PREAMBLE WHEREAS, It is the express purpose of God, our Heavenly Father, to call out of this world a saved people who shall constitute the body or church of our lord Jesus Christ, built and established upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the Chief Corner-stone; and WHEREAS, The members of the body, the church (ecclesia) of Jesus Christ, are enjoined to assemble themselves together for worship, fellowship, counsel, and instruction in the Word of God and the work of the ministry and for the exercises of those Scriptural gifts and offices provided for in the New Testament, therefore be it. RESOLVED, That we recognize ourselves a body of Christian believers according to the Scriptural plan for the local church and under the laws of the state of Washington, that we may worship God as a united body, exercising all rights and privileges granted to religious bodies.
CONSTITUTION 2 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
ARTICLE I.
NAME AND LOCATION
The name of this church shall be Cedar Park Assembly of God of Bothell, Washington. It may be referred to as Cedar Park Assembly or Cedar Park Church, however the denominational insignia or the name Assemblies of God shall appear on all official church documents.
ARTICLE II.
PURPOSE AND PREROGATIVES
The purpose of this Church shall be: Section 1. To establish and maintain a place for religious worship. Section 2. To conduct under the guidance of the Holy Scriptures the work of evangelizing both the home and foreign field in obedience to the command of the Lord Jesus (Matt. 28:19,20); and in harmony with the teaching and practice of His servants the apostles (Acts 8:4, 5, 25, 35-40; 13:1-4; 16:6, 10; Rom. 15:18-21; 2 Cor. 10:16; Rom. 10:12-17). Section 3. To establish and maintain such departments as may be necessary for the propagation of the Gospel. Section 4. In connection therewith, or incidental thereto, it shall have the right to purchase or acquire by gift, bequest or otherwise, either directly or as trustee, and to own, hold in trust, use, sell, convey, mortgage, lease or otherwise dispose of any real estate or chattels as may be necessary for the furtherance of its purposes; all in accordance with its constitution and by-laws or as the same may be hereafter modified or amended.
ARTICLE III.
AFFILIATION
While maintaining its inherent rights or sovereignty in the conduct of its own affairs, this church shall voluntarily enter into full cooperative fellowship with churches of like precious faith associated in the Northwest District Council, and the General Council of the Assemblies of God, with headquarters at Springfield, Missouri; and shall share in the privileges and assume the responsibilities of that affiliation.
ARTICLE IV.
TENETS OF FAITH
The articles of Faith shall be the same as set forth in the Statement of Fundamental truths of the General Council of the Assemblies of God which are as follows: The Bible is our all-sufficient rule for faith and practice. This statement of Fundamental truths is intended simpl;y as a basis of fellowship among us (i.e., that we all speak the same thing. 1 Cor. 1:10; Acts 2:42). The phraseology employed in this statement is not inspired nor contended for, but the truth set forth is held to be essential to a full Gospel ministry. No claim is made that it contains all Biblical truth, only that it covers our need as to these fundamental doctrines.
I. The Scriptures Inspired. 3 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
The Scriptures, both the Old and New Testaments, are verbally inspired of God and are the revelation of God and are the revelation of God to man, the infallible, authoritative rule of faith and conduct (2 Timothy 3:15-17; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Peter 1:21). II. The One True God. The one true God has revealed Himself as the eternally self-existent “I AM” the Creator of heaven and earth and the Redeemer of mankind. He has further revealed Himself as embodying the principles of relationship and association as Father, Son and Holy Ghost (Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10, 11; Matthew 28:19; Luke 3:22). THE ADORABLE GODHEAD A. Terms Defined The terms “Trinity” and “Persons”, as related to the Godhead, while not found in the Scriptures, are words in harmony with Scripture, whereby we may convey to others our immediate understanding of the doctrine of Christ respecting the Being of God, as distinguished from “gods many and lords many”. We, therefore may speak with propriety of the Lord our God, who is One lord, as a trinity or as one Being of three persons and still be absolutely Scriptural. (Examples: Matt. 28:19; 2 Cor. 13:14; John 14:16, 17). B. Distinction and Relationship in the Godhead Christ taught a distinction of Persons in the Godhead which He expressed in specific terms of relationship, as Father, Son, and Holy Ghost but that this distinction and relationship as to its mode is inscrutable and incomprehensible, because unexplained, (Luke 1:35; 1 Cor. 1:24; Matt. 11:25-27; 28:19; 2 Cor. 13:14; 1 John 1:3,4). C. Unity of One Being of Father, Son and Holy Ghost Accordingly, therefore, there is that in the Son which constitutes Him the Son and not the Father; and there is that in the Holy Ghost which constitutes Him the Holy Ghost and not either the Father or the Son. Wherefore the Father is the Begetter, the Son is the Begotten; and the Holy Ghost is the one proceeding from the Father and the Son. Therefore, because these three Persons in the Godhead are in a state of unity, there is but one Lord God Almighty and His name one. (John 1:18; 15:16; 17:11; Zech. 14:9) D. Identity and Co-operation in the Godhead The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost are never identical as to Person; nor confused as to relation; nor divided in respect to the Godhead; nor opposed as to co-operation. The Son is in the Father and the Father is in the Son as to relationship. The Son is with the Father and the Father is with the Son, as to fellowship. The Father is not from the Son, but the Son is from the Father, as to authority. The Holy Ghost is from the Father an the Son proceeding, as to nature, relationship, co-operation and authority. Hence, neither Person in the Godhead either exists or works separately or independently of the others. (John 5:17-30, 32, 37; 8:17, 18)
E. The Title, lord Jesus Christ
4 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
The appellation, “Lord Jesus Christ”, is a proper name. It is never applied in the New Testament either to the Father or to the Holy Ghost. It is therefore belongs exclusively to the Son of God. (Roman 1:1-3, 7; 2 John 3) F. The Lord Jesus Christ, God with us The Lord Jesus Christ, as to His divine and eternal nature is the proper and only Begotten of the Father, but as to His human nature, He is the proper Son of Man. He is, therefore, acknowledged to be both God and man; who, because He is God and man is “Immanuel”, God with us. (Matt. 1:23; 1 John 4:2, 10, 14; Rev. 1:13, 17) G. The Title, Son of God Since the name “Immanuel” embraces both God and man in the one Person, our Lord Jesus Christ, it follows that the title Son of God describes His proper deity and the title Son of God belongs to the order of eternity, and the title Son of man to the order of time. (Matt 1:21-23; 2 John 3; 1 John 3:8; Heb.7:3; 1:1-13) H. Transgression of the Doctrine of Christ Wherefore it is a transgression of the Doctrine of Christ to say that Jesus Christ derived the title Son of God, solely from the fact of the incarnation, or because of His relation to the economy of redemption. Therefore, to deny that the Father is a real and eternal Father, and that the Son is a real and eternal; Son is a denial of the distinction and relationship in the Being of God; a denial of the Father and the Son; and a displacement of the truth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. (2 John 9; John 1:1, 14, 18, 29, 49; 1 John 2:22, 23; 4:1-5; Heb. 12:2) I.
Exaltation of Jesus Christ as Lord
The Son of God our Lord Jesus Christ, having by Himself purged our sins sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; angels and principalities and powers having been made subject unto Him. And having been made both Lord and Christ, He sent the Holy Ghost that we in the name of Jesus might bow our knees and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father until the end, when the Son shall become subject to the Father that God may be all in all. (Heb. 1:3; 1 Peter 3:22; Acts 2:32-36; Rom. 14:11; 1 Cor. 15:24-18) J.
Equal Honor to the Father and to the Son
Wherefore, since the Father has delivered all judgment unto the Son, it is not only the express duty of all in heaven and on earth to bow the knee, but it is an unspeakable joy in the Holy Ghost to ascribe unto the Son all the attributes of Deity, and to give Him all the honor and the glory contained in all the names and titles of the Godhead (except those which express relationship. See paragraphs B, C, and D), and thus honor the Son even as we honor the Father. (John 5:22; 1 Peter 1:8; Rev 5:6-14; Phil. 2:8,9; Rev. 7:9-10; 4:811)
III.
The Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. The Scriptures declare: 5
Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
A. B. C. D. E. F. IV.
His virgin birth (Matt. 1:23; Luke 1:31, 35). His sinless life (Heb. 7:26; 1 Peter 2:22). His miracles (Acts 2:22; 10:38). His substitutionary work on the cross (1 Cor. 15:3; 2 Cor. 5:21). His bodily resurrection from the dead (Matt. 28:6; Luke 24:39; 1 Cor. 15:4). His exaltation to the right hand of God (Acts 1:9, 11; 2:33; Phil 2:9-11; Heb. 1:3).
The Fall of Man Man was created good and upright; for God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” However, man by voluntary transgression fell and thereby incurred not only physical death but also spiritual death, which is separation from God. (Gen. 1:26, 27; 2:17; 3:6; Romans 5:12-19)
V.
The Salvation of Man Man’s only hope of redemption is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ the Son of God. A. Conditions of Salvation Salvation is received through repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ. By the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, being justified by grace through faith, and becomes an heir of God according to the hope of eternal life (Luke 24:47; John 3:3; Romans 10:13-15; Eph. 2:8; Titus 2:11; 3:5-7). B. The Evidence of Salvation The inward evidence of salvation is the direct witness of the Spirit (Romans 8:16). The outward evidence to all men is a life of righteousness and true holiness (Eph. 4:24; Titus 2:12).
VI.
The Ordinances of the Church A. Baptism in Water The ordinance of baptism by immersion is commanded in the Scriptures. All who repent and believe on Christ as Savior and Lord are to be baptized. Thus they declare to the world that they have died with Christ and that they also have been raised with Him to walk in newness of life (Matt. 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 10:47, 48; Romans 6:4). B. Holy Communion The Lord’s Supper, consisting of the elements - bread and the fruit of the vine - is the symbol expressing our sharing the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:4); a memorial of His suffering and death (1 Cor. 11:26); and a prophecy of His second coming (1 Cor. 11:26); and is enjoined on all believers “till He come;”
VII.
The Baptism in the Holy Ghost All believers are entitled to, and should ardently expect, and earnestly seek, the promise of the Father, the Baptism in the Holy Ghost and fire, according to the command of our lord Jesus 6
Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
Christ. This was the normal experience of all in the early Christian Church. With it comes the endowment of power for life and service, the bestowment of the gifts and their uses in the work of the ministry (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:1-31). This experience is distinct from the subsequent to the experience of the new birth (Acts 8:12-17; 10:44-46; 11:14-16; 15:7-9). With the baptism in the Holy Ghost come such experiences as an overflowing fullness of the Spirit (John 7:37-39; Acts 4:8), a deepened reverence for God (Acts 2:43; Hebrews 12:28), an intensified consecration to God and dedication to His work (Acts 2:42), and a more active love for Christ, for His word, and for the lost (Mark 16:20). VIII.
The Evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Ghost The Baptism of believers in the Holy Ghost is witnessed by the initial physical sign of speaking with other tongues as the Spirit of God gives them utterance (Acts 2:4). The speaking in tongues in this instance is the same in essence as the gift of tongues (1 Cor. 12:4-10, 28) but different in purpose and use.
IX.
Sanctification Sanctification is an act of separation from that which is evil and of dedication unto god (Romans 12:1, 2; 1 Thess. 5:23; Heb. 13:12). The Scriptures teach a life of “holiness without which no man shall see the Lord” (Heb. 12:14). By the power of the Holy Ghost we are able to obey the command: “Be ye holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:1:5).
X.
The Church The church is the body of Christ, the habitation of God through the Spirit, with divine appointments for the fulfillment of her great commission. Each believer, born of the Spirit, is an integral part of the General Assembly and Church of the First-born, which are written in heaven. (Eph. 1:22, 23; 2:22; Heb. 12:23)
XI.
The Ministry A divinely called and Scripturally ordained ministry has been provided by our Lord for a twofold purpose: 1. The evangelization of the world. And 2. The edifying of the Body of Christ. (Mark 16:15-20; Eph. 4:11-13)
XII.
Divine Healing Divine healing is an integral part of the Gospel. Deliverance from sickness is provided for in the atonement and is the privilege of all believers. (Isaiah 53:4,5; Matt. 8:16, 17; James 5:14-16)
XIII.
The Blessed Hope
XIV.
The resurrection of those who have fallen asleep in Christ and their translation together with those who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord in the imminent and blessed hope of the church. (1 Thess. 4:16, 17; Romans 8:23; Titus 2:13; 1 Cor. 15:51, 52) The Millennial Reign of Christ The second coming of Christ includes the rapture of the saints, which is our blessed hope, followed by the visible return of Christ with His saints to reign on the earth for one thousand years. (Zech. 14:5; Matt. 24:27, 30; Rev. 1:7; 19: 11-14; 20:1-6) This millennial reign will bring 7
Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
the salvation of national Israel (Ezek. 37: 21,22; Zeph. 3:19, 20; Romans 11:26, 27) and the establishment of universal peace (Isa. 11:6-9; Psalm 73:3-8; Micah 4:3,4)
XV.
The Final Judgment There will be final judgment in which the wicked dead will be raised and judged according to their works. Whosoever is not found written in the Book of Life, together with the devil and his angels, the beast and false prophet, will be consigned to everlasting punishment in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone, which is the second death. (Matt. 25:46; Mark 9:43-38; Rev. 19:20; 20:11-15; 21:8)
XVI.
The New Heavens and the New Earth We, “according to His promise, look for new heavens and new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness�. (2 Peter 3:13; Rev. 21:22) ARTICLE VI.
CHURCH MEMBERSHIP
Persons who give Scriptural evidence of saving faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and voluntarily subscribe to its tenets of Faith, and agree to be governed by its Constitution and By-Laws as herein set forth, shall be eligible for membership in this Church. ARTICLE VII.
FINANCE
The Church shall be financed according to the Scriptural plan by tithes and offerings. (Gen. 14:20; Mal. 3:10; Luke 6:38; 1 Cor.16:1,2; 2 Cor. 9:6,7) ARTICLE VIII. GOVERNMENT Section 1. There shall be an Official Board composed of the Pastor and at least three Deacons. Section 2. The Officers of the Corporation shall be the President, Secretary, Treasurer and Trustees. Section 3. The Official Board shall be the Trustee Board of the Corporation. Section 4. If Scripturally qualified persons are not available as Deacons, faithful men shall be chosen as Trustees and the affairs of the Church be managed by the Board of Trustees until qualified Deacons are available. ARTICLE IX.
MEETINGS
Section 1. Regular Meetings The time and place for the regular meetings shall be determined by the Church Board.
Section 2. Business Meetings A. The annual business meeting of the Church shall be held before the end of September. B. Special business meetings may be called: (1) By the Pastor. (2) By the Secretary of the Church upon written order of the Church Board. 8 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
(3) By petition of the members of the Church exercising the right of initiative. Section 3. Notices A. Notice of all regular or special business meetings of the Church shall be published not less than ten days before the date of the proposed meeting. B. Notice shall be given by announcement from the pulpit on the two preceding Sundays; further notice shall be posted in writing or given by mail when regularly required. C. Any voting member may exercise the right of initiative in the calling of a special business meeting of the Church by presenting a request signed by at least one-third of the voting membership of the Church, to the Pastor or Secretary of the Church, who shall proceed to issue a call for said meeting as prescribed in ARTICLE IX. Section 2, Sub. Section B (3) of the Constitution. Section 4. Quorum Twenty-five percent of the active voting membership of the Church shall constitute a quorum. ARTICLE X.
DEPARTMENTS AND COMMITTEES
Departments and Committees may be established and appointed as they are needed in the Church in order to successfully carry out its purposes. All such Departments and Committees shall be subordinate to the Church and shall contribute to the harmony and development of the whole. They shall function under the general oversight of the Pastor and Official Board. ARTICLE XI.
AMENDMENTS
This Constitution may be amended or changed by a two-thirds majority vote of members present and voting at any regular or special business meeting provided due notice has been posted in writing of such proposed change at least two weeks prior to the meeting and announcement has been made at least two Sundays preceding the time of such meeting.
9 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
BY-LAWS ARTICLE I.
ORDER
In order to expedite the work of the Church Business Meetings and to avoid confusion in it’s deliberations, the Church shall be governed by the accepted rules of parliamentary procedure in keeping with the spirit of Christina love and fellowship under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Order of Business for any meeting as authorized by ARTICLE IX of the Constitution shall be determined by the official Board and notice shall be posted as contained therein. ARTICLE II. Section 1.
MEMBERSHIP The Standard of Membership
Membership in this assembly shall be open to all those who give evidence of their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and who voluntarily subscribe to it’s tenets of faith and agree to be governed by it’s constitution and by-laws as herein set forth and by the following: A. Evidence of a genuine experience of regeneration (the new birth) (John 1:12, 18; 3:3-8; 1 Peter 1:18-25). B. Evidence of a consistent Christian life. (Romans 6:4; 8:1-4; 13:13, 14; Eph. 4:17-32; 5:1, 2-15; 1 John 1:6, 7) C. To fully subscribe to the Tenets of Faith as set forth in ARTICLE IV of the Constitution. D. Willingness to contribute regularly to the support of the Church by tithe and offerings as set forth in the Scriptures. E. All persons who are 12 years of age or over who meet all other requirements for membership shall be eligible for membership in this Church. Those younger than 18, the legal voting age, shall have all Church privileges except the right to vote. F. Position regarding Divorce and Remarriage: 1.
Divorce: There are now among Christians people who became entangled in their marriage relations in their former lives of sin and who do not see how these matters can be adjusted. These people shall be eligible to be received into membership and their marriage complications are to be left in the hands of the Lord. (I Cor. 7:17, 20, 24)
2.
Remarriage: Low standards on marriage and divorce are very hurtful to individuals, to the family, and to the cause of Christ. Therefore, we discourage divorce by all lawful means and teaching. We positively disapprove of Christians getting divorces for any cause except fornication and adultery. (Matt. 19:9). Where these exceptional circumstances exist or when a Christian has been divorced by an unbeliever, we recommend that the question of remarriage be resolved by the believer as he walks in the light of God’s Word. (1 Cor. 7:15, 27, 28)
3.
Leadership Restrictions: In keeping with the New Testament restriction placed on divorced and remarried believers from Church offices as a bishop or elder and deacon, we hold that such persons shall be disqualified from the above mentioned offices. (Titus 1:5-9, 1 Tim. 3:12) However, all other opportunities for Christian service for which these believers may be qualified shall be made available to them. 10
Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
4.
Section 2.
In no case shall persons be accepted into membership who are known to be living in a common-law state of matrimony.
Reception into Membership
The Board shall review all applicants for membership. Their names, upon approval by the Board, shall then be inscribed on the Church roster. At an appropriate time the new members shall be publicly recognized at a regular church service. Section 3.
Voting Privileges
A. Voting Members: All persons 18 years of age of over who qualify for membership, who have been officially received into membership as noted above, who are living consistent Christian lives, and who regularly attend and take part in the services of the Church. B. Honorary Members: Honorary members shall consist of those members who have entered the ministry as district officers, pastors, evangelists, missionaries, religious educators, or those serving in the Armed Services, making it impossible to serve as active members. Honorary membership recognition shall continue as long as the member maintains a consistent Christian life remains sound in doctrine, and maintains a cooperative attitude toward the home assembly. Voting privilege may be granted at the discretion of the assembly. C. Non-Voting Members;
Section 4.
1.
Any member under 18 years of age.
2.
Any member who has been absent from the regular services of the Church and has been placed on “Inactive� status as described in following sections shall not be allowed to vote. Any such member may reactivate his membership as similarly noted in the following sections.
Review and Changes in Membership
A. Annual Review: In order to keep the active membership roster current, review shall be made by the Board during the 60 days prior to the Annual Business Meeting. Review may also be conducted by the Board prior to any specially called business meeting. Such current membership roster shall be published not less than 10 days prior to the date of the proposed meeting. B. Inactive Members: 1.
Any member of the Assembly who shall willfully absent himself from the regular services for a period of three (3) consecutive months shall be placed on inactive status for a period of nine months, during which time he may reactivate his membership by so stating his intention to become an active member by application to the Board, who shall review the application and upon approval shall reinstate that member to the active membership roster.
2.
Members absent from the Assembly due to military service or student status shall be considered as inactive members during the period of their absence. They shall be reinstated upon their return to active membership by notification to the Board without further review.
11 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
3.
Transfer of Membership: Members in good standing, who may with to sever their relationship with the assembly, or who may desire to be transferred to some other congregation, may apply to the secretary for a letter, which shall be granted on the approval of the pastor and the Board of Directors. Said letter is to be signed by the pastor and the secretary of the assembly.
C. Membership Roster: A current membership roster shall be published no less than 10 days prior to the date of a proposed meeting, in the manner prescribed in ARTICLE IX, Section 3. A and B, of the Constitution. D. Notification: Posting a current membership roster as prescribed above shall serve as the only official notice of membership status to any and all members regardless of the current status. E. Appeal of Status: A written notice of appeal of membership status received by the Board at least 7 days prior to a scheduled meeting shall be acted upon by the Board. The decision of the Board shall be final and without further appeal procedure. Section 5.
Discipline of Members
A. Members who may have departed from harmony with the tenants of faith held by this Assembly (see ARTICLE IV of the Constitution), or who may be involved in unscriptural conduct, or who may be involved in sinful or worldly practices shall by implementation of the pastor and the Board, and by action so stated in the minutes, be automatically placed on inactive membership status ( in other words, become a non-voting member) and shall lose any legal standing associated with membership until such time as the affected member’s case has become final either by the members own inaction, or if an appeal is initiated (by the member), after the case has been fully reviewed by the official Board. Examples of the above reasons for being placed on inactive status include, but are not limited to the following: 1.
Departure from the tenants of faith as delineated in ARTICLE IV of the Constitution.
2.
Living a sinful life and refusing to change. (2 Thess. 3:6, 10; Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:37)
3.
Engaging in the disruption of fellowship by sowing discord among the brethren; persisting in gossip; and creating trouble in general. (James 2:2-12; Pro. 6:19; Romans 2:1-3)
B. Notice of Inactive Status: Notice of inactive status and the reasons therefore shall be sent by certified mail to the affected member’s last known address as noted in the church files. It shall be each member’s responsibility to keep the church secretary notified of his/her current address. Receipt of said notice shall be presumed on the third day following the letter being posted. C. Request for Hearing: Any member who has been placed on inactive membership status and notified in the manner as delineated above has seven days from which to file a written request with the church secretary for a hearing ( and an opportunity to be heard) with the Board of Directors. If the church secretary fails to receive said request within fourteen days, and the affected member shall automatically lose his/her membership with this assembly and shall have not further right of review or appeal. D. Notification: Upon receipt of a request for an opportunity to be heard, the affected member shall be notified by certified mail of his/her hearing date. Receipt of said notice shall be 12 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
presumed on the third day following the letter being posted. Said hearing shall not be conducted for at least fifteen days following receipt of the notice. E. Hearing: The affected member has no right to the presence of an attorney at said hearing but does have a right to present his/her defense and cross examine witnessed who testify against him/her. F. Removal: If reinstatement is not granted, the affected person shall immediately be expulsed from membership in this assembly and have no further right to appeal or redress in this assembly, the civil courts, or elsewhere. ARTICLE III.
FINANCE
Section 1.
Receipt of Funds
All money received from all sources shall be deposited by the Treasurer or his designatee in a bank designated by the Official Board. Section 2.
Disbursement and Budget
A. The disbursement of all funds shall be under the supervision of the Official Board. B. The Official Board shall approve the annual budget and present a copy to the membership for their information. Section 3.
Financial Compensation
The Pastor shall be given regular and adequate financial support, the amount of which shall be determined by an agreement between the Pastor and the Official Board and be reviewed annually in the month of August, prior to the annual Business Meeting or more often as needed. Section 4.
Financial Secretary
The Official Board shall appoint a Financial Secretary. He shall record contributions, disburse receipts, distribute offering envelopes and when necessary assist the Treasurer on other related matters. ARTICLE IV.
PROPERTY RIGHTS
Section 1.
Real Property
All real property shall be taken, held, sold, transferred, mortgaged or conveyed in the church corporate name upon authorization by a two-thirds majority vote of the membership voting at a regular or special Business Meeting. Real property, with value less than $500,000 donated to the church may be disposed of by vote of the Official Board. Leases of more than five years shall be subject to a vote of the congregation as provided in this section.
Section 2.
Authorization
The President and the Secretary of the Church shall certify in such conveyance, lease, or mortgage, that the same has been duly authorized by the vote of the Church. Such certification shall be held to be conclusive evidence thereof. 13 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
Section 3.
Dissolution of Congregation
In the event that the Church herein mentioned ceases to function as a Church body, then the said property, real or chattel, shall revert to the Northwest District Council of the Assemblies of God, Inc., whose headquarters are located at Kirkland, Washington. The Northwest District Council of the Assemblies of God shall forthwith have full authority to use or dispose of the property at their discretion. In the event of the sale of the property by the Northwest District Council of the Assemblies of God, the proceeds derived therefrom shall be used by the said Northwest District Council in furtherance of the Gospel of Christ. Section 4.
Division of Congregation
In the event of a schism in the congregation, all property, real or chattel, shall belong to that group holding to the original Tenants of Faith, regardless of their number. ARTICLE V.
QUALIFICATIONS AND DUTIES OF OFFICERS
A. Qualifications: The Pastor shall be a member in good standing with the General Council and/or the District Council of the Assemblies of God and shall comply with the Scriptural and Assembly of God standards for the ministry. (1 Tim. 3:2-7; Titus 1:6-9; 1 Peter 5:2,3) B. Duties: The Pastor shall be considered as Spiritual Overseer of the Assembly and shall direct all of its activities. He shall be the President of the Corporation and shall act as Chairman of all the business meetings of the Assembly and of the Official Board. He shall be an ex-officio member of all committees and departments. He shall arrange for all services of the Assembly, and, together with the official Board, shall arrange for special meetings and campaigns for the general good of the Assembly and evangelizing the community. No person shall be invited to speak or preach in the Assembly without his approval. Section 2. A.
Deacons
Number: 1.
There shall be seven (7) Deacons.
B. Qualifications: 1.
Deacons shall be spirit-filled believers of mature Christian experience.
2.
They shall be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.
3.
They shall have been lay members of the Church for one (1) year prior to their election.
4.
They shall meet the Scriptural standards of 1 Timothy 3:8-13 and Titus 1.
5.
They shall have been baptized in water as commanded by our Lord. (Matt. 28:19; Acts 10:47; Romans 6:4)
C. Duties:
14 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
1.
The Deacons shall act in an advisory capacity with the Pastor in all matters pertaining to the Assembly in its spiritual life and in the ministering of its ordinances.
2.
They shall act in the examination of applicants for membership, and in the administering of discipline in the Assembly.
3.
As Trustees they shall be the custodians of all the property of the Assembly, and shall be responsible for the maintenance of the property.
Section 3.
Secretary
A. Qualifications: A qualified secretary shall be chosen from among the members of the Official Board by mutual agreement of the Official Board. B. Duties:
Section 4.
1.
The Secretary shall keep a true and accurate record of all the meetings of the Assembly and the Official Board.
2.
He shall keep a record of the Assembly membership.
3.
He shall be the Custodian of all the legal documents of the Assembly and shall be the Custodian of the Corporate Seal.
4.
The Secretary shall perform such other clerical duties that may pertain to this office.
Treasurer
A. Qualifications: The Treasurer shall be a person of mature Christian faith, of good report, who is capable of efficiently discharging the duties that pertain to this office. He shall be chosen from among the members of the Official Board by mutual agreement of the Official Board. B. Duties: The Treasurer shall keep an itemized account of all monies entrusted to him. He shall use generally accepted methods of bookkeeping and accounting and shall make periodical reports to the Assembly and Official Board as requested. He shall sign checks and disburse funds at the direction of the Official Board. Section 5.
Assistants to the Pastor
Assistants are to report directly to the Pastor, and are to share in carrying out responsibilities and duties as delegated by the Pastor.
ARTICLE VI.
ELECTIONS AND TERMS OF OFFICE
Section 1.
Pastor
A. The Official Board, acting in the capacity of a Pulpit Committee, after prayerful consideration and consultation with the Sectional Presbyter and the District office, 15 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
shall present the name of a candidate to the Assembly for their consideration. Ample opportunity shall be afforded the candidate to minister and become known to the congregation. Only one candidate shall be considered at a time. B. Election: After a candidate has had opportunity to minister, the congregation shall ballot on the candidate at any regular or specially called meeting. Voting shall be by secret ballot, with a two-thirds majority of those present and voting required for an election. C. The term of office shall be for an indefinite period. Section 2.
Other Officers
A. Nominations: There shall be a Nominating Committee consisting of four members appointed by the Pastor and Church Board, which shall meet thirty days prior to the annual Business Meeting. They shall submit to the Assembly the names of candidates for the various offices at least two weeks in advance. Other nominations may be made from the floor provided they have been submitted to and approved by the Nominating Committee at least one week in advance and have the concurrence of the individual proposed for the office. B. Elections: The election of officers shall be held at the annual Business Meeting of the Assembly. The voting shall be by Ballot, with a majority of the ballots cast by those present and voting required for an election. C. Terms of Office: At the first annual Business Meeting after the adoption of these Bylaws the Deacons shall be elected as follows: 1.
Two Deacons shall be elected to serve for three years; two, to serve for two years; and one to serve for one year.
2.
At each annual Business Meeting Deacons shall be elected to fill the vacancies created by the expiring terms, and such Deacons shall be elected for a term of three years.
3.
After serving for two terms, Deacons shall be ineligible for re-election for one year in order to provide a means of rotation of the responsibility.
4.
Incumbents in office at the time of adoption may complete their present term and one additional term before using ineligible for re-election.
D. Secretary and Treasurer: The term of office shall coincide with his term of office as Deacon.
ARTICLE VII. VACANCIES Section 1.
Pastorate
A. Resignation of the Pastor:
16 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
1.
In the event of the Pastor resigning, he shall give sixty days notice to the Assembly. This may be shortened by mutual consent.
B. Removal of the Pastor: 1.
2.
Incompetency or Incompatibility: A complaint may be lodged with the Official Board against the incumbent by any two or three members in good standing. The complaint shall be in writing and shall be signed by the complainants. (1 Tim. 5:19) The Official Board shall consider the complaint and present the matter to a vote of the congregation if they deem it advisable. Such complaint must be supported by at least two-thirds majority of those present and voting in the Business Meeting. The meeting shall be presided over by a District Official. In the event of removal by such action, the Pastor shall be given sixty days in which to arrange his affairs and move. A report of such action shall be made to the District Officiary, and the action shall not be considered as affecting the standing of the minister with the General or District council of the Assemblies of God. Immoral conduct, radical departure from the Tenants of Faith, or other serious charges: The Official Board shall be empowered to remove the Pastor upon proven charges of serious nature. Removal shall be effective immediately and a full report with the evidence shall be furnished to the District Office. The advice and assistance of the District Officiary shall be obtained when serious charges are brought against the Pastor, and they shall be invited to meet with the Official Board to hear the charges and advise in the disposition of the case.
C. Supply in the Pastorate: The Official Board shall arrange for the pulpit to be filled when there is a vacancy in the pastorate until an election can be held. Section 2. Other Offices A. When a vacancy occurs in any office, the Official Board shall appoint a qualified person to fill the office until the next annual Business Meeting. B. Any office may be declared vacant by an act of the Official Board. Grounds for such action shall be a radical departure from the Tenants of Faith (ARTICLE IV of the Constitution) or unscriptural conduct. C. A complaint may be lodged in writing against an incumbent with the Official Board. Such complaints must be made by two or three witnesses. (1 Tim. 5:19), and the incumbent shall have the right to fair and impartial hearing by the Official Board, who shall render a decision in the case. ARTICLE VIII. DEPARTMENTS AND COMMITTEES Section 1. Sunday School There shall be a Sunday School conducted as a branch of the church activities, under the general oversight of the Pastor. Section 2. Youth Department There shall be a Youth Department under the general oversight of the Youth Director who shall be amenable to the Senior Pastor. Section 3. Department of Women’s Ministries 17 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
There shall be a Department of Women’s Ministries, which will work in close harmony with the District Council and the General Council of the Assemblies of God denomination, conducted as a branch of the Church activities, under the general oversight of the Pastor and Official Board. Section 4.
Men’s Ministries
There shall be a Department of men’s Ministry, which will work in close harmony with the District Council and the General Council of the Assemblies of God denomination, conducted as a branch of the Church activities, under the general oversight of the Pastor and Official Board. Section 5.
Christian Day School
A. Provision: There may be Christian Day School for the Purpose of conducting preschool, elementary, and other education based upon Christian principles under the general oversight of the Official Board. B. School Board: The Official Board shall appoint for a term of one year, a School Board. The School Board shall consist of at least one member of the Official Church Board and one member of the pastoral staff. The School Board shall oversee the operation and development of the school and be responsible for complying with all federal, state, county, and city laws and regulations pertaining to the education and safety of school children. This Board, in consultation with the Official Church Board, shall set operational procedures and establish all educational policies basic to the operation of the school and shall be responsible for the employment and dismissal of all members of the school staff. C. Financial Management: The School Board shall be responsible for the financial management of the school in accordance with ARTICLE III of the By-Laws. All budgets, salaries, and capital expenditures shall be submitted to the Official Church Board for approval. Section 6.
Ushers
A Head usher shall be appointed by the Official Board, and other qualified persons shall be selected to assist in the ushering duties under the direction of the Head Usher. Section 7.
Funeral Home and Cemetery Ministry
Beginning with the death of Stephen (Acts 8:2), the first Christian martyr, when "Godly men buried Stephen" Christians have considered it an act of piety to care for those who have died. In order to provide for the proper preparation and burial of Christian people from the Church, and others from the Community, and in order to advance the Gospel, a funeral home and cemetery may be established and operated.
Section 8.
Mechanics Ministry
As a response to the Lord's requirements to help the poor, and because transportation is critical for success in the workplace, and in order to advance the Gospel, a mechanics ministry providing mechanical assistance and vehicles may be established and operated. Section 9.
Counseling Ministry 18
Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
In order to provide Pastoral care for the mental and spiritual health of people from the Church, and others from the Community, and in order to advance the Gospel, a counseling ministry may be established and operated. Section 10.
Summer Day Camp Ministry
In order to provide education, recreation and spiritual growth for children from the Church, and others from the Community, and in order to advance the Gospel, a Summer Day Camp may be established and operated. Section 11.
School of the Arts Ministry
In order to provide education, training and spiritual growth for people of the Church, and others from the Community, and in order to advance the Gospel, a School of the Arts may be established and operated. Section 12.
Media Ministry
In order to provide video, Internet and related services for the congregation, and others from the Community, and in order to advance the Gospel, a Media Ministry may be established and operated. Section 13.
Other Departments and Committees
The Official Board shall have the authority to set up such Departments and Committees as are needed, and to appoint persons to such positions as may be deemed necessary to effectively carry out the work of the Assembly. Such appointments shall be made for a period of one year. ARTICLE IX. Section 1.
GENERAL AND DISTRICT COUNCILS Attending the Annual and Biennial Assembly
A. The Church shall send to the District Council annually the Pastor and a lay delegate according to financial ability. B. The Church shall send to the General Council Biennially, the Pastor, and a lay delegate according to financial ability. C. It is recommended that the Pastor’s spouse be sent with the Pastor and a lay delegate when financially feasible.
ARTICLE X.
CIVIL GOVERNMENT
Cedar Park Assembly of God declares its loyalty to the United States Government and to its Chief Executive and states our fixed purpose to assist our government in every way morally possible in war or peace consistent with our faith.
ARTICLE XI.
AMENDMENTS 19
Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003
These By-Laws may be at amended at any Business Meeting of the Assembly by a majority vote of members present and voting by publishing all known proposed changes ten (10) days prior to the meeting.
20 Cedar Park Constitution & By-Laws Rev. September 2003