Morning Star Community Church Constitution

 

Don't forget to change update date and date of footer.                                                                CONSTITUTION

                                              (Constitution and By-Laws As Of 1/30/00)

 

ARTICLE I - NAME:

 

The name of this church shall be Morning Star Community Church, incorporated on                    under the laws of the state of Colorado.  Its address shall be Red Feather Lakes, Colorado.

 

ARTICLE II – PURPOSE

The purpose of this organization shall be to operate as a non-denominational Christian congregation to maintain public services for the worship of God and for the teaching and preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ as set forth in the Scriptures; furthermore, our purpose is to promote the Christian life and activities in the community, and in general, to advance His Church at home and abroad.

 

ARTICLE III - STATEMENT OF FAITH:

See Appendix One

 

ARTICLE IV - 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, we do now in the presence of God, angels, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyously 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 love as disciples of Christ and brethren in spirit to strive for the advancement of this church in knowledge, holiness and comfort; to sustain its worship, work, discipline and teachings; to attend all its regularly scheduled services unless prevented by some reason which one can conscientiously give to the Savior; to give it a sacred preeminence over all other organizations; to contribute cheerfully, regularly and in proportion to our ability to the support of this church and to its general beneficence, including the spread of the gospel to all nations; to watch over and admonish one another in brotherly love; to remember each other in prayer; to aid each other in sickness and distress; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation and, mindful of the rules of our Savior to secure it without delay; to maintain private and if practical, family devotions; to search the Scriptures for the Spirit of Christ; to Biblically educate those who may be under our care; to be pure in speech, just in dealings, faithful in engagements and exemplary in behavior; to endeavor by direct effort, as well as by example to win people into the Kingdom of Christ, to seek harmony with other Christians of many names; to Christianize all society; to be zealous in our efforts to advance the Kingdom of Christ in our community and throughout the world.

 

ARTICLE V - WORSHIP:

 

This church is allowed freedom of worship.  The form and order of worship shall be that most appropriate to the needs and desires of this church as determined by the Pastor and the Board of Elders.

 

ARTICLE VI - MEMBERSHIP:

 

Section 1.  CHARTER MEMBERSHIP-upon ratification of this constitution, any attender who wishes to become a member will sign a charter within 30 days in order to become a member; provided that such attender comply with the terms of eligibility set forth in Article VI, Section 2 of this Constitution.

 

Section 2.  ELIGIBILITY-Any person who would desire to become a member of this organization must give evidence of their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, and have been baptized and shall be in agreement with the Statement of Faith under Article III, and in agreement with this Constitution.

 

Section 3.  ADMISSION-Persons can join this church by confession of faith, by statement of faith in writing, or by letter of transfer from another church which agrees this church's membership policy.  The prospective member must sign the Membership Application (see Appendix 2) and be approved by the Board of Elders.  After approval by the Board of Elders, the application shall be voted on by the church membership at a congregational meeting. A simple majority is required for approval.  Approval shall not be withheld due to an individual's race, national origin or political beliefs.  Pastor and wife become members by virtue of their positions.

 

AMENDMENT 1 Under Section 3.  ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP-Those who are good standing members of other churches of like faith, who desire to retain their membership in that church, and would also desire to become a member of Morning Star Community Church, may become Associate Members of this church.  The Eligibility and Admission requirements are the same as those set forth in Article VI, Section 2 & 3 of this Constitution.  In addition to those requirements, an Associate Member, in order to exercise his or her voting rights, must have attended at least 33% of the regularly scheduled Sunday morning worship services, or Wednesday Bible Studies, in the past 3 calendar months.  Minutes from the regularly scheduled Congregational meetings will be sent by mail to the Associate Members on a regular basis.  No Associate Member shall hold any office specified in this Constitution, but may sit on a committee if so designated by the Board of Elders.

 

Section 4.  RECORD-When admitted to membership, all members shall have their names affixed to the official membership record and a certificate of membership shall be given each.

 

Section 5. NON-DENOMINATIONAL CHARACTER-Morning Star Community Church is a non-denominational church composed of a unique mix of members from many different backgrounds. Therefore, members agree to be united as to the fundamentals reflected in the Statement of Faith and to hold to individual liberty in other areas of faith. Members should not promote their beliefs in areas other than the statement of faith by teaching or practicing these beliefs in group settings or through intolerance of others who hold different views. The Pastor shall have freedom to preach and teach as he is led with sensitivity to differing views. To maintain our commitment to our Statement of Faith, our vision and commitments and our non-denominational character all officer positions mentioned in this constitution shall be held by members. Members shall hold all other leadership positions in the church, as defined by the elders, unless specifically exempted by the Elders.

 

Section 6.  TERMINATION-Termination of membership shall be achieved in one of the following manners:

            1.  Letter of request to transfer membership to another church.

            2.  Written or verbal request of the member to the Board of Elders.

            3.  Death.

            4.  An active member is one who attends regularly and supports the church with time, talents and tithes.  If a member has not been active for six (6) consecutive months, as determined by the Board of Elders, he/she shall be placed on an inactive roll for one (1) year.  After one year, at the discretion of the Board of Elders, he/she shall be dropped from the church membership rolls.

Section 7.  TERMINATION BY CHURCH DISCIPLINE.

        1.         Church discipline, by which members of this church are held accountable for their actions, is commanded and directed by Scripture (Matt. 18:15-20; I Cor. 5; II Cor. 2:5-11).

        2.         The purpose of church discipline is to guard the holy Name of God, to prevent sin from spreading in this body and to cause the repentance and restoration of a sinning member.

        3.         It is, therefore, the duty of this church to begin church discipline for a member who has an unforgiving spirit, who no longer holds to the Statement of Faith, who disturbs the unity and peace of this church or who is involved in open wickedness and immorality.

        4.         Church discipline should begin with private contact by a member who becomes aware of another member's sin.  If that member repents, complete forgiveness should be extended.  If that member refuses to repent the Pastor and Board of Elders should be contacted.  The Pastor and Board of Elders shall also begin discipline if the sin is of a public nature.  The original person involved and the Pastor and a Elder will contact the sinning member.  If the Pastor is not available, two Elders will contact the sinning member. If that member repents, complete forgiveness should be extended.  If the person refuses to repent, the Pastor and Board of Elders will bring the matter to a business meeting of the congregation.  The congregation will be instructed to contact the sinning member to encourage repentance.  If that member repents, complete forgiveness should be extended.  If the member refuses to repent, upon recommendation of the Pastor and Board of Elders, the member may be terminated from membership.  The decision will require a simple majority vote of the voting members present at a specially called congregational meeting, providing that a quorum is present.  Such a member will not be welcome to attend any of the functions of the church until he or she gives satisfactory evidence to the Pastor and Board of Elders of repentance. Then, upon recommendation of the Pastor and Board of Elders, the person will be welcomed back into membership and full fellowship of the church.

5.         In the event that a member subject to discipline resigns his or her membership the Pastor and Board of Elders will accept the resignation under church discipline. The congregation will be notified.

6.         All members of this church and members who resign their membership while under church discipline relinquish all legal remedy against Morning Star Community Church and its officers.

 

ARTICLE VII - ADMINISTRATION:

 

Section 1.  The supreme legislative and administrative power of the congregation itself is provided for in the Constitution and By-laws.

 

Section 2.  It is the prerogative of the congregational meeting to decide such matters as the buying and selling of property, building projects, extensive repairs of church property, the calling and rejecting of a Pastor or Pastors, change or revisions in the Constitution and By-laws, and to determine the salaries of the Pastor and other paid employees of this church, if any.

 

Section 3.  For the transaction of all other business the administration of the church is entrusted to the supervision of the Board of Elders.  This body shall have such authority as is designated by the Constitution and By-laws and the congregation.

 

Section 4.  No part of the net earnings of this corporation shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to its members, officers or other private persons, except that the corporation shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for the services rendered and to make payments and distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth in Article II.

 

Section 5.  The annual accounting period to be used by this corporation shall end on June 30 of each calendar year.

 

ARTICLE VIII - CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGS:

 

Section 1.  There shall be two regular congregational meetings per calendar year.  The first, which shall be called the Annual Meeting, shall be on the last Sunday of June, and second shall be on the last Sunday of January.

                                                                                                                                                           

Section 2.  Special meetings may be called by the Board of Elders.  Regular and special meetings of the congregation shall be announced at least two Sundays before such meetings, or proper notice of the time, place and purpose of such meetings shall be sent to all members through the mail.  In special meetings, only such business as has been mentioned in the call may be transacted.

 

Section 3.  The business meetings shall be conducted according to parliamentary procedure as stated in "Roberts Rule of Order-Revised."

 

Section 4.  Twenty-five percent of the members shall constitute a quorum.  Only those members who are not Associate Members shall be counted in consideration of a quorum.  There shall be no voting by proxy. At the determination of the elders, members and associate members shall be allowed to vote by absentee ballot. In such case, an absentee ballot shall be mailed to each active member and associate member at least four weeks before the vote. The absentee ballot must be signed by the member or associate member to be valid. No ballots returned after the voting takes place will be valid. In the case of a vote allowed by absentee ballot, a quorum must still be present.

 

Section 5.  The Chairman of the Board shall preside over all meetings of the congregation unless the business pertains to that office.  In such case, another board member shall preside over the meeting of the congregation.

 

Section 6.  The Board of Elders, the Deaconesses, the Trustees, the Treasurer and all standing committees shall report at the Annual Meeting to the congregation.

 

Section 7.  All members age sixteen and over, shall be eligible to vote.

 

Section 8.  A nominating committee shall consist of the Pastor, a member of the Board of Elders, a member of the Board of Deaconesses, and two additional members at large from the membership selected by the Board of Elders.  This committee shall meet in April to consider and to secure the consent of those who, in the committee's opinion, are spiritually qualified to hold an office or committee position and will seek to meet the requirements of the job description.  These names will be put into nomination for the office at the Annual Meeting.  The nominees' names and their prospective offices shall be posted not less than four weeks before the Annual Meeting in a conspicuous place at the location of regular functions.  If a member of the congregation has a serious objection to a nominee it is the responsibility of that member to contact the Pastor at least two weeks prior to the Annual Meeting.  There shall be no nominations from the floor at the Annual Meeting.  This is the purpose of the Nominating Committee.  Any person desiring another person to serve in an office shall submit such names to the Nominating Committee for consideration.

 

Section 9.  The selection of all officers and positions mentioned in this constitution, if there are two or more candidates, shall be by drawing.  All votes by the congregation pertaining to officers, committees, the Pastor or property, shall be by secret ballot.  If deemed necessary, the moderator shall have the authority to appoint a committee to conduct and oversee the selection.

 

ARTICLE IX - REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY:

 

Section 1.  The congregation may, in its corporate name, sue and be sued, hold, purchase and receive title by gift, grant, deed, transfer, inheritance or other transaction of and to any property, real or personal, with power to mortgage, sell or convey the same, providing the State laws permit said transactions.

 

Section 2.  Real property retained by the Church shall be consistent with the Biblical and educational programs of the Church.

 

Section 3.  The Board of Elders shall exercise authority to permit or refuse the use of the Church building or property if such usage of these seems contrary to the Church policy and procedures.

 

Section 4.  The Church building may be used by any and all members for weddings or funerals.  Nonmembers who desire to use Church property or buildings must have consent from the Board of Elders and the Pastor.

 

Section 5.  The purchase, encumberment or sale of any real estate or other property of the Church must be authorized by a two-thirds majority vote of those present at such a meeting of the congregation for the purpose of considering such a transaction, providing there is a quorum present at such meeting.

 

ARTICLE X - CHURCH FINANCES:

 

Section 1.  Recognizing that our giving shall be motivated by grateful response to the love of God for us in Christ, the congregation shall, in general, derive its financial support for its entire program and benevolence through direct giving.

 

ARTICLE XI - CHRISTIAN EDUCATION:

 

The congregation shall provide a complete program of Christian education for the children, adolescents and adults. Teachers must be members in good standing for at least six months. Individual members of the congregation shall be encouraged to assist in this instruction.

 

ARTICLE XII - PASTOR:

 

Section.  DUTIES-the Pastor of the congregation shall be a licensed and/or ordained minister and shall be the spiritual guide of the congregation, and shall act in accordance with the Constitution and Bylaws of Morning Star Community Church.  He shall equip the saints and teach the body, shall conduct all services, direct the work of biblical education, visit the sick, comfort the distressed and perform all duties as belong to the Pastor's office of this Church.  He shall be an ex-officio member of all boards and committees and organizations within the Church.

 

Section 2.  ELECTION-The congregation has the voluntary authority to elect the Pastor and this right shall never be designated to individuals or to the Board of Elders.  Such election of a Pastor shall be by secret ballot, and shall require a two-thirds majority vote of the members, providing there is a quorum present.

 

Amendment 1 under Section 2.  So long as Village Missions is in leadership they shall provide a Pastor.  If the church no longer desires Village Missions leadership then the above Section 2 will become effective.

 

Section 3.  TERM-The term of the Pastor shall be for an indefinite period and may be terminated by one of the following manners:

 

            1.         30 days notice by the Pastor.

            2.         30 days notice by the congregation.  A two-thirds majority of a voting quorum at a business meeting called for the purpose of dismissal of the Pastor is necessary for dismissal.

 

Section 4.  A written statement setting forth the salary to be paid and other conditions of the call shall be made in duplicate, one copy for the Pastor and one copy for the church.

 

ARTICLE XIII - BOARD OF ELDERS:

 

Section 1.  MEMBERS-the Board of Elders shall consist of three male members of this congregation.  They must be members in good standing for at least six months. When the membership of the congregation exceeds 25, one male member of the congregation may be added to the Board for each additional 25 members of the congregation.  If there are not three male members of the congregation willing to serve as Elders, then as many men as are willing to serve, up to three, and who are elected shall serve as Elders.

 

Section 2.  ELECTION-Elections shall be held each year for Elders at the Annual Meeting.  The three nominees having met the requirements for Elder as stated in Section 1, with the most votes shall be elected.  If it has been established that more then three Elders be elected in accordance with Section 1, then the number determined shall be elected.  Beginning at the June 1994 Annual Meeting, Elders shall be selected by drawing.

 

Section 3.  TERM-The term of office of each Elder shall be three years.  In the first election to be held in January 1987, there shall be one Elder elected for a term of three years, one Elder elected for a term of two years and one Elder elected for a term of one year.  Thereafter, each term shall be for a period of three years.  No Elder may serve for two consecutive full three year terms.

 

Section 4.  VACANCY-Any vacancy occurring on the Board of Elders during the year shall be filled by appointment by the Board of Elders and shall be for the remainder of the unfulfilled term.  In the case of a Elder who is here part time, the Board may appoint a Substitute Elder to serve in the absence of the elected Elder.  The Substitute Elder's term will coincide with the term of the Elder who is here part time or until the Elder is able to serve full time.

 

Section 5.  REMOVAL-Any Elder's service may be terminated by a two-thirds vote of the membership at a special meeting called for the purpose of removing a Elder.  This will only take place after a fair and impartial meeting conducted by the Pastor and the Board of Elders.

 

ARTICLE XIV - THE MINISTRY OF THE BOARD OF ELDERS:

 

Section 1.  The purpose of the Board of Elders shall be to 1) Be the spiritual leaders and shepherds of the Morning Star Community Church, 2) To lead primarily by their example, 3) To ensure that our church is true to her vision and commitments and 4) To maintain the functioning of the church in a way that glorifies God.

 

Section 2.  The Board of Elders are under the authority of Jesus Christ, the Word of God and this congregation as fellow believer-priests of God.  The Board of Elders with the Pastor shall provide leadership to this congregation and all boards and committees.

 

Section 3.  The functions of the Board of Elders are listed in the ministry description for the Elders.

 

Section 4.  The Board of Elders shall transact all business of the Church unless otherwise provided, and make provisions for a budget, which will be submitted to the congregation at the Annual Meeting.  Upon approval by a simple majority, this budget will provide financial guidelines to the Board of Elders for the transaction of business through that year and until approval of a new budget.

 

Section 5.  The Board of Elders shall make recommendations to the congregation for salaries which are to be paid the Pastor, and if applicable, to all other paid employees of the Church.  The Elders shall ensure that all practices are in compliance with federal and state laws as long as those laws do not conflict with the Word of God.

 

Section 6.  The Board of Elders has full charge of the administration of the Church's property and is allowed to receive, obligate and expend money as required within the guidelines of the annual budget.  It may, at its discretion, make additional unbudgeted, single expenditures and obligations of amounts not to exceed $300.00 without having to consult the congregation. Total unbudgeted expenditures will not exceed one percent of the annual budget without congregational approval.

 

Section 7.  The Board of Elders shall, at their first meeting following their election, elect from their own membership a Chairman.  The Chairman shall serve a term of one year, with the office being redetermined at the first meeting after the annual meeting, unless the Chairman resigns.

 

Section 8.  The Board of Elders shall have regularly scheduled meetings at least once a month.  The Chairman shall preside over the meeting and the Secretary shall record all proceedings.  A simple majority of Board members shall constitute a quorum.  Special meetings may be called at the request of the Chairman, the Pastor or a majority of Board members.

 

Section 9.  The Board of Elders shall handle and consider suggestions, recommendations and grievances of any member or affiliated organizations.  These shall be submitted in written form and given to any member of the Board.

 

Section 10.  The Board of Elders shall have authority to appoint an individual or a committee, for a designated period of time, to assist in the spiritual or physical maintenance of the Church.  The Board of Elders shall have authority to designate the supervision of those individuals or committees.

 

ARTICLE XV - BOARD OF DEACONESSES

 

Section 1: MEMBERS-the Board of Deaconesses shall consist of three female members of this congregation.  They must be members in good standing for at least six months.  These women should meet the qualifications outlined in I Timothy 3:11.  Further additions to the number of deaconesses will be decided by majority vote of the congregation.  If there are not three female members of the congregation willing to serve as Deaconesses, then as many women as are willing to serve, up to three, and who are elected shall serve as Deaconesses.

 

Section 2.  SELECTION-Deaconesses shall be selected each year at the Annual Meeting.  The nominees shall meet the requirements for Deaconesses as stated in Section 1.  The nominee(s) selected by drawing will serve as Deaconess(es).  If it has been established that more then three Deaconesses be selected in accordance with Section 1, then the number determined shall be selected.

 

Section 3.  TERM-The term of office of each Deaconess shall be three years.  In the first election to be held in June, 1990, there shall be one Deaconess elected for a term of three years, one Deaconess elected for a term of two years and one Deaconess elected for a term of one year.  Thereafter, each term shall be for a period of three years.  No Deaconess may serve for two consecutive full three year terms.

 

Section 4.  VACANCY-Any vacancy occurring on the Board of Deaconesses during the year shall be filled by appointment by the Board of Elders and shall be for the remainder of the unfulfilled term.  In the case of a Deaconess who is here part time, the Board may appoint a Substitute Deaconess to serve in the absence of the elected Deaconess.  The Substitute Deaconess's term will coincide with the term of the Deaconess who is here part time or until the Deaconess is able to serve full time.

 

Section 5.  REMOVAL-Any Deaconess's service may be terminated by a two-thirds vote of the membership at a special meeting called for the purpose of removing a Deaconess.  This will only take place after a fair and impartial review conducted by the Pastor and the Board of Elders.

 

ARTICLE XVI - THE MINISTRY OF THE BOARD OF DEACONESSES:

 

Section 1.  The purpose of the Board of Deaconesses is 1) To lead by example, especially the women of the church, the great love of Christ, through caring about and loving others, 2) To minister to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the church family as well as needs within the community and 3) To provide an added perspective to the Elders to assist them in leading the church.

 

Section 2.  The Board of Deaconesses are under the authority of Jesus Christ, the Word of God, the Board of Elders and this congregation as fellow believer-priests of God.

 

Section 3.  The functions of the Board of Deaconesses are listed in the ministry description for the Deaconesses.

 

Section 4.  The Board of Deaconesses in a timely manner shall provide recommendations to the Board of Elders for their annual budget needs.  In addition they shall oversee the preparation of the budget recommendations for the social activities of the church. It may, at its discretion, make additional unbudgeted, single expenditures and obligations of amounts not to exceed $300.00 without having to consult the congregation. Total unbudgeted expenditures will not exceed one percent of the annual budget without congregational approval.

 

Section 5.  The Board of Deaconesses shall, at their first meeting following their election, elect from their own membership a Chairwoman and a Secretary.  The Chairwoman and Secretary shall serve terms of one year, with the office being redetermined at the first meeting after the annual meeting, unless the Chairwoman or Secretary resigns.  In the case of a resignation, the Board of Deaconesses shall appoint a woman to fill the remaining term.

 

Section 6.  The Board of Deaconesses shall have regularly scheduled meetings at least once a month.  The Chairwoman shall preside over the meeting and the Secretary shall record all proceedings.  A simple majority of Board members shall constitute a quorum.  Special meetings may be called at the request of the Chairwoman, the Pastor, the Elders or a majority of Board members.

 

ARTICLE XVII - BOARD OF TRUSTEES:

 

Section 1.  MEMBERS-the Board of Trustees shall consist of four members of this congregation. They must be members in good standing for at least six months. When the membership of the congregation exceeds 75, one member of the congregation may be added to the Board for each additional 25 members of the congregation.  If there are not four members of the congregation willing to serve as Trustees, then as many as are willing to serve, up to four, and who are elected shall serve as Trustees.  There shall always be at least one male and one female member of the Board of Trustees.

 

Section 2.  SELECTION-Trustees shall be selected each year at the Annual Meeting.  The four nominees having met the requirements for Trustee as stated in Section 1, with the most votes shall be elected.  Starting in June 1994 Trustees shall be selected by drawing. If it has been established that more then four Trustees be selected in accordance with Section 1, then the number determined shall be selected.

 

Section 3.  TERM-The term of office of each Trustee shall be three years.  In the first election to be held in June 1993, there shall be one Trustee elected for a term of three years, one Trustee elected for a term of two years and two Trustees elected for a term of one year.  Thereafter, each term shall be for a period of three years.  No Trustee may serve for two consecutive full three year terms.

 

Section 4.  VACANCY-Any vacancy occurring on the Board of Trustees during the year shall be filled by appointment by the Board of Elders and shall be for the remainder of the unfulfilled term.  In the case of a Trustee who is here part time, the Elders may appoint a Substitute Trustee to serve in the absence of the elected Trustee.  The Substitute Trustee's term will coincide with the term of the Trustee who is here part time or until the Trustee is able to serve full time.

 

Section 5.  REMOVAL-Any Trustee's service may be terminated by a two-thirds vote of the membership at a special meeting called for the purpose of removing a Trustee.  This will only take place after a fair and impartial meeting conducted by the Pastor and the Board of Elders.

 

ARTICLE XVIII- THE MINISTRY OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES:

 

Section 1.  The purpose of the Board of Trustees is 1) To be responsible for the routine physical operation and facilities of the Church in a manner that glorifies Jesus Christ, 2) To make sure that the church, parsonage, equipment and grounds are properly maintained and 3) To oversee any capital improvements made to the church or parsonage.

 

Section 2.  The Board of Trustees are under the authority of Jesus Christ, the Word of God, the Board of Elders and this congregation as fellow believer-priests of God.  The Board of Trustees shall have authority to hire and direct a custodian.

 

Section 3.  The functions of the Board of Trustees are listed in the ministry description for the Trustees.

 

Section 4.  The Board of Trustees in a timely manner shall provide recommendations to the Board of Elders for annual budget needs for the physical operation and facilities of the church.  They shall provide budget recommendations to the Board of Elders for any capital improvements of the church. It may, at its discretion, make additional unbudgeted, single expenditures and obligations of amounts not to exceed $300.00 without having to consult the congregation. Total unbudgeted expenditures will not exceed one percent of the annual budget without congregational approval.

 

Section 5.  The Board of Trustees shall, at their first meeting following their election, elect from their own membership a Chairman and a Secretary.  The Chairman and Secretary shall serve terms of one year, with the office being redetermined at the first meeting after the annual meeting, unless the Chairman or Secretary resigns.  In the case of a resignation, the Board of Trustees shall appoint a Trustee to fill the remaining term.

 

Section 6.  The Board of Trustees shall have regularly scheduled meetings at least once a month.  The Chairman shall preside over the meeting and the Secretary shall record major decisions.  A simple majority of Trustees shall constitute a quorum.  Special meetings may be called at the request of the Chairman, the Pastor, the Elders or a majority of Trustees.

 

ARTICLE XIX - OFFICERS:

 

Section 1.  TREASURER

            a)  The purpose of the Treasurer is 1) To diligently account for all donations and expenditures and 2) To prepare financial statements for presentation to the Elders and congregation in a way that glorifies God.

 

            b)  The Treasurer is under the authority of Jesus Christ, the Word of God, the Board of Elders and this congregation as fellow believer-priests of God.

 

            c)  The functions of the Treasurer are listed in the ministry description for the Treasurer.

 

            d)  The Treasurer shall, upon receipt of approved bills from creditors, write checks to pay said bills.  The Treasurer shall also prepare and maintain ledgers in accordance with good accounting practice.  Each month, the Treasurer shall submit a monthly report to the Board of Elders of the Church's financial standing.  Each year, at the Annual Meeting, the Treasurer shall submit an annual report of the Church's financial standing.

 

            e)  The term of office of the Treasurer shall be three years.

 

Section 2.  SECRETARY

            a)  The purpose of the Secretary is 1) To record the conduct of the church and 2) To help further communication within the church in a way that glorifies God.

 

            b)  The Secretary is under the authority of Jesus Christ, the Word of God, the Board of Elders and this congregation as fellow believer-priests of God. 

 

            c)  The functions of the Secretary are listed in the ministry description for the Secretary.

 

            d)  The Secretary shall attend and keep an accurate record of all business meetings of the Church, shall attend and keep an accurate record of all Elder's meetings unless requested by the Elder's to be absent and shall keep a record of the names of the members of the Church, along with the date of admissions, withdrawal or termination.

 

            e)  The term of office of the Secretary shall be one year.

 

Section 3.  CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE

            a)  The purpose of the Christian Education Committee is 1) To organize, administer and supervise the total educational program of the church, 2) To supervise the teacher-training program of the church, 3) To encourage, inspire and counsel teachers and workers involved in the Christian education of the church and 4) To promote higher Christian educational standards in the total church program all in a way that glorifies God.

 

            b)  The Christian Education Committee is under the authority of Jesus Christ, the Word of God, the Board of Elders and this congregation as fellow believer-priests of God.

 

            c)  The functions of the Christian Education Committee are listed in the ministry description for the Christian Education Committee.

 

            d)  The Christian Education Committee in a timely manner shall provide recommendations to the Board of Elders for annual Christian Education budget needs.  The Christian Education Committee may make additional unbudgeted, single expenditures and obligations not to exceed $300.00 without having to consult the Board of Elders.  Total unbudgeted expenditures will not exceed one percent of the annual budget without the approval of the Board of Elders.

 

            e)  The Christian Education Committee shall be an ex-officio member of all committees or meetings that pertain to Christian Education in the church.

 

            f)  The Christian Education Committee will be composed of three members. They must be members in good standing for at least six months. Those selected in June 2000 will be one for one year, one for two years and one for three years. Thereafter one new member will be selected each year for a three-year term to replace the member completing their term.

 

Section 4.  OTHER OFFICERS-Other officers, unless herein specified, shall be selected annually.

 

Section 5.  The selection of officers and board members will be held at the Annual Meeting.  They will assume their offices on the date of the next regular service following the Annual Meeting.  All officers must be members of this congregation and at least 18 years of age.

 

Section 6.  At the change in the Annual Meeting from January to June, all terms due to expire in January, 1993 will be extended to June, 1993.  Thereafter terms will be served as specified in this constitution.

 

ARTICLE XX - FIVE POINT TEAMS:

 

Section 1.  The purpose of the Five Point Teams shall be to 1) oversee the five points of our star which are evangelism, fellowship, instruction, prayer and worship, 2) to develop the five points of our star and 3) to do so in a way that is true to our vision and commitments.

 

Section 2.  The Five Point Teams are under the authority of Jesus Christ, the Word of God, the Board of Elders and this congregation as fellow believer-priests of God.

 

Section 3.  The functions of the Five Point Teams are listed in the ministry description for the Five Point Teams.

 

Section 4.  The Five Point Teams shall submit ministry ideas to the Elders or to a Board or Officer designated by the Board of Elders for approval.  The team shall submit an estimate of the cost of a ministry idea to the Elders or to a Board or Officer designated by the Board of Elders for approval.  The team shall have responsibility for the implementation of an approved idea under the direction of the designated Board or Officer.

 

Section 5.  The Five Point Teams shall meet at their discretion or at the request of the Pastor, one of the Church Boards or Officers.  Membership on the teams is open to members and nonmembers.  There is no limitation on time of service or participation in teams, unless directed by the Board of Elders.

 

ARTICLE XXI - AMENDMENTS:

 

Section 1.  This Constitution may be amended by a three-fourths majority vote of members present and voting at any business meeting, provided there is a quorum present, and provided such amendments have been submitted in writing to the Board of Elders at least one month prior to the consideration of the amendment.  The proposed amendment shall be posted, in a conspicuous place, and notice of the amendment read to the congregation at the two Sunday morning services immediately preceding such meeting.

 

ARTICLE XXII - DISSOLUTION:

 

Section 1.  In event this Church is dissolved, any recipient of dissolution must be recognized by the Federal Government as an Internal Revenue Service Code 501(c)(3) charitable religious organization.


APPENDIX ONE:

 

                                                     STATEMENT OF FAITH FOR

                                          MORNING STAR COMMUNITY CHURCH

 

 

 

We do wholeheartedly believe:

 

A.  In the supernatural and plenary inspiration of the Scriptures, that their teaching and authority are absolute, supreme and final.  (2 Tim 3:16)

 

B.  In the Trinity of the Godhead: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.  (Dt 6:4; Mt 3:16-17; Mt 28:19)

 

C.  In the personality of God; the personality and deity of Jesus Christ, begotten of the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, very God and very Man; the personality of the Holy Spirit.  (Jn 1:1-2, 14; Lk  1:26-35; Jn 16:13-14)

 

D.  In the resurrection of Jesus Christ; that His body was raised from the dead according to the Scripture, and that He ascended into Heaven and sits on the right hand of God as believer's Advocate.  (Lk 24:6-7,37-39; Acts 1:9-11; Hb 10:12; 1 Jn 2:1)

 

E.  In the sinfulness of man: that all human beings are born with a sinful nature, are totally depraved and need a Savior from sin.  (Rm 3:10,23; Ps 51:5; Rm 6:23)

 

F.  In the Atonement; that Jesus Christ became the sinner's sacrifice before God and died as the propitiation or payment for the sins of the whole world.  (2 Cor 5:21; Rm 3:25; Jn 3:17)

 

G.  In the necessity of the new birth; salvation is by grace through faith and not of works, saving faith will maintain good works in the life of the believer.  (Jn 3:3-5; Eph 2:8-9; Eph 2:10)

 

H.  In the literal resurrection of the body; both of the just and the unjust.  (1 Jn 3:2; Lk 14:14; Jn 5:28-29)

 

I.  In the everlasting blessedness of the saved; and the everlasting punishment of the lost.  (Jn 14:1-3; Rev 21:1; 22:7; 14:10-11)

 

J.  In the evangelization of the world; the supreme mission of the church in this age is to preach the Gospel to all mankind.  (Mk 16:15; Mt 28:19-20; Acts 1:8)

 

K.  In the second coming of Christ according to the Scripture.  (Acts 1:11; 1 Thess 4:13-17; Titus 2:13)
APPENDIX TWO:              APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP

 

The constitution of the Morning Star Community Church states for membership that "any person who would desire to become a member of this organization must give evidence of their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, and have been baptized and shall be in agreement with the Statement of Faith under Appendix I, and in agreement with this Constitution." We welcome your application for membership and hope that as you work through this you will be strengthened in your faith.

 

FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST AS PERSONAL SAVIOR:

The Bible teaches that "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. I have admitted to God that I am a sinner deserving His punishment and that I cannot save myself. I have placed my faith in Jesus Christ and His death for me on the cross to obtain my forgiveness. I believe that only Jesus Christ saves me by His shed blood and that all my sins, past, present and future, are forgiven through Him.

 

                                                                                                                              ____YES ____NO

 

BAPTISM:

The Bible commands that believers be baptized. I have been baptized.

 

                                                                                                                              ____YES ____NO

 

STATEMENT OF FAITH:

Our statement of faith represents the doctrinal positions that our church believes. I have read the statement of faith and am in agreement with these positions.

 

                                                                                                                              ____YES ____NO

 

CONSTITUTION:

Our constitution represents the way we conduct our affairs as the local body of Christ. I have read the constitution and agree to comply with it.

 

                                                                                                                              ____YES ____NO

 

CHURCH DISCIPLINE:

As members of the body of Christ, the Bible teaches that we are responsible for each other's conduct.  I have specifically read ARTICLE VI, Section 7: TERMINATION BY CHURCH DISCIPLINE. I agree to comply with this section and submit to church discipline as a help to my walk with Christ.  I absolve the church of legal responsibility for the carrying out of church discipline according to our constitution.

____YES____NO              

Signed:

 

__________________________________________________________. Date ________________________