CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PINEY GROVE, INC.

4699 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD LAUDERDALE LAKES, FLORIDA 33313

July, 2006

Committee Members Karen Black-Barron, Esq., Chairperson Vonice Gibbs, Secretary Eloise McCoy-Cain, Ed. D. Benjamin Stephenson, Ed. D. Mildred Hightower Bobbie Blocker Virginia Hansberry-Moore

Rev. Date Description Approval A February, 1998 B October 2, 2003 Article VII – Section 2 Church Conference C February 2007 Church Conference

TABLE OF CONTENTS PREAMBLE ……………………………………………………………… 5 ARTICLE I NAME AND INCORPORATION………………………. 6

Section 1 Name………………………………………….…………… 6

Section 2 Corporation Date………………………………………… 6

Section 3 Seal…………………………………………..……………. 6 ARTICLE II PURPOSE………………………………………………… 6 ARTICLE III SOVEREIGNTY………………………………………… 6 ARTICLE IV CONFESSION OF FAITH……………………………… 6 ARTICLE V CHURCH COVENANT…………………………………. 6 ARTICLE VI CHURCH ORDI\NANCES……………………………… 7

Section 1 Baptism……………………………………………………. 7

Section 2 The Lord’s Supper……………………………………….. 7 ARTICLE VII CHURCH GOVERNMENT……………………………… 7 Section 1 Governance……………………………………………….. 7 Section 2 Church Conference………..……………………………… 8 Section 3 Moderator………………………..………………………. 8 Section 4 Parliamentarian……………………………….…………. 8 Section 5 Quorum………..…………………………….……………. 8 Section 6 Minutes ……..………………………………….………… 8 Section 7 Fiscal Year………………………………………………… 8 Section 8 Finances…………………………………………………… 9 ARTICLE VIII MEMBERSHIP………………………………………….. 9

Section 1 Qualifications…………..………………………………….. 9 Section 2 Types of Membership .……………. …………………… 9

Section 3 Manner of Reception……………….…………………….. 9 Section 4 Membership Training……………………………………. 9 Section 5 General duties of Members…………………………….... 10 Section 6 Membership Rights……………………………..………… 10 Section 7 Transfer of Termination of Membership……………….. 10 ARTICLE IX CHURCH OFFICERS…………………………………… 10 Section 1 Officers……………………………………………………. 10 Section 2 Pastor……………………………………………………… 11 Section 3 Interim Pastor………………………………………. …… 13 Section 4 Appointment of Interim Pastor………………………….. 14 Section 5 Duties of Interim Pastor………………………………….. 14

Section 6 Board of Deacons…………………………………………. 14 Section 7 Board of Trustees……………………………………….... 15 Section 8 Clerk…………………………………………………….. .. 16 Section 9 Assistant Clerk……………………………………………. 17 Section 10 Treasurer………………………………………………….. 17 ARTICLE X JOINT BOARD…………………………………………… 18 ARTICLE XI ASSISTANT PASTOR……………………………………. 18 Section 1 Duty of Assistant Pastor…………………………………... 18 Section 2 Assistant Pastor’s Recommendation …………………….. 18

ARTICLE XII CHURCH COUNCIL…………………………………….. 19 Section 1 Composition of Council………………………………….. 19 Section 2 Purpose of Council………………………………………. . 19 ARTICLE XIII PERSONNEL………………………………………………. 19

Section A Ministerial Staff………………………………………. …. 19 Section B Employees…………………………………………. …….. 19

Section 1 Business Manager………………………………………… 20 Section 2 Ministerial Staff…………………………………………… 20 Section 3 Musical Staff………………………………………………. 20 Section 4 Clerical Staff……………………………………. ……….. 20 Section 5 Maintenance Staff………………………………………… 20 Section 6 Bookkeeper………………………………………. ……….. 20 ARTICLE XIV MINISTRIES, SERVICE BOARDS and STANDING COMMITTEES 20 Section 1 Ministries ……………………………….. ……………….. 20 Section 2 Standing Committees……………………………….. …… 20 Section 3 Terms of Office……………………………………………. 23 ARTICLE XV ELECTIONS……………………………………………….. 23 Section 1 Elections of Officers……………………………….. ……. 23 Section 2 Election of Ministry Presidents/Chairs………………….. 23 ARTICLE XVI AFFILIATIONS…………………………………………… 24 ARTICLE XVII ADOPTION OF AMENDED CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS 24 ARTICLE XVIII ADOPTION OF ADMENDMENTS ………………………… 24 ARTICLE XIX ROBERT’S RULE OF ORDER………………………….. 24

PREAMBLE In the Name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost… Amen. We, the members of First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc., desiring to be blessed together with Word and Sacrament, and to unite as a congregation in common confession, defense and propagation of our faith in Jesus Christ, do agree among ourselves to be governed by its provisions.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PINEY GROVE, INC. AMENDED CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS

ARTICLE I NAME AND INCORPORATION Section 1 Name

The name of this congregation shall be First Baptist Church Piney Grove Inc. Section 2 Corporation Date First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc. was incorporated in 1968. Section 3 Seal

The Seal of this congregation presents in the outer edge of the circle “First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc.” of Fort Lauderdale, FL. In the center of the Seal is “1968”.

ARTICLE II PURPOSE

This congregation will maintain and carry out the Christian plan of God through the improvement of the spiritual growth and development of the members, program planning, mission work and the upkeep and expansion of our facility. Our major purpose shall be to use time, talent and money to foster the will and plan of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, by leading church members to worship, witness, educate and minister daily.

ARTICLE III SOVEREIGNTY

This congregation will be subject to the control of no other ecclesiastical body, but it recognizes and sustains the obligations of mutual council and cooperation which are common among churches.

ARTICLE IV CONFESSION OF FAITH

Reference: ARTICLES OF FAITH from the most recent edition of the New National Baptist Hymnal.

ARTICLE V CHURCH COVENANT

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour; and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we do now in the presence of God, angels and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.

We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this church in knowledge and holiness; to give it a place in our affections, prayers and services above every organization of human origin; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrine; to contribute cheerfully and regularly, as God has prospered us, towards its expenses, for the support of a faithful and evangelical ministry among us, the relief of the poor and the spread of the Gospel throughout the world. In case of difference of opinion in the church, we will strive to avoid a contentious spirit, and if we cannot unanimously agree, we will cheerfully recognize the right of the majority to govern.

We also engage to maintain family and secret devotion; to study diligently the word of God; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintance; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be kind and just to those in our employ, and faithful in the service we promise others; endeavoring in the purity of heart and good will towards all men to exemplify and commend our holy faith.

We further engage to watch over, to pray for, to exhort and stir up each other unto every good word and work; to guard each other’s reputation, not needlessly exposing the infirmities of others; to participate in each other’s joys, and with tender sympathy bear one another’s burdens and sorrows; to cultivate Christian courtesy; to be slow to give or take offense, but always ready for reconciliation being mindful of the rules of the Saviour in the eighteenth chapter of Matthews, to secure it without delay; and through life, amid evil report, and good report, to seek to live to the glory of God, who hath called us out of darkness into his marvelous light.

When we remove from this place, we engage as soon as possible to unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God’s word.

ARTICLE VI CHURCH ORDINANCES Section 1 Baptism

Baptism shall be by submersion, on the fourth Sunday, or as scheduled by the Pastor.

Section 2 The Lord’s Supper

The Lord’s Supper shall be observed on the first Lord’s Day of each month, and other such times as deemed necessary by the Pastor.

ARTICLE VII CHURCH GOVERNMENT Section 1 Governance

The government of this Church is vested in the members who comprise it, and, as such, it is subject to the control of no other ecclesiastical organization. No Board or

Committee can usurp the executive governmental or policy-making power of the Church Conference.

Section 2 Church Conference

The Church Conference shall control the legislation and business affairs of the Church and shall meet on a bi-monthly basis beginning with the month of January on the Thursday prior to the first Sunday of that month.

Employees of the Church who are not members shall be allowed to attend Church Conference by invitation for a specific agenda item(s), with no voting or speaking rights except to clarify issues as requested by the Church Conference.

Any recommendation made during conference that is referred to committee must have a response in a specified timeframe. If a report has not been received during the specified timeframe after the recommendation, it shall be voted upon at Conference.

A special meeting or conference may be called by the Pastor, Chair of the Board of Deacons, by a majority vote of the Joint Board or by a majority vote of the Church Conference.

The Annual Church Conference and Annual Corporate Business Meeting shall be held during the month of October.

Section 3 Moderator

The Pastor shall preside over the Church Conference as Moderator. In the absence of the Pastor, the Vice Moderator, who is the Chairperson of the Board of Deacons, shall preside.

Section 4 Parliamentarian

The Parliamentarian, appointed by Church Conference, shall maintain order of Conference in accordance with the current edition of “Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised”. The Parliamentarian shall have basic knowledge of Robert’s Rule of Order.

Section 5 Quorum

A Quorum shall consist of a majority of members present and voting. Section 6 Minutes The Church Clerk shall keep the minutes of all Church Conference meetings. Section 7 Fiscal Year The Church fiscal year shall begin January 1 and end December 31.

Section 8 Finances The monies of the corporation allocated for operational use shall be deposited in the name of the corporation only in such banks, and trust companies, in Broward County whose deposits or share accounts are insured by a corporation created by the federal government. Funds shall be drawn out only by checks signed by the treasurer or designee and chair of the Board of Trustees. In cases of emergency, the Board of Trustees may designate one or more trustees to sign checks for the corporation. Recurring operational expenses may be paid electronically with the approval of the Board of Trustees.

Monies allocated for investments shall be invested with the intent to realize long term growth of principal, income generation and conservation of funds.

ARTICLE VIII MEMBERSHIP Section 1 Qualifications

The membership of this Church shall consist of those persons who have confessed Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour, and who, having been baptized; enter into this Church’s Covenant.

Section 2 Types of Membership

a) Active – A member who is actively engaged in the work of the Church. b) Inactive – A member who because of illness or incapacity is unable to engage in

the work of the Church.

Section 3 Manner of Reception a) Christian Experience – Any person who has been a member of a Baptist

Church, and is in accord with the views of faith and principles of this Church, may be received upon statement of experience and completion of membership training.

b) Baptism – Any person, who confesses Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, adopts the views of faith and principles of this Church, completes membership training and is baptized by immersion, may be received into the fellowship of this Church.

c) Restoration – Any person, who has lost membership, may be restored to membership after completion of membership training, and upon recommendation of the Pastor, Board of Deacons, Church Membership Committee and a majority vote of the Church Conference.

d) Letter – Any person, who is in accord with the views of faith and principles of this Church and completes membership training, may be received by letter from any other Baptist Church.

Section 4 Membership Training

Each candidate for membership shall receive instruction in the history of the Baptist Church, the Trinity, Baptist beliefs and the organization and structure of First Baptist Church Piney Grove.

The new members will receive the right hand of fellowship, upon completion of instructions and acceptance by the Church Conference.

Section 5 General Duties of Members

a) Knowledge of Scripture – It shall be the duty of members to acquire scriptural knowledge and continue to grow spiritually.

b) Love – It shall be the duty of each member to cultivate and cherish love for all members of the Church.

c) Worship – It shall be the duty of all members to avail themselves faithfully of the means of grace, joining regularly in the services of worship of the congregation.

d) Financial Support – It shall be the duty of each member to give tithes and offerings.

e) Communion – Any fellowshipped member shall receive the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper as provided by the Church.

Section 6 Membership Rights

Any member of this Church may: a) serve on committees b) participate in activities c) vote during official balloting in Church meetings d) hold offices e) use Church edifice for special services such as matrimony, dedication of

infants, and eulogistic ceremonies. Section 7 Transfer or Termination of Membership

a) By Letter of Transfer – Any member, who desires a letter of transfer and a recommendation to any other Baptist Church, may receive it upon request and the recommendation of the Pastor.

b) Because of Offense – When a member becomes an offense to the Church by reason of immoral or unchristian-like conduct, persistent breach of the Church vows, and non-support of the Church, the Church may terminate the membership after making a faithful effort to bring such a member to repentance and amendment of ways.

ARTICLE IX CHURCH OFFICERS Section 1 The Church Officers shall be: Pastor Deacons Trustees Clerk Assistant Clerk Treasurer

Chief Executive Officer The Pastor, called by the Church membership through recommendations from the Search Committee, shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Church.

General Qualifications of Officers All officers, upon recommendations for office, shall be confirmed members of the Church who are in good financial standing and meet the qualifications for holding designated office.

Cause for Removal Any officer, with the exception of the Pastor, who for a period of three (3) months, fails to perform the duties of elected office faithfully without just cause, shall vacate the office.

The removal of an officer shall take place upon recommendation of the Pastor, in concurrence with the Board of Deacons, and approval by the membership in a Church Conference.

Section 2 Pastor

The Pastor shall have the authority and responsibility to function as Chief Executive of the Church.

a) Qualifications 1. Soundness of Faith

The Pastor of this congregation shall be a person who has a divine calling to the ministry.

2. Moral Integrity The Pastor’s moral qualifications require seriousness of purpose, soundness in doctrine, and virtuousness in character.

3. Ability to Preach and Teach The Pastor shall demonstrate an ability to deliver stimulating and inspirational gospel sermons and teaching methodologies, in a comprehensible manner that is consistent with the faith and practices of the Baptist Churches of America.

4. College and Seminary Degrees The Pastor shall have a degree from an accredited college, and a degree from an accredited Theological Seminary.

5. Administrative and Leadership Skills The Pastor shall have administrative and leadership abilities that are necessary for overseeing all matters concerning the welfare of the Church.

6. Experience The Pastor shall have had the responsibility of pasturing a Baptist Church.

7. Interpersonal Skills

The Pastor shall demonstrate an ability to effectively relate to a diverse Baptist congregation, operating in a democratic environment.

(b) Pastor’s Duties

1. The Pastor’s duties are churchwide; it is the Pastor’s duty to plan and guide in all matters concerning the welfare of the Church.

2. The Pastor shall preach and teach the gospel, administer the ordinances, watch over the membership, and have charge of the spiritual welfare of the congregation and the stated services of public worship.

3. The Pastor shall lead the Church in implementing its mission and strive for the attainment of such mission. The Pastor shall provide pastoral care and shall endeavor to involve church members in the work of the Church.

4. The Pastor shall be the ex-officio member of all, ministries and committees of the Church.

5. The Pastor shall be the Moderator and preside at all business meetings of the Church, except where appropriate for the Vice Moderator to preside.

6. The Pastor shall offer instruction, perform marriages, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead. He shall annually install elected officers of the Church. The Pastor shall seek out and encourage qualified members for Deaconship and Trusteeship.

7. With the consent of the Joint Board, the Pastor shall have the authority to employ and terminate paid ministerial personnel under his direct supervision.

8. The Pastor shall annually evaluate the performance of all ministerial personnel.

9. The Pastor shall have the authority to suspend paid ministerial personnel, with or without pay, subject to ratification by the Joint Board at its next regular meeting.

(c) Pastor’s Benefits

1. The Pastorship of the Church is a full-time position. In order that the Pastor may devote himself fully to his duties and responsibilities, he shall receive an adequate salary, paid in regular installments.

2. The Pastor shall receive an annual paid vacation, sick leave, health insurance, and a retirement package.

3. The Church shall provide housing and transportation for the Pastor.

4. The Pastor’s contract, which includes items (c) 1-3, shall be approved by the Church Conference.

(d) Pastor’s Call to The Church The Pastor shall be called by the Church Conference through a majority vote (50 percent + one (1) of the voting members present).

(e) Pastor’s Performance Appraisal

The Evaluation Committee shall evaluate the Pastor’s performance. This evaluation shall be primarily concerned with how well the Pastor is performing those duties as prescribed in the Constitution.

(f) Pastor’s Resignation

The Pastor may submit a letter of resignation to the Board of Deacons, to be reported to the Joint Board and the Church Conference. The Pastor should give a two (2) weeks notice.

(g) Pastor’s Termination

When it becomes necessary to consider the termination of the Pastor, it shall be the responsibility of the Board of Deacons to investigate all complaints or charges, and make recommendations to the Church Conference. The investigation shall be in conformity with rules and regulations established by the Board of Deacons.

(h) Pastor’s Vacancy

As often as necessary, by resignation, death or removal of a the Pastor, the Church shall, without unnecessary delay, take steps to fill the vacancy, by selecting a Search Committee to receive and screen applications, using criteria and guidelines adopted by the committee and approved by the Church Conference. This committee shall consist of three (3) Deacons, one (1) Trustee, one (1) Youth, one (1) person from the Society of Missions, one (1) Lay Person, and two (2) alternates: one (1) from the Board of Christian Education, and one (1) from the Young Adult Group.

1) In the absence of a pastor, the assistant pastor shall assume the responsibilities of the pastor.

2) Should the assistant pastor be unable or unwilling to assume the duties of the pastor, an interim pastor will be appointed.

(i) Pastoral Installation

As soon as practical after entering upon his duties, a Pastor of this congregation shall be duly installed in his office by the Church.

Section 3 Interim Pastor

An Interim Pastor shall be recommended by the Deacon Board and presented to the Church Conference in writing. The Church will at that time appoint an Interim Pastor for a six (6) month minimum period. During which time proper and necessary care and attention is being directed towards the selection of naming of a Pastor to assume Pastorship at the end of this six (6) month period.

Section 4 Appointment of Interim Pastor

At a time of Pastoral vacancy, an interim Pastor shall be appointed by the Deacon Board following consultation with the Joint Board and Church Conference.

Section 5 Duties of Interim Pastor

During the Interim Pastor’s period of service, an Interim Pastor shall have the rights and duties set by the Deacon Board. He may delegate the same to a Supply Minister with the consent of the Chairman of the Deacon Board. The Interim Pastor and any minister who may assist him shall refrain from exerting influence in the selection of a Pastor, and can not be considered as a candidate for the Pastorate.

Section 6 Board of Deacons

The Deacons shall be member of this Church who on account of godliness and fitness for the office, have been elected and ordained.

(a) Qualifications The Deacons of this Church must have wisdom, faith and fullness of the Holy Spirit. Deacons must demonstrate seriousness in purpose and soundness in doctrine.

(b) Spiritual Requirements Deacons shall be ordained to their work according to Acts 6:1-7 and I Timothy 3:8-13.

(c) Duties and Responsibilities -The Deacons’ duties are church wide; covering spiritual welfare, stewardship, soul-winning, and missions. It is their duty, under the guidance of the Pastor, to plan and take leadership in matters concerning the spiritual welfare of the Church. The Deacons shall report to Church Conference matters pertaining to the spiritual welfare of the church. The chair is responsible for assembling the Evaluation Committee to initiate the Pastor’s annual evaluation.

(d) Composition of Board of Deacons There shall be a board of seven (7) or more Deacons.

(e) Appointments 1. Recommendations

Persons may be added to the Board of Deacons upon recommendation by the Pastor, in concurrence with the Board of Deacons, and approval by the Church Conference. A member may also make a recommendation with the concurrence of the Pastor and in concurrence with the Board of Deacons and approval by the Church Conference.

2. Probation Period Members passing the test of qualifications according to Act 6:1- 7 and I Timothy 3:8-13, will be placed on probation for a period of six (6) months, in which time they will undergo rigorous training and preparation for the task of Deaconship. At the end of this period the Pastor must make a recommendation before Church

Conference. Upon approval of the Church Conference, the candidate or candidates shall be ordained.

(f) Period of Office

Deacons shall hold office as long as they faithfully discharge their duties.

(g) Deacons Requirements to Meet Regular attendance at all Board meetings is a requirement. The regular Deacon Board meeting shall be held on the second Tuesday of each month. It is required that the deacon be in attendance at these meetings unless providentially hindered. The Deacon should inform the Pastor and/or chair of his inability to attend. Lack of interest in attendance at these meetings and consequent failure to perform his duties will constitute grounds for release.

(h) Deacons as Advisors Members of the Board of Deacons will serve as a member and advisor to each ministry of the Church. A report is required of each Deacon serving with an organization ministry monthly at the regular monthly meeting of the Board.

(i) Deacons and Church Worship Deacons are encouraged to take the leadership in conducting the mid-week prayer services, attend Sunday School regularly and any other Church gathering requiring the presence of a Church official.

Section 7 Board of Trustees

The Trustees shall be members of this Church who have been active in the Church program through service and financial contribution.

(a) Qualifications The Trustees of this Church shall have general knowledge of business affairs and transactions. The trustee must have demonstrated experience in one of the following areas: business, construction, legal background, marketing, finance, facility management or administration.

(b) Duties and Responsibilities The Board of Trustees shall:

1. Hold in trust all properties belonging to the Church and shall take all necessary measures for its protection, management and upkeep.

2. Shall have control of all church properties and facilities. The board shall issue keys to only those whom the board determines have a legitimate reason for use of said keys.

3. Study, supervise and manage the financial affairs of the Church, subject to the control, when exercised, of the membership, and shall have charge of seal and books of the Church.

4. Execute any and all contracts, deeds and/or other legal indentures on behalf of the Church through its Chairperson, when authorized to do so by the Church Conference.

5. Approve and authorize all purchases for the Church prior to making financial commitment for such purchases.

6. Designate the financial institutions where funds of the Church shall be deposited.

7. Contract for insurance coverage on all Church properties and pay said coverage as approved in the Church’s budget.

8. The Board shall report to the Church Conference violations regarding church finances and/or church properties and when the Trustee Board deems appropriate or necessary, recommend sanctions which may range from reprimand to criminal prosecution.

9. The Board of Trustees shall work jointly with the Personnel Committee to recommend the selection of a Business Manager to Church Conference.

10. The Business Manager, working closely with the Pastor, shall be directly accountable to the Board of Trustees.

(c) Composition of Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees shall be comprised of nine (9) or more persons. (d) Procedure for Election

Persons may be added to the Board of Trustees upon recommendation of the Pastor or Trustee Board. Should it become necessary to add additional person(s) to the Board of Trustees, it shall occur in the following manner; solicitation from the Pastor or Trustee Board to the Church Congregation, for recommendation(s).

(e) Period of Office Newly elected Trustees will serve for two (2) years and upon re-election shall be eligible to serve consecutive four (4) year terms. Newly elected Trustees shall be ratified by Conference. Each elected trustee shall be installed and take office no later than thirty (30) days following the election.

Section 8 Clerk

The Church Clerk shall be the official keeper of Church records, and shall serve on the Membership Committee.

(a) Qualifications The Clerk shall have basic secretarial skills which include typing, composition and filing.

(b) Duties and Responsibilities The Church Clerk shall:

1. Keep a record of the minutes of all regular and special business meetings.

2. Record names and addresses of members, with dates and manner of admission, transfer and/or termination.

3. Keep a record of deceased members. 4. Keep records of baptisms.

5. Assist the Pastor in preparing convention and association registration forms.

6. Assist bereaved families in the arrangement of funeral programs, obituaries, etc., for the deceased.

7. Notify all officers, committees and delegates of their elections and appointments.

8. Be the custodian of all minutes, written communications and reports, which shall be filed and kept at the Church.

(c) Procedure for Election The Clerk shall be recommended by the Pastor, in concurrence with the Nominating Committee, and approved by the Church Conference.

(d) Period of Office

The Clerk shall serve for two (2) years and upon re-election, shall be eligible to serve consecutive four (4) year terms. The Clerk shall be ratified by Conference and shall be installed and take office no later than thirty (30) days following the election.

Section 9 Assistant Clerk

The Assistant Clerk shall assist in fulfilling the duties of the Clerk, and shall serve in the absence of the Clerk.

The Assistant Clerk shall serve for two (2) years and upon re-election, shall be eligible to serve consecutive four (4) year terms. The Assistant Clerk shall be ratified by Conference and shall be installed and take office no later than thirty (30) days following the election.

Section 10 Treasurer

The Treasurer shall have custody of all funds and securities of the Church, and all deposits made in the name of the Church.

(a) Qualifications The Treasurer shall have basic bookkeeping and/or accounting skills. (b) Duties and Responsibilities The Treasurer shall: 1. Have custody of all monies received by the Church. 2. Sign and issue receipts for all monies received.

3. Deposit, within twenty-four (24) hours, all monies received, in a financial institution selected by the Board of Trustees.

4. Reconcile all bank statements and check books. 5. Maintain securities, investments, title papers, and other valuable

documents of the Church. These aforestated items shall be filed in the Church’s safe deposit box.

6. Make disbursement when authorized to do so by the Board of Trustees after receipt of proper vouchers. No funds shall be

disbursed by the Treasurer except for the purpose for which they were contributed.

7. Assist the certified public accountant, designated by the Board of Trustees, in preparing the annual audit of the Church.

8. Shall have the power and authority to sign contracts with prior approval of the Board of Trustees and the Conference.

(c) Treasurer’s Bond

The Treasurer shall be bonded in a sum to be determined by the Board of Trustees.

(d) Procedure for Election The Treasurer shall be recommended by the Pastor, in concurrence with the Board of Trustees, and approved by the Church Conference.

(e) Period of Office The Treasurer will serve for two (2) years and upon re-election shall be eligible to serve consecutive four (4) year terms. The Treasurer shall be ratified by Conference and shall be installed and take office no later than thirty (30) days following the election.

ARTICLE X Joint Board

The Joint Board shall be comprised of the members of the Deacon and Trustee Boards.

The major function of the Joint Board is to receive information from both boards. Information/recommendations concerning the welfare of the Church will be brought to the next scheduled conference for action. However, the function of the Joint Board does not preclude any member from bringing an item of concern directly to the Church Conference. Personnel

a) With the consent of the Joint Board, the Pastor shall have the authority to employ and terminate paid ministerial personnel/staff under his direct supervision.

b) The Pastor shall have the authority to suspend paid ministerial personnel/staff with or without pay subject to ratification by the Joint Board at its next regular meeting.

ARTICLE XI Assistant Pastor

Section 1 Duty of Assistant Pastor The Assistant Pastor shall assist the Pastor in the operation of the service of the Church as directed by the Church Conference through the Pastor. The Assistant Pastor shall serve as leader of the congregation and Church during a Pastoral absentee or vacancy.

Section 2 Assistant Pastor’s Recommendation

The Assistant Pastor shall be recommended by the Pastor to the Deacon Board, Joint Board and Church Conference for approval. He shall meet all qualifications specific for the Pastor.

ARTICLE XII CHURCH COUNCIL Section 1 Composition of Council

The Church Council shall be composed of the Chair of the Board of Deacons, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Chair/President of all Ministries, Service Ministries, Standing Committees and Church elected officials. The Council shall meet on a quarterly basis; the Pastor shall serve as Chair of the Church Council.

Section 2 Purpose of Church Council

The work of the Council is representative and advisory. Its purposes are to: (1) develop long-range and short-term goals and objectives for the Church as a whole and for its organizations; (2) outline a Church Calendar of Activities for accomplishing these goals and objectives; (3) develop hearty cooperation among all organizations: (4) evaluate results, develop teamwork and to correlate programs. The work of the Council shall be reviewed by the Board of Deacons prior to being presented to the Church Conference for approval.

Article XIII Personnel

Section (A) Ministerial Staff Members All ministerial personnel are part of the Pastor’s staff. Ministerial Staff includes the ministers of the Church and the Director of Music. These individuals are under the direct administration and supervision of the Pastor. Additional ministerial staff personnel may be added as deemed necessary by the Pastor, Joint Board and approval of the Church Conference.

The performance of each of these individuals shall be evaluated annually by the Pastor. The Annual evaluation shall be in writing. A job description for each position shall be approved by the church Conference, prior to filling the position. The job description shall be included in the Personnel Handbook.

Section (B) Employees

The Business Manager, working closely with the Board of Trustees and Pastor, shall be responsible for the business affairs of the Church. The Business Manager shall be directly accountable to the Board of Trustee and Church Conference.

All non-ministerial paid personnel shall be under the direct supervision of the Business Manager. Employee staff shall consist of the clerical staff, maintenance staff and bookkeeper. Additional employees shall be added as recommended by the Business Manager and approved by Trustees, with the approval of Church Conference for the amended budget.

Section 1 Business Manager Working closely with the, Board of Trustees and the Pastor, the Business manager shall be responsible for the business affairs of the Church.

Section 2 Ministerial Staff The Ministerial Staff shall include the Assistant Pastor, Minister of Christian Education, Ministers of Visitation, Evangelism and others as necessary.

Section 3 Musical Staff The Musical Staff shall include, but is not limited to, the Director of Music, organist, pianist, percussionist, and choir directors.

Section 4 Clerical Staff The Clerical Staff shall include the administrative assistant, and full-time and/or part-time secretaries.

Section 5 Maintenance Staff The Maintenance Staff shall be comprised of employees such as lawn maintenance and custodial personnel.

Section 6 Bookkeeper The Bookkeeper shall be responsible for maintaining accurate Church financial records.

Article XIV Ministries and Standing Committees Section 1 Fundraising

Each ministry or standing committee may assist in providing financial resources for the work and support of said ministry or standing committee.

Section 2 Ministries

Ministries of the Church shall be: (a) Board of Christian Education (b) Deaconess (c) Jolly Workers (d) Music (e) Ushers (f) Pastor’s Aide (g) Society of Missions (h) Health Care (i) And others as approved by the Church Conference.

Section 3 Standing Committees

The Church Conference shall elect such standing committees as may be deemed necessary to carry out the various phases of the program of the Church efficiently and effectively. Members of the following Standing Committees shall be approved by the Church Conference: Personnel, Pastor Evaluation, Nominating and Constitution Committees.

a) Financial Count Team The Financial Count Team shall count all monies from offerings, submit said monies to the Treasurer or designee, and provide the Church Office with written records of all transactions.

b) Budget Committee The Budget Committee shall assist the Business Manager with the preparation of the annual Church budget.

c) Music Committee The Music Committee shall assist the Director of Music in providing a musical program of excellence for the Church.

d) Baptismal Committee The Baptismal Committee shall help prepare candidates for Baptism and provide assistance to the Pastor when needed.

e) Membership Committee The Membership Committee shall provide instruction for prospective new members, as to Church doctrines, activities, expectations and responsibilities.

f) Journalism The Journalism Committee shall see that the Church newspaper is edited, produced and distributed.

g) Health Care Ministries Health Care Ministries shall provide first aid, when needed, at worship services, and hold seminars and workshops for the membership and general public.

h) Stewardship Committee The Stewardship Committee shall work with the Pastor in planning and providing a program of stewardship.

i) Hospitality Committee The Hospitality Committee shall register all visitors and introduce visiting guests at morning services and other times when requested to do so.

j) Vespers Committee The Vespers Committee shall plan and coordinate special programs and services which will heighten members’ cultural awareness.

k) Social Committee The Social Committee shall coordinate special events when requested to

do so by the Pastor or the Church. l) Enhancement Committee

The Enhancement Committee shall plan and coordinate the decoration of the Church.

m) Personnel Committee The Personnel Committee shall assist in all matters pertaining to non-

elected paid personnel. This committee shall be comprised of two (2) deacons, two (2) trustees, one (1) member from the Board of Christian Education, one (1) member from the Society of Missions, selected by

their respective boards, and one (1) lay person, elected annually by the Church Conference.

n) Pastor Evaluation Committee The Pastor Evaluation Committee shall provide an evaluation instrument for the Pastor’s performance appraisal and shall present the instrument to the Church Conference for approval and adoption. An evaluation shall be conducted by the Evaluation committee annually during the month of September and the results of the evaluation shall be shared with the Pastor. The evaluation will be presented to the next church conference with recommendations from the evaluation committee to be approved by the church conference. The evaluation period shall begin upon approval of this constitution. If the evaluation is not conducted during the required annual period, the Committee must report directly to the Church conference at its next regularly scheduled Conference meeting giving good and sufficient reason(s) for its failure to conduct the required evaluation. Henceforth, the Conference will decide the next appropriate action.

This Committee shall be composed of (1) deacon, one (1) trustee, (1) one member from the Board of Christian Education, one (1) member from the Society of Missions, selected by their respective boards, and one (1) lay person, who shall be selected by the Church Conference. The lay person shall be selected by Conference at the beginning of the evaluation period. It shall be the responsibility of the Chair of the Deacon Board to activate the Pastor’s Evaluation Committee three months prior to the evaluation period.

o) Nominating Committee The Nominating Committee, in concurrence with the Pastor, shall nominate one person for each elected office to be filled. This committee shall submit names of nominees to the Church membership, in the annual Conference of each year.

The Nominating Committee shall also receive names and qualify persons nominated to serve as Ministry Presidents or Chair of their respective groups, and shall report qualified nominees to the Church membership in the annual Conference meeting.

This committee shall be composed of two (2) deacons, two (2) trustees, two (2) lay persons, one (1) person from the young adult group, and the Church Clerk.

p) Constitution Committee The Constitution Committee shall meet every three (3) years to review the Constitution or at the request of Church Conference and make any necessary recommendations.

q) Benevolent Committee

The Benevolent Committee shall consist of the Pastor or his designee, Chair of the Deacon Board and Chair of the Trustee Board.

r) Evangelism The spreading of Christianity, in accordance with the Church’s doctrine, especially through the activities of evangelists.

s) Ex-Officio Member The Pastor shall be the ex-officio member of all committees.

All standing committee members, except the Constitution, shall serve for a two (2) year term and are eligible to be re-elected for two (2) consecutive terms. The Constitution member will serve three (3) years and are eligible to be re-elected for two (2) consecutive terms. The Pastor’s Evaluation Committee shall serve (1) one year terms.

Section 4 Terms of Office

Officers of Ministries shall serve for a two (2) year term, and shall be ratified by the Church Conference. These officers may succeed themselves one (1) term..

After a Church member has served as an officer for two (2) consecutive terms, the member shall not be eligible for re-election to the same office for a period of one (1) year after the expiration of the second term of office.

ARTICLE XV ELECTIONS

The election of Officers, Ministry Presidents/Chair and Trustees, shall be held as follows:

Section 1 Election of Officers

The Nominating Committee shall present the slate of officers to be voted on at the annual conference meeting. Installation of these officers shall take place in January.

Section 2 Election of Ministry Presidents/Chairs

Ministry Presidents/Chair shall be nominated by their respective groups. These groups shall present the names of their Presidents/Chair to the Nominating Committee, thirty (30) days prior to elections at the annual Conference meeting. Installation of the Presidents/Chair shall take place in January.

ARTICLE XVI AFFILIATIONS This Church shall be affiliated with the following:

Ministers’ and Deacons’ Union, Florida East Coast Association, Florida General Baptist Convention, Incorporated, National Baptist Congress of Christian Education, State and District Congresses of Christian Education, American Baptist Churches of the South, American Baptist Convention, National Baptist Convention U.S.A, Inc., Broward County Baptist Brotherhood, Baptist World Alliance, African

American Ecumenical Association of Broward Co., and other organizations as recommended by the Pastor and approved by Church Conference.

ARTICLE XVII BOOKS AND RECORDS

The books, accounts, and records of the corporation, except as may be otherwise required by the Laws of the State of Florida, shall be kept at the Church’s Office located at 4699 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Lauderdale Lakes, Florida 33313. They shall be open to inspection by the members of the Church at all times for such inspections. Reviewing of all monthly bank statements, etc., is to be executed in the office located at the above address.

ARTICLE XVIII ADOPTION OF AMENDED CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS

This Amended Constitution shall be considered the only constitution of First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc., and shall be effective immediately upon adoption.

This amended Constitution shall be considered adopted when the majority of the members present at the Conference/business meeting shall vote in favor of same. This vote shall be taken not less than thirty (30) days after formal presentation of the amended Constitution to the Church. Notice of such meeting in which the vote is to be taken shall be given at least one week in advance.

ARTICLE XIX ADOPTION OF AMENDMENTS

This Constitution may be amended, altered, or repealed by a majority vote of the members present at any regular business meeting of the Church; providing such amendments, alterations, or repeals shall have been given to the Clerk in writing, and the proposed changes presented to the Church at least thirty (30) days prior to the time the vote is taken.

ARTICLE XX ROBERT’S RULES OF ORDER

On all questions of parliamentary law, the current edition of “Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised Edition” shall be the authority.