CONSTITUTION OF FULL GOSPEL ASSEMBLIES INTERNATIONAL
July 2012
ARTICLE 1. NAME AND PURPOSE
The name of this body shall be Full Gospel Assemblies International, Inc., doing business as Full Gospel Assemblies.
This congregation is organized as a church fellowship exclusively for charitable, religious and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Revenue Law), including, but not limited to, for such purposes as, the establishing and maintaining of religious worship, the building, maintaining and operating of churches, parsonages, schools, chapels, radio stations, television stations, rescue missions, print shops, child care centers, camps, nursing homes, and cemeteries, and any other ministries that the church fellowship may be led of God to establish.
The church shall also ordain and license men and women to the Gospel ministry; evangelize the unsaved by the proclaiming of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ; educate believers in a manner consistent with the requirements of Holy Scripture, both in Sunday and weekday schools of Christian education; maintain missionary activities in the United States and any foreign country; and engage in any other ministry that the church fellowship may decide, from time to time, to pursue in obedience to the will of God.
ARTICLE II. TERRITORY
The Full Gospel Assemblies shall include the work of the church in the territories comprising of the United States of America and all countries throughout the world. Full Gospel Assemblies shall be divided into sectional fellowships with boundaries defined by the Executive Council.
ARTICLE III. NATURE AND RELATIONSHIP
The Full Gospel Assemblies is a voluntary cooperative fellowship based on mutual agreements voluntarily entered into by its members. Affiliate ministries, churches and fellowships are an integral part of the Full Gospel Assemblies with privileges and responsibilities as prescribed in this Constitution and Bylaws.
ARTICLE IV. TENETS OF FAITH
Full Gospel Assemblies shall stand for the Holy Scriptures as the all-sufficient rule of faith and practice, and adopt the Article VII Statement of Fundamental Truths approved by the Executive Council.
ARTICLE V. PREROGATIVES
The purpose of Full Gospel Assemblies is to promulgate the Gospel of Jesus Christ by all Scriptural means, both at home and abroad; to promote Christian fellowship among its members; to establish assemblies for divine worship and to develop them in general unity along the lines of our distinctive testimony.
Section 1. To supervise all the activities of Full Gospel Assemblies.
Section 2. To accept candidates for the ministry, and to license and ordain as ministers those who shall meet the standards of the Scriptures (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9) and the requirements of the Full Gospel Assemblies as set forth in this Constitution and Bylaws.
Section 3. To elect its own officers and committees, to arrange for its own meetings and to govern itself.
Section 4. To establish and maintain such departments and institutions as may be necessary for the propagation of the Gospel and the work of this Pentecostal Fellowship.
Section 5. To have the right to own, hold in trust, use, sell, convey, mortgage, lease or otherwise dispose of such property, real or chattel, as may be needed for the prosecution of its work.
ARTICLE VI. PRINCIPLES
The Executive Council of the Full Gospel Assemblies shall represent, as nearly as possible in detail, the body of Christ as described in the New Testament Scriptures, recognizing the principles inherent in that body as also inherent in this fellowship, particularly the principles of unity, cooperation, and equality. Its purpose is to maintain conditions under which it can, as a fellowship, demonstrate these principles and their consequent development.
ARTICLE VII. STATEMENT OF FUNDAMENTAL TRUTHS
The Bible is our all-sufficient rule for faith and practice. Hence, this statement of Fundamental Truths is intended as a basis of fellowship among us (i.e. that we all speak the same thing. 1 Cor. 1:10 Acts 2:42). The human phraseology employed in such statement is not inspired nor contended for, but the truth set forth is held to be essential to a full Gospel ministry. No claim is made that it contains all the truth in the Bible, only that it covers our present needs as to these fundamental matters.
1. The Scriptures Inspired
The Bible is the inspired Word of God, a revelation from God to man, the infallible rule of faith and conduct, and is superior to conscience and reason, but not contrary to reason. 2 Tim. 3:15, 16; 1 Pet 2:2.
2. The One True God
The one true God has revealed Himself as the eternally self-existent, self revealed “I AM”; and has further revealed Himself as embodying the principles of relationship and association. (i.e, as Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Duet. 6:4; Mark 12:29; Isa. 43:10, 11; Matt. 28:19)
The Adorable Godhead
(a). Terms Defined
The terms “Trinity” and “Persons,” as related to the Godhead, while not found in the Scriptures, are words in harmony with Scripture, whereby we may convey to others our immediate understanding of the doctrine of Christ respecting the Being of God, as distinguished from “gods many and lords many.” We, therefore, may speak with propriety of the Lord our God, who is One Lord, as a Trinity or as one Being of three persons, and still be absolutely Scriptural. (Examples Matt 2:6, 8:16, 17; and Acts 15:15-18).
(b). Distinction and Relationship in the Godhead
Christ taught a distinction of Persons in the Godhead which He expressed in specific terms of relationship, as Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, but that this distinction and relationship, as to its mode, is inscrutable and incomprehensible, because unexplained. Luke 1:35; 1 Cor. 1:24; Matt 11:25-27; 28-19; 2 Cor 13-14; 1 John 1:3-4
(c). Unity of the One Being of Father, Son and Holy Ghost
Accordingly, therefore, there is that in the Son which constitutes Him the son and not the Father; and there is that in the Holy Ghost which constitutes Him the Holy Ghost and not either the Father or the Son. Wherefore the Father is the Begetter, the Son is the Begotten; and the Holy Ghost is the one proceeding from the Father and the Son. Therefore, because these three persons in the Godhead are in a state of unity, there is but one Lord God Almighty and His name one. John 1:18; 15:26; 17:11, 21; Zech, 14:9.
(d). Identity and Cooperation in the Godhead
The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost are never identical as to Person; nor confused as to relation; nor divided in respect to the Godhead; not opposed as to cooperation. The son is in the Father and the Father is in the Son as to relationship. The Son is with the Father and the Father is with the Son, as to fellowship. The Father is not from the Son, but the Son is from the Father, as to authority. The Holy Ghost is from the Father and the Son proceeding; as to nature, relationship, cooperation and authority. Hence, neither Person in the Godhead either exists or works separately or independently of the others. John 5:17-30.
(e). The Title, Lord Jesus Christ
The appellation, “Lord Jesus Christ,” is a proper name. It is never applied, in the New Testament, either to the Father or to the Holy Ghost. It therefore belongs exclusively to the Son of God. Rom. 1:1-3, 7; 2 John 3.
(f). The Lord Jesus Christ, God with Us
The Lord Jesus Christ, as to His divine and eternal nature, is the proper and only Begotten of the Father, but as to His human nature, He is the proper Son of Man. He is, therefore, acknowledged to be both God and man; who, because He is God and man, is “Immanuel,” God with us. Matt 1:23; 1 John 4:2, 10, 14; Rev 1:13, 14-17.
(g). The Title, Son of God
Since the name “Immanuel” embraces both God and man in the one Person, our Lord Jesus Christ, it follows that the title, Son of God, describes His proper deity, and the title, Son of Man, His proper humanity, Therefore the title, Son of God belongs to the order of eternity, and the title, Son of man. to the order of time. Matt. 1:21-33; 2 John 3: John 3:8; Heb. 7:3, 1:1-13.
(h). Transgression of the Doctrine of Christ
Wherefore, it is a transgression of the Doctrine of Christ to say that Jesus Christ derived the title, Son of God, solely from the fact of the incarnation, or because of His relation to the economy of redemption. Therefore, to deny that the Father is a real and eternal Father, and that the Son is a real and eternal Son, is a denial of the distinction and relationship in the Being of God; a denial of the Father and the son; and a displacement of the truth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. 2 John 9; John 1:1, 2, 14, 18, 29, 49; 8:57, 58; 1 John 2:22-23, 4:1-5; Heb. 12:3, 4.
(i). Exaltation of Jesus as Lord
The Son of God, our Lord Jesus Christ, having by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high; angels, principalities and powers having been made subject unto him. And, having been made both Lord and Christ, He sent the Holy Ghost that we, in the name of Jesus, might bow our knees and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the Glory of God the Father until the end, when the Son shall become subject to the Father that God may be all in all. Heb. 1:3; 1 Peter 3:22; Acts 2:32-36; Rom. 14:11; 1 Cor. 15:24-28.
(j). Equal Honor to the Father and to the Son
Wherefore, since the Father has delivered all judgment unto the Son, it is not only the express duty all in heaven and earth to bow the knee, but it is an unspeakable joy in the Holy Ghost to ascribe unto the Son all the attributes of Deity, and to give Him all the honor and the glory contained in all the names and titles of the Godhead (except those which express relationship. Ref. paragraphs b, c, and d), and thus honor the Son even as we honor the Father. John 5:22-23; 1 Peter 1:8; Rev. 5:6-14; Phil 2:8-9; Rev. 7:9-10; Rev. 4:8-11.
3. Man, His Fall and Redemption
Man was created good and upright; for God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness.” But man, by voluntary transgression, fell, and his only hope of redemption is in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Gen. 1:26-31, 3:1-7; Rom 5:12-21.
4. The Salvation of Man
(a). Condition to Salvation
The grace of God, which bringeth salvation, hath appeared to all men, through the preaching of repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ; man is saved by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, and, being justified by grace through faith, he becomes an heir of God according to the hope of eternal life. Titus 2:11; Rom. 10:13-15; Luke 24-47; Titus 3:5-7.
(b). The Evidences of Salvation
The inward evidence, to the believer of his salvation, is the direct witness of the Spirit. Rom 8:16. The outward evidence to all men is a life of righteousness and true holiness. Matt 5:16.
5. Baptism in Water
The ordinance of Baptism by a burial with Christ should be observed as commanded in the Scriptures, by all who have really repented and in their hearts have truly believed in Christ as Savior and Lord. In so doing, they have the body washed in pure water as an outward symbol of cleansing, while the heart has already been sprinkled with the blood of Christ as an inner cleansing. Thus they declare to the world that they have died with Jesus and that they have also been raised with Him to walk in newness of life. Matt. 29:19; Acts 10:47-48; Rom. 6:4; Acts 20:21; Heb. 10:22.
6. The Lord’s Supper
The Lord’s Supper, consisting of the elements, bread and the fruit of the vine, is the symbol expressing our sharing the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:4) a memorial of His suffering and death (1 Cor. 11:26) and a prophecy of His second coming (1 Cor. 11:26) and is enjoined on all believers “until He comes”.
7. The Promise of the Father
All believers are entitled to, and should ardently expect, and earnestly seek, the promise of the Father, the Baptism in the Holy Ghost and fire, according to the command of our Lord Jesus Christ. This was the normal experience of all in the early Christian Church. With it comes the enduement of power for life and service, the bestowment of the gifts and their uses in the work of the ministry. Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4, 1:8; 1 Cor 12:1-31. This wonderful experience is distinct from and subsequent to the experience of the new birth. Acts 10:44-46, 11:14-16, 15:7-9.
8. The Evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Ghost
The Baptism of Believers in the Holy Ghost is witnessed by the initial physical sign of speaking with other tongues as the Spirit of God gives them utterance (Acts 2:4). The speaking in tongues in this instance is the same in essence as the gift of tongues (1 Cor. 12:4-10, 28) but different in purpose and use.
9. Entire Sanctification
The Scriptures teach a life of holiness without which no man shall see the Lord. By the power of the Holy Ghost we are able to obey the command, “Be ye holy, for I am holy.” Entire sanctification is the will of God for all believers and should be earnestly pursued by walking in obedience to God’s Word. Heb 12:14; 1 Pet. 1:15, 16; 1 Thess. 5:23, 24; 1 John 2:6.
10. The Church
The Church is the body of Christ, the habitation of God through the spirit, with divine appointments, for the fulfillment of her great commission. Each believer, born of the Spirit, is an integral part of the General Assembly and Church of the First-Born, which are written in heaven. Eph. 1:22, 23; 2:22; Heb 12:23.
11. The Ministry and Evangelism
A divinely called and Scripturally ordained ministry has been provided by our Lord for a twofold purpose; (1) The evangelization of the world, and (2) The edifying of the body of Christ. Mark 16:15-20; Eph 4:110-13.
12. Divine Healing
Deliverance from sickness is provided for in the atonement, and is the privilege of all believers. Isa. 53:4, 5; Matt 8:16, 17.
13. The Blessed Hope
The resurrection of those who have fallen asleep in Christ and their translation together with those who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord is the imminent and blessed hope of the church. 1 Thess. 4:16, 17; Rom. 8:23; Titus 2:13; 1 Cor. 15:51, 52.
14. The Millennial Reign of Jesus
The revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ from heaven, the salvation of national Israel, and the millennial reign of Christ on the earth is the Scriptural promise and the world’s hope. 2 Thess. 1:7; Rev 19:11-14; Rom. 11:26, 27; Rev 20:1-7.
15. The Lake of Fire
The devil and his angels, the beast and the false prophet, and whosoever is not found written in the Book of Life, shall be consigned to everlasting punishment in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone, which is the second death. Rev. 19:20; Rev. 20:10-15.
16. The New Heavens and New Earth
We, “according to His promise look for new heavens and a new earth where dwelleth righteousness.” 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:22.
17. Civil Government
We believe that God has ordained and created all authority consisting of three basic institutions: 1) the home; 2) the church; and 3) the state. Every person is subject to these authorities, but all (including the authorities themselves) are answerable to God and governed by His Word. God has given each institution specific Biblical responsibilities and balanced those responsibilities with the understanding that no institution has the right to infringe upon the other. The home, the church, and the state are equal and sovereign in their respective Biblically assigned spheres of responsibility under God (Rom. 13:1-7; Eph. 5:22-24; Heb. 13:17; 1 Pet. 2:13-14).
18. Human Sexuality
We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and a woman. We believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex (Gen. 2:24; Gen. 19:5, 13; Gen. 26:8-8; Lev. 18:1-30; Rom 1:26-29; 1 Cor. 5:1, 6:9; 1 Thess. 4:1-8; Heb. 13:4).
19. Abortion
We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being. Abortion constitutes the unjustified, unexcused taking of unborn human life. Abortion is murder. We reject any teaching that abortions of pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control, or the mental well-being of the mother are acceptable (Job 3:16; Psalms 51:5; 139:14-16; Isa. 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jer. 1:5; 20:15-18; Luke 1:44).
20. Lawsuits Between Believers
We believe that Christians are prohibited from bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the church to resolve personal disputes. We believe the church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve personal disputes between members. We do believe, however, that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian’s insurance company as long as the claim is pursued without malice or slander (1 Cor. 6:1-8; Eph. 4:31-32).
21. Giving
We believe that every Christian, as a steward of that portion of God’s wealth entrusted to him, is obligated to support his church financially. We believe that God has established the tithe as a basis for giving, but that every Christian should also give other offerings sacrificially and cheerfully to the support of the church, the relief of those in need, and the spread of the Gospel. We believe that a Christian relinquishes all rights to direct the use of the tithe or offering once the gift has been made (Gen. 14:20; Prov. 3:9-10; Acts 4:34-37; 1 Cor. 16:2; 2 Cor. 9:6-7; Gal. 6:6; Eph. 4:28; 1 Tim. 5:17-18; 1 John 3:17).
ARTICLE VIII. MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Commissioned, Licensed, Ordained Ministers of the Gospel.
All Commissioned, Licensed and Ordained Ministers of the Gospel, holding accredited Fellowship Certificates with the Full Gospel Assemblies shall be recognized as members.
(a) Duties
On becoming a member of this church fellowship each one covenants to love, honor, and esteem the leadership, to pray for, and to recognize their authority in spiritual affairs of the church fellowship; to cherish a brotherly love for all members of the church fellowship; to support the fellowship in prayer, tithes, offerings and with other financial support as the Lord enables; and in accordance with Biblical commands to support through a life style walk affirmation of the beliefs and practices of the fellowship.
(b) Discipline of a Member
(1) Members are expected to demonstrate special loyalty and concern for one another. When a member becomes aware of an offense of such magnitude that it hinders spiritual growth and testimony, they are to go alone to the offending party and seek to restore their fellow member. Before they go, they should first examine themselves. When they go, they should go with a spirit of humility and have the goal of restoration.
(2) If reconciliation is not reached, procedures as set forth with Article VI, section 6 of this Constitution and Bylaws shall be followed.
(c) Privileges of Membership
This church fellowship functions, not as a pure democracy, but as a body under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ and the direction of the Executive Council as the undershepherd with the counsel of established boards and/or committees. Membership in this church fellowship does not afford those individuals with any property, contract, or civil rights based on principles of democratic government. Determination of the internal affairs of this church fellowship are ecclesiastical matters and shall be determined exclusively by the fellowship’s own rules and procedures. The Executive Council shall oversee and/or conduct all aspects of this church fellowship. Boards and/or committees shall give counsel and assistance to the Executive Council as requested. The membership of the church fellowship may not vote to initiate any church fellowship action. A vote of the general membership for any purpose may only be initiated by the Executive Council to confirm and ratify the direction of the church fellowship as determined by the Executive Council.
(d) Termination of Membership.
Terminations of memberships shall be in accordance with procedures as set forth with Article VI, section 6 of this Constitution and Bylaws.
Section 2. Churches, Para-Church Ministries, Church Organizations.
All churches, para church ministries and church organizations recognized as affiliates shall be considered affiliate or partner organizations, and may be referred to as Assemblies.
(a) Recognition, Duties, Privileges, & Terminations of Affiliate Assemblies and Partner Ministries
Recognition, Duties, Privileges and Terminations of Affiliate Assemblies and Partner Ministries shall be in accordance with guidelines as set forth with Article VII of this Constitution and Bylaws.
ARTICLE IX. OFFICERS
Section 1. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
The officers of Full Gospel Assemblies shall be: General Superintendent, Director of Ministry, Director of Inter Organizational Ministry, Director of Administration, Secretary-Treasurer, Trustees, together with such other officers as may be hereinafter required. Executive officers shall be nominated, elected and approved by majority vote of the executive council.
Section 2. CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE
The Credentials Committee shall consist of representative ministers of mature experience and ability from within Full Gospel Assemblies; nominated, elected and approved by the Executive Council.
Section 3. NATIONAL MINISTERS COUNCIL
The National Ministers Council shall consist of
representative members of mature experience and ability, from within Full Gospel Assemblies; nominated, elected and approved by the Executive Council, serving as advisors to the Executive Council.
ARTICLE X. COMMITTEES
Section 1. Special Committees
Special Committees may be appointed by the Executive Council as the need may arise.
ARTICLE XI. MEETINGS
Section 1. The Full Gospel Assemblies Executive Council shall convene annually
The time and place shall be chosen by the Executive Council and due notice shall be mailed to each member not later than one month prior to the time of meeting.
Section 2. Special sessions may be called
To meet any emergency that may arise within the Fellowship. Such call shall be issued by the Secretary after the emergency has been fully considered and passed upon by a majority vote of the Executive Council.
ARTICLE XII. AFFILIATE & PARTNER ASSEMBLIES / MINISTRIES
All who believe upon Christ Jesus, as Lord and Savior, the Son of God (Romans 10:9), who uphold the doctrine of the Full Gospel Assemblies, associating themselves in local bodies as assemblies, shall have the right to recognition by Full Gospel Assemblies. They shall be classified as follows:
Section 1. SOVEREIGN AFFILIATE ASSEMBLIES
Churches, ministries, and church organizations which have matured sufficiently to accept their full share of responsibility for the maintenance of scriptural order, shall be entitled to recognition as sovereign affiliates. They shall be set in order by the Executive Council in cooperation with the Credentials and Affiliations Committee and shall be amenable to the Fellowship in doctrine, conduct, and all other matters which affect the peace and harmony of the Fellowship. They shall have the right to choose their own pastors and directors, elect officers, hold property through either trustees or in the corporate name, discipline members, and transact all other business pertaining to their life as sovereign churches and ministries. They shall have a standard of membership which shall be determined by agreement with the Executive Council. They shall support the Full Gospel Assemblies, according to the provisions of Bylaws, Article X, of this Constitution and Bylaws.
Section 2. ASSOCIATE PARTNER CONGREGATIONS, FELLOWSHIPS, AND PARACHURCH MINISTRIES
Churches, ministries, and church organizations demonstrating full scriptural order, proper and independent legal structure, and ability for independent governance shall be entitled to partner with Full Gospel Assemblies Int. They shall be examined and considered for Associate Partner ministry recognition by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee. Partner ministries shall be determined to be amenable to the Fellowship in doctrine, conduct, and all other matters which affect the peace and harmony of the Fellowship. Partnering ministries shall annually submit report of ministry so as to maintain active Associate Partner ministry recognition. They shall be independently responsible for all required government reporting, government regulations and operational liabilities. They shall, in the spirit of cooperation and unity of the body, participate with, in support of the ministry of Full Gospel Assemblies, according to the provisions of the Bylaws, Article X, of this Constitution and Bylaws.
ARTICLE XIII. DISSOLUTION CLAUSE
In the event the Full Gospel Assemblies shall cease to function for the purposes herein set forth, the trustees shall, after paying or making provision for payment of all the liabilities of the church fellowship, dispose of all of the assets of the church fellowship to such organization or organizations formed and operated exclusively for religious purposes as shall at the time qualify as an exempt organization or organizations under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue Law), as the trustees shall determine. Assets may be distributed only to organizations which agree with the church fellowship’s statement of faith.
In the event of cessation of the Full Gospel Assemblies Int., its board of trustees (or directors) shall transfer all properties and any remaining assets, in accordance with the foregoing provisions, within one year after the date of such cessation. If such transfer is not made within the time prescribed above then disposition thereof shall be made by the court of the county in which the General Council headquarters office is located, provided that in such case proceeds of the dissolution shall be distributed to organizations having purposes nearest the purposes of the Full Gospel Assemblies, Int.
ARTICLE XIV. AMENDMENTS
Amendments to this Constitution and Bylaws may be made at any regular or special meeting of the Executive Council, provided the proposed amendment has been submitted to the Executive Council first for consideration. A majority vote of all members present shall be necessary for adoption.
BYLAWS OF FULL GOSPEL ASSEMBLIES INTERNATIONAL
July 2012
ARTICLE I. RULES OF ORDER
In order to expedite the work of the Executive Council and to avoid confusion in its deliberations, this Council shall be governed by accepted rules of parliamentary procedure, all in keeping with the spirit of Christian love and fellowship.
ARTICLE II. ORDER OF BUSINESS
The regular order of business in meetings of the Executive Council shall be:
1. Devotional
2. Report of the General Superintendent
3. Report of the Secretary
4. Report of the Treasurer
5. Reports of Committees
6. Unfinished business
7. Election of officers
8. New business
9. Adjournment
ARTICLE III. QUALIFICATIONS AND ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Section 1. QUALIFICATIONS
The officers of the Full Gospel Assemblies shall be ministers of mature experience, sound judgment, recognized ability and Christian character. They shall be chosen from the membership and shall have been ministering within the Fellowship for at least three years
Section 2. NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS
All candidates for the offices of General Superintendent, Director of Ministry, Director of Inter Organizational Ministry, Director of Administration, Secretary-Treasurer of the Fellowship, and for Trustees, shall be nominated by members of the Executive Council and elected by secret ballot within the Council.
Section 3. TERMS OF OFFICE AND VACANCIES
The terms of office of the General Superintendent, Director of Ministry, Director of Inter Organizational Ministry, Director of Administration, and Secretary-Treasurer of the Fellowship, shall be for five years from the time of election. The terms of office for Trustee officers shall be for two years from the time of election. The terms of office for all members of the National Ministers Council and the Credentials and Affiliations Committee shall be for two years from time of election. The terms of office for appointed members of special committees shall be set by the Executive Council at time of appointment.
All officers shall take office at the close of the Council session in which they are elected with the exception that when another than the incumbent is elected General Superintendent, or Secretary-Treasurer, he shall take office three months after the date of election. In the event that this latter plan is not deemed practicable, the Executive Council shall be authorized to set an alternate date. Should a vacancy occur in any office through resignation, removal from Fellowship, death or disqualification, power is vested in the remaining members of the Executive Council to fill such office by appointment until the next session of the Executive Council.
Section 4. QUORUM
All ministers of the Executive Council who are present and registered shall constitute the voting constituency, or a quorum.
ARTICLE IV. DUTIES OF OFFICERS
Section 1. GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT
(1) The General Superintendent shall serve as chairman and general overseer of the Fellowship/ Corporation.
(2) The General Superintendent shall preside at all meetings of the Executive Council, the National Ministers Council, and the Credentials and Affiliations Committee.
(3) They shall act as President of the Fellowship/Corporation in all legal matters.
(4) They shall be the head of the Central office and shall supervise the work of that office during the interim between sessions of the Executive Council. They shall receive all communications addressed to the Executive Council and shall sign all Fellowship credentials and affiliations issued by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee. They shall be an ex-officio member of all committees.
(5) They shall act in a supervisory capacity over all the work of the Fellowship. They shall assist assemblies and ministries with personal advice and ministry as the needs may require. They shall administer discipline in all cases when requested to do so by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee or the Executive Council.
(6) They shall perform such other functions as are usual and customary for the presiding officer to perform, or as may be directed by the Executive Council.
Section 2. DIRECTOR OF MINISTRY
(1) The Director of Ministry shall assist the General Superintendent.
(2) They shall preside at meetings in the absence of the General Superintendent.
(3) They shall accede to the office of General Superintendent if that office becomes vacant and shall continue in that office until the next regular session of the Executive Council or until a special session can be called if the Executive Council shall deem such a session necessary.
(4) They shall serve as a member of the Executive Council and the Credentials and Affiliations Committee, and shall act as Vice President of the Fellowship/Corporation.
(5) They shall promote development of outreach ministry.
(6) They shall perform such other functions as may be directed by the Executive Council.
Section 3. DIRECTOR OF INTER ORGANIZATIONAL MINISTRY
(1) The Director of Inter Organizational Ministry shall assist the General Superintendent.
(2) They shall serve as a member of the Executive Council.
(3) They shall represent the Fellowship in public affairs matters when requested by the General Superintendent.
(4) They shall promote unity, faith and interaction within the Fellowship, assisting in leading evangelistic conference and seminar activities.
(5) They shall perform such other functions as may be directed by the Executive Council.
Section 4. DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION
(1) The Director of Administration shall assist the General Superintendent.
(2) They shall serve as a member of the Executive Council.
(3) They shall represent the Fellowship in administrative matters.
(4) They shall direct and supervise the central office administration of the Fellowship.
(5) They shall perform such other functions as may be directed by the Executive Council.
Section 5. SECRETARY
(1) The Secretary shall make and keep true records of the proceedings of the Executive Council, and shall publish the same as approved and directed by the Executive Council.
(2) They shall act as secretary of the meetings of the Executive Council, National Ministers Council and of the Credentials and Affiliations Committee.
(3) They shall be the custodian of the official seal of the Fellowship and shall issue credentials and affiliations under the direction of the Executive Council; and, keep a record of all ministers, licentiates, commissioned ministers and assemblies of the Fellowship.
(4) They shall be authorized to sign all official and legal documents, and to perform such other functions as are customary or as may be directed by the Executive Council, or by the General Superintendent.
Section 6. TREASURER
(1) The Treasurer shall be custodian of the General Funds of the Fellowship. They shall deposit the same in a responsible bank in the name of Full Gospel Assemblies.
(2). They shall keep an accurate record of all receipts and disbursements, and shall conduct the work of the office according to accepted methods of business.
(3). They shall give a report from time to time as may be requested by the Executive Council. Their books shall reflect a fiscal year of January 1 through December 31 and shall be audited yearly and the report of the audit shall be read at the Executive Council session.
(4) They shall perform such other functions as are customary to the office or as may be directed by the Executive Council or by the General Superintendent.
Section 7. TRUSTEES
The Trustees shall assist the General Superintendent. They shall serve as members of the Executive Council, ensuring to the scriptural management of the Fellowship and the adherence to the mission of the ministry in its affairs.
ARTICLE V. COMMITTEES
Section 1. CREDENTIALS AND AFFILIATIONS COMMITTEE
The Credentials and Affiliations Committee shall meet quarterly for the discharge of their duties or at such time and place as may be arranged and approved by the General Superintendent. They shall examine all applicants for the ministry and shall provide for the credentialing of all accepted candidates. They shall examine all applicants for Affiliation, Partnership, Ordination, Licensure and Commissioning and shall issue, through the Secretary, proper credentials, affiliations and partnership recognitions to those approved. The Secretary shall certify to the Executive Council office all candidates who have been credentialed to the full ministry of the Gospel by the laying of the hands of the General Superintendent or Designate.
Section 2. NATIONAL MINISTERS COUNCIL
The National Ministers Council shall consist of designated regional area ministers. They shall meet annually for the discharge of its duties or at such time and place as may be arranged by the General Superintendent. They shall serve as Elders of the Fellowship. They shall offer counsel in Fellowship matters as directed by the Executive Council. They shall assist the Executive Council and the Credentials and Affiliations Committee in the administration of the ministry of the fellowship, including but not limited to ministerial representation, examinations, investigations and designated ministry to the fellowship.
Section 3. ADDITIONAL COMMITTEES
Additional Committees shall be created by appointment or election as necessity may require. The terms of office shall continue from the date of appointment to the adjournment of the next regular meeting of the Executive Council, except as hereinafter provided.
ARTICLE VI. MINISTRY
Section 1. MINISTRY DESCRIBED
Recognition of candidates for the ministry shall be granted to those who give evidence of having received a call for service and of living a life empowered by the Holy Ghost according to Acts 1:8, without discrimination to race, color, age or gender. They shall receive recognition according to the following classifications:
(1) COMMISSIONED
Those who demonstrate the willingness for the call of God, who measure up to Scriptural standards, and who have received divine confirmation of their call to service within the church body. Commissioned ministers shall serve in a designated ministry under the direct supervision of their pastor or director in support of the local assembly and ministry. They shall follow a course of development and preparation as as may be directed by their pastor or director and/or the FGA Credentials and Affiliations Committee.
(2) LICENTIATES
Those whose ministry clearly gives forth evidence of the call of God, and who have received confirmation of their call to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, and who purpose themselves to be dedicated to the ministry. They shall prove their purpose by making such preparation as may be required by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee, and demonstrating their ability by actual ministration in pastoral, missionary, community or evangelistic work.
(3) ELDERS
All candidates for ministerial ordination must be of mature experience and qualifications and have demonstrated their ability to undertake the complete responsibilities of the full gospel ministry. Ministers considered for ordination shall have been engaged in the active work of the ministry as a pastor, minister, missionary or evangelist and shall have held a ministerial license for a minimum of three full years.
Section 2. QUALIFICATIONS
The following qualifications pertain to all applicants for ministerial recognition: Testimony to having experienced the new birth (John 3:5); Clear evidence of a divine call to the ministry, evidenced by a personal conviction, confirmed by the work of the Holy Spirit and the testimony of fellow ministers; A blameless Christian life and a good report of those who are without (Titus 1:7; 1 Timothy 3:7); A thorough understanding of and agreement with the Full Gospel Assemblies doctrinal position as contained in the Statement of Fundamental Truths.
All candidates for Commissioned Ministerial recognition, Ministerial License and Ordination shall be required voluntarily to cooperate fully with any plan for study, counsel or ministry which the Credentials and Affiliations Committee and/or Executive Council shall deem wise to recommend for the improvement of the ministry. This provision shall apply, as well to all who hold such credentials.
All candidates shall obtain proper recommendations from ordained ministers of the ministry in the respective area in which they minister. All candidates shall appear before the Credentials and Affiliations Committee, or designate acting on the Committee’s behalf. They shall be prepared for examination on the Statement of Fundamental Truths approved by the Executive Council. Application forms for ministerial recognition shall be obtained from the central office. Such forms shall be properly filled out and forwarded to the General Secretary prior to the meeting of the Credentials and Affiliations Committee.
(1). Candidates for ordination to eldership shall be required to comply with the standard as set forth in the Scriptures, especially those found in 1 Tim. 3:1-7 and Titus 1:7-9.
(2). The Full Gospel Assemblies, through the Credentials and Affiliations Committee shall examine the circumstances of all candidates who have been divorced and remarried and shall refrain from granting ministerial recognition to candidates determined to be living outside of biblical standards. All candidates shall be evaluated for criminal offenses and convictions, with determination of suitability for ministry. The Full Gospel Assemblies shall refrain from granting ministerial recognition to candidates who are incarcerated.
(3). The following educational requirements are required of all candidates for ministry. Persons exempt from these requirements will be those who have acquired equivalent educational experiences. Those who feel that they have acquired the equivalent, through educational programs and/or ministerial experience, and who are not graduates of accredited Bible schools and/or colleges, will be required to submit an educational training/ministry resume and/or take a special, written, comprehensive examination.
All applications for credentials shall be accompanied by a letter from the chairman of the Credentials and Affiliations Committee showing the completion of the required educational requirements. Ministerial and life experience credit toward educational requirements shall be granted at a rate of two credits per year of service for non-pastoral positions, and eight credits per year of service for approved pastoral positions. Educational and life experience credit shall not be granted for educational experiences or life experiences outside of biblical and related ministerial preparatory study or service in ministry. The Credentials and Affiliations Committee shall determine the eligibility and approval of such credit for the fulfillment of educational requirements. Each applicant shall be evaluated and considered on an individual basis. The Credentials and Affiliations Committee shall have the authority to waive ministerial qualification requirements in cases which they deem appropriate and/or necessary.
A. For Commissioned Ministerial Recognition
Those individuals making application for commissioned ministerial recognition, shall be active in ministry within an approved capacity and active in an approved educational program for ministry preparation. Application educational requirement shall be a minimum of 22 credit hours completed.
B. For License to Preach and Evangelize
Those individuals making application for licensed ministerial recognition, shall be active in ministry within an approved capacity and active in or have completed an approved educational program for ministry preparation. Application educational requirement shall be a minimum of 45 credit hours completed.
C. For Ordination
Those individuals making application for ordination recognition, shall be active in ministry within an approved capacity and active in or have completed an approved educational program for ministry preparation. Application educational requirement shall be a minimum of 90 credit hours completed.
Section 3. ORDINATIONS
All ordinations shall take place under the direction of the Executive Council or through other arrangements approved by the Executive Council. Other exceptions shall be granted by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee when special conditions warrant them.
Section 4. CREDENTIALS
(1). Ordinations, Ministerial License and Commissioned minister recognitions shall be issued from the central office. Applications for Ordination, Ministerial License and Commissioned minister recognitions shall be issued by the central office staff. When properly filled out and endorsed, they shall be forwarded to the General Superintendent through the Credentials and Affiliations Committee and accompanied by the requested application fee to cover the administrative cost of issuing such credentials.
(2). All credentials certificates shall be signed by the General Superintendent and Secretary. The credentials shall be so constructed as to be incomplete unless accompanied by a Fellowship seal. They shall be renewed by the decision of the Credentials and Affiliations Committee upon submission by each individual of an annual report of their ministry during the preceding year. The requested application fee shall accompany each annual report so as to defray the administrative cost of issuing such credentials. Failure to submit an annual report of ministry shall be considered as a voluntary withdraw of membership.
Section 5. MINISTERIAL RELATIONS
Ministers who are credentialed with other denominations and church fellowships and who desire ministerial credentialing recognition with the Full Gospel Assemblies, shall be required to show that their character is above question with proper letter of transfer, coming into full unilateral fellowship with Full Gospel Assemblies. The credential which such ministers held in their denomination/fellowship may be recognized by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee.
Section 6. DISCIPLINE AND CREDENTIALS TERMINATIONS
(1). Discipline.
Discipline is the exercise of scriptural authority for which the church is responsible. In all matters of discipline, it is the aim that God may be honored, that the well-being of the ministry may be maintained, and that those under discipline may be brought to repentance and restoration. Discipline is to be for the restoration of the minister while fully providing for the protection of the spiritual welfare of the ministry. It is to be redemptive in nature as well as corrective and is to be exercised as under a dispensation of mercy.
In all matters requiring investigation or discipline, it shall be the responsibility of the Executive Council to carry out such action in accordance with the guidelines set forth in Matthew 18:15-18. All complaints of improper and unethical conduct by ministers of the fellowship shall be forwarded in writing to the office of the General Superintendent through the Secretary for presentation to the Executive Council. In all matters determined to warrant investigation and/or disciplinary action, the adjudged party shall be given notice with request to appear before the Executive Council or designated representative thereof. The Executive Council shall respond in writing to the adjudged party within 90 days following the appearance. The Executive Council shall have the authority to suspend or terminate ministerial credentials of the adjudged party during and /or following an investigation process. A majority vote of the Executive Council shall be necessary to disfellowship any affiliate member of the fellowship. In the event rehabilitation is not feasible or fails for a minister who has been found in error, and when disfellowship actions are warranted, the minister shall be listed as dismissed. The decisions of the Executive Council shall be regarded as final.
(2). Credentials Terminations
Lapsed. Credentials may be terminated by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee for lapsed annual ministerial report. Providing there is no cause for disciplinary action, the minister who does not elect to submit required reports of ministry and/or renew their credentials, shall be listed as lapsed.
Resigned. A minister who elects to remove himself from the Fellowship, and against whom there are no charges filed, shall be listed as resigned.
Not Renewed. If in the opinion of the Credentials and Affiliations Committee, a minister’s credentials should not be renewed short of disciplinary action, their name shall be listed as not renewed.
All matters of decision by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee may be appealed to the Executive Council. Appeals must be in writing and submitted to the Executive Council through the Secretary and must be filed within thirty days after notice of decision by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee.
The Executive Council shall review the matter of decision and at their discretion they may invite the party adjudged to appear before the Executive Council. Review of all such cases by the Executive Council shall be completed within 90 days following the request for appeal. Executive Council decisions shall be considered final in all matters.
ARTICLE VII. AFFILIATE ASSEMBLIES & MINISTRIES, PARTNER MINISTRIES & FELLOWSHIPS
Section 1. AFFILIATE ORGANIZATION
All affiliate churches, ministries, and fellowships shall be entitled to the assistance of the Full Gospel Assemblies for the obtaining of a suitable organization. Arrangements for a meeting to set the ministry in order may be made with the General Superintendent or Designate. At this meeting a declaration of affiliation with the Full Gospel Assemblies shall be made. Officers shall be provided for and elected, and an adequate Constitution and Bylaws adopted for future guidance.
Section 2. AFFILIATE MINISTRY PRIVILEGES & PROVISIONS
(1). It shall be the privilege of all affiliate ministries to have the advice and assistance of the Full Gospel Assemblies in all vital matters which affect them. They shall be recognized as Full Gospel Assemblies subordinate church ministries, eligible for inclusion as a U.S. government recognized church ministry within the Fellowship. They shall have access to all the benefits that have been created by the Fellowship, such as the Home and World Missions, Sunday School, Junior Church, Communications and School of Ministry departments and outreach ministries, Conferences, Publications, etc.
(2). It shall be the privilege of all affiliate ministries to seek the advice of the General Superintendent and Executive Council before calling candidates to fill vacant positions in ministry. To facilitate the matter of changes, it is expected that Pastors will give their churches at least thirty days’ notice before leaving to assume a new charge and in the event that churches desire a change they shall be expected to give their Pastor sixty days’ notice, except in cases where moral turpitude is involved.
(3). Should difficulties arise within an affiliate ministry which might threaten its peace and welfare, it shall be the privilege of the affiiate ministry to seek the help and advice of the Full Gospel Assemblies Executive Council, looking toward an amicable settlement of the problem.
(4). Affiliate congregational ministries, active and in good standing, shall be authorized and encouraged to be represented by their senior pastor as a delegate at the regularly scheduled Ministry Leadership Summit of pastors and ministers where each delegate will participate in an advisory capacity, as called upon by the Council leadership for the direction of Home and World Mission ministry for the Fellowship. Pastoral Delegates shall be active Full Gospel Assemblies recognized ministers of the gospel.
(5). Affiliate churches, ministries, and fellowships shall maintain a minimum of one leadership pastoral or director position actively credentialed within the church Fellowship of Full Gospel Assemblies.
(6). So as to provide for order within the Fellowship, The Credentials and Affiliations Committee shall refrain from granting affiliation to churches and ministries located within the U.S.A. who purpose to commission, license or ordain candidates to ministry.
Section 3. AFFILIATE MINISTRY DUTIES
(1). It shall be the duty of all affiliate ministries to maintain Scriptural order in doctrine and conduct.
(2). It shall be the duty of all affiliate ministries to submit an annual report of ministry. The affiliation of each affiliate ministry shall be renewed by the decision of the Credentials and Affliations Committee upon submission by each ministry of an annual report of their ministry during the preceding year. The requested application donation shall accompany each annual report so as to defray the administrative cost of issuing such affiliation. Failure to submit an annual report of ministry shall be considered as a voluntary withdraw of affiliation.
Section 4. ASSOCIATE PARTNER MINISTRIES, CONGREGATIONS AND FELLOWSHIPS
(1). Associate partner ministries, congregations and fellowships enjoined with Full Gospel Assemblies commit to recognizing the need and benefit for building relationships and uniting with those of like faith for the purpose of declaring the gospel of Christ Jesus to all. Associate partner ministries and fellowships shall embrace the promotion of interdependency while maintaining distinct, independent identities.
(2). Associate partner ministries, congregations and fellowships shall be allied with Full Gospel Assemblies, with access to the ministry benefits of the Fellowship. Assistance shall be available to partnering ministries and congregations for the development and advancement of the ministry of the gospel and exchange of fellowship. Associate Partner ministries shall commit to prayer and intercession for the Full Gospel Assemblies; unite in support of the Fellowship home and world mission efforts (Article X, Section 1.6); have access to and be encouraged to regularly participate with regional and national conferences for the building of the ministry and the strengthening of leadership and the body; and have access to the educational programs of the Fellowship for growing disciples, ministers, and pastors for the effective work of the Great Commission (Mt. 28:16-20).
ARTICLE VIII. WORLD MISSIONS
(1). We believe in world missions and purpose, as a Fellowship, to work in harmony with the plans and methods of the World Missions Department of the Fellowship. We recommend that all affiliate assemblies adopt a world missions program and that the funds for the support of world missions or missionaries be transmitted to the World Missions Department of the Full Gospel Assemblies, Parkesburg, Pennsylvania.
(2). The supervision and administration of the World Missions Department of the Fellowship shall be managed by the Director of Ministry and the Director of Administration, in cooperation with the representation of the National Ministers Council.
ARTICLE IX. HOME MISSIONS
(1). The purpose of the Home Missions Department is the promulgate the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the United States and to establish and develop churches and ministries.
(2). The supervision and administration of the Home Missions Department of the Fellowship shall be managed by the Director of Ministry and the Director of Administration, in cooperation with the representation of the National Ministers Council.
ARTICLE X. FINANCES
The financial needs of the Fellowship shall be coordinated under one general heading to be known as the Full Gospel Assemblies General Fund. This fund shall be raised through the contributions of the ministers and churches of the Fellowship, according to the plans adopted by the Executive Council, and shall be available for the support of the General Superintendent, administration and traveling expenses, support of Home Missions, support of World Missions, the sponsoring of new ministry and other necessary Fellowship expense. It shall be disbursed under the supervision of the Executive Council. The Executive Council shall be authorized to divert surplus funds from one department to another when necessary.
The principle of voluntary cooperation underlies the financial policy of the Fellowship. Adherence to any group entails mutual responsibilities, whether it be a family, a community, a nation, or an association. Mutual benefits accrue from mutual contributions to the common good. So it is with the Church Fellowship. Each should be willing to carry his share of the expense and ministry of the Fellowship work voluntarily.
Section 1. Financial Cooperation
To the Fellowship. Since the work of the Fellowship of Full Gospel Assemblies in its program of developing the spirit of cooperation and fellowship in home and foreign fields incurs considerable expense, including support of executive officers and offices; affiliated church assemblies, affiliate and partner ministries, ordained, licensed, and commissioned ministers shall recognize their obligation to contribute monthly under the following guidelines. All who are willing (2 Cor. 8:11-14) are encouraged to contribute more than the suggested amount, either personally or through the assembly they pastor. Affiliated church assemblies, ministries, ordained ministers, licensed ministers and commissioned ministers shall likewise be encouraged to cooperate in the Home Missions program for the development of new ministry, and have part in the World Missions programs of the Full Gospel Assemblies.
(1). Senior Pastors / Missionaries / Independent Evangelists As a standard of proper practice, each ordained or licensed senior pastor or full time missionary shall contribute offerings and their tithe from all wages and salaries, to their district, regional or national office as designated by the Executive Council. Full time missionaries shall be defined as those whose primary country of residence becomes the country which they are serving. Independent Evangelists shall be defined as those who lead community evangelism ministries independent of a congregation. Individuals not receiving a wage or salary, or in times of financial limitations, shall make report of such and shall contribute a monthly offering commensurate with their financial ability.(2). Associate Pastors, Missionaries, Evangelists, Ordained and Licensed Ministers As a standard of proper practice, each ordained, licensed, or commissioned minister not fulfilling the office of senior pastor, full time missionary or independent evangelist shall contribute their tithe from all wages and salaries to their home church and a regular monthly offering shall be contributed to the Fellowship through their district, regional or national office as designated by the Executive Council. Individuals not receiving a wage or salary, or in times of financial limitations, shall make report of such and shall contribute a monthly offering commensurate with their financial ability.
(3). All Recognized Ministers of the Gospel In seasons without a home church, all ministers shall contribute their tithe and offerings to their district, regional or national office as designated by the Executive Council. Individuals not receiving a wage or salary shall contribute a monthly offering commensurate with their financial ability. In seasons of leading an unestablished congregation wherein the general tithe support of the pastor is required for sustainability, pastor shall provide accountability of such to their district, regional or national office as designated by the Executive Council.
(4). Full Gospel Assemblies Affiliate Congregations / Church Ministries. As a standard of practice of participation in the Fellowship giving program, it is recommended that each affiliate congregation / church ministry regularly participate in giving to home and world missions outreach, and contribute a regular monthly support, equal to 5% of tithe and general offerings received.
(5). Full Gospel Assemblies Affiliate Parachurch Ministries. As a standard of practice of participation in the Fellowship giving program, it is recommended that each parachurch ministry regularly participate in giving to home and world missions outreach, and contribute a regular monthly support, commensurate with their ability.
(6). Associate Partner Congregations, Fellowships, and Parachurch Ministries. As a standard of practice of participation in support of the Fellowship programs, it is recommended that each associate partner congregation, fellowship and parachurch ministry regularly contribute in support of the Fellowship ministry and in support of ministry directed to associate partners at the level commensurate with their ability.
(7). All Ministries. In seasons of wherein affiliate or associate partner ministries are unable, for reasons of sustainability, to fully participate with the standard of giving set forth herein, each ministry shall be responsible to provide accountability of such to their district, regional or an affiliate ational office as designated by the Executive Council. All ministries shall voluntarily and regularly participate in support of the Fellowship commensurate with their ability.
Section 2. Financial Accountability
The Credentials and Affiliations Committee shall carefully analyze the annual report of each affiliate ministry, assembly, and minister, and in their knowledge of local situations, determine if voluntary cooperation in support of the Fellowship has been provided. There shall be an annual review of those whose giving appears not to conform to the Fellowship standard, and an explanation of reasons for lack of cooperation shall be required to be submitted in writing, with annual report of ministry. In the event that reasonable explanation is withheld, or unavailable, renewal of affiliation and/or ministerial recognition shall be withheld by the Credentials and Affiliations Committee.
ARTICLE XI. FELLOWSHIP TAX EXEMPT PROVISIONS
Section 1. Private Inurement.
No part of the net earnings of the church fellowship shall inure to the benefit of or be distributable to its member, trustees, officers, or other private persons, except that the organization shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for the services rendered and to make payments and distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth in Article I hereof.
Section 2. Political Involvement.
No substantial part of the activities of the church fellowship shall be the carrying on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation. The church fellowship shall not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office.
Section 3. Designated Contributions.
From time to time the church fellowship, in the exercise of its religious, education, and charitable purposes, may establish various funds to accomplish specific goals. Contributors may suggest uses for their contributions but all suggestions shall be deemed advisory rather than mandatory in nature. All contributions made to specific funds or otherwise designated shall remain subject to the exclusive control and discretion of the Executive Council and trustees. No fiduciary obligation shall be created by any designated contribution made to the church fellowship other than to use the contribution for the general furtherance of any of the purposes set forth in Article I hereof.
ARTICLE XII. FELLOWSHIP PROPERTY
All property of the Fellowship shall be held in the corporate name and deeded to the Full Gospel Assemblies International. No real property or chattel of the Fellowship shall be sold, leased, mortgaged, or otherwise alienated, unless the same shall have first been recommended by a two-thirds vote of the Executive Council of the Full Gospel Assemblies at a regular meeting or at a special referendum vote as provided for in the Constitution. The General Superintendent and Secretary of the Fellowship shall certify in such conveyance, lease or mortgage, that the same has been duly authorized and recommended by a vote of said Executive Council. Such certificate shall be held to be conclusive evidence thereof.
ARTICLE XIII. AMENDMENTS
Amendments to the Bylaws may be made at any regular or special meeting of the Executive Council, provided the proposed amendment has been submitted to the Executive Council first for consideration. A majority vote of all members present shall be necessary for adoption.
ARTICLE XIV. REVISION
This Constitution and Bylaws of the Full Gospel Assemblies International is a revised document. As such, any and all previous Constitution and Bylaws and Amendments of Full Gospel Assemblies International shall be deemed null and void.
FULL GOSPEL ASSEMBLIES 