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CONSTITUTION OF THE SEDLEY BAPTIST CHURCH
OF
SEDLEY, SOUTHAMPTON COUNTY, STATE OF VIRGINIA



PREAMBLE


For the preservation and security of the principles of our faith and that all things be done “decently and in order” and “with love”, consistent with the teachings of the New Testament and the accepted beliefs of the Southern Baptist Convention, and for the purpose of safeguarding the inherent liberties of each individual member of this Church and also the freedom of action of this body in relation to Christ and to other bodies of like faith, we do adopt and establish this constitution.

CONSTITUTION


ARTICLE 1. NAME

 This church shall be known as the Sedley Baptist Church of 17494 Johnsons Mill Road, Sedley, Southampton County, State of Virginia, 23878.

ARTICLE II. PURPOSE

 Section I.

The Sedley Baptist Church (hereinafter referred to as the Church or this Church), was organized in 1925 by 30 charter members for the purpose of advancing and promoting the worship of God through the reading and studying of the Holy Bible as the revealed Word of God, the teaching and preaching of the Gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to increase Christ-likeness in its constituents, to serve the community of which it is a part in every possible Christian way, conducting regular services of worship for the spiritual training, development, and benefit of each member and for the winning of souls to Jesus Christ.

 Section II.

This Church seeks to discover and follow the truths of the Holy Scripture, interpreted under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Each member shall seek to promote the spiritual life and growth of our own membership, and to exemplify the spirit of Christ and his teachings that the unsaved may be won to Christ.

Section III.

This Church shall be missionary in spirit, extending the Gospel through our organized religious channels to the entire world. It shall promote and maintain the teachings and doctrines of the Christian, Missionary denomination universally known and designated as the Southern Baptist Convention. It shall sustain the ordinances, doctrines, and ethics set forth in the New Testament for the body of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to channel its offerings to the support of the objectives of the Kingdom of God.


ARTICLE III. DECLARATION OF FAITH

 A. We believe the Holy Bible is the inspired word of God, without any mixture of error and is the record of God's revelation of Himself and of His way and will for mankind. It speaks with final authority about all matters of spiritual faith and moral duty. As God's pattern for human living, it is to be studied, learned, believed, and taught to all men everywhere.


B. We believe there is only one living and true God who created, preserves, and controls the universe. To Him we owe the highest love, reverence, and obedience. He is revealed to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, each with distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence or being.

C. We believe Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God and the Savior of the world. He was born of a virgin and came in the likeness of man. He was and is the full and final revelation of God's nature and purpose. He is our example of perfect righteousness. In His death, He made atonement for all the sin of the world. He is our great High Priest, our living Lord, and the all-sufficient Savior.

D. We believe the Holy Spirit is a person who is one in nature with the Father and the Son. As the divine agent in regeneration, preservation and sanctification, He abides in the hearts of Christians, aids them in prayer, interprets truth, and gives power for Christ-like living and witnessing.

E. We believe Man is a person, created in the image of God, with moral competence and responsibility. He is a sinner, corrupted in his moral nature by evil and inclined toward sin. He yearns for God and inner peace and has the capacity for faith and transformation through the redemption of Christ.

F. We believe Salvation is wholly by the grace of God who takes the initiative in providing for man's redemption through His Son, who by the Holy Spirit was born of the Virgin Mary and took upon Him our nature, yet without sin, and made atonement for our sins by His death on the cross. In order to be saved, one must repent of sin and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.

G. We believe the Christian experience is both a state and a process. The Christian has been justified and is becoming sanctified. His life should be a continuous Growth in knowledge and Christ-likeness through self-discipline, dedication, and perseverance.

H. We believe in the final Perseverance of the saints as revealed and taught in the word of God because they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.

I. A Church is a congregation of baptized believers associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the gospel for the purpose of carrying out the commission of our Lord throughout all the world.

J. Baptism and the Lord's Supper are The Two Ordinances Commanded by Christ. Baptism, which is immersion in water of a believer, celebrates the beginning of the Christian experience as it symbolizes death, burial and resurrection. The Lord's Supper, by use of bread and the fruit of the vine, commemorates the undying love of Christ and His sacrificial death on the cross.

 K. We believe Christ will return to the earth visibly, personally, and suddenly. Believers are to live in readiness for His coming by obeying the commands of Christ given after His first coming.

L. We believe it is the duty of every Christian to seek and to win the Lost to Christ by personal efforts and also to extend this opportunity to people in other lands through the support of Evangelism and Missionary Programs.

 M. We believe God is the source of all blessings, temporal, and spiritual, and the rightful owner of all His creation. Man is entrusted with time, talents, and material possessions, which are to be used for the glory of God and the service of others. Christians should Contribute of their means to advance Christ's work on earth.
N. We believe The Kingdom of God is the reign of God in the lives of Believers everywhere. Our chief means for promoting God's kingdom on earth are the Churches through which we teach and preach and pray for God's will to be done on earth as it is in Heaven.

O. We believe that the first day of the week is the Lord's Day, or Christian Sabbath, and is to be kept sacred to religious purposes as God commanded in Exodus 20:8-11.

ARTICLE IV. CHURCH COVENANT

 We accept the following covenant as a summary of the ideals of our Church in all its activities and in relation to our homes and to each individual member:

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior,

And on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,

We do now, in the presence of God, angels, and the assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.

 We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this Church, in knowledge, holiness, and comfort;

To promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines;

To contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the Church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations;

We also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances;

To walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment;

To avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger;

To abstain from the sale and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage, and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior;

We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love;

To remember each other in prayer; to aid each other in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy in speech;

To be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the rules of our Savior to secure it without delay.

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 V. CHARACTER

 Section I.

Polity - The government of this Church is vested in the body of believers who compose its membership. It recognizes and sustains the obligations of mutual counsel and cooperation common among Baptist Churches, but is not subject to the control of any ecclesiastical body or organization.

Section II

Doctrine - This Church accepts the Scriptures, the Holy Bible, as its sole Authority in matters of faith and practice.

Section III.

Denominational Affiliation - The Sedley Baptist Church is affiliated with The Blackwater Baptist Association, The Baptist General Association of Virginia, the Southern Baptist Convention, and the Baptist World Alliance.


ARTICLE VI. ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION

A. Adoption - This Constitution shall be considered adopted if 2/3 of The members present at conference to which same are proposed for Adoption, shall vote in favor of adoption of same.

B. Amendments - This Constitution may be amended, altered, or Repealed by a 2/3 vote of the members present at any regular Church conference or called conference, provided such is proposed In writing at the preceding Church conference.

C. Repeal of Previous Constitution - The adoption of this Constitution shall effect a repeal of all previously adopted constitutions which are not adopted herein.

D. Copy in Clerk's Record - A copy of this Constitution shall at all Be kept with the records of the Church Clerk and any amendments To or revisions thereof, shall, after passage, be prepared in typewritten form by the Clerk. A copy of this Constitution shall be made available to all Church members.

E. Rules of Order - All questions of order not provided for herein shall Be decided in accordance with Robert's Rules of Order.

ADOPTED BY THE CHURCH AT ITS REGULAR CONFERENCE

HELD ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 7, 1994

CONSTITUTION COMMITTEE

Willie Wellons Smith (Honorary)
Eddie Norfleet Bulls, Jr.
Linda Duck Edwards
Ryland Gillette Newsome
Linda Daughtrey Simmons

Warren Augusta Simmons (Chairman of Board of Deacons)

Rev. David Lee Johnson, Sr.
Pastor

BY-LAWS OF THE SEDLEY BAPTIST CHURCH

17494 JOHNSONS MILL ROAD OF

SEDLEY, SOUTHAMPTON COUNTY, STATE OF VIRGINIA

ARTICLE I

WORSHIP SERVICE

 A.   Regular Worship Service shall be each Sunday morning.  Sunday School shall meet prior to the morning Worship Service and will begin with united fellowship for all present in the Sanctuary prior to individual class attendance for the lesson.

B.   The Church shall observe the Lord's Supper during the morning Worship Service the first Sunday of each month in the quarters of each year (January, April, July and October).

C.   All baptisms are conducted as a worship service to be witnessed by the congregation on the Lord’s Day or on special occasions as designated by the Pastor and Baptismal Committee.

D.   Each Wednesday evening, the Church shall hold a regular midweek prayer and devotional service.

 E.   Special/seasonal services shall be called by the Pastor and church leadership as needed to observe seasonal obligations or spiritual needs of the congregation (crisis, prayer, etc).

 ARTICLE II

MEETINGS

SECTION 1.  REGULAR BUSINESS MEETINGS

 A.   The Church shall have a regular business meeting (hereinafter known as Conference)      

once per quarter on the second Sunday night of January, April, July, and October. On the recommendation of the Deacons the Conference can be moved one week forward or back if there are unusual scheduling problems. A minimum of two weeks notice will be given.

B.   At the Conference all minutes from the preceding Quarter will be presented by the Church Clerk, followed by reports from the Treasurers, Finance Committees, Sunday School Director, WMU Director, Elected Committees and other organizations of Special Committees.  All Church business shall be transacted at this business meeting.  Minutes of the meeting will be made available to the church within a few weeks after the conference.

 C.   The Chairman of Deacons will preside as the Moderator for the Conference.  In his absence, the Vice-Chairman of Deacons will preside.  In both their absences, the Secretary of Deacons will preside.  Should all three of these persons be absent, the Deacon present with the most tenure shall preside.

D.   All active members of the church shall be entitled to vote in the church conference, each member being entitled to one vote. Any voting member present may make motions, unless otherwise designated in these procedures and according to Robert’s Rules of Order, or discuss motions, upon recognition by the moderator.

 SECTION II.  CALLED BUSINESS MEETINGS

 A.   Business matters which should be handled with more urgency than quarterly business should be handled in a called business meeting or Called Conference.  A Called

     Conference will be scheduled by the Deacons and will be communicated in the bulletin and other means at least two (2) weeks prior to the Called Conference.  The communication will specify date, time, and items to be discussed.  The Called Conference will be limited only to the items which have been stated as needing discussions and resolution.

 B.   Should there be a Called Conference which will follow the morning Worship Service, it will commence only after a five (5) minute break when the Worship Service has ended, thereby allowing those who wish to leave to do so.

 Emergency Business Meetings may be called by the Pastor or the Deacon body or the Chairman of the Deacons for the purpose of transaction of emergency matters.  An emergency is any event that needs action taken immediately such as fire, wind, and lightning damage, death of the pastor, etc.

 SECTION III.  OTHER MEETINGS

 All other meetings of the Church or of an authorized group within the Church shall be set according to the needs of the congregation.  If possible, those members involved should be notified at least one (1) week prior to the meeting.

 SECTION IV.  QUORUM

 The number of members of this Church required to be present to transact Church Business is at least 30 members.  In the absence of a quorum, the assembly shall have the power to adjourn to a date fixed by said assembly.

 SECTION V. PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE

 All business conferences of the church shall be conducted in accordance with the guiding rule and principles set forth in Robert’s Rules of Order Revised.

 ARTICLE III

MEMBERSHIP

 SECTION 1.  ADMISSION

 Any person may offer himself as a candidate for membership in this church.  All such persons may present themselves to the church body at any regular worship service in one of the following ways:

A.   Profession of Faith: Members of the Church shall be persons who confess Jesus Christ to be their Savior and Lord, and promise to live a Christian life, and have been baptized by immersion, with the exception of those who may be physically unable to be baptized, whereby they may be received into this Church on profession of faith.

B. By promise of a Letter: By profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, a statement of prior believer's baptism by immersion, and the promise of a letter stating membership in another church of like faith and order;

C. By statement:  By statement of prior conversion experience and believer's baptism by immersion and acceptance of our statement of faith when no letter is obtainable.

D. By restoration and rededication.

At the time of their request for membership, persons received in any of the prescribed ways will be welcomed and acknowledged as candidates by the church.

 Candidates will be promptly scheduled for counseling by the pastor, or any staff minister or deacon delegated by him, to determine that candidates:

   a. Have made a genuine profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord;

   b. Have been or will be baptized by immersion;

   c. Subscribe to the covenant of this church;

   d. Understand the doctrines and practices subscribed to by this church; and

   e. Believe that membership in this church is God's will.

 Once the counseling is complete the Membership Committee (which consists of the pastor and deacon body) will bring the recommendation to the church body at the next worship service. A motion will be made for each individual candidate and will be accepted by a majority vote. The candidate will then become a member of good standing.

 SECTION II.  TERMINATION

 D. Exclusion by action of this church. (Should a member become an offense to the church and its good name by reason of immoral or unchristian conduct, or by persistent breach of his covenant vows, or nonsupport of the church, the church may terminate his membership by a three-fourths vote of those present and voting at a regular or called church conference, but only after due notice and hearing, and after faithful efforts have been made to bring such member to repentance and amendment.)

    Reference Matthew Chapter 18, v. 15-17.

 SECTION III. INACTIVE MEMBERS

 A. Members who cease to attend and support the church (except those who have extenuating circumstances are physically unable to attend due to health, college, military service, etc.) for over a year will be put on an inactive roll. These members will be contacted by the Deacons seeking to resolve any issues and encouraging them to become involved again.  If said members refuse to attend, they will be put on the inactive list and a letter will be sent by the Deacons informing them of this action.

B. Members on the inactive list may not vote nor receive the benefits active members receive.  If a request for the transfer of membership is received the letter will be granted with a note that such person was on the church inactive rolls and the church supports the candidate in joining another church.

C.  All active and inactive membership roles will be reviewed annually by the Deacons at their January meeting.

 SECTION IV.  DUTIES

A. On considering the duties involved, members are expected first of all to be faithful in all the duties essential to the Christian life and to attend regularly the services of the Church.  Members should also contribute regularly and systematically of their material substance, as the Lord has prospered them, to the support of their Pastor, the necessary running expenses of the Church, the benevolent and missionary institutions of the Baptist General Association of Virginia and the Southern Baptist Convention.

B. New members are highly encouraged to go through the New Member Course.

C. Only active members may participate in the teaching ministries, hold an office, and vote in the transactions of the Church.

D. Any member accepting a position as a Church officer, Sunday School officer or Committee member should communicate with and assist other Church officers or members as needed for the positive progress of this Church.

E. To be chosen as an Officer or be on a Committee is more than an honor; it is a ministry that honors God.

F.  Any member or person volunteering to accept a position requiring them to work with children from ages Nursery through Youth Group must undergo a mandatory background check, giving references of past experience and filling out the church’s confidential Volunteer Information Form.  The Pastor will maintain and guarantee the confidentiality of all forms.

ARTICLE IV

OFFICERS

SECTION I.  ORDAINED OFFICERS

The Church shall have two types of ordained officers: Pastor and Deacon.

 SECTION II. PASTOR

A. Election

 If the Church is without a pastor, a Pastor Selection Committee, consisting of five (5) members shall be recommended to the Church by the Deacons.  The Committee shall seek out a minister of the gospel whose Christian character and qualifications fit him for the office of Pastor of this Church.  The Committee shall bring only one name at a time for consideration, and no consideration will be given to anyone who is not first recommended by the Pastor Selection Committee.  Election shall be ballot with an affirmative vote of three-fourths (3/4) of those present and voting, necessary for a call.  Should the one recommended by the Committee fail to receive the necessary three fourths (3/4) vote, the Committee will be instructed to seek out another, and the meeting shall be adjourned without debate.

The call of the Pastor shall take place at a meeting especially set for that purpose, of which at least two (2) week's notice has been given the membership.  The provisions of employment, such as salary, benefits, educational needs, etc., shall be mutually agreed upon in writing in the form of a covenant by the Pastor and the Church.

 B. Duties

A The Pastor will serve the Church until the relationship is dissolved at the request of either the Pastor or the Church.  In either case, the Pastor or the Church can terminate the relationship at any time with thirty (30) days written notice with both Pastor and the Church seeking to follow the will of God and the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

    1. The Pastor shall have charge of the welfare and oversight of the Church; he shall be ex-officio member of all organizations, departments, and Committees; he may call a special meeting of the Deacons or any Committee according to procedure which may be set forth in the By-Laws; he shall conduct religious services on stated and special occasions, administer the ordinances, minister to members of the Church community, and perform other duties that usually pertain to that office; he shall have a special charge of the pulpit ministry of the Church, provide for pulpit supply when he is absent, and arrange for workers to assist in revival meetings and other special services.

    2. The Pastor may hold one (1) revival away from the Church each year, and be away on Sunday for this revival.  If possible, the Pastor shall notify the Deacons at least thirty (30) days in advance of the revival meeting.  In his absence from the Church, the Pastor shall furnish the supply. 

   3. When budgeted, the Church will offer to send the Pastor to the Southern Baptist Convention and to the Baptist General Association of Virginia (BGAV).

 SECTION III.  DEACONS

 A. Election

 The Deacons shall consist of at least nine (9) members who shall be elected individually by secret ballot by the Church for a three (3) year term, with one third (1/3) of the number elected each year.  The number of deacons serving can be adjusted according to the needs of the congregation as recommended by the deacon body. After the completion of the term to which elected, no Deacon shall be eligible for reelection until after a lapse of one (1) year.  (Ref. Deacon Selection Committee, Art.VI Sect.1 Para.P)

 B. Qualifications

 For a person to qualify as a Deacon he must have first proved himself to be sound in doctrine, loyal to the practice and works of this church, a tither, pure in speech, and exemplary in deportment.  The person must possess the practical and spiritual qualifications as set forth in the New Testament (Reference 1 Timothy 3, Titus 1, and Acts 6) and must have been an active member for at least three years.

 C. Duties

 The Deacons shall use scripture for their guide as recorded in God's Word, and the leadership of the Holy Spirit to lead them as they serve.  Deacons shall seek to promote evangelism in visitation of the members and prospective members.  The Deacons shall attend Church meetings and preaching services unless hindered because of work, health, or other extenuating circumstances.

    1. First they are to be zealous to guard the unity of the spirit within the Church and the bonds of peace.

    2. They shall serve as a council of advice and confer with the Pastor.  They are to consider and formulate plans for the constant effort and progress of the Church in all things pertaining to the saving of souls, the development of Christians, and the extension and growth of the Kingdom of God, by proper organization and method among themselves.

   3. They are to establish and maintain personal fraternal relations in the oversight of all the membership of the Church, seeking to know the physical needs, as well as the moral and spiritual struggles of the church body, serving the whole membership as servant leaders.

   4. In council with the Pastor and by such methods as the Holy Spirit may direct in accordance with the Holy Scriptures, they are to have oversight of the discipline of the Church.  They are to be guided always by the principles set forth in Matthew 18:15-17, I Corinthians 5:9-13, and Galatians 6:1. 

   5. The Deacons shall serve as a general Pulpit Committee in case of the absence of or inability of the Pastor, subject to advice from and conference with him.

   6. In any period when the Church is without a Pastor, the Deacons shall assist any Committee that asks for their service or advice and administer the local Benevolent Fund provided for in the Church budget.

   7. They shall assist the Pastor in administering the Lord's Supper.

    8. The Deacons shall choose their own chairman and other officers each year.

    9. The Deacons will recommend for approval of the Church a Pastor Selection Committee whenever a vacancy occurs or because of the departure of the Pastor.  They will recommend a minimum of five (5) members for this Committee.

   10. The Deacons shall have the option of funding a training session from either the  

 Virginia Baptist Mission Board or other means which shall help in their ministry in the Church.

      11. The Deacons shall in January of each year be ordained and/or installed in a Sunday morning worship service by the Pastor.

   12. The Chairman of Deacons (Moderator of the Church Conference) shall serve on the Budget Committee.

   13. The Deacons will be responsible for ensuring that the Constitution and By-Laws of  Sedley Baptist Church are active and properly executed.   

   14. The Deacons will serve as the Membership Committee to counsel people who request  to join the church and present them as candidates for membership at the following  worship service.

   15. The Deacons shall constitute the Pastor Church Relations Committee and will be responsible for unity within the Church. Should friction occur between the Church member(s) and the Pastor, the Deacons will intervene to seek resolution of the  problem and reconciliation of all parties involved.

 ARTICLE V

ELECTED OFFICERS

SECTION I. TRUSTEES

A. Elected

Trustees, consisting of any number of persons as recommended by the Church and elected by legal procedure, shall serve for life, so long as they are active, resident members.

 B.  Duties

 The Trustees shall be charged with the duty of executing such legal documents as may be required by law and other documents that may be required from time-to-time, which shall be empowered and decided by the Church.  The Trustees shall see that adequate insurance is maintained on all Church properties.  They shall have no power to buy, sell or mortgage, lease or transfer any property without specific vote of the Church authorizing such action.

 The Trustees will select a person or persons to perform an audit of the Treasurer's books each year.  The audit will be completed by March 1st of the following year and reported to the second quarterly conference (April). One member will serve on the Budget Committee.

 SECTION II. CHURCH OFFICERS

Only Church members shall be elected to serve as Church and/or Sunday School officers or teachers.

 A. Church Clerk

The Church Clerk will be elected annually by the Church and is to attend the business meetings of the Church and will record the transactions of those meetings.   Minutes for the meetings will be made available to church members within the month following the meeting and will be made available in writing to all present at each conference.  This duty will include keeping a full set of reports and minutes for past years as well as current records.  The Clerk will compile and prepare the Annual Church Profile, and will correspond with other Churches when letters of transfer of membership are requested for members.  Likewise, the Clerk shall write to other Churches to request letters of transfer for people uniting with this Church on promise of a letter.  This person will  also handle other Church correspondence (letters) at request of any Church Officers needing such assistance.  The Clerk shall preserve all papers and valuable letters and records that belong to the Church.  It shall be the duty of the Clerk to see that an accurate roll of Church membership is kept.  The Church Clerk will also, at the end of each calendar year, see that the copies of the official records of the Church are sent to the Virginia Baptist Mission Board in Richmond for microfilming and safekeeping.  An Assistant Clerk will help the Clerk as needed and perform the duties of the Clerk in the Clerk's absence.

 B. Church Treasurer

The Church Treasurer will be elected annually and duties will be as follows:  to assist in the counting of monies collected during Worship Service and totaling of same with the Sunday School offering.  The Treasurer, along with a competent church member, will see that offerings received from each Sunday, except the 5th Sunday, are accurately counted and deposited into the General Funds Account.  This Treasurer will pay all bills as dictated by the Church Budget unless otherwise directed by the Church Conference.  This includes all items relating to the Pastor's salary and benefits, the Cooperative Program contributions, and any monies designated for missions.  The Treasurer will maintain accurate bookkeeping records pertaining to receipts, payments, and deposits of monies in the General Fund.  This Treasurer will prepare and make a report to the Quarterly Church Conference and keep books available for audit as required by the Church as well as provide statistical information to the Church Clerk to be included in the Annual Church Profile.  Should the Treasurer be unable to fulfill any duty or duties listed above, the Treasurer will arrange for the Assistant Treasurer or another competent Church member to fill in any capacity.  The Church Treasurer is also a standing member of the Budget Committee.

 C. Building Fund Treasurer

 The Building Fund Treasurer elected annually shall be responsible for paying costs associated with repairs and/or additions that are approved by the Church.  This Treasurer will assist in the counting of monies collected during the Worship Service the 5th Sunday of each month and totaling of same with the Sunday School offering and deposit in the Building Fund Account.  This Treasurer will prepare and make a report to the Quarterly Church Conference and keep books available for audit as required by the Church as well as provide statistical information to the Church Clerk to be included in the Annual Church Profile.  Should any monies be donated to the Building Fund, then the Building Fund Treasurer shall be responsible for providing the donor a receipt and thank-you letter.  The Assistant Building Fund Treasurer will perform duties for the Treasurer as needed and perform the duties of the Treasurer in the Treasurer's absence.

D. Financial Secretary

 The Financial Secretary shall be elected annually.  The Secretary shall receive all empty collection envelopes after the money has been removed and counted by the person selected, and from these shall give every donor individual credit in some record system.  The envelopes should be filed for one year.  The Secretary shall be responsible for getting out any reports as requested by an individual or by the Church.  The Financial Secretary will make a report to the Quarterly Church Conference as well as provide statistical information to the Church Clerk to be included in the Annual Church Profile.  The Financial Secretary is also a standing member of the Budget Committee.

  E. Sunday School Superintendent

 The Sunday School Superintendent is elected annually.  The Superintendent will be responsible to the Church for the organization and operation of the Sunday School, including ordering of literature quarterly and shall have general supervision of and oversee various departments so that its objective of giving each member Bible instruction may be accomplished.  The Superintendent shall be responsible for making a report at the Quarterly Church Conference.  The Sunday School Superintendent is a standing member of the Budget Committee and Nominating Committee.  An Assistant Sunday School Superintendent will help the Sunday School Superintendent as needed and perform the duties of the Superintendent in the Superintendent's absence.

F. WMU Director

 The WMU Director elected annually shall have charge of all Missionary work of the women, and children of the Church.  She shall report to the Church at each Quarterly Church Conference and is responsible for providing statistical information to the Church Clerk to be included in the Annual Church Profile.  The WMU Director is a standing member of the Budget Committee.

 G. Choir Director

 The Adult Choir Director, elected annually, shall be charged with the responsibility of providing worshipful music for all services of the Church, and shall have general oversight and direction of the music.  The Director is to direct the choir in its practice and public singing, and is to cooperate with the organist/pianist and choir members in the selection of suitable music and the devising of appropriate programs for all occasions where such services are needed.

 H. Youth Choir Director

The Youth Choir Director, elected annually, shall be charged with the responsibility of providing worshipful music for the youth with the organist/pianist.  The Director shall have oversight and direction of the music that is performed by the youth.

 I. Children's Choir Director

The Children's Choir Director, elected annually, shall be charged with the responsibility of providing worshipful music for the children with the organist/pianist.  The Director shall have oversight and direction of the music that is performed by the children.

 J. Organist/Pianist

These officers are elected on an annual basis shall consist of any number of musicians to adequately provide the musical needs for the Church.  If unable to provide the music on the assigned date, then it will be their responsibility to provide for a replacement or contact the Choir Director for assistance.  This includes Sunday services and special services.  If an outside musician has been requested, then it will be the responsibility of a Choir Director to assist the outside person with the availability of the Church and key to the organ.

    1.    Worship Service

         a. Arrive at least fifteen (15) minutes prior to the beginning of the worship service.

         b. Begin playing a prelude of choice approximately five (5) minutes before the service is to begin.

         c.    Help select hymns for the congregation to sing.

         d. End the service with a postlude of choice.

    2.    Adult, Youth and Children's Choirs

 Under the direction of the Choir Director, the musician shall provide the music for the choirs to perform at the time specified including practice sessions and will help as necessary with the selection of music to be performed as requested.

 N. Associational Messengers

Messengers shall be elected annually to represent the Church at the Associational meetings. The number of messengers is based on the number of members of the church. There are to be two messengers for the first 100 members and one messenger for each additional hundred members or fraction thereof.  The Pastor and Lay Representative on the Executive Committee also serve as messengers by virtue of their position. The maximum allowed messengers is nine.

 O.  Associational Executive Committee Lay Representative

 Lay Representative shall be elected annually to represent the Church at the Blackwater Baptist Association Executive Committee meetings and shall be a messenger to the Association.  The Representative shall provide associational information to the Church at the Quarterly Church Conference.  If unable to attend any meeting scheduled, the Associational Executive may select an Associational Messenger to attend in his place.

 ARTICLE VI

COMMITTEES

 SECTION 1.  COMMITTEES

 A. Building and Grounds Committee

This Committee shall be elected annually and shall consist of a minimum of five (5) members.  It shall supervise the beautification and upkeep of all Church property.  This Committee shall maintain an active inventory record of all tangible assets of the Church.  It shall be the duty of this Committee to supervise all work and repairs of the Church building, parsonage, grounds and equipment and shall head up an Annual Work and Fellowship Day for all Church members to be able to participate. Approval must be given by a Building and Grounds member for any cosmetic changes (such as painting, adding or deleting furniture inside or outside the church) or to borrow any Church property.  The Custodian, Utility and Lawn Care persons of the Church shall be employed and supervised by the Building and Grounds Committee on behalf of the church.

 B. Flowers and Decorating Committee

 This Committee shall consist of a minimum of two (2) members elected annually.  Its duties shall be to send flowers at the expense of the Church upon the death of any member of the Church; also, to supervise and decorate for any special services where decorations may be required, such as Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, Revival and Homecoming.

 C. Vacation Bible School Director and Assistants

 These members elected annually shall be responsible for planning the Church's Vacation Bible School, including the selection of materials, suitable date, place, and faculty.

D. Usher Committee

 This Committee shall consist of at least two (2) persons as elected on an annual basis.  The Chairman shall be responsible for selecting a sufficient number of ushers as to be able to carry out the function of the Church including special services.  The Vice Chairman will carry out these responsibilities when the Chairman is unavailable. The duties of the Ushers are to attend to the seating of the congregation, provide welcome packets to visitors, receive offerings, and do what is needed to add to the comfort of those attending any service.  A count of the people attending the worship service and of those in classes shall be made. Each member should be selected with care, good appearance, elected with dignity, and trained by the Chairman.  Should an Usher be unable to serve on the date assigned, he should either find a replacement or notify the Chairman.

 E. Newsletter Committee

 The Newsletter Committee is elected annually and shall consist of an Editor and any number of persons in order to adequately communicate the events of the Church in a monthly newsletter.  All information to be included in the Newsletter shall be provided no later than the 20th of each month or any other date as established by the Editor.  The Editor shall be responsible for ensuring that all information gathered by members on the Committee is professionally related in the Newsletter.  Duties consist of collecting information, writing articles, typing, keeping an updated name/address mailing list, and the necessary duties of ensuring that the Newsletter is folded, stapled, and sorted for mailing in a timely manner.  Persons on this Committee should be prompt and dedicated in getting information to other Church members as well as being able to communicate with other Church Officers and Church members.  Also, this Committee, at their discretion, shall be responsible for giving adequate publicity to matters in the total program of the Church which are newsworthy.

 F. Marquee Maintenance

 This Committee is elected annually and shall consist of one (1) person who will be responsible for changing the messages on the marquee regularly and general maintenance.  Should repairs be required, this Committee will advise the Building and Grounds Committee of the needs.

G. Social Committee

 This Committee is elected on an annual basis and shall have the responsibility to give general supervision over the use and care of the kitchen and the equipment in it.  They shall recommend to the Church the purchase of any items for the kitchen.  The Social Committee shall also supervise and make arrangements for any church-wide dinners or similar or special activities such as Mother's Day and Father's Day Breakfasts.  The Social Committee's duties will also include the arrangement of room and meals of visiting preachers and workers in the Church.

 H. Baptismal Committee

 The Baptismal Committee is elected annually and it shall be the duty of this Committee, composed of a minimum of two (2) ladies and two (2) men, to help with the preparation of and assist the Pastor and candidates with the ordinance.

I. Handbook Committee

 The Handbook Committee is elected annually and shall consist of a Chairman and any number of persons in order to adequately produce a yearly Church Handbook.  This Handbook shall consist of the current membership listing, officers, and Committees of the Church, Sunday School, WMU, calendar of events, and any other pertinent information that would benefit the members of Sedley Baptist Church.  This Handbook should be completed and distributed in January of each year.

 J. Nominating Committee

 The Nominating Committee shall be elected annually at the January Quarterly Church Conference for a term of one (1) year and shall consist of a minimum of four (4) members of whom one (1) shall be the Sunday School Superintendent and three (3) Church members at large.  This Committee shall have the responsibility of nominating persons to serve as Sunday School Officers in Sunday School to be presented in writing at the July Church Conference and distributed to all present. In October, this Committee shall have the responsibility of nominating persons to serve as Church officers, and members of Committees. Throughout the year the Committee shall nominate persons to serve in positions vacated from time-to-time by removal, death, expiration of term of office, or failure to function.  WMU shall elect their officers with the exception of the Director.  The Nominating Committee will be responsible to advise each nominated member of their responsibilities and the Volunteer Information Form.

 K. Memorial Plaque

This Committee shall consist of one (1) or more person(s) elected annually who will have names of members and their children who have become deceased engraved in a timely manner on a brass plaque, which hangs in the Church Fellowship Hall.  Should the existing plaque become filled with names, this Committee has full authority to purchase an additional plaque at the Church's expense.

 L.   Recording Ministry Committee

 The Recording Ministry Committee elected on an annual basis shall consist of any number of persons in order to control the sound system, record the worship services, maintain all sound and video equipment, make sure the speakers receive  microphones with fresh batteries,  make available copies of all recordings and store in the church media center, and deliver recordings to shut-ins.  This Committee should work closely with the Pastor to help determine to whom the recordings should be delivered.

M. Local Ministry Committee (Charity Committee)

 The Local Ministry Committee is elected annually and shall consist of a minimum of five (5) members.  This committee performs acts of benevolence and serves as a special needs committee as deemed appropriate and necessary.  The committee will evaluate needs requests from members and non-members and determine appropriate action.  This committee is primarily funded from individual contributions and other means as decided by the committee and/or the church.

N. Deacon Selection Committee

 The Church will select the Deacon Selection Committee during the second (April) Quarterly Church Conference.  It will consist of three (3) active members in good standing who have been members of Sedley Baptist Church for a minimum of three (3) years.  They will determine and review the eligible candidates for Deacon and from this list will nominate three (3) candidates at the fourth (October) Quarterly Church Conference.  If any Deacon position becomes vacant during the term of said Committee, it will be their duty to provide a new nominee to the Church for approval.

 O. Youth Committee

The Youth Committee shall be elected by the Church annually and shall consist of at least two (2) members.  The purpose for this Committee shall be to plan and direct monthly or bimonthly meetings for youth, ages 11 - 18, which will, at least in part, include Bible studies and/or religious-related activities for the youth in order to encourage and promote their spiritual growth and fellowship as Christians.

P. Christmas Program Committee

 This Committee elected annually shall consist of three (3) members to select, plan and implement a Christmas program on a date specified by the Church.

Q. Preschool Committee

 This Committee, elected annually, will consist of at least three members to oversee and coordinate the work within the preschool department and to enlist workers to serve in the nursery and preschool class during the worship services.  The committee will consist of at least one teacher from the nursery and older preschool classes and the Extended Teaching Class Coordinator.  

Extended Teaching Class (ETC) is for the preschoolers and is a continuation of the Sunday School during the worship services using materials in the Leaders Guide.  Nursery children are from birth to two years old. Preschoolers are from age 3- 5 years old. 

This committee will work with the church to establish preschool department guidelines dealing with cleaning, procedures, personnel, safety and security and that the guidelines are carried out.   The committee will assure that at least two approved adult workers are in each class to help prevent any kind of abuse or rumors of abuse while children are in their care.

This Committee is responsible for making sure there are sufficient numbers of approved adults present each Sunday or for special services for the number of children present.   The committee is also responsible for the children’s health by assuring the cleanliness of the Preschool Department

R. Funeral Reception Committee

 This committee is responsible for planning and organizing receptions related to funerals and memorial services as requested by church family members.

 S. Bulletin Committee

 This committee has a minimum of four members whose responsibility is to prepare the bulletin for Sundays and special occasions as requested.  Typically, one person types and three people share the copying.

 T. Website Committee

 This committee has a minimum of two members, a primary and backup, whose responsibility is to maintain the church website with current and appropriate information. 

     U. Budget Committee

 The Budget Committee shall consist of the Church Moderator (who will serve as Chairman), the Church Treasurer, the Finance Secretary, the Sunday School Superintendent, a trustee, a building and grounds committee member, and the WMU Director.  This Committee shall yearly prepare the Church budget and present the proposed budget at the fourth (October) Quarterly Church Conference for the upcoming year for approval by the Church.  Each Committee shall have the opportunity to submit requests for needed funds for its operation to the Chairman of the Budget Committee prior to the budget planning meeting.

 ARTICLE VII

EMPLOYEES

All employees of the church are required to undergo a mandatory background check and submit an application for employment along with the church’s confidential Volunteer Information Form to be completed expeditiously. Employment may not commence until all documents are submitted to the Pastor and approved by the Deacons.

 The following are hired positions employed and supervised by the Building and Grounds Committee. These employees will be compensated an amount designated in the Church Budget.

 A. Custodian

 The custodian is responsible to clean the church buildings and collect and dump the trash weekly.  The floors are to be cleaned/vacuumed, furniture dusted or cleaned as needed, chairs and tables straightened, hymnbooks put back into the racks on the backs of the pews, old bulletins removed from the pews, floors, and hymnbooks, and do whatever else may be needed to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the church facilities.

 B.  Utility Person

The Utility Person is responsible for setting the thermostats throughout the Church Buildings early Sunday mornings so that the temperatures will be comfortable when the Church gathers for Sunday School and Worship services.

C. Lawn Care

The Lawn Care Person is responsible for keeping the church grounds neat as set by the guidelines of the Building and Grounds Committee.

  

ARTICLE VIII

MISCELLANEOUS

A. The Church Administrative year shall be from January 1 to December 31.  The Sunday School Year will be from September 1, to August 31.

B. At the request of homebound Church members, the Pastor and/or Deacon(s) may administer the Lord's Supper to those members.

 C.  A calendar of Church activities will be kept on the Bulletin Board in the Church Fellowship Hall.  Members wishing to schedule time for use of the Church may use this calendar to do so.

 ARTICLE IX

CHURCH POLICIES IN EFFECT

A.    SCHEDULING EVENTS AND USE OF FELLOWSHIP HALL

B.    KITCHEN RULES

C.    USE OF SANCTUARY

D.    PARSONAGE RULES

E.    CHURCH VAN USE POLICY

F.    ETC. ETC.

ARTICLE X

ADOPTION AND AMENDMENTS

 These By-Laws  may be amended or repealed or altered by a majority vote of the members present at any regular business meeting of the Church provided, however, that all proposal of such amendments, alteration or repeals shall be given in writing at the preceding regular business meeting of the Church.  All questions of order not provided for shall be decided in accordance with Robert's Rules of Order.

ARTICLE XII

EFFECT

 The adoption of these By-Laws will affect a repeal of all previously adopted rules.  A copy of the By-Laws will be available in the clerk's record for future reference.  Official Church copies are to be maintained and kept in the Church's safety deposit box and a copy forwarded to the Virginia Baptist Mission Board.  A copy of the By-Laws shall be made available to all Church members.

 BY-LAWS REVISION COMMITTEE

 

Cecilia Burgess

Hoyle Green

Linda Simmons

Warren Simmons

Linda White (Clerk)

James Foreman, Pastor

Approved at the October, 2009 Quarterly Church Conference