Church Constitution

Our Church Constitution is a guide to church polity, that is, to the operation and administration of our church.  It is not equal to Scripture in any way; it attempts to reflect and follow the guidance of Scripture regarding how Jesus has commanded His church to be run, and it should be viewed in that light.

CONSTITUTION and BYLAWS
Oakton Baptist Church of Chantilly, Incorporated

PREAMBLE

For the purpose of preserving the principles of our faith and in order that this body may be governed in an orderly manner and to insure the liberties and rights belonging to each member of this church and the freedom of action of this body in its relationship to other churches of the same faith, we do declare and establish this constitution and bylaws.

ARTICLE I
NAME, PURPOSE, AND INCORPORATION

Section 1 - NAME

The name of this church shall be the Oakton Baptist Church of Chantilly, Incorporated, referred to here after as Oakton Baptist Church. It shall be associated with the Southern Baptist Convention and the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia and shall be governed by the Holy Scripture and the following articles, bylaws, and or amendments.

Section 2 - PURPOSE

The purpose of this church shall be to provide regular opportunities for public worship to sustain the ordinances, doctrines, and ethics set forth in the New Testament for the Church; to nurture its members through a program of Christian education; to channel its offerings to the support of the Redeemer’s Kingdom; and to preach and propagate among all people the Gospel of the Revelation of God through Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord.

Section 3 - INCORPORATION

This church shall be incorporated in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia governing religious bodies (so long as the laws do not conflict with teachings of the King James Version of the Holy Bible), and the handling of property shall be in accordance with such laws.

ARTICLE II
ARTICLES OF FAITH

This church adopts the Articles of Faith as presented in the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message. See Attachment A.

ARTICLE III
POLICY, DOCTRINE AND CHURCH COVENANT

Section 1 - POLICY

The government of this church is vested in the body of believers who compose it. It is subject to the control of no other ecclesiastical body, but it recognizes and sustains the obligation of mutual council and cooperation which are common among conservative Southern Baptist Churches.

Section 2 - DOCTRINE

This church has no written creed; however, it proclaims the holy Scriptures, interpreted under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, as its authority in matters of faith and practice.

Section 3 - CHURCH COVENANT

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of The Father, and The Son, and of The Holy Spirit, we do now, in the presence of God, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another as one body in Christ.

We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this church, in knowledge, holiness, and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines; to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry and expenses of the church, and to the relief of the poor, and to spread the gospel through all nations.

We also engage to maintain family and personal 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, and conducting ourselves in accordance with the teachings of God’s Holy Word regarding Christian conduct and our relationship with others in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Saviour.

We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember one another in prayer, to aid one another in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and Christian courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the rules of our Saviour to secure it without delay.

We moreover engage that when we move from this church fellowship 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 IV
ORDINANCES

Section 1

The Ordinances of this church shall be Baptism by immersion and the Lord’s Supper.

Section 2

The Lord’s Supper shall be observed quarterly and at such other times as determined by the pastor.

ARTICLE V
CONSTITUTION AMENDMENTS

Section 1

The Pastors, Elders, and Deacons will review and make recommendation concerning the Constitution.

Section 2

This Constitution may be amended by the following steps:

  1. Special meeting called for this purpose. Minimum of thirty (30) days notice prior to this meeting being convened.
  2. Fifty-one (51) percent of all active members must be present to constitute a quorum.
  3. At least three-fourths (3/4) of those active members present will be required to amend the Constitution.

BYLAWS

The purpose of the following set of Bylaws is to implement the basic principles set forth in the Constitution.

ARTICLE I
MEMBERSHIP

Section 1 - DEFINITION OF MEMBERSHIP

The membership of this church shall consist of persons who:

  1. Have confessed Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, and
  2. have been baptized by immersion according to the pattern of the New Testament, and
  3. whose names are duly inscribed on the church rolls as maintained by the Church Clerk.

The term “active” shall apply to any member who has completed six (6) months of attendance at regularly scheduled services, except the Pastors, Minister of Education and the Director of Music, who become active members upon accepting the call.

The term “inactive” shall apply to any member who has not attended regularly scheduled services for period of one (1) year.

Section 2 - METHOD OF RECEPTION

There are three (3) ways that a person may present himself/herself for membership in this church:

  1. By baptism by immersion upon profession of faith in Jesus Christ
  2. By promise of letter from another Baptist Church of like faith and order
  3. By verbal statement of salvation and Scriptural Baptism by immersion by a church of like faith and order.

Any person may offer himself/herself as a candidate for membership in this church at any regular service. The Pastors, and/or any member of the Elders or Deacons, shall confer with each candidate for membership on basic matters of church membership.

Section 3 - RESPONSIBILITY OF MEMBERS

  1. Members are expected to be faithful in all duties essential to the Christian Life, to attend the services of this church, give regularly for its support and causes, and to share in its organized work.
  2. Members are expected to bring any concerns regarding church matters before the Elders and/or the Deacons.
  3. All active members have equal rights and privileges, except as otherwise noted in these bylaws. Members (active) must be at least 16 years of age to vote in the business meetings of this church; inactive members can not vote.
  4. Only active members of this church may hold positions, either appointed or elected, except with the approval of the Pastors, Elders, and Deacons.

Section 4 - TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP

Continuance of membership shall be subject to the following principles:

  1. Any member who desires his/her membership transferred to any other Baptist Church of like faith is entitled, upon request from that church, to have a letter or transfer and/or recommendation issued to that church, whereupon his/her membership in this church shall be terminated.
  2. If a member unites with a church other than Baptist, his/her membership shall be terminated. A letter of recommendation may be granted if requested by that church.
  3. Should a member because of immoral or unchristian conduct, or by persistent breach of his/her covenant vows, become an offense to the Church, his/her membership may be terminated. This action shall be taken by the restoration ministry (see Matt. 18:15-17 for guidelines) only after due notice and hearing and after every effort has been made to change his/her conduct. After a letter has been sent to the member notifying the member of termination the member may request, within 30 days, a vote by the church body.
  4. Membership will be terminated upon resignation.
  5. Membership will be terminated upon death.
  6. Active members who have not attended Oakton Baptist Church for a period of one (1) year shall lose their active status and become inactive members. Inactive members shall be placed on an inactive list every six (6) months by the restoration ministry.

Section 5 - REACTIVATION OF INACTIVE MEMBERS

  1. Any inactive member may return to active membership status after consulting the church restoration ministry with that desire AND after professing willingness to support the church. Willingness to support the church shall entail regular attendance at regularly scheduled church services for a period of six (6) months.
  2. The restoration ministry is composed of the Pastors, Elders, and the Deacons working in conjunction with each other.
  3. Inactive members returning from absences due to illness, accident, or job related requirements shall be returned to active status upon return and shall not be subject to the requirements of Article 1, Section 5 - A.

ARTICLE II
MEETINGS and QUORUMS

Section 1 - WORSHIP SERVICES

  1. Public Worship services shall be held in the church each Lord’s Day (Sunday) in the morning and evening and on Wednesday evening unless cancelled, at the discretion of the Pastors, Elders, and Deacons.
  2. Additional religious services may be held, at the discretion of the Pastors, for the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Section 2 - REGULAR BUSINESS MEETINGS

  1. The regular business meetings shall be held the first Sunday evening of each quarter unless otherwise scheduled.
  2. Ten (10) percent of the active membership, including two (2) primary officers, shall constitute a quorum to transact general church business and for the election of general church officers and chairmen.

Section 3 - ANNUAL MEETING

  1. The Annual Meeting shall be held on a designated Sunday in January.
  2. Business to be conducted at the Annual Meeting shall consist of Annual Reports from:
    1. The Moderator, Clerk, and Treasurer;
    2. Pastors, Minister of Education, Director of Music, Elders and Deacons;
    3. Sunday School Superintendent, Ushers, Nursery Coordinator, VBS Director, Awana Director, and Historian;
    4. Committee Chairmen, and
    5. 5. The Audit Committee
    All internal Annual Reports shall be printed and a copy given to the Clerk.
  3. The quorum shall be the same as for a regular business meeting.

Section 4 - SPECIAL MEETINGS

  1. Special meetings may be called at any time with a seven (7) day notice having been given from the pulpit and the stated purpose being announced before the meetings are called to order.
  2. Meetings concerning the calling of the Pastor, dismissal of members, major financial moves, and purchase or sale of property, must be announced one (1) week in advance and fifty-one (51) percent of active members eligible to vote must be in attendance to constitute a quorum.

ARTICLE III
STEWARDSHIP and CHURCH FINANCES

Section 1

The church shall adopt the Scriptural plan of tithes and offerings in its plan of finance.

Section 2

The church shall operate under a unified budget

Section 3

There shall be one (1) treasury and one (1) Treasurer

Section 4

Offering envelopes shall be made available to each person of this church.

ARTICLE IV
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK and INSURANCE

Section 1 - BACKGROUND CHECK

  1. The Pastors and any paid or unpaid individuals working in any capacity with children (AWANA, VBS, bus ministry, Sunday school, nursery and other like positions), shall be asked to submit to a criminal background check by law enforcement. The cost of the background check is to be borne by Oakton Baptist Church.
  2. All background check results shall be kept in confidence by the recipient of such report.

Section 2 - INSURANCE

The Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, Counters, Deacons, Trustees, Office Staff, and all others who handle church funds, shall be insured in such amount as the membership shall determine. The cost of the insurance is to be borne by Oakton Baptist Church.

ARTICLE V
THE PASTOR

Section 1 - HIS CALLING

  1. A Pastor shall be chosen whenever a vacancy occurs.
    1. Such office shall be filled only by an ordained and licensed Southern Baptist minister in accordance with Article VI of the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message. The man filling the position must ascribe to the tenets of the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message.
    2. A Pastoral Committee of five (5) shall be elected to seek nominees to fill the vacancy.
    3. The Pastor shall become an active member of Oakton Baptist Church, upon accepting the call.
  2. Only one (1) name may be considered at a time when the actual vote takes place to call or not to call a given pastoral candidate.
  3. His election shall take place at a meeting called for such a purpose. Public notice shall be given a minimum of one (1) week prior to such a meeting.
  4. The election of a candidate shall take place by secret ballot.
  5. An affirmative vote of three-fourths (3/4) majority of the quorum present must be secured for the nominee to be called.
  6. The church and the Pastor shall enter into an employment contract that outlines duties, compensations and other specifics of such arrangement. Such contract must be approved by a simple majority of active membership in attendance at a regular business meeting or special meeting called for such purpose.
  7. The Pastor thus elected shall serve for an indefinite period of time.

Section 2 - TERMINATION

  1. The Pastor relationship may be terminated by thirty (30) days notice upon mutual consent of the church and the Pastor.
  2. In case of a letter of resignation, the church may accept it at any time but must take action within two (2) weeks time from the date submitted to the church at large. A simple majority is enough to accept a letter of resignation provided a regular business quorum is present.
  3. The question of dissolving the pastoral relationship shall be considered at any time by the church upon presentation of the Pastor’s resignation; or by recommendation of the Elders and Deacons, when grievance exists against the Pastor.
  4. A quorum of fifty-one (51) percent of the active membership must be present to conduct a meeting in which recommendation is made to terminate the pastoral relationship by grievance presented by the Elders and Deacons. The congregation must vote by a three-fourths (3/4) majority by secret ballot to officially terminate the relationship.

Section 3 - RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. The Pastor shall have charge of the spiritual welfare and oversight of the church.
  2. He shall administer the church ordinances assisted by the Associate Pastor, and/or Elders and Deacons.
  3. The Pastor is an ex-officio member of all the organizations and committees.
  4. The Pastor shall direct any (or all) salaried staff.
  5. The Pastor may be away from the church four (4) weeks each year, with pay, provided he and the Elders arrange for a pulpit supply that will be paid by the church. This time may be used as vacation, revival, or in any other way the Pastor desires.

ARTICLE VI
THE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

Section 1 - HIS CALLING

  1. An Associate Pastor shall be chosen whenever a need occurs.
    1. Such office shall be filled only by an ordained and licensed Southern Baptist minister in accordance with Article VI of the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message. The man filling the position must ascribe to the tenets of the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message.
    2. A committee of five (5) shall be elected to seek nominees to fill the vacancy. The Pastor shall have a right to veto any nominee.
    3. The Associate Pastor shall become an active member of Oakton Baptist Church upon accepting the call.
  2. Only one (1) name may be considered at a time when the actual vote takes place to call or not to call a given Associate Pastor candidate.
  3. His election shall take place at a meeting called for such a purpose. Public notice shall be given a minimum of one (1) week prior to such a meeting.
  4. The election of a candidate must take place by secret ballot.
  5. An affirmative vote of three-fourths (3/4) majority of the quorum present must be secured for the nominee to be called.
  6. The church and the Associate Pastor shall enter into an employment contract that outlines duties, compensations and other specifics of such arrangement. Such contract must be approved by a simple majority of active membership in attendance at a regular business meeting or special meeting called for such purpose.
  7. The Associate Pastor shall assume the responsibilities of the Pastor in his absence.

Section 2 - TERMINATION

  1. The Associate Pastor relationship may be terminated by thirty (30) days notice upon mutual consent of the church and the Pastor.
  2. In case of a letter of resignation, the church may accept it at any time but must take action within two (2) weeks time from the date submitted to the church at large. A simple majority of active members voting is enough to accept a letter of resignation provided a regular business quorum is present.
  3. The question of dissolving the associate pastoral relationship shall be considered at any time by the church upon presentation of the Associate Pastor’s resignation; or, when grievance exists against the Associate Pastor, by recommendation of the Elders, Deacons, and Pastor.
  4. A quorum of fifty-one (51) percent of the active membership must be present to conduct a meeting in which recommendation is made to terminate the associate pastoral relationship by grievance presented by the Elders and Deacons. This quorum must vote by a three-fourths (3/4) majority by secret ballot to officially terminate the relationship.

Section 3 - RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. The Associate Pastor will be under the guidance and leadership of the Pastor.
  2. The Associate Pastor’s primary responsibility is that of directing and leading the youth and children’s ministry of this church as directed by the Pastor.
  3. He will be involved in the outreach and visitation program of the church.
  4. He shall preach at the worship services of the church, when directed.
  5. The Associate Pastor may be away from the church four (4) weeks each year, with pay, providing he and the Pastor have made arrangements to cover his duties during that time. This time may be used as vacation or in any other way the Associate Pastor desires.

ARTICLE VII
MINISTER OF EDUCATION

Section 1 - HIS CALLING

  1. A Minister of Education shall be chosen whenever a need arises.
    1. Such office shall be filled only by an ordained and licensed Southern Baptist minister in accordance with Article VI of the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message. The man filling the position must ascribe to the tenets of the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message.
    2. A committee comprised of the Pastors, Elders, and Deacons shall seek nominees, who will work with the Pastors, to fill the vacancy.
    3. The Minister of Education shall become an active member of Oakton Baptist Church upon accepting the call.
  2. Only one (1) name may be considered at a time when the actual vote takes place to call or not to call a given Minister of Education.
  3. His election shall take place at a meeting called for such purpose. Public notice shall be given a minimum of one (1) week prior to such a meeting.
  4. The election of a candidate must take place by secret ballot.
  5. An affirmative vote of three-fourths (3/4) majority of those members present must be secured for the nominee to be called.
  6. The church and the Minister of Education shall enter into an employment contract that outlines duties, compensation and other specifics of such arrangement. Such contract must be approved by a simple majority of active membership in attendance at a regular business meeting or special meeting called for such purpose.
  7. The Minister of Education thus elected shall serve for an indefinite period of time.

Section 2 - TERMINATION

  1. The Minister of Education relationship may be terminated by thirty (30) days notice upon mutual consent of the church and the Pastor.
  2. In case of a letter of resignation, the church may accept it at any time but must take action within two (2) weeks time from the date submitted to the church at large. A simple majority of active members voting is enough to accept a letter of resignation provided a quorum is present.
  3. The question of dissolving the Minister of Education relationship shall be considered at any time by the church upon presentation of the Minister of Education’s resignation; or, when grievance exists against the Minister of Education, by recommendation of the Elders, Deacons, and Pastors.
  4. When a grievance is presented by the Elders and Deacons against the Minister of Education, the Minister of Education may be terminated at any regular business meeting. Active members must vote by three-fourth (3/4) majority by secret ballot to officially terminate the relationship.

Section 3 - RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Perform services ascribed to ordained ministers (preach, baptize, administer church ordinances, perform marriages, conduct funerals, aid in worship services, help in hospital ministry, minister through church member visitation, and counsel).
  2. Lead in selection and research of teaching curriculum, keep informed about education trends, and know age-group teaching learning processes. Secure teaching equipment, offer library and media services.
  3. Supervise paid educational staff.
  4. Train potential leaders (Sunday School, Brotherhood, and WMU). Develop teachers through systematic training program.
  5. Create new units for reaching people.
  6. Project and encourage the building of needed facilities, help in the design and accomplishment of long range plans.
  7. Lead in evangelistic outreach; assume responsibility for prospective and new member visitation in conjunction with the Pastors and Elders.
  8. Promote good public relations.
  9. Assist in keeping organizations balanced to meet needs.
  10. Participate in program design.
  11. Assist the Pastors and Elders in the recruitment of volunteer workers.
  12. Promote church’s program through all educational organizations including local and foreign mission awareness and needs.
  13. The Minister of Education may be away from the church four (4) weeks each year, with pay, provided he, the Pastors, and Elders arrange for a volunteer substitute to carry on the work in his absence.

ARTICLE VIII
DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

Section 1 - HIS/HER CALLING

  1. The Director of Music shall be chosen whenever a vacancy occurs.
    1. He/she shall profess Christ.
    2. A committee of the Pastors, Elders and Deacons shall seek nominees, who will work in unity with the Pastors, to fill the vacancy.
    3. He/she shall become an active member upon accepting the call.
  2. Only one (1) name may be considered at a time when the actual vote takes place to call or not to call a given Director of Music.
  3. His/her election shall take place at a meeting called for such a purpose. Public notice shall be given a minimum of one (1) week prior to such a meeting.
  4. The election of a candidate must take place by secret ballot.
  5. An affirmative vote of three-fourths (3/4) majority of those members present must be secured for the nominee to be called.
  6. The church and the Director of Music shall enter into an employment contract that outlines duties, compensations and other specifics of such arrangement. Such contract must be approved by a simple majority of active membership in attendance at a regular business meeting or special meeting called for such purpose.
  7. The Director of Music thus elected shall serve for an indefinite period of time.

Section 2 - TERMINATION

  1. The Director of Music relationship may be terminated by thirty (30) days notice upon mutual consent of the church and the Pastor.
  2. In case of a letter of resignation, the church may accept it at any time but must take action within two (2) weeks time from the date submitted to the church at large. A simple majority of active members voting is enough to accept a letter of resignation provided a quorum is present.
  3. The question of dissolving the Director of Music relationship shall be considered at any time by the church upon presentation of the Director of Music resignation; or, when grievance exists against the Director of Music, by recommendation of the Elders, Deacons, and Pastors.
  4. When a grievance is presented by the Elders and Deacons against the Director of Music, the Director of Music may be terminated at any regular business meeting. Active members must vote by three- fourth (3/4) majority by secret ballot to officially terminate the relationship.

Section 3 - RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. The Director of Music shall train and encourage musical talents of the members.
  2. He/she shall be responsible for providing worshipful music, under the direction of the Pastor, for all services and organizations of the church and shall have general direction of the music.
  3. He/she shall be responsible for establishing a graded choir program.
  4. He/she shall direct the choir(s) in practice and public singing unless otherwise provided and cooperate with the Pastors and other leaders in the selection of suitable music and appropriate musical programs for all occasions where such services are needed.
  5. The Director of Music may be away from the church four (4) weeks each year, with pay, providing he/she, the Pastor, and Elders arrange for a volunteer substitute to carry on the music ministry in his/her absence.

ARTICLE IX
CHURCH SECRETARY

The church shall employ a church secretary to perform secretarial responsibilities of the church for an indefinite period at a specified salary. He/she shall perform secretarial duties as required by the church under the direction and leadership of the Pastor.

ARTICLE X
NOMINATIONS and ELECTIONS

Section 1 - NOMINATIONS

  1. COMMITTEE: The nominating committee shall be elected at the October meeting. A minimum of seven (7) names shall be submitted from the floor. The five (5) receiving the largest number of votes by secret ballot shall constitute the committee. The two (2) receiving the least votes shall be alternates. The committee shall select its own chairman.
  2. RESPONSIBILITIES: The duties of the Nominating Committee shall be:
    1. To serve from January 1 through December 31.
    2. To nominate all officers and committees for the church year and also replacements should vacancies occur through the course of the year.
    3. The officers to be nominated are: Moderator, Clerk, and Treasurer.
    4. Other nominations to include: Assistant Treasurer, Trustees, Ushers, Sunday School Superintendent, VBS Director, AWANA Director, Historian, Nursery Coordinator, a Budget Committee member at large and others as required.
    5. Committees: Counting Committee, Social Committee, Missions Committee, Audit Committee, Building and Long Range Planning Committee, Visitation and Outreach Committee, and other committees as required.
    6. The report of the Nominating Committee shall be given at the September business meeting.

Section 2 - ELECTIONS

  1. The elections of Officers, Chairmen and Committees shall take place at the October business meeting.
  2. Only active members may hold office.
  3. Officers, chairmen and committees shall assume their duties January 1st following their election.

ARTICLE XI
ELDERS, DEACONS, and TRUSTEES

Section 1 - ELDERS

  1. For a man to qualify as an Elder he:
    1. Must have first proved himself to be sound in doctrine.
    2. Must commit himself to sincere effort to meet the specific requirements as found in Titus 1:5-9.
    3. Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.
    4. Shall be an active member of Oakton Baptist Church for at least one (1) year.
    5. Should be able to attend regularly the monthly meetings of the Pastors and Elders.
    6. Must be faithful in practicing Biblical stewardship, recognizing tithing as the standard.
    7. Shall maintain spiritual standards in keeping with 1 Timothy 3:9 and Acts 6:3.
    8. Shall maintain social and moral standards above question (Acts 6:3, 1 Timothy 3:8-13).
    9. Must insure that his work or business and life are in harmony with scriptural practices.
    10. Must maintain a spirit of full cooperation with the Pastors and other church leadership in presenting and executing a spiritual program to meet the needs of the church and the community.
    11. Must be cooperative in spirit, positive in outlook and warm in human concern.
    12. Must refrain from destructive criticism and be willing to settle all difficulties in a quiet and Christian manner without hurting the cause of Christ and His church.
    13. Must be able to keep confidences and be ethical.
    14. Must be willing to abide by and support the decisions of the church.
  2. In accordance with the meaning of the word and practice of the New Testament, Elders are to be servants of the church and they shall:
    1. Be zealous to guard the unity of the spirit within the church in the bonds of peace.
    2. Serve as council of advice and confer with the Pastors in all matters pertaining to the welfare and work of the church, soul winning, the spiritual development of Christians and the extension and growth of the Kingdom of God. They shall strive to meet at least once each month with the Pastors. Elders will deal with any church matters brought to their attention by any member of the church.
    3. By proper organization and method among themselves, they are to establish and maintain personal fraternal relations with and inspiring oversight of, all the membership of the church. Especially are they to seek to know the physical and spiritual needs of the membership. They shall have, along with the Pastors, the oversight of the discipline of the church, being ever guided by the principles as set forth in Matthew 18:15-17, I Corinthians 5:9-13, and I Thessalonians 5:12-15.
    4. Serve as a general pulpit committee for the purpose of furnishing temporary pastors or guest speakers (temporary pastors shall not serve longer than thirty (30) days without approval by the church).
    5. Assist the Pastors in the administration of the Lord’s Supper.
    6. With the Pastors, will interview applicants for paid positions in the church and for bringing their recommendation to the church for vote at a meeting called for that purpose. Yearly evaluations of personnel as to job performance and recommendation to the church for salary increase will be determined by the Pastors and Elders. Paid personnel shall not evaluate themselves.
    7. An Elder shall serve on the Board of Directors.
  3. Must be faithful and loyal in his support of the entire church program and be regular in his attendance in the main worship services of the church – specifically, morning and evening worship services, mid- week prayer service, Sunday school, regular business meetings, church visitation, unless prevented by illness infirmity or matters beyond his control.
  4. The Pastors and existing Elders will select for church approval additions to the Elder Board. An affirmative vote by a simple majority of those active members present at a regular meeting or a meeting called for that purpose, must be secured for the nominee to be selected.
  5. Removal from the self governing board will be voluntary or by majority vote of the Elder Board.

Section 2 - DEACONS

  1. For a man to qualify as a Deacon at Oakton Baptist Church he:
    1. Must have first proved himself to be sound in doctrine.
    2. Must commit himself to sincere effort to meet the specific requirements as found in I Timothy 3:8-13.
    3. Must be at least 21 years of age.
    4. Shall be an active member of Oakton Baptist Church for at least one (1) year, except for ordained Southern Baptist Deacons that have transferred to Oakton Baptist Church from another Southern Baptist Church of like faith.
    5. Should be able to attend regularly the monthly meetings of the Deacons.
    6. Must be faithful and loyal in his support of the entire church program and be regular in his attendance in the main worship services of the church – specifically morning and evening worship services, mid-week prayer service, Sunday School, regular business meetings, church visitation unless prevented by illness, infirmity, or matters beyond his control.
    7. Must be faithful in practicing biblical stewardship, recognizing tithing as the standard.
    8. Shall maintain spiritual standards in keeping with I Timothy 3:9 and Acts 6:3.
    9. Shall maintain social and moral standards above question (Acts 6:3, I Timothy 3:8-13).
    10. Must insure that his work or business and life are in harmony with scriptural practices.
    11. Must maintain a spirit of full cooperation with the Pastors and other church leadership in presenting and executing a spiritual program to meet the needs of the church and community, be cooperative in spirit, positive in outlook and warm in human concern; refrain from destructive criticism and be willing to settle all difficulties in a quiet and Christian manner without hurting the cause of Christ and His church; be able to keep confidences and be ethical; be willing to abide by and support majority decisions of the church.
  2. Nominees for deacons shall be selected and approved by the Pastors, Elders, and current Deacons and presented to the membership for affirmation at a regular or special business meeting called for that purpose.
    1. The term of office shall be three (3) years except as follows: upon death, resignation or transfer from the area. When deacon selection is required for these reasons, the same requirements will be followed.
    2. After serving a term of three (3) years a Deacon must step down for a period of one (1) year before he can again be selected to the position.
    3. Removal of Deacons shall be either voluntary or by action of the Pastors, Elders, and Deacons.
    4. The Deacon Board shall consist of one (1) Deacon per twenty (20) members of the church with a minimum of six (6) Deacons. The Deacons shall choose their own chairman.
  3. In accordance with the meaning of the word and practice of the New Testament, Deacons are to be servants of the church and they shall:
    1. Be zealous to guard the unity of the spirit within the church in the bonds of peace.
    2. With the Pastors, strive to meet at least once each month and other designated times, as required.
    3. Maintain personal fraternal relations with and inspiring oversight of, all family members for which they have responsibility. Especially are they to know the physical and spiritual struggles of those families. The Deacons, in conference with the Pastors, will distribute alms of the church to needy brothers, as set aside in the budget or contributed by the members. If a Deacon is made aware of a situation within his assigned families that needs pastoral consideration, the Deacon is to inform the Pastors.
    4. Assist the Pastors in the administration of the Lord’s Supper. The Deacon of the month shall have responsibility for preparing the elements for communion, preparing the table and cleaning up afterwards.
    5. They shall select a Deacon to deposit the weekly receipts.
    6. Appoint the chairman of the Deacons to serve on the Board of Directors.

Section 3 - TRUSTEES

A committee of five (5) Trustees shall be elected from the active church membership and shall remain active and serve until the church membership sees a need to replace one (1) or more. They shall choose their own chairman.

  1. This committee shall hold in trust the property of the church and perform such duties as required by civil law and corporate structure. They shall have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease or transfer any property without specific vote of the church authorizing such action. Three-fourths (3/4) of active church members must be present and voting at a church business meeting when a specific issue has been announced. It will require a two-thirds (2/3) vote of those present and voting to approve a specific issue.
  2. They shall have actual care of the place of worship and be responsible for the maintenance of the property and facilities of the church. This will be done through operational preventive maintenance to the property, buildings, furnishing and equipment.
  3. They shall be the liaison between Fairfax County and Oakton Baptist Church as petitions for building/expansion is made. If building begins, this committee will keep informed of the progress and report same to the membership.
  4. The committee chairman may solicit members to assist in fulfilling trustee obligations.
  5. Chairman of the Trustees or a representative shall regularly attend and report at business meetings.
  6. In the absence of the Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer the Chairman of the Trustees will sign the church checks.
  7. The Trustees shall be appropriately insured.
  8. A Trustee shall serve on the Board of Directors.

ARTICLE XII
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Section 1

The church shall elect annually seven (7) active members to serve on the Board of Directors.

Section 2

The Board of Directors shall consist of the Moderator, Clerk, Treasurer, one (1) Elder, one (1) Deacon, one (1) Trustee, and one (1) member at large.

ARTICLE XIII
OFFICERS/CHAIRMEN and THEIR DUTIES

Section 1

All officers shall be elected by the church.

Section 2

The officers shall be Moderator, Clerk, and Treasurer and shall serve on the Board of Directors.

Section 3

Oakton Baptist Church shall have such officers, chairmen and committees as wisdom and the Holy Spirit may direct as necessary for carrying on the work of the church. The duties of such officers shall be those connected with the office which they fill.

  1. MODERATOR

    The Moderator is elected annually. The moderator shall conduct all business meetings. In the absence of the Moderator, the Deacon of the month shall be Moderator or in the absence of both of the above, the Clerk shall call the church to order and a Moderator shall be elected pro tem for the particular session.

  2. CHURCH CLERK
    1. The Clerk is elected annually. Any active member in good standing that is at least twenty-one (21) years of age may be elected to serve as the Clerk. The Clerk may succeed him/herself.
    2. The Clerk of the church shall keep a suitable record of all the actions of the church.
    3. The Clerk shall keep a register of the names of members with dates of admission, dismissal, and date of death and a list of baptisms. He/she shall prepare baptismal certificates for the Pastor’s signature.
    4. The Clerk shall issue letters of dismissal voted by the church, preserve on file all communications and written official reports and give legal notice of all meetings where such notice is necessary, as indicated in these bylaws.
    5. It shall be considered part of the Clerk’s responsibility to enthusiastically promote loyalty, harmony and efficiency in church life.
  3. TREASURER
    1. The Treasurer is elected annually. Any active member in good standing that is at least twenty- one (21) years of age may be elected the Treasurer. The Treasurer may succeed him/herself.
    2. The Treasurer shall receive, preserve and pay out all money directed by the church, keeping at all times an itemized account of all receipts and disbursement. Designated contributions will be recorded separately and used for the designated purpose only.
    3. The Treasurer shall keep a running record of tithes and offerings for that specific church year. At the end of the year the Treasurer shall give each person a record detailing their offerings for that year. This record shall be provided by January 31st.
    4. Payment of all bills shall be made by check.
    5. The Treasurer shall maintain a petty cash fund of fifty dollars ($50.00) monthly to facilitate purchases of supplies for use in church organizations. The administrative staff may authorize expenditures from the petty cash fund. In any event, administrative authorization may not exceed fifty dollars ($50.00) each month. Petty cash shall be kept in balance at all times.
    6. The Treasurer shall render monthly to the church, a report showing the total receipts and disbursements for the preceding month.
    7. Within thirty (30) days after the close of the fiscal year, the Treasurer shall render to the church an annual report showing the total receipts and an itemized account of all disbursements. Prior to this report, the Treasurer’s books shall be audited by a committee elected by the church.
    8. All books and records kept by the Treasurer shall be the property of the church.
    9. All completed books and records shall be filed in the church office annually.
    10. At the end of the Treasurer’s tenure in office the current books must be turned over to the successor immediately.
    11. The Treasurer shall be appropriately insured.
    12. The Treasurer’s books shall be audited annually.
    13. It shall be the Deacon’s responsibility to deposit the weekly receipts.
  4. ASSISTANT TREASURER
    1. The Assistant Treasurer is elected annually. Any active member in good standing that is at least twenty-one (21) years of age may be elected the Assistant Treasurer. The Assistant Treasurer may succeed him/herself.
    2. In the absence of the Treasurer, the Assistant Treasurer shall assume the duties of the Treasurer.
    3. The Assistant Treasurer shall be appropriately insured.
  5. SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT
    1. The Sunday School Superintendent is elected annually. Any active member that is at least twenty-one (21) years of age may be elected Sunday School superintendent.
    2. In November, the Sunday School Superintendent and the Pastors shall appoint the Sunday school teachers.
    3. Teachers shall go through a teacher training program approved by Oakton Baptist Church as deemed necessary by the Pastor and Sunday School Superintendent.
  6. USHERS

    Five (5) or more active members shall be annually elected Ushers. They shall choose their own chairman. Their duties are as follows:

    1. Greet members and visitors at the door and see that they are properly seated.
    2. Pass out bulletins and other related materials.
    3. Be responsible for collecting the tithes and offerings at each service.
    4. Eliminate any disturbances that may occur during the worship services.
  7. NURSERY COORDINATOR
    1. The Nursery Coordinator is elected annually. The primary responsibility of the Nursery Coordinator is to staff the nursery during the Sunday morning, Sunday evening and Wednesday evening service, and such other services as may be required.
    2. The nursery will be provided for children from birth through three (3) years.
    3. The church may, if it is deemed necessary, hire a worker for the nursery to be paid at a rate determined jointly by the Pastors, Elders, and Deacons, and presented to the church for a vote. The church and the nursery worker shall enter into an employment contract that outlines duties.
    4. When additional help, or a relief worker, is needed, the Nursery Coordinator will request that help from the congregation.
    5. The Nursery Coordinator shall follow the guidelines for operating the nursery as defined by the Pastor.
  8. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL DIRECTOR
    1. The VBS Director shall be an active member.
    2. The VBS Director shall plan and organize the summer vacation ministry, with the approval of the Pastors.
  9. AWANA DIRECTOR
    1. The AWANA Director shall be an active member.
    2. The AWANA Director shall organize AWANA programs with the approval of the Pastors.
  10. HISTORIAN
    1. Any active member may be elected as Historian.
    2. The Historian shall be elected annually and shall keep suitable documentation to accurately portray for posterity appropriate events in the church life. Appropriate articles will be provided on notable occasions to reflect historical items of interest.
    3. All books and records kept by the Historian shall be the property of the church.
    4. At the end of the Historian’s term all historical records must be filed in the church office.

ARTICLE XIV
CHURCH ORGANIZATIONS, THEIR OFFICERS and CHAIRMEN

All organizations of this church shall be under church control. All officers and chairmen shall report regularly to the church membership. The pastor is ex-officio member of all the organizations named. All officers and chairmen shall be active members.

Section 1 - CHURCH COUNCIL

  1. The Church Council shall consist of the Moderator, Clerk, Treasurer, Associate Pastor, and chairmen of all existing committees.
    1. A chairman selected by the Church Council shall conduct these meetings.
    2. The Clerk shall record minutes of each Council meetings and keep a suitable record.
  2. It shall be the duty of this group to serve as a counsel of advice and confer with the Pastors in all matters pertaining to organizations and programs in the church.
  3. The Church Council shall meet regularly.
  4. The Church Council does not have the authority to act on any matter on its own authority; however, it may bring recommendations before the church members at a regular business meeting. The Council does not have any supervision over other church organizations or committees.

Section 2 - BROTHERHOOD MINISTRY

  1. Brotherhood is a ministry for all men.
  2. They shall elect their own officers and chairmen.
  3. They shall come under the authority of the church.

Section 3 - WOMEN OF PURPOSE MINISTRY

  1. The Women of Purpose is a ministry for all women.
  2. They shall elect their own officers and chairmen.
  3. They shall come under the authority of the church.

Section 4 - CIRCLE OF LOVE

  1. Circle of Love is a senior’s luncheon and fellowship.
  2. The Circle of Love shall come under the authority of the church.

ARTICLE XV
ANNUALLY ELECTED COMMITTEES

Section 1 - AUDIT COMMITTEE

  1. Any active member that is at least twenty-one (21) years of age may be elected to the Audit Committee except those who handle church funds. The Audit Committee shall consist of three (3) members.
  2. The Audit Committee shall audit the Treasurer’s books prior to the January Annual Meeting.
  3. The Audit Committee shall prepare a signed statement of their finding and present it to the membership at the January meeting.

Section 2 - BAPTISMAL COMMITTEE

This committee shall consist of active members both male and female working with the Deacons and their wives to assist the Pastors and baptismal candidate(s) and take care of the baptismal robes.

Section 3 - BUDGET COMMITTEE

  1. This committee shall be composed of the Treasurer, and four (4) elected members and shall be chaired by the Treasurer.
  2. The committee shall prepare and submit to the church for approval an annual budget, indicating the amount needed and sought for local denominational causes. This budget shall be presented at the third quarter (September) business meeting and voted on at a designated meeting to be held between thirty (30) and sixty (60) days later. The Budget shall become effective January 1st.

Section 4 - BYLAWS COMMITTEE

  1. The Bylaws Committee shall be composed of seven (7) active members. This committee shall select their own chairman.
  2. The committee shall review the bylaws annually and report to the membership.

Section 5 - COUNTING COMMITTEE

  1. Five (5) active members shall be elected annually to serve on the Counting Committee and shall select their own chairman. At least three (3) committee members shall be present at each counting. The Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer may not serve on the Counting Committee.
  2. Their responsibility shall be to count and audit the weekly receipts and prepare deposits for the church account with a report to the Treasurer.
  3. Counting Committee members shall be insured.

Section 6 - SOCIAL COMMITTEE

  1. The Social Committee shall consist of five (5) active members. They shall select their own chairman among them.
  2. The responsibilities of the Social Committee shall include:
    1. Planning for food and decorations for annual church events such as Homecoming, Sunrise Breakfast, various banquets, showers, and assisting with funeral luncheons; and
    2. Planning periodic potluck dinners for fellowship purposes; and
    3. Checking regularly to keep the church kitchen adequately stocked with plates, cups, napkins, plastic ware, coffee, and other needed supplies; and
    4. Keeping the kitchen in a sanitary condition.

Section 7 - BUILDING and LONG-RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE

  1. A committee of active members shall be elected by the church (number as desired by the church) to study expansion needs and to keep the church abreast of those needs. They shall select their own chairman.
  2. All projects must be approved by the church membership.

Section 8 - MISSIONS COMMITTEE

  1. The Missions Committee shall be composed of three (3) active members. They shall select their own chairman.
  2. This committee shall be responsible for overall missions of the church to include promoting mission events in the church. The committee shall strive to always be aware of existing mission needs within as well as outside the church.

Section 9 - VISITATION/OUTREACH COMMITTEE

  1. This committee, comprised of the Pastors, all Staff and every active member of the congregation will be part of an active and vigorous Christ-centered, church-wide, visitation program.
  2. This committee will be chaired by the Associate Pastor or Minister of Education.
  3. Oakton Baptist Church has several outreach ministries that require the public use and display of the church name. Examples include a monthly newsletter, the church web site, and various mailings to remind members of events or to advertise such events. For this reason, and to protect the name and reputation of the church, any public use of the church name must receive prior approval of the Pastoral Staff.

ARTICLE XVI
FISCAL YEAR

The fiscal year shall be from January 1 through December 31.

ARTICLE XVII
PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY

Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the guide for all questions of business procedures that is not covered in this document.

ARTICLE XVIII
SPIRITUAL DISSENSION OF THE CHURCH

Should a division of membership occur because of doctrinal differences, the title to and possession of all property and assets owned by this congregation shall remain with the group holding the position most closely relating to this document and its doctrinal statement.

  1. In this case, a body of Council Advisors shall be made up of three (3) senior pastors from three (3) theologically conservative Southern Baptist churches chosen by the Director of Missions of the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia Churches, which shall study the differing positions involved and come to a conclusion as to which group is closest in fact to the constitutional position and bylaws of Oakton Baptist Church, as herein stated. A moderator shall be selected from among the three (3) pastors.
  2. All officers and positions held by the group which is out-going from the church shall be automatically declared vacated if these members decide to leave this church with the out-going group.
  3. Should a situation as described above occur, the council of advisors shall at all times seek above all else to stop any split or division. Once a ruling is reached in regards to which group is in agreement with these documents, the correct group shall still seek to forego any division. The goal shall always be UNITY as long as essential doctrinal issues are not sacrificed.

ARTICLE XIX
DISSOLUTION

In the event of the dissolution of Oakton Baptist Church:

  1. Prior notice of at least thirty (30) days shall be given in writing to all active members.
  2. Disposition of Funds: Total assets shall be liquidated. After payment of just debts, these funds shall be allocated equally to the International Mission Board and North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.
  3. No portion of such funds shall be distributed among individual members or group of members.

ARTICLE XX
AMENDMENTS of BYLAWS

These Bylaws may be amended by a 2/3rds vote of the active members present and voting at any regular business meeting of the church or a meeting specifically called for that purpose, the proposed amendment being inserted in the Call. Due notice of proposed amendment must be given at the previous regular meeting of the church. The Bylaws Committee shall review the bylaws annually.


DATE ORIGINALLY ADOPTED: October 29, 1984

AMENDED: 4/1994, 11/1995

REVISED: June 21, 2004

Bylaws Committee: Bill Fancher, Janet Holmes, Chet Holton, Rev. Edwin Rodriguez , Susan Temple, Don Trone, Beth Gherardini, Chairman Rev. Lewis Holmes, ex-officio