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A:\CONSTITUTION.doc

GREATER LITTLE ZION BAPTIST CHURCH

CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONSTITUTION

Preamble

Article I Name of Church

Article II Purpose of Church

Article III Articles of Faith and Church Covenant

BY-LAWS

Article IV Membership

Article V Graphic Organization

Article VI Congregation, Pastor and Officers

Article VII Executive Council

Article VIII Ministries

Article IX Committees

Article X Meetings

Article XI Articles and Amendments

Article XII Affiliations

A:\CONSTITUTION.doc Rev 30 June 2008

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CONSTITUTION

Preamble

We, the members of Greater Little Zion Baptist Church (GLZBC), believe the Holy Bible

to be the infallible, inspired, inerrant, unadulterated Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter

1:19-21). We accept its inspiration as our sole guide in all matters of religious doctrine, order,

and behavior, and do hereby adopt and trust the Bible as our foundation and basis for our

constitution and by-laws.

Article I. Name of Church

The Church shall be known as the Greater Little Zion Baptist Church. In 1891, the

original church was named Little Zion Baptist Church. Upon moving into a new, larger facility

in 1963, the name was changed to Greater Little Zion Baptist Church. The Greater Little Zion

Baptist Church was incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, effective

June 2, 2006.

Article II. Purpose of Church

The Church exists by the grace of God and for the glory of God alone. The ultimate

purpose of the Church is to provide and maintain a place of worship, edification, fellowship,

discipline and evangelism for the glory of God. We take God's word, the Holy Bible, as the only

rule of faith and practice.

Article III. Articles of Faith and Church Covenant

1. The Scriptures 10. Sanctification

2. The True God 11. Perseverance of Saints

3. The Fall of Man 12. The Law and Gospel

4. The Way of Salvation 13. A Gospel Church

5. Justification 14. Baptism and the Lord's Supper

6. The Freeness of Salvation 15. The Christian Sabbath

7. Regeneration 16. Civil Government

8. Repentance and Faith 17. Righteous and Wicked

9. God's Purpose of Grace 18. The World to Come


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ARTICLES OF FAITH (Articles of Faith from The New National Baptist Hymnal, 1984 edition).

1. THE SCRIPTURES: We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired, and is

a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction; that it has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth

without any mixture of error for its matter; that it reveals the principles by which God will judge us; and

therefore, is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme

standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions shall be tried. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 2 Peter

1:19-21).

2. THE TRUE GOD: We believe the Scriptures teach that there is one, and only one, living and true

God, an infinite, intelligent Spirit, whose name is Jehovah, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and

earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness, and worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love; that in the

unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; equal in every

divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption.

(Exodus 20:2, 3; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Revelation 4:11).

3. THE FALL OF MAN: We believe the Scriptures teach that Man was created in holiness, under the

law of His Maker; but by voluntary transgressions, fell from that holy and happy state; in consequence of

which all mankind are now sinners, not by constraint but choice; being by nature utterly void of that

holiness required by the law of God, positively inclined to evil; and therefore under just condemnation to

eternal ruin, without defense or excuse. (Genesis 3:1-6; Romans 3:10-19; 5:12, 19; 1:18, 32).

4. THE WAY OF SALVATION: We believe that the Scriptures teach that the salvation of sinners is

wholly of Grace, through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God Who, by the appointment of the

Father:

• Freely took upon Himself our nature, yet without sin;

• Honored the divine law by His personal obedience;

• By His death made a full atonement for our sins;

• That having risen from the dead, He is now enthroned in heaven;

• Uniting in His wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections, He is in every way qualified to be a suitable, compassionate, and all-sufficient Savior. (Jonah 2:9; Ephesians 2:8; Acts 15:11; Romans 3:24, 25; John 3:16; Matthew18:11; Philippians 2:7, 8; Hebrews 2:14-17; Isaiah 53:4-7; 1 John 4:10; 1 Corinthians 15:3; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24).

5. JUSTIFICATION: We believe the Scriptures teach that the great Gospel blessing, which Christ secures to such as eternal life on principles of righteousness, that it is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done, but solely through faith in the Redeemer's blood; by virtue of which faith His perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us of God; that it brings us into a state of most blessed peace and favor with God, and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity. (Romans 3:24; 4:5; 5:1, 9; Galatians 2:16; Philippians 3:9).


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6. THE FREENESS OF SALVATION: We believe that the Scriptures teach that the blessings of

salvation are made free to all by the Gospel; that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by cordial,

penitent and obedient faith; and that nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth, but his

own determined depravity and voluntary rejection of the Gospel, which rejection involves him in an

aggravated condemnation. (Ephesians 1:5; 2:4-10; 1 Corinthians 1:30-31; Romans 5:1-9; Revelation

22:17; John 3:16; Mark 16:16).

7. REGENERATION: We believe the Scriptures teach that in order to be saved, sinners must be

regenerated, or born again; that Regeneration consists in giving a holy disposition to the mind that is

effected in a manner above our comprehension by the power of the Holy Spirit, in connection with divine

truth, so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the Gospel; and that its proper evidence appears in the

holy fruits of repentance, faith, and newness of life. (John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 John 5:1; Acts

16:20-33; 2 Peter 1:4; Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:1, 5; Colossians 2:13; John 3:8).

8. REPENTANCE AND FAITH: We believe the Scriptures that Repentance and Faith are

sacred duties, and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the regenerating Spirit of

God; whereby, being deeply convinced of our guilt, danger and helplessness and of the way of

salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for

mercy; at the same time, heartily receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Prophet, Priest, and King,

and rely on Him alone as the only and all-sufficient Savior. (Luke 22:31-34; Mark 1:15; 1

Timothy 1:13; Romans 3:25,27,31; Romans 4:3,9,12,16-17; John 16:8-11).

9. GOD'S PURPOSE OF GRACE: We believe the Scriptures teach that election is the

eternal purpose of God, according to which He graciously regenerates, sanctifies and saves

sinners; that being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the

means in connection with the end; that it is a most glorious display of God's sovereign goodness,

being infinitely free, wise, holy and unchangeable; that it utterly excludes boasting and

promotes humility, love, prayer, praise, trust in God, and active imitation of His free mercy; that

it encourages the use of means in the highest degree; that it may be ascertained by its effects in

all who truly believe the Gospel; that it is the foundation of Christian assurance; and that to

ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost diligence. (Roman 8:30;

11:7; Ephesians 1:10; Acts 26:18; Ephesians 1:17-19; 2 Timothy 1:9; Psalm 110:3; 1

Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 2:5; John 6:44-45,65; Romans 10:12-15).

10. SANCTIFICATION: We believe the Scriptures teach that Sanctification is the process by

which, according to the will of God, we are made partakers of His holiness; that it is a

progressive work; that it is begun in regeneration; and that it is carried on in the hearts of

believers by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the Sealer and Comforter, in the

continual use of the appointed means, especially the Word of God, self-examination, self-denial,

watchfulness, and prayer. (Acts 20:32; John 17:17; Romans 6:5-6; Ephesians 3:16; Roman 4:14;

Galatians 5:24; Hebrew 12:14; Romans 7:18-25; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Galatians 5:16 25-26).

11. PERSEVERANCE OF SAINTS: We believe the Scriptures teach that such only are real

believers as endure to the end; that their persevering attachment to Christ is the grand mark

which distinguishes them from superficial professors; that a special Providence watches over


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their welfare; and that they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.

(Philippians 1:6; John 10:28, 29; Romans 8:35-39; Jude 1).

12. THE LAW AND GOSPEL: We believe the Scriptures teach that the Law of God is the eternal

and unchangeable rule of His moral government; that It is holy, just and good; and that the inability

which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts, arises entirely from their love of sin; to

deliver them from which, and to restore them through a Mediator to unfeigned obedience to the Holy

Law, is one great end of the Gospel, and of the means of Grace connected with the establishment of the

visible church.

13. A GOSPEL CHURCH: We believe the Scriptures teach that a visible church of Christ is a

congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the

Gospel; observing the ordinances of Christ; governed by His laws; and exercising the gifts,

rights and privileges invested in them by His Word; that its only scriptural officers are Bishops

or Pastors, and Deacons whose qualifications, claims, and duties are defined in the Epistles to

Timothy and Titus.

(Matthew 16:18; Matthew 18:15-18; Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:2; Acts 2:41-42; 5:13-14; 2

Corinthians 9:13; Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 4:14; Acts 14:23; Acts 6:3,5-6; Hebrew 13:17; 1

Corinthians 9:6,14).

14. BAPTISM AND THE LORD'S SUPPER: Baptism: We believe the Scriptures teach that

Christian baptism is the immersion in water of a believer, into the name of the Father, the Son,

and Holy Ghost; to show forth in a solemn and beautiful emblem, our faith in the crucified,

buried, and risen Savior, with its effect in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life: that it is

prerequisite to the privileges of a church relationship. Lord's Supper. The members of the

Church, by the sacred use of bread and wine, are to commemorate together the dying love of

Christ, preceded always by solemn self-examination. (Acts 8:36, 38, 39; John 3:23; Romans

6:3-5; Matthew 3:16; Colossians 2:12; 1 Corinthians 11:23-28; Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:41,

42).

15. THE CHRISTIAN SABBATH: We believe the Scriptures teach that the first day of the

week is the Lord's Day, or Christian Sabbath, and is to be kept sacred to religious purposes, by

abstaining from all secular labor and sinful recreations, by the devout observance of all the

means of grace, both private and public, and by preparation for that rest by remaineth for the

people of God. (Exodus 20:3-6; Matthew 4:10; Matthew 28:19; 1 Timothy 4:13; Colossians

3:16; John 4:21; Exodus 20:8; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2; Acts 20:7; Revelation 1:1; Matthew 12:1-

13).

16. RIGHTEOUS AND WICKED: We believe the Scriptures teach that there is a radical and

essential difference between the righteous and the wicked; that such only as through faith are

justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly

righteous in His esteem; while all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are in His sight

wicked and under the curse; and this distinction holds among men both in and after death.

(Genesis 3:19; Acts 13:36; Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:1,6,8; Philippians 1:23; 1 Corinthians


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15:51-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:17; Philippians 3:21; 1 Corinthians 6:3; Matthew 25:32-46; Roman

9:22-23; Mark 9:48; 1 Thessalonians 1:7-10; Revelation 22:20)

17. THE WORLD TO COME: We believe the Scriptures teach that the end of the world is

approaching; that, at the last day, Christ will descend from heaven, and raise the dead from the grave for

final retribution; that a solemn separation will then take place; that the wicked will be adjudged to endless

punishment, and the righteous to endless joy; and that this judgment will fix forever the final state of men

in heaven or hell, on principles of righteousness.

Church 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 Spirit, we do now in the presence of God, angels and this assembly, most solemnly and

joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.

We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive

for the advancement of this Church in knowledge and holiness; to give it a place in our affections, prayers

and services above every organization of human origin; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and

doctrine; to contribute cheerfully and regularly, as God has prospered us, toward its expenses, for the

support of a faithful and evangelical ministry among us, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the

Gospel throughout the world. In case of differences of opinion in the Church, we will strive to avoid a

contentious spirit, and if we cannot unanimously agree, we will cheerfully recognize the right of the

majority to govern.

We also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to study diligently the Word of God; to

religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk

circumspectly in the world; to be kind and just to those in our employ, and faithful in the service we

promise others; endeavoring in the purity of heart and goodwill towards all men to exemplify and

commend our holy faith.

We further engage to watch over, to pray for, to exhort and stir up each other unto every good

word and work; to guard each other's reputation, not needlessly exposing the infirmities of others; to

participate in each other's joys, and with tender sympathy bear one another's burdens and sorrows; to

cultivate Christian courtesy; to be slow to give or take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, being

mindful of the rules of the Savior in the 18th Chapter of Matthew, to secure it without delay; and through

life, amid evil report and good report, to seek to live to the glory of God, Who hath called us out of

darkness into His marvelous light. When we remove from this place, we engage as soon as possible to

unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of

God's Word.


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CHURCH BY-LAWS

Article IV. Membership

1. (General)

The membership shall be composed of persons who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and

Savior, have been baptized by water immersion, and are willing to accept and adhere to the rules

and practices of GLZBC. (Matthew 28:19-20; John 3:16-17; Romans 10:9-10). Membership in

Greater Little Zion shall fall into three categories:

a. Active Member - An Active Member (“Active Member”) is a person in good

standing and is faithful to the duties of the Church by: regular attendance at worship

services of the Church, payment of tithes, support of the ministry, relief of the poor,

and spreading of the Gospel. Only an Active Member shall have voting privileges.

b. Associate Member - An Associate Member (“Associate Member”), also referred to

as Watch Care status, is a person who participates in the fellowship of this Church,

but does not desire to be an Active Member; and, therefore shall not have the rights

and privileges of an Active Member.

c. Inactive Member - An Inactive Member (“Inactive Member”), is any person initially

designated as an Active Member, who has been absent from church service for one

quarter (3 consecutive months) unless providentially hindered or who has not

properly notified the church of his/her intention in writing.

2. (Candidacy)

Persons seeking membership in GLZBC shall present themselves to the Pastor, and the Church

Body, as acknowledgement of their personal faith in Jesus Christ. Persons may be accepted for

membership by the following:*

a. Baptism by immersion

b. Letter of recommendation from another Baptist/Christian Church

c. Reinstatement after an extended period of absence, which will include new member

orientation

d. Christian experience/grace (already a Christian and joining the Church)

e. Associate Member (Watch-care - will be reviewed annually).

*GLZBC does not vote a person in for membership.

3. (New Member Orientation)


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All new members of GLZBC are required to participate in the New Member Orientation classes

that are offered through the Christian Education Ministry. The purpose of these classes is to

inform new members of the practices, policies, and procedures of GLZBC.

4. (Right Hand of Fellowship)

It is the practice of GLZBC that after each member has completed the New Member Orientation,

that person will receive the right hand of fellowship.

5. (Rights of Member)

Membership

a. Active Member: An Active Member, age 18 and above, is entitled to vote on all

questions submitted to the Church, provided the member is present at the meeting where

the motion is duly made and the vote is taken and on the current roster. Any Active

Member of the Church can be considered for an elected office by the Church membership.

Every Active Member of the Church may participate in the ordinances of the Church, i.e.

Holy Communion and Baptism.

b. Associate Member: An Associate Member is not entitled to hold an office, vote,

attend or participate in Church meetings. An Associate Member (Watch Care)

membership roll will be maintained for those who participate in the fellowship of GLZBC,

yet desire to maintain active membership in a like body of believers elsewhere.

c. Inactive Member: An Inactive Member forfeits all voting rights as long as he/she

remains on the inactive list. An Inactive Member desiring to be reinstated on the active

membership roll may do so by providing written notice to the Church Clerk, attending

services at least four consecutive Sundays and fulfilling the requirement for active

membership outlined in paragraph 1.a and 2.c above. An individual whose name remains

on the inactive list for a period of twelve months will be removed from membership of

GLZBC.

6. (Termination of Membership)

Membership at GLZBC shall be terminated and the individual’s name dropped from the roll for

the following reasons:

a. Death

b. Membership transfer to another church

c. Termination upon request

d. Proof of membership in another church

e. Inactive membership

f. Church discipline

7. (Discipline)


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It shall be the practice of GLZBC to cultivate and cherish brotherly love for each member.

When discipline is required, every reasonable measure will be taken to assist the member. The

Pastor shall identify individuals as appropriate to provide counseling and guidance as needed.

Should some serious condition or matters of difference exist which would cause a member to

become a liability to the general welfare of the Church, the Pastor and the Deacons shall take

every reasonable measure, whether public or private, to resolve the problem in accordance with

Matthew 18:15-17. The attitude for reinstatement shall be one of redemption, as taught in

Galatians 6:1. After all proceedings have been followed with a spirit of Christian kindness and

forbearance, and it becomes necessary for the Church to take action to exclude a member, a two-

thirds vote of the members present is required, at a special call meeting, and the Church may

proceed to declare the person no longer in the fellowship of the Church.

Article V. Graphic Organization

1. - Greater Little Zion Baptist Church – Organizational Chart

The organizational chart is designed to delineate the functional organization of the Church,

establish lines of communications and oversight, but more importantly, to graphically display the

lines of cooperation within the Church.

Article VI. Congregation, Pastor and Officers

1. - General

All membership classes, the Pastor and Officers shall be bound by the Articles of Faith, the

Church Covenant, and the Constitution and By-laws.

2. - Congregation

The Active Members, as defined in Article IV(1) and (5), constitutes the Congregation (the

“Congregation”), the ultimate governing and ruling body in Greater Little Zion Baptist Church.

3. - Pastor

a. The Pastor shall be called for an indefinite period of time.

b. The Pastor shall preach the Gospel faithfully and administer the ordinances

shall supervise the teaching ministry of the Church, tenderly watch over its

membership and spiritual interest, and organize and develop its strength for the

best possible service. The Pastor shall, with the advice of the Deacons, determine the

order of public worship. The Pastor is the responsible spiritual head and leader of the

Church, supervisor of all departments, ex-officio of all boards and committees of the

Church, and advisor to the members of all associate and affiliated organizations. The

Pastor or designee shall preside over all business meetings of the Church. He shall appoint


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special committees and study groups, as required, to assist in the development and

maintenance of the Church’s plans and programs.

c The Pastoral relationship may be terminated through resignation or dismissal. This

action may be started by the Pastor or the Congregation through submission of a letter to

the Executive Council. After consideration, in accordance with Article VII, Sec 2,b5. the

Executive Committee will call a special Church meeting.

To consider either the calling or dismissal, at least fifty percent (50%) of the Active

Members of the Church shall be present to take such a vote at a Church meeting. Such

calling or dismissal must be approved by at least three-fourths (3/4) of the ballots cast by

Active Members present and attending the meeting where the motion is made and vote is

taken. Written notice of this church meeting will be mailed to all Active Members. The

purpose and time of the meeting shall also be posted at least two (2) weeks prior to the

date thereof. In case of either resignation or dismissal, the relationship will be dissolved

after the receipt of sixty (60) days written notice to the Church Clerk in the case of

resignation and to the Pastor in case of dismissal, unless by mutual written consent of the

Pastor and the Board of Directors the time is shortened. The candidate who accepts the

calling to the Pastorate of GLZBC will become a full member upon acceptance.

Installation of the new Pastor will be held within 90 days of notification of acceptance.

e. In the event of the dismissal, death or resignation of the Pastor, the Executive

Council of the Church shall call a special business meeting for the purpose of electing a

Pulpit Committee.

1. The Pulpit Committee shall be composed of (5) five members:

(a). One Deacon

(b). One member of the Board of Directors

(c). One member from the Executive Council

(d). Two (2) Active Members -at-large

2. They shall elect a chairman and a secretary.

3. They shall, as quickly as possible recommend to the Church for the

pastorate, one (1) candidate who is an earnest preacher of God's Word,

interested in the salvation of souls and the spreading of the Gospel in

agreement with this Constitution and the Articles of Faith, and in harmony

with the doctrines, beliefs, and practices of this Church. If a recommendation

of the committee is rejected by the Church, another recommendation shall be

presented as soon as possible.

f. Pastor's Support Staff The Pastor’s support staff will consist of Associate/Assistant

Ministers, Deacons, Deaconesses, the Mothers of the Church, Correspondence Secretary,

Pastor Aides and the Parliamentarian. The following outlines the general duties and

responsibilities of each office:


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1. Associate/Assistant Ministers Associate/ Assistant Ministers are

responsible to the Pastor for assisting in the spiritual and administrative

operation of the Church. The following outlines the generally accepted duties

and responsibilities:

(a). Assist in worship and other religious services, as requested.

(b). Assist in supervising and providing church and hospital

visitation activities, as requested.

(c). Counsel with members of the Church and community concerning

pastoral needs, as requested

(d). Participate as member(s) of the Executive Council.

2. Deacons/Deaconess The responsibilities are outlined in Article VI, Sec 4

3. Mothers of the Church Mothers of the Church are appointed by the Pastor

to provide spiritual counseling to members of the Church, as directed by the

Pastor. Titus 2:3-5

4. Correspondence Secretary The Correspondence Secretary will assist the

Pastor and Church Clerk in the performance of correspondence and other

administrative matters of the Church.

5. Parliamentarian The Parliamentarian will be thoroughly familiar with

Roberts’ Rule of Order and provide advice concerning parliamentary

procedures to the Pastor or his designee.

6. Pastor’s Aide The Pastor’s Aide Ministry will maintain the

pastoral garments and provide other administrative support services, as

requested.

3. – Officers

a. All Church officers, leadership officers of ministries, auxiliaries and committees,

must be Active Members of GLZBC. As applicable, all elected and appointed persons

will be informed of their duties, in writing, by either the Pastor or the Ministry leaders.

b. The elected spiritual officers of the Church shall be the Pastor, Deacons, and

Deaconesses. The elected temporal officers of the Church shall be the Chairperson of the

Board of Directors, members of the Board of Directors, Church Clerk, Treasurer and

Financial Secretary. The Church may elect as many additional officers as it deems

necessary to meet the management objectives of the Church.

c. All officers of the Church and appointees shall be required to subscribe yearly, at the

annual business meeting of the Church or as soon here after as possible, to the Articles of

Faith and the Constitution of the Church. Upon refusal of any officer or appointee to do

so, that office shall be declared vacant by the Pastor. If the officer declines to act, or


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leaves the Church for a period hindering the work of the Church, the Pastor has the

authority to declare an office vacated.

d. Any member filling an unexpired term will not be disqualified for re-election to that

office.

e. No person shall hold any two (2) major offices simultaneously. Major offices consist

of Deacons, Deaconesses, membership on the Board of Directors, Church Clerk,

Treasurer, and Financial Secretary.

f. Removal: Any officer, board, or committee member who fails to faithfully perform

the duties pertaining to his or her office, upon recommendation of the Pastor and a

majority vote of the Active Members present and attending a special call meeting where

the motion is made and the vote is taken, will be removed from the office in question.

The Church retains the power for good and sufficient cause to remove any officer or

committee person from position of authority and official duties.

g. Resignations: Resignations of officers, boards, and committee members, unless

otherwise provided for in these Articles, shall be submitted in writing to the appropriate

Ministry Leader or the Clerk, who will notify the Pastor and the Church.

h. Church Officials must maintain confidentiality, with respect to all matters deemed

personal regarding of financial records and other information of Church members.

4. – Deacons / Deaconesses

a. The Board of Deacons shall consist of three (3) Deacons for the first one hundred

(100 ) members of the Church and three (3) additional Deacons for each one hundred

(100) additional members up to five hundred (500) members, and then as many other

Deacons as the Church may require.

b. The Chairman and Vice Chairman shall be elected to serve not more than three

consecutive years.

c. Deacons will be elected by a majority vote of Active Members present at a duly

notified Church meeting. Prior to the vote, the nominee(s) recommended by the Church

will be submitted to the Chairman of the Board of Deacons, who will conduct the

necessary background inquiry and verify the qualifications of the perspective nominee(s).

When the validation process is completed, the Chairman will submit the name(s) of the

qualified nominee(s) to the Pastor for approval. The Pastor will then forward the name to

the Executive Council for the subsequent recommendation to the Church.

d. The ordination of Deacons will be preceded by a twelve (12) month trial period.

Deacons will be ordained to their work according to Acts 6:1-8 and I Timothy 3:8-13.

e. The Chairman, Vice Chairman and Secretary of the Board of Deacons will be


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nominated by a majority vote of the members of the Board of Deacons. The nomination

will be validated when the Church, in a regular meeting and by majority vote of those

Active Members present, confirm the nomination and declare the nominee elected.

f. The qualifications for Deacons are such as set forth in the New Testament. (Acts 6:3,

1 Timothy 3:8-11).

g. Deacons shall, at all times, consider themselves as servants of the Church. With the

Pastor, and as the Holy Spirit may direct, they are to consider and make

recommendations to the Church in all matters pertaining to its work and progress,

including oversight of the spiritual interest of the Church; establish and maintain spiritual

fraternal relations with all members of the Church, and to visit and pray for the sick.

h. Deacons shall assist the Pastor, when requested, during each Communion service.

i. In the event of a Pastoral vacancy, it becomes the duty of the Deacons to conduct

the worship service and provide ordained or licensed ministers to preach. Ministers may

be asked to preside over the ordinances of the Church.

j. Deacons shall assist the Pastor, in matters of discipline, as deemed appropriate and

necessary by the Pastor.

k. The Deacons shall review quarterly the membership roll, placing members under the

designations of Article IV of this Constitution.

l. The Pastor may appoint Deacon/ Deaconesses as necessary.

5. – Board of Directors

a. The Church Congregation shall elect at least five (5) Active Members to serve as

the Board of Directors. The Chairman and Vice Chairman shall be elected to

serve not more than three consecutive years.

b. Nominations for members to serve on the Board of Directors will be confirmed by

majority vote of the Active Members present at the annual Church meeting where the

motion is made and the vote is taken.

c. If a vacancy should occur on the Board of Directors, the Chairperson, with the

approval of the Pastor, shall appoint an Active Member to temporarily fill the position

until the vacancy has been permanently filled.

d. The Chairperson, Vice Chairperson and Secretary of the Board of Directors will be

nominated by a majority vote of the members of the Board of Directors prior to the

annual Church election.


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e. Real and personal property of the Church shall be held in the name of the Church,

Greater Little Zion Baptist Church (a Non-Stock Virginia Corporation). The Board of

Directors shall, as provided by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the action

and consent of the Church, manage all property of the Church and shall oversee all

matters of legal responsibility affecting or regarding the administration, acquisition,

lease, purchase, improvement, maintenance, and disposal of Church property, real or

person. They are at all times the servants of the Church and subject to its corporate

action.

f. The Board of Directors shall make recommendations to the Church

concerning non-budgeted items. Non-budgeted items, involving property, funds,

encumbrances with debt, in excess of $5,000, must be submitted to the corporate action

of the Church. Emergency, time- sensitive items, in excess of $5,000, must receive the

approval of the Executive Council and be presented to the church for information at the

next Church meeting. All such transactions will be presented as an item of interest at the

next scheduled Executive Council and /or Church meeting.

g. The Board of Directors will be responsible for ensuring that annual budgets are

submitted by all auxiliaries for the coming Church year not later than 15 September each

year. Budget proposals will be reviewed and presented to the Executive Council for

recommendation to the Church during the December Annual Church meeting.

h. The Board of Directors will be responsible for supervising the expenditures and

disbursements of the Church’s funds in accordance with the approved Church budget.

i. The Board of Directors shall be responsible for the proper maintenance of

the Church and all of its associated properties.

j. The Board of Directors will have the responsibility to administer the temporal

properties, real and personal, belonging to the Church, as well as income. The Board of

Directors will administer the same in accordance with the rules of the Church, and the

statues and laws of Fairfax County and the Commonwealth of Virginia. All property and

income will be used only as prescribed and approved by the Church. All actions of the

Board of Directors will be subject to the final approval of the Church.

k. A Personnel Committee, consisting of members of the Board of Directors, shall be

established to assist the Church in matters related to the administration of employed

personnel to include such areas as determining staff needs, employment, salaries,

benefits, and personnel services. The Personnel Committee will develop a memorandum

of understanding or agreement with each compensated employee, which clearly

delineates salary, reimbursable, and job responsibilities. The memorandum of

understanding or agreement will be acknowledged and endorsed by both the Chairperson

of the Personnel Committee and the employee. The Ministry Leader and Pastor will


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monitor job performances and, when necessary, take appropriate action for non-

productive, compensated employees.

l. The Board of Directors shall meet at least once a month. Two thirds (2/3) of

the membership will constitute a quorum.

m. The Board of Directors shall place all important legal papers of the Church

in a safety deposit box provided by the Church.

n. After offerings are collected, the Board of Directors shall provide two members to

receive and count all offerings and donations. After the count, one of the Board of

Directors will record the amount received and submit a copy of that information to the

Treasurer and the Financial Secretary. Two members of the Board of Directors shall

make all bank deposits after receipt, as expeditiously as possible.

o. Each member of the Board of Directors will be bonded by a reputable

bonding company at the expense of the church.

p. The Board of Directors shall engage an independent auditing firm to

perform a full scope audit of the church’s records, at a minimum of every three years.

6. - Church Clerk/ Secretary

a. The Church Clerk shall also be referred to as and is the Secretary of the Church, who

shall be confirmed annually.

b. It shall be the duty of the Church Clerk to attend or be represented at all Church and

Executive Council meetings to keep an accurate record of all proceedings. The Church

Clerk shall notify all officers, members or committees of their election or appointment.

c. The Church Clerk shall issue letters of dismissals authorized by the Church, preserve

all papers and valuable letters and records that belong to the Church and preserve a true

history of the Church.

d. It shall be the duty of the Clerk to ensure that an accurate roll of the Church

membership is kept with dates and methods of admission and dismissal, change in name,

correct mailing addresses and other pertinent information.

e. The Clerk's records shall be the property of the Church and maintained in a secure

place within the Church.

f. Minutes of Church meetings shall be recorded by the Church Clerk. The original will

stay with the Clerk's records, one (1) copy each to go to the Pastor, the Deacon Board,

and the Board of Directors. A copy of the minutes shall be provided to

the Congregation at the next church meeting.


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g. The Clerk shall keep the official copy of the Constitution. All amendments and

by-laws shall be attached thereto by the Clerk and the Clerk shall also furnish copies of

said amendments and by-laws to all Active Members.

h. The Clerk will coordinate funeral arrangements and use of the Church gravesite

(Burke Lake Road).

i. The Clerk shall verify the existence of a quorum at regularly scheduled or call

meetings.

7. - Treasurer

a. The Treasurer shall be confirmed annually.

b. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive, disburse and report transactions of all

Church funds in accordance with the Church’s policies and procedures.

c. The Treasurer's books shall be audited annually by the audit committee of the

Church, and all books, records and accounts kept by the Treasurer shall be considered

the property of the Church and maintained in a secure place within the Church.

d. The Treasurer shall prepare a monthly report for the Board of Directors and

shall meet with them upon invitation.

e. The Treasurer shall give a full report to the Executive Council at its quarterly

meetings.

f. The Treasurer will render to the Church, at the quarterly Church business meetings,

an itemized report of the receipts and disbursements for the preceding quarter.

g. The Treasurer will be bonded as stipulated by this church or it’s Board of Directors.

h. The Treasurer shall maintain and ensure that the financial records are appropriately

prepared for the internal, annual and external tri-annual audit reviews.

8. - Financial Secretary

a. The Financial Secretary shall be confirmed annually.

b. The Financial Secretary shall receive and record count information on all offerings.

Any discrepancies between the count and the bank’s validated deposit information will be

noted.


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c. The Financial Secretary shall provide financial data to the Executive Council and at

regularly scheduled, quarterly Church meetings. Ad hoc reports shall be provided upon

request by Ministry Leaders.

d. The Financial Secretary shall maintain the official, financial records for all

organizations of the Church and provide the Treasurer and the Executive Council, at least

quarterly, a financial review and analysis report.

e. The Financial Secretary shall maintain and ensure that the official financial records

are appropriately prepared for the internal, annual and external, tri-annual audit reviews.

f. The Financial Secretary shall prepare a monthly report for the Board of

Directors and shall meet with them upon invitation.

9. - Office Administrator

The Office Administrator, a compensated employee, shall provide daily administrative

operational support, to include but not limited to, the spiritual, administrative and operational

requirements of the Church and all other duties as prescribed by the Pastor and the Board of

Directors.

Article VII. Executive Council

1. - Membership

a. The Executive Council will make recommendations to the Congregation and have the

authority to make decisions, subject to review by the Church. Unless otherwise

determined by vote of the Church, the Executive Council will have the following as

regular members:

1. Pastor

2. Associate/Assistant Ministers

3. Minister of Evangelism

4. Minister of Christian Education

5. Minister of Special Programs

6. Minister of Music and Performing Arts

7. Minister of Youth Ministry

8. Minister of Children's Ministry

9. Chairperson of the Deacon/ Deaconess Board

10. Chairperson of the Board of Directors

11. Church Clerk

12. Treasurer

13. Financial Secretary

14. Mother’s Ministry Representative

15. Parliamentarian


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16. Office Administrator

The Pastor will serve as Chairman of the Executive Council. The Vice Chairman shall be

elected by the Executive Council. The Chairman of the Deacon Board cannot serve as Vice

Chair of the Executive Council. Each element represented above shall have one vote. A

quorum shall consist of five members.

2. - Duties.

a. The primary functions of the Council will be to recommend to the Congregation,

suggested Church objectives and goals; to review and coordinate ministries and plans

recommended by Church officers, organizations, and committees; to recommend to the

Congregation, the use of leadership, calendar time, and other resources according to

ministry priorities; and to evaluate program achievements in terms of the Church’s

vision, mission, goals and objectives.

b. Additionally, the Council will perform the following specific functions:

1. Review and coordinate the annual financial operating budget prior to

submitting it to the Church for approval.

2. Conduct a quarterly review and analysis of the Church’s financial status

and recommend methodologies to ensure goal accomplishment.

3. Render decisions at the request of Active Members (when a decision is

Required prior to the regularly scheduled Church meeting).

4. Receive reports from the Ministries of the Church concerning their

respective programs and future plans; provide guidance for a coordinated

Church program; and review the annual Church calendar of events.

5. Appoint special committees and study groups, as required, to assist in the

development and maintenance of the Church’s plans and programs.

6. Review for consideration and action, written requests submitted to the

Executive Council for special business meetings and determines if the

meetings are required.

3. - Meetings

The Executive Council will meet quarterly, at a time to be determined by its members. Special

meetings of the Council may be held at the request of the Pastor or any member with pastoral

approval.

Article VIII. Ministries

1. - Ministry Duties

a. The spiritual, administrative, and operational programs and requirements of the

Church will be functionally organized into ministries. Ministries will be led by Active


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Members who are recommended by the Executive Council and approved by a majority

vote of the Church at a regular or special call meeting.

b. Consistent with the organizational chart and as subsequently revised or modified,

Ministry Leaders will be responsible for the following:

1. Ensure that each organization, committee, auxiliary, and program for

which they have supervisory oversight, is in compliance with the Constitution

and By-Laws of the Church.

2. Provide advice, assistance, and coordination of all activities within their

areas of responsibility.

3. Develop the Ministry’s annual operating budget and conduct monthly

and/or quarterly reviews of budget execution.

4. Meet monthly with the organizations, committees and auxiliary leaders

under their supervision to facilitate program coordination.

5. Serve as a member of the Executive Council and as the representative for

all organizations and activities within their ministry.

6. Prepare a written report, to be submitted to the Executive Council, on the

activities of their Ministry. Recommendations from these reports will be

reviewed by the Executive Council for information/action and/or subsequent

recommendation to the Church for final disposition.

c. All organizations of the Church, including Committees and Auxiliaries, must

establish as a minimum, a president (chairperson), vice president (vice chairperson),

secretary, and treasurer. The purpose of all Church organizations and auxiliaries is to:

1. Instill Christian principles.

2. Provide avenues for involvement in all functions of the Church.

3. Provide a mechanism to foster the attainment of the goals and objectives

of the church.

4. Provide religious services to individuals and the community.

d. Each Ministry and its elements shall develop standard operating procedures (SOP) to

govern its routine affairs. These SOPs will be subject to review by the Pastor and the

Ministry Leader. The purpose of these procedures is to facilitate the smooth and efficient

operation of the Church.

e. The officers of all Ministries shall be members in good standing of GLZBC, elected

by their respective organization and, subject to ratification by the Church, unless

otherwise provided for in this Constitution.


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f. The guidelines/standard operating procedures of Ministries shall not conflict with the

Constitution of this Church. Guidelines shall be placed on file with the Church Clerk.

g. Ministry meetings shall not conflict with scheduled meetings of the Church (ie.

Worship Service, Church Meetings).

2. - Ministry Descriptions

a. Ministry of Evangelism This Ministry glorifies God through proclaiming and

teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It will equip its members, members of the Church,

and the greater community in its continued effort to provide spiritual, physical and

educational support.

b. Ministry of Christian Education. This Ministry enhances and facilitates the

acquisition and application of biblical knowledge to make disciples. It provides

structured activities and opportunities to learn about who God is (His attributes,

character, ways), His plan and purpose for our lives and all humanity including salvation

and a personal relationship with Him.

c. Ministry of Special Programs. This Ministry addresses and coordinates routine and

unique, but significant Church related programs and activities.

d. Ministry of Music and Performing Arts This Ministry shall provide musical and

performing arts support, to the Church to enhance the worship experience.

e. Youth Ministry This Ministry coordinates a multi-faceted program of youth

activities to equip them (12 – 18 years of age) with practical biblical principles for

Christian living. The Youth Council facilitates coordinating all youth activities.

f. Children’s Ministry This Ministry communicates the gospel of Christ and the

fundamentals of the Christian faith to children in their formative years (newborn – 11

years of age), through an age appropriate, guided worship service and other activities.

Article IX. Committees

1 - Committees

The following named committees shall constitute the standing committees: Executive

Council, Auditing Committee, Public and Community Relations Committee and the

Membership Committee. When the size or needs of the Church dictates the

requirement for additional committees, such committee may be constituted.

a. Executive Council (refer to Article VII)


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b. Audit Committee

The Audit Committee shall be appointed by the Board of Directors and shall

consist of at least three (3) qualified Active Members of GLZBC who shall audit

the books of the Treasurer and Financial Secretary at the close of the Church’s

fiscal year.

c. Public and Community Relations Committee.

The purpose of this Committee is to communicate the Church’s work to the

membership in particular and the community in general using various forms

of media. It shall work to foster goodwill between the Church and the

Community.

d. Membership Committee

The Membership Committee is charged with the responsibility of planning,

coordinating, and supervising a comprehensive program for the inception of

new members into the GLZBC family. The principal duties include, but are not

limited to, the following:

1. Assist new members in transitioning into the Church and the

community.

2. Establish and maintain contact with new members and solicit their

support of Church activities.

3. Encourage involvement and provide an example of stewardship.

4. Maintain a current membership roster . An accurate roll of the

Church’s membership is to be maintained with date and method of

admission and dismissal, change in name, correct mailing address and other

pertinent information.

Article X Meetings

1. - General

All general Church meetings and those of its organizations and auxiliaries will be

conducted in accordance with the Holy Bible and Robert’s Rules of Order.

2. - Worship

a. Services of worship shall be held every Sunday.


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b. The Lord’s Supper will be observed each month.

c. Baptisms shall be observed whenever required.

d. Special evangelistic or inspirational services may be held at times to be determined

by the Pastor.

3. - Business

a. General meetings of the Church will be held quarterly in the months of January,

April, July, and October. The Church’s budget process begins in September,

culminating with the annual Church budget meeting in December.

b. The Pastor or the Pastor’s appointed designee, will preside over all general Church

meetings.

c. Special meetings may be called by the Pastor or the Congregation at any time by

submitting a specific written request to the Executive Council and the Pastor for

consideration and action. Notice of special business meetings shall state the purpose

and,shall be announced two (2) successive Sundays preceding the meeting.

d. Fifteen percent (15%) of the Active Members shall compose a quorum.

e. Minimum voting age shall be eighteen (18) years for Church related business.

f. Business shall be transacted only at a regular or special called business meeting of the

Church. No business shall be transacted at Sunday services unless the circumstances

involved or the urgency of the matter requires action at the time. If there is no

quorum. the meeting shall be postponed automatically to meet at the call of the

Pastor, but no more than four weeks later.

g. Respecting any vote taken during meetings of the Church or any of its organizations

or auxiliaries, votes cast by the Active Members of this Church present and attending the

meeting where the issue is duly raised for consideration shall be counted.

Article XI. Articles and Amendments

1 - Alteration or Amendment

a. This Constitution may be revised or amended by three-fourths (3/4 ) vote of the


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Active Members present and attending any regular business meeting, provided

that said revision or amendment has been submitted in writing to the Pastor and the

Executive Council. An announcement from the pulpit shall be made at each service of

four successive Sundays before the vote is taken.

b. All former rules, resolutions or amendments are hereby repealed and annulled.

c. This Constitution of Greater Little Zion Baptist Church of Fairfax, Virginia, was

originally adopted by the voting members of this Church on (date) December 14, 2005,

and duly amended by the voting members of this Church on (date) _July 26, 2008.

Article XII. Affiliations

We recognize that there is mutual helpfulness in the association of churches who are in

such agreement in faith and practice as to encourage the spirit of fellowship and good will.

We also recognize that there have been devised, through the voluntary co-operation of

church of like faith and practice, organizations whose purpose it is to implement the

missionary, educational and benevolent interest and obligations of the individual Christian

and his church family. This Church may, by a three-quarter (3/4) majority of the members

present and voting with 50% of voting membership present, affiliate with any association

falling into the above categories, except that such affiliation shall not effect a loss of the

complete autonomy of this Church.

Documents

GREATER LITTLE ZION BAPTIST CHURCH CONSTITUTION AND …004390c.netsolhost.com/GLZBC Constitution and By-Laws.pdf · A:\CONSTITUTION.doc Rev 30 June 2008 3 ARTICLES OF FAITH (Articles