BY-LAWS

Jackson Chapel First Missionary Baptist Church, Inc.

Incorporation

The Jackson Chapel First Missionary Baptist Church was established in 1872 as an unincorporated religious association and continued as such until it was incorporated on May 30, 2003, and chartered by the State of North Carolina.

Statement of Mission

The overriding mission of the church will be to worship and honor God as we lift up the name of his Son, Jesus. We are the church, the body of Christ, participating in his redemptive purpose in the world. Jackson Chapel First Missionary Baptist Church is a local congregation residing in Wilson, North Carolina, and connected to the larger body of Christ throughout the world. We see ourselves as God’s agents for the salvation of human beings from a holistic perspective in Wilson first and for the entire world as we participate with other Christians through cooperative missions.

We commit ourselves to the spread of the Gospel of Jesus throughout the world. We commit ourselves to Christian education and Christian service in our local community and in the world’s larger community. We will work for the liberation of persons spiritually, physically, socially, economically and politically, governed by the teachings of Jesus. We believe that God’s redemption is aimed at the entire person. We are committed to strengthening the fellowship among the believers of this congregation and doing whatever is in keeping with God’s will to enhance our comfort and happiness.

Governance and Affiliations

The government of the Church shall be congregational in nature, and the final authority for the operation of the affairs of this corporation shall be vested in the membership, which authority shall be exercised in the manner set forth in these by-laws.

Jackson Chapel First Missionary Baptist Church is an independent, autonomous Missionary Baptist Church, subject to the control of no other ecclesiastical body. We are a Bible based Missionary Baptist Church and practice the doctrine and polity of Missionary Baptist churches as set out in The New Hiscox Guide for Baptist Churches (1995).

Preamble to the By-Laws

We, the members of the Jackson Chapel First Missionary Baptist Church, believe the Bible is the Word of God and that it is the rule of faith and practice. We agree that we will obey its teachings and for the sake of corporate unity, consent as one body to follow these organizational guidelines and the church covenant which follows:

Church Covenant

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior; and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we do now in the presence of God, angels and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.

We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this church in knowledge and holiness; to give it a place in our affections, prayers and services above every organization of human origin; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrine; to contribute cheerfully and regularly, as God has prospered us, towards its expenses, for the support of a faithful and evangelical ministry among us, the relief of the poor and the spread of the Gospel throughout the world. In case of difference of opinion in the church, we will strive to avoid a contentious spirit, and if we cannot unanimously agree, we will cheerfully recognize the right of the majority to govern.

We also engage to maintain family and secret devotion; to study diligently the word of God; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintance; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be kind and just to those in our employ, and faithful in the service we promise others; endeavoring in the purity of heart and good will towards all men to exemplify and commend our holy faith.

We further engage to watch over, to pray for, to exhort and stir up each other unto every good word and work; to guard each other’s reputation, not needlessly exposing the infirmities of others; to participate in each other’s joys, and with tender sympathy bear one another’s burdens and sorrows; to cultivate Christian courtesy; to be slow to give or take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, being mindful of the rules of the Savior in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew, to secure it without delay; and through life, amid evil report, and good report, to seek to live to the glory of God, who hath called us out of darkness into his marvelous light.

When we remove from this place, we engage as soon as possible to unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God’s word.

Article I: Membership

The membership of Jackson Chapel First Missionary Baptist Church shall consist of such persons who confess Jesus Christ to be their Savior and Lord, who are baptized by immersions, who manifest a sincere resolve to lead a Christian life, and who assent to the Covenant of the church. Membership shall not be denied to any person because of race, color, sex, national origin, or financial condition. Qualifications and procedures for admission shall be as hereinafter provided:

Section 1. Gaining Membership

A person may secure membership in the church upon confession of faith in the following ways:
Baptism: A candidate will be baptized by immersion in water and shall then become a full member after completing the new members class and receiving the right hand of fellowship
Letter: A letter of recommendation from a Christian church of like faith may be presented to the church stating that he is in good standing with the former church. Upon completion of the new members’ class and after receiving the right hand of fellowship, the person shall become a full member. The Pastor will decide whether the new members’ class is necessary.
Christian Experience: A person may personally testify of his salvation experience and walk with God. Upon completion of the new members’ class and after receiving the right hand of fellowship, the person shall become a full member.
Restoration: A former member of the church who has lost his membership may be restored upon recommendation by the Pastor and Deacon Ministry after thorough examination of the former member’s request and circumstances. The Pastor will decide whether the restored member should participate in the class for new members.
Watchcare: A person who desires to become a member of the Watchcare fellowship must be able to testify of a genuine salvation experience and walk with God. Upon completion of the new member’s class and after receiving the right hand of fellowship, the person shall have the privilege of worship, communion, attending church conferences, and Pastoral care but shall not hold office or have voting privileges. Watchcare members who joined Jackson Chapel prior to the adoption of these by-laws shall not be affected by this provision. Following the initial four years and each year thereafter, the Pastor will discuss with the Watchcare Member his circumstances to determine if he is ready for Full Membership.
The final procedure for admission shall be a majority vote of the Members present and voting, or by consensus.
All persons uniting with the church in any category of membership shall be assigned to a class for new members. The person shall be given immediate opportunity to fulfill their Christian obligation in worship, services, and giving.

Section 2. Categories of Membership

Full Membership: Any person is considered a Full Member if he performs his covenant obligations to the church, exemplifies faithfulness in Christian living, and attends church regularly. The Full Member is expected to contribute his time, talent and treasury cheerfully to the support of the Church’s mission. A Full Member shall have the right to worship, communion, and Pastoral care, and shall have the right to vote at meetings and hold office except that any Full Member who is less than eighteen years of age shall not have the right to vote upon the call, dismissal or discipline of a Pastor.

Watchcare Fellowship: Any person who is not yet ready or able to fully join the fellowship by reason of age, spiritual conviction, or other considerations shall be considered a Watchcare member. A Watchcare member is encouraged to pray regularly for the church and to contribute to the church in a manner appropriate to the church’s needs and his personal means. A member of the Watchcare Fellowship shall have the right to worship, communion, and Pastoral care, but shall not have the right to vote at meetings or hold office.

Inactive Membership: Any member may be assigned as an Inactive Member by a vote of the church congregation if he has become unresponsive in the life of the church or has moved away and no current address is known. Any member who fails to contribute to the financial support of this church for a period of three months, and after written notifications, fails to contribute for another three months, shall automatically be considered an inactive member. A member may request to be assigned as an Inactive Member, and such request must be granted by the Pastor and Deacon Ministry. Upon recommendation of the Pastor and Deacon Ministry, the congregation may assign a member as an Inactive Member. An inactive member shall have the right to worship, communion, and Pastoral care, but shall not have the right to vote at meetings or hold office. However, inactive members who are infirmed may be exempt from their financial obligation to the Church by a vote of the membership.

Section 3. Financial Responsibility

Jackson Chapel is a tithing church. Each member is expected and encouraged to tithe in order to meet the ministry needs of the Church. Malachi 3:6-10

Section 4. Termination of Membership

Membership may be terminated in the following ways:

Letter: A member may request, in writing, a letter of recommendation to join another church and it shall be granted by the Pastor and Deacon Ministry.
Death: It is understood on the basis of our faith that when a member passes on, he is no longer a member of the church on earth, but membership is transferred to the church above.
Withdrawal Request: A member may request, in writing, the withdrawal of his name from membership in the church. Such request with be considered and granted by the Pastor and Deacon Ministry.
Dismission: A member may be dismissed from membership when the procedures set forth in these by-laws have been followed. See Dismission Procedures.

Article II: The Pastor

The Pastor shall be the spiritual leader of the church, the “under shepherd of the flock” and superintendent of all interests of the church and of all departments of the work of the church both spiritual and temporal. The Pastor shall be moderator of the church conference and preside over all church conference meetings.

The Pastor shall be an ex-officio member of all committees and work in close harmony with them for the betterment of their work, for mutual understanding of their tasks, and for the edification of the members. The Pastor shall administer the spiritual affairs of the church with the assistance of the Deacon Ministry. He shall administer the temporal affairs of the church with the assistance of the Board of Trustees. The Pastor shall be responsible to the church congregation for the conduct of his work.

Section 1. Calling, Settling and Providing for the Pastor

The Pastor shall be called, settled and provided for only by majority vote of the membership present and voting at church elections, which shall take place at a meeting specifically called for this purpose. A quorum of 40% of the members eligible to vote shall be required in order to call a Pastor. “Settled” means the Pastor’s assuming the leadership of the church after the call.
Provisions for the Pastor shall include a salary and benefits package, which shall be in writing and signed by the Pastor and legal agents of the church.
All other relationships to the Pastor shall be those that are common to the office according to the provisions of Scripture and Baptist usage.

Section 2. Duties of the Pastor

The Pastor shall perform all duties common to the office according to the provisions of Scripture and Baptist usage including:

To be the leader of the church, both spiritual and temporal.
To preach and teach the Gospel.
To serve as worship leader or to select a designee.
To be responsible for the pulpit and it supply.
To supervise the administration of the ordinances.
To watch over the membership.
To promote the spiritual interests of the church.
To assign specific church related functions to church leaders.
To organize the church’s ministries for effective service by articulating a vision for the church developing understanding and support for the vision and providing leadership to the church’s leaders to demonstrate effective goals and strategies to accomplish the vision.
To initiate the legislation.
To carry out the purpose of the church as expressed by the by-laws.
To serve as moderator of church meetings or to select a designee. In the event the Pastor has a financial interest in a discussion or vote, he shall be disqualified from presiding over this portion of the meeting.
To serve as an ex-officio member of all ministries, committees and auxiliaries of the church.
To assemble the personnel and direct their work.
To appoint ad hoc committees to provide a designated purpose approved by the congregation. In the absence of a pastor, the appointment of ad hoc committees shall be made by the Deacon Ministry with an approval of the congregation.

Section 3. Vacancy of the Pastor

When a Pastoral vacancy occurs, the Deacon Ministry shall make a public announcement of the vacancy or impending vacancy. Within thirty days following the announcement, a church conference shall be convened and a pulpit committee selected consisting of the Chair of the Deacon Ministry, one additional Deacon selected by the Deacon Ministry, one Deaconess selected by the Deaconess Ministry, Chair of the Board of Trustees and three members selected by the Congregation. The Chair of the Pulpit Committee shall be the Chair of the Deacon Ministry.

It shall be the duty of the pulpit committee to make a canvass of available ministries, investigate many individuals whom they choose to be suitable for the Pastorate. Upon completion of investigation, they will make a recommendation to the Deacon Ministry.

A church conference shall then be called and the name of the pastoral nominee presented to the congregation for election by majority vote of those present and voting. Notice of such meeting shall be announced at least two (2) successive Sundays before the meeting.

Section 4. Resignation or Termination of the Pastor

If the Pastor elects to resign the position, he shall give the church a 90-day notice in writing. The Pastor shall be paid his regular salary and benefits for the 90-day period following the notice of resignation and shall be treated with respect as a Pastor. The Pastor continues to be the spiritual leader of the church until the 90-day period expires.
If the church congregation requests the Pastor to resign, the Deacon Ministry shall provide the Pastor a 90-day written notice stating that he must vacate the pulpit within 90 days. The Pastor shall have the option of determining his date of departure within the 90-day period. He shall be paid his regular salary and benefits for the 90-day period following the request to resign and shall be treated with respect as a Pastor. The Pastor continues to be the spiritual leader of the church until the 90-day period expires.
If the church desires the immediate termination of the Pastor for extreme and outrageous misconduct, the Pastor shall immediately vacate the pulpit without further compensation except any accrued salary or benefits.

Section 5. Discipline or Dismissal of the Pastor

The Pastor may be disciplined or dismissed when he has failed to adequately perform the duties of Pastor. The Deacon Ministry may present a Recommendation of Discipline or a Recommendation of Dismissal to the congregation when it is of the opinion that the Pastor is failing to properly perform his duties. A quorum of 40% of the members eligible to vote shall be required in order to vote on the discipline or dismissal of the pastor. A two-week notice shall be given to the membership of a meeting. No discipline or dismissal shall take place except upon a vote of a majority of the membership present and voting.

In the event a Recommendation of Discipline is adopted as required by these by-laws, the Pastor shall be so informed in writing. As a condition of discipline, the Pastor shall be required to state to the congregation that he accepts the discipline that has been imposed. In the event a Recommendation of Dismissal is adopted according to these by-laws, the Pastor shall be so informed in writing and given the opportunity to submit a resignation or be immediately terminated.

Section 6. Retirement Age of the Pastor

The mandatory retirement age for the Pastor shall be 70 years of age. The Pastor shall vacate the Pastorate on the last day of the month following his 70^th birthday. The church may extend the Pastor’s tenure for twelve months on a year-to-year basis depending upon the Pastor’s health and effectiveness.

Article III: Assistant and Associate Ministers

Section 1. Qualifications

Any Assistant Minister or Associate Minister must have received a specific calling to a definite ministry in the kingdom of our Lord and must demonstrate a deep conviction and personal knowledge of the doctrines of the church as well as a proficiency in expressing them as a preacher and teacher of the faith. Any Assistant Minister or Associate Minister shall be a member of the church and a licensed or ordained Baptist Minister.

Section 2. Selection of Assistant Ministers

Upon recommendation of the Pastor, the congregation shall have authority to appoint Assistant Ministers to serve without salary under the direction of the Pastor. The Assistant Minister’s appointment shall terminate upon the termination of the Pastor’s ministry, or the Pastor may terminate the relationship when he deems it necessary.

Section 3. Selection of Associate Ministers

Upon recommendation of the Pastor, the congregation shall have authority to appoint Associate Ministers to serve without salary under the direction of the Pastor. The Associate Minister’s appointment shall terminate upon the termination of the Pastor’s ministry, or the Pastor may terminate the relationship when he deems it necessary.

Section 4. Duties of the Assistant and Associate Ministers

To assist the Pastor in maintaining the spiritual health and Christian welfare of the church.
To preach and teach the Gospel.
To assist Deacons and Deaconesses with the observance and preparation of the Ordinances of the church.
To visit, watch over, and care for members.
To assist the Pastor in the planning, coordinating and promoting of the total program of the church.
To carry out specific church related functions requested or assigned by the Pastor.

Section 5. Interim Assistant Ministers and Associate Ministers

The congregation may designate any former Assistant Minister or Associate Minister to perform specific duties when the church is without a Pastor.

Article IV: Deacon Ministry

There shall be a Deacon Ministry in a sufficient number as the church may from time to time authorize. Membership shall be open to all persons regardless of their gender. A Deacon shall possess those qualities as set forth in the Holy Bible in 1 Timothy 3:8-12 and shall conduct himself at all times in a manner becoming of a Christian. The Deacon Ministry shall provide general direction for the church when the church is without a Pastor.

Section 1. Selection, Appointment and Ordination

A full member may be ordained as Deacon in accordance with procedures contained in these by-laws. Any member ordained as a Deacon shall be entitled to serve on the Deacon Ministry for an indefinite term unless he resigns or terminated by the Church congregation or ceases to be a member.

Section 2. Duties of Members of the Deacon Ministry

To counsel and cooperate with the Pastor in matters relating to the spiritual welfare of the church congregation being particularly concerned with the growth of the membership and spiritual vitality of the fellowship.
Actively participate in the family ministry of the church by maintaining a good communications link with assigned members.
Zealously safeguard the unity of the spirit by caring for the church and by caring for the Pastor.
Prepare and distribute the Lord’s Supper.
Ensure that the church contributes to missions.
Serve as liaison of the Pastor and church to all auxiliaries to give guidance for the overall mission and vision of the church.
Carry out specific church related functions requested or assigned by the Pastor.
Aid the Pastor in visiting and caring for members who are infirmed.
Under the direction of the Pastor, investigate the fitness of any member of the church who desires a license to preach the gospel.
Aid the Pastor in carrying out the vision of the church.
All official actions of the Deacon Ministry must be made by the Pastor and Deacons, except at such times as the Church is without a Pastor.

Section 3. Officers of the Deacon Ministry

The Deacon Ministry shall elect a Deacon to serve as Chair and Vice-Chair for a two-year term, during the month of December of each odd-numbered year. These individuals may succeed themselves for one term only. In the event of a vacancy in the position of Chair, the Vice-Chair shall serve the remaining portion of the term. In that event, the person shall be entitled to serve two additional successive terms if properly elected. Upon adoption of these by-laws, the current Chair shall be entitled to seek two additional successive terms if properly elected.

Section 4. Deacon Emeriti

The Deacon Ministry shall have authority to designate a member as Deacon Emeriti if the Deacon request the designation or is unable to perform his duties. Such Deacon Emeriti may attend meetings but shall be exempt from any active responsibility as Deacon and shall not have voting privileges during meetings of the Deacon Ministry. The office of Deacon Emeriti is a position of honor and shall be respected by the Pastor and congregation.

Article V: Nominating Process for Deacons

The following procedures shall be followed for the selection of Deacons:

The Pastor will inform the Deacon Ministry of the need for additional Deacons. The Pastor will determine the number to be selected.
The Pastor will inform the congregation that additional Deacons are needed and obtain its approval.
The Pastor shall submit to the congregation the scriptural qualifications of a Deacon. No person shall be elected Deacon unless they have been a full member for at least two years and completed leadership training.
The members will be asked to prayerfully submit to the Pastor, in writing, names of individuals they feel should be considered as Deacon and set out the scriptural basis for the nomination.
The Pastor and Deacons will interview all persons nominated as Deacon. If any adverse information is considered in opposition to the nominee, the nominee shall be entitled to know the adverse information and the source. The nominee shall be entitled to explain or refute the adverse information. During the interview of the nominee, it will be determined if the nominee desires to serve as Deacon and other discussions with take place regarding the duties.
Each Deacon nominee will be informed as to whether the Pastor or Deacon Ministry will offer an adverse recommendation to the congregation. In the event an adverse recommendation is to be made to the congregation, the nominee will be informed in writing that the adverse information will be disclosed to the congregation along with the source of the information. The nominee will be informed that he will have the right to explain or refute the adverse information during the church conference.
The names of all consenting nominees shall be presented to the congregation on a printed ballot to be elected by a public, plurality vote. Each member shall be entitled to vote for as many persons as available positions. Those persons receiving the highest number of votes equal to the number of positions to be filled will be elected.

The Pastor and Deacon Ministry will establish a strict timetable for the selection process that cannot be modified except by vote of the congregation at a daily called meeting.

Any member elected as Deacon Trainee shall submit to a training program as approved by the Pastor and Deacon Ministry. Upon successful completion, the Deacon Trainee shall be ordained as Deacon.

Article VI: The Deaconess Ministry

There shall be a Deaconess Ministry in a sufficient number as the Church may from time to time authorize. This ministry is intended to serve as a supportive arm to the Deacon Ministry.

The Deaconess Ministry shall elect a Deaconess to serve as Chair and Vice-Chair for a two-year term, during the month of December of each odd-numbered year. These individuals may succeed themselves for one term only. In the event of a vacancy in the position of Chair, the Vice-Chair shall serve the remaining portion of the term. In that event, the person shall be entitled to serve two additional successive terms if properly elected. Upon adoption of these by-laws, the current Chair shall be entitled to seek two additional successive terms if properly elected.

Section 1. Qualities of a Member of the Deaconess Ministry

A Deaconess shall possess those qualities as set forth in I Timothy 3:11 and shall conduct herself at all times in a manner becoming of a Christian.

Section 2. Selection of a Member of the Deaconess Ministry

A full member of the church may be elected to the Deaconess Ministry in accordance with procedures adopted by the congregation from time to time, which must comply with the Holy Scripture and Baptist doctrine. Any member appointed as a Deaconess shall be entitled to serve on the Deaconess Ministry for an indefinite term unless she resigns or is terminated by the church congregation or ceases to be a member.

Section 3. Duties of a Member of the Deaconess Ministry

It shall be the duty of a member of the Deaconess Ministry to perform the following:

Cooperate with the Pastor and Deacon Ministry in the fulfillment of their duties in matters relating to the spiritual development and advancement of the church.
Be responsible for new member assimilation.
Be helpful and supportive of the Pastor and Deacon Ministry in:
Sick visitations
Baptismal services
Preparation of the Lord’s Supper
The dedication of babies
Such other ways as the Pastor and Deacon Ministry may deem necessary.

Section 4. Deaconess Emeriti

The Deaconess Ministry shall have the authority to designate a member of the Ministry as Deaconess Emeriti. Such Deaconess Emeriti may attend Ministry meetings but shall be exempt from any active responsibility as Deaconess and shall not have voting privileges during Ministry meetings. The position of Deaconess Emeriti is a position of honor and shall be respected by the Pastor and congregation.

Article VII: Reprimand or Removal of Deacon or Deaconess

Reprimand of Deacon or Deaconess: A Deacon or Deaconess may be reprimanded in writing by a vote of the members of the respective Ministry. An individual receiving a reprimand shall verbally state on the minutes of the ministry meeting that he respectfully accepts the reprimand and will abide by its terms. The Ministry shall place the reprimand into confidential minutes of the Ministry meeting. If the individual fails or refuses to accept a reprimand, or having accepted a reprimand fails to comply with it, a Recommendation of Dismissal may be presented to the Congregation by a vote of the respective Ministry.

Removal of a Deacon or Deaconess: A Deacon or Deaconess may be removed from office by a vote of the members of the congregation during a regular church conference. The congregation shall take no action on the removal of a Deacon or Deaconess until the Pastor and respective Ministry shall have an opportunity to provide a recommendation regarding the issue of removal.

Article VIII: Board of Trustees

While scripture indicates that pastors bear the ultimate responsibility for the watch care of the Church, it does allow for the delegation of responsibilities. The Church is also able to realize significant benefits by being designated as 501© (3) organization with the State of North Carolina. For these reasons, the pastor and congregation of the Church have specifically delegated to the Board of Trustees the governance of the legal, financial, business and property matters of the Church.

The Trustee Board shall create whatever supporting committee it deems appropriate to carry out its responsibilities, and to fulfill any requirements necessary for the Board of Trustees members to act as legal representatives of the Church.

Section 1. Qualifications

Must be a member of Jackson Chapel First Missionary Baptist Church.
Reflect and have demonstrated spiritual maturity, Godly wisdom and a committed faith that evidence the lordship of Jesus Christ.
Be an active participate in the Church and have demonstrated a commitment to the mission, objectives and values of the Church.
Attend Sunday School, Bible Study, Worship Services regularly and be a tither.
Any person to be considered as a trustee cannot serve simultaneously as a deacon.

Section 2. Office of the Board of Trustees

There shall be at least seven (7) trustees.
The officers will consist of a chairman, vice chairman, secretary and an assistant secretary.
When there is a need for a trustee, the Board of Trustee’s chairman, after consultation with the Senior Pastor, will make the recommendations to the Church at the church conference.
Chairman of the Trustees shall serve as the President of the Church Corporation and shall moderate any meetings of the Board of Trustees. The Chairman may sign, with the secretary of the Trustees or any other proper officer authorized by the Trustees of the Church, deeds, mortgages, bonds, contracts or other instruments.

Section 3. Duties and Responsibilities

Duties of the Trustees shall be to superintend the Church’s buildings, grounds and facilities and make appropriate recommendations to the congregation (with the Pastor’s and Deacons’ knowledge). In addition, trustees and the Senior Pastor shall serve as legal channels through which the will of the Church is expressed. Trustees shall perform other tasks as the Church directs.
The Board of Trustees delineated in Acts 6:1-6 and 1 Timothy 3:8-10, 12-13.

Section 4. Selection Process

The initial Board of Trustees shall be selected by the Senior Pastor and Deacons. These members will be recommended to the Church membership and voted on.

Section 5. Nomination and Election

The Board of Trustees, Senior Pastor and Deacons votes to recommend the person presented to the Church membership at the quarterly meeting. Election shall occur in the fourth quarter of the Church year and service shall begin on January 1 of each succeeding year.

Section 6. Training and Education

It is the responsibility of the Senior Pastor and the Board of Trustees’ Chairman to ensure all new trustees receive spiritual and procedural training. The training should be outlined in the Trustee Manual. Trustee Manual will be written by the Board of Trustees

Section 7. Property Ministry

The Board of Trustees shall recommend four (4) members to the Property Ministry during the month of December of even-numbered years and four (4) members to the Property Ministry during the month of December of odd-numbered years.
The Property Ministry shall consist of eight (8) members.
The term of office of a member of the Property Ministry shall be two (2) years.
The member may succeed himself in office for three (3) additional, successive terms if properly elected.
Any person recommended to the Property Ministry shall not begin a term of office until approved by the congregation.
The members of the Property Ministry shall select its own officers.
The Property Ministry shall keep the Pastor, Board of Trustees and Deacon Ministry fully informed of its work.
The Property Ministry shall be responsible for the protection, management, upkeep, and improvement of the church’s property including buildings, grounds, transportation vehicles, and all other equipment of the church and maintain adequate insurance.
The Property Ministry shall establish guidelines for the use of church property for all purposes (and programs planned by church groups as well as groups from outside the church) subject to approval of the Pastor and congregation.

Section 8. Finance Ministry

The Board of Trustees shall recommend four (4) members to the Finance Ministry during the month of December of even-numbered years and four (4) members to the finance ministry during the month of December of odd-numbered years.
The Finance Ministry shall consist of eight (8) members.
The term of office of a member of the Finance Ministry shall be two (2) years.
The member may succeed himself in office for three additional, successive terms if properly elected.
Any person recommended to the finance ministry shall not begin a term of office until approved by the congregation.
The members of the Finance Ministry shall select its own officers. The Finance Ministry shall keep the Board of Trustees fully informed of its work.
The Finance Ministry shall be responsible for all church related budgeting and accounting, filing of government reports, paying timely payroll taxes, providing reports to the Board of Trustees and congregation from time to time, and ensuring that the church uses Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
The Finance Ministry will develop fiscal guidelines to properly account for Church funds. Upon approval by the congregation, the Pastor and all members of the congregation must adhere to the guidelines. Each member of the Finance Ministry handling Church funds shall be bonded by a reputable insurance company.

Article IX: Church Clerk and Assistant Church Clerk

The Pastor and Deacon Ministry shall recommend a Church Clerk and Assistant Church Clerk if needed with congregational approval to serve for an indefinite term. The Church Clerk shall keep a complete record of the transaction of all business meetings of the church. This shall be read for approval at the next business meeting, kept in the church office and made available upon request. The Church Clerk shall have charge of the records of the church. In addition, the Church Clerk shall sign, when necessary, along with the Pastor, all documents pertaining to ecclesiastical matters. The Church Clerk shall keep on file also a copy of the By-Laws of the Jackson Chapel First Missionary Baptist Church, Articles of Incorporation, and other important documents as directed by the Church. The Church Clerk shall keep a record of the names and addresses of all members, both active and inactive, with dates and manner of admission and termination, also a record of baptisms and christenings. The Church Clerk shall notify all officers, committee members and delegates of their election and appointment. The Church Clerk shall update the church By-Laws, issue letters of termination and recommendations voted upon by the Church, preserve on file all communications and written reports. The Church Clerk shall be proficient in the use of the various computer systems and programs. The Church Clerk shall be able to maintain accurate records in good order. The Church Clerk shall also perform other tasks assigned by the Church or the Pastor.

The Assistant Church Clerk shall perform the duties of the Church Clerk in the absence of the Church Clerk and shall assist in whatever way the Church Clerk may request from time to time in the execution of the office.

Article X: Treasurer

The Chairman of the Finance Ministry shall serve as Treasurer for the Church. The Treasurer or a qualified designee shall receive and deposit the Church’s funds into the designated bank accounts and keep an accurate accounting of the same.

Article XI: Christian Education Council

The Christian Education Council shall consist of the Superintendent of Sunday School, Youth Minister or a designee, Missionary Circle representative, Vacation Bible School Coordinator and three members from the church at-large (one at-large member must be a youth). At-large member will serve two-year term and may return after sitting out one term. Under the leadership of the Pastor, the Christian Education Council with plan and coordinate the educational programs of the church.

Article XII: Sunday School Superintendent and Assistant Sunday School Superintendent

The Pastor and Christian Education Council shall recommend a Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent, for congregational approval, to serve a two-year term and may succeed themselves one additional term. The Superintendent shall provide for teacher recruitment and training, developing new classes and programs, administering the details of the program, and other tasks as directed by the Pastor and Christian Education Council.

The Assistant Superintendent with perform the duties of the Superintendent in the absence of the Superintendent and shall assist the Superintendent in whatever way the Superintendent may request in the execution of the office.

Article XIII: Historian

The Pastor shall recommend a member to serve as church Historian to serve for an indefinite term but at the pleasure of the Pastor. The Historian shall research and safely maintain the rich history of the Church.

Article XIV: Church Leaders Council

The Church Leaders Council shall consist of the Pastor, the chairman and vice chairman of the Deacons Ministry, the chairman of the Board of Trustees, Finance Ministry and Deaconess Ministries, the church clerk and chairmen and/or vice chairmen of all Standing Ministries and Committees. The Pastor shall be the presiding officer and preside over the meetings. The pastor shall be disqualified from presiding over the portion of a meeting when an issue is discussed that pertains to the Pastor. In the event the Pastor is unable to preside over a meeting, the Chairman of the Deacon Ministry shall preside in his stead.

Section 1. Duties of the Church Leaders Council

Serve as a communication and coordinating center to review items to come before the congregation for approval and, if chooses, make recommendations regarding the effectiveness or priority of such items.
Ensure that the directives of the congregation are faithfully executed.
Serve in an advisory role and work together with the Pastor in advancing the temporal welfare of the church.
Plan and coordinate the educational programs of the church.
Act on behalf of the congregation between Church Conferences.
Recommend policies to the Church congregation for consideration and adoption.
The Council shall have the authority to call and schedule special meetings of the Church Leaders Council and special meetings of the Church congregation.

Section. 2. Miscellaneous

The Church Leaders Council shall appoint a Parliamentarian to render parliamentary procedure opinions to the Council and during Church Conferences.
The minutes of the Council meetings (except closed meetings) shall be available for inspection by any full member.
The Church Leaders Council members must be present in order to vote.
The Chairman shall not be entitled to cast a vote except in case of a tie.
A quorum of seven (7), including the Pastor, must be present in order for the Church Leaders Council to be able to vote and lawfully transact business.

Section 3. Duties of the Auxiliaries and Organizations

The duties of auxiliaries and organizations shall be those that are common in Missionary Baptist Churches and are subject to approval and confirmation by the Pastor and Board of Deacons.

Section 4. Organizational Groups and Auxiliaries

All auxiliaries and groups are part of the church as a whole. These groups shall have their own rules consistent with the Church By-Laws and shall elect their own officers.

Article XV: Resolution of Grievances

Each member must recognize the importance of Matthew 18:15-17 in the resolution of grievances and the scripture should be adhered to throughout the grievance process. Each member possessing a grievance will be expected to follow the scriptural commands requiring the member to confront the offending member in an attempt to resolve the matter. In the event this fails, or if it is impractical to confront the offending member, the procedures contained in this section for resolution of grievances shall be followed. If the grievance is presented by a member against the Pastor, the provisions contained in Level 1 shall be disregarded and the grievance presented directly to the Deacon Ministry.

Level 1: Pastor Review

The member shall first present a specific, written grievance to the Pastor for an attempted resolution. If the Pastor is unable to resolve the grievance to the satisfaction of the complaining member within thirty days, the matter shall be referred to the Deacon Ministry for a determination as to whether the grievance has merit.

Level 2: Deacon Ministry Review

If the Deacon Ministry determines that the grievance has merit, appropriate action shall be taken to resolve the grievance. The complaining member and the member who is the subject of the grievance shall each be provided an opportunity to appear before the Deacon Ministry regarding the grievance. The decision of the Deacon Ministry shall be communicated to the affected parties within thirty days of receiving the grievance.

Level 3: Congregational Review

Any party to the grievance shall be entitled to congregational review of the decision of the Deacon Ministry. A request for congregational review must be made in writing to the Pastor and Deacon Ministry within ten days of the Deacon Ministry’s decision. The Deacon Ministry shall present the controversy to the congregation in an objective manner and indicate that the Pastor and the Deacon Ministry were unable to resolve the grievance. The congregation shall make an appropriate decision on the grievance which decision shall be a final resolution of the complaint.

Level 4: Decision of Censure

If the Deacon Ministry desires to recommend the censure of a member, it shall determine an appropriate censure and make it available to the offending member to determine if he is willing to accept it. If the member does not accept the recommended censure, or having accepted the recommended censure fails to comply with it, the Deacon Ministry may recommend to the congregation that the member be dismissed from membership in strict compliance with the Dismission Procedure.

If the church congregation desires to censure a member, it shall determine the appropriate censure and make it available to the offending member. If the member does not accept the censure, or having accepted a censure fails to comply with it, the congregation may dismiss the member from membership in strict compliance with the Dismission Procedure.

Level 5: Dismission Procedure

If a member has proven to have willfully violated the church’s doctrinal or faith practices, the church, by majority vote, may withdraw membership and fellowship from the member, expelling the member from the church and its roll immediately. This procedure should only be used when all attempts of reconciliation have failed. Restoring a member into fellowship with Christ and also the church should be the ultimate goal of the church. Therefore, if the expelled member repents of his violation to the Christ and expresses the same to the church, then the church shall consider restoring the membership.

Article XVI: Grievance Presented by Pastor Against a Church Leader

The Pastor shall be entitled to present a grievance against a Church Leader if the Pastor is satisfied that the leader is failing to perform the duty required of a leader. The following preliminary steps shall be taken prior to initiation of the grievance process:

The Pastor shall conduct an informal discussion with the leader in an attempt to resolve the concern.
In the event the informal discussion fails, the Pastor shall seek advice and counsel from the Deacon Ministry as to whether a formal grievance against the offending church leader should be pursued.
If the Pastor, after prayerful consideration and input from the Deacon Ministry, determines that a formal grievance against an offending church leader is necessary, he shall proceed with the grievance process.

Section 1. Grievance Process

The Pastor, by registered mail, shall send a letter to the offending church leader specifically stating the grounds on which the failure to perform is based.
Within ten days, the church leader may respond by letter to the Pastor indicating whether he admits or denies the matters contained in the Pastor’s formal grievance. The leader will be entitled to make any statement in his letter regarding the matter.
A formal discussion will take place between the Pastor and the church leader in an attempt to resolve the issue(s). Both parties shall be entitled to invite a church member to participate in the discussion.
In the event the issue(s) are not resolved between the Pastor and the church leader, the matter will be presented to the Deacon Ministry for an attempted resolution. The Pastor and church leader shall each have an opportunity to personally present their positions to the Deacon Ministry.
In the event the Deacon Ministry is unable to resolve the grievance to the satisfaction of the Pastor or church leader, either of them shall have the right to request congregational review of the matter and have the grievance finally resolved by a vote of the congregation.

Section 2. Decision to Censure or Remove Church Leader

If the Deacon Ministry desires to censure a church leader, it shall determine the appropriate censure and make it available to the offending church leader. If the church leader does not accept the censure, or having accepted a censure fails to comply with it, the Deacon Ministry may recommend to the congregation that the leader be removed from his/her leadership position.

If the church congregation desires to censure a church leader, it shall determine the appropriate censure and make it available to the offending church leader. If the church leader does not accept the censure, or having accepted a censure fails to comply with it, the congregation may remove the leader from his/her leadership position.

If the church congregation desires to remove a church leader, it shall provide a reasonable opportunity to the church leader to explain or refute the evidence of failure to perform duty. If the congregation is satisfied that the church leader should be removed, it shall do so by a public vote of the membership.

Article XVII: Grievance Presented by Pastor Against a Member

The Pastor shall be entitled to present a grievance against a member if the Pastor is satisfied that the member is not performing his obligation to the church as required by the Scripture or the Church Covenant. The following preliminary steps shall be taken prior to initiation of the grievance process:

The Pastor shall conduct an informal discussion with the member in an attempt to resolve the concerns.
In the event the informal discussion fails, the Pastor shall seek advice and counsel from the Deacon Ministry as to whether a formal grievance against the member should be pursued.
If the Pastor, after prayerful consideration and input from the Deacon Ministry, determines that a formal grievance against a member is necessary, he shall proceed with the grievance process.

Section 1. Grievance Process

The Pastor, by registered mail, shall send a letter to the offending member specifically stating the grounds on which the grievance is based.
Within ten days, the member may respond by letter to the Pastor indicating whether or not he admits or denies the matters contained in the Pastor’s formal grievance. The member will be entitled to make any statement in his letter regarding the matter.
A formal discussion will take place between the Pastor and the member in an attempt to resolve the issue(s). Both parties shall be entitled to invite a church member to participate in the discussion.
In the event the issue(s) are not resolved between the Pastor and the member, the matter will be presented to the Deacon Ministry for an attempted resolution. The Pastor and member shall each have an opportunity to personally present their positions to the Deacon Ministry.
In the event the Deacon Ministry is unable to resolve the grievance to the satisfaction of the Pastor or member, either of them shall have the right to request congregational review of the matter and have the grievance finally resolved by a vote of the congregation.

Section 2. Decision to Censure or Dismiss a Member

The decision of the congregation shall be a final resolution of the grievance.

Article XVIII: Qualifications of Church Leaders

The following members are considered Church Leaders:

Associate and Assistant Ministers
Deacons (except Deacon Emeriti)
Deaconess (except Deaconess Emeriti)
Board of Trustees
Auxiliary Chairs
Members of Property Ministry
Members of Finance Ministry
Church Clerk and Assistant Church Clerk
Church Treasurer
Christian Education Council
Sunday School Superintendent and Assistant Sunday School Superintendent

All Church Leaders are expected to:

Live an exemplary lifestyle.
Complete leadership development training courses.
Be a tither.
Attend worship on a regular basis.
Attend Sunday School and Bible study on a regular basis.
Be a positive articulator of the vision of the church.
Carry out specific church related functions requested or assigned by the Pastor.

Article XIX: Amendments

These by-laws maybe amended by majority vote of the members present at a meeting, provided the purpose has been announced at least two weeks in advance.

Article XX: Parliamentary Authority

The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the Church membership in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these by-laws and any special rules of order the membership may adopt.

Article XXI: Effective Date

These by-laws will be effective upon adoption and the organizational process shall be completed within 45 days.

Article XXII: Definitions

The term “his” shall mean “his or hers”.
The term “he” shall mean “he or she”.
The term “him” shall mean “him or her”.
The term “himself” shall mean “himself or herself”.
All votes taken by the congregation, any auxiliary or committee shall be taken by majority vote unless otherwise required by these by-laws.
A quorum for meetings of the congregation, any auxiliary or committee shall be those persons in attendance at the meeting unless otherwise required by these by-laws.

Church By-Laws

BY-LAWS

Jackson Chapel First Missionary Baptist Church, Inc.

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