Church Ordinances

ARTICLES OF FAITH

I. GOD

There is but one GOD, The Maker, Preserver, and Ruler of all things, having in and of Himself all perfection, and being infinite in them all; and to him all creatures owe the highest love, reverence, and obedience.

II. THE TRINITY

God is revealed to us as Father, Son and Holy Spirit, each with distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence, or being.

III. THE SCRIPTURES

The scriptures of the Old and New Testaments were given by inspiration of God, and are the only sufficient, certain and authoritative rule of all saving knowledge, faith, and obedience.

IV. PROVIDENCE

God from eternity decrees or permits all things that come to pass, and perpetually upholds, directs, and governs all creatures and all events; yet so as not in any wise to be the author or approver of sin nor to destroy the free will and responsibility of intelligent creatures.

V. ELECTION

Election is God's Eternal choice of some persons unto everlasting life - not because of foreseen merit in them, but of His mere mercy in Christ - in consequence of which choice they are called, justified and glorified. God's election is based upon His Foreknowledge of Man's free response to His grace.

VI. THE FALL OF MAN

God originally created man in His own image, and free from sin; but through the temptation of Satan, he transgressed the Command of God, and fell from his original holiness and righteousness; whereby his posterity inherits nature corrupt-and wholly opposed to God and His law, and under condemnation and as soon as they are capable of moral action, become actual transgressors.

VII. MEDIATOR

Jesus Christ, the only begotten son of God, is divinely appointed mediator between God and man. Having taken upon himself human nature, yet without sin, He perfectly fulfilled the law, suffered and died upon the cross for the salvation of sinners. He was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended to His Father, at whose right hand he ever liveth to make intercession for His people. Christ is coming to earth again to claim His Bride, The Church; and to execute judgment upon the earth.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

VIII. REGENERATION

Regeneration is a change of heart, wrought by the Holy Spirit who quickeneth the dead in trespasses and sins, enlightening their minds spiritually and savingly to understand the word of God, and renewing their whole nature so that they love and practice holiness. It is a work of God's free and special grace alone.

IX. REPENTANCE

Repentance is an evangelical grace wherein a person being by the Holy Spirit made sensible of the manifold evil of his sin, humbleth himself for it, with Godly sorrow, detestation of it, and self abhorrence with a purpose and endeavor to walk with God so as to please Him in all things.

X. FAITH

Saving faith is the belief, on God's authority, of whatsoever is revealed in His word concerning Christ accepting and resting upon Him alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life. It is wrought in the heart by the Holy Spirit, and is accompanied by all other saving graces and leads to a life of holiness.

XI. JUSTIFICATION

Justification is God's gracious and full acquittal of sinners who believe in Christ, from all sin, through the satisfaction that Christ was made; not for anything wrought in them or done by them, but on account of the obedience and satisfaction of Christ, they receiving and resting on Him and His righteousness by faith.

XII. SANCTIFICATION

Those who have been regenerated by God's word and spirit dwelling in them. This sanctification is progressive through the supply of divine strength which all saints seek to obtain pressing after a heavenly life in cordial obedience to all Christ's commands.

XIII. PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS

Those whom God hath accepted in the beloved, and sanctified by His spirit, will never totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace but shall certainly persevere to the end; and though they may fall, through neglect and temptation, into sin, whereby they grieve the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, bring reproach on the Church and temporal judgment on themselves, yet they shall be renewed again unto repentance and kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

XIV: Definition of Marriage

A.We believe:

Genesis 2:15-24

Genesis 26:8-9

Romans 1:26-29

Romans 1:16-32

Romans 7:2

1 Corinthians 7:10

Ephesians 5:22-23

1 Thessalonians 4:1-8

Hebrews 13:4

B. We believe that the term “marriage” has only one meaning and that is marriage sanctioned by God which joins one man and one woman in a single, exclusive union as delineated in Scripture.

C.We believe that God intends sexual intimacy to only occur between a man and a woman who are married to each other. We believe that God as commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of marriage between a man and a woman.

D. We believe that any form of sexual immorality, such as adultery, fornication, homosexually, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest, pornography or any attempt to change one’s sex or disagreement with one’s biological gender is sinful and offensive to God.

E. We believe that in order to preserve the function and integrity of the church as the local Body of Christ, and provide a biblical role model to the church members and the community, it is imperative that all persons employed by the church in any capacity, or who serve as volunteers, and all members, should abide and agree to this statement on marriage and sexuality and conduct themselves accordingly.

F.We believe that God offers redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking His mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

G.We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect and dignity. Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual are to be repudiated and are not in accord with Scripture nor the doctrines of the church.

XV. BAPTISM

Baptism is an ordinance of the Lord Jesus, obligatory upon every believer, wherein he is immersed in water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, as a sign of his fellowship with the death and resurrection of Christ, of remission of sins, and of his giving himself up to God, to live and walk in newness of life. It is prerequisite to church fellowship.

XVI. THE LORD'S SUPPER

The Lord's Supper is an ordinance of Jesus Christ, to be administered with the elements of bread and wine, and to be observed by His Churches till the end of the world. It is in no sense a sacrifice, but is designed to commemorate His death, to confirm the faith and other graces of Christians, and to be bond, pledge, and renewal of their communion with Him, and of their fellowship.

XVII. THE LORD'S DAY

The Lord's Day is a Christian institution for regular observance and should be employed in exercises of worship and spiritual devotion, both public and private, resting from worldly employments and amusements, works of necessity and mercy only accepted.

XVIII. LIBERTY OF CONSCIENCE

God alone is Lord of the conscience, and He hath left it free from doctrines and commandments of men which are in anything contrary to His word, or not contained in it. Civil magistrates being ordained of God, subjection in all things commended by them ought to be yielded by us in the Lord, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

XIX. THE RESURRECTION

The bodies of men after death return to dust, but their spirits go into eternity: the unsaved to Hell (Hades) and the saved into the presence of Christ, then, at God's appointed time, the bodies of the dead will be raised, the righteous unto the resurrection of life and the unrighteous unto the resurrection of damnation.

XX. THE JUDGMENT

God hath appointed a day, wherein He will judge the world by Jesus Christ, those names not found in the lamb's book of life will be consigned to everlasting punishment, and the righteous will be ever with the Lord.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

COVENANT

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, 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, holiness, and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines; to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations.

We also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to educate religiously our children, to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements and exemplary in our deportment; to avoid all tattling, backbiting and excessive anger; to abstain from the sale and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage, and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior.

We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember each other in prayer; to aid each other in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the rules of our Savior, to secure it without delay.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

CONSTITUTION

ARTICLE I – NAME

The name of this church shall be THE CHURCH IN THE VALLEY, Milton, West Virginia.

ARTICLE II-PURPOSE

The purpose of this church shall be to maintain public services for the worship of God and the teaching and preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ; to win people to Christ and to bring them into active membership in the church that they might grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ; to associate ourselves closely with all Christians in the common task of building His kingdom in the hearts and lives of men everywhere.

SECTION A - GOVERNMENT - The government of this church shall reside in its members 16 years of age and over.

SECTION B - AFFILIATION - This church shall be an autonomous church, free and independent to consider any issue.

ARTICLE III – AUTHORITY

This church believes the New Testament as an all sufficient basis of doctrine and practice. It reaffirms its complete belief and trust in its adherence to the principles of Christian doctrine and conduct set forth in the church covenant and entered into and engaged by its members, each with the other, at the meeting organizing this church held on the fourth of September, 1988, and made a part of this constitution and bylaws.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

ARTICLE IV – MEMBERSHIP

SECTION A - MEMBERSHIP INTO THIS CHURCH SHALL BE:

1. BY BAPTISM - Any person professing faith in Jesus Christ as his personal savior and declaring his purpose to live a Christian life who is in substantial agreement with Evangelical and Baptistic doctrines, may, by vote of the Church, be received for baptism and membership.

2. BY LETTER - Persons requesting letters of dismissal from other churches, if they have been baptized by immersion, may be received upon receipt of such letter by vote of this Church.

3. BY CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE - Persons who give evidence of conversion and have been baptized by immersion and for justifiable reasons are unable to produce letters of dismissal from their former church, may, upon the statement of their Christian experience and the renewal of their covenant, be received into membership by vote of the church.

4. STUDENT MEMBERSHIP - Membership may be offered to post high school students who are studying in the area of church ministry. This membership does not affect their relationship to their home church and is terminated when they complete their education and leave the area, and because of this, they are not voting members.

5. BY PROXY - Any homebound Christian who desires to affiliate with this church may do so by the consent of the Board of Deacons and the Pastor with the approval of the church. Any member of the Board of Deacons may serve as proxy.

SECTION B - DISMISSAL FROM THIS CHURCH SHALL BE:

1. BY LETTER - A member may be dismissed to the fellowship of another church by a letter of recommendation, and should the name of the member be carried on a list of the inactive, the letter shall so state.

2. BY ERASURE - A member's name may be removed trom the church roll for having been delinquent in membership obligations only after his name shall have been on an inactive list for one year. After such time, the name may be removed by a vote of the church but shall remain on the church record. An individual may request dismissal from the church roll and upon the recommendation of the Board of Deacons and approval by vote of the Church the name shall be removed.

3. MISCONDUCT - Any misconduct bringing the members into disrepute, or troubles between members shall be dealt with according to directions given in Matthew 18: 15-17.

4. BY DEATH

As revised and adopted January, 2005

ARTICLE V - STAFF MEMBERS

Staff members of this church shall be composed of the following:

1. Pastor

2. Assistant Pastor

3. Minister of Outreach

4. Youth Director

5. Church Secretary

6. Director of Music

7. Organist/Pianist

8. Custodian

9. Nursery Director

10. Audio Visual Director

11. Transportation Director

These staff members may be employed as established in the bylaws.

ARTICLE VI - GENERAL OFFICERS

The officers of this church shall be as follows:

Church Clerk Assistant Treasurer

Treasurer Sunday School Superintendent

These officers shall be members of this church and are to be elected annually. Upon the recommendation of the Nominating Committee, they shall be presented to the church for approval before the end of November each year. Their duties and responsibilities are established in the bylaws. No church member shall serve as a general officer for a period of one year after becoming a member.

ARTICLE VII – BOARDS

The Boards of this church shall consist of the following:

Deacons Trustees

Deaconesses Church Council

All Church Boards shall be composed of members of this church. Their duties, selection, terms of office, and responsibilities are established in the bylaws. In the absence of the chairman of any board, the vice chairman shall perform the duties of the chairman. Any member of any board personally involved shall not participate in such meeting unless invited to do so. No church member shall serve on a board for a period of one year after becoming a member.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

ARTICLE VIII – COMMITTEES

The committees of this church shall consist of the following:

Nominating Building

Hostess Audio-Visual

Pulpit Long-Range Planning

Usher Finance

Audit Missions

Music Christian Education

Publicity Special

All committees shall be composed of members of this church; their duties, selection, and responsibilities are established in the bylaws. In the absence of the chairman of any committee, the vice chairman shall perform the duties of the chairman. Any member of any committee personally involved shall not participate in such meeting unless invited to do so. A person may serve as chairman of only one board or committee at any time. No church member shall serve on a committee for a period of one year after becoming a member.

ARTICLE IX – MEETINGS

SECTION 1 - ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING

The first annual business meeting shall be held on the third Wednesday following the first Sunday in January.

SECTION 2 - QUARTERLY BUSINESS MEETING

A business meeting shall be held on the third Wednesday of each new quarter. Written progress reports shall be given to the Church by each Board and Committee.

SECTION 3 - SPECIAL BUSINESS MEETINGS

Special meetings of the church may be called by the Pastor, chairman of the Board of Deacons, or the chairman of the Church Council. Special meeting must be announced from the pulpit at least one week in advance and the business to be transacted stated.

SECTION 4 – QUORUM

A quorum for any business meeting of the church shall be comprised of fifty voting members 16 years of age or over present at any business meeting called in accordance with the requirement of this constitution. A majority vote shall be required on all issues except the call of a Pastor which requires a ninety (90) percent vote and amendment to this constitution and bylaws which requires a seventy-five (75) percent vote of those members present and voting.

ARTICLE X-ORDINANCES OF THE CHURCH

SECTION 1 – BAPTISM

The ordinance of baptism shall be administered by the Pastor or his assignee at such time as it is suitable to the pastor and the candidates.

SECTION 2 - THE LORD'S SUPPER

The Lord's Supper shall be observed as often as the church Pastor and Deacons deem fitting.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

ARTICLE XI - ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT

SECTION 1- ADOPTION

This Constitution and Bylaws shall become effective when adopted by the Church. All persons holding office on the effective date of this constitution and bylaws shall continue until new officers are elected and provided therein.

SECTION 2 – AMENDMENT

Any proposed amendment must be written and submitted to the Board of Deacons. The Chairman of the Board of Deacons will appoint a committee of at least five Deacons to review the proposed amendment and submit a report to the board within 30 days. The Chairman of the Board of Deacons will present the proposed amendment to the Church along with the recommendation of the Board at the next regular business meeting of the church or any special business meeting called for that purpose provided two weeks notice has been given in the church publications. A seventy-five (75) percent approval vote will be required for adoption as provided in Article 9 Section 4.

ARTICLE XII - PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY

SECTION 1 - This Church body shall be governed by the current edition of Robert's Rules of Order in all Parliamentary situations that are not provided for in the bylaws or adopted rules. A copy of this authority shall be maintained in the Church office.

SECTION 2 – PARLIAMENTARIAN

The Parliamentarian shall be recommended annually by the Nominating Committee with the approval of the Board of Deacons and presented to the Church for approval. The Parliamentarian shall be the governing authority at all business meetings of the church to insure all business proceedings comply with the provisions as stated in the parliamentary authority set forth in this article.

SECTION 3 - CHURCH HISTORIAN

The Church Historian shall be recommended annually by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. The Historian shall collect from all possible sources and deposit in the church office any photographs and articles of significance to the church and supervise the filing, indexing, and compilation of these materials as a perpetual history of the church. A recap of the church history for the preceding year shall be published and distributed to the church membership at the regular business meeting of the church. A copy of the history and the recaps shall be kept in the Church Library.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

ARTICLE XIII - DISSOLUTION AMENDMENT

The following amendment is essential to our Constitution in order to meet the requirements of the Internal Revenue Service for tax-exempt status.

No part of the net earnings of this organization shall ever inure to the benefit of any donor, member, director, or officer of the organization nor shall be entitled to share in the distribution of any of the corporate assets. Upon dissolution, any assets of the organization must be distributed to one or more organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as on organized exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, literary or educational purposes. This amendment includes any committee, club, or board within (under) the umbrella of the church.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

Article XIV: Definition of Marriage

We believe:

Genesis 2:15-24

Genesis 26:8-9

Romans 1:26-29

Romans 1:16-32

Romans 7:2

1 Corinthians 7:10

Ephesians 5:22-23

1 Thessalonians 4:1-8

Hebrews 13:4

We believe that the term “marriage” has only one meaning and that is marriage sanctioned by God which joins one man and one woman in a single, exclusive union as delineated in Scripture.

We believe that God intends sexual intimacy to only occur between a man and a woman who are married to each other. We believe that God as commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of marriage between a man and a woman.

We believe that any form of sexual immorality, such as adultery, fornication, homosexually, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest, pornography or any attempt to change one’s sex or disagreement with one’s biological gender is sinful and offensive to God.

We believe that in order to preserve the function and integrity of the church as the local Body of Christ, and provide a biblical role model to the church members and the community, it is imperative that all persons employed by the church in any capacity, or who serve as volunteers, and all members, should abide and agree to this statement on marriage and sexuality and conduct themselves accordingly.

We believe that God offers redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking His mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect and dignity. Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual are to be repudiated and are not in accord with Scripture nor the doctrines of the church.

BYLAWS

PARAGRAPH A - These bylaws are hereby a part of the constitution of the Church In The Valley by reference.

PARAGRAPH B - Staff as set forth in Article 5:

The Church Council may delegate, merge, consolidate, or divide the offices and duties of staff members. It shall recommend to the Church the addition of new staff members as the business of the Church may require and it shall recommend the salaries and conditions of employment of any such additional staff members. Any creation of additional staff offices shall be submitted to the Church for approval at a business meeting specially called for that purpose with due notice given the congregation through the church bulletin.

SECTION 1- PASTOR

Upon recommendation of the Pulpit Committee, a Pastor shall be called whenever there is a vacancy in the Pastorate. This committee shall investigate the merits of the person under consideration in regard to his personal character, education, ministerial record, preaching abilities, executive and administrative abilities and fitness for the Pastorate. An ordained Baptist minister, he shall be a believer in and a preacher of the gospel and of the basic doctrines as held by the Baptist faith, the constitution and bylaws of this Church and become a member of this Church. No candidate who supports or endorses the World Council of Churches or the National Council of Churches or the charismatic movement will be considered.

The call shall come before the Church for a vote at a special business meeting called for that purpose and only that candidate shall be presented to the Church at anyone time. This voting will be by secret ballot, and a ninety (90) percent vote shall be required as provided in Article 9 Section 4. The terms of his salary and other remunerations shall be enumerated at this meeting.

The Pastorate will be terminated by death, retirement, resignation, or dismissal of the pastor. It may be terminated upon 30 days notice on the part of the Pastor or the Church, or for such period as may be mutually agreed between the Pastor and the Board of Deacons. The Church Council shall maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position that has been approved by the Board of Deacons. The terms of employment and performance shall be evaluated annually by the Board of Deacons. The Pastor shall be responsible to the Board of Deacons.

The Pastor shall be the spiritual leader of the Church. He shall preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, administer the ordinances, watch over and shepherd the membership, and have in his charge the spiritual welfare of the congregation and the stated services of public worship. He shall be the moderator of the church and an ex-officio member of every board and chairman of the church council.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

SECTION 2 - ASSISTANT PASTOR

The Church Council shall recommend to the church for approval a candidate to fill the office of Assistant Pastor and shall enumerate his salary and other terms of employment. He shall be responsible to the Pastor and Church Council. He will assist the Pastor and Church Council with the administration and such services deemed necessary. He will also assist the Pastor and Deacons with the spiritual welfare of the Church.

He shall be an ordained Baptist minister; he shall be a believer in and a preacher of the gospel and of the basic doctrines as held by the Baptist faith, the constitution and bylaws of this Church and become a member of this Church. No candidate who supports or endorses the World Council of Churches or the National Council of Churches or the charismatic movement will be considered. The call shall come before the Church for a vote at a special business meeting called for that purpose and only that candidate shall be presented to the Church at anyone time. This voting will be held by secret ballot, and a ninety (90) percent vote shall be required as provided in Article 9 Section 4. The terms of his salary and other enumerations shall be enumerated at this meeting.

The Assistant Pastorate will be terminated by death, resignation, or dismissal. It may be terminated upon 30 days notice on the part of the Assistant Pastor or the Church, or for such period as may be mutually agreed between the Assistant Pastor and the Church Council.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

SECTION 3- MINISTER OF OUTREACH

The Church Council shall recommend to the church for approval a candidate to fill the office of outreach minister and shall enumerate his salary and other terms of employment at the time of the call. The services of the Minister of Outreach may be terminated upon 30 days notice on the part of the Minister of Outreach or the church, or for such period as may be mutually agreed. He shall be responsible to the Pastor and the Church Council.

The call shall come before the Church for a vote at a special business meeting called for that purpose and only that candidate shall be presented to the Church at that time. This voting will be held by secret ballot and a ninety (90) percent vote shall be required as provided in Article 9 Section 4.

The position of Minister of Outreach shall: 1) provide training for all offices and committees of the church. (Such training shall focus on goal setting, responsibilities, assessment/monitoring of progress toward meeting goals.); 2) provide oversight of youth related programs, visitation programs of the church, Mission and Christian Education program; 3) provide leadership for the library, puppet ministry, and the publicity of all church activities; 4) fill the pulpit or other assignments when called upon by the Pastor.

He will assist the Pastor and Church Council with the administration and such services deemed necessary. He will also assist the Pastor and Deacons with the spiritual welfare of the Church.

The Church Council shall maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position. The terms of employment and performance shall be evaluated annually by the Pastor.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

SECTION 4 - YOUTH DIRECTORS

The Church Council shall recommend to the church for approval candidates to fill the office of Youth Director and shall enumerate the salary and other terms of employment. The Church Council shall maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position. The terms of employment and performance shall be evaluated annually by the Minister of Outreach. The services of a Youth Director may be terminated upon 30 days notice on the part of a Youth Director or the Church, or for such period as may be mutually agreed. The position of Youth Director shall include the following; 1) provide leadership for all non Sunday School youth activities; 2) coordinate activities for the youth; 3) co-ordinate youth programs including retreats, service related activities to assist any Church family, and weekend activities; 4) provide leadership for the puppet ministry, and home visitation.

SECTION 5 - CHURCH SECRETARY

The Church Council shall recommend to the church for approval a candidate to fill the position of Church Secretary and enumerate the salary and terms of employment. The Church Council will maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position. The terms of employment and performance shall be evaluated annually by the Pastor. The services of the Church Secretary may be terminated upon 30 days notice on the part of the Church Secretary or the Church for such period as may be mutually agreed. The Church Secretary shall be under the direction and supervision of the Pastor.

SECTION 6 - DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

The Church Council shall recommend to the church for approval a candidate to fill the office of Director of Music and shall enumerate the salary and other terms of employment. The Church Council will maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position. The terms of employment and performance shall be evaluated annually by the Pastor. The services of the Director of Music may be terminated upon 30 days notice on the part of the Director of Music or the Church, or for such period as may be mutually agreed. The Director of Music shall be under the direction and supervision of the Pastor.

SECTION 7 - ORGANIST/PIANIST

The Church Council shall recommend to the church for approval candidate/s to fill the office of Organist/Pianist and shall enumerate the salary and other terms of employment at the time of the call. The services of the Organist/Pianist may be terminated upon 30 days notice on the part of the Organist/Pianist or the Church, or for such period as may be mutually agreed. The Organist/Pianist shall play for all regular church services and special services throughout the year. The Organist/Pianist shall serve as accompanist for all choirs. The Organist/Pianist shall: select and play preludes, offertories, and postludes for all services; provide accompaniment for all rehearsals; provide accompaniment as needed; serve as an assistant to the Director of Music; direct and rehearse children and youth choirs; and consult with the Director of Music regarding the music ministry. The Church Council will maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position. The terms of employment and performance shall be evaluated annually by the Director of Music.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

SECTION 8 - CUSTODIAN(S)

The Church Council shall recommend to the Church for approval candidates to fill the position of Church Custodian(s) and assistants and shall enumerate the salary and terms of employment. The Church Custodian(s) and assistants shall be responsible to the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees will maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position. The terms of employment and performance shall be evaluated annually by the Trustees. The services of the Church Custodian(s) and assistants may be terminated upon 30 days notice on the part of the Church Custodian(s) and assistants or the Church upon the recommendation of the Board of Trustees and the Church Council or for such a period as may be mutually agreed.

SECTION 9 - NURSERY DIRECTOR

The Nursery Director shall be recommended by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval annually for a term not to exceed three consecutive years. If the Nominating Committee diligently seeks nominees for this position and is unsuccessful they may report this to the Church Council and seek approval to re-nominate the person currently serving this position for a one year term. The Nursery Director shall coordinate the staffing of the nursery for all regularly scheduled services providing care for children from birth through 2 years of age. The Nursery Director shall coordinate care for the children's personal needs while providing a loving Christian atmosphere so parents may freely worship. The Director shall maintain a clean and healthful environment. The Church Council will maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position. Performance shall be evaluated annually by the Minister of Outreach.

SECTION 10 - AUDIO VISUAL DIRECTOR

The Audio Visual Director shall be recommended by the Nomination Committee and presented to the Church for approval annually. The Audio Visual Director shall oversee activities and use of all audio-visual equipment. The Director shall keep an inventory of all equipment and insure all equipment is in proper working order. The Director shall provide lighting and sound for all services. The Director shall work with the Director of Music in programs as needed and shall be under the direction and supervision of the Pastor. The Audio Visual Director will insure that all radio broadcasts are completed in a professional manner. The Church Council will maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position. Performance shall be evaluated annually by the Pastor.

SECTION 11 - TRANSPORTATION DIRECTOR

The Transportation Director shall be recommended by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval annually for a term not to exceed three consecutive years. The Transportation Director shall oversee transportation activities and the use of all transportation equipment. The Transportation Director shall maintain all equipment in proper working order and ensure that drivers meet Qualifications as specified in insurance policies. The Director shall strive to provide transportation for those who need transportation to partake in Church functions. The Director will be responsible to schedule drivers. The Director shall be under the direct supervision of the Trustees. The Church Council will maintain on record a current position description of the duties and responsibilities of this position. Performance shall be evaluated annually by the Minister of Outreach.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

PARAGRAPH C - GENERAL OFFICERS AS SET FORTH IN ARTICLE 6.

SECTION 1 - CHURCH CLERK

The Church clerk shall keep a permanent record of all the business meetings of the Church, sign all letters of dismissal, send all letters of transfer, and maintain the Church roll. The clerk shall enter upon the records any current event pertaining to the history of the Church. The Church Clerk shall deliver immediately to the succeeding Church Clerk all books and records pertaining to the office. The Church Clerk shall serve on the Church Council and serve as secretary. The Church Clerk will serve for a term of three years. No member who has served a full term shall be eligible for re-election until one year has elapsed. If the Nominating Committee diligently seeks nominees for this position and is unsuccessful they may report this to the Church Council and seek approval to re-nominate the person currently serving this position for a one year term.

SECTION 2 – TREASURER

The Treasurer shall be custodian of all general offerings and mission funds belonging to the Church. The treasurer shall disburse monies in compliance with the current budget. The Treasurer shall prepare quarterly and annual reports for submission to the Church. The Treasurer shall be responsible for the recording of all revenues and the proper filing of bills, receipts, and vouchers for future inspection. The Treasurer shall serve on the Church Council. The Treasurer shall be bonded. The Treasurer shall train the Assistant Treasurer in the duties of the position of Treasurer. The Treasurer will serve for a term of three years. No member who has served a full term shall be eligible for re-election until one year has elapsed. If the Nominating Committee diligently seeks nominees for this position and is unsuccessful they may report this to the Church Council and seek approval to re-nominate the person currently serving this position for a one year term.

SECTION 3 - ASSISTANT TREASURER

The Assistant Treasurer shall serve in the full capacity of the Treasurer if and when the Treasurer becomes unable to carry out their regular duties. The Assistant Treasure shall be bonded and authorized to sign checks if and when their service is needed. The Assistant Treasurer will serve for a term of three years. No member who has served a full term shall be eligible for re-election until one year has elapsed. If the Nominating Committee diligently seeks nominees for this position and is unsuccessful they may report this to the Church Council and seek approval to re-nominate the person currently serving this position for a one year term.

SECTION 4 - SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT

The Superintendent shall be the executive officer of the Sunday Church School giving it supervision, guidance, and counsel. The Superintendent shall be recommended by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval annually for a term not to exceed three consecutive years. The Superintendent shall assist the Nominating Committee in selecting Church School officers and teachers (elected by the Church). These officers and teachers must be selected and approved before the end of November each year. The Superintendent shall serve on the Church Council and the Christian Education Committee.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

PARAGRAPH D - CHURCH BOARDS AS SET FORTH IN ARTICLE 7:

SECTION 1 - BOARD OF DEACONS

The Deacon Board shall be composed of up to nine devout men of the Church, one-third to be elected annually for a term of three years. They shall be recommended by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. A Deacon shall be a man of resolute mind and body before assuming the office of Deacon. He shall have membership with this church to be considered for this office. The requirements of the Church covenant and I Timothy 3:8-13 shall be met before he is nominated and used as a guide throughout his term of office. No Deacon who has served a full term shall be eligible for reelection until one year has elapsed. This stipulation may be waived in the event that enough qualified men cannot be obtained to fill the office of Deacon. Deacons shall have general oversight of the spiritual life of the church, aid the Pastor in the performance of his duties and administration of the church ordinances and in every way possible to further the spiritual interest of the Church. The Deacons shall present private Christian instruction and ministry to the Church membership, visit the members, the sorrowing, the indifferent, the faithful, and the unconverted; promote attendance at the services of the church; promote a program of evangelism and visitation and see that the pulpit is filled at all times. They shall meet regularly at least once each month to consider such matters as may be brought to their attention. They shall review the established qualifications for the office of Deacon of their church and provide a copy to the Nominating Committee during February of each year. The Deacons shall elect their chairman, vice chairman, and secretary. The chairman shall serve on the church Council and as associate moderator of the Church.

SECTION 2 - BOARD OF DEACONESSES

This board shall be composed of nine devout women of the church, one-third to be elected annually for a term of three years. They shall be selected by the nominating committee and presented to the Church for approval. She shall have membership with this Church to be considered for this office. No member who has served a full term shall be eligible for reelection until one year has elapsed. This stipulation may be waived in the event that enough qualified women cannot be obtained to fill the office of Deaconess. The Board of Deaconesses shall be concerned with the spiritual life of the Church. It shall be responsible for the home department (shut-ins), the flowers for the sanctuary and those to be sent to bereaved families of the Church. The Deaconesses shall prepare the elements of the Lord's Supper and aid the pastor in every possible way in furthering the spiritual interest in the Church. They shall review the established qualifications of Deaconesses of this Church and provide a copy to the nominating committee during February of each year. The Board shall elect its own chairperson, vice chairperson, and secretary and shall meet at least monthly. The chairman shall serve on the Church Council.

As revised and adopted January 2005

SECTION 3 - BOARD OF TRUSTEES

This board shall be composed of five members, with one or two to be selected annually. They shall be selected by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. No member who has served a full term shall be eligible for re-election until one year has elapsed. This stipulation may be waived in the event that enough qualified men cannot be obtained to fill the office of Trustee. The Trustees shall hold title to all church property in accordance with the laws of the state of West Virginia. They shall take all necessary measures for the protection and upkeep of the Church property. They shall designate the bank where the funds of the Church shall be deposited and shall be responsible for safekeeping of valuable documents which comes under its jurisdiction. The board shall provide a copy of qualifications for Trustees of this Church to the Nominating Committee during February each year. The Board shall elect its own chairman, vice chairman, and secretary. The chairman shall serve on the Church Council.

SECTION 4 - CHURCH COUNCIL

The Church Council shall consist of the following:

Chairman of the Board of Deacons

Chairman of the Board of Deaconesses

Chairman of the Board of Trustees

Treasurer

Superintendent of Sunday Church School

Church Clerk

Pastor

Minister of Outreach. Ex-officio member

The Pastor shall serve as chairman. The Board shall meet monthly. (In the event that husband and wife, or other immediate family member, by virtue of their office should be on the Church Council, then one of them shall be replaced by the vice chairman of their board or committee.)

The duties and responsibilities shall be as follows:

Within one month after the annual business meeting the Church Council shall present to the Church for approval the Nominating Committee composed of at least five members; to consider all matters of importance (in the best judgment of each board and committee of the Church) before being brought to the Church; to act as a general personnel committee relative to staff members; to prepare and to present to the Church for approval the annual church budget; to consider requests for special offerings and make recommendations to the Church for their approval.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

PARAGRAPH E - COMMITTEES AS SET FORTH IN ARTICLE 8:

SECTION 1- NOMINATING COMMITTEE

The Nominating Committee shall be composed of at least five members of the Church recommended by the Church Council and presented to the Church for approval. No person shall serve consecutive terms on this committee. The chairman of the previous year shall serve as an ex-officio member. This stipulation may be waived in the event that enough qualified members cannot be obtained to fill the nominating committee. The Nominating Committee shall present all nominees to the Church for approval before the end of November each year.

SECTION 2 - HOSTESS COMMITTEE

The Hostess Committee shall be composed of a minimum of six members recommended annually by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. They shall cooperate with the organizations of the Church which desire to have dinners prepared in the kitchen and assist them in selecting a menu, the cost of which will be determined by this committee. This committee shall plan special receptions and activities which are sanctioned by the Church. They shall be responsible for the activities of the kitchen personnel and church hostesses and the cleanliness of the kitchen facility, kitchen equipment, utensils, etc., and work with the Board of Trustees to maintain the kitchen equipment in satisfactory operating condition. They shall also make recommendations to the Board of Trustees for new equipment and/or methods of operation to increase the efficiency of the kitchen and dining facilities. They shall be under the direct supervision of the Board of Trustees.

SECTION 3 - PULPIT COMMITTEE

When a vacancy shall occur or be imminent in the Pastorate of the Church, the Church Council shall recommend to the Church for approval a Pulpit Committee composed of five members who shall serve until a Pastor can be regularly installed, or until they are replaced by the Church. Guidelines for affiliations and beliefs of the candidate for Pastor shall be established by the Board of Deacons in consultation with the Church Council. No candidate for the Pastorate shall be considered unless recommended by the Pulpit Committee. This committee shall give two weeks notice to the congregation before the candidate shall preach to the Church by an announcement in the church bulletin and voted on one week from the date of the trial sermon.

SECTION 4 - USHER COMMITTEE

The Usher Committee shall be responsible for providing adequate ushers for all worship services and shall record attendance for all services. This committee shall be composed of a chief usher and two associates who are elected by the church upon recommendation of the Nominating Committee. The chief usher and associates will assist the Nominating Committee in enlisting a slate of ushers to serve.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

SECTION 5 - AUDITING COMMITTEE

The Auditing Committee shall be composed of three members of the Church who have been recommended by the Nominating Committee subject to the approval of the Church. Members of this committee shall have a background in accounting or finance. Their term of office shall be one year and they shall have the authority to examine any and all financial records concerning the Church. The Auditing Committee shall present a written report to the Church by the end of the first quarter of the following year. Any Sunday school fund over and above the needed class expenditures shall be donated to some ministry in the Church. The Treasurer of the class shall give a monthly report to the class. The class financial statements shall be included in reports for the auditing committee.

SECTION 6 - MUSIC COMMITTEE

The Music Committee shall be composed of three members recommended annually by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. Their duties shall be to cooperate with the Director of Music in carrying out the music program of the Church.

SECTION 7 - PUBLICITY COMMITTEE

The Publicity Committee shall be composed of three members recommended annually by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. This committee shall be responsible for all publicity relative to any program, meeting, or special emphasis activity sanctioned by the Church. It will also cooperate in an advisory capacity with the various organizations of the Church when requested to do so in publicizing programs, meetings, or special emphasis activities which are sponsored by these organizations. They may use all media of communications available to provide the best possible exposure to potential participants and interested groups. They shall be responsible to the Church Council.

SECTION 8 - BUILDING COMMITTEE

The Building Committee shall be composed of five members recommended by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. This committee shall be responsible for coordinating and implementing the building program of the Church. They shall report periodically to the Church Council on the progress of the project plans and specifications and shall present the completed plans and estimated cost to the Church Council prior to the formal presentation to the Church for acceptance. The Chairman of the Board of Trustees shall be an ex-officio member of this committee.

SECTION 9 - AUDIO-VISUAL COMMITTEE

The Audio-Visual Committee shall be comprised of three members recommended annually by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. Committee members shall set up and operate the audio-visual equipment as required for the worship services and church related activities. They shall maintain a current inventory of all the audio-visual equipment. They shall be responsible for the audio-visual equipment, shall sign out equipment to be used by organizations or departments of the Church and shall maintain a stock of expendable supplies for the operation of the equipment. They shall also cooperate with the music director and the music committee to provide adequate audio-visual equipment to handle each facet of the music program to be presented. They shall be under the direct supervision of the Church Council.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

SECTION 10 - LONG-RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE

The Long-Range Planning Committee shall be composed of five members with one or two recommended annually for a term of three years by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. This committee shall consider all present plans and facilities and submit to the Church Council suggestions and recommendations for short-range and long-range areas of programmed Church growth and physical facilities to accommodate the anticipated growth of the Church. (They shall report semi-annually on their progress and submit recommendations when necessary.) The Chairman of the Board of Trustees shall be an ex-officio member of this committee.

SECTION 11- FINANCE COMMITTEE

The Finance Committee shall be composed of four members with one or two recommended annually for a term of three years by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. This committee will be responsible to count all Church offerings that are not in the form of a check or in a closed envelope and to present these counted offerings, with their sum, and the uncounted checks and closed envelopes to the Church Treasurer. Offerings shall be counted the day of the offerings by at least two members of this committee. The Treasurer shall be an ex-officio member of the Finance Committee.

SECTION 12 - MISSION COMMITTEE

The Mission Committee shall be composed of 7 members of the Church. Six will be recommended by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval. One shall be a representative of the current Board of Deacons and the others to be elected annually for a term of three years. No member who has served a full term shall be eligible for reelection until one year has elapsed. The Mission Committee shall monitor the Church's mission ministries, review and recommend new and expanded ministries to the church, develop a Mission budget and submit it to the Church Council and keep the Church informed of all Mission Committee activities through written Quarterly reports to be presented at quarterly Church business meetings.

SECTION 13 - CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE

The Christian Education Committee shall be composed of 7 members of the Church. One shall be the Sunday School Superintendent and one a representative of the Board of Deacons. Five will be recommended by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval for a term of three years. No member who has served a full term shall be eligible for re-election until one year has elapsed. The Youth Director and Director of Outreach shall be ex-officio members. The Christian Education Committee shall monitor and review the Church's educational materials. They shall be responsible for the organization, administration and evaluation of all education programs of the Church. They shall keep the Church informed of all Christian Education Committee activities through written quarterly reports to be presented at Church business meetings.

As revised and adopted January, 2005

SECTION 14 - PRE-SCHOOL COMMITTEE

The Pre-School Committee shall be composed of 5 members of the Church. One shall be a representative of the current Board of Deacons, one shall be a representative of the current Board of Trustees, one shall be a representative of the current Christian Education Committee and two shall be members at large recommended by the Nominating Committee and presented to the Church for approval annually. All shall be elected for a term of up to three years. The Minister of Outreach shall be an ex-officio member. No member who has served a full term shall be eligible for re-election until one year has elapsed. The Pre-School committee will select one member to serve as treasurer annually to be custodian of all revenues and to disburse monies in compliance with the Pre-School budget. These shall be included in reports to the Church Council. The Pre-School Committee shall develop and monitor all aspects of the Church's Pre-School program and make recommendations to the Church Council for review and presentation to the Church. The Pre-School Committee shall keep the Church Council informed of all Pre-School activities, including income and expenses, through written monthy reports to Church Council and Quarterly reports to be presented at Quarterly Church business meetings.

SECTION 15 - SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Special Committees may be established by the Church as needed. Proposed committees shall be presented to the Church through the Church Council for approval.

CHURCH ORGANIZED - OCTOBER 4, 1988

CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS adopted - January,1989

Revised - October, 1994

Revised - January, 2005

Revised – September, 2015