Our Constitution and By-Laws

Article 1 - Name And Purpose

Section 1.01 - Name

This congregation of believers shall be known as the First Baptist Church of Rose Hill located at 13801 North East 80th Street, Redmond, Washington 98052.

Section 1.02 - Purpose

This congregation is organized as a church exclusively for charitable, religious, and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Revenue Law), including, but not limited to, for such purposes, the establishing and maintaining of religious worship, the building of churches, parsonages, schools, chapels, radio stations, television stations, rescue missions, print shops, day-care centers, and camps; the evangelizing of the unsaved by the proclaiming of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ; the educating of believers in a manner consistent with the requirements of Holy Scripture, both in Sunday and weekday schools of Christian education; and the maintaining of missionary activities in the United States and any foreign country.

Section 1.03 - Objectives

1. To be a dynamic spiritual body empowered by the Holy Spirit to share Christ with as many people as possible in our church, community, and throughout the world.
2. To be a worshipping fellowship, experiencing an awareness of God, recognizing His person, and responding in obedience to His leadership.
3. To experience an increasingly meaningful fellowship with God and fellow believers.
4. To help people experience a growing knowledge of God and man.
5. To be a church that ministers unselfishly to persons in the community and world in Jesus' name.
6. To be a church whose purpose is to be Christ like in our daily living by emphasizing total commitment of life, personality, and possessions to the Lordship of Christ.

Article 2 - Statement Of Faith

Section 2.01 - Statement Of Faith

The Holy Bible is the inspired Word of God and is the basis for any statement of faith. First Baptist Church of Rose Hill subscribes to the doctrinal statement of The Baptist Faith and Message as adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention in 2000. We band ourselves together as a body of baptized believers in Jesus Christ personally committed to sharing the good news of salvation to lost mankind.

1. The Holy Scriptures. We believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be the verbally (word for word) and plenary (complete) inspired Word of God. The Scriptures are inerrant, infallible and God-breathed, and therefore are the final authority for faith and life. The sixty-six books of the Old and New Testament are the complete and divine revelation of God to Man. The Scriptures shall be interpreted according to their normal grammatical-historical meaning. The Authorized King James Version of the Bible shall be the official and only English-language translation used by First Baptist Church of Rose Hill from the pulpit and in its ministry materials. (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:20-21)
2. The Godhead. We believe in one Triune God, eternally existing in three persons ­ Father, Son, and Holy Spirit each co-eternal in being, co-identical in nature, coequal in power and glory, and having the same attributes and perfections. (Deut. 6:4; Matt. 28:19; 2 Cor. 13:14; John 14:10, 26)
3. The Person and Work of Christ.
   1. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, became man, without ceasing to be God, having been begotten by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary, in order that He might reveal God and redeem sinful men. (Isa. 7:14; 9:6; Luke 1:35; John 1:1-2, 14; 2 Cor. 5:19-21; Gal. 4:4-5; Phil. 2:5-8)
   2. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ accomplished our redemption through His death on the cross as a representative, vicarious, substitutionary sacrifice; and, that our justification is made sure by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead. (Acts 2:18-36; Rom. 3:24-25; 1 Pet. 2:24; Eph. 1:7; 1 Peter 1:3-5)
   3. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ ascended to Heaven, and is now exalted at the right hand of God, where, as our High Priest, He fulfills the ministry of Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate. (Acts 1:9-10; Heb. 9:24; 7:25; Rom. 8:34; 1 John 2:1-2)
4. The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit.
   1. We believe that the Holy Spirit is a person who convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; and, that He is the Supernatural Agent in regeneration, baptizing all believers into the body of Christ, indwelling and sealing them unto the day of redemption. (John 16:8-11; Rom. 8:9; 1 Cor. 12:12-14; 2 Cor. 3:6; Eph. 1:13-14)
   2. We believe that He is the Divine Teacher who assists believers to understand and appropriate the Scriptures and that it is the privilege and duty of all the saved to be filled with the Spirit (Eph. 1:17-18; 5:18; 1 John 2:20, 27)
   3. We believe that God is sovereign in the bestowal of spiritual gifts to every believer. God uniquely uses evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip believers in the assembly in order that they can do the work of the ministry. (Rom. 12:3-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-11, 28; Eph. 4:7-12)
   4. We believe that the sign gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as speaking in tongues and the gift of healing, were temporary. Speaking in tongues was never the common or necessary sign of the baptism or filling of the Holy Spirit and that ultimate deliverance of the body from sickness or death awaits the consummation of our salvation in the resurrection, though God frequently chooses to answer the prayers of believers for physical healing. (1 Cor. 1:22; 13:8; 14:21-22)
5. The Fallen Nature of Man. We believe that man was created in the image and likeness of God, but that in Adam's sin the human race fell, inherited a sinful nature, and became alienated from God; and, that all men are sinners by birth and by choice, and, of themselves, utterly unable to remedy his lost condition. (Gen. 1:26-27; Rom. 3:22-23; 5:12; 6:23; Eph. 2:1-3; 4:17-19)
6. Salvation. We believe that salvation is the gift of God brought to man by grace and received by personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, Whose precious blood was shed on Calvary for the forgiveness of our sins, and, that in order to be saved, sinners must be born again; that the new birth is a new creation in Christ Jesus; that it is instantaneous and not a process. (John 1:12; 3:3-7; 2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 1:7; 2:8-10; 1 Pet. 1:18-19; Matt. 12:31-32; 1 John 1:9)
7. The Eternal Security and Assurance of Believers.
   1. We believe that all the redeemed, once saved, are kept by God's power and are thus secure in Christ forever. (John 6:37-40; 10:27-30; Rom. 8:1; 38-39; 1 Cor. 1:4-8; 1 Pet. 1:4-5)
   2. We believe that it is the privilege of believers to rejoice in the assurance of their salvation through the testimony of God's Word, which, however, clearly forbids the use of Christian liberty as an occasion to the flesh. (Rom. 13:13-14; Gal. 5:13; Titus 2:11-15)
8. The Church.
   1. We believe that the local church, which is the body and the espoused bride of Christ, is solely made up of born-again believers. (1 Cor. 12:12-14; 2 Cor. 11:2; Eph. 1:22-23; 5:25-27)
   2. We believe that the establishment and continuance of local churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament Scriptures. (Acts 14:27; 20:17, 28-32; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-11)
   3. We believe in the autonomy of the local church free of any external authority or control. (Acts 13:1-4; 15:19-31; 20:28; Rom. 16:1, 4; 1 Cor. 3:9, 16; 5:4-7, 13; 1 Pet. 5:1-4)
   4. We recognize water baptism and the Lord's Supper as the Scriptural ordinances of obedience for the church in this age. (Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 2:41-42; 18:18; 1 Cor. 11:23-26)
9. Separation. We believe that all the saved should live in such a manner as not to bring reproach upon their Savior and Lord. God commands His people to separate from all religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices, and associations, and to refrain from all immodest and immoderate appearances, piercings and bodily markings pertaining to the occult. (Rom. 12:1-2; 14:13; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; 1 John 2:15-17; 2 John 9-11; Lev. 19:28; 1 Cor. 6:19-20)
10. The Second Advent of Christ. We believe in that  blessed hope, the personal, imminent return of Christ Who will rapture His church prior to the seven-year tribulation period. At the end of the Tribulation, Christ will personally and visibly return with His saints, to establish His earthly Messianic Kingdom, which was promised to the nation of Israel. (Ps. 89:3-4; Dan. 2:31-45; Zech. 14:4-11; I Thess. 1:10; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; Titus 2:13; Rev. 3:10; 19:11-16; 20:1-6)
11. The Eternal State.
    1. We believe in the bodily resurrection of all men, the saved to eternal life, and the unsaved to judgment and everlasting punishment. (Matt. 25:46; John 5:28, 29; 11:25-26; Rev. 20:5-6, 12-13)
    2. We believe that the souls of the redeemed are, at death, absent from the body and present with the Lord, where they consciously await their bodily resurrection, when spirit, soul, and body are reunited to be glorified forever with the Lord. (Luke 23:43; 2 Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:23; 3:21; I Thess. 4:16-17; Rev. 20:4-6)
    3. We believe that the souls of unbelievers remain, after death, in conscious punishment and torment until the second resurrection, when with soul and body reunited, they shall appear at the Great White Throne Judgment, and shall be cast into the Lake of Fire, not to be annihilated, but to suffer everlasting conscious punishment and torment. (Matt. 25:41-46; Mark 9:43-48; Luke 16:19-26; 2 Thess. 1:7-9; Jude 6-7; Rev. 20:11-15)
12. The Personality of Satan. We believe that Satan is a person, the author of sin and the cause of the Fall of Man; that he is the open and declared enemy of God and man; and that he shall be eternally punished in the Lake of Fire. (Job 1:6-7; Isa. 14:12-17; Matt. 4:2-11; 25:41; Rev. 20:10)
13. Creation. We believe that God created the universe in six literal, 24-hour periods. We reject evolution, the Gap Theory, the Day-Age Theory, and Theistic Evolution as unscriptural theories of origin. (Gen. 1-2; Ex. 20:11)
14. Civil Government. We believe that God has ordained and created all authority consisting of three basic institutions: 1) the home, 2) the church, and 3) the state. Every person is subject to these authorities, but all (including the authorities themselves) are answerable to God and governed by His Word. God has given each institution specific Biblical responsibilities and balanced those responsibilities with the understanding that no institution has the right to infringe upon the other. The home, the church, and the state are equal and sovereign in their respective Biblically assigned spheres of responsibility under God. (Rom. 13:1-7; Eph. 5:22-24; Heb. 13:17; 1 Pet. 2:13-14)
15. Human Sexuality.
    1. We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and a woman. We believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery and pornography are sinful perversions of God's gift of sex. We believe that God disapproves of and forbids any attempt to alter one's gender by surgery or appearance. (Gen. 2:24; Gen. 19:5, 13; Gen. 26:8-9; Lev. 18:1-30; Rom. 1: 26-29; 1 Cor. 5:1; 6:9; 1 Thess. 4:1-8; Heb. 13:4)
    2. We believe that the only legitimate marriage is the joining of one man and one woman. (Gen. 2:24; Rom. 7:2; 1 Cor. 7:10; Eph. 5:22-23)
16. Family Relationships
    1. We believe that men and women are spiritually equal in position before God but that God has ordained distinct and separate spiritual functions for men and women in the home and the church. The husband is to be the leader of the home and men are to be the leaders (pastors, deacons, and trustees) of the church. Accordingly, only men are eligible for licensure and ordination by the church. (Gal. 3:28; Col. 3:18; 1 Tim. 2:8-15; 3:4-5, 12)
    2. We believe that God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. The husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the church. The wife is to submit herself to the Scriptural leadership of her husband as the church submits to the headship of Christ. Children are a heritage from the Lord. Parents are responsible for teaching their children spiritual and moral values and leading them, through consistent lifestyle example and appropriate discipline, including Scriptural corporal correction. (Gen. 1:26-28; Ex. 20:12; Deut. 6:4-9; Ps. 127:3-5; Prov. 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; Mk. 10:6-12; I Cor. 7:1-16; Eph. 5:21-33; 6:1-4, Col. 3:18-21; Heb. 13:4; I Pet. 3:1-7)
17. Divorce and Remarriage. We believe that God disapproves of and forbids divorce and intends marriage to last until one of the spouses dies. Divorce and remarriage is regarded as adultery except on the grounds of fornication. Although divorced and remarried persons or divorced persons may hold positions of service in the church and be greatly used of God for Christian service, they may not be considered for the offices of pastor or deacon. (Mal. 2:14-17; Matt. 19:3-12; Rom. 7:1-3; 1 Tim. 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6)
18. Abortion. We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being. Abortion constitutes the unjustified, unexcused taking of unborn human life. Abortion is murder. We reject any teaching that abortions of pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control, or the physical or mental well being of the mother are acceptable. (Job 3:16; Ps. 51:5; 139:14-16; Isa. 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jer. 1:5; 20:15-18; Luke 1:44)
19. Love. We believe that we should demonstrate love for others, not only toward fellow believers, but also toward both those who are not believers and those who oppose us. We are to deal with those who oppose us graciously, gently, patiently, and humbly. God forbids the stirring up of strife, the taking of revenge, or the threat or the use of violence as a means of resolving personal conflict or obtaining personal justice. Although God commands us to abhor sinful actions, we are to love and pray for any person who engages in such sinful actions. (Lev. 19:18; Matt. 5:44-48; Luke 6:31; John 13:34-35; Rom. 12:9-10; 17-21; 13:8-10; Phil. 2:2-4; 2 Tim. 2:24-26; Titus 3:2; 1 John 3:17-18)
20. Lawsuits Between Believers. We believe that Christians are prohibited from bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the church to resolve personal disputes. We believe the church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve personal disputes between members. We do believe, however, that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian's insurance company as long as the claim is pursued without malice or slander. (1 Cor. 6:1-8; Eph. 4:31-32)
21. Missions. We believe that God has given the church a great commission to proclaim the Gospel to all nations so that there might be a great multitude from every nation, tribe, ethnic group, and language group who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. As ambassadors of Christ we must use all available means to go to the foreign nations and not wait for them to come to us. (Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-48; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; 2 Cor. 5:20)
22. Giving. We believe that every Christian, as a steward of that portion of God's wealth entrusted to him, is obligated to support his local church financially. We believe that God has established the tithe as a basis for giving, but that every Christian should also give other offerings sacrificially and cheerfully to the support of the church, the relief of those in need, and the spread of the Gospel. We believe that a Christian relinquishes all rights to direct the use of the tithe or offering once the gift has been made. (Gen. 14:20; Prov. 3:9-10; Acts 4:34-37; 1 Cor. 16:2; 2 Cor. 9:6-7; Gal. 6:6; Eph. 4:28; 1 Tim. 5:17-18; 1 John 3:17)

Section 2.02 - Authority Of Statement Of Faith

The Statement of Faith does not exhaust the extent of our faith. The Bible itself is the sole and final source of all that we believe. We do believe, however, that the foregoing Statement of Faith accurately represents the teaching of the Bible, and therefore, is binding upon all members. All literature used in the church shall be in complete agreement with the Statement of Faith.

Section 2.03 - Covenant

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, and on profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of our 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, holiness and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines; to give it a sacred preeminence over all institutions of human origin; and 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 private devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred, acquaintances, and all others; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful to our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger; to abstain from worldly amusements such as inappropriate movies, gambling, rock music, and dancing; to be free from all oath-bound secret societies and partnerships with unbelievers; to abstain from the sale or use of tobacco in any form, narcotic drugs, or intoxicating drink 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 of speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the rules of our Savior, and to secure reconciliation without delay.

We moreover engage, that when we remove from this place, we will as soon as possible unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God's Word.

Article 3 - Membership

Section 3.01 - Qualifications For Membership

Upon a majority vote of the members present at any church service or meeting, membership shall be extended to all who have had and whose lives evidence a genuine experience of regeneration through faith in and acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Savior; and upon compliance with any one of the following conditions:

1. By baptism (immersion) as a true believer in Christ Jesus as personal Savior;
2. By letter of transfer from another Bible-believing church of like faith and practice, or other written statement of good standing from the prior church if the applicant has been baptized by immersion subsequent to a profession of faith;
3. By testimony of faith, having been baptized by immersion in water; or
4. By restoration, if having been removed from membership, upon majority vote of the congregation after confession is made publicly before the church membership of the sin or sins involved, and satisfactorily evidencing repentance to the pastor (or the board of deacons, and or trustees, if the office of pastor is vacant).

Section 3.02 - Duties Of A Member

On becoming a member of this church, in addition to the covenant contained in Article 2, Section 2.03, each one further covenants to love, honor, and esteem the pastor; to pray for him; to recognize his authority in spiritual affairs of the church; to cherish a brotherly love for all members of the church; to support the church in prayer, tithes, offerings and with other financial support as the Lord enables; and in accordance with Biblical commands, to support through a spiritual walk affirming the beliefs and practices of the church.

Section 3.03 - Privileges Of Membership

1. Only members at least sixteen years of age who are physically present at a duly called meeting of the church shall be entitled to vote. There shall be no proxy or absentee voting. The eligible membership of the church has certain limited areas to exercise a vote. Members may vote to initiate any church action, to confirm, ratify, or not ratify the direction of the church as determined by the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees.
2. This congregation functions not as a pure democracy, but as a body under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ and the direction of the pastor as the under shepherd with the counsel of the board of deacons, and or trustees. Determinations of the internal affairs of this church are ecclesiastical matters and shall be determined exclusively by the church's own rules and procedures. The pastor shall oversee and/or conduct all aspects of this church. The board of deacons, and or trustees shall give counsel and assistance to the pastor.
3. Membership in this church does not afford the members with any property, contractual, or civil rights based on principles of democratic government. Although the general public is invited to all of the church's worship services, the church property remains private property. The pastor (or in his absence, an individual designated by the board of deacons, and or trustees) has the authority to suspend or revoke the right of any person, including a member, to enter or remain on church property. If after being notified of such a suspension or revocation, the person enters or remains on church property, the person may, in the discretion of the pastor (or in his absence, an individual designated by the board of deacons, and or trustees), be treated as a trespasser.
4. A voting member, upon five business days prior written request made upon the church, may inspect the prepared financial statements of the church, and the minutes of the proceedings of church meetings. A member may not, under any circumstances, inspect or copy any record relating to individual contributions to the church, the list of names and addresses of the church members, or the accounting books and financial records of the church.

Section 3.04 - Discipline Of A Member

1. There shall be a discipline committee consisting of the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees. These men shall have sole authority in determining heretical deviations from the Statement of Faith and violations of the Church Covenant. If the pastor, a deacon, or trustee is the subject of a disciplinary matter, he shall not sit as a member of the discipline committee. The pastor, deacons, and or trustees shall be entitled to the same steps as other church members and be subject to the same discipline.
2. Members are expected to demonstrate special loyalty and concern for one another. When a member becomes aware of an offense of such magnitude that it hinders spiritual growth and testimony, he is to go alone to the offending party and seek to restore his brother. Before he goes, he should first examine himself. When he goes, he should go with a spirit of humility and have the goal of restoration.
3. If reconciliation is not reached, a second member, either a deacon, a trustee, or the pastor is to accompany the one seeking to resolve the matter. This second step should also be preceded by self-examination and exercised in a spirit of humility with the goal of restoration.
4. If the matter is still unresolved after the steps outlined in subsections (B) and (C) have been taken, the discipline committee, as the church representatives Biblically responsible for putting down murmuring, shall hear the matter. If the matter is not resolved during the hearing before the discipline committee, the committee shall recommend to the members of the church that they, after self-examination, make an effort personally to go to the offending member and seek that member's restoration.
5. If the matter is still unresolved after the steps outlined in subsections (B), (C), and (D) have been taken, such members who refuse to repent and be restored are to be removed from the membership of the church upon a majority vote of the membership present at a meeting called for the purpose of considering disciplinary action.
6. No matter may be heard by the discipline committee or the church unless the steps outlined in subsections (B) and (C) have been taken, except in the case of a public offense.
7. The procedures provided in this section are based on Matt. 18:15-20; Rom. 16:17-18; 1 Cor. 5:1-13; 2 Cor. 2:1-11; Gal. 6:1; 1 Thess. 5:14; 2 Thess. 3:6, 10-15; 1 Tim. 5:19-20; and Titus 3:10-11.

Section 3.05 - Transfer Of Membership

Members, not under the disciplinary process of Section 3.04, may request that letters of transfer be sent to another church.

Section 3.06 - Termination Of Membership

1. The membership of any individual member shall be considered inactive without notice if the member in question has not attended a regular worship service of the church in the preceding six months. Upon good cause being shown to the pastor, this provision for termination may be waived in the case of any individual member at the discretion of the pastor.
2. No member of this church may hold membership in another church. If any member unites in membership with another church, that person is automatically terminated without notice from membership in this church.

Article 4 - Officers

Section 4.01 - Church Officers

The church officers are pastor (Section 5.01), deacon (Section 5.02), clerk (Section 5.03), treasurer (Section 5.04). One person may hold two or more offices, except that of pastor. The pastor, from time to time as he deems appropriate, may recommend other church officers, subject to a confirmation vote of the church membership.

Section 4.02 - Designation Of Corporate Officers

As an accommodation to legal relationships outside the church the pastor shall serve as president of the corporation; the clerk shall serve as secretary of the corporation; the treasurer shall serve as treasurer of the corporation; and the chairman of the board of deacons shall serve as vice president of the corporation.

Section 4.03 - Eligibility For Office

1. The Pastor. Because the Bible commands Christians to walk worthy of the vocation to which God has called them (Eph. 4:1) and commends a man desiring the office of a pastor as one who desires a good work (1 Tim. 3:1), the pastor must, in addition to his adherence to the Statement of Faith as provided in Article 2 and the qualifications for and duties of membership as provided in Sections 3.01 and 3.02, conduct his personal and professional life according to the following Biblical standards:
   1. Family Relationships:
      1. Gender. While emphasizing that men and women are spiritually equal before God, the Bible instructs that God has ordained distinct and separate functions for men and women within the church administrative structure. Accordingly, only men are eligible to assume the office of pastor. Gal. 3:28; 1 Tim. 2:8-15; 3:2.
      2. Marriage. The Bible commands that the pastor be the husband of one wife. Therefore, he disqualifies himself from pastoral ministry upon his divorce and remarriage to one other than his first spouse. Mark 10:11; 1 Tim. 3:2;Titus 1:6.
      3. Spouse and Children. The pastor is the shepherd of the church as he is the leader of his family. His ability to lead his family and bring his children into proper subjection to spiritual, parental, legal, and other proper authority reflects upon his ability likewise to bring the church into proper subjection to spiritual authority, to bring unsaved individuals to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, and to facilitate the proper spiritual development of saved members. 1 Tim. 3:4-5; Titus 1:6.
   2. Alcohol. The Bible commands pastors to be sober, vigilant, of good behavior, and not given to wine. Accordingly, the pastor must abstain from the consumption of alcoholic beverages. Eph. 5:18; 1 Tim. 3:2-3;Titus 1:7.
   3. Teacher / Counselor. Because the pastor is required to provide spiritual guidance to members on both an individual and congregational level, he must study the Word of God to prove himself divinely qualified and competent to teach and counsel members accordingly. The Bible commands that he be discreet in his counseling of individual members. Acts 20:28-32; 1 Tim. 3:26; 2 Tim. 2:15.
   4. Economic Consideration. Remembering that a Christian's ultimate, eternal reward is in Heaven, the pastor must not use his spiritual position of leadership for profit or personal financial gain. Rather, he should exemplify spiritual dependency, hospitality, generosity, and altruism. Matt. 6:19-34; 1 Tim. 3:2-3; 1 Tim 6:6-11; Titus 1:7; 1 Peter 5:2.
   5. Social Reputation. Because certain conduct, including that which is questionable and not necessarily in direct violation of Scripture, may be a stumbling block to the spiritually weak or unsaved, a pastor must therefore strive to maintain a good, spiritual reputation among those within the community who are without Christ. This includes observing the ordinances of lawful governmental authority to the extent that they do not directly conflict with the commands God has set forth in the Bible. 1 Corinthians 8-9; 1 Tim. 3:7; 1 Pet. 2:13-17.
2. Deacons. In addition to his adherence to the Statement of Faith as provided in Article 2, the qualifications for and duties of membership as provided in Sections 3.01 and 3.02, and the qualifications for officer candidacy as provided in Section 4.03(C), a deacon must conduct his personal and professional life according to the following Biblical standards:
   1. Family Relationships:
      1. Gender. While emphasizing that men and women are spiritually equal before God, the Bible instructs that God has ordained distinct and separate functions for men and women within the church administrative structure. Accordingly, only men are eligible to assume the office of deacon. Gal. 3:28; 1 Tim. 2:8-15; 3:2.
      2. Marriage. The Bible commands that a deacon be the husband of one wife. Therefore, like the pastor, a deacon disqualifies himself from the office upon his divorce and remarriage to one other than his first spouse. 1 Tim. 3:12.
      3. Spouse and Children. Like the pastor, a deacon holds a leadership position within the church similar to that which he holds within his family. His ability to lead his family and bring his children into proper subjection to spiritual, parental, legal, and other proper authority reflects upon his ability likewise to blamelessly perform the duties of his office in a spiritually effective and efficient manner. The Bible also commands a deacon's wife to abstain from gossip and slander, to be serious-minded, and to be faithful in her spiritual service. 1 Tim. 3:11-12.
   2. Stewardship. The Bible commands that a deacon perform the duties of his office with all seriousness, prudence, and dignity. The gravity of his position requires him to study the Word of God and pray for divine wisdom diligently. 1 Tim. 3:8-9; 2 Tim. 2:15.
   3. Pastoral Support. Because God has called the pastor to the leadership of the church, the Bible commands deacons to support, encourage, and cooperate with the pastor within the framework of the Bylaws as supported by the Word of God. Condemning hypocrisy, the Bible commands that deacons not engage in disparaging gossip or slander against the pastor, another officer, or a member. Acts 6:2-4; 1 Tim. 3:8.
   4. Alcohol. The Bible commands that a deacon not be given to much wine. Accordingly, a deacon must abstain from the consumption of alcoholic beverages. 1 Tim. 3:8; Prov. 31:4-5.
3. All Officers. Only church members are eligible for election or appointment to any church office or position. The church shall not install or retain an officer who fails to adhere to or expresses disagreement with the Statement of Faith. The pastor must initially approve each church officer prior to the commencement of the officer's duties. Moreover, all church officers, upon request of the pastor, shall affirm their continued agreement with the Statement of Faith.

Section 4.04 - Terms Of Office

1. The relationship between the pastor and the church shall be permanent unless dissolved at the option of either party by the giving of a month's notice, or less by mutual consent. The calling of a pastor or severance of the relationship between the pastor and the church may be considered at any regular church administration meeting, provided notice to that effect shall have been given from the pulpit to the church two Sundays prior to said regular church business meeting. A three-fourths majority of the eligible members present and voting shall be required to call a pastor or to sever the relationship between the pastor and the church. Disciplinary removal of the pastor from office automatically terminates his membership.
2. The term of service for all offices and positions in the church, except the pastor, shall be three year, at the expiration of which they may be re-elected or re-appointed.
3. A vacancy occurring in any office or board, except in the case of the pastor, may be filled at any regular church business meeting.
4. All elected and appointed officers shall serve in their respective offices until their successors are duly elected or appointed.
5. Members of the board of deacons, and or trustees may be removed from office for unbiblical conduct, as determined by the other board members, upon a majority vote of the remaining members of the board of deacons, and or trustees.

Section 4.05 - Election Of Officers

The annual election of officers by the church membership shall occur during the annual church business meeting the second Sunday of December. Selection of officers shall be as follows:

1. Deacons shall serve for a period of three years on the active board of deacons, beginning January 1 after election, with terms arranged in such manner that one-third of the body will be rotated off each year. After being rotated off, a deacon shall be eligible for re-election to the active body of deacons after one year on the inactive list. There shall be a maximum of six active deacons.
2. A list of active (As described in Section 4.03 B) male members 21 years or older, not currently serving as deacons and church members for 6 months or more, shall be prepared by the Pastor and Deacons. All nominees will be examined by the active deacons in accordance with the church adopted qualifications. Men who disqualify themselves or who are unwilling to serve as deacons will be given the opportunity to remove their names from the list. No nominee will be presented for nomination until he has agreed to serve if elected by the church. The second Sunday in December, the modified list shall be presented to the church on a ballot. Each member present and voting shall mark the names of specified names. Any ballot with more than the specified number will be disqualified.
3. Nomination ballots shall be tabulated by a committee consisting of the pastor and the current chairman of the body of deacons.
4. The above committee shall contact the men nominated, in the order of the highest number of votes, discussing again the above listed qualifications, and the candidate's willingness to serve until the specified number of men agree to serve.
5. The committee shall notify the church of those elected.
6. The new deacon(s) shall attend the meeting of the current body of deacons in an ex-officio capacity in order that they may be familiar with the functions of that body.
7. An ordination service for a newly elected deacon, who has not been ordained, shall be arranged by the pastor and the current body of deacons.
8. In the event a vacancy occurs in the body of deacons a special election will be held to fill the vacancy if the term of office vacated exceeds on year. For one year or less the vacancy shall remain unfilled.

Section 4.06 - Pastoral Oversight Of Officers And Staff

1. Subject to the approval of the church membership and on the condition that they shall become a member of the church upon assuming their duties, the pastor may hire associates and assistants to assist the pastor in carrying out his God-given responsibilities.
2. All church staff, whether paid or volunteer, shall be under the supervision of the pastor who has the authority to recommend to the church to hire, appoint, or dismiss the same. The pastor or church shall not hire, appoint, or retain any employee or volunteer who fails to adhere to or expresses disagreement with the Statement of Faith.

Article 5 - Duties And Powers Of Officers

Section 5.01 - The Pastor

1. The pastor shall preach the Gospel regularly and shall be at liberty to preach the whole counsel of the Word of God as the Lord leads him. He shall administer the ordinances of the church, act as moderator at all church meetings for the transaction of church matters, supervise the teaching ministries of the church, and tenderly watch over the spiritual interests of the membership.
2. The pastor shall serve as the president of the corporation. He shall publicly inform all newly elected officers of the particular function and the responsibilities of their respective offices. He shall extend the right hand of fellowship to all new members on behalf of the church and perform such other duties as generally appertain to such a position. The pastor shall be free to choose the means and methods by which he exercises the ministry that God has given him.
3. All appointments for public worship and Bible study and the arrangements thereof including time and place and the use of the property belonging to the church for purposes other than the stated appointments shall be under the control of the pastor.

Section 5.02 - The Board Of Deacons

1. The board of deacons shall assist the pastor, in such manner, as he shall request, in promoting the spiritual welfare of the church, in conducting the religious services, and in performing all other work of the church. They shall make provision for the observance of the ordinances of the church. They shall, if requested by the pastor, consider applications for church membership. They shall, in cooperation with the pastor, disburse the benevolence fund. They shall assist the pastor in visitation and all other evangelistic efforts of the church. The board of deacons shall assist the pastor in caring for the administrative needs of the church's various ministries as requested by the pastor. They shall provide the pulpit supply and choose a moderator for church meetings if the pastor is unavailable or the office of pastor is vacant. Upon the death, resignation, or dismissal of the pastor, a pulpit committee shall be elected by the church to seek out a suitable pastor, and its recommendations will constitute a nomination. Any member has the privilege of making other nominations according to the policy established by the church. The committee shall bring to the consideration of the church only one name at a time. Election shall be by ballot, and affirmative vote of three-fourths of those present being necessary for a choice. The pastor, thus elected, shall serve until the relationship is terminated by his request or the church's request. The pastor shall give at least two weeks notice at the time of resignation before terminating his responsibilities as pastor.
2. Immediately following the annual church business meeting, the board of deacons shall assemble and elect, from their own number, a chairman who shall be vice president of the corporation, a vice chairman, and a secretary.

Section 5.025 - The Board Of Trustees

The board of trustees shall exercise only the following specific powers:

1. To purchase, hold, lease, or otherwise acquire real and personal property on behalf of the church, and to take real and personal property by will, gift, or bequest on behalf of the church;
2. To sell, convey, alienate, transfer, lease, assign, exchange, or otherwise dispose of, and to mortgage, pledge, or otherwise encumber the real and personal property of the church, to borrow money and incur indebtedness for the purpose and the use of the church; to cause to be executed, issued, and delivered for the indebtedness, in the name of the church, promissory notes, bonds, debentures, or other evidence of indebtedness; and to secure repayment by deeds of trust, mortgages, or pledges; and
3. To exercise all powers necessary for the dissolution of the church corporation, if such action is mandated by a vote of the church membership.

Section 5.03 - The Clerk

The clerk shall:

1. Certify and keep at the office of the church, the original bylaws or a copy, including all amendments or alterations to the bylaws.
2. Keep at the place where the bylaws or a copy are kept a record of the proceedings of meetings of the board of deacons, and or trustees with the time and place of holding, the notice of meeting given, the names of those present at the meetings.
3. Sign, certify, or attest documents as may be required by law.
4. See that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws. In case of the absence or disability of the secretary, or his or her refusal or neglect to act, notice may be given and served by the pastor, or by the chairman of the board of deacons, and or trustees.
5. Be custodian of the records of the church, including the membership roll, baptisms, and certificates of ordination, licenses and commissions.
6. See that the reports, statements, certificates, and all other documents and records required by law are properly kept and filed.
7. Exhibit at all reasonable times to proper persons on terms provided by law the bylaws and the minutes of the meetings of the church members.
8. Keep an account of any special events in the life of the church which are of historical interest and give a report at the annual church business meeting of the status of the church membership roll in the past year.
9. Keep all records at the office of the church and deliver them to any successor upon leaving office.
10. Serve as the secretary of the corporation.

Section 5.04 - The Treasurer

The treasurer shall:

1. Have charge and custody of, and be responsible for, all funds of the Corporation, and deposit all funds in the name of the church in banks, trust companies, or other depositories as shall be selected by the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees.
2. Receive, and give receipt for all contributions, gifts, and donations to the church.
3. Disburse, or cause to be disbursed, the funds of the church as may be directed by the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees, or the budget adopted by the members of the church at the annual church business meeting, taking proper vouchers for the disbursements.
4. Keep and maintain adequate and correct accounts of the church's properties and business transactions including account of its assets, liabilities, receipts, disbursements, and capital.
5. Make all expenditures of the church (except miscellaneous petty cash disbursements) by check.
6. When and as requested, render to the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees accounts of all his transactions as treasurer and of the financial condition of the church.
7. Present a written report of itemized disbursements at the regular quarterly church business meetings and make a general report for the year at the annual church business meeting.
8. Keep all church financial records at the office of the church and deliver them to any successor upon leaving office.
9. Serve as treasurer of the corporation.

Section 5.05 - Associate Pastors

Under the direction and guidance of the pastor, the associate pastors of the church shall assist the pastor in carrying out the ministries of the church.

Section 5.06 - Duties Of All Officers

1. All officers shall prepare a written report of their work for the annual church business meeting and shall surrender any records in their possession to the minister of records at the close of their term of office to be filed as a permanent record of the work of the church. All records are the property of the church and must be kept in the church office.
2. Any officer who neglects his duties as outlined in the bylaws for a period of three months may be removed from his office at the discretion of the pastor, deacons, and or trustees, and another may be appointed by the pastor to serve the unexpired term.

Section 5.07 - Installation Of Officers

A public installation service in which all newly elected officers of the church are to be dedicated to their respective offices and the ordination of newly elected deacons shall be held at a public church service following their election at the annual church business meeting.

Article 6 - Meetings

Section 6.01 - Meetings For Worship

Unless otherwise determined by the pastor, the church shall meet each Sunday for public worship both morning and evening and at least once during the week for Bible study and prayer.

Section 6.02 - Meetings For Church Business

1. The Bible and Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised, are the guidelines of procedure for all business meetings of the church.
2. The annual church business meeting shall be held on the second Sunday of December, at which time the regular church business shall be considered. A quorum shall consist of the members present.
3. All church business meetings shall be opened and closed with prayer for divine guidance and blessing.
4. The moderator shall determine the rules of procedure according to his sense of fairness and common sense, giving all members a reasonable opportunity to be heard on a matter. The moderator is the final authority on questions of procedure, and his decision is final and controlling. The following order shall be observed at the regular church administration meetings:
   1. Opening Invocation
   2. Reading of minutes
   3. Reception of members
   4. Dismissal of members
   5. Report of officers
   6. Reports of standing committees
   7. Reports of special committees
   8. Unfinished matters
   9. Election of officers
   10. New matters
   11. Adjournment
   12. Closing Benediction
5. For any meeting under this article, the moderator, in his sole discretion, shall have full and unilateral authority to require non-members to leave the meeting room and to order the immediate removal of any member or other person present who is deemed by the moderator to be disruptive to the proceedings by act or presence. The moderator shall have full authority to order the removal of all children (ages to be determined by the moderator) if the moderator determines, in his sole discretion, that circumstances so warrant. If the moderator determines that compliance with his order of removal is unsatisfactory, the moderator may, in his sole discretion, revoke the disruptive person's right to remain on the premises in accordance with Section 3.03(C) and treat the person as a trespasser.

Section 6.03 - Special Meetings

1. The pastor (or deacons, and or trustees if the office of pastor is vacant or the pastor is the subject of possible disciplinary action) may call a special meeting by giving notice of such a meeting and the purpose for which it is called to the church from the pulpit at least one Sunday and not less than one week prior to said meeting. A meeting for the calling of a pastor or the severance of the relationship between the church and pastor shall be called in accordance with the provision of Section 4.04(A).
2. Bible conferences, missionary conferences, and revivals may be held as the pastor deems beneficial.

Section 6.04 - Fiscal Year

The fiscal year of the church shall begin January 1st and end December 31st.

Article 7 - Ministry Of Education

Section 7.01 - Purpose

The church believes that it is to provide the members' children with an education, which is based upon and consistent with Biblical teachings. The church believes that the home and church are responsible before God for providing a Christian education. To this end, the church shall engage in ministries in education in keeping with the following dictates:

Section 7.02 - Church Participation

All educational programs or courses of instruction formulated and offered by the church shall be primarily for the benefit of the members of the church; however, the pastor may permit non-church members to participate in church educational programs or courses of instruction if he deems it in the best interest of the church.

Section 7.03 - Staff Membership

All instructors, teachers, and administrators shall be members of this church. This provision shall not apply to visiting missionaries, evangelists, or preachers engaged for the purpose of delivering sermons, conducting revivals, or other special meetings on a temporary basis.

Section 7.035 - Staff And Workers Screening

For the safety of our children and for insurance purposes, we must have a criminal background check on file for every church member or other person serving in any position, elected or temporary, involving children below eighteen years of age. This policy shall also apply to all paid staff to include the pastor. The Washington State Patrol shall conduct this background check and the results shall be held in the highest confidence. If the results of background checks produce evidence of previous unlawful abuse activity the applicant will be privately informed of the results and the decision that he or she will not be allowed to serve.

The church insurance provider will be furnished a copy of this document, and it will be attached to the church policy on file with the insurance provider.

A minimum three-month waiting period will apply to new volunteers before they are allowed to interact with minors.

No minor should be alone with one adult on the church's premises or in any sponsored activity unless in a counseling situation.

Section 7.04 - Statement Of Faith Accord

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be taught and presented in full accord with the Statement of Faith of the church. The church shall not hire, appoint, or retain any employee or volunteer for its educational programs that fails to adhere to or expresses disagreement with the Statement of Faith.

Section 7.05 - Unity

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be conducted as an integral and inseparable ministry of the church.

Section 7.06 - Teaching

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be conducted consistent with the teaching of the inerrant Word of God. Any assertion or belief, which conflicts with or questions a Bible truth, is a pagan deception and distortion of the truth, which will be disclaimed as false. It is the responsibility of every instructor or teacher to present the inerrant Word of God as the sole infallible source of knowledge and wisdom.

Section 7.07 - Christian Walk

All administrators, instructors, and teachers shall maintain a lifestyle consistent with the precepts which they teach, whether in or out of the classroom.

Article 8 - Ordination

Section 8.01 - Ordination Qualifications

Any member of this church or its mission churches, who gives evidence of a genuine call of God into the work of the ministry and possesses the qualifications stated in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9, may be ordained as a minister of the Gospel.

Section 8.02 - Ordination Procedure

1. Upon a conference with the pastor and after the pastor has approved the candidate for ordination, the pastor shall call a council to examine and pass on the qualification of the candidate. The ordination council shall consist of ordained ministers, and deacons of like faith invited to participate in the examination of the candidate.
2. If the candidate is found worthy of the ordination by the council, the ordination council may ordain the candidate on behalf of the church.
3. The pastor and the chairman of the deacons shall arrange for the ordination service.

Article 9 - Committees And Coordinating Groups

Section 9.01 - General

The following committees are authorized and will be utilized as the need arises and shall be under the control and direction of the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees. All church committee members, except the nominating committee members, shall be recommended by the nomination committee and elected each year by the church unless otherwise indicated below. The Pastor shall be ex-officio chairman over all committees and ex-officio head of all church organizations and his leadership shall be recognized in every phase of church life. (I Peter 5:1-4; Acts 20:28)

Section 9.02 - Church Council

The primary functions of the council shall be to recommend to the congregation suggested objectives and church goals; to review and coordinate program plans recommended by church officers, organizations, and committees; to recommend to the congregation the use of leadership, calendar time, and their resources according to program priorities; and to evaluate program achievements in terms of church goals and objectives. The council shall be composed of the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees, church officers, and committee chairpersons. All matters agreed upon by the council, calling for action not already authorized, shall be referred to the church for approval or disapproval.

Section 9.03 - Nominating Committee

The nominating committee coordinates the staffing of all church leadership positions that are filled by volunteers. The nominating committee recommends persons for all volunteer positions to be elected by the church. It shall consist of the Sunday school director, Discipleship Training director, and three members at large nominated from the floor.

Section 9.04 - Special Committees

The pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees at their discretion, may create special committees to provide the board with advice and information regarding matters submitted to the committee by the board for consideration. The committee shall have no authority to act on behalf of the corporation. The members of the committee shall be chosen by a majority vote of the church membership and shall serve solely at the pleasure of the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees. The special committee shall be subject to the control and direction of the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees at all times.

Section 9.05 - Building And Grounds Committee

The building and grounds committee assists the church in matters related to properties, equipment, and furnishings administration. Its work includes such areas as maintaining all church properties, equipment, and furnishings for ready use, recommending policies regarding use of properties, equipment, and furnishings, recommending employment of maintenance personnel and assigning responsibility to appropriate personnel for supervision. It shall have a minimum of three members.

Section 9.06 - Stewardship Committee

The stewardship committee develops and recommends an annual budget, and shall be responsible for long and short term financial planning. It shall consist of five members including the church treasurer, and one deacon.

Section 9.07 - Social Committee

1. Adult and Family - Consists of four members; to plan and coordinate all adult and family socials. This committee is responsible for formulating and recommending to the church policies for the kitchen and for communicating these policies to church members.
2. Youth - Consists of, as a minimum, the Sunday School Teachers of grades 7-12. They will serve as counselors of the youth; to plan all social activities, and to coordinate their activities with the church program.
3. Children - Consists of, as a minimum, the Sunday School Teachers of grades 1-6. They will plan and coordinate all social functions for this age group.

Section 9.08 - Ushers Committee

The ushers committee are to greet people as they enter and leave the church; to assist in parking the automobiles as needed; to see that seating is provided as needed; to seat people at the proper time, providing bulletins and, or other materials at the time of seating; to maintain proper temperatures in the church auditorium; and to perform other services as required in maintaining an atmosphere conducive to worship. It shall have a minimum of three members.

Section 9.09 - Flower Committee

The flower committee is responsible for securing, arranging, and disposing of floral arrangements for church services and for providing flowers for sick and bereaved members. It shall have a minimum of two members.

Section 9.10 - Nursery Committee

The nursery committee is responsible for seeing that nurseries are open and staffed for all worship services, Sunday school and Church Training department functions, and other church sponsored activities as directed by the church. They shall see that physical equipment for the nurseries is provided and maintained. It shall have a minimum of two members, one of whom is the nursery coordinator.

Article 10 - Program Organization

Section 10.01 - General

All organizations of the church shall be under church control, all officers being church members and being elected by the church and reporting regularly to the church.

Section 10.02 - Sunday School

There shall be a Sunday school, divided into departments and classes for all ages and conducted under the direction of the Sunday school director for the study of God's Word. The tasks of the Sunday school shall be to teach the biblical revelation; reach persons for Christ and church membership; perform the functions of the church within its constituency; provide and interpret information regarding the work of the church and denomination.

Section 10.03 - Christian Training

There shall be a Christian training organization, divided into departments for all ages and conducted under the direction of the Christian Training director. The tasks of the Christian Training shall be to orient new church members; train church members to perform the functions of the church; train church leaders; teach Christian theology, Christian ethics, Christian history, and church polity and organization; provide and interpret information regarding the work of the church and denomination.

Section 10.04 - Baptist Women

There shall be an organization of Baptist Women with such officers and organization as needed. The tasks of the Baptist Women shall be to teach missions; engage in mission action; support world missions through praying and giving; provide and interpret information regarding the work of the church and denomination.

Section 10.05 - Brotherhood

There shall be a Brotherhood of men and boys with such officers and organization as needed. The tasks of the Brotherhood shall be to teach missions; engage in mission action; support world missions through praying and giving; provide and interpret information regarding the work of the church and denomination.

Section 10.06 - Church Music Program

There shall be a church music program under the direction of the music director. Such officers and/or organizations shall be included as needed. The music tasks shall be to teach music; train persons to lead, sing, and play music; provide music in the church and community; provide and interpret information regarding the work of the church and the denomination.

Article 11 - Designated Contributions

From time to time the church, in the exercise of its religious, educational, and charitable purposes, may establish various funds to accomplish specific goals. Contributors may suggest uses for their contributions but all suggestions shall be deemed advisory rather than mandatory in nature. All contributions made to specific funds or otherwise designated shall remain subject to the exclusive control and discretion of the pastor, board of deacons, and or trustees. No fiduciary obligation shall be created by any designated contribution made to the church other than to use the contribution for the general furtherance of any of the purposes stated in Section 1.02.

Article 12 - Amendments

Changes in this constitution and bylaws may be made at any regular business meeting of the church, providing each amendment shall have been presented in writing at a previous meeting, and copies of the proposed amendment be furnished to each member present. Amendments shall be by three-quarters affirmative vote of all members of the church present entitled to vote.

Article 13 - Tax-Exempt Provisions

Section 13.01 - Private Inurement

No part of the net earnings of the church shall inure to the benefit of or be distributable to its members, trustees, officers, or other private persons, except that the church shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for the services rendered and to make payments and distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth in Section 1.02 hereof.

Section 13.02 - Political Involvement

No substantial part of the activities of the church shall be the carrying on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation. The church shall not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office.

Section 13.03 - Dissolution

Upon the dissolution of the church, the trustees shall, after paying or making provision for payment of all the liabilities of the church, dispose of all of the assets of the church to such organization or organizations formed and operated exclusively for religious purposes as shall at the time qualify as an exempt organization or organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue Law), as the trustees shall determine. Assets may be distributed only to tax exempt organizations, which agree with the church's Statement of Faith.

Section 13.04 - Racial Nondiscrimination

The church shall have a racially nondiscriminatory policy and therefore shall not discriminate against members, applicants, students, and others on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin.

Section 13.05 - Limitation Of Activities

Notwithstanding any other provision of these bylaws, the church shall not, except to an insubstantial degree, engage in any activities or exercise any powers that are not in furtherance of the purposes stated in Section 1.02.