Preview
INDEX NO. E2024003732
NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024
MONROE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE THIS IS NOT A BILL. THIS IS YOUR RECEIPT.
Receipt # 3762141
Book Page CIVIL
Return To: No. Pages: 37
DONALD R. FOX
100 Meridian Centre Blvd Instrument: EXHIBIT(S)
Suite 300
Rochester, NY 14618 Control #: 202402281689
Index #: E2024003732
Date: 02/28/2024
In the Matter of the Application of True Faith Christian Time: 5:20:30 PM
Fellowship, f/k/a The Historic Parsells Church, f/k/a The Parsells
Avenue Community Church and f/k/a Christ Community Church
of Rochester, with its principal mailing address at P.O. Box
10670, Roche
Total Fees Paid: $0.00
Employee:
State of New York
MONROE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE
WARNING — THIS SHEET CONSTITUTES THE CLERKS
ENDORSEMENT, REQUIRED BY SECTION 317-a(5) &
SECTION 319 OF THE REAL PROPERTY LAW OF THE
STATE OF NEW YORK. DO NOT DETACH OR REMOVE.
JAMIE ROMEO.
MONROE COUNTY CLERK
MM
6MONRO NK WV INDGOx MOE 224004
ER23 732
oD OUN
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Exhibit D
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ioe |Reoredi
The toric
Parsells Chilkch A Dynamic Christ Community
CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS OF THE HISTORIC PARSELLS CHURCH
Draft, revision 8 (March 2018)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONSTITUTION
Article | — Name.
Article Il — Purpose
Article Ill — Polity
Article IV — Doctrine
Article V — Membership.
Article VI — Dissolution
Article VIl — Amendments.
BYLAWS
Article |— The Head of the Church
Article Il — The Pastor and Pastoral Staff.
Article Ill — Corporate Officers 13
Article IV — Church Council 15
rtich L De (the-Di 46
ArticleMI Article V— Ministries Leadership Teams (Standing Committees) of the jurcl 17
(revised list)
+ Deacons (the Diaconate)
+
Finance
+
Property
+
Christian Education
+
Evangelism & Missions
ArticleVit Article VI Ad hoc Teams & Task Forces 21
Article MH Article VIl — Meetings and Voting 22
Article4X Article Vill — Church Staff. 26
ArticleX Article IX — Auxiliary Organizations. 27
Article4 Article X — Delegates and Representatives 28
ArticleH Article Xl — The Church Year. 28
Article 4H Article XIl — Church Finances. 28
Article IY Article XIIl — Use of Church Property 29
Article X¥ Article XIV — Subsidiary Corporations 31
Article XM Article XV — Amendments 31
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CONSTITUTION OF THE HISTORIC PARSELLS CHURCH
Article |: NAME
The name of the church shall be The Historic Parsells Church of Rochester, NY, duly incorporated under the laws of the
State of New York as the result of the merger in 2016 of Parsells Avenue Community Church (1975) and Christ
Community Church of Rochester (2010).
Parsells Avenue Community Church had been created in 1975 as a result of the merger of Parsells Avenue Baptist
Church (1895) and East Side Memorial Presbyterian Church [formed in 1939 by the merger of Memorial Presbyterian
Church (1872) and East Side Presbyterian Church (1901)].
Article ll: PURPOSE
The purpose of this church is to BLESS the World, as set forth in Matthew 28:18-20 (the Great Commission), Matthew
22:36-40 (the Great Commandment), and Acts 2:42-46 (the Great Community of Believers):
1) BEGIN WITH PRAYER. To exalt the Lord by praying in all circumstances, both individually and collectively as the body
of Christ; by participating in public worship services together; and by maintaining personal devotions on a regular basis.
2) LISTEN. To take the time to hear the Word of God and hear the concerns and testimonies of others; to educate and
equip people through the preaching and teaching of God’s Word and through discipleship so they have a vital faith which
allows them to lead a consistent Christian life and do effective Christian service.
3) EAT. To establish and maintain a sense of community, mutual concern, and helpfulness through fellowship and shared
meals so people are fed both physically and spiritually, and are encouraged and supported by one another as members of
the family of God.
4) SHARE OUR STORIES. To tell others about our personal faith journeys and thus be living testimonies of the
transforming power of Jesus Christ; to evangelize, spreading the Gospel (the reconciling and redemptive message) of
Jesus Christ throughout the world and advancing the Kingdom of God by expressing the love of Christ to all, urging the
personal acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and supporting national and international missions.
5) SERVE. To empower people for a ministry of social justice and mission work so they can support God’s work with their
time, talent, and treasure, and so they can serve unselfishly and in Jesus’ name to meet the physical, emotional, and
spiritual needs of those in our church, our community, and our world.
Article ill: POLITY
Recognizing Jesus Christ as the only Head of the Church (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18), this congregation seeks
to ascertain and obey the will of our Lord in all matters of faith and practice. Authority to govern the affairs of this church
being given to us by Christ, we hold that such authority is vested in the membership of the congregation.
The membership, as a collective whole, is the highest decision-making body of this church, and via congregational
meetings shall have final authority for decisions and actions affecting the welfare and functioning of the church. The
Church Council, in turn, is given the responsibility by, and is accountable to, the membership to oversee all aspects of this
church.
The church shall be autonomous (self-governing) with respect to its internal organization and the regulation of its own
affairs, and shall be subject to the contro! of no other ecclesiastical body.
However, in carrying out the wider ministry for which Christ has made His church responsible, we adhere to membership
in the American Baptist Churches of the Rochester/Genesee Region and the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A.
This church shall not resign or withdraw from any of these bodies except by a duly adopted change to this constitution;
nor shall such action be taken until at least thirty days have elapsed following a consultation by the Church Council with
the Executive Minister of ABC/RGR.
This church shall also associate with the larger Christian fellowship through local and other councils of churches and with
formal and informal agencies of cooperative Christianity as deemed appropriate.
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Article IV: DOCTRINE
Section 1: Doctrinal Basis
The church accepts the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments (the Bible) as the inspired witness to God’s revelatory
actions in human history and as the authoritative basis for its doctrine and practice. This church is the sole interpreter of
the Scriptures as they relate to the church and its members. The constitution and bylaws and any amendments made
hereto shall be the governing documents of this church but they should always be interpreted and applied in conformity
with the Bible.
Section 2: Statement of Faith (based on Romans 8: 28, 38-39)
We believe there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, for we know that all things work together for good
for those who love God, who are called according to God’s purpose. We are convinced that neither death, nor life, nor
angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all
creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Section 3: Church Ordinances
There are two ordinances of the church: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper (also called Communion).
A Believer’s Baptism
The ordinance of baptism shall be administered to candidates who have professed faith in Jesus Christ
and have indicated a commitment to follow Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, as set forth in Matthew
28:19.
1 Baptism shall be by immersion in water.
2. Since it signifies faith and repentance, the ceremony is reserved for only those who are old
enough to make responsible decisions.
The ordinance of baptism shall be administered by the Pastor (or other ordained person),
assisted by the Deacons and/or their designees.
Baptism shall be administered during any regular or special worship service.
This church DOES NOT perform infant baptism. However, a child dedication may be performed.
See Constitution Article V, Section 6 (Dedication of Children).
Consult the Policy and Operational Handbook for details.
The Lord’s Supper (Communion)
The ordinance of the Lord’s Supper shall be observed as the apostle Paul outlines in 1 Corinthians
11:23-26. The Lord's Supper is the symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the Body of Christ,
through partaking of the bread and the cup, commemorate the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ and
anticipate His second coming.
4 The Lord's Supper shall be administered on the first Sunday of each month, and on other
occasions as determined by the Pastor and the Deacons.
The Communion table is the Lord’s, not ours. Christ is the host. It is not our decision who will or
will not be guests at the table. Communion is open to all believers present.
The Pastor, a member of the pastoral staff, a Deacon, or other designated church leader shall
preside.
The elements of the Lord's Supper shall be prepared and served by the Deacons and/or their
designees.
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Section 4: Marriage Human-Sexuatity
and
As a local church, we believe that wedding ceremonies on church property are spiritual acts of worship. Marriage is a
biblical institution established by God as clearly described in the Scriptures. Accordingly, this church, its pastors and staff
will not participate in same sex unions or same sex marriages, nor shall its property or resources be used for such
purposes.
Weddings on church property shall be officiated by one or more ordained ministers of the Gospel. The church may decline
to make its facilities or ministers available for any wedding if it is determined that one or both of the parties is/are not
biblically and/or legally qualified to marry. Such determinations may be made by the Pastor and pastoral staff. No minister
or employee of the church shall officiate at any marriage ceremony unless such marriage is consistent with this policy.
Article V: MEMBERSHIP
Section 1: Admission of Members
A person may be received into membership with all of its benefits and duties by any one of the following methods, upon
the recommendation of the Pastor and the Deacons (the recommendation may follow completion of an orientation class):
A By Baptism.
Anyone who confesses Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord and who is in substantial accord with the doctrine
and practice of this church may be received into the membership of this congregation following believer's
baptism by immersion.
By Letter of Transfer.
A person who is in substantial accord with the doctrine and practice of this church may be received into
membership by Letter of Transfer from any Christian church.
By Christian Experience.
A person of worthy character who has formerly been a member of a Christian church but who for a
sufficient reason cannot present a Letter of Transfer from that church, and who is in substantial accord
with the doctrine and practice of this church, may be received into membership upon satisfactory
statement of Christian faith.
By Restoration.
Any person who has lost his or her membership in this church for any reason may be restored to
membership upon the recommendation of the Deacons.
By Confession of Faith.
Any person who because of reasons of health, disability, or good conscience cannot submit to baptism
yet confesses Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and who is in substantial accord with the doctrine and
practice of this church, may be received into membership upon public statement of faith and
determination to serve Jesus Christ in this church.
Section 2: Dismissal of Members
A person may be dismissed from membership by any one of the following methods:
A By Death.
B. By Letter of Transfer.
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A Letter of Transfer to any other Christian church may be granted to any member requesting it, upon the
recommendation of the Deacons. The name of the church to which membership is requested shall be
named in the request and the letter shall be sent to the Pastor or Clerk of that church.
By Request.
A person may terminate his or her membership by either written or verbal communication. This will go into
effect upon receipt of such correspondence by the Deacons and/or the Church Council.
By Exclusion.
Should any member shame the name of Jesus by being guilty of immoral or unchristian conduct, the
church may terminate his or her membership. Only after the person has had a hearing, upon due notice,
before the Deacons, and after faithful efforts have been made to bring about repentance and
reconciliation, should such action be taken. It is right and in harmony with the Scriptures, upon
recommendation of the Deacons, to exclude from this church any person who persists in holding false or
heretical doctrine, or who obviously and persistently lives inconsistently with his or her Christian
profession, or who lives in violation of the law or public morals; or any person who persists in disturbing
the unity and peace of this church, or is unwilling to settle differences with others in a Scriptural manner
(Matthew 18:15-17; Romans 16:17; | Corinthians 5:11-13; Il Thessalonians 3: 6, 11-15).
By Suspension.
When a person has manifested a lack of interest in the life of the church for ene more than a year by
failure to attend services, to communicate or participate with the church, or to contribute to its support,
though able to do so, his or her name shall, after proper notification and conference, be withdrawn from
the regular membership list and placed on an inactive list. After one year on this list, unless the person
requests otherwise, his or her name may be dropped from the church rolls. The Pastor, the Clerk and the
Deacons shall constitute a team authorized to take such action by a majority vote of the entire team. This
action does not apply to those who, because of physical incapacity, limited means, military service, or
other special circumstances, are unable to meet the ordinary requirements of membership. Any person
whose name is on the inactive membership list during the twelve-month grace period may be reinstated
to active membership by vete-efthe-Deacens participating in the life of the church again.
F. By Forfeit.
If a member voluntarily joins other members in breaking away from this church to form a separate
congregation, membership in The Historic Parsells Church is forfeited. The individual memberships may
be terminated as a group by simple majority vote of the Church Council. If the person served as a church
Officer, that leadership position shall be terminated as directed by Bylaws Article Vil, Section 4 (Elections
and Terms), and the Church Council shall appoint someone to fill the remaining term of office.
Section 3: Rights and Responsibilities of Members
A. Rights
1 Membership in this church allows a person to vote on any matters requiring a congregational
vote, provided the member is present and is 18 years of age or older. No proxy voting is allowed.
Each member of the church 18 years of age or older is eligible for consideration as a candidate
for elected or appointed office in the church.
3 Other rights are specified in section 4 (below).
Responsibilities
Each member of The Historic Parsells Church is expected to:
1 Regularly attend worship services on Sunday, the Lord’s Day (Acts 20:7; Hebrews 10:25), unless
prevented by illness, work schedule, military service, or geographical dislocation.
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Strive to live a moral Christian life, pray daily, develop and use his or her spiritual gifts
(1 Corinthians 12:4-11), and witness for Christ.
Contribute a portion of time, talent, and treasure (financial resources) to support the church and
its ministries and missions. Tithing (proportionate giving) is a distinct and positive command in the
Scriptures (Malachi 3:8-11) and each member is encouraged to systematically contribute part of
his or her income according to the principles laid down in 1 Corinthians 16:2 and 2 Corinthians
9:7.
Commit to God in Jesus Christ through meaningful involvement in the church’s programs and
activities to the extent he or she is able.
Practice reverence while in the Lord's house; it is a holy place and reverence is conducive to true
worship (Leviticus 19:30; Romans 12:1; Hebrews 10:19-22).
Recognize the necessity of submitting oneselfto those who are in places of Scriptural authority
(Hebrews 13:17) in matters relating to faith.
Express his or her opinions in discussions, and vote according to his or her own convictions.
Request a Letter of Transfer to some other Christian church when moving from this area and not
expecting to return.
Section 4: Membership Classifications
A Full (Active) Membership
Full (active) members are individuals who are fully involved and engaged in the ongoing worship services
and activities of the church and who financially support the church. Active members 18 years and older
can hold office, vote in congregational meetings, and have the opportunity to serve as delegates. Those
who sense a call to the ministry can seek to be licensed and/or ordained; see Article Il, Section 7
(Licensing and Ordination).
Associate Membership
Associate members are individuals who have relocated to the Rochester area, but who continue to
a
maintain membership at their home church (examples include college students, armed services
personnel, and other people of ice i me eciested area wie maintain legal
eee elsewhere). he nd alacte
9 sells Ghure ha 9 6 Ss Associate
members 18 years and ‘older hold and vote in congregational ‘meetings. Th ey may not be sent
as delegates of this church, be granted a Letter of Transfer, or be ordained or licensed by this church; all
of these rights remain with the members’ home church.
Friends-of Parselis Constituent Membership
end ofP clese-as 7@
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or affiliated member th 4 They. th huroh-4 |
en
Constituent members (“friends of the church”) regularly attend worship, participate in activities, and
support the church financially, but have chosen not to be full or associate members of the church.
Constituent members 18 years and older can hold office and vote in congregational meetings. They
cannot represent the church as delegates, nor can they be licensed and/or ordained.
D. Inactive Membership
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Inactive members are individuals or families who are not involved in the activities of the church and/or
who have not supported the church financially within-a-consecutive-twelve-month-peried for more than a
year, although able to do so. See Section 2E of this Article (Dismissal of Members), above.
Section 5 New Member Orientation
Prospective members of this church are encouraged to participate in the church’s orientation class to ensure that they
understand the doctrinal beliefs of The Historic Parsells Church and their responsibilities as members of this body.
Section 6 Clarification for Families
Each person must join this church on his or her own accord. If parents join, their children DO NOT automatically become
members. If the children are of age to make a decision, they must join by a method outlined in Section 1 of this Article
(Admission of Members). If the children are young, they must wait until they can be baptized. See Constitution Article IV,
Section 3 (Church Ordinances)
Section 7 Dedication of Children
Parents who are members of this church and who desire publicly to acknowledge their child as a gift from God may have
their child dedicated at a worship service at the discretion of the Pastor. This will also serve as a pledge on the part of the
parents to bring the child up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord and for the congregation to provide watch-care for
the child. Consult the Policy and Operational Handbook for details
Article Vi: DISSOLUTION
In the event this church body is dissolved, disbands, or ceases to function as a church for any reason, no officer of the
church or church employee or any private individual shall be entitled to share in the distribution of any of the corporate
assets, but the assets shall be distributed to such organization or organizations operated exclusively for charitable,
educational, religious or scientific purposes and qualified as an exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue Code as determined by the Church Council. A vote to dissolve or disband shall follow the guidelines
listed under Bylaws Article VII, Section 1 C-3 (Special Business Meetings).
Article Vil: AMENDMENTS
This Constitution may be amended at a regular or special business meeting upon two-thirds vote of those present and
qualified to vote (assuming that there is a quorum present), provided that such amendments have been approved by the
Church Council and that notice of such a meeting and the contents of the proposed amendments or alterations are
announced during the worship service and/or published in the weekly church bulletin (or via any type of mass
communication technologies) on the two consecutive Sundays immediately preceding the proposed meeting.
If any change in denominational affiliation is involved, the provisions in Constitution Article III (Polity) shall apply.
Bylaws which are not in conflict with this Constitution shall be adopted and/or amended according to the procedure
described in Bylaws Article XV (Amendments).
(Note that this Constitution needs a two-thirds vote to change; Bylaws only need a simple majority vote.)
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BYLAWS OF THE HISTORIC PARSELLS CHURCH
Article |— THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH
Fundamental to the exercise of church government is the fact that Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church. However, as
Head, He has ordained that individual churches should be blessed with the spiritual rule and ministry of pastors and office
bearers. Therefore, it is the duty of the church to seek to discover those to whom Christ the Lord has imparted the
necessary gifts for leadership and to set them apart by united prayer and to submit to their tule and ministry.
All those who give leadership and serve in this church shall do so with the motivation “...that in everything He (Jesus
Christ) might have the supremacy” (Colossians 1:18, NIV).
Article ll — THE PASTOR AND FHE PASTOR'S CABINET PASTORAL STAFF
Section 1: Qualifications
The Pastor shall be an ordained minister whose ordination is recognized by the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A.
and shall have demonstrated a deep love for and commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ and the local church.
The Pastor should have the personal and ministerial qualifications for this office as set forth in 1 Timothy 3:1-7; 1 Timothy
5:17; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-10.
The Senior Pastor and all other pastoral staff shall adhere to the “Covenant and Code of Ethics for Ministerial Leaders of
the American Baptist Churches of the Rochester/Genesee Region.”
Section 2: Responsibilities
The Pastor shall be called by the church to provide full-time or part-time work to “shepherd the flock” (Micah 7:14; Acts
20:28; John 21:16; 1 Peter 5:2) and direct the church in its mission to BLESS the world for the honor and glory of God,
based on the exercise of the Pastor's own distinctive gifts of ministry as required by the church. The Pastor's
responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following. The Pastor:
A Leads the congregation by the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
B Proclaims the Gospel to believers to foster their spiritual growth, and to unbelievers to win them to faith in
Jesus Christ.
Builds up the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:12, NIV).
Cares for the flock, directing a caring ministry to those with physical, spiritual, and emotional needs.
Meets with potential members.
Participates in meetings of the Church Council, congregation, and other groups as he or she may in wise
discretion determine. The Pastor shall be an ex officio member of the Council with voting privileges.
Gives and accepts guidance, being accountable to the Church Council for the faithful discharge of his or
her duties and receiving direction and feedback from the Deacons in regards to pastoral issues and
pastoral decisions affecting the church.
Employs-and Supervises the staff.
Represents the church in the community and in the American Baptist denomination.
Sets aside time for self and family (1 Timothy 3:4-5).
Makes arrangements for absences.
Reports to the Church Council and congregation on a regular basis.
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Section 3: Establishment of Relationship
A. Pastor Search Team
When the pastorate is vacant, the Church Council shall select a Pastor Search Team of three to twelve
people, depending on the size of the congregation. The composition of this team should be representative
of age, gender, organizational, ethnic and other diversities found in the congregation. The remaining
pastoral staff, if any, shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Pastor Search Team.
It shall be the duty of this Team, after seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to procure a prospective
Pastor. In reviewing and examining candidates, the Team shall carefully consider the merits of each
person under consideration regarding his or her personal qualifications; education; experience and
ministerial record; theological views; spiritual discernment; concept of the church and ministry; abilities as
a preacher, teacher, administrator, counselor, and leader of worship; as well as other abilities pertaining
to the special needs of the church. The ministerial candidate must live under the unction of the Holy Spirit,
be deeply in love with Christ and sufficiently demonstrate that he or she is following Christ. The candidate
shall also be ordained, or seeking ordination, according to the ordination standards of the American
Baptist Churches in the U.S.A.
The Pastor Search Team shall confer with the Executive Minister of the American Baptist Churches of the
Rochester/Genesee Region on the qualifications and record of all candidates being considered for the
pastorate of this church, taking advantage of his or her knowledge of pastoral leadership potential and the
American Baptist Personnel Services.
Congregational Consideration
When a suitable person is found, the Pastor Search Team shall recommend him or her to the church for
consideration. Only one candidate shall be presented to the church at a time.
The congregation shall be notified two weeks in advance of a candidate's appearance, which shall
include preaching at a worship service. A special business meeting shall be held following the service for
the purpose of considering the candidate. Notice of the special service and meeting shall be verbally
announced during the regular worship service and/or published in the weekly church bulletin (or via any
type of mass communication technologies) on the two consecutive Sundays immediately preceding the
candidate's visit.
As directed by the Holy Spirit (Jeremiah 3:15; John 14:26), the congregation votes either to extend a call
to the candidate asking him or her to become the Pastor of The Historic Parsells Church, or to release
that candidate’s name from consideration. If there is any question about a nominee, he or she may be
given other invitations to be heard and consulted with by the Pastor Search Team before a final vote is
taken concerning that candidate. A vote of two-thirds of the members present and qualified to vote shall
be necessary to extend a call. The vote shall be by secret printed ballot. Absentee ballots and proxy votes
shall not be allowed.
Once the newly-called Pastor has accepted the offer, the Pastor Search Team is disbanded with a special
prayer.
The new Pastor shall automatically be considered a member of this church effective on the date his or her
duties officially begin.
Pastoral Salary and Benefits
The Pastor Search Team shall have the authority to negotiate an employment contract with the Pastor
nominee, specifying the duties and expectations of the office, as well as salary, benefits, and other
related matters. Any such contract shall be contingent to the actual hiring of the nominee to the pastorate,
and also shall be subject to the approval of the Church Council and the congregation before the contract
has any binding legal powers or obligations whatsoever.
The salary and benefits of the Pastor shall be fixed at the time of the call by vote of the church and
pry Finance Team.
& Finance-Minist
reviewed from time to time (at least yearly) by the Stewardshi
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Suggested changes to the compensation package shall be voted upon by the Church Council (provided
that the Pastor shall abstain from voting on this matter ) and submitted
to the congregation in the annual budget, or at any business meeting provided the usual two weeks’
notice has been given.
Section 4: Continuance of Relationship
The pastoral relationship shall continue for an indefinite term, unless otherwise agreed upon at the time of the call, so long
as such relationship is mutually satisfactory to the Pastor and the congregation.
Section 5 Dissolution of Relationship
A. Termination of Pastorate
A Pastor's services may be terminated in any of the following ways:
1 By the Pastor’s Death.
2. By Resignation.
The Pastor shall be free to resign as he or she feels led by the Holy Spirit, but out of Christian
courtesy he or she should give advance notice to the church. The resignation shall be accepted
without being voted on by the church.
By Vote of the Church.
The dismissal of the Pastor may be voted upon at a regular or special business meeting, notice of
such meeting and its purpose having been verbally announced during the worship service and/or
published in the weekly church bulletin (or via any type of mass communication technologies) on
the two consecutive Sundays immediately preceding the proposed meeting. Fhe-Church-Council
- A majority vote by secret ballot of the members present and qualified
to vote at such a meeting, provided there be a quorum present, shall make valid the termination
of the office.
Recommendation of Termination for Cause
The Pastor shall be subject to immediate suspension for a serious moral, ethical, or doctrinal deviation
considered harmful to the discharge of the Pastor's duties and harmful to the church, provided that he or
she is first given due notice and a hearing before the Deacons with evidence presented as to his or her
guilt or innocence. Any such accusation shall be brought by at least two or three witnesses (1 Timothy
5:19). Misconduct includes violations of the “Covenant and Code of Ethics for Ministerial Leaders of the
American Baptist Churches of the Rochester/Genesee Region
If upon the examination by the Deacons, the majority of whom determine that the Pastor is unfit for further
service to this church, he or she shall be suspended without pay and told to cease pastoral duties
immediately. The Deacons shall then recommend the Church Council call for a special business meeting
to vote on the Pastor's termination, announced with two weeks’ notice and conducted in the manner
outlined in the paragraph above entitled “By Vote of the Church.” The members of the church shall, by
majority vote at the special business meeting, decide to dismiss or retain the services of the Pastor. If the
Pastor is dismissed under these conditions, it will be considered a breach of contract and no further pay
will be accorded the dismissed Pastor.
The Next Step
When the position of Pastor becomes vacant for any reason, the Executive Minister of ABC/RGR should
be notified as soon as possible. A Pastor Search Team shall be put into place, and an Interim Pastor shall
be selected as outlined in Section 9 (The Interim Pastor), below. The Pastor Search Team, and/or the
Deacons, may work to fill the vacant pulpit each Sunday until the Interim Pastor can be put into place.
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11
Section 6: Protections Afforded the Pastor
A. The Pastor should be protected against hostile attacks and unjust criticism. The Deacons and Church
Council shall maintain open communication with the church body with respect to any accusations against
the Pastor.
The Pastor cannot be dismissed by any person or group in the church. Any dismissals or attempts thereof
must be handled in accordance with these bylaws, and must be by congregational vote.
c In the event of prolonged illness or disability, the church will agree to continue the Pastor's financial
support until disability insurance goes into effect.
Section 7: Licensing and Ordination
A. Qualification
Any full member of this church, having felt the call of God to the ministry of the Gospel and giving
evidence of such a call by his or her Christian life, experience, and devotion to the cause of Christ, may
be ordained, licensed and/or commissioned as a minister of the Gospel after at least one year of being a
member. Ordination enables a person to perform such functions as conducting the ordinances (Baptism
and Communion), presiding at weddings and funerals, and other ministerial services.
Procedures for licensing and ordination of candidates for pastoral ministry shall be those of the American
Baptist Churches in the U.S.A.
Licensure
When a person announces that he or she feels called to the ministry of the Gospel, he or she shall first
present himself or herself to the Pastor and the Deacons. The Pastor and Deacons may at their discretion
present him or her to the church as an applicant for a license to preach or for recommendation as a
candidate for the pastoral ministry.
Upon hearing his or her statement at any business meeting of the church, the congregation may, by
majority vote of those members present and voting, approve his or her application and issue a certificate
of licensur
Preview
INDEX NO. E2024003732 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 MONROE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE THIS IS NOT A BILL. THIS IS YOUR RECEIPT. Receipt # 3762141 Book Page CIVIL Return To: No. Pages: 37 DONALD R. FOX 100 Meridian Centre Blvd Instrument: EXHIBIT(S) Suite 300 Rochester, NY 14618 Control #: 202402281689 Index #: E2024003732 Date: 02/28/2024 In the Matter of the Application of True Faith Christian Time: 5:20:30 PM Fellowship, f/k/a The Historic Parsells Church, f/k/a The Parsells Avenue Community Church and f/k/a Christ Community Church of Rochester, with its principal mailing address at P.O. Box 10670, Roche Total Fees Paid: $0.00 Employee: State of New York MONROE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE WARNING — THIS SHEET CONSTITUTES THE CLERKS ENDORSEMENT, REQUIRED BY SECTION 317-a(5) & SECTION 319 OF THE REAL PROPERTY LAW OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. DO NOT DETACH OR REMOVE. JAMIE ROMEO. MONROE COUNTY CLERK MM 6MONRO NK WV INDGOx MOE 224004 ER23 732 oD OUN NYSCEF BOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 Exhibit D INDihex NOE 2620024 2823 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 1 ioe |Reoredi The toric Parsells Chilkch A Dynamic Christ Community CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS OF THE HISTORIC PARSELLS CHURCH Draft, revision 8 (March 2018) TABLE OF CONTENTS CONSTITUTION Article | — Name. Article Il — Purpose Article Ill — Polity Article IV — Doctrine Article V — Membership. Article VI — Dissolution Article VIl — Amendments. BYLAWS Article |— The Head of the Church Article Il — The Pastor and Pastoral Staff. Article Ill — Corporate Officers 13 Article IV — Church Council 15 rtich L De (the-Di 46 ArticleMI Article V— Ministries Leadership Teams (Standing Committees) of the jurcl 17 (revised list) + Deacons (the Diaconate) + Finance + Property + Christian Education + Evangelism & Missions ArticleVit Article VI Ad hoc Teams & Task Forces 21 Article MH Article VIl — Meetings and Voting 22 Article4X Article Vill — Church Staff. 26 ArticleX Article IX — Auxiliary Organizations. 27 Article4 Article X — Delegates and Representatives 28 ArticleH Article Xl — The Church Year. 28 Article 4H Article XIl — Church Finances. 28 Article IY Article XIIl — Use of Church Property 29 Article X¥ Article XIV — Subsidiary Corporations 31 Article XM Article XV — Amendments 31 INDESXNO E 262002303 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 2 CONSTITUTION OF THE HISTORIC PARSELLS CHURCH Article |: NAME The name of the church shall be The Historic Parsells Church of Rochester, NY, duly incorporated under the laws of the State of New York as the result of the merger in 2016 of Parsells Avenue Community Church (1975) and Christ Community Church of Rochester (2010). Parsells Avenue Community Church had been created in 1975 as a result of the merger of Parsells Avenue Baptist Church (1895) and East Side Memorial Presbyterian Church [formed in 1939 by the merger of Memorial Presbyterian Church (1872) and East Side Presbyterian Church (1901)]. Article ll: PURPOSE The purpose of this church is to BLESS the World, as set forth in Matthew 28:18-20 (the Great Commission), Matthew 22:36-40 (the Great Commandment), and Acts 2:42-46 (the Great Community of Believers): 1) BEGIN WITH PRAYER. To exalt the Lord by praying in all circumstances, both individually and collectively as the body of Christ; by participating in public worship services together; and by maintaining personal devotions on a regular basis. 2) LISTEN. To take the time to hear the Word of God and hear the concerns and testimonies of others; to educate and equip people through the preaching and teaching of God’s Word and through discipleship so they have a vital faith which allows them to lead a consistent Christian life and do effective Christian service. 3) EAT. To establish and maintain a sense of community, mutual concern, and helpfulness through fellowship and shared meals so people are fed both physically and spiritually, and are encouraged and supported by one another as members of the family of God. 4) SHARE OUR STORIES. To tell others about our personal faith journeys and thus be living testimonies of the transforming power of Jesus Christ; to evangelize, spreading the Gospel (the reconciling and redemptive message) of Jesus Christ throughout the world and advancing the Kingdom of God by expressing the love of Christ to all, urging the personal acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and supporting national and international missions. 5) SERVE. To empower people for a ministry of social justice and mission work so they can support God’s work with their time, talent, and treasure, and so they can serve unselfishly and in Jesus’ name to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those in our church, our community, and our world. Article ill: POLITY Recognizing Jesus Christ as the only Head of the Church (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18), this congregation seeks to ascertain and obey the will of our Lord in all matters of faith and practice. Authority to govern the affairs of this church being given to us by Christ, we hold that such authority is vested in the membership of the congregation. The membership, as a collective whole, is the highest decision-making body of this church, and via congregational meetings shall have final authority for decisions and actions affecting the welfare and functioning of the church. The Church Council, in turn, is given the responsibility by, and is accountable to, the membership to oversee all aspects of this church. The church shall be autonomous (self-governing) with respect to its internal organization and the regulation of its own affairs, and shall be subject to the contro! of no other ecclesiastical body. However, in carrying out the wider ministry for which Christ has made His church responsible, we adhere to membership in the American Baptist Churches of the Rochester/Genesee Region and the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. This church shall not resign or withdraw from any of these bodies except by a duly adopted change to this constitution; nor shall such action be taken until at least thirty days have elapsed following a consultation by the Church Council with the Executive Minister of ABC/RGR. This church shall also associate with the larger Christian fellowship through local and other councils of churches and with formal and informal agencies of cooperative Christianity as deemed appropriate. INDihex NOE 2620004 2323 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 3 Article IV: DOCTRINE Section 1: Doctrinal Basis The church accepts the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments (the Bible) as the inspired witness to God’s revelatory actions in human history and as the authoritative basis for its doctrine and practice. This church is the sole interpreter of the Scriptures as they relate to the church and its members. The constitution and bylaws and any amendments made hereto shall be the governing documents of this church but they should always be interpreted and applied in conformity with the Bible. Section 2: Statement of Faith (based on Romans 8: 28, 38-39) We believe there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, for we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to God’s purpose. We are convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen. Section 3: Church Ordinances There are two ordinances of the church: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper (also called Communion). A Believer’s Baptism The ordinance of baptism shall be administered to candidates who have professed faith in Jesus Christ and have indicated a commitment to follow Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, as set forth in Matthew 28:19. 1 Baptism shall be by immersion in water. 2. Since it signifies faith and repentance, the ceremony is reserved for only those who are old enough to make responsible decisions. The ordinance of baptism shall be administered by the Pastor (or other ordained person), assisted by the Deacons and/or their designees. Baptism shall be administered during any regular or special worship service. This church DOES NOT perform infant baptism. However, a child dedication may be performed. See Constitution Article V, Section 6 (Dedication of Children). Consult the Policy and Operational Handbook for details. The Lord’s Supper (Communion) The ordinance of the Lord’s Supper shall be observed as the apostle Paul outlines in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. The Lord's Supper is the symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the Body of Christ, through partaking of the bread and the cup, commemorate the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ and anticipate His second coming. 4 The Lord's Supper shall be administered on the first Sunday of each month, and on other occasions as determined by the Pastor and the Deacons. The Communion table is the Lord’s, not ours. Christ is the host. It is not our decision who will or will not be guests at the table. Communion is open to all believers present. The Pastor, a member of the pastoral staff, a Deacon, or other designated church leader shall preside. The elements of the Lord's Supper shall be prepared and served by the Deacons and/or their designees. INDEX NOE 2622023033 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 4 Section 4: Marriage Human-Sexuatity and As a local church, we believe that wedding ceremonies on church property are spiritual acts of worship. Marriage is a biblical institution established by God as clearly described in the Scriptures. Accordingly, this church, its pastors and staff will not participate in same sex unions or same sex marriages, nor shall its property or resources be used for such purposes. Weddings on church property shall be officiated by one or more ordained ministers of the Gospel. The church may decline to make its facilities or ministers available for any wedding if it is determined that one or both of the parties is/are not biblically and/or legally qualified to marry. Such determinations may be made by the Pastor and pastoral staff. No minister or employee of the church shall officiate at any marriage ceremony unless such marriage is consistent with this policy. Article V: MEMBERSHIP Section 1: Admission of Members A person may be received into membership with all of its benefits and duties by any one of the following methods, upon the recommendation of the Pastor and the Deacons (the recommendation may follow completion of an orientation class): A By Baptism. Anyone who confesses Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord and who is in substantial accord with the doctrine and practice of this church may be received into the membership of this congregation following believer's baptism by immersion. By Letter of Transfer. A person who is in substantial accord with the doctrine and practice of this church may be received into membership by Letter of Transfer from any Christian church. By Christian Experience. A person of worthy character who has formerly been a member of a Christian church but who for a sufficient reason cannot present a Letter of Transfer from that church, and who is in substantial accord with the doctrine and practice of this church, may be received into membership upon satisfactory statement of Christian faith. By Restoration. Any person who has lost his or her membership in this church for any reason may be restored to membership upon the recommendation of the Deacons. By Confession of Faith. Any person who because of reasons of health, disability, or good conscience cannot submit to baptism yet confesses Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and who is in substantial accord with the doctrine and practice of this church, may be received into membership upon public statement of faith and determination to serve Jesus Christ in this church. Section 2: Dismissal of Members A person may be dismissed from membership by any one of the following methods: A By Death. B. By Letter of Transfer. INDHEXN® E 2624003088 732 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 5 A Letter of Transfer to any other Christian church may be granted to any member requesting it, upon the recommendation of the Deacons. The name of the church to which membership is requested shall be named in the request and the letter shall be sent to the Pastor or Clerk of that church. By Request. A person may terminate his or her membership by either written or verbal communication. This will go into effect upon receipt of such correspondence by the Deacons and/or the Church Council. By Exclusion. Should any member shame the name of Jesus by being guilty of immoral or unchristian conduct, the church may terminate his or her membership. Only after the person has had a hearing, upon due notice, before the Deacons, and after faithful efforts have been made to bring about repentance and reconciliation, should such action be taken. It is right and in harmony with the Scriptures, upon recommendation of the Deacons, to exclude from this church any person who persists in holding false or heretical doctrine, or who obviously and persistently lives inconsistently with his or her Christian profession, or who lives in violation of the law or public morals; or any person who persists in disturbing the unity and peace of this church, or is unwilling to settle differences with others in a Scriptural manner (Matthew 18:15-17; Romans 16:17; | Corinthians 5:11-13; Il Thessalonians 3: 6, 11-15). By Suspension. When a person has manifested a lack of interest in the life of the church for ene more than a year by failure to attend services, to communicate or participate with the church, or to contribute to its support, though able to do so, his or her name shall, after proper notification and conference, be withdrawn from the regular membership list and placed on an inactive list. After one year on this list, unless the person requests otherwise, his or her name may be dropped from the church rolls. The Pastor, the Clerk and the Deacons shall constitute a team authorized to take such action by a majority vote of the entire team. This action does not apply to those who, because of physical incapacity, limited means, military service, or other special circumstances, are unable to meet the ordinary requirements of membership. Any person whose name is on the inactive membership list during the twelve-month grace period may be reinstated to active membership by vete-efthe-Deacens participating in the life of the church again. F. By Forfeit. If a member voluntarily joins other members in breaking away from this church to form a separate congregation, membership in The Historic Parsells Church is forfeited. The individual memberships may be terminated as a group by simple majority vote of the Church Council. If the person served as a church Officer, that leadership position shall be terminated as directed by Bylaws Article Vil, Section 4 (Elections and Terms), and the Church Council shall appoint someone to fill the remaining term of office. Section 3: Rights and Responsibilities of Members A. Rights 1 Membership in this church allows a person to vote on any matters requiring a congregational vote, provided the member is present and is 18 years of age or older. No proxy voting is allowed. Each member of the church 18 years of age or older is eligible for consideration as a candidate for elected or appointed office in the church. 3 Other rights are specified in section 4 (below). Responsibilities Each member of The Historic Parsells Church is expected to: 1 Regularly attend worship services on Sunday, the Lord’s Day (Acts 20:7; Hebrews 10:25), unless prevented by illness, work schedule, military service, or geographical dislocation. INDEX NOE 2622023033 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 6 Strive to live a moral Christian life, pray daily, develop and use his or her spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11), and witness for Christ. Contribute a portion of time, talent, and treasure (financial resources) to support the church and its ministries and missions. Tithing (proportionate giving) is a distinct and positive command in the Scriptures (Malachi 3:8-11) and each member is encouraged to systematically contribute part of his or her income according to the principles laid down in 1 Corinthians 16:2 and 2 Corinthians 9:7. Commit to God in Jesus Christ through meaningful involvement in the church’s programs and activities to the extent he or she is able. Practice reverence while in the Lord's house; it is a holy place and reverence is conducive to true worship (Leviticus 19:30; Romans 12:1; Hebrews 10:19-22). Recognize the necessity of submitting oneselfto those who are in places of Scriptural authority (Hebrews 13:17) in matters relating to faith. Express his or her opinions in discussions, and vote according to his or her own convictions. Request a Letter of Transfer to some other Christian church when moving from this area and not expecting to return. Section 4: Membership Classifications A Full (Active) Membership Full (active) members are individuals who are fully involved and engaged in the ongoing worship services and activities of the church and who financially support the church. Active members 18 years and older can hold office, vote in congregational meetings, and have the opportunity to serve as delegates. Those who sense a call to the ministry can seek to be licensed and/or ordained; see Article Il, Section 7 (Licensing and Ordination). Associate Membership Associate members are individuals who have relocated to the Rochester area, but who continue to a maintain membership at their home church (examples include college students, armed services personnel, and other people of ice i me eciested area wie maintain legal eee elsewhere). he nd alacte 9 sells Ghure ha 9 6 Ss Associate members 18 years and ‘older hold and vote in congregational ‘meetings. Th ey may not be sent as delegates of this church, be granted a Letter of Transfer, or be ordained or licensed by this church; all of these rights remain with the members’ home church. Friends-of Parselis Constituent Membership end ofP clese-as 7@ eheese-nette-be-full or affiliated member th 4 They. th huroh-4 | en Constituent members (“friends of the church”) regularly attend worship, participate in activities, and support the church financially, but have chosen not to be full or associate members of the church. Constituent members 18 years and older can hold office and vote in congregational meetings. They cannot represent the church as delegates, nor can they be licensed and/or ordained. D. Inactive Membership FLEERe MONROE COUNTY CLERK 0272872024 11:27 AM INDiSXN® E 262003 0EB 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 7 Inactive members are individuals or families who are not involved in the activities of the church and/or who have not supported the church financially within-a-consecutive-twelve-month-peried for more than a year, although able to do so. See Section 2E of this Article (Dismissal of Members), above. Section 5 New Member Orientation Prospective members of this church are encouraged to participate in the church’s orientation class to ensure that they understand the doctrinal beliefs of The Historic Parsells Church and their responsibilities as members of this body. Section 6 Clarification for Families Each person must join this church on his or her own accord. If parents join, their children DO NOT automatically become members. If the children are of age to make a decision, they must join by a method outlined in Section 1 of this Article (Admission of Members). If the children are young, they must wait until they can be baptized. See Constitution Article IV, Section 3 (Church Ordinances) Section 7 Dedication of Children Parents who are members of this church and who desire publicly to acknowledge their child as a gift from God may have their child dedicated at a worship service at the discretion of the Pastor. This will also serve as a pledge on the part of the parents to bring the child up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord and for the congregation to provide watch-care for the child. Consult the Policy and Operational Handbook for details Article Vi: DISSOLUTION In the event this church body is dissolved, disbands, or ceases to function as a church for any reason, no officer of the church or church employee or any private individual shall be entitled to share in the distribution of any of the corporate assets, but the assets shall be distributed to such organization or organizations operated exclusively for charitable, educational, religious or scientific purposes and qualified as an exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code as determined by the Church Council. A vote to dissolve or disband shall follow the guidelines listed under Bylaws Article VII, Section 1 C-3 (Special Business Meetings). Article Vil: AMENDMENTS This Constitution may be amended at a regular or special business meeting upon two-thirds vote of those present and qualified to vote (assuming that there is a quorum present), provided that such amendments have been approved by the Church Council and that notice of such a meeting and the contents of the proposed amendments or alterations are announced during the worship service and/or published in the weekly church bulletin (or via any type of mass communication technologies) on the two consecutive Sundays immediately preceding the proposed meeting. If any change in denominational affiliation is involved, the provisions in Constitution Article III (Polity) shall apply. Bylaws which are not in conflict with this Constitution shall be adopted and/or amended according to the procedure described in Bylaws Article XV (Amendments). (Note that this Constitution needs a two-thirds vote to change; Bylaws only need a simple majority vote.) INDEX NOE 2622023033 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 8 BYLAWS OF THE HISTORIC PARSELLS CHURCH Article |— THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH Fundamental to the exercise of church government is the fact that Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church. However, as Head, He has ordained that individual churches should be blessed with the spiritual rule and ministry of pastors and office bearers. Therefore, it is the duty of the church to seek to discover those to whom Christ the Lord has imparted the necessary gifts for leadership and to set them apart by united prayer and to submit to their tule and ministry. All those who give leadership and serve in this church shall do so with the motivation “...that in everything He (Jesus Christ) might have the supremacy” (Colossians 1:18, NIV). Article ll — THE PASTOR AND FHE PASTOR'S CABINET PASTORAL STAFF Section 1: Qualifications The Pastor shall be an ordained minister whose ordination is recognized by the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. and shall have demonstrated a deep love for and commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ and the local church. The Pastor should have the personal and ministerial qualifications for this office as set forth in 1 Timothy 3:1-7; 1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-10. The Senior Pastor and all other pastoral staff shall adhere to the “Covenant and Code of Ethics for Ministerial Leaders of the American Baptist Churches of the Rochester/Genesee Region.” Section 2: Responsibilities The Pastor shall be called by the church to provide full-time or part-time work to “shepherd the flock” (Micah 7:14; Acts 20:28; John 21:16; 1 Peter 5:2) and direct the church in its mission to BLESS the world for the honor and glory of God, based on the exercise of the Pastor's own distinctive gifts of ministry as required by the church. The Pastor's responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following. The Pastor: A Leads the congregation by the guidance of the Holy Spirit. B Proclaims the Gospel to believers to foster their spiritual growth, and to unbelievers to win them to faith in Jesus Christ. Builds up the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:12, NIV). Cares for the flock, directing a caring ministry to those with physical, spiritual, and emotional needs. Meets with potential members. Participates in meetings of the Church Council, congregation, and other groups as he or she may in wise discretion determine. The Pastor shall be an ex officio member of the Council with voting privileges. Gives and accepts guidance, being accountable to the Church Council for the faithful discharge of his or her duties and receiving direction and feedback from the Deacons in regards to pastoral issues and pastoral decisions affecting the church. Employs-and Supervises the staff. Represents the church in the community and in the American Baptist denomination. Sets aside time for self and family (1 Timothy 3:4-5). Makes arrangements for absences. Reports to the Church Council and congregation on a regular basis. INDEX NOE 2622023033 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 9 Section 3: Establishment of Relationship A. Pastor Search Team When the pastorate is vacant, the Church Council shall select a Pastor Search Team of three to twelve people, depending on the size of the congregation. The composition of this team should be representative of age, gender, organizational, ethnic and other diversities found in the congregation. The remaining pastoral staff, if any, shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Pastor Search Team. It shall be the duty of this Team, after seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to procure a prospective Pastor. In reviewing and examining candidates, the Team shall carefully consider the merits of each person under consideration regarding his or her personal qualifications; education; experience and ministerial record; theological views; spiritual discernment; concept of the church and ministry; abilities as a preacher, teacher, administrator, counselor, and leader of worship; as well as other abilities pertaining to the special needs of the church. The ministerial candidate must live under the unction of the Holy Spirit, be deeply in love with Christ and sufficiently demonstrate that he or she is following Christ. The candidate shall also be ordained, or seeking ordination, according to the ordination standards of the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. The Pastor Search Team shall confer with the Executive Minister of the American Baptist Churches of the Rochester/Genesee Region on the qualifications and record of all candidates being considered for the pastorate of this church, taking advantage of his or her knowledge of pastoral leadership potential and the American Baptist Personnel Services. Congregational Consideration When a suitable person is found, the Pastor Search Team shall recommend him or her to the church for consideration. Only one candidate shall be presented to the church at a time. The congregation shall be notified two weeks in advance of a candidate's appearance, which shall include preaching at a worship service. A special business meeting shall be held following the service for the purpose of considering the candidate. Notice of the special service and meeting shall be verbally announced during the regular worship service and/or published in the weekly church bulletin (or via any type of mass communication technologies) on the two consecutive Sundays immediately preceding the candidate's visit. As directed by the Holy Spirit (Jeremiah 3:15; John 14:26), the congregation votes either to extend a call to the candidate asking him or her to become the Pastor of The Historic Parsells Church, or to release that candidate’s name from consideration. If there is any question about a nominee, he or she may be given other invitations to be heard and consulted with by the Pastor Search Team before a final vote is taken concerning that candidate. A vote of two-thirds of the members present and qualified to vote shall be necessary to extend a call. The vote shall be by secret printed ballot. Absentee ballots and proxy votes shall not be allowed. Once the newly-called Pastor has accepted the offer, the Pastor Search Team is disbanded with a special prayer. The new Pastor shall automatically be considered a member of this church effective on the date his or her duties officially begin. Pastoral Salary and Benefits The Pastor Search Team shall have the authority to negotiate an employment contract with the Pastor nominee, specifying the duties and expectations of the office, as well as salary, benefits, and other related matters. Any such contract shall be contingent to the actual hiring of the nominee to the pastorate, and also shall be subject to the approval of the Church Council and the congregation before the contract has any binding legal powers or obligations whatsoever. The salary and benefits of the Pastor shall be fixed at the time of the call by vote of the church and pry Finance Team. & Finance-Minist reviewed from time to time (at least yearly) by the Stewardshi FLEERe MONROE COUNTY CLERK 0272872024 11:27 AM INDiSXN® E 262003 0EB 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 10 Suggested changes to the compensation package shall be voted upon by the Church Council (provided that the Pastor shall abstain from voting on this matter ) and submitted to the congregation in the annual budget, or at any business meeting provided the usual two weeks’ notice has been given. Section 4: Continuance of Relationship The pastoral relationship shall continue for an indefinite term, unless otherwise agreed upon at the time of the call, so long as such relationship is mutually satisfactory to the Pastor and the congregation. Section 5 Dissolution of Relationship A. Termination of Pastorate A Pastor's services may be terminated in any of the following ways: 1 By the Pastor’s Death. 2. By Resignation. The Pastor shall be free to resign as he or she feels led by the Holy Spirit, but out of Christian courtesy he or she should give advance notice to the church. The resignation shall be accepted without being voted on by the church. By Vote of the Church. The dismissal of the Pastor may be voted upon at a regular or special business meeting, notice of such meeting and its purpose having been verbally announced during the worship service and/or published in the weekly church bulletin (or via any type of mass communication technologies) on the two consecutive Sundays immediately preceding the proposed meeting. Fhe-Church-Council - A majority vote by secret ballot of the members present and qualified to vote at such a meeting, provided there be a quorum present, shall make valid the termination of the office. Recommendation of Termination for Cause The Pastor shall be subject to immediate suspension for a serious moral, ethical, or doctrinal deviation considered harmful to the discharge of the Pastor's duties and harmful to the church, provided that he or she is first given due notice and a hearing before the Deacons with evidence presented as to his or her guilt or innocence. Any such accusation shall be brought by at least two or three witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19). Misconduct includes violations of the “Covenant and Code of Ethics for Ministerial Leaders of the American Baptist Churches of the Rochester/Genesee Region If upon the examination by the Deacons, the majority of whom determine that the Pastor is unfit for further service to this church, he or she shall be suspended without pay and told to cease pastoral duties immediately. The Deacons shall then recommend the Church Council call for a special business meeting to vote on the Pastor's termination, announced with two weeks’ notice and conducted in the manner outlined in the paragraph above entitled “By Vote of the Church.” The members of the church shall, by majority vote at the special business meeting, decide to dismiss or retain the services of the Pastor. If the Pastor is dismissed under these conditions, it will be considered a breach of contract and no further pay will be accorded the dismissed Pastor. The Next Step When the position of Pastor becomes vacant for any reason, the Executive Minister of ABC/RGR should be notified as soon as possible. A Pastor Search Team shall be put into place, and an Interim Pastor shall be selected as outlined in Section 9 (The Interim Pastor), below. The Pastor Search Team, and/or the Deacons, may work to fill the vacant pulpit each Sunday until the Interim Pastor can be put into place. INDEX NOE 2622023033 7 32 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 6 RECEIVED NYSCEF: 02/28/2024 11 Section 6: Protections Afforded the Pastor A. The Pastor should be protected against hostile attacks and unjust criticism. The Deacons and Church Council shall maintain open communication with the church body with respect to any accusations against the Pastor. The Pastor cannot be dismissed by any person or group in the church. Any dismissals or attempts thereof must be handled in accordance with these bylaws, and must be by congregational vote. c In the event of prolonged illness or disability, the church will agree to continue the Pastor's financial support until disability insurance goes into effect. Section 7: Licensing and Ordination A. Qualification Any full member of this church, having felt the call of God to the ministry of the Gospel and giving evidence of such a call by his or her Christian life, experience, and devotion to the cause of Christ, may be ordained, licensed and/or commissioned as a minister of the Gospel after at least one year of being a member. Ordination enables a person to perform such functions as conducting the ordinances (Baptism and Communion), presiding at weddings and funerals, and other ministerial services. Procedures for licensing and ordination of candidates for pastoral ministry shall be those of the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. Licensure When a person announces that he or she feels called to the ministry of the Gospel, he or she shall first present himself or herself to the Pastor and the Deacons. The Pastor and Deacons may at their discretion present him or her to the church as an applicant for a license to preach or for recommendation as a candidate for the pastoral ministry. Upon hearing his or her statement at any business meeting of the church, the congregation may, by majority vote of those members present and voting, approve his or her application and issue a certificate of licensur