2018-2019 (Edition)
INTERNATIONAL CIRCLE OF FAITH GLOBAL UNION 1932-2018
INTERNATIONAL CIRCLE OF FAITH 1901 Prestwick Drive LaGrange KY 40031
www.icof.net
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INTERNATIONAL CIRCLE OF FAITH (ICOF) MAILING ADDRESS: 1901 Prestwick Drive LaGrange KY 40031
Administrative Office: 6321 Fallen Timber Road Sulphur, KY 40070
©2018 ALLRIGHTS RESERVED
WEB: http://www.icof.net LIBRARY: https://issuu.com/charismata ICOF TV: http://www.livestream.com/ICOF LIFE COLLEGE: http://www.life.education HARVARD HIGH SCHOOL INTERNATIONAL: http://www.hhs.education/
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Presidents letter……………………………………………...………… 5 ICOF Global Network Vision ……………………………….………… 6 What is International Circle of Faith? ……………………………… 9 NEXT WAVE MAGAZINE ……………………………………………. 11 INTERNATIONAL CIRCLE OF FAITH BROADCASTING ………. 12 LIFE COLLEGE AND SEMINARY ….………………………………. 13 ICOF MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATIONS …………………………….
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HISTORY OF ICOF ………………………………………………….... 21 ICOF CONGRESS …………………………………………………….. 23 FOUNDERS …….. …………………………………………………….. 24 SPIRITUAL FAMILY TREE …………………………………………... 25 ICOF MINISTERIAL APPLICATION ……………………….……..… 27 STEWARDSHIP GUIDELINES ………………………………………. 29 BENEFITS …………………………………......………………………. 31 MISSIONS ……………………………………………………………… 34 ICOF CHAPLAINCY ………………………………………………….. 36
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FROM THE International Circle of Faith Office of the President – Bishop Bernie L. Wade, PhD
Praise Jesus! Greetings to all of the International Circle of Faith (ICOF) Family! What a marvelous journey God has granted to each of us! It has been more than 85 years since our founders trusted God to give them a Spiritual harvest. Their faith and vision are our inheritance. As I look upon the landscape of the plethora of ministries connected to ICOF I am deeply humbled. I expect that we have been granted favor beyond the expectation of our forefathers. I can only imagine what those who follow us will accomplish! To God be the Glory! As we look to the future I pray for the greatest revival of souls that the Kingdom of Jesus Christ has ever witnessed. The whole earth is groaning for you to manifest the destiny for which you were created. Don’t die with your destiny yet unfulfilled! We are here to help! God has a Divine purpose for you! You can reach your full potential. Blessings!
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ICOF Global Network Vision International Circle of Faith Global Network has a mandate to help usher in a new wave of the Spirit of God in this century. On January 1st, 1901 a prayer meeting at the Bethel Bible School with Charles F. Parham began a new era in the Christian world. In 1904 the Welsh Revival united more than 100,000 believers. In 1905 the Azusa Street revival ignited global interest in Pentecostalism.
It has been more than 100 years since the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Azusa Street. These three events launched the greatest revival in the history of the world. From these humble beginnings millions have been impacted with the everlasting Gospel of Jesus Christ. From our foundation as a continuation of the Apostolic Faith movement in 1932 to present, the International Circle of Faith has grown from one church family to an global fellowship of like minded men and women of God. From a handful in our beginning to networking tens of thousands of ministers impacting every nation under the heavens we have become what some call the largest Apostolic movement in history. Today, ICOF represents millions of people. It is our expectation that what God has done in the past, He will do again. Jesus told us, “Greater things that these you WILL do!” It is evident that we are destined to see the glory of the latter house be greater than the glory of the former house.
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Fellowship. We are all created by God to do great things! Like a seed, greatness is implanted in us. However, we have not been called to achieve greatness by ourselves. Think about a three dimensional puzzle of the globe (Like the one pictured on the right). This puzzle is like the body of Christ. Each of us has one piece of the puzzle. When we put those pieces together we get a clearer picture of what God is doing and the potential that He has placed in us to do even more. Greatness does not come alone. The seed is not enough. The seed must be watered and nurtured. To reach our full potential there is always a spiritual father, a coach, teacher, mentor, or friend that comes alongside and brings knowledge, wisdom, and resources. Without Barnabas working with Saul of Tarsus as a spiritual son we would not have had Apostle Paul and we would not have the wonderful work and writings he left as a legacy to the body of Christ. Fellowship lays the groundwork for relationship. Together we can accomplish so much more than we could ever do with just our piece of the puzzle alone. It is God‘s plan for His creation to live, learn and play together as family, regardless of race, culture, or creed. International Circle of Faith (ICOF) provides a way to find fellowship and relationship with those who have a common language, values, and mission. The International Circle of Faith Global Network provides ways of not only finding one another, but also creating purposeful relationships in which vision and resources can be shared and experienced and your ministry gifting can be implemented. Five Fold Roundtable. The great prophet Elijah once found himself hiding in a cave. “Behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and He said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” He said, “I have been very zealous for the LORD, the God of hosts; for the sons of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars and killed Your prophets with the sword. And I alone am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.” 1 The Lord lets the prophet know that there are more than 7000 that still serve Him. Too often in ministry we find ourselves feeling like we are all alone. We 1
I Kings Chapter 19: 9-10.
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refer to this as the Elijah Syndrome. In response to this challenge ICOF has begun the process of creating Five Fold Roundtables. It is all too easy to ask people to come join us. Rather than, come join us, the idea of the Five Fold Roundtable is to join hands and hearts to make a difference together. In areas all over the country (and the world) we are forming Five Fold Roundtables to give all of us a forum to work together. We have saved a seat at the Five Fold Roundtable for you. There are no titles at this table, no dues, no fees, etc. What you will find is people just like you who are hungry for a move of the Holy Spirit.
Education - Hundreds and in some cases, thousands of dollars are spent each year by those who desire to learn a skill, enhance a skill, or improve their life by being a constant learner. Travel, conference fees, books, CD‘s and DVD‘s can become expensive for someone eager to learn and grow. International Circle of Faith has now made this growth affordable. Members can now engage in many free classes, finish their degree or just enhance their education through Life College & Seminary (formerly ICOF Colleges, Seminaries and Universities).
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What is the International Circle of Faith? What a journey God has taken us through in the last few years. Never would we have imagined that the International Circle of Faith (ICOF) would become a global fellowship of apostolic leaders! The question, both verbalized and nonverbal is, “What is the International Circle of Faith?” Our stated answer is: The International Circle of Faith (ICOF) is a 21st Century movement of God, pursuing the restoration of the original apostolic message, authority, power and anointing around the world. ICOF has united over 40,000 churches representing 25 million constituents, orphanages, several humanitarian aid organizations and hundreds of colleges, Christian Universities and Seminaries. Our goal is Unity - not further division. Our vision is to Unite Anointed Kingdom Minded New Testament ministers fulfilling the prayer Jesus prayed for the Church that we would all be One. But, beyond all of that what is the ICOF? The ICOF is much more than that. It is difficult with just an article to answer, “What is the International Circle of Faith (ICOF)?” The ICOF is pastors working from sun up to sun down (and perhaps longer) laboring in their field of labor, sharing the gospel, and doing the important things to make a difference in people‘s lives. The ICOF is a place where women have the freedom to minister in their God called assignments without fear of reprisal. ICOF is ministers working together, ministers working with government, ministers working with the medical profession to make a difference and ministers working with the military. The ICOF is chaplains working to aid their fellow man. ICOF is people committed to making a difference in people‘s everyday life with activities 9|Page
like drilling bore holes (water wells) in villages where there is no water for children. ICOF is education; Hundreds of Colleges, Bible Colleges and Seminaries working together to train young ministers and to aid in advanced education to those already in the ministry. Chancellors, regents, professionals and other Christian education professionals working together to mold more informed ministers and lay people. ICOF is churches, church bodies, children, adults, music ministers, choirs, music, mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers. ICOF is people just like you! Some days there is frustration. Some days there is great joy. Some days we wonder why we do it. Other days we want to quit. But at the end of the day we know that it is all worth it. ICOF IS YOU! It may not have occurred to you that God‘s plan for leaders for His people is already in place and that you are one of those that the mantle of leadership has fallen on. No one is going to lead for us; we have to be the ones who provide leadership. In either case, it is evident that as leaders we need each other. It is time for leaders who are bankers to connect more with leaders who are carpenters and leaders who are doctors to connect with leaders who are athletes, leaders who are ministers to connect with leaders who are chaplains, etc. Let‘s join together for a journey into bringing great unity to the body of Christ. ICOF is a banner waving for the whole world to see that that JESUS CHRIST has set us free. ICOF stands for spiritual FREEDOM. That, my friends, is the International Circle of Faith! Come join with us!
http://www.icof.net
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THE NEXT WAVE is the voice of Apostolic Transformation. We are positioning the Body of Christ for the Next Wave through the efforts of our coalition of ministries around the world. Since the time of John Wycliffe there has been an interest of true believers in returning the Church to the tenets taught by the original Apostles and held by the New Testament Church. This Apostolic Reformation has seen many waves of the Holy Spirit. The last prominent wave of Apostolic Reformation was in the late 1890’s and early 1900’s. It is our expectation that we are in another wave of Apostolic Reformation. The Next Wave is published by International Circle of Faith Global Network. The Next Wave is an e-magazine dedicated to exploring and challenging the modern church through thought provoking articles. This popular e-publication covers world, national, church and ministry news in relation to modern church culture and life. Find practical advice on every aspect of Christian life from parenting and marriage resources, help with college and seminary selection, guides, and sermon aids. With The Next Wave, you will never run out of reading material, with articles from respected ministers, Bible teachers, professors, historians and archaeologists. We cover everything you need to stay up-to-date in the contemporary Christian world.
NEXT WAVE MAGAZINE The Official Voice of the International Circle of Faith is the Next Wave magazine Find back issues here: https://issuu.com/charismata
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INTERNATIONAL CIRCLE OF FAITH BROADCASTING NETWORK
Technology has made it possible for ICOF to broadcast 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year!
ICOF TV: http://www.livestream.com/ICOF
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LIFE COLLEGE & SEMINARY 13 | P a g e
"The men that will change the colleges and seminaries here represented are the men that will spend the most time alone with God. It takes time for the fires to burn. It takes time for God to draw near and for us to know that He is there. It takes time to assimilate His truth. You ask me, How much time? I do not know. I know it means time enough to forget time." - John Mott
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LIFE COLLEGE AND SEMINARY Welcome to the Life College and Seminary! As you begin your educational journey we want you to know that we at Life College are here to help you to reach your goals. As you strive to understand the Word of God, prepare for the ministry that the Lord has ordained for you and earn the certification that you require to be established and respected as a true man or woman of God Life College & Seminary is here to assist. Each of us here at Life College have traveled the same road that you now take. We have made the same journey that you have now begun, so we truly understand the challenges and difficulties which you might now be facing. We want to encourage you to begin the journey, knowing that you will not be alone in the process. As you gain knowledge and understanding of the deep things of God, you will find your relationship with Christ deepening and becoming stronger. Each course that you take will open up new doors for you, “Philadelphia Doors� (Revelation 3:7-8) that no man can shut. Gaining the proper training and credentials will allow you to move forward into the call of God that resides within your heart. Without the proper training and credentials, those doors may forever be shut to you, and that is clearly not the Will of God for your life.
LIFE COLLEGE AND SEMINARY provides multiple undergraduate and graduate methods for you. No matter if it is a one-year certificate in Biblical Studies, a two-year Associates Degree, a threeyear Ministerial Degree or a Masters or PhD custom-tailored to your area of concentration. Even if you have no clearly defined degree goals and simply want to deepen your understanding of the Word of God, Life College has a variety of highly flexible programs that you can take. Because of our unique modular approach to higher education, you can not only take one course at a time but you can also break that single course up into 10 separate class sessions, taken one at a time as your schedule and finances permit it.
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If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We love you with the love of the Lord and are prepared to train you, stand by you, enable you, connect you and encourage you in your journey on your way to the City Not Made With Hands! Amen and Amen!
Charismatic in practice Evangelistic in emphasis Loving in fellowship Bold in faith Conservative in doctrine Restorative in purpose
Life College & Seminary officially began as International Circle of Faith Colleges, Seminaries and Universities (ICOFCSU). The vision was to network quality Christian education institutions around the world. This vision brought together a plethora of highly qualified educators. These educators have combined care, experience, knowledge, revelation, foundational truths and disciplines developed through nearly a century of international ministry. This legacy of apostolic truths was exampled in the lives of Bishop Ray and Ruth Cornell (founders of the ICOF’s parent ministry) and passed on through several 16 | P a g e
generations down to the spiritual sons and daughters of Drs. Bernie and Daisy Wade, Bishop Sanford and Georgia Wade and Bishop George A. & Lois Wade. The result of more than a century of Spirit-filled and Spirit-led ministry has left a rich heritage to which we all have become the beneficiaries. A great spiritual legacy. The Life College & Seminary network of academic professionals brings together a plethora of Spirit–filled educators with unlimited talents for preaching, teaching and empowering others. Together this group of dedicated Christian Leaders has brought Christian education to new dimensions and has assisted tens of thousands with their educational goals. Some of the key contributors to this historic vision have been: Drs. Frank and Hurdis Bozeman, Drs. Stan and Cindye Coates, Barney Phillips, PhD, Daniel and Regina Ubonabasi, Bishop Joseph Freeson, Rev. Bruce Hawthorn, Dr. David Ngwa, Dr. John Alford, Bishop Harold McFarland, Dr.Roderick Williams and many others.
Life Seminary encourages a Yeshiva-style of learning. Yeshiva is the Hebrew word for a traditional rabbinical school. Likewise, Life College & Seminary has a unique blend of mentoring opportunities (through discussions, fellowships and activation), discipleship training and internships through a local church, formal classroom instruction, physical campus, and experiencing God’s glory and power through worship services. This style was chosen because it mirrors how Jesus taught, embraces the Hebrew roots of our faith in Jesus Christ and reminds us of His love and our call together to fulfill the Great Commission. This apostolic team have cultivated, as faculty members and church leaders, a dynamic training environment of servantleadership focused on Kingdom Leadership. They are committed to letting the Lord build His Church through the gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit working in and through the lives of believers. We welcome you to come to Life College to participate in and be transformed through our oneand two-year credited programs, our Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral degrees, our 12-week intensive Certificate program or by auditing courses that are offered for either fall or spring semesters. Get ready for a life-changing encounter with the Glory and Power of God! For those focused on ministry disciplines, Life Seminary offers certificates through Doctoral degrees. 17 | P a g e
GEORGIA ANN WADE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
The Regents of LIFE COLLEGE & SEMINARY are please to announce the creation of the GEORGIA ANN WADE SCHOLARSHIP FUND.
LIFE COLLEGE & SEMINARY 1901 Prestwick Drive LaGrange KY 40031
BOARD OF REGENTS Barney P. Phillips, PhD.
President
Bernie L. Wade, PhD.
Chancellor
Cindye Coates, PdD
Provost
Florence Brooks, PhD USA Gary W. Garrett, PhD
Dean of Church History James B. Gould, PhD
Dean-School of Business
The GEORGIA ANN WADE SCHOLARSHIP FUND is a Memorial fund created in memory Pastor Georgia A. Wade’s love for the Kingdom of Jesus Christ and her lifetime of commitment to ministry. Pastor Georgia A. Wade was a licensed minister with International Circle of Faith Ministerial Association and a Alumna of LIFE COLLEGE & SEMINARY. She was the mother of our own Dr. Bernie L. Wade and wife of Bishop Sanford L. Wade. The Scholarship is a continuation of her legacy as a disciple of Jesus Christ, Pastor, mentor, leader and more. It is our expectation that the fund will help many students advance and complete their education. The fund has been set up by the LIFE COLLEGE & SEMINARY Board of Regents with an annual amount not to exceed $100,000 US. The guidelines are as follows:
Dr. Marcus Benson
Ireland
Dorothy Nanga, PhD USA David Ngwa, PhD. Dr. Tembi A. Tembi .
Cameroon
Dr. Samuel Matthews
India
John Rogers, PhD.
Experiential Learning Inst. (ELI) Bishop Joseph Freeson
Ghana
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The recipient must be student at Life College & Seminary. The student may be a graduate or undergraduate Scholarship is awarded on the basis of necessity and merit. The fund will provide no more than 50% of the student’s tuition. The student must use the scholarship within 12 months of the date of the award. Applicants can apply through the tuition department of LIFE COLLEGE AND SEMINARY Special consideration will be given to applicants who are physically challenged.
International Circle of Faith INTERNATIONAL ANTHEM
THERE IS ONE GOD AND ONE MEDIATOR BETWEEN GOD AND MAN THERE IS ONE GOD AND ONE MEDIATOR BETWEEN GOD AND MAN THERE IS ONE GOD AND ONE MEDIATOR THE MAN; CHRIST JESUS!
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ICOF MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATIONS (1932 -2018) “Jesus in the heart of every man, woman and child!”
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Washington DC, USA • UYO, Nigeria • Louisville, KY USA • Dublin • Andhra Pradesh • Islamabad • Accra • Lusaka
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• http://www.icof.net · (ICOF)
In the early 1900’s God began to manifest his power and presence in a manner that some though only relevant in the time of the New Testament Church. Speaking in tongues or glosalalia became wide spread among adherent of a plethora of similar groups, but most notably the Apostolic Faith movement of Charles Fox Parham. Soon this movement would impact most of the major denominations of the world in what would be one of a series of ‘waves’. This first wave (as it would become known) is historically described as the Pentecostal movement. When ministers from the various denominations began to experience their own person ‘Pentecost’ (baptism of the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in other tongues). The denominations that they were from vary often turned hostile to them. These men who had found themselves persona non grata began to group together under the banner of their mutual experience. From these initial organizers came a plethora of ministerial associations. The first of these was the Apostolic Faith group organized by Charles F. Parham and championed by such Haywood, and many others.
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Over 100 years later, International Circle of Faith Ministerial Associations is pleased to trace our roots directly to this original group of men and women in the Apostolic Faith movement. No one is required to have a license with the ICOF in order to fellowship with us. However, for those who desire ministerial license ICOF has a prestigious history of bringing like minded brethren together in the cause of the unity of the body of Christ.
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20172018 INTERNATIONAL CIRCLE OF FAITH MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATIONS CONGRESS Bernie L. Wade, ThD. – Presiding Bishop Barney P. Phillips, Phd. – Assistant Presiding Bishop Marcus Benson, Thd. – Assistant Presiding Bishop – Europe Daniel Joseph Ubonabasi – Assistant Presiding Bishop - Africa Aflred Tembi – Assistant Presiding Bishop – Cameroon David Ngwa – Secretary General – Africa Kanwal Sohail – Secretary General – Asia Julian McPhillips – General Counsel Oceana Apostle Phillip Torboe Asia Sheal Morar – North India, Asher Peri – India, Glory Dhas - India Herbert (Bing) Gadian – Philippines, J. Prabhudas - India Dilshad Bhatti – Pakistan, Arshad Kohar – Pakistan, Riaz Sadiq – Pakistan, Janamala Prabhudas – India, K.Chaitanya Kumar India, Saleem Inayat - Pakistan Europe Marcus Benson – Ireland, Emmanuel Ghansah - Germany Vasil Elenkov – Bulgaria Americas Drs. Stan and Cindye Coates, Pastor Robert Ngalle, Pastor Lois Ekwe, Apostle Dorothy Nanga, Henri Mercidieu – Haiti, Anibal Guevara – Peru, USA – Apostle Dorothy Nanga, Bernie Wade II, Pastor Blanca Wade, Dr. Florence Brooks, Donald Crousser Africa Jospeh Freeson – Ghana, Chama Meyembi, Thd. – Youth, Steven Lewis – Liberia, David Ngwa - Cameroon, Noe Sakahandu – DRC Congo, William Ouma, Thd.– East Africa, Alfred Tembi, Thd. – Cameroon, Eugene Sibomana – Burundi, Richard Iwatt – Nigeria,
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Friends of ICOF Teklemariam Gezahagne – Apostolic Church of Ethiopia
International Circle of Faith Global Network… …The Next Wave!
History of ICOF Mission/Vision Statement MISSION The International Circle of Faith is a global group of ministers and ministries working in together to fulfill the prayer that Jesus prayed for his Church in John 17:21 that we would all be one. Unity in Diversity. VISION We seek to include all those who are willing to follow Jesus Christ; “Jesus Christ in the heart of every man, woman and child”. We know that Apostle John saw a people that no man could number out of every tribe, kindred, and nation under the heavens worshipping around the throne. We envision the culmination of this great vision happening on the earth with the people of God coming together in the manifestation of the greatest wave of the Holy Spirit.
History (Brief)
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Founded in 1932, International Circle of Faith (ICOF) is the continuation of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. The ICOF is focused on allowing thr free flow of the Holy Spirit to continue and to be a conduit for such. We do not hold that we are the whole of the Body, nor do we exclude our fellow believers from participation based on religious documents. Rather we encourage those who believe that Jesus Christ is the manifestation of Almighty God to come and join hands and hearts with us as together we participate in the greatest move of the Holy Spirit the World has ever known. Using Apostle Paul as our guide, we welcome Jews and Greeks, men and women, bond and free to participate. We envision the day when people from all kindred, tongues, tribes and nations come together in a display of the demonstration and power of the Holy Spirit We see this wave focusing on the restoration of the Apostolic and we are positioned to be part of that wave. Welcome to the Next Wave! Welcome to the International Circle of Faith. “Welcome to the Next Wave!”
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Bishop Glenn Beecher (G. B.) Rowe
(L to R) Bishop Ray Cornell with Bishop George A. Wade
Charles Fox Parham
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Bishop Charles Bernard (C. B.) Gillespie
Bishop Carl Angle
William J. Seymour
In the late 1920’s Bishop Ray Cornell, his wife Ruth and their family, moved from Mishawaka Indiana to work in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cornell’s were from Greater Midway Gospel Tabernacle (later Apostolic Temple) in Mishawaka, Indiana where the late Bishop Glen Beecher (G. B.) Rowe2 was pastor.
Bishop Garfield Thomas (G.T.) Haywood
Bishop G. B. Rowe was a contemporary of the leaders of the early Pentecostal movement and a fixture in the original Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (PAW) at the time of other legendary figures such as Bishop G. T. Haywood.
From this original PAW came such groups as the PAJC, UPC, Reorganized PAW (the PAW as it is today), ALJC, ACOJC, ICOF and many others. The Pentecostal Movement in general and in particular the Apostolic Faith Church of God came out of Apostolic Faith movement championed by Charles F. Parham in 1901. Parham is the father of both the Apostolic Faith movement and the Pentecostal movement.3 Organized originally as a church by Ray Oscar and Ruth Cornell (1932), the Apostolic Faith Church of God grew to a large regionally recognized ministry and was active in planting a plethora of daughter works. Several of these continue today. Most notable is Abundant Life Church in Elyria Ohio.4 From these humble beginning the ministry of that original church has expanded around the world. In1955 Bishop Cornell legally reorganized the PAJC.5 Throughout those crucial years the late Bishop George A. Wade served as assistant pastor to the Apostolic Faith Church of God and Secretary to the ministerial group. His son, Bishop Sanford L. Wade would continue the legacy founding churches in 3 states, and his grandson Bishop Bernie L. Wade Sr. became the first Presiding Bishop when the ministry reorganized in 2001 as International Circle of Faith (ICOF).6 Today, more than five generations later, the International Circle of Faith (ICOF) is pleased to be the caretakers of the vision of these men of God.
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http://apostolictemplechurch.com/content/view/43/113/ In the year of 1918, the late Bishop G.B. Rowe and his wife founded the Midway Gospel Tabernacle, now known as the Apostolic Temple Church, Inc. 3 http://www.revival-library.org/pensketches/am_pentecostals/parham.html 4 http://www.usachurches.org/church/abundant-life-christian-center-elyria.htm 5 http://www.apostolicarchives.com/articles/article/8795236/172432.htm 6 http://www.conservapedia.com/ICOF
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Bishop G. B. Rowe
Bishop Worthy Rowe
Bishop Ray O. Cornell
Bishop David L. Rowe
‘
Bishop George A. Wade
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Bishop Sanford L. Wade
Bishop Bernie Wade
Pastor Juan Fuentes
Pastor Blanca Wade
Pastor Sarah Phillips
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Prophet Bernie L. Wade II
Pastor Robert Ngalle
Pastor Lois Ekwe
Barney P. Phillips, PhD
Pastor Maricela Fuentes
From those early days there was a focus on unity. With the first church manual quoting “Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” In the 1950’s the key leadership responded to the need for a truly multi-cultural fellowship and re-chartered the Pentecostal Assemblies of Jesus Christ (PA of JC) as a global fellowship of ministers, churches and more. International conventions were held annually in Cleveland Ohio at the headquarters at 2050 W. 55th Street. The founders of this group were Bishop Ray Oscar Cornell, Bishop Charles Bernard (C. B.) Gillespie and Bishop Carl E. Angle. Times have certainly changed but God remains the same. After more than 85 years of leading the way in ministry the original vision of Bishop Cornell and the saints of the Apostolic Faith movement to bring Unity to the body of Christ continues. Using the historic foundation of this ministry the International Circle of Faith (ICOF) was organized in 2001 at a now historic meeting in Cleveland, Ohio. In the spirit of that vision Life Church now hosts an annual meeting, Life Fest, every September. The vision of a global multi-cultural body of believers began by our forefathers has been realized in the International Circle of Faith’s constituents that includes representation in nearly every country in the world. The focus on the restoration and continuation of the Apostles doctrine (those things believed by the Apostles and the New Testament church) remains our focus. We believe the Apostles of Jesus Christ were given the charge of the New Testament church. Their doctrine as outlined first by mandate to them from Jesus Christ: Repentance Baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins Receiving the Holy Spirit In the only Church counsel recorded in Scripture the Apostles agreed that there were three other important things: Avoid sexual immorality Avoid eating things sacrificed to idols Avoid drinking blood
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ICOF Ministry Application
Name _____________________________________________ DOB _________ Street Address________________________________ City ________________ State/Prov.______________ Zip _________ Country ______________________ Home Phone ___________________ Work Phone ___________________ E-Mail _______________________Web Site ____________________________ Marital Status (M/S) _____ Spouse Name _______________# Of Children ____ Approximate Dates of: Initial Conversion ___________Water Baptism ______ Spirit Baptism ________ Describe call to Ministry:__________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ Current Church attending if not in Full-Time Ministry _______________________ Pastor or set man’s Name __________________________ Address/Phone/E-mail ______________________________________________ Describe Your Current Ministry ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ Describe Your Ministry Vision ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ------------------------------- Educational Background -----------------------------School Attended
Location
Years Attended
Degree
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
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Briefly describe any other major encounters with God (healings/visions/personal dealings): ________________________________________________________________ Please enclose a current picture and three letters of recommendation from Christian leaders / pastors who know you and your ministry. Also enclose a typed personal testimony and statement of basic doctrinal beliefs: salvation, baptism, Holy Spirit's role in the believer's life, etc. Your credentials are renewable at the end of each year. Please make and keep a copy of this form. Applying for Leadership Minister Credentials ($299.00 first year and $100 annually) as: _____ Bishop _____ Overseer _____ Leadership Council: _____ Teacher _____ Pastor _____ Evangelist _____ Missionary _____ Prophet _____ Apostle Applying for Associate Minister Credentials ($250.00 and $50 anually) as: _____ Lay Minister _____ Christian Worker _____ Helps Ministry ____ Intercessor _____ _____ Music Ministry _____ Christian Education _____ Other Applying for Member Credentials ($150.00 and $32 anually) _____ (Anyone can become a member of ICOF, even if they are not a minister. All that is required is that you love the Lord with all your heart and want to be a part of what God is doing through ICOF.) I will be paying by: _____ Enclosed Cash, Check or Money Order ____ Credit Card _____ Visa _____ Mastercard _____ American Express: _______________________ Card Number ____________ Exp. Date _________ I need time to pay for my Membership Fee and Will Pay: ____ Monthly ___ Qtly I have extreme financial hardship and need to apply for a Hardship Exemption. My reason for asking for an exemption from paying is as follows: ________________________________________________________________ I am applying for an Exemption but can pay the following amount toward my credentials: ___________ ICOF Member vouching for applicant _____________ Member # ___________ Applicant Signature ____________________________ Date____________
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Membership in a Kingdom focused worldwide network of churches, ministers, ministries and para-church organizations working together. Annual International Conference: Life Fest, Louisville Ky September 7 – 10, 2018 Multicultural leadership team. Your ministry maintains local autonomy. LEADERSHIP training and conferences. FIVE FOLD ministry orientation. Internationally recognized college: Life College & Seminary National, and Regional Conferences. High school completion program: Harvard High School International. http://www.hhs.education Ministry wall and pocket Credentials. Educational accreditation for your ministry and/or Bible College. Women‘s Leadership. Anointed women of God are given flexibility to be used by the Holy Spirit in leadership. Women are not held back from their God given calling. Non-church Leadership. ICOF has a structure of leadership to assist, support, mentor and train persons who minister in other areas (i.e. Business, Para-church ministries, music, house churches, nursing homes, campus ministries, etc.)
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20182019 International Circle of Faith MISSIONS We aim to provide resources for growth in the Christian faith for all who come to God and continued growth for ministry leadership in the ICOF. We aim to learn from and promote new patterns of church, which encourage and facilitate growth. It will be involved with: Children - The spirituality of children and young people and practical application Pastoral care Grief counseling Training and support for spiritual direction Defining the local churches responsibility to its community through the church’s public ministry Training for ministry among children and young people Mentoring for youth ministry, outreach work and events with young adults The affirmation of ministry through the laying on of hands, consecration in the five facet ministry gifts. The teaching & development of ensuring good practice in child protection by training in parenthood. Missions, outreach and evangelism by a diversity of approaches Resources for adult Christian learning and for exploring faith in working life Promoting the use of educational resources for learning and teaching The development of team-working and the training of ministerial teams The ministerial review and continuing ministerial development of all who hold office or are accredited ministers, apostles, prophets, teachers, pastors and evangelist who hold license and or ordination with the International Circle of Faith. In short, checks and balances. Liaison with the faith and business community with regard to: developing the resources of local partnerships for training and ministry in urban and rural areas by, lCOF responding to social issues, addressing issues of, family Manual, By-laws and Constitution life and marriage, and the restoration of the 2018-2019 Family unit. 35 | P a g e
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International Circle of Faith Chaplaincy Corps ICOF offers credentials to Chaplains as well as training including degrees from associates through PhD through Life College & Seminary. Those who serve in ICOF Chaplaincy Corps are working every day to bring the gospel to all people in every walk of life – but the way they are accomplishing this might surprise you. Chaplains are ministering to the lost and hurting in hospitals, prisons, military barracks, corporations, and even at places such as football games and disaster sites. When ministering in such places, the hood of a HUMVEE or the table in a break room suddenly becomes a pulpit or a place of healing. Sometimes pastoral counseling takes place on a bike or in the belly of a battle Ship. For chaplains, ministry opportunities change almost every day. Each day thousands of people who have never committed their lives to Christ are passing into eternity. As long as people are hurting and yearning for more than this life has to offer, there will be a need for qualified chaplains who are willing and able to take Christ’s message of love and hope to those who are spiritually lost. Chaplains are ordinary people who are inspired by extraordinary purpose.
Mission Spirit-empowered service to people at their point of need.
Vision Statement To see chaplains who are trained professionals providing meaningful, life changing service to the communities in which they live through involvement in every sector of community life, be it health and welfare, education, transitional living, emergency service and governmental support. We also envision a multi-disciplined, Spirit-empowered, professionally trained chaplain team collaborating with a network of community partners and churches to bring the transforming power of Christ by meeting the unique human needs demonstrated locally, nationally and globally.
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Values Spirit empowered leadership Engaging Culture with presence & hope Resourcing and Strategic Partnerships Valuing diversity and creativity Investing in the future of chaplaincy Caring for the care givers Excellence in preparation and delivery
Chaplain Ministries
Police & Fire Chaplaincy Overview
Law Enforcement Law enforcement officials encounter high levels of stress and danger. Each day they risk their lives to serve and protect others. Though these men and women often maintain a strong emotional front, behind the badges and tough veneers are spiritually hungry people who need Christ at the center of their lives. This is especially true when life gets tough or the difficulty and stress of the job become too much to bear. During such times most of these men and women will not turn to an outsider. Instead, they will seek out one of their own. Sometimes one of their own is an ICOFCC chaplain who has ridden shotgun, counseled officers over cups of coffee during the night shift or has acted as a liaison between the department and the public. In other words, law enforcement officials turn to a friend they know and trust. Through service, unconditional love and uncompromising faith chaplains earn the right to intervene in an official’s life during difficult times. Chaplains are pros when it comes to
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knowing when to listen and when to talk. They are able to speak into officials’ lives because they have spent countless hours with them. On some days chaplains perform everyday functions by calming unruly prisoners, monitoring offenders on probation or speaking at public events. On other days a chaplain will serve a death notice to a victim’s family—sometimes the family is that of an officer. No matter what his or her duty on a given day, a chaplain becomes a dependable presence ready to serve and assist. Through sacrificial service a chaplain will free law enforcement officials to do what they do best: protect and serve. In doing so, lives are being transformed for eternity
Fire Department Fire department chaplains wear many hats while ministering. Sometimes they act as a public relations officer, at other times they counsel firefighters and victims, and sometimes they notify families that a loved one has died. But the chaplain’s main role is to be a spiritual leader in the firehouse. He does this by leading Bible studies, praying with and counseling those who confide in him and by doing whatever he is asked to do to help the firefighters get their job done. To earn the trust and respect of the firefighters a chaplain must be committed to his ministry. Sometimes he will have to get out of bed in the middle of the night to assist the firefighters at an emergency call or just to counsel a firefighter who is struggling with a personal issue. Whatever the situation, firefighter chaplains are ready and willing to answer the call.
Military/VA Chaplaincy Overview Active Duty Whether in the field performing military maneuvers or taking a morning run with the troops, chaplains are ever present in the lives of the men and women they serve. Because of their proximity and availability, chaplains are fixtures in the military that enlisted personnel and officers rely on for spiritual and moral support. When new recruits enter the service, many turn to chaplains for encouragement and guidance as they adjust to the rigors of military life. Even high-ranking officers confide in chaplains, especially during times of national or personal crisis. Chaplains have access and influence with so many people in part because they are held to the same rigorous standards as those they minister to.
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Though a military chaplain’s main function is to provide for the free exercise of religion for everyone in his or her care, he or she is able to share Christ’s love and compassion in a variety of ways such as counseling, worship services, Bible studies, serving others and teaching classes on morals and ethics. Standard operating procedure for ICOFCC is to represent Christ to all people at all times so no one feels they are exempt from the love of God. Military chaplains serve in diverse settings to an eclectic group of people representing many cultures and religions. To be an effective chaplain one must be courageous, physically fit, educated, flexible and able to handle pressure and time away from home. But the rewards of such a ministry are numerous. Besides sharing one’s faith with men and women who desperately need Jesus at the center of their lives, military chaplains are also afforded the opportunity to work in culturally diverse settings, live in locales around the world, continue their education, and receive excellent retirement benefits. However, military chaplaincy is not for everyone. At times the job is demanding, stressful and dangerous. But for those interested in making an eternal difference in countless lives, military chaplaincy can be highly rewarding. Requirements for becoming a military chaplain include two years as a senior pastor and a master of divinity degree from an accredited seminary or university. Candidates must also be able to pass a National Agency Check (background check). Each branch of the service sets additional age, weight and physical requirements.
Armed Forces Reserves/National Guard Being a Reserve and National Guard chaplain is an excellent opportunity for pastors of local churches, or other qualified ministers, to serve their country and minister to those who need to hear Christ’s message. This part-time ministry is challenging but rewarding. It allows a minister to have contact with people he or she might not otherwise meet. Plus, Reserve and National Guard chaplains accrue pay and benefits in accordance with military regulations. For pastors or other Christian leaders such as college professors, the Reserve and National Guard chaplaincy offers flexible hours and allows one to continue pastoring or teaching on a full-time basis. Each year, Reserve and National Guard chaplains must train with their unit for two weeks and meet with them for 16 hours each month. For those looking for a way to minister to others on a regular basis the Reserve and National Guard chaplaincy is an excellent option. Reserves and National Guard are liable for call-up during national emergencies.
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Civil Air Patrol Chaplains serving in the Civil Air Patrol or State Militia often discover an amazing inroad into their community that allows them to be in contact with nonbelievers on a regular basis. Sometimes that contact occurs during emergency situations such as a local disaster. In such circumstances chaplains are able to minister God’s love and grace to victims and surviving family members through compassion and prayer. Chaplains invest in the lives of youth cadets and senior members of the groups by teaching classes, counseling those who seek help, and praying for those in the group. To be fully equipped to perform as a chaplain in such programs one must be trained in Critical Incidence Stress Management (CISM). Other requirements vary, but one must be an ordained ICOF minister and have a master of divinity degree from an accredited seminary or university.
Chaplain Candidate For those wanting a head start on becoming a military chaplain, the chaplain candidate program is the place to be. The program is a preparatory stage for training seminary students who, when fully endorsed, are ready and equipped to serve as active duty or reserve chaplains. Upon commissioning as an officer in the chaplain candidate program, a person receives benefits comparable to an active duty or reserve chaplain during the time they are serving with official orders. The candidate gets real world experience as he or she may perform 45 days of active duty for training per year and receive pay and allowances commensurate with his/her rank. After graduating from seminary, chaplain candidates must apply for full endorsement for active duty or reserves in a specific branch of service. One must be a citizen of the United States or their prospective Country and a full-time resident graduate student at an accredited seminary or theological institution. A chaplain candidate must also be physically qualified, approved by a recognized ecclesiastical endorsing agency such as the ICOF Global Union (congress), and able to pass a National Agency Check.
VA (Department of Veterans Affairs) Veterans Affairs chaplains exist to serve those who have already sacrificed while serving their country. In VA hospitals ICOC chaplains care for veterans who are physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually hurting. Most VA chaplains know the feelings veterans are going through because they, too, are veterans.
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Through counseling, prayer, marriage seminars and classes relating to spirituality and family skills, VA chaplains are able to share God’s love with veterans and their families. Chaplains also carry out traditional duties such as conducting worship services, funerals and serving communion. A chaplain may also act as a liaison between the hospital and the civilian community. But the chaplain’s main role is to serve as a pastor to the patients.
Healthcare Chaplaincy Overview When lives are in the balance and uncertainty overcomes a person, a kind word, gentle touch or whispered prayer can soothe a soul and bring peace. During such moments health care chaplains are at their best. In hospitals, hospices, mental health hospitals and nursing homes, chaplains minister to patients, their families and medical staff through unconditional love, sacrifice and service. A chaplain may notify family members when a loved one has died. At other times chaplains comfort dying patients, conduct funerals, serve communion, perform memorial services and act as a mediator between medical staff and families. Chaplains also have administrative duties, but their main role is to be an effective witness for Christ. Health care chaplains must have exceptional people skills, be able to quickly connect with strangers, be self-motivated and able to maintain their spiritual integrity in an often stressful and emotionally draining secular environment. Chaplains must also be sensitive and respect other people’s faith traditions. In many cases, a chaplain must work with clergy of other faith groups to minister to an individual. Among other requirements, most health care positions require a master of divinity degree from an accredited seminary.
Correctional Chaplaincy Overview Despite armed guards, gigantic fences topped with razor wire and peers with a penchant for trouble, many men, women and juveniles are coming to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ while in prison. Currently there are more than 2 million people incarcerated in the United States—most do not have a personal relationship with Jesus. Where some people only see in prisoners the worst that society has to offer, chaplains see a massive and continually growing mission field filled with desperate people hungry for the peace only a relationship with Christ can bring.
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Each day ICOFCC chaplains are penetrating the darkness of prisons despite the challenges and dangers. Such a ministry can be intense and stressful, yet for those called to correctional chaplaincy there is nothing more rewarding than bringing the gospel to a vast, eclectic and ever-changing population. A correctional chaplain’s main job is to provide for the free exercise of religion of all inmates. But within such broad parameters the chaplain has numerous opportunities to share his or her faith through counseling, Bible studies, worship and prayer services, and cogent mentoring relationships with inmates and prison staff alike. As they communicate God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness, chaplains are seeing lives powerfully changed in prisons and jails across the nation. Each day chaplains walk with prisoners, challenging them to live better lives and giving them the moral tools to do so. Chaplains also help prison administrators keep the institution running smoothly by being dependable, calming and stabilizing forces. Throughout the world ICOFCC correctional chaplains can be found fulfilling the Great Commission in juvenile, state, federal, county and private institutions as well as in aftercare programs. For most correctional chaplaincy positions one must meet educational and pastoral requirements. For those interested in ministering in the federal prison system a master of divinity degree from an accredited seminary is required.
Specialized Chaplaincy Overview Industrial/Workplace What better place to minister to people than where they spend the bulk of their day? The workplace is a fertile mission field full of lost and hurting people who need to hear about Jesus. There is a growing need for industrial and workplace chaplains as corporations continue to see the relevance of such services and the impact they have on the atmosphere of their companies and morale of their employees. Some corporations allow chaplains to conduct services for employees who must work on Sundays. Other corporations are enlisting the help of chaplains to ease workplace stress and build camaraderie. Many industrial and workplace chaplains minister through Bible studies, one-on-one prayer meetings, counseling and by making themselves available as good listeners and counselors to those in need. The chaplain is not a mediator between management and employees. Instead, chaplains are pastors to many people who have little or no contact with a church. Another crucial
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role the chaplain plays is connecting people with local churches where they can connect with other believers and be discipled.
Specialized Areas Chaplains serve at airports, racetracks, rescue missions, rodeos, motorcycle rallies, schools and truck stops. In keeping with ministry being done the way Jesus did it, these chaplains will go most anywhere so others will know Christ. A chaplain’s motto could be summed up with 1 Corinthians 9:19. “…I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible” (NIV). Indeed. Motorcycle chaplains usually wear leather, ride fully equipped cruising motorcycles and mingle with some of the nation’s hard-core motorcycle communities. These chaplains love the Lord and have a passion to reach other bikers for Christ. The same is true for rodeo chaplains—they’re genuine cowboys complete with horses, hats and chaps. Trucker chaplains drive tractor-trailers. Each week they travel from truck stop to truck stop in search of truckers who are in need of spiritual help. On many days trucker chaplains conduct worship services in their trailers, which have been converted into sanctuaries complete with pews, communion shelves and hymnals. Racetrack chaplains minister to the men and women who live and work in the shadows of the glitz and glamour of the racetracks. In particular, chaplains concentrate on those who work in the stable areas, bringing the news that they as individuals are important to God. Chaplains who serve in these and other specialized areas have invested much time in building strong relationships with those they are trying to reach with the gospel. It’s usually not enough to just want to minister to these people; chaplains must become one of them. Wherever and for whatever reason people gather, chaplains will be there.
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ICOF BY-LAWS Article I.
ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPLES
Doctrinal Statement This ministerial organization is founded on the belief that Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior, Who died on the cross for our sins and was raised from the dead so that He might give us eternal life. He calls all men to repentance and salvation through His saving grace so that He calls all those who believe on His Name to witness what they have seen, heard and known of Jesus Christ to the world, by both word and deed through the power of the Holy Spirit. Accordingly, a Doctrinal Statement/Statement of Faith has been adopted which is stated in the Constitution to which all those who serve this organization in any capacity, whether director, officer, permanent employee, volunteer or evangelistic worker, are expected to subscribe to, and continue to adhere to, as a general expression of their faith. Administrative Principles A statement of Administrative Principles and a Fund-Raising Ethics Code to govern the administration of the funds of the corporation, the general financial policy, and the handling of both income and expenses in accordance with sound and Christian practices have been adopted and are attached to and made a part of these By-Laws. Offices The ministry shall have, and continuously maintain, a registered office and a registered agent whose office is identical with such registered office; which is subject to change by the ICOF Congress (Board of Directors). The principal office (which need not be identical with the registered office) shall be located at 1701 Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20006 and such other offices may be established as the ICOF Congress may determine.
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Article II.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 2.01 Number and Qualification. The affairs of this corporation shall be managed and controlled by a Board of Directors which we call the ICOF Congress. This consists of not less than seven (7) members. Each Director must be living a commendable Christian life and fully subscribe to the Doctrinal Statement and the Statement of Administrative Principles, and be prepared to indicate such agreement with the Doctrinal Statement at the time of election or re-election by signing a form provided for that purpose. A Director should be a member in good standing of International Circle of Faith and have demonstrated a concern for other leaders and have proven fruit in their own ministries. Section 2.02 Election and Term. Directors shall serve for a term of two (2) years and may serve an unlimited number of consecutive terms. At the expiration of each Director’s term, the remaining Directors, by majority vote, shall either reelect such retiring Director to the Board for another term or elect a successor to fill his place. Terms shall be fixed to insure a reasonable continuity with not more than one-third (1/3) of the terms expiring each year. All members of the Board shall be presented to a representative of the Congress of the International Circle of Faith for a witness of confidence. Section 2.03 Resignation, Removal and Vacancies. Any Director may resign at any time by giving written notice of such resignation to the Bishop/President and Board of Directors. After prayerful consideration, a Director may be removed from office by a two-thirds (3/4) affirmative vote of ICOF Congress. Section 2.04 Meetings, Chairman and Quorum a) Meetings. The ICOF Congress shall meet annually each year at such place and at such hour as it may determine for the purpose of electing 46 | P a g e
new Directors as may be necessary and for the transaction of such other business as shall properly come before the meeting. b) Regular meetings at more frequent intervals may be established by the Board at such times and places as it may determine. Special meetings of the Board may be called at the direction of the Bishop/President. c) Chairman. At all meetings of the Board, the President shall preside, or in his/her absence, the Vice-President shall preside. d) Quorum. At all meetings of the Board, regular, special or annual, a majority of the directors then elected and serving (except as otherwise provided in Section 8.01 of these By-Laws) shall constitute a quorum. At such meetings a majority of those present may decide any question coming before the meeting, except as otherwise prescribed by statute, the Articles of Incorporation of this corporation, the Constitution, or these ByLaws. e) Notice of Meetings. Unless otherwise provided by law or prescribed herein, written notice of all meetings of the Board of Directors shall be sent to each Director by mail or by email at his last known address not less than TEN (10) days prior to the day named for the meeting. The requirement of notice may be waived in writing, or if the Director is present at such meeting. Section 2.05 Voting a) Each director shall be entitled to one vote, in person and not by proxy, on all matters that come before the Board. However, any action required to be taken at a meeting of the directors, or any action which may be taken at a meeting of the directors, may be taken without a meeting, if a consent in writing, setting forth the action to be taken, shall be signed by ALL of the Directors. b) Such consent shall have the same force and effect as a unanimous vote and may be stated as such in the minutes and in any articles or document filed with the Secretary of State.
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Section 2.06 Compensation Except as allowed for in these By-Laws and attachments, Directors as such shall not receive any stated salaries for their services; but by resolution of the Board of Directors a fixed sum and expenses of attendance, if any, may be allowed for attendance at each regular or special meeting of the Board. Let it be known that nothing herein contained shall be construed to preclude any director from serving the ministry of International Circle of Faith in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefore. Section 2.07 Powers and Authority (a) The Board of Directors shall be vested with all legal powers and authority necessary and normally incident to its duties in managing the business and affairs of the corporation and in effectuating the intents and purposes set forth in the Constitution. (b) No part of the net earnings of the corporation shall inure to the benefit of any Director or any private individual, and no part of the activities of the ministry shall be carrying on propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation. Funds of this corporation may be expended only for the purposes set forth in the Constitution, Statement of Administrative Principles and Fund-Raising Ethics Code. (c) In exercising the powers herein granted, the Board may expend, distribute, use, apply, invest or reinvest either principal or income, whether the same be derived from gift, devise, bequest or otherwise; and the Board shall specifically have the power to purchase, borrow, sell, lease, let, mortgage, hypothecate, or otherwise dispose of any and all forms of property, real, personal or mixed, in managing the affairs of the corporation. (d) Contributions to the corporation shall be accepted by the Board of Directors only when any conditions attached thereto by the contributor are consistent with the purposes set forth in the Constitution.
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Section 2.08 Checks and Drafts All checks, drafts or orders for the payment of money, notes, or other evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of the ministry shall be signed by such officer, or officers, agent or agents of the ministry and in such manner as shall from time to time be determined by resolution of the Board of Directors. In the absence of such determination by the Board of Directors, such instruments shall be signed by the Treasurer or an assistant to the Treasurer and countersigned by the President or Vice President of the corporation. Article III.
COMMITTEES AND ADVISORY COUNCILS
Section 3.01 Committees (a) Composition and General Powers. The Board of Directors may designate special committees to undertake special projects or to assist the Board of Directors in administering its decisions. Such special committees shall have only those powers, authority, and duties defined and granted to them by the Board. (b) The special committees will make recommendations to the Board of Directors but they are limited in power to only that which is delegated to them by the Board of Directors. (c) When a special committee is created, the Board of Directors will establish membership requirements including, but not limited to; qualifications, term of appointment to such committee, and termination criteria. (d) Removal and Term of Office. Any member of any committee (including the Executive Committee) may be removed by the Board or by the person or persons authorized to appoint such member; whenever in their judgment the best interests of the corporation shall be served by such removal. Vacancies in the membership of any committee may be filled by appointments made in the same manner as provided in the case of the original appointments. The chairman of each committee shall be appointed by the person or persons authorized to appoint the members thereof.
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Article IV.
OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES AND TRANSACTION OF AFFAIRS
Section 4.01 General Provisions (a) Officers. The officers of the corporation shall be the President, Vice President, the Secretary, and the Treasurer. All officers will also be members of the Board of Directors. (b) Election and Term of Office. The officers of the corporation shall be elected for a term of two (2) years. Officers may also be appointed for life to the ICOF Congress with a unanimous vote by the ICOF Congress. (c) Removal. Officers may be removed at any time when in the judgment of a majority of the Board of Directors that person is no longer functioning in accordance with their prescribed duties. (d) Vacancies. A vacancy in any office because of death, resignation; disqualification or otherwise, may be filled by the Board of Directors for the unexpired portion of the term. In the event of the sudden termination of the President through death, resignation or termination of office in accordance with these By-Laws, the successor President may be appointed by the President or selected by the drawing of lots from the ICOF International Congress. In the event of sudden termination of the President or in the case of sudden death, where no successor President has been named, a decision must be made within twenty one days by the ICOF Congress, during which time frame a season of corporate prayer and fasting should be engaged in by the Board of Directors in accordance with Acts 13:1-2, after which the newly appointed President will be selected by the drawing of lots from the members of the International Congress. Section 4.02 President The President shall be the principal executive officer of the corporation and shall in general supervise and control all of the business and affairs of the corporation subject, however, to such delegation of authority to the whomever as may be directed by the President, or as may be specified in the By-Laws or by resolution of the Board. The President shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and he/she will serve as a public spokesperson. The President may sign, with the attest of the Secretary or any other proper officer, any deeds, mortgages, bonds, contracts or other instruments which the Board of Directors has authorized to be executed, except in cases where the signing and execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the Board of Directors or by these By50 | P a g e
Laws or by statute to some other officer or agent of the corporation; and in general he/she shall perform all duties incident to the office of President. Section 4.03 Vice-President The Vice-President shall assist the President in the affairs of the corporation and do all such things as from time to time may be delegated to him by the President. The Vice-President will chair all meetings of the Board of Directors in the President’s absence. Section 4.04 Secretary The Secretary shall keep the minutes of the meetings of the Board of Directors, give all notices in accordance with these By-Laws or as required by the law; be custodian of the corporate records, and in general, perform all duties incident to the office of Secretary and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him by the President or the Board of Directors. Section 4.05 Treasurer The Treasurer shall have charge and custody of and be responsible for the receipt, care, disbursement and disposition of all funds (monies and obligations received and paid or incurred for or on account of the corporation), property and securities of the corporation. The Treasurer shall keep accurate records of all payments and receipts and publish annual financial reports for the International Circle of Faith. The Treasurer shall in general perform all duties incident to the office of Treasurer and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him/her by the President or the Board of Directors. Additionally, he shall see that the books of the corporation are audited each year, as soon after the 31st day of December as practicable. Section 4.06 Compensation The officers of the corporation shall serve without compensation except in a reasonable amount for services rendered and as authorized by the Board of Directors, or as specifically allowed for in these Bylaws and attachments. Officers shall be entitled to reimbursement for expenses necessarily incurred in carrying out their duties as approved by the Board of Directors.
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Section 4.07 Agents and Representatives The Board of Directors may appoint such agents and representatives of the ministry and with such powers to perform such acts or duties on behalf of the corporation as the Board of Directors may see fit, so far as they may be consistent with these By-Laws and the Constitution to the extent authorized or permitted by law. Section 4.08 Contracts Unless so authorized by the Board of Directors, no officer, agent or employee shall have any power or authority to bind the corporation by any contract or engagement, or to pledge its credit, or render it liable peculiarly for any purpose or to any amount. Section 4.09 Voting Upon Shares of Other Corporations Unless otherwise ordered by the Board of Directors, the President shall have full power and authority on behalf of the corporation to vote either in person or by proxy at any meeting of shareholders of any corporation in which this corporation may hold shares, and at such meeting may possess and exercise all of the rights and powers incident to the ownership of such shares which, as the owner, this corporation might have possessed and exercised if present. The Board of Directors may confer like powers upon any other persons and may revoke any such powers as granted as its pleasure. Section 4.10 Corporate Seal The seal of the corporation shall be circular in form and shall bear outside the circle the words “International Circle of Faith” and within the circle, the numbers “1932.” The Board of Directors may change the form of the seal or the inscription thereon at its discretion.
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Article V. DEDICATION OF PROPERTY & EARNINGS BY MINISTERIAL ACTIVITIES Section 5.01 Pledge of Properties The properties and assets of the corporation are pledged in perpetuity to carry on the evangelical missionary work and other purposes set out in these Bylaws and the Constitution of the ministry. Section 5.02 Vesting on Dissolution Dissolution of the fellowship will be determined by a two-thirds decision of the Board of Directors. In the event of dissolution of the corporation, the properties and assets of the corporation shall be transferred to and become vested in such organization or organizations, organized and operated exclusively to charitable, educational or religious purposes, as may be deemed by the Board of Directors most suitable and appropriate with regards to continuance of the evangelical missionary work and activities for which this corporation has been formed, and as may qualify as an exempt organization or organizations under the provision of the Internal Revenue Code, in accordance with the provisions of the Articles of Incorporation of this corporation. Section 5.03 Prohibition Against Sharing in Corporate Earnings No director, officer or employee of, or member of a committee of, or person connected with, the corporation, or any private individual shall receive at any time any of the net earnings or pecuniary profit from the operations of the corporation. This shall not apply to the payment to any such person for reasonable compensation for services rendered to or for the corporation in effecting any of its purposes as shall be fixed by the Board of Directors. Additionally, no such person or persons shall be entitled to share in the distribution of any of the corporate assets upon the dissolution of the corporation. Section 5.04 Investments The corporation shall have the right to retain all or any part of any securities or property acquired by it in whatever manner and to invest and re-invest any funds held by it, according to the judgment of the Board of Directors, under its general powers specified in Section 2.08 of these By-Laws, without being restricted to the class of investments which a trustee is or may hereafter be permitted to make, or 53 | P a g e
any similar restriction; provided, however, that no action shall be taken by or on behalf of the corporation if such action is a prohibited transaction, or would result in the denial of the tax exemption under Section 503 or Section 507 of the Internal Revenue Code and its Regulations as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended. Section 5.05 Exempt Activities Notwithstanding any other provision of these By-Laws, no director, officer, employee or representative of the corporation shall take any action or carry on any activity by or on behalf of the corporation not permitted to be taken or carried on by an organization exempt under Section 501 (C) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code and its Regulations as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended, or by an organization, contributions to which are deductible under Section 170 (C) (2) of such code and regulations as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended.
Article VI.
Membership
Section 6.01 Membership Membership of the fellowship shall be determined, governed, and subject to the provisions of the Constitution. Section 6.02 Self- Dissolution It is the purpose of the fellowship to maintain the integrity of each local church. Each member shall recognize the spiritual oversight of the Bishop/President of International Circle of Faith (ICOF). The local church is self-governing, selfsupporting and self-propagating, limited only by the apostolic authority of the five fold ministry as vested in the ICOF Congress. The violation of any of the following limitations will be grounds for the dissolving of the fellowship with the local church:
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Self-Governing. Because each church is self-governing, this fellowship will not govern local churches, except when failure to maintain purity, financial responsibility, ministerial integrity and doctrinal stability. During such times, the Pastor and/or Elders can request the Bishop to attend a meeting to provide counsel and guidance. Self-Supporting. Because each church is self-supporting, this fellowship will not financially support local churches nor their minister except in special cases. A financial committee or the Board of Directors will evaluate each new member or church needing financial assistance, and counsel will be provided.
Article VII.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: INDEMNITY
Section 7.01 Limitation of Liability No person shall be liable to the corporation on account of any action taken or omitted to be taken by him in good faith as a director, officer, member of a committee, agent or employee of the corporation, if in respect thereto he used or exercised the same degree of care and skill as a prudent man would have used or exercised under the circumstances in the conduct of his own affairs. Without limitation on the foregoing, any such person shall be deemed to have used and exercised such degree of care and skill if he took or omitted to take such action in reliance in good faith upon advice of counsel for the corporation, or reports or information made or furnished to the corporation by any of its officers, accountants, engineers, appraisers or other experts employed by the corporation and selected with reasonable care by the Board of Directors, an authorized officer, or committee of the corporation. Section 7.02 Indemnity The corporation shall indemnify and hold harmless each director, officer, member of a committee, agent or employee of the corporation and each person who at any time acted in such capacity and his heirs, devises, personal representatives 55 | P a g e
and assigns, against all liability, loss, damage, judgments, expenses and cost (including attorney’s fees) imposed on or incurred by him in connection with any claim asserted against him, by legal proceeding (civil or criminal) or otherwise by reason of his being or having been such director, officer, member of a committee, agent or employee of the corporation, except in relation to matters as to which he shall have been adjudged guilty of negligence or misconduct in the performance of his duty; provided, however, that the corporation shall be given reasonable notice of the assertion or institution of the claim or proceeding, and in the event the same shall be settled, in whole or in part, otherwise than by a judgment, the corporation or its counsel shall consent to such settlement and it shall be determined by its counsel or found by a majority of the Board of Directors then in office and not involved in such controversy, although less than a quorum, that such settlement was to the best interest of the corporation, and the person to be indemnified was not involved in such controversy, although less than a quorum, that such settlement was to the best interest of the corporation, and the person to the indemnified was not guilty of negligence or misconduct in respect of the matter in which indemnity is sought. If such corporation has not theretofore fully indemnified any such person, the court having jurisdiction of any action instituted by such person on his claim for indemnity, may assess indemnity against the corporation, or its receiver, trustee or successor, for the amount paid or to be paid by such person in satisfaction of any judgment or in settlement of any such claims (exclusive in either case of any amount paid by the corporation) and any expenses and costs (including attorney’s fees) incurred by him in connection therewith to the extent that the court shall deem reasonable and equitable, provided that the person indemnified was not guilty of negligence or misconduct in respect of the matter in which indemnity is sought. Section 7.03 Rights Cumulative
The provisions of this Article shall not be deemed exclusive or in limitation of, but shall be deemed cumulative of and in addition to any other limitation of liability or right of indemnity to which such director, officer, member of committee, agent or employee of the corporation may be otherwise entitled.
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Article VIII. AMENDMENTS & ATTACHMENTS Section 8.01 Amendments (a) Amendments to these By-Laws may be made by a two-thirds (2/3) decision of the Board of Directors and after a confirmation decision of a majority of the ICOF members in good standing, who attend the meeting. Amendments shall be presented for confirmation decision at the annual International Circle of Faith Meeting, or a special meeting called for that particular purpose, with proper notice being given. All amendments must be in writing, acknowledged by the Bishop/President, and attested to by the Secretary. Section 8.02 Attachments (a) All attachments to these By-Laws are subject to the provisions therein and shall be deemed to be part of these By-Laws. They may be amended according to the terms of the provisions of Article 8.01 of these By-Laws.
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CONSTITUTION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CIRCLE OF FAITH (ICOF)
NAME Section 1.01 The name of this shall be International Circle of Faith (ICOF). Dba’s of this ministry include: International Circle of Faith Global Union, ICOF African Union, International Circle of Faith Colleges Seminaries and Universities (ICOF CSU), and other departments of ICOF as approved by the ICOF Congress. PURPOSE To bring global unity to the body of Christ fulfilling the prayer that Jesus prayed for the Church in the Gospel of John 17:21. To establish and maintain places of worship of Almighty God our Heavenly Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ, His only Begotten Son, through the Holy Spirit, and for the promotion of Christian fellowship and edification throughout the world. To obey in our capacity the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20, Mark 16:15-20; Acts 1:8; 8:4). To solicit, receive and maintain a fund or funds; real or personal property or both; to use and apply for whole or any part of the principal or income thereof; for the purpose of this Assembly and to assist missionaries or ministries in preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ in any part of the world. To provide apostolic covering and means of accountability to local churches and ministries (Acts 16:4-5; I Corinthians 9:2).
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To promote interaction and relationship between like-minded ministries (Rom. 12:5). To provide a context in which isolated ministers may experience a defined relationship and a larger identity (Ephesians 4:16). To draw together ministries that will form apostolic teams that will reach out to the nations of the world (Acts 13:1-3). To help strengthen and edify all member ministries and member churches (Acts 20:35). To be available to pastors and local church elders to help mediate church-related problems, as requested (Proverbs 11:14). To be involved in discipline of fellowship members when deemed necessary (Titus 1:10-13). To provide a forum where present truths can be pursued, encouraged, examined and judged in the light of scripture (II Peter 1:12; I Timothy 4:13; Acts 15:2). 2.9 To sponsor gatherings for mutual strengthening, deeper relationship and spiritual challenge (Hebrews 10:25). This fellowship will sponsor seminars for training in youth ministry, evangelism, education, missions, planting churches, etc. (II Timothy 4:1-2). To provide ordination for qualified candidates (Ephesians 3:7; Acts 13:2-3). To encourage and equip members to be strong in the five fold ministry, apostolic, prophetic, teaching, preaching, and evangelism. PEROGATIVES This International Circle of Faith shall have the right to govern itself according to the standards of the New Testament Scriptures. (Eph. 4:1-16; 1 Cor. 12:27-28). To have a membership that is determined by the ICOF Congress. To choose or call its fivefold Ministers (Pastors, Teachers, Evangelists, Prophets and Apostles), elect its officers, and handle other business pertaining to its life and conduct as a Ministry or Church.
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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 things should be done in accordance with its Constitution and Bylaws or as the same may be hereafter modified or amended. AFFILIATION While maintaining its inherent rights to sovereignty in the management of its own affairs, this Assembly shall voluntarily enter into cooperative fellowship with Assemblies of like precious faiths and doctrines in a cooperative environment in fulfillment of the prayer that Jesus prayed for His Church, that we would all be one. “That they all may be one as you Father are in Me and I in You. That they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” -- John 17:21
TENETS OF FAITH The ICOF accepts only the Holy Scriptures as the revealed will of God, the all sufficient rule for faith and practice and, for the purpose of maintaining general unity, it shall adopt a Statement of Fundamental Doctrines, namely: We believe in the operation of the gifts of the Spirit as enumerated in I Cor. 12:11 and as manifested in the Early Church. We believe in the Spirit-filled life, a life of separation from the world and the perfecting of holiness in the fear of God as an expression of the Christian faith (Ephesians 5:8; II Corinthians 6:14, 7:11). We believe in the healing of the body by divine power, or divine healing in its varied aspects as practiced in the Early Church (Acts 4:30; Romans 8:11; I Corinthians 12:9; James 5:14-15). We believe in the Table of the Lord, (commonly called Communion) and refer to this as The Lord’s Supper for all believers (I Corinthians 11:28-32). We believe in eternal life for believers (John 3:16, 5:24) and eternal punishment for unbelievers (Mark 9:43-48; II Thessalonians 1:9; Revelation 20:10-15). 60 | P a g e
We believe in the reality and personality of Satan and eternal judgment of Satan and his angels (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:10-15). We believe that the Biblical form of church government is theocratic, consisting of a five-fold designated minister under apostolic authority, who qualifies on the basis of the call of God, spiritual life, domestic life, character, and ability to lead, along with plurality of eldership (I Timothy 3). We believe that marriage, as intended by God, the Father, exists only between man and woman. We do not accept the so-called “gay-rights� as an acceptable lifestyle for any follower of Jesus Christ as homosexuality is an abomination in the Sight of God (Romans 1). We believe that sexual relationships are to be held in the marital covenant between a man and a woman. We believe the Bible consisting of the sixty six books is the inspired Word of God, a revelation from God to man, the infallible rule of faith and conduct, and is superior to conscience and reason, but not contrary to reason (Heb. 4:12; 2 Pet. 1:20-21; 2 Tim. 3:15-17). We believe the One True God has revealed Himself as the eternally selfexistent, self-revealed "I AM", and has further revealed Himself as embodying the principles of relationship and association (Deut. 6:4; Is. 43:10-11; Matt. 28:19; Mark 12:29; Matt. 3:16-17; John14:16-17). We believe Man was created well and upright, for God said, "Let Us make man in our image, after our likeness". But man fell by voluntary transgression and his only hope of redemption is in Jesus Christ, the Son of God (Gen. 1:26-31; 3:1-7; Rom. 5:12- 21). We believe in the necessity of water baptism by immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Eternal Godhead in order to fulfill the command of Christ (Matthew 28:18-19; Acts 2:34-39; 10:47-48; 19:1-6). We believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit as an experience subsequent to salvation with the Scriptural evidence, namely, speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance (Acts 2:1-4; 8:14-17; 10:44-46; Galatians 3:14-15).
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ORDINANCES The ordinance of baptism by immersion, the Lord's Supper, the anointing of the sick with oil and laying on of hands for healing and the and the dedication of children shall be observed at stated times and whenever requested. (Matt. 19:1315, 28:19, Acts, 2:38; 1Cor, 11:23-25; James. 5:14-16) OFFICERS The officers of the ICOF shall be the President, Secretary, Treasurer and the ICOF Congress. No officer of the Board shall be allowed to hold more than one of the three essential offices President, Secretary and Treasurer. All officers of the Ministry must qualify according to the scriptural qualifications described in Acts 6:3 and I Timothy 3:8-13. No person shall be considered eligible for nomination as an officer of the official board if he has not been a member in good standing with the Ministry and is not of at least 18 years of age. The governing body of the International Circle of Faith shall be the ICOF Congress. MEMBERSHIP Individuals shall be eligible for membership in this Ministry who give evidence of personal living faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and who voluntarily subscribe to the Tenets of Faith and agree to be governed by the Constitution and By-Laws as herein stated. Membership shall be governed by the ICOF Congress of each nation where the Ministry has membership. In the absence of national leadership the Continental Congress will have jurisdiction. Membership is open to individuals, organizations, ministries, and church bodies. Each church seeking membership in International Circle of Faith shall submit its Bylaws and application for approval by the ICOF Congress before membership is accepted. All members must have a lifestyle consistent with the qualifications set forth for elders enumerated in I Timothy 3 and Titus 1 of the Holy Bible. All new members will be received in the following manner: 1. Candidates for membership must have had a relationship to an existing 62 | P a g e
Member before they can be considered for membership. Those without a relationship with a member can place an application which will be reviewed by the ICOF Congress for that nation. 2. Candidates for membership who are already affiliated with another organization are not required to surrender credentials. 3. Candidates for membership must complete an Application for Membership. 4. Candidates will make themselves available for a personal interview with members of the Membership Committee of the ICOF Congress. 5. The Membership Committee will review the application and make a final recommendation concerning the candidate’s approval or denial to the ICOF Congress or Bishop of that jurisdiction. 6. Candidates will be notified in writing as to membership status. 7. Candidates who are accepted for membership will receive a membership certificate indicating the same and their ordinance and confirmation into ICOF will take place at the Annual ICOF meeting. 8. All members shall tithe. 9. All members shall pay dues. 10 All members shall recognize and submit to the spiritual authority and oversight of the ICOF Congress.
MEETINGS Meetings for public worship shall be held on each Lord's Day and during the week as may be provided for under the direction of the locally sovereign ministry. There shall be an annual business meeting of the Ministry at which time the reports of all officers shall be read. Special business meetings of the Ministry may be called when necessary by the President, Secretary or by the majority of the Board after notice has been given by the President or by the Secretary.
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Right of Initiative- Special business meetings may also be called by petition having been signed by not less than one-fourth of the voting membership, the petition to be placed in the hands of the President or the Secretary and announcement made of three weeks prior to the date of the meetings. Quorum- No record of any regular or special business meeting shall be made unless majority or more voting members shall be present to constitute a quorum. The Congress shall meet at least twice a year and the Executive Board shall meet monthly or at times as it deems necessary to conduct business of the ministry. No meeting other than official business meetings shall be called for the discussion of ministry business. Charges of misconduct shall be in writing and must be signed by the accuser before official action is taken. Upon finding proof of misconduct, the Congress may call a hearing and appropriate action be taken. No minutes shall be taken of these proceedings.
FINANCES The assembly shall be financed according to the scriptural method of Tithes and Offerings by the members and friends of the ministry. Ministerial members will also participate in an annual gift as directed by the national congress. (Mal. 3:10: Matt 23:23; Heb 7:4-9; 1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 9:6-15).
PROPERTY All property (real or chattel) shall be taken, held, sold, transferred or conveyed in the name of the Ministry. No real property of the ministry shall be sold, leased, mortgaged or otherwise alienated without authorization by at least a two-thirds majority vote by the membership at a regular or special business meeting of the Ministry, solely called for the purpose of consideration of the proposal.
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Chattels of the value of $10,000.00 or more shall be subject to the same restrictions as given in Section 11.02 for real property. In order to expedite the business of the Ministry, the Congress shall have the right to dispose as they see fit of chattels, singly or in the aggregate, below the value of $10,000.00. The President and the Secretary of the Ministry shall certify in such conveyance, lease, or mortgage that the same has been duly authorized by the vote of the membership or by the official board if Section 3 applies. Such certificate shall be held to be conclusive evidence thereof. A listing of all chattels covered by Section 11.03 above of the value of $10,000.00 or more shall be listed and be presented by the Treasurer at each business meeting and included in the minutes of such meetings. In the event that the organization here in mentioned ceases to function as a Ministry, then the mentioned property, real or chattel may be disposed of and the entire proceeds shall be handed over to a religious, charitable organization similar in purpose in Article II, that is qualified for exemption under Sec. 501(c) (3), Internal Revenue Code. The official board is empowered with the authority to conduct this transaction upon the consent of two-thirds of the membership in a meeting specifically called to discuss this matter.
CHURCH DESIGNATION Affiliate Church: Churches which desire apostolic covering and affiliation with ICOF may become an affiliate church under the ICOF NETWORK OF CHURCHES.
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CONGRESS OF BISHOPS
ICOF members have united church organizations and fellowships, ministers and ministries all over the world. Including a network of educational institutions under Life College & Seminary, and other Christian schools, orphanages & feeding programs, humanitarian aid organizations, chaplains and other charities.
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Given the apostolic nature of ICOF, there is more than one Bishop serving ICOF. A Bishop is usually one who functions in the Apostolic and exercises spiritual authority over a group of churches, ministers and ministries. Bishop Bernie L. Wade shall be recognized as the Global Presiding Bishop of ICOF and the ‘first among equals’ that make up the ICOF Congress of Bishop. ICOF Congress of Bishops is the governing body of the ICOF Ministerial Association. ICOF Congress of Bishops is part of the total governing body of ICOF which is the ICOF Congress. The ICOF Congress is key leadership from all departments of ICOF. Each nation working with ICOF has a National Congress. Each Continent has a Continental Congress consisting of National leaders. In the event of the death of the Presiding Bishop, a new preside may only be selected by this Biblical method; the drawing of lots. The lots will be drawn from members of the ICOF International Congress. This body consists of the Continental Bishops from each continent, the assistant Presiding Bishops, the vice President,
MEMBERSHIP REMOVAL OR WITHDRAWL A member church may be removed from the ICOF Fellowship if it is no longer in good standing. Additionally, a member or a church may be removed if the Board of Directors determines the ministry is no longer exemplifying the ideals of the Fellowship, it is no longer upholding the fundamental statements of faith or it is no longer demonstrating support for the operation of the Fellowship. Members or a church that have been removed can be reinstated with the recommendation of a Board of Directors member and a majority decision by the Board of Directors.
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DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS One of the purposes of the Fellowship is to help maintain purity of character and to provide an apostolic covering for like-minded ministers. For this reason discipline may be required with regard to certain members who fail to maintain the standards of the fellowship in personal purity, financial responsibility, ministerial integrity and doctrinal stability. Discipline will be handled on the basis of Matthew 18:15, and in the spirit of Galatians 6:1. If the Bishop/President and/or the Board of Directors determine that discipline is deemed necessary, the following events will occur: A meeting with the Jurisdictional Bishop and one Board member will be held. In the event there is no change, the next step will follow. A meeting with the Bishop, a member of ICOF Congress, and an Elder of that particular church will be held. In the event there is no change, the next step will follow. The Bishop, in case of violation of ministerial ethics, will have the authority to address the situation in the local church (Matthew 18:17). In all cases, if there is no change, the Bishop may make any decisions deemed necessary for the ultimate purpose of maintaining the integrity of the ministry. Members of the fellowship may also be disciplined by removal from the ICOF if, in the judgment of the Board of Directors, such offenses are worthy. (Galatians 5:17-21). If a member is removed from the ICOF, The ICOF Congress will send a written notice of removal to the member in question, their church and their church Elders. A member who has been removed can be reinstated with the recommendation of the ICOF Congress.
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APOSTOLIC COVERING ICOF is a fivefold ministry. This meaning that we believe the fivefold (Apostles, Prophets, Pastors, Teachers and Evangelists) are all part of the Body of Christ today. For more information see The Next Wave, Restoration of the Charismata by Dr. Bernie L. Wade. The fivefold ministry of ICOF performs a plethora of duties. They will be available to provide counseling to Fellowship members. They will be available to visit churches and impart strength to them. They will be available to elderships that need assistance in pulpit supply and selecting pastoral candidates. The Bishop/President will be available to local Church congregations and leaders. MINISTERIAL ETHICS Members in good standing, who desire to move to another ICOF affiliated church, shall request a letter of recommendation from the church they are leaving. Any accusation against an ICOF member should not be received unless it is through the method outlined in Scripture of first going to the offended. If then the issues is not resolved, then going to the congregation and only then will the matter be heard by the ICOF Congress or designate (Matthew 18:15-17).
AMENDMENTS Amendments to this Constitution may be made by a majority vote of the members of the Ministry who are in attendance at any regular or special meetings called for that purpose, provided that due notice be given three weeks prior to the proposed change.
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INTERNATIONAL CIRCLE OF FAITH
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1901 PRESTWICK DRIVE LAGRANGE KY 40031 502.655.8554 WWW.ICOF.NET