud, collusion, or arbitrariness on the part of the district in declaring a reversionary event. The decision of such committee shall be final as a matter of ecclesiastical law.
3. Consequences of a Property Reversion Event
Upon the occurrence of a property reversion event as determined in accordance with paragraph 2 above, legal title to all real and personal property (tangible and intangible), appurtenances, fixtures, and effects of whatever type then owned, held, or used by this church, without regard to how or from whom acquired, shall, upon the demand of the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, revert to and become the property of such district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. During the period of time between the occurrence of the property reversion event and the complete and final transfer of legal title to the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, this church shall hold such property in trust for such district to be used exclusively to further the purposes, usages, doctrines, and teachings of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
4. Waiver of Certain Property Reversion Events
In the event of a property reversion event attributable to differences in doctrine between this church and The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the property reversion process set forth above may be waived upon the approval of (a) at least two-thirds of the members in good standing of this church, (b) the District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) of the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which
this church is located, and (c) Church Ministries of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
5. Exclusion of Certain Property
Paragraph 3 above shall not apply to any real or personal property which (i) this church owned prior to its becoming an accredited church, and (ii) is expressly identified as property not subject to paragraph 3 above in a written agreement entered into in connection with such accreditation between this church and the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church was located upon its accreditation. The exclusion of property pursuant to this paragraph 5, and the agreement described in the preceding sentence, shall (1) terminate ten (10) years after this church's accreditation and (2) not apply to any church that was in developing status prior to its accreditation.
ARTICLE XVII
BYLAWS
Church bylaws not in conflict with this Constitution, the provisions of the Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the bylaws of the district within which the church is located, or the laws of the state are required and will be adopted by a duly called meeting of the church. As a minimum, the church bylaws will include provisions for the composition and name of its governance authority that is in keeping with Article VI above. A copy of such bylaws shall be filed with the district superintendent.
1. Severability.
The determination that of any provision of these Bylaws is invalid shall not affect the other provisions contained in the Constitution and bylaws of Faith Community Church, and in such an event, these Bylaws shall be construed in all respects as if such invalid provision were omitted.
ARTICLE XVIII
AMENDMENTS
This Constitution may be amended only by the General Council of The Christian and Missionary
Alliance in accordance with the provisions of Section 10.2 of the Amended and Restated
Constitution and Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance as applied to the Uniform
Constitution for Accredited Churches.
ARTICLE XIX
CONFORMANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW
In cases where any provision of this Constitution may not conform to state laws, the district concerned shall be authorized to make such adjustments as necessary in counsel with the vice president for Church Ministries of The Christian and Missionary Alliance so as to conform to such laws.
ARTICLE XX
BIBLICAL CHARACTER AND STANDARDS
Section 1. Exercise and Expression of the Church's Biblical Beliefs.
As described in the Preamble, the Church is a Christian community of faith that exists to exercise and express its biblical beliefs within the broader community of the C&MA. These beliefs are grounded in a shared understanding of Holy Scripture including those beliefs and standards specifically addressed in the Manual of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. The Church exercises and expresses its biblical beliefs and standards in the following ways:
1. As a Community
The Church understands that the local church is the visible organized expression of the Body of Christ and that the local church finds broader meaning and outreach in fulfilling its biblical responsibilities within the life and witness of the denomination. In addition, those who participate in the life of the Church, including the Church's members and employees, are following the biblical command to live out their faith in community and association with other believers. Accordingly, the Church community is itself an exercise and expression of the Church's biblical beliefs and standards.
2. Through its Activities
The Church believes that all Church activities, including the responsibilities of every Church member and employee, should be rendered in service to God as a form of worship. Therefore, the Church as a community of faith exercises and expresses its biblical beliefs and standards in every activity, action, and responsibility.
Section 2. Standards for Church Activities and Facilities.
The Church shall engage in activities and use its facilities solely to exercise and express the biblical beliefs of the Church and the C&MA and to further the mission of both. In furtherance of this mission, the Church may provide services or goods to, and may allow use of its facilities by, other groups and persons who are not members of the Church. But no Church activity, nor any use of Church facilities by another group or person, may
be conducted or permitted if the Church determines that such activity or use expresses a message of support by the Church for any view contrary to the biblical beliefs of the Church and the C&MA. The determination as to whether any particular activity or use of Church facilities is not permitted requires spiritual discernment applied to each particular circumstance and shall be made in the sole discretion of the spiritual leaders of the Church designated by either the governance authority of the Church or the senior pastor and elders. With respect to uses by other groups or persons, the Church may consider without limitation both the content of the proposed activities and whether the group or person is generally perceived as advocating views contrary to the biblical beliefs of the Church and the C&MA
OF
THE CHRISTIAN AND MISSIONARY ALLIANCE
INTRODUCTION
The bylaws adopted by Faith Community Church have been combined with the Uniform Constitution for Accredited Churches of The Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA). The Uniform Constitution is shared by all accredited Alliance congregations. The provisions which appear in a smaller typestyle and bold print are bylaws unique to Faith Community Church. They are numbered to identify them with the article of the Uniform Constitution to which they apply.
In the context of this document, the words 'male', 'men' or 'man' refer exclusively to individuals who are born biological males. The words 'female', 'women' or 'woman' refer exclusively to individuals who are born biological females.
Each accredited church of The Christian and Missionary Alliance shall adopt and be governed by the following Constitution.
PREAMBLE
The New Testament teaches that the local church is the visible organized expression of the Body of Christ. The people of God are to live and serve in obedience to the Word of God and under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
The Christian and Missionary Alliance operates on the presupposition that the congregation finds broader meaning and outreach in fulfilling its biblical responsibilities within the life and witness of the denomination.
This Constitution has three objectives:
1. Set out in general an outline for the organization and administration for this church.
2. Define the relationship of this church to the district of which it is an integral part.
3. Relate this church to the denominational framework through which the worldwide work of The Christian and Missionary Alliance is carried out.
The Uniform Constitution for Accredited Churches has been framed and adopted by the General Council, the denomination's highest governing body. The accredited churches of The Christian and Missionary Alliance have participated in this process through their authorized delegates.
This church can, in accordance with this Constitution and in a manner that is consistent with the
Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, formulate its bylaws so as to carry out its ministry appropriately and efficiently.
This church is an integral part of the district, national, and worldwide fellowship of The Christian and Missionary Alliance and is united in governance, fellowship, and service in order to promote unity of faith in the fullness of Jesus Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King, and to facilitate the spread of the gospel at home and abroad under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
ARTICLE I
NAME
The official name under which this church is incorporated or organized is Faith Community
Church of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
ARTICLE II
RELATIONSHIP
This church is connected with and subordinate to its parent religious organization, The Christian
and Missionary Alliance, a Colorado nonprofit corporation. In consideration of the mutual benefits generated and derived from this relationship and understanding that The Christian and Missionary Alliance is relying hereon in agreeing to initiate or continue such relationship, this church agrees to be subject to and abide by the terms and conditions of Article XVI hereof relating to the reversion of property of accredited churches.
ARTICLE III
MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Qualifications
1. Confession of faith in Jesus Christ and evidence of regeneration.
2. Belief in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; in the verbal inspiration of the Holy Scriptures as originally given; in the vicarious atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ; in the eternal salvation of all who believe in Him and the eternal punishment of all who reject Him.
3. Acceptance of the doctrines of the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and
Coming King.
4. Full sympathy with the mission and core values of The Christian and Missionary Alliance and cooperation by systematic support of its work. 5. Such other qualifications for membership as may be stated in the bylaws.
Section 2. Removal
Persons may be removed from membership under one or more of the following circumstances:
1. Submission of a written letter of resignation to the elders of the church.
2. Failure to meet the qualifications of membership as stated above.
3. Disciplinary action taken under the Uniform Policy for Discipline, Restoration and
Appeal of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
An appeal of decisions made to remove a person from membership for reasons of qualification or a disciplinary action may be submitted to the district superintendent within 30 days of the action.
Section 3. Additional qualifications
1. Prospective members shall faithfully attend Faith Community Church and support its ministries for no less than six months before seeking membership so that the body may establish fellowship with them and observe their life and testimony prior to becoming a member.
2. Individuals who have reached the age of 12 or above and who have made a profession of faith in Christ, may be received into membership after completing the membership requirements.
3. Persons seeking membership shall be required to attend a membership class to become familiar with the history, doctrine, government, ministries and other distinctives of Faith Community Church. Prospective members will be encouraged to explore their spiritual gifts and become involved in ministry within the church. They shall be required to endorse the congregation's Covenant of Membership, and acknowledge the Uniform Policy on Discipline, Restoration, and Appeal of the Christian and Missionary Alliance and give testimony to their faith in Christ to the elders.
4. With the approval of a majority of the elders, individuals seeking membership may request to have their membership transferred from another Alliance church, or like-minded evangelical congregation. However, they will be encouraged to complete the membership class.
Section 4. Membership Standing
There shall be three classifications of membership: Active members, Inactive Members, and Members-at-Large. The elders shall review and update the membership list bi• annually. A current membership list shall be published at least one month prior to the Annual Meeting of the Church.
1. Active Members
Active members shall be defined as those members who support the fellowship of the church by regularly attending its worship services and other church functions (unless physically unable to do so), who are involved in ministry in the church and/or community, and who regularly support the church financially through giving tithes and offerings. Active members are members in good standing.
2. Inactive Members
Members who have ceased participating regularly in worship services and other church functions, or who are absent from the community for a period of four months or more, may be considered inactive at the discretion of the elders. Their names will be placed on the inactive membership list at the discretion of the elders, after having been informed of the intent to do so in writing. Inactive members shall not have the right to vote on matters related to Faith Community Church. Members who remain inactive for one-year may be removed from membership at the discretion of the elders.
Inactive members may ask the elders to be restored to Active membership standing after attending Faith Community Church faithfully for at least four months once again, and resuming financial support as much as they are able. If the majority of the elders approve the request, the inactive member may be restored to Active membership.
3. Members-at-Large
Members who are absent from Faith Community Church due to Christian service, enlistment in the military, health reasons, educational pursuits, temporary requirements of their vocation, or the decision of the majority of the elders shall be considered members-at-large. Members-at-large shall not be eligible to vote on matters related to Faith Community Church. They may be restored to active membership at the discretion of the elders when they have returned to the community and resumed regular participation in church activities.
ARTICLE IV ORDINANCES
Baptism and the Lord's Supper are recognized as the two ordinances of the church.
Believers' baptism by immersion is taught and practiced as the scriptural mode. The pastor or other elders shall oversee baptism. They shall provide the instruction about baptism and shall administer the baptisms themselves or choose other spiritually respected people to do these ministries.
The Lord's Supper is administered regularly. The pastor or other elders shall oversee Communion. They shall provide instruction about Communion and shall administer the Communion themselves or choose other spiritually respected people to do these ministries.
ARTICLE V
GOVERNMENT
There shall be an annual meeting of the members of this church to be held at a time specified in the bylaws at which time the members shall receive reports of ministries, including audited reports of the treasurers, and shall elect church officers, elders, and members of the
governance authority. Additional ministry positions shall be filled as specified in the local church
bylaws. The governance authority, as specified in the local church bylaws, shall conduct the affairs of the church between annual meetings and shall be amenable to the membership and the district superintendent as constitutionally defined. Other meetings of the members may be called by proper notice to the membership as specified in the bylaws. On general church matters in which no legal questions are involved, it is understood that all members in good and regular standing who have reached the age of 16 years are entitled to vote, but in matters involving titles of property or legal procedure, the laws of the state determine the age at which members are eligible to vote.
Section V.1 Congregational Meetings
1. Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting of Faith Community Church shall be held each year during
the month of June. The date, time and location of the meeting shall be determined by the governance board and announced to the church both in writing and orally at least one month prior to the date of the meeting. An agenda, written reports to
the church, and the proposed budget for the new fiscal year shall be distributed to the membership at least two weeks before the date of the Annual Meeting.
2. Special Congregational Meetings
Special congregational meetings may be convened by the governing board as necessary to conduct the business of the church. The governing board shall announce the time and place of the special meeting, along with an agenda and other relevant documents, at least two weeks in advance of the date the meeting is to be held. Notice shall be given both in writing and orally.
3. Rules of Order
Congregational meetings shall be conducted in keeping with the most recent edition of Roberts Rules of Order.
4. Quorum
A quorum of any properly called church business meeting shall consist of one third of the active members of the church.
ARTICLE VI
GOVERNANCE AUTHORITY
Section 1. General
Each local church shall structure its governance authority in accordance
with the governing documents of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the responsibilities of elders as defined in Article X, Section 1, the bylaws of the district, and the laws of the state in which the church is located. The members of the governance authority shall satisfy the scriptural standards for church leadership and shall be members of this church.
The lead pastor shall be chairman, or, at his request, the governance authority shall elect an elder as chairman. An elder also shall be elected as vice chairman. Meetings shall be held for prayer and business, and abbreviated minutes shall be reported to the church as the church may decide. Special meetings may be called by the chairman or by written request of one-half of the governance authority membership. All officers, committees, and organizations except the Nominating Committee are amenable to the collective oversight of the elders.
1. Governance Authority
The Governing Board of Faith Community Church shall be designated as the governance authority of the Church. It shall be responsible for the legal, financial, and operational needs of the church.
The Governing Board shall consist of seven members including the lead pastor, who serves as chairman, one additional staff pastor chosen by the elders, the secretary of the church and the treasurer of the church, who serve by virtue of their office. The additional elders shall be elected by the congregation.
2. Tenure
Governing board members elected by the church shall serve a three-year term. They may serve a maximum of six years (two three-year terms). Former board members shall be eligible for election to the board again following a one-year absence from the board.
3. Meetings Held Electronically
Special and regular monthly meetings may be conducted by telephone or by other electronic means when the chairman of the board has secured the consent of a majority of governing board members to do so, or when two-thirds of the governing board members order such a meeting.
Electronic meetings shall be subject to all rules of order adopted by the Board to govern such meetings. When an in-person meeting is requested, a majority of the board members must be present in person to conduct business.
Section 2. Removal
In consultation with the district superintendent and the lead pastor, any officer or auxiliary official, except licensed pastoral staff, of this church, whether elected at the church annual meeting or appointed by the governance authority, or any individual member of the governance authority, may be removed by a two-thirds majority vote of the governance authority and the approval of the district superintendent if, in the judgment of the governance authority, the best interests of this church will be served thereby.
ARTICLE VII
OFFICERS
The officers shall be members of this church and shall satisfy the scriptural standards for church leadership. They shall consist of the following who, with the exception of the lead pastor, shall be elected at the annual meeting of the church: lead pastor, secretary, treasurer, assistant
treasurer, and such other officers as may be designated in the church bylaws or in the state law.
1. Vacancies
The governing board shall have the authority to appoint persons to vacant offices until the next Annual Meeting of the Congregation at which time an election shall be held.
ARTICLE VIII
PASTORAL STAFF
The governance authority shall not give consideration to any candidate for the pastoral staff without the approval of the district superintendent. Pastoral staff members shall be called by the governance authority and appointed by the district superintendent. The district superintendent
shall suggest to the governance authority the names of such workers as in his judgment have proper qualifications for pastoral staff. Upon appointment by the district superintendent, a pastoral staff member and spouse become members of this church. Pastoral staff include all those whose position calls for licensing as an "official worker," as defined in the General Regulations in the Manual of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
Any member of the pastoral staff may resign from this church by giving due notice of this intention to the district superintendent and the governance authority. The governance authority may, in conjunction with the district superintendent, ask for the resignation of any member of the pastoral staff. Before such action is taken, the governance authority and that member shall follow the guidelines as prescribed by the district superintendent. The district superintendent, with the approval of the District Executive Committee, shall have the authority to remove or transfer a member of the pastoral staff when the governance authority is in disagreement or whenever circumstances make such removal or transfer advisable.
1. The Title 'Pastor'
The New Testament assigns the responsibility for shepherding the church to men who are the congregation's elders (I Peter 5:1-3). The terms 'pastor' and 'shepherd' are synonymous in the Bible. Ephesians 4:11 is the only place in the New Testament where, in some, but not all English translations, the Greek term for this leadership responsibility is rendered 'pastor' rather than 'shepherd.' In keeping
with this biblical understanding, as well as Article X, Section 1 of the Uniform Constitution which states that "Elders shall therefore be male members of this church," the title 'pastor' shall not be applied to, or assumed by, female members of the church.
2. The Title 'Reverend'
We affirm the vital role that believing women play in the church's ministry. We recognize that God calls women to vocational service and that its appropriate for the church to set them apart for that ministry by an act of public consecration. In The Christian and Missionary Alliance, this act of consecration allows local churches apply the title 'Reverend 'to women who are serving as ministers at their discretion. However, Faith Community Church understands the title 'Reverend' to popularly suggest that its bearer is a pastor (shepherd). Since the primary responsibility for shepherding God's people is given to the elders of the church who are men, women who have been ordained/consecrated by The Christian and Missionary Alliance or other ecclesiastical entities, shall not assume the title 'Reverend' or identify themselves as such while a member of the congregation, or
serving as a member of the congregation's ministry staff. Women who are serving on the church's staff (either volunteer or salaried), will be given titles in keeping with the ministry responsibilities assigned to them by the elders.
ARTICLE IX
DUTIES OF CHURCH OFFICERS
Section 1. Lead Pastor
The lead pastor shall have oversight of this church. He shall be chairman of the governance authority except as he may choose to proceed according to the provisions in Article VI. He shall preside at all regular or special meetings of the church membership. He is a member ex officio of all church committees and organizations. When the membership has no pastor, the chairman or vice chairman of the governance authority shall have oversight of the church in conjunction with the district superintendent. The lead pastor shall be the president of this church where such office is required by law.
Section 2. Secretary
The secretary shall keep the minutes of membership meetings and conduct the correspondence of this church as directed by the governance authority. The secretary shall attend and keep minutes of other meetings as specified in the local church bylaws.
1. The corporate secretary of the church shall be elected by the congregation from among the elders. The secretary serves as a member of the governing board as well as the corporate secretary of the congregation. The corporate church secretary shall not serve more than four consecutive years (two two-year terms). They may be eligible for re-election after a one-year absence from the governing board.
Section 3. Treasurer
The treasurer shall receive all monies of this church and shall be responsible for the payment of all bills on the order of the governance authority as specified by the local church bylaws, keeping proper book records of all transactions, and filing canceled vouchers and receipts for payments made. The governance authority shall determine where funds of this church shall be kept. No offerings shall be solicited from the membership except upon approval of the governance authority.
1. The treasurer of the church shall be elected by the congregation from among the elders. The treasurer serves as a member of the governing board and shall perform the duties of the missionary treasurer. The church treasurer shall not serve more than six consecutive years (two three-year terms). They may be eligible for re-election after a one-year absence from the governing board.
Section 4. Missionary Treasurer
When required by local church bylaws, the missionary treasurer shall account for all missionary monies and oversee the forwarding of the same to the treasurer of The Christian and Missionary Alliance on or before the tenth of the following month.
Section 5. Assistant Treasurer
The assistant treasurer shall, with another person or persons appointed by the governance authority, be responsible to count all monies and keep a separate record of all receipts. The assistant treasurer may be empowered to issue receipts to the donors.
1. The assistant treasurer of the church shall be elected by the congregation. The assistant treasurer shall not serve more than six consecutive years (two three• year terms). They may be eligible for re-election after a one-year absence from the office.
ARTICLE X
COMMITTEES AND ORGANIZATIONS
Section 1. Elders
The call of Christ the Chief Shepherd to men to serve as elders is both discerned and confirmed by the church membership. Elders shall therefore be male members of this church and shall be elected as specified in the church bylaws. The lead pastor and the
other elders are the highest level of servant leadership in the church. As undershepherds, elders shall serve with the lead pastor to oversee both the temporal and spiritual affairs of the local church in order to accomplish Christ's mission. They shall constitute the Committee on Membership. They shall be the Committee on Discipline in accordance with the Uniform Policy on Discipline, Restoration, and Appeal of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. All officers, committees, and organizations except the Nominating Committee are amenable to the collective oversight of the elders through the governance authority.
1. Number of Elders
The congregation shall elect a minimum of five elders from among the qualified men in the church. One additional elder may be elected for each 20 members/regular participants in excess of 100 persons, determined by a six month's average, 90 days prior to the annual meeting of the church. Elders shall be elected for three-year terms, but they may serve an unlimited number of terms as an elder.
Section 2. Deacons
The deacons shall be members of this church and shall be appointed or elected as specified in the local church bylaws. The deacons shall have charge of those ministries and charities of the church as specified in the bylaws, receive offerings for such purposes and dispense the same, and make monthly reports as directed. Where there are no deacons, the governance authority shall assume responsibility for their ministries until such are elected or appointed.
1. Combined Deacon/Deaconess Board
Faith Community Church shall have a deacon/deaconess board. There shall be no less than two deacons and two deaconess, elected by the congregation at the annual meeting of the church. The deacons/deaconess shall be qualified as church leaders in keeping with 1 Timothy3:8-13. They shall serve two-year terms.
2. Chairperson
The chairperson of the board of deacons/deaconess shall be appointed by the Governing Board.
3. Responsibilities
The Governing Board shall adopt a ministry task description which indicates the scope of the deacons/deaconess ministry consistent with Article X in the Uniform Constitution for Accredited Church.
Section 3. Deaconesses
Deaconesses shall be members of this church and shall be appointed or elected as specified in the local church bylaws. The deaconesses shall have charge of those ministries as specified in the bylaws. Where there are no deaconesses, the governance authority shall assume responsibility for their ministries until such are elected or appointed.
1. Combined Deacon/Deaconess Board
Faith Community Church shall have a deacon/deaconess board. There shall be no less than two deacons and two deaconess, elected by the congregation at the annual meeting of the church. The deacons/deaconess shall be qualified as church leaders in keeping with 1 Timothy3:8-13. They shall serve two-year terms.
2. Chairperson
The chairperson of the board of deacons/deaconess shall be appointed by the Governing Board.
3. Responsibilities
The Governing Board shall adopt a ministry task description which indicates the scope of the deacons/deaconess ministry consistent with Article X in the Uniform Constitution for Accredited Church.
Section 4. Trustees
The trustees shall be members of this church and may be appointed or elected as specified in the local church bylaws. Trustees shall have charge of those ministries and duties as specified in the bylaws, or the laws of the state in which the church is located. Where there are no trustees, the governance authority shall assume responsibility for those ministries and duties until such are elected or appointed.
Section 5. Alliance Women
Local church Alliance Women may be established. They shall be organized according to the Alliance Women policies as contained in the CM Handbook.
ARTICLE XI
MISSIONS MOBILIZATION
The church shall participate in the worldwide missions and church planting ministries of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, and the support of the Great Commission Fund. The Governance Authority shall specify the means by which it purposes to mobilize members' involvement, including prayer, recruitment of men and women for vocational ministry both at home and abroad. A Missions Conference or congregation-wide event for missions mobilization shall be held each year.
ARTICLE XII
DISCIPLEMAKING MINISTRIES
A major ministry of this church shall be making disciples of Jesus Christ. The disciplemaking process includes evangelism, building up believers, equipping workers, and multiplying leaders, among adults, youth, and children. The Governance Authority shall specify how disciplemaking
is to be pursued. The purpose of disciplemaking ministries is to bring people to a saving knowledge of Christ, teach biblical principles emphasizing missions and the centrality of Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King, and equip people for evangelism and Christian service.
ARTICLE XIII
PROPERTY AND RECORDS
Section 1. Property
This church may acquire, own, dispose of, improve, encumber, and convey property, real and personal, for church purposes, in conformity with the laws of the state where the property is situated. Real property may be purchased, sold, conveyed, exchanged, mortgaged, or encumbered only by order of the membership through the governance authority in consultation with the district superintendent. In states where trustees are required, the order of the membership shall proceed through them.
Section 2. Records
The official records of all officers of the church and all its departments are the property of the church. In the event of the death or resignation of the incumbent or upon the election of his successor, the current records of the office shall be passed on to the newly elected officer. All records other than current shall be kept in a secure repository selected by the governance authority.
Section 3. Audit
All financial records shall be examined annually or at more frequent intervals on order of the governance authority. At least three persons, none of whom is a financial officer or a church staff member, shall be appointed by the governance authority to conduct the examination. They shall follow procedures set forth in the current edition of the Manual for Alliance Church Treasurers (and Pastors). The governance authority shall authorize actions to conform with additional audit standards that may be required by the jurisdiction in which the church is located.
ARTICLE XIV
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
A Nominating Committee shall consist of the lead pastor, two members from the church membership, selected by, but not necessarily from the governance authority, and two elected from the church membership in a manner stipulated by the local church bylaws, at least one month prior to the annual meeting.
1. Nominations
The Nominating Committee shall prepare a preliminary report of nominations for elected offices at least eight weeks in advance of the annual meeting. The Committee shall present at least one name in nomination for each office to be filled, including two nominees to serve on the following year's Nominating Committee. A final report shall be distributed at least two weeks prior to the annual meeting.
2. Nominations by the Congregation
No nominations may be made from the floor during the annual meeting of the church. Members of the church may submit the names of possible candidates to the nominating committee for its consideration within two weeks following the distribution of the Committee's preliminary report.
Any active member of the church may submit the name of a qualified individual to the nominating committee as follows:
1. After reviewing the qualifications for office and securing the nominees' permission, the member wishing to nominate a candidate for office may
present his/her name to the nominating committee in writing, within the time provided for nominations from the church.
2. The Nominating Committee shall review the qualifications of the suggested nominee and if the individual is qualified, his/her name shall be included on the final report of the nominating committee to the church. When more than one candidate for an office is presented, the nominating committee shall designate the candidate chosen by the committee.
ARTICLE XV
ELECTIONS
In consideration of elections, the Nominating Committee shall present at least one name for each office to be filled. Other nominations may be made by the membership as stipulated in the church bylaws. The officers shall be elected by ballot at the annual meeting. Where only one name is presented, the ballot may be waived by unanimous vote.
1. A two-thirds affirmative vote of the members present shall be required to elect elders.
ARTICLE XVI
REVERSION OF PROPERTY
Recognizing the purpose of the members of this congregation to support both the doctrines and the mission of The Christian and Missionary Alliance through the contribution of their tithes, offerings, and special gifts, and to ensure that the future use of such assets and real property as this church
may from time to time acquire shall not be diverted from this purpose, this church adopts the following property reversion clause.
1. Property Reversion Events
Any of the following shall constitute a "property reversion event:" (a) the decision or action of this church to disaffiliate or otherwise separate itself from The Christian and Missionary Alliance without the prior written approval of such decision or action by the District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) of the district in which this church is located, (b) the failure for any reason of this church to be subject to or abide by any of the purposes, usages, doctrines, or teachings of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, (c) the failure for any reason of this church to qualify as an "accredited church" of The Christian and Missionary Alliance (as such term is defined in the Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance), or (d) the termination of this church's existence for any reason.
2. Determination of a Property Reversion Event
The determination of whether property reversion event has occurred shall be considered and decided by the District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) of the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located in accordance with procedures established from time to time by the Board of Directors of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. The decision of such District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) shall be final and binding on The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, and this church, except an appeal from such decision may be taken, within 30 days of the declaration of a reversionary event, to a committee of three members of the Board of Directors of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. Such appeal shall be limited to the issues of fraud, collusion, or arbitrariness on the part of the district in declaring a reversionary event. The decision of such committee shall be final as a matter of ecclesiastical law.
3. Consequences of a Property Reversion Event
Upon the occurrence of a property reversion event as determined in accordance with paragraph 2 above, legal title to all real and personal property (tangible and intangible), appurtenances, fixtures, and effects of whatever type then owned, held, or used by this church, without regard to how or from whom acquired, shall, upon the demand of the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, revert to and become the property of such district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. During the period of time between the occurrence of the property reversion event and the complete and final transfer of legal title to the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church is located, this church shall hold such property in trust for such district to be used exclusively to further the purposes, usages, doctrines, and teachings of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
4. Waiver of Certain Property Reversion Events
In the event of a property reversion event attributable to differences in doctrine between this church and The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the property reversion process set forth above may be waived upon the approval of (a) at least two-thirds of the members in good standing of this church, (b) the District Executive Committee (or its equivalent) of the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which
this church is located, and (c) Church Ministries of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.
5. Exclusion of Certain Property
Paragraph 3 above shall not apply to any real or personal property which (i) this church owned prior to its becoming an accredited church, and (ii) is expressly identified as property not subject to paragraph 3 above in a written agreement entered into in connection with such accreditation between this church and the district of The Christian and Missionary Alliance in which this church was located upon its accreditation. The exclusion of property pursuant to this paragraph 5, and the agreement described in the preceding sentence, shall (1) terminate ten (10) years after this church's accreditation and (2) not apply to any church that was in developing status prior to its accreditation.
ARTICLE XVII
BYLAWS
Church bylaws not in conflict with this Constitution, the provisions of the Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the bylaws of the district within which the church is located, or the laws of the state are required and will be adopted by a duly called meeting of the church. As a minimum, the church bylaws will include provisions for the composition and name of its governance authority that is in keeping with Article VI above. A copy of such bylaws shall be filed with the district superintendent.
1. Severability.
The determination that of any provision of these Bylaws is invalid shall not affect the other provisions contained in the Constitution and bylaws of Faith Community Church, and in such an event, these Bylaws shall be construed in all respects as if such invalid provision were omitted.
ARTICLE XVIII
AMENDMENTS
This Constitution may be amended only by the General Council of The Christian and Missionary
Alliance in accordance with the provisions of Section 10.2 of the Amended and Restated
Constitution and Bylaws of The Christian and Missionary Alliance as applied to the Uniform
Constitution for Accredited Churches.
ARTICLE XIX
CONFORMANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW
In cases where any provision of this Constitution may not conform to state laws, the district concerned shall be authorized to make such adjustments as necessary in counsel with the vice president for Church Ministries of The Christian and Missionary Alliance so as to conform to such laws.
ARTICLE XX
BIBLICAL CHARACTER AND STANDARDS
Section 1. Exercise and Expression of the Church's Biblical Beliefs.
As described in the Preamble, the Church is a Christian community of faith that exists to exercise and express its biblical beliefs within the broader community of the C&MA. These beliefs are grounded in a shared understanding of Holy Scripture including those beliefs and standards specifically addressed in the Manual of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. The Church exercises and expresses its biblical beliefs and standards in the following ways:
1. As a Community
The Church understands that the local church is the visible organized expression of the Body of Christ and that the local church finds broader meaning and outreach in fulfilling its biblical responsibilities within the life and witness of the denomination. In addition, those who participate in the life of the Church, including the Church's members and employees, are following the biblical command to live out their faith in community and association with other believers. Accordingly, the Church community is itself an exercise and expression of the Church's biblical beliefs and standards.
2. Through its Activities
The Church believes that all Church activities, including the responsibilities of every Church member and employee, should be rendered in service to God as a form of worship. Therefore, the Church as a community of faith exercises and expresses its biblical beliefs and standards in every activity, action, and responsibility.
Section 2. Standards for Church Activities and Facilities.
The Church shall engage in activities and use its facilities solely to exercise and express the biblical beliefs of the Church and the C&MA and to further the mission of both. In furtherance of this mission, the Church may provide services or goods to, and may allow use of its facilities by, other groups and persons who are not members of the Church. But no Church activity, nor any use of Church facilities by another group or person, may
be conducted or permitted if the Church determines that such activity or use expresses a message of support by the Church for any view contrary to the biblical beliefs of the Church and the C&MA. The determination as to whether any particular activity or use of Church facilities is not permitted requires spiritual discernment applied to each particular circumstance and shall be made in the sole discretion of the spiritual leaders of the Church designated by either the governance authority of the Church or the senior pastor and elders. With respect to uses by other groups or persons, the Church may consider without limitation both the content of the proposed activities and whether the group or person is generally perceived as advocating views contrary to the biblical beliefs of the Church and the C&MA