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WINKLER'S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

CONSTITUTION

 

PREAMBLE

For the purpose of preserving and making secure the principles of our faith and to the end that this body be governed in an orderly manner, consistent with the accepted practices of a New Testament Church, and for the purpose of preserving the liberties of each individual member of the church, we do declare and establish this Constitution.  Its proper adoption by the church shall automatically affect the nullification of all documents purported to be constitutions which may have been previously adopted by the church.

 

ARTICLE I

NAME AND PURPOSE

SECTION 1 - COMMON NAME

  • The members of this body shall be known collectively as Winkler's Grove Baptist Church.

 

SECTION 2 - LEGAL NAME

  • As a legal entity under the laws of the State of North Carolina this body shall be known as Winkler's Grove Baptist Church of Hickory, North Carolina.

 

SECTION 3 - PURPOSE

  1. This congregation is organized as a church exclusively for charitable, religious, and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Revenue Law), including, but not limited to, for such purposes, the establishing and maintaining of religious worship, the building, maintaining and operating of churches, parsonages, schools, chapels, day care centers, camps, and cemeteries, and any other ministries that the Church may be led of God to establish.

  2. The Church shall also ordain, and license men called of God to the Gospel ministry: (I Tim. 3:1-7) evangelize the unsaved by the proclaiming of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ; educate believers in a manner consistent with the requirements of Holy Scripture, both in Sunday and weekday schools of Christian education, maintain missionary activities in the United States and any foreign country; and engage in any other ministry that the Church may decide, from time to time, to pursue in obedience to the will of God.

 

ARTICLE II

STATEMENT OF FAITH AND COVENANT

SECTION 1 - STATEMENT OF FAITH:

  1. The Holy Scriptures

We believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the verbally and plenary inspired Word of God. The Scriptures are inerrant, infallible and God-breathed, and therefore are the final authority for faith and life.  The sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments are the complete and divine revelation of God to Man.  The Scriptures shall be interpreted according to their normal grammatical-historical meaning.  The King James Version of the Bible shall be the official and only translation used by the Church (2Tim. 3:16 - 17, 2 Pet. 1: 20-21;).

 

  1. Dispensationalism

We believe that the Scriptures interpreted in their natural, literal sense reveal divinely determined dispensations or rules of life which define man's responsibilities in successive ages.  These dispensations are not ways of salvation, but rather are divinely ordered stewardship by which God directs man according to His purpose.  Three of these dispensations--the age of law, the age of the Church, and the age of the kingdom--are the subjects of detailed revelation in Scripture (Gen. 1:28; 1 Cor. 9:17; 2 Cor. 3:9-18; Gal. 3:13-25, Eph. 1:10, 3:2-10; Col. 1:24-25, 27; Rev. 20: 2-6).

 

  1. The Godhead

  1. We believe in one Triune God, eternally existing in three persons--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, each co-eternal in being, co-identical in nature, co-equal in power and glory, and having the same attributes and perfections (Deut. 6:4; Matt. 28:19:2 Cor. 13:14; John 14:10, 26).

 

  1. The Person and Work of Christ

    1. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, became man, without ceasing to be God, having been conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary, in order that He might reveal God and redeem sinful men (Isa. 7:14; 9:6; Luke 1:35; John 1:1-2, 14; 2 Cor. 5:19-21; Gal. 4:4-5; Phil. 2:5-8).

    2. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ accomplished our redemption through his death on the cross as a representative, vicarious, substitutionary sacrifice; and, that our Justification is made sure by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead (Acts 2:18-36; Rom. 3:24-25; 1 Peter 2:24; Eph. 1:7; 1 Peter 1:3-5).

    3. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ ascended to Heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God, where, as our High Priest, He fulfills the ministry of Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate (Acts 1:9-10; Heb. 9:24; 7:25; Rom. 8:34, 1 John 2:1-2).

  2. The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit

    1. We believe that the Holy Spirit is a person who convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; and, that He is the Supernatural Agent in regeneration, baptizing all believers into the body of Christ, indwelling and sealing them unto the day of redemption (John 16:8-11; Rom. 8:9; 1 Cor. 12:12-14; 2 Cor. 3:6; Eph. 1:13-14).

    2. We believe that He is the Divine Teacher who assists believers to understand and appropriate the Scriptures and that it is the privilege and duty of all the saved to be filled with the Spirit (Eph. 1:17-18; 5:18; 1 John 2:20, 27).

    3. We believe that God is sovereign in the bestowal of spiritual gifts to every believer.  God uniquely uses evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip believers in the assembly in order that they can do the work of the ministry (Rom. 12:3-8; 1 Cor. 12: 4-11, 28; Eph. 4: 7-12).We believe that the sign gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as speaking in tongues and the gift of healing, were temporary.  We believe that speaking in tongues was never the common or necessary sign of the baptism or filling of the Holy Spirit and that ultimate deliverance of the body from sickness or death awaits the consummation of our salvation in the resurrection, though God frequently chooses to answer the prayers of believers for physical healing (1 Cor. 1:22; 13:8, 14:21-22)

  3. The Total Depravity of Man

    1. We believe that man was created in the image and likeness of God, but that in Adam's sin the human race fell, inherited a sinful nature, and became alienated from God; and, that man is totally depraved, and, of himself, utterly unable to remedy his lost condition (Gen. 1:26-27; Rom. 3:22-23; 5:12; 6:23; Eph. 2:1-3; 4:17-19).

  4. Salvation

    1. We believe that salvation is the gift of God brought to man by grace and received by personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, whose precious blood was shed on Calvary for the  forgiveness of our sins (John 1:12; Eph. 1:7; 2:8 - 10; 1 Pet. 1:18-19).

 

  1. The Eternal Security and Assurance of Believers

 

  1. We believe that all the redeemed, once saved, are kept by God's power and are thus secure in Christ forever (John 6:37-40; 10:27-30; Rom. 8:1, 38-39; 1 Cor. 1:4-8; 1 Pet. 1:4-5).

 

  1. We believe that it is the privilege of believers to rejoice in the assurance of their salvation through the testimony of God's Word, which, however, clearly forbids the use of Christian liberty as an occasion to the flesh (Rom. 13:13-14;              Gal. 5:13; Titus 2: 11-15).

 

  1. The Church

 

  1. We believe that the local church, which is the body and the espoused bride of Christ, is solely made up of born-again persons (1 Cor. 12:12-14; 2 Cor. 11:2; Eph. 1:22-23; 5:25-27).

 

  1. We believe that the establishment and continuance of local churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament Scriptures (Acts 14:27; 20:17, 28-32; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-11).

 

  1. We believe in the autonomy of the local church free of any external authority    or control (Acts 13:1-4; 15:19-31; 20:28; Rom. 16:1, 4; 1 Cor. 3:9, 16; 5:4-7, 13; 1 Peter 5: 1-4).

 

  1. We recognize water baptism (immersion) and the Lord's Supper as the Scriptural ordinances of obedience for the Church in this age (Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 2:41-42; 18:18; 1 Cor. 11: 23-26).

 

  1. Separation

    1. We believe that all the saved should live in such a manner as not to bring reproach upon their Savior and Lord; and, that separation from all religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices and associations is commanded of God (Rom. 12:1-2; 14:13; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; 1 John 2:15-17; 2 John 9-11).

 

  1. The Second Advent of Christ

 

  1. We believe in that "blessed hope," the personal, imminent return of Christ who will rapture His Church prior to the seven-year tribulation period.  At the end of the Tribulation, Christ will personally and visibly return, with His saints, to establish His earthly Messianic Kingdom which was promised to the Nation of Israel (Ps. 89:3-4; Dan. 2:31-45; Zech.14:4-11; 1 Thess. 1:10; 1 Thess. 4;13-18; Titus 2:13; Rev. 3:10; 19:11-16; 20: 1-6).

 

  1. The Eternal State

 

  1. We believe in the bodily resurrection of all men, the saved to eternal life, and the unsaved to judgment and everlasting punishment (Matt. 25:46; John 5:28, 29; 11:25-26; Rev. 20:5-6, 12-13).

 

  1. We believe that the souls of the redeemed are, at death, absent from the body and present with the Lord, where in conscious bliss they await the first resurrection, when spirit, soul, and body are reunited to be glorified forever with the Lord (Luke 23:43; 2 Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:23; 3:21; 1 Thess. 4:16-17; Rev. 20: 4-6).

 

  1. We believe that the souls of unbelievers remain, after death, in conscious punishment and torment until the second resurrection, when with soul and body reunited they shall appear at the Great White Throne Judgment, and shall be cast into the Lake of Fire, not to be annihilated, but to suffer everlasting conscious punishment and torment (Matt. 25:41-46; Mark. 9:43-48; Luke 16:19-26; 2 Thess. 1:7-9; Jude 6-7; Rev. 20: 11-15).

 

  1. The Personality of Satan

 

  1. We believe that Satan is a person, the author of sin and the cause of the Fall of Man; that he is the open and declared enemy of God and man; and, that he shall be eternally punished in the Lake of Fire (Job 1:6-7; Isa. 14:12-17; Matt. 4:2-11; 25:41; Rev. 20:10).

 

 

  1. Creation

 

  1. We believe that God created the universe in six literal, 24-hour periods. We reject evolution, the Gap Theory, the Day-Age Theory, and Theistic Evolution as unscriptural theories of origin (Genesis 1-2; Ex. 20:11).

 

  1. Civil Government

 

  1. We believe that God has ordained and created all authority consisting of three basic institutions: 1) the home; 2) the Church; and 3) the state. Every person is subject to these authorities, but all (including the authorities themselves) are answerable to God and governed by His Word.  God has given each institution specific Biblical responsibilities and balanced those responsibilities with the understanding that no institution has the right to infringe upon the other.  The home, the Church, and the state equal and sovereign in their respective Biblically assigned spheres of responsibility under God (Rom. 13:1-7; Eph. 5:22-24; Heb. 13:17; 1 Pet. 2:13-14).

 

  1. Human Sexuality

 

  1. We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity should be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and a woman.  We believe that any form of transgenderism and any form of unnatural identity, homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery and pornography are sinful perversions of God's gift of sex (Gen. 2:24; Gen. 19:5, 13; Gen. 26:8-9; Lev. 18:1-30; Rom 1: 26-29; 1 Cor. 5:1; 6:9; 1 Thess. 4:1-8; Heb. 13:4).

 

  1. Divorce and Remarriage

 

  1. We believe that God hates divorce and intends marriage to last until one of the spouses dies.  Divorce and remarriage is regarded as adultery except on the grounds of fornication.  Although divorced and remarried persons or divorced persons may hold positions of service in the Church and be greatly used of God for Christian service, they may not be considered for the offices of pastor or deacon (Mal. 2:14-17; Matt. 19:3-12; Rom. 7:1-3; 1 Tim. 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6).

 

 

 

  1. Abortion

    1. We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being.  Abortion constitutes the unjustified, unexcused taking of unborn human life. Abortion is premeditated murder. We reject any teaching that abortions of pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control, or the mental well-being of the mother are acceptable (Job 3:16; Psalms 51:5; 139:14-16: Isa. 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jer.  1:5; 20:15-18; Like 1:44).

 

  1. Missions

 

  1. We believe that God has given the Church a Great Commission to proclaim the Gospel to all nations so that there might be a great multitude from every nation, tribe, ethnic group, and language group who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.  As ambassadors of Christ we must use all available means to go to the foreign nations and not wait for them to come to us (Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-48; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; 2 Cor. 5:20).

 

  1. Lawsuits Between Believers

 

  1. We believe that Christians are prohibited from bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the Church to resolve personal disputes.  We believe the Church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve personal disputes between members.  We do believe, however, that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian's insurance company as long as the claim is pursued without malice or slander (1 Cor.6:1-8; Eph. 4:31-32).

 

  1. Giving

 

  1. We believe that every Christian, as a steward of that portion of God's wealth entrusted to him, is obligated to support his local church financially.  We believe that God has established the tithe as a basis for giving but that every Christian should also give other offerings sacrificially and cheerfully to the support of the Church, the relief of those in need, and the spread of the Gospel.  We believe that a Christian relinquishes all rights to direct the use of the tithe or offering once the gift has been made (Gen. 14:20; Prov. 3:9-10; Acts 4:34-37; 1 Cor. 16:2; 2 Cor.9:6-7; Gal. 6:6; Eph. 4:28; 1 Tim. 5:17-18; 1 John 3:17).

SECTION 2 - AUTHORITY OF STATEMENT OF FAITH:

 

  • The Statement of Faith does not exhaust the extent of our faith. The Bible itself is the sole and final source of all that we believe. We do believe, however, that the foregoing Statement of Faith accurately represents the teaching of the Bible, and therefore, is binding upon all members.

 

SECTION 3 - 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 feeling 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 III

MEMBERSHIP

SECTION 1 - RECEIVING OF MEMBERS

  1. Membership shall be extended based upon approval of the pastor insuring compliance with the following conditions. The candidates must produce a life evident of having a genuine experience of regeneration through faith in and acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Savior; who renounce sin; who endeavor to live a consecrated life wholly unto the Lord; who fully subscribe to the Statement of Faith contained herein; and who enter into the Church covenant contained herein; and upon compliance with any one of the following conditions:

 

  1. By Baptism (immersion) as a true believer in Christ Jesus as personal Savior.

 

  1. By letter of transfer from another Bible-believing church of like faith and practice, or other written statement of good standing from the prior church if the applicant has been baptized by immersion subsequent to a profession of faith;

 

  1. By testimony of faith, having been baptized by immersion; or

 

SECTION 2 - BIBLICAL CHURCH DISCIPLINE:

  1. By restoration, if having been removed from membership, upon majority vote, the congregation after confession is made publicly before the Church membership of the sin or sins involved, and satisfactorily evidencing repentance to the Pastor (or the Deacons if the office of Pastor is vacant) 1 John 4:20.

  2. Any persons seeking membership by restoration, must confess publicly before the church body and the pastorate and any public media where the discord has occurred. Proverbs 6:18-19.

  3. Any persons who refuse to be restored according to the Biblical terms and continues to sow discord among church members or in the community shall be rejected from any new membership opportunities.

    1. Romans 16:17-18 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

  4. Any church members who leave our fellowship and sow discord according to Proverbs 6:18-19 and refuse to be restored, immediately forfeit their membership in good standing with this church body.

 

SECTION 2 - CLASSIFICATION OF MEMBERS

  1. Active Members - All those who show their interest in the welfare of the church and the Kingdom of our Lord by regular attendance and financial support, and those who because of sickness or infirmities are unable to attend services or contribute financial support to the work, shall be classified as active members.

 

  1. Non-Resident Members - Non-resident members are evangelists, missionaries, college students, and military servicemen.

 

  1. Inactive - Non-Voting Member - Any member of the church who has been absent from regular worship services of the church for three (3) months or more without being providentially hindered shall be placed on an inactive non-voting roll.Reinstatement of active membership will be based upon Article 3, Section 1 of Receiving Membership.

 

SECTION 3 - DUTIES OF MEMBERS

  • All members should bring themselves to the realization that we are a part of the body of our Lord Jesus Christ, that we are of the household of faith, and that in God's sight we are brothers and sisters.  It is, therefore, our duty to love each other, to love and pray for our church as our earthly home, to undergird the pastor with our prayers and encouragement, to follow the pastor's leadership as he follows the leadership of the Holy Spirit (Acts 20:18, I Tim. 5:17, Heb. 13:17), and to strive to honor our Lord in all we do and say, bearing in mind that we are Ambassadors of Christ.

 

SECTION 4 - PRIVILEGES OF MEMBERSHIP

  • This congregation functions, not as a pure democracy, but as a body under the Headship of the Lord Jesus Christ and to the direction of the Pastor as the under-shepherd with the counsel of the Deacons.  Membership in this Church does not afford those individuals with any property, contract, or civil rights based on principles of democratic government.  Determination of the internal affairs of this Church are ecclesiastical matters and shall be determined exclusively by the Church's own rules and procedures.  The Pastor shall oversee and/or conduct all aspects of this Church.  The Deacons shall give counsel and assistance to the Pastor as requested by him.  The membership of the Church has certain limited areas of exercising a vote.  Members may not vote to initiate any Church action, but rather the vote of a member is to confirm and ratify the direction of the church as determined by the Pastor.

 

SECTION 5 - DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS

  1. Definition -  Church discipline shall be invoked to rid the church of sin (1 Corinthians 5:6,7); with the motive of love for the fallen brother (1 John 4:7-11); seeking the result of restoring that brother to full fellowship with the church and the Lord.  (Galatians 6:1).

 

  1. Reasons for Discipline

 

  1. Departure from Sound Doctrine - (Titus 1:13)

  2. Bringing Dishonor - To the Lord's name and the church testimony by disorderly walk (II Thessalonians 3:6-15).

  3. Immorality - (I Corinthians 5:3-13)

  4. Disunity - Between two or more members. (Matthew 18:15-17)

 

  1. Guidelines for Church Discipline - The guidelines for church discipline shall be as defined in I Corinthians 5:3-13 (exclusion from membership) and Matthew 18:15-17 (reconciliation or exclusion).  Specifically, it shall be the duty of the pastor and deacons to carefully investigate any complaints against any individual member of the church.  Should this investigation produce cause for further study and recommendations, the pastor and deacons shall follow as closely as possible the scriptural policy in dealing with such matters. (Romans 16:17-18).

 

SECTION 6 - TERMINATION OF MEMBERS

  1. Transfer of Letter - Transfer of letter shall be subject to the following rules:

  1. Requests must be made in writing to the church clerk, and the name of the church with which the members wish to unite must be designated.

  2. All letters shall be sent by mail to the church designated in the application.

  3. By Exclusion - After every attempt has been made to regain the member, either by personal visits, telephone calls or letter, the individual member shall be automatically terminated without notice if the member in question has not attended a regular worship service of the church in the preceding three months. This does not apply to shut-ins or members with prolonged illnesses.

  1. By Removal - Members who are known to be deceased, who have joined some other church, or who have requested that their names be dropped from membership, may be removed from the official church roll by action of the church.

 

SECTION 7 - RECORD OF MEMBERSHIP

  • Official membership Roll - The official church membership roll shall be maintained on a physical document of substantial construction.  The roll shall include at least the full name, address, telephone number, and method of obtaining membership of each member.

 

ARTICLE IV

CHURCH STAFF (Ministerial)

SECTION 1 - PASTOR

  1. The pastor shall preach the Gospel regularly and shall be at liberty to preach the whole counsel of the Word of God as the Lord leads. He is the leader or guide of the church, directly responsible to the Chief Shepherd (I Peter 5:1-4, Hebrews 13:17, Acts 20:28).  He shall set the example in all spiritual matters and thereby, promote the spiritual growth of the members (Hebrews 13:7-8, John 21:16, Ephesians 4:11-13, Titus 1:5-9).  He shall administer the ordinances of the church, act as moderator at all church meetings for the transaction of Church matters, and provide leadership in financial and policy matters, supervise the teaching ministries of the Church, and tenderly watch over the spiritual interests of the membership.  The pastor must meet the qualifications set forth in I Timothy 3:1-7 and must be (or have been) ordained  by this church or a church having the same doctrinal statement.

 

  1. ELECTION - The office of pastor shall be filled by the election of qualified candidates.

 

  1. The process of electing candidates shall be as follows:  Candidates shall be selected by the Pulpit Committee, shall preach two or more sermons in regular worship services, shall be thoroughly questioned by the deacons and the Pulpit Committee, and if found to be satisfactory, shall be presented to the church for a vote.

 

  1. A special meeting for the election shall be announced at least one week before the election.  A three-fourths (75%) majority of the eligible voting members will be required to call the candidate to pastor the church.

 

  1. Absentee ballots shall be made available to active members who are providentially hindered from attending this meeting.

 

  1. Voting by absentee ballot requires identification over the phone to confirm the eligibility of the voter.

 

  1. Voting Method - A secret ballot shall be taken in the election of the pastor, a show of hands vote is binding in all other matters except where the pastor and deacon body think a ballot vote would be more appropriate.

 

  1. QUALIFICATIONS - The minimum qualifications.

    1. The man must meet all biblical qualifications. (I Tim. 3:1-7)

    2. The man must be at least 30 years of age, unless agreed upon by the Pastor and Deacons for an exception of a younger age.

    3. The man must be the husband of one wife, not divorced, not practicing polygamy, and not involved in immorality, or homosexual activity.

    4. The man must have a good testimony (spiritual, business, moral and domestic relationships.)

    5. The man must accept the church Constitution and agree to follow all requirements contained therein.

 

  1. TERM OF OFFICE

    1. The relationship between the Pastor and the church shall be permanent unless dissolved at the option of either party by the giving of a month's notice, or less by mutual consent.

    2. Disciplinary removal of the Pastor from office automatically terminates his membership.

  2. Termination or Resignation of the pastor for reasons of immorality or heresy will automatically terminate his membership.

 

SECTION 2 - ASSOCIATE PASTOR

  1. Principle function:

    1. The Associate Pastor is responsible to the church to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ by assisting the Pastor in pulpit at the pastor’s discretion. The Associate Pastor will teach the biblical relation and engage in visiting hospitals, rest homes, nursing homes, and homebound persons.  Will assist the Pastor in providing administrative leadership in all areas of the church life.

    2. Responsibilities of the Associate Pastor:

      1. He must lead by example a fervent prayer life.

      2. Daily visit of members in the hospitals.

      3. Plan and conduct the worship service at Pastor’s discretion, prepare and deliver sermons.

      4. Visit members and prospects.

      5. At pastor’s discretion, the Associate pastor will lead in planning and promoting Biblical programs and Bible studies for the church.

      6. Conduct counseling sessions, perform weddings, funerals as directed by the Pastor.

      7. Attend seminars as directed by the Pastor.

      8. Assist Pastor in any program or activity that Pastor is unable to attend.

      9. Assist Pastor in all areas of administrative functions of the church.

      10. The Associate pastor is responsible to the Pastor.

 

  1. QUALIFICATIONS - The Associate Pastor minimum qualifications are based on the scriptures.

 

  1. TERM OF OFFICE:

    1. At the discretion of the Pastor and the deacons.

 

SECTION 3 - SENIOR ADULTS

  1. Senior Adult Pastor.

    1. Principal Function.

      1. The minister of senior adults is responsible to the pastor for assisting church program.

    2. Responsibilities.

      1. Advise in the use of program materials, equipment, supplies, and space for senior adult groups in all church program organizations.

      2. Coordinate and plan special projects, such as retreats, etc.

      3. Prepare and speak at Senior Adult Bible Study as directed.

      4. Establish a Senior Citizen visitation program for active members that may be sick or hospitalized.

    3. Responsible to: Responsible to the Pastor.

 

  1. Senior Adult Director.

    1. Principal Function.

      1. The director of senior adults is responsible to the Senior Adult Pastor for assisting church program.

    2. Responsibilities.

      1. Advise in the use of program materials, equipment, supplies, and space for senior adult groups in all church program organizations.

      2. Coordinate and plan special projects, such as retreats, etc.

      3. Prepare and speak at Senior Adult Bible Study as directed.

      4. Establish a Senior Citizen visitation program for active members that may be sick or hospitalized.

    3. Responsible to: Responsible to the Pastor.

 

SECTION 4 – THE MINISTER OF YOUTH

  1. Principal Function.

    1. The minister of youth is responsible to the pastor for assisting church program.

  2. Responsibilities.

    1. Advise in the use of program materials, equipment, supplies, and space for youth groups in all church program organizations.

    2. Coordinate and plan special projects, such as retreats, camps, etc.

    3. Prepare and speak at Youth Bible Study as directed.

    4. Establish a Youth visitation program for active members that may be sick or hospitalized.

    5. Responsible to: Responsible to the Pastor.

 

  1. QUALIFICATIONS - The Minister of Youth minimum qualifications. (See Article IV Section 1 (C).

 

SECTION 5 - MINISTER OF MUSIC

  1. Principle Function

    1. The minister of music is responsible to the pastor for the development and promotion of the music program of the church.

    2. Direct the planning, organizing, conducting of the music program

    3. Assist the pastor in planning all services of worship.

    4. Arrange and provide music for weddings, funerals, special projects, ministries, and other church - related activities upon request.

    5. Maintain music library, materials, supplies, musical instruments, and other equipment.

    6. Attend seminars as approved by Pastor.

    7. Establish goals and objectives annually for choirs.

  2. Responsible to:  Responsible to the Pastor

 

ARTICLE V

NON-MINISTERIAL STAFF

(Financial Secretary, Receptionist/Secretary, Maintenance, Asst. Maintenance)

 

SECTION 1 - FINANCIAL SECRETARY

  1. Principal Function.

    1. Maintain the church financial records and prepare financial reports.

    2. Assist in counting and depositing all church funds.

    3. Post on computer receipts and disbursements of all accounts according to financial system.

    4. Post on computers weekly offering to individual accounts: file envelopes.

    5. Prepare bank reconciliation statement monthly.

    6. Prepare quarterly and annual financial reports for finance committee, deacons, body.

    7. Prepare quarterly and annual government reports.

    8. Check and total all invoices when approved; inform responsible persons of their budget expenditures.

    9. Receive and answer questions concerning financial matters; maintain files on invoices, correspondence, and reports.

    10. Prepare and issue checks to staff members, designations, and organizations in accordance with church policy.

    11. Prepare and distribute giving envelopes to all members and new members annually.

    12. Serve in other related office duties as assigned.

    13. Use computer for financial records. QUICKBOOKS.

    14. Attend meeting as requested by Pastor.

    15. Make up new member packets for distribution.

    16. Help fold bulletins weekly.

    17. Keep records on memorial receipts and sending family the information.

    18. Responsible for maintaining all records on computer:  giving, financial, F.B.I.,             and book inventory.

 

  1. Responsible to:  Responsible to the Pastor.

 

  1. QUALIFICATIONS

    1. The Financial Secretary minimum qualifications.

    2. The individual must be at least 21 years of age.

    3. The individual must not be practicing polygamy, and not involved in immorality, or homosexual activity.

    4. The individual must have a good testimony.

      1. Spiritually.

      2. Mortally

      3. In Business.

      4. In Domestic relationships

      5. The individual must accept the church Constitution and agree to follow all requirements contained therein.

 

SECTION 2 - RECEPTIONIST/SECRETARY

  1. Principal Function

    1. Perform general office work and maintain office files, records, and schedules.

    2. Use Microsoft word, and other software as required by the pastor.

  2. Regular Duties:

    1. Type all staff correspondence using computer.

    2. Perform general office work, type routine letters, run copies; maintain office supplies and various files.

    3. Type and run church bulletin weekly also newsletter must be typed and prepared for mailing.

    4. Receive and distribute incoming mail.

    5. Answer telephone, taking messages, keeping Pastor and all other employees posted of all calls in reference to their duties.

    6. Maintain church secretary office by performing duties as assigned.

    7. Prepare and maintain a current member list and maintain an inactive member list.

    8. Maintain a current membership mailing file for address labels or as needed.

    9. Keep van and fellowship calendar current.

    10. Type and mail visitors’ letters first thing on Monday morning.

    11. Maintain petty cash account following petty cash procedure.

    12. Attend meeting as requested by Pastor.

    13. Serve in other related office duties as assigned.

    14. Prepare all outgoing mail.

    15. Keep records on all Homebound persons plus rest homes, name, addresses, age, and next of kin.

    16. Maintain current files on new members, prepare list for new member night.

    17. Maintain and make list for Baptismal Candidates.

    18. Prepare monthly report of new members for Pastor with name, address, and age. Post on bulletin Board for all person to see.

    19. Responsible to: Responsible to the Pastor.

 

  1. QUALIFICATIONS - The Receptionist/Secretary minimum qualifications. See Article V Section 1 (C).

 

SECTION 3 – MAINTENANCE

  1. MAINTENANCE DIRECTOR

    1. Responsible to follow the recommendations of the Campus and Grounds Committee and Pastors.

    2. Job Description

      1. Pressure wash ALL Buildings Annually.

      2. Maintain clean buildings and grounds: make minor repairs. Direct one other person in maintenance group.

      3. Sweep, mop, buff, clean, and wax floors according to schedule; dust furniture and equipment; wash walls, and windows, and vacuum carpet as scheduled.

      4. Maintain clean rest rooms: replenish tissues, soap , and towels:  empty waste cans.

      5. Purchase necessary cleaning materials and supplies as needed.

      6. Keep all church buildings clean and neat, polish brass rail in balcony.

      7. Operate heating and cooling equipment according to schedule and instructions.

      8. Open and close buildings daily as scheduled.

      9. Mow grass, trim shrubbery: maintain clean church entrance, sidewalk, and parking areas. Fertilize all grass as needed.

      10. Move furniture, set up tables and chairs for suppers, banquets, and other similar occasions: set up assembly and classroom areas for regular activities.

      11. Look after repair of church vans. Either making minor repairs or seeing that the repairs are made by a garage, immediately upon notification.

      12. Maintain all lawn equipment in good clean working order.

      13. Direct the rotation for person to be available at other functions of the church.

      14. Assist all staff and church member as needed in facility needs.

      15. Checking vans for gas, tires, repairs daily, or as scheduled.  Making sure vans are cleaned, gassed and ready to go.

      16. Have vans cleaned at least twice monthly, inside and out.

      17. Keep Pastor informed of conditions of vans at all times.

      18. Take vans to garage for repairs, tires, and etc.

      19. Perform all small light change outs that do not require electrician.

      20. Carry out all needed repairs as deemed necessary by the Campus Grounds committee and pastors.

 

  1. QUALIFICATIONS - The Maintenance Director minimum qualifications. See Article V Section 1 (C).

 

SECTION 4 - ASSISTANT MAINTENANCE

  1. ASSISTANT MAINTENANCE DIRECTOR

    1. Principal Function:

      1. Support the Director of Maintenance, maintaining a clean church and grounds. Looking after all cleaning of building. Maintain vans fleet.

    2. Regular duties:

      1. Sweep, mop, buff, clean, and wax floors according to schedule, dust furniture and equipment; wash walls and windows, vacuum carpet as scheduled.

      2. Maintain clean restrooms:  cleaning bowl, replenish tissues, soap, and towels: empty all waste cans in offices and bathrooms. Cleaning sinks, mirrors, and etc.

      3. Keep all church buildings clean and neat. Polish brass rail in balcony.

      4. Assist Director in operating heating and cooling systems.

      5. Assist in opening and closing of building under direction of Director & Pastor.

      6. Mow grass, trim shrubbery, maintain clean church entrance, side walks, and parking lot.

      7. Follow direction of director for moving of all furniture and equipment as requested. Assist in repairs of building and equipment.

      8. Help maintain all lawns, tractors in clean and good working order.

      9. Make pick up and deliveries as requested by staff, once weekly, unless otherwise directed by the pastor.

      10. Check vans inside weekly for trash.

      11. Assist director in maintaining repairs, gas, tires, wiper blades, mirrors, tags, and etc., on vans.

      12. Assist office staff in minor repairs in office plus moving of boxes, files, and etc.

      13. Delivery of all large boxes to staff office as directed. (Incoming packages)

      14. Assist Director of Maintenance in all his responsibilities.

      15. Assist others as requested.

    3. Responsible to: Pastor for responsibilities.

 

  1. QUALIFICATIONS - The Assistant Maintenance minimum qualifications. See Article V Section 1 (C).

 

ARTICLE VI

CHURCH OFFICERS

(NON-PAID)

(Deacons, Trustees, Other Officers)

 

SECTION 1 - DEACONS

  1. QUALIFICATIONS

    1. The man must meet all biblical qualifications. (I Tim. 3:8-13, Acts 6: 1-3)

    2. The man must be at least 30 years of age.

    3. The man must accept the church Constitution and agree to follow all requirements contained therein.                                                                                                    

    4. The man must have been an active member of the church for at least one year.

    5. The man must have a good testimony (spiritual, business, moral and domestic relationships).

    6. The man must be the husband of one wife, not practicing polygamy and not involved in immorality, transgenderism, or homosexual activity.

    7. The man must be of good report (Acts 6:3), grave (I Timothy 3:8), filled with the Spirit of God (Acts 6:3), conversation above reproach (I Timothy 3:8), and possessed with a degree of wisdom that will enable them to be sound thinkers (Acts 6:3).

 

  1. Term of Office

    1. The deacon body shall consist of men chosen by the Pastor, Deacons and approved by the church. They will serve on a rotation basis as needed by the pastor.

 

SECTION 2 – Incorporation: Board of Directors (Deacons)

  1. The duties of the board shall be to carry out the directions of the church in legal matters. Under the laws of incorporation, the Deacons shall serve as the Board of Directors.

  2. This board has limited authority, along with the pastor to make needful decisions without church approval, if the situation dictates.

 

SECTION 3 - OTHER OFFICERS

  1. Elections

    1. All officers listed as "Other Officers" shall be presented as needed, to the church by the pastor and/or deacons and elected at any church meeting and shall begin their term immediately.  An officer shall be allowed to serve at the pastor’s discretion.

  2. Church Clerk

    1. The church clerk/church secretary shall be responsible for recording all new church members and communicating such records to the church secretary. That person shall also maintain records of the minutes of all church meetings.

  3. Treasurer

    1. The treasurer along with the Financial Secretary shall be responsible for the disbursement of all funds available to the church and shall determine if expenditures are in accord with the annual budget and church financial policies.

  4. Termination of other officers - See Article 7 (Termination Procedures).

 

 

ARTICLE VII

TERMINATION PROCEDURES

  1. Any Deacon, ministerial staff (pastor, associate pastor, youth pastor, minister of music, pianist or assistant, organist, or assistant, etc.) may be terminated without notice for acts of immorality or gross neglect of duties. The following procedures must be adhered to:

    1. Absolute proof of acts of immorality or gross neglect of duty must be made available.

    2. This evidence of proof shall be presented to the Pastors and/or Deacons.

  2. Termination of the Pastor.

    1. After prayerful consideration by this body a vote shall be taken by the Pastors and/or Deacons to terminate this individual.  A 75% majority shall be necessary for approval.

    2. After approval by the Pastors and/or deacons, the person shall be terminated.

  3. Quorums and voting percentages for termination shall be as follows:

    1. Pastor

      1. 60% of eligible voting members to constitute a quorum.

      2. -75% of those voting required to terminate.

 

ARTICLE VIII

CHURCH MEETINGS

SECTION 1 - WORSHIP SERVICES

  • Regular Sunday worship services (morning worship service and evening worship service shall be maintained. There shall be a regular midweek worship service on Wednesday night of each week.

SECTION 2 – EDUCATIONAL

  • Bible And Study Hour (BASH). Weekly Bible Study for all ages. Special study programs for Men and Women.

SECTION 3 - SPECIAL CHURCH SERVICES

  1. The Lord's Supper shall be observed as a part of a church service at least once each quarter of the year, or otherwise directed by the pastor.

  2. Other Services - Other special church services may be conducted as deemed necessary but shall in no way violate the church Constitution.

 

SECTION 4 - SPECIAL MEETINGS

  1. Special meetings of the church may be called by the pastor, along with the Associate pastor and/or the deacons.

  2. Procedures for Special Meetings.

    1. The pastor of the church, or associate pastor in his absence and/or one of the deacons, shall act as moderator in all special meetings.  All meetings of the church shall be governed by the latest edition of Robert's Rules of Order.  The definition of "eligible voting members", the necessary quorum for the transaction of the meeting, and special procedural rules shall be specified in the Church Constitution.

    2. Eligible Voting Members for All Church Meetings.

      1. An eligible voting member shall be one whose name is on the official church roll and who is at least 16 years old.

      2. Only active members shall be eligible to vote.

  3. Quorum - To transact business at any meeting, a quorum shall be fifty eligible voting members.

  4. Majority Requirements.

    1. A simple majority of eligible voting members shall decide all church matters unless otherwise specified in the church Constitution.

 

ARTICLE IX

CHURCH AFFILIATION

Winkler's Grove Baptist Church is an autonomous, Missionary minded church body. We are “Southern Baptist Church (SBC) in name only. (Matthew 20:25-28, Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8). As such we believe that each New Testament church is free to govern itself without ecclesiastical interference and should cooperate with other New Testament churches as the Holy Spirit leads the church.  (II Corinthians 6:14, II Peter 2:1-3).

 

ARTICLE X

CHURCH GOVERNMENT

SECTION 1 - GOVERNMENT BY THE MEMBERSHIP

The government of this body shall rest solely in the hands of its membership.  All eligible voting members shall have an equal voice in making decisions regarding church membership, church leadership, the use of the church resources, and the church's general program.  (Matthew 20:20-28, 23:8-10, Mark 10:35-45).  Decisions shall be made by the majority voice of the membership. (Romans 14:12, I Peter 2:9, Revelation 1:6).

SECTION 2 - CHURCH ACTIONS FINAL

Actions duly taken by the membership of this body shall be final in the sense that no individual, other church, association, or agency shall have veto or dictatorial power over this body.             

SECTION 3 - SPECIFIC RULES

Specific rules for the process of church government shall be contained in the church Constitution.

 

ARTICLE XI

AMENDMENTS

SECTION 1 - AMENDMENT PROCEDURE

  1. The Constitution may be amended at any business meeting of the church by a three-fourths majority vote.

  2. The proposed amendment must be handled as follows:  It shall have been reviewed by the pastor and deacons.  The amendment in its entirety shall be posted in a conspicuous place within the church building.

SECTION 2 - PUBLICATION OF AMENDMENTS

  • Amendments properly adopted by the church shall be published and distributed to the membership within 30 days of adoption.

 

ARTICLE XII

COMMITTEES

SECTION 1 - BAPTISM COMMITTEE

  1. Composed of 2 men and 2 women appointed annually.

    1. Purpose:

      1. To assist the baptismal candidate both before and after baptism.

    2. Duties:

      1. Willing to have a background check.

      2. Proper preparation of the baptistry.

      3. Assure that a proper number of baptismal outfits are prepared for candidates.

 

SECTION 3 - BENEVOLENCE COMMITTEE

  1. Composed of eight (8) members; one of eight shall be an active deacon and he shall serve as chairman.

    1. Purpose:

      1. The purpose of this committee is to determine if a member has a specific need that the church should assist in.

    2. Guidelines:

      1. No family or individual will be given more than ($400.00) four hundred dollars in a 1 year period to the same family.  (Anything after the limit ($400.00) must be discussed with the Benevolence Committee and then approved by the pastors.

      2. All non-members will be directed to East Burke Ministries if a Burke County resident or Cooperative Christian Ministries if a Catawba County resident.

      3. The only non-member to be considered for assistance must be recommended by a member of Winkler's Grove Baptist Church so the need can be investigated.

SECTION 4 - BEREAVEMENT COMMITTEE:

 

  1. Composed of not less than three (3) members.  No deacon must serve on this committee.

    1. Purpose:

      1. The purpose of this committee shall be to deliver the meal to the specified home of the member and to order the flower supplied by the church. Church provides flower for immediate family members only. (Husband, Wife, Mother, Father, Children, Sister, or Brother).

 

SECTION 5 – CAMPUS AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE

  1. Composed of six (6) members (at least); one of six shall be an active deacon.

    1. Purpose:

      1. To be responsible for the care of all church property and buildings.

      2. To prepare a Weekly, Monthly, Quarterly and Yearly check off list for the Maintenance staff.

    2. Duties:

      1. Make regular inspection of all church property.

      2. Recommend any new or remodeling that must be done.

      3. Recommend and study space needs for additional growth.

      4. To lead in maintenance and upkeep of buildings and property. This committee shall oversee the maintenance department of the church and shall sign off on all major purchases for building, grounds and transportation.

      5. To lead in maintenance and upkeep of all church vehicles.

      6. Consult with pastors and deacons about new needs that arise.

  2. This committee shall inform and be under the leadership of the Pastor.

 

SECTION 6 - CEMETERY COMMITTEE

  1. Composed of not less than three (3) members. These members are the Associate Pastor, Maintenance Director, and Assistant Maintenance Director.

    1. Purpose:

      1. To assist members or individuals in the purchase of or location of cemetery plots. He will also stake the plot for each grave before the opening of the plot.

    2. Guidelines:

      1. No cemetery plots will be sold to anyone not a member of Winkler's Grove Baptist Church.

      2. Members may purchase plots for fifty dollars ($50.00) per plot, only if all plots are for members.

 

SECTION 7 - COUNTING COMMITTEE:

  1. Composed of eight (8) members with at least two (3) members present when counting offerings.

    1. Purpose:

      1. The purpose of this Committee shall be to count all monies that come through the regular or special offerings. This committee shall prepare all monies for deposit.

      2. Receive all regular and special offerings.

      3. Prepare deposit slips.

 

SECTION 8 - FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE

  1. Composed of not less than ten (10) members.

    1. Purpose:

      1. To coordinate all social activities of the church involving food or refreshments.

    2. Duties:

    3. To formulate policies concerning the church kitchen.

      1. Plan and organize all church wide social activities.

      2. Instruct Maintenance Director of supplies needed.

      3. Be responsible for set up of tables and preparation of food or refreshments for the occasion.

      4. Be responsible for cleanup following the event.

      5. Key ideas of the committee:  supervision, planning, preparation, serving, and cleanup.

    4. The two custodians will assist in setup and cleanup.

 

SECTION 9 - FINANCE COMMITTEE:

  1. Composed of seven (7) members consisting of: The pastor, associate pastor, 1 active deacon, Church Treasurer, Financial Secretary, and 2 other members.

    1. Purpose:

      1. To be responsible to the church for the administration of church finances according to church financial policies.

    2. Duties:

      1. Meet biannually.

      2. Develop and recommend a church budget to the church.

      3. Review expenditures periodically in terms of budget allocations and recommend adjustments to the church, as necessary.

      4. Develop and recommend to the church financial policies and procedures.

 

SECTION 10 - NOMINATING COMMITTEE

  1. Composed of the pastor, associate pastor, 2 active deacons and 3 other members.

    1. Purpose:

      1. To lead the church in filling all church-related leadership positions filled by volunteers.

    2. Duties:

      1. Select, interview, and enlist church program organization leaders, committee members, and general church officers.

      2. Approve volunteer workers before they are invited to serve in church-elected leadership positions.

      3. Assist church leaders in discovering and enlisting qualified persons to fill church-elected positions of leadership in their respective organizations.

      4. To fill all vacancies in officers during a church year.

 

SECTION 11 - PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

  1. All Staff Leadership:

    1. All staff leadership, deacons, teachers, and any other persons serving at WINKLER’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH must be FAITHFUL in tithing Biblically using a recordable method of either: Envelopes, Pushpay, or a Check.

 

The Constitution Committee is in 100% Agreement with the contents of the document and recommends that Winkler’s Grove Baptist Church adopts this document as its Constitution, on April 2nd, 2023. Furthermore, all other Constitutions from the past years will no longer be valid once this constitution is in place.

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