First Baptist Church
Of Barksdale, Texas
AKA
Barksdale Baptist Church
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church
of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
P.O. Box 217
Barksdale, Texas 78828
(830) 234-3646
(Revised June 5, 2013)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preamble ………………………………………………………………………….. 1
Name and Purpose (Article I) ……………….………………………………… 1
Articles of Faith (Article II) ……………………………………………………. 1
Government (Article III) …………………..………………………………….… 2
MEMBERSHIP (Article IV)
Qualifications ……………………………………………………………. 2
Termination ……………………………………………………………… 3
DISCIPLINING (Article V) ……………………………………………………… 4
ORGANIZATION (Article VI)
Time of Meetings ……………………………………………………….. 4
Officers
Pastor …………………………………………………………………. 4
Deacons ………………………………………………………………. 6
Trustees ………………………………………………………………. 8
Treasurer …………………………………………………………….. 8
Church Clerk ……………………………………………………….. 9
Organizations …………………………………………………………… 9
Lord’s Supper …………………………………………………………… 9
Fiscal Year ………………………………………………………………. 9
Will of the Church ……………………………………………………… 9
Messengers ………………………………………………………………. 9
Committees (Article VII)………………………………………………... 10
OFFICERS, COMMITTEES AND EMPLOYEES (Article (VIII)
Pastor
Calling ………………………………………………………………… 10
Duties …………………………………………………………………. 11
Salary …………………………………………………………………. 12
Pulpit Supply ……………………………………………………….. 12
Termination …………………………………………………………. 12
Conventions …………………………………………………………. 12
Associate Pastor
Election ………………………………………………………………. 12
Duties …………………………………………………………………. 12
Educational Director …………………………………………………..
Election ………………………………………………………………. 13
Duties …………………………………………………………………. 13
Salary …………………………………………………………………. 13
Music Director
Election ………………………………………………………………. 13
Duties …………………………………………………………………. 13
Salary …………………………………………………………………. 13
Church Secretary ………………………………………………………. 14
Church Treasurer ………………………………………………………. 14
Financial Recording Secretary ………………………………………. 14
Church Messengers ………………………………………………..…. 14
Sunday School Director and Assistant …………………………………….. 15
Vacation Bible School Director …………………………………. 15
Church Training Director ……………………………………………. 15
Director of Baptist Men ………………………………………………. 15
Director of Women’s Missionary Union (WMU) ………………….. 16
Trustees …………..……………………………………………………… 16
Nursery Coordinator …………………………………………………… 16
Mission Committee …………………………………………………….. 17
Lord’s Supper Committee …………………………………………….. 17
God’s Love in Action Committee .………………………………….. 17
Budget/Finance Committee …………………………………………. 17
Flower Committee – Sanctuary ……………………………………… 17
Church Music Committee ………………………………………….… 18
Building and Grounds Committee …………………………………. 18
Nominating Committee ……………………………………………….. 18
Church Council …………………………………………………………. 19
Teller Committee ……………………………………………………….. 19
Pastor Selection Committee ………………………………………….. 20
Church Historian ………………………………………………………. 20
Hostess/Kitchen Committee …………………………………………. 20
Special Committee ……………………………………………………… 20
Resolution ……………………………………………………………….. 20
PURCHASING (Article IX)…………………………………………..………….. 21
DISCIPLINE (Article X) …..…………………………………………………….. 23
FINANCES (Article XII) ………………………………………….……………… 23
CHURCH EVANGELISM (Article XIII) …………………..…………………… 23
LICENSING AND ORDAINING MINISTERS (Article XIV) ……………….. 23
AMENDMENTS (Article XV)………………………………..………………….. 23
CHURCH POLICY NO. 1 ……………………………………………………… 24
CHURCH POLICY NO. 2 ……………………………………………………… 26
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
1
THE CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS OF
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH of BARKSDALE, TEXAS
AKA BARKSDALE BAPTIST CHURCH
Preamble
We, the Members of the First Baptist Church OF Barksdale, Texas AKA Barksdale Baptist Church in order to win men, women
and children to Christ, and to spread the Gospel of the Grace of God to the ends of the earth and to build up believers in the faith
and knowledge of Christ, for ourselves and for others who shall hereafter become Members of this Church, do ordain and establish
the Constitution and By-Lays of this Church to which we, as Members thereof agree and voluntarily submit ourselves.
Article I -- Name and Purpose
Section 1. Name: The name of this Church is The First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas.
Section 2. Location: The location of this Church is Barksdale, Texas, County of Edwards.
Section 3. Purpose: The purpose of this Church is to support public worship of God, to edify the Members of this Church, to
proclaim the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and conduct the activities of the Church in a cooperating way with
the Southern Baptist Convention and Baptist General Convention of Texas, as we follow the 1963 Baptist Faith
and Message.
Article II -- Articles of Faith
The following covenant shall be followed and entered into by the Members of this Church:
Having been led as we believe by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and on the profession of our
faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, the Son and 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; contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the Church, the relief
of the poor and the spread of the Gospel through all nations.
We also engage to maintain family and private individual devotion; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation
of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements
and exemplary in our deportment; to avoid all tattling, backbiting and excessive anger; to abstain from the sale and use of
intoxicating drinks as a beverage; to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior.
We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember 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 Savior to secure it without delay.
We moreover engage that when we remove from this Church we will, as soon as possible, unite with another church where
we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God’s Word.
Article III -- Government
Section 1. The Church is a pure democracy. The authority and responsibility of Church affairs is vested in its Members
whose will on any subject or measure is expressed by majority vote of Members present, on major issues in a
duly constituted Business Meeting or conference. Must be eighteen years to vote.
Section 2. This Church is autonomous and independent in its government and in the regulation of its own affairs. It shall
not in any manner be answerable to any other ecclesiastical body. It controls the admission, discipline and
removal of its Members according to its own understanding of the Word of God. The decision of the Church
shall be final in all matters and no appeal can be made to any other ecclesiastical body.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
2
Article IV -- Membership
Section 1. Qualifications: Only persons meeting all the following qualifications shall be eligible for Membership in this
Church:
A. Profess a scriptural faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
B. Adopt the views of faith and practice held by this Church and as set forth in this constitution.
C. Be scripturally baptized, which is by immersion.
Section 2. Persons shall be received into the Church by the approval of the Church upon one of the following conditions:
A. By Letter: Presentation of letter of recommendation from a sister Baptist Church which adheres to the
fundamental doctrines as accepted by this Church.
B. By Statement: Applicant may make a statement of faith, baptism and Membership from a sister Baptist
Church when for any unavoidable reason a Church letter cannot be obtained.
C. Restoration: Any person whose Membership has been terminated for any offense may be restored upon
evidence of his repentance and reformation. It shall be the practice of this church to emphasize to its
members that every reasonable measure will be taken to assist any troubled member. The Pastor, deacons
and other staff members shall be available for counsel, guidance and mentoring. The attitude of members
toward one another shall be guided by a concern for redemption and restoration, rather than punishment.
All persons involved shall work toward a time in the future when all agree that the terminated member is
once again eligible to be presented to the Church for Membership.
D. From another Denomination. If you have accepted Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, but have never
been a member of a Baptist Church, or you hold membership in a church of a different denomination, we
invite you to affirm your commitment to Christ, participate in Believers Baptism and present yourself for
membership on the profession of your faith.
Section 3. Termination: Membership shall terminate upon one of the following conditions:
A. Death: Death of Member
B. By Letter: Letters of recommendation will be granted to Churches of like faith upon request.
C. Exclusion: In case of a Member violating the covenant of fellowship reflecting upon Christian standards of
morality or denying belief in the fundamental doctrines of this Church.
D. Dropping from the Roll: Upon satisfactory evidence that a Member has united with a Church of another
denomination, notice of same will be made at a
regular Business Meeting and the Clerk will drop such Member from the roll.
E. Unfaithfulness: For habitually absenting themselves from the assemblies of the Church without a
reasonable excuse for more than 3 consecutive months.
F. For not repenting of being found guilty, in a Court of Law, of conduct that is immoral, unlawful, or
detrimental to the influence and the ministry of the Church.
G. For moving away from this community to such a distance that will make it impossible or impractical for
them to regularly attend the assemblies of the Church, and not joining with another Church where they
can carry out the spirit of the covenant and the principles of God’s Word..
H. No person shall be a member of First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas AKA Barksdale Baptist Church if
they repeatedly and unrepentantly, condone, indorse, or live a lifestyle that The Scriptures (HOLY BIBLE,
KJV) declares will cause them not to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.
Article V -- Disciplining
All Members shall recognize the authority of the Church and their accountability as Members to it. The Church shall have the
right to administer, reprove, rebuke or to withdraw fellowship.
In all personal offenses the Members shall be governed in their conduct by the provisions of Matthew 18: 1-17. In all public
offenses the Church shall deal with the Member according to I Corinthians 5, Galatians 6:1 and Timothy 6: 3-5. While every
Member has a right to present disciplinary cases directly to the Church, yet he is urged in the interest of harmony to first bring
the matter to the attention of the Deacons.
All matters of a disciplinary nature, affecting the fellowship of the Church, must be commenced and concluded at a regular
conference, or at a special conference duly convened and appointed for that purpose. No Member shall be tried unless he shall
have at least ten (10) days notice in writing of the charge and have the opportunity to be present and be heard in his own defense.
The form, manner and procedures of Church discipline shall be that prescribed in McConnell Manual for Baptist Churches, by F.
M. McConnell.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
3
Article VI -- Organization
Section 1. Time of Meetings: Worship shall be conducted three times weekly. At a time previously agreed upon by the
Membership. There shall be two services on Sunday and one service on Wednesday evening. Special services
may be called by the Pastor or the Membership, if agreed upon.
Section 2. Officers and Duties:
A. Pastor:
1. Call and duties: The Pastor will be called by the Church upon recommendation from a Pulpit
Committee previously authorized by the Church and shall serve for an indefinite period. The call
of the Pastor shall require an affirmative vote by secret ballot of 80% (eighty-percent) of the
Members present at a Business Meeting. The Pastor shall be responsible for the regular and
appointed times of worship services, and attention to the spiritual welfare of the Church except as
might otherwise be agreed upon by the Church. He shall be an ex-officio Member of all Committees
of the Church. He shall not usurp the duties, power or privileges of any Committee. If in the
opinion of the Pastor, any Committee ceases to function, become derelict in its duty or refused to
perform the duties for which it was created, he shall notify the Chairman of the Committee and
place the remedial action before the Church body for approval. Any grievance against the Pastor
shall be presented in the form of a written petition bearing not less than ten (10) names of active
Members of the Church, to the Chairman of the Deacons. After a thorough study by the Deacons,
they shall take remedial action by first, taking the matter up with the Pastor. If, after having done
so, the matter cannot be resolved, then it is the duty of the Deacons to present the matter to the
Church, together with their findings, for Church action. Any Bill of Particulars presented by the
Deacons to the Church for action, shall be presented by the Deacons to the Church at a regular
Business Meeting or conference. It shall be read to the Church at the time of presentation. The
Church shall take no action on the Bill of Particulars until the next scheduled Business Meeting or
conference, at which time, the Bill of Particulars shall be read to the Church once more before a
vote is taken. On any bill relating to disciplinary action or dismissal of the Pastor, a two-thirds (2/3)
affirmative vote of the Members present at the meeting shall be required. All manner of voting on
such matters shall be decided by the Church.
2. Personal Responsibilities. The Pastor shall have supervision over the Church Staff. He shall have
two (2) weeks of paid vacation each year, and be allowed two (2) weeks of revival meetings away
from the Church field, including no more than four (4) paid Sundays out of his Pulpit, unless
approved by the Church.
3. Denominational Responsibilities. The Pastor shall be encouraged to attend any of the
denominational meetings, conventions and conferences which, in his judgment, are necessary for
inspiration, information and promotion. At such meetings he shall be the official messenger of the
Church when such representation is required.
B. Deacons:
1. The Office. There shall be an active Deacon body elected by the Church. The Deacons are the servants
of the Church and not its rulers; they shall, subject to the wishes of the Church, cooperate with and
assist the Pastor. They shall not encroach upon the Pastor’s duties as spiritual leader. They shall, in
general, minister to the material and charitable affairs of the Church in accordance with their
scriptural Office and Duties. In the event that the Office of the Pastor is vacated, the Deacons are
responsible for Pulpit Supply or securing an Interim Pastor.
2. Qualifications and duties of the Deacons:
a) No man shall be considered for Ordination or election to the Deaconship who has not, by previous
service, proven himself faithful to the Church covenant and is a commendable example of a
Christian gentleman in his home, business and social contacts. In accordance with the meaning
of The Word and the practice of the New Testament, as set forth in Acts 6:1-7 and I Timothy 3:8-13,
the Deacons are to be servants of the Church.
(b) All Deacons must meet the qualifications outlined in I Timothy 3:8-13. A non-tither will not be
considered.
(c) A Deacon, who for any reason feels that he cannot faithfully fulfill the qualifications and duties of
an active Deacon, may resign by notifying the Secretary of the Deacons or the Church to that
effect. The matter will be presented to the Church for acceptance.
(e) Candidates for the Office of Deacon who smoke, use drugs/narcotics, or consume alcoholic
beverages will not be considered. A homosexual will not be considered.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
4
2. Qualifications and duties of the Deacons: (Cont.)
(f) Deacons will prepare and service the Lord’s Supper.
(g) Actively participate in the Deacon Family Ministry Plan, when such a plan is in effect. Regular
attendance at Church service is expected.
(h) The term of active service for a Deacon shall be indefinite. If a Deacon fails to follow his calling,
the Pastor and Chairman of Deacons will seek to determine the cause and strengthen and
encourage where possible. If the man cannot or will not continue in the service of a Deacon, he
shall be given the privilege of placing himself on inactive status. Failure to serve the Church in
the capacity of Deacon and failure to attend the Deacon meetings for three (3) consecutive months
without just cause as coordinated with the Chairman of Deacons will automatically revert the
individual to inactive status. Return to active status will be in accordance with Biblical
qualifications, as well as this section.
3. Selection of Candidates: The Pastor and Deacon Board shall inform the congregation that more
deacons are needed for the administration of the church. The Deacon Candidates being servants of the
church and not it’s rulers, shall be selected by the congregation at a Special Called Business Meeting
specifically for that purpose, or at a regular business meeting. Two weeks notice of the agenda shall be
given to the congregation.
(a) Each Active Member shall vote by secret ballot, for as many candidates as they feel led by the Holy
Spirit to vote for.
(b) The Holy Spirit, will select how many deacons there will be by the noticeable cut off of votes,
between the majority and minority of the candidates.
(c) Without announcing the names chosen, each candidate will be interviewed by the Pastor and
Deacon Board, to see if the candidate wishes to continue with the process. If any wish to decline
for personal reasons, they may discretely do so.
(d) The remainder of the candidates will be announced to the church, then set aside and mentored for
six months. Then ordained as Southern Baptist Deacons.
(e) This is totally a Holy Spirit led process between Him and His people. Any person found to be
campaigning or instructing anyone to vote for them will be disqualified as a perspective candidate.
(f) No person shall be selected to serve as a Deacon until after having been a Member of Barksdale
Baptist Church for at least one (1) year. This also applies to those who have previously been
ordained. Realizing that every Baptist Church is autonomous and have different Spiritual
Guidelines, Barksdale Baptist Church is under no obligation to allow any person to serve as a
Deacon, who was ordained in another church and has moved their membership to Barksdale
Baptist Church.
C. Trustees: There shall be a Board of Trustees consisting of two (2) Members elected by and serving at the
Will of the Church. They shall act for the Church in legal matters, but must have the authority of the
Church for such action. Trustees shall serve for an indefinite period of time.
Their authority and methods of conducting business shall be in accordance with the provisions of statues
of the city, county and the state. The Trustees will act as legal channels when the Will of the Church is
expressed and see that the correct legal procedures are followed in transferring or purchasing Church
property, notes, loans, liens, etc.
D. Treasurer: The Treasurer shall be elected annually by the Church and shall receive and disburse funds
upon the authority of the Church. An audit shall be made of the Treasurer’s books, with notice, should it
be the desire of the Church. The Treasurer shall hold all money belonging to the Church and shall, without
special vote or authority, pay out of the Church funds available, for the purpose of all fixed expenses of the
Budget of this Church. The Church shall determine the fixed expenses of the Budget at a regular Business
Meeting or conference. He shall keep a record of all receipts and disbursements with proper vouchers. He
shall present a summary of the financial conditions of the Church at each regular Business Meeting.
The Treasurer shall be ex-officio Member of the Deacon body to represent the financial matters of the
Church. Should there be an extended absence of the Treasurer and Associate Treasurer shall be appointed
by the Church body, and perform the duties of the Office of Treasurer of this Church.
E. Church Clerk: The Clerk shall keep accurately the record of all Church business which shall be approved at
each Business Meeting, shall preserve in a safe place all Church documents, and shall keep a correct
register of the Membership with the date and manner of their admission and dismissal. He shall keep a
separate list of the names of those on the inactive roll. At the annual meeting of the Church, he shall
submit a statistical report of the Membership for the year, and a general record of the work of the Church
in the annual letter to the Association. The Clerk shall serve an indefinite period.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
5
Section 3. Organizations: Organizations for teaching, training, and activities for men, women, and young people shall be
maintained at the Will of the Church. Officers, Teachers, and Workers of all such Organizations shall be elected
by the Church and regular reports of Organizations made to the Church.
Section 4. Lord’s Supper: The Lord’s Supper shall be observed on the first (1st) Sunday of each month and at such times as
may be deemed wise. Those of like faith and order are invited to participate.
Section 5. Fiscal Year: The Fiscal Year of this Church shall begin on January 1st and end on December 31st.
Section 6. Will of the Church: The Will of the Church, duly expressed by its vote, shall be carried out by all Committees,
Officers, and Organizations and Members. Once the Will of the Church has been stated on a particular subject,
in a Democratic Process, that subject will not be revisited without the unanimous approval of the Pasto and
Deacon Board..
Section 7. Messengers: Once each year, Messengers shall be sent to represent the Church in the Del Rio-Uvalde Baptist
Association, whose duty shall be to furnish the Association with a statement of condition of the Church, as
approved by the Church, and to cooperate with other Messengers in promoting the interest of the Kingdom of
Christ. Messengers will also be elected annually to attend the Southern Baptist Convention.
Article VII -- Officers, Committees and Employees (General)
Section 1. The Officers of this Church other than the Pastor shall be Deacons, Trustees, Clerk, Treasurer, and such other
Officers and Committees as shall be required for the work of the Church in any of its Departments or
Organizations.
Section 2. All of these shall be elected by the Church and shall be Members in good standing.
Section 3. Fiscal Responsibility: Each Office and Committee shall submit Budget estimates and justifications to the
Budget/Finance Committee by October 1st. Each Officer and Committee Member will insure that he does not
financially obligate the Church, except as he is specifically authorized by these By-Laws.
Section 4. Church Employees: All employee positions and salaries must be authorized by the Church. The employees must
be approved by Church action and shall be under the general direction of the Pastor. During the absence of the
Pastor and/or Associate Pastor, Chairman of Deacons will provide general supervision and direction to all
Church employees. Employees shall not be employed for any fixed or stated period. This section excludes all
contract service employees.
Section 5. Committees shall be nominated and approved by the Church as needs of the function of the Church arises.
These Committees shall recommend the specific business for which they are formed and the recommendations
shall be submitted to the Church for approval at a regular Business Meeting.
Article VIII -- Officers, Committees and Employees (Selection and Duties)
Section 1. Pastor:
A. Calling of Pastors: Whenever a vacancy occurs in the Office of Pastor, the Church Nominating Committee
shall appoint a Pastor Selection Committee to seek a suitable man to become Pastor.
1. The Pastor Selection Committee shall recommend only one name at a time for consideration of the
Church and their recommendation shall constitute a nomination.
2. A homosexual will not be considered for Pastor or this Church.
3. The expenses incurred by the Pastor Selection Committee may be paid for by the Church.
4. The calling of a Pastor shall take place at a Special Meeting called solely for that purpose. At least one
(1) weeks’ notice shall be given of the time and place of this meeting. Voting shall be by written, secret
ballot. An affirmative vote of at least eighty- percent (80%) of the Members present shall be necessary
for a call.
5. The Pastor shall serve for an unspecified time. The relationship can be dissolved at the request of
either the Pastor or the Church. In either case, at least thirty (30) day’s notice shall be given of
termination of the relationship, unless otherwise mutually agreed, with both the Pastor and Church
seeking to follow the Will of God and the Leadership of the Holy Spirit.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
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Section 1. Pastor: (Cont.)
B. Duties: The Pastors duties shall be:
1. As Preacher, to preach the Gospel.
2. As a Bishop, to superintend the work of the Church.
3. As a Pastor, to be shepherd of the Flock.
4. As Minister, to serve the people of Jesus’ sake.
C. Salary: The Budget/Finance Committee shall establish the Pastor’s salary and present it to the Church for
approval. Salary shall continue during such time as the Pastor may be away in revivals.
D. Pulpit Supply: In the absence of the Pastor due to revival commitments, vacations, etc., Pulpit Supply shall
be selected by the Pastor with the approval of the Deacons. In the event the Pastor is incapacitated, the
Deacon body will seek the Pulpit Supply. The expense of filling the Pulpit during the absence of the Pastor
shall be paid for by the Church.
E. Termination: At the termination of a relationship between the Pastor and the Church, accumulated leave
not to exceed two (2) weeks will be paid to the departing Pastor.
F. Conventions: The Pastor shall be allowed to attend the Southern Baptist Convention, the Baptist General
Convention of Texas, the State Evangelistic Conferences. The Church shall pay the expenses of the Pastor
attending these conventions.
Section 2. Associate Pastor:
A. Election of the Associate Pastor: Personnel Committee shall recommend to the Church and voting will be by
secret ballot requiring a majority vote of those voting in a regular or called Business Meeting. The Associate
Pastor will give at least two weeks (14 days) notice prior to resigning. If the Church elects to ask for his
resignation, it will require a majority vote of those Members present and voting at a Business Meeting.
B. Duties: Responsible to the Pastor for leading the Church in functioning as a New Testament Church.
Assists the Pastor in leading the Congregation, Organizations, and Church Staff in performing their tasks.
C. Salary: Salary and benefits will be established by the Budget/Finance Committee and presented to the
Church for approval.
Section 3. Educational Director:
A. Election: Election shall be recommended to the Church by the Personnel Committee and voting will be by
secret ballot and require a majority vote of those voting in a regular or called Business Meeting. The
Educational Director shall serve until the relationship terminated by his request or by the Church’s
request. The Educational Director will give at least two weeks (14 days) notice prior to resigning. It will
require a majority vote of those Members present and voting at a Business Meeting.
B. Duties: Responsible to the Pastor in promoting and evaluating a comprehensive Program of Religious
Education. Recruits, evaluates, gives direction, and recommends improvements to the entire Church
Education Staff. Assists in development of Church Budget.
C. Salary: Salary and benefits will be established by the Budget/Finance Committee and presented to the
Church for approval.
Section 4. Music Director:
A. Election: Election shall be recommended to the Church by the Personnel Committee and voting will be by
secret ballot and require a majority vote of those voting in a regular or called Business Meeting. The Music
Director shall serve until the relationship is terminated by his request or the Church’s request. The Music
Director will give at least two weeks (14 days) notice prior to resigning. If the Church elects to ask for his
resignation, it will require a majority vote of those present and voting at a Business Meeting.
B. Duties: The Music Director is responsible for the general development of the Music Program of the Church.
This will include, whenever possible, a Choir for each age group above the Nursery.
C. Salary: Salary and benefits will be established by the Budget/Finance Committee and presented to the
Church for approval.
Section 5. Church Secretary: Nominating Committee will seek out a Church Secretary and with approval of the Pastor,
present to the Church for approval. A majority vote of those attending the Business Meeting will be required.
Salary and benefits will be established by the Pastor and approved by the Church. Duties of the Church
Secretary are covered in the Job Description.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
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Section 6. Church Treasurer: The Treasurer shall be elected by the Church. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to record
and pay out all money or valuables paid to or given to the Church. Designed contributions will be recorded
separately and used only for the designated purpose. The Treasurer shall, upon request of the Budget/Finance
Committee, report on the financial condition of the Church. At each monthly Business Meeting of the Church,
he shall submit, in writing, a report itemizing all receipts and disbursements. All checks shall be signed by the
Treasurer. In the absence of the Treasurer, a Trustee shall be authorized to sign checks. The Treasurer shall be
an ex-officio Member of the Budget/Finance Committee.
Section 7. Financial Recording Secretary: It shall be the duty of the financial Recording Secretary to keep a record of all
contributions received in envelopes bearing the name of the contributor. The records shall indicate the amount,
designated purpose, and the date received. Annual (December) reports of the personal contributions shall be
distributed to Members. All individual contributions to the Church will be privileged information and will not be
available for public scrutiny.
Section 8. Church Messengers: The Church Messenger(s) shall represent the Church at Denominational Meetings and shall
be given the privilege and authority to cast votes at such meetings as the Church’s Official Representative.
He/she will be allowed to vote according to the dictates of the heart. The Messenger(s) will make periodic reports
to the Church.
Section 9. Sunday School Director and Assistant Director: The Director of the Sunday School shall have general oversight of
the entire school, and shall insure it is structured in coordination with the current needs of the Church.
Administer its affairs in cooperation with, and according to the plans and methods of the Sunday School Board
of the Southern Baptist Convention. It shall be his duty to counsel with his Teachers and Officers through
Teachers and Officers meetings, in the work of the school, giving advice and receiving suggestions from his coworkers.
He shall see that a full and accurate report is made of the work of the Sunday School in the regular
Business Meetings of the Church.
A. Vacation Bible School and Children’s Church are an outreach of the Sunday School and will be under the
general supervision of the Sunday School Director.
B. The Assistant Sunday School Director will assist the Director in performing his duties and in his absence
will be responsible for Program continuation.
C. The Director of Sunday School will serve as a Member of the Nominating Committee.
Section 10. Church Training Director and Assistant Director: The Church Training Director shall have charge of the activities
of Church Training. He shall insure it is structured to meet the needs of the Church. He shall acquaint himself
with the program and methods outlined by the Sunday School Board of the Southern Baptist Convention for this
Organization and shall endeavor to adopt such Programs in this Church. He shall see that a full and accurate
report is given at the regular Business Meeting of the Church. The Assistant Director will assist the Director in
performing his duties and in his absence will be responsible for Program continuation. Director will serve as a
Member of the Nominating Committee.
Section 11. Director of Baptist Men: The Director of Baptist Men shall promote the work of the Baptist Men as outlined by
the Baptist Men’s Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, seeking to enlist the men and boys of the
Church in an active Program for Christ. He shall see that a full and accurate report is given at the regular
Business Meeting of the Church.
Section 12. Director of Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU): The Director of Woman’s Missionary Union shall seek to enlist all
the women and girls of the Church in a Program in Missions, training, giving and activity according to plans
promoted by the Woman’s Missionary Union auxiliary to the Southern Baptist Convention. She shall see that a
full and accurate report is given at the regular Business Meetings of the Church. The WMU Director is also a
Member of Missions Committee and the Church Council.
Section 13. Trustees: The Trustees shall, as provided by law and the action of the Church, hold in trust the Title to all
property of the Church and shall represent the Church in all matters of legal responsibility regarding the
purchase and disposal of Church property. They shall execute all legal papers relating to the Church and to the
community as the Church may direct. They shall have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, or transfer any
property of the Church without a specific vote of the Church authorizing such action. Neither shall they have
control over the use of the Church property except by vote of the Church.
Section 14. Nursery Coordinator: The Nursery Coordinator will be responsible for coordinating all the activities of the
Nursery Department and the Nursery work of the Church. Major responsibilities include: formulating and
recommending Nursery policies, recommending the purchase of Nursery equipment and supplies, making
recommendations concerning cleanliness and care of Nursery rooms and equipment, enlisting and scheduling
qualified personnel to assist in the Nursery as needed. All paid Nursery Personnel will be under the direct
supervision of the Church-elected Nursery Coordinator.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
8
Section 15. Missions Committee: The active Deacon body of the Church will be the Missions Committee along with the
Brotherhood and WMU Directors. The Committee will elect their own Chairman. Purpose of the Committee is to
lead the Church in discovering possibilities for local, state, or home Mission Projects. Committee is responsible
for conducting surveys and analyzing possibilities of Mission Projects, which may be sponsored by the Church.
Section 16. The Lord’s Supper Committee: The active Deacon body of the Church will be the Lord’s Supper Committee.
Chairman of the Deacons will enlist such aid as necessary in securing elements for the Lord’s Supper, care and
maintenance of the equipment, and serving of the elements at designated services.
Section 17. God’s Love in Action Committee: This Committee shall consist of two (2) Members. This Committee is
responsible for food donations and delivery to families at the time of illness and/or death. Chairperson of the
Committee will advise the Pastor of actions taken and needs of Committee’s responsibility.
Section 18. Budget/Finance Committee: This Committee shall consist of four (4) Members consisting of the Church
Treasurer (ex-officio), and three (3) other Members elected annually. Using sound financial management
principles, this Committee will prepare an annual Operating Budget with input from each of the Committees and
applicable Church Officers. Annual Budget will be presented to the Church for approval at the November
Business Meeting. A semi-annual review of the Budget will be conducted in July of each year. This Committee
shall be responsible to promote spiritual stewardship through tithes and offerings.
Section 19. Flower Committee – Sanctuary: This Committee shall consist of two (2) Members, who shall serve for an
indefinite period of time. It shall be responsible for securing, arranging, and disposing of all floral arrangements
used for all Church services, regular or special.
Section 20. Church Music Committee: The Music Director shall be Chairman of this Committee, which will consist of all
Choir Directors, Accompanists, Adult Choir President, and Audio/Visual Director. Duties of this Committee will
be to develop the Music Program of the Church, recommend songbooks to be used in the Church, enlist
Members for the Choirs, care of hymnals, musical instruments, and audio/visual systems.
Section 21. Building and Grounds Committee: This Committee, to be comprised of four (4) Members, is responsible for
making the Church attractive and well kept. Through regular systematic inspection of all Church property, the
Committee shall seek to discover mechanical and structural faults before they become acute and recommend
repair of the property. Make recommendations to the Church concerning major repairs and improvements or
building modifications. They shall be responsible for supervising the maintenance and upkeep of the buildings,
contents thereof, and the grounds. This Committee will submit to the Budget/Finance Committee estimated
operating and maintenance expenses and insurance needs for the coming year. The Pastor shall act on requests
for borrowing and removing equipment property, or furniture from the Church premises and will so advise the
Building and Grounds Chairman.
Section 22. Nominating Committee: The Church Moderator shall appoint the Chairman of the Nominating Committee.
Committee shall consist of the Chairman and two (2) Members. This Committee will search out and enlist such
persons as are suitable to fill all positions unless otherwise specified in these By-Laws. The Nominating
Committee will select all Chairpersons of Committees unless otherwise specified in this document. Nominees will
be presented to the Church for election. This Committee will function continuously in the enlistment of Church
Members in active Organizational service. Members shall not serve more than two (2) consecutive years.
Section 23. Church Council:
A. This Council consists of the following Officers of the Church:
1. Pastor
2. Music Director
3. Sunday School Director
4. Church Training Director
5. WMU Director
6. Baptist Men’s Director
7. Chairman of the Deacons
8. Youth Director
9. Education Director
10. Church Clerk
11. Director of Bus Ministries
12. Nursery Coordinator
13. Hostess Committee Chairman
B. If one person holds two of these positions, he will represent only one position. His associate in the other
position will serve as its representative. The Pastor will be Council Chairman.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
9
Section 23. Church Council: (Cont.)
C. The major purpose of this Council will be to:
1. Recommend objectives and goals for the Church.
2. Outline a Church calendar of activities for accomplishing these objectives and goals.
3. Develop whole-hearted cooperation in the total Church Program.
4. Periodically evaluate Program results.
Section 24. Teller Committee: This Committee shall consist of two Members elected by the Church. They will count and
tabulate the offerings through Sunday School, Sunday Morning and Sunday Evening Worship services. The
money will be turned over to the Treasurer following each service. All contributions to the Church will be
privileged information and will not be available for public scrutiny.
Section 25. Pastor Selection Committee: This Committee shall be composed of at least four (4) Members selected by the
Nominating Committee and approved by the Church in business session. This Committee shall be responsible to
advise the Church in its search for the man of God’s choosing to be the Pastor. Only the Chairman may extend
an invitation to a Pastoral Candidate to fill the Pulpit as the Church guest, and will have the authority to obligate
the payment of travel expenses to invited Pastoral Candidates subject to Church financial limitations.
Section 26. Church Historian: The Church Historian shall maintain and make available for use, historical and pictorial
progress and events of the Church.
Section 27. Hostess/Kitchen Committee:
A. This Committee shall consist of five (5) Members elected by the Church. The Committee will select their
own Chairman. They shall formulate and recommend to the Church, policies for the kitchen and social hall
use. They will be responsible for communicating these policies to Church Members and Church
Organizations.
B. They will assure that the kitchen, equipment, and social hall are maintained in a clean and orderly manner.
This Committee will host all social functions as directed by the Pastor. Hostess will also be a Member of
Church Council.
Section 28. Special Committees: The Pastor will have the authority to appoint temporary Committees as the need arises.
Committee will be dissolved when its function is complete.
Section 29. Resolution: Resolved, that this Organization is organized and shall be operated for the purpose of engaging in
Biblical and Scriptural Doctrinal teaching and worship, to promote the spiritual development and well-being of
individuals. Its assets are pledged for use in performing the forgoing religious functions. On discontinuance of
this Organization by dissolution or otherwise, its assets are to be transferred to a Southern Baptist Organization
that is qualified as an exempt Organization under Section 501 C(3), Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended.
Article IX -- Principles of Purchasing
Section 1. The Budget/Finance Committee is responsible for giving general advice, supervision, and assistance to all
Church Officers and Committees concerning financial matters. This Committee shall determine the availability
of funds for purchases proposed by other Officers and Committees.
Section 2. Each Officer and Committee Chairman is responsible for ascertaining the availability of funds before making any
purchases for the Church. Purchase of items costing less than $50.00 each, may be made by a Church Officer or
Committee Chairman up to a total of $50.00 per month, provided the purchases are authorized in the approved
Church Budget and funds are available. Although the approved Church Budget authorizes funds for certain
purchases and these authorized funds have not been expended by the responsible Officer or Committee, the
availability of actual funds in excess of $50.00 per month must be approved by the Budget/Finance Committee
before an obligation is incurred, except as specified in Section 4, below.
Section 3. All requests for purchases totaling over $250.00 must be carefully considered and recommended by the
Budget/Finance Committee to the Church for approval. The Pastor will have the authority to expend up to
$500.00 for emergency needs without prior approval. This section excludes purchases made with the designated
offerings.
Section 4. Recurring expenses such as utility bills, cooperative program expenses, educational literature, etc., shall be
automatically paid by the Treasurer provided the bill appears appropriate, the expenditure is authorized in the
approved Church Budget, and the funds are available.
Section 5. All requests for purchases, which are not authorized in the approved Church Budget, will be referred to the
Budget/Finance Committee for approval and recommendation to the Church.
Section 6. Any Church Member desiring to initiate a request for purchase may do so, provided the request, in writing, is
submitted to the Budget/Finance Committee for approval and recommendation to the Church.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
10
Article IX -- Principles of Purchasing (Cont.)
Section 7. In the event the Church is in a Building Program, all recommendations for purchases pertaining to the
construction or the furnishing of the building will be made to the Church by the Building and Grounds
Committee until the building is completed and accepted by the Church for use.
Article X -- Discipline
Section 1. Should any disruptive difference arise among Members, the aggrieved Member shall follow in a tender spirit the
rules given by our Lord in the 18th Chapter of Matthew.
Section 2. Should any case of gross breach of covenant or public scandal occur, the Pastor and/or Deacons shall endeavor
to resolve the offense. If such efforts fail, they shall report the case to the Church, in writing, with a Bill of
Particulars.
Section 3. If the Church votes to entertain a complaint, which must be in writing, it shall appoint a reasonable time and
place of hearing and notify the person in question thereof, at least two (2) weeks before the appointed time,
furnishing him with a copy of the Bill of Particulars.
Section 4. At such hearing, the accused Member may call to his/her aid, any Member of the Church as council. If he/she
shall not present himself/herself at the time appointed or give satisfactory reasons for his/her neglect to do so,
the Church may precede in his/her absence.
Section 5. All such proceedings shall be pervaded by a spirit of Christian kindness and forbearance. Should an adverse
decision be reached, as evidenced by affirmative vote of the majority of the Members present, the Church may
proceed to admonish the offender or declare him/her to be no longer in the Membership of the Church.
Section 6. In case of grave difficulty, the Church will be ready to ask advice of counsel.
Article XI -- Business Conference
Section 1. Quorum: Those attending any Business Meeting, regular or called, shall constitute a quorum and shall be
empowered to transact business.
Section 2. The regular quarterly Business Meeting shall be conducted on the Wednesday following the first (1st) Sunday of
each month. A 50% + 1 vote of those present shall constitute a majority vote.
Article XII -- Finances
The Church shall be supported solely by tithes and freewill offerings. Being members of First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas, AKA Barksdale
Baptist Church, it is understood this involves the financial obligation to support the church and it’s causes, with regular proportionate gifts. Each
member shall be encouraged in Christian Stewardship, to be in support of the church budget as well as non-budget financial emphases. God is the
source of all blessings, temporal and spiritual: all that we have and are we owe to Him. Christians have a spiritual debtor ship to the whole world, a
holy trusteeship in the gospel, and a binding stewardship in their possessions. They are therefore under obligation to serve Him with their time, talents,
and material possessions, and should recognize all these are entrusted to them to use for the glory of God and for helping others. According to the
Scriptures, Christians should contribute of their means cheerfully, regularly, systematically, proportionately, and liberally for the advancement of the
Redeemer’s cause on earth.
Article XIII -- Church Evangelism
A minimum of one revival a year shall be conducted. The Pastor shall be responsible for securing the evangelistic help and the Church shall approve
those selected and the dates recommended.
Article XIV -- Licensing and Ordaining Ministers
At such time as is necessary the Church, upon recommendation of the Deacons, shall have the authority to license and/or ordain men to the ministry.
Article XV -- Amendments
These articles may be amended at any regular Business Meeting of the Church by majority vote of the Members present, provided that two weeks (2)
notice shall have been given and announcements made at each regular service during the month.
Article XVI --- Morals and Marriage Statement
Section 1: Barksdale Baptist and it’s Members believe that sex is only permissible within
the union of marriage and marriage is between one man and one woman.
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
11
Section 2: The event of divorce in any Barksdale Baptist member’s life, shall not disqualify that person from serving our
Lord and God, in any capacity, at Barksdale Baptist Church.
CHURCH POLICY NO. 1
The provisions of this policy shall apply to all employees of the Church, both full and part-time (the Pastor shall not be
considered an employee, but serves under a call of divine guidance) and shall remain in force until rescinded or amended by
Church action
A. -- Part-Time Employees:
A part-time employee shall be considered anyone who is employed by the Church in any capacity for less than twenty-five (25)
hours for a seven (7) day week (Sunday thru Saturday).
Should a part-time employee become full-time (employed in excess of twenty-five (25) hours per week), his/her length of service
shall date from the time of part-time employment.
No sick leave shall accrue to part-time employees.
B. -- Full-Time Employees:
A full-time employee shall be considered anyone who is employed by the Church in any capacity for more than twenty-five (25)
hours for a seven (7) day week (Sunday thru Saturday).
1. Full-time employees shall accrue a maximum of six (6) days sick leave per year through the fifth (5th) year of employment;
calculation shall be on the basis of one-half (1/2) day per month. At the beginning of the sixth (6th) year, an employee
shall accrue a maximum of twelve (12) days per year; calculation shall be on the basis of one (1) day per month.
(a) Sick leave shall not be accumulated in excess of six (6) or twelve (12) days as applicable.
(b) No payment shall be made for unused sick leave upon discharge or termination of employment.
2. Notification of absences due to illness must be made each day to the Secretary or Pastor. Failure to do so may result in
non-payment of salary for that day.
3. Should an employee be absent more than three (3) consecutive days due to illness, a statement from a physician may be
required in addition to the daily call-in.
C. -- Vacations:
Vacation time shall accrue on a calendar year basis following the first year of employment (January thru December). No vacation
time shall accrue to part-time employees. (For a definition of part-time employee see A above)
ATTEST:
This Constitution and By-Laws adopted by the First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas AKA Barksdale Baptist Church in
regular business session on June 5, 2013.
Full-time employees shall accrue vacation time as specified in Paragraph (c) below. A week shall be considered any seven (7)
consecutive day period. Calculation of such vacation time shall be as follows:
(a) One (1) week per six (6) months or one-half (½) week (3 ½ days) per quarter.
(b) In the event of discharge or termination of employment, payment shall be make to the employee by the Church for any
unused vacation time.
(c) During the first five (5) years of employment two (2) weeks vacation (14 days) shall accrue. Beginning the sixth (6th)
through the fifteenth (15th) year, three (3) weeks vacation shall accrue, and sixteen (16) and subsequent years, four (4)
weeks vacation shall accrue.
(d) Vacation time shall not be cumulative. Any remaining unused time as of 31 December each year shall be lost unless the
employee was unable to take such time due to denial by the Church because of exigent needs.
D. -- Holiday Schedules:
The below listed holidays are authorized for all full and/or part-time employees and shall be considered paid holidays:
New Year’s Day
Washington’s Birthday (February)
Good Friday
July 4th
Labor Day (September)
November 11th (Veterans Day)
Constitution and By-Laws
First Baptist Church of Barksdale, Texas
AKA Barksdale Baptist Church
12
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Eve (½ day)
Christmas Day
CHURCH POLICY NO. 2
NURSERY
PURPOSE: To establish controls over Nursery Operations and define responsibility of Nursery Workers in order to assure each
child feel comfortable, happy, and loved.
CHILDREN INVOLVED: Children through four (4) years of age will be cared for during all worship services. The Nursery will not be
for children who have reached their seventh (7th) birthday.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES/INSTRUCTIONS: The Nursery Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the work among
Departments of the Nursery, and hiring/dismissal of paid employees in coordination with the Church Personnel Committee.
Workers must be approved by the Nursery Coordinator or Assistant Coordinator. In all instances, Workers must be under the
supervision of an individual eighteen (18) years of age or older.
Workers will insure that children confine themselves to the Nursery area and will not permit children to roam about the Church.
All Organizations must clean the Nursery area after each use.
Church Organizations desiring the use of the Nursery will contact the Nursery Coordinator as far in advance as possible, but at
least one (1) week prior to scheduled use.
Workers will assure parents are notified as soon as possible if their child becomes ill or are injured.
To minimize upsetting the child, visiting by parents or older brothers/sisters is discouraged.
Parents should guard the health of their children and others by refraining from taking a child to the Nursery with any signs of
illness, and will please notify the Nursery Coordinator if their child becomes ill with a contagious type of disease after having been
in the Nursery.
Cookies and juice may be served to those in the Nursery who are old enough. Parents will notify the Nursery Employee when a
child is brought to the Nursery if they do not want that child to receive cookies and juice.