Reposing our faith wholly in the Lord Jesus Christ for our salvation, we believe that this faith is best expressed in those distinctives, which have been historically held by the people called Baptists. These distincitives are briefly set forth in the following acrostic, Covenant and Articles of Faith. Baptists believe in:

Click here to view our church covenant page.

ARTICLE I
NAME

The name of this assembly shall be: Graham Road Baptist Church, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

ARTICLE II
PURPOSE

The general purpose of this church is to glorify God through the salvation of the lost and the edification of believers.

THE SPECIFIC PURPOSES OF THE CHURCH SHALL INCLUDE:

1. Worship Almighty God.
2. Evangelize the lost of the greater Akron area and the world.
3. Edify the Saints.
4. Observance of the ordinances of the church.
5. Defense of the Christian faith.
6. Teaching and preaching of the word of God.
7. Education of youth.

ARTICLE III
DECLARATION OF FAITH

Click here to see our statement of faith.

ARTICLE IV
ORDINANCES

The ordinances of this church shall be only two in number in the Biblical Order - Baptism and the Lord's Supper. These are church ordinances and may be administered only by the church.

SECTION 1 - BAPTISM

We believe that baptism is the complete single immersion of the believer in water to show forth in a solemn and beautiful emblem our identification with the crucified, buried and risen savior through whom we died to sin and rose to a new life and that baptism is prerequisite to church membership. Those who profess saving faith in Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, may be, by the pastor or some person authorized by the church, immersed in water according to the Scriptures.

SECTION 2 - THE LORD'S SUPPER

We believe that the elements of the Lord's Supper are unleavened bread wafers and the fruit of the vine. The Lord's Supper shall be administered to the assembly on the first Lord's Day of each month or another Sunday agreed upon by the pastor and deacons. We believe that the Lord's Supper is the commemoration of His death until He come and should be preceded by solemn self-examination. We believe that the Biblical Order of the ordinances is Baptism first and then the Lord's Supper and that participants in the Lord's Supper should be immersed believers. (John 3:23; Matthew 3:16; I Corinthians 11:23-28; Matthew 28:19,20; Acts 2:41,42)

ARTICLE V
MEMBERSHIP

SECTION 1 - PRESENT MEMBERSHIP

All whose names appear on the roll of the church are members

SECTION 2 - ELIGIBILITY FOR MEMBERSHIP

The membership of this church shall consist of persons who have received the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, who have been baptized by immersion and who have subscribed to the views of faith stated in the doctrinal position of this church and has agreed to be governed by the church's constitution.

SECTION 3 - APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP

All applications for membership shall be made to the Pastor and/or Deacons whose duty it shall be to make diligent inquiry into the spiritual fitness of the applicant, and if found satisfactory, to so recommend to the church for membership. The Pastor and/or Deacons shall also arrange for the instruction in the position of the church and the responsibilities of membership.

SECTION 4 - ADMISSION TO MEMBERSHIP

Members may be received into the church as follows:

A. By single immersion upon their profession of Christ as Savior
B. By testimony of personal salvation and previous scriptural baptism.
C. By restoration (for those excluded members giving evidence of repentance).

In cases where the candidate has been a member of another fundamental Baptist Church, the church clerk shall notify the church of the fact that they are joining Graham Road Baptist Church and request a Letter of Transfer. The receipt of such letter shall not be required, however, in order to admit the person into membership, in cases where the person is coming from a church of a different faith and order, the clerk shall notify the church of the admission of the candidate to membership.

When favorable recommendation has been made, the church shall vote upon application. Members may be received into the church at any business meeting or at any regular service of the church by a majority vote of membership present.

SECTION 5 - DUTIES OF MEMBERSHIP

A. Each member shall seek diligently to live in accordance with the pattern of the New Testament for believers. He shall seek to attend the services regularly, pray for and support the leadership of the church, and promote the spiritual welfare of the church by his influence and example. Each member shall make himself available for service in the church in accordance with his abilities. Each person upon coming into the membership, voluntarily subscribes to the obligations of the church covenant. They will not seek to disrupt its fellowship but will quietly withdraw from its membership.

B. Every member of the church is expected to attend its meetings, to work for its upbuilding, to guard its good name in the community, to contribute regularly and according to his or her ability for the expenses of the church and to keep the Clerk informed as to his or her residence.

C. Any member who fails to comply to the duties listed under Letters A and B in this Section 5 for more than three (3) months shall be considered an inactive member and shall not be in good standing. Only the following will be exempt from this: shut-ins, prolonged illness, serving in the Armed Forces, or attendance at a college or a Higher Education Institution.

SECTION 6 - PRIVILEGES OF MEMBERSHIP

Only active members in good standing shall be eligible to hold positions of leadership in the church or any of its organizations, to serve in any way in church if they should so desire. Only those members who are active and in good standing are at least sixteen (16) years of age may speak or vote in church business meetings.

SECTION 7 - DISMISSAL FROM MEMBERSHIP

Membership in this church may be terminated in any of the following ways by congregation vote:

1. Death of the member (No church action is required) 2. Written request of the member 3. Written request for transfer of membership
	A. Any member in good standing who desires to unite with another church of like faith and order is entitled to a Letter of Dismissal when a written request is submitted by the church with which he or she is uniting B. Any member desiring to unite with a church differing in faith and order from Graham Road Baptist Church may receive a statement regarding his or her Christian character
4. Discipline
	A. A member may be removed from membership as a result of any of the disciplinary actions described in Article V, Section 8

SECTION 8 - DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS

In order to maintain its purity and peace, a local church has the Scriptural right to discipline its members who are in need of such action. (Matthew 18:17; I Corinthians 5:13) Any member who is subject to discipline shall be considered a member who is not in good standing.

A. Negligent Members
Any member who is willfully negligent toward his church duties and demonstrates such negligence through absence from the services for at least three consecutive months shall be subject to removal from the membership. The Pastor and Deacons shall seek to recover such members to the Lord's work by visiting them and encouraging them to be more faithful. Failing in this, they shall inform the member regarding the finality of his continued negligence and recommend to the church his or her removal. Every effort shall be made to assist negligent members in renewing their walk with God.

B. Erring Members
If a member errs in doctrine or conduct, those having knowledge of such error shall inform the Pastor and Deacons. After investigation to ascertain the truth of the allegations, and upon determining them to be true, the Pastor and Deacons shall direct their efforts to seek repentance and restoration of the erring member. Members may be required to meet with the pastor and Deacons to discuss the matter.

C. Quarreling Members
Differences between members should be settled privately according to the pattern outline in Matthew 18:15,16. However, if the parties involved will not follow this pattern, or if, upon following it, reconciliation has not been reached, the Pastor and Deacons may need to become involved in order to preserve the peace of the church.

D. Rebellious And Divisive Members
Scripture warns against the harm of a "Factious Person". (Titus 3:10 a 'heretic') and of anyone who is "disorderly". (II Thessalonians 3:6) Persons who rebel against the spiritual leadership of the church and who make constant problems and troubles in the church disturb its peace and are its critics, are liable to church discipline. Such persons are to be admonished by the Pastor and Deacons (Titus 3:10) but if the attitude and actions persist, the Deacons shall make a recommendation to the church body.

The Pastor and Deacons shall act with love and grace but with promptness to deal with any member who is obstructing the work or disturbing the peace of the church by espousing doctrine that is opposed to the doctrine of the church or by unscriptural conduct such as gossip, falsehood, slander, conspiracy, immorality, or other actions deemed detrimental to the life of the church.

E. Accused Members
If a member is accused by another member of a violation of the church covenant or of immoral, improper, or unchristian conduct, such charges must be submitted in writing to the Pastor and Deacons, and signed by the accuser. When such charges have been preferred, the Pastor and Deacons shall investigate the following: (1) Whether or not the pattern of Matthew 18:15,16 is applicable and has been followed; (2) Whether or not the charges appear to be valid. If the charges appear to be valid, the offender shall be asked to meet with the Pastor and Deacons to receive a full and fair hearing. Refusal to attend such a meeting may be considered sufficient grounds to recommend expulsion from church membership. The Pastor and Deacons may vote to acquit the accused if the charges appear untrue, or if there is evidence of genuine repentance and restitution on the part of the accused, or they may vote to recommend to the congregation that he or she bee expelled form the membership. In the latter even, the accused may appeal to the entire church for a hearing, which appeal the church may grant or refuse. Final step in discipline shall be expulsion from membership.

SECTION 9 - PURPOSE AND NOTIFICATION OF DISCIPLINE

Discipline in any form shall have as its purpose the restoration of the erring member. (Galatians 6:1) The Church Clerk shall notify in writing any member who has been expelled and shall mail the notice to the member. Notice shall be deemed to have been given when posted to the regular United States Mail regardless of receipt of non-receipt by the member. Expelled members may be restored to full membership upon evidence of repentance and change of life and upon recommendation of the Deacons.

SECTION 10 - LOSS OF RIGHTS

Persons who have been removed from the membership of the church by whatever means shall have no right to make claim to any church property, and shall return any such property in their possession immediately.

ARTICLE VI
CHURCH GOVERNMENT

The government of this church is vested in its congregations (the body of active believers who compose it) and is executed by the Pastor and other elected officers as provided in this Constitution and the will of the congregation as expressed by vote is final.

The congregation is responsible alone to the head of the church, the Lord Jesus Christ, and to no outside Ecclesiastical authority. In accordance with New Testament teaching, the local congregation is responsible (1) to decide the extent of its membership (Romans 14:1; I Corinthians 5:13), (2) to guard the doctrines of the faith (Revelation 2:13-16), (3) to elect its own officers (Acts 6:3-5), (4) to settle its own internal affairs (I Corinthians 6:1-8), (5) to discipline its own members (I Corinthians 5:13) and (6) to conduct its own business and witness according to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in recognition of Christ's Headship (Revelation 2:1,7). The Church may fellowship with other Baptist churches, but such associations are by free choice and are not to be construed as binding in any way upon the Church.

ARTICLE VII
CHURCH MEETINGS

SECTION 1 - WORSHIP SERVICES

This Church shall meet regularly on each Lord's Day morning and evening for public worship of Almighty God. A mid-week prayer service also shall be held weekly. Special services for worship, prayer, education, or evangelism may be held periodically at the discretion of the Pastor and Deacons.

SECTION 2 - DEACONS' BOARD MEETING

A. The Board of Deacons shall hold a regular monthly meeting for the purpose of considering the welfare of the Church and for discussing the business, which shall come before them. Deacons shall hold the meeting by consensus as to the time for the meeting and shall not require further notice.
B. A Special meeting of the Board of Deacons may be called at the discretion of the Pastor and Chairman or by three members of the Board. The Pastor must be notified of the time, place and purpose of any Board of Deacons meeting in time for his attendance if he desires to do so. Notification to the Pastor and Deacons shall be by telephone either to their residences or to their places of business at least eight (8) hours prior to the special meeting.
C. A majority of the members of the Board of Deacons shall constitute a quorum to do church business.
D. In the absence of the Pastor, it shall be the duty of the Chairman of the Board of Deacons to preside at all meetings of the Board.

SECTION 3 - BUSINESS MEETINGS

A. The granting of letters and acting upon candidates for membership may be done at any service without previous announcement.

B. Quarterly Meetings
The church shall conduct regular quarterly business meetings on the second Wednesday of April, July and October.

C. Annual Meeting
The Annual Church Business Meeting of the church shall be held on the Wednesday following the second Sunday in January. (Financial and other reports shall be given at this time.) Appointment of committee members and church officers shall be held at this time with the exception of Deacons. The election of Deacons shall be held on the second Wednesday of December and shall assume their duties on the following January 1. No notice will be required as each member shall be responsible to have read of the time as writing in this Section.

D. Special Business Meetings
Special business meetings may be called by the Pastor (or Chairman of the Deacons if the church is without a Pastor) or by petition of no less than fifteen (15) percent of the active voting membership when such purpose is presented in writing. All such special business meetings shall be announced by a public reading of notice at two preceding Sunday morning services.

E. Rules For Transaction Of Business
1. Normally matters of business to be presented to the congregation shall come by way of recommendation from the Pastor and Deacons. Church action at all business meetings shall be determined by a majority of vote of the voting members present except as otherwise specified in this Constitution.
2. Twenty (20) percent of the active voting members shall constitute a quorum for annual, quarterly and special business meetings. This quorum shall not apply to the dismissal or reception of members at regular mid-week services.
3. All matters pertaining to the purchase, sale or mortgaging of property shall be voted on only by those regular members in good standing and who are of legal age (18 years). On other matters, members in good standing who have reached their sixteenth (16th) birthday shall be eligible to vote.
4. The Pastor shall preside at all business meetings of the Church except in cases where he is absent or the business to be transacted is of such a nature as to involve him personally, in which case, the Chairman of the Deacons or someone else appointed by the Pastor shall preside.
5. Roberts Rules of Order shall be the parliamentary guide in all matters of business unless otherwise specified in this Constitution.
6. The election of Pastors and Deacons shall be by ballot. All other voting may be done by the method called for by the presiding officer except as otherwise directed by the wishes of the congregation.

ARTICLE VIII
CHURCH OFFICES

The New Testament teaches that there are two church offices: (1) Pastor, and (2) Deacon. A church may have as many of each as its size and work demands. Neither a Pastor, Pastoral Staff Member, Deacon, nor their spouses shall have been divorced.

SECTION 1 - PASTOR

A. Scriptural Qualifications
1. Any candidate for the pastorate of the Church shall meet the requirements as set forth in I Timothy 3:1-6 and Titus 1:5-9. He shall be an ordained Baptist minister. He shall be a believer in and a preacher of the Gospel and of the basic doctrines of faith as defined by the doctrinal statement of this Church.

B. The Calling Of A Pastor 1. The pastoral office shall be regarded as a divine appointment, and it should not be lightly formed nor rudely severed. The Pastor shall be chosen by the Church in the following manner:
	a. In the event of the Pastor's death or resignation from office, the Deacons shall constitute the pulpit committee and be responsible for recommending a prospective pastor to the church who meets the above stated qualifications. They shall have the responsibility of assembling prospects, and of recommending to the Church the person who they feel should be a candidate. b. Before a person shall be considered as a candidate, he shall advise the Deacons of the following:
		1) That he accepts the Church's declaration of faith. 2) That he is a member of a Regular Baptist Church or an independent Baptist Church, and that he is not involve with nor sympathetic to, any group or organization considered apostate by this Church. 3) That he will happily cooperate with any Baptist affiliations of this Church.
	c. Upon an affirmative vote of the Pulpit Committee (Deacons), they shall arrange for the candidate to visit and minister in a church service or services. At this time, members of the Church shall be given opportunity to question the candidate. He shall also be interviewed by the Deacons. d. If by an affirmative vote, the Pulpit Committee (Deacons) indicate approval of the candidate, an announcement will be made by a public reading of notice at two (2) preceding Sunday morning services and the Church shall vote on the matter in a church business meeting. It shall be the policy of the church to consider only one prospective pastor at a time. A three-fourths (75%) vote of those voting shall be required before a call can be extended. Thirty (30) percent of the qualified voters shall constitute a quorum at this election. If the vote is insufficient to extend a call, the Pulpit Committee (Deacons) shall remain in operation until such time as God's man has been found and called. e. The Deacons shall be responsible to notify the candidate of the vote and make arrangements for his moving.

C. Duties Of The Pastor
1. The Pastor's special duties are, according to the Scriptures, the giving of himself to prayer, the ministry of the Word, the administration of the ordinances, the general guidance of the spiritual welfare of the church, and the pastoral oversight of the membership.
2. Upon assuming his duties, he and his wife shall become members of the Church.
3. In addition to his usual pastoral duties, the Pastor shall be moderator of all business meetings of the Church and Deacons. He shall be ex-officio member of all organized groups and committees connected with the Church. He shall have the privilege of requesting that meetings of Deacons, boards, or committees be called when needed. He shall have the oversight of the entire work of the church, and shall perform the duties common to his office.
4. Personnel employed by the church shall be under the direct supervision of the Pastor.

D. Term Of Office Of The Pastor
1. He shall serve for an indefinite period of time with the right to terminate his services upon a thirty-day (30) notice.
2. If at any time the Pastor's procedure or his relationship to the Church shall be deemed unsatisfactory, the Deacons shall discuss such matters with him and seek to solve the problem. If the relationship continues to be unsatisfactory, it shall be the responsibility of the Deacons to bring a recommendation to the church as to the action required. Notification of such church business shall be announced by a public reading at two (2) preceding Sunday morning services. A simple majority of votes shall be required for the dismissal of a Pastor.
3. Formal accusations against the Pastor shall be submitted in writing at an official meeting of the Deacons and shall not be considered unless supported by the testimony of at least two witnesses (I Timothy 5:19) if he err in doctrine or conduct, the Deacons, in brotherly love, shall attempt to correct him (Galatians 6:1). If the matter cannot be resolved, it shall be brought to the church in the manner described in the paragraph above.
4. If the Pastor is dismissed, he shall vacate the pulpit immediately, but shall receive one month's notice of dismissal with pay. Pastoral duties will be terminated with a vote of the church for dismissal. By mutual consent of the Pastor and two-thirds (2/3) of the voting members of the Church present, these restrictions may be waived.

E. Vacancy Of The Office Of The Pastor
When the church is without a Pastor, the Deacons shall assume leadership in searching for a new Pastor as set forth in Article VIII, Section 1, Letter B of this Constitution. In such a situation, the Deacons:

1. Shall recommend to the congregation a method by which funds shall be procured to finance the search for a new Pastor and to supply the pulpit during the period.
2. Shall decide whether or not to recommend to the church an interim Pastor or stated pulpit supply (regular preacher) for the interim period. If such a person his recommended, his duties shall be specified in his call.
3. Shall establish from among themselves (if no regular preacher is appointed) the Pulpit Supply Committee whose personnel shall be separate from the Pulpit Committee. The Pulpit Supply Committee shall yield to the Pulpit Committee when the later has specified candidates to invite to the church. The Pulpit Supply Committee shall be responsible for all arrangements necessary in supplying preachers for the services of the church until a new Pastor arrives. They shall be responsible to the entire body of Deacons. They shall procure men for the pulpit who are doctrinally and ecclesiastically in agreement with the church.

SECTION 2 - THE PASTOR'S STAFF

A. According to the needs of the church, with recommendation from the Deacons, and upon the vote of the congregation, persons may be added to the paid church staff to assist in various aspects of the ministry. Unless otherwise designated, they shall be responsible directly to the Senior Pastor.
B. Such persons shall be called and dismissed in similar manner to the Pastor except that a Pulpit Committee shall not be required. The search for such persons shall be directed by the Pastor or someone appointed by him.
C. The proposed duties and the recommended salary shall be shared with the congregation prior to the vote. Their duties shall be determined by the Pastor.
D. Persons considered shall hold the doctrinal position of the church, shall meet the scriptural requirements for service and shall evidence godliness of life. All staff members and their spouses shall become members of Graham Road Baptist Church.

SECTION 3 - DEACONS

A. Qualifications Of Deacons
Deacons shall be male members in good standing of this Church and shall reflect in their lives the qualifications set forth in I Timothy 3:8-13 and in the spirit of Acts 6:3. They shall be men who are separated from worldly practices that would discredit the work of God. No Deacon may be a member of a secret order or lodge, nor may he use tobacco, drugs (except under a physician's direction), or alcoholic beverages. He shall be in whole-hearted agreement with the Church's doctrinal statement and leadership standards, and shall support the pastoral leadership.

B. Number And Term Of Service Of Deacons
1. There shall be seven (7) deacons for the first three hundred members. For every fifty (50) members thereafter, there shall be added one (1) Deacon, providing scriptually qualified men are available. The number of Deacons shall be based upon the total membership as of October 1 of each year.
2. Deacons shall serve for a full three-year term unless filling an un-expired term. After completing a full three-year term, they shall not be eligible for re-election until at least one year has elapsed.
3. Upon any vacancy among the Deacons within the first nine (9) months of the fiscal year, the Deacons shall appint a qualified person, with Church approval, to fill the office for the balance of the year at which time the congregation will elect someone to fill the vacated office. The appointment to fill an expired term of less than two (2) years shall not be counted as part of a three-year term.

C. Election Of Deacons
1. Each candidate must be a member of good standing for at least one year prior to nomination.
2. No later than November 15th, members of the congregation shall be given the opportunity to submit in writing to the nominating committee the names of persons they suggest for consideration as candidates for the Office of Deacon. The Nominating Committee (Deacons) shall consider these suggestions but shall not be bound by them.
3. The Nominating Committee (Deacons) shall consider carefully and prayerfully men whom they deem qualified to serve as Deacons, shall secure permission from any who are to be nominated, and shall present a ballot of recommended names to the Church at the December business meeting. The names of the nominees shall be publicly advertised within the Church at least two (2) Sundays prior to the election.
4. Nominations may be made from the floor; however, any person nominated must have been previously contacted, must meet the scriptural and constitutional requirements, and must have agreed to serve if elected.
5. Elections shall be by written ballot.

D. General Duties Of Deacons
1. Assist the Pastor in the promotion of the spiritual welfare of the Church. To be his counselors to examine special and prudent watch care over the Church membership.
2. To assist the Pastor in administering the ordinances.
3. To visit the sick and distressed members of the Church, and when necessary, to relieve their needs by freewill offerings or by appropriation from the church treasury.
4. To interview all applicants for church membership with the Pastor.
5. To serve as a Nominating Committee making nominations for the Office of Deacon and making appointments for the Offices and Committee of Trustees, Missions, Finance, Christian Education, Music, Youth, Ushers, Visitation, and Transportation. All appointments shall be ratified by the Church congregation at the Annual Church Business Meeting.
6. To assist the Pastor in guarding the purity and testimony of the Church and in such other duties as may be requested by the Pastor or directed by the Church.

E. Organization Of Deacons
1. At the annual organizational meeting of the Deacons (The first meeting after January 1), they shall elect a chairman and other officers as deemed necessary. The Pastor may assign responsibilities to the Deacons as is necessary for the efficient operation of the Church.
2. The Pastor and Deacons shall assign Deacons annually to act as chairmen or members of committees of the Church as are needed to effectively carry out the ministry and purpose of the Church.

F. Special Duties Of Deacons
1. The Pastor and Deacons shall be responsible to see that the various areas of the Church ministry have capable leadership and oversight. In order to serve the needs of the church, which may vary from time to time, the Pastor and Deacons may recommend to the Church the establishment of certain leadership positions to be filled by Deacons. Such recommendations shall be presented to the Church for their approval or disapproval.

SECTION 4 - OFFICE OF TRUSTEES

The Board of Deacons shall serve as Trustees to fulfill the legal requirements of the State of Ohio.

A. Duties Of Trustees
1. The Trustees shall have the care, custody, and oversight of the property of the Church, delegating and executing the maintenance of the property.
2. They shall have the responsibility of caring for all papers and documents pertaining to the property, such as deeds, leases, insurance, and agreements.
3. They shall not have power to close this house of worship against the Church or the Pastor thereof under any circumstances without express orders from the Church to do so.
4. They shall not dispose of any Church property with a value of more than One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) without Church approval.
5. They shall submit an annual report at the Annual Church Business Meeting.

SECTION 5 - CHURCH CLERK

A. Clerck
1. The clerk shall be appointed by the Deacons subject to the approval of the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting.

B. Duties
1. The clerk shall keep a complete record of the proceeding and business actions of the Church.
2. The clerk shall have charge of all records, keep a register of all members, write letters of dismissal, and of church transfer.
3. To perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Church under the supervision of the Pastor.
4. To submit an annual report of current membership, including additions and dismissals at the Annual Church Business Meeting.

SECTION 6 - SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT

A. Appointment
1. The Sunday School Superintendent shall be appointed by the Deacons from either the Board of deacons or by the Church membership subject to the approval of the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting.

B. Duties
1. To oversee the Sunday School organization and its operation and fill vacancies as they occur.
2. To work closely with the Pastor in his endeavor.
3. To seek to enlist the co-operation of the whole Church in Bible study and personal soul winning.
4. To survey all materials and methods used in the Sunday School and to work with the Pastor in recommending whatever changes are needed regarding literature, methods, etc.
5. To authorize purchase orders for such equipment, materials, etc., as are needed to insure maximum efficiency in the Sunday School.
6. To recommend and plan study courses and/or teaching training courses as are necessary each year.
7. To present a budget each year for the educational program and operation of the Sunday School to the Finance Committee.
8. To prepare and present a full annual report to the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting.

SECTION 7 - TEACHERS AND OFFICERS OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL
All teachers and officers of the weekly Bible school, as well as the daily Vacation Bible School, shall be able to give account of their conversion and bear testimony to the same through a close walk with the Lord, even though they are not elected to that position by the Church. No person who is not a member of the Church may serve as an officer or regular teacher in the weekly Bible school or daily Vacation Bible School.

SECTION 1 - FINANCE COMMITTEE

A. Qualifications
I Corinthians 4:1 & 2 shall constitute the qualifications.

B. Organization
1. There shall be a finance committee of at least four (4) members whose chairman shall be appointed by and from the Deacons and shall include the Treasurer and Financial Secretary whose appointment shall be by the Deacons either from the Board of Deacons itself or from the congregation. One (1) member shall be appointed from the Church congregation. These appointments shall be subject to the approval of the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting.

C. Duties
1. To formulate the Church budget for approval of the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting.
2. To contact each auxiliary organization concerting their budget needs.
3. To establish and maintaining procedures for purchasing and handling.
4. To see that all books are kept properly and audited yearly.
5. To oversee all of the financial involvements of this Church.
6. To examine all bills and recommend to the treasurer the payment of those that are within the bounds of the church budget, or which have been approved by the Church for payment.
7. To approve any expenditure of funds that would exceed the monthly accumulated budget reserve.
8. To make a full report of the income and disbursements of the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting in January.
9. To make an accurate monthly report of the current church budget and our financial standing.

D. Duties Of The Treasurer
1. The treasurer shall receive all monies of the Church and disburse them as directed by the Finance Committee and approved by the Church.
2. The treasurer shall keep an accurate record of accounts and make a full report at the Annual Church Business Meeting and at each Quarterly Business Meeting or when otherwise directed by the Church to do so.

E. Duties Of The Financial Secretary
1. To keep a financial record along with the treasurer.
2. To keep accurate records of all individual offerings.
3. To distribute to each contributor to the Church a record of their giving on a quarterly basis of all income.

SECTION 2 - MISSIONARY COMMITTEE

A. Policy
1. It shall be the polity of this Church to support missionaries, Christian schools, and agencies that are engaged in carrying out the New Testament program of worldwide evangelism.
2. All individuals and agencies supported shall be in hearty agreement with the Church doctrinal statement including the repudiation of fellowship with apostasy and those who condone or promote it and to make every effort to place that support with out own General Association of Regular Baptist Churches (G.A.R.B.C.).

B. Organization
1. The Missionary Committee shall consist of at least six (6) members. The chairman shall be appointed by and from the Deacons and five members shall be appointed from the Church congregation. The appointments shall be subject to the approval of the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting. The missionary committee shall serve the best interest of this Church with reference to both home and foreign missions.

C. Duties
1. To keep missions before the Church.
2. To correspond with the missionaries of the Church who are in the field.
3. To challenge both young and old to keep an eye on the whitened harvest and our ears turned to a possible call.
4. To, with the Pastor, examine all missionary candidates with reference to their faith and practice before they may be recommended to the Church for financial support.
5. To prepare and keep current all procedures for interviewing, evaluating, and recommending all missionaries.
6. To present to the Finance Committee a missionary budget on an annual basis. Such budget will then be presented to the Church via the Finance Committee at the Annual Church Business Meeting for final approval.
7. To keep an accurate record of all funds entrusted to it by the Church and to make an annual report of the same. All expenditures of mission funds is subject to the approval by the Church. All financial records of the Missions Committee shall be audited by the Finance Committee annually.
8. To present an annual report at the Annual Church Business Meeting.

SECTION 3 - USHERING COMMITTEE

A. Organization
1. The chairman of the Trustees shall serve as chairman of the Ushers. All Ushers shall be appointed by the Deacons from the Church congregation. All appointments shall be subject to the approval of the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting. A Head Usher shall be appointed by and from the Ushers who shall be responsible to see that sufficient ushers are present to serve the congregation at all times.

B. Duties
1. To meet, greet and assist in seating those who attend the services of the Church.
2. To be responsible for ventilating the building and seeking the comfort of the congregation.
3. To gather all tithes and offerings and turn them over to the treasurer and financial secretary.
4. To be responsible for securing all doors, windows and entrances afer each service.
5. To assist the congregation in the parking of cars and to maintain a watch over such.
6. To present an annual report at the Annual Church Business Meeting.

SECTION 4 - DEACONESSES COMMITTEE

A. Organization
1. To Deaconesses shall be at least seven (7) in number and shall be appointed by the Deacons subject to the approval of the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting. (By precedent, the deaconesses have been the wives of deacons, plus additional ladies as needed.)

B. Duties
1. To assist in the communion services, baptismal services, entertainment of visitors and such duties as may be required fore the spiritual welfare of the Church.
2. To present an Annual Report to the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting.

SECTION 5 - OTHER COMMITTEES

Additional committees made necessary by the work of the Church may be established. The Pastor and Deacons shall present to the Church any new committees deemed necessary, giving a brief description for their intended duties and recommended personnel for the same. The committee shall be established by Church vote. Continuing committees shall be ratified by Church vote annually.

It is recognized that the Church may have within it various subsidiary organizations such as the Sunday School, Men's and Women's Fellowships, Youth Groups, Choirs and other organizations.

SECTION 1 - RELATIONSHIP TO THE CHURCH

A. All subsidiary groups shall be considered integral parts of this Church. No group shall follow any procedure which conflicts in any way with the Church's doctrinal statement or constitution.
B. All subsidiary groups shall be under the supervision of the Pastor and Deacons and shall be responsible to the Church as a whole. The Church may call for a report from any organization at any time and may dissolve an organization by a majority vote of the Church.
C. The Sunday School, Youth Groups and all other educational organizations are considered part of the Church as the Church studying and training for education and service. No class, officer, or committee may overrule any Church decision, or operate in any way that is contrary to the whole program of the church.
D. All officers of church organizations shall be members in good standing at Graham Road Baptist Church. Any person ceasing to be a member shall automatically forfeit any office he or she holds in any church organizations, and shall return any properties or assets thereof to the Church.

ARTICLE XI
FINANCES AND CHURCH PROPERTY

SECTION 1 - CHURCH FINANCES

A. The work of this Church shall be supported by the voluntary gifts of boarn-again Christian people. We believe that every Christian and member of this church should seek to give systematically, proportionately, sacrificially, and cheerfully of his substance to the Lord's work through the local church. Every member shall be encouraged to consider prayerfully, the Biblical promise attached to proportionate giving (tithing). (II Corinthians 8:12-15; II Corinthians 9:6,7; Malachi 3:8-10)
B. The sale of books, records and other such items which are provided by outside groups or individuals or organizations as a non-profit service to members and friends of the Church shall not be considered in violation of this principle.
C. No money shall be raised by the Church or any of its auxiliary organizations except by freewill offerings.
D. An audit shall be made every year of our financial books by a committee appointed by the Deacons subject to the approval of the Church at the Annual Church Business Meeting.
E. The fiscal year of this Church shall be the calendar year.

SECTION 2 - CHURCH PROPERTY

A. Ownership Of Property
1. The title to the property of the Church is vested in the corporation.
2. The Trustees shall abide by the procedures outlines in Article VIII Section 4 in this constitution

B. Use Of Property
The buildings and property of the Church shall be used only for such functions as to honor the Lord Jesus Christ and are consistent with the position of the Church. The Pastor and Deacons along with the Trustees shall have the authority to establish rules governing the use of the buildings.

ARTICLE XII
LICENSING AND ORDAINING

As a sovereign Baptist Church, the congregation has authority to license and to ordain.

SECTION 1 - LICENSING
Any member who evidences a Divine call to preach the Gospel, may be recommended to the church for licensing after an examination by the Pastor and Deacons. He shall be in whole-hearted agreement with the Doctrinal position of the Church and with its position on separation, and shall evidence godliness of life. He shall preach at least once before the Church. The license shall be for a specific period of time and shall be void at the end of that period or upon the member's removal from the church membership.

SECTION 2 - ORDINATION
This Church recognizes the fact that only God can call a man to the ministry of the Gospel, but believes it both scriptural and wise to have such a man commended to the Gospel ministry by a local church.

A. Requirements For Ordination
Any candidate for ordination shall be (1) a member in good standing of this church; (2) a person evidencing high moral character and consistent spirituality; (3) in agreement with the doctrinal stand of the Church including its position on separation; (4) knowledgeable in the scriptures and theology as evidenced through a public examination by a council called by the Church for that purpose; and (5) active in Christian service.

B. Procedure Of Ordination
Upon the recommendation of the examining council, the Church may proceed with a public ordination service.

ARTICLE XIII
AMENDMENTS

This constitution may be amended by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the voting members present and voting members present and voting at any regular or special business meeting of the Church, provided that a quorum is present at the meeting when the action is taken and that the proposed amendment has been given or mailed to each voting member at least two (2) weeks prior to the meeting and that such a meeting has been announced on two Sundays and two Wednesdays (6 consecutive services) prior to the meeting.

ARTICLE XIV
DISSOLUTION

The Church may be dissolved when its resident membership (within twenty (20) miles of the church building) shall have been reduced to twenty (20), or in case of enforced or voluntary dissolution of the Church, real and personal, and its other assets shall first be used to pay any and all indebtedness and the rest shall become the property of some other Baptist Church or Baptist missionary, or benevolent agency that holds the same doctrinal position of the Church.