Metrolpolitan Community Church of Our Redeemer
Augusta, Georgia
By-Laws
Church of Our Redeemer serving the Central Savannah River Area in South Carolina and Georgia
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Article I - NAME
The Corporation shall be know as the Metropolitan Community Church of Our Redeemer, Inc., Augusta, GA (Appendix A/Articles of Incorporation), hereafter referred to as MCCOR.
Article II - AFFILIATION, SUCCESSION, AND COMPLIANCE
A. Metropolitan Community Church of Our Redeemer, Inc., Augusta, GA (hereafter referred to as MCCOR) is a Non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation which is an affiliate of the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches, Inc. (hereafter referred to as
UFMCC) as that fellowship is incorporated under the laws of the State of California.
B. As an affiliate of the UFMCC, MCCOR ascribes to the most current by-laws and Standard Operating Procedures of the UFMCC and Gulf Lower Atlantic District (GLAD)
C. These MCCOR by-laws are written to be in compliance with the most recent By-laws of UFMCC and the most recent Church Status Standards and Procedures of GLAD.
D. Any MCCOR By-law or amendment in conflict with an UFMCC By-law or GLAD procedure is superseded by the UFMCC By-law or GLAD Procedure.
E. In the events of dissolution of MCCOR, the successor Corporation shall be UFMCC.
Article III - MISSION STATEMENT
The Metropolitan Community Church of Our Redeemer is a Christian Community extending God’s inclusive love by affirming hope, healing and spiritual growth through worship, discipleship, outreach, and fellowship.
Article IV - STATEMENT OF FAITH AND CORE VALUES
The MCCOR teaches the Statement of Faith contained in by-laws of the UFMCC (Article III) We acknowledge that these traditional and historical statements of Christianity are understood through varied cultural understandings and experience; therefore we accept and celebrate spiritual diversity.
UFMCC CORE VALUES
1. Priesthood of All Believers (1 Peter 2:5-10): UFMCC is committed to mutual collaboration between laity and clergy in ministry
2. The Lost Coin, Sheep, and Child (Luke 15):UFMCC recognizes the inherent value and dignity of each person.
3. Love One Another (John 13:34-35): UFMCC is committed to expressing love for one another by encouraging each individual to develop high self-esteem, being a servant to one another, and showing respect to each person.
4. Not Ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:16): UFMCC is committed to boldness in proclamation and excellence in ministry.
5. Go Into All The World (Matthew 28:19-20): UFMCC is passionately committed to reaching all people with the Good News.
6. Run the Race (Hebrews 12:1-2): UFMCC ministers with persistent and enduring faith.
7. House of Prayer for All People (Isaiah 56:7): UFMCC ministry in every arena reflects a commitment to justice and inclusivity, nondiscrimination, and equal access by and opportunity for all.
8. Being Good Stewards (1 Peter 4:10): UFMCC wisely utilizes the gifts God has given to us.
9. Created in God's Image (Genesis 1:27): UFMCC is committed to each person's growth toward wholeness in body, mind, and spirit, and full integration of spirituality and sexuality.
Article V-MEMBERSHIP
A. A candidate for membership of MCCOR shall have completed a required course of instruction in the beliefs and doctrines of the Church, with the amount, type and duration of the instruction determined by the Pastor/Pastoral Leader, shall have affirmed publicly the Rite of Membershipbefore the local congregation at any regular worship service, and shall be a baptized Christian
(Appendix E-Membership materials).
B. In mitigating circumstances the Pastor/Pastoral Leader, with the approval of the Board of Directors (hereafter referred to as “Board”), may waive one or several requirements for membership.
C. Membership Classes
1. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall be responsible for maintaining a written course outline for membership classes, including but not limited to:
a. History of UFMCC and MCCORb. UFMCC and MCCOR Statements of Faith and Mission Statementsc. Government, Organization, and Officers (polity at Local, District, and Denomination Level)d. Inclusive language, and other strengths of UFMCC.e. Sacraments and Ritesf. Expectations of Membershipg. Rite of Membership2. Membership classes can be taught by anyone approved by Pastor/Pastoral Leader.
3. Persons transferring membership from another UFMCC Church shall attend courses of instruction unique to MCCOR.
4. Membership classes shall be scheduled at least one per quarter at a designated time and place which shall be announced in Church calendar/bulletin.
5. All new members shall be provided with a copy of the most recent UFMCC By-laws and the most recently amended by-laws and Standard Operating Procedures of MCCOR.
6.. New members will be asked to sign a release permitting their inclusion in the Church directory.
D. Voting members are persons who are at least sixteen years of age and are in good standing.
E. Expectations of Members
MEMBERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO1. Regularly attend worship services and Congregational Meetings and register attendance.2. Consistently make financial contributions and/or in-kind donations to support the ministry of the Church.3. Serve as a member of at least (1) ministry committee.4. Support the programs, activities, and morale of the Church.F. Purging the Membership Roll
1. Every six (6) months, two (2) months before the Congregational Meetings, the Board of Directors shall review the entire membership. Any member who does not have registered attendance, identified financial support, definite service contribution, and demonstrated interest and loyalty within the preceding six months may be removed from the roll of members in good standing and placed on a list of inactive members.
2. At that time the Board of Directors shall notify the member in writing and through personal contact whenever possible that the member has been placed on such a list and is not eligible to vote at any business meeting of the Church.
3. After notification, if the member has not demonstrated further interest or loyalty for a period of one (1) year immediately following , the Board of Directors shall have the authority, at its discretion, to drop any such member from the Church of members in
good standing.
4. The member may, after showing renewed interest for a period of two (2) months, by request, be restored to the roll of members in good standing by a vote of the Board of Directors without a public reception into membership.
5. The Board may remove a member from the roll of members in good standing and place him/her on a list of inactive members if
the Church has no current forwarding address and has not had contact with the member for at least three years. (Amended on October 26, 2003)
G. Disciples of the Church
Children, under voting age, who wish to affiliate with the Church, including those transferring to the Church shall be designated as "Disciples of the Church”, baptized children in the spiritual care of the congregation. They shall be offered a Rite of Blessing for dedication and instructed in the beliefs and doctrines of the Church. Disciples may, when deemed accountable by the Pastor/Pastoral Leader, attend regular membership classes to become a member in good standing of the Church. Disciples may not vote in Congregational Meetings, nor shall they be considered in determining the number of Lay Delegates the Church may have.
H. Friends of the Church
The Church may accept an individual as a "Friend of the Church" (UFMCC Article VII,B). who,for one reason or another, feel that they can not become regular members of the Church but who support the goals of the Church and want to be a part of the work of the Church. Such people shall be designated as " Friends of the Church." Friends may serve on appointed committees and may participate in all activities of the Church. Friends may not, however, serve on the Board of Directors and may not vote at Congregational Meetings. Friends shall not be considered in determining the number of Lay Delegates the Church may have.
I. MCCOR members may hold dual membership with other affiliations of faith.
Article VI - CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGS
The government of MCCOR is vested in its Congregational Meetings which exert the right to control its affairs, subject to the UFMCC by-laws, articles of incorporation, the general conference, and the glad conference. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader and Board of directors are authorized to provide spiritual and administrative leadership in the church.
A. Congregational Meetings are held during biannually in October and April (normally on the last Sunday of the month) to elect officers, receive reports, adopt a budget, and conduct any other appropriate business. All Congregational Meetings shall be open meetings; anyone present may address the assembly. In order to transact business no less than 20% of the members in good
standing must be present.
B. The Board of Directors shall set the proposed agenda, date and location of biannual Congregational Meetings. An item must be placed on the agenda by the Pastor/Pastoral Leader, the Board, or by written request of twenty-five percent (25%) of the members of the church.
C An item may be submitted to the Pastor/Pastoral Leader or Board for inclusion on the agenda up to four (4) weeks prior to the Congregational Meeting.
D. Business to be Conducted
The April Congregational Meeting shall be held for the purpose of, but is not limited to, conducting the following business: receiving of reports and review of the budget, adopting; goals for the church, contracting with the Pastor/Pastoral Leader; in odd numbered years, election of the clerk; in even numbered years, election of two of the members at large; and conducting any other business deemed necessary by the Board of directors or coming from the congregation.
The October Congregational Meeting shall be held for the purpose of, but is not limited to, conducting the following business: receiving of reports, adopting the church budget; in odd numbered years, electing a member at large, electing Lay Delegate(s), and Alternate Lay Delegate; in even numbered years, electing the treasurer; and conducting any other business deemed necessary by the Board of directors or coming from the congregation.
E. Reports
At each regularly scheduled Congregational Meeting there shall be reports from the following:
1. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader's report shall include the activities, spiritual growth and development of the church during the period being reported and articulate the vision for the future.
2. The Treasurer's report shall include presentation of the actual financial position of thechurch during the period being reported.
3. The Lay Delegate's report shall include a summary of the previous district and or general conference as well as any other areas of interest in the UFMCC.
4. The Clerk's report shall include the minutes of the previous Congregational Meeting.
F. Official notification of regular Congregational Meetings shall be distributed to each member of the Church at least two weeks in advance with a written agenda, copies of all draft proposals listed on the agenda, and reports.
G. Special meetings of the Church may be called by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the Board or by petition submitted to the Board. This petition must be signed by twenty-five percent (25%) of the 5 members listed on the roll of members in good standing. Such meetings shall be governed by the same rules as those that apply to regular Congregational Meetings. The nature and purpose of the special meeting must be stated in the petition and notices announcing the meeting. Only business included in the petition and placed on the agenda may be conducted at special meetings. The congregation shall be given at least two (2) weeks notice stating the purpose and nature of the meeting in the agenda.
H. A majority vote shall be required to carry any motion except as specified in other articles and sections of the sop or in the UFMCC bylaws. A majority is defined as more than one-half, or fifty percent (50 %) plus one (1) of those present and voting.
I. There shall be no vote by proxy or by any other form of substitute voting.
Article VII- FISCAL YEAR
The fiscal year for the Annual Operating Budget shall be from January 1 to December 31.
Article VIII - OFFICERS
The Church shall elect and employ a Pastor/Pastoral Leader, shall elect members of the Board of Directors, and shall elect a Lay Delegate and an Alternate Lay Delegate.
A. Pastor/Pastoral Leader
1. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader is that person or persons elected by the congregation to be responsible for the duties of teacher, preacher, spiritual leader, and counselor.
2. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader must be approved by the District Coordinator and the District Committee of the GLAD until the Church reaches charter status.
3. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader must be credentialed clergy in the UFMCC unless an exception is made by the District Committee of the GLAD. Exceptions will be approved for no more than one year at a time.
4. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall have the authority for ordering all worship services of the Church.
5. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall be a voting member of the Board of Directors.
6. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall serve as moderator of all Congregational Meetings and Board of Directors meetings, and shall serve Ex-Officio On All Other Boards, Committees, And Organizations Of The Church Except Pastor Search Committees.
7. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall have the option of holding a key to the church P.O. Box and in such case shall be responsible for coordinating proper mail distribution with the Clerk. (Mail to be distributed by the Sunday immediately following its receipt.)
8. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall act as personnel director of the Church staff shall have the authority to delegate such responsibilities and duties as seem wise and with the approval of the Board, determine compensation, vacation periods, and titles of office of the staff.
9. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall, with the approval of the Board of Directors, appoint assistant Pastor/Pastoral Leader(s) chairs of all ministry areas, and other personnel, uncompensated and compensated.
10. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall have the authority to hire, appoint, and if need be, dismiss or fire.
11. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall do annual evaluations on paid staff.
12. Compensation, time commitments, and any additional responsibilities, shall be agreed upon and contracted between the Board of Directors and the Pastor/Pastoral Leader. This contract must be approved at a regular or special Congregational Meeting.
Pastor/Pastoral Leader compensation shall at all times meet or exceed the minimum 6 standards found in the GLAD Church Status Standards and Procedures for the current status of the Church.
13. The Church adheres to the procedures for the termination of service of Pastor/Pastoral Leaders as specified in UFMCC By-laws (Article V.B.2.(c)) and in the Pastor/Pastoral Leader contract (Appendix C)
B. Board of Directors
1. The Board shall represent the congregation in conducting the business of the church between Congregational Meetings, and help facilitate the ministry of the Pastor/Pastoral Leader called by the Congregation in her/his efforts to lead the Church in living up to its
Mission and goals.
2. The Board of Directors shall have charge of all matters pertaining to documents of legal organization, church property, and physical and financial affairs of the Church.
3. The Board of Directors shall have the responsibility for collecting and disbursing funds, keeping adequate church records, maintaining, tracking, and following up church goals ,attending monthly Board of Directors meetings and semi-annual planning meetings, and making reports to the congregation and through the GLAD to the UFMCC. Assignment of responsibility for other specific duties shall be left to the discretion of the Board of Directors.
4. The Board shall consist of five (5) members of the Church who are in good standing, in addition to the Pastor/Pastoral Leader, who shall serve as Moderator. They shall be elected by the congregation and shall hold office for a term of two (2) years with the
exception of the Pastor/Pastoral Leader who will hold office for as long as he/she occupies the pulpit of the Church. Board of Directors members' terms shall be staggered as noted in Article IV of these by-laws.
5. The Board of Directors shall consist of a moderator, clerk, treasurer, and three (3) members at large. Each member of the Board of Directors shall have one vote with the exception of the Pastor/Pastoral Leader who shall vote only when acting as Moderator
in the case of a tie if one Board member is absent.
6. Directors shall be limited to three (3) consecutive terms. A term of less than one (1) year shall not count as a full term.
7. In the event of a vacancy, due to death resignation or removal, the remaining members of the Board shall appoint an interim Board member to serve until the next Congregational Meeting. At the next Congregational Meeting, an open election shall be held for a
replacement for the remainder of the original term.
8. Newly elected Board members shall take office immediately upon adjournment of the Congregational Meeting at which they were elected.
9. The Board of Directors shall serve as a Pastor/Pastoral Leader search committee upon the event of a Pastor/Pastoral Leader vacancy. For the purpose of its function as a Pastor/Pastoral Leader search committee, additional voting members may be appointed or elected as appropriate. Once a suitable candidate or co-Pastor/Pastoral Leader team has been chosen, the Board of Directors shall present the name(s) to the congregation at the next regular or special Congregational Meeting for approval.
10. At the first meeting following the Congregational Meeting, the Board shall select Directors to fill the following positions:
A. Vice-Moderator of the Board.1. She/he shall assume the Chair of Board and Congregational Meetings in the absence of the Moderator.2. He/she shall perform other duties as deemed appropriate by the Board, congregation or Pastor/Pastoral Leader.B. Clerk of the Board.1. He/she shall receive all petitions.2. She/he shall record, file, and dispense minutes of Congregational and Board meetings as directed by the Board.3. He/she shall keep orderly files of approved minutes and pertinent material.4. She/he shall send and receive official correspondence of the church.5. He/she shall maintain all official records of the Church within the local church, shall maintain records of attendance as well as the congregational database.6. He/she shall develop agendas for all Congregational and Board meetings and distribute them in accordance with this document.7. He/she shall have the option of holding a key to the church P.O. box and in such case shall be responsible for coordinating proper mail distribution with the Pastor/Pastoral Leader.C. Treasurer of the Board.1. He/she shall oversee all matters related to the Church Treasury.2. He/she shall chair the Finance Committee.3. He/she shall assume responsibility for compliance with Financial Standard Operating procedures adopted by the Board and approved at Congregational Meetings.4. He/she shall be responsible for the collection of all tithes, offerings, gifts, and special funds for deposit, and shall deposit or cause to be deposited all monies in such banks or other depositories as shall be selected by the Board5. He/she shall maintain tithing records of givers, prompt payment of bills in order of their budget priority, and accurate financial records.6. He/she shall prepare and distribute year end receipts of giving.7. He/she shall prepare financial reports for monthly Board meetings, semiannual Congregational meetings.8. He/she shall chair the budget committee and present a proposed budget to the October Board meeting, as well as the October (Fall) Congregational Meeting.9. CFO may appoint, with Board approval, an assistant when deemed necessary.D. Three Members at LargeThe three Members at Large shall divide these responsibilities, and others that may arise, among themselves.1. Maintain membership records, record dates, oversees visitor follow-up, oversee evangelism and outreach,2. Oversee development of long-term goals and plans for facility use,3. Oversee property matters including maintenance and liaison with landlord,4. Serve on finance committee, oversee fundraising, issues keys, oversee congregational stewardship, may hold positionof Assistant Treasurer;5. Shall report on the State of the Church at Congregational Meetings.6. Shall maintain and update annual Church calendar.7. May act as Congregational Liaison to the Board.8. May act as a Parliamentarian11. Directors are charged with the responsibility of the representing the congregation. To this end, they shall make reasonable effort to keep in touch with the needs, ideas and issues of the congregation. This shall be done through personal contact and regular attendance at services of worship and activities of the congregation.
12. The Board of Directors shall be subject to UFMCC By-laws and these standard operating procedures. All actions of the Board of Directors must be reported in its minutes which shall be posted publicly. Any action not meeting the approval of the congregation may be overturned by two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the members in good standing at a regular or special Congregational Meeting
C. Lay Delegate
The Church shall elect one (1) Lay Delegate for each one hundred (100) members in good standing or portion thereof.
A. The Lay Delegate shall be elected at the fall Congregational Meeting in odd numbered years and shall serve a two (2) year term. Any Lay member of the church in good standing shall be eligible for nomination.B. The Lay Delegate shall represent the congregation at all district and general conferences, to be informed of concerns and policies of the UFMCC and the GLAD, and to keep the congregation informed, in a timely manner, of activities, concerns and policies of the UFMCC and the GLAD. These duties shall also include presenting a report to the congregation at each regular Congregational Meeting.C. The Church shall elect one (1) Alternate Lay Delegate at the fall Congregational Meeting in odd numbered years who shall serve a two (2) year term. The Alternate Lay Delegate shall be informed of concerns and policies of the UFMCC and the GLAD. When the Lay Delegate is not able to fulfill his/her duties, the alternate Lay Delegate shall assume those duties.D. If a Lay Delegate does not fulfill a term, an elected Alternate will assume the position for the remainder of the term, and a new Alternate shall be appointed by the Board. Should the position of Alternate become vacant, a new Alternate shall be appointed by the Board. Any appointed Delegate or Alternate Delegate shall serve until the next Congregational Meeting when an election shall be held for vacant positions(s).E. The Church shall make every effort to provide some reimbursement for room accommodations and travel expenses and to pay the registration fees according to church policy for the Lay Delegate to attend UFMCC General Conference and GLAD Conference as determined in the budget.Article IX - BOARD OF DIRECTOR'S MEETINGS
A. All regular business of the Church shall be conducted in Board or Congregational Meetings. The business of the Church includes the following: financial and legal matters, issues concerning facilities, personnel matters, polity, and UFMCC and ecumenical relations.
B. The Board of Directors shall hold monthly meetings; the date and time shall be announced at least two (2) months in advance.
C. All meetings shall be open to members and friends of the church. Anyone present may address the assembly. This includes business meetings, work sessions, planning sessions, and other formal meetings, except for:
1. Meetings for membership review.2. Meetings with ethical concern issues with Board of Directors, Pastor/Pastoral Leader, or any paid staff.3. Meetings which involve filling a vacancy in Board of Directors, Pastor/Pastoral Leader any paid staff.4. Board of Directors may have an open session that leads into a closed session for the above reason.D. Roll review meetings shall be closed meetings of the Board of Directors, held for the sole purpose of reviewing and adjusting the membership roles as provided for in ARTICLE VII.D. of these standard operating procedures. No other business may be conducted at these meetings and their results, namely - the current membership roll, shall be reported at the following regular meeting
of the Board of Directors.
E. In order to transact business no less then two-thirds (2/3) of the members of the Board of Directors must be present.
F. Agenda items shall be submitted to Clerk of the Board no later than one (1) week prior to all scheduled Board meetings. Agenda items may also be added by majority approval of the Directors present during consideration of the agenda. These items shall be considered as time permits.
G. An emergency meeting may be called in the event of, but not limited to the following: Pastor/Pastoral Leader vacancy, physical damage to Church or Church property, or in matters where delay would cause fiscal or physical damage.
1. Every effort shall be made to contact all members of the Board prior to the meeting.2. In the event of emergency that demands immediate action, a conference call may substitute for a meeting.3. Minutes of emergency meeting shall be made available within two (2) weeks.Article X - DISCIPLINE
A. MCCOR will not condone disloyalty, unbecoming conduct, or dereliction of duty on the part of any members of the Board of Directors. Each Board member must be willing to abide by the UFMCC code of conduct.
The Board of Directors may remove by a majority vote of the full Board any of its members guilty of the above, with the exception of the Pastor/Pastoral Leader who must be disciplined in accordance with Article V.b2.c. Should the Board decide to consider disciplinary action the Board must notify the Board member being charged of the allegations and of the Board's intention to hold a meeting to consider the charges. The person being charged shall have the opportunity to hear all of the charges and to respond to those charges at the meeting of the Board. Any disciplinary action shall be conducted in accordance with the UFMCC By-laws.
B. A petition presented to the Board of Directors and signed by twenty-five percent (25%) of the members in good standing of the congregation, may also initiate such a procedure. This action of the Board of Directors may be subject to review by a vote of the congregation at its next regular Congregational Meeting or at a special meeting which may be called.
C. MCCOR shall not condone disloyalty, unbecoming conduct, or dereliction of duty (all as defined in the UFMCC code of conduct) on the part of any member of the church. Members may be removed from the roll by the Board as defined in UFMCC Bylaws.
D. The church shall not condone disloyalty, unbecoming conduct, or dereliction of duty on the part of any Lay Delegate or Alternate Lay Delegate of MCCOR. A Lay Delegate must be willing to abide by the UFMCC code of conduct.
E. The congregation may remove, by majority vote of those present and voting at a duly called congregational meeting, any elected or appointed volunteer. The Board, on a petition presented to the Board and signed by twenty five percent (25%) of the members, may initiate such a procedure. The Board must notify the person being charged of the allegations and the Board’s intent to call a Congregational Meeting to consider the charges. The person being charged shall have the opportunity to hear all charges and to respond to those charges at the Congregational Meeting. The vote of the congregation will be reported to the district committee for final action.
Article XII - PASTOR/PASTORAL LEADER VACANCY
In the event a Pastor/Pastoral Leader vacancy occurs by reason of resignation, termination or death, the Vice Moderator shall immediately assume the position of interim Pastor/Pastoral Leader.
A. At the next regularly scheduled Board meeting following consultation with the District Coordinator, the Vice Moderator or another member in good standing, shall be selected by the Board as interim Pastor/Pastoral Leader.
B. Within three (3) days following the meeting, the District Coordinator shall be apprised of the Board's selection and a request made that the person be formally appointed to the position of interim Pastor/Pastoral Leader.
C. Following GLAD Appointment, the interim Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall activate the Pastor/Pastoral Leader search committee at the next regularly scheduled Board meeting.
Article XIII - INDEMNIFICATION
Except as may be limited by these By-laws, MCCOR shall indemnify its officers and directors to the fullest extent permitted under Georgia law for any and all liabilities of the officers and directors arising from their relationship with MCCOR in any and all capacities. By resolution duly adopted and except as may be limited by these By-laws, the Board of Directors may authorize MCCOR to provide insurance coverage to any or all of its officers and directors against any or all risks or liabilities that such persons
may incur by virtue of their relationship with MCCOR.
Article XIV - WORSHIP SERVICES AND RITES OF THE CHURCH
A. The Church shall hold services of public worship every Sunday. Other worship services may be held as determined by the Pastor/Pastoral Leader with the approval of the Board of Directors.
B. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall be responsible for all worship services.
C. The sacrament of Holy Communion shall be offered each Sunday as well as at other worship services at the discretion of the Pastor/Pastoral Leader.
D. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader shall designate all participants in each worship service including preacher, clergy candidates, deacons, pianist/organist, readers, et al.
E. Visiting preachers/speakers may be periodically scheduled by the Pastor/Pastoral Leader.
F. Holy Baptism may be administered at any appropriate service of the Church - or at any other time - at the Pastor/Pastoral Leader's discretion.G. Other rites of the church include Ordination, Attaining Membership in the Church, Holy Union, Holy Matrimony, Funeral or Memorial service, Laying on of Hands, Blessing.
Article XV - CHURCH CIRCLES AND COMMITTEES
To facilitate the work of MCCOR, there exist various circles, and committees. These may be standing or ad hoc bodies. They shall be proposed by the Pastor/Pastoral Leader and approved by the Board of Directors. The Chairs are selected by the Pastor/Pastoral Leader with the approval of the Board from those members and friends MCCOR who have volunteered for such service. Members may be selected by the Pastor/Pastoral Leader or may volunteer. Sub-committees may be created on an as-needed basis for
special projects by the committee. The Pastor/Pastoral Leader will serve as an ex officio member of all committees and circles.
Article XVI - FINANCES
Responsibility for the financial well being of the Church rests upon the Members and Friends, both individually, through regular and generous tithes and gifts, and collectively, through responsible budgeting. It shall be the responsibility of the Board to coordinate regular Stewardship and Fund Raising efforts and the budgetary process as a way of offering support to the congregation. The finances of MCCOR shall be managed and reported in accordance with UFMCC By-laws (Article X).
A. Budget
Disbursement of funds of the Church shall be governed by a budget adopted annually by the majority vote of the congregation at the Fall Congregational Meeting. The Budget shall reflect estimated income and established categories of expenditures. The proposed Budget shall be a balanced Budget.
1. It is the responsibility of the Board with assistance of the Finance Committee to prepare a budget to be recommendedto the Congregation.A. Prior to recommending a budget, the Board must solicit budget requests for funds in such a way as to ensure departments of the Church have a fair opportunity to submit a request. All requests must be submitted to the Boardprior to the announced deadline date along with a written rationale in order to be considered. The Budget Committeewill assist the Treasurer in preparing a budget.B. The following shall be considered in preparing the budget.1.) The record of income and expenditures of the Church;2.) Vision, Mission and Values (goals and objectives) of the Church;3.) Anticipated growth;4.) Requests for funds that have been submitted;5.) Tithes and income given by Members;2. The Board shall present its final budget proposal to the congregation at the Fall Congregational Meeting called for that purpose. The Board may elect to offer a Congregational Forum for the purpose of discussing the budget prior to theCongregational Meeting.A. The proposed budget shall be reported to the Congregation, in so far as it is feasible, in monthly and annual figures.B. Notification to the Congregation of the Congregational Meeting shall be accompanied by a copy of the proposedbudget, a copy of the budget of the previous year, the total income and expenses of the previous year (whenapplicable), and other supporting documents as the Board deems necessary.C. The Fiscal Year of the Church will be from January 1 to December 31 (12 months).D. Failure to adopt a new budget at a Congregational Meeting shall cause the current budget to be extended until a budget is approved at a subsequent Congregational Meeting.3. Budget revisions should be infrequent However, the budget, its categories of income and expenditures may be amended by the Board, reflected in the minutes, and reported at the next Congregational Meeting.4. The annual Budget will be reviewed at the Spring Congregational Meeting.B. Special funds for purposes, ministries, or projects may be authorized any time by the Board. There shall be regular accounting to the Board and to the Congregational Meetings. Receipts are required for all approved reimbursements and expenditures or an approved purchase order with receipts to follow.
C. MCCOR regularly solicits special donations for a benevolence fund to assist members and friends of the Church in time of need.
1. Normally benevolence requests are made to the Pastor/Pastoral Leader, who afterconsultation with two Board members will disburse funds according to the following criteria.2. No cash donations will be made directly to the requester. Checks are to be written to the company or organization that the requester designates. Funds are normally reserved for emergency situations and provide assistance with rent, utility bills, utility deposits, automobile repairs, medical bills, etc.3. The amount of benevolence donations is at the discretion of the Pastor/Pastoral Leader and Board based upon available funds.4. There should normally be at least a six-month interval between benevolence contributions on behalf of an individual or a family.D. Special Offerings to be collected during worship services must be approved by the Board. Any special offering must be used for the approved purpose and reported in the Treasurer's Report. The Board shall be responsible for directing the use of Special Offerings should the offering not be required for its original intended purpose.
E. Designated gifts (other than bequests) are items, property, or money, which have a restriction stipulated by the donor on their use by the Church. Acceptance of a designated gift will be determined by the Board in consultation with the donor. If the Board cannot agree to the gift as designated, the donor shall retain the option to withhold the gift or change its designation.
F. Bequests are gifts of money or property donated by an individual following their death. Designated bequests have restrictions stipulated by the donor. Undesignated bequests have no restrictions and their use will be determined by the Board of Directors.
1. The Board shall be informed at the next scheduled meeting that the Church has received notification of a bequest. The Board shall determine how best to carry out any provisions of a designated bequest. The Board has the authority to accept or reject an intended bequest.2. The Board determines the dispensation of bequests.G. Church Accounts, Collections, and Disbursements
The treasurer, empowered and authorized by the Board of Directors, supervises and oversees the investment of MCCOR’s funds and reports to the Board of Directors who approve investment policy and decisions. Specific day-to-day activities including check signing are delegated to the treasurer, and to other members of the Board. At least two (2) members of the Board must sign
all checks.
1. Any proposed expenditure of funds which is not a specific line item within the budget must be approved by the Board of Directors at a duly convened meeting.2. Any function of the Church requiring payment or any expense to be incurred on behalf of the Church will be considered for approval by the Board of Directors at a duly convened meeting.3. Any committee, church group, or individual wishing to utilize church funds, must make application, using forms provided by the Board of Directors, at a duly convened meeting of the Board of Directors prior to proposed appropriation.4. All funds obtained by basket collection must be counted by two (2) persons, one of whom must be a member of the Board with tallies recorded on the appropriate form.A. The weekly offering will be counted by two (2) members of the congregation including one member of the Board. The offering will be segregated between pledges, plate and designated giving. Once the count is complete the amount in cash and checks will be logged on the appropriate weekly count form and signed and dated by both individuals.B. Pledges will receive a report at least quarterly of the pledge status.C. All loose checks (unless specifically designated for a specific fund) and loose currency shall be applied to thegeneral operating fund.D. MCCOR maintains various funds to which gifts may be designated and, on occasion, may take up a specialoffering for a worthy cause. These gifts will be segregated on a weekly count form as to the amount and purpose. Please note, that some people may give to several funds on one check. These require careful attention to detail on the weekly count form.Article XVII - CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENTS
All contracts shall be approved by the Congregation or the Board and signed by an Officer of the Corporation.
A. Contractual agreements not expressly discussed at a Congregational Meeting during the preceding twelve (12) months and requiring expenditures in excess of $2000 shall require congregational approval.
B. Expenditures for legal counsel or litigation that is contracted by the Board of Directors shall be exempted from the above requirement.
C. Contracts Initiated by Circles and Committees
1. Any designated groups or persons acting on behalf of MCCOR shall secure for Board approval a written agreement or contract for the following: facilities rental/usage, equipment rental/usage, co-sponsorship with organizations, companies and individuals; advertising; printing; public events; and copyrights.2. Any expenses and profits shared by other organizations and companies must be specified.3. Drafts of agreements and contracts shall be reviewed by the Vice-Moderator (CEO) prior to submission to the Board for approval. Those contracts requiring non-budgeted monetary advances shall be reviewed by the Treasurer (CFO) prior to submission to the Board for approval.4. The Board shall determine if liability insurance is needed for any public event sponsored or co-sponsored by MCCOR.5. Contracts up to $5000 for a pre-approved project that must be negotiated expeditiously, may be executed with verbalapproval of two (2) Board members.6. Two people, one of whom must be the Pastor/Pastoral Leader must sign all contracts.
Article XVIII -- CHURCH PROPERTY
A The Board will name a Board of Trustees for any real property acquired by the Church. The Board will recommend property use and upkeep, repair, and maintenance of the property and other duties as determined by the Board. The Board of Trustees is reportable and accountable to the Board.
B. Record of Property
The Board shall maintain a permanent record of all non-expendable items of physical property of the Church, the manner of their acquisition, the names of the donors of donated items, and the manner of their disposal. This record shall be maintained by the Clerk and kept on file at the Church office with a duplicate copy kept off site.
Article XIX - MISCELLANEOUS
A. ALCOHOL
Neither Metropolitan Community Church of Our Redeemer, Inc., Augusta, GA, nor any member or friend thereof shall serve alcohol in any form, except for sacramental purposes, at any Church function on Church premises that is advertised as such.
XX - ADOPTION AND AMENDMENTS
These standard operating procedures shall become effective when approved by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the members in good standing at a duly convened Congregational Meeting and by the District Committee of the GLAD. These standard operating procedures may be amended at any duly convened Congregational Meeting. Proposed amendments should be submitted to the Clerk of the Board of Directors in time to be placed on the published agenda. A two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the members in good standing present at the meeting shall be required to ratify any amendment.
Approved April 29, 2001
