CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH

Multi-Campus Opportunity Extraordinary Congregational Meeting Sunday, April 23, 2017 at 7:00pm

Promontory Heights Campus

North Fraser Campus

CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH MULTI-CAMPUS OPPORTUNITY From its conception, Central Community Church has always looked to expand its ministry footprint to maximize Kingdom effectiveness. More recently, the leadership of Central has been praying specifically about where, when and how God wants Central to expand to continue reaching the Eastern Fraser Valley (and beyond) with the gospel. After much prayer and discernment, it is the Lead Team’s belief that God is opening the door for Central to start two new campuses within the year, as laid out below. The Lead Team would like to thank the congregation for joining them in praying into this endeavor as we jointly step out in faith and follow God’s leading! We are inviting the congregation to affirm the following proposal as we look to move ahead with this missional opportunity to establish a gospel presence. PROPOSAL: To begin a new campus of Central at Promontory Heights Elementary School and to revitalize and take over North Fraser Community Church as a missionary campus of Central

In praying for and looking into the communities of the Eastern Fraser Valley that do not have a church, Promontory has come to the forefront as a place that is rapidly expanding and yet has no church. As we have been in communication with Promontory Heights Elementary School and the Community School Association (“PHECSA”) to discuss renting their building (46200 Stoneview Drive, Chilliwack, BC), it has been clear that they also have a heart and vision of reaching the Promontory community with the gospel. It is our hope to be a part of that by having a church presence there and creating long-lasting relationships through church services, community events and life groups. The costs for this endeavor will include the rental of the building, staging, chairs, sound equipment and adequate staffing comprised of a full-time campus pastor and a part-time children’s ministry coordinator to start with. Central was approached by the BC Conference of MB Churches and asked to consider acquiring the assets of North Fraser Community Church with the intention of replanting a church at that location as a missionary campus of Central. The assets consist of land and a mortgage-free church building located at 43745 Lougheed Highway, Lake Errock, BC, as well as $20,000 in their bank account. The building will need some updating and repairs, including roof and gutters, chairs and basic audio/video equipment. There will be further start-up costs of adequate staffing comprised of a missionary campus pastor and a part-time children’s ministry coordinator. RECOMMENDATION #1 To affirm the Lead Team in their conviction that God has provided Central with the opportunity to establish gospel centred campuses and, therefore, affirm that Central proceeds with the plan to start a campus at Promontory Heights Elementary School/PHECSA and a missionary campus at North Fraser Community Church in accordance with the terms outlined in this document. RECOMMENDATION #2 To affirm that Central begins an “Above and Beyond” Giving Campaign with a goal of raising $200,000 to cover the costs of both campus start-ups for the next 18 months, recognizing that expanding our gospel presence will require resources to accomplish our mission, and to commit to supporting this venture through prayer, moral and financial support.

WHY WE SHOULD CONSIDER THIS Besides the seemingly great opportunity to spread the gospel in two areas that don’t have a gospel presence, why should Central consider replanting a church in Promontory and Lake Errock? Simply put, because these are doors that have been opened to us. In discussions with other churches and leaders about these opportunities, the need to plant solid bible-teaching churches is evident. There are a number of bible-teaching churches in Sardis; however, Promontory alone has a population of approximately 8,000 people, which is growing every year, and currently lacks a gospel presence. As for Lake Errock and surrounding communities and bands, there is a population of approximately 2,000 people, with North Fraser being the only church in the area. There have been people praying for a church to move into both these areas and revitalize the ministry there. At this particular point in time, Central is in a position to take this work on and should be well equipped to contextualize the gospel in these settings. BACKGROUND – PROMONTORY Promontory is one of Chilliwack’s emerging communities that has been growing exponentially. There are playgrounds and parks throughout the area, and one elementary/community school, which has 621 students enrolled. The Community School Association (PHECSA) offers many recreation programs for all ages at the school. A funding announcement was made on February 17, 2017 that will fund a new eight-classroom addition to Promontory Heights Elementary Community School. This addition will accommodate up to 200 students in the rapidly growing south-side community. Construction begins in summer 2017 and completion is expected for spring 2018. This would not affect Central’s rental accessibility, but instead, could provide extra space as the campus (and more specifically, Children’s Ministry) grows. Area Population by Age:

From late 2000 to early 2014, Main Street Church (then Promontory Community Church) had a campus at Promontory Heights Elementary School, but had the opportunity to expand their Main Street campus and decided to close the Promontory campus down. Since then, there has not been any church presence in Promontory, and with the continuous rapid growth of the area, the leaders of Central would love to see that change and be a part of bringing the gospel to that community.

AGE (in years) % of POPULATION <10 16% 10-14 7% 15-19 8% 20-29 13% 30-34 37% 55-64 9% 65+ 10%

BACKGROUND – NORTH FRASER North Fraser Community Church (formerly known as Lake Errock Mennonite Brethren Church and later Lake Errock Community Church) had its beginnings in the 1950s when the Clearbrook Mennonite Brethren Church began mission Sunday schools in Nicomen Island and in Deroche, both located in the area between Mission and Agassiz. It was later decided to amalgamate the two groups into one and begin meeting in Lake Errock. In 1960 property was purchased and in 1961 a building was completed. In 1963 the group organized as a Mennonite Brethren Church and was formally accepted into both the British Columbia (BC) and Canadian Mennonite Brethren conferences in 1964. A decrease in membership during the 1970s and 1980s found the congregation in an increasingly difficult position of survival. A five-year program of visiting speakers eventually ended in 1983 when they hired a pastor. Over time membership in the congregation dropped and the church continued to struggle. Various pastors served there over the years with a modicum of success, leading to the need to embrace a new missional model in the church. There is currently an average attendance of 30 people. North Fraser Area Demographics: AREA POPULATION

(2016 Census) POPULATION CHANGE

(from 2011-2016) Lake Errock 425 18.4% Harrison Mills 484 18% Deroche 187 -13.8%

FIRST NATIONS BANDS IN AREA POPULATION LIVING ON LANDS

(as written in the Bands’ 2006 Census Reports) Scowlitz Indian Band (next to Lake Errock) 105 Leq’a:mel First Nation (closer to Deroche) 240 Chehalis Band (behind Harrison Mills) 545

STRATEGY As we have seen with our Chilliwack and Agassiz campuses, each area will have its own unique challenges and ministry plan to reach the varying communities. We want to bring the cultural DNA of Central (gospel preaching, multigenerational gatherings in large and small groups, ministry equipping, missional mindedness, etc.) and centralized strong, godly leadership to each new campus, but we expect the ministry in each location will look significantly different from one another. In order to effect a Central DNA infusion, we will be looking for a core group of congregants to start each campus – for Promontory, we would be looking for approximately 20-25 singles and families from Central who are already a part of the Promontory community to be a part of launching the campus there; and for North Fraser, we would need a group of congregants from both campuses, and potentially from other MB churches in proximity to the area, to commit to attending this missionary campus of Central for at least a year or two to build the church up again.

The leadership structure of both campuses will be similar to what we currently have in place – each campus would have a campus pastor who would be responsible for the day-to-day on the ground leadership of their campus, who would have a pulse on the community events and outreach, and who would be a part of the Pastoral Leadership Team for Central. We expect that both Promontory and North Fraser would remain campuses of Central under the leadership of Central’s Elders for the foreseeable future. At some point in time, if it was deemed best for the church, either campus could become an independent church. However, we are not starting in that direction. It should be noted that the rationale for keeping them as campuses is that we believe this model better equips a smaller church to thrive. The resources of the large church, particularly in the areas of leadership, are available to assist the smaller church as needed. Examples include the wealth of expertise that can be accessed through Central’s teaching and ministry teams and the stability of our leadership. In order to achieve our goal of reaching the area, we believe that the church plant in Promontory will require a full time Campus Pastor, whose role would primarily be establishing ministry teams, community outreach and preaching, as well as one full-time or two part-time Children’s Coordinator(s). Given the fact that the area is very heavily family-oriented, and the projected size and growth of the children’s ministry there, we think we will need to have a considerably strong children’s ministry at Promontory. We would intend on having this staffing in place prior to the actual launch of the weekend services, which is projected for September 10, 2017. We would also intend on having the youth from Promontory join the weekly activities of Central’s Student Ministries at the Chilliwack Campus. With time needed for the renovations and community connections at North Fraser, we would intend on holding off on this campus launch until late 2017 or early 2018. Our vision for this campus is for it to be a missionary post. We anticipate hiring a missional-minded campus pastor with a gift of teaching and preaching, whose role would be to preach the gospel, reach out to the community and develop long-term relationships through weekly gatherings, community/church events and the development of Life Groups. We would intend on hiring this pastor before the launch of the weekend services in order to be a part of the planning and legwork. As for children’s ministry at this campus, we believe a strong volunteer, with the help and support of Central’s Children’s Ministry team, would be able to get this ministry started. This would be under continual assessment, and at a certain point in time, as needed, we would look into hiring a part time Children’s Coordinator for this campus. For the youth of this campus, we would have them join the District Youth at our Agassiz Campus. The other area of support needed at both campuses will be in the worship ministry. We believe we can support this for some time through the utilization of current and new worship leaders from the Chilliwack and Agassiz campuses. As far as timing goes, at this point we would desire to launch the Promontory Campus on September 10, 2017, and the North Fraser Campus on December 24, 2017; we would close the doors on North Fraser Community Church on August 31, 2017 and invite the current North Fraser congregants to join the Agassiz Campus until the re-launch of North Fraser. Here are the events that would need to transpire to make that work:

EVENT EARLIEST COMPLETION CCC Elders approve the strategy to plant campuses at Promontory Heights and North Fraser

March 21, 2017

Congregational Vision meeting to affirm the strategy to plant campuses at Promontory and North Fraser

April 23, 2017

Begin an “Above and Beyond” Giving Campaign May 1, 2017 Sign rental agreement with Promontory Heights Elementary Community School Association

May 1, 2017

Hire Executive Pastor June 1, 2017 Gather the Promontory core group/begin community outreach June 1, 2017 Hire Promontory Campus Pastor and Children’s Coordinator(s) July 1, 2017 Begin updates and renovations at North Fraser August 1, 2017 Close North Fraser Community Church’s doors (with an invitation for the congregants to join the Agassiz Campus until the re-launch)

August 31, 2017

Launch first Sunday service at Promontory Campus September 10, 2017 Hire North Fraser Campus Pastor October 1, 2017 Gather North Fraser core group and begin community outreach October 1, 2017 Complete renovations at North Fraser November 30, 2017 Launch first Sunday service at North Fraser Campus December 24, 2017

CAMPUS START-UP COSTS While firm numbers are difficult to establish, our preliminary investigation suggests that the costs associated with the start up of both campuses for the remainder of 2017 through December 2018:

Promontory Campus Room Rentals – 16 months (incl. security & cleaning fees) $50,000 Equipment (incl. staging, chairs, sound system) $50,000 Staffing & Support Positions – 18 months $115,000

North Fraser Campus Renovations (incl. roof, gutters, painting, landscaping, sign) $20,000 Equipment (incl. chairs, audio/visual equipment) $15,000 Missionary/Campus Pastor $50,000

TOTAL $300,000 PARTICIPATION A venture such as this requires at least two things: the prompting of the Spirit and the support of God’s people. It is the conviction of the leadership team that God has provided two missional opportunities for Central. While this is our conviction, we desire to test this prompting with you – the Central family. In order for these ventures to be successful, we would need to work together to establish these campuses. Specifically, we desire to discover if the people of Central sense the Spirit’s voice in this opportunity to expand our gospel faithfulness. We are looking for your moral and practical support. We are asking you to lean in with your prayers, time, gifts and talents, and we are asking you to step ahead in faith with the leadership of the church to embrace what we believe is God’s call to us as a family.

CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH

Constitution & Bylaws Update In the fall of 2016, the New Societies Act came into effect. The Societies Act governs how

societies (not-for-profit corporations) are created and run in B.C. The new Act includes

significant updates to allow for more flexibility in how societies operate, while still protecting

the public interest.

In order to make sure our society complies with this new Act, we needed to make some

changes to our constitution and bylaws. We also took the opportunity to update our bylaws to

better reflect our current structure. You will see our current version of the documents on the

left side of the page, and the new version that we are proposing on the right side of the page;

all changes are noted in red.

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CONSTITUTION OF CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH

ARTICLE 1 - NAME The name of the church shall be CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH and shall in these articles be called "the Church".

ARTICLE 2 - PURPOSE The Church exists to lead people to be authentic followers of Jesus Christ. It will do this by:

a) Community Formation: Creating a place of belonging and safety where people can learn to believe in Jesus, join others that are learning to behave like Him, and together become a living example of Him!

b) Spiritual Formation: Enabling individuals through preaching, retreats and personal discipleship to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus through discovery and personal surrender that results in a life long process of transforming our thoughts, behaviours and relationships.

c) Ministry Formation: Enabling individuals through preaching, teaching, personal discovery and opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others by serving each other and the community at large.

ARTICLE 3 - AFFILIATION The Church is in partnership with the B.C. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches and is thereby affiliated with the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches. This article is alterable.

ARTICLE 4 - FAITH AND CONDUCT The confession of Faith of the Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches shall be the Confession of Faith of the Church. The Scriptures are accepted as the final authority in all matters of faith and conduct. This article is alterable.

ARTICLE 5 - DISSOLUTION If upon dissolution or winding up of the church there remains after the satisfaction of all its debts and liabilities any property whatsoever, that property shall be transferred to the B.C. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches. This article is unalterable.

Constitution of Central Community Church (the Society)

Article 1 - Name The name of the church shall be CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH and shall in these articles be called "the Church".

Article 2 - Purpose The Church exists to lead people to be authentic followers of Jesus Christ. It will do this by:

a) Community Formation: Creating a place of belonging and safety where people can learn to believe in Jesus, join others that are learning to behave like Him, and together become a living example of Him!

b) Spiritual Formation: Enabling individuals through preaching, retreats and personal discipleship to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus through discovery and personal surrender that results in a life long process of transforming our thoughts, behaviours and relationships.

c) Ministry Formation: Enabling individuals through preaching, teaching, personal discovery and opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others by serving each other and the community at large.

[NOTE: ARTICLES 3, 4 & 5 were placed in the Bylaws, as per the New Societies Act rules and regulations.]

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Bylaws of CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH (the Society)

Bylaws of CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH (the Society)

PART 1 – DEFINITIONS AND

INTERPRETATION

Definitions

1.1. In these Bylaws:

“Act” means the Societies Act of British Columbia as amended from time to time.

“Auditor” means the person or firm appointed to perform an audit or review of the Church’s finances.

“Bylaws” means these Bylaws as altered from time to time.

“Church” means the Society.

“Elder” means a Director of the Church.

“Guiding Principles” means the document established and kept by the Elders that contains their policies and procedures.

“Ministry Partners” means the members of the Church.

“Ministry Plan” means an annual plan for the Christian and charitable work of the Church for a period of time as required by the Guiding Principles.

“Moderator” means chairman of the Elders.

“Organizational Handbook” means the document established and kept by the Lead Pastor and the Pastoral Leadership Team that contains the policies and procedures of the operations of the Church.

“Pastoral Leadership Team” means the individuals the Lead Pastor appoints to work under him to assist in fulfilling his role and responsibilities of Lead Pastor.

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“Ministry Leaders” means the Ministry Partners, staff or volunteers, organized into a team to oversee the Christian ministries under the direction of the Lead Pastor and his Pastoral Leadership Team.

“Special Resolution” means a resolution passed by not less than sixty-six percent (66%) of such Ministry Partners entitled to vote who are present in person at a general meeting of which notice specifying the intention to propose the special resolution has been duly given.

“The Elders” means the Directors of the Church.

Definitions in Act apply

1.2. The definitions in the Act apply to these Bylaws.

Conflict with Act or regulations

1.3. If there is a conflict between these Bylaws and the Act or the regulations under the Act, the Act or the regulations, as the case may be, prevail.

PART 2 – CONFESSION OF FAITH

The Confession of Faith

2.1. The confession of Faith of the Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches shall be the Confession of Faith of the Church. The Scriptures are accepted as the final authority in all matters of faith and conduct. This provision was previously alterable.

PART 3 - AFFILIATION

3.1. The Church is in partnership with the B.C. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches and is thereby affiliated with the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:PART I – Membership By-Law 1 - Acceptance of Members The Church shall establish guidelines that will govern each of the following transactions whereby members are accepted by the Church:

1. Through baptism upon confession of their faith, attendance of the new members class and their commitment to the church’s purpose through Community, Spiritual and Ministry Formation.

2. Through letters of recommendation from other Mennonite Brethren Churches upon attendance of the new members class and their commitment to the church’s purpose through Community, Spiritual and Ministry Formation.

3. Through letters of recommendation from other denominations who practice baptism on the confession of faith, attendance of the new members class and their commitment to the church’s purpose through Community, Spiritual and Ministry Formation.

4. Through evidence that they have been baptized upon the confession of their faith, attendance of the new members class and their commitment to the church’s purpose through Community, Spiritual and Ministry Formation.

By-Law 2 – Sustenance of Membership

Membership is sustained through responsible Christian living, participation in the life of the church and annual affirmation. The Church may limit the privileges of a member under discipline. The Church shall establish guidelines that will govern these matters. By-Law 3 – The Termination of Membership

The Church shall establish guidelines that will govern each of the following transactions whereby membership is terminated:

1. Through a letter of recommendation. Members may terminate their membership through requesting a letter of recommendation to another church.

2. Through a letter of release.

PART 4 – MINISTRY PARTNERS

Receiving of Ministry Partners

4.1. The Elders shall establish guidelines that will govern each of the following transactions whereby Ministry Partners are accepted into the Church:

1. Through baptism upon confession of their faith, attendance of the new Ministry Partners’ class and their commitment to the church’s confession of faith and mission.

2. Through evidence that they have been baptized upon the confession of their faith, attendance of the new Ministry Partners’ class and their commitment to the church’s confession of faith and mission.

Sustenance of Ministry Partnership

4.2. Ministry Partnership is sustained through responsible Christian living, participation in the life of the church and annual affirmation. The Church may limit the privileges of a Ministry Partner under discipline.

Termination of Ministry Partnership

4.3. The Elders shall establish guidelines that will govern each of the following transactions whereby Ministry Partnership is terminated:

1. Through a letter of recommendation. Ministry Partners may terminate their partnership through requesting a letter of recommendation to another church.

2. Through a letter of resignation.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:3. Through disciplinary action. Members may be

expelled if they refuse to uphold the purpose of the church and no longer desire to follow Christ. Such action shall be taken only after serious attempts have been made by the Church to bring the person back. Before disciplinary action is taken, the person under consideration shall receive an explanation of the action being contemplated. The person shall have the right to a hearing prior to the disciplinary action.

4. Through death.

PART II – MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS AND PROCEDURES

By-Law 4 – Annual Membership Meetings

1. The Church shall convene for its annual membership meeting once a year. The fiscal year shall be determined by the membership and the exact time of meeting shall be set by the Lead Team.

2. The annual membership meeting shall be held to receive reports and financial statements from the Lead Team and Ministry Teams, to respond to recommendations and to make appointments, as required.

3. The agenda and reports for the annual membership meeting shall be published and distributed to the members at least two weeks prior to the meeting.

By-Law 5 – Interim membership meetings

1. A church membership meeting can be called, when required by the Lead Team.

2. Notice and an agenda for every membership meeting shall be published at least one week prior to the meeting.

3. Through disciplinary action. Ministry Partners may be expelled if they refuse to uphold the purpose of the Church and no longer desire to follow Christ. Such action shall be taken only after serious attempts have been made by the Church to bring the person back. Before disciplinary action is taken, the person under consideration shall receive an explanation of the action being contemplated. The person shall have the right to a hearing prior to the disciplinary action as defined in the “Guiding Principles.”

4. Through death.

PART 5 – GENERAL MEETINGS OF MINISTRY PARTNERS

Notice of General Meetings

5.1. General Meetings (including the Annual General Meeting) may be called by the Elders when required at a time and place they determine. A notice of a General Meeting must be given to the Ministry Partners two weeks prior to the meeting. The agenda and reports for the General Meeting shall be published and be made available to Ministry Partners at least one week prior to the meeting.

The Annual General Meeting

5.2. An Annual General Meeting of the Ministry Partners must be held at least once per calendar year. Business at the meeting must include:

1. The Elders’ report on the financial statements of the Church for the previous financial year and the auditor’s report, if any, on those statements.

2. The presentation of the annual budget and Ministry Plan.

3. The presentation of Ministry Reports.

4. Any other reports of the Elders’ activities and decisions since the previous annual general meeting.

5. The appointment of an auditor, if required.

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By-Law 6 – Procedures

1. All membership meetings shall conform to the standing rules as given in the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches’ Leadership Handbook.

2. A quorum at meetings of the membership will consist of those present at a duly-called meeting.

Chair of General Meetings

5.3. The following individuals chair the General Meetings:

1. The Moderator of the Elders.

2. If the Moderator is unable to preside as the chair, one of the other Elders appointed by the Elders shall preside.

Quorum for General Meetings

5.4. A quorum at General Meetings of the Ministry Partnership will consist of those present at a duly-called meeting – a minimum of ten (10).

Methods of Voting

5.5. Voting must be by a show of hands except that if, before such a vote, two (2) or more voting Ministry Partners request a secret ballot or a secret ballot is directed by the Moderator of the meeting, voting must be by a secret ballot.

Announcement of Voting Results

5.6. The chair of a meeting must announce the outcome of each vote and that outcome must be recorded in the minutes of the meeting.

Proxy voting not permitted

5.7. Voting by proxy is not permitted.

Matters decided by ordinary resolution

5.8. A matter to be decided at a General Meeting must be decided by ordinary resolution unless the matter is required by the Act or these Bylaws to be decided by special resolution or by another resolution having a higher voting threshold than the threshold for an ordinary resolution.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:PART III – THE LEAD TEAM, MINISTRY MANAGEMENT TEAM AND THE FINANCE TEAM By-Law 7 – Lead Team

The directors of the church shall be known as the Lead Team. Their authority is anchored in the corporate body – the Church.

By-Law 10 – Role of the Lead Team

They are to use their wisdom, discernment and shepherding gifts to insure the church remains on “true north” biblically. They are the “keepers of the vision” and as such lead the church in major decision-making and strategic initiatives. In this regard they will:

1. Set the overall philosophy, vision and direction for the church in a context of prayer and Scripture. (Acts 6:4)

2. Oversee the shepherding to be sure that we are effectively achieving our purpose of leading people to be authentic followers of Jesus – always helping them take the next step with Him. (Acts 20:28)

3. That the body is being fed through insightful and accurate biblical teaching. They determine what are the major issues or essentials for Central to uphold, while avoiding needless controversy over minor issues. (Titus 1:9)

4. That the church is protected from harmful influences by confronting those who are contradicting biblical truth or who are continuing in patterns of sinful behaviour. In doing so, they are to keep closing potential entrances for Satan so that the truth of Christ will remain credible to both the congregation and the community. (Matthew 18:15-17)

5. That the life of the church is being well managed with the assistance of other competent and godly leaders. As legal trustees for the church, they oversee legal and financial matters, and set the church management policy.

By-Law 11 – Functions of the Lead Team

1. As servant-leaders the Lead Team has overseer responsibilities and as a team constitute the leadership of the local congregation.

2. The Lead Team shall make provision for the orderly conduct of all meetings and services.

PART 6 – ELDERS, PASTORAL LEADERSHIP TEAM, AND FINANCES

A. Elders

Role of the Elders

6.1. The Elders are accountable to the Ministry Partners of the Church. They are to use their wisdom, discernment and shepherding gifts to ensure the church remains rooted biblically. They are the “keepers of the vision” and as such lead the Church in major decision-making and strategic initiatives. In this regard they will:

1. Set the overall philosophy, vision, and direction for the Church in a context of prayer and Scripture. (Acts 6:4)

2. Oversee the shepherding of the Church to be sure that we are effectively achieving our mission of leading people to be authentic followers of Jesus. (Acts 20:28)

3. Ensure that the body is being fed through insightful and accurate biblical teaching. They determine the major issues or essentials for Central to uphold, while avoiding needless controversy over minor issues. (Titus 1:9)

4. Ensure that the Church is protected from harmful influences by confronting those who are contradicting biblical truth or who are continuing in patterns of sinful behaviour. In doing so, they are to keep closing potential entrances for Satan so that the truth of Christ will remain credible to both the congregation and the community. (Matthew 18:15-17)

5. Ensure that the life of the Church is being well managed with the assistance of other competent and godly leaders. As legal trustees for the church, they oversee legal and financial matters, and set the church management policy.

Functions of the Elders

6.2. As servant-leaders the Elders have overseer responsibilities and as a team constitute the leadership of the local congregation.

1. The Elders shall make provision for the orderly conduct of all meetings and services.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:3. All policy recommendations which arise out of

a ministry area shall be reviewed by the Lead Team and if necessary brought to the church for approval.

4. The Lead Team shall be responsible for the overall direction of the various ministries. Ministry Team Leaders for the various ministries shall be affirmed by the Lead Team.

5. The Lead Team shall evaluate the ministry and review the needs of the Senior Pastor on an annual basis. They shall ensure that all staff receive appropriate evaluations so as to assist them in their ministries.

6. The Lead Team shall establish a pastoral search committee when a vacancy occurs in the pastorate. The committee shall be affirmed by the membership. The call of the Lead Pastor shall require an eighty percent (80) majority of all votes cast at a church membership meeting called for that purpose.

7. The Lead Team may approve new ministries or discontinue established ministries that are no longer serving the church’s purpose.

8. The Lead Team shall ensure that the senior pastor creates a healthy team environment among the staff.

9. Each member of the Lead Team shall sign and abide by the “Confidentiality Agreement”.

10. The Lead Team may establish an executive committee of the Lead Team.

By-Law 8 – Structure and Organization of the Lead Team

1. All members of the Lead Team shall be members of the church appointed by the membership in accordance with Church adopted procedures.

2. The number of members on the Lead Team shall normally be no fewer than five (5) and no more than nine (10), including the lead pastor and the lead associate.

3. The Lead Team shall appoint its own chairman and secretary.

4. The Lead Team shall meet not less than once a month and at such times and places as may, from time to time, be determined by the Lead Team.

2. All policy recommendations which arise out of a ministry area shall be approved by the Elders.

3. The Elders shall be responsible for the overall direction of the various ministries. Ministry Team Leaders for the various ministries shall be affirmed by the Elders.

4. The Elders shall evaluate the ministry and review the needs of the Lead Pastor on an annual basis.

5. The Elders shall establish a pastoral search team when a vacancy occurs for the Lead Pastor. The call of the Lead Pastor shall require an eighty percent (80) majority of all votes cast at a church Ministry Partnership meeting called for that purpose.

6. The Elders may approve new ministries or discontinue established ministries that are no longer serving the Church’s purpose.

7. The Elders shall ensure that the Lead Pastor creates a healthy team environment among the staff.

8. Each Elder shall abide by the confidentiality requirements in the Guiding Principles.

9. The Elders may establish an Executive of the Elders.

Structure and Organization of the Elders

6.3. The Elders shall organize themselves as follows:

1. The Elders shall appoint their own Moderator and Secretary.

2. The Elders shall choose a member as Elder for Finance.

3. The Elders shall meet not less than ten (10) times per year, usually once a month and at such times and places as may, from time to time, be determined by the Elders.

Number of Elders

6.4. The Church must have no fewer than five (5) Elders (including the Lead Pastor).

Qualifications of Elders

6.5. Elders must be Ministry Partners of the Church and meet the qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3:2-7 and Titus 1:6-9.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:By-Law 9 – Appointment and Tenure

1. The Lead Team shall initiate the appointment of Lead Team members when required, according to the procedure approved by the membership.

2. The term of service of Lead Team member shall be one year renewable.

By-Law 12 – The Ministry Management Team (MMT)

1. The Ministry Management Team shall be a team composed of the Pastoral staff and others whom the Lead Team appoints. The Lead Pastor or his designate, shall chair the MMT and be directly accountable to the Lead Team for all the day to day functions of the church ministries.

Appointment of Elders

6.6. The Elders shall initiate the discernment of Elders according to the process articulated in the Guiding Principles.

Removal of Elders

6.7. The Elders may remove one of their members if the member fails to comply with the Guiding Principles.

Term of Elders

6.8. The term of an Elder shall be six (6) years after which he must take a sabbatical before allowing his name to be placed in nomination again.

Casual Vacancy on Elders

6.9. The Elders may, at any time, appoint a member as an Elder to fill a vacancy that arises on the Elders as a result of the resignation, death or incapacity of an Elder during that Elder’s term of office.

Term of Elders Appointed to Fill Casual Vacancies

6.10. An Elder appointed by the Elders to fill a vacancy ceases to be an Elder at the end of the unexpired portion of the term of office of the individual whose departure from office created the vacancy.

Conduct of Elders Meetings

6.11. The Elders shall regulate their meetings and proceedings following their Guiding Principles.

B. Pastoral Leadership Team

Roles and Responsibilities of the Pastoral Leadership Team 6.12. Roles and Responsibilities of the Pastoral

Leadership Team:

1. The Pastoral Leadership Team shall be comprised of the Lead Pastor and other staff whom he appoints. The Lead Pastor shall lead the Pastoral Leadership Team and be directly accountable to the Elders for all the day-to-day functions of the Church.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:2. The Associate Pastors shall be assigned

duties as per the job description approved by the Lead Team.

3. The Ministry Team Leaders of the various Ministry Teams are accountable to the Pastor assigned to them.

By-Law 13 – The Finance Team

1. The Finance Team shall report to the Lead Team and provide guidance to the financial affairs of the church.

2. The membership of the Finance Team shall be as follows:

a) The Finance Ministry Team Leader

b) Members at large appointed according to the church’s procedures for leadership positions.

c) The Bookkeeper

d) The Associate Lead Pastor By-Law 14 – Functions of the Stewardship Advisory Team

1. The Stewardship Advisory Team shall develop policy and procedures related to financial management, budget development and monitoring, accounting, purchasing, donation records and receipts’ activities for recommendation to the Lead Team. The Stewardship Advisory Team serves as advisors to the Lead Team in matters related to financial management.

2. The Stewardship Advisory Team shall meet at least semi-annually to review the financial reports, the management of cash flow relative to the budget and ensure that policies and procedures are in place and adhered to. The Stewardship Advisory Team shall report their findings to the Lead Team.

3. The Stewardship Advisory Team may assign additional functions to the terms of reference of the Stewardship Advisory Team as they determine.

2. The Associate Pastors shall be assigned duties as per the job description approved by the Elders and are accountable to the Lead Pastor or his designate.

3. The Ministry Team Leaders of the various Ministry Teams are accountable to the Associate Pastor assigned to them.

C. Church Finances

6.13. Church Finances

1. The finances of Central Community Church are under the purview and direction of the Elders.

2. The Elder for Finance is chosen from among the Elders annually and works in cooperation with the Church Administrator to give general financial oversight. The Administrator is empowered to manage ongoing financial matters on behalf of the Elders. Any deviation from regular financial matters requires the approval from the Elders.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:PART IV – SIGNING AUTHORITIES AND OFFICERS

A. The Lead Pastor

By-Law 16 – Duties 1. Consistent to the New Testament concept of

spiritual gifts, the lead pastor, like any member of the body, is uniquely gifted and should seek to minister primarily within his gift area. He is primarily responsible to be a teacher of the Word of God and to provide strategic leadership and vision to the body. He must strive to teach and lead by word and example, and he must stress both the understanding and the application of God’s truth.

2. The pastor shall be the spiritual leader of the church. He shall preach the gospel and supervise and direct the spiritual ministry in the church. (1 Tim. 3:1-7)

3. The pastor is responsible to the Lead Team and is a voting member by virtue of his office. He shall attend all Lead Team meetings except when his position and tenure are under consideration.

By-Law 17 – Tenure of Service

1. If at any time the pastor intends to resign, he should express his intent to the church through the Lead Team or Executive. A months’ notice of resignation would be preferred.

PART 7 - OFFICERS AND SIGNING AUTHORITIES

A. Lead Pastor Role of the Lead Pastor

7.1. The Lead Pastor leads the Church in its mission and vision. Consistent with the New Testament concept of spiritual gifts, the Lead Pastor, like any member of the body, is uniquely gifted and should seek to minister primarily within his gift area. He is primarily responsible to be a teacher of the Word of God and to provide strategic leadership and vision to the body. He must strive to teach and lead by word and example, and he must stress both the understanding and the application of God’s truth. He is responsible to the Elders for the following:

1. Resourcing the Elders in their duties and spiritual lives.

2. Leading the Pastoral Staff. 3. Developing the Ministry Plan with his

Pastoral Leadership Team. 4. The preaching and teaching ministry of

the Church.

Qualifications of the Lead Pastor

7.2. The Lead Pastor must be a Ministry Partner of the Church and meet the qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3:2-7 and Titus 1:6-9.

Appointment of the Lead Pastor

7.3. In the event of vacancy in the office of the Lead Pastor, the Elders shall be responsible to initiate a search process for candidates to fill the position. Once the Elders have selected a candidate, that candidate shall be presented to the Ministry Partners for the purpose of extending an invitation to the office. A secret ballot with an eighty (80) percent majority of ballots cast shall be required to place the candidate in office.

Tenure of the Lead Pastor

7.4. Tenure of Service

1. If at any time the Lead Pastor intends to resign, he should express his intent to the Church through the Elders.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:2. The pastor or members of the church may

request that a vote of confidence be taken. This request shall be made through the Lead Team. If, after exploring all possible alternatives, the Lead Team recognizes the need for a vote of confidence, the matter will be taken to the church for a decision. A two-thirds (2/3) majority of votes cast in a vote of confidence held at a church membership meeting called for that purpose shall be required to confirm the ministry of the pastor of the church.

B. Associate Pastors By-Law 18 – Duties

1. The associate pastors shall, together with and under the direction of the lead pastor, provide spiritual leadership in the church. As such they shall be directly involved in the supervision and implementation of the ministry of the church.

2. The associate pastors shall, under the general direction of the lead pastor, be responsible to the Lead Team.

3. The associate pastor shall by virtue of his office be a member of the Ministry Teams in areas of ministry given to him as a responsibility.

4. The associate pastor’s specific duties shall be defined by the Lead Team.

By-Law 19 – Tenure of Service

1. If at any time an associate pastor intends to resign, he should express his intent to the church through the Lead Team or Executive. One month’s notice of resignation would be preferred.

2. The associate pastors or members of the church may request that a vote of confidence be taken. This request shall be made through the Lead Team. If, after exploring all possible alternatives, the Lead Team recognizes the need for a vote of confidence, the matter will be taken to the church for decision. A two-thirds (2/3) majority of votes cast in a vote of confidence held at a church membership meeting called for that purpose shall be required to confirm the ministry of the associate pastor in the church.

2. The Lead Pastor or Ministry Partners of the church may request that a vote of confidence be taken. This request shall be made through the Elders. If, after exploring all possible alternatives, the Elders recognize the need for a vote of confidence, the matter will be taken to the Church for a decision. A two thirds (2/3) majority of votes cast in a vote of confidence held at a Ministry Partnership meeting called for that purpose shall be required to confirm the ministry of the Lead Pastor of the Church.

3. If at any point the Lead Pastor must be removed from his position it will be managed by the Elders.

B. Associate Pastors Role of Associate Pastors

7.5. Role of Associate Pastors

1. The Associate Pastors shall, together with and under the direction of the Lead Pastor, provide spiritual leadership in the Church. As such they shall be directly involved in the supervision and implementation of the ministry of the Church.

2. The Associate Pastors shall serve under the direction of the Lead Pastor and be responsible to him.

3. The Associate Pastors shall by virtue of their office lead the Ministry Teams in the areas of ministry given to them as a responsibility.

4. The Associate Pastors’ specific duties shall be defined by the Lead Pastor with approval by the Elders.

Appointment of Associate Pastors

7.6. In the event of a pastoral vacancy or filling an associate pastoral position, the Lead Pastor will propose a candidate to fill the position. Once the Elders have approved the appointment, that candidate shall be introduced to the Church.

Tenure of Associate Pastors

7.7. If at any time an associate pastor intends to resign, he should express his intent to the Church through the Lead Pastor. If at any point the dismissal of an associate pastor is deemed necessary, it will be managed by the Elders.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:C. Moderator By-Law 20 Organization

The chairman of the Lead Team shall serve as the moderator of the church. By-Law 21 Duties

1. The moderator shall give leadership to the Lead Team in carrying out its responsibilities.

2. The moderator shall serve as chairman at church membership meetings.

3. The moderator shall be responsible to communicate the church decisions and/or requests to the appropriate coordinators and/or individuals.

4. The moderator shall help resolve areas of disagreement or misunderstanding in the church community.

D. Secretary By-Law 22 – Organization The secretary of the Lead Team shall serve as secretary of the Church. By-Law 23 – Duties

1. The secretary shall keep an accurate and permanent record of all church membership meetings and of all Lead Team meetings.

2. The secretary shall assume responsibility for correspondence as directed by either the Church or the Lead Team.

3. The secretary shall keep an up-do-date record of amendments to the constitution and by-laws and record them in the appropriate section.

E. Auditors By-Law 24 – Organization

1. This committee shall consist of two members appointed by the church at the annual membership meeting.

2. The auditors shall be appointed for a period of two (2) years and their terms of office shall be staggered to ensure continuity in service.

By-Law 25 – Duties

1. The auditors shall annually undertake an audit of all financial records of the church and report to the annual membership meeting.

C. Moderator

Role of Moderator

7.8. Role of Moderator

1. The Moderator shall serve as chairman at church Ministry Partnership meetings.

2. The Moderator or his designate shall be responsible to communicate the church decisions and/or requests to the appropriate coordinators and/or individuals.

3. The Moderator is the chair of the Elders and is responsible for supervising and facilitating the Elders in their decision-making and duties.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:

2. Whenever the auditors consider it appropriate that an external audit of the books and accounts of the church be undertaken they shall submit such a recommendation to the Lead Team. If the Lead Team approves the carrying out of an external audit, the auditors shall engage the services of qualified external auditors whose report shall be brought to the Lead Team and the church.

By-Law 15 – Signing Authorities The signing authorities of the church shall be Finance Team members, authorized to sign contracts and agreements on behalf of the church. Subject to any guidelines prepared by the Finance Team and approved by the Lead Team any two members of the Finance Team may sign contracts and agreements on behalf of the church. When and if necessary by the Societies Act or regulatory authorities a treasurer’s signature is required, the Finance Ministry Team Leader will fulfill this function. PART V – THE CHURCH MINISTRIES By-Law 26 – Establishing Ministries

The Church shall establish such ministries as shall be necessary to carry out its vision and mission. They shall be established by the Lead Team when the following criteria are met:

a) Their purpose supports the purpose of the church and reflects the three key functions of community formation, spiritual formation and ministry formation

b) Their values are the values of the church c) They have qualified leadership d) There is a satisfactory team in place e) They work under the coaching supervision of a

Pastor f) They meet their budget or receive approval for

budgetary requirements.

D. Signing Authorities and Officers

Signing Officers and Authorized Individuals to Sign Contracts

7.9. Signing Officers and Authorized Individuals to Sign Contracts

1. The signing authority for all cheques, contracts and agreements will be set by the Elders and defined in the Signing Authority Policy and Procedure document for the Church.

PART 8 – THE CHURCH MINISTRIES

Establishing Ministries

8.1. The Church shall establish such ministries as shall be necessary to carry out its vision and mission. They shall be established by the Lead Pastor and his Pastoral Leadership Team when the following criteria are met:

1. Their purpose supports the mission and vision of Central Community Church.

2. Their values are the values of the Church.

3. They have qualified leadership. 4. There is a satisfactory team in place. 5. They work under the coaching

supervision of a pastor. 6. They meet their budget or receive

approval for budgetary requirements.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:By-Law 27 – Structure and Organization of Ministries

The ministries will be led by a Ministry Team Leader and his team who lead the various functions of the ministry. They shall organize internally as required.

1. All ministries shall be 'ad hoc' – that is, created and disbanded at the discretion of the Lead Team.

2. The function of the ministries shall be in harmony with the vision and mission of the Church.

3. The ministries shall be governed by church approved policies.

4. The function of the ministries may change according to need as long as their activities are in agreement with the vision and purpose of the Church.

By-Law 28 – Role of Ministries

1. A Ministry provides leadership to, and assumes administrative responsibility for its specified field of endeavor.

2. A Ministry shall continually seek out and develop workers in its area of service.

3. Each Ministry shall be responsible to a pastor. 4. A Ministry may meet with the Ministry

Management Team for the purpose of planning and reviewing the work of its service and shall report annually to the membership.

5. A Ministry shall present all policy recommendations to the Lead Team through the MMT for approval.

6. A Ministry shall submit annual budget requirements to the Finance Team. The Finance Team shall submit an overall budget to the Lead Team for approval and submission to the membership for final approval.

7. A Ministry shall prepare and update its objectives and goals annually.

By-Law 29 – Duties of the Ministry Team Leader

1. The Ministry Team Leader shall prepare the agenda and give leadership to the meetings of the Team.

2. The Ministry Team Leader shall meet as necessary with the pastoral coach assigned.

3. The Ministry Team Leader shall attend Leadership Community, monthly.

Structure and Organization of Ministries

8.2. The ministries will be led by the Lead Pastor and his Pastoral Leadership Team, along with the Associate Pastors. They shall organize internally as required.

1. All ministries shall be 'ad hoc' – that is, created and disbanded at the discretion of the Pastoral Leadership Team.

2. The function of the ministries shall be in harmony with the vision and mission of the Church.

3. The ministries shall be governed by church-approved policies.

4. The function of the ministries may change according to need as long as their activities are in agreement with the vision and mission of the Church.

Role of Ministries

8.3. Role of Ministries

1. A ministry provides leadership to, and assumes administrative responsibility for, its specified field of endeavor.

2. A ministry shall continually seek out and develop workers in its area of service.

3. Each ministry shall be responsible to a pastor.

4. A ministry shall present all policy

recommendations to the Elders through the Pastoral Leadership Team for approval.

5. A ministry shall submit annual budget requirements to the Church Administrator. The Pastoral Leadership Team shall submit an overall budget to the Elders for approval.

6. A ministry shall review and update its objectives and goals annually.

PART 9 – REMUNERATION OF ELDERS

Remuneration of Elders

9.1. These Bylaws do not permit the Church to remunerate any Elders for serving as an Elder, but the Church may, subject to the Act, pay remuneration to an Elder for services provided by the Elder to the Church in another capacity.

PreviousVersion:2017Version:PART VI – DELEGATES

By-Law 30 – Appointment of Delegates

1. The Lead Team shall appoint delegates to the B.C. and Canadian Conferences.

2. The pastor, the associate pastor(s) and the moderator shall represent the Church as delegates if possible. Other delegates may be elected or commissioned as required.

3. The pastor and the moderator shall represent the Church on the provincial Board of Reference and Council.

4. The Church shall endeavor to give as many of its members as possible the opportunity to attend conferences.

By-Law 31 – Expenses for Delegates

The Church shall annually include in its budget expenditures for delegates. PART VII – BORROWING POWERS By-Law 32

In order to carry out the purposes of the Church, the Lead Team may, on behalf of and in the name of the Church, raise or secure the payment or repayment of money for purposes authorized by the Church. PART VIII – AMENDING THE CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS By-Law 33 – Initiation of Amendments

1. Any member of the Church may propose an amendment to the constitution or by-laws by submitting it in writing to the Lead Team.

2. The Lead Team shall review and study the proposed amendment and present it to the Church at the first regular membership meeting.

3. Amendments may be made at any regular membership meeting of the Church by a 2/3 majority of votes cast after the amendment has been published and distributed at least 14 days prior to such an action.

PART 10 – DELEGATES Appointment of Delegates

10.1. Delegates 1. The Elders shall appoint delegates to

the B.C. and Canadian Conferences. 2. The Lead Pastor, the Associate Pastors

and the Moderator shall represent the Church as delegates if possible. Other delegates may be selected or commissioned as required.

3. The Church shall endeavor to give as many of its Ministry Partners as possible the opportunity to attend conferences.

Expenses for Delegates

10.2. The Church shall annually include in its budget expenditures for delegates.

PART 11 – BORROWING POWERS

Elders’ Authorization

11.1. The Elders are authorized to borrow and repay money on behalf of the Church.

PART 12 – AMENDMENTS

Amendments

12.1. Amendments

1. Any Ministry Partner of the Church may propose an amendment to the Constitution or Bylaws by submitting it in writing to the Elders.

2. The Elders shall review and study the proposed amendment and present it to the Church at the first regular Ministry Partnership meeting called.

3. Changes to the Constitution require a special resolution from Ministry Partners at a duly called Annual General Meeting.

PART 13 - DISSOLUTION Dissolution 13.1. If upon dissolution or winding up of the

Church there remains after the satisfaction of all its debts and liabilities any property whatsoever, that property shall be transferred to the B.C. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches. This provision was previously unalterable.