Constitution

Article I – Name

 

This body is known as the Fellowship Baptist Church of Lakeland, Florida; herein referred to as FBC or the church. It is incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under the laws of the State of Florida.

Article II – Purpose

This congregation is organized as a church exclusively for charitable, religious, and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Revenue Law), including, but not limited to, such purposes as: the establishing and maintaining of religious worship; the building of churches, parsonages, schools, chapels, rescue missions, print shops, day care centers and camps; evangelizing the unsaved by the proclaiming of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ; the educating of believers in a manner consistent with the requirements of Holy Scripture, both in Sunday and weekday schools of Christian education; the maintaining of outreach activities in the United States and any foreign country and the making of distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3). In furtherance of such purposes, the church shall have full power and authority to perform all acts necessary or incidental to the above to carry out the purposes of the church as set forth in the Articles of Incorporation, including the exercise of all other power and authority enjoyed by corporations generally by virtue of the provisions of Florida law.

This church functions to glorify God and to exalt Christ above all other human goals as its members participate in:

1. Worshiping (John 4:24; Hebrews 10:24, 25)
2. Teaching and preaching the whole Word of God in Lakeland, Florida and through missions to all the world (Matthew 28:19, 20; Mark 16:15,16; Luke 24:46-48; Acts 1:8)
3. Administering the ordinances of the Church (Matthew 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26)
4. Fulfilling civic responsibilities (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13, 14)
5. Defending the faith (Hebrews 10:23; Jude 3; Revelation 3:8)
6. Ordaining qualified men for the Gospel ministry (1 Timothy 3:1-7)
7. Commissioning qualified persons for missionary ministries (Acts 13:1-3).

Article III – Associations

FBC is autonomous and subject only to Christ, its Head. The Elders may choose to participate in or identify with other church associations and networks or make use of ministry resources as is beneficial for FBC.

Article IV – Ordinances

Section 1. We practice Believer’s baptism by single immersion after a confession of faith. (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3,4).

Section 2. We practice close communion, meaning that all baptized believers, after self-examination and confession of sins, are invited to celebrate The Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17-34).

Article V – Membership

Section 1. Reception of Members

FBC recognizes two types of members:  members and associate members.  Associate membership allows for simultaneous membership in another church of like faith when deemed appropriate by the Elders.

1. Qualifications

The candidate will give testimony of:

1. Acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
2. Baptism by immersion.
3. Good standing with a church of like faith.
4. Basic agreement with the church’s Statement of Belief, Covenant, and Constitution. Any reservations will be considered on an individual basis by the Elders.

1. Procedure 

The candidate will:

1. Complete the FBC application for membership.
2. Interview with at least two Elders (or Deacons) to confirm qualifications for membership.
3. Be recommended to the church for the final congregational vote.
4. Be voted into membership by current members of FBC. Any negative votes will be given individual attention by the Elders before acceptance into membership.

 

Section 2. Duties of Members

Members will:

1. Maintain a Christian demeanor in all aspects of life in order to communicate a positive testimony for Christ and for FBC.
2. Cherish a brotherly love for all members of the church.  Of major importance is the need to respectfully honor and love church leadership and to uphold them in prayer.
3. Submit to and participate in the discipline of the local church as defined in Section 4.
4. Faithfully attend church services and activities unless providentially hindered.
5. Be actively engaged in upholding the church Covenant.
6. Support the church financially as the Lord enables.
7. Serve in the ministries and activities of the church as time and abilities permit.
8. Participate regularly in the business meetings of FBC.

Section 3. Privileges of Members

1. Members and associate members have voting privileges in accordance with Article VIII, Section 3-viii. The vote of the Congregation as provided in this Constitution and Bylaws, shall be required to affect the following actions:

• Affirm changes in a member’s FBC membership status as recommended by the Elders.
• Affirm new Elders that have been examined, recommended, and ordained.
• Elect members to offices to assist the Elders with the administration of the affairs of the church including Deacons, Clerk, Treasurer, and Sunday School Superintendent.
• Dismiss Elders, Deacons, and other elected members by removing them from office.
• Approve non-budgeted financial transactions in excess of the Board of Deacons spending limit (see Article VI, Section 3, viii).
• Affirm annual budgets of the church.
• Accept, reject, or otherwise dispose of any matter submitted to the congregation by the Elders, or raised through following the processes provided in this Constitution; and
• Adopt, amend, or repeal the Articles of Incorporation, Covenant, Constitution, and Bylaws of the Church.

1. A member may inspect or receive copies of the prepared financial statements of the church and/or the minutes of the proceedings of church meetings.
2. A member may not inspect or copy any record relating to individual contributions to the church or the minutes of the Board of Deacons’ meetings or Elders’ meetings.

Section 4. Discipline of Members

1. Any member who conducts himself unbiblically or who persists in unrepentant sin or in violation of the Covenant and/or the Constitution may be required to meet with the Elders to counsel, reconcile, and restore that member.
2. The principles and procedures established in Scripture for settling disputes between believers and dealing with problems within the membership will be followed under the guidance of the Elders (Matthew 18:15-17; Romans 16:17-18; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; 2 Corinthians 2:1-11; Galatians 6:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:14-15; 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 10-15; 1 Timothy 5:19-20; and Titus 3:10-11).
   1. Members are expected to demonstrate special loyalty and concern for one another.  When a member becomes aware of an offense of such magnitude that it hinders spiritual growth and testimony, he is to go alone to the offending party and seek to restore the brother or sister.  Before he goes, he should first examine himself for sin.  When he goes, he should go with a spirit of humility and have the goal of restoration.
   2. If reconciliation or restoration is not achieved, either one or two other members is to accompany the one seeking to resolve the matter.  This second step should also be preceded by self-examination and exercised in a spirit of humility with the goal of restoration.
   3. If the offending party will not hear them, the offense is to be brought to the church with the goal of restoring the offending member.
   4. If the member refuses to hear the church, and to repent and be restored, he is to be removed from the membership of the church.
   5. The Elders will present the matter of removal of membership for a vote of affirmation by the membership present at a meeting called for such purpose.
   6. When an unrepentant offending party is removed from the church membership, all contact with him from that point forward (except by family members) must be mindful of restoration.
   7. A member who is undergoing the disciplinary process will be removed from all ministries and church activities while the matter is being resolved. After a successful resolution, depending on the nature of the offense, the member may be fully restored to all ministries and activities.
3. The Elders and Deacons are to submit to the same discipline as all members.

Section 5. Dismissal of Members

1. Dismissal may occur in such cases as: a personal request, transfer of membership to another church of like faith, or as the result of the church discipline process. Such action will be by majority vote of the members present. Deceased members’ names will be automatically removed from the roll.
2. Dismissal may result from unjustifiable absences from regular meetings for more than six months. The Elders will address each circumstance and grant no more than three months for the absent member to respond.

1. A response will lead to either a further attempt to restore the member and/or fulfilling the respondent’s request for his name to be dropped.
2. If there is no response, the Elders will present the matter of removal of membership for a vote of dismissal by the membership present at a church business meeting.

1. Restoration to membership of a dismissed disciplined member, who has evidenced genuine repentance, will be welcome upon the recommendation of the Elders. A public confession may be required depending upon the public nature of the sin.

Article VI – Officers

Section 1. Officers of the Church

The officers of the local church are the Elders and Deacons. Other official positions may be appointed to aid in the administration of the church as designated in Article VI Section 5. The church shall be governed by the oversight of Elders recognized by the congregation. Deacons and other official positions shall be nominated by the congregation, approved by the Elders, and elected by the congregation. The role of the officers of the church is to lovingly govern, care for, and equip the congregation to do the work of the ministry.

2. The Elders are called by God to their ministry. Elders are members of the church. The standard given in 1 Timothy 3, Titus 1, and 1 Peter 5 will be followed (see Article VI. Section 2. c. iv). Candidates for Elder shall be subject to the examination process as defined in Article VI, Section 2, c, iii.
3. Elected positions are Deacons, Clerk, Treasurer, and Sunday School Superintendent. They will be elected from among the members who are twenty-one years or older and have been a member of FBC for no fewer than six months (any exceptions will be individually considered by the Elders and will be recommended to the church). The standard given in 1 Timothy 3, Titus 1, and 1 Peter 5 will be followed.
4. Women cannot be considered for the offices of Elder or Deacon (1 Corinthians 14:33-34; 1 Timothy 2:12)
5. Members will not be accepted for any position if they are found to be living in any unrepentant sin. (Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; 1 Timothy. 3:2-10).
6. One person may hold two or more positions.
7. Terms of service for Deacons, Clerk, Treasurer, and Sunday School Superintendent begin the first Sunday following the annual business meeting in which they are elected. Each term will end following the adjournment of the annual business meeting following their term.
8. Any resignation from an office must be submitted in writing to the Elders.
9. The Elders will request the resignation or dismissal of any officer who does not fulfill his duties or uphold the Covenant and Constitution.
10. Corporate officers (see Article VI, Section 3, vi).

Section 2. Elders

The Elders shall govern the church and have oversight of the business activities and affairs of the church. Those recognized by the church as Elders must meet the biblical qualifications of an Elder (see Article VI. Section 2. c. iv). Elders shall be composed of both staff (paid) Elders and non-staff (unpaid) Elders. The number of Elders may vary according to the needs of the church and availability of qualified men and may increase with the growth of the church. The Elders are responsible for governing the church, teaching the Word of God, and praying for and tending to the flock of God. All Elders shall be equal in authority but may be specialized in function. Elders are divinely called and equipped for their ministry and shall not be subject to term limitations.

1. Definitions

 

1. Staff Elders

Staff Elders are those who, in response to God’s call and upon confirmation of the congregation, devote their full-time energies to the service of God’s people and will receive financial support from being employed by the church. Staff Elders include the Senior Pastor and any other Pastoral staff. Those recognized by the church to fill a Pastoral staff position within their approved job description must meet the biblical qualifications of an Elder and will serve as members of the Council of Elders.

1. Non-staff Elders

Non-staff Elders are members of the church not employed by the church as full-time staff members. They must meet the biblical qualifications of an Elder and will serve as members of the Council of Elders.

1. Staff Elders: Senior Pastor/Pastoral Staff
   2. Any candidates for Senior Pastor or any other Pastoral staff will first be examined by the Pulpit Committee to determine qualification (see Article VI. Section 2. c. iv) and fitness for the ministry at Fellowship Baptist Church. Only one candidate will be considered at a time. The candidate must have read and stated agreement with FBC’s Statement of Belief, Constitution and Covenant. Prior to recommendation, the candidate will be invited to speak to and meet the congregation. If approved by the Pulpit Committee, the candidate will be recommended for a vote of confirmation by the membership at a special meeting.
   3. Public notice will be given on two Sundays immediately preceding the date of the meeting. A two-thirds majority vote of the members present will be necessary for his call. Following the vote of confirmation, the candidate will be extended a call to ministry at FBC.

1. The Council of Elders

The Council of Elders is to be comprised of both staff Elders and non-staff Elders.

1. Number of Elders

The number of Elders may vary according to the needs of the church and availability of qualified men.

1. Chairman

The Senior Pastor shall be the Chairman of the Council of Elders.

• Recommendation, Recognition, and Tenure of Office of Non-Staff Elders

The Council of Elders shall identify and recommend candidates for the position of Non-staff Elder. The Elder examination process will include a background check, and interviews of people who know the candidate well, and may include an examination by an ordination council (unless already ordained by a church of like faith). Final determination of the qualifications of the candidate shall reside with the Council of Elders. Upon recommendation, a candidate for Elder will be presented to the congregation in a special church meeting to be confirmed by a two-thirds majority vote of the members present. The newly confirmed Elders shall assume office immediately.

1. Qualifications

Each member of the Council of Elders must be an active member of this church and possess the qualifications described in 1 Timothy 3:1–7 and Titus 1:6–9. He shall be:

1. Blameless as a steward of God; above reproach (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6–7)
2. The husband of one wife; a one-woman man (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6)
3. Temperate, sober, vigilant (1 Timothy 3:2)
4. Sober-minded, prudent (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8)
5. Of good behavior; orderly, respectable (1 Timothy 3:2)
6. Given to hospitality (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8)
7. Able to teach, exhort believers, and refute false teaching (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9)
8. Not given to wine (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7)
9. Not violent; not pugnacious (1 Timothy 3:3, Titus 1:7)
10. Patient, moderate, forbearing, gentle (1 Timothy 3:3)
11. Not a brawler; uncontentious; not quick-tempered (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7)
12. Not covetous; not a lover of money; not greedy (1 Timothy 3:3, Titus 1:7)
13. Rules his own house well; his children are faithful, not accused of rebellion to God (1 Timothy 3:4; Titus 1:7)
14. Not a novice; not a new convert (1 Timothy 3:6)
15. Has a good report or reputation with outsiders (1 Timothy 3:7)
16. Not self-willed (Titus 1:7)
17. A lover of good men and things (Titus 1:8)
18. Just, fair (Titus 1:8)
19. Holy, devout (Titus 1:8)
20. Self-controlled (Titus 1:8)

1. Resignation

Any Elder who wishes to resign must give thirty days written notice to the Council of Elders, unless the notice specifies a time for the effectiveness of such resignation.

1. Dismissal of Elders

The Council of Elders may determine that an Elder must be dismissed from office at any regular or special meeting of the Council if he is found to be spiritually unqualified (according to pertinent Scripture, including 1 Timothy 3:1–7 and Titus 1:5–9). The Council shall conduct a thorough corroborating investigation in accord with the procedures prescribed by pertinent Scripture, including Matthew18:15–18 and 1 Timothy 5:19. In the case of dismissal, public notice of a church meeting called for the purpose of affirming the Elders’ decision of dismissal will be given on the two Sundays prior to the meeting. A two-thirds majority vote of the members present will be necessary for the affirmation of the Elders’ decision of dismissal.

• Regular Meetings

The Council of Elders shall meet regularly—no fewer than once per quarter. Meetings may be held at any location and may be conducted by means of electronic communication through which the Elders may simultaneously hear each other. Special meetings may be called by the Council of Elders at any time. All Elders shall be given notice of each meeting. All Elders are expected to attend each meeting unless providentially hindered. All meeting minutes will be recorded and shared with the church office for digital archiving.

• Quorum

At all meetings of the Council of Elders, the presence of a majority of the Elders shall constitute a quorum for the conducting of business. If a quorum is present when a vote is taken, the affirmative vote of a majority of the Elders present shall be the action of the Council of Elders. Only Elders may vote at meetings of the Council of Elders. No proxies allowed.

1. Pulpit Committee

The Council of Elders will appoint the Pulpit Committee and its members when the need arises. The Pulpit Committee may consist of any number of Elders, Deacons, and/or members at large willing to serve and appointed by the Council of Elders.

1. Fees and Compensation

Non-staff Elders shall not receive any stated or fixed salary for their services. However, nothing prevents non-staff Elders from receiving compensation for any services rendered. Any person receiving compensation directly or indirectly from Fellowship Baptist Church shall not be in a position to determine the nature or amount of said compensation.

 

Section 3. Deacons

1. Deacons shall function under the oversight of the Elders.
2. Deacons will be elected for a three-year term.

• The number may vary according to the needs of the church and availability of qualified men.

1. The Board of Deacons will elect officers for the Board and assign responsibilities in their first scheduled meeting following the annual business meeting.
2. The Board of Deacons will administer the Benevolent Fund.
3. The Board of Deacons will function as Trustees of the corporation in compliance with the “Articles of Incorporation,” Florida law, and under the oversight of the Council of Elders.

• The Board of Deacons, under the oversight of the Elders, will perform the duties of the borrowing of money and incurring of indebtedness for the purposes of the Corporation and to cause to be executed and delivered, in the corporate name, promissory notes, bonds, debentures, deeds of trust, mortgages, pledges, or other evidence of debt and securities.
• The Deacons will not have authority to sell, lease, give away or dispose of church property in excess of $5,000 in value at any one time; nor to mortgage or encumber the church with debt exceeding the above amount, except, as the church will order by a majority vote of members present at a business meeting. All non-budgeted projects involving the expenditure of more than that same amount are to be submitted to the congregation for a vote of approval. In case of time sensitive expenditures, the Board of Deacons is allowed to spend what is necessary and will inform the membership of the expenditure at the next Sunday or Wednesday church service.

1. They will be responsible for the care and upkeep of the physical properties of the church.
2. The Board of Deacons will determine those who are authorized to sign checks on behalf of the church.
3. The Board of Deacons will meet regularly, at least once per quarter, to discuss the needs of the church. Meeting minutes must be shared with the church office for digital archiving.

Section 4. Duties of Officers

 

1. Elders
   1. Staff Elders
      1. Senior Pastor

• Preach the whole Counsel of God.
• Oversee the ministries of the church.
• Care for the spiritual welfare of its members.
• Maintain the doctrinal purity of the church.
• Lead all worship services.
• Moderate all business meetings or appoint an Elder or Deacon to act as moderator.
• Serve as Chair of the Council of Elders, sharing in the duties of the Elders.
• Moderate all Council of Elders and Board of Deacons meetings and serve as an ex-officio member of all standing and ad-hoc committees.

1. Pastoral Staff

• These duly called Pastors will be directly accountable to the Council of Elders.
• All Pastoral staff are to serve as Elders, sharing in the duties of the Elders.
• The specific ministry to which any of these Pastors is called will be determined primarily by the Senior Pastor and the Council of Elders to meet the current and/or developing needs of the church.

1. Non-Staff Elders

Non-staff Elders may be called upon to:

• Be available to teach/preach the Word of God.
• Pray for and shepherd the flock of God.
• Establish policies and practices for the church consistent with the purposes of Fellowship Baptist Church.
• Assist in administering the ordinances of the Church.
• Oversee the business activities and affairs of the church.
• Assist in visitation.
• In the absence of any staff Elders, fulfill all duties of said staff Elders until the position is filled or appoint a qualified man to do so.

1. Deacons

The duties of the Deacons are to assist the Elders in matters pertaining to the spiritual and physical welfare of the church and to fulfill the stated purpose of FBC. Because the duties of the Deacons are manifold and may vary due to circumstances, it is the duty of the Deacons to review such needs regularly. These duties may include but are not limited to:

• Organizing the greeting and welcoming ministries of the church.
• Organizing the ushering ministry of the church.
• Assisting in administering the ordinances of the church.
• Assisting at fellowship gatherings of the Church.
• Caring for and maintaining the church property.
• Administering the ministry of benevolence toward those in need.
• Coordinating care for the widows of the church.

Section 5. Other Offices

Fellowship Baptist Church may elect other officers to aid in the administration of church business including a Clerk, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, and Sunday School Superintendent. All such offices will operate under the oversight of the Elders of FBC and will be elected to a one-year term of office.

1. Clerk

The Clerk will:

1. have charge of official correspondence concerning church membership and will keep records of all business meetings including the reception and dismissal of members, baptisms, commissioning of missionaries, and ordinations. A duplicate copy of all records will be submitted to the church office.
2. submit an annual report for distribution to the congregation.

• provide information to the Financial Secretary and/or the Treasurer concerning authorized disbursements or transfer of funds, which have been approved by church vote.

1. certify, when necessary, to any financial institution, governmental, or legal organization the names of authorized officers who will act on behalf of FBC.
2. submit any records worth archiving to the church office for digital archival.
3. When the Clerk concludes his/her term of office, all records, files, and any other official FBC papers will be turned over to the successor or to the chairman of the Board of Deacons. These records will be in completed form up to the date of surrender.

 

 

 

 

1. Financial Secretary

The Financial Secretary will:

1. count and permanently record all monies received in all regular church offerings at the time such monies are received accompanied by least one Deacon (or appointed member in good standing).
2. keep records in compliance with the IRS Regulations.

• deposit all funds into the approved church accounts as soon as possible. This includes monies received from sources other than regular offerings.

1. be one of the check signers, if necessary.
2. give the Treasurer a record of monies received and deposited and any information on donors’ suggested designations.
3. will provide individual donors with a record of their annual giving, in compliance with the IRS Regulations.

• in the absence of the Financial Secretary, the Chairman of the Board of Deacons will assign a substitute to fulfill the above responsibilities.

1. Treasurer

The Treasurer will:

1. review all transactions that are recorded in the General Ledger for consistency and accuracy and recommend adjustments as appropriate.
2. present financial reports to the church at each scheduled business meeting in conformance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.

• provide a monthly financial report to the Senior Pastor, the Council of Elders, and the Board of Deacons and will meet with them when deemed necessary.

1. ensure effective financial internal controls are in place for the separation of duties with regards to cash handling, record keeping, check signing and approving payments.
2. facilitate the budget planning process and compile all inputs for presentation to the Budget Committee
3. In the absence of the Treasurer, the chairman of the Board of Deacons will assume the above
   responsibilities.

1. Sunday School Superintendent

The Sunday School Superintendent will:

1. have the general oversight of and provide vision for the Sunday School ministries and will be accountable to the Elders.
2. with the Elders approval, appoint all Sunday School teachers.

• provide an annual report to the church.

Article VII – Committees

Section 1. Committees

1. Committees of qualified people may be appointed by the Council of Elders, and/or Board of Deacons with prior consent of the individuals selected.
2. Special committees may be created to provide the Council of Elders and the Board of Deacons with advice and information regarding matters submitted for consideration.

• These committees will have no authority to act on behalf of the corporation.

 

Section 2. Budget Committee

1. The Budget Committee may consist of at least one Elder, one Deacon, the Financial Secretary and/or the Treasurer, and one church member at large selected by the Elders.
2. The Budget Committee, after making inquiry concerning anticipated needs, and in light of the previous annual budget, will propose a new budget to the Council of Elders and the Board of Deacons for approval. The approved proposed budget will then be presented to the congregation and voted on at the annual business meeting.

Article VIII – Meetings

Section 1. Regular meetings

1. Services will be held regularly each Lord’s Day. The time of meetings may vary according to circumstances.
2. A midweek service or group meetings will be held on a regular schedule.

• The Lord’s Supper will be observed at least once a month.

1. Baptism services will be performed as qualified candidates present themselves.
2. The Sunday School will meet on a regular schedule primarily for Bible instruction and evangelism.

All other ministries, services, or gatherings may be approved by the Elders for the advancement of the work of the church (e.g., Youth Group, AWANA, Children’s Church, Vacation Bible School, Men’s and Women’s Bible studies, etc.)

Section 2. Special Meetings

1. Hosting a conference and/or seminar for FBC will be at the discretion of the Elders.
2. Weddings and funerals will be arranged in consultation with the Senior Pastor who will inform the parties involved concerning church policy.

• Ordinations and Missionary Commissioning Services must be arranged by the Elders.

1. Meetings or other activities for community purposes must be approved by the Council of Elders and/or Board of Deacons at their discretion.

 

Section 3. Business Meetings

1. FBC’s fiscal year coincides with the calendar year.
2. The annual meeting will be held in January at the first opportunity agreed upon by the Council of Elders and the Board of Deacons. This meeting shall be announced at least one week in advance.

• There will be quarterly business meetings generally held in April, July, and October.

1. A simple majority of the voting members present is necessary for a motion to pass.
2. A special meeting may be called when prior announcement is made to the church by the Council of Elders and the Board of Deacons at least one week in advance.
3. A minimum of 30% of the voting membership may initiate a meeting by submitting a written request with explanation to the Church Clerk and to the Council of Elders and Board of Deacons.

• A business meeting will be announced at least two Sundays immediately prior to a call or the dismissal of an Elder. A two-thirds vote of the members present is required for a call or dismissal.
• Voting members are defined as those members and associate members who:

1. are eighteen years or older.
2. have not absented themselves from church attendance for six months or more with the exception of missionary service, military service, extended illness, part-time residents, and students.
3. are present at the business meeting. There will be no absentee ballots or proxy votes.
   1. All business meetings will be conducted “decently and in order” according to biblical principles. The Senior Pastor or the chairman of the Board of Deacons will follow a written agenda. New business that is not already included on the agenda will not be considered. All meetings should be opened and closed with prayer for Divine guidance and blessing.
   2. The moderator will determine the rules of procedure using fairness and common sense, giving all members a reasonable opportunity to be heard on a matter. The moderator is the ruling authority on questions of procedure; his decision is final.
   3. The following order shall be observed at regular business meetings:
      1. Prayer
      2. Reading of the minutes
      3. Treasurer’s report
      4. Reports, if necessary
      5. Old business
      6. New business
      7. Adjournment by prayer

• For any meeting under this Section, the moderator, at his sole discretion, will have full and unilateral authority to require nonmembers to leave the meeting room and to order the immediate removal of any member or other person present who is deemed by the moderator to be disruptive to the proceedings by act or presence. He will have full authority to order the removal of all children (ages to be determined by the moderator) if the moderator determines, at his sole discretion, that circumstances so warrant.  If the moderator determines that compliance with his order of removal is unsatisfactory, the moderator may, at his sole discretion, revoke the disruptive person’s right to remain on the premises.

Article IX – Ministries

 

 Section 1. Recognition

1. FBC considers that a variety of ministries are vital to its overall ministry, such as the Sunday School, AWANA, choir, youth, etc. The leaders, elected or appointed, must be members of FBC.
2. New ministries may gain recognition by means of the approval of the Elders, either by a written proposal or by meeting with the Elders. This request will state the need, the purpose, and the structure of the proposed ministry.

• Any recognized ministries may dissolve by the recommendation of the Elders.

1. Members desiring to serve in the ministries of FBC will be held accountable to the FBC Ministry Volunteer Handbook.

Section 2. Missions

1. Missions is an integral part of the total church ministry. The Elders will examine each potential missionary for suitability before recommendation is made to the church for final approval. There must be a majority vote of the members present at a business meeting for approval.
2. The primary purposes of missions are to evangelize and to establish independent Baptist churches. Educational institutions, radio/TV/internet ministries, rescue missions, camps, or other ministries of similar purpose may also be considered missions ministries of FBC.

 

Section 3. Ordination

1. Any member of FBC who gives evidence of a genuine call of God into the work of the ministry, and possesses the qualifications to accomplish the task, will be considered for ordination.
2. After a satisfactory examination, the Elders will call for an Ordination Council consisting of authorized men from churches of like faith, invited to participate in the examination of the candidate.

• Upon recommendation of the Ordination Council, FBC will proceed with an Ordination Service.

 

 

 

Article X – Elections

Section 1. Elections

1. Nomination Ballot

1. 1. Members of Fellowship Baptist Church will be provided with ballots for nominating members to elected positions.
   2. The nomination ballot will include all pertinent information and instruction concerning nomination procedures.
   3. Only FBC members in good standing are eligible to be nominated.

1. Final Ballot

1. The Elders will determine the final slate of nominees on the basis of names submitted for each office, the number of nominations, and the qualifications of those who are nominated.
2. Any nominee must consent to being placed on the final ballot.
3. The candidates for each position will be presented on the final ballot at the annual business meeting for a vote of affirmation by the congregation.

• Annual Election
  1. The congregation will vote to either “affirm” or “not affirm” the nominee for each position.
  2. No write-in candidate for any office will be considered.
  3. The ballots will be collected and counted immediately following the election by at least two individuals appointed by the moderator of the meeting, neither of whom are on the ballot.
  4. The results of the election are final and will be announced to the congregation at the earliest opportunity.

Section 2. Resignation of Officers

1. Any elected individual who wishes to resign his or her position will submit this in writing to the Council of Elders.
2. Members will be informed of the resignation at a business meeting.

• If an officer is unable to fulfill his or her term, the Elders will appoint a qualified replacement and present the replacement to the membership for a vote.

Article XI – Constitutional Matters

1. Any amendment or change to the Constitution will be presented to the church by the Council of Elders.
2. Any amendment or change to the Constitution will be made by a three-fourths vote of members present at any business meeting. Notice of proposed changes will be given from the pulpit two weeks immediately preceding the meeting.

• When a question of constitutional interpretation arises, the decision of the Council of Elders is final.

Article XII –  Dissolution

1. In the event of dissolution, the first priority will be the elimination of all debt. Employee salaries will be paid up through the date of the termination of employment.
2. None of the assets or holdings of FBC will be divided among the members. They will be distributed by the Council of Elders and the Board of Deacons to other nonprofit corporations that are in agreement with the Constitution and Statement of Belief. These distributions will comply with Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Revenue Law).

Article XIII – Miscellaneous

Section 1. Ownership of Property

FBC has the right to own, buy, or sell tangible properties, both real and chattel. Such transactions will be conducted through the oversight of the Council of Elders and the Board of Deacons at the direction of the church.

Section 2. Non-Profit

No members will profit from the assets of FBC or other transactions in which FBC is involved.

Section 3. Establishment of Funds

From time to time the church, in the exercise of its religious, educational, and charitable purposes, may establish various funds to accomplish specific goals. Contributors may suggest uses for their contributions, but all suggestions will be deemed advisory rather than mandatory in nature. All contributions made to specific funds or otherwise designated will remain subject to the exclusive control and discretion of the Council of Elders and Board of Deacons. No fiduciary obligation will be created by any designated contribution made to the church other than to use the contribution for the general furtherance of any of the purposes stated in Article II.

Section 4. Indemnification

1. Actions Subject to Indemnification

The church may indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative, including all appeals (other than an action by or in the right of the church) by reason of the fact that the person is or was a Pastor, Elder, Deacon, officer, employee, or agent of the church, against expenses, including attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by them in connection with the action, suit, or proceeding; and if that person acted in good faith and in a manner they reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the church and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit, or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or on a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, will not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner that he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the church and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful.

1. Expenses Subject to Indemnification

To the extent that a Pastor, Elder, Deacon, officer, employee, or agent has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit, or proceeding referred to in this Article, or in defense of any claim, issue, or matter in that action, suit, or proceeding, he or she may be indemnified against expenses, including attorneys’ fees, actually and reasonably incurred by them in connection with the action, suit, or proceeding.

• Limitations of Indemnification

Any indemnification made under this Article, may be made by the church only as authorized in the specific case on a determination that indemnification of the Pastor, Elder, Deacon, officer, employee, or agent is proper in the circumstances because he or she has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in Section 4 a. of this Article.  The determination will be made:

1. By a majority vote of a quorum of the Council of Elders and the Board of Deacons who were not and are not parties to or threatened with the action, suit, or proceeding.
2. If the described quorum is not obtainable or if a majority vote of a quorum of disinterested Elders and Deacons so directs, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion.
3. By a majority vote of the members present at a business meeting.

1. Timing of Indemnification

Expenses of each person seeking indemnification under this Article, may be paid by the church as they are incurred, in advance of the final disposition of the action, suit, or proceeding, as authorized by the Council of Elders and the Board of Deacons in the specific case, on receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the Pastor, Elder, Deacon, officer, employee, or agent to repay the amount if it is ultimately determined that they are not qualified to be indemnified by the church.

1. Extent of Indemnification

The indemnification provided by this Article will be deemed to be discretionary unless otherwise required as a matter of law or under any agreement or provided by insurance purchased by the church, both as to action of each person seeking indemnification under this Article in their official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding that office, and may continue as to a person who has ceased to be a Pastor, Elder, Deacon, officer, employee, or agent and may inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors, and administrators of that person.

1. Insurance

The church may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a Pastor, Elder, Deacon, officer, employee, or agent of the church against any liability asserted against him or her and incurred by him or her in that capacity, or arising out of his or her status in that capacity, whether or not the church would have the power to indemnify him or her against liability under the provisions of this Article.

Section 5.  Binding Arbitration

1. Submission to Arbitration

Believing that lawsuits between believers are prohibited by Scripture (1 Corinthians 6:1-8), all members of this church agree to submit to binding arbitration any matters which cannot otherwise be resolved, and expressly waive any and all rights in law and equity to bringing any civil disagreement before a court of law, except that judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof.

1. Notice of Arbitration

In the event of any dispute, claim, question, or disagreement arising out of or relating to these bylaws or any other church matter, the parties will use their best efforts to settle such disputes, claims, questions, or disagreement as befits Christians.  To this effect they will consult and negotiate with each other in good faith and, recognizing their mutual interest not to disgrace the name of Christ, seek to reach a just and equitable solution.  If they do not reach such solution within a period of sixty (60) days, then upon notice by either party to the other, disputes, claims, questions, or differences will be finally settled by arbitration.

• Limitation of Arbitration

1. Should any dispute involve matters of church discipline, the arbitrators will be limited to determining whether the procedures for church discipline as outlined under Article V Sections 4 and 5, were followed.
2. Should any dispute involve the removal from office of a Pastor or any church officer, the arbitrators will be limited to determining whether the procedures set forth in Article V Sections 4 and 5 and Article VI Section 2. c. vi were followed.
3. Arbitration Procedures

The Procedures for Arbitration have been adopted by the Council of Elders and the Board of Deacons and are kept on file in the church office.