Constitution | Saint James Missionary Baptist Church

Constitution And Bylaws

Saint James Missionary Baptist Church

600 28th Avenue North

Nashville, Tennessee 37209

(November 1, 1984 ‑ Third And Final Reading)

Why Bylaws?

(l) Bylaws are needed to guide members and auxiliaries in their meetings and in the internal operation of the church.

Since the operation of the church is a complex one, those outside the church who do business with it, need an account of how the church reaches its decisions and authorizes its officers to act. Furthermore, the constitution and bylaws furnish society a basis of judgment for rights if trouble arises either within the church or between the church and another party.

(2) One of the main values of a constitution and bylaws is the opportunity it gives the church to look at itself, to redefine its purposes, objectives, and procedures, and to evaluate the effectiveness of its organizational structure.

Preamble

We formulate and establish this constitution to preserve and secure the principles of our faith, and to govern this body in an orderly manner as a Missionary Baptist Church. This constitution will preserve the freedoms of each individual church member and the freedom of action of this body with respect to relations to other churches.

Article I. Name

This body shall be known as the Saint James Missionary Baptist Church of 600 ‑ 28th Avenue, North, Nashville, Tennessee 37209. This name preserves the history of our church, which was organized September 25, 1925.

Article II. Objectives

(1) To be a spiritual organism empowered by the holy spirit to share Christ wherever opportunity presents itself, in our church, community and throughout the world.

(2) To religiously educate our membership and others in Christian doctrine.

(3) To share in the great commission given by Christ in Matthew 28:19‑20, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.”

(4) To be a worshiping fellowship, experiencing the presence and power of god, and responding to that presence and power in obedience to his leadership.

(5) To be a church which ministers unselfishly to persons in the community and the world in the name of Jesus.

(6) To be a church whose purpose is to be Christlike in character by a total commitment of life, personality, and possessions to the lordship of Christ.

Article III. Statements of Basic Beliefs

Every church needs a clear statement of faith which sets forth great biblical doctrines which we believe. The articles of faith are not designed to be the foundation or the defense of our faith. They simply define and declare what we believe the word of God teaches on these vital doctrines.

Of The Scriptures

We believe that the holy bible was written by men divinely inspired, and is a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction: that it has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth without any mixture of error, for its matter; that it reveals the principles by which god will judge us; and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.

(II Timothy 3:16‑17; II Peter 1:21; Proverbs 30:5‑6)

Of The True God

We believe that there is one, and only one, living and true god, an infinite, intelligent spirit, whose name is Jehovah, the maker and supreme ruler of heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness, and worthy of all possible honor, confidence, and love; that in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption. (John 4:24; Psalm 147:5; 83:18; Revelation 4:11)

III. Of The Fall Of Man

We believe that man was created in holiness, under the law of his maker; but by voluntary transgression fell from that holy and happy state; in consequence of which all mankind are now sinners, not by constraint, but choice; being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the law of God, positively inclined to evil; and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin, without defense or excuse(Genesis 1:27; 3:6‑24; Romans 5:19; Isaiah 56:6; Romans 3:9‑18)

Of The Way Of Salvation

We believe that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace; through the mediatorial office of the son of God; who by the appointment of the Father, freely took upon him our nature, yet without sin; honored the divine law by his personal obedience, and by his death made a full atonement for our sins; that having risen from the dead he is now enthroned in heaven; and uniting in his wonderful person the most tender sympathies with divine perfections, he is in every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate, and an all‑sufficient savior.(Ephesians 2:8; John 3:16; Isaiah 53:4‑5; Hebrews 7:25; II Corinthians 5:21)

Of Justification

We believe that the great gospel blessing which Christ secures to such as believe in him is justification; that justification includes the pardon of sin, and the promise of eternal life on principles of righteousness; that is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done, but solely through faith in the redeemer’s blood; by virtue of which faith in his perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us of God; that it brings us into a state of most blessed peace and favor with God, and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity. (Romans 5:1, 9; 8:1; 3:25, 26)

Of The Freeness Of Salvation

We believe that the blessings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel; that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a cordial, penitent, and obedient faith; and that nothing prevents depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel; which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation. (Isaiah 55:1; Revelation 22:17; John 3:16; Romans 10:13; John 5:1)

VII. Of Grace In Regeneration

We believe that, in order to be saved, sinners must be regenerated or born again; that regeneration consists in giving a holy disposition to the mind; that it is effected in a manner above our comprehension, by the power of the holy spirit in connection with divine truth, so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the gospel; and that its proper evidence appears in the holy fruits of repentance and faith and newness of life. (John 3:3‑7; II Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:8)

VIII. Of Repentance And Faith

We believe that repentance and faith are sacred duties, and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the regenerating spirit of God, whereby, being deeply convinced of our guilt, danger, and the helplessness, and of the way of salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for mercy; at the same time heartily receiving the lord Jesus Christ as our prophet, priest, and king, and relying on him alone as the only and all‑sufficient Savior.

Of God’s Purpose Of Grace

We believe that election is the eternal purpose of God, according to which he graciously regenerates, sanctifies, and saves sinners; that being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the means in connection with the end; that it is a most glorious display of God’s sovereign goodness, being infinitely free, wise, holy, and unchangeable; that it utterly excludes boasting, and promotes humility, love, prayer, praise, trust in God, and active imitation of his free mercy; that it encourages the use of means in the highest degree; that it may be ascertained by its effects in all who truly believe the gospel; that it is the foundation of Christian assurance; and that to ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost diligence. (II Timothy 1:8‑9; Ephesians 1:3‑14; II Thessalonians 2:13‑14; I Peter 1:1‑2)

Of Sanctification

We believe that sanctification is the process by which, according to the will of God, we are made partakers of his blessings; that it is a progressive work; that it is begun in regeneration; and that it is carried on in the hearts of believers by the presence and power of the holy spirit, the sealer and comforter, in the continual use of the appointed means, especially the word of god, self‑examination, self‑denial, watchfulness, and prayer. (I Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23; Romans 8:5; Philippians 2:12‑13; Ephesians 4:11)

Of The Perseverance Of Saints

We believe that such only are real believers as endure unto the end; that their persevering attachment to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professors; that a special providence watches over their welfare; and that they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. (John 8:31; 10:27‑30; I John 2:19; Ephesians 1:13‑14; Philippians 1:6)

XII. Of The Harmony Of The Law AndThe Gospel

We believe that the law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of his moral government; that it is holy, just and good; and that the inability which the scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts arises entirely from their love of sin; to deliver them from which, and to restore them through a mediator to unfeigned obedience to the holy law, is one great end of the gospel, and of the means of grace connected with the establishment of the visible church. (Romans 3:31; Matthew 5:17; Romans 8:2‑4)

XIII. Of A Gospel Church

We believe that a visible church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the gospel; observing the ordinances of Christ; governed by his laws; and exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by his word; that its only scriptural officers are bishops, or pastors and deacons, whose qualifications, claims, and duties are defined in the epistles to Timothy and Titus. (Acts 2:41‑42; Ephesians 4:7; I Corinthians 11:2; Matthew 28:20)

XIV. Of Baptism And The Lord’s Supper

We believe that Christian baptism is the immersion in water of a believer, into the name of the father, son, and holy ghost; to show forth, in a solemn and beautiful emblem, our faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Savior, with its effect in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life; that it is prerequisite to the privileges of a church relation; and to the lord’s supper; in which, the members of the church, by the sacred use of bread and wine are to commemorate together the dying love of Christ receded always by solemn self‑examination.(Acts 8:36‑39; Matthew 28:19‑39; Romans 6:4; Acts 2:41‑42; I Corinthians 11:26‑28)

Of The Christian Sabbath

We believe that the first day of the week is the Lord’s day or Christian Sabbath; and is to be kept sacred to religious purposes, by abstaining from all secular labor and sinful recreations; by the devout observance of all the means of grace, both private and public; and by preparation for the rest that remaineth for the people of God. (Acts 20:7; Matthew 28:1; Revelation 1:10; Hebrews 10:24‑25)

XVI. Of Civil Government

We believe that civil government is of divine appointment, for the interests and good order of human society; and that magistrates are to be prayed for, conscientiously honored and obeyed; except only in things opposed to the will of our lord Jesus Christ, who is the only lord of the conscience, and the prince of the kings of the earth. (Romans 13:1‑7; Matthew 22:21; Acts 5:29)

XVII. Of The Righteous And The Wicked

We believe that there is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked; that such only as through faith are justified in the name of the lord Jesus, and sanctified by the spirit of our God, are truly righteous in his esteem; while all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are in his sight wicked, and under the curse; and this distinction holds among men both in and after death.(Mark 3:18; Romans 1:17; I John 5:19)

XVIII. Of The World To Come

We believe that the end of the world is approaching; that at the last day, Christ will descend from heaven, and raise the dead from the grave to final retribution; that a solemn separation will then take place; that the wicked will be adjudged to endless punishment, and the righteous to endless joy; and that his judgment will fix forever the final state of men in heaven or hell, on principles of righteousness. (I Peter 4:7; Acts 1:11; Acts 24:15; Matthew 25:31‑46; Romans 3:5‑6)

The 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, 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, holiness, and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines, to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations.

We also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger; to abstain from the sale of, and use of, intoxicating drinks as a beverage; to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior.

We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember one another in prayer; to aid one another in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feelings and Christian courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation and mindful of the rules of our savior to secure it without delay.

We moreover engage that when we remove from this place, we will, as soon as possible, unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God’s Word.

Article IV. Policy And Relationship

The government of the church is vested in the body of believers who compose it. All internal groups created and empowered by the church shall report to and be accountable to the church.

This church is not subject to any control of any other ecclesiastical body, but it recognizes and sustains the obligations of mutual counsel and cooperation which are common among Baptist churches.

This church will cooperate with and support the Nashville City Missionary Baptist Association, the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Tennessee, and the National Baptist Convention of America.

Article V. Church Membership

Any person may offer himself as a candidate for membership in this church. The members of this church are divided into two classes: active and inactive. Only active members shall have the right to vote, hold any elective office, or take part in the business concerns (transactions) of this church. Persons shall present themselves to the church for membership in any of the following ways:

Section 1. Candidacy

By profession of faith and for baptism according to the policies of this church. Persons coming from other denominations other than the Missionary Baptist Church, shall come as a candidate for baptism.
By promise of a letter of recommendation from another Missionary Baptist Church.
By restoration upon a statement of prior conversion experience and baptism in a Missionary Baptist Church when no letter is obtainable (Christian experience).

Section II. Rights Of Members

All active members of this church are entitled to vote at all elections and on all questions submitted to the church during its meetings, provided the member is present or provision has been made for absentee balloting.
Every member of the church is eligible for consideration by the membership as candidates for elective office.
Every member of this church may participate in the ordinances of the church as administered by the church.

Section III. Termination Of Membership

Membership shall be terminated in the following ways:

By death of the member.
By dismission by letter to another Missionary Baptist Church.
By exclusion by action of this church.
When a member has not attended at least once in ninety (90) days, unless sickness or extreme circumstances persist.

The names of all members considered for the inactive list must be presented to the church by the pastor or deacons prior to being placed on the inactive list.

Should a problem arise between a member and the church which would affect the general welfare of the church. The pastor and deacons will take every reasonable measure to resolve the problem in accordance with Matthew 18. If it becomes necessary for the church to take action to exclude a member, a two‑thirds vote of the members present is required. All such proceedings shall be done in a spirit of patience and kindness. The church may restore to membership any person previously excluded upon request of the excluded person, and by vote of the church, based upon evidence of the excluded person’s repentance and reformation.

Article VI. Church Officers And Auxiliaries

All persons who serve as officers of the church and those who serve on church committees, must be members of the church.

Section 1. Church Officers

Pastor

The pastor is responsible for leading the church to function as a new testament church. The pastor will lead the congregation, the officers, and the auxiliaries in the performance of their tasks.

Relationship To The Church

The pastor is scripturally to be the shepherd of the flock. His primary task is to feed the flock, providing spiritual, moral, social, psychological, and personal nourishment for its growth. He is also to guide the congregation according to the holy Bible in the paths of righteousness; to take charge of the welfare of the church membership and their families.

He shall serve as the official representative of the church; preside at all worship services and church business meetings, be ex‑officio member of all organizations and committees. He shall have access to and/or copies of all records, minutes, financial reports, church roll, histories, legal instruments, and documents relative to the church. He shall have total oversight of all temporal and spiritual matters of the church, relegating such matters to designated officers or members for implementation. He shall authorize the expenditure of all finances according to the budgetary

designations of the church body and he shall also be free to recommend and/or present to the church body, such matters that necessitate action of the body.

He shall administer the ordinances of the church unless such provision is made for at his request and/or in his absence. He shall finalize all invitations for speakers, preachers, musicians and teachers or any person(s) participating in any part of the ministry of this church. He shall perform the various tasks and duties incumbent to this office as the need shall arise.

Tenure Of Service

The pastor shall serve this office until such time as any of the following occur:

(1) God calls him to another place of service;

(2) He resigns or retires;

(3) His death and, or;

(4) Because of consistent unscriptural, incompetent, and/or unethical leadership detrimental to the church.

He shall be voted out of office by a majority present of the active membership roll. At such time when he shall leave, the pastorate of this church for any reason other than death, at least a sixty-day notice shall be presented, in writing, by the pastor to the church or by the church to him, according to the conditions of leaving. A severance pay of at least two months shall be paid at the end of the termination period of dismissal. The conditions of leaving may be subject to reconsideration at any time before the termination period. The termination and the compensation shall be immediate.

Emphasis of Ministry

The ministries of the church, shall be projected and developed according to the guidance of the holy spirit. Emphasis of ministry shall be directed, however, in the following areas of focus:

(1) The cultivation of spiritually maturing worship experience.

(2) The promotion of systematic study of the scripture, doctrines of faith, and the history and policy of the church.

(3) The advancement of biblically‑oriented mission ministries.

(4) The development of effective leadership training encounters.

(5) The enrichment of nurturing ministries for individual and personal maturation of all age groups. All organizations, auxiliaries, and groups of the church will be encouraged to focus their activities, projects, and programs in these areas.

Compensation

The pastor shall be supported by the church with a salary comparable to his training, ability and experience, and sufficient for his personal and family needs, according to the ability of the church. Starting salary shall be agreed upon by the pastor and the church with cost of living increases to be determined annually.
The church shall provide a housing allowance sufficient to meet the needs of acquiring and maintaining a home for the pastor and his family. Said allowance shall include utilities.
The church shall contribute an annual amount to a health insurance package of the pastor’s choice.
The church shall contribute annual amount to a retirement program of the pastor’s choice.
The church shall pay the pastor’s full compensation during his vacation, which shall be two weeks. The number of weeks shall be evaluated further in accordance with time of service.

Illness

In case of illness, the pastor will be granted his salary for three (3) months, then it must be reviewed by the deacons and recommendations made to the church for further action.

Business And Professional Expenses

The church shall provide an expense account for the pastor in the performance of the varied responsibilities of his office as needed.
The church shall provide travel, food, lodging, and representation expenses for the pastor to all conferences, conventions, congresses, institutes, and meetings for representation of the church and/or for personal enrichment and development of the pastor as a leader and witness.
The pastor is at all times responsible for the pulpit. All ministers who are invited to preach are accepted only on the approval of the pastor.

All associate ministers are under the direct supervision of the pastor just as all other church officers.

The pastor, as executive officer of the church, shall be specifically responsible for the hiring and discharging of all salaried personnel. However, all decisions must be by the approval of the church. All meetings are called by the pastor, the exception being by petition, signed by not less than one fourth (1/4) of the active members of the church. The moderator for this meeting shall be the moderator of the district association or the president of the state convention, of which, this church holds membership. The choice of the moderator shall be designated by agreement of the pastor, deacons, and the designated moderator shall be invited in writing and informed of the time, place and purpose of this meeting. The vote to declare the office vacant shall be by written ballot or standing vote (method to be determined by those attending the meeting).

Calling A Pastor

A pastor shall be called by the church whenever a vacancy occurs. The election shall take place at a meeting called for this purpose, which at least two (2) weeks notice (announced two consecutive Sundays) shall be given. I Timothy 3:1‑7 and Titus 1:5‑9 shall serve as a guide in calling a pastor.

When the church pulpit becomes vacant, the chairman of the deacons shall lead the church in the care of its business during this period. This special authority of leadership will exist only through the election of the new pastor.

Both the time and date, as well as the purpose of the meeting to call a pastor, must be clearly stated. The committee shall bring to the consideration of the church only one name at a time. The recommendation shall constitute a nomination. Any member shall have the privilege of making other nominations. The election shall be by written ballot or by standing vote (method to be determined by those attending the meeting). An affirmative vote of those present shall be necessary for a choice. The duties of the committee shall be dissolved after a pastor has been selected.

Calling a pastor is the work of the entire church. The church has the right to dissolve the elected committee and start the selection process all over again using the same procedure, as herein stated in regards to the pulpit or pastor search committee.

Method Of Selection Of A Pulpit Or Pastor Search Committee.

A Pastor Search Committee shall be elected by the church to seek out a suitable pastor, and its recommendation will constitute a nomination. The church shall select only those members who are in good standing with the church, and who demonstrate spiritual maturity to serve on this committee. The chairman of deacons will be the moderator or with the church’s consent, the district moderator shall be invited to serve as moderator of this meeting. It is the responsibility of the chairman of deacons to inform the church of the date and time of the selection of the pulpit or Pastor Search Committee. The meeting date and time will be announced two (2) consecutive Sundays from the pulpit, and printed in the church bulletin. The committee shall consist of five (5) or seven (7) persons.

Authority Of The Pulpit Or Pastor Search Committee

The pulpit or pastor search committee is to secure and supply ministers for each Sunday worship and whenever needed. The committee will receive letters and resumes in order to submit information to the church on applicants. The committee shall be authorized to make necessary investigations of the candidates given serious consideration for the position of pastor. No one on the committee shall act as an individual or without the instruction of the church.

Deacons

The number of active deacons which shall serve this church, shall be determined by the needs of the congregation. The office of deacon is one of service, not position. Only men qualified according to the scripture should be selected to this service.

The church has no obligation to recognize as an assigned deacon, one who has been a deacon in another church. A deacon is only a deacon at the church where he has been appointed.

However, a man who has united with this church and has previously served as deacon in his former church, can be appointed as a deacon and his previous ordination by another Missionary Baptist church shall suffice for this church.

It is the pastor’s responsibility through his teaching ministry to make the congregation aware of the qualifications of deacons. Selection of candidates for the deaconship shall be made by a vote of the church. It then becomes the pastor’s responsibility to prepare the candidate for ordination. He then becomes the pastor’s helper in carrying out the ministry of the church. Deacons are to be servants in the church. They have a threefold responsibility in caring for the church’s people, the church’s property, and the church’s pastor. Acts 6:1‑7 and I Timothy 3:8‑13 shall serve as guides in the selection of deacons.

(Amended 3/31/88)

Duties As Deacons

Serve as spiritual assistants to the pastor in the work of the church.
Assist the pastor in the ordinances of baptism and the Lord’s Supper.
Work with the associate ministers in the absence of the pastor.
At the vacancy of the pastor, the deacons are responsible for the divine guidance.
See that the benevolence is being distributed properly.
Serve on each church committee, as staff is available.
Work with the choirs as a spiritual advisor. They are expected to attend Sunday church school, and take an active part in prayer meeting and bible study. They are responsible for the devotional services, and are expected to accompany the pastor on all church outings. Two or more deacons are expected to be present whenever there is a service or program in the church. I Timothy 3:13, “for they that have used the office of a deacon will purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.”
Trustees

The trustees will hold in trust the church property. They shall have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease or transfer any property without a specific vote of the church authorizing each action. It shall be the function of the trustees to affix their signatures to legal documents involving the sale, mortgage, purchase, or rental of property or other legal documents where the signatures of trustees are required. The trustees shall be responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of all church properties and equipment. When there is a need for repairs, renovations, purchase or sale of any church property, the trustees shall be the legally constituted body to transact such business upon authorization of the church, which shall, at all times, be the active members. It is the responsibility of the trustees to see to it that the church building is as follows:

At all times, heated, cooled or lighted adequately;
To see to it that the building is clean and open for all services and meetings;
To see that the building is secure at all times;
To see that the grounds are kept free of debris, trash;
To see that the grass is cut and shrubbery is pruned; and
To see that sidewalks are clear of snow in winter.

Trustees shall be elected annually by vote of the church. The number of trustees which shall serve this church shall be determined by the needs of the congregation.

Church Secretary

The church secretary shall work under the direct supervision of the pastor. This person is responsible for keeping a suitable record of all official actions of the church as follows:

Preserving on file all communications and written official reports;
Giving required notice of all meetings where notice is necessary;
Preparing and printing weekly announcements and bulletins;
Taking and transcribing dictation;
Sorting and routing daily mail;
Acting as receptionist to the pastor;
Requesting and forwarding church letters;
Compiling and typing special correspondence for monthly business meetings;
Serving as secretary at monthly business meetings;
Assisting church committees as requested;
Performing other responsibilities as assigned;
In the absence of the financial secretary, the church secretary will take her place.

Work hours: 10:30 A.M. ‑ 2:30 P.M. (Mon. ‑ Fri.)

Holidays:

New Years’ Eve

New Years’ Day

Martin Luther King’s Birthday

Good Friday

Memorial Day

Independence Day

Labor Day

Thanksgiving Day and Day after

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

Vacation: Two weeks paid vacation. The days may be taken by the week or by the day.

(Adopted in church business meeting, Thursday, January 3, 1985)

Financial Secretary.

The financial secretary shall be elected annually. This person is responsible for maintaining the church financial records as follows;

Preparing periodical financial reports;
Assistance in counting and depositing all church offerings;
Posting receipts and disbursements of all accounts according to financial system;
Preparing bank reconciliation statements monthly;
Preparing financial reports for finance committee and church business meeting;
Preparing monthly and annual statements;
Preparing government statements as needed;
Checking and totaling invoices when approved;
Maintaining file of invoices, correspondence, and reports; and,
Preparing and issuing checks in accordance with church policy.

All records of finance shall remain permanent records of the church.

Records Secretary

Duties shall be as follows:

Keeping a register of names of members with date of admission, dismission, death, or exclusions, together with a record of baptisms;
Issuing letters of dismission;
Receiving letters of recommendation;
Recording information regarding new members joining the church;
Maintaining church roll; (duty formerly performed by church secretary);
Posting of weekly offerings to individual accounts and filing of envelopes; (duty formerly performed by financial secretary) and
Assisting other secretaries in the performance of their duties.

(Adopted in church business meeting, October 3, 1985)

Treasurer

The treasurer shall be elected annually and shall be bonded in the amount of $20,000. This person shall have custody of all church funds. All expenditures must be signed or verified by the treasurer. Full and accurate records of all accounts, receipts, expenditures, and all financial transactions are to be kept by the treasurer.

Church Auxiliaries

The auxiliaries of this church shall be:

– Pastor’s Aid Committee

– Sunday Church School

– Baptist Training Union

– Mothers

– Number I Club (Disbanded January 1, 1992)

– Number II Club (Disbanded January 1, 1992)

– Number IV Club (Disbanded January 1, 1992)

– Carrie Atkins Ushers

– Male Ushers ( adopted to delete March 3, 2005)

– Nurses Guild

– Kitchen Committee

– Junior Women (Ages 25‑35) Amended November 2, 1989 (adopted to delete March 3, 2005)

– Senior Women (ages 56‑up) amended November 2, 1989

(Named Juanita Fowler Missionary Auxiliary June 9, 1993)

– Matrons (ages 36‑55) amended November 2, 1989 (adopted to change ages 36-55 March 3, 2005)

– Senior Choir and Young Adult Choir (adopted to change name to the Adult Choir, March 3, 2005

– Youth Choir

– Male Chorus (adopted to add to Constitution March 3, 2005)

– Earlyrisers Choir (adopted to add to Constitution March 3, 2005)

– General Missionary Department

– Brotherhood Department

– Youth Department

– Sick Visitation Team

All auxiliaries in the church shall be under church control. All officers of the church auxiliaries shall be selected by their group, but subject to the approval of the church.

Article VII. Church Meetings

Section I. Worship Service

The church shall meet for worship each Sunday:

– Morning Worship 8:00 A.M.

– Sunday Church School 9:30 A.M.

– Morning Worship 11:00 A.M.

– Baptist Training Union 6:00 P.M.

– Teachers Meeting (Tuesdays) 7:00 P.M.

– Prayer Services (Tuesdays) 7:45 P.M.

– Bible Study (Tuesdays) 8:15 P.M.

(Note: 8:00 Worship instituted first Sunday in January, 1986 and adopted in Constitution March 31, 1988.)

Bible Study (Tuesdays) 6:00 P.M.

Baptist Training Union (Tuesdays) 6:45 P.M.

Prayer Services (Tuesdays) 7:30 P.M.

Teachers Meeting (Tuesdays) 8:00 P.M.

(Changes of above mid-week services were amended and adopted in Constitution effective March 3, 2005.)

The pastor shall direct the services for all the church members and for all others who may choose to attend.

Section II. Special Services

Revivals, workshops and other services of inspiration and information may be planned for the advancement of the church’s objectives.

Section III. Business meeting

The regularly scheduled time for business meetings shall be the Thursday night before the first Sunday of the months of March, June, and September at 7:00 P.M. (Amended March 8, 1990). Planning Conference, the time for making the following year’s plans, shall be the second Saturday in November. Each auxiliary should bring a written report to each business meeting.

The church may conduct called business meetings to consider matters which are urgent.

Section IV. Quorum

The quorum shall consist of those members who attend the business meeting, provided the meeting is a scheduled meeting or one that has been properly called. The basic principles of parliamentary law shall be through the guidance of the holy spirit. However, in matters of practical parliamentary law, we shall refer to the Robert’s Rule Of Order, when necessary.

Article VIII. Church Finance

This church shall be supported by tithes and offerings only. We shall not resort to the selling of any goods or services for the ongoing of this church. The bible clearly teaches the giving of tithes and offerings as god’s plan of church finance.

This church shall operate on a budget, which shall first be approved by the pastor and budget committee, then approved by the church. It should be understood that the budget shall only serve as a guide. It may become necessary to insert or delete some items in the budget, depending on the circumstances.

It is understood that membership in this church involves finance in order to support its work. Each member should feel an obligation to support the church and its work through the giving of tithes and offerings. Offering envelopes shall be provided by the church and members are urged to use the envelopes. The use of the envelopes assists the church in the preparation and maintenance of good financial and attendance records.

All funds received for any and all purposes of this church shall pass through the hands of the church treasurer and financial secretary. They are to be recorded on the books of the church and disbursed by check only.

The church year shall run from January 1 to December 31.

Article IX. Ordinances

The church shall observe only two (2) ordinances:

Baptism

Lord’s Supper

Section I. Baptism

A person who receives Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior by personal faith, who professes him publicly, and who indicates a commitment to follow Christ as a disciple, shall be received for baptism. Baptism shall be administered as an act of worship during any worship service. A person professing faith in Christ and failing to be baptized after a reasonable length of time, shall be counseled by the pastor and/or deacons. If negative interest is ascertained, that person shall be deleted from those awaiting baptism.

Baptism is a symbolic act, symbolizing the death, burial and resurrection of Christ.

Section II. The Lord’s Supper

The church shall observe the Lord’s Supper each first Sunday, unless otherwise scheduled. The pastor and deacons shall administer the Lord’s Supper. The table shall be prepared by the mothers of the church.

The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act whereby the church commemorates the suffering and death of Christ, as well as the anticipation of his second coming.

Article X. Choir And Musicians

Section I.

The following rules must be adhered to:

The various choirs will be organized in as close a peer grouping as possible.
Senior Choir ages 36 and up
Young Adult Choir ages 18‑35
Youth Choir ages 11‑17
Little Saints Choir ages 10 and under
Young people who marry or have children will be required to be a member of the young adult choir.
All choir members entering the choir stand late must fill in on the end of the rows.
All choir members with physical problems and cannot march in must have previous approval to enter the choir stand after the processional. No one is to stand in the choir stand or on the side during the processional.

The first obligation of all choirs is the church. There is no other reason for their existence. Therefore, no choir will accept a commitment outside the church when the church is engaged in a service or program at home or away. No commitment shall be accepted without the approval of the pastor and/or church.

Unless a dire emergency shall arise, choir members should feel it a necessity to remain in the choir stand during worship services.

Only those choir members who have rehearsed prior to the Sunday they are to sing (that is if rehearsal is scheduled) shall sing on that Sunday. Choir rehearsal is of the utmost importance to the development of a sound music department. It is, therefore, necessary that choir members rehearse with the same diligence with which they would sing on Sunday. The main purpose of choir rehearsal, is for the learning of new music and preparation to render a ministry of music on the Sunday assigned to them to the end that those who come to worship may be led into meaningful worship experiences.

Any member of a choir who constantly disrupts a rehearsal or business meeting and who displays unchristian conduct to the detriment of harmony in the choir, will be required to discontinue their membership in the choir.

All choir robes, except those purchased by individuals, are the property of the church. Members who accept robes or stoles from the church, are accountable to the church for their upkeep. If a robe or stole is stolen or lost, or disfigured beyond repair, that member to whom the robe is assigned, is held responsible for replacing that robe or stole and is not to sing in the choir until that item is replaced or an order placed for a new one.

All choir members scheduled to sing on a given Sunday, are expected to be robed and ready to take the choir stand by 10:30 A.M. on that Sunday.

Section II. Musicians

The musicians are responsible to the church for serving as a musician and assisting in the music ministry. The musicians have the responsibility of playing for all services of the church as follows:

Both regular and special services;

Serving as accompanist for choirs and soloists in regular and special services;

Playing for weddings and funerals;

Assisting the pastor in the planning of music for worship services; and

Maintaining music ministry files.

Musicians shall be compensated monthly for their services. Each musician shall have one Sunday per month off. However, if their services are needed on their off Sunday, adjustments would be made through the pastor and other musicians.

Article XI. Bus Regulations

The deacons will govern the use of the bus and are charged with the following responsibilities:

Control over who will drive the bus;
Set priorities on the bus based on church needs;
Maintain a record on gas, oil, mileage, etc.;
Once a month the review of the maintenance book;
Appoint two deacons to enforce these regulations Deacons Rhodes and Reed.

The drivers are charged with the following responsibilities:

Notify the designated deacon when they are unable to drive;
Maintain accurate records in the maintenance book;
Keep the bus on the church property when not in use;
Report any individual who behaves in an unchristian manner while riding the bus to the designated deacon; and
Each driver will keep his bus clean on the inside; the church will keep it clean on the outside.

Members desiring the service of the bus for transportation to church services must call the church secretary not later than noon on Friday(s). The church secretary is to notify the bus driver of all requests by noon on Saturday(s).

No one shall drive the bus except those whose name(s) appear on the insurance policy.

Article XII. Benevolent Work And Scholarship Fund

Section I. Benevolent Work

Since Jesus went about doing good, when special needs of persons are brought to our attention, we shall provide assistance according to our ability and best judgment in the matter at hand. A Poor Saints Request For Assistance Form may be secured from any deacon.

Section II. Scholarship Fund

The church shall provide a scholarship fund for active members who would desire to pursue a college education and would need some assistance. This scholarship fund shall be called the D. L. Williams Memorial Scholarship Fund. Those receiving funds must meet the criteria set by the Scholarship Committee and adopted by the church.

The amount of funds given shall be according to funds available and amount of tuition. In order to review applications, there shall be a Scholarship Committee made up of five (5) persons. At least one of those persons should be a deacon.

Article XIII. Procedures

Section I. In Case Of Death

Call your pastor immediately!!It is his duty and privilege to be with the family at this time. It is, also, the pastor’s responsibility to plan the funeral service with the family. In no case should a funeral service be planned to be held in the church, without first consulting with the pastor. It is his responsibility and privilege to work with the family and mortician in arranging the time and place, which would be most convenient to all concerned and to use his expertise in planning the program with the family. Remember!! The pastor is concerned with what is best for the family at this time and has their welfare at heart.

Section II. Visiting Ministers

In no case shall a member or auxiliary invite a minister to preach in the church without first consulting the pastor. All ministers who preach will receive a “love offering.” If the “love offering” is less than $100.00, The church will make the amount $100.00. This does not include preachers who come from long distances or evangelists for revival services. There will be no women preachers permitted to preach here.

Section III. Care Of The Church And Christian Conduct

There should be no eating or drinking in the sanctuary at any time. No food or soft drinks will be sold during any worship service.

Persons found loitering outside the church during worship services will be asked to come into the services or leave the premises.

The church building is not to be rented or made available to non-church related groups for programs. All singing groups expecting compensation from the church shall be compensated by a “love offering.” Any use of the church by another church must have the authorization of the pastor and/or church.

The church facilities shall be made available for active members and the immediate family of active members for weddings at no charge. All other persons would be required to give a donation of $25.00 In advance. In any case, it will be the family’s responsibility to see that the building is clean after the wedding.

The pulpit is set aside for men who have been called to preach the gospel. It is not to be used by any layman for speaking or singing, nor is it to be used for a passage way to move from one side of the building to another.

Section IV. Dress Code For Females

Women shall not be permitted to wear pants in meetings, regular or special worship services in the sanctuary, however; they shall be permitted to wear pants during rehearsals in the sanctuary and also in the education and fellowship hall facilities. Worship services are training sessions; i.e. Baptist Training Union, Teachers Meeting, Bible Study. (adopted to delete June 3, 2005)

Article XIV. Amendments

This constitution may be amended, altered, or revised at any regular business meeting of the church, provided that each item to be considered shall have been presented in writing at a previous business meeting. Amendments to this Constitution shall be by a two‑thirds (2/3) vote of the members present and voting.

Officers And Church Leaders 2006

DEACONS

Chairman-Deacon Eugene McKissack, Sr.

Vice Chairman-Deacon Willie Mayes

TRUSTEES

Chairman-Deacon Cordell Kidd

Vice Chairman-Deacon Eugene McKissack, Sr.

Treasurer-Deacon Eugene McKissack, Sr.

MEMBERS

Brother Charles Hudson Deacon Willie Mayes Sister Ora Smith

Sister Vera Stokes Brother Donald Wynn Sister Eva Rogan, Trustee Emeritus

SUNDAY CHURCH SCHOOL STAFF

Director Sister Barbara Wynn

Assistant Director Sister Helen Sneed

Secretary Sister Ann Radford

Assistant Secretary Sister Verdell Booker

Announcement Clerk Sister Annie Bartlett

Assistant Announcement Clerk Sister Jasmine Davidson

DIVISION DIRECTORS

Children and Youth Sister Patricia Nichols

Adults Brother Donald Wynn

Outreach Director Sister Annie McClain

SUNDAY CHURCH SCHOOL CLASSES AND TEACHERS

Beginners Ages 1-4 Sister Valerie Watson/ Sister Phyllis Booker

Kindergarten Ages 5-7 Sister Nina Green/ Sister Ruby Merriwether

Primary Ages 8-9 Sister Vera Bufford/ Sister Candace Reynolds

Junior Ages 10-12 Sister Vera Stokes/ Reverend Andrew Reynolds

Junior High Ages 13-14 Sister Selene Towensend/ Reverend Pierre Hambrick

High School Ages 15-18 Sister Amelia Brown/Reverend Shawn Sanders

Adult I Ages 19-32 Brother Leon Davis/Deacon Henry Booker

Adult II Ages 33-38 Sister Valerie White/Sister Jacqulyn Humphrey

Adults III Ages 39-42 Deacon Nathaniel Hicks/Brother Michael White

Adult IV Ages 43-45 Deacon Venson Cawthon/Reverend Frank Lowery

Adult V Ages 46-49 Unknown

Adult VI Ages 50-53 Sister Charlene Stuart/Reverend Winston Davidson

Adult VII Ages 54-60 Reverend Thomas Hunter/ Sister Helen Sneed

Adult VIII Ages 61-69 Sister Mary Bryant/Reverend Edgar Hunter

Adult IX Ages 70+ Sister Ora Smith/Sister Andrea Akins/Reverend Bobby Nichols

BAPTIST TRAINING UNION

Director Reverend Thomas Hunter

Assistant Director Sister Selene Townsend

Secretary Sister Shirlitha Stanley

Assistant Secretary Sister Patricia Nichols

Bible Driller Brother Leon Davis

CAPTAINS

Ages 12 and under Sister Ruby Merriwether

Ages 13 and over (TBA)

Adults Pastor Brooks/Associate Ministers

NEW MEMBERS CLASSES

New Member Orientation Sister Rosia Anderson

Christian Enrichment Sister Sarah Brooks

Money Management Deacon Cordell Kidd

Spiritual Gifts Brother Rodney Harris

CHURCH MOTHERS

President Sister Ruby Merriwether

Vice President Sister Dorthy Mayes

Secretary Sister Sarah Brooks

Assistant Secretary Sister Robbie Marthel

Bible Instructor Sister Helen Sneed/Sister Juanita Fowler

NURSES GUILD

President Sister Harriett Bryant

Vice President Brother Morris Rogan

Secretary Sister Jane Houston

Bible Instructor Sister Brenda Fowler

SICK VISITATION TEAM

Captain Sister Rosia Anderson

Co-Captain Brother Curtis Long

Secretary Sister Carmen Scruggs

Assistant Secretary/Coordinator Sister Trina Scott

Bible Instructor Sister Ora Mai Smith

Assistant Bible Instructor Sister Andrea Akins

PASTOR’S AID COMMITTEE

President Deacon Willie Mayes

Vice President Sister Dorthy Mayes

Secretary/Treasurer Sister Carrie Washington

Assistant Secretary/Treasurer Sister Bettye McMillan

Chaplain Sister Nina Green

Bible Instructor Sister Annie McClain

SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE

Chairperson Sister Janet King

Vice Chairperson Deacon Venson Cawthon

Secretary Brother Donald Wynn

Financial Secretary Sister Charlene Stuart

Members Reverend Shawn Sanders/Sister Ashley Baxter

Sister Jessica Sanders/Sister Patricia Harris

CARRIE ATKINS USHERS

President Sister Vera Stokes

Vice President Sister Vera Bufford

Secretary Sister Shakira Bufford

Assistant Secretary Brother Charles Townsend

Chaplain Sister Rachel Williams

GENERAL MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

President Reverend Bobby Nichols

First Vice President Brother Curtis Long

Second Vice President Sister Amelia Brown

Secretary Sister Barbara Simpson

Assistant Secretary Sister Patricia Nichols

Financial Secretary Sister Charlene Stuart

MATRONS (Ages 18-55)

President Sister Patricia Nichols

Vice President Sister Jacqulyn Humphrey

Secretary Sister Shauna Fleet

Assistant Secretary Sister Tanya Morton

Bible Instructor Sister Amelia Brown

Assistant Bible Instructor Sister Selene Townsend

JUANITA FOWLER SENIOR WOMEN (Ages 56-Up)

President Sister Helen Sneed

Vice President Sister Dorothy Hudson

Secretary Sister Juanita Davidson

Assistant Secretary Sister Barbara Wynn

Treasurer Sister Nannie Snell

Assistant Treasurer Sister Rachel Williams

Bible Instructor Sister Ruby Merriwether

BROTHERHOOD

President Brother Charles Hudson

Vice President Deacon Venson Cawthon

Secretary Brother Curtis Long

Treasurer Brother Michael White

Assistant Treasurer Brother Kylan Dodson

Advisor Reverend Bobby Nichols

Bible Instructor Reverend Edgar Hunter

YOUTH COUNCIL

Director Sister Valerie White

Assistant Director Sister Gina Miller

Secretary Sister Wanda Miller

Assistant Secretary Sister Tunu Kinebrew

OPEN CHRISTIAN ENRICHMENT FELLOWSHIP

President Sister Jasmine Davidson

Vice President Brother Kylan Dodson

Secretary Sister Sharika Bufford

Assistant Secretary Sister Skky Miller

CHURCH SECURITY

Captain Brother Amos Hereford

KITCHEN COMMITTEE

Chairperson Sister Carrie Washington

Co-Chairperson Sister Sarah Brooks

Secretary Sister Dorthy Mayes

Assistant Secretary Sister Dorothy Hudson

Treasurer Sister Robbie Marthel

Bible Instructor Reverend Winston Davidson

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Sister Tamela Smith Brother Charles Hudson Sister Vera Stokes

Sister Ruby Merriwether Brother Carl Davidson Sister Dorothy Doss

Sister Nannie Snell Deacon Willie Mayes Brother James Ligon

Brother John Freedland

HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE

Chairperson Reverend Winston Davidson

Assistant Chairperson Brother Leon Davis

Secretary Sister Sonia Sewell

Bible Instructor Deacon Venson Cawthon

PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

Chairperson- Brother Donald Wynn

Vice Chairperson-Deacon Eugene McKissack, Sr.

MEMBERS

Sister Helen Sneed Sister Octavia Brooks Brother Amos Hereford

Sister Ora Smith Reverend Thomas Hunter

ANNUAL DAY CHAIRPERSONS

81st Church Anniversary and Homecoming

Chairperson Sister Ruby Merriwether

Co-Chairpersons Sister Dorthy Mayes and Auxiliary Leaders

22nd Pastor and Family Appreciation Day

Chairperson Deacon Willie Mayes

Co-Chairpersons Deacon Nathaniel Hicks and Auxiliary Leaders

Vacation Bible School and Church Picnic

Director Sister Vera Stokes

Assistant Director Reverend Winston Davidson

National Congress

Coordinator Sister Charlene Stuart

Church Conference

Chairperson Sister Sarah Brooks

Sister Jessica Sanders Brother Leon Davis

Sister Dimeta Smith Deacon Eugene McKissack, Sr.

Activity Committee

Chairperson Deacon Venson Cawthon

Secretary Sister Ann Radford

C H U R C H M I N I S T R I E S

Sunday Church School-Sundays at 9:30 a.m.

Mid-Week Services-Tuesdays at 6:00-8:45 p.m.

Deacons and Trustees Meeting-Wednesdays before Business Meetings at 6:00 p.m.

Sick Visitation Team-2nd Saturdays at 11:00 a.m.

Open Christian Enrichment Fellowship – 2nd Saturday at 12:30 p.m.

Youth Council and O.C.E.F. Officers- 3rd Sunday following 11:00 a.m. worship

Carrie Atkins Ushers-Saturday after the First Sunday at 12:30 p.m.

Pastor’s Aid Committee-Thursday after the Second Sunday in January, March, May, September and November at 6:30 p.m. and in July, Thursday after the First Sunday at 6:30 p.m.

Senior’s Ministry-Fourth Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

(unless otherwise notified)

Church Mothers-Second Saturdays at 10:00 a.m.

Hospitality Committee-Second Sunday following 11:00 a.m. Worship

Nurses Guild-Wednesday after the Second Sunday at 6:30 p.m.

Juanita Fowler Senior Women Family Life Center -Thursday after the Third Sunday in April, July, October at 7:00 p.m.

Matrons – Kelly Miller Smith- First Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m.

Monday after Labor Day in September at 7:00p.m.

General Missionary Department Fourth Sunday following 11:00 a.m. Worship

Brotherhood Every Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at Nashville Rescue Mission

Adult Choir Wednesday before the Second and Fourth Sunday at 7:00 p.m.

Combined Choirs Wednesday night before the first Sunday at 7:00 p.m.

Male Chorus Saturdays before the Second Sunday at 5:00p.m. and Saturday before the Fifth Sunday at 5:00 p.m.

Little Saints/Youth Choir Saturday before the Second and Third Saturday at 11:00 a.m.

Earlyrisers Second and Fourth Mondays at 6:30 p.m.

Scholarship Committee (whenever needed)

Bus Ministry (call by Saturday)

Kitchen Committee (whenever needed)