MANUAL

CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

2005-2009

MANUAL/2005-2009

CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

●

HISTORY

CONSTITUTION

GOVERNMENT

RITUAL

●

NAZARENE PUBLISHING HOUSE

Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.A.

by Nazarene Publishing House

Published by the authority of

the Twenty-sixth General Assembly

held in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.A.

June 26-30, 2005

Editing Committee

DEAN G. BLEVINS

CURTIS LEWIS JR.

FRANK M. MOORE

R. DOUGLAS SAMPLES

JACK STONE

ISBN 083-412-2529 (Cloth)

ISBN 083-412-2537 (Kivar)

ISBN 083-412-2545 (Leather Cover)

Printed in the United States of America

All scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).

CHURCH CONSTITUTION

AND THE COVENANT OF

CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

(1-99 Series)

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

(100 Series)

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

(200 Series)

GENERAL GOVERNMENT

(300 Series)

HIGHER EDUCATION

(380 Series)

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

(400 Series)

JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

(500 Series)

RITUAL

(800 Series)

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

(800 Series)

FORMS

(800 Series)

APPENDIX

(900 Series)

To use the thumb index, fan the pages

with your right hand until mark

appears opposite the chapter head.

FOREWORD

“The mission of the Church of the Nazarene is to respond

to the Great Commission of Christ to ‘go and make disciples

of all nations’” (Matthew 28:19). “The primary objective of

the Church of the Nazarene is to advance God’s kingdom by

the preservation and propagation of Christian holiness as

set forth in the Scriptures.”

“The critical objectives of the Church of the Nazarene are

‘holy Christian fellowship, the conversion of sinners, the entire

sanctification of believers, their upbuilding in holiness,

and the simplicity and spiritual power manifest in the primitive

New Testament Church, together with the preaching of

the gospel to every creature.’” (25)

The Church of the Nazarene exists to serve as an instrument

for advancing the kingdom of God through the preaching

and teaching of the gospel throughout the world. Our

well-defined commission is to preserve and propagate Christian

holiness as set forth in the Scriptures, through the conversion

of sinners, the reclamation of backsliders, and the

entire sanctification of believers.

Our objective is a spiritual one, namely, to evangelize as a

response to the Great Commission of our Lord to “go and

make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19; cf. John

20:21; Mark 16:15). We believe that this aim can be realized

through agreed-upon policies and procedures, including doctrinal

tenets of faith and time-tested standards of morality

and lifestyle.

This 2005-2009 edition of the Manual includes a brief historical

statement of the church; the church Constitution,

which defines our Articles of Faith, our understanding of the

church, the Covenant of Christian Character for holy living,

and principles of organization and government; the Covenant

of Christian Conduct, which address key issues of contemporary

society; and policies of church government dealing with

the local, district, and general church organization.

The General Assembly is the supreme doctrine-formulating

and lawmaking body of the Church of the Nazarene.

7

This Manual contains the decisions and judgments of ministerial

and lay delegates of the Twenty-sixth General Assembly,

which met in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.A., June 26-30,

2005, and is therefore authoritative as a guide for action.

Because it is the official statement of the faith and practice

of the church and is consistent with the teachings of the

Scriptures, we expect our people everywhere to accept the

tenets of doctrine and the guides and helps to holy living

contained in it. To fail to do so, after formally taking the

membership vows of the Church of the Nazarene, injures

the witness of the church, violates her conscience, and dissipates

the fellowship of the people called Nazarenes.

The government of the Church of the Nazarene is distinctive.

In polity it is representative—neither purely episcopal

nor wholly congregational. Because the laity and the ministry

have equal authority in the deliberative and lawmaking

units of the church, there is a desirable and effective balance

of power. We see this not only as an opportunity for

participation and service in the church but also as an obligation

on the part of both laity and ministry.

Commitment and clear purpose are important. But an intelligent

and informed people following commonly agreedupon

practices and procedures advance the Kingdom faster

and enhance their witness for Christ. Therefore, it is incumbent

upon our members to acquaint themselves with this

Manual—the history of the church and the doctrines and

ethical practices of the ideal Nazarene. Adherence to the injunctions

of these pages will nurture loyalty and faithfulness

both to God and the church and will increase the effectiveness

and efficiency of our spiritual efforts.

With the Bible as our supreme Guide, illuminated by the

Holy Spirit, and the Manual as our official agreed-upon

statement of faith, practice, and polity, we look forward to

the new quadrennium with joy and unswerving faith in Jesus

Christ.

The Board of General Superintendents

JAMES H. DIEHL JESSE C. MIDDENDORF

PAUL G. CUNNINGHAM NINA G. GUNTER

JERRY D. PORTER J.K.WARRICK

8 FOREWORD

CONTENTS

Foreword 7

PART I

Historical Statement 16

PART II

CHURCH CONSTITUTION

Preamble 30

Articles of Faith 30

The Church 39

Articles of Organization and Government 42

Amendments 45

PART III

THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

A. The Christian Life 48

B. Marriage and Divorce and/or Dissolution of Marriage 52

C. Sanctity of Human Life 54

D. Human Sexuality 57

E. Christian Stewardship 58

F. Church Officers 60

G. Rules of Order 60

H. Amending the Covenant of Christian Conduct 60

PART IV

GOVERNMENT

Preamble 62

I. THE LOCAL CHURCH 63

A. Organization, Name, Incorporation, Property,

Restrictions, Mergers, Disorganization 63

B. Membership 68

C. Evangelism and Church Membership

Committee 70

D. Change of Membership 71

E. Termination of Membership 71

F. Church Meetings 72

G. The Church Year 75

H. Calling of a Pastor 75

I. The Church/Pastor Relationship 78

J. Reviewing the Church/Pastor Relationship 79

K. The Church Board 82

L. The Stewards 88

M. The Trustees 89

N. The Sunday School Ministries Board 90

O. Nazarene Youth International/NYI Council 95

P. Nazarene Childcare/Schools 97

Q. The Local Nazarene Missions International 97

R. Prohibition of Financial Appeals 98

S. Use of the Church Name 99

T. Church-sponsored Corporation 99

U. Associates in the Local Church 100

II. THE DISTRICT ASSEMBLY 102

A. Bounds and Name 102

B. Membership and Time of Meeting 107

C. Business of the District Assembly 108

D. The District Assembly Journal 114

E. The District Superintendent 114

F. The District Secretary 120

G. The District Treasurer 121

H. The District Advisory Board 121

I. The District Ministerial Credentials Board 125

J. The District Ministerial Studies Board 127

K. The District Evangelism Board or Director of

Evangelism 129

L. The District Church Properties Board 130

M. The District Assembly Finance Committee 131

N. The District Chaplaincy Director 131

O. The District Sunday School Ministries Board 131

P. The District Nazarene Youth International 134

Q. The District Nazarene Missions International 135

R. District Paid Assistants 136

S. Disorganization of a District 136

III. THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY 138

A. Functions and Organization 138

B. Membership of the General Assembly 138

C. The Time and Place of Meeting 140

D. Special Sessions 140

E. General Assembly Arrangements Committee 141

F. Business of the General Assembly 141

G. The General Superintendents 143

H. General Superintendents Emeriti and Retired 145

I. The Board of General Superintendents 145

J. The General Secretary 148

K. The General Treasurer 150

L. The General Board 151

M. General Church-related Boards 159

N. The Christian Action Committee 161

O. Committee on the Interests of the God-Called

Evangelist 162

P. International Course of Study Advisory

Committee 162

Q. The Global Nazarene Youth International 163

R. The General Council of the General Nazarene

Missions International 164

S. National Boards 165

T. The Region 166

IV. HIGHER EDUCATION 170

A. Church and College/University 170

B. International Higher Education Council 171

C. International Board of Education 172

D. Education Commissioner 173

PART V

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

I. CALL AND QUALIFICATIONS OF THE MINISTER 176

II. CATEGORIES AND ROLES OF MINISTRY 179

A. The Lay Minister 179

B. Ministry of the Clergy 180

C. The Administrator 181

D. The Chaplain 181

E. The Deaconess 182

F. The Educator 182

G. The Evangelist 182

H. The Minister of Christian Education 184

I. The Minister of Music 184

J. The Missionary 185

K. The Pastor 185

L. The Song Evangelist 189

M. Special Service 189

III. EDUCATION FOR MINISTERS 191

A. For Ministers 191

B. General Guidelines for Preparation for

Christian Ministry 195

IV. CREDENTIALS AND MINISTERIAL REGULATIONS 196

A. The Local Minister 196

B. The Licensed Minister 197

C. The Deacon 201

D. The Elder 202

E. The Recognition of Credentials 204

F. The Retired Minister 204

G. The Transfer of Ministers 205

H. General Regulations 206

I. The Resignation or Removal from the Ministry 212

J. The Restoration of Members of the Clergy to

Church Membership and Good Standing 214

PART VI

JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

I. INVESTIGATION OF POSSIBLE WRONGFUL CONDUCT

AND CHURCH DISCIPLINE 220

II. RESPONSE TO POSSIBLE MISCONDUCT 220

III. RESPONSE TO MISCONDUCT BY A PERSON IN A

POSITION OF TRUST OR AUTHORITY 221

IV. CONTESTED DISCIPLINE OF A LAYPERSON 223

V. CONTESTED DISCIPLINE OF A MEMBER

OF THE CLERGY 224

VI. RULES OF PROCEDURE 228

VII. DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS 228

VIII. GENERAL COURT OF APPEALS 229

IX. REGIONAL COURT OF APPEALS 229

X. GUARANTY OF RIGHTS 230

PART VII

RITUAL

I. THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM 234

A. The Baptism of Believers 234

B. The Baptism of Infants or Young Children 236

C. The Dedication of Infants or Young Children 238

D. The Dedication of Infants or Young Children

(for single parent or guardian) 240

II. THE RECEPTION OF CHURCH MEMBERS 242

III. THE SACRAMENT OF THE LORD’S SUPPER 248

IV. MATRIMONY 251

V. THE FUNERAL SERVICE 255

VI. INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS 260

VII. CHURCH DEDICATIONS 264

PART VIII

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

I. CHARTER FOR NAZARENE YOUTH INTERNATIONAL 268

II. CONSTITUTION FOR NAZARENE

MISSIONS INTERNATIONAL 312

III. BYLAWS OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL 333

PART IX

FORMS

I. THE LOCAL CHURCH 348

II. THE DISTRICT ASSEMBLY 352

III. BILLS OF CHARGES 352

PART X

APPENDIX

I. GENERAL OFFICERS 354

II. ADMINISTRATIVE BOARDS, COUNCILS, AND

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS 355

III. ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES 362

IV. CURRENT MORAL AND SOCIAL ISSUES 367

Special Revision Index 374

Index of Vacant Paragraphs 377

Manual Index 378

PART I

Historical Statement

HISTORICAL STATEMENT

Historic Christianity

and the Wesleyan-Holiness Heritage

One Holy Faith. The Church of the Nazarene, from its beginnings,

has confessed itself to be a branch of the “one, holy,

universal, and apostolic” church and has sought to be faithful

to it. It confesses as its own the history of the people of

God recorded in the Old and New Testaments, and that

same history as it has extended from the days of the apostles

to our own. As its own people, it embraces the people of

God through the ages, those redeemed through Jesus Christ

in whatever expression of the one church they may be found.

It receives the ecumenical creeds of the first five Christian

centuries as expressions of its own faith. While the Church

of the Nazarene has responded to its special calling to proclaim

the doctrine and experience of entire sanctification, it

has taken care to retain and nurture identification with the

historic church in its preaching of the Word, its administration

of the sacraments, its concern to raise up and maintain

a ministry that is truly apostolic in faith and practice, and

its inculcating of disciplines for Christlike living and service

to others.

The Wesleyan Revival. This Christian faith has been mediated

to Nazarenes through historical religious currents and

particularly through the Wesleyan revival of the 18th century.

In the 1730s the broader Evangelical Revival arose in

Britain, directed chiefly by John Wesley, his brother Charles,

and George Whitefield, clergymen in the Church of England.

Through their instrumentality, many other men and women

turned from sin and were empowered for the service of God.

This movement was characterized by lay preaching, testimony,

discipline, and circles of earnest disciples known as “societies,”

“classes,” and “bands.” As a movement of spiritual life,

16 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

its antecedents included German Pietism, typified by Philip

Jacob Spener; 17th-century English Puritanism; and a spiritual

awakening in New England described by the pastortheologian

Jonathan Edwards.

The Wesleyan phase of the great revival was characterized

by three theological landmarks: regeneration by grace

through faith; Christian perfection, or sanctification, likewise

by grace through faith; and the witness of the Spirit to

the assurance of grace. Among John Wesley’s distinctive contributions

was an emphasis on entire sanctification in this

life as God’s gracious provision for the Christian. British

Methodism’s early missionary enterprises began disseminating

these theological emphases worldwide. In North

America, the Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in

1784. Its stated purpose was “to reform the Continent, and

to spread scriptural Holiness over these Lands.”

The Holiness Movement of the 19th Century. In the 19th

century a renewed emphasis on Christian holiness began in

the Eastern United States and spread throughout the nation.

Timothy Merritt, Methodist clergyman and founding

editor of the Guide to Christian Perfection, was among the

leaders of the holiness revival. The central figure of the

movement was Phoebe Palmer of New York City, leader of

the Tuesday Meeting for the Promotion of Holiness, at which

Methodist bishops, educators, and other clergy joined the

original group of women in seeking holiness. During four

decades, Mrs. Palmer promoted the Methodist phase of the

holiness movement through public speaking, writing, and as

editor of the influential Guide to Holiness.

The holiness revival spilled outside the bounds of Methodism.

Charles G. Finney and Asa Mahan, both of Oberlin College,

led the renewed emphasis on holiness in Presbyterian

and Congregationalist circles, as did revivalist William

Boardman. Baptist evangelist A. B. Earle was among the

leaders of the holiness movement within his denomination.

Hannah Whitall Smith, a Quaker and popular holiness revivalist,

published The Christian’s Secret of a Happy Life

(1875), a classic text in Christian spirituality.

In 1867 Methodist ministers John A. Wood, John Inskip,

HISTORICAL STATEMENT 17

and others began at Vineland, New Jersey, the first of a long

series of national camp meetings. They also organized at

that time the National Camp Meeting Association for the

Promotion of Holiness, commonly known as the National

Holiness Association (now the Christian Holiness Partnership).

Until the early years of the 20th century, this organization

sponsored holiness camp meetings throughout the

United States. Local and regional holiness associations also

appeared, and a vital holiness press published many periodicals

and books.

The witness to Christian holiness played roles of varying

significance in the founding of the Wesleyan Methodist

Church (1843), the Free Methodist Church (1860), and, in

England, the Salvation Army (1865). In the 1880s new distinctively

holiness churches sprang into existence, including

the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) and the Church of

God (Holiness). Several older religious traditions were also

influenced by the holiness movement, including certain

groups of Mennonites, Brethren, and Friends that adopted

the Wesleyan-holiness view of entire sanctification. The

Brethren in Christ Church and the Evangelical Friends Alliance

are examples of this blending of spiritual traditions.

Uniting of Holiness Groups

In the 1890s a new wave of independent holiness entities

came into being. These included independent churches, urban

missions, rescue homes, and missionary and evangelistic

associations. Some of the people involved in these organizations

yearned for union into a national holiness church.

Out of that impulse the present-day Church of the Nazarene

was born.

The Association of Pentecostal Churches of America. On

July 21, 1887, the People’s Evangelical Church was organized

with 51 members at Providence, Rhode Island, with

Fred A. Hillery as pastor. The following year the Mission

Church at Lynn, Massachusetts, was organized with C.

Howard Davis as pastor. On March 13 and 14, 1890, representatives

from these and other independent holiness con-

18 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

gregations met at Rock, Massachusetts, and organized the

Central Evangelical Holiness Association with churches in

Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. In 1892,

the Central Evangelical Holiness Association ordained Anna

S. Hanscombe, believed to be the first of many women ordained

to the Christian ministry in the parent bodies of the

Church of the Nazarene.

In January 1894, businessman William Howard Hoople

founded a Brooklyn mission, reorganized the following May

as Utica Avenue Pentecostal Tabernacle. By the end of the

following year, Bedford Avenue Pentecostal Church and Emmanuel

Pentecostal Tabernacle were also organized. In December

1895, delegates from these three congregations

adopted a constitution, a summary of doctrines, and bylaws,

forming the Association of Pentecostal Churches of America.

On November 12, 1896, a joint committee of the Central

Evangelical Holiness Association and the Association of Pentecostal

Churches of America met in Brooklyn and framed a

plan of union, retaining the name of the latter for the united

body. Prominent workers in this denomination were Hiram

F. Reynolds, H. B. Hosley, C. Howard Davis,William Howard

Hoople, and, later, E. E. Angell. Some of these were originally

lay preachers who were later ordained as ministers by

their congregations. This church was decidedly missionary,

and under the leadership of Hiram F. Reynolds, missionary

secretary, embarked upon an ambitious program of Christian

witness to the Cape Verde Islands, India, and other

places. The Beulah Christian was published as its official

paper.

The Holiness Church of Christ. In July 1894, R. L. Harris

organized the New Testament Church of Christ at Milan,

Tennessee, shortly before his death. Mary Lee Cagle, widow

of R. L. Harris, continued the work and became its most

prominent early leader. This church, strictly congregational

in polity, spread throughout Arkansas and western Texas,

with scattered congregations in Alabama and Missouri.

Mary Cagle and a coworker, Mrs. E. J. Sheeks, were ordained

in 1899 in the first class of ordinands.

Beginning in 1888, a handful of congregations bearing

HISTORICAL STATEMENT 19

the name The Holiness Church were organized in Texas by

ministers Thomas and Dennis Rogers, who came from California.

In 1901 the first congregation of the Independent Holiness

Church was formed at Van Alstyne, Texas, by Charles

B. Jernigan. At an early date, James B. Chapman affiliated

with this denomination, which prospered and grew rapidly.

In time, the congregations led by Dennis Rogers affiliated

with the Independent Holiness Church.

In November 1904, representatives of the New Testament

Church of Christ and the Independent Holiness Church met

at Rising Star, Texas, where they agreed upon principles of

union, adopted a Manual, and chose the name Holiness

Church of Christ. This union was finalized the following

year at a delegated general council held at Pilot Point,

Texas. The Holiness Evangel was the church’s official paper.

Its other leading ministers included William E. Fisher, J. D.

Scott, and J. T. Upchurch. Among its key lay leaders were

Edwin H. Sheeks, R. B. Mitchum, and Mrs. Donie Mitchum.

Several leaders of this church were active in the Holiness

Association of Texas, a vital interdenominational body that

sponsored a college at Peniel, near Greenville, Texas. The

association also sponsored the Pentecostal Advocate, the

Southwest’s leading holiness paper, which became a Nazarene

organ in 1910. E. C. DeJernett, a minister, and C. A.

McConnell, a layman, were prominent workers in this organization.

The Church of the Nazarene. In October 1895, Phineas F.

Bresee, D.D., and Joseph P. Widney, M.D., with about 100

others, including Alice P. Baldwin, Leslie F. Gay, W. S. and

Lucy P. Knott, C. E. McKee, and members of the Bresee and

Widney families, organized the Church of the Nazarene at

Los Angeles. At the outset they saw this church as the first

of a denomination that preached the reality of entire sanctification

received through faith in Christ. They held that

Christians sanctified by faith should follow Christ’s example

and preach the Gospel to the poor. They felt called especially

to this work. They believed that unnecessary elegance and

adornment of houses of worship did not represent the spirit

20 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

of Christ but the spirit of the world, and that their expenditures

of time and money should be given to Christlike ministries

for the salvation of souls and the relief of the needy.

They organized the church accordingly. They adopted general

rules, a statement of belief, a polity based on a limited superintendency,

procedures for the consecration of deaconesses

and the ordination of elders, and a ritual. These were

published as a Manual beginning in 1898. They published a

paper known as The Nazarene and then The Nazarene Messenger.

The Church of the Nazarene spread chiefly along the

West Coast, with scattered congregations east of the Rocky

Mountains as far as Illinois.

Among the ministers who cast their lot with the new

church were H. D. Brown, W. E. Shepard, C. W. Ruth, L. B.

Kent, Isaiah Reid, J. B. Creighton, C. E. Cornell, Robert

Pierce, and W. C. Wilson. Among the first to be ordained by

the new church were Joseph P. Widney himself, Elsie and

DeLance Wallace, Lucy P. Knott, and E. A. Girvin.

Phineas F. Bresee’s 38 years’ experience as a pastor,

superintendent, editor, college board member, and camp

meeting preacher in Methodism, and his unique personal

magnetism, entered into the ecclesiastical statesmanship

that he brought to the merging of the several holiness

churches into a national body.

The Year of Uniting: 1907-1908. The Association of Pentecostal

Churches of America, the Church of the Nazarene,

and the Holiness Church of Christ were brought into association

with one another by C. W. Ruth, assistant general

superintendent of the Church of the Nazarene, who had extensive

friendships throughout the Wesleyan-holiness movement.

Delegates of the Association of Pentecostal Churches

of America and the Church of the Nazarene convened in

general assembly at Chicago, from October 10 to 17, 1907.

The merging groups agreed upon a church government that

balanced the need for a superintendency with the independence

of local congregations. Superintendents were to foster

and care for churches already established and were to organize

and encourage the organizing of churches everywhere,

but their authority was not to interfere with the indepen-

HISTORICAL STATEMENT 21

dent actions of a fully organized church. Further, the General

Assembly adopted a name for the united body drawn from

both organizations: The Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene.

Phineas F. Bresee and Hiram F. Reynolds were elected

general superintendents. A delegation of observers from the

Holiness Church of Christ was present and participated in

the assembly work.

During the following year, two other accessions occurred.

In April 1908 P. F. Bresee organized a congregation of the

Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene at Peniel, Texas, which

brought into the church leading figures in the Holiness Association

of Texas and paved the way for other members to

join. In September, the Pennsylvania Conference of the Holiness

Christian Church, after receiving a release from its

General Conference, dissolved itself and under the leadership

of H. G. Trumbaur united with the Pentecostal Church

of the Nazarene.

The second General Assembly of the Pentecostal Church

of the Nazarene met in a joint session with the General

Council of the Holiness Church of Christ from October 8 to

14, 1908, at Pilot Point, Texas. The year of uniting ended on

Tuesday morning, October 13, when R. B. Mitchum moved

and C. W. Ruth seconded the proposition: “That the union of

the two churches be now consummated.” Several spoke favorably

on the motion. Phineas Bresee had exerted continual

effort toward this proposed outcome. At 10:40 A.M., amid

great enthusiasm, the motion to unite was adopted by a

unanimous rising vote.

Denominational Change of Name. The General Assembly

of 1919, in response to memorials from 35 district assemblies,

officially changed the name of the organization to

Church of the Nazarene because of new meanings that had

become associated with the term “Pentecostal.”

Later Accessions

After 1908 various other bodies united with the Church of

the Nazarene:

The Pentecostal Mission. In 1898 J. O. McClurkan, a Cum-

22 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

berland Presbyterian evangelist, led in forming the Pentecostal

Alliance at Nashville, which brought together holiness

people from Tennessee and adjacent states. This body was

very missionary in spirit and sent pastors and teachers to

Cuba, Guatemala, Mexico, and India. McClurkan died in

1914. The next year his group, known then as the Pentecostal

Mission, united with the Pentecostal Church of the

Nazarene.

Pentecostal Church of Scotland. In 1906 George Sharpe, of

Parkhead Congregational Church, Glasgow, was evicted

from his pulpit for preaching the Wesleyan doctrine of

Christian holiness. Eighty members who left with him immediately

formed Parkhead Pentecostal Church. Other congregations

were organized, and in 1909 the Pentecostal

Church of Scotland was formed. That body united with the

Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene in November 1915.

Laymen’s Holiness Association. The Laymen’s Holiness Association

was formed under S. A. Danford in 1917 at Jamestown,

North Dakota, to serve the cause of Wesleyan-holiness revivalism

in the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Montana. This

group published a paper, The Holiness Layman. J. G. Morrison

was elected president in 1919 and led an organization

with over 25 other evangelists and workers. In 1922 Morrison,

together with most of the workers and more than 1,000

of the members, united with the Church of the Nazarene.

Hephzibah Faith Missionary Association. This missionary

body, centered in Tabor, Iowa, organized in 1893 by Elder

George Weavers, subsequently sent over 80 workers to more

than a half dozen countries. Around 1950 the work at Tabor,

the South African mission, and other parts of the organization

united with the Church of the Nazarene.

International Holiness Mission. David Thomas, businessman

and lay preacher, founded The Holiness Mission in London

in 1907. Extensive missionary work developed in southern

Africa under the leadership of David Jones, and the

church was renamed the International Holiness Mission in

1917. It united with the Church of the Nazarene on October

29, 1952, with 28 churches and more than 1,000 constituents

HISTORICAL STATEMENT 23

in England under the superintendency of J. B. Maclagan,

and work led by 36 missionaries in Africa.

Calvary Holiness Church. In 1934 Maynard James and

Jack Ford, who had led itinerant evangelism (or “trekking”)

in the International Holiness Mission, formed the Calvary

Holiness Church. On June 11, 1955, union took place with

the Church of the Nazarene, bringing about 22 churches and

more than 600 members into the denomination. The accession

of the International Holiness Mission and the Calvary

Holiness Church came about largely through the vision and

efforts of Nazarene District Superintendent George Frame.

Gospel Workers Church of Canada. Organized by Frank

Goff in Ontario in 1918, this church arose from an earlier

group called the Holiness Workers. It united with the

Church of the Nazarene on September 7, 1958, adding five

churches and about 200 members to the Canada Central

District.

Church of the Nazarene (Nigeria). In the 1940s a Wesleyan-

holiness church was organized in Nigeria under indigenous

leadership. It adopted the name Church of the

Nazarene, deriving its doctrinal beliefs and name in part

from a Manual of the International Church of the Nazarene.

Under the leadership of Jeremiah U. Ekaidem, it united

with the latter on April 3, 1988. A new district with 39

churches and 6,500 members was created.

Toward a Global Church

The Church of the Nazarene had an international dimension

from its beginning. By the uniting assembly of 1908,

Nazarenes served and witnessed not only in North America

but also as missionaries in Mexico, the Cape Verde Islands, India,

Japan, and South Africa—living testimony to the impact

of the 19th-century missions movement upon the religious

bodies that formed the present-day Church of the Nazarene.

Expansion into new areas of the world began in Asia in

1898 by the Association of Pentecostal Churches of America.

The Pentecostal Mission was at work in Central America by

24 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

1900, in the Caribbean by 1902, and in South America by

1909. In Africa, Nazarenes active there in 1907 were recognized

as denominational missionaries at a later date.

Subsequent extension into the Australia-South Pacific

area began in 1945 and into continental Europe in 1948. In

these instances, the Church of the Nazarene entered by

identifying with local ministers who already preached and

taught the Wesleyan-holiness message: A. A. E. Berg of Australia

and Alfredo del Rosso of Italy.

In developing a global ministry, the Church of the Nazarene

has depended historically on the energies of national workers

who have shared with missionaries the tasks of preaching

and teaching the word of grace. In 1918 a missionary in

India noted that his national associates included three

preachers, four teachers, three colporteurs, and five Bible

women. By 1936 the ratio of national workers to missionaries

throughout the worldwide Church of the Nazarene was

greater than five to one.

The world areas where the church has entered reached a

total of 150 by 2005. Thousands of ministers and lay workers

have indigenized the Church of the Nazarene in their respective

cultures, thereby contributing to the mosaic of national

identities that form our international communion.

Distinctives of International Ministry. Historically, Nazarene

global ministry has centered around evangelism, compassionate

ministry, and education. The evangelistic impulse

was exemplified in the lives of H. F. Schmelzenbach, L. S.

Tracy, Esther Carson Winans, Samuel Krikorian, and others

whose names symbolize this dimension of ministry. Around

the world, Nazarene churches and districts continue to reflect

a revivalistic and evangelistic character.

The international roots of Nazarene compassionate ministry

lie in early support for famine relief and orphanage

work in India. This impulse was strengthened by the Nazarene

Medical Missionary Union, organized in the early 1920s

to build Bresee Memorial Hospital in Tamingfu, China. An extensive

medical work has developed in Swaziland, and other

compassionate ministries have developed around the world.

Education is an aspect of world ministry exemplified early

HISTORICAL STATEMENT 25

by Hope School for Girls, founded in Calcutta by Mrs.

Sukhoda Banarji in 1905 and adopted the following year by

the Church of the Nazarene. Outside North America,

Nazarenes have established schools for primary education

and for specialized ministerial training. There are graduate

seminaries in Costa Rica, the Philippines and the United

States; liberal arts institutions in Africa, Canada, Korea,

and the United States; one junior college in Japan; one education

college in Africa; three nursing schools in Africa, India

and Papua New Guinea; and thirty-seven Bible/theological

institutions around the world.

The church has prospered as these components of its mission

have developed. In 2005 the Church of the Nazarene

had an international membership of 1,496,296, distributed

in over 13,600 congregations.

As a result of this historical development, the denomination

is poised today with an unfinished agenda of moving

from “international presence” to an “international community”

of faith. Recognition of this fact led the 1976 General Assembly

to authorize a Commission on Internationalization,

whose report to the 1980 General Assembly led to the creation

of a system of world-region areas. The number and

boundaries of the original world regions have since changed.

The current ones are: the Africa Region, the Asia-Pacific Region,

the Canada Region, the Caribbean Region, the Eurasia

Region, the Mexico and Central America Region, the South

America Region, and eight regions in the United States.*

26 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

*A more complete history of the Church of the Nazarene may be found in

Timothy L. Smith, Called unto Holiness, Vol. 1: The Formative Years (1962);

W. T. Purkiser, Called unto Holiness, Vol. 2: The Second 25 Years (1983); and

J. Fred Parker, Mission to the World (1988).

CHURCH GOVERNMENT FLOW CHART

(with detail)

International Church of the Nazarene Constitution & Articles of Government – Manual Paragraphs 28-32

(elects pastor and local church board;

manages local church finances;

has charge of all other matters

pertaining to its local life and work)

(Advisory, Ministerial Credentials,

Ministerial Studies; other district

boards and officers)

(elected by district assembly

to give leadership in spiritual,

financial, and pastoral matters)

(annually delegates from local churches

meet to ordain ministers, elect district

superintendent, officers and boards;

disciplines ministers)

(elected by General Assembly

to administer international

church ministries; preside over

General Board and district

assemblies; give leadership

to the mission objectives)

(corporate board elected by

General Assembly delegates

for policy and fiduciary

matters of international

church ministries in the

interim of General Assembly)

QUADRENNIAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Doctrinal & Legislative Authority

Delegates from Districts Worldwide

DISTRICT BOARDS

corporate

GENERAL GOVERNMENT

Paragraphs 300s

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

Paragraphs 200s

GENERAL BOARD

Paragraph 334

GENERAL

SUPERINTENDENTS

(6)

DISTRICT ASSEMBLY

Paragraphs 30, 200

DISTRICT

SUPERINTENDENT

Paragraphs 28.1, 208.2

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Paragraphs 28.2, 29 & 100s

LOCAL CHURCH

PART II

Church Constitution

ARTICLES OF FAITH

THE CHURCH

ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION AND

GOVERNMENT

AMENDMENTS

PREAMBLE

In order that we may preserve our God-given heritage, the

faith once delivered to the saints, especially the doctrine and

experience of entire sanctification as a second work of grace,

and also that we may cooperate effectually with other

branches of the Church of Jesus Christ in advancing God’s

kingdom, we, the ministers and lay members of the Church

of the Nazarene, in accordance with the principles of constitutional

legislation established among us, do hereby ordain,

adopt, and set forth as the fundamental law or Constitution

of the Church of the Nazarene the Articles of Faith, the

Covenant of Christian Character, and the Articles of Organization

and Government here following, to wit:

ARTICLES OF FAITH

I. The Triune God

1. We believe in one eternally existent, infinite God, Sovereign

of the universe; that He only is God, creative and administrative,

holy in nature, attributes, and purpose; that

He, as God, is Triune in essential being, revealed as Father,

Son, and Holy Spirit.

(Genesis 1; Leviticus 19:2; Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Isaiah 5:16; 6:1-7; 40:18-

31; Matthew 3:16-17; 28:19-20; John 14:6-27; 1 Corinthians 8:6;

2 Corinthians 13:14; Galatians 4:4-6; Ephesians 2:13-18)1

II. Jesus Christ

2. We believe in Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the

Triune Godhead; that He was eternally one with the Father;

that He became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and was born

of the Virgin Mary, so that two whole and perfect natures,

30 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

1. Scripture references are supportive of the Articles of Faith and were

placed here by action of the 1976 General Assembly but are not to be considered

as part of the Constitutional text.

that is to say the Godhead and manhood, are thus united in

one Person very God and very man, the God-man.

We believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins, and that

He truly arose from the dead and took again His body, together

with all things appertaining to the perfection of

man’s nature, wherewith He ascended into heaven and is

there engaged in intercession for us.

(Matthew 1:20-25; 16:15-16; Luke 1:26-35; John 1:1-18; Acts 2:22-36; Romans

8:3, 32-34; Galatians 4:4-5; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 1:12-22;

1 Timothy 6:14-16; Hebrews 1:1-5; 7:22-28; 9:24-28; 1 John 1:1-3; 4:2-3,

15)

III. The Holy Spirit

3. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the

Triune Godhead, that He is ever present and efficiently active

in and with the Church of Christ, convincing the world

of sin, regenerating those who repent and believe, sanctifying

believers, and guiding into all truth as it is in Jesus.

(John 7:39; 14:15-18, 26; 16:7-15; Acts 2:33; 15:8-9; Romans 8:1-27; Galatians

3:1-14; 4:6; Ephesians 3:14-21; 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8; 2 Thessalonians

2:13; 1 Peter 1:2; 1 John 3:24; 4:13)

IV. The Holy Scriptures

4. We believe in the plenary inspiration of the Holy Scriptures,

by which we understand the 66 books of the Old and

New Testaments, given by divine inspiration, inerrantly revealing

the will of God concerning us in all things necessary

to our salvation, so that whatever is not contained therein is

not to be enjoined as an article of faith.

(Luke 24:44-47; John 10:35; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; 2 Timothy 3:15-17;

1 Peter 1:10-12; 2 Peter 1:20-21)

V. Sin, Original and Personal

5. We believe that sin came into the world through the

disobedience of our first parents, and death by sin. We believe

that sin is of two kinds: original sin or depravity, and

actual or personal sin.

5.1. We believe that original sin, or depravity, is that corruption

of the nature of all the offspring of Adam by reason

of which everyone is very far gone from original righteous-

CHURCH CONSTITUTION 31

ness or the pure state of our first parents at the time of

their creation, is averse to God, is without spiritual life, and

inclined to evil, and that continually.We further believe that

original sin continues to exist with the new life of the regenerate,

until the heart is fully cleansed by the baptism with

the Holy Spirit.

5.2. We believe that original sin differs from actual sin in

that it constitutes an inherited propensity to actual sin for

which no one is accountable until its divinely provided remedy

is neglected or rejected.

5.3. We believe that actual or personal sin is a voluntary

violation of a known law of God by a morally responsible

person. It is therefore not to be confused with involuntary

and inescapable shortcomings, infirmities, faults, mistakes,

failures, or other deviations from a standard of perfect conduct

that are the residual effects of the Fall. However, such

innocent effects do not include attitudes or responses contrary

to the spirit of Christ, which may properly be called

sins of the spirit. We believe that personal sin is primarily

and essentially a violation of the law of love; and that in relation

to Christ sin may be defined as unbelief.

(Original sin: Genesis 3; 6:5; Job 15:14; Psalm 51:5; Jeremiah 17:9-10;

Mark 7:21-23; Romans 1:18-25; 5:12-14; 7:1—8:9; 1 Corinthians 3:1-4;

Galatians 5:16-25; 1 John 1:7-8

Personal sin: Matthew 22:36-40 {with 1 John 3:4}; John 8:34-36; 16:8-9;

Romans 3:23; 6:15-23; 8:18-24; 14:23; 1 John 1:9—2:4; 3:7-10)

VI. Atonement

6. We believe that Jesus Christ, by His sufferings, by the

shedding of His own blood, and by His death on the Cross,

made a full atonement for all human sin, and that this

Atonement is the only ground of salvation, and that it is sufficient

for every individual of Adam’s race. The Atonement is

graciously efficacious for the salvation of the irresponsible

and for the children in innocency but is efficacious for the

salvation of those who reach the age of responsibility only

when they repent and believe.

(Isaiah 53:5-6, 11; Mark 10:45; Luke 24:46-48; John 1:29; 3:14-17; Acts

4:10-12; Romans 3:21-26; 4:17-25; 5:6-21; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 2 Corinthi-

32 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

ans 5:14-21; Galatians 1:3-4; 3:13-14; Colossians 1:19-23; 1 Timothy 2:3-

6; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews 2:9; 9:11-14; 13:12; 1 Peter 1:18-21; 2:19-25;

1 John 2:1-2)

VII. Prevenient Grace

7. We believe that the human race’s creation in Godlikeness

included ability to choose between right and wrong,

and that thus human beings were made morally responsible;

that through the fall of Adam they became depraved so

that they cannot now turn and prepare themselves by their

own natural strength and works to faith and calling upon

God. But we also believe that the grace of God through Jesus

Christ is freely bestowed upon all people, enabling all

who will to turn from sin to righteousness, believe on Jesus

Christ for pardon and cleansing from sin, and follow good

works pleasing and acceptable in His sight.

We believe that all persons, though in the possession of

the experience of regeneration and entire sanctification,

may fall from grace and apostatize and, unless they repent

of their sins, be hopelessly and eternally lost.

(Godlikeness and moral responsibility: Genesis 1:26-27; 2:16-17; Deuteronomy

28:1-2; 30:19; Joshua 24:15; Psalm 8:3-5; Isaiah 1:8-10; Jeremiah

31:29-30; Ezekiel 18:1-4; Micah 6:8; Romans 1:19-20; 2:1-16; 14:7-12;

Galatians 6:7-8

Natural inability: Job 14:4; 15:14; Psalms 14:1-4; 51:5; John 3:6a; Romans

3:10-12; 5:12-14, 20a; 7:14-25

Free grace and works of faith: Ezekiel 18:25-26; John 1:12-13; 3:6b; Acts

5:31; Romans 5:6-8, 18; 6:15-16, 23; 10:6-8; 11:22; 1 Corinthians 2:9-14;

10:1-12; 2 Corinthians 5:18-19; Galatians 5:6; Ephesians 2:8-10; Philippians

2:12-13; Colossians 1:21-23; 2 Timothy 4:10a; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews

2:1-3; 3:12-15; 6:4-6; 10:26-31; James 2:18-22; 2 Peter 1:10-11;

2:20-22)

VIII. Repentance

8. We believe that repentance, which is a sincere and thorough

change of the mind in regard to sin, involving a sense

of personal guilt and a voluntary turning away from sin, is

demanded of all who have by act or purpose become sinners

against God. The Spirit of God gives to all who will repent

the gracious help of penitence of heart and hope of mercy,

that they may believe unto pardon and spiritual life.

CHURCH CONSTITUTION 33

(2 Chronicles 7:14; Psalms 32:5-6; 51:1-17; Isaiah 55:6-7; Jeremiah 3:12-

14; Ezekiel 18:30-32; 33:14-16; Mark 1:14-15; Luke 3:1-14; 13:1-5; 18:9-

14; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 5:31; 17:30-31; 26:16-18; Romans 2:4; 2 Corinthians

7:8-11; 1 Thessalonians 1:9; 2 Peter 3:9)

IX. Justification, Regeneration, and Adoption

9. We believe that justification is the gracious and judicial

act of God by which He grants full pardon of all guilt and

complete release from the penalty of sins committed, and acceptance

as righteous, to all who believe on Jesus Christ and

receive Him as Lord and Savior.

10. We believe that regeneration, or the new birth, is that

gracious work of God whereby the moral nature of the repentant

believer is spiritually quickened and given a distinctively

spiritual life, capable of faith, love, and obedience.

11. We believe that adoption is that gracious act of God by

which the justified and regenerated believer is constituted a

son of God.

12. We believe that justification, regeneration, and adoption

are simultaneous in the experience of seekers after God

and are obtained upon the condition of faith, preceded by repentance;

and that to this work and state of grace the Holy

Spirit bears witness.

(Luke 18:14; John 1:12-13; 3:3-8; 5:24; Acts 13:39; Romans 1:17; 3:21-26,

28; 4:5-9, 17-25; 5:1, 16-19; 6:4; 7:6; 8:1, 15-17; 1 Corinthians 1:30; 6:11;

2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Galatians 2:16-21; 3:1-14, 26; 4:4-7; Ephesians

1:6-7; 2:1, 4-5; Philippians 3:3-9; Colossians 2:13; Titus 3:4-7; 1 Peter

1:23; 1 John 1:9; 3:1-2, 9; 4:7; 5:1, 9-13, 18)

X. Entire Sanctification

13. We believe that entire sanctification is that act of God,

subsequent to regeneration, by which believers are made

free from original sin, or depravity, and brought into a state

of entire devotement to God, and the holy obedience of love

made perfect.

It is wrought by the baptism with the Holy Spirit, and

comprehends in one experience the cleansing of the heart

from sin and the abiding, indwelling presence of the Holy

Spirit, empowering the believer for life and service.

Entire sanctification is provided by the blood of Jesus, is

34 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

wrought instantaneously by faith, preceded by entire consecration;

and to this work and state of grace the Holy Spirit

bears witness.

This experience is also known by various terms representing

its different phases, such as “Christian perfection,” “perfect

love,” “heart purity,” “the baptism with the Holy Spirit,”

“the fullness of the blessing,” and “Christian holiness.”

14. We believe that there is a marked distinction between

a pure heart and a mature character. The former is obtained

in an instant, the result of entire sanctification; the latter is

the result of growth in grace.

We believe that the grace of entire sanctification includes

the impulse to grow in grace. However, this impulse must be

consciously nurtured, and careful attention given to the requisites

and processes of spiritual development and improvement

in Christlikeness of character and personality.Without

such purposeful endeavor, one’s witness may be impaired

and the grace itself frustrated and ultimately lost.

(Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Malachi 3:2-3; Matthew 3:11-12;

Luke 3:16-17; John 7:37-39; 14:15-23; 17:6-20; Acts 1:5; 2:1-4; 15:8-9; Romans

6:11-13, 19; 8:1-4, 8-14; 12:1-2; 2 Corinthians 6:14—7:1; Galatians

2:20; 5:16-25; Ephesians 3:14-21; 5:17-18, 25-27; Philippians 3:10-15;

Colossians 3:1-17; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; Hebrews 4:9-11; 10:10-17;

12:1-2; 13:12; 1 John 1:7, 9)

(“Christian perfection,” “perfect love”: Deuteronomy 30:6; Matthew 5:43-

48; 22:37-40; Romans 12:9-21; 13:8-10; 1 Corinthians 13; Philippians

3:10-15; Hebrews 6:1; 1 John 4:17-18

“Heart purity”: Matthew 5:8; Acts 15:8-9; 1 Peter 1:22; 1 John 3:3

“Baptism with the Holy Spirit”: Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:25-27;

Malachi 3:2-3; Matthew 3:11-12; Luke 3:16-17; Acts 1:5; 2:1-4; 15:8-9

“Fullness of the blessing”: Romans 15:29

“Christian holiness”: Matthew 5:1—7:29; John 15:1-11; Romans 12:1—

15:3; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 4:17—5:20; Philippians 1:9-11; 3:12-

15; Colossians 2:20—3:17; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; 4:7-8; 5:23; 2 Timothy

2:19-22; Hebrews 10:19-25; 12:14; 13:20-21; 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Peter 1:1-

11; 3:18; Jude 20-21)

XI. The Church

15. We believe in the Church, the community that confesses

Jesus Christ as Lord, the covenant people of God made

CHURCH CONSTITUTION 35

new in Christ, the Body of Christ called together by the

Holy Spirit through the Word.

God calls the Church to express its life in the unity and

fellowship of the Spirit; in worship through the preaching of

the Word, observance of the sacraments, and ministry in His

name; by obedience to Christ and mutual accountability.

The mission of the Church in the world is to continue the

redemptive work of Christ in the power of the Spirit

through holy living, evangelism, discipleship, and service.

The Church is a historical reality, which organizes itself in

culturally conditioned forms; exists both as local congregations

and as a universal body; sets apart persons called of

God for specific ministries. God calls the Church to live under

His rule in anticipation of the consummation at the coming

of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(Exodus 19:3; Jeremiah 31:33; Matthew 8:11; 10:7; 16:13-19, 24; 18:15-

20; 28:19-20; John 17:14-26; 20:21-23; Acts 1:7-8; 2:32-47; 6:1-2; 13:1;

14:23; Romans 2:28-29; 4:16; 10:9-15; 11:13-32; 12:1-8; 15:1-3;

1 Corinthians 3:5-9; 7:17; 11:1, 17-33; 12:3, 12-31; 14:26-40; 2 Corinthians

5:11—6:1; Galatians 5:6, 13-14; 6:1-5, 15; Ephesians 4:1-17; 5:25-27;

Philippians 2:1-16; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12; 1 Timothy 4:13; Hebrews

10:19-25; 1 Peter 1:1-2, 13; 2:4-12, 21; 4:1-2, 10-11; 1 John 4:17; Jude 24;

Revelation 5:9-10)

XII. Baptism

16. We believe that Christian baptism, commanded by our

Lord, is a sacrament signifying acceptance of the benefits of

the atonement of Jesus Christ, to be administered to believers

and declarative of their faith in Jesus Christ as their

Savior, and full purpose of obedience in holiness and righteousness.

Baptism being a symbol of the new covenant, young children

may be baptized, upon request of parents or guardians

who shall give assurance for them of necessary Christian

training.

Baptism may be administered by sprinkling, pouring, or

immersion, according to the choice of the applicant.

(Matthew 3:1-7; 28:16-20; Acts 2:37-41; 8:35-39; 10:44-48; 16:29-34; 19:1-

6; Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:26-28; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:18-22)

36 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

XIII. The Lord’s Supper

17. We believe that the Memorial and Communion Supper

instituted by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is essentially

a New Testament sacrament, declarative of His sacrificial

death, through the merits of which believers have life and

salvation and promise of all spiritual blessings in Christ. It

is distinctively for those who are prepared for reverent appreciation

of its significance, and by it they show forth the

Lord’s death till He come again. It being the Communion

feast, only those who have faith in Christ and love for the

saints should be called to participate therein.

(Exodus 12:1-14; Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:17-20;

John 6:28-58; 1 Corinthians 10:14-21; 11:23-32)

XIV. Divine Healing

18. We believe in the Bible doctrine of divine healing and

urge our people to seek to offer the prayer of faith for the

healing of the sick. We also believe God heals through the

means of medical science.

(2 Kings 5:1-19; Psalm 103:1-5; Matthew 4:23-24; 9:18-35; John 4:46-54;

Acts 5:12-16; 9:32-42; 14:8-15; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 2 Corinthians

12:7-10; James 5:13-16)

XV. Second Coming of Christ

19. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ will come again;

that we who are alive at His coming shall not precede them

that are asleep in Christ Jesus; but that, if we are abiding in

Him, we shall be caught up with the risen saints to meet the

Lord in the air, so that we shall ever be with the Lord.

(Matthew 25:31-46; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; Philippians 3:20-21;

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews 9:26-28; 2 Peter 3:3-15;

Revelation 1:7-8; 22:7-20)

XVI. Resurrection, Judgment, and Destiny

20. We believe in the resurrection of the dead, that the

bodies both of the just and of the unjust shall be raised to

life and united with their spirits—“they that have done

good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done

evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.”

CHURCH CONSTITUTION 37

21. We believe in future judgment in which every person

shall appear before God to be judged according to his or her

deeds in this life.

22. We believe that glorious and everlasting life is assured

to all who savingly believe in, and obediently follow, Jesus

Christ our Lord; and that the finally impenitent shall suffer

eternally in hell.

(Genesis 18:25; 1 Samuel 2:10; Psalm 50:6; Isaiah 26:19; Daniel 12:2-3;

Matthew 25:31-46; Mark 9:43-48; Luke 16:19-31; 20:27-38; John 3:16-18;

5:25-29; 11:21-27; Acts 17:30-31; Romans 2:1-16; 14:7-12; 1 Corinthians

15:12-58; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 20:11-

15; 22:1-15)

38 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

THE CHURCH

I. The General Church

23. The Church of God is composed of all spiritually regenerate

persons, whose names are written in heaven.

II. The Churches Severally

24. The churches severally are to be composed of such regenerate

persons as by providential permission, and by the

leadings of the Holy Spirit, become associated together for

holy fellowship and ministries.

III. The Church of the Nazarene

25. The Church of the Nazarene is composed of those persons

who have voluntarily associated themselves together

according to the doctrines and polity of said church, and who

seek holy Christian fellowship, the conversion of sinners, the

entire sanctification of believers, their upbuilding in holiness,

and the simplicity and spiritual power manifest in the

primitive New Testament Church, together with the preaching

of the gospel to every creature.

IV. Agreed Statement of Belief

26. Recognizing that the right and privilege of persons to

church membership rest upon the fact of their being regenerate,

we would require only such avowals of belief as are

essential to Christian experience. We, therefore, deem belief

in the following brief statements to be sufficient.We believe:

26.1. In one God—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

26.2. That the Old and New Testament Scriptures, given

by plenary inspiration, contain all truth necessary to faith

and Christian living.

26.3. That man is born with a fallen nature, and is, therefore,

inclined to evil, and that continually.

26.4. That the finally impenitent are hopelessly and eternally

lost.

CHURCH CONSTITUTION 39

26.5. That the atonement through Jesus Christ is for the

whole human race; and that whosoever repents and believes

on the Lord Jesus Christ is justified and regenerated and

saved from the dominion of sin.

26.6. That believers are to be sanctified wholly, subsequent

to regeneration, through faith in the Lord Jesus

Christ.

26.7. That the Holy Spirit bears witness to the new birth,

and also to the entire sanctification of believers.

26.8. That our Lord will return, the dead will be raised,

and the final judgment will take place.

V. The [General Rules] Covenant of Christian

Character2

27. To be identified with the visible Church is the blessed

privilege and sacred duty of all who are saved from their

sins and are seeking completeness in Christ Jesus. It is

required of all who desire to unite with the Church of the

Nazarene, and thus to walk in fellowship with us, that they

shall show evidence of salvation from their sins by a godly

walk and vital piety; and that they shall be, or earnestly desire

to be, cleansed from all indwelling sin. They shall evidence

their commitment to God—

27.1. FIRST. By doing that which is enjoined in the Word

of God, which is our rule of both faith and practice, including:

(1) Loving God with all the heart, soul, mind, and

strength, and one’s neighbor as oneself (Exodus 20:3-6;

Leviticus 19:17-18; Deuteronomy 5:7-10; 6:4-5; Mark

12:28-31; Romans 13:8-10).

(2) Pressing upon the attention of the unsaved the

claims of the gospel, inviting them to the house of the

Lord, and trying to compass their salvation (Matthew

28:19-20; Acts 1:8; Romans 1:14-16; 2 Corinthians 5:18-

20).

40 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

2. Constitutional changes adopted by the 2005 General Assembly are in

the process of ratification by the district assemblies at the time of printing.

Where changes are being made, words in italics are new words and words in

brackets [ ] are words being deleted.

(3) Being courteous to all men (Ephesians 4:32; Titus

3:2; 1 Peter 2:17; 1 John 3:18).

(4) Being helpful to those who are also of the faith, in

love forbearing one another (Romans 12:13; Galatians 6:2,

10; Colossians 3:12-14).

(5) Seeking to do good to the bodies and souls of men;

feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick

and imprisoned, and ministering to the needy, as opportunity

and ability are given (Matthew 25:35-36; 2 Corinthians

9:8-10; Galatians 2:10; James 2:15-16; 1 John 3:17-

18).

(6) Contributing to the support of the ministry and the

church and its work in tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:10;

Luke 6:38; 1 Corinthians 9:14; 16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-10;

Philippians 4:15-19).

(7) Attending faithfully all the ordinances of God, and

the means of grace, including the public worship of God

(Hebrews 10:25), the ministry of the Word (Acts 2:42), the

sacrament of the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:23-30);

searching the Scriptures and meditating thereon (Acts

17:11; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:14-16); family and private devotions

(Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Matthew 6:6).

27.2. SECOND. By avoiding evil of every kind, including:

(1) Taking the name of God in vain (Exodus 20:7; Leviticus

19:12; James 5:12).

(2) Profaning of the Lord’s Day by participation in unnecessary

secular activities, thereby indulging in practices

that deny its sanctity (Exodus 20:8-11; Isaiah 58:13-14;

Mark 2:27-28; Acts 20:7; Revelation 1:10).

(3) Sexual immorality, such as premarital or extramarital

relations, perversion in any form, or looseness and impropriety

of conduct (Exodus 20:14; Matthew 5:27-32;

1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Galatians 5:19; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7).

(4) Habits or practices known to be destructive of physical

and mental well-being. Christians are to regard themselves

as temples of the Holy Spirit (Proverbs 20:1; 23:1-3;

1 Corinthians 6:17-20; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 5:18).

(5) Quarreling, returning evil for evil, gossiping, slandering,

spreading surmises injurious to the good names of

CHURCH CONSTITUTION 41

others (2 Corinthians 12:20; Galatians 5:15; Ephesians

4:30-32; James 3:5-18; 1 Peter 3:9-10).

(6) Dishonesty, taking advantage in buying and selling,

bearing false witness, and like works of darkness (Leviticus

19:10-11; Romans 12:17; 1 Corinthians 6:7-10).

(7) The indulging of pride in dress or behavior. Our people

are to dress with the Christian simplicity and modesty

that become holiness (Proverbs 29:23; 1 Timothy 2:8-10;

James 4:6; 1 Peter 3:3-4; 1 John 2:15-17).

(8) Music, literature, and entertainments that dishonor

God (1 Corinthians 10:31; 2 Corinthians 6:14-17; James

4:4).

27.3. THIRD. By abiding in hearty fellowship with the

church, not inveighing against but wholly committed to its

doctrines and usages and actively involved in its continuing

witness and outreach (Ephesians 2:18-22; 4:1-3, 11-16;

Philippians 2:1-8; 1 Peter 2:9-10).

*

ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION

AND GOVERNMENT

Article I. Form of Government

28. The Church of the Nazarene has a representative form

of government.

28.1. We are agreed on the necessity of a superintendency

that shall complement and assist the local church in the fulfilling

of its mission and objectives. The superintendency

shall build morale, provide motivation, supply management

and method assistance, and organize and encourage organization

of new churches and missions everywhere.

28.2. We are agreed that authority given to superintendents

shall not interfere with the independent action of a fully

organized church. Each church shall enjoy the right to select

its own pastor, subject to such approval as the General

Assembly shall find wise to institute. Each church shall also

elect delegates to the various assemblies, manage its own finances,

and have charge of all other matters pertaining to

its local life and work.

42 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

Article II. Local Churches

29. The membership of a local church shall consist of all

who have been organized as a church by those authorized so

to do and who have been publicly received by those having

proper authority, after having declared their experience of

salvation, their belief in our doctrines, and their willingness

to submit to our government. (100-107)

Article III. District Assemblies

30. The General Assembly shall organize the membership

of the church into district assemblies, giving such lay and

ministerial representation therein as the General Assembly

may deem fair and just, and shall determine qualifications

of such representatives, provided, however, that all assigned

ordained ministers shall be members thereof. The General

Assembly shall also fix the boundaries of assembly districts,

and define the powers and duties of district assemblies.

(200-5.6)

Article IV. The General Assembly

31.1. How Composed. The General Assembly shall be

composed of ministerial and lay delegates in equal numbers,

elected thereto by district assemblies of the Church of the

Nazarene; such ex-officio members as the General Assembly

shall from time to time direct; and such delegates of districts

under the administration of the World Mission and

USACanada MissionEvangelism committees of the Church

of the Nazarene as may be provided for by the General Assembly.

31.2. Election of Delegates. At a district assembly within

16 months of the meeting of the General Assembly or

within 24 months in areas where travel visas or other unusual

preparations are necessary, an equal number of ministerial

and lay delegates to the General Assembly shall be

chosen as may be provided by the General Assembly, and

provided that the ministerial delegates shall be assigned ordained

ministers of the Church of the Nazarene. Each Phase

3 assembly district shall be entitled to at least one ministe-

CHURCH CONSTITUTION 43

rial and one lay delegate, and such additional delegates as

its membership may warrant on the basis of representation

fixed by the General Assembly. Each assembly district shall

elect alternate delegates not exceeding the number of its

delegates. (203.23, 301-1.1)

31.3. Credentials. The secretary of each district assembly

shall furnish certificates of election to the delegates and

alternates severally elected to the General Assembly, and

shall also send certificates of such elections to the general

secretary of the Church of the Nazarene immediately following

the adjournment of the district assembly.

31.4. Quorum. When the General Assembly is in session,

a majority of the whole number of delegates elected thereto

shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. If

a quorum has once been had, a smaller number may approve

the minutes then remaining unapproved, and adjourn.

31.5. General Superintendents. The General Assembly

shall elect by ballot from among the elders of the Church of

the Nazarene as many general superintendents as it may

deem necessary, who shall constitute the Board of General

Superintendents. Any vacancy in the office of general superintendent

in the interim of General Assemblies shall be

filled by a two-thirds vote of the General Board of the

Church of the Nazarene. (305.2, 316)

31.6. Presiding Officers. A general superintendent appointed

thereto by the Board of General Superintendents

shall preside over the daily meetings of the General Assembly.

But if no general superintendent be so appointed or be

present, the General Assembly shall elect one of its members

as temporary presiding officer. (300.1)

31.7. Rules of Order. The General Assembly shall adopt

rules of order governing its manner of organization, procedure,

committees, and all other matters pertaining to the orderly

conduct of its business. It shall be the judge of the

election and qualifications of its own members. (300.2-0.3)

31.8. General Court of Appeals. The General Assembly

shall elect from among members of the Church of the Nazarene

a General Court of Appeals and shall define its jurisdiction

and powers. (305.7)

44 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

31.9. Powers and Restrictions.

(1) The General Assembly shall have power to legislate for

the Church of the Nazarene, and to make rules and regulations

for all the departments related to or associated with it

in any respect, but not in conflict with this Constitution.

(300, 305-5.9)

(2) No local church shall be deprived of the right to call its

pastor, subject to such approval as the General Assembly

shall find wise to institute. (115)

(3) All local churches, officers, ministers, and laypersons

shall always have the right to a fair and orderly trial and

the right to make an appeal.

AMENDMENTS

32. The provisions of this Constitution may be repealed or

amended when concurred in by a two-thirds vote of [all the

members of] the General Assembly members present and

voting, and when concurred in by not less than two-thirds of

all the Phase 3 and Phase 2 district assemblies of the

Church of the Nazarene. Either the General Assembly or any

Phase 3 or Phase 2 district assembly may take the initiative

in the matter of proposing such [alterations or] amendments.

As soon as such [alterations or] amendments shall have been

adopted as herein provided, the result of the vote shall be announced

by the Board of General Superintendents, whereupon

such [alterations or] amendments shall have full force

and effect.3

CHURCH CONSTITUTION 45

3. Constitutional changes adopted by the 2005 General Assembly are in

the process of ratification by the district assemblies at the time of printing.

Where changes are being made, words in italics are new words and words in

brackets [ ] are words being deleted.

PART III

The Covenant of

Christian Conduct

THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

MARRIAGE AND DIVORCE AND/OR

DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE

SANCTITY OF HUMAN LIFE

HUMAN SEXUALITY

CHRISTIAN STEWARDSHIP

CHURCH OFFICERS

RULES OF ORDER

AMENDING THE COVENANT

OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

A. The Christian Life

33. The church joyfully proclaims the good news that we

may be delivered from all sin to a new life in Christ. By the

grace of God we Christians are “to put off the old self”—the

old patterns of conduct as well as the old carnal mind—and

are to “put on the new self”—a new and holy way of life as

well as the mind of Christ. (Ephesians 4:17-24)

33.1. The Church of the Nazarene purposes to relate timeless

biblical principles to contemporary society in such a

way that the doctrines and covenants of the church may be

known and understood in many lands and within a variety

of cultures. We hold that the Ten Commandments, as reaffirmed

in the New Testament, constitute the basic Christian

ethic and ought to be obeyed in all particulars.

33.2. It is further recognized that there is validity in the

concept of the collective Christian conscience as illuminated

and guided by the Holy Spirit. The Church of the Nazarene,

as an international expression of the Body of Christ, acknowledges

its responsibility to seek ways to particularize

the Christian life so as to lead to a holiness ethic. The historic

ethical standards of the church are expressed in part in

the following items. They should be followed carefully and

conscientiously as guides and helps to holy living. Those

who violate the conscience of the church do so at their own

peril and to the hurt of the witness of the church. Culturally

conditioned adaptations shall be referred to and approved

by the Board of General Superintendents.

33.3. In listing practices to be avoided we recognize that

no catalog, however inclusive, can hope to encompass all

forms of evil throughout the world. Therefore it is imperative

that our people earnestly seek the aid of the Spirit in

cultivating a sensitivity to evil that transcends the mere letter

of the law; remembering the admonition: “Test everything.

Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.” (1 Thessalonians

5:21-22)

48 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

33.4. Our leaders and pastors are expected to give strong

emphasis in our periodicals and from our pulpits to such

fundamental biblical truths as will develop the faculty of

discrimination between the evil and the good.

33.5. Education is of the utmost importance for the social

and spiritual well-being of society. Public schools have a

mandate to educate all. They are limited, however, as to their

scope and, in fact, are prohibited by court rulings from teaching

the basic tenets of Christianity. Nazarene educational organizations

and institutions, such as Sunday Schools, schools

(birth through secondary), child care centers, adult care centers,

colleges, and seminaries, are expected to teach children,

youth, and adults biblical principles and ethical standards in

such a way that our doctrines may be known. This practice

may be instead of or in addition to public schools, which often

teach secular humanism and fall short of teaching principles

of holy living. The education from public sources should be

complemented by holiness teaching in the home. Christians

should also be encouraged to work in and with public institutions

to witness to and influence these institutions for God’s

kingdom. (Matthew 5:13-14)

34.We hold specifically that the following practices should

be avoided:

34.1. Entertainments that are subversive of the

Christian ethic. Our people, both as Christian individuals

and in Christian family units, should govern themselves by

three principles. One is the Christian stewardship of leisure

time. A second principle is the recognition of the Christian

obligation to apply the highest moral standards of Christian

living. Because we are living in a day of great moral confusion

in which we face the potential encroachment of the

evils of the day into the sacred precincts of our homes

through various avenues such as current literature, radio,

television, personal computers, and the Internet, it is essential

that the most rigid safeguards be observed to keep our

homes from becoming secularized and worldly. However, we

hold that entertainment that endorses and encourages holy

living and affirms scriptural values should be affirmed and

encouraged. We especially encourage our young people to

THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 49

use their gifts in media and the arts to influence positively

this pervasive part of culture. The third principle is the obligation

to witness against whatever trivializes or blasphemes

God, as well as such social evils as violence, sensuality,

pornography, profanity, and the occult, as portrayed by and

through the commercial entertainment industry in its many

forms and to endeavor to bring about the demise of enterprises

known to be the purveyors of this kind of entertainment.

This would include the avoidance of all types of entertainment

ventures and media productions that produce,

promote, or feature the violent, the sensual, the pornographic,

the profane, or the occultic, or which feature or glamorize

the world’s philosophy of secularism, sensualism, and materialism

and undermine God’s standard of holiness of heart

and life.

This necessitates the teaching and preaching of these

moral standards of Christian living, and that our people be

taught to use prayerful discernment in continually choosing

the “high road” of holy living. We therefore call upon our

leaders and pastors to give strong emphasis in our periodicals

and from our pulpits to such fundamental truths as will

develop the principle of discrimination between the evil and

good to be found in these media.

We suggest that the standard given to John Wesley by his

mother, namely, “whatever weakens your reason, impairs

the tenderness of your conscience, obscures your sense of

God, or takes off the relish of spiritual things, whatever increases

the authority of your body over mind, that thing for

you is sin,” form the basis for this teaching of discrimination.

(33.2-33.4, 903.12-3.14)

(Romans 14:7-13; 1 Corinthians 10:31-33; Ephesians 5:1-18; Philippians

4:8-9; 1 Peter 1:13-17; 2 Peter 1:3-11)

34.2. Lotteries and other forms of gambling, whether legal

or illegal. The church holds that the final result of these

practices is detrimental both to the individual and society.

(Matthew 6:24-34; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13; 1 Timothy 6:6-11; Hebrews

13:5-6; 1 John 2:15-17)

34.3. Membership in oath-bound secret orders or societies.

The quasi-religious nature of such organizations dilutes the

50 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

Christian’s commitment, and their secrecy contravenes the

Christian’s open witness.

(1 Corinthians 1:26-31; 2 Corinthians 6:14—7:1; Ephesians 5:11-16;

James 4:4; 1 John 2:15-17)

34.4. All forms of dancing that detract from spiritual

growth and break down proper moral inhibitions and reserve.

(Matthew 22:36-39; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 10:31-33; Philippians

1:9-11; Colossians 3:1-17)

34.5. The use of intoxicating liquors as a beverage, or trafficking

therein; giving influence to, or voting for, the licensing

of places for the sale of the same; using illicit drugs or

trafficking therein; using of tobacco in any of its forms, or

trafficking therein.

In light of the Holy Scriptures and human experience concerning

the ruinous consequences of the use of alcohol as a

beverage, and in light of the findings of medical science regarding

the detrimental effect of both alcohol and tobacco to

the body and mind, as a community of faith committed to

the pursuit of a holy life, our position and practice is abstinence

rather than moderation. Holy Scripture teaches that

our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.With loving regard

for ourselves and others, we call our people to total abstinence

from all intoxicants.

Furthermore, our Christian social responsibility calls us

to use any legitimate and legal means to minimize the availability

of both beverage alcohol and tobacco to others. The

widespread incidence of alcohol abuse in our world demands

that we embody a position that stands as a witness to others.

(903.12-3.14)

(Proverbs 20:1; 23:29—24:2; Hosea 4:10-11; Habakkuk 2:5; Romans

13:8; 14:15-21; 15:1-2; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:9-12, 19-20; 10:31-33;

Galatians 5:13-14, 21; Ephesians 5:18)

(Only unfermented wine should be used in the sacrament

of the Lord’s Supper.) (413.11, 427.7, 428.2, 429.1, 802)

34.6. The unprescribed use of hallucinogenics, stimulants,

and depressants, and the misuse and abuse of regularly prescribed

medicines. Only on competent medical advice and

under medical supervision should such drugs be used.

THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 51

(Matthew 22:37-39; 27:34; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 9:24-

27)

B. Marriage and Divorce and/or

Dissolution of Marriage1

35. The Christian family, knit together in a common bond

through Jesus Christ, is a circle of love, fellowship, and worship

to be earnestly cultivated in a society in which family

ties are easily dissolved.We urge upon the ministry and congregations

of our church such teachings and practices as

will strengthen and develop family ties. In particular, we

urge upon the ministry the importance of teaching and

preaching clearly the biblical plan of the permanence of

marriage.

The institution of marriage was ordained by God in the

time of man’s innocence, and is, according to apostolic authority,

“honourable in all;” it is the mutual union of one

man and one woman for fellowship, helpfulness, and the

propagation of the race. Our people should cherish this sacred

estate as becomes Christians, and should enter it only

after earnest prayer for divine direction, and when assured

that the contemplated union is in accordance with scriptural

requirements.

They should seek earnestly the blessings that God has ordained

in connection with the wedded state, namely, holy

companionship, parenthood, and mutual love—the elements

of home building. The marriage covenant is morally binding

so long as both shall live, and breaking of it is a breach of

the divine plan of the permanence of marriage.

(Genesis 1:26-28, 31; 2:21-24; Malachi 2:13-16; Matthew 19:3-9; John

2:1-11; Ephesians 5:21—6:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8; Hebrews 13:4)

35.1. In biblical teaching, marriage is the commitment of

male and female to each other for life, reflecting Christ’s

sacrificial love for the Church. As such, marriage is intended

to be permanent, and divorce an infraction of the clear

teaching of Christ. Such infractions, however, are not beyond

52 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

1. The meaning of divorce in this rule shall include “dissolution of marriage”

when it is used as a legal substitute for divorce.

the forgiving grace of God when this is sought with repentance,

faith and humility. It is recognized that some have divorce

thrust upon them against their will or are compelled

to resort to it for legal or physical protection.

(Genesis 2:21-24; Mark 10:2-12; Luke 7:36-50, 16:18; John 7:53—8:11;

1 Corinthians 6:9-11; 7:10-16; Ephesians 5:25-33)

35.2. Ministers of the Church of the Nazarene are instructed

to give due care to matters relating to solemnizing

marriages. They shall seek, in every manner possible, to convey

to their congregations the sacredness of Christian marriage.

They shall provide premarital counseling in every instance

possible before performing a marriage ceremony

including proper spiritual guidance for those who have experienced

divorce. They shall only solemnize marriages of persons

having the biblical basis for marriage. (107-7.1)

35.3. Members of the Church of the Nazarene are to seek

prayerfully a redemptive course of action when involved in

marital unhappiness, in full harmony with their vows and

the clear teachings of the Scripture, their aim being to save

the home and safeguard the good name of both Christ and

His Church. Couples having serious marital problems are

urged to seek counsel and guidance of their pastor and/or

any other appropriate spiritual leaders. Failure to comply

with this procedure in good faith and with sincere endeavor

to seek a Christian solution, and subsequent obtainment of

divorce and remarriage, makes one or both parties subject to

possible discipline as prescribed in 504-4.2 and 505-5.12.

35.4. Through ignorance, sin, and human frailties, many in

our society fall short of the divine plan. We believe that

Christ can redeem these persons even as He did the woman

at Samaria’s well, and that sin against God’s design for marriage

does not place one beyond the forgiving grace of the

gospel. Where a marriage has been dissolved and remarriage

has followed, the marriage partners are enjoined to seek the

grace of God and His redemptive help in their marriage relation.

Such persons may be received into the membership of

the church at such time as they have given evidence of their

regeneration and an awareness of their understanding of the

sanctity of Christian marriage. (27, 107.1)

THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 53

C. Sanctity of Human Life

36. The Church of the Nazarene believes in the sanctity of

human life and strives to protect against abortion, embryonic

stem cell research, euthanasia, and the withholding of

reasonable medical care to handicapped or elderly.

Induced Abortion. The Church of the Nazarene affirms

the sanctity of human life as established by God the Creator

and believes that such sanctity extends to the child not yet

born. Life is a gift from God. All human life, including life

developing in the womb, is created by God in His image and

is, therefore, to be nurtured, supported, and protected. From

the moment of conception, a child is a human being with all

of the developing characteristics of human life, and this life

is dependent on the mother for its continued development.

Therefore, we believe that human life must be respected and

protected from the moment of conception. We oppose induced

abortion by any means, when used for either personal

convenience or population control. We oppose laws that allow

abortion. Realizing that there are rare, but real medical

conditions wherein the mother or the unborn child, or both,

could not survive the pregnancy, termination of the pregnancy

should only be made after sound medical and Christian

counseling.

Responsible opposition to abortion requires our commitment

to the initiation and support of programs designed to

provide care for mothers and children. The crisis of an unwanted

pregnancy calls for the community of believers (represented

only by those for whom knowledge of the crisis is

appropriate) to provide a context of love, prayer, and counsel.

In such instances, support can take the form of counseling

centers, homes for expectant mothers, and the creation

or utilization of Christian adoption services.

The Church of the Nazarene recognizes that consideration

of abortion as a means of ending an unwanted pregnancy often

occurs because Christian standards of sexual responsibility

have been ignored. Therefore the church calls for persons

to practice the ethic of the New Testament as it bears

upon human sexuality and to deal with the issue of abortion

54 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

by placing it within the larger framework of biblical principles

that provide guidance for moral decision making.

(Genesis 2:7, 9:6; Exodus 20:13; 21:12-16, 22-25; Leviticus 18:21; Job

31:15; Psalms 22:9; 139:3-16; Isaiah 44:2, 24; 49:5; Jeremiah 1:5; Luke

1:15, 23-25, 36-45; Acts 17:25; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 6:16; 7:1ff.;

1 Thessalonians 4:3-6)

The Church of the Nazarene also recognizes that many have

been affected by the tragedy of abortion. Each local congregation

and individual believer is urged to offer the message of

forgiveness by God for each person who has experienced abortion.

Our local congregations are to be communities of redemption

and hope to all who suffer physical, emotional, and spiritual

pain as a result of the willful termination of a pregnancy.

(Romans 3:22-24; Galatians 6:1)

Genetic Engineering and Gene Therapy. The Church

of the Nazarene supports the use of genetic engineering to

achieve gene therapy. We recognize that gene therapy can

lead to preventing and curing disease, and preventing and

curing anatomical and mental disorders. We oppose any use

of genetic engineering that promotes social injustice, disregards

the dignity of persons, or that attempts to achieve

racial, intellectual, or social superiority over others (Eugenics).

We oppose initiation of DNA studies whose results

might encourage or support human abortion as an alternative

to term live birth. In all cases, humility, a respect for the

inviolable dignity of human life, human equality before God,

and a commitment to mercy and justice should govern genetic

engineering and gene therapy.

(Micah 6:8)

Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research and Other

Medical/Scientific Endeavors that Destroy Human Life

after Conception. The Church of the Nazarene strongly

encourages the scientific community to aggressively pursue

advances in stem cell technology obtained from sources such

as adult human tissues, placenta, umbilical cord blood, animal

sources, and other nonhuman embryonic sources. This

has the righteous end of attempting to bring healing to

many, without violating the sanctity of human life. Our

stand on human embryonic stem cell research flows from

THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 55

our affirmation that the human embryo is a person made in

the image of God. Therefore, we oppose the use of stem cells

produced from human embryos for research, therapeutic interventions,

or any other purpose.

As future scientific advances make new technologies

available, we strongly support this research when it does

not violate the sanctity of human life or other moral, biblical

laws. However, we oppose the destruction of human embryos

for any purpose and any type of research that takes the life

of a human after conception. Consistent with this view, we

oppose the use, for any purpose, of tissue derived from

aborted human fetuses.

Human Cloning. We oppose the cloning of an individual

human being. Humankind is valued by God, who created us

in His image, and the cloning of an individual human being

treats that being as an object, thus denying the personal

dignity and worth bestowed on us by our Creator.

(Genesis 1:27)

Euthanasia (Including Physician Assisted Suicide).

We believe that euthanasia (intentionally ending the life of a

terminally ill person, or one who has a debilitating and incurable

disease that is not immediately life-threatening, for

the purpose of ending suffering) is incompatible with the

Christian faith. This applies when euthanasia is requested

or consented to by the terminally ill person (voluntary euthanasia)

and when the terminally ill person is not mentally

competent to give consent (involuntary euthanasia). We believe

that the historic rejection of euthanasia by the Christian

church is confirmed by Christian convictions that derive

from the Bible and that are central to the Church’s confession

of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord. Euthanasia violates

Christian confidence in God as the sovereign Lord of life by

claiming sovereignty for oneself; it violates our role as stewards

before God; it contributes to an erosion of the value the

Bible places on human life and community; it attaches too

much importance to the cessation of suffering; and it reflects

a human arrogance before a graciously sovereign God. We

urge our people to oppose all efforts to legalize euthanasia.

Allowing to Die. When human death is imminent, we

56 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

believe that either withdrawing or not originating artificial

life-support systems is permissible within the range of

Christian faith and practice. This position applies to persons

who are in a persistent vegetative state and to those for

whom the application of extraordinary means for prolonging

life provide no reasonable hope for a return to health.We believe

that when death is imminent, nothing in the Christian

faith requires that the process of dying be artificially postponed.

As Christians we trust in God’s faithfulness and have

the hope of eternal life. This makes it possible for Christians

to accept death as an expression of faith in Christ who overcame

death on our behalf and robbed it of its victory.

D. Human Sexuality

37. The Church of the Nazarene views human sexuality

as one expression of the holiness and beauty that God the

Creator intended for His creation. It is one of the ways by

which the covenant between a husband and a wife is sealed

and expressed. Christians are to understand that in marriage

human sexuality can and ought to be sanctified by

God. Human sexuality achieves fulfillment only as a sign of

comprehensive love and loyalty. Christian husbands and

wives should view sexuality as a part of their much larger

commitment to one another and to Christ from whom the

meaning of life is drawn.

The Christian home should serve as a setting for teaching

children the sacred character of human sexuality and for

showing them how its meaning is fulfilled in the context of

love, fidelity, and patience.

Our ministers and Christian educators should state clearly

the Christian understanding of human sexuality, urging

Christians to celebrate its rightful excellence, and rigorously

to guard against its betrayal and distortion.

Sexuality misses its purpose when treated as an end in itself

or when cheapened by using another person to satisfy

pornographic and perverted sexual interests. We view all

forms of sexual intimacy that occur outside the covenant of

heterosexual marriage as sinful distortions of the holiness

and beauty God intended for it.

THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 57

Homosexuality is one means by which human sexuality is

perverted. We recognize the depth of the perversion that

leads to homosexual acts but affirm the biblical position

that such acts are sinful and subject to the wrath of God.We

believe the grace of God sufficient to overcome the practice

of homosexuality (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). We deplore any action

or statement that would seem to imply compatibility

between Christian morality and the practice of homosexuality.

We urge clear preaching and teaching concerning Bible

standards of sexual morality.

(Genesis 1:27; 19:1-25; Leviticus 20:13; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians

6:9-11; 1 Timothy 1:8-10)

E. Christian Stewardship

38. Meaning of Stewardship. The Scriptures teach that

God is the Owner of all persons and all things. We, therefore,

are His stewards of both life and possessions. God’s

ownership and our stewardship ought to be acknowledged,

for we shall be held personally accountable to God for the

exercise of our stewardship. God, as a God of system and order

in all of His ways, has established a system of giving

that acknowledges His ownership over all human resources

and relationships. To this end all His children should faithfully

tithe and present offerings for the support of the

gospel. (140)

(Malachi 3:8-12; Matthew 6:24-34; 25:31-46; Mark 10:17-31; Luke 12:13-

24; 19:11-27; John 15:1-17; Romans 12:1-13; 1 Corinthians 9:7-14;

2 Corinthians 8:1-15; 9:6-15; 1 Timothy 6:6-19; Hebrews 7:8; James 1:27;

1 John 3:16-18)

38.1. Storehouse Tithing. Storehouse tithing is a scriptural

and practical performance of faithfully and regularly

placing the tithe into that church to which the member belongs.

Therefore, the financing of the church shall be based

on the plan of storehouse tithing, and the local Church of

the Nazarene shall be regarded by all of its people as the

storehouse. All who are a part of the Church of the Nazarene

are urged to contribute faithfully one-tenth of all their

increase as a minimum financial obligation to the Lord and

freewill offerings in addition as God has prospered them for

58 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

the support of the whole church, local, district, educational,

and general. The tithe, provided to the local Church of the

Nazarene, shall be considered a priority over all other giving

opportunities which God may lay upon the hearts of His

faithful stewards, in support of the whole church.

38.2. Fund-raising and Distribution. In the light of the

scriptural teaching concerning the giving of tithes and offerings

for the support of the gospel, and for the erection of

church buildings, no Nazarene church should engage in any

method of fund-raising that would detract from these principles,

hinder the gospel message, sully the name of the

church, discriminate against the poor, or misdirect the people’s

energies from promoting the gospel.

In disbursing to meet the requirements of the local, district,

educational, and general programs of the Church of

the Nazarene, local churches are urged to adopt and practice

a financial apportionment plan, and to pay general, educational,

and district apportionments monthly. (130, 154, 155-

55.2, 413.21)

38.3. Support of the Ministry. “In the same way, the

Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel

should receive their living from the gospel” (1 Corinthians

9:14). The church is obligated to support its ministers, who

have been called of God, and who, under the direction of the

church, have given themselves wholly to the work of the

ministry. We urge therefore that the members of the church

voluntarily commit themselves to the task of supporting the

ministry by gathering money weekly for this holy business

and that the pastor’s salary be paid regularly every week.

(115.4)

38.4. Life Income Gifts, Planned and Deferred Giving.

It is essential in the exercise of Christian stewardship

that careful thought be given as to what shall be done with

one’s income and possessions over which the Lord makes the

Christian a steward during this life. The Church of the Nazarene,

recognizing the need for faithful stewardship in this

life and the God-given vision to leave a legacy for the future,

has established the Church of the Nazarene Foundation to

enhance Christian stewardship through planned and de-

THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 59

ferred giving. Civil laws often do not provide for the distribution

of an estate in such a way as to glorify God. Each

Christian should give attention to the preparation of a last

will and testament in a careful and legal manner, and the

Church of the Nazarene through its various ministries of

missions, evangelism, education, and benevolences—local,

district, educational, and general—is recommended for consideration.

F. Church Officers

39. We direct our local churches to elect as church officers

only persons who profess the experience of entire sanctification

and whose lives bear public witness to the grace of God

that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony with the doctrines,

polity, and practices of the Church of the Nazarene;

and who support the local church faithfully in attendance

and with tithes and offerings. (113.9-13.10, 127, 145, 146)

G. Rules of Order

40. Subject to the applicable law, the Articles of Incorporation

and the Bylaws of government in the Manual, the meetings

and proceedings of the members of the Church of the

Nazarene, local, district, and general, and the committees of

the corporation shall be regulated and controlled according

to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (latest edition) for

parliamentary procedure. (113, 203, 300.3)

H. Amending the Covenant of Christian Conduct

41. The provisions of the Covenant of Christian Conduct

may be repealed or amended when concurred in by a twothirds

vote of the members present and voting of a given

General Assembly.

60 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

PART IV

Government

THE LOCAL CHURCH

THE DISTRICT ASSEMBLY

THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HIGHER EDUCATION

PREAMBLE

The task of the Church of the Nazarene is to make known

to all peoples the transforming grace of God through the forgiveness

of sins and heart cleansing in Jesus Christ. Our

mission first and foremost is to “make disciples,” to incorporate

believers into fellowship and membership (congregations),

and to equip (teach) for ministry all who respond in

faith. The ultimate goal of the “community of faith” is to

present everyone perfect in Christ (Colossians 1:28) at the

last day.

It is in the local church that the saving, perfecting, teaching,

and commissioning takes place. The local church, the

Body of Christ, is the representation of our faith and mission.

These churches are grouped administratively into districts

and regions.

The bases of unity in the Church of the Nazarene are

those beliefs, polity, definitions, and procedures as articulated

in the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

The core of this unity is declared in the Articles of Faith of

the Manual.We encourage the church in all regions and languages

to translate—widely distribute—and teach these beliefs

to our constituency. This is the golden strand that is

woven into the fabric of all we are and do as Nazarenes.

A visible reflection of this unity is represented by the

General Assembly, which is the “supreme doctrine-formulating,

lawmaking, and elective authority of the Church of the

Nazarene.” (300)

A second reflection is the international General Board,

which represents the entire church.

A third reflection is the Board of General Superintendents,

who may interpret the Manual, approve cultural adaptations,

and ordain to the ministry.

The government of the Church of the Nazarene is representative,

and thus avoids the extremes of episcopacy on the

one hand and unlimited congregationalism on the other.

In world regions served by the church where cultural and

political differences may necessitate, adaptations of local,

district, and regional church government procedures contained

in Part IV, Chapters I, II, and III, may be made. Re-

62 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

quests for all such adaptations shall be submitted in writing

to and approved by the Board of General Superintendents.

CHAPTER I

THE LOCAL CHURCH

A. Organization, Name, Incorporation, Property,

Restrictions, Mergers, Disorganization

100. Organization. Local churches may be organized by

the district superintendent, or by the general superintendent

having jurisdiction, or by an elder authorized by either

of them. Official reports of new churches shall be filed with

the General Secretary’s office through the respective jurisdictional

office. (29, 107, 208.1, 433.12)

100.1. The Multicongregational Church. Organized local

churches may enlarge their ministry by establishing

Bible classes in various languages using the facilities of

these churches. These Bible classes may develop into churchtype

missions or fully organized churches (100). This may result

in more than one congregation existing under one

church name, with the approval of the district superintendent.

In such multicongregational churches where not all the

individual congregations are fully organized churches, the

District Advisory Board, with the approval of the district

superintendent and the general superintendent in jurisdiction,

may grant to such congregations the rights and privileges

of an organized local church subject to the following

conditions:

1. Such congregations may not be incorporated separate

from the organized local church.

2. Such congregations shall not hold title to property separate

from the organized local church.

3. Such congregations shall not incur indebtedness without

the approval of the district superintendent, the

church board of the organized local church, and the

District Advisory Board.

4. No such congregation may withdraw as a body from

the organized local church or in any way sever its rela-

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 63

tion thereto except by the express permission of the

district superintendent in consultation with the pastor

of the local church.

101. Name. The name of a newly organized church shall

be determined by the local church in consultation with the

district superintendent and with the approval of the District

Advisory Board. (102.4)

101.1. Change of Name. A local Church of the Nazarene

may change its name by a majority ballot vote in an annual

or special meeting of the church membership. Processes for

the change shall be: (a) The local church board submits the

proposed change to the district superintendent who shall obtain

the written approval of the District Advisory Board; (b)

the local church votes; (c) the District Advisory Board reports

the change to the district assembly, and the district assembly

votes approval of the same. (102.4)

102. Incorporation. In all places where the statutes will

permit, the trustees shall have the local church incorporated,

and the said trustees and their successors shall be the

trustees of the said corporation. Where not inconsistent with

civil law, the Articles of Incorporation shall set forth the

powers of the corporation, and provide that the corporation

shall be subject to the government of the Church of the Nazarene,

as from time to time authorized and declared in its

Manual by the General Assembly of said church. All the

property of this corporation shall be managed and controlled

by the trustees subject to the approval of the local church.

102.1. Where property is purchased and developed by the

District Advisory Board for a local church or where a new

church is formed, upon the repayment by the local church of

the money invested by the District Advisory Board, it is

deemed advisable that the District Advisory Board transfer

the title to the local church.

102.2. When a local church is incorporated, all property

acquired shall be deeded directly to the church in its corporate

name when it is possible to do so. (102.6)

102.3. The pastor and the secretary of the church board

shall be the president and secretary of the church, incorporated

or not incorporated, and shall execute and sign all con-

64 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

veyances of real estate, mortgages, releases of mortgages,

contracts, and other legal documents of the church not otherwise

provided for in the Manual and subject to the restrictions

set forth in 104-4.3.

102.4. The Articles of Incorporation of each local church

shall include the following provisions:

1. The corporate name shall include the words “Church of

the Nazarene.” The name “Church of the Nazarene”

shall appear on church signs, official stationery, and

church publications.

2. The bylaws of the corporation shall be the Manual of

the Church of the Nazarene.

3. The Articles of Incorporation shall not contain any provision

that might prevent the local church from qualifying

for any tax exemption available to churches in

the same area.

4. Upon dissolution, the assets of the corporation shall be

distributed to the District Advisory Board.

The Articles of Incorporation may contain additional provisions

when appropriate under local law. No provision,

however, shall be included that can cause the property of the

local church to be diverted from the Church of the Nazarene.

(101-1.1, 104.3, 106.1-6.3)

102.5. In multicongregational churches, where more than

one organized church shares the same facility, incorporation

may take place in partnership where local laws allow.

102.6. In localities where incorporation is not possible, the

church name shall include the words “Church of the Nazarene”

on all legal documents including, but not limited to the

property deed(s) and deed(s) of trust. (102.2)

103. Property. The local church considering the purchase

of real estate, the erection of churches or church-related

buildings, a major remodeling of either, or leasing real property

for any reason, shall submit its proposal to the district

superintendent and the District Church Properties Board

for their consideration, advice, and approval. No indebtedness,

whether involving a mortgage or not, shall be incurred

in the purchase of real estate or the erection of buildings or

a major remodeling of either, without the written approval

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 65

of the district superintendent and the District Church Properties

Board. (233-34.5)

103.1. In case agreement cannot be reached between the

church board and the district superintendent and the District

Church Properties Board, the issue may be submitted

to the general superintendent having jurisdiction, for a decision.

Either the church or the district superintendent may

appeal such decision to the Board of General Superintendents

for a final decision. All such appeals, rebuttals of appeals,

or arguments pertaining thereto, whether to the general

superintendent in jurisdiction or the Board of General

Superintendents, shall be in writing. A copy of the appeal,

rebuttals of appeals, or arguments pertaining thereto by either

the church board or the district superintendent shall be

sent to the other party involved. The minute record of a

church board appeal shall include the appeal resolution, arguments

sustaining it, and the record of the vote taken.

104. Restrictions. The local church may not purchase real

estate, nor sell, mortgage, including refinance, exchange,

or in any other way encumber real property, or otherwise

dispose of real estate except by two-thirds vote of the members

present at an annual meeting, or at a special meeting

duly called for that purpose, except the church board may

approve by two-thirds vote of its members present and voting,

properties donated for the specific purpose of providing

funds for the local church, and except upon the written approval

of the district superintendent and the District

Church Properties Board. (113.3-13.4, 113.7, 113.14, 234.3)

104.1. The real estate of the local church shall not be

mortgaged to meet current expenses.

104.2. A local church which mortgages or sells real estate,

or receives insurance claims on real estate, shall use the

proceeds only for the purchase or capital improvement of real

estate, or to reduce other real estate indebtedness. Only

with the approval of the district superintendent and the

District Advisory Board shall any proceeds be used for other

purposes.

104.3. Trustees and/or a local church may not divert property

from the use of the Church of the Nazarene. (113-13.1)

66 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

104.4. Withdrawal of Churches. No local church may

withdraw as a body from the Church of the Nazarene, or in

any way sever its relation thereto, except by provision of the

General Assembly, and upon agreed conditions and plans.

(106.2-6.3)

105. Mergers. Two or more local churches may be merged

upon two-thirds favorable vote by ballot of the members

present and voting at specially called meetings of the

churches involved, provided: the merger shall be recommended

by a majority vote by ballot of all the members of

the respective church boards, and the merger shall have

been approved in writing by the district superintendent, the

District Advisory Board, and the general superintendent in

jurisdiction.

The merger shall be finalized in a special meeting of the

new congregation for the purpose of electing officers and

making pastoral arrangements. The district superintendent,

or an elder appointed by the superintendent, shall preside.

The organization thus created shall combine the total

membership of the former churches, the membership of all

departments of those churches, and may combine part or all

of the assets and liabilities of those churches subject to the

approval of the district superintendent, the District Advisory

Board, and the general superintendent in jurisdiction.

The merger will also combine the general, educational, and

district apportionments.

Upon the notification by the district superintendent, the

general secretary of the Church of the Nazarene is authorized

to remove the names of the inactive churches from the

roll of churches.

106. Declaring Churches Inactive/Disorganized.

Churches may be declared inactive for a period of transition

by action of the District Advisory Board.

106.1. A local church may be disorganized on recommendation

from the district superintendent and a two-thirds

vote of the District Advisory Board. Such action shall be taken

only after the district superintendent has consulted with

and received an affirmative response from the general

superintendent in jurisdiction.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 67

106.2. In case a local church becomes disorganized, or in

the event of withdrawal or attempted withdrawal from the

Church of the Nazarene (as certified by the District Advisory

Board), any church property that may exist may in no

way be diverted to other purposes, but title shall pass to the

District Advisory Board acting as agent for said district

where such has been incorporated, or other authorized

agents, for the use of the Church of the Nazarene at large,

as the district assembly shall direct; and trustees holding

property for the disorganized church shall sell or dispose of

the same only on the order and under the direction of the

District Advisory Board or other appointed agent of the district

assembly, with the written approval of the general

superintendent in jurisdiction; either conveying said property

or delivering the proceeds from the sale thereof as directed

by the district assembly or its District Advisory Board.

(104.4, 222.17)

106.3. No trustee or trustees of a disorganized church, or

a church that withdraws or attempts to withdraw from the

Church of the Nazarene, may divert property from the use of

the Church of the Nazarene. (104.4, 141-44, 222.17)

106.4. Only those churches officially disorganized may be

dropped from the records of the general secretary.

106.5. When a local church has been declared inactive, the

signatories on all church monetary and/or security accounts

must transfer the proceeds of the same to the District Advisory

Board for deposit. Refusal to comply authorizes the District

Advisory Board by resolution to close all accounts and

assume jurisdiction of all assets where the law allows.

B. Membership

107. Full Membership. All persons who have been organized

into a local church by those authorized so to do, and

all who have been publicly received by the pastor, the district

superintendent, or the general superintendent, after

having declared their experience of salvation, and their belief

in the doctrines of the Church of the Nazarene, and their

willingness to submit to its government, shall compose the

full membership of the local church; however, only church

68 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

members who are active members and have reached their

15th birthday shall be entitled to vote in annual or special

church meetings. (29, 35.4, 111, 113.1, 413.3, 417, 427.8,

433.8-33.9)

107.1. When persons desire to unite with the church, the

pastor shall explain to them the privileges and responsibilities

of membership in the church, the Articles of Faith, the

requirements of the Covenant of Christian Character and

the Covenant of Christian Conduct, and the purpose and

mission of the Church of the Nazarene.

After consulting with the Evangelism and Church Membership

Committee, the minister shall receive acceptable

candidates into the membership of the church in a public

service, using the approved form for the reception of members

(801). (27, 33-39, 110-10.4, 225)

107.2. Members of a Church-Type Mission. Where the

organization of a local church has not been effected, a churchtype

mission shall receive and report church members according

to 107 and 107.1 in the annual statistics.

108. Associate Membership. Where a district makes

provision, a local church may have associate members who

shall have all the privileges of church members, with the exception

of voting and holding church office. (203.24)

108.1. Associate members may be received into full membership

or dropped at any time, at the discretion of the pastor

and Evangelism and Church Membership Committee.

109. Inactive Membership. A local church may designate

persons as “inactive members” for the reasons stated in

109.1 and 109.2. (112.3, 133)

109.1. A member of a local church who has moved to another

community and ceases to be active at his or her

church of membership should be urged to attend the Church

of the Nazarene there and to request a transfer of membership

to that church.

109.2. When a member of a church has been absent from

all religious services of the church for six successive months

without a reason deemed justifiable by the church board,

and attempt has been made to encourage him or her to become

active when possible, that person’s membership may

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 69

be declared inactive upon recommendation of the Evangelism

and Church Membership Committee and action of the

church board. The person shall be informed by a redemptive

letter from the pastor within seven days of the action of the

church board. After such action of the church board, the pastor

shall write opposite the member’s name “Placed on the

Inactive Membership Roll by the church board (date).” A

120-day waiting period including prayer and supplication

shall follow these actions, during which an inactive member

may request in writing that the church board return his or

her name to the active roll of the church. The request must

include a reaffirmation of the vows of membership and renewed

participation in the worship activities of the local

church. The church board shall respond to the request within

60 days. Full membership may be restored to such a person

by recommendation of the Evangelism and Church

Membership Committee and action of the church board.

109.3. Inactive members shall be included in the full

membership of the local church with active members. Membership

shall be reported to the district assembly in separate

categories, namely (1) active and (2) inactive members.

109.4. Inactive members shall not be eligible to vote in

annual or special church meetings or hold office.

C. Evangelism and Church

Membership Committee

110. The church board shall provide an Evangelism and

Church Membership Committee of not fewer than three persons

acting in an advisory capacity to the pastor, who shall

be the chairperson. Its duties shall be:

110.1. To promote evangelism in the local church and seek

to conserve the fruits of evangelism. (107-7.1, 129.24)

110.2. To study and recommend to the church board and

departments ways to emphasize evangelism in the whole

life of the church.

110.3. To serve as the local committee to implement both

general and district denominational programs of evangelism.

110.4. To urge new converts to qualify for church member-

70 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

ship by a consistent devotional life, a study of the Bible and

the Manual, individually and/or in a pastor’s membership

class, remembering that members received by profession of

faith help to conserve the fruits of evangelism. (26-27, 35.4)

110.5. To endeavor to bring new members into total fellowship

and service of the church.

110.6. To work with the pastor in developing a continuing

program of spiritual guidance for new members.

110.7. To recommend to the church board, upon nomination

by the pastor, the evangelists for local campaigns. It is

recommended that at least one campaign each year be conducted

by a tenured, commissioned or registered evangelist.

110.8. No person shall be received into full membership of

the local church until the pastor first consults with the

Evangelism and Church Membership Committee concerning

that person’s reception. (107.1)

D. Change of Membership

111. Transfer. The pastor, when requested by a member,

may grant a transfer of church membership (see form in

813.4) to any local Church of the Nazarene that may be

named, such transfer to be valid for three months only.

When the reception of the transfer is acknowledged by the

receiving local church, such person’s membership in the former

local church shall cease. (813.5)

111.1. Commendation. The pastor, when requested by a

member, may grant a certificate of commendation (see form

in 813.2) to any evangelical church that may be named, after

which such person’s membership in the local church issuing

the certificate shall cease immediately. (112.2)

E. Termination of Membership

112. Ministers. When a licensed or an ordained minister

has united with the church membership or ministry of a

church other than the Church of the Nazarene, the pastor of

the local church in which the minister is a member shall immediately

notify the District Ministerial Credentials Board

of the fact. The Ministerial Credentials Board shall investigate

and confirm the status of the member of the clergy. If

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 71

the District Ministerial Credentials Board determines that

the member of the clergy will be removed from the roll of

ministers, the pastor of the local church will also remove the

person’s name from the membership roll of the church and

shall write opposite the name, “Removed by uniting with another

denomination.” (427.9, 433.10-33.11)

112.1. Laypersons. When a lay member of a local church

has accepted membership, license to preach, or ordination

from any other religious organizations, or is engaging in independent

church or missionary work, his or her membership

in the local church shall, because of that fact, immediately

cease, except in case that person shall secure the

annual written approval of the local church board of the

church in which said membership is held, and the annual

written approval of the District Advisory Board of the district

in which that church is located.

112.2. Release from Membership. The pastor, when requested

by a member, may grant a letter of release (see form

in 813.3), thus terminating such person’s membership immediately.

(111.1, 112)

112.3. After two years from the date when a person’s

membership was declared inactive, his or her name may be

removed from the church roll by action of the church board.

After such action of the church board, the pastor shall write

opposite the member’s name, “Removed by the church board

(date).” (109, 133)

F. Church Meetings

113. A meeting of the members of a local church for conference

and for the transaction of business shall be known

as a church meeting. Subject to the applicable law, the Articles

of Incorporation and the Bylaws of government in the

Manual, the meetings and proceedings of the members of

the Church of the Nazarene, local, district, and general, and

the committees of the corporation shall be regulated and

controlled according to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised

(latest edition) for parliamentary procedure. (40, 104,

113.7, 115, 415)

113.1. Only those persons who are active members and

72 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

have reached their 15th birthday shall be entitled to vote in

church meetings. (107, 109-9.4)

113.2. There is no provision for absentee voting in church

meetings.

113.3. Business Transactions. Business, including elections,

in harmony with the spirit and order of the church,

and not otherwise specially provided for, may be transacted

at any church meeting.

113.4. Comply with Civil Law. In all cases where the

civil law requires a specific course of procedure in calling

and conducting church meetings, that course should be

strictly followed. (142)

113.5. Presiding Officer. The pastor, who shall be ex-officio

president of the local church, or the district superintendent,

or the general superintendent having jurisdiction, or

someone appointed by the district superintendent or the

general superintendent, shall preside at annual or special

church meetings. (210.1, 307.9, 413.23)

113.6. Secretary. The secretary of the church board shall

be the secretary of all church meetings; in his or her absence

a secretary pro tempore shall be elected. (135.4)

113.7. Annual Meeting. An annual church meeting shall

be held within 90 days prior to the meeting of the district

assembly. Public notice of the annual meeting must be given

from the pulpit on at least two Sundays before the meeting.

This annual meeting may be conducted on more than one

day or in more than one service upon approval by the church

board.

113.8. Reports. Reports shall be given at the annual

church meeting by the pastor (413.15), the Sunday School

superintendent (146.6), the president of the Nazarene Youth

International (151.4), the president of the Nazarene Missions

International (153.2), the deaconesses (406), the local

ministers (426.1), the secretary (135.2), and the treasurer

(136.5) of the church board.

113.9. Nominating Committee. A nominating committee

shall be used to nominate officers, boards, and district

assembly delegates, whose nominations are not provided for

elsewhere.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 73

The Nominating Committee shall consist of not fewer

than three nor more than seven members of the church, including

the pastor, and shall be constituted by whatever

method the church board shall propose. The pastor shall be

chairperson of the committee. All persons nominated by this

committee shall affirm that they fulfill the qualifications required

of church officers in paragraph 39.

113.10. Elections. At the annual church meeting there

shall be an election, by ballot, of the stewards (137), the

trustees (141, 142.1), the Sunday School superintendent

(146), and the members of the Sunday School Ministries

Board (145), to serve for the next church year and until their

successors are elected and qualified. All those elected as

church officers shall be members of that same local Church

of the Nazarene.

We direct our local churches to elect as church officers only

persons who profess the experience of entire sanctification

and whose lives bear public witness to the grace of God

that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony with the doctrines,

polity, and practices of the Church of the Nazarene;

and who support the local church faithfully in attendance

and with tithes and offerings. (39, 127, 145, 146)

113.11. Where laws permit, and in churches where such

procedure and the number to be elected are approved by a

majority vote of the church members present, the church

board may be elected, and then appropriate proportions designated

as stewards and trustees, in harmony with 137 and

141. When a church board is elected in this manner, the

board shall organize itself into committees to carry out assigned

responsibilities. If a church has elected an education

committee as part of its board in harmony with 145, that

committee will constitute the Education Committee of the

church board. (145-45.10) Alternative board and committee

structure may be used by a local church in organizing itself

for ministry and missional action, provided such alternatives

are approved in writing by the district superintendent

and the District Advisory Board, and such structure complies

with civil requirements.

113.12. Where laws permit, and in churches where such

74 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

procedure is approved by a majority vote of the church members

present at a duly called annual meeting, after receiving

the written approval of the district superintendent, a church

may elect one-half its church board members for two-year

terms, or one-third of its church board members for threeyear

terms, in either case designating an equal number to

be elected annually. When the church board is elected in this

manner, the number of stewards and trustees chosen must

comply with 137 and 141.

113.13. At the annual church meeting, there shall be an

election, by ballot, of lay delegates to the district assembly,

on the basis of representation fixed by the General Assembly

according to 201-1.2.

113.14. Special church meetings may be called at any

time by the pastor, or by the church board after having obtained

the consent of the pastor or of the district superintendent

or of the general superintendent having jurisdiction.

(104)

113.15. Public notice of special church meetings shall always

be given from the pulpit in at least two preceding regular

services, or in such manner as meets the requirements

of civil law. (115-15.1, 122, 137, 139, 142.1, 144)

G. The Church Year

114. The administrative year shall run concurrently with

the statistical year of the local church and shall be recognized

as the church year.

114.1. The statistical year shall close within 90 days prior

to the opening of the district assembly; and the new statistical

year shall begin the day following its close. The exact

date of the beginning and close of the statistical year within

these bounds shall be set by the District Advisory Board.

(222.1)

H. Calling of a Pastor

115. An elder or licensed minister (412) may be called to

pastor a church by two-thirds favorable vote by ballot of the

church members of voting age present and voting at a duly

called annual or special meeting of the church, provided

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 75

that such elder or licensed minister shall have been nominated

to the church by the church board, which, after having

consulted with the district superintendent, made such nomination

by two-thirds vote by ballot of all its members; and

provided the nomination shall have been approved by the

district superintendent. Any elder or licensed minister with

membership in a local church may not be considered for pastor

of that church without the approval of the District Advisory

Board. This call shall be subject to review and continuance

as hereinafter provided. (118, 121-23, 129.2, 160.8,

208.9)

115.1. Acceptance of a call to pastoral relations shall be

given by the minister not later than 15 days from the date of

the church meeting voting the call.

115.2. The church board and the pastor should clearly

communicate their goals and expectations to each other in

writing. (121, 129.3-29.4)

115.3. As soon as practical after a pastor begins serving,

the pastor and the congregation may participate in an installation

or bonding service. The objective of the service

should be to celebrate unity and direction concerning the

will of God. Where practical, the district superintendent

shall preside.

115.4. Upon issuing a call, the local church will specify

the proposed remuneration. The amount of this remuneration

shall be determined by the church board. When agreement

has been entered into between the church or the

church board and the pastor, the payment of the pastor’s

salary in full shall be considered a moral obligation by the

church. If, however, the church becomes unable to continue

the payment of the salary agreed upon, such inability and

failure shall not be considered a sufficient cause for civil action

against the church by the pastor; and in no case shall

the church be legally responsible in excess of funds raised

during the term of the pastor’s actual service, and not otherwise

designated.

The local church should also make provision for the pastor’s

traveling and moving expenses. (38-8.3, 129.8-29.9)

115.5. The remuneration of the pastor shall commence on

76 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

the Monday preceding the first official Sunday of service to

the local church.

116. The pastor of a church that has been organized for

less than five years, or had less than 35 members voting in

the previous annual church meeting, or is receiving regular

financial assistance from the district, may be appointed or

reappointed by the district superintendent, with the consent

of the District Advisory Board. (208.1-8.3, 208.5, 208.16)

117. In case of disagreement between the church board

and the district superintendent regarding pastoral arrangements,

the church board or the district superintendent may

submit the matter to the general superintendent having jurisdiction

for his or her decision. From such decision either

the church board or the district superintendent may appeal

to the Board of General Superintendents. All such appeals,

rebuttals of appeals, or arguments pertaining thereto,

whether to the general superintendent in jurisdiction or the

Board of General Superintendents, shall be in writing. A

copy of the appeal, rebuttals of appeals, or arguments pertaining

thereto by either the church board or the district

superintendent shall be sent to the other party involved. The

minute record of a church board appeal shall include the appeal

resolution, arguments sustaining it, and the record of

the vote taken. If a minister under consideration withdraws

his or her name, or if a pastoral candidate is found to be unavailable

for consideration, the appeal process should terminate

immediately, and the district superintendent and

church board shall continue with pastoral arrangements.

118. The call of a pastor who is a licensed minister will

terminate at the end of the district assembly if the minister’s

license is not renewed.

119. No pastor shall terminate the pastorate of a church

without giving the church board and the district superintendent

written resignation at least 30 days before the termination

of the pastorate, and without having this resignation

accepted by the church board and approved in writing by

the district superintendent. When the resignation has been

accepted, termination may be any time agreed upon within

30 days.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 77

119.1. The pastor who resigns shall, in cooperation with

the secretary of the church board, prepare a correct list of

the church membership roll with current addresses. This

roll must correspond numerically with the last published

district minutes showing deletions and additions for the current

year.

120. Upon the recommendation of the church board and

approval of the district superintendent, a congregation may

elect copastors to serve. In this case, the following stipulations

will apply:

1. The copastors shall work with the church board, under

the direction of the district superintendent, to develop a

specific plan for the practical division of responsibility

and authority.

2. Although the copastors are equals in the pastoral office,

one person shall be officially designated by the

church board as the presiding officer, serving as president

of the corporation and chairperson of the church

board.

3. The pastoral review process shall be conducted as provided

for in Manual paragraph 122.

120.1. Upon the resignation or termination of a copastor a

remaining copastor may be appointed by the district superintendent

to serve as pastor of the church; provided, however,

that within sixty days, the question of the pastoral relationship

shall be presented to the church board, at which

time the church shall follow the process outlined in paragraph

115.

I. The Church/Pastor Relationship

121. Every year, the pastor and the church board shall

conduct a planning session to renew the expectations and

goals of the church and the pastor. The written understanding

of goals, plans and objectives between the church and

the pastor shall be updated. Such written understanding

shall be filed with the district superintendent. (115.2, 129.4)

121.1. Pastors and congregations shall seek a clear understanding

of each others’ expectations and sincerely follow

78 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

biblical principles to resolve differences in a spirit of reconciliation

within the church. Biblical principles for resolving

differences in Matthew 18:15-20 and Galatians 6:1-5 include:

1. Seek to resolve differences by discussing them face-toface.

2. If face-to-face discussion fails to bring resolution, seek

the assistance of one or two others in resolving the differences.

3. Bring the differences to the church board only after

face-to-face discussion and small-group efforts fail.

4. Christians are obligated to work at resolving differences

in a spirit of love, acceptance, and forgiveness.

J. Renewing the Church/Pastor Relationship

122. The Regular ChurchPastoral Review. The church

pastoral relationship shall be reviewed by the church board,

meeting with the district superintendent, or an ordained

minister or layperson appointed by the district superintendent,

within 60 days of the second anniversary of pastoral

service and every four years thereafter. The district superintendent,

or an ordained minister or layperson appointed by

the district superintendent, shall be responsible for scheduling

and conducting the review meeting(s) with the church

board. The review meeting(s) shall be scheduled in consultation

with the pastor. The review meeting(s) shall be conducted

in executive session (church board, including pastor). At

the discretion of the district superintendent, a portion of the

review may be conducted in the absence of the pastor. In

case the pastor’s spouse is an elected member of the board,

he or she shall not participate in the review.

A public and/or printed announcement explaining the

purpose of this church board meeting shall be conveyed to

the congregation the Sunday before the church board and

district superintendent meet for the regular church/pastoral

review.

At this review meeting, the question of continuing the

church/pastoral relationship shall be discussed. The objective

is to discover consensus without the need of a formal

church board vote. If the church board does not vote to pre-

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 79

sent the question of continuing the church/pastoral relationship

to the church membership, the church/pastoral relationship

will continue.

The church board may vote to present to the church membership

the question of continuing the pastoral call. The

vote by the board will be by ballot and require a majority of

all church board members present to carry.

If the church board votes to present the question of continuing

the church/pastoral relationship to the church membership,

the matter shall be presented at a church meeting

duly called for this purpose and held within 30 days following

such action. The question shall be presented, “Shall the

present church/pastoral relationship continue?” The vote

shall be by ballot and require a two-thirds majority to carry,

except where civil law of a given country requires otherwise.

If the church membership votes to continue the church/

pastoral relationship, the church/pastoral relationship shall

continue as though such a vote had not been taken; otherwise,

the church/pastoral relationship shall end on a date

set by the district superintendent not less than 30 nor more

than 180 days following the vote. If the pastor chooses not to

proceed with the vote of the congregation, he or she shall

submit a resignation. In such case, the church/pastoral relationship

shall end on a date set by the district superintendent

not less than 30 nor more than 180 days following the

pastor’s decision not to proceed with a congregational vote.

As a part of the regular review, a report will be made to the

district superintendent by the pastor and church board regarding

progress toward fulfilling the mission, vision and

core values of the church.

122.1. The chairperson of the Board of Tellers shall personally

inform the pastor of the results of a pastoral vote before

any public announcement is made.

123. Special Church/Pastoral Review. In the interim

of regular reviews, a local church board meeting shall become

officially a special review only by a majority vote of the

entire elected church board with the district superintendent

present or an elder appointed by the district superintendent

serving as chairperson. If the district superintendent and

80 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

the church board shall be of the opinion that the question of

the continuance of the church/pastoral relationship should

be submitted to the church, the district superintendent and

the church board by a majority vote of all its members present,

except where civil law of a given country requires otherwise,

may order the question submitted for vote at a special

church meeting. The question shall be submitted in the following

form: “Shall the present church/pastoral relationship

be continued?” This special church/pastoral review meeting

shall be conducted in executive session. (113.14)

If by a two-thirds vote by ballot of the church members of

voting age present and voting, except where civil law of a

given country requires otherwise, the church decides to continue

its present church/pastoral relationship, the term of

office of the pastor shall continue as though such vote had

not been taken.

If, however, the church fails to decide by such vote to continue

the present church/pastoral relationship, the term of

office of the pastor shall terminate on a date, set by the district

superintendent, not more than 180 days following the

vote. (122-22.1)

124. Local Church in Crisis. Upon learning that a local

church is approaching crisis, the district superintendent

with the approval of the District Advisory Board shall have

the authority to impanel a committee to review the situation

and implement procedures to avert a crisis. The committee

shall consist of two elders and two lay members of the District

Advisory Board, and the district superintendent who

shall serve as chairperson. (208.3)

124.1. When in the opinion of the district superintendent

and the District Advisory Board, and with approval of the

general superintendent in jurisdiction, a local church is declared

in crisis—financial, morale, or otherwise—and this

crisis seriously affects the stability and future of the church,

(a) The question of continued church/pastoral relationship

may be submitted to the local congregation by the district

superintendent or a member of the District Advisory Board

appointed by the district superintendent as if the church

board had requested the vote under paragraph 122, or (b) the

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 81

tenure of a pastor and/or church board may be terminated

with the approval of the general superintendent in jurisdiction,

and by the majority vote of the District Advisory Board.

The district superintendent, with approval of the general

superintendent in jurisdiction and the District Advisory

Board, may appoint members of the church board for any

church that has been declared in crisis. (208.3)

K. The Church Board

127. Membership. Every local church shall have a

church board, composed of the pastor, the Sunday School

superintendent, the president of the Nazarene Youth International,

the president of the Nazarene Missions International

(or if the president is the pastor’s spouse, and chooses

not to serve on the board, the vice president may serve; however,

if the president is the pastor’s spouse and chooses to

serve on the board, he or she shall not be a part of the review

process of the pastor), the stewards, and the trustees of

the church, and the members of the Sunday School Ministries

Board when elected as the Education Committee of

the church board by the annual church meeting. There shall

be no more than 25 regular members of the church board.

Ordained and district licensed ministers unassigned by the

district and paid employees of the local church are not eligible

to serve on the local church board.

We direct our local churches to elect as church officers only

persons who profess the experience of entire sanctification

and whose lives bear public witness to the grace of God

that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony with the doctrines,

polity, and practices of the Church of the Nazarene;

and who support the local church faithfully in attendance

and with tithes and offerings. (39, 113.9-13.12, 137, 141,

145, 146, 151, 153.2, 160.4)

128. Meetings. The church board takes office at the beginning

of the church year and shall have regular monthly

meetings and shall meet specially when called by the pastor,

the district superintendent, or the church board secretary

only with the approval of the pastor, or the district superintendent

when there is no pastor. Between the annual church

82 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

meeting and the beginning of the church year, the newly

elected church board may meet for organization purposes, at

which time it shall elect a church board secretary and a

church treasurer as provided hereafter and any other officer

that it shall be their duty to elect. (129.19-130)

129. Business. The business of the church board

shall be:

129.1. To care for the interests of the church and its work,

not otherwise provided for, in harmony with the pastor. (156,

415)

129.2. To nominate to the church, after having consulted

with the district superintendent, any elder or licensed minister

whom it may deem the proper person to become pastor,

provided the nomination be approved by the district superintendent.

(115, 208.9)

129.3. To cooperate with an incoming pastor in the development

of a written statement of goals and expectations.

(115.2)

129.4. To conduct at least once a year, along with the pastor,

a planning session for the purpose of updating a clear

written understanding of expectations, goals, plans and objectives.

(121)

129.5. To arrange for pastoral supply, with approval of the

district superintendent, until such time as a pastor shall be

regularly called by the church. (209, 421)

129.6. To provide for the development and adoption of an

annual budget for the church, all auxiliaries, any childcare/

schools (birth through secondary) projecting income and expenditures.

129.7. To assign a committee of the board, whose responsibilities

include: (a) monitoring the church budget, (b) reporting

to the board on the financial conditions and concerns of

the church.

129.8. To determine the amount of compensation the pastor

shall receive, and to review it at least once a year. (115.4,

122)

129.9. To provide ways and means for the support of the

pastor, the pastoral supply, or any other paid workers of the

church; to encourage and support through planning and

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 83

budgeting the lifelong learning commitment of the pastor and

staff. (115.4)

129.10. In order to encourage a healthy pastoral ministry

and the lifelong learning of the pastor, the church board, in

consultation with the district superintendent, should provide

a sabbatical leave for the pastor following each seven

consecutive year of service in one congregation. The timing

and duration of the sabbatical shall be determined in consultation

with the pastor, church board and district superintendent.

It is strongly urged that the pastor’s salary continue

in full and the church board provide for pulpit supply

during the sabbatical period. Materials shall be developed

and distributed by the appropriate department of the

church to guide local congregations in establishing and implementing

a sabbatical leave policy and procedure.

129.11. To determine the financial support and housing

allowance an evangelist should receive and notify the person

of such minimum support at the time of the call by the

church board.

129.12. To license, or renew the license of, at its discretion,

any person who has been recommended by the pastor

for (a) local minister, or (b) lay minister. (402.3, 426.1, 426.3)

129.13. To recommend, at its discretion, to the district assembly,

upon nomination by the pastor, any person who desires

to receive a certificate for any of the assigned roles of

ministry, including all lay and ministerial candidates aspiring

to be recognized for ministries beyond the local church,

if such recommendation is required by the Manual.

129.14. To recommend, at its discretion, to the district assembly,

upon nomination by the pastor, any person who desires

the Licensed Minister’s Credential or its renewal.

(426.5, 427.1)

129.15. To recommend, at its discretion, to the district assembly,

upon nomination by the pastor, renewal of deaconess’

license in harmony with 406.

129.16. To elect, upon nomination of the Sunday School

Ministries Board, with the approval of the pastor, a director

of children’s ministries and a director of adult ministries.

(145.6)

84 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

129.17. To approve the NYI president elected by the NYI

organization of the local church, as provided in the NYI

Charter.

129.18. To approve the selection of the administrators of

Nazarene childcare/schools (birth through secondary). (152,

160.1, 208.12, 413.18)

129.19. To elect a secretary, from among the church membership

who meets the qualifications for church officers as

specified in Manual paragraph 39, at the first meeting of

the new board, to serve until the close of the church year

and until a successor has been elected and qualified. (39,

113.6, 128, 135.1-35.7)

129.20. To elect a treasurer, from among the church membership

who meets the qualifications for church officers as

specified in paragraph 39, at the first meeting of the new

board, to serve until the close of the church year and until a

successor has been elected and qualified. No member of the

pastor’s immediate family (spouse, children, siblings, parents)

can serve as the local church treasurer without the approval

of the district superintendent and the District Advisory

Board. (128, 136.1-36.6)

129.21. To cause careful accounting to be kept of all money

received and disbursed by the church, including any

childcare/schools (birth through secondary) and all auxiliaries,

and make report of the same at its regular monthly

meetings and to the annual meeting of the church. (136.3-

36.5)

129.22. To provide a committee, no fewer than two members

of which shall count and account for all money received

by the church.

129.23. To appoint an auditing committee that shall audit,

at least annually, the financial records of the treasurer

of the church, the Nazarene Youth International, the Sunday

School Ministries Board, Nazarene childcare/schools

(birth through secondary), and any other financial records of

the church. The pastor shall have access to all records of the

local church.

129.24. To provide an Evangelism and Church Membership

Committee of no fewer than three persons. (110)

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 85

129.25. To function, if advisable, as the Sunday School

Ministries Board in churches of no more than 75 members.

(145)

129.26. To appoint a trial committee of five in case written

charges are pending against a church member. (504)

129.27. To elect, with the written approval of the district

superintendent and upon the nomination of the pastor, such

paid associates as the local church may designate. (151, 152,

160-60.1, 208.12)

129.28. To elect a local minister or a licensed minister as

an unpaid associate pastor only if approval is given annually

in writing by the district superintendent.

129.29. To provide for a long-range planning committee

for the church with the pastor as ex-officio chairperson.

129.30. To adopt and implement a plan to reduce the risk

that individuals placed in positions of authority within the

church will use the position of trust or authority to engage

in misconduct. The plan for each local church must take into

consideration its own unique circumstances.

130. The church board, together with the pastor, shall follow

plans adopted by the General Assembly and agreed to

by the district assembly for raising World Evangelism Fund

and District Ministries Fund apportionments made to the

local church, and shall raise and regularly pay these apportionments.

(317.12, 334.8)

131. Meaning of Stewardship. Refer to paragraphs 38-

8.4.

132. The church board shall perform the duties of a Sunday

School Ministries Board in a newly organized church

until such board has been regularly elected. (145)

132.1. The church board and pastor of the newly organized

church shall decide when a Sunday School superintendent

will be elected. (129.25, 145, 146)

133. The church board may remove from the membership

roll the name of an inactive church member after a period of

two years has elapsed from the date when his or her name

was declared inactive. (109-9.4, 112.3)

134. The church board may suspend or revoke the license

of any locally licensed person.

86 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

135. Church Secretary. The duties of the secretary of

the church board are:

135.1. To record correctly and preserve faithfully the minutes

of all church meetings and meetings of the church

board, and do whatever else may pertain to the office.

(119.1, 129.19)

135.2. To present to the annual meeting of the church an

annual report of the major activities of the local church, including

statistics on membership. (113.8)

135.3. To see that official papers, records, and legal documents

pertaining to the local church, including deeds, abstracts,

insurance policies, loan documents, church membership

rolls, historical records, church board minutes, and

incorporation papers are held in trust in either fireproof or

secure safes on the local church premises, or when feasible,

they may be placed in safe deposit facilities in local banks or

similar institutions. Access to such shall always be shared

with the pastor and church treasurer, and care for such

shall be delivered immediately to the church secretary’s successor

in office.

135.4. To be the secretary of all annual and special church

meetings; and to be custodian of the minutes and other papers

of such annual and special church meetings. (113.6)

135.5. To certify in writing to the district superintendent

the results of the vote from the calling of a pastor and the

continuation of the church/pastoral relationship. Such certification

shall be made within one week of the vote.

135.6. To send to the district superintendent a copy of the

minutes of all church meetings and meetings of the church

board within three days of such meetings when that local

church is without a pastor.

135.7. To sign in conjunction with the pastor all conveyances

of real estate, mortgages, releases of mortgages,

contracts, and other legal documents not otherwise provided

for in the Manual. (102.3, 103-4.2)

136. Church Treasurer. The duties of the treasurer of

the church board are:

136.1. To receive all moneys not otherwise provided for, and

disburse the same only on order of the church board. (129.21)

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 87

136.2. To make monthly remittances of all district funds

to the district treasurer, and of all general funds to the general

treasurer through the appropriate office, except as otherwise

provided. (413.17)

136.3. To keep a correct book record of all funds received

and disbursed. (129.21)

136.4. To present a detailed monthly financial report for

distribution to the church board. (129.21)

136.5. To present an annual financial report to the annual

church meeting. (113.8, 129.21)

136.6. To deliver to the church board the complete treasurer’s

records at such time as the treasurer shall cease to

hold the office.

L. The Stewards

137. The stewards of the church shall be no fewer than

three or more than thirteen in number. They shall be elected

by ballot, at the annual or a special church meeting, from

among the members of the church, to serve for the next

church year and until their successors have been elected

and qualified. (39, 113.7, 113.10, 127)

138. The duties of the stewards are:

138.1. To serve as a church growth committee, unless

otherwise provided for, with the responsibilities of outreach,

evangelism, and extension, including sponsoring new churches

and church-type missions, with the pastor as ex-officio chairperson.

138.2. To provide assistance and support for the needy

and distressed. A biblical role of lay leaders is that of ministering

in areas of practical service (Acts 6:1-3; Romans 12:6-

8). Therefore stewards should offer their time and spiritual

gifts in acts of service, administration, encouragement, mercy,

visitation, and other ministries.

138.3. To serve, at the discretion of the church board, as

the Evangelism and Church Membership Committee as outlined

in 110-10.8.

138.4. To assist the pastor in organizing the church so

that Christian service opportunities are available to all

members. Special attention should be given to the develop-

88 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

ment of ministries toward those of other cultural and socioeconomic

backgrounds in the immediate and nearby communities.

138.5. To serve as liaisons to community Christian action

and service organizations.

138.6. To give assistance to the pastor in public worship

and Christian nurture in the local church.

138.7. To provide the elements for the Lord’s Supper, and

when requested by the pastor, to assist in the distribution of

the same. (34.5, 413.11)

139. A vacancy in the office of steward may be filled by

the local church at a duly called church meeting. (113.14)

140. The stewards shall constitute the Stewardship Committee,

whose duty it shall be to promote the cause of Christian

stewardship of life resources in the local church in cooperation

with the pastor and the Stewardship Ministries

office of the general treasurer. (38-8.4)

M. The Trustees

141. The trustees of the church shall be no fewer than

three or more than nine in number. They shall be elected

from among the members of the local church to serve for the

next church year and until their successors have been elected

and qualified. (39, 113.10, 127)

142. In all cases where the civil law requires a specific

mode of election of church trustees, that mode shall be

strictly followed. (113.4)

142.1. Where no particular mode of election is required by

civil law the trustees shall be elected by ballot at the annual

meeting of the local church or at a special meeting duly

called for that purpose. (113.7, 113.10)

143. The duties of the trustees are:

143.1. To hold the title to church property and manage it

as trustees of the local church, where the local church is not

incorporated, or where the civil law requires it, or where for

other reasons it is deemed best by the district superintendent

or the District Advisory Board, subject to the guidance

and the restrictions as set forth in 102-4.4.

143.2. To give guidance to the development of the physical

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 89

facilities and to financial planning, unless the church board

has provided otherwise.

144. A vacancy in the office of trustee may be filled by the

local church at a duly called church meeting. (113.14)

N. The Sunday School Ministries Board

145. Each local church shall establish a Sunday School

Ministries Board, or an Education Committee as part of

the church board, at the annual church meeting, to be responsible

for the Christian education ministries of the

church. In churches of 75 members or fewer, the responsibilities

may be performed by the church board. Members are:

ex-officio the Sunday School superintendent (146); the pastor;

the NMI president; the NYI president; children’s ministries

director; adult ministries director; and three to nine

persons elected from the church membership at the annual

church meeting. The members may be elected for staggered

terms of two years and until their successors are elected and

qualified. When an elected member vacancy occurs, it may

be filled at a duly called church meeting. If a church elects

an education committee as part of the church board, it shall

follow Manual requirements for minimum number of stewards

and trustees (137, 141). Ex-officio personnel shall be

members of the committee, though some may not be members

of the church board.

We direct our local churches to elect as church officers only

persons who profess the experience of entire sanctification

and whose lives bear public witness to the grace of God

that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony with the doctrines,

polity, and practices of the Church of the Nazarene;

and who support the local church faithfully in attendance

and with tithes and offerings. (39)

The duties and powers of the Sunday School Ministries

Board or Education Committee are:

145.1. To plan, organize, promote, and conduct the ministry

of Christian education for the local church. This is to be

done subject to the direct care of the pastor, and the leadership

of the Sunday School superintendent, and the direction

of the local church board, in keeping with denominational

90 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

objectives and standards established by the General Board

and promoted through the Sunday School Ministries & NYI

Committee and offices of adult, NYI, and children’s ministries.

These include both curriculum and program-oriented

ministries for adults and children. The Sunday School, along

with the preaching ministry, provides the core of the

church’s study of Scripture and doctrine. Childcare/Schools

(birth through secondary) and annual/special ministries and

training, such as Caravan, Vacation Bible Schools, and singles’

ministries, provide opportunities through which scriptural

doctrines are lived out and integrated into the life of

the congregation. (413.23)

145.2. To reach the largest number of unchurched people

for Christ and the church, bringing them into the fellowship,

teaching the Word of God effectively, and encompassing

their salvation; teaching the doctrines of the Christian faith

and developing Christlike character, attitudes, and habits;

helping to establish Christian homes; preparing believers

for membership in the church and equipping them for appropriate

Christian ministries.

145.3. To determine the curricula of the various ministries,

always using Church of the Nazarene materials to

form the basis of biblical study and doctrinal interpretation.

145.4. To plan for and organize the total Sunday School

ministry of the local church in keeping with the Sunday

School Bylaws. (812)

145.5. To nominate to the annual church meeting one or

more persons approved by the pastor, for election to the office

of Sunday School superintendent. The nominations are

to be made in a meeting with the incumbent superintendent

not present.

145.6. To nominate to the church board persons approved

by the pastor, to serve as a director of children’s ministries

and a director of adult ministries.

145.7. To elect the children’s and adult councils from nominations

by the directors of children’s and adult ministries

with approval of the pastor and the Sunday School superintendent.

145.8. To elect all age-group Sunday School supervisors,

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 91

teachers, and officers who shall be professing Christians, exemplary

in life, and in full harmony with the doctrines and

polity of the Church of the Nazarene, from nominations by

the NYI president and the directors of children’s and adult

ministries. The nominees shall be approved by the pastor

and the Sunday School superintendent.

145.9. To elect a local director of Continuing Lay Training,

who shall organize, promote, and supervise regular training

opportunities for Sunday School ministries workers and the

entire membership of the church. The Sunday School Ministries

Board shall have the option of naming the Continuing

Lay Training director as an ex-officio member to this

board.

145.10. To hold regular meetings; and to organize, by

electing a secretary and other officers considered necessary,

at the beginning of the Sunday School ministries year,

which shall be the same as the church year (114). The pastor

or the Sunday School superintendent may call special meetings.

146. The Sunday School Superintendent. The annual

church meeting shall elect by majority vote by ballot, of

those present and voting, from among its full members, a

Sunday School superintendent to serve for one year (39), or

until his or her successor is elected. The Sunday School Ministries

Board, with the pastor’s approval, may call for an incumbent

Sunday School superintendent to be elected by a

“yes” or “no” vote. A vacancy shall be filled by the local

church at a duly called church meeting (113.10, 145.5). The

Sunday School superintendent, newly elected, shall be a

member ex-officio of the district assembly (201), the local

church board (127), and the Sunday School Ministries Board

(145).

We direct our local churches to elect as church officers only

persons who profess the experience of entire sanctification

and whose lives bear public witness to the grace of God

that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony with the doctrines,

polity, and practices of the Church of the Nazarene;

and who support the local church faithfully in attendance

and with tithes and offerings. (39)

92 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

The duties and powers of the Sunday School superintendent

are:

146.1. To have executive supervision of all Sunday School

ministries in the local church.

146.2. To administer the Sunday School in keeping with

the Sunday School Bylaws. (812)

146.3. To promote programs of growth in enrollment, attendance,

and leadership training.

146.4. To preside over the regular meetings of the Sunday

School Ministries Board, or the Education Committee of the

church board, and to lead the Sunday School Ministries

Board in performing its duties.

146.5. To submit an annual budget for Sunday School

ministries to the church board.

146.6. To make a monthly report to the church board and

to submit a written report to the annual church meeting.

147. Children/Adult Councils and Directors. The

work of Sunday School ministries is best organized by agegroups:

children, youth, and adults. For each age-group

there should be a council responsible to organize and administer

the work. Such council is composed of the age-group director

and representatives from the Sunday School and other

ministries the church provides for that age-group. The

task of the council is to work with the age-group director to

plan ministries for that age-group, and to make provisions

for the implementation of those plans. All work of the children’s

and adult councils is subject to approval of its director

and the Sunday School Ministries Board.

The duties of the age-group directors are:

147.1. To chair the age-group council that he or she directs

and to lead the council in organizing, promoting, and

coordinating the total Sunday School ministry for persons

within that age-group.

147.2. To give leadership to the appropriate age-group of

the Sunday School by promoting programs of growth in enrollment

and attendance for children, youth, or adults in the

local church, in cooperation with the Sunday School Ministries

Board.

147.3. To give leadership for additional Sunday, childcare/

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 93

schools (birth through secondary), annual and special ministries,

evangelism and fellowship activities for the agegroup

he or she represents.

147.4. To nominate to the Sunday School Ministries Board

the leadership for the various ministries assigned to his or

her age-group, including Sunday School supervisors, teachers,

and officers, with exception of NYI who will nominate

youth Sunday School supervisors, teachers, and officers (39).

The nominees shall be approved by the pastor and the Sunday

School superintendent.

147.5. To obtain the approval of the Sunday School Ministries

Board before using supplemental curriculum.

147.6. To provide leadership training for age-group workers

in cooperation with the Sunday School Ministries Board

and the director of Continuing Lay Training.

147.7. To submit an annual budget request to the Sunday

School Ministries Board and/or church board, and to administer

funds in accordance with such budget approval.

147.8. To receive all reports of the various ministries functioning

within the age-groups of the local church under his

or her direction. A monthly report of Sunday School enrollment,

attendance, and ministry activities shall be submitted

to the Sunday School superintendent.

147.9. To submit a quarterly calendar of his or her agegroup

activities to the Sunday School Ministries Board to be

coordinated with the total Sunday School ministry of the local

church.

148. Children’s Ministries Council. The Children’s

Ministries Council is responsible for planning the total Sunday

School ministry for children from birth to age 12 in the

local church. The council is composed of at least one Sunday

School representative and the directors of any other children’s

ministry being offered in the local church, such as:

children’s church, Caravan, Vacation Bible School, Bible

quizzing, missions, Cradle Roll, and any others deemed necessary.

The council size will vary with the number of ministries

being offered to children in the local church as needs

are identified and leadership is available.

The duties of the children’s ministries director are:

94 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

148.1. To perform those duties assigned to all age-group

directors in 147.1-47.9.

148.2. To work with the NMI Executive Committee of the

local church in appointing a children’s mission director. The

person appointed becomes a member of both the NMI and

Children’s Ministries councils. Nominees for this position

shall be approved by the pastor and the Sunday School

superintendent.

149. Adult Ministries Council. The Adult Ministries

Council shall be responsible for planning the total Sunday

School ministry for adults in the local church. The Adult

Ministries Council is composed of at least one Sunday

School representative and the directors of any other ministry

being offered in the local church, such as: marriage and

family life, senior adult ministries, single adult ministries,

small-group Bible studies, lay ministries, women’s ministries,

men’s ministries, and any others deemed necessary.

The council size will vary with the number of ministries being

offered to adults in the local church as needs are identified

and leadership is available.

The duties of the adult ministries director are:

149.1. To perform those duties assigned to all age-group

directors in 147.1-47.9.

O. Nazarene Youth International/NYI Council

150. Nazarene youth ministry is organized in the local

church under the auspices of Nazarene Youth International.

Local groups are organized under the Nazarene Youth International

Charter and the authority of the local church

board.

150.1. The local NYI shall organize itself according to the

NYI Local Ministry Plan, which may be adapted in response

to local youth ministry needs, consistent with the NYI Charter

and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

150.2. The local NYI shall be coordinated by an NYI

Council, responsible for planning and organizing ministry

for youth ages 12 and older, college/university students, and

young adults, and collectively casting the vision for local

youth ministry. All work of the NYI Council pertaining to

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 95

Sunday School is subject to the approval of the Sunday

School Superintendent and Sunday School Ministries Board.

150.3. The NYI Council shall be composed of the president

and other officers with assigned ministry responsibilities according

to local church needs, youth representatives and

ministry directors as deemed necessary, and the local pastor

and/or youth pastor. NYI Council officers shall be members

of the local Church of the Nazarene where they serve. The

council shall be responsible to the church board.

150.4. NYI officers and council members are elected by

the NYI membership. Only those NYI members who are also

members of the local Church of the Nazarene shall be entitled

to vote for the NYI president.

151. NYI President. The president of the local Nazarene

Youth International group shall be elected according to the

NYI Local Ministry Plan, at the annual NYI meeting by the

NYI members present who are also members of the Church

of the Nazarene. Nominees shall be approved by the local

pastor and church board. The NYI president shall be a member

ex-officio of the church board (127), the Sunday School

Ministries Board (145), and the district assembly (201).

Should the term “president” not effectively communicate in

a particular culture, a more appropriate title may be used

by vote of the local NYI Council.

The duties of the NYI president are:

151.1. To chair the NYI Council in facilitating the development

of youth ministry in the local church.

151.2. To work with the NMI president in the development

of a missions emphasis for youth.

151.3. To perform those duties for youth Sunday School as

assigned to all age-group directors in 147.1-47.9.

151.4. To report monthly to the local church board and the

annual meeting of the local church. (113.8, 127)

151.5. When a youth pastor is employed in a church, the

pastor, in consultation with the church board and NYI

Council, assigns the responsibility for NYI to the youth pastor.

In that case, the youth pastor carries out some of the

duties otherwise designated to the local NYI president. However,

the importance of the NYI president remains in provid-

96 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

ing lay leadership, support, and representation for local

youth ministry. The pastor, youth pastor, and NYI Council

work together to define the roles and responsibilities of the

two positions and how they work together for the benefit of

the church’s youth ministry. A youth pastor may not serve as

the NYI president. (160.4)

P. Nazarene Childcare/Schools

(Birth through Secondary)

152. Nazarene childcare/schools (birth through secondary)

may be organized by the local church board(s) after receiving

the approval of the district superintendent and the District

Advisory Board, and following criteria established by

Children’s Ministries/Sunday School Ministries Department.

The director and school board shall be accountable to and

shall submit an annual report to the local church board(s).

(129.18, 208.12-8.13, 222.11, 413.23, 414)

152.1. School Closings. In the event a local church

should find it necessary to suspend operations of its childcare/

school(s), (birth through secondary), it should do so only

after consulting with the district superintendent and the

District Advisory Board and presenting a financial report.

Q. The Local Nazarene Missions International

153. Upon the authorization of the church board, local organizations

of the Nazarene Missions International may be

formed within any age-group in harmony with the NMI

Constitution approved by the General Nazarene Missions

International Convention and the World Mission Committee

of the General Board. (811)

153.1. The local Nazarene Missions International shall be a

constituent part of the local church and subject to the supervision

and direction of the pastor and the church board. (414)

153.2. The president of the local NMI shall be nominated

by a committee of three to seven members of the Nazarene

Missions International appointed by the pastor, who shall

serve as chairperson. This committee shall submit one or

more names for the office of president subject to the approval

of the church board. The president shall be elected by

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 97

a majority vote by ballot of the members (excluding associate)

present and voting. The president shall be a member of

the local church whose NMI is served, a member ex-officio of

the church board (or in churches where the president is the

pastor’s spouse, the vice president may serve on the church

board), and a member of the district assembly held immediately

prior to his or her year of office. The president shall

present a report to the annual meeting of the local church.

(113.8, 114, 122, 127, 201)

154. All funds raised by the local NMI for general interests

of the Church of the Nazarene shall be applied to the

World Evangelism Fund apportionment of the local church

with the exception of mission special projects that have been

approved by the Ten Percent Committee.

154.1. After primary consideration has been given to the

full payment of the World Evangelism Fund, opportunities

may be given to make offerings for the support of world missionary

work, such contributions to be known as “approved

mission specials.”

155. Funds for the support of general interests shall be

raised in the following manners:

155.1. From gifts and offerings designated for the World

Evangelism Fund and general interests.

155.2. From special offerings such as Easter and Thanksgiving.

155.3. No part of the above funds shall be used for local or

district expense or charitable purposes.

R. Prohibition of Financial Appeals

156. It shall not be lawful for a local church, its officers, or

members, to send appeals to other local churches, their officers,

and members, to solicit money or financial assistance

for their local church needs or for the interests that they

may support. It is provided, however, that such solicitation

may be made to local churches and church members located

within the bounds of the assembly district in which the solicitor

is located, but only on condition that the solicitation

be approved in writing by the district superintendent and

the District Advisory Board.

98 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

157. Members of the Church of the Nazarene who are not

authorized by the General Board or one of its committees

shall not solicit funds for missionary or kindred activities

apart from the World Evangelism Fund, from congregations

of local churches, or from members of such churches.

S. Use of the Church Name

158. The name of the Church of the Nazarene, any local

church, or any corporation or institution that is a part or in

any manner affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, or

any part of any such name, shall not be used by any members

of the Church of the Nazarene nor any one or more

members thereof, or by any corporation, partnership, association,

group, or other entity in connection with any activity

(whether of a commercial, social, educational, charitable, or

other nature) without the prior written approval of the General

Board of the Church of the Nazarene and the Board of

General Superintendents, provided, however, that this provision

shall not apply to such activities of the Church of the

Nazarene as are authorized by its official Manual.

T. Church-sponsored Corporation

159. No local church, local church board, district corporation,

district board, nor any two or more members of any of

them, acting individually or otherwise, shall directly or indirectly

form or become members of any corporation, association,

partnership, group, or other entity that promotes, sponsors,

encourages, or in any manner engages in any activity

(whether of a commercial, social, educational, charitable, or

other nature) in which members of the Church of the Nazarene

are solicited or in any manner sought as prospective

participants, customers, tenants, clients, members, or associates,

or in any activity (whether of a commercial, social,

educational, charitable, or other nature) that directly or indirectly

purports to be sponsored or operated primarily or

exclusively by or for the benefit or service of members of the

Church of the Nazarene, without the express prior written

consent of the district superintendent, the District Advisory

Board, and the Board of General Superintendents.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 99

U. Associates in the Local Church

160. There may be those who feel called to prepare themselves

for certain vital lay services in the church, either

part-time or full-time. The church recognizes the place of

such lay workers, and yet it is basically constituted a voluntary

institution, with service to God and others the duty and

privilege of all its members according to their abilities.

When paid associates in the local church, or any subsidiary

and/or affiliated corporations of the local congregation,

whether ministerial or lay, become necessary for greater efficiency,

it must be such as will not devitalize the spirit of free

service by all its members or tax the church’s financial resources

including the payment of all financial apportionments.

However, a request may be made in writing for review

by the district superintendent and District Advisory

Board for exceptions in special cases. (129.27)

160.1. All local paid or unpaid associates who provide specialized

ministry within the context of the local church and

enter into a relationship of vocational ministry within the

church, including directors of childcare/schools (birth

through secondary), shall be elected by the church board,

having been nominated by the pastor. All nominations must

have prior approval in writing by the district superintendent,

who shall respond within 15 days after receipt of the

request. (160.4, 208.12)

160.2. The employment of such associates shall be for no

more than one year and may be renewed upon recommendation

of the pastor with the prior written approval of the district

superintendent and the favorable vote of the church

board. The pastor shall be responsible to conduct an annual

review of each staff member. The pastor, in consultation

with the church board, may make recommendations for staff

development or modifications in job description as indicated

by the review. The dismissal of all local associates prior to

the end of the employment term (end of fiscal church year)

must be by recommendation of the pastor, approval of the

district superintendent, and the majority vote of the church

board. Notification of dismissal or nonrenewal must be given

100 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

in writing not less than 30 days prior to the termination of

employment. (129.27)

160.3. The duties and services of such associates are to be

determined and supervised by the pastor. A clear, written

statement of responsibilities (job description) shall be made

available to such associates within 30 days of the beginning

of their responsibility to the local church.

160.4. No paid employee of the church shall be eligible for

election to the church board. If a church board member

should become a paid employee of the church, he or she

shall not remain a member of the church board.

160.5. In times of pastoral transition, the stability, unity,

and ongoing ministry of the local church is crucial. Consequently,

upon resignation or termination of the pastor, a

local church board may request that the district superintendent

approve the continued service of any or all associates.

This approval, if granted, could continue until 90 days after

the new pastor’s assumption of duties or until the incoming

pastor nominates his or her paid associates for the coming

year in harmony with Manual paragraph 160. Directors of

childcare/schools (birth through secondary) shall submit

their resignations effective at the end of the school year in

which the new pastor assumes the duties of the office. The

chief executive officer of any subsidiary and/or affiliated corporation

shall submit his or her resignation at the end of

that contractual period in which the new pastor assumes

the duties of the office. The incoming pastor may have the

privilege of recommending the employment of staff members

previously employed.

160.6. Communication with staff members, the church

board, and the congregation regarding the effect of 160.5 on

staff members at the time of pastoral change shall be the responsibility

of the district superintendent. (208.12)

160.7. The pastor of a congregation having approval to

function as a local church according to 100.1 shall not be

considered a staff member.

160.8. Any person serving as paid staff would be ineligible

to be called as pastor to the church of which he or she is a

member without approval of the District Advisory Board. (115)

LOCAL GOVERNMENT 101

CHAPTER II

THE DISTRICT ASSEMBLY

A. Bounds and Name

200. The General Assembly shall organize the membership

of the church into districts.

The bounds and name of a district shall be such as shall

be declared by the General Assembly, or by the assembly

district involved, with the final approval of the general

superintendent or superintendents having jurisdiction. (30)

200.1. The Creation of New Districts. New districts in

the Church of the Nazarene may be created by:

1. The division of one district into two or more districts

(requires a two-thirds vote of the district assembly);

2. The combination of two or more districts out of which a

differing configuration of districts may be created;

3. The formation of a new district in an area not encompassed

by any existing district;

4. The merger of two or more districts, or

5. A recommendation to establish a new district shall be

submitted to the general superintendent(s) in jurisdiction.

The district superintendent(s) and District Advisory

Board(s) or national board(s) may approve and refer

the matter to the district assembly/assemblies for

vote with the approval of the general superintendent(s)

in jurisdiction and the Board of General Superintendents.

(30, 200, 200.4)

200.2. Work in the Church of the Nazarene may begin as a

pioneer area and lead to the establishment of new districts and

district assembly boundaries. Phase 3 districts may emerge as

quickly as possible according to the following pattern:

Phase 1. A Phase 1 district shall be designated when opportunity

for entry into a new area is presented, within

102 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

guidelines for strategic development and evangelism. Requests

may be made by a regional director, a district

through the Regional Advisory Council, or the sponsoring

district superintendent and/or District Advisory Board for final

approvals by the general superintendent(s) in jurisdiction

and the Board of General Superintendents. (200.1, #5)

A Phase 1 district superintendent in regions related to the

World Mission Department shall be recommended by the regional

director, in consultation with the department director,

to the general superintendent having jurisdiction who shall

appoint. The region shall give guidance to the Phase 1 district

regarding resources available for development. In other

regions, the district superintendent shall be appointed by

the general superintendent in jurisdiction after consultation

with the district superintendent(s) and Advisory Board(s) of

the sponsoring district(s). (204.2)

When, in the opinion of the field strategy coordinator and

regional director, a Phase 1 district in regions related to the

World Mission Department, is in crisis—financial, morale or

otherwise—and this crisis seriously affects the stability and

future of the district, a district may be declared in crisis

with the approval of the general superintendent in jurisdiction

and in consultation with the World Mission Department

director. The regional director, with the approval of the general

superintendent in jurisdiction, may appoint an interim

board for the management of the district and in lieu of all

existing boards, until the next regularly scheduled district

assembly. On those districts not served by a regional director

and Regional Advisory Council, the general superintendent

in jurisdiction, in consultation with the Board of General

Superintendents, may make such determination.

Phase 2. A Phase 2 district may be designated when a

sufficient number of fully organized churches and ordained

elders, and a district infrastructure of adequate maturity exists

to recommend such designation.

Such designation will be by the Board of General Superintendents

upon recommendation of the general superintendent

in jurisdiction after consultation with the department

director, regional director, and other individuals and boards

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 103

involved in the appointment of the district superintendent.

A district superintendent will be elected or appointed.

Quantifiable guidelines would be a minimum of 10 organized

churches, 500 full members, and 5 ordained elders,

and a minimum of 50% of district administration expense

shall be generated by district ministries fund income at the

time of designation. A District Advisory Board or national

board may request the general superintendent in jurisdiction

for an exception to these criteria. (204.2)

When, in the opinion of the field strategy coordinator and

regional director, a Phase 2 district in regions related to the

World Mission Department, is in crisis—financial, morale or

otherwise—and this crisis seriously affects the stability and

future of the district, a district may be declared in crisis

with the approval of the general superintendent in jurisdiction

and in consultation with the World Mission Department

director. The regional director, with the approval of the general

superintendent in jurisdiction, may appoint an interim

board for the management of the district and in lieu of all

existing boards, until the next regularly scheduled district

assembly. On those districts not served by a regional director

and Regional Advisory Council, the general superintendent

in jurisdiction, in consultation with the Board of General

Superintendents, may make such determination.

Phase 3. A Phase 3 district may be declared when a sufficient

number of fully organized churches, and ordained elders,

and members exist to warrant such designation. Leadership,

infrastructure, budgetary responsibility, and doctrinal integrity

must be demonstrated. A Phase 3 district must be able to

shoulder these burdens and share the challenges of the Great

Commission within the global scope of an international church.

Such designation will be by the Board of General Superintendents

upon recommendation of the general superintendent

in jurisdiction after consultation with the department

director, regional director, and other individuals and boards

involved in the appointment of the district superintendent.

(203.13) A district superintendent will be selected in accordance

with Manual provisions.

104 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

Quantifiable criteria include a minimum of 20 organized

churches, 1,000 full members, and 10 ordained elders. A District

Advisory Board or national board may request to the

general superintendent in jurisdiction for an exception to

these criteria.

A Phase 3 district must be 100% self-supporting in regard

to district administration. The district superintendent shall

be elected by the district assembly in accordance with Manual

provisions.

Phase 3 districts are an integral part of their respective

regions. In regions having a regional director, the general

superintendent in jurisdiction may enlist the assistance of

the regional director to facilitate communication with and

supervision of the district.

When in the opinion of a general superintendent in jurisdiction,

a district is in crisis—financial, morale, or otherwise—

and this crisis seriously affects the stability and future

of the district, a district may be declared in crisis with the

approval of the Board of General Superintendents and the

General Board Executive Committee. The general superintendent

in jurisdiction, with approval of the Board of General

Superintendents and the Executive Committee of the General

Board may take the following action: (1) remove the district

superintendent; (2) appoint an interim board for the management

of the district in lieu of all existing boards, until the

next regularly scheduled district assembly; and (3) initiate

such special interventions as may be necessary to restore the

district’s health and mission effectiveness. (307.8, 322)

200.3. Criteria for District Division or District

Boundary Changes. A proposal for district development or

district boundary changes developed by a regional office, a

national board, or a District Advisory Board may be presented

to the general superintendent in jurisdiction. Such a plan

should take into consideration:

1. That the proposed new districts have population centers

that justify the creation of such districts;

2. That lines of communication and transportation are

available to facilitate the work of the districts;

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 105

3. That a sufficient number of mature elders and lay leaders

are available for the work of the district;

4. That the sponsoring districts will have, wherever possible,

sufficient district ministries fund income, sufficient

membership and organized churches to maintain

their Phase 3 district status;

200.4. Mergers. Two or more Phase 3 districts may be

merged upon two-thirds favorable vote by each of the district

assemblies involved, provided: The merger shall have

been recommended by the respective District Advisory

Boards, (and national board{s} where applicable), and approved

in writing by the general superintendents in jurisdiction

of the districts involved.

The merger and all pertinent related matters shall be finalized

at a time and place determined by the district assemblies

involved, and the respective general superintendents

in jurisdiction.

The organization thus created will combine the assets and

liabilities of the respective districts. (200.1)

Phase 1 and Phase 2 districts may be merged in accordance

with provisions for new district formation outlined in

paragraph 200.2.

200.5. If any or all of the district assemblies involved fail

to act, or if the actions of the several district assemblies are

in disagreement, the recommendation may be submitted to

the next General Assembly for action, if requested by a twothirds

majority of the affected District Advisory Boards.

200.6. A district superintendent may use zone facilitators

or mission area directors to assist in:

1. Building a sense of community and camaraderie

among the pastors of that zone or mission area;

2. Promoting the cause of Christ by encouraging and

strategizing for ministerial development, church

growth, evangelism, starting and restarting churches;

3. Carrying out specific assignments on behalf of the district

superintendent and the District Advisory Board;

and

4. Serving as a communications bridge between the local

congregations and the district.

106 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

B. Membership and Time of Meeting

201. Membership. The district assembly shall be composed

of all assigned elders (429-29.3, 430-30.1, 433.9); all

assigned deacons (428-28.4, 433.9); all assigned licensed

ministers (427.8); all retired assigned ministers (431-31.1);

the district secretary (216.2); the district treasurer (219.2);

chairpersons of standing district committees reporting to

the district assembly; any lay presidents of Nazarene institutions

of higher education, whose local church membership

is on the district; the District Sunday School Ministries

chairperson (238.2); the district age-group ministries directors

(children and adult); the District Sunday School Ministries

Board; the president of the District Nazarene Youth

International (239.4); the president of the District Nazarene

Missions International (240.2); the newly elected superintendent

or vice superintendent of each local Sunday School

Ministries Board (146); the newly elected president or vice

president of each local Nazarene Youth International (151);

the newly elected president or vice president of each local

Nazarene Missions International (153.2); or an appropriately

elected alternate may represent the auxiliary organizations

in the district assembly; those serving in assigned

roles of ministry according to 402-23.1; the lay members of

the District Advisory Board (221.3); all retired assigned lay

career missionaries whose local church membership is on

the district; and the lay delegates from each local church in

the assembly district. (30, 113.13, 201.1-1.2)

201.1. Local churches in districts of fewer than 5,000 full

church members shall be entitled to representation in the

district assembly as follows: two lay delegates from each local

church of 50 or fewer full church members, and one additional

lay delegate for each successive 50 full church members

and the final major part of 50 full church members. (30,

113.13, 201)

201.2. Local churches in districts of 5,000 or more full

church members shall be entitled to representation in the

district assembly as follows: one lay delegate from each local

church of 50 or fewer full church members, and one addi-

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 107

tional lay delegate for each successive 50 full church members

and the final major part of 50 full church members. (30,

113.13, 201)

202. Time. The district assembly shall be held annually,

at the time appointed by the general superintendent having

jurisdiction, and in the place designated by the preceding

district assembly or arranged for by the district superintendent.

202.1. Nominating Committee. Prior to the convening

of the district assembly, the district superintendent in consultation

with the District Advisory Board shall appoint a

nominating committee to serve the district assembly; this

committee may prepare nominations for the usual committees

and offices in advance of the convening of the district

assembly. (212.2)

C. Business of the District Assembly

203. Rules of Order. Subject to the applicable law, the

Articles of Incorporation and the Bylaws of government in

the Manual, the meetings and proceedings of the members

of the Church of the Nazarene, local, district, and general,

and the committees of the corporation shall be regulated

and controlled according to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly

Revised (latest edition) for parliamentary procedure. (40)

203.1. The business of the district assembly shall be:

203.2. To hear and receive an annual report of the district

superintendent which summarizes the ministry of the district

including newly organized churches.

203.3. To hear or receive reports from all ordained and licensed

ministers serving as pastors or commissioned evangelists;

and to consider the character of all elders, deacons,

and deaconesses. By vote of the district assembly the record

of written reports received by the secretary may be accepted

in place of oral reports of all other elders, deacons, deaconesses,

and licensed ministers not engaged in active service,

and those ministers having district certificates for all

roles of ministry in 402-23.1. (418, 427.8, 433.9)

203.4. To license as licensed ministers, after careful examination,

persons who have been recommended by church

108 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

boards or the District Advisory Board and who may be

judged to be called to the ministry and to renew such license

upon favorable recommendation of the Ministerial Credentials

Board. (129.14, 426.5, 427.1, 427.3)

203.5. To renew as licensed deaconesses, after careful examination,

persons who have been recommended by church

boards and who may be judged to be called to the office of

deaconess upon favorable recommendation of the Ministerial

Credentials Board. (129.15)

203.6. To elect to the order of elder, or to the order of deacon,

persons judged to have fulfilled all the requirements for

such orders of ministry upon favorable recommendation of

the Ministerial Credentials Board. (428.3, 429.3)

203.7. To recognize the orders of ministry and credentials

of persons coming from other denominations who may be

judged qualified and desirable for placement in the Church

of the Nazarene upon favorable recommendation of the Ministerial

Credentials Board. (427.2, 430-30.2)

203.8. To receive, by transfer from other districts, persons

having ministerial credentials, members of the clergy, and

those having commissions for continuing ministry roles, in

harmony with 402, 406-9.1, including interim transfers approved

by the District Advisory Board, who may be judged

as desirable for membership in the district assembly upon

favorable recommendation of the Ministerial Credentials

Board. (228.9-28.10, 432-32.2)

203.9. To issue a transfer of members of the clergy, and

those having commissions for continuing ministry roles according

to 402, 406-9.1, including interim transfers approved

by the District Advisory Board, who desire to transfer

to another district upon favorable recommendation of the

Ministerial Credentials Board. (228.9-28.10, 432-32.1)

203.10. To commission or register for one year those persons

deemed qualified for the roles of ministry named and

defined in 402-23.1 upon favorable recommendation of the

Ministerial Credentials Board.

203.11. To elect, by two-thirds favorable vote, by ballot, an

elder to the office of district superintendent, to serve until

30 days following the final adjournment of the second dis-

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 109

trict assembly following his or her election and until a successor

is elected or appointed and qualified. The procedure

for reelection of a district superintendent shall be by a “yes”

or “no” ballot vote. No elder shall be considered eligible for

election to this office who has at any time surrendered his or

her credential for disciplinary reasons. No superintendent

shall be elected or reelected following his or her 70th birthday.

203.12. After a district superintendent of a Phase 2 or

Phase 3 district (200.2) has served a district for at least two

assembly years, the district assembly may reelect said

superintendent for a period of four years subject to the approval

of the general superintendent in jurisdiction. The

procedure for election to an extended term of office shall be

by a two-thirds favorable “yes” or “no” ballot.

203.13. In case the general superintendent and the officers

of the district, namely, the District Advisory Board,

chairperson of the District Sunday School Ministries Board,

the presidents of the district NMI and NYI, the district secretary,

and the district treasurer, shall be of the opinion that

the services of the district superintendent should not continue

beyond the current year, the general superintendent having

jurisdiction and the district officers may order the question

submitted for a vote of the district assembly. The

question shall be submitted in the following form: “Shall the

present district superintendent be continued in office beyond

this district assembly?”

If the district assembly, by a two-thirds vote by ballot, decides

to continue the district superintendent in office, he or

she shall continue to serve as though such vote had not been

taken.

If, however, the district assembly fails to decide by such

vote to continue the district superintendent in office, his or

her term of office shall terminate 30-180 days following the

close of that district assembly, with the date to be determined

by the general superintendent in jurisdiction in consultation

with the officers of the district. (204.2, 206)

203.14. To elect, by ballot, up to three ordained ministers

and up to three laypersons to the District Advisory Board, to

110 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

serve for a term not to exceed four years, as determined by

the district assembly, and until their successors are elected

and qualified.

However, when the district exceeds a total membership of

5,000, it may elect one additional ordained minister and one

additional layperson for each successive 2,500 members and

the final major part of 2,500 members. (221)

203.15. To elect a District Ministerial Credentials Board

of not less than 5 nor more than 15 ordained ministers, one

of whom shall be the district superintendent, to serve for

four years and until their successors are elected and qualified.

This board shall meet prior to the district assembly to

consider all matters subject to its authority and, insofar as

is possible, to complete its work prior to the district assembly.

(226-28.10)

203.16. To elect a District Ministerial Studies Board of

five or more ordained ministers, to serve for four years and

until their successors are elected and qualified. (229)

203.17. To facilitate greater flexibility on districts in the

use of the most appropriate persons for specific assignments

in preparing candidates for ordination, districts may elect

the total number necessary to serve on both the District

Ministerial Credentials Board and the District Ministerial

Studies Board as a District Board of Ministry.

At the first meeting of this District Board of Ministry, the

district superintendent may organize the group into a Ministerial

Credentials Board and a Ministerial Studies Board,

a Rehabilitation Committee, and any other committees that

may be deemed wise. (226, 229)

203.18. To elect a District Church Properties Board in keeping

with provisions of 233. (204.1)

203.19. To elect at its discretion either or both of the following:

(1) a District Evangelism Board of no less than six

members including the district superintendent, (2) a district

director of evangelism. The persons elected shall serve until

the final adjournment of the next district assembly and until

their successors are elected and qualified. (204.1, 212)

203.20. To elect a District Sunday School Ministries

Board in harmony with the procedure stated in 237, to serve

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 111

until their successors are elected and qualified. (204.1, 212)

203.21. To elect a District Assembly Finance Committee of

equal lay and ministerial representation to serve for a term

not to exceed four years, as determined by the district assembly,

and until their successors are elected and qualified.

The district superintendent and district treasurer shall be

members ex-officio. (235-35.2)

203.22. To elect a District Court of Appeals, consisting of

three ordained ministers, including the district superintendent,

and two laypersons, to serve for a term not to exceed

four years and until their successors are elected and qualified.

(509)

203.23. To elect, by ballot, at a session within 16 months

of the meeting of the General Assembly, or within 24 months

in areas where travel visas or other unusual preparations

are necessary, all of the lay delegates and all but one of the

ministerial delegates, since one shall be the district superintendent.

Every Phase 3 district assembly shall be entitled to

representation at the General Assembly by an equal number

of ministerial and lay delegates. The district superintendent

at the time of the General Assembly shall be one of the ministerial

delegates, and the remaining ministerial delegates

shall be ordained ministers. In case the district superintendent

is unable to attend, or in case there has been a vacancy

and the new district superintendent has not been appointed,

the properly elected alternate shall be seated in the district

superintendent’s place. The Nominating Committee shall

submit ballots containing at least three times the number of

delegates eligible from that district, in each category, ministerial

and lay. From these nominees, the allowed delegates

and alternates shall be elected according to paragraphs

301.1-1.3. Delegates elected are expected to attend faithfully

all meetings of the General Assembly from opening to closing

unless providentially prevented. (31.1-1.3, 301.1-1.3,

303, 331.1)

203.24. To establish, at its discretion, a system of associate

membership for its local churches, but associate members

must not be counted as full members for purposes of

representation. (108)

112 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

203.25. To provide for the auditing of all district treasurers’

books annually, either by a District Auditing Committee

elected by the District Advisory Board or by an auditing

firm or certified public accountant. (222.18)

203.26. To present to the General Assembly, through the

district secretary, a full official journal for the preceding

quadrennium, to be preserved and filed. (205.3-5.4, 217.7)

203.27. To grant a retired relation to a minister upon recommendation

of the District Ministerial Credentials Board.

Any change in status must be approved by the district assembly,

upon recommendation by the District Ministerial

Credentials Board. (228.8, 431)

203.28. To consider and care for the entire work of the

Church of the Nazarene within the bounds of the assembly

district.

203.29. To transact any other business pertaining to the

work, not otherwise provided for, in harmony with the spirit

and order of the Church of the Nazarene.

204. Other Rules Pertaining to the District Assemblies.

The district assembly may authorize, where civil law

permits, the District Advisory Board to incorporate. After incorporation

as above provided, the District Advisory Board

shall have power, on its own resolution, to purchase, own,

sell, exchange, mortgage, deed in trust, hypothecate, lease,

and convey any property, real and personal, as may be necessary

or convenient for the purpose of the corporation.

(222.5)

204.1. As far as possible membership of district boards

and committees shall be equal between ministers and

laypersons unless specifically provided otherwise by the

Manual.

204.2. The district superintendents of Phase 1 and

Phase 2 districts shall be chosen in accordance with Manual

paragraph 200.2. A Phase 2 district may revert to Phase

1 district status until such time as it can meet the requirements

for Phase 2 status.

204.3. When the presiding officer of a district assembly

deems that it is impossible to convene or continue with the

business of the district assembly and therefore postpones,

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 113

cancels or adjourns the district assembly, the general superintendent

in jurisdiction, in consultation with the Board of

General Superintendents, shall appoint all district officers

not elected prior to the adjournment of the district assembly,

to serve for a period of one year.

D. The District Assembly Journal

205. The journal shall be the record of the regular proceedings

of the district assembly.

205.1. The journal must be either written or typewritten

manuscript, or printed, and substantially bound.

205.2. Separate items of business shall be placed in separate

paragraphs.

205.3. The journal should be edited carefully with the

view to its examination by the General Assembly. (203.26,

217.7)

205.4. The full official journal for each quadrennium shall

be preserved and filed with the district and the General Assembly

files. (217.5, 217.7)

205.5. The journal shall be arranged as far as possible according

to the table of contents prepared by the general secretary

in consultation with the Board of General Superintendents.

The table of contents shall be furnished to the

district secretary prior to the convening of the district assembly.

205.6. The journal shall contain not only the assignment

of pastors to local churches but also all regular and special

engagements entered into by ministerial and lay members

of the district assembly who are engaged in any line of denominational

service that may entitle them to consideration

if applying for benefits from the Pensions Board having the

responsibility for the pensions and benefits program in

which that district participates. (115)

E. The District Superintendent

206. The initial term of office for a district superintendent

who is elected at a district assembly begins 30 days after the

adjournment of the district assembly. It runs for two full assembly

years ending 30 days after the adjournment of the

114 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

assembly that marks the second anniversary of the election.

At the time of said assembly the superintendent may be reelected

(203.11-3.12) or a successor elected or appointed and

qualified. The initial term of office for a district superintendent

who is appointed by the general superintendent in jurisdiction

begins at the time of the appointment, includes

the remainder of the church year in which the superintendent

was appointed, and extends through the two following

church years. The term of office ends 30 days after the adjournment

of the assembly that marks the end of the second

full assembly year of service. At said assembly the superintendent

may be elected (203.11-3.12) for another term, or a

successor will be elected or appointed and qualified. (203.11-

3.13)

207. If for any cause a vacancy shall occur in the interim

of sessions of the district assembly, the general superintendents,

jointly and severally, may fill the vacancy, upon consultation

with a committee composed of the District Advisory

Board, the chairperson of the District Sunday School

Ministries Board, the presidents of the district NMI and

NYI, the district secretary and the district treasurer. Consultation

shall include an invitation for the committee, as a

whole, to submit names for consideration in addition to

those names brought forward by the general superintendent

in jurisdiction. (307.6)

207.1. The office of a Phase 1 or Phase 2 district superintendent

may be declared vacant with cause upon the recommendation

of the general superintendent having jurisdiction.

The office of district superintendent in a Phase 3

district may be declared vacant upon a two-thirds majority

vote of the District Advisory Board, the chairperson of the

District Sunday School Ministries Board, the presidents of

the district NMI and NYI, the district secretary, and the district

treasurer. (321)

207.2. In the event of temporary incapacitation of an incumbent

district superintendent, the general superintendent

having jurisdiction, in consultation with the District

Advisory Board, may appoint a qualified elder to serve as interim

district superintendent. The question of incapacitation

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 115

shall be determined by the general superintendent in jurisdiction

and the District Advisory Board. (307.7)

207.3. Upon the resignation or termination of the district

superintendent, the staff members of the district office, the

chief executive officer or any subsidiary and/or affiliated corporations

of the district, paid and unpaid, such as assistant

superintendent and office secretary, shall submit their resignations

effective concurrently with the final date of the district

superintendency. However, one or more of the staff

members may remain with the written approval of the general

superintendent in jurisdiction and the District Advisory

Board, but not longer than the date of the new superintendent’s

assumption of duties. (241.3)

207.4. After consultation with the District Advisory Board

and the approval of the general superintendent in jurisdiction,

the newly elected or appointed district superintendent

may have the privilege of recommending the employment of

staff members previously employed. (241.3)

208. The duties of a district superintendent are:

208.1. To organize, recognize, and superintend local

churches within the bounds of his or her assembly district,

subject to the approval of the general superintendent having

jurisdiction. (100, 433.12)

208.2. To be available to the local churches in his or her

assembly district as needed, and as necessary meet with the

church board to consult with reference to spiritual, financial,

and pastoral matters, giving such helpful advice and

assistance as the superintendent may deem proper.

208.3. In circumstances where the district superintendent

has determined that a church is in an unhealthy, declining

situation, the continuation of which threatens the viability

of the church and its mission effectiveness, the district

superintendent may pursue contact with the pastor or the

pastor and the church board to evaluate the circumstances.

Every effort shall be made to work with the pastor and

church board toward resolution of issues that have led to the

circumstances which are impeding mission effectiveness.

If the district superintendent, after working with the pastor

and/or board, concludes that further intervention is nec-

116 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

essary, he or she may, with the approval of the District Advisory

Board and the general superintendent in jurisdiction,

take appropriate action to address the situation. Such action(

s) may include, but are not limited to: (1) the removal of

the pastor; (2) the dissolution of the church board; (3) the

initiation of such special interventions as may be necessary

to restore the church’s health and mission effectiveness.

(124-24.1)

208.4. To schedule and conduct, with each local church

board, the regular church/pastoral review according to the

provisions of 122.

208.5. To have special supervision of all the church-type

missions of the Church of the Nazarene within the bounds

of his or her assembly district.

208.6. To nominate to the District Advisory Board someone

to fill a vacancy, should one occur in the office of district

secretary. (216.1)

208.7. To nominate to the District Advisory Board someone

to fill a vacancy, should one occur in the office of district

treasurer. (219.1)

208.8. To appoint a district chaplaincy director to promote

and amplify holiness evangelism through the specialized

ministry of chaplaincy. (236)

208.9. To consult with the church board concerning the

nomination of an elder or a licensed minister to pastor a local

church and to approve or disapprove such nomination.

(115, 129.2, 160.8)

208.10. To schedule a special church/pastoral review

(123), within 90 days of the request of a church board for

such review, on the continuance of the church/pastoral relationship.

208.11. To approve or disapprove the granting of license

to any member of the Church of the Nazarene who may request

local minister’s license or renewal of local minister’s license

from the church board of a local church not having an

elder as pastor. (426.1, 426.3)

208.12. To approve or disapprove in writing requests from

the pastor and the local church board to have or to employ

any unpaid associate pastors or paid local associates (such as

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 117

associate pastors; ministers or directors of Christian education,

children, youth, adult, music, childcare/schools {birth

through secondary}, etc.). The primary criteria for the district

superintendent’s decisions to approve or disapprove, in concept,

the hiring of paid staff will be the willingness and ability

of the church to meet its local, district, and general obligations.

It is the pastor’s responsibility to screen and select pastoral

associates. However, the district superintendent shall

have the right to disapprove the nominee. (129.27, 160-60.8)

208.13. To approve or disapprove, with the District Advisory

Board, requests from local churches to operate Christian

childcare/school (birth through secondary) ministries.

(152, 222.11, 414)

208.14. To execute and sign, along with the secretary of

the District Advisory Board, all legal documents of the district.

(222.5)

208.15. To nominate to the District Advisory Board and to

supervise any paid assistants on the district. (241)

208.16. To appoint pastors in keeping with 116.

208.17. The district superintendent may, with the approval

of the District Advisory Board, appoint the members

of the church board (stewards, trustees), the chairperson of

the Sunday School Ministries Board, and other church officers

(secretary, treasurer) if a church has been organized for

less than five years, or had less than 35 voting members in

the previous annual church meeting, or is receiving regular

financial assistance from the district, or has been declared

in crisis. The total number of members of such board shall

not be less than three. (116, 124)

208.18. To cause to be investigated written accusations

against a minister in his or her assembly district, according

to 505-5.3.

208.19. The district superintendent shall schedule and

conduct a self-assessment and review in consultation with

the tenured evangelist in accordance with paragraph 407.4.

209. The district superintendent, with the consent of the

church board, may appoint a pastoral supply to fill a vacancy

in the office of pastor until the next district assembly.

Such appointed pastoral supply shall be subject to removal

118 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

by the district superintendent when his or her services are

not satisfactory to the church board and the local church.

(129.5, 421, 426.6)

210. The district superintendent is authorized to perform

for a local church within the bounds of his or her assembly

district all the functions of pastor when that local church is

without a pastor or pastoral supply. (412)

210.1. The district superintendent may preside at the annual,

or a special meeting of a local church, or appoint a surrogate

for such duty. (113.5)

211. If for any reason the general superintendent having

jurisdiction fails to be present or to appoint a representative

to be present in his or her stead at the district assembly, the

district superintendent shall call the district assembly to order

and shall preside until other provision may be made by

the district assembly. (307.4)

212. The district superintendent may fill vacancies in the

District Assembly Finance Committee (203.21), the District

Auditing Committee (203.25), the District Ministerial Credentials

Board (226.1), the District Ministerial Studies

Board (229.1), the District Evangelism Board or the district

director of evangelism (232), the District Church Properties

Board (233), the District Sunday School Ministries Board

(237), the District Court of Appeals (509), and other district

boards and standing committees where such are not provided

in the Manual or by assembly action.

212.1. The district superintendent may appoint all chairpersons,

secretaries and members of the district boards and

standing committees where such are not provided in the

Manual or by assembly action.

212.2. The district superintendent, in consultation with

the District Advisory Board, shall appoint a nominating

committee to prepare nominations for the usual committees

and offices in advance of the district assembly. (202.1)

213. The district superintendent shall be ex-officio chairperson

of the District Advisory Board (221.2) and the District

Ministerial Credentials Board (227.1).

213.1. The district superintendent shall be a member exofficio

of all elected and standing boards and committees on

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 119

the district he or she serves. (203.20-3.21, 233, 237, 810, 811)

214. All official acts of the district superintendent shall be

subject to review and revision by the district assembly, and

subject to appeal.

214.1. The district superintendent shall always show due

regard for the advice of the general superintendent in jurisdiction

and the Board of General Superintendents with regard

to pastoral arrangements and other matters relating to

the office of the district superintendent.

F. The District Secretary

216. The district secretary, elected by the District Advisory

Board, shall serve for a period of one to three years and

until his or her successor is elected and qualified. (222.16)

216.1. If the district secretary shall cease to serve, for any

cause, in the interim of sessions of the district assembly, the

District Advisory Board shall elect his or her successor upon

nomination by the district superintendent. (208.6)

216.2. The district secretary shall be a member ex-officio

of the district assembly. (201)

217. The duties of the district secretary are:

217.1. To record correctly and preserve faithfully all minutes

of the district assembly.

217.2. To record correctly and preserve all statistics of the

district.

217.3. To forward all statistical charts to the general secretary

to be audited before their publication in the official

journal. (325.6)

217.4. To be custodian of all documents of the district assembly,

and turn them over promptly to his or her successor.

217.5. To preserve and file the full official journal for each

quadrennium. (205.4)

217.6. To forward sufficient copies of the printed journal

of each district assembly to General Headquarters for distribution

among the general officers and general boards of the

Church of the Nazarene.

217.7. To present to the General Assembly, for the district

assembly, the full official journal for the preceding quadrennium

to be preserved and filed. (203.26, 205.3-5.4)

120 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

217.8. To do whatever else may pertain to his or her office.

217.9. To refer all items of business coming to him or her

during the year to the proper assembly committee or standing

board.

218. The district secretary may have as many assistants

as the district assembly shall elect.

G. The District Treasurer

219. The district treasurer, elected by the District Advisory

Board, shall serve for a period of one to three years and

until his or her successor is elected and qualified. (222.15)

219.1. If the district treasurer shall cease to serve, for any

cause, in the interim of sessions of the district assembly, the

District Advisory Board shall elect his or her successor upon

nomination by the district superintendent. (208.7)

219.2. The district treasurer shall be a member ex-officio

of the district assembly. (201)

220. The duties of the district treasurer are:

220.1. To receive all such moneys from his or her district

as may be designated by the General Assembly, or by the

district assembly, or by the District Advisory Board, or as

the needs of the Church of the Nazarene may require, and

disburse the same according to the direction and policies of

the district assembly and/or the District Advisory Board.

220.2. To keep a correct record of all moneys received and

disbursed and to render a monthly report to the district

superintendent for distribution to the District Advisory

Board and an annual report to the district assembly, to

which he or she shall be amenable.

H. The District Advisory Board

221. The District Advisory Board shall be composed of the

district superintendent ex-officio and up to three ordained

ministers and up to three laypersons elected by ballot by the

district assembly annually or for terms not to exceed four

years, to serve until the final adjournment of the next district

assembly and until their successors are elected and

qualified. However, their terms of service may be staggered

by electing a proportion of the board annually.

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 121

When a district exceeds a total membership of 5,000, it

may elect one additional ordained minister and one additional

layperson for each successive 2,500 members or the final

major part of 2,500 members. (203.14)

221.1. A vacancy on the District Advisory Board may be

filled by the remaining members thereof.

221.2. The district superintendent shall be ex-officio

chairperson of the District Advisory Board.

221.3. The lay members of the District Advisory Board

shall be ex-officio members of the district assembly, ex-officio

members of the District Sunday School Ministries Convention,

ex-officio members of the District NMI Convention,

and ex-officio members of the District NYI Convention. (201,

221)

222. The duties of the District Advisory Board are:

222.1. To set the date for the beginning and closing of the

statistical year in harmony with the provisions of 114.1.

222.2. To give information to and consult with the district

superintendent respecting the ministers and local churches

of the assembly district. (416)

222.3. To appoint an investigating committee consisting of

three or more ordained ministers in case an accusation is

filed against a member of the clergy. (505-5.3)

222.4. To select a trial court in case charges are made

against a member of the clergy. (505.5-5.6)

222.5. To incorporate, where civil law permits and when

authorized by the district assembly. After incorporation, as

above provided, the District Advisory Board shall have power,

on its own resolution, to purchase, own, sell, exchange, mortgage,

deed in trust, hypothecate, lease, and convey any property,

real and personal, as may be necessary or convenient for

the purpose of the corporation. The district superintendent

and the secretary of the District Advisory Board, or other persons

authorized by the District Advisory Board, incorporated

or not incorporated, shall execute and sign all conveyances on

real estate, mortgages, releases of mortgages, contracts, and

other legal documents of the District Advisory Board. (204)

222.6. In areas where the civil law does not permit such in-

122 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

corporation, then the district assembly may elect the District

Advisory Board as district trustee with power, on its own resolution,

to purchase, own, sell, exchange, mortgage, deed in

trust, hypothecate, lease, and convey any property, real and

personal, as may be necessary or convenient for the purpose

of carrying on its work in the district. (102.6, 106.2, 222.5)

222.7. The District Advisory Board, in areas where it is

possible for local churches to incorporate, shall, with the advice

of competent legal counsel, provide pattern incorporation

forms adequate for the areas of its district. This pattern

incorporation form shall always include the provisions set

forth in 102-2.5.

222.8. To serve in an advisory capacity to the district

superintendent in his or her supervision of all the departments,

boards, and committees of the district.

222.9. To submit to the Board of General Superintendents

any plans proposed for the creation of a district center. Such

plans shall require the approval in writing of the Board of

General Superintendents before they are put in operation.

(319)

222.10. To recommend the renewal of license for the licensed

minister serving as pastor. (427.5)

222.11. To approve or disapprove requests from local

churches to operate Christian childcare/school (birth through

secondary) ministries. At the discretion of the district superintendent

and the District Advisory Board, a District Christian

Childcare/Schools (Birth through Secondary) Committee

may be established. Its function shall be to recommend policy,

procedures, and philosophy to the District Advisory Board for

application in the local church childcare/school (birth through

secondary), and to help establish, support, and monitor such

childcare/schools (birth through secondary). (152, 208.13, 414)

222.12. To elect or dismiss any paid assistants employed

by the district. (241-41.1)

222.13. To act, in consultation with the district superintendent,

as a finance committee between assemblies with

authority to adjust operational budgets as deemed necessary

and report the same to the district assembly. (220.1)

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 123

222.14. To protect all district property, real or personal,

including all equity therein, from being diverted to any personal

or corporate use other than for the Church of the Nazarene.

(102.4, 106.5, 204)

222.15. To elect a district treasurer, to serve for a period of

one to three years and until his or her successor is elected

and qualified. (219)

222.16. To elect a district secretary, to serve for a period of

one to three years and until his or her successor is elected

and qualified. (216)

222.17. To certify the withdrawal or attempted withdrawal

of any local church from the Church of the Nazarene for

the purpose of implementing the transfer of title to real

property as provided for in paragraph 106.2.

222.18. If required, pursuant to paragraph 203.26, to elect

a District Auditing Committee to serve until the adjournment

of the following district assembly. (203.26)

222.19. To give an annual report to the district assembly

summarizing the activity of the work of the board including

the number of convened meetings.

223. The District Advisory Board may issue a transfer of

membership to a member of the clergy, a minister of Christian

education (409), or a deaconess (406), who desires to

transfer to another district assembly, before the meeting of

the district assembly in which such person’s membership is

held. Such transfers may be accepted by the receiving District

Advisory Board, granting to those transferred full

rights and privileges of membership on the district on which

it is received. The receiving district assembly shall have final

approval of all such Advisory Board transfer receptions

upon favorable recommendation by the Ministerial Credentials

Board. (203.8-3.9, 228.9-28.10, 432-32.2)

223.1. The District Advisory Board may, upon request, issue

a Certificate of Commendation (813.2) to a member of

the district assembly who wishes to unite with another denomination.

224. The District Advisory Board, with the approval of the

district superintendent, may suspend a licensed deaconess

when it is required for the good of the church, after a confer-

124 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

ence with the church board of the local church of which the

licensed deaconess is a member, and after giving her a fair

hearing.

225. In case a licensed or ordained minister presenting a

credential from another evangelical denomination shall,

during the interim of sessions of the district assembly, make

application to unite with the Church of the Nazarene, his or

her credential shall be examined by the District Advisory

Board. Only with the favorable recommendation of the District

Advisory Board shall such applicant be received into

membership in the local church. (417, 427.2, 430)

I. The District Ministerial Credentials Board

226. The District Ministerial Credentials Board shall be

composed of not less than 5 nor more than 15 ordained ministers,

one of whom shall be the district superintendent.

They shall serve for a period of four years and until their

successors are elected and qualified. However, their terms of

service may be staggered by electing a proportion of the

board annually. (203.15)

226.1. A vacancy occurring in the Ministerial Credentials

Board in the interim of the district assemblies may be filled

by appointment by the district superintendent. (212)

227. Following the election of the Ministerial Credentials

Board the district superintendent shall call a meeting of the

board for organization as follows:

227.1. The district superintendent shall serve as chairperson

ex-officio of the board; however, upon his or her request

the board may elect an acting chairperson to serve in

such relationship until the close of the next district assembly.

(213)

227.2. The board shall elect from its membership a permanent

secretary who shall provide a suitable system of

records, at the expense of the district assembly, which shall

be the property of the district. The secretary shall carefully

record all actions of the board and faithfully preserve them

along with such other records as shall be relevant to the

work of the board and promptly transmit them to his or her

successor.

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 125

228. The duties of the Ministerial Credentials Board

are:

228.1. To carefully examine and evaluate all persons who

have been properly presented to the district assembly for

election to the order of elder, the order of deacon, and for

minister’s license.

228.2. To carefully examine and evaluate all persons desiring

to receive a certificate for any of the assigned roles of

ministry, including all lay and ministerial candidates aspiring

to be recognized for ministries beyond the local church,

and any other special relations provided by the Manual.

228.3. To carefully inquire of each candidate and make

any other investigation deemed advisable concerning his or

her personal experience of salvation; personal experience of

entire sanctification by the baptism with the Holy Spirit;

knowledge of the doctrines of the Bible; full acceptance of

the doctrines, the Covenant of Christian Character and the

Covenant of Christian Conduct, and the polity of the church;

evidence of graces, gifts, intellectual, moral, and spiritual

qualifications, and general fitness for the ministry to which

the candidate feels called.

228.4. To carefully investigate the conduct of each candidate

to seek to identify whether or not the candidate is engaging

in or has a pattern of conduct, which if continued

would be inconsistent with the ministry for which the candidate

has applied.

228.5. To review for approval for reappointment any local

minister who has been appointed as supply pastor if he or

she is to continue such service after the district assembly

following the appointment. (426.6)

228.6. To investigate and review the cause of failure of an

ordained minister to report to the district assembly for two

successive years and make recommendation to the district

assembly relative to the continued listing of the name on the

published rolls of elders or deacons.

228.7. To investigate reports concerning an ordained minister

indicating that he or she has placed his or her church

membership with any other church or that he or she has

joined with the ministry of another denomination or group

126 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

or is participating in independent activities without duly

authorized permission, and make recommendation to the

district assembly relative to his or her retention on the roll

of elders or deacons. (112, 433.11)

228.8. To recommend to the district assembly retired relationship

for a minister requesting such relation and who, in

the judgment of the board, is unable to continue in the active

ministerial service because of disability (203.27, 431) or

who desires to discontinue active ministerial service because

of age.

228.9. To recommend to the district assembly, members of

the clergy, and those licensed for continuing ministry roles,

for transfer to another district, including interim transfers

approved by the District Advisory Board. (203.9, 432-32.2)

228.10. To recommend to the district assembly, persons

having ministerial credentials, members of the clergy, and

those licensed for continuing ministry roles for reception of

transfer from other districts, including interim transfers approved

by the District Advisory Board. (203.8, 432-32.2)

J. The District Ministerial Studies Board

229. The District Ministerial Studies Board shall be composed

of five or more ordained ministers, elected by the district

assembly to serve for a term of four years and until

their successors are elected and qualified. However, their

terms of service may be staggered by electing a proportion of

the board annually. (203.16)

229.1. Vacancies occurring in the District Ministerial

Studies Board, in the interim of sessions of the district assembly,

may be filled by appointment by the district superintendent.

(212)

230. Before the close of the district assembly in which the

board is elected, the district superintendent or district secretary

shall call a meeting of all the members of the board for

organization and assignment as follows:

230.1. The board shall elect from among its members a

chairperson. They shall elect an ordained minister as secretary,

who with the other members shall have the responsibility

of examining and advancing candidates through a val-

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 127

idated course of study for ordination. They shall maintain a

permanent record for all students. (230.5, 424.1-24.3)

230.2. The chairperson shall assign to the other members

of the board the responsibility for and supervision of all candidates

enrolled in a validated course of study for ministerial

preparation. Such assignment shall continue as long as

the candidates remain actively enrolled during the committee

member’s term of office unless otherwise mutually

arranged.

230.3. The chairperson shall attend all meetings of the

board, unless providentially prevented, and shall oversee

the work of the board each year. In case of necessary absence

of the chairperson, the secretary shall do his or her

work pro tempore.

230.4. The secretary shall, at the expense of the district

assembly, provide a suitable record book of ministerial studies,

which shall be the property of the district assembly, and

shall be used according to instructions in the Sourcebook on

Ordination.

230.5. The other members of the board shall attend faithfully

the meetings of the board and shall supervise all candidates

by (1) fraternal encouragement, counsel, and guidance;

and (2) training by example and by conversation

concerning the ethics of the clergy with specific attention being

given to how a member of the clergy can avoid sexual

misconduct. (230.1)

230.6. The board shall cooperate with the district superintendent

and the Clergy Development office through the respective

Course of Study Advisory Committee (COSAC) in

seeking ways to encourage, aid, and guide the candidates

who are pursuing validated courses of study in a Nazarene

college/university or seminary.

231. The board may establish classes or seminars in order

to assist licensed ministers or other candidates in the pursuit

of the various validated courses of study, and establish,

subject to approved district funding, central libraries of all

books for loan when necessary.

231.1. The chairperson and the secretary of the District Ministerial

Studies Board are authorized to enroll a student in a

128 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

validated course of study for ministerial education, in consultation

with the district superintendent. (230.1-30.2, 424.1-24.3)

231.2. The board shall carry out its responsibilities in conformity

with the official Sourcebook on Ordination.

231.3. The board shall report all relevant data concerning

each candidate’s educational progress to the District Ministerial

Credentials Board in time for that board to process the

data before the district assembly. The District Ministerial

Studies Board shall recommend to the district assembly

placement and advancement in and graduation from the various

validated courses of study. Such placement, advancement,

or graduation shall be consistent with guidelines provided by

the office of Clergy Development through the respective

Course of Study Advisory Committee (COSAC).

231.4. The District Ministerial Studies Board shall be responsible,

in cooperation with officially recognized Nazarene

institutions for ministerial preparation and the Clergy Development

office through the respective Course of Study Advisory

Committee (COSAC), and under the general guidance of the

district superintendent, for the promotion of continuing education

for ordained ministers and other staff ministers on the

district. The continuing education shall include education concerning

ethics of the clergy with particular attention being

given to how a member of the clergy can avoid sexual misconduct.

K. The District Evangelism Board

or Director of Evangelism

232. The district assembly may elect either a District

Evangelism Board or a district director of evangelism. The

persons elected shall serve until the final adjournment of

the next district assembly and until their successors are

elected and qualified. (203.19)

232.1. In cooperation with the district superintendent, the

District Evangelism Board, or the district director of evangelism,

shall seek to promote and amplify the necessity of

holiness evangelism, by providing training opportunities, by

conducting rallies and conferences, by emphasizing the need

for local church revivals with God-called evangelists, and by

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 129

every other available means, to impact the district with the

Great Commission of Jesus Christ as a first priority in the

functioning of the Body of Christ.

L. The District Church Properties Board

233. The District Church Properties Board shall be composed

of the district superintendent ex-officio and no fewer

than two ministerial and two lay members. Members may be

elected by the district assembly to serve for a term of four

years or until their successors are elected and qualified. The

District Advisory Board may serve as the District Church

Properties Board upon favorable vote of the district assembly.

234. The duties of the District Church Properties

Board are:

234.1. To advance the cause of constructing church-related

buildings within the bounds of the assembly district, in

cooperation with the District Advisory Board.

234.2. To verify and conserve the titles to local church

property.

234.3. To consider propositions submitted by local churches

relating to the purchase of real estate or the erection of

church buildings or parsonages, and to advise them concerning

the propositions submitted. (103)

234.4. To approve or disapprove, in conjunction with the

district superintendent, propositions submitted by local

churches relative to church building plans and the incurring

of indebtedness in the purchase of real estate or the erection

of buildings. The Church Properties Board shall normally

approve a request to increase indebtedness subject to the

following guidelines:

1. The local church requesting approval to increase indebtedness

paid all financial apportionments in full for

the two years preceding the request.

2. The amount of total indebtedness will not exceed three

times the average of the amount raised for all purposes

in each of the preceding three years.

3. The details of the planned remodeling or construction

shall have been approved by the Church Properties

Board.

130 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

4. The amount of indebtedness and the terms of payment

will not jeopardize the spiritual life of the church.

The Church Properties Board may approve requests that

do not meet these guidelines only with the approval of the

district superintendent and the District Advisory Board.

234.5. To do whatever else the district assembly may direct

regarding the matter of local church property.

M. The District Assembly Finance Committee

235. The duties of the District Assembly Finance Committee

are:

235.1. To meet prior to the district assembly and to make

recommendation to the district assembly concerning all financial

apportionments and the allocation of those apportionments

to the local churches.

235.2. To do whatever else the district assembly may direct

in areas of district finance. (203.21)

235.3. To publish in the district journal the method used

and the percentages applied to determine the budget base

for all accepted budgets.

N. The District Chaplaincy Director

236. The district superintendent may appoint a district

chaplaincy director. In cooperation with the district superintendent,

the district chaplaincy director shall seek to promote

and amplify holiness evangelism through the specialized

ministry of chaplaincy. The director will promote and

support evangelism through industrial, institutional, campus,

and military opportunities. The director shall give special

attention to Nazarene servicemembers and other military

members located on military installations, appointing

and assisting host pastors located near these bases to impact

servicemembers and their families for Christ, bonding them

to our church while they are serving their country. (208.8)

O. The District Sunday School Ministries Board

237. The District Sunday School Ministries Board shall be

composed of the district superintendent, the district NMI

president, the district NYI president, and the chairperson of

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 131

the District Sunday School Ministries Board, who comprise

an Executive Committee, and at least three additional members.

The additional members shall be elected by the district

assembly or the District Sunday School Ministries Convention

to staggered terms of three years and until their successors

are elected and qualified. Upon initial organization of the

District Sunday School Ministries Board, the three additional

members are to be elected from six nominees, with one being

elected for a term of three years, one for a term of two years,

and one for a term of one year. However, when the district total

membership exceeds 5,000, the number of members nominated

and elected may be doubled, and, when possible, at

least four of the ten board members should be laypersons. Vacancies

occurring in the Sunday School Ministries Board, in

the interim of sessions of the district assembly, may be filled

by appointment by the district superintendent. (212)

The duties of the District Sunday School Ministries

Board are:

237.1. To meet within one week following their election

and to organize by electing a secretary, treasurer, district directors

of adult ministries, children’s ministries, and Continuing

Lay Training, who then shall become ex-officio members

of the Sunday School Ministries Board. Other district

directors, as deemed necessary, may be nominated by the

Executive Committee and elected by the board.

237.2. To give supervision to all Sunday School interests

of the district.

237.3. To elect a Children’s Ministries Council* whose

chairperson shall be the district director of children’s ministries

and whose members shall be the district directors of:

boys’ and girls’ camps, Caravan, Vacation Bible School, Bible

quizzing, children’s church, Cradle Roll, and any others

deemed necessary.

237.4. To elect an Adult Ministries Council* whose chairperson

shall be the district director of adult ministries and

whose members shall be the district directors of: marriage

132 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

*For additional information concerning the duties of Children’s and Adult

Ministries councils, see the Sunday School Ministries Handbook.

and family life, senior adult ministries, single adult ministries,

lay retreat, small-group Bible studies, women’s ministries,

men’s ministries, and any others deemed necessary.

237.5. To arrange for an annual district Sunday School

Ministries convention. (237)

237.6. To determine, in consultation with the district

superintendent, whether elections for the District Sunday

School Ministries Board members and chairperson will be

held in the district assembly or in the District Sunday

School Ministries Convention.

237.7. To encourage all local Sunday School ministries

chairpersons and age-group ministries directors/NYI presidents

to be present in the District Sunday School Ministries

Convention and take part as opportunity affords.

237.8. To organize the district into zones and appoint zone

chairpersons who shall assist the board at its direction to

carry forward the work of Sunday School ministries on the

district.

237.9. To plan and implement district or zone Continuing

Lay Training classes.

237.10. To assist the Sunday School Ministries Department

of the General Board in securing information relating

to district and local Sunday School interests.

237.11. To recommend to the District Assembly Finance

Committee the annual District Sunday School Ministries

Board budget.

237.12. To be responsible for the district lay retreat. The

district director of adult ministries shall be member ex-officio

of the District Lay Retreat Committee.

237.13. To approve the report of its chairperson to be presented

to the district assembly.

237.14. To meet as frequently as deemed necessary by the

district superintendent or the chairperson of the District

Sunday School Ministries Board to plan and execute effectively

the responsibilities of the board.

238. The District Sunday School Ministries Chairperson.

The district assembly or the Sunday School Ministries

Convention, from two or more nominees submitted by

the District Nominating Committee, shall elect a chairperson

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 133

of the District Sunday School Ministries Board to serve for a

one- or two-year term. An incumbent chairperson may be reelected

by a favorable “yes” or “no” vote when such vote has

been recommended by the District Sunday School Ministries

Board, with the approval of the district superintendent. A

vacancy in the interim of sessions of the district assembly

may be filled according to the provisions of 212. (237.6)

The duties and powers of the District Sunday School

Ministries chairperson are:

238.1. To give responsible leadership to the Sunday

School on the district by promoting programs of growth in

enrollment and attendance, and to coordinate all programs

relating to children’s and adult ministries, and to work in

cooperation with NYI to coordinate youth Sunday School.

238.2. To be an ex-officio member of the district assembly

and the District Sunday School Ministries Board.

238.3. To report to the General Board Sunday School Ministries

Department accurate Sunday School statistics each

month and to prepare for the District Sunday School Ministries

Board a written report for the annual assembly journal.

P. The District Nazarene Youth International

239. Nazarene youth ministry is organized on the district

under the auspices of Nazarene Youth International, under

the Nazarene Youth International Charter, and the authority

of the district superintendent, the District Advisory

Board, and the district assembly. The district NYI shall be

composed of the members and local groups of Nazarene

Youth International of the assembly district.

239.1. The district NYI shall organize itself according to

the NYI District Ministry Plan, which may be adapted in response

to district youth ministry needs, consistent with the

NYI Charter and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

239.2. The district NYI shall be coordinated by a District

NYI Council, responsible for planning and organizing ministry

for youth ages 12 and older, college/university students,

and young adults, and collectively casting the vision

for district youth ministry. The council shall be responsible

to the district superintendent and District Advisory Board.

134 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

All work of the NYI Council pertaining to Sunday School is

subject to the approval of the district Sunday School Ministries

chairperson and Sunday School Ministries Board.

239.3. The District NYI Council shall be composed of the

president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer, youth

representatives and ministry directors as deemed necessary,

and the district superintendent. District NYI officers and

council members are elected by the annual District NYI

Convention according to the NYI District Ministry Plan, and

shall serve without salary. Nominees shall be approved by

the district superintendent. Should the terms used to describe

officers not effectively communicate in a particular

culture, more appropriate titles may be used by vote of the

District NYI Council.

239.4. The duties of the district NYI president are to give

direction and leadership to the district NYI, to chair the District

NYI Council in facilitating the development of youth

ministry on the district, to preside at the annual District

NYI Convention, to represent the interests of the district

NYI on appropriate district boards and committees, and to

encourage the development of NYI ministry in local churches

on the district. The district NYI president shall report to

the district superintendent and District Advisory Board, and

annually to the district assembly. The district NYI president

shall be a member ex-officio of the district assembly (201).

Q. The District Nazarene Missions International

240. The District Nazarene Missions International shall

be composed of the local Nazarene Missions International

within the boundaries of the assembly district. The district

NMI shall be auxiliary to the General Nazarene Missions

International. (811)

240.1. The District Nazarene Missions International shall

be governed by the NMI Constitution approved by the General

Nazarene Missions International Convention and the

World Mission Committee of the General Board. It shall be

subject to the district superintendent, the District Advisory

Board, the district assembly, and the district Nazarene Missions

International Council. (811)

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 135

240.2. The president of the District Nazarene Missions International

shall serve without salary and shall be a member

ex-officio of the district assembly. (201)

R. District Paid Assistants

241. When paid assistants become necessary for the

greater efficiency of the district administration, such persons,

ministerial or lay, shall be nominated by the district

superintendent, after having secured the written approval

of the general superintendent in jurisdiction. They shall be

elected by the District Advisory Board. The employment of

such assistants shall be for no more than one year but may

be renewed by recommendation of the district superintendent

and the majority vote of the Advisory Board. (208.15)

241.1. Dismissal of such assistants prior to the end of the

employment period must be by the recommendation of the

district superintendent and the majority vote of the District

Advisory Board. (222.12)

241.2. The duties and services of such district assistants

are to be determined and supervised by the district superintendent.

241.3. Within 30 days after a new district superintendent

assumes administrative duties on the district, the term of

service of the paid assistants shall be considered concluded,

unless otherwise stipulated by national labor law. (Such

clerical assistants as office secretaries shall not be included

in the above provisions.) (207.3-7.4)

241.4. Service as a paid district assistant shall not prohibit

one from serving in other district elected or appointed offices

such as district secretary or district treasurer.

S. Disorganization of a District

242. When it seems clear to the Board of General Superintendents

that a district no longer should continue as such, it

may, upon their recommendation, be disorganized by a twothirds

favorable vote of the General Board of the Church of

the Nazarene and a formal pronouncement thereof. (200)

242.1. In case a district becomes officially disorganized,

any church property that shall exist may in no way be di-

136 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

verted to other purposes, but shall pass to the control of the

General Board, for the use of the Church of the Nazarene at

large, as the General Assembly shall direct; and trustees

holding property, or corporations created to hold property,

for the disorganized district shall sell or dispose of the same

only on the order and under the direction of the appointed

agent of the General Board, and turn the funds over to such

agent. (106.2, 106.5, 222.5)

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 137

CHAPTER III

THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY

A. Functions and Organization

300. The General Assembly is the supreme doctrine-formulating,

lawmaking, and elective authority of the Church

of the Nazarene, subject to the provisions of the church Constitution.

(31.1-1.9)

300.1. The General Assembly shall be presided over by

the general superintendents, jointly and severally. (31.6,

307.2)

300.2. The General Assembly shall elect its other officers

and organize itself for the transaction of its business according

to its wisdom and pleasure. (31.7)

300.3. Rules of Order. Subject to the applicable law, the

Articles of Incorporation and the Bylaws of government in

the Manual, the meetings and proceedings of the members

of the Church of the Nazarene, local, district, and general,

and the committees of the corporation shall be regulated

and controlled according to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly

Revised (latest edition) for parliamentary procedure. (40)

B. Membership of the General Assembly

301. The General Assembly shall be composed of ministerial

and lay delegates in equal numbers from each Phase 3 district,

the district superintendent serving as one of the assigned

and ordained ministerial delegates, the remaining

assigned and ordained ministerial delegates and all the lay

delegates elected thereto by the district assemblies of the

Church of the Nazarene; the general superintendents emeriti

and retired; the general superintendents; the general secretary;

the general treasurer; the editor of Holiness Today; the

directors of the several departments, ministries, and services

138 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

of the General Board; the education commissioner; the regional

directors; the national director of the Church of the

Nazarene, Canada; the General Nazarene Missions International

president; the Global Nazarene Youth International

president; the regional college/university presidents (in regions

where more than one school exists, one delegate from

these schools would be elected by the Regional Advisory

Council); presidents of multiregional institutions whose

Board of Directors are elected by multiple district representatives;

the president of the Nazarene Publishing House; the

president of the Church of the Nazarene Foundation; the revivalism

coordinator; one career missionary delegate for

every region of 50 or fewer missionaries and two career missionary

delegates for every region with 51 or more missionaries,

elected by the Regional Advisory Council in each region.

In the absence of such election the missionary representative

shall be elected by the World Mission Committee.

301.1. Each Phase 3 district shall be entitled to representation

in the General Assembly by: one assigned ordained

minister and one layperson for the first 2,000 or fewer full

church members, and one additional assigned ordained minister

and one additional layperson for the next 1 to 3,500

full members, and for each successive additional 1 to 3,500

full members.1 The term “assigned ordained minister” shall

include elders and deacons.

301.2. Each Phase 2 district shall be entitled to one lay

and one ministerial delegate to the General Assembly. The

assigned and ordained ministerial delegate shall be the district

superintendent. An alternate will be elected for each

delegate.

301.3. A Phase 1 district shall be entitled to one nonvoting

delegate to the General Assembly. The district superintendent

shall be the delegate, providing he or she holds his or

her membership on the district. If the district superintendent

does not hold his or her membership on the district, an

alternate who is a member of the district will be elected.

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 139

1. 0-2,000; 2,001-5,500; 5,501-9,000; 9,001-12,500; 12,501-16,000; 16,001-

19,500; 19,501-23,000; 23,001-26,500; 26,501-30,000; etc.

301.4. The right of an assigned ministerial delegate-elect

to the General Assembly to represent the district assembly

electing him or her shall be vacated in case he or she shall

move to a new ministerial assignment on another assembly

district, or if the delegate-elect shall leave the active, assigned

ministry of the Church of the Nazarene prior to the

convening of the General Assembly. Any minister who has

been granted official retirement status by a district would

be ineligible to be nominated as a delegate or a delegateelect

to the General Assembly.

301.5. The right of a lay delegate-elect to the General Assembly

to represent the district assembly electing him or

her shall be vacated in case he or she shall remove his or

her church membership to some local church on another assembly

district prior to the convening of the General Assembly.

C. The Time and Place of Meeting

302. The General Assembly shall meet in the month of

June, every fourth year, at such time and place as shall be

determined by a General Assembly Commission composed of

the general superintendents and an equal number of persons

chosen by the Board of General Superintendents. The

general superintendents and said commission shall also

have power, in case of an emergency, to change the time and

place of the meeting of the General Assembly.

302.1. The General Assembly shall open on Sunday with a

full day of devotional and inspirational services. Provision

shall be made for the orderly and careful transaction of

business, and for such services at the close of the session as

it may order. The General Assembly shall fix the time at

which its session shall adjourn. (31.4)

D. Special Sessions

303. The Board of General Superintendents, or a majority

thereof, by and with the written consent of two-thirds of all

the district superintendents, shall have power to call a special

session of the General Assembly in case of an emergency,

the time and place thereof to be determined by the

140 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

general superintendents and a commission chosen by the

Board of General Superintendents.

303.1. In case of a special session of the General Assembly,

the delegates and alternates to the last preceding General

Assembly, or their duly elected and qualified successors,

shall serve as delegates and alternates to the special session.

E. General Assembly Arrangements Committee

304. The general secretary, the general treasurer, and

three persons appointed by the Board of General Superintendents

at least one year before the convening of the General

Assembly shall constitute the General Assembly Arrangements

Committee.

304.1. The General Assembly Arrangements Committee

shall have authority to arrange all necessary details regarding

offices, exhibits and space, entertainment and meals,

and whatever else may be needful to contribute to the comfort,

convenience, and efficiency of the General Assembly,

and enter into contracts necessary to provide the same.

304.2. The General Assembly Arrangements Committee

with the general superintendents shall formulate a program

for the General Assembly, including emphases for each of

the general interests; a Communion service; and other religious

services for the first three days of the General Assembly

or until a committee on public worship shall have been

appointed; all of which program shall be subject to approval

by the General Assembly.

F. Business of the General Assembly

305. The business of the General Assembly, subject to paragraph

31.9 of the church Constitution, shall be:

305.1. To reference, through its Reference Committee, all

resolutions, recommendations, and implementing legislation

from commissions and special committee reports and other

documents to standing or special legislative committees of the

assembly, or to regional caucuses for consideration before being

presented to the assembly. The Reference Committee may

submit legislation affecting only a specific region/regions to

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 141

the General Assembly delegates of said region(s) meeting in

caucus for action. Changes that affect the Manual must be

acted upon by the entire General Assembly.

305.2. To elect, by a two-thirds vote of its members present

and voting, as many general superintendents as it may

deem necessary, who shall hold office until 30 days following

the final adjournment of the next General Assembly and until

their successors are elected and qualified; provided that

the first ballot shall be a “yes” or “no” ballot for the general

superintendents then serving, and any vacancies remaining

after the first ballot shall be filled by ensuing ballots until

the elections are completed. In the event that someone who

is ineligible under this provision receives votes on the first

ballot, that person’s name shall be deleted from the elective

ballot and the report of the first ballot shall include this

statement: “One or more names have been deleted due to ineligibility

for the office.” No elder shall be considered eligible

for election to the office of general superintendent who has

at any time surrendered his or her credential for disciplinary

reasons. No person shall be elected to the office of general

superintendent who has not reached the age of 35 years

or who has reached the age of 68 years. (31.5, 306, 900.1)

305.3. To elect a general superintendent to the emeritus

honor when deemed advisable, provided the superintendent

shall have become disabled or shall have reached 65 years of

age. It is thereby understood that election to emeritus relation

is of life tenure. (314.1)

305.4. To place in the retired relation a general superintendent

who has attained to the age of 68 years, or who, in

the judgment of the General Assembly, has become disqualified

by physical disability, or by old age, or by any other disqualification

that would prevent such a person from caring

adequately for the work of the general superintendency; and

provided that said superintendent has served in the office of

general superintendent for a reasonable term of years. The

General Assembly may grant retired relation when a general

superintendent who has attained the age of 65 years requests

it.

Should a general superintendent who has attained the

142 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

age of 65 years request retirement in the interim of General

Assemblies, the request may be granted by the General

Board in regular session upon recommendation of the Board

of General Superintendents. (314.1)

305.5. To fix a suitable retirement pension for each retired

general superintendent, in accordance with paragraph 314.2.

305.6. To elect a General Board, as provided in 331.1-32.4,

to serve until the final adjournment of the next General Assembly

and until their successors are elected and qualified.

(330, 901.1)

305.7. To elect a General Court of Appeals, consisting of

five ordained ministers, to serve until the final adjournment

of the next General Assembly and until their successors are

elected and qualified. The Board of General Superintendents

shall select the chairperson and secretary. (31.8, 510, 901.2)

305.8. To elect boards of control for educational institutions

serving multiregional areas, to serve until their successors

are elected and qualified and in accordance with the

following provisions:

a. The boards of control shall be comprised of persons

from the respective areas served by the institution.

b. In instances where the institution serves a multiregional

area, election of that board shall be conducted in

the General Assembly regional caucus(es) composed of

delegates from the regions primarily served by the

schools.

305.9. To do anything else, in harmony with the Holy

Scriptures, that wisdom may dictate for the general welfare

of the Church of the Nazarene and the holy cause of Christ,

subject to the church Constitution. (31.9)

G. The General Superintendents

306. The general superintendents, elected by the General

Assembly, shall serve until 30 days following the final adjournment

of the next General Assembly and until their successors

are elected and qualified. (305.2)

306.1. A general superintendent shall hold no other general

office in the church while serving as general superintendent.

(307.10)

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 143

306.2. The general superintendents shall be members exofficio

of the General Assembly. (301)

307. The duties and powers of the general superintendents

are:

307.1. To have general supervision of the Church of the

Nazarene, subject to the law and order as adopted by the

General Assembly.

307.2. To preside over the General Assembly and over the

General Board of the Church of the Nazarene, jointly and

severally. (300.1, 334.3)

307.3. To ordain, or appoint others to ordain, in connection

with the ordained ministers present, those who have

been duly elected to be elders or deacons. (433.5-33.6)

307.4. To preside over each Phase 3 district assembly; or,

if hindered from doing so, to make suitable arrangements

for such presidency. (202, 211)

307.5. The general superintendent presiding over a district

assembly, the district superintendent, and the District

Advisory Board, in concurrence with the delegates of local

churches, shall appoint pastors over such local churches as

have not regularly called pastors. (214.1)

307.6. The general superintendents, jointly and severally,

may appoint district superintendents over assembly districts

where vacancies occur in the interim of district assembly

sessions, upon consultation with a committee composed

of the District Advisory Board, the chairperson of the District

Sunday School Ministries Board, and the presidents of

the district NMI and NYI, the district secretary and the district

treasurer. (207)

307.7. In the event of temporary incapacitation of an incumbent

district superintendent, the general superintendent

having jurisdiction, in consultation with the District

Advisory Board, may appoint a qualified elder to serve as interim

district superintendent. The question of incapacitation

shall be determined by the general superintendent in jurisdiction

and the District Advisory Board. (207.2)

307.8. The general superintendent in jurisdiction may recommend

to the Board of General Superintendents that a

Phase 3 district be declared in crisis. (200.2, 322)

144 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

307.9. The general superintendent having jurisdiction

may preside at the annual, or a special meeting of a local

church, or appoint a representative to do so. (113.5)

307.10. The general superintendents shall not be members

of any of the general boards of the Church of the Nazarene.

(306.1)

307.11. All official acts of the general superintendents

shall be subject to review and revision by the General Assembly.

307.12. Any official act of a general superintendent may

be nullified by a unanimous vote of the remaining members

of the Board of General Superintendents.

307.13. The office of any general superintendent may be

declared vacant, for cause, by the unanimous vote of the remaining

members of the Board of General Superintendents,

supported by a majority vote of all the district superintendents

of Phase 3 and Phase 2 districts.

H. General Superintendents

Emeriti and Retired

314. All general superintendents emeriti and retired general

superintendents shall be members ex-officio of the General

Assembly. (301)

314.1. A general superintendent who has been placed in

the retired relation, or voted emeritus honor, shall not be a

member of the Board of General Superintendents and shall

be relieved of all official responsibility. However, in the event

that an active general superintendent should be incapacitated

by illness, hospitalization, or other unavoidable emergency

necessitating absence from any assignment, the

Board of General Superintendents is empowered to call into

temporary assignment any retired general superintendent.

(305.3-5.5, 900.1)

314.2. The pension for a general superintendent shall be

under the provisions of the General Church Pension Plan, a

qualified church plan. (305.5)

I. The Board of General Superintendents

315. The general superintendents shall organize as a board

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 145

and arrange for and assign to the members thereof the particular

work over which they shall have special jurisdiction.

316. Vacancy. If a vacancy occurs, by death or otherwise,

in the Board of General Superintendents, in the interim of

sessions of the General Assembly, the question of calling for

an election to fill the vacancy shall be decided by the Board

of General Superintendents. Upon receipt of the board’s decision,

the general secretary shall notify at once all members

of the General Board. When an election is called for, the

members of the General Board shall elect, by a two-thirds

vote of all eligible to vote, an elder of the Church of the Nazarene

to fill the vacancy and to perform the duties of the

general superintendent until the final adjournment of the

next General Assembly. (31.5, 305.2)

316.1. The general secretary shall report the result of the

vote to the Board of General Superintendents, which shall

announce the same to the Church of the Nazarene.

317. The duties of the Board of General Superintendents

shall be:

317.1. To provide supervision of the international Church

of the Nazarene. The Board of General Superintendents

shall provide appropriate attention to leadership, guidance,

motivation, and access to all Phase 3 districts.

317.2. To recommend, in consultation with the director of

the World Mission Department, and the respective national

administrative directors and/or regional directors, changes

in the assignment of the geographical areas subject to the

approval of the Board of General Superintendents and the

General Board.

317.3. To have supervision of all general boards and the

committees of the General Board. The policies and plans

adopted by the board or committee require the approval of

the Board of General Superintendents. The Board of General

Superintendents shall have the privilege of making to the

General Board and to the committees thereof such recommendations

as they shall deem advisable. They shall approve

or disapprove all nominations made by the World Mission

Committee to the General Board of the Church of the

Nazarene for appointment as missionaries.

146 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

317.4. To function as a Nominating Committee, in conjunction

with the General Board Executive Committee, to

bring one or more names to the General Board for election of

a general secretary and a general treasurer.

317.5. To declare vacant with cause by a two-thirds vote

the office of general secretary, general treasurer, Nazarene

Publishing House president, or department director.

317.6. To fill vacancies that may occur in the membership

of the General Court of Appeals in the interim of sessions of

the General Assembly, and to select the chairperson and secretary

of the court. (305.7, 511, 901.2)

317.7. To fill vacancies that may occur in any special commission

or committee in the interim of General Assemblies

or General Board.

317.8. To approve the appointments and elections made

by the General Board of the Church of the Nazarene in filling

vacancies that may occur in its membership.

317.9. To fill vacancies, upon nomination made by the remaining

members thereof, on the corporate board of the

Nazarene Publishing House. (337)

317.10. To appoint general superintendents to serve as

advisers of all institutions of higher education affiliated

with the International Board of Education and to serve as

general superintendents in jurisdiction for all departments

of the General Board. (901.5)

317.11. To arrange, in conjunction with Clergy Development,

ministerial studies for local ministers, licensed ministers,

and those serving in ministerial roles, lay or credentialed.

(424-25)

317.12. To plan, preserve and promote the lifeline of our

global mission interests, the Board of General Superintendents,

with the General Board, is authorized and empowered

to apportion the World Evangelism Fund to the several

assembly districts. (130, 334.8)

317.13. To approve in writing the restoration of credential

to a former elder or deacon as required. (434.7, 435.2)

318. The Board of General Superintendents shall be the

authority for the interpretation of the law and doctrine of

the Church of the Nazarene, and the meaning and force of

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 147

all provisions of the Manual, subject to an appeal to the

General Assembly.

319. The Board of General Superintendents shall consider

and pass upon plans for district centers, which plans shall

not be carried out until they have been approved in writing

by the Board of General Superintendents. (222.9)

320. The presiding general superintendent shall have discretionary

power in the ordaining of divorced persons to the

office of elder or deacon in the Church of the Nazarene.

(35.1-35.3, 428.3, 429.3)

321. The Board of General Superintendents may declare

vacant with cause the office of a district superintendent of

any Phase 2 or Phase 1 district upon recommendation of the

general superintendent having jurisdiction and may declare

vacant the office of district superintendents in Phase 3 districts

upon a two-thirds majority vote of the District Advisory

Board, the chairperson of the District Sunday School Ministries

Board, the presidents of the district NMI and NYI, the

district secretary, and the district treasurer. (207.2)

322. The Board of General Superintendents may approve

that a Phase 3 district be declared in crisis. (200.2, 307.8)

323. The Board of General Superintendents shall have authority

to do anything else in the service of the Church of

the Nazarene, not otherwise provided for, according to the

dictates of its wisdom, in harmony with the general church

order, and subject to the church Constitution.

J. The General Secretary

324. The general secretary, elected by the General Board

as provided by General Board Bylaws, shall serve until the

final adjournment of the next General Assembly and until a

successor is elected and qualified, or until removed according

to 317.5. (900.2)

324.1. The general secretary shall be a member ex-officio

of the General Assembly. (301)

324.2. If in the interim of sessions of the General Board a

vacancy should occur in the office of the general secretary

for any cause, it shall be filled by the General Board, upon

nomination as provided in 317.4. (334.22)

148 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

324.3. The general secretary shall be amenable to the

Board of General Superintendents and the General Board.

325. The duties of the general secretary are:

325.1. To record correctly and preserve the journal of the

proceedings of the General Assembly and the General Board.

325.2. To record correctly and preserve all general statistics

of the Church of the Nazarene.

325.3. To preserve all documents belonging to the General

Assembly, and promptly deliver the same to his or her successor.

325.4. To preserve carefully, in permanent form, all decisions

rendered by the General Court of Appeals. (513)

325.5. To catalogue and preserve all filed, surrendered, removed,

and resigned credentials of ministers and deliver

them only on proper order made by the district assembly of

the assembly district from which they were received. (434-

34.1, 434.6)

325.6. To audit assembly district statistical charts for

publication. (217.3)

325.7. To maintain in a permanent database the records

of all persons who have been granted a district minister’s license.

325.8. To make available the minutes of the General Assembly

sessions to the delegates of the specific assembly

who make a request for them through their district, or in

World Mission areas, their regional office. This may be done

in digital format.

325.9. To make available for download from http://

www.nazarene.org the complete text of the latest version of

the Manual, in a format that can be used in the widest possible

range of personal computers, personal digital assistants

(PDAs), etc.

325.10. To do faithfully whatever else may be necessary

for the fulfillment of the duties of the office.

326. The general secretary shall be custodian of, and hold

in trust, such legal documents as belong to the general

church.

326.1. The general secretary is authorized to collect available

historic material relating to the rise and development

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 149

of our denomination, and shall be the custodian of such

records and material.

326.2. The general secretary shall keep a register of Historic

Sites and Landmarks according to paragraph 902.10.

327. The general secretary, in conjunction with the general

superintendents, shall, prior to the opening of the General

Assembly, prepare all necessary forms, including Rules of

Order “Manual” Abridgment for revision, and other things

necessary for expediting the work of the General Assembly.

The expense incurred shall be provided for out of the General

Assembly expense fund.

327.1. The general secretary may have as many assistants

for the work as the General Assembly shall elect, or, in the

interim of sessions of the General Assembly, the Board of

General Superintendents may appoint.

K. The General Treasurer

328. The general treasurer, elected by the General Board

as provided by General Board Bylaws, shall serve until the

final adjournment of the next General Assembly and until a

successor is elected and qualified or until removed according

to 317.5. (900.3)

328.1. The general treasurer shall be a member ex-officio

of the General Assembly. (301)

328.2. The general treasurer shall be amenable to the

general superintendent in jurisdiction for the Headquarters

Financial office, the Board of General Superintendents, and

the General Board.

329. The duties of the general treasurer are:

329.1. To have the custody of all funds belonging to the

general interests of the Church of the Nazarene.

329.2. To receive, and disburse on order, the funds of the

USACanada MissionEvangelism Committee, Finance Committee,

Sunday School Ministries & NYI Committee, World

Mission Committee, and such other funds as properly belong

to the General Board, or to any of its departments; the general

superintendents’ fund; the general contingent fund; the

General Assembly expense fund; other general benevolent

church funds; the funds of the Global Nazarene Youth Inter-

150 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

national; and the funds of the General Nazarene Missions

International. (330.3)

329.3. To give bond for the faithful performance of duties,

in a reliable surety company, in a good and sufficient sum,

as the General Board may direct.

329.4. To furnish such reports to the boards and departments,

for whose funds he or she may be custodian, as may

be required by them.

329.5. To furnish to the General Board an annual report

of all finances of the Church of the Nazarene, including investments.

(334.13)

329.6. To safeguard annuity funds invested in real estate

by proper insurance policies and to provide against the lapsing

of such policies.

329.7. To secure monthly reports of receipts and disbursements

from all schools, orphanages, rescue homes, and other

institutions of the Church of the Nazarene.

L. The General Board

330. The General Board of the Church of the Nazarene, a

religious and charitable corporation incorporated under the

laws of the state of Missouri at Kansas City, Mo., U.S.A.,

shall be composed of members who shall be elected by ballot

by the General Assembly from among the persons nominated

as provided in 331.1-32.4. To be elected a member of the

General Board as a representative of a church region, one

must be a resident on that region as well as a member of a

local church on that region. (305.6, 333)

330.1. No one shall be eligible for election to the General

Board or shall remain a member of the General Board who

is an employee of the General Board, or entities including

educational institutions controlled by the General Board. Individuals

from districts or other entities receiving operating

funds from the general church are likewise ineligible.

330.2. The general secretary shall be ex-officio secretary

of the General Board.

330.3. The general treasurer of the Church of the Nazarene

shall be ex-officio treasurer of the General Board and also of

the departments thereof. (329.2)

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 151

331. Nominations for the General Board shall be made

as herein provided:

331.1. After the delegates to the General Assembly have

been elected, each Phase 3 district delegation shall meet to

select candidates for nomination to the General Board in the

following manner. Each Phase 3 district may present names

of two ordained ministers and two laypersons. The multicultural

composition of the nominating district should be considered

in selecting names for nomination. For such regions

that have a Regional Advisory Council, the names of these

candidates shall be sent first to the national board and then

to the Regional Advisory Council, which may reduce the

number of names to three for each member that the caucus

needs to vote on, after which the names shall be sent immediately

to the office of the general secretary to be placed on

ballots for presentation to the General Assembly delegates

from each region. (203.23)

331.2. From the list of these candidates, the General Assembly

delegates from each region shall nominate to the

General Assembly as follows:

Each region of 100,000 or fewer full members shall nominate

one ordained minister and one layperson; each region

exceeding 100,000 and up to 200,000 full members shall

nominate two ordained ministers, one district superintendent

and one pastor or evangelist, and two laypersons; and

one additional layperson and one additional ordained minister

for regions exceeding 200,000 full members, with the following

provisions:

1. On those regions whose membership is in excess of

200,000 full members, one ordained minister shall be a

pastor or evangelist; another shall be a district superintendent;

and the other ordained minister may be in

either category.

2. No district shall be entitled to more than two members

on the General Board, and no region shall be entitled

to more than six members (with the exception of institutional

representatives and auxiliary members).

Whenever more than two candidates from a district receive

a higher number of votes than candidates from

152 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

other districts on the region, those on another district

receiving the next highest number of votes shall be selected

as nominees from the region. (305.6, 901.1)

3. In each region the layperson/laypersons, the pastor or

evangelist, and/or the district superintendent who receive

the highest number of votes in their respective

classifications shall be nominated by majority vote to the

General Assembly. In the instance of the larger regions

where six members are to be elected, the layperson and

the ordained minister who receive the next highest number

of votes shall be the additional nominees. (902.9)

4. If a Regional Advisory Council determines that it is likely

that a majority of elected delegates will be prevented

from attending the General Assembly, the regional caucus

voting may be conducted via postal or electronic

means within six months prior to the start of General

Assembly. The specific process by which this postal or

electronic nomination of General Board members to the

General Assembly occurs shall be proposed by the Regional

Advisory Council and submitted to the General

Secretary’s office for approval prior to implementation.

331.3. The International Board of Education (IBOE) shall

nominate to the General Assembly four persons from the educational

institutions, two ordained ministers and two laypersons.

(330.1)

331.4. The Global Council of the Nazarene Youth International

shall nominate to the General Assembly two members

of the Global NYI Council. (341.4)

331.5. The General Council of the Nazarene Missions International

shall nominate to the General Assembly two

members of the General Council. (342.3)

332. Elections to the General Board shall be as herein

provided:

332.1. Each nominee presented by the respective regions

shall be elected by the General Assembly by a majority “yes”

vote by ballot. (902.9)

332.2. From the nominees presented by the International

Board of Education, the General Assembly shall elect two, one

of whom shall be an ordained minister and one a layperson.

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 153

332.3. From the nominees presented by the Global Council

of the Nazarene Youth International, the General Assembly

shall elect one. (341.4, 901.3)

332.4. From the nominees presented by the General

Council of the Nazarene Missions International, the General

Assembly shall elect one. (342.3, 901.4)

333. The members of the General Board shall hold office

until the final adjournment of the next General Assembly

and until their successors are elected and qualified. In the

event that a member of the General Board shall move his or

her church membership or residence from the region he or

she represents, or if a minister changes from the category of

ministerial assignment for which elected, before the second

regular meeting of the quadrennium, his or her membership

shall be terminated immediately. The vacancy so created

shall be filled promptly. (330)

333.1. Vacancies occurring in the membership of the

General Board, and also the committees thereof, shall be

filled upon nomination by the Board of General Superintendents,

who shall present to the general secretary, as soon as

feasible, the names of two eligible persons from whom for regional

representation the Advisory Boards of the districts of

the region on which the vacancy occurred shall elect one by

a majority vote, each Phase 2 and Phase 3 District Advisory

Board being entitled to one vote. For educational representation,

the nominees shall be submitted to the General

Board to elect one by a majority vote. For representation

from NYI, nominees shall be submitted to the Global Council

to elect one by a majority vote. For representation from

NMI, nominees shall be submitted from the Executive Committee

of the General NMI Council in consultation with the

general superintendent in jurisdiction, and with the approval

of the Board of General Superintendents to the General

NMI Council to elect one by a majority vote.

DUTIES OF THE GENERAL BOARD

334. The General Board shall encourage and expect all

national, regional, district, and local boards to fulfill the

mission of the Church of the Nazarene, which is to propa-

154 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

gate Christian holiness in the Wesleyan tradition, and shall

facilitate the progress of the global church in each nation

and/or region. The General Board shall promote the financial

and material affairs of all the committees of the Church

of the Nazarene, subject to such instructions as may be given

by the General Assembly. It shall coordinate, correlate,

and unify the plans and activities of the several constituent

committees so that a unified policy may be established by

and in all the activities of the Church of the Nazarene. It

shall have the power to direct the auditing of the accounts of

all departments and institutions relating to or associated

with the Church of the Nazarene, with a view to securing

such uniformity of method and completeness of form as

shall be most efficient; and it shall be an advisory body in

the business and administrative affairs of the several departments

of the General Board and of all the organizations

and institutions that are a part of, related to, or associated

with this denomination. These departments, organizations,

and institutions shall give due consideration to the advice

and recommendations of the General Board.

334.1. The General Board shall have power to buy, own,

hold, manage, mortgage, sell and convey and donate, or otherwise

acquire, encumber, and dispose of both real and personal

property, sold, devised, bequeathed, donated, or otherwise

conveyed to it in trust for any lawful purpose, and to

execute such trust; to borrow and to loan money in the execution

of its lawful purposes.

334.2. The General Board shall fill a vacancy in the Board

of General Superintendents in accordance with paragraphs

316 and 305.2.

334.3. The General Board shall meet before or immediately

following the final adjournment of the General Assembly

and shall organize by electing officers and committees, and

members to committees as required by its Articles of Incorporation

and bylaws, to serve for the quadrennium and until

their successors are elected and qualified. The general superintendents,

jointly and severally, shall preside over the

meetings of the General Board.

334.4. Meetings. The General Board shall meet in ses-

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 155

sion at least three times during the quadrennium, at a time

specified by the bylaws of the said board, at Kansas City,

Mo., U.S.A.; however, the hour, date, and place of the regular

meeting may, by resolution unanimously adopted at any regular

or special meeting, be changed to suit the best interests

of the General Board and its committees.

334.5. Special Meetings of the General Board may be

called by the chairperson, the president, or the secretary.

334.6. Finance Committee. The Finance Committee,

elected by the General Board, shall have charge of the proper

investment of trust funds. The General Board, after first

referring to this committee all budget requests submitted by

the several departments and offices of the General Headquarters

for the ensuing year, shall receive from the committee

a report of its recommendations concerning each request.

This committee shall perform any other work assigned to it

by the General Board. It shall keep accurate minutes of all

its meetings and submit them to the General Board for approval.

334.7. World Evangelism Fund. The World Evangelism

Fund shall be the grand total of all department budgets and

other funds to be raised by the whole denomination for the

support, maintenance, and promotion of its general activities.

From the statements of budget requests submitted by the

various departments and agencies of the church, and from

the statements of the general treasurer, the General Board

shall determine the amount to be allotted from the World

Evangelism Fund to each department and fund. When the

World Evangelism Fund with its proposed allotment to each

department shall have been agreed upon, it shall be submitted

to the Board of General Superintendents for its consideration,

suggestions, or amendments before final adoption

by the General Board.

334.8. When the total amount of the World Evangelism

Fund has been fixed for the next fiscal year by the General

Board, the General Board and the Board of General Superintendents

are authorized and empowered to apportion the

World Evangelism Fund to the several assembly districts on

156 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

a basis of equity to both the district and general interests affected.

(130, 317.12)

334.9. The General Board shall have authority to increase

or diminish the amount requested by any department or

fund. Items of finance adopted by the General Assembly

shall be referred to the General Board, who shall be authorized

to adjust proportionately with existing economic conditions

the annual allocation of any institution or agency of

the church, in keeping with the total financial commitment

of the general church.

334.10. The General Board shall approve appropriations

from the World Evangelism Fund for the Nazarene Theological

Seminary (U.S.A.) and the Nazarene Bible College (U.S.A.)

as it may deem advisable in line with the availability of funds.

334.11. The General Board shall annually review and

make appropriate adjustments in the salaries and related

benefits of the general superintendents in the interim of

General Assemblies.

334.12. Reports. The General Board shall, at its regular

meeting, receive a detailed report of the activities of the departments

for the past year, including a financial report.

Each department shall also submit a proposed expenditures

budget for the ensuing year.

334.13. The general treasurer shall annually present to

the General Board a detailed financial report of receipts and

disbursements of all funds of which he or she has been custodian

during the past year, including trust funds and investments,

together with a detailed statement of the proposed expenditures

for the ensuing year of funds not included in the

budgets of departments of the General Board. The general

treasurer shall be responsible to the General Board for the

faithful performance of official duties. (329.5)

334.14. The General Board shall meet before or immediately

following the final adjournment of the General Assembly

and shall elect a general secretary and a general treasurer as

provided in General Board Bylaws, who shall hold office until

the final adjournment of the next General Assembly and until

their successors are elected and qualified.

334.15. The General Board members representing United

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 157

States regions shall elect a Board of Pensions and Benefits

USA, composed of one member representing each United

States region, and one member-at-large. Nominations shall

be submitted by the Board of General Superintendents as

provided by the Bylaws of the Board of Pensions and Benefits

USA. (336)

334.16. The General Board shall elect a Nazarene Publishing

House Board following each General Assembly, who shall

serve until the adjournment of the next General Assembly

and until their successors are elected and qualified. (337)

334.17. The General Board shall elect a Nazarene Publishing

House president in the manner prescribed by 334.20

and General Board Bylaws.

334.18. A General Board agenda item affecting only a specific

region/nation shall be referred upon approval of the Executive

Committee of the General Board and the Board of

General Superintendents, to the General Board members of

said region/nation meeting in caucus.

334.19. The General Board shall properly relate any commission

or committee authorized by the General Assembly

or General Board to some department or departments, or to

the board as a whole, and assign its work, responsibility, and

budget.

334.20. Department Directors. The General Board

shall elect a department director, by ballot, for each of its

several departments, to serve until the final adjournment of

the next General Assembly and until their successors are

elected and qualified, unless removed from office as provided

in paragraph 317.5. They shall be nominated according

to the following procedures: If there is an incumbent

director, the Nominating Committee may recommend either

a “yes” or “no” vote, or present multiple nominees. The

search for capable candidates for these offices shall be conducted

by a search committee as provided by General Board

Bylaws. This committee will bring two or more names to the

Nominating Committee along with supporting rationale for

their recommendation.

The Nominating Committee, composed of the six general

superintendents and the Personnel Committee from the re-

158 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

spective committee, shall submit one or more names to the

General Board for election as provided in the General Board

Bylaws.

334.21. Executives’ Salaries. The General Board shall

establish and document a “performance evaluation” and

salary administration program that includes the department

director and ministry/service directors and provides

for a salary structure that recognizes both levels of responsibility

and merit. The General Board shall annually review

and approve the salaries of department directors, the Nazarene

Publishing House president, and such other officers as

may be authorized and elected by the General Board.

334.22. The General Board, during the interim of sessions

of the General Assembly and/or General Board, upon nomination

as provided in the General Board Bylaws and 317.4, shall

fill any vacancy that may occur in the offices listed in 334.14,

334.20, and any other executive offices created by the General

Assembly, General Board, or their elected committees.

335. The retirement for all officers and any other director

listed in 334.14 and 334.20, and any other agency head

employed by the General Assembly or its elected commissions,

the General Board and its departments, shall occur at

the time of the General Board meeting following their 70th

birthday. Where there are vacancies, they shall be filled in

accordance with Manual procedures.

M. General Church-related Boards

PENSION BOARDS

336. There shall be a Pensions Board, or equivalent

authorized body, with fiduciary responsibility for each

church-related pension plan. A pension plan may apply at

organizational, district, multidistrict, national, regional, or

multiregional level as the needs may dictate. (334.15)

336.1. The General Board shall establish and maintain

suggested guidelines that are relevant to all pension programs

worldwide. The General Board does not guarantee

any pension plan from loss or depreciation. The General

Board does not guarantee the payment of any money that

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 159

may be or becomes due to any person from any pension

plan, and shall not be liable in the case of the underfunding

of any pension plan.

336.2. All pension plans shall submit an annual report to

the General Board through Pensions and Benefits International

in the form and format requested.

NAZARENE PUBLISHING HOUSE BOARD

337. The Nazarene Publishing House (NPH), a corporation

of Kansas City, Mo., U.S.A., shall have a Board of Directors

composed of nine members: the president of the Nazarene

Publishing House, who shall be the chief executive

officer of the corporation; the general secretary of the

Church of the Nazarene, who shall be the ex-officio secretary

of the corporation; one General Board member from the

Sunday School Ministries & NYI Committee and selected by

that committee; and six members-at-large, nominated by the

Board of General Superintendents and elected by the General

Board. They shall hold office until the final adjournment

of the next General Assembly and until their successors are

elected and qualified. Vacancies shall be filled by majority

vote of the remaining members from nominations made by

the Board of General Superintendents.

337.1. The Board of Directors shall review and provide

guidance for the policy, planning, and business operations of

the Nazarene Publishing House and shall serve in accordance

with the charter and bylaws of NPH and the General

Board.

337.2. The Nazarene Publishing House Board shall meet

annually, or more frequently, as specified in the NPH Bylaws.

337.3. The Capital Expenditures Budget and an annual

budget shall be prepared by the president of the Nazarene

Publishing House for approval by the Board of Directors before

adoption by the General Board.

337.4. The president of the Nazarene Publishing House

shall be responsible to the NPH Board of Directors for the

management of the corporation’s business, and shall report

annually to the Board of Directors and to the General Board.

337.5. The president of the Nazarene Publishing House

160 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

shall be elected in accordance with 334.20, except that the

Board of Directors will select one of their number to serve on

the Search Committee when a new president is to be elected,

and the Nominating Committee shall be composed of the six

general superintendents, three members of the Board of Directors

who are not members ex-officio, and three members

of the General Board Executive Committee. He or she shall

be amenable to the general superintendent in jurisdiction.

337.6. The president of the Nazarene Publishing House

shall be a member of the Headquarters Directors Fellowship

and the Planning and Budget Council.

N. The Christian Action Committee

338. Following the General Assembly, the Board of General

Superintendents shall appoint a Christian Action Committee,

one of whom shall be the general secretary, who

shall report the committee’s work to the General Board.

The duties of the General Christian Action Committee

are:

338.1. To provide and develop for our people constructive

information regarding such matters as alcohol, tobacco, narcotics,

gambling and other current moral and social issues in

harmony with church doctrine, and to disseminate the information

in denominational communications.

338.2. To emphasize the sanctity of marriage and the sacredness

of the Christian home and to point out the problems

and evils of divorce. In particular, stress should be laid

upon the biblical plan of marriage as a lifelong covenant, to

be broken only by death.

338.3. To encourage our people to serve in places of leadership

in organizations working for civic and social righteousness.

338.4. To alert our people regarding the Lord’s Day observance,

oath-bound secret orders, entertainments that are

subversive of the Christian ethic, worldliness of other types,

and such related subjects as may need emphasis. (34.1)

338.5. To assist and encourage each district to establish a

Christian Action Committee; and to provide each district

committee with information and material on current moral

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 161

issues to be disseminated to each local church for appropriate

action.

338.6. To monitor moral issues of national and international

importance and to present the scriptural viewpoint to

the appropriate organizations for their consideration.

O. Committee on the Interests of the

God-Called Evangelist

339. The Committee on the Interests of the God-Called

Evangelist shall be composed of the revivalism coordinator,

who shall be ex-officio chairperson of the committee, plus

four tenured evangelists and one pastor. The USA/Canada

Mission/Evangelism director, in consultation with the revivalism

coordinator shall submit a list of nominees for the

committee to the Board of General Superintendents for approval

and appointment. The committee or its designee shall

personally interview commissioned evangelists who have

been recommended by their respective district assemblies

for “tenured evangelist” status (408.3). It shall also review

the state of itinerant evangelism in the Church of the Nazarene

and make recommendations concerning both revivals

and evangelists to the appropriate committee of the General

Board. Vacancies shall be filled by appointment from the

Board of General Superintendents from recommendations

received from the USACanada MissionEvangelism director,

in consultation with the revivalism coordinator. (317.7)

P. International Course of Study

Advisory Committee

340. Following the General Assembly, the Clergy Development

director, in consultation with the regional education coordinators,

shall submit a list of nominees to serve on the International

Course of Study Advisory Committee (ICOSAC).

Nominees to the committee may include pastoral, administrative,

educational, and lay representatives. Composition of

ICOSAC should substantially represent the global church.

The Board of General Superintendents shall appoint the International

Course of Study Advisory Committee to serve for

the quadrennium.

162 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

The International Course of Study Advisory Committee

shall meet not less than once every two years at a location

determined by the Clergy Development director (424.1-24.2,

424.5).

Q. The Global Nazarene Youth International

341. Nazarene youth ministry is organized globally under

the auspices of Nazarene Youth International, under the

Nazarene Youth International Charter, and the authority of

the general superintendent in jurisdiction for NYI and General

Board. The global NYI shall be composed of the members,

local groups and district organizations, of Nazarene

Youth International around the world. The global NYI is

governed by the NYI Charter and the NYI Global Ministry

Plan approved by the General Assembly.

341.1. There shall be a quadrennial Global NYI Convention

which shall meet at a time set by the Board of General

Superintendents, in consultation with the Global Council of

Nazarene Youth International. The quadrennial convention

shall be composed of such members as are designated in the

NYI Global Ministry Plan (810).

341.2. The convention shall elect a global president and a

global vice president, who shall be members ex-officio of the

Global NYI Council and shall serve without salary.

341.3. The Global NYI Council shall be composed of the

president, vice president, youth members-at-large, and representation

from each region as designated by the NYI Global

Ministry Plan (810). The Director of Nazarene Youth International

shall serve ex-officio on the council. The council shall be

responsible to the General Board through the Sunday School

Ministries & NYI Committee, and to the general superintendent

in jurisdiction for NYI, and shall conduct itself under the

authority of the NYI Charter and the NYI Global Ministry

Plan. The Global NYI Council members shall hold office until

the conclusion of the subsequent General Assembly, when

their successors are elected and qualified.

341.4. The Global Nazarene Youth International shall be

represented on the General Board of the Church of the Naz-

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 163

arene by one member elected by the General Assembly from

nominations made by the Global NYI Council. (331.4, 332.3)

341.5. The Global Nazarene Youth International shall be

represented at the General Assembly by the global NYI

president at the end of his or her term (301).

R. The General Council of the General

Nazarene Missions International

342. The General Council of the General Nazarene Missions

International shall be composed of the general president,

general director, and the number of members prescribed

by the Constitution of the General Nazarene

Missions International and elected in accordance therewith.

342.1. The General Council shall be governed by the NMI

Constitution. The General Council shall be auxiliary to the

World Mission Committee of the General Board. (811)

342.2. The general director shall be nominated by the

World Mission Department director, in consultation with the

general superintendent in jurisdiction for the World Mission

Department, and shall be approved by a majority vote of the

General Council before being submitted to the World Mission

Committee for approval by a majority vote with the recommendation

submitted for election by the Board of General

Superintendents. In the event the nomination is not

approved, the director of the World Mission Department and

the Board of General Superintendents shall submit further

nominations until one is approved by majority ballot vote of

the General Council. The general director shall be an ex-officio

member of the General NMI Council and a member of

the staff of the World Mission Department.

342.3. The General Nazarene Missions International shall

be represented on the General Board by one member elected

thereto by the General Assembly from nominations made by

the General Council of the General Nazarene Missions International.

(331.5, 332.4)

342.4. There shall be a Quadrennial Convention held under

the direction of the General Council of the General Nazarene

Missions International immediately preceding the

regular meeting of the General Assembly. This convention

164 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

shall elect the General Council of the General Nazarene

Missions International in harmony with the Constitution.

The convention shall elect a general president, who shall be

a member ex-officio of the General Council of the General

Nazarene Missions International. (811)

S. National Boards

343. Where deemed necessary, a national board shall be

established to facilitate the fulfillment of the church’s mission

allowing for unified strategies for evangelism, discipleship,

church planting, district development, new districts,

ministerial preparation, resource development, and ministerial

retirement savings plans; by providing for the acquiring,

holding, selling, and conveying of property; or by dealing

with any other administrative and/or legal business matters

relative to the Church of the Nazarene in that nation, for

which no other provision is made in the Manual. Such a

board shall be recognized as a lawful authority of the

Church of the Nazarene in that nation.

Where only one district of the Church of the Nazarene is

organized in the nation, the duly elected District Advisory

Board shall be the national board to conduct business as

outlined above.

Where there are two or more organized districts in one

nation, the national board shall be composed of the duly appointed

or elected district superintendents, as well as one

elder and two lay representatives elected by the district assembly,

from the members of the District Advisory Board; or,

with the approval of the General Board and the Board of

General Superintendents, the membership shall consist of

those persons duly elected or appointed as district superintendents

and additional representation of ordained ministers

and laypersons as agreed upon.

Where there is more than one region in one nation, the

duly elected representatives from said regions to the General

Board and additional representation of ordained ministers

and laypersons as agreed upon shall constitute the national

board. (331-31.2)

A copy of the articles of organization or incorporation of

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 165

such board shall be filed immediately with the general secretary.

Any business transacted by the national board shall

be subject to the approval of the Board of General Superintendents.

The minutes of the annual and special meetings of

the national board shall be reviewed by the Regional Advisory

Council who shall recommend approval or disapproval,

before they are submitted to the general secretary for reading

and approval by the General Board.

T. The Region

344. Origin and Purpose. In the growth of the church

worldwide, there has developed a grouping of several organized

districts into geographical areas identified as regions.

A cluster of districts amenable to the general government of

the Church of the Nazarene and having a sense of area and

cultural identification may be formed into an administrative

region by action of the General Board and approval of the

Board of General Superintendents.

344.1. Regional Policy. In keeping with the nonsymmetrical

approach to organization, the Board of General Superintendents

may, when deemed necessary, and in consultation

with the Regional Advisory Council, structure

administrative regions according to the particular needs, potential

problems, existing realities and diverse cultural and

educational backgrounds in their particular geographic areas

of the world. In such situations, the Board of General

Superintendents shall establish a policy that embraces nonnegotiable

commitments including our Articles of Faith,

faithful adherence to our holiness doctrine and lifestyle, and

support of our extensive missionary outreach efforts.

344.2. Duties. The principal duties of the regions are:

1. To implement the mission of the Church of the Nazarene

through the established pioneer areas, districts,

and institutions;

2. To develop regional awareness, fellowship, and strategies

to fulfill the Great Commission, bringing district

and institutional representatives together periodically

for planning, prayer, and inspiration;

3. To nominate persons to the General Assembly and

166 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

General/Global Conventions for elections to the General

Board;

4. In harmony with Manual provisions, to establish and

maintain such schools and colleges or other institutions

as they shall determine;

5. To be authorized to recruit and screen missionary candidates

from the region in accordance with policy

(344.3);

6. To plan Regional Advisory Council meetings and conferences

for the region;

7. To facilitate National Boards as stipulated in paragraphs

343 and 344.3.

344.3. Regional Advisory Council (RAC). A region

may have a Regional Advisory Council whose responsibilities

will be to assist the regional director in strategy development

for the region, to review and recommend approval or

disapproval of all national board minutes before forwarding

the same to the office of the general secretary, to interview

missionary candidates for recommendation to the World

Mission Department and/or for deployment as regional and

General Board contracted missionaries, to receive reports

from the regional director, field strategy coordinators, and

ministry coordinators, to elect missionary delegates to the

General Assembly in accordance with provisions of the Manual,

and to elect a principalrectorpresident of an International

Board of Education institution as a delegate to the

General Assembly.

Membership of the RAC shall be flexible in order to shape

the RAC according to the needs, development and requirements

of the individual regions. The regional director will

recommend the number of members of the RAC to the World

Mission director and the general superintendent in jurisdiction

for approval. Ex-officio members will be the general

superintendent in jurisdiction of the region, the World Mission

Department director and the regional director who will

serve as chairperson. World Mission Department contracted

personnel shall not be candidates for election to the RAC

but may serve as resource persons. Members of the RAC will

be elected by ballot by the regional caucus at the General

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 167

Assembly. The RAC will fill any vacancy between General

Assemblies.

The regional director, in consultation with the RAC, may

convene a regional conference or area evangelism conference

as needed.

344.4. The Regional Director. Where deemed necessary

a region may have a director elected by the Board of General

Superintendents in consultation with the World Mission Department

director, and ratified by the General Board, to

work in harmony with the policies and practices of the

Church of the Nazarene giving leadership to the districts,

churches, and institutions of said region in fulfillment of the

mission, strategies, and program of the church.

Prior to the reelection of a regional director, a review shall

be conducted by the World Mission Department director and

the general superintendent in jurisdiction, in consultation

with the Regional Advisory Council. A positive review will

constitute an endorsement for the recommendation for reelection.

Each regional director is to be administratively accountable

to the World Mission Department, and the General

Board, and in jurisdictional matters, accountable to the

Board of General Superintendents.

344.5. The Field Strategy Coordinator. When considered

necessary, the regional director could institute a field

structure in the region, and recommend to the World Mission

Department director the appointment of field strategy

coordinators according to the World Mission Policy and Procedure

Manual. The field strategy coordinator would be responsible

to the regional director.

344.6. Regional Course of Study Advisory Committee.

The Regional Course of Study Advisory Committee

(RCOSAC) shall be composed of the regional education coordinator,

who may be ex-officio chairperson of the committee,

plus representatives selected in consultation with the regional

director. Members of the RCOSAC should represent

all parties interested in ministerial education (i.e., pastors,

administrators, educators, and laity) for the region.

168 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

344.7. Duties of the Regional Course of Study Advisory

Committee. The principal duties of the RCOSAC are:

1. To develop the regional Sourcebook on Ordination

(SOO) outlining the minimum educational standards

for ordination on their region in the Church of the Nazarene.

The regional SMD must reflect the minimum

standards established in the Manual and elaborated in

the International Sourcebook on Developmental Standards

for Ordination;

2. To develop validation procedures for the ministerial

educational programs of their region, to verify the programs

meet the regional COSAC and ICOSAC minimum

standards;

3. To collaborate with the regional educational providers

to interpret these standards in ministerial education

programs;

4. To review ministerial education program submissions

for compliance with regional Sourcebook and International

Sourcebook standards;

5. To endorse regional ministerial education programs to

the International Course of Study Advisory Committee

for adoption and approval.

GENERAL GOVERNMENT 169

CHAPTER IV

HIGHER EDUCATION

A. Church and College/University

380. The Church of the Nazarene, from its inception, has

been committed to higher education. The church provides

the college/university with students, administrative and faculty

leadership, and financial and spiritual support. The college/

university educates the church’s youth and many of the

church’s adults, guides them toward spiritual maturity, enriches

the church, and sends out into the world thinking,

loving servants of Christ. The church college/university,

while not a local congregation, is an integral part of the

church; it is an expression of the church.

The Church of the Nazarene believes in the value and the

dignity of human life and the need for providing an environment

in which people can be redeemed and enriched spiritually,

intellectually, and physically, “made holy, useful to the

Master and prepared to do any good work” (2 Timothy 2:21).

The primary task and traditional expressions of local church

activity—evangelism, religious education, compassionate

ministries, and services of worship—exemplify the church’s

love for God and concern for people.

At the local church level, the Christian education of youth

and adults at various stages of human development intensifies

the effectiveness of the gospel. Congregations may incorporate

within their objectives and function childcare/school

educational programs at any or all levels, from birth through

secondary. At the general church level, the historic practice

of providing institutions for higher education or ministerial

preparation will be maintained. Wherever such institutions

are operated, they shall function within the philosophical

170 HIGHER EDUCATION

and theological framework of the Church of the Nazarene as

established by the General Assembly and expressed through

the Manual.

380.1. Educational Mission Statement. Education in

the Church of the Nazarene, rooted in the biblical and theological

commitments of the Wesleyan and holiness movements

and accountable to the stated mission of the denomination,

aims to guide those who look to it in accepting, in

nurturing, and in expressing in service to the church and

world consistent and coherent Christian understandings of

social and individual life. Additionally, such institutions of

higher education will seek to provide a curriculum, quality

of instruction, and evidence of scholastic achievement that

will adequately prepare graduates to function effectively in

vocations and professions such graduates may choose.

380.2. General Assembly authorization, upon the recommendation

of the International Board of Education, is required

to establish degree granting institutions.

Authorization for the development or change of status of

existing institutions may be granted by the General Board

upon recommendation of the International Board of Education.

No local church or combination of churches, or persons representing

a local church or group of churches, may establish

or sponsor a post-secondary level or ministerial preparatory

institution on behalf of the church, except upon the recommendation

of the International Board of Education.

B. International Higher Education Council

381. There shall be an International Higher Education

Council composed of the president, principal, rector, or director

(or his/her designated representative) of each International

Board of Education institution of the Church of the

Nazarene, the regional education coordinators, the education

commissioner, the World Mission Department director,

and the general superintendent in jurisdiction for the International

Board of Education.

HIGHER EDUCATION 171

C. International Board of Education

382. The International Board of Education shall be the

general church advocate for educational institutions in the

Church of the Nazarene worldwide.

This board shall be composed of thirteen members: eight

elected by the General Board, plus five members ex-officio:

the two education representatives on the General Board, the

World Mission Department director, the Clergy Development

director, and the education commissioner (383). A

Nominating Committee composed of the education commissioner,

the World Mission Department director, the two education

representatives on the General Board, and the general

superintendents in jurisdiction for the International

Board of Education and World Mission Department shall

present eight nominees approved by the Board of General

Superintendents to the General Board for election.

In an effort to insure broad representation throughout the

church, the Nominating Committee shall submit nominees

as follows: one regional education coordinator; three laypersons;

two ordained ministers from World Mission regions

where no person who is an education coordinator has been

nominated; two “at large” nominees. No World Mission region

shall have more than one elected member on the IBOE

until each region has a representative.

Throughout the nominating and election process, attention

shall be given to the election of persons with cross-cultural

perspective and/or experience as educators.

The functions of the International Board of Education

are:

382.1. To insure that institutions are under the legal control

of their respective governing boards whose constitutions

and bylaws shall conform to their respective charters or articles

of incorporation and that shall be in harmony with the

guidelines set by the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

382.2. To insure that members of governing boards of

Nazarene institutions shall be members of the Church of the

Nazarene in good standing. They are to be in full accord

with the Articles of Faith, including the doctrine of entire

172 HIGHER EDUCATION

sanctification and the usages of the Church of the Nazarene

as set forth in the Manual of the church. Insofar as possible,

the membership of the higher education boards of control

shall have an equal number of ministers and laity.

382.3. To receive such funds as may be contributed to it

for educational purposes through gifts, bequests, and donations,

and shall annually recommend allocations from these

funds to each educational institution in accordance with policy

adopted by the General Board. Institutions shall not continue

to receive regular support unless their education standards,

plan of organization, and financial reports are filed

with the International Board of Education.

382.4. To receive and deal appropriately with a yearly report

from the education commissioner summarizing the following

information from all International Board of Education

institutions: (1) annual statistical report, (2) annual

audit report, and (3) annual fiscal budgets for the upcoming

year.

382.5. To recommend and to provide support and advocacy,

although its role is advisory to the institutions, to the Board

of General Superintendents and to the General Board.

382.6. To serve the church in matters pertaining to Nazarene

educational institutions in order to strengthen the

bonds between the institutions and the church at large.

382.7. To submit its business and recommendations to the

Board of General Superintendents and the General Board

for ratification in the same manner as is the business and

recommendations of committees of the General Board.

D. Education Commissioner

383. The administrator of the International Board of Education

is the education commissioner, who shall be elected

by two-thirds favorable vote of the General Board from one

or more nominees approved by the Board of General Superintendents

and presented by a Nominating Committee composed

of the two education representatives on the General

Board, the general superintendents in jurisdiction for the

International Board of Education and the World Mission

HIGHER EDUCATION 173

Department, the World Mission Department director, and

the chairperson of the International Higher Education

Council. (382)

The education commissioner may be reelected as an incumbent

by a “yes” or “no” vote of the General Board upon

approval of the Nominating Committee.

The duties of the education commissioner shall be detailed

in the General Board Bylaws. (382)

384. All institutional constitutions and bylaws must include

an article on dissolution and disposal of assets indicating

that the Church of the Nazarene shall receive such assets

to be used for educational services for the church.

174 HIGHER EDUCATION

PART V

Ministry and

Christian Service

CALL AND QUALIFICATIONS OF THE MINISTER

CATEGORIES AND ROLES OF MINISTRY

EDUCATION FOR MINISTERS

CREDENTIALS AND MINISTERIAL

REGULATIONS

CHAPTER I

CALL AND QUALIFICATIONS

OF THE MINISTER1

400. The Church of the Nazarene recognizes and insists

that all believers have committed to them a dispensation of

the gospel that they are to minister to all people.

We also recognize and hold that the Head of the Church

calls some men and women to the more official and public

work of the ministry. As our Lord called to Him whom He

would, and chose and ordained His 12 apostles “that they

might be with him and that he might send them out to

preach” (Mark 3:14), so He still calls and sends out messengers

of the gospel. The church, illuminated by the Holy Spirit,

will recognize the Lord’s call.

The church also recognizes on the basis of Scripture and

experience that God calls individuals to a lifetime of ministry

who do not witness to a specific call to preach.

When the church discovers a divine call, the proper steps

should be taken for its recognition and endorsement, and all

suitable help should be given to open the way for the candidate

to enter the ministry.

401. The perpetuity and efficiency of the Church of the

Nazarene depend largely upon the spiritual qualifications,

the character, and the manner of life of its ministers.

(433.14)

401.1. The minister of Christ is to be in all things a pattern

to the flock—in punctuality, discretion, diligence, earnestness;

176 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

1. The Manual Editing Committee, in recognition of the validity of the

opening words of paragraph 400, has attempted to use language that reflects

this distinctive. However, due to the nature of this section of the Manual, the

terms “minister” or “the minister” will usually refer to a person holding credentials,

whether licensed, ordained, or commissioned.

“in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the

Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the

power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right

hand and in the left” (2 Corinthians 6:6-7).

401.2. The minister of the gospel in the Church of the

Nazarene must have peace with God through our Lord Jesus

Christ, and be sanctified wholly by the baptism with the

Holy Spirit. The minister must have a deep sense of the fact

that souls for whom Christ died are perishing, and that he

or she is called of God to proclaim or make known to them

the glad tidings of salvation.

401.3. The minister must likewise have a deep sense of

the necessity of believers going on to perfection and developing

the Christian graces in practical living, that their “love

may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight”

(Philippians 1:9). One who would minister in the

Church of the Nazarene must have a strong appreciation of

both salvation and Christian ethics.

401.4. The minister must have gifts, as well as graces, for

the work. He or she will have a thirst for knowledge, especially

of the Word of God, and must have sound judgment,

good understanding, and clear views concerning the plan of

redemption and salvation as revealed in the Scriptures.

Saints will be edified and sinners converted through his or

her ministry. Further, the minister of the gospel in the

Church of the Nazarene must be an example in prayer.

401.5. The minister should respond to opportunities to

mentor future ministers and to nurture the call to ministry

of those who have obvious gifts and graces for ministry or

who are hearing the call of God to Christian ministry.

401.6. Theology of Ordination. While affirming the

scriptural tenet of the universal priesthood and ministry of

all believers, ordination reflects the biblical belief that God

calls out and gifts certain men and women for ministerial

leadership in His Church. Ordination is the authenticating,

authorizing act of the Church, which recognizes and confirms

God’s call to ministerial leadership as stewards and

proclaimers of both the gospel and the Church of Jesus

Christ. Consequently, ordination bears witness to the

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 177

Church universal and the world at large that this candidate

evidences an exemplary life of holiness, possesses gifts and

graces for public ministry, and has a thirst for knowledge,

especially for the Word of God, and has the capacity to clearly

communicate sound doctrine.

(Acts 13:1-3; 20:28; Romans 1:1-2; 1 Timothy 4:11-16; 5:22; 2 Timothy

1:6-7; 5:22)

178 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

CHAPTER II

CATEGORIES AND ROLES OF MINISTRY

A. The Lay Minister

402. All Christians should consider themselves ministers

of Christ and seek to know the will of God concerning their

appropriate avenues of service. (400)

402.1. Any member of the Church of the Nazarene who

feels called to serve as a church planter, bivocational pastor,

teacher, lay evangelist, lay song evangelist, stewardship

minister, church staff minister, and/or other specialized ministry

on behalf of the church, but who does not at the present

time feel a special call to become an ordained minister,

may pursue a validated course of study leading to a certificate

of lay ministry.

402.2. The local church board, upon the recommendation

of the pastor, shall initially examine the lay minister as to

personal experience of salvation, effective involvement in

church ministries, and knowledge of the work of the church,

and satisfy itself as to the lay minister’s qualifications for

such ministry.

402.3. The local church board may issue to each lay minister

candidate a certificate signed by the pastor and the secretary

of the church board.

402.4. The certificate of the lay minister may be renewed

annually by the church board upon the recommendation of

the pastor, if the lay minister has completed at least two

subjects in the lay ministry educational program as outlined

by the Continuing Lay Training. The lay minister shall report

annually to the church board.

402.5. For a lay minister serving under district assignment

as church planter, supply pastor, bivocational pastor,

and/or other specialized ministry, upon completion of a vali-

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 179

dated course of study, a certificate of lay ministry may be issued

by the District Advisory Board, signed by the district

superintendent and the secretary of the District Advisory

Board. The certificate of lay ministry may be renewed annually

by the District Advisory Board upon the recommendation

of the district superintendent.

402.6. The lay minister serving outside the local church

where he or she is a member shall be subject to the appointment

and supervision of the district superintendent and the

District Advisory Board, and shall report annually to them.

When district assignment shall cease, reference shall be

made back to the local church in which the lay minister

holds membership for renewal and reporting.

402.7. After completion of a lay ministry validated course

of study, a lay minister shall proceed in a specialized concentration

of study according to his or her chosen ministry. (See

Continuing Lay Training Catalog) The provision for grading

and recording the same will be made at the Continuing Lay

Training office.

402.8. A lay minister shall not be eligible to administer

the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and shall

not officiate at marriages.

B. Ministry of the Clergy

403. The Church of the Nazarene recognizes only one order

of the preaching ministry, that of the elder. It also recognizes

that the member of the clergy may serve the church in

various capacities. Christ has called “some to be apostles,

some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be

pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of

service, so that the body of Christ may be built up” (Ephesians

4:11-12). The church recognizes the following categories

of service in which a district assembly may place an

elder, deacon, or, as circumstances warrant, a licensed minister:

pastor, evangelist, missionary, teacher, administrator,

chaplain, and special service. Service within these categories

that qualifies as being an “assigned minister” would include

that service for which ministerial training and ordination

are normally required, or greatly desired. The Sourcebook on

180 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

Ordination shall provide guidelines for each category of

ministry that will aid district boards in identifying the qualifications

necessary for consideration to be an assigned minister.

Only assigned ministers shall be voting members of

the district assembly.

403.1. All persons assigned to a particular role shall file a

report annually to the assigning district assembly.

403.2. All persons assigned to a particular role may request

and obtain annually from the assigning district a certificate

of their role of service, signed by the district superintendent

and the district secretary.

403.3. All persons assigned to a particular role of ministry,

when placed on disability by approved medical authority,

may be listed as “assigned disabled.”

The roles of ministry are listed in alphabetical order for

convenience.

C. The Administrator

404. The elder or a deacon who is an administrator is one

who has been elected by the General Assembly as a general

official; or a member of the clergy who has been elected or

employed by the General Board to serve in the general

church; or an elder who has been elected by the district assembly

as district superintendent; or a member of the clergy

who has been elected or employed as his or her primary assignment

in the service of a district. Such person is an assigned

minister.

D. The Chaplain

405. The elder or deacon who is a chaplain is one who feels

divinely led to specialized ministry in military, institutional,

or industrial chaplaincy. All chaplains must be approved by

their district superintendent. Persons applying for career or

career assignment in the U.S.A. military chaplaincy must appear

before the Chaplaincy Advisory Council and the Board

of General Superintendents. The chaplain who serves in this

ministry as his or her primary assignment and who does not

sustain a retired relationship with the church or any of its

departments or institutions, shall be an assigned minister,

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 181

and shall report annually to the district assembly and give

due regard to the advice and counsel of the district superintendent

and the District Advisory Board. The chaplain may

receive associate members into the Church of the Nazarene

in consultation with an officially organized Church of the

Nazarene, administer the sacraments in harmony with the

Manual, give pastoral care, comfort the sorrowing, reprove

and encourage and seek by all means the conversion of sinners,

sanctification of believers, and the upbuilding of the

people of God in the most holy faith. (416, 433.9, 433.11)

E. The Deaconess

406. A woman who is a member of the Church of the Nazarene

and believes that she is divinely led to engage in ministering

to the sick and the needy, comforting the sorrowing,

and doing other works of Christian benevolence, and who

has given evidence in her life of ability, grace, and usefulness,

and who was in the years preceding 1985 licensed or

consecrated as a deaconess shall continue in such standing.

However, those women called to active and assigned ministry

but not called to preach shall complete the requirements

for ordination to the order of deacon.Women desiring

a credential for compassionate ministries may pursue the

requirements for lay minister. (113.8, 402-2.8)

F. The Educator

407. The elder, deacon, or licensed minister who is an educator

who is employed to serve on the administrative staff or

faculty of one of the educational institutions of the Church

of the Nazarene. The district shall designate such a person

as an educator for their ministry assignment.

G. The Evangelist

408. The elder or licensed minister who is an evangelist is

one devoted to traveling and preaching the gospel, and who

is authorized by the church to promote revivals and to

spread the gospel of Jesus Christ abroad in the land. The

Church of the Nazarene recognizes three levels of itinerant

evangelism to which a district assembly may assign minis-

182 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

ters: registered evangelist, commissioned evangelist, and

tenured evangelist. An evangelist who dedicates time to

evangelism, outside his or her local church as his or her primary

assignment and who does not sustain a retired relationship

with the church or any of its departments or institutions,

shall be an assigned minister.

408.1. A registered evangelist is an elder, or a district licensed

minister, who has indicated a desire to pursue evangelism

as his or her primary ministry. Such registration

shall be for one year. Renewal by subsequent district assemblies

shall be granted on both the quality and quantity of

work in evangelism in the year prior to the assembly.

408.2. A commissioned evangelist is an elder who has met

all the requirements of a registered evangelist for two complete

years. The commission is for one year and may be renewed

by subsequent district assemblies for one who continues

to meet the requirements.

408.3. A tenured evangelist is an elder who has met all

the requirements of a commissioned evangelist for four complete

and consecutive years immediately prior to application

for tenured evangelist status, and has been recommended by

the District Ministerial Credentials Board and approved by

the Committee on the Interests of the God-Called Evangelist

and the Board of General Superintendents. This role

designation shall continue until such time as the evangelist

no longer meets the requirements of a commissioned evangelist,

or until he or she is granted retired status. (228.2,

431)

408.4. A regular self-assessment and review similar to the

church/pastoral review shall be conducted by the evangelist

and district superintendent together at least every four

years after the election to the tenured role. The district

superintendent shall be responsible for scheduling and conducting

the meeting. This meeting shall be scheduled in consultation

with the evangelist. Upon completion of the review,

a report of the results shall be forwarded to the

Committee on the Interests of the God-Called Evangelist to

evaluate qualification requirements for continued approval.

(208.19)

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 183

408.5. An elder or licensed minister who sustains a retired

relationship with the church or any of its departments,

and who wishes to perform a ministerial function through

revivals or evangelistic meetings, may receive certification

for “retired evangelism service.” Such certification shall be

for one year, shall be voted by the district assembly upon

recommendation by the district superintendent, and may be

renewed by subsequent district assemblies on the basis of

actual work in evangelism in the year prior to the assembly.

408.6. An elder or licensed minister desiring to enter the

field of evangelism between district assemblies may be recognized

by the general office of Clergy Development upon

recommendation of the district superintendent. The registration

or commission shall be voted by the district assembly

upon recommendation by the district superintendent.

408.7. Guidelines and procedures for certification of evangelists’

roles will be contained in the Sourcebook for Ministerial

Development.

H. The Minister of Christian Education

409. A member of the clergy employed in a ministerial capacity

in a Christian education program of a local church

may be assigned as a minister of Christian education.

409.1. A person who was, in the years preceding 1985, licensed

or commissioned as a minister of Christian education,

shall continue in good standing. However, those persons

desiring to begin the pursuit of the role of minister of

Christian education may complete the requirements for ordination

to the order of deacon as their credential for this

ministry.

I. The Minister of Music

410. A member of the Church of the Nazarene who feels

called to the ministry of music may be commissioned as a

minister of music for one year by the district assembly, provided

such person (1) has been recommended for such work

by the church board of the local church in which membership

is held; (2) gives evidence of grace, gifts, and usefulness;

(3) has had at least one year of experience in music min-

184 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

istry; (4) has had not less than one year of vocal study under

an accredited teacher and is pursuing a validated course of

study or its equivalent prescribed for ministers of music or

has completed the same; (5) is regularly engaged as a minister

of music; (6) has been carefully examined, under the direction

of the district assembly of the assembly district

within the bounds of which the person holds his or her

church membership, regarding his or her intellectual and

spiritual qualifications, and general fitness for such work.

(203.10)

410.1. Only such persons who maintain this ministry as

their primary assignment and vocation and have ministerial

credentials shall be considered assigned ministers.

J. The Missionary

411. The missionary is a member of the clergy or a layperson

who has been appointed by the General Board to minister

for the church through the World Mission Committee or

through the USACanada MissionEvangelism Committee. A

missionary with an appointment and having a ministerial

credential shall be considered an assigned minister.

K. The Pastor

412. A pastor is a minister (115) who, under the call of

God and His people, has the oversight of a local church. A

pastor in charge of a local church is an assigned minister.

(210)

413. The duties of a pastor are:

413.1. To preach the Word.

413.2. To equip the saints for the work of the ministry.

413.3. To receive persons as members of the local church

according to 107 and 107.1.

413.4. To administer the sacraments.

413.5. To care for the people by pastoral visitation, particularly

the sick and needy.

413.6. To comfort those who mourn.

413.7. To correct, rebuke, and encourage, with great patience

and careful instruction.

413.8. To seek, by all means, the conversion of sinners, the

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 185

entire sanctification of the converted, and the upbuilding of

God’s people in the most holy faith. (25)

413.9. To have the care of all departments of local church

work.

413.10. To appoint the teachers of the Sunday School in

harmony with 145.8.

413.11. To administer the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

at least once a quarter. A licensed minister who has not complied

fully with the provisions of 427.7 (see also 802) shall

arrange for the administration of the sacrament by an ordained

minister. Consideration should be given for extending

the Lord’s Supper to homebound persons, under supervision

of the pastor.

413.12. To read to the congregation the Constitution of

the Church of the Nazarene and the Covenant of Christian

Conduct contained in 1-27, 33-39, both inclusive, within

each year (114), or have this section of the Manual printed

and distributed annually to the members of the church.

413.13. To supervise the preparation of all statistical reports

from all departments of the local church, and present

promptly all such reports through the district secretary to

the district assembly. (114.1)

413.14. To give leadership to the evangelism, education,

devotion, and expansion programs of the local church in harmony

with the district and general church promotional

goals and programs.

413.15. To submit a report to the annual church meeting,

including a report on the status of the local church and its

departments, and an outline of areas of future needs with

recommendations for reference by the church to any of its

officers or departments for study and/or implementation in

future steps for growth and progress.

413.16. To appoint an investigating committee of three in

case of accusation filed against a church member. (501-1.2)

413.17. To see that all World Evangelism Fund monies

raised through the local NMI are remitted promptly to the

general treasurer; and that all District Ministries Fund

monies are remitted promptly to the district treasurer.

(136.2)

186 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

413.18. To nominate to the church board all persons who

are paid employees of the local church, and to have supervision

of the same. (160.1-60.3)

413.19. To sign in conjunction with the church secretary

all conveyances of real estate, mortgages, releases of mortgages,

contracts, and other legal documents not otherwise

provided for in the Manual. (102.3, 103-4.3)

413.20. To notify the pastor of the nearest church when a

member or friend of a local church or any of its departments

moves to another locality in the same assembly district

where vital association with the previous local church is impractical,

giving the member’s or friend’s address.

413.21. To arrange, together with the church board, according

to plans adopted by the General Assembly and

agreed to by the district assembly, for the raising of the

World Evangelism Fund and District Ministries Fund apportionments

made to the local church; and to raise these

apportionments. (38.2, 130, 154)

413.22. The pastor may, when requested by a member,

grant a transfer of church membership, a certificate of commendation,

or a letter of release. (111-11.1, 112.2, 813.2-

13.5)

413.23. The pastor shall be, ex-officio, president of the local

church, chairperson of the church board, and a member

of all elected and standing boards and committees of the

church he or she serves. The pastor shall have access to all

records of the local church. (127, 145, 150, 152, 153.1)

413.24. To nurture the call that people feel toward Christian

ministry and to mentor such persons as are called. This

shall include guiding them toward appropriate preparation

for ministry.

413.25. To fulfill the expectations of God and the Church

for a program of lifelong learning. (433.15)

413.26. To nurture his or her own call through the years

of ministry, to maintain a life of personal devotion that enriches

his or her own soul, and, if married, to guard the integrity

and vitality of that marriage relationship.

414. The pastor shall have the right to a voice in the nomination

of all heads of all departments of the local church,

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 187

and any Nazarene childcare/school (birth through secondary)

organization.

415. The pastor shall not contract bills, create financial obligations,

count moneys, or disburse funds for the local church

unless authorized and directed by majority vote of the church

board or by majority vote of a church meeting; such action, if

taken, must be approved in writing by the District Advisory

Board and shall be duly recorded in the minutes of the church

board or of the church meeting. No pastor or any member of

his or her immediate family shall be authorized to sign checks

on any church account except upon the written approval of the

district superintendent. Immediate family shall include

spouse, children, siblings, or parents. (129.1, 129.21-29.22)

416. The pastor shall always show due regard for the

united advice of the district superintendent and the District

Advisory Board. (222.2, 433.2)

417. In case a licensed or ordained minister presenting

credentials from another denomination shall, during the interim

of sessions of the district assembly, make application

for membership in a local church, the pastor may not receive

such applicant without first having obtained the favorable

recommendation of the District Advisory Board. (107, 225)

418. For the exercise of this office the pastor shall be

amenable to the district assembly, to which he or she shall

report annually and give brief testimony to his or her personal

Christian experience. (203.3, 427.8, 433.9)

419. The pastor shall automatically become a member of

the church of which he or she is pastor; or, in case of more

than one church in his or her charge, of the church of his or

her choice. (433.8)

420. Pastoral Service includes the ministry of a pastor or

an associate pastor, who may serve in specialized areas of

ministry recognized and approved by the appropriate governing,

licensing and endorsing agencies. A member of the clergy

called to any of these levels of pastoral service in connection

with a church may be considered an assigned minister.

421. Supply Pastors. A district superintendent shall

have the power to appoint a supply pastor, who shall serve

subject to the following regulations:

188 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

1. A supply pastor may be a Nazarene member of the clergy

serving in some other assignment, a local minister or

a lay minister of the Church of the Nazarene, a minister

in process of transfer from another denomination, or

a minister who belongs to another denomination.

2. A supply pastor shall be appointed temporarily to fill

the pulpit and to provide a spiritual ministry, but shall

not have authority to administer the sacraments or to

perform marriages unless that authority adheres to

him or her on some other basis, and he or she shall not

perform the administrative function of the pastor except

in the filing of reports, unless authorized to do so

by the district superintendent.

3. A supply pastor’s church membership shall not be automatically

transferred to the church where he or she

is serving.

4. A supply pastor shall be a nonvoting member of the

district assembly unless he or she is a voting member

by some other right.

5. A supply pastor may be removed or replaced at any

time by the district superintendent.

L. The Song Evangelist

422. A song evangelist is a member of the Church of the

Nazarene whose intention is to devote the major portion of

his or her time to the ministry of evangelism through music.

A song evangelist who has a ministerial credential and who

is involved in active ministry and has evangelism as his or

her primary assignment, and who does not sustain a retired

relationship with the church or any of its departments or institutions,

shall be an assigned minister.

422.1. Guidelines and procedures for certification of song

evangelists’ roles are contained in the Sourcebook for Ministerial

Development.

M. Special Service

423. A member of the clergy in active service not otherwise

provided for shall be appointed to special service, if

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 189

such service is approved by the district assembly, and shall

be listed by the district as an assigned minister.

423.1. An elder or deacon employed in a ministerial capacity

as an officer in a church-related organization serving the

church, or approved upon careful evaluation of his or her

district assembly to serve with an educational institution,

evangelistic, or missionary organization not directly related

to the church, may be appointed to special service subject to

433.11.

190 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

CHAPTER III

EDUCATION FOR MINISTERS

A. For Ministers

424. Ministerial education is designed to assist in the

preparation of God-called ministers whose service is vital to

the expansion and extension of the holiness message into

new areas of evangelistic opportunity. We recognize the importance

of a clear understanding of our mission based on

Christ’s commission to His Church in Matthew 28:19-20, to

“go and make disciples.” Much of the preparation is primarily

theological and biblical in character, leading toward ordination

in the ministry of the Church of the Nazarene. The

District Ministerial Studies Board shall determine the

placement and evaluate the progress of each student in his

or her validated course of study.

424.1. Fulfillment of Educational Foundations for

Ordained Ministry. A variety of educational institutions

and programs are provided around the world by the Church

of the Nazarene. The resources of some world areas allow

more than one program to be developed to provide the educational

foundations for ministry. The normal expectation is

that each student will take advantage of the most appropriate

validated course of study provided by the Church in his

or her area of the world. In some instances the particular circumstances

of the student may make the ideal impossible.

The Church will utilize as much flexibility in delivery systems

as is feasible to make adequate preparation available to

every person called by God to ministry in the Church. A validated

course of study, directed and supervised by the District

Ministerial Studies Board, and college/seminary programs,

developed by the educational institutions, may be used.

They should cover the same general standards as outlined

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 191

in the International Sourcebook on Developmental Standards

for Ordination and the regional Sourcebook on Ordination.

Licensed ministers shall be graduated from a validated

course of study when they have satisfactorily

completed a validated course of study leading toward ordination

by Bible, theological, and liberal arts colleges/universities

and seminaries, whose ordination programs have been

validated by the Regional Course of Study Advisory Committee,

recommended by the International Course of Study

Advisory Committee through Clergy Development, for adoption

by the General Board and approval by the Board of

General Superintendents.

424.2. Cultural Adaptations for the Educational Foundations

for Ordained Ministry. The variety of cultural contexts

around the world makes one curriculum unsuited for all

world areas. Each region of the world will be responsible for

the development of specific curricular requirements for providing

the educational foundations for ministry in a way that

reflects the resources and the expectations of that world area.

Approval of the International Course of Study Advisory Committee,

the General Board, and the Board of General Superintendents

(424.5) will be required before implementing a

regionally designed program for providing educational foundations

for ministry. Even within world regions there are varieties

of cultural expectations and resources. As a result, cultural

sensitivity and flexibility will characterize regional

provisions for the educational foundations for ministry, which

shall be directed and supervised by the District Ministerial

Studies Board. Cultural adaptations of each region’s program

for providing educational foundations for ministry will be approved

by Clergy Development and the International Course

of Study Advisory Committee in consultation with the regional

educational coordinator.

424.3. General Curriculum Areas for Ministerial

Preparation. Though curriculum is often thought of only as

academic programs and course content the concept is much

larger. The character of the instructor, the relationship of

the students and instructor, the environment, and students’

past experiences join with the course content to create the

192 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

full curriculum. Nevertheless, a curriculum for ministerial

preparation will include a minimal set of courses that provide

educational foundations for ministry.

Cultural differences and a variety of resources will require

differing details in curriculum structures. However, all

programs for providing educational foundations for the ordained

ministry that seek approval by Clergy Development

should give careful attention to content, competency, character,

and context. The purpose of a validated course of study

is to contain courses that include all four elements in varying

degrees and that will help ministers fulfill the mission

statement of the Church of the Nazarene as agreed upon by

the Board of General Superintendents as follows:

“The mission of the Church of the Nazarene is to respond to

the Great Commission of Christ to ‘go and make disciples of

all nations’” (Matthew 28:19). “The primary objective of the

Church of the Nazarene is to advance God’s Kingdom by the

preservation and propagation of Christian holiness as set

forth in the Scriptures.”

“The critical objectives of the Church of the Nazarene are

‘holy Christian fellowship, the conversion of sinners, the entire

sanctification of believers, their upbuilding in holiness

and the simplicity and spiritual power manifest in the

primitive New Testament Church, together with the preaching

of the gospel to every creature’” (25).

A validated course of study is described in the following

categories:

Content—Knowledge of the content of the Old and New

Testaments, the theology of the Christian faith, and the

history and mission of the Church is essential for ministry.

Knowledge of how to interpret Scripture, the doctrine

of holiness and our Wesleyan distinctives, and the

history and polity of the Church of the Nazarene must

be included in these courses.

Competency—Skills in oral and written communication;

management and leadership; finance; and analytical

thinking are also essential for ministry. In addition

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 193

to general education in these areas courses providing

skills in preaching, pastoral care and counseling, biblical

exegesis, worship, effective evangelism, biblical

stewardship of life resources, Christian education and

Church administration must be included. Graduation

from a validated course of study requires the partnering

of the educational provider and a local church to direct

students in ministerial practices and competency

development.

Character—Personal growth in character, ethics, spirituality,

and personal and family relationship is vital for

the ministry. Courses addressing the areas of Christian

ethics, spiritual formation, human development, the

person of the minister, and marriage and family dynamics

must be included.

Context—The minister must understand both the historical

and contemporary context and interpret the worldview

and social environment of the culture where the

Church witnesses. Courses that address the concerns of

anthropology and sociology, cross-cultural communication,

missions, and social studies must be included.

424.4. Preparation for the ordained ministry pursued in

non-Nazarene schools or under non-Nazarene auspices shall

be evaluated by the District Ministerial Studies Board in

conformity with the curricular requirements stated in a

Sourcebook on Ordination developed by the region/language

group.

424.5. All courses, academic requirements, and official administrative

regulations shall be in a regional Sourcebook on

Ordination developed by the region/language group in cooperation

with Clergy Development. This regional Sourcebook and

such revisions as become necessary shall be endorsed by the

International Course of Study Advisory Committee and approved

by Clergy Development, the General Board, and the

Board of General Superintendents. The Sourcebook shall be in

compliance with the Manual and with the International

Sourcebook on Developmental Standards for Ordination, produced

by Clergy Development with the International Course

of Study Advisory Committee. The International Course of

194 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

Study Advisory Committee shall be appointed by the Board of

General Superintendents.

424.6. Once a minister has fulfilled the requirements of a

validated course of study for ministry, he or she will continue

a pattern of lifelong learning to enhance the ministry to

which God has called him or her. A minimum expectation is

20 contact hours each year (2 accredited Continuing Education

Units {CEUs}) or the equivalent determined by the region/

language group and stated in their regional Sourcebook

on Ordination. All assigned and unassigned licensed and ordained

ministers shall report on their progress in a program

of lifelong learning as part of their report to the district assembly.

An up-to-date report on his or her lifelong learning

program will be used in the church/pastoral review process

and in the process of calling a pastor. The regional Sourcebook

on Ordination for the region/language group will contain

the details of the accrediting and reporting process. At

least 20 contact hours or its equivalent are expected annually.

(115, 122, 413.25, 433.15)

B. General Guidelines for Preparation

for Christian Ministry

425. General guidelines for preparation for Christian ministry

are:

425.1. A validated course of study, together with the necessary

procedures concerning their completion for those seeking

a credential as elder and deacon or certification in categories

and roles of ministry, are to be found in the regional

Sourcebook on Ordination.

425.2. In regions administratively related to the World

Mission Department, all validated courses of study, as stated

in the regional Sourcebook on Ordination will be governed by

the regional Sourcebook on Ordination. (424.2-24.3, 424.5)

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 195

CHAPTER IV

CREDENTIALS AND MINISTERIAL

REGULATIONS

A. The Local Minister

426. A local minister is a lay member of the Church of the

Nazarene whom the local church board has licensed for ministry,

under the pastor’s direction, and as opportunity affords,

thus providing for the demonstration, employment,

and development of ministerial gifts and usefulness. He or

she is entering into a process of lifelong learning.

426.1. Any member of the Church of the Nazarene who

feels called of God to preach or to pursue lifetime ministry

through the church may be licensed as a local minister for

one year by the church board of a local church having an

elder as pastor, upon the pastor’s recommendation; or by the

church board of a local church not having an elder as pastor,

if the granting of license is recommended by the pastor and

approved by the district superintendent. The candidate

must first be examined as to his or her personal experience

of salvation, knowledge of the doctrines of the Bible, and the

order of the church; he or she must also demonstrate that

the call is evidenced by grace, gifts, and usefulness. A local

minister shall make a report to the local church at its annual

church meetings. (113.8, 129.12, 208.11)

426.2. The church board shall issue to each local minister

a license signed by the pastor and the secretary of the

church board. Where a church is supplied by a person who

does not have a district license, that person may be issued a

local minister’s license, or the renewal of license, by the District

Advisory Board upon the recommendation of the district

superintendent. (208.11, 222.10)

426.3. The license of a local minister may be renewed by

196 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

the church board of a local church having an elder as pastor,

upon the recommendation of the pastor; or by the church

board of a local church not having an elder as pastor, provided

that the renewal of license is recommended by the pastor

and approved by the district superintendent. (129.12, 208.11)

426.4. Local ministers shall pursue a validated course of

study for ministers under the direction of the District Ministerial

Studies Board. Local license cannot be renewed after

two years without the written approval of the district superintendent

if the local minister has not completed at least two

courses in the required studies in a validated course of study.

426.5. A local minister, having served in that relation for

at least one full year, and having passed the necessary studies,

may be recommended by the church board to the district

assembly for minister’s license; but, if not received, he or she

shall sustain his or her former relation. (129.12, 424, 427.1)

426.6. A local minister who has been appointed as supply

pastor must be approved by the Ministerial Credentials

Board if he or she continues this service after the district assembly

following the appointment. (209, 228.5, 421)

426.7. A local minister shall not be eligible to administer

the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and shall

not officiate at marriages. (427.7)

B. The Licensed Minister

427. A licensed minister is one whose ministerial calling

and gifts have been formally recognized by the district assembly

through the granting of a ministerial license, authorizing

the minister for, and appointing him or her to, a larger

sphere of service and to greater rights and responsibilities

than those pertaining to a local minister, normally as a step

toward ordination as an elder or a deacon. The district ministerial

license shall include a statement indicating whether

the minister is preparing for ordination as an elder or a deacon

or a district license not leading to ordination. (427.7)

427.1. When there are members of the Church of the Nazarene

who acknowledge a call to a lifetime of ministry, they may

be licensed as ministers by the district assembly provided they

(1) have held a local minister’s license for one full year; (2) have

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 197

completed one-fourth of a validated course of study for ministers,

or have passed the Nazarene history and polity courses

and five additional courses in a validated course of study for

ministers, or if enrolled in a Nazarene college/university or

seminary, have completed one-fourth of a validated college/university

or college/university-seminary course of study for ministry,

or have completed one-fourth of a validated district or

regional training center curriculum. Exceptions to this requirement

may be made by the District Ministerial Credentials

Board provided the candidate is pastoring an organized church

and is registered in a system of approved studies, and provided

the candidate annually fulfills the minimum amount of studies

required by the Manual for the renewal of a license, and provided

the district superintendent approves the exception; (3)

have been recommended for such work by the church board of

the local church of which they are members, to which recommendation

shall be attached the Application for Minister’s License

carefully filled in; (4) have given evidence of grace, gifts,

and usefulness; (5) have been carefully examined, under the direction

of the district assembly of the district within the

bounds of which they hold their church membership, regarding

their spiritual, intellectual, and other fitness for such work, including

appropriate background checks as determined by the

District Advisory Board. In the case where a background check

reveals criminal misconduct prior to one’s salvation, this fact

should not be interpreted by the District Ministerial Credentials

Board as automatically excluding the applicant from credentialed

ministry, except under the provisions of paragraph

435.8; (6) have promised to pursue immediately a validated

course of study prescribed for licensed ministers and candidates

for ordination; (7) have had any disqualification, which

may have been imposed by a district assembly, removed by an

explanation in writing by the district superintendent and the

District Advisory Board of the district where the disqualification

was imposed; and provided further that their marriage relationship

does not render them ineligible for a district license

or ordination; and (8) in case of a previous divorce and remarriage,

the recommendation of the District Ministerial Credentials

Board along with supporting documents will be given to

198 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

the general superintendent in jurisdiction, which may remove

this as a barrier to pursuing a license or ordination. (35.1-5.3,

129.14, 205.6, 426.5)

427.2. Licensed ministers from other evangelical denominations,

desiring to unite with the Church of the Nazarene,

may be licensed as ministers by the district assembly, provided

they present the credentials issued to them by the denomination

in which they formerly held their membership;

and further provided that they (1) have passed a course of

study equivalent to a validated course of study in the

Church of the Nazarene for local ministers; (2) have been

recommended by the church board of the local Church of the

Nazarene of which they are members; (3) have given evidence

of grace, gifts, and usefulness; (4) have been carefully

examined under the direction of the district assembly regarding

their spiritual, intellectual, and other fitness for

such work; and (5) have promised to pursue immediately a

validated course of study prescribed for licensed ministers

and candidates for ordination. (203.6)

427.3. A minister’s license shall terminate with the close of

the next district assembly. It may be renewed by vote of the

district assembly, provided (1) that the candidate for renewal

shall file with the district assembly the Application for Minister’s

License carefully filled in; and provided (2) that the candidate

shall have completed at least two courses in a validated

course of study; and provided (3) that the candidate has

been recommended for the renewal of license by the church

board of the local church of which he or she is a member, upon

the nomination of the pastor. In case, however, he or she shall

not have passed a validated course of study required, the license

may be renewed by the district assembly only upon submission

of a written explanation for this failure. Such explanation

shall be satisfactory to the District Ministerial

Credentials Board and approved by the general superintendent

presiding. The district assembly may, for cause and at its

discretion, vote against the renewal of a minister’s license.

Licensed ministers who have graduated from a validated

course of study and have been placed in retired relation by

the district assembly shall, with the recommendation of the

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 199

District Advisory Board, have their license renewed without

the filing of an Application for Minister’s License. (203.4)

427.4. To qualify for ordination, candidates must achieve

graduation from a validated course of study within 10 years

from the granting of the first district license. Any exception,

due to unusual circumstances, may be granted by the Ministerial

Credentials Board, subject to the approval of the general

superintendent in jurisdiction.

A licensed minister who is not pursuing ordination or who

is disqualified from ordination for failure to complete a validated

course of study within the prescribed time limit may

be granted renewal of minister’s license upon recommendation

of the District Advisory Board and the Ministerial Credentials

Board.

427.5. In the case of licensed ministers who are serving as

pastors, the recommendation for the renewal of minister’s license

shall be made by the District Advisory Board rather

than by the local church board. (222.10)

427.6. The general superintendent having jurisdiction shall

issue to each licensed minister a minister’s license, bearing

the signature of the general superintendent in jurisdiction,

the district superintendent, and the district secretary.

427.7. Licensed ministers shall be vested with authority

to preach the Word and/or to use their gifts and graces in

various associate ministries in servant ministry to the Body

of Christ; and, provided they pass annually the required

studies in a validated educational program and are acting

as pastors, or are involved in an active and assigned ministry

recognized by the district on which their membership

is held, they shall also be vested with authority to administer

the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper in

their own congregations, and to officiate at marriages where

the laws of the state do not prohibit. (34.5, 35.2, 409-10, 413,

413.4, 413.11, 420, 428-28.2, 429-29.2, 800, 802, 803)

427.8. All licensed ministers shall hold their ministerial

membership in the district assembly of the district wherein

their church membership is held, and shall report to this

body annually. (201, 203.3, 418)

427.9. In case a licensed minister has united with the

200 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

church membership or ministry of another denomination, his

or her church membership and ministerial membership in the

Church of the Nazarene shall, because of that fact, immediately

cease, and the district assembly shall cause to be entered into

its minute record the following statement: “Removed from

the membership and ministry of the Church of the Nazarene

by uniting with another denomination.” (107, 112)

C. The Deacon

428. A deacon is a minister whose call of God to Christian

ministry, gifts, and usefulness have been demonstrated and

enhanced by proper training and experience, who has been

separated to the service of Christ by a vote of a district assembly

and by the solemn act of ordination, and who has been

invested to perform certain functions of Christian ministry.

428.1. The deacon does not witness to a specific call to

preach. The church recognizes, on the basis of Scripture and

experience, that God calls individuals to lifetime ministry

who do not witness to such a specific call, and believes that

individuals so called to such ministries should be recognized

and confirmed by the church and should meet requirements,

and be granted responsibilities, established by the church.

This is a permanent order of ministry.

428.2. The deacon must meet the requirements of the order

for education, exhibit the appropriate gifts and graces,

and be recognized and confirmed by the church. The deacon

shall be vested with the authority to administer the sacraments

of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and to officiate at

marriages where the laws of the state do not prohibit, and

on occasion to conduct worship and to preach. It is understood

that the Lord and the church may use this person’s

gifts and graces in various associate ministries. As a symbol

of the servant ministry of the Body of Christ, the deacon

may also use his or her gifts in roles outside the institutional

church. (34.5, 35.2)

428.3. One who is called of God to this ministry, and who

has fulfilled all the requirements of the church for the same,

who has successfully completed a validated course of study

prescribed for licensed ministers and candidates for ordina-

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 201

tion as deacon, who has been a district licensed minister for

not less than four years and recommended for renewal of

district license by the church board of the local church in

which he or she holds membership or by the District Advisory

Board, and has been carefully considered and favorably

reported by the Ministerial Credentials Board to the district

assembly, may be elected to the order of deacon by twothirds

vote of the district assembly; provided he or she has

been an assigned minister not less than four consecutive

years; and provided further that the candidate must currently

be serving in a ministry assignment. In the case of

part-time associate ministers, it should be understood that

there should be an extension of the consecutive years of inservice

time, depending on their level of involvement in local

church ministry, and that their testimony and service

demonstrate that their call to ministry is primary to all other

pursuits. Further, any disqualification that may have

been imposed by a district assembly has been removed in

writing by the district superintendent and District Advisory

Board of said district; and provided further that his or her

marriage relationship does not render him or her ineligible

for ordination. (35.1-35.3, 203.6, 320, 424)

428.4. If in the pursuance of his or her ministry, the ordained

deacon feels called to the preaching ministry, he or

she may be ordained elder upon completion of the requirements

for that credential and the return of the deacon credential.

D. The Elder

429. An elder is a minister whose call of God to preach,

gifts, and usefulness have been demonstrated and enhanced

by proper training and experience, and who has been separated

to the service of Christ through His church by the vote

of a district assembly and by the solemn act of ordination,

and thus has been fully invested to perform all functions of

the Christian ministry.

429.1. We recognize but one order of preaching ministry—

that of elder. This is a permanent order in the church. The

elder is to rule well in the church, to preach the Word, to ad-

202 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

minister the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper,

and to solemnize matrimony, all in the name of, and in subjection

to, Jesus Christ, the great Head of the Church. (34.5,

35.2, 412-13.3, 413.11, 433.12)

429.2. The church expects that one called to this official

ministry should be a steward of the Word and give full energy

through a lifetime to its proclamation.

429.3. One who is called of God to this ministry, and who

has fulfilled all the requirements of the church for the same,

who has successfully completed a validated course of study

prescribed for licensed ministers and candidates for ordination

as elder, who has been a district licensed minister for

not less than three years and recommended for renewal of

district license by the church board of the local church in

which he or she holds membership or by the District Advisory

Board, and has been carefully considered and favorably

reported by the Ministerial Credentials Board of the district

assembly, may be elected to the order of elder by two-thirds

vote of the district assembly. To be eligible for election, the

candidate must have been an assigned minister for not less

than three consecutive years either as a pastor or as a registered

evangelist (spending the major portion of that time actively

in the field), or the candidate must have served not

less than four consecutive years as associate pastor; or one

year as pastor and two consecutive years as an assigned associate

pastor; or have served four years as an assigned

teacher in the religion department of one of our Nazarene

institutions of higher education, or in a Christian ministry

in such other institutions and assigned roles approved by

the Board of General Superintendents, and the candidate

must currently be serving in a ministry assignment. In the

case of part-time associate ministers, it should be understood

that there should be an extension of the consecutive

years of in-service time, depending on their level of involvement

in local church ministry, and that their testimony and

service demonstrate that their call to ministry is primary to

all other pursuits. Further, any disqualification that may

have been imposed by a district assembly must be removed

in writing by the district superintendent and the District

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 203

Advisory Board of the district where the disqualification

was imposed before the minister is eligible for election to elder’s

orders. In addition, the candidate’s marriage relationship

must be such as not to render him or her ineligible for

ordination. (35.1-5.3, 203.6, 320, 424)

E. The Recognition of Credentials

430. Ordained ministers from other evangelical denominations,

desiring to unite with the Church of the Nazarene and

presenting their ordination papers, may have their ordination

recognized by the district assembly, after satisfactory examination

by the District Ministerial Credentials Board as

to their conduct, personal experience and doctrine, provided

that: (1) they demonstrate appreciation, comprehension and

application of the Manual and history of the Church of the

Nazarene by successfully completing the related portions of a

validated course of study; (2) they file with the district assembly

the Ordination/Recognition Questionnaire, carefully

filled in; and (3) they meet all requirements for ordination as

outlined in 428-28.3 or 429-29.3. (203.6, 225, 424)

430.1. The general superintendent having jurisdiction

shall issue to the ordained minister so recognized a certificate

of recognition, bearing the signature of the general

superintendent in jurisdiction, the district superintendent,

and the district secretary. (433.6)

430.2. When the credential of a minister from another

church has been duly recognized, the credential issued by

said church shall be returned to him or her inscribed in

writing or stamped on the reverse side of the credential as

follows:

Accredited by the ____________________ District Assembly

of the Church of the Nazarene this _______ day of _______,

_______, (year) as the basis of the new credentials.

__________________________, General Superintendent

__________________________, District Superintendent

__________________________, District Secretary

F. The Retired Minister

431. A retired minister is one who has been placed in the

204 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

retired relation by the district assembly in which he or she

holds ministerial membership, upon recommendation by the

District Ministerial Credentials Board. Any change in status

must be approved by the district assembly, upon recommendation

by the District Ministerial Credentials Board. (203.27,

228.8)

431.1. Retirement shall not compel cessation from ministerial

labors or in itself deprive of membership in the district

assembly. A minister who was serving in an “assigned”

role at the time of requesting retired relation or at the age

for normal retirement may be placed in a “retired assigned”

relation. However, a minister in an “unassigned” status in

either of the above situations will be placed in a “retired

unassigned” relation. (201, 433.9)

G. The Transfer of Ministers

432. When a member of the clergy desires to transfer to

another district, transfer of ministerial membership may be

issued by vote of the district assembly, or by the District Advisory

Board in the interim of assemblies, in which his or

her ministerial membership is held. Such transfer may be

received by the District Advisory Board in the interim before

the district assembly meets, granting to said minister

full rights and privileges of membership on the district on

which it is received, subject to final approval of the Ministerial

Credentials Board and the district assembly. (203.8-3.9,

223, 228.9-28.10)

432.1. The transfer of a licensed minister shall be valid only

when a detailed record of the licensee’s grades in a validated

course of study for licensed ministers, properly certified by

the secretary of the District Ministerial Studies Board of the

issuing district assembly, has been sent to the secretary of

the District Ministerial Studies Board of the receiving district.

The secretary of the District Ministerial Studies Board

of the receiving district shall notify his or her district secretary

that the licensee’s record of grades has been received.

The minister being transferred shall actively pursue the

matter of the reporting of his or her grades in a validated

course of study to the receiving district. (230.1-30.2)

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 205

432.2. The district assembly receiving a transfer shall notify

the district assembly issuing said transfer of the reception

of the transferred person’s membership. Until the

transfer is received by vote of the district assembly to which

addressed, the person thus transferred shall be a member of

the issuing district assembly. Such transfer is valid only until

the close of the next session following the date of issue of

the district assembly to which addressed. (203.8, 223,

228.10)

H. General Regulations

433. The following definitions are of terms relating to general

regulations for ministers of the Church of the Nazarene:

Clergy—elders, deacons and licensed ministers.

Laity—Members of the Church of the Nazarene who are

not clergy.

Active—fulfilling an assigned role.

Assigned—The status of a member of the clergy who is

active in one of the roles listed in Chapter II, Part V.

Unassigned—The status of clergy who are in good standing

but not presently active in one of the roles listed in

Chapter II, Part V.

Retired Assigned—The status of retired clergy who

were assigned at the time retirement was requested.

Retired Unassigned—The status of retired clergy who

were not assigned at the time retirement was requested.

Disciplined—The status of clergy who have been deprived

of the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of the

clergy by disciplinary action.

Filed Credential—The status of the credential of a

member of the clergy in good standing who, because of inactivity

in the ministry, has voluntarily temporarily given up

the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of being a member

of the clergy by filing his or her credential with the general

secretary. A person who files his or her credential remains a

member of the clergy and may have the rights, privileges,

and responsibilities of being a member of the clergy reinstated

by requesting that his or her credential be returned,

in accordance with 435.2. (434, 434.2, 434.8)

206 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

Surrendered Credential—The status of the credential

of a member of the clergy who, because of misconduct, accusations,

confessions, result of action by a board of discipline,

or voluntary action for any reason other than inactivity in

the ministry has been deprived of the rights, privileges, and

responsibilities of the clergy. The person who surrenders his

or her credential is still a member of the clergy, under discipline.

The rights, privileges, and responsibilities of the clergy

may be restored.

Resigned—The status of the credential of clergy in good

standing who, for personal reasons, have decided they no

longer wish to be considered as ministers, and give up the

rights, privileges, and responsibilities of being members of

the clergy to become laypersons on a permanent basis.

(434.1, 434.8) A member of the clergy who is not in good

standing may also resign his or her credential according to

the provisions outlined in paragraph 434.4. The person who

resigns is no longer a member of the clergy. The rights, privileges,

and responsibilities of being the clergy may be reinstated,

in accordance with 435.3.

Removed—The status of the credential of clergy whose

names have been removed from the roll of ministers in accordance

with the provisions of 434.3.

Return of Credential—The reinstatement to the rights,

privileges, and responsibilities of the clergy to one who has

filed his or her credential.

Restoration of Credential—The reinstatement to the

rights, privileges, and responsibilities of the clergy to one

who has surrendered his or her credential, or whose credential

has been removed.

Rehabilitation—The process of seeking to bring a minister

who has been disciplined or has voluntarily surrendered

the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of the clergy to a

place of spiritual, emotional, mental and physical health

and to a place of usefulness and constructive activity. Rehabilitation

does not necessarily include the restoration of the

rights, privileges, and responsibilities of the clergy.

Accusation—A written document signed by at least two

members of the Church of the Nazarene accusing a member

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 207

of the Church of the Nazarene of conduct which if proven

would cause the member to be subject to discipline under

the terms of the Manual.

Knowledge—The awareness of facts learned by the exercise

of one’s own senses.

Information—Facts learned from others.

Belief—A conclusion reached in good faith based upon

knowledge and information.

Investigating Committee—A committee appointed in

accordance with the Manual to gather information with regard

to alleged or suspected misconduct.

Charges—A written document describing specifically the

conduct of a member of the Church of the Nazarene which if

proven would be the basis of discipline under the terms of

the Manual.

Suspension—A type of disciplinary action which temporarily

denies a member of the clergy the rights, privileges,

and responsibilities of the clergy.

Good Standing—The status of clergy who have no unresolved

accusations pending, are not currently under discipline,

and whose credential is not surrendered, removed, or

resigned.

433.1. In case a member of the clergy shall, without the

written approval of the District Advisory Board of the assembly

district in which he or she holds ministerial membership,

or the written approval of the Board of General Superintendents,

regularly conduct independent church activities that

are not under the direction of the Church of the Nazarene, or

acts as a member of the staff of an independent church of another

religious group, he or she shall be subject to discipline.

(433.11, 505.1)

433.2. A member of the clergy shall always show due regard

for the united advice of the district superintendent and

the District Advisory Board. (416)

433.3. Any claim to participation by a member of the clergy,

and/or his or her dependents in any plan or fund that the

church may have now or hereafter for the assistance or support

of its disabled or aged ministers shall be based only upon

regular, active service rendered by the minister as an as-

208 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

signed pastor or evangelist or other recognized role, under

the sanction of the district assembly. This rule shall exclude

from such participation all those in part-time and occasional

service.

433.4. A licensed minister actively assigned as pastor or

associate pastor of a Church of the Nazarene shall be a voting

member of the district assembly. (201)

433.5. The candidate elected to the order of elder or order

of deacon shall be ordained by the laying on of the hands of

the general superintendent and ordained ministers with appropriate

religious exercises, under the direction of the presiding

general superintendent. (307.3)

433.6. The general superintendent having jurisdiction

shall issue to the person so ordained a certificate of ordination,

bearing the signature of the general superintendent in

jurisdiction, the district superintendent, and the district secretary.

(430.1)

433.7. In case the credential of an elder or deacon has

been misplaced, mutilated, or destroyed, a duplicate certificate

may be issued upon the recommendation of the District

Advisory Board. Such recommendation shall be made directly

to the general superintendent in jurisdiction, and upon

the authority of that approval, the general secretary shall

issue a duplicate certificate. On the back of the certificate,

the original number should be identified along with the

word DUPLICATE. If the general superintendent or the district

secretary signing the original certificate is not available, the

general superintendent having jurisdiction, the district

superintendent, and the district secretary of the district requesting

the duplicate certificate shall sign the certificate.

On the reverse side thereof shall be the following statement

inscribed in writing or printing, or both writing and printing,

and signed by the general superintendent having jurisdiction,

the district superintendent, and the district secretary.

This certificate is given to take the place of former certificate

of ordination given to (name) , on the _______ day of

(month) , A.D. (year) , by the (ordaining organization) , at

which date ____he was ordained and h_____ former ordi-

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 209

nation certificate signed by ________________________ and

________________.

The former certificate was (misplaced, mutilated, destroyed).

__________________________, General Superintendent

__________________________, District Superintendent

__________________________, District Secretary

433.8. All elders and deacons shall hold church membership

in some local church. If an elder or deacon does not hold

membership in a local church on the district where his or

her credential is held, he or she can be dropped from the roll

of elders or deacons. (419)

433.9. All elders and deacons shall hold their ministerial

membership in the district assembly of the district wherein

their church membership is held, to which body they shall report

annually. Any elder or deacon who for two consecutive

years does not report to his or her district assembly either in

person or by letter shall, if the district assembly so elect,

cease to be a member thereof. (30, 201, 203.3, 418, 431.1)

433.10. In case an ordained minister has united with the

church membership or ministry of another denomination,

his or her church membership and ministerial membership

in the Church of the Nazarene shall, because of that fact,

immediately cease, and the district assembly shall cause to

be entered into its minute record the following statement:

“Removed from the membership and ministry of the Church

of the Nazarene by uniting with another denomination.”

(107, 112)

433.11. No ordained minister shall regularly conduct independent

church activities that are not under the direction

of the Church of the Nazarene, or carry on independent missions

or unauthorized church activities, or be connected with

the operating staff of an independent church or other religious

group or denomination, without the annual written

approval of the District Advisory Board or the written approval

of the Board of General Superintendents. When the

said activities are to be conducted on more than one district,

or a district other than the district on which said minister

holds ministerial membership, the written approval of the

210 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

Board of General Superintendents must be obtained prior to

the participation in said activities. The Board of General Superintendents

shall notify the respective District Advisory

Boards that a request for said approval is pending before

their board.

Should an ordained minister fail to comply with these requirements,

he or she may, on recommendation by a twothirds

vote of the entire membership of the Ministerial Credentials

Board, and by action of the district assembly, be

dropped from the membership of the Church of the Nazarene.

The final determination as to whether any specific activity

constitutes “an independent mission” or “an unauthorized

church activity” shall rest with the Board of General

Superintendents. (112-12.1)

433.12. An assigned minister may start a local church

when authorized to do so by the district superintendent or

the general superintendent having jurisdiction. Official

organization reports are to be filed with the General Secretary’s

office by the district superintendent. (100, 208.1)

433.13. Membership in the district assembly shall be by

virtue of being a pastor or other assigned minister who is

actively serving and maintains employment in such ministry

as his or her primary vocation in one of the assigned

ministerial roles defined in Chapter II.

433.14. It shall be the duty of every minister of the

Church of the Nazarene to hold in trust and confidence any

communication of a confidential nature given him or her by

a counselee of the congregation while he or she is acting in

his or her professional character as a licensed or ordained

minister of the Church of the Nazarene. The public dissemination

of such communication without the express written

consent of the declarant is expressly condemned. Any Nazarene

minister who violates the above regulation subjects

himself or herself to the disciplinary sanctions set forth in

Part VI, Subsection V of this Manual.

433.15. All elders and deacons are expected to be involved

in lifelong learning by completing two (2) continuing education

credits or its equivalent per year to be administered by

the District Ministerial Studies Board. (424.6)

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 211

I. The Resignation or Removal from the Ministry

434. The general secretary is authorized to receive and

hold for safekeeping the credentials of clergy in good standing

who, because of inactivity in the ministry for a period of

time, wish to file them. At the time of filing the credential,

the member of the clergy shall certify to the general secretary

that the credential is not being filed for the purpose of

avoiding discipline. The filing of the credential shall not prevent

clergy from being subject to discipline as a member of

the clergy. Members of the clergy who file their credentials

with the general secretary may have them returned according

to the provisions of 435.2.

434.1. When a member of the clergy in good standing

ceases from an assigned ministry to pursue a calling or vocation

other than the clergy in the Church of the Nazarene,

he or she may resign the rights, privileges and responsibilities

of the clergy and return the credential to the district assembly

in which he or she holds standing, to be placed in the

care of the general secretary. The record in the district minutes

will show that he or she was “removed from the Roll of

Ministers, having resigned his or her order.” Clergy who

thus resign may have their credential returned according to

the provisions of 435.3.

434.2. When a member of the clergy fails to fulfill the responsibilities

of the clergy by remaining unassigned for a

length of time which shall not be less than four years, that

indicates that the person is no longer actively participating

as clergy. In such instances, the person will be required to

file his or her credential. The District Ministerial Credentials

Board shall report to the district assembly “the credential

of (the elder or deacon in question) has been filed by the

District Ministerial Credentials Board.” This action should

be considered nonprejudicial to character. The individual

who files may have his or her credential reinstated according

to the provisions of 435.2.

434.3. A member of the clergy may be removed from the

Roll of Ministers if he or she receives a Letter of Commendation

from his or her local church and does not use it in

212 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

joining another Church of the Nazarene by the time of the

next district assembly, or if he or she declares in writing

that he or she has withdrawn from the Church of the Nazarene,

or if he or she changes his or her residence from the

address of record without providing the District Ministerial

Credentials Board within one year with a new address of

record, or if he or she joins another denomination either as a

member or a minister, or if he or she fails to submit an annual

report as required in 427.8 and 433.9; the District Ministerial

Credentials Board may recommend and the district

assembly may order that his or her name be removed from

the membership roll of the local church and the Roll of Ministers

of the Church of the Nazarene.

434.4. A member of the clergy not in good standing may

resign his or her credential, upon recommendation of the

District Advisory Board. (435)

434.5. A member of the clergy may be expelled from the

ministry of the Church of the Nazarene either through surrender

of his or her credential or through disciplinary action

according to paragraphs 505-8.

434.6. When an elder or deacon has been expelled, the credential

of the member of the clergy shall be sent to the general

secretary to be catalogued and preserved subject to the

order of the district assembly of the district where the elder

or deacon held membership at the time he or she was expelled.

(325.5)

434.7. Pastors, local church boards, and others who determine

assignments within the church shall not engage clergy

who are not in good standing in any position of trust or authority

such as supply minister, song director, Sunday

School teacher, or other until the credential is restored. Exceptions

to this prohibition require the written approval of

both the district superintendent where such credential was

lost and the general superintendent in jurisdiction of that

district. (435.5-35.6)

434.8. When an unretired elder or deacon ceases from active

service as a member of the clergy and takes full-time

secular employment, after a period of two years he or she

may be required by the District Ministerial Credentials

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 213

Board to resign from the clergy order or file his or her credential

and to return his or her credential to the general

secretary. This two-year period shall begin at the district assembly

immediately following the cessation of activity as a

member of the clergy. The District Ministerial Credentials

Board shall report its action to the district assembly. This

action should be considered nonprejudicial to character.

434.9. Any member of the clergy within 48 hours of the

filing of a request for divorce or legal termination of a marriage

by the minister or within 48 hours of the physical separation

of the minister and his or her spouse for the purpose

of discontinuing the physical cohabitation shall (a) contact

the district superintendent, notifying the superintendent of

the action taken; (b) agree to meet with the district superintendent

and a member of the District Advisory Board at a

mutually agreeable time and place, or if no mutually agreeable

time and place can be arranged, at a time and place

designated by the district superintendent; (c) at the meeting

designated in subsection b above, the member of the clergy

shall explain the circumstances of the action taken and the

marital conflict as well as the biblical basis for justification

as to why the member of the clergy should be permitted to

continue to serve as a member of the clergy in good standing.

If a member of the clergy fails to comply with the subsections

above, such noncompliance shall be cause for discipline.

J. The Restoration of Members of the Clergy

to Church Membership and Good Standing

435. Any member of the clergy who is expelled or withdraws

from local church membership when he or she is not

in good standing may reunite with the Church of the Nazarene

only with the consent of the district assembly of the assembly

district from which he or she withdrew or was expelled.

Should two appeals for restoration to either church

membership or ministerial standing be denied, a request

may be granted by the Board of General Superintendents to

transfer responsibility for restoration to another district

where placement may be considered. If all appeals for cre-

214 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

dential restoration are denied, an ordained minister may become

a layperson, upon approval of the District Advisory

Board. (434.4)

435.1. If for any reason the name of an elder or deacon

shall be removed from a district assembly roll, that elder or

deacon shall not be recognized in any other district without

having secured the written consent of the district assembly

from whose roll his or her name was removed, except as provided

for in paragraph 435. (The District Advisory Board

may act on a request of transfer of jurisdiction between assemblies.)

435.2. When an elder or deacon in good standing has filed

his or her credential, such credential may, at any subsequent

time when the elder or deacon is in good standing, be

returned to the elder or deacon upon order of the district assembly

where it was filed, provided that the return of his or

her credential shall have been recommended by the district

superintendent and the District Advisory Board.

435.3. When an elder or deacon in good standing has resigned

his or her order of ministry according to 434.1 and

434.8, he or she may be restored to said order by the district

assembly, upon filling out the Ordination/Recognition Questionnaire,

reaffirming the vows of ministry, and after examination

by and the favorable recommendation of the District

Ministerial Credentials Board and upon approval by the

general superintendent in jurisdiction.

435.4. When an ordained minister is deceased whose credential

was filed and who was in good standing at the time

of death, the minister’s family may, upon written request to

the general secretary, and approval by the district superintendent

of the district where such filing is recorded, receive

said minister’s certificate of ordination.

435.5. Any time a member of the clergy ceases to be entitled

to exercise the rights and privileges of the clergy, the

Ministerial Credentials Board will prepare a written report

concerning the facts and circumstances of the change in status.

The report shall include the recommendations of the

Ministerial Credentials Board concerning whether or not a

plan of rehabilitation is appropriate. Each district is encour-

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 215

aged to have a written plan in harmony with the Manual directives,

to aid in the process of response, rehabilitation, reconciliation

and possible restoration to ministry, of clergy

involved in conduct unbecoming a minister. If a plan for rehabilitation

is appropriate, the Ministerial Credentials

Board shall, to the extent practical, work with the individual

to apply the district plan for rehabilitation. The objective

of the plan should be to return the individual to a place of

spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health. Primary

responsibility for accomplishing the plan shall rest on the

person being rehabilitated, but the facilitator(s) shall represent

the church in providing support and assistance. The

facilitator(s) or their designee shall report to the Ministerial

Credentials Board once each quarter concerning the progress

toward rehabilitation. The report shall be in the form

established by the Ministerial Credentials Board. The Ministerial

Credentials Board may revise the plan of rehabilitation

from time to time as the circumstances warrant.

435.6. A member of the clergy who is not in good standing

shall not preach, teach a Sunday School class, or hold any

other position of trust or authority in the church or worship

services, and shall not be given any ministerial role unless

the District Advisory Board, the Ministerial Credentials

Board, the district superintendent, and the general superintendent

in jurisdiction determine that the individual has

made sufficient progress toward rehabilitation to warrant

once again allowing the individual to be of service in a position

of trust or authority. Those considering approval shall

carefully consider whether or not the individual who has

lost good standing has appropriately repented of his or her

misconduct. True repentance involves a deep sense of personal

guilt coupled with a change of conduct which continues

for a length of time sufficient to be evidence that the

change is likely to be permanent. Approval to serve in a position

of trust or authority may be granted with or without

restrictions. (505.1-5.2, 505.5, 505.11-5.12)

435.7. A member of the clergy who has lost good standing

may be restored to good standing and have his or her credential

restored only by the action of the Board of General

216 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

Superintendents upon a recommendation for restoration

from the district assembly where good standing was lost. A

recommendation for restoration shall require the approval

of the district superintendent, the District Ministerial Credentials

Board, and a two-thirds approval of the District Advisory

Board. In considering whether or not to recommend

that a credential be restored, progress on the plan of rehabilitation

shall be the primary issue but passage of time

shall be an additional consideration.

However, in the event the member of the clergy has committed

sexual misconduct, the member of the clergy shall

not be eligible to apply for restoration until four years have

passed. A member of the clergy who has lost good standing

as a result of sexual misconduct, must satisfactorily progress

on a prescribed plan for rehabilitation for a minimum

of four years, before good standing may be restored. (505.1-

5.2, 505.5, 505.11-5.12)

435.8. Because some types of misconduct, such as sexual

misconduct involving children or of a homosexual nature, or

repeated marital infidelity, are rarely the result of a one-time

moral lapse, individuals who are guilty of sexual misconduct

that involves a high probability of repeated misconduct

should not be restored to good standing. These individuals also

should not be permitted to serve in any position of leadership,

trust, or ministry in the local church. (505.1-5.2, 505.5,

505.11-5.12)

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 217

PART VI

Judicial Administration

INVESTIGATION OF POSSIBLE WRONGFUL

CONDUCT AND CHURCH DISCIPLINE

RESPONSE TO POSSIBLE MISCONDUCT

RESPONSE TO MISCONDUCT BY A PERSON

IN A POSITION OF TRUST OR AUTHORITY

CONTESTED DISCIPLINE OF A LAYPERSON

CONTESTED DISCIPLINE OF A

MEMBER OF THE CLERGY

RULES OF PROCEDURE

DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS

GENERAL COURT OF APPEALS

REGIONAL COURT OF APPEALS

GUARANTY OF RIGHTS

I. INVESTIGATION OF POSSIBLE WRONGFUL

CONDUCT AND CHURCH DISCIPLINE

500. The objectives of church discipline are to sustain the

integrity of the church, to protect the innocent from harm, to

protect the effectiveness of the witness of the church, to warn

and correct the careless, to bring the guilty to salvation, to rehabilitate

the guilty, to restore to effective service those who

are rehabilitated, and to protect the reputation and resources

of the church. Members of the church who do violence to the

Covenant of Christian Character or the Covenant of Christian

Conduct, or who willfully and continuously violate their

membership vows, should be dealt with kindly yet faithfully,

according to the grievousness of their offenses. Holiness of

heart and life being the New Testament standard, the Church

of the Nazarene insists upon a clean ministry and requires

that those who bear its credentials as clergy be orthodox in

doctrine and holy in life. Thus the purpose of the discipline is

not punitive or retributive but is to accomplish these objectives.

Determination of standing and continued relationship

to the church is also a function of the disciplinary process.

II. RESPONSE TO POSSIBLE MISCONDUCT

501. A response is appropriate any time a person with authority

to respond becomes aware of information that a prudent

person would believe to be credible and which would

cause a prudent person to believe that harm is likely to

come to the church, to potential victims of misconduct, or to

any other person as a result of misconduct by a person in a

position of trust or authority within the Church.

501.1. When a person who does not have authority to respond

for the church becomes aware of information which a

prudent person would consider to be credible and which

would cause a prudent person to believe that wrongful conduct

by a person in a position of trust or authority may be

occurring within the church, the person with the informa-

220 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

tion shall make the representative of the church who has

the authority to respond aware of the information.

501.2. The person who has authority to respond is determined

by the position within the church of the individual or

individuals who may be involved in misconduct as follows:

Person Implicated Person with Authority to Respond

Nonmember Pastor of local church where the

conduct in question takes place.

Layperson Pastor of church where layperson

is a member.

Member of the clergy District superintendent where the

person implicated is a member or

the pastor of the local church

where the person is on staff.

District superintendent General superintendent in

jurisdiction

Not otherwise defined General secretary/

Headquarters operations officer

The person with authority to respond may enlist the help

of others in any fact-finding or response.

501.3. If no accusation has been made, the purpose of an

investigation shall be to determine whether or not action is

needed to prevent harm or to reduce the impact of harm

that has previously been done. In circumstances in which a

prudent person would believe that no further action was

needed to prevent harm or to reduce the impact of harm, no

investigation will continue unless an accusation has been

filed. Facts learned during an investigation may become the

basis of an accusation.

III. RESPONSE TO MISCONDUCT BY A

PERSON IN A POSITION OF TRUST OR

AUTHORITY

502. Whenever a person authorized to respond learns

facts which indicate that innocent parties have been harmed

by the misconduct of a person in a position of trust or authority,

action shall be taken to cause the church to respond

appropriately. An appropriate response will seek to prevent

JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 221

any additional harm to victims of the misconduct, seek to respond

to the needs of the victims, the accused, and others

who suffer as a result of the misconduct. Particular concern

should be shown for the needs of the spouse and family of

the accused. The response will also seek to address the

needs of the local church, the district and the general church

concerning public relations, protection from liability and

protection of the integrity of the church.

Those who respond for the church must understand that

what they say and do may have consequences under civil

law. The duty of the church to respond is based on Christian

concern. No one has the authority to accept financial responsibility

for a local church without action by the church

board, or for a district without action by the District Advisory

Board. One who is uncertain about what action is appropriate

should consider seeking counsel from an appropriate

professional.

502.1. In each local church, it is appropriate for the

church board to fashion a response to any crisis which may

arise; however, it may be necessary to respond before a

board meeting can take place. It is wise for each local church

to have an emergency response plan.

502.2. On each district the primary responsibility for responding

to a crisis rests with the District Advisory Board;

however, it may be necessary to respond before a meeting of

the board can take place. It is wise for a district to adopt an

emergency response plan. The plan may include the appointment

by the District Advisory Board of a response

team composed of people with special qualifications such as

counselors, social workers, those trained in communications

and those familiar with the applicable law.

503. Resolution of Disciplinary Matters by Agreement.

The disciplinary process described in this Manual is

intended to provide an appropriate process for resolving allegations

of misconduct when the allegations are contested

by the accused. In many situations, it is appropriate to resolve

disciplinary matters by agreement. Efforts to resolve

disciplinary matters by agreement are encouraged and

should be pursued whenever practical.

222 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

503.1. Any matter which is within the jurisdiction of a Local

Board of Discipline may be resolved by a written agreement

between the person accused and the pastor if approved

by the church board and the district superintendent. The

terms of such an agreement shall have the same effect as an

action by a Local Board of Discipline.

503.2. Any matter which is within the jurisdiction of a

District Board of Discipline may be resolved by a written

agreement between the person accused and the district

superintendent if the agreement is approved by the District

Advisory Board and the general superintendent in jurisdiction.

The terms of such an agreement shall have the same

effect as an action by a District Board of Discipline.

IV. CONTESTED DISCIPLINE

OF A LAYPERSON

504. If a lay member is accused of unchristian conduct,

such charges shall be placed in writing and signed by at

least two members who have been in faithful attendance for

at least six months. The pastor shall appoint an investigating

committee of three members of the local church, subject

to the approval of the district superintendent. The committee

shall make a written report of its investigation. This report

must be signed by a majority and filed with the church

board.

After the investigation and pursuant thereto, any two

members in good standing in the local church may sign

charges against the accused and file same with the church

board. Thereupon the church board shall appoint, subject to

the approval of the district superintendent, a Local Board of

Discipline of five members, who are unprejudiced and able

to hear and dispose of the case in a fair and impartial manner.

If in the opinion of the district superintendent, it is impractical

to select five members from the local church due to

the size of the church, the nature of the allegations, or the

position of influence of the accused, the district superintendent

shall after consulting the pastor, appoint five laypersons

from other churches on the same district to be the

Board of Discipline. This board shall conduct a hearing as

JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 223

soon as practicable and determine the issues involved. After

hearing the testimony of witnesses and considering the evidence,

the Board of Discipline shall either absolve the accused

or administer discipline as the facts shall establish to

be proper. The decision must be unanimous. Discipline may

take the form of reprimand, suspension, or expulsion from

membership in the local church.

504.1. An appeal from the decision of a Local Board of

Discipline may be taken to the District Court of Appeals

within 30 days by either the accused or the church board.

504.2. When a layperson has been expelled from membership

in the local church by a Local Board of Discipline, he or

she may reunite with the Church of the Nazarene on the

same district only with the approval of the District Advisory

Board. If such consent is granted, he or she shall be received

into the membership of that local church using the approved

form for the reception of church members. (27, 33-39, 112.1-

12.4, 801)

V. CONTESTED DISCIPLINE

OF A MEMBER OF THE CLERGY

505. The perpetuity and effectiveness of the Church of the

Nazarene depend largely upon the spiritual qualifications,

the character, and the manner of life of its clergy. Members

of the clergy aspire to a high calling and function as anointed

individuals in whom is placed the church’s trust. They accept

their calling knowing that they will be held to high personal

standards by those to whom they minister. Because of

the high expectations placed upon them, the clergy and

their ministry are peculiarly vulnerable to any accusation of

misconduct. It is therefore incumbent upon members to use

the following procedures with the biblical wisdom and maturity

that befits the people of God.

505.1. If a member of the clergy is accused of misconduct,

conduct unbecoming a minister, or of teaching doctrines out

of harmony with the doctrinal statement of the Church of

the Nazarene, or of serious laxity in the enforcement of the

Covenant of Christian Character or the Covenant of Christian

Conduct of the church, such accusations shall be placed

224 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

in writing and shall be signed by at least two members of

the Church of the Nazarene who are at the time in good

standing. Accusations of sexual misconduct cannot be signed

by any person who consented to participate in the alleged

misconduct. The written accusation must be filed with the

District Advisory Board of the district where the accused

has ministerial membership. This accusation shall become

part of the record in the case.

The District Advisory Board shall give written notice to

the accused that accusations have been filed, as soon as

practical by any method which gives actual notice. When actual

notice is not practical, notice may be provided in the

manner which is customary for serving legal notices in that

locality. The accused and his or her counsel shall have the

right to examine the accusations and to receive a written

copy of the same immediately upon request. (435.6-35.8)

505.2. A person’s signature on an accusation against a

member of the clergy constitutes certification by the signer

that, to the best of the signer’s knowledge, information and

belief formed after reasonable inquiry, the accusation is well

grounded in fact. (435.6-35.8)

505.3. When a written accusation is filed, the District Advisory

Board shall appoint a committee of three or more ordained

ministers and not less than two (2) laypersons as the

Advisory Board deems to be appropriate to investigate the

facts and circumstances involved and report their finding in

writing and signed by a majority of the committee. If after

considering the committee’s report, it shall appear that there

are probable grounds for charges, such charges shall be

drawn up and signed by any two ordained ministers. The

District Advisory Board shall give the accused notice thereof,

as soon as practical, by any method which gives actual notice.

When actual notice is not practical, notice may be provided

in the manner which is customary for serving legal notices

in that locality. The accused and his or her counsel shall

have the right to examine the charges and specifications and

to receive a copy thereof immediately upon request. No accused

shall be required to answer charges of which he or she

has not been informed as specified herein. (222.3)

JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 225

505.4. If, after investigation it appears that an accusation

against a member of the clergy is without factual basis and

has been filed in bad faith, the filing of the accusation may

be grounds for disciplinary action against those who signed

the accusation.

505.5. In case charges are filed, the District Advisory

Board shall appoint five ordained ministers and not less

than two (2) laypersons as it deems advisable of the district

to hear the case and determine the issues; these five ordained

ministers so named shall constitute a District Board

of Discipline to conduct the hearing and dispose of the case

according to the laws of the church. No district superintendent

shall serve as prosecutor or as assistant to the prosecutor

in the trial of an ordained minister or licensed minister.

This Board of Discipline shall have power to vindicate and

absolve the accused in connection with said charges or to administer

discipline commensurate with the offense. Such

discipline may provide for discipline intended to lead to the

salvation and rehabilitation of the guilty party. The discipline

may include repentance, confession, restitution, suspension,

recommendation for removal of credential, expulsion

from the ministry or membership of the church, or both,

public or private reprimand, or any such other discipline

that may be appropriate including suspension or deferment

of discipline during a period of probation. (222.4, 435.6-35.8,

505.11-5.12)

505.6. If either the accused or the District Advisory Board

shall so request, the Board of Discipline shall be a Regional

Board of Discipline. The regional board for each case shall

be appointed by the general superintendent in jurisdiction

of the district where the accused minister holds his or her

membership.

505.7. It is provided that in no case shall disciplinary action

be taken against a missionary by a Phase 1 district as

such.

505.8. The decision of a Board of Discipline shall be unanimous,

written and signed by all members, and shall include

a finding of “guilty” or “not guilty” as to each charge and

specification.

226 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

505.9. Any hearing by a Board of Discipline herein provided

for shall always be conducted within the bounds of the

district where the charges were filed at a place designated

by the board that is to hear the charges.

505.10. The procedure at any hearing shall be according

to Rules of Procedure hereinafter provided. (222.3-22.4,

427.9, 433.11, 508)

505.11. When a minister is charged with conduct unbecoming

a minister and shall admit to guilt, or shall confess

to guilt without being charged, the District Advisory Board

may assess any of the disciplines provided for in 505.5.

(435.6-35.8)

505.12. When a minister is accused of conduct unbecoming

a minister, and shall admit to guilt, or shall confess to

guilt prior to being brought before a Board of Discipline, the

District Advisory Board may assess any of the disciplines

provided for in 505.5. (435.6-35.8)

506. Following a decision by a Board of Discipline, the accused,

the District Advisory Board, or those who sign the

charges shall be entitled to appeal the decision to the General

Court of Appeals for those in the United States and Canada,

or to the Regional Court of Appeals in other world regions.

The appeal shall be begun within 30 days after such

decision, and the court shall review the entire record of the

case and all steps that have been taken therein. If the court

discovers any substantial error prejudicial to the right of

any person, it shall correct such error by ordering a new

hearing to be conducted in a manner capable of giving relief

to that person affected adversely by previous proceedings or

decision.

507. When the decision of a Board of Discipline is adverse

to the accused minister and the decision provides for suspension

from the ministry or cancellation of credential, the

minister shall thereupon immediately suspend all ministerial

activity; and refusal to do so will result in the forfeiture of

the right to appeal.

507.1. When the decision of a Board of Discipline provides

for suspension or cancellation of credential and the accused

minister desires to appeal, he or she shall file with the sec-

JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 227

retary of the court to which the appeal is made, at the time

the notice of appeal is filed, his or her written credential as

a minister, and his or her right of appeal shall be conditioned

upon compliance with this provision. When such credential

is so filed, it shall be safely kept by the said secretary

until the conclusion of the case, and thereupon the

same shall either be forwarded to the general secretary or

returned to the minister as the court may direct.

507.2. Appeals to the General Court of Appeals may be

made by the accused or the Board of Discipline from decisions

of a Regional Court of Appeals. Such appeals shall be

by the same rules and procedures as other appeals to the

General Court of Appeals.

VI. RULES OF PROCEDURE

508. The General Court of Appeals shall adopt uniform

Rules of Procedure governing all proceedings before boards

of discipline and courts of appeal. After such rules are

adopted and published, they shall be the final authority in

all judicial proceedings. Printed Rules of Procedure shall be

supplied by the general secretary. Changes or amendments

to such rules may be adopted by the General Court of Appeals

at any time, and when these are adopted and published,

they shall be effective and authoritative in all cases.

Any steps that are thereafter taken in any proceeding shall

be in accordance with such change or amendment. (505.1)

VII. DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS

509. Each organized district shall have a District Court of

Appeals composed of two laypersons and three ordained ministers,

including the district superintendent, elected by the

district assembly according to 203.22. This court shall hear

appeals of church members concerning any action of local

boards of discipline. Notice of appeal must be given in writing

within 30 days after such action or after appellant has knowledge

thereof. Such notice shall be delivered to the District

Court of Appeals or a member thereof, and a copy of such notice

shall be delivered to the pastor of the local church and to

the secretary of the church board concerned. (203.22)

228 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

509.1. The District Court of Appeals shall have jurisdiction

to hear and decide all appeals of laypersons or churches

from the action of a Board of Discipline appointed to discipline

a layperson.

VIII. GENERAL COURT OF APPEALS

510. The General Assembly shall elect five ordained ministers

to serve as members of the General Court of Appeals

during each ensuing quadrennium, or until their successors

are elected and qualified. This court shall have jurisdiction

as follows:

510.1. To hear and determine all appeals from the action

or decision of any District Board of Discipline or Regional

Court of Appeals. When such appeals are so determined by

said court, such determination shall be authoritative and final.

(305.7)

511. Vacancies that may exist in the General Court of Appeals

during the interim between sessions of the General

Assembly shall be filled by appointment of the Board of

General Superintendents. (317.6)

512. Per diem and expense allowances for members of the

General Court of Appeals shall be the same as that of members

of the General Board of the church, when the members

of the court are engaged in official business of the court, and

payment therefor shall be made by the general treasurer.

513. The general secretary shall be custodian of all permanent

records and decisions of the General Court of Appeals.

(325.4)

IX. REGIONAL COURT OF APPEALS

514. There shall be a Regional Court of Appeals for each

region other than the United States and Canada. Each Regional

Court of Appeals shall consist of five ordained ministers

elected by the Board of General Superintendents following

each General Assembly. Vacancies shall be filled by the

Board of General Superintendents. The Rules of Procedure

shall be the same for the Regional Courts of Appeals as for

the General Court of Appeals, in both the church Manual

and the Judicial Manual.

JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 229

X. GUARANTY OF RIGHTS

515. The right to a fair and impartial hearing of charges

pending against an accused minister or layperson shall not

be denied or unduly postponed. Written charges shall be given

an early hearing in order that the innocent may be absolved

and the guilty brought to discipline. Every accused is

entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

As to each charge and specification, the prosecution shall

have the burden of proving guilt to a moral certainty and

beyond a reasonable doubt.

515.1. The cost of preparing the record of a case, including

a verbatim transcript of all testimony given at the trial, for

the purpose of an appeal to the General Court of Appeals,

shall be borne by the district where the hearing was held

and disciplinary action taken. Every minister who appeals

shall have the right to present oral as well as written argument

upon his or her appeal, but this right may be waived

in writing by the accused.

515.2. A minister or layperson who is accused of misconduct

or any violation of the church Manual and against

whom charges are pending shall have the right to meet his

or her accusers face-to-face and to cross-examine the witnesses

for the prosecution.

515.3. The testimony of any witness before a Board of Discipline

shall not be received or considered in evidence unless

such testimony be given under oath or solemn affirmation.

515.4. A minister or layperson who is brought before a

Board of Discipline to answer charges shall always have the

right to be represented by counsel of his or her own choosing,

provided such counsel be a member in good standing in the

Church of the Nazarene. Any full member of a regularly

organized church against whom no written charges are pending

will be considered in good standing.

515.5. A minister or layperson shall not be required to answer

charges for any act that occurred more than five years

before the filing of such charges, and no evidence will be

considered at any hearing for any matter that occurred

more than five years before the charges were filed. Provided,

230 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

however, that if the person aggrieved by any such act was

under the age of 18 or found to be mentally incompetent of

making an accusation or filing a charge, such five-year limitation

periods would not begin to run until the aggrieved

person reached age 18 or became mentally competent. In the

case of the sexual abuse of a child, no time limit shall apply.

If a minister is convicted of a felony by a court of competent

jurisdiction, he or she shall surrender his or her credential

to the district superintendent. At the request of such

minister, and if the Board of Discipline has not previously

been involved, the District Advisory Board shall investigate

the circumstances of the conviction and may restore the credential

if it deems appropriate.

515.6. A minister or layperson shall not be twice placed in

jeopardy for the same offense. It shall not be considered,

however, that such person was placed in jeopardy at any

hearing or proceeding where the court of appeals discovers

reversible error committed in the original proceeding before

a Board of Discipline.

JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 231

PART VII

Ritual

THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

THE RECEPTION OF CHURCH MEMBERS

THE SACRAMENT OF THE LORD’S SUPPER

MATRIMONY

THE FUNERAL SERVICE

INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

CHURCH DEDICATIONS

800. THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

800.1. The Baptism of Believers

DEARLY BELOVED: Baptism is the sign and seal

of the new covenant of grace, the significance of

which is attested by the apostle Paul in his letter

to the Romans as follows:

“Or don’t you know that all of us who were

baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his

death? We were therefore buried with him

through baptism into death: in order that, just as

Christ was raised from the dead through the glory

of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we

have been united with him like this in his death,

we will certainly also be united with him in his

resurrection” (Romans 6:3-5).

The earliest and simplest statement of Christian

belief, into which you now come to be baptized,

is the Apostles’ Creed, which reads as follows:

“I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of

heaven and earth;

“And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord;

who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the

Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was

crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into

hell; the third day He rose again from the dead;

234 RITUAL

He ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right

hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence

He shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

“I believe in the Holy Ghost, the holy Church of

Jesus Christ, the communion of saints, the forgiveness

of sins, the resurrection of the body, and

the life everlasting.”

Will you be baptized into this faith? If so, answer,

“I will.”

Response: I will.

Do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as your personal

Savior, and do you realize that He saves

you now?

Response: I do.

Will you obey God’s holy will and keep His

commandments, walking in them all the days of

your life?

Response: I will.

The minister, giving the full name of the person and

using the preferred form of baptism—sprinkling, pouring,

or immersion—shall say:

__________________, I baptize thee in the name

of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy

Spirit. Amen.

RITUAL 235

800.2. The Baptism of Infants or

Young Children

When the sponsors shall have presented themselves

with the child (or children) the minister shall say:

DEARLY BELOVED: While we do not hold that

baptism imparts the regenerating grace of God,

we do believe that Christ gave this holy sacrament

as a sign and seal of the new covenant.

Christian baptism signifies for this young child

God’s gracious acceptance on the basis of His prevenient

grace in Christ, and points forward to his

(her) personal appropriation of the benefits of the

Atonement when he (she) reaches the age of

moral accountability and exercises conscious saving

faith in Jesus Christ.

In presenting this child for baptism you are

hereby witnessing to your own personal Christian

faith and to your purpose to guide him (her)

early in life to a knowledge of Christ as Savior. To

this end it is your duty to teach him (her), as

soon as he (she) shall be able to learn, the nature

and end of this holy sacrament; to watch over his

(her) education, that he (she) may not be led

astray; to direct his (her) feet to the sanctuary; to

restrain him (her) from evil associates and

habits; and as much as in you lies, to bring him

236 RITUAL

(her) up in the nurture and admonition of the

Lord.

Will you endeavor to do so by the help of God?

If so, answer, “I will.”

The minister may then ask the parents or guardians to

name the child, and shall then baptize the child, repeating

his (her) full name and saying:

_________________, I baptize thee in the name

of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy

Spirit. Amen.

The minister may then offer the following prayer or

may use an extemporary prayer.

Heavenly Father, we humbly pray that Thou

wilt take this child into Thy loving care. Abundantly

enrich him (her) with Thy heavenly grace;

bring him (her) safely through the perils of childhood;

deliver him (her) from the temptations of

youth; lead him (her) to a personal knowledge of

Christ as Savior; help him (her) to grow in wisdom,

and in stature, and in favor with God and

man, and to persevere therein to the end. Uphold

the parents with loving care, that with wise

counsel and holy example they may faithfully

discharge their responsibilities to both this child

and to Thee. In the name of Jesus Christ our

Lord. Amen.

RITUAL 237

800.3. The Dedication of Infants or

Young Children

When the parents or guardians have presented themselves

with the child (or children) the minister shall

say:

“Then little children were brought to Jesus for

him to place his hands on them and pray for

them. But the disciples rebuked those who

brought them. Jesus said, ‘Let the little children

come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom

of heaven belongs to such as these’” (Matthew

19:13-14).

In presenting this child for dedication you signify

not only your faith in the Christian religion

but also your desire that he (she) may early know

and follow the will of God, may live and die a

Christian, and come unto everlasting blessedness.

In order to attain this holy end, it will be your

duty, as parents (guardians), to teach him (her)

early the fear of the Lord, to watch over his (her)

education, that he (she) be not led astray; to direct

his (her) youthful mind to the Holy Scriptures,

and his (her) feet to the sanctuary; to restrain

him (her) from evil associates and habits;

and, as much as in you lies, to bring him (her) up

in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

238 RITUAL

Will you endeavor to do so by the help of God?

If so, answer, “I will.”

Pastor: I now ask you, the congregation; will

you commit yourself as the Body of Christ to support

and encourage these parents as they endeavor

to fulfill their responsibilities to this child

and to assist _________________ by nurturing his

(her) growth toward spiritual maturity?

Response:We will.

Pastor: Our loving Heavenly Father, we do here

and now dedicate _________________ in the name of

the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

Then the minister may offer the following prayer, or

may use an extemporary prayer.

Heavenly Father, we humbly pray that Thou

wilt take this child into Thy loving care. Abundantly

enrich him (her) with Thy heavenly grace;

bring him (her) safely through the perils of childhood;

deliver him (her) from the temptations of

youth; lead him (her) to a personal knowledge of

Christ as Savior; help him (her) to grow in wisdom,

and in stature, and in favor with God and

man, and to persevere therein to the end. Uphold

the parents with loving care, that with wise

counsel and holy example they may faithfully

discharge their responsibilities both to this child

and to Thee. In the name of Jesus Christ our

Lord. Amen.

RITUAL 239

800.4. The Dedication of Infants or

Young Children

(Ritual for Single Parent or Guardian)

When the parent or guardian has presented himself

(herself) with the child (or children) the minister shall

say:

“Then little children were brought to Jesus for

him to place his hands on them and pray for

them. But the disciples rebuked those who

brought them. Jesus said, ‘Let the little children

come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom

of heaven belongs to such as these’” (Matthew

19:13-14).

In presenting this child for dedication you signify

not only your faith in the Christian religion

but also your desire that he (she) may early know

and follow the will of God, may live and die a

Christian, and come unto everlasting blessedness.

In order to attain this holy end, it will be your

duty, as a parent (guardian), to teach him (her)

early the fear of the Lord, to watch over his (her)

education, that he (she) be not led astray; to direct

his (her) youthful mind to the Holy Scriptures,

and his (her) feet to the sanctuary; to restrain

him (her) from evil associates and habits;

and, as much as in you lies, to bring him (her) up

in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

240 RITUAL

Will you endeavor to do so by the help of God?

If so, answer, “I will.”

Pastor: I now ask you, the congregation; will

you commit yourself as the Body of Christ to support

and encourage this parent as he (she) endeavors

to fulfill his (her) responsibilities to this

child and to assist _________________ by nurturing

his (her) growth toward spiritual maturity?

Response:We will.

Pastor: Our loving Heavenly Father, we do here

and now dedicate ______________________ in the

name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the

Holy Spirit. Amen.

Then the minister may offer the following prayer, or

may use an extemporary prayer.

Heavenly Father, we humbly pray that Thou

wilt take this child into Thy loving care. Abundantly

enrich him (her) with Thy heavenly grace;

bring him (her) safely through the perils of childhood;

deliver him (her) from the temptations of

youth; lead him (her) to a personal knowledge of

Christ as Savior; help him (her) to grow in wisdom,

and in stature, and in favor with God and

man, and to persevere therein to the end. Uphold

the parent with loving care, that with wise counsel

and holy example he (she) may faithfully discharge

his (her) responsibilities both to this child

and to Thee. In the name of Jesus Christ our

Lord. Amen.

RITUAL 241

801. THE RECEPTION OF

CHURCH MEMBERS

The prospective members having come forward to

stand before the altar of the church, the pastor shall

address them as follows:

DEARLY BELOVED: The privileges and blessings

that we have in association together in the

Church of Jesus Christ are very sacred and precious.

There is in it such hallowed fellowship as

cannot otherwise be known.

There is such helpfulness with brotherly watch

care and counsel as can be found only in the

Church.

There is the godly care of pastors, with the

teachings of the Word; and the helpful inspiration

of social worship. And there is cooperation in

service, accomplishing that which cannot otherwise

be done. The doctrines upon which the

church rests as essential to Christian experience

are brief.

NOTE: The minister may choose one of

the following creedal options.

OPTION 1:

We believe in God the Father, Son, and Holy

Spirit.We especially emphasize the deity of Jesus

Christ and the personality of the Holy Spirit.

242 RITUAL

We believe that human beings are born in sin;

that they need the work of forgiveness through

Christ and the new birth by the Holy Spirit; that

subsequent to this there is the deeper work of

heart cleansing or entire sanctification through

the infilling of the Holy Spirit, and that to each of

these works of grace the Holy Spirit gives witness.

We believe that our Lord will return, the dead

shall be raised, and that all shall come to final

judgment with its rewards and punishments.

Do you heartily believe these truths? If so, answer,

“I do.”

Do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as your personal

Savior, and do you realize that He saves

you now?

Response: I do.

Desiring to unite with the Church of the Nazarene,

do you covenant to give yourself to the fellowship

and work of God in connection with it, as

set forth in the Covenant of Christian Character

and the Covenant of Christian Conduct of the

Church of the Nazarene? Will you endeavor in

every way to glorify God, by a humble walk, godly

conversation, and holy service; by devotedly giving

of your means; by faithful attendance upon

the means of grace; and, abstaining from all evil,

will you seek earnestly to perfect holiness of

heart and life in the fear of the Lord?

Response: I will.

RITUAL 243

The minister shall then say to the person or persons:

I welcome you into this church, to its sacred

fellowship, responsibilities, and privileges. May

the great Head of the Church bless and keep you,

and enable you to be faithful in all good works,

that your life and witness may be effective in

leading others to Christ.

The minister shall then take each one by the hand, and

with appropriate words of personal greeting welcome

each into the church.

(Alternate form for members joining by letter

of transfer:)

_________________________, formerly a member

(members) of the Church of the Nazarene

______________________, comes (come) to join the

fellowship of this local congregation.

Taking each by the hand, or speaking to the group, the

minister shall say:

It gives me pleasure on behalf of this church to

welcome you into our membership. We trust that

we will be a source of encouragement and

strength to you and that you, in turn, will be a

source of blessing and help to us. May the Lord

richly bless you in the salvation of souls and in

the advancement of His kingdom.

OPTION 2:

We believe:

In one God—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

244 RITUAL

That the Old and New Testament Scriptures,

given by plenary inspiration, contain all truth

necessary to faith and Christian living.

That man is born with a fallen nature, and is,

therefore, inclined to evil, and that continually.

That the finally impenitent are hopelessly and

eternally lost.

That the atonement through Jesus Christ is for

the whole human race; and that whosoever repents

and believes on the Lord Jesus Christ is

justified and regenerated and saved from the dominion

of sin.

That believers are to be sanctified wholly, subsequent

to regeneration, through faith in the

Lord Jesus Christ.

That the Holy Spirit bears witness to the new

birth, and also to the entire sanctification of believers.

That our Lord will return, the dead will be

raised, and the final judgment will take place.

(paragraphs 26.1-26.8)

Do you heartily believe these truths? If so, answer,

“I do.”

Do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as your personal

Savior, and do you realize that He saves

you now?

Response: I do.

Desiring to unite with the Church of the Nazarene,

do you covenant to give yourself to the fellowship

and work of God in connection with it, as

RITUAL 245

set forth in the Covenant of Christian Character

and the Covenant of Christian Conduct of the

Church of the Nazarene? Will you endeavor in

every way to glorify God, by a humble walk, godly

conversation, and holy service; by devotedly giving

of your means; by faithful attendance upon

the means of grace; and, abstaining from all evil,

will you seek earnestly to perfect holiness of

heart and life in the fear of the Lord?

Response: I will.

The minister shall then say to the person or persons:

I welcome you into this church, to its sacred

fellowship, responsibilities, and privileges. May

the great Head of the Church bless and keep you,

and enable you to be faithful in all good works,

that your life and witness may be effective in

leading others to Christ.

The minister shall then take each one by the hand, and

with appropriate words of personal greeting welcome

each into the church.

(Alternate form for members joining by letter of

transfer:)

________________________, formerly a member

(members) of the Church of the Nazarene at

______________________, comes (come) to join the

fellowship of this local congregation.

Taking each by the hand, or speaking to the group, the

minister shall say:

246 RITUAL

It gives me pleasure on behalf of this church to

welcome you into our membership. We trust that

we will be a source of encouragement and

strength to you and that you, in turn, will be a

source of blessing and help to us. May the Lord

richly bless you in the salvation of souls and in

the advancement of His kingdom.

RITUAL 247

802. THE SACRAMENT OF

THE LORD’S SUPPER

The administration of the Lord’s Supper may be introduced

by an appropriate sermon and the reading of 1

Corinthians 11:23-29; Luke 22:14-20, or some other

suitable passage. Let the minister then give the following

invitation:

The Lord himself ordained this holy sacrament.

He commanded His disciples to partake of

the bread and wine, emblems of His broken body

and shed blood. This is His table. The feast is for

His disciples. Let all those who have with true repentance

forsaken their sins, and have believed

in Christ unto salvation, draw near and take

these emblems, and, by faith, partake of the life

of Jesus Christ, to your soul’s comfort and joy. Let

us remember that it is the memorial of the death

and passion of our Lord; also a token of His coming

again. Let us not forget that we are one, at

one table with the Lord.

The minister may offer a prayer of confession and supplication,

concluding with the following prayer of consecration:

Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, who of

Thy tender mercy didst give Thine only Son, Jesus

Christ, to suffer death upon the Cross for our

redemption: hear us, we most humbly beseech

248 RITUAL

Thee. Grant that, as we receive these Thy creatures

of bread and wine according to the holy institution

of Thy Son, our Savior Jesus Christ, in

remembrance of His passion and death, we may

be made partakers of the benefits of His atoning

sacrifice.

We are reminded that in the same night that

our Lord was betrayed, He took bread and, when

He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to

His disciples, saying, “This is my body given for

you; do this in remembrance of me.” Likewise, after

supper, He took the cup, and when He had

given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, “This

cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is

poured out for you; do this, whenever you drink

it, in remembrance of me.”

May we come before Thee in true humility and

faith as we partake of this holy sacrament.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Then may the minister, partaking first, with the assistance

of any other ministers present, and when necessary,

of the stewards, administer the Communion to

the people.

While the bread is being distributed, let the minister

say:

The body of our Lord Jesus Christ, which was

broken for you, preserve you blameless, unto everlasting

life. Take and eat this, in remembrance

that Christ died for you.

RITUAL 249

As the cup is being passed, let the minister say:

The blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, which was

shed for you, preserve you blameless unto everlasting

life. Drink this, in remembrance that

Christ’s blood was shed for you, and be thankful.

After all have partaken, the minister may then offer a

concluding prayer of thanksgiving and commitment.

(34.5, 413.4, 413.11, 427.7, 428.2, 429.1)

NOTE: Only unfermented wine should be

used in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper.

250 RITUAL

803. MATRIMONY

At the day and time appointed for the solemnization of

matrimony, the persons to be married—having been

qualified according to law and by careful counsel and

guidance by the minister—standing together, facing

the minister, the man to the minister’s left and the

woman to the right, the minister shall address the congregation

as follows:

DEARLY BELOVED: We are gathered together

here in the sight of God, and in the presence of

these witnesses, to join together this man and

this woman in holy matrimony, which is an honorable

estate, instituted of God in the time of

man’s innocency, signifying unto us the mystical

union that exists between Christ and His Church.

This holy estate Christ adorned and beautified

with His presence and first miracle that He

wrought, in Cana of Galilee, and St. Paul commended

as being honorable among all men. It is,

therefore, not to be entered into unadvisedly, but

reverently, discreetly, and in the fear of God.

Into this holy estate these persons present now

come to be joined.

Addressing the couple to be married, the minister shall

say:

_______________ and _______________, I require

and charge you both as you stand in the presence

of God, to remember that the commitment to

RITUAL 251

marriage is a commitment to permanence. It is

the intent of God that your marriage will be for

life, and that only death will separate you.

If the vows you exchange today be kept without

violation, and if you seek always to know and

do the will of God, your lives will be blessed with

His presence, and your home will abide in peace.

Following the charge the minister shall say unto the

man:

__________, will you have this woman to be your

wedded wife, to live together after God’s ordinance

in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love her,

comfort her, honor and keep her in sickness and in

health; and forsaking all others, keep yourself only

unto her, so long as you both shall live?

Response: I will.

Then shall the minister say unto the woman:

____________, will you have this man to be your

wedded husband, to live together after God’s ordinance

in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you

love, honor, and keep him, in sickness and in

health; and, forsaking all others, keep yourself only

unto him, so long as you both shall live?

Response: I will.

Then the minister shall ask:

Who gives this woman to be married to this man?

Response (by the father, or whoever gives the

bride in marriage): I do.

252 RITUAL

Facing each other and joining right hands, the couple

shall then exchange the following vows:

The man shall repeat after the minister:

I, ___________, take you, ___________, to be my

wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day

forward, for better–for worse, for richer–for poorer,

in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish,

till death us do part, according to God’s holy

ordinance; and thereto I pledge you my faith.

The woman shall repeat after the minister:

I, ___________, take you, ___________, to be my

wedded husband, to have and to hold from this

day forward, for better–for worse, for richer–for

poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to

cherish, till death us do part, according to God’s

holy ordinance; and thereto I pledge you my faith.

If desired, a ring ceremony may be inserted at this

point. The minister receives the ring from the groomsman

and, in turn, passes it to the groom. As he then

places it upon the bride’s finger, he shall repeat, after

the minister:

This ring I give you as a token of my love and

as a pledge of my constant fidelity.

Repeat for double ring ceremony.

The couple then shall kneel as the minister offers the

following, or an extemporaneous prayer:

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O Eternal God, Creator and Preserver of all

mankind, Giver of all spiritual grace, the Author

of everlasting life, send Thy blessing upon these

Thy servants, this man and this woman, whom

we now bless in Thy name; that as Isaac and Rebekah

lived faithfully together, so these persons

may surely perform and keep the vow and

covenant made between them this hour and may

ever remain in love and peace together, through

Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Then shall the minister say:

Forasmuch as this man and woman have consented

together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed

the same before God and this company,

and have declared the same by joining of hands,

I pronounce that they are husband and wife together,

in the name of the Father, and of the Son,

and of the Holy Spirit. Those whom God has

joined together let not man put asunder. Amen.

The minister shall then add this blessing:

God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,

bless, preserve, and keep you; the Lord mercifully

with His favor look upon you, and fill you with all

spiritual benediction and grace. May you so live

together in this life that in the world to come you

may have life everlasting.

The minister may then conclude with an extemporaneous

prayer and/or benediction. (427.7)

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804. THE FUNERAL SERVICE

DEARLY BELOVED: We are gathered today to pay

our final tribute of respect to that which was

mortal of our deceased loved one and friend. To

you members of the family who mourn your loss,

we especially offer our deep and sincere sympathy.

May we share with you the comfort afforded

by God’s Word for such a time as this:

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in

God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are

many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told

you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will

come back and take you to be with me that you

also may be where I am” (John 14:1-3).

“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes

in me, will live, even though he dies; and

whoever lives and believes in me will never die”

(John 11:25-26).

INVOCATION (in the minister’s own words or the following):

Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we come

into this sanctuary of sorrow, realizing our utter

dependence upon Thee. We know Thou dost love

us and canst turn even the shadow of death into

the light of morning. Help us now to wait before

Thee with reverent and submissive hearts.

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Thou art our Refuge and Strength, O God—a

very present Help in time of trouble. Grant unto

us Thy abundant mercy. May those who mourn

today find comfort and healing balm in Thy sustaining

grace.We humbly bring these petitions in

the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

A HYMN OR SPECIAL SONG

SELECTIONS OF SCRIPTURE:

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord

Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us

new birth into a living hope through the resurrection

of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an

inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—

kept in heaven for you, who through faith are

shielded by God’s power until the coming of the

salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last

time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a

little while you may have had to suffer grief in all

kinds of trials. These have come so that your

faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes

even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine

and may result in praise, glory and honor

when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have

not seen him, you love him; and even though you

do not see him now, you believe in him and are

filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for

you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation

of your souls” (1 Peter 1:3-9).

(Other passages that might be used are: Matthew 5:3-

4, 6, 8; Psalms 27:3-5, 11, 13-14; 46:1-6, 10-11.)

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MESSAGE

A HYMN OR SPECIAL SONG

CLOSING PRAYER

AT THE GRAVESIDE

When the people have assembled, the minister may

read any or all of the following scriptures:

“I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the

end he will stand upon the earth. And after my

skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see

God; I myself will see him with my own eyes—

I, and not another” (Job 19:25-27).

“Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all

sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash, in

the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For

the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised

imperishable, and we will be changed. . . . Then

the saying that is written will come true: ‘Death

has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O

death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your

sting?’ The sting of death is sin; and the power of

sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us

the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let

nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to

the work of the Lord, because you know that your

labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians

15:51-52, 54-58).

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“Then I heard a voice from heaven say, ‘Write:

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from

now on. Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘they will rest from

their labor; for their deeds will follow them’” (Revelation

14:13).

The minister shall then read one of the following committal

statements:

For a Believer:

Forasmuch as the spirit of our departed loved

one has returned to God, who gave it, we therefore

tenderly commit his (her) body to the grave in

sure trust and certain hope of the resurrection of

the dead and the life of the world to come, through

our Lord Jesus Christ, who shall give to us new

bodies like unto His glorious body. “Blessed are

the dead who die in the Lord.”

For a Nonbeliever:

We have come now to commit the body of our

departed friend to its kindred dust. The spirit we

leave with God, for we know the merciful Judge of

all the earth will do right. Let us who remain dedicate

ourselves anew to live in the fear and love of

God, so that we may obtain an abundant entrance

into the heavenly Kingdom.

For a Child:

In the sure and certain hope of the resurrection

to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ, we

commit the body of this child to the grave. And as

Jesus, during His earthly life, took the children

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into His arms and blessed them, may He receive

this dear one unto himself, for, as He said, “The

kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

PRAYER:

Our Heavenly Father, God of all mercy, we look

to Thee in this moment of sorrow and bereavement.

Comfort these dear ones whose hearts are

heavy and sad. Wilt Thou be with them, sustain

and guide them in the days to come. Grant, O

Lord, that they may love and serve Thee and obtain

the fullness of Thy promises in the world to

come.

“May the God of peace, who through the blood

of the eternal covenant brought back from the

dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the

sheep, equip you with everything good for doing

his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing

to him, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory

for ever and ever. Amen” (Hebrews 13:20-21).

RITUAL 259

805. INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

Following the singing of an appropriate hymn, let the

secretary read the names and positions of the officers

to be installed. These may come forward and stand at

the altar of the church, facing the minister. A covenant

card* should be provided for each. The minister shall

then say:

Recognizing God’s method of setting apart certain

workers for specific areas of Christian service,

we come to this moment of installation of

these officers (and/or teachers) who have been

duly chosen to serve in our church for the ensuing

year. Let us consider God’s instructions to us

from His Holy Word.

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of

God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices,

holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual

act of worship. Do not conform any longer to

the pattern of this world, but be transformed by

the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able

to test and approve what God’s will is—his good,

pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:1-2).

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one

approved, a workman who does not need to be

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*Available from NPH

ashamed and who correctly handles the word of

truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as

you teach and admonish one another with all

wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual

songs, with gratitude in your hearts to God”

(Colossians 3:16).

“Anyone who receives instruction in the word

must share all good things with his instructor”

(Galatians 6:6).

We now come to this important moment when

you who stand before the altar are to take upon

yourselves the task of caring for the affairs of the

church and its auxiliary organizations. May you

look upon the assignments you now assume as

special opportunities for service for our Lord, and

may you find joy and spiritual blessing in the

performance of your respective duties.

Yours is no light task, for the ongoing of the

church and the destiny of souls are in your

hands. The development of Christian character is

your responsibility, and leading the unsaved to

Jesus Christ is your highest objective. May God

grant you wisdom and strength as you do His

work for His glory.

You have been given a card on which is printed

a covenant. We shall read it in unison, and as we

do so, let us make it a personal commitment.

RITUAL 261

WORKER’S COVENANT

In consideration of the confidence placed in me

by the church in being selected for the office I

now assume, I hereby covenant:

To maintain a high standard of Christian living

and example in harmony with the ideals and

standards of the Church of the Nazarene.

To cultivate my personal Christian experience

by setting aside each day definite time for prayer

and Bible reading.

To be present at the regular Sunday School,

the Sunday morning and Sunday evening preaching

services, and the midweek prayer meeting of

the church, unless providentially hindered.

To attend faithfully all duly called meetings of

the various boards, councils, or committees to

which I have been, or will be, assigned.

To notify my superior officer if I am unable to

be present at the stated time, or to carry out my

responsibilities in this office.

To read widely the denominational publications,

and other books and literature which will

be helpful to me in discharging the duties of my

office.

To improve myself and my skills by participating

in Continuing Lay Training courses as opportunity

is afforded.

To endeavor to lead people to Jesus Christ by

manifesting an active interest in the spiritual

262 RITUAL

welfare of others and by attending and supporting

all evangelistic meetings in the church.

The minister shall then offer an appropriate prayer,

and a special song of dedication may be sung, after

which the minister shall say:

Having pledged together your hearts and

hands to the task of carrying forward the work of

this church in your particular assignments, I

herewith install you in the respective positions to

which you have been elected or appointed. You

are now a vital part of the organizational structure

and leadership of this church. May you, by

example, by precept, and by diligent service, be

effective workers in the vineyard of the Lord.

The minister shall ask the congregation to rise, and

shall address them as follows:

You have heard the pledge and covenant entered

into by your church leaders for the coming

year. I now charge you, as a congregation, to be

loyal in your support of them. The burdens which

we have laid upon them are heavy, and they will

need your assistance and prayers. May you always

be understanding of their problems and tolerant

of their seeming failures. May you lend assistance

joyfully when called upon, so that, as we

work together, our church may be an effective instrument

in winning the lost to Christ.

The minister may then lead in a concluding prayer or

have the congregation repeat the Lord’s Prayer in unison.

RITUAL 263

806. CHURCH DEDICATIONS

Minister: Having been prospered by the hand

of the Lord and enabled by His grace and

strength to complete this building to the glory of

His name, we now stand in God’s presence to

dedicate this structure to the service of His kingdom.

To the glory of God our Father, from whom

cometh every good and perfect gift; to the honor

of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior; and to the

praise of the Holy Spirit, Source of light, and life,

and power—our Sanctifier,

Congregation: We do now, with joy and gratitude,

humbly dedicate this building.

Minister: In remembrance of all who have

loved and served this church, establishing the

heritage we now enjoy, and who are now part of

the Church Triumphant,

Congregation: We gratefully dedicate this edifice

(sanctuary, education building, fellowship

hall, etc.).

Minister: For worship in prayer and song, for

the preaching of the Word, for the teaching of the

Scriptures, and for the fellowship of the saints,

Congregation: We solemnly dedicate this house

of God.

Minister: For the comfort of those who mourn,

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for the strengthening of the weak, for the help of

those who are tempted, and for the giving of hope

and courage to all who come within these walls,

Congregation: We dedicate this place of fellowship

and prayer.

Minister: For the sharing of the good news of

salvation from sin, for the spreading of scriptural

holiness, for the giving of instruction in righteousness,

and for the service of our fellowmen,

Congregation:We reverently dedicate this building.

Unison:We, as laborers together with God, now

join hands and hearts and dedicate ourselves

anew to the high and holy purposes to which this

building has been set apart. We pledge our loyal

devotion, faithful stewardship, and diligent service

to the end that in this place the name of the

Lord shall be glorified, and His kingdom shall be

advanced; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

RITUAL 265

PART VIII

Auxiliary Constitutions

NAZARENE YOUTH INTERNATIONAL

NAZARENE MISSIONS INTERNATIONAL

BYLAWS OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL

CHAPTER I

810. Nazarene Youth International Charter

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young,

but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love,

in faith, and in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12

I. Our Mission

The mission of Nazarene Youth International is to call

our generation to a dynamic life in Christ.

II. Our Members

Membership in Nazarene Youth International includes

all persons participating in Nazarene youth ministry

who choose to embrace our stated vision and values.

III. Our Vision

The Church of the Nazarene believes that young people

are an integral part of the Church. Nazarene Youth

International exists to lead young people into a lifelong

relationship with Jesus Christ and to facilitate their

growth as disciples for Christian service.

IV. Our Values

We value Young People . . . significant in the kingdom

of God.

We value the Bible . . . God’s unchanging truth for

our lives.

We value Prayer . . . vital interactive communication

with our heavenly father.

We value the Church . . . a global holiness community

of faith, diverse in culture but one in Christ.

We value Worship . . . life-changing encounters

with an intimate God.

We value Discipleship . . . a lifestyle of becoming

like Christ.

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We value Community . . . building relationships

that help bind us together and to God.

We value Ministry . . . extending God’s grace to our

world.

We value Witness . . . sharing God’s love in word

and deed.

We value Holiness . . . a work of grace whereby

God, through the working of His Holy Spirit, enables

us to live a life representing Christ in who we are

and in everything we do.

These values are important dimensions of the holy life

and are to be reflected in the life and ministry of NYI at

every level of the church. (Please refer to the Articles of

Faith in the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene for

more information on these values.) In reflecting these

values, we acknowledge the following Guiding Principles.

V. Our Guiding Principles

NYI exists for youth.

Nazarene Youth International exists to attract,

equip, and empower young people for service in the

kingdom of God and to facilitate their integration

into the Church of the Nazarene.

NYI focuses on Christ.

Christ is central to who we are, the Word of God our

authoritative source for all we do, and holiness our

pattern for life.

NYI is built on relational ministry to youth in

the local church.

Effective ministry to young people in the local

church is critical to the health and vibrancy of NYI.

Relationships and incarnational ministry form the

foundation for Nazarene youth ministry, guiding

young people toward spiritual maturity in Christ.

NYI develops and mentors young leaders.

NYI provides opportunities for emerging leaders to

develop and utilize their gifts within an environment

of nurture and support, assuring strong leadership

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 269

for the Church of the Nazarene. Leadership training,

accountability, and mechanisms for evaluation and

modification of ministry are vital functions of NYI.

NYI is empowered to lead.

Relevant youth ministry requires that responsibility

for ministry and organizational decisions reside

with NYI leadership and the appropriate governing

bodies at every level. A sense of belonging and ownership,

a passion for service, and input in decisionmaking

are key ingredients for the empowerment of

young people through NYI.

NYI embraces unity and diversity in Christ.

NYI is committed to understanding and celebrating

differences and diversity in language, color, race,

culture, socioeconomic class, and gender. Our differences

do not diminish unity but enhance our potential

and effectiveness. Sharing the good news of Jesus

Christ in culturally relevant ways must always

be a high priority.

NYI creates networks and partnerships.

A climate of cooperation characterizes our relationships

at every level of NYI. Networking within the

church enhances the development and deployment

of young people for service; NYI actively participates

in such cooperative endeavors.

VI. Our Ministry Framework

The Nazarene Youth International Charter provides

the foundation for organizing, planning, and implementing

youth ministry at every level of the Church of

the Nazarene. Standard ministry plans are provided

that local, district, and regional NYI groups are encouraged

to adapt in response to youth ministry needs

in their own ministry situation. Ministry plans at

every level must be consistent with the NYI Charter

and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

VII. Revisions

The NYI Charter may be amended through resolutions

270 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

approved by the Global NYI Convention, according to

the Global Ministry Plan.

LOCAL MINISTRY PLAN

I. Membership and Ministry Focus

Section 1—Composition and Accountability

1. Local NYI membership consists of those who affiliate

themselves with an NYI group by participating in its

ministries and joining the local group.

2. The local NYI maintains an accurate roster of all active

members.

3. The local NYI is accountable to its membership, the local

church board, and the pastor.

4. The local NYI reports monthly to the church board and

to the annual church meeting.

Section 2 - Ministry Focus

1. The traditional ministry focus of the local NYI is to

youth ages 12 and older, college/university students, and

young adults. A local NYI Council may modify the ministry

focus as seen fit with the approval of the pastor and

local church board.

2. For the purposes of representation and programming,

the local NYI council establishes age divisions in response

to local youth ministry needs.

II. Leadership

Section 1—Officers

1. The officers of the local NYI are a president and up to

three persons elected by the annual NYI meeting with assigned

ministry responsibilities according to local church

needs. These officers serve on the Executive Committee.

2. Local NYI officers must be members of the local church

whose NYI they serve, active in local youth ministry, and

leaders in personal example and service.

3. In churches not having an organized NYI (no local NYI

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 271

Council), the pastor, with church board approval, may

appoint the NYI president so that the church may begin

to reach young people for Christ and respond to their

spiritual growth needs.

Section 2—Elections

1. Officers are elected annually by the members of the local

NYI at the annual meeting and serve until their successors

are elected and assume their ministry roles.

2. A Nominating Committee nominates the officers for NYI.

A Nominating Committee is appointed by the pastor and

consists of NYI members, as well as the pastor and the

NYI president. All nominees are to be approved by the

pastor and church board. Persons nominated as local

NYI president must have reached their 15th birthday at

the time of their election.

3. Officers are elected by majority vote of the NYI members

present at the annual NYI meeting. When there is only

one nominee for a position, a “yes” and “no” ballot is

used, with approval by two-thirds majority vote. Only

those who are also members of the local Church of the

Nazarene may vote for the president.

4. An incumbent officer may be reelected by a “yes” or “no”

vote when such vote is recommended by the NYI Council

to the Nominating Committee, approved by the pastor

and church board, and approved by two-thirds majority

vote at the annual NYI meeting.

5. A vacancy occurs when an officer moves his or her membership

from the church, resigns, or is removed from office

by two-thirds majority vote of the council due to neglect

of duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a vacancy

occur among officers, the NYI Council fills the vacancy by

two-thirds majority vote if there is one nominee or by majority

vote if two or more nominees. If the vacancy occurs

in the office of NYI president, the pastor, youth pastor, or

his or her designee chairs the meeting for election.

Section 3—Responsibilities

1. The responsibilities of the NYI president include:

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a. Chairing the NYI Council to cast a vision for youth

ministry in the church.

b. Facilitating the development of youth ministry and

working with the NYI Council to define the ministry

focus in response to the needs of their young people.

c. Serving on the church board and submitting a monthly

report to the board. A local church board may establish

prior to the annual election a minimum age for

the NYI president to serve on the church board;

should the president be younger, alternate representation

for NYI on the church board may be appointed by

the NYI Council, subject to the approval of the board.

d. Submitting an annual report of ministry and finances

to the annual church meeting.

e. Recommending the budget for the local NYI, as approved

by the NYI Council, to the church board.

f. Serving as an ex-officio member of the Sunday School

Ministries Board to coordinate youth Sunday School

in the church.

g. Serving as a delegate to the District NYI Convention

and the district assembly. Should the president be

unable to attend, a representative elected by the NYI

Council and approved by pastor and the church board

may provide alternate representation.

2. The responsibilities of other NYI officers include:

a. Developing and designating leaders for various local

NYI ministries.

b. Being role models and spiritual guides for youth both

within and outside the church.

c. Defining and assigning titles and youth ministry responsibilities

in response to local church needs.

d. Distributing the following responsibilities to insure

accountability and effectiveness:

1) Keeping a correct record of all meetings of the NYI

Council and attending to all matters of correspondence

for the local NYI.

2) Disbursing, receiving, and keeping records of NYI

funds according to church board policy.

3) Compiling an annual financial report of all moneys

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 273

raised and disbursed to submit to the annual

church meeting.

4) Working with the NYI president to create an annual

budget to present to the council and to the

church board for approval.

e. Cooperating with the president in every way possible

to facilitate the local NYI ministry.

f. Carrying out other ministries as assigned by the NYI

Council.

Section 4—Paid Staff

1. When a youth pastor is employed in a church, the pastor,

in consultation with the church board and NYI Council,

assigns the responsibility for NYI to the youth pastor. In

that case, the youth pastor carries out some of the duties

otherwise designated to a local NYI president. However,

the importance of the NYI president remains, in providing

vital lay leadership, support, and representation for

local youth ministry. The pastor, youth pastor and NYI

Council work together to define the roles and responsibilities

of the two positions and how they work together

for the benefit of the church’s youth ministry.

2. A youth pastor may not serve as the NYI president.

3. The youth pastor serves ex-officio on the NYI Council, the

Executive Committee, and the NYI Nominating Committee.

4. The youth pastor may serve as the pastor’s designee for

NYI-related responsibilities.

5. If a church has multiple paid staff that minister to specific

age divisions within NYI, it may develop officers for

each age division under staff leadership and determine

from among those officers how NYI is to be represented

on the church board.

III. Council

Section 1—Composition

1. The local NYI Council is composed of the NYI officers,

other elected or appointed youth member-at-large and

274 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

ministry leaders as deemed necessary, and the pastor

and/or youth pastor, who collectively cast the vision for

local youth ministry.

2. NYI Council members must be members of the local

Nazarene Youth International. Local church membership

is strongly encouraged and NYI Council members should

be expected to become church members.

Section 2—Elections

1. A NYI Nominating Committee nominates local NYI

members to be elected to the NYI Council.

2. The NYI membership then elects the members of the

NYI Council from submitted nominations by majority

vote at the annual NYI meeting.

3. A vacancy occurs when a council member moves his or her

membership from the local NYI, resigns, or is removed

from office by two-thirds majority vote of the council due

to neglect of duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a vacancy

occur among council members, the NYI Council fills

the vacancy by two-thirds majority vote if there is one

nominee or by majority vote if two or more nominees.

4. If a church has fewer than seven NYI members, the pastor

may appoint the members of the NYI Council so that

youth ministry may be developed and young people are

reached for Christ.

Section 3—Responsibilities

1. The NYI Council is responsible for planning and organizing

the total ministry for youth within the local church

and, through its officers and directors, initiates and directs

ministries and activities to reach young people for

Christ and to respond to their spiritual growth needs, in

harmony with local church leadership.

2. The NYI Council defines the ministry focus of the local NYI

in response to local youth ministry needs, and develops and

assigns titles and job descriptions for ministry directors.

3. The NYI Council gives leadership to the youth area of

the Sunday School by promoting growth in enrollment

and attendance for youth, nominating and providing

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 275

training for youth Sunday School teachers and leaders,

and recommending curriculum and resources to be used,

in cooperation with the Sunday School Ministries Board.

4. The NYI Council cooperates with the District NYI Council

in promoting district, regional, and global NYI ministries

to young people of the church.

5. The NYI Council establishes and communicates the

process for submitting revisions to the Local Ministry Plan.

Section 4—Committees

1. The NYI Executive Committee consists of elected NYI officers

and the pastor or youth pastor. The Executive

Committee may conduct the business of the NYI Council

when necessary. All actions of the Executive Committee

are communicated to the remaining members of the

council and are subject to the approval of the entire

council at its next meeting.

2. The NYI Council may establish specific ministry or age

division committees in response to youth ministry needs.

Section 5—Paid Staff

1. The pastor designates the responsibilities of a youth pastor,

in consultation with the church board and the NYI

Council.

2. The NYI Council and youth pastor work in cooperation

and harmony with each other.

3. If a church has multiple paid staff who minister to specific

age divisions within NYI, it may develop NYI councils

or committees for each of these age divisions under

staff leadership. The church may decide whether a coordinating

council for the various groups is used.

IV. Meetings

Section 1—Local NYI Meetings

1. A variety of local NYI gatherings help provide effective

ministry to young people.

2. The local NYI group participates in district, regional,

and global NYI gatherings that further enhance youth

ministry in the church.

276 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

Section 2—NYI Council Meetings

1. The NYI Council meets regularly to fulfill the mission

and vision of NYI.

2. Meetings of the council may be scheduled or called by

the president or pastor.

Section 3—Annual Meeting

1. The annual meeting of the local NYI is held within sixty

days of the District NYI Convention and in harmony

with the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

2. NYI officers and council members and delegates to the

District NYI Convention are elected at the annual NYI

meeting.

3. The NYI Local Ministry Plan may be revised by twothirds

majority vote at the NYI annual meeting.

V. Ministries

Section 1—Evangelism

The NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing ministries

and special events to reach young people for Christ.

Section 2—Discipleship

The NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing ministries

and special events to nurture and challenge young

people to grow as disciples of Christ, in personal devotion,

worship, fellowship, ministry, and leading others to Christ.

Section 3—Leadership Development

The NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing ministries

and special events to mentor and equip young people

to be leaders for Christ and His church.

VI. Revisions

Section 1—Provision

1. This Local Ministry Plan provides a standard format for

the organization, function, and leadership of NYI at the

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 277

local level. A local NYI group may adapt the plan in response

to local youth ministry needs, consistent with the

Nazarene Youth International Charter and the Manual

of the Church of the Nazarene.

2. Any area not covered by this ministry plan is under the

authority of the local NYI Council.

Section 2—Process

1. The NYI Council establishes and publicizes the process

for adapting and revising the Local Ministry Plan and

must approve proposed revisions prior to their being

brought to the annual NYI meeting.

2. Proposed revisions to the Local Ministry Plan must be

distributed to NYI members prior to the NYI annual

meeting.

3. Revisions must be approved by a two-thirds majority vote

of all NYI members present and voting at the annual NYI

meeting and are subject to church board approval.

4. All changes in the Local Ministry Plan become effective

no later than 30 days following the NYI annual meeting.

The revised plan must be posted in written form prior to

taking effect.

DISTRICT MINISTRY PLAN

I. Membership and Ministry Focus

Section 1—Composition and Accountability

1. All local NYI groups and members of NYI within the

boundaries of a district form the district Nazarene Youth

International.

2. The district NYI is accountable to its membership, the

district superintendent, and the District Advisory Board.

3. The district NYI reports annually to the District NYI

Convention and the district assembly through the district

NYI president.

Section 2—Ministry Focus

1. The traditional ministry focus of the district NYI is to

278 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

youth ages 12 and older, college/university students, and

young adults. A District NYI Council may modify the

ministry focus as seen fit, with the approval of the district

superintendent and District Advisory Board.

2. For the purposes of representation and programming,

the District NYI Council establishes age divisions according

to youth ministry needs on the district.

II. Leadership

Section 1—Officers

1. The officers of the district NYI are the president, vice

president, secretary, and treasurer.

2. District NYI officers must be members of a local Church

of the Nazarene within the bounds of the district at the

time of their election, be active in local and district youth

ministry, and be viewed as leaders in personal example

and ministry.

3. District NYI officers serve without salary. Financing for

the administrative expenses of district NYI officers is allocated

as a part of the district NYI budget.

4. Should a district not yet have an organized NYI (no District

NYI Convention), the district superintendent may

appoint a district NYI president so that local churches

may be assisted in reaching young people for Christ and

in responding to their spiritual growth needs.

Section 2—Elections

1. District NYI officers are elected by the District NYI Convention

to serve for a one-year term, from the close of the

convention until their successors are elected and assume

their ministry roles. At the recommendation of the district

NYI Nominating Committee and with the approval

of the district superintendent, an officer may be elected

for a two-year term.

2. A district NYI Nominating Committee nominates the officers

of the district NYI. The Nominating Committee is

appointed by the District NYI Council and consists of at

least four district NYI members, and also includes the

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 279

district superintendent and the district NYI president.

All nominees must be approved by the District NYI

Council and district superintendent.

3. Officers are then elected by ballot by majority vote at the

annual NYI Convention. When there is only one nominee

for a position, a “yes” and “no” ballot is used, with approval

by two-thirds majority vote. If recommended by

the Nominating Committee, the convention may vote to

allow the District NYI Council to appoint the district

NYI secretary and treasurer.

4. An incumbent officer may be reelected by a “yes” or “no”

vote when such vote is recommended by the District NYI

Council, with the approval of the district superintendent

and approved by two-thirds majority vote of the District

NYI Convention.

5. A vacancy occurs when an officer moves his or her membership

from the district, resigns, or is removed from office

by two-thirds majority vote of the council due to

neglect of duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a vacancy

occur in the office of district NYI president, the vice

president assumes the responsibilities of president until

the next District NYI Convention. Should a vacancy occur

among other officers, the District NYI Council fills the

vacancy by two-thirds majority vote if there is one nominee

or by majority vote if two or more nominees.

Section 3—Responsibilities

1. The responsibilities of the district NYI president include:

a. Giving leadership and direction to district NYI, working

in cooperation with NYI and district leadership.

b. Chairing the District NYI Council to cast a vision for

youth ministry on the district.

c. Facilitating the development of youth ministry on the

district and working with the District NYI Council to

define the district NYI ministry focus according to

needs.

d. Presiding at the District NYI Convention.

e. Encouraging the development of NYI ministry in

each local church within the district.

280 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

f. Representing the interests of NYI on all appropriate

district boards and committees.

g. Submitting an annual report to the District NYI Convention

and district assembly.

h. Presenting an annual budget to the District Finance

Committee (or appropriate district body) and to the

District NYI Convention for approval.

i. Serving as a delegate to the Global NYI Convention.

Should the president be unable to attend, a representative

elected by the District NYI Council and approved

by district superintendent and District Advisory

Board may provide alternate representation.

j. Serving as a member of the Regional NYI Council, if

so designated by the ministry plan of the region.

2. The responsibilities of the vice president include:

a. Cooperating with the president in every way possible

to carry out effective youth ministry on the district.

b. Performing the duties of the president in his or her

absence.

c. Carrying out other duties as assigned by the District

NYI Council and Convention.

d. In case of a vacancy in the office of district NYI president,

fulfilling the functions of president until a successor

is elected and installed.

3. The responsibilities of the secretary include:

a. Keeping a correct record of all the proceedings of the

District NYI Council, the Executive Committee, and

the District NYI Convention.

b. Attending to all matters of correspondence for the

district NYI.

c. Notifying the global NYI office and regional NYI

president of the names and addresses of the various

district NYI officers and ministry directors as soon as

possible after election.

d. Carrying out other duties as assigned by the District

NYI Council and Convention.

4. The responsibilities of the treasurer include:

a. Disbursing, receiving, and keeping record of district

NYI funds.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 281

b. Compiling an annual financial report of all moneys

raised and disbursed to submit to the annual District

NYI Convention.

c. Working with the president to create an annual budget

to present to the appropriate bodies.

5. Other responsibilities may be assigned to officers according

to district youth ministry needs.

Section 4—Paid Staff

1. When a district employs a youth pastor, the district

superintendent, in consultation with the District Advisory

Board and District NYI Council, assigns the responsibility

for the district NYI to the district youth pastor. In

that case, the district youth pastor carries out some of

the duties otherwise designated to a district NYI president.

However, the importance of the district NYI president

remains, in providing additional leadership, support,

and representation for district youth ministry. The

District NYI Council and district superintendent work

together to define the roles and responsibilities of the

two positions and how they work together for the benefit

of the district youth ministry.

2. A district youth pastor may not serve as the district NYI

president.

3. The district youth pastor serves ex-officio on the District

NYI Council, the Executive Committee, and the District

NYI Nominating Committee.

4. The district youth pastor may serve as the district superintendent’s

designee for NYI-related responsibilities.

III. Council

Section 1—Composition

1. The District NYI Council is composed of the officers of

the district NYI, other elected or appointed youth members-

at-large and ministry leaders as deemed necessary

by the council, and the district superintendent and/or

district youth pastor.

2. Only NYI members who are members of the Church of

282 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

the Nazarene on the district may serve as District NYI

Council members.

Section 2—Elections

1. The district NYI Nominating Committee nominates district

NYI members to be elected to the District NYI Council.

2. The District NYI Convention then elects the members of

the District NYI Council from submitted nominations by

majority vote.

3. A vacancy occurs when a council member moves his or her

membership off of the district, resigns, or is removed from

office by the council by two-thirds majority vote due to neglect

of duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a vacancy

occur among council members, the District NYI Council fills

the vacancy by two-thirds majority vote if there is one nominee

or by majority vote if two or more nominees.

4. The Nominating Committee may authorize the District

NYI Council to appoint district ministry directors.

Section 3—Responsibilities

1. The District NYI Council is responsible for planning and

organizing the total ministry for youth within the district

and, through its officers and directors, initiates and

directs ministries and activities to reach young people

for Christ and to respond to their spiritual growth needs,

in harmony with district leadership.

2. The District NYI Council defines the ministry focus of

district NYI in response to district youth ministry needs

and develops and assigns titles and responsibilities for

district NYI ministry directors.

3. The District NYI Council encourages and equips local

churches across the district for effective youth ministry.

4. The District NYI Council gives leadership to the youth

area of the district Sunday School by promoting growth

in enrollment and attendance for youth and by providing

training for youth Sunday School teachers and leaders in

cooperation with the District Sunday School Ministries

Board.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 283

5. The District NYI Council promotes regional and global

NYI ministries and programs to local NYI groups.

6. The District NYI Council makes recommendations to the

District NYI Convention concerning the ministry of NYI.

The convention may revise these recommendations prior

to adoption.

7. The District NYI Council establishes and communicates

the process for amending the District Ministry Plan.

Section 4—Committees

1. The NYI Executive Committee consists of elected district

NYI officers and the district superintendent and/or district

youth pastor. Should the secretary and treasurer be

appointed members of the council, the council may elect

by majority vote two other District NYI Council members

to serve on the Executive Committee. All actions of

the Executive Committee are communicated to the remaining

members of the council and are subject to the

approval of the entire council at its next meeting.

2. The District NYI Council may establish specific ministry

or age division committees in response to district youth

ministry needs.

Section 5—Zone NYI

1. In cooperation with district leadership, the District NYI

Council may authorize various zones within the existing

structure of the district to organize for leadership of

NYI, in order to coordinate and maximize NYI ministry

across the district.

2. A zone NYI council may be created to have responsibility

for specific ministries and activities on the zone.

3. A president or representative from each zone may serve

on the District NYI Council, if so specified by the District

NYI Convention.

Section 6—Paid Staff

1. The district superintendent designates the responsibilities

of a district youth pastor, in consultation with the

District Advisory Board and District NYI Council.

284 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

2. The District NYI Council and district youth pastor work

in cooperation and harmony with each other.

IV. Meetings

Section 1—District NYI Meetings

1. A variety of district NYI gatherings help provide effective

ministry to young people.

2. The district NYI also encourages and enhances local NYI

ministry by meeting with local NYI groups across the

district to resource them for effective ministry.

3. The district NYI participates in regional and global NYI

gatherings that further enhance effective youth ministry

across the district.

Section 2—District NYI Council Meetings

1. The District NYI Council meets regularly to fulfill the

mission and vision of district NYI.

2. Meetings of the council may be scheduled or called by

the district NYI president or district superintendent.

Section 3—District NYI Convention

1. The annual District NYI Convention provides for inspirational

sessions and programs to advance youth ministry

across the district. Reports are received, leadership

is elected, and any legislative business pertaining to the

work of NYI is transacted at the Convention. Delegates

to the Global NYI Convention are also elected consistent

with the NYI Global Ministry Plan.

2. The District NYI Council arranges for and oversees the

District NYI Convention, in cooperation with the district

superintendent. The Convention convenes at a time and

place designated by the District NYI Council, with the

approval of the district superintendent and within ninety

days of the district assembly.

3. The District NYI Convention is composed of the members

of the District NYI Council, the district superintendent,

local pastors, other assigned ordained ministers of

the district who participate in NYI ministry, and local

NYI delegates.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 285

4. All local NYI delegates to the District NYI Convention

must be members of the Church of the Nazarene that

they represent.

5. The number of local NYI delegates for each church is determined

by the membership figures on the most recent

local pastor’s report prior to the district assembly. District

NYI leadership encourages local churches to make

suitable arrangements for the expenses of delegates attending

the District NYI Convention.

6. The local NYI delegation to the District NYI Convention

for churches with 30 or fewer NYI members consists of:

a. The pastor and youth pastor or any full-time paid

pastoral staff who participate in NYI ministry;

b. The newly elected local NYI president;

c. Up to four elected delegates, with at least half being

within the district-established NYI ministry focus.

d. Local churches may add an additional delegate for

each successive 30 local NYI members and/or final

major part of those 30 members (i.e., 16-29 members).

At least half of any additional delegates must be also

within the district-established NYI ministry focus.

7. The pastor of any local church or director of an approved

Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Center not having

an organized NYI may appoint one delegate.

286 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

Number of Number of Number of Number of

members delegates members delegates

5-45 4 136-165 8

46-75 5 166-195 9

76-105 6 196-225 10

106-135 7 226-255 11

*Number of elected delegates from a local NYI does not include ex-officio

delegates (NYI president, pastor, youth pastor, District NYI Council members

from a local church, etc.).

V. Ministries

Section 1—Evangelism

The district NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing

ministries and special events to reach young people for

Christ.

Section 2—Discipleship

The district NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing

ministries and special events to nurture and challenge young

people to grow as disciples of Christ in personal devotion, worship,

fellowship, ministry, and leading others to Christ.

Section 3—Leadership Development

The district NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing

ministries and special events to mentor and equip

young people to be leaders for Christ and His church.

VI. Revisions

Section 1—Provision

1. This District Ministry Plan provides a standard format

for the organization, function, and leadership of NYI at

the district level. The district NYI may adapt and revise

the plan in response to youth ministry needs on the district,

consistent with the Nazarene Youth International

Charter and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

2. Any area not covered by this ministry plan is under the

authority of the District NYI Council.

Section 2—Process

1. The District NYI Council establishes and publicizes the

process for adapting and revising the District Ministry

Plan, and must approve proposed revisions prior to their

being brought to the District NYI Convention.

2. Proposed revisions to the District Ministry Plan must be

distributed in written form to local NYI groups prior to

the District NYI Convention.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 287

3. Revisions must be approved by a two-thirds majority

vote of all delegates and members present and voting at

the District NYI Convention and are subject to the approval

of the district superintendent and District Advisory

Board.

4. All changes in the District Ministry Plan become effective

no later than 60 days following the Convention. The

revised document must be distributed in written form

prior to taking effect.

REGIONAL MINISTRY PLAN

I. Membership and Ministry Focus

Section 1—Composition and Accountability

1. All local NYI groups, district NYI ministries, and members

of NYI within the boundaries of a region form the

regional Nazarene Youth International.

2. The regional NYI is accountable to its membership and

to the Global NYI Council. Where applicable, the regional

NYI may also be accountable to the regional director

and Regional Advisory Council.

3. The regional NYI reports to the Global NYI Council on

an annual basis and, where applicable, to the regional director

and Regional Advisory Council on a regular basis.

Section 2—Ministry Focus

1. The traditional ministry focus of the regional NYI is to

youth ages 12 and older, college/university students, and

young adults. A Regional NYI Council may modify the

ministry focus as seen fit, with the approval of the districts

on the region and, where applicable, the regional

director.

2. For the purposes of representation and programming,

the Regional NYI Council establishes age divisions according

to youth ministry needs on the region.

288 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

II. Leadership

Section 1—Officers

1. The officers of the regional NYI are the president and up

to three other persons elected by the Regional Caucus at

the Global NYI Convention, with titles and ministry responsibilities

assigned according to regional needs. These

officers serve on the Executive Committee.

2. Regional NYI officers must reside on and be members of

the Church of the Nazarene within the bounds of the region

at the time of their election, be active in youth ministry,

and be viewed as leaders in personal example and

ministry.

3. Regional NYI officers serve without salary. Financing for

the administrative expenses of regional NYI officers is

allocated as a part of regional funds.

4. A regional NYI president may serve in his or her position

no more than two full terms.

Section 2—Election

1. Regional NYI officers are elected by the Regional Caucus

of the Global NYI Convention, and approved by the convention.

The officers serve for a four-year term, from the

close of the General Assembly until the close of the following

General Assembly.

2. A regional NYI Nominating Committee nominates the

officers of the regional NYI. The nominating committee

is appointed by the Regional NYI Council and consists of

at least four regional NYI members, including the regional

NYI president and regional director (where applicable).

At least two names are submitted to the caucus

for each position. The Regional NYI Council and regional

director (where applicable) must approve all nominees.

3. The regional NYI president is elected by majority vote of

the Regional Caucus at the Global NYI Convention and

approved by majority vote of the convention, according to

the NYI Global Ministry Plan. Other officers are elected

by majority vote by ballot of the Regional Caucus.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 289

4. An incumbent regional NYI president who is eligible to

be elected for a second term may be reelected by a “yes”

or “no” vote, when such election is recommended by the

Regional NYI Council, approved by the regional director

(where applicable), and approved by two-thirds majority

vote by ballot of the Regional Caucus at the Global NYI

Convention.

5. A vacancy occurs when an officer moves his or her membership

off of the region, resigns, or is removed from office

by two-thirds majority vote of the Regional NYI

Council due to neglect of duties or inappropriate conduct.

Should a vacancy occur among officers, the Regional NYI

Council fills the vacancy by two-thirds majority vote if

there is one nominee or by majority vote if two or more

nominees. In the case of such a vacancy in the office of

regional NYI president, the region elects a new president

consistent with the NYI Global Ministry Plan.

Section 3—Responsibilities

1. The responsibilities of the regional NYI president include:

a. Giving leadership and direction to the regional NYI,

working in cooperation with NYI and regional leadership.

b. Chairing the Regional NYI Council to cast a vision

for youth ministry on the region.

c. Facilitating the development of youth ministry on the

region and working with the Regional NYI Council to

define the regional NYI ministry focus according to

needs.

d. Presiding at the Regional Caucus at the Global NYI

Convention.

e. Encouraging the development of NYI ministry on

each district or field within the region.

f. Representing the interests of regional NYI on appropriate

regional boards and committees and, when applicable,

to multiregional committees.

g. Submitting an annual report to the Regional NYI

Council, regional director and Regional Advisory Council

(where applicable), and the Global NYI Council.

290 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

h. Recommending an annual budget to the Regional NYI

Council and the regional office (where applicable).

i. Serving as a delegate to the Global NYI Convention

and a member of the Global NYI Council, except in the

U.S.A., where two representatives elected from among

the regional NYI presidents serve as members of the

Global NYI Council. Should the president be unable to

attend, a representative elected by the Regional NYI

Council and approved by regional director (where applicable)

may provide alternate representation.

j. Serving as a liaison between the regional NYI and

Nazarene institutions of higher education on the region

to promote communication, cooperation, and

ministry partnership.

2. The responsibilities of regional NYI officers include:

a. Developing and designating leaders for the various

regional NYI ministries.

b. Defining and assigning titles and youth ministry responsibilities

according to regional needs.

c. Distributing the following responsibilities to insure

accountability and effectiveness:

1) Keeping a correct record of all meetings of the Regional

NYI Council and attending to all matters of

correspondence for the regional NYI.

2) Disbursing, receiving, and keeping records of regional

NYI funds, according to Global NYI Council,

General Board, and regional office policies.

3) Assisting the president in compiling an annual financial

report of all moneys raised and disbursed

to submit to the Global NYI Council and other appropriate

bodies.

4) Working with the president to create an annual budget

to present to the Regional NYI Council and to

the regional director (where applicable) for approval.

5) Notifying the NYI office and the regional office

(where applicable) of the names and addresses of

the various regional NYI officers and ministry directors

as soon as possible after election or appointment.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 291

d. Cooperating with the president in every way possible

to facilitate regional youth ministry.

e. Carrying out other ministries as assigned by the Regional

NYI Council or Regional Caucus.

Section 4—Paid Staff

1. When a region employs a regional NYI coordinator, the

regional director, in consultation with the Regional Advisory

Council and Regional NYI Council, assigns the responsibility

for the regional NYI to the regional NYI coordinator.

In that case, the regional NYI coordinator may

carry out some of the duties otherwise designated to a

regional NYI president. However, the importance of the

regional NYI president remains, in providing additional

leadership, support, and representation for regional

youth ministry. The Regional NYI Council and regional

director work together to define the roles and responsibilities

of the two positions and how they work together

for the benefit of the regional youth ministry.

2. A regional NYI coordinator may not serve as regional

NYI president.

3. The regional NYI coordinator serves ex-officio on the Regional

NYI Council, the Executive Committee, and the

Regional NYI Nominating Committee.

4. The regional NYI coordinator may serve as the regional

director’s designee for NYI-related responsibilities.

III. Council

Section 1—Composition

1. The Regional NYI Council is composed of the officers of

the regional NYI and other elected or appointed youth

members-at-large and ministry leaders as deemed necessary

by the council, and, where applicable, the regional

director and/or regional NYI coordinator.

2. Only those NYI members who are members of the

Church of the Nazarene on the region may serve as Regional

NYI Council members.

3. When applicable, representatives from Nazarene colleges

292 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

or universities responsible for shared ministry with the

regional NYI may also serve on the Regional NYI Council.

Section 2—Elections

1. A regional NYI Nominating Committee nominates regional

NYI members to be elected to the Regional NYI

Council.

2. The Regional Caucus at the Global NYI Convention then

elects by majority vote the members of the Regional NYI

Council from submitted nominations. The Regional Caucus

may authorize the Regional NYI Council to appoint

regional ministry directors.

3. A vacancy occurs when a member moves his or her membership

off of the region, resigns, or is removed from office

by two-thirds majority vote of the council due to neglect of

duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a vacancy occur

among council members elected or appointed by the council,

the Regional NYI Council fills the vacancy by twothirds

majority vote if there is one nominee or by majority

vote if two or more nominees. If a vacancy occurs among

members representing a district on the region, the vacancy

is filled according to that District’s Ministry Plan.

Section 3—Responsibilities

1. The Regional NYI Council is responsible for planning

and organizing the total ministry for youth within the

region and, through its officers and directors, initiates

and directs ministries and activities to reach young people

for Christ and to respond to their spiritual growth

needs, in harmony with regional leadership.

2. The Regional NYI Council defines the ministry focus of

regional NYI in response to regional youth ministry

needs, and develops and assigns titles and responsibilities

for regional NYI ministry directors.

3. The Regional NYI Council encourages and equips districts

across the region for effective youth ministry.

4. The Regional NYI Council gives leadership to the youth

area of Sunday School regionally by promoting growth in

enrollment and attendance for youth and providing

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 293

training for youth Sunday School teachers and leaders in

cooperation with Sunday School Ministries.

5. The Regional NYI Council promotes global NYI ministries

and programs to regional membership.

6. The Regional NYI Council directs the expenditure of

funds provided to the region through NYI events and

partnerships.

7. The Regional NYI Council makes recommendations to

the Regional Caucus at the Global NYI Convention concerning

the ministry of NYI. The council also appoints up

to two persons to serve the region as members of the

Resolutions Committee at the Global NYI Convention,

consistent with the Global Ministry Plan.

8. The Regional NYI Council establishes and communicates

the process for amending the Regional Ministry Plan.

Section 4—Committees

1. The NYI Executive Committee consists of the elected regional

NYI officers and the regional director and/or regional

NYI coordinator (where applicable). The Executive

Committee may conduct the business of the Regional

NYI Council when it is impractical or impossible to convene

the entire council. All actions of the Executive Committee

are communicated to the remaining members of

the council and are subject to the approval of the entire

council at its next meeting.

2. The Regional NYI Council may establish specific ministry

committees in response to regional youth ministry needs.

3. In countries where there are a number of districts, a region

may organize national NYI leadership to coordinate

and facilitate youth ministry in that country.

Section 5—The Field NYI

1. Where applicable and in cooperation with regional

church leadership, the Regional NYI Council may organize

for leadership of NYI on the various fields within

the existing structure of a region, in order to coordinate

and maximize NYI ministry across the region.

294 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

2. A field NYI council may be created to have responsibility

for specific ministries and activities on the field.

3. A president or elected representative from each field

may serve on the Regional NYI Council, if so specified by

the Regional Caucus.

Section 6—Paid Staff

1. The regional director designates the responsibilities of a

regional NYI coordinator, in consultation with the Regional

Advisory Council and the Regional NYI Council.

2. The Regional NYI Council and regional NYI coordinator

work in cooperation and harmony with each other.

IV. Meetings

Section 1—Regional NYI Meetings

1. A variety of regional NYI gatherings help provide effective

ministry to young people on the region.

2. The regional NYI also encourages and enhances district

NYI ministry by meeting with district NYI groups across

the region to resource them for effective ministry.

3. The regional NYI participates in global NYI gatherings that

further enhance effective youth ministry across the region.

Section 2—Regional NYI Council Meetings

1. The Regional NYI Council meets regularly to fulfill the

mission and vision of regional NYI.

2. Meetings of the council may be scheduled or called by

the regional NYI president, regional director (where applicable),

a global NYI officer, or the director of NYI.

Section 3—Regional Caucus

1. A Regional Caucus is convened during the Global NYI

Convention. The caucus provides for inspirational sessions

and programs to advance youth ministry across the

region. Reports are received, leadership is elected, and

any legislative business pertaining to the work of NYI on

the region is transacted at the caucus. The caucus also

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 295

places in nomination up to two names for each youth

member-at-large on the Global NYI Council, consistent

with the Global Ministry Plan.

2. The Regional NYI Council, in cooperation with the Global

NYI Council, arranges for and oversees the Regional

Caucus.

3. The Regional Caucus is composed of the members of the

Regional NYI Council, the regional director and/or regional

NYI coordinator (where applicable), and the delegates

from the region to the Global NYI Convention who

are elected, consistent with the Global Ministry Plan.

4. The caucus convenes during the Global NYI Convention

at a time and place designated by the Global NYI Council.

When approved by the Regional NYI Council, the regional

director (where applicable), and the Global NYI

Council, a caucus may be convened by postal or electronic

means within six months prior to the Global NYI Convention

in order to conduct regional NYI business when

circumstances prohibit a majority of elected delegates

from attending the Global NYI Convention.

V. Ministries

Section 1—Evangelism

The regional NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing

ministries and special events to reach young people

for Christ.

Section 2—Discipleship

The regional NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing

ministries and special events to nurture and challenge

young people to grow as disciples of Christ in personal devotion,

worship, fellowship,ministry, and leading others to Christ.

Section 3—Leadership Development

The regional NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing

ministries and special events to mentor and equip

young people to be leaders for Christ and His church.

296 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

VI. Revisions

Section 1—Provision

1. The Regional Ministry Plan provides a standard format

for the organization, function, and leadership of NYI at

the regional level. A regional NYI may adapt and revise

the plan in response to youth ministry needs on the region,

consistent with the Nazarene Youth International

Charter and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

2. Any area not covered by this ministry plan is under the

authority of the Regional NYI Council.

Section 2—Process

1. The Regional NYI Council, in cooperation with the regional

director (where applicable), establishes and publicizes

the process for adapting and revising the Regional

Ministry Plan and must approve proposed revisions prior

to their being brought to the Regional Caucus.

2. Proposed revisions to the Regional Ministry Plan must be

distributed in written form to district NYI councils prior

to the Regional Caucus at the Global NYI Convention.

3. Revisions must be approved by a two-thirds majority

vote of all delegates and members present and voting at

the Regional Caucus and are subject to the approval of

the regional director and Regional Advisory Council

(where applicable).

4. All changes in the Regional Ministry Plan become effective

no later than 90 days following the Global NYI Convention.

The revised document must be distributed in

written form prior to taking effect.

GLOBAL MINISTRY PLAN

I. Membership and Ministry Focus

Section 1—Composition and Accountability

1. All local NYI groups, district and regional NYI ministries,

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 297

and their members constitute Nazarene Youth International

at the global level.

2. The global NYI is accountable to NYI membership, the

general superintendent in jurisdiction for NYI, and the

Sunday School Ministries and NYI Committee of the General

Board.

3. The global NYI reports annually to the General Board

through the Sunday School Ministries and NYI Committee

and reports quadrennially to the Global NYI Convention

and to the General Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene.

4. The director of NYI is responsible for general coordination

and supervision for the development of youth ministry

for the Church of the Nazarene through Nazarene

Youth International.

5. NYI offices around the world work together with the

Global NYI Council for the effective implementation of

youth ministry globally for the Church of the Nazarene.

Section 2—Ministry Focus

1. The ministry focus of Nazarene Youth International is to

youth ages 12 and older, college/university students, and

young adults. Regional, district, and local NYI councils

may modify the ministry focus as seen fit, consistent

with the ministry plan for that level.

2. For the purposes of representation and programming,

Nazarene Youth International at the global level establishes

three divisions—early youth, senior youth, and college/

university/young adult—in order to provide effective

youth ministry globally.

II. Leadership

Section 1—Officers

1. The elected officers of the global NYI are a president and

a vice president.

2. Global NYI officers must be members of NYI and the

Church of the Nazarene, be active in youth ministry, and

be leaders in personal example and ministry.

3. Global NYI officers serve without salary. Financing for

298 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

the administrative expenses of global NYI officers is allocated

as a part of NYI funds.

4. A global NYI officer may serve in his or her position no

more than one full term.

Section 2—Elections

1. Global NYI officers are elected by the Global NYI Convention.

The elected officers serve for a four-year term,

from the close of the General Assembly until the close of

the following General Assembly.

2. The various regional caucuses at the Global NYI Convention

nominate the global NYI officers. A caucus may

submit up to two nominees for each position, selected by

majority vote of the caucus. The officers are then elected

by majority vote by ballot of the Convention from the

nominations submitted by each regional caucus.

3. A vacancy occurs in the position of global NYI president

or vice president when he or she resigns from office or is

removed from office by two-thirds majority vote of the

Global NYI Council due to neglect of duties or inappropriate

conduct. In the case of a vacancy among the global

NYI officers during a quadrennium, such vacancies are

filled according to the following sequence:

a. The Executive Committee of the Global NYI Council,

serving as a Nominating Committee, submits two or

more nominees to the general superintendent in jurisdiction

for NYI;

b. After consultation with the Board of General Superintendents,

the general superintendent in jurisdiction

brings a ballot of approved nominees to the Global

NYI Council;

c. Election is by two-thirds majority vote of the members

of the Global NYI Council.

Section 3—Responsibilities

1. The responsibilities of the global NYI president include:

a. Providing vision and leadership to NYI in collaboration

with the director of NYI and NYI and church

leaders at every level.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 299

b. Presiding at the meetings of the Global NYI Convention

and the meetings of the Global NYI Council.

c. Advancing the interest of the global NYI and the

work of NYI around the world.

d. Representing NYI as a member of the General Board

of the Church of the Nazarene, with the approval of

the General Assembly following election.

e. Representing NYI as a member of the General Assembly

at the close of his or her term.

f. Carrying out other duties as assigned by the Global

NYI Council and Convention.

2. The responsibilities of the global NYI vice president include:

a. Cooperating with the president in every way possible

to carry out effective youth ministry globally.

b. Ensuring accurate records of all proceedings of the

Global NYI Convention and all meetings of the Global

NYI Council are kept for submission to the General

Board through the Sunday School Ministries and

NYI Committee and to the General Assembly.

c. Chairing the Global NYI Council, providing alternate

representation on any boards or councils, and fulfilling

any designated duties in the absence of the global

NYI president.

d. Conducting the election of a new global NYI president

in the event of a vacancy, or assisting a region in the

election of a new regional NYI president. Should there

be a vacancy in the office of global NYI vice president,

the global NYI president fulfills this function.

e. Carrying out other duties as assigned by the Global

NYI Council and Convention.

f. Chairing the meeting of the newly elected U.S.A. regional

NYI presidents at the Global NYI Convention

to elect two U.S.A. representatives to the Global NYI

Council.

Section 4—Paid Staff

1. The general superintendent in jurisdiction for NYI and

the General Board assign the responsibility for the glob-

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al NYI to the director of NYI. The director of NYI is subject

to the oversight of the Board of General Superintendents.

The importance of the global NYI president remains,

in providing additional leadership, support, and

global representation for NYI. The director of NYI and

global NYI president, in consultation with the general

superintendent in jurisdiction for NYI and the Global

NYI Council, work together to define how they work together

for the benefit of youth ministry.

2. The Board of General Superintendents elects the director

of NYI. When a vacancy occurs in the position, it is

filled according to the following sequence:

a. The general superintendent in jurisdiction nominates

the director of NYI, in consultation with the Global

NYI Council and Board of General Superintendents.

b. A ballot is then presented to the Global NYI Council

for approval by majority vote. The ballot is then referred

to the Sunday School Ministries and NYI Committee

of the General Board for approval by majority

vote, and finally to the Board of General Superintendents

for election.

3. The Global NYI Council approves by majority vote the

nomination of the general superintendent in jurisdiction

for NYI of an incumbent director of NYI at the first

scheduled meeting following the General Assembly, who

is then approved by majority vote of the Sunday School

Ministries and NYI Committee of the General Board and

elected by the Board of General Superintendents.

4. The director of NYI may not serve as an elected global

NYI officer.

5. The director of NYI serves ex-officio on the Global NYI

Council, the Executive Committee, the U.S.A./Canada

Committee, and other global NYI committees as appointed.

III. Council

Section 1—Composition

1. The Global NYI Council is composed of the global NYI officers,

the director of NYI, all regional NYI presidents

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 301

from outside the U.S.A., and two regional NYI presidents

representing regions within the U.S.A.

2. Three youth members-at-large also serve as members of

the Global NYI Council. One member-at-large is to be between

the ages of 12 and 14 inclusive at the time of election,

one between the ages of 15 and 18 inclusive at the

time of election, and one between the ages of 19 and 23

inclusive at the time of election.

3. Regional NYI coordinators and the NYI U.S.A. coordinator

serve ex-officio on the Global NYI Council. Other appointed

persons as deemed necessary by the Global NYI

Council may be appointed to serve as nonvoting members

of the council.

4. All Global NYI Council members must be members of

NYI and the Church of the Nazarene.

Section 2—Elections

1. Regional NYI presidents are elected by majority vote of

the Regional Caucus at the Global NYI Convention and

approved by majority vote of the convention. At least two

names are submitted to the caucus for each position.

When circumstances prohibit a majority of elected delegates

from attending the Global NYI Convention, an

election may be held by postal/electronic ballot of the

elected delegates of a region within six months prior to

the Global NYI Convention, when approved by the Regional

NYI Council, the regional director (where applicable),

and the Global NYI Council.

2. An incumbent regional NYI president who has served

one term may be elected by a “yes” or “no” vote, when

such a vote is recommended by the Regional NYI Council

and approved by two-thirds vote of the Regional Caucus

and by the Convention. No person may serve in the office

of regional NYI president for more than two full terms.

3. Two regional NYI presidents from the U.S.A. are elected

to serve on the Global NYI Council by majority vote by

the newly elected U.S.A. regional NYI presidents at the

Global NYI Convention. At least three names are placed

in nomination at a special meeting of the U.S.A. regional

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NYI presidents chaired by the outgoing global NYI vice

president.

4. The various regional caucuses at the Global NYI Convention

nominate youth members-at-large to serve on

the Global NYI Council. A caucus may submit up to two

nominees for each position, selected by majority vote of

the caucus. Council members-at-large are then elected by

majority vote by ballot of the Convention from the nominations

submitted. No person may serve as a youth

member-at-large for more than one term.

5. The members of the Global NYI Council serve until the

close of the following General Assembly.

6. A vacancy among Global NYI Council members occurs

when a member resigns from office, is removed from office

by two-thirds majority vote of the Global NYI Council

due to neglect of duties, inappropriate conduct, or, in

the case of regional NYI presidents, changes residence or

church membership from their region or is removed by

the Regional NYI Council. Should a vacancy occur

among youth members-at-large, the Global NYI Council

fills the vacancy by majority vote from two or more nominations

submitted by the Executive Committee, acting as

a nominating committee. In the case of a vacancy in the

office of regional NYI president during the quadrennium,

the region elects a new president as follows:

a. When a special meeting of the Regional NYI Council

is possible, such a meeting for the purpose of election

may be conducted. A regional NYI Nominating Committee

appointed by the global NYI vice president

submits at least two nominees to the Regional NYI

Council for election by two-thirds majority vote. The

global NYI vice president or his or her appointed designee,

or the regional director (where applicable)

chairs this special meeting.

b. When a special meeting is not practical, the global

NYI vice president may conduct the ballot by postal,

telephone, or electronic means.

c. A vacancy among the two regional NYI presidents

representing the U.S.A. on the Global NYI Council is

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 303

filled by majority vote of the U.S.A. regional NYI

presidents.

Section 3 —Responsibilities

1. The Global NYI Council, in collaboration with the director

of NYI and NYI staff, establishes procedures for global

NYI programs and events and gives direction and support

to the development of youth ministry resources for

all levels of NYI, subject to approval of the general superintendent

in jurisdiction for NYI and the General Board.

These NYI ministry programs, events, and resources designed

to reach young people for Christ and respond to

their spiritual growth needs are facilitated through the

director of NYI and NYI leadership around the world.

2. The Global NYI Council provides a forum for the support

and development of effective youth ministry programs,

events, and resources at the regional level, consistent

with the mission and vision of NYI.

3. The Global NYI Council provides an avenue for the representation

of regional, district, and local levels of NYI

by council members to the NYI staff. Council members

also represent the global NYI by initiating contact with

their region, districts, and local churches on behalf of the

Global NYI Council and the Nazarene Youth International

office.

4. The Global NYI Council assists in the planning and administration

of the quadrennial Global NYI Convention.

5. The Global NYI Council gives input to the youth area of

the Sunday School and helps promotes growth in enrollment

and attendance for youth and training for youth

Sunday School teachers and leaders globally, in cooperation

with Sunday School Ministries.

6. The Global NYI Council reviews the annual budget and

expenditures of the NYI office provided through the General

Board.

7. The Global NYI Council directs and reviews the expenditure

of funds provided through NYI events and partnerships

subject to the approval of the general superintendent

in jurisdiction.

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Section 4—Committees

1. The Executive Committee consists of the elected Global

NYI officers, the director of NYI, and three other members

of the council elected by majority vote of the council.

The Executive Committee may conduct the business of

the Global NYI Council when it is impractical or impossible

to convene the entire council. All actions of the Executive

Committee are communicated to the remaining

members of the council and are subject to the approval of

the entire council at its next meeting.

2. The Global NYI Council may establish specific ministry

committees as necessary for advancing its work.

3. The NYI U.S.A./Canada Committee meets annually to plan

collaborative ministries and special events and to develop

youth ministry resources for the U.S.A. and Canada, in consultation

with and facilitated through the NYI staff designated

to serve the U.S.A. and Canada. The U.S.A./Canada

Committee consists of all regional NYI presidents from the

U.S.A. and Canada, the Nazarene Student Leadership Association

student cochair, the NYI U.S.A./Canada coordinator,

any Global NYI Council youth member-at-large or global

officer who resides in the U.S.A. or Canada, and other

youth members-at-large and ministry leaders as deemed

necessary by the NYI U.S.A./Canada Committee. Officers

for the U.S.A./Canada NYI Committee include a chairperson,

vice chairperson, and secretary, elected by majority

vote from among the three regional NYI presidents (U.S.A.

and Canada) who serve on the Global NYI Council. The

global NYI president and the director of NYI serve ex-officio

on this committee and coordinate its work with NYI

around the world. The U.S.A./Canada Committee reports

annually to the Global NYI Council.

Section 5—Paid Staff

1. The director of NYI is subject to the oversight of the

Board of General Superintendents and reports to the

Sunday School Ministries and NYI Committee. The Global

NYI Council may recommend revisions to these duties

to the general superintendent in jurisdiction for NYI.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 305

2. The director of NYI, in consultation with the Global NYI

Council, designates the responsibilities of paid staff of

NYI, including those assigned to serve the U.S.A. and

Canada. The Global NYI Council and NYI office staff

work in cooperation and harmony with each other.

3. The director of NYI, in consultation with the general

superintendent in jurisdiction and the U.S.A./Canada

NYI Committee, designates an NYI U.S.A./Canada coordinator.

The U.S.A./Canada coordinator works in cooperation

and harmony with the NYI U.S.A./Canada Committee.

4. Regional NYI coordinators outside of the U.S.A. and

Canada work in cooperation and harmony with the Global

NYI Council, the director of NYI, and their regional director.

5. The director of NYI may not serve as the Global NYI

president.

IV. Meetings

Section 1—Global NYI Meetings

1. To provide effective ministry to young people, global NYI

ministry may involve a variety of gatherings for worship,

teaching, training, fellowship, and evangelism. Global

NYI leadership works together with regional, district,

and local NYI leadership to plan ministry globally, related

to specific groups, and geared to multiple regions, so

that youth ministry in the Church of the Nazarene may

be most effective.

2. Global NYI leaders and staff are actively involved with

NYI on every level as a resource for effective ministry.

Section 2—Global NYI Council Meetings

1. The Global NYI Council meets annually to advance the

mission and vision of NYI. The meeting is scheduled in

connection with the annual meeting of the General Board.

2. The global NYI officers or director of NYI may call special

meetings as necessary, in consultation with the general

superintendent in jurisdiction for NYI.

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Section 3—Global NYI Convention

1. A quadrennial Global NYI Convention provides for inspirational

sessions and programs to advance youth ministry

around the world. Reports are received, leadership

is elected, and any legislative business pertaining to the

work of NYI is transacted at the Global NYI Convention.

2. The Board of General Superintendents sets the length of

the Convention and the time it convenes, from recommendations

of the Global NYI Council to the General Assembly

Program Committee. The global NYI officers, director

of NYI, and NYI staff and coordinators oversee the convention,

with the assistance of the Global NYI Council.

3. All delegates of the Global NYI Convention must be

members of the Church of the Nazarene and Nazarene

Youth International and 12 years of age or older at the

time of the Global NYI Convention. Additionally, each

district NYI delegate must be a member of and reside on

the district he or she represents at the time of the convention.

4. The Global NYI Convention is composed of the global

NYI officers and members-at-large, the director of NYI,

duly elected executive regional officers (no more than

three), the regional and U.S.A./Canada NYI coordinators,

field, national, and district NYI coordinators, and district

NYI delegates as follows:

a. Districts with 1,000 or fewer NYI members may send

the following delegates:

1) The district NYI president serving at the time of

the Global NYI Convention;

2) One ministerial delegate active in NYI leadership

who is an assigned elder, deacon, or district licensed

minister;

3) One lay delegate over the age of 23 at the time of

the Global NYI Convention who is active in NYI

leadership; and

4) One youth delegate between the ages of 12 and 23

at the time of the Global NYI Convention who is

active in NYI.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 307

b. In addition, a district may send an additional ministerial

delegate, lay delegate, and youth delegate between

the ages of 12 and 23 at the time of the Global

NYI Convention, for each successive 1,500 NYI members

and/or the final major part of 1,500 members

(751-1,499 members).

c. The size of the district delegation is based on the district

NYI membership report for the district assembly

in the calendar year immediately prior to the Global

NYI Convention.

d. All district delegates are to be elected by ballot by

majority vote at a session of the District NYI Convention

within 18 months of the Global NYI Convention

or within 24 months in areas where travel visas or

extensive preparations are necessary. Alternate delegates

may be elected after elected delegates on another

ballot from the remaining nominations by plurality

vote, with first alternate, second alternate, third alternate,

etc., designated by the number of votes received.

Delegates and alternates must be elected by

December 31 of the year prior to the Global NYI Convention.

e. The student body president of each Nazarene university,

college, or theological school, may also serve as a

delegate, as a representative of the partnership of

NYI with his or her institution. Should he or she be

unable to serve or attend, a representative selected

by the student government may provide alternate

representation.

5. In the case of districts without an organized NYI (no District

NYI Convention), Global NYI Convention representation

may be comprised of one delegate of NYI membership

age chosen by the district assembly. Should a

delegate withdraw prior to the convention, the District

Advisory Board may appoint a qualified delegate.

6. The bar of the Global NYI Convention may be set to enable

all duly elected delegates to participate in the voting

of the Global NYI Convention. This voting may take

place by whatever means necessary.

308 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

7. A caucus for each region is held during the Global NYI

Convention and is composed of the Regional NYI Council,

the regional director and regional NYI coordinator

(where applicable), and elected district NYI delegates

from that region.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 309

Number of Number of Number of Number of

members delegates members delegates

4-1,750 3 4,751-6,250 12

1,751-3,250 6 6,251-7,750 15

3,251-4,750 9 7,751-9,250 18

*Number of elected delegates from a district NYI does not include ex-officio

delegates (district NYI president, regional NYI presidents and coordinators,

global officers and members-at-large from a district, etc.).

V. Ministries

Section 1—Evangelism

Nazarene Youth International at the global level develops

and implements a variety of ongoing ministries and special

events to reach young people for Christ.

Section 2—Discipleship

Nazarene Youth International at the global level develops

and implements a variety of ongoing ministries and special

events to nurture and challenge young people to grow as

disciples of Christ in personal devotion, worship, fellowship,

ministry, and leading others to Christ.

Section 3—Leadership Development

Nazarene Youth International at the global level develops

and implements a variety of ongoing ministries and special

events to mentor and equip young people to be leaders for

Christ and His church.

VI. Revisions

Section 1—Provision

1. The Nazarene Youth International Charter and Global

Ministry Plan provide the structure for organization,

function, and leadership of NYI at the global level. The

Global NYI Convention may revise the NYI Charter and

Global Ministry Plan in response to youth ministry

needs around the world through submitted resolutions.

All amendments to the Global Ministry Plan must be

consistent with the NYI Charter and the Manual of the

Church of the Nazarene.

2. Any area not covered by the NYI Charter or Global Ministry

Plan is under the authority of the Global NYI

Council and the director of NYI.

Section 2—Process

1. The Global NYI Council, in cooperation with the director

of NYI, establishes and publicizes the process for amending

the Global Ministry Plan and the Nazarene Youth International

Charter through submitted resolutions.

2. Any District NYI Council, Regional NYI Council, the

Global NYI Council, or at least six sponsoring delegates

to the Global NYI Convention may submit these resolutions.

Resolutions must be in proper resolution form and

received by the stated deadline.

3. The NYI office must receive all resolutions at least 30

days prior to the annual meeting of the Global NYI

Council in the year of the Global NYI Convention.

4. Resolutions must be distributed in written form to Global

NYI Convention delegates prior to the Global NYI

Convention.

5. Resolutions are considered first by the Global NYI Council

and by a Resolutions Committee of the Global NYI

Convention, composed of up to two NYI delegates appointed

from each region by the Regional NYI Council.

Those resolutions receiving a majority vote of either body

to recommend their approval are then considered by the

Convention.

310 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

6. Resolutions must be approved by a two-thirds majority

vote of all delegates present and voting at the Global

NYI Convention.

7. All approved changes in the Nazarene Youth International

Charter and Global Ministry Plan become effective

no later than 90 days following the Global NYI Convention.

The revised document must be distributed in

written form prior to taking effect.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 311

CHAPTER II

811. NAZARENE MISSIONS INTERNATIONAL

CONSTITUTION

Article I. Name

The name of this organization shall be Nazarene Missions

International (NMI) of the Church of the Nazarene.

Article II. Purpose

The purpose of this organization shall be to

mobilize the entire church in active mission involvement,

in united prayer, and in the study of the salvation

needs of the world;

promote a wider knowledge of the mission fields of the

Church of the Nazarene;

inspire and challenge youth and children to be open to

God’s call for missionary service, and to facilitate the

mentoring of children, youth, and adults in their calls;

raise funds, as elsewhere provided for in this Constitution,

for extending the kingdom of Jesus Christ around

the world.

Article III. Structure

Section 1. Local

The local Nazarene Missions International (NMI) shall be

an organization of the local church and shall work cooperatively

with the pastor and church board through the local

NMI council.

A local NMI may choose to have one or more groups to further

the purpose of NMI (e.g., Sunday School classes, children’s

church, youth groups, chapters, special missions emphasis

focus, etc.). Such groups and the appointment/election

of officers shall be authorized by the local NMI council with

approval by the pastor and the respective related leaders.

312 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

Section 2. District

The district Nazarene Missions International (NMI) shall

be an organization of the _______________ District and work

cooperatively with the district superintendent, district advisory

board, and other district related leaders through the

district NMI council.

All local NMI organizations within the boundaries of

______________ District shall constitute the district NMI.

Section 3. General

The general Nazarene Missions International (NMI) shall

be an organization of the Church of the Nazarene and work

cooperatively with the General NMI Council, the World Mission

Department, the World Mission Committee of the General

Board, and the general superintendent in jurisdiction.

All district and local NMI organizations shall constitute

the general NMI. It shall be auxiliary to the Church of the

Nazarene.

Article IV. Membership

A. Members: Any person who is a member of the Church

of the Nazarene and supports the Nazarene Missions

International (NMI) purpose may be a member of NMI

in that local church.

1. Voting and holding office shall be limited to members

who are 15 years of age or older, except in children’s

and youth groups.

2. Unless otherwise stated in this constitution, reference

to “members” means NMI members who are

members of the church.

B. Associate Members: Any person who is not a member

of the Church of the Nazarene and supports the NMI

purpose may be an associate member of NMI.

Article V. Councils and Officers

Section 1. Local Council

A. Purpose: The local council shall promote the purpose of

Nazarene Missions International (NMI) in the local

church.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 313

B. Composition

1. The council shall have four officers: a president, a

vice president, a secretary, and a treasurer.

2. Council members shall be responsible for mission

education, LINKS, prayer and fasting, mission call,

Alabaster, Missionary Health Care, Work & Witness,

World Mission Broadcast, publicity, Nazarene

Compassionate Ministries, children’s missions,

youth missions, and/or any other emphasis deemed

necessary by the local council. Chapter chairmen

shall be members of the local NMI council. A council

member may hold more than one position but only

have one vote.

3. Executive committee shall be the pastor (ex-officio),

NMI officers, and two other council members.

4. Any district NMI council member shall be an ex-officio

member of the local NMI council with the approval

of the local NMI council.

C. Nominations, Elections, Appointments, and Vacancies

1. Nominations: The council shall be nominated by a

committee of not less than three and no more than

seven members of the NMI. The pastor shall appoint

the nominating committee and serve as the committee

chairman. All nominees shall be NMI members

of the local Church of the Nazarene.

2. Elections: The officers and a minimum of two additional

council members shall be elected at the annual

meeting and shall begin serving on the first day

of the new church year after the election. If a local

church has a unified treasurer who accounts for

church funds, including NMI monies, and who has

been elected by the church board, that person shall

be the NMI treasurer as an ex-officio member of the

local NMI council with all rights and duties, unless

otherwise specified by the local council.

a. President

(1) The nominating committee shall submit one

or more names for the office of president,

subject to the approval of the church board.

314 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

(2) Incumbent nominees may be reelected by a

yes/no ballot when such election is recommended

by the nominating committee and

approved by the pastor.

(3) The president shall be elected by a majority

vote by ballot of the members present and

voting for a term of service of one or two

church years. The NMI council and the pastor

shall recommend the length of the term of

service.

b. Each of the remaining officers shall be elected by

ballot for a term of service of one or two church

years, the length of the term to be recommended

by the NMI council and the pastor, by

(1) A plurality vote; or

(2) A yes/no vote, when such a vote is recommended

by the nominating committee and

approved by the pastor.

c. Additional council members, whose length of service

shall be one church year, may be:

(1) Elected to specific responsibilities, or

(2) Elected to the council as a whole with responsibilities

to be determined later, or

(3) Appointed by the executive committee.

d. Delegates and alternates to the district convention

shall be elected by ballot at the annual meeting

by a plurality vote. Alternates may be elected

on a separate ballot, or at the recommendation of

the local council on the same ballot as the delegates.

(See Article VI, Section 2, A.3 for determining

the number of delegates.)

3. Appointments: In consultation with the pastor, additional

council members may be appointed by the executive

committee to a term of service of one church

year and shall begin serving on the first day of the

new church year or at any time after the appointment

is made.

4. Vacancies

a. President: The executive committee shall nomi-

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 315

nate one or more names with the approval of the

church board. Election shall be by ballot with a

majority vote of the NMI members at any regular

or called meeting.

b. Other executive committee members: The executive

committee shall nominate one or more

names. Election shall be by ballot by a plurality

vote of the local NMI members at any regular or

called meeting. If a local church has a unified

treasurer, that vacancy shall be filled by the

church board.

c. Other council members: The executive committee

shall fill any vacancy by appointment.

D. Duties of Council Members

1. President

a. Directs the work of NMI in the local church.

b. Presides at all regular and special meetings of

NMI.

c. Promotes, or delegates responsibility for, all emphases

not assigned by election or council action.

d. Prepares an annual budget for approval by the

local NMI council and church board.

e. Submits annually written reports to the local

NMI, the annual church meeting, the pastor of

the local church, and the district NMI secretary.

f. Serves as an ex-officio member of the church

board, Sunday School Ministries board, district

NMI convention, and district assembly. In the case

where the pastor’s spouse serves as the local president,

if he or she so desires not to serve on the

church board, the vice president is authorized to

serve on the church board in the president’s place.

2. Vice President

a. Performs all duties of the president when the

president is absent.

b. Serves in other areas as assigned by the local

NMI council.

3. Secretary

a. Conducts the correspondence of the NMI, keeps

316 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

statistical records, and records the minutes of all

business meetings.

b. Keeps a complete list of all NMI members.

4. Treasurer

a. Keeps an accurate account of all funds collected

and expended.

b. Ensures all offerings are sent to the designated

treasurers in a timely manner.

c. Furnishes the council and, where applicable, the

local church treasurer with all reports.

5. Executive Committee

a. Appoints additional council members or fills vacancies

on the council.

b. Transacts business between council meetings.

c. Nominates one or more names for president if a

vacancy occurs between annual meetings.

6. Other Council Members

a. Promotes the emphases and/or responsibility to

which they are assigned (see NMI Handbook).

Section 2: District Council

A. Purpose: The district council shall promote the purpose

of Nazarene Missions International within the district.

B. Composition

1. The council shall have four officers: a president, a

vice president, a secretary, and a treasurer.

2. Council members shall be responsible for mission

education, LINKS, prayer and fasting, mission call,

Alabaster, Missionary Health Care, Work & Witness,

World Mission Broadcast, publicity, Nazarene

Compassionate Ministries, children’s missions,

youth missions, deputation, NMI zone or area coordinators,

or any other emphasis deemed necessary

by the district council. A council member may hold

more than one position but have only one vote.

3. Executive Committee shall be the district superintendent,

NMI officers, and two other council members.

C. Nominations, Elections, Appointments, and Vacancies

1. Nominations: The council shall be nominated by a

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 317

committee of not less than five (5) members of the

NMI. The district executive committee shall appoint

the nominating committee. The district superintendent

shall serve as the committee chairman for the

nomination of the district president. Upon approval

of the district superintendent, the district NMI

president may serve as chairman of the nominating

committee for other nominations. All nominees

shall be NMI members of a local Church of the Nazarene

on the district where they will serve.

2. Elections: The president and at least four additional

council members, one of which will be designated as

vice president, shall be elected by ballot at the annual

district convention. (These four council positions

do not include the secretary and treasurer. See

Article V, Section 2, C.2.c.) The term of service shall

be one or two convention years. A convention year is

from the adjournment of the district convention to

the adjournment of the next district convention.

a. President

(1) The nominating committee shall submit at

least two or more names for the office of president

except when nominating an incumbent

president for another term.

(2) Incumbent nominees may be reelected by a

yes/no ballot when such election is recommended

by the district council and approved

by the district superintendent.

(3) The president shall be elected by a two-thirds

favorable vote of the members present and

voting for a term of service of one or two convention

years or until the successor has been

elected. The district NMI council and the district

superintendent shall recommend the

length of the term of service.

b. Vice president shall be elected by ballot in one of

the following ways:

(1) To the specific responsibility with two names

submitted for the office; or

318 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

(2) To the council as a whole with specific council

positions to be determined by the council; or

(3) A yes/no vote upon the recommendation of

the nominating committee and approval of

the district superintendent.

c. Secretary and treasurer shall be elected by ballot

by

(1) The district convention. With the recommendation

of the nominating committee and approval

of the district superintendent, election

may be by a yes/no ballot for one or two convention

years; or

(2) The newly elected district council upon the

recommendation of the nominating committee

and approval of the district superintendent.

With the recommendation of the nominating

committee and approval of the district

superintendent, election may be by a yes/no

ballot for one or two convention years.

(3) If a district has a unified treasurer who accounts

for district funds, including NMI

monies, that person shall be the NMI treasurer

as an ex-officio member of the district

NMI council with all rights and duties, unless

otherwise specified by the district council.

d. Three council members, in addition to the officers,

shall be elected by ballot for one or two convention

years with responsibilities to be determined

by the council. The nominating committee

and the district superintendent shall recommend

the length of the term of service.

e. Additional council members, including NMI zone

or area coordinators, may be

(1) Elected to specific responsibilities; or

(2) Elected to the council as a whole with responsibilities

to be determined later by the council;

or

(3) Appointed by the executive committee or dis-

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 319

trict council as determined by the executive

committee.

The term of service shall be one or two convention

years. The nominating committee and district

superintendent shall recommend the length

of the term of service.

f. Youth representatives

(1) The district convention may elect by ballot

one and not more than two youth members to

the district council; or

(2) The newly elected district council may elect

one and not more than two youth members to

the district council.

(3) Nominations may be requested from the district

Nazarene Youth International executive

committee.

(4) Term of service shall be for one convention

year.

g. The two executive committee members other

than the officers shall be elected by ballot by the

district council for a term of service of one convention

year or until their successors are elected.

h. Delegates and alternates to the General Convention

shall be elected by ballot at a district convention.

Alternates may be elected on a separate

ballot, or at the recommendation of the district

council on the same ballot as the delegates. (See

Article VI, Section 3, A.3.b. for determining the

number of delegates and time of election.)

3. Appointments: In consultation with the district

superintendent, additional council members may be

appointed by the executive committee or district

council as determined by the executive committee.

4. Vacancies

a. President: The executive committee shall nominate

two names. Election shall be by ballot with

a majority vote of the district council present and

voting. The person elected shall serve until the

adjournment of the next district convention.

320 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

b. Other council members: The executive committee

or district council shall fill any vacancy by appointment.

The newly appointed council members

shall serve until the adjournment of the

next district convention.

c. Unified treasurer: If a district has a unified treasurer,

that vacancy shall be filled by district advisory

board.

D. Duties of Council Members

1. President

a. Directs the work of NMI on the district.

b. Presides at all meetings of the district council,

executive committee, and the district convention.

c. Promotes, or delegates responsibility for, all emphases

not assigned by election or council action.

d. Prepares an annual budget for approval by the

district finance committee.

e. Submits annually a written report to the district

NMI convention and to the General NMI Council

regional representative.

f. Serves as an ex-officio member of the district advisory

council, district Sunday School Ministries

board, district NMI convention, and district assembly.

2. Vice President

a. Performs all duties of the president when the

president is absent.

b. Serves in other areas as assigned by the district

NMI council.

3. Secretary

a. Conducts the correspondence of the NMI and

records the minutes of all business meetings.

b. Sends report forms annually to local NMI presidents.

c. Compiles statistical records and submits an annual

report to the district president, general NMI

director, General Council representative, and

where applicable the NMI program coordinator

for World Mission regions.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 321

4. Treasurer

a. Keeps an accurate account of all funds collected

and expended.

b. Remits funds to designated treasurers in a timely

manner.

c. Furnishes regular itemized reports to the district

council and prepares an annual report for the

district convention.

d. Arranges with appropriate district personnel the

annual audit of the district NMI treasurer’s books.

5. Executive Committee

a. Appoints additional district council members or

fills vacancies on the council.

b. Transacts business between council meetings.

c. Nominates two names for president if a vacancy

occurs between annual conventions.

6. Other Council Members

a. Promote the emphases and/or responsibility to

which they are assigned (see NMI Handbook).

Section 3: General Council

A. Purpose: The General NMI Council shall promote the

purpose of Nazarene Missions International.

B. Composition

1. General director, general president, and one representative

from each region in the Church of the

Nazarene.

2. Executive Committee shall be the general director,

the general president, the vice president, and two

other council members.

3. The director of the World Mission Department shall

be a member of the General Council and the Executive

Committee.

C. Nominations, Elections, and Vacancies

1. Nomination and Election of General Director

a. The general director shall be nominated by the director

of the World Mission Department in consultation

with the general superintendent in jurisdiction

for the World Mission Department.

322 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

b. The General Council shall approve the nominated

general director by a majority vote by ballot.

c. The World Mission Committee of the General

Board shall approve the nomination by a majority

vote by ballot and recommend the nominee to

the Board of General Superintendents.

d. The Board of General Superintendents shall

elect the general director.

2. Nomination and Election of General President

a. A nominating committee composed of the general

director, three regional representatives from the

General Council, and five non-General Council

members shall be appointed by the executive

committee. No two members of the nominating

committee may be from the same region.

b. The general director shall serve as chairman of

the nominating committee.

c. The committee shall submit the names of two

and not more than three persons for general

president. The nominees shall be approved by the

Board of General Superintendents.

d. From these nominees the General Convention

shall elect a general president by a two-thirds

vote by ballot.

e. The general president shall serve from the adjournment

of the General Convention until the

adjournment of the next General Convention or

until his or her successor has been elected and

qualified.

f. The general president shall be limited to two full

terms of service. A term of service shall be one

quadrennium. If a person is elected to fill a vacancy

in the office of general president, that person

is also eligible to serve two full terms.

3. Nomination and Election of General Council Members

a. Each district NMI council may submit one or two

names to the General NMI Office from its region

as the regional representative for a nominating

ballot.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 323

(1) These persons shall be members and residents

of the region they will represent. (In

the case where a council member moves from

that region within 6 months prior to the next

General Convention, that council member

will complete the term.)

(2) This provision does not apply to anyone whose

home residence is just across a regional boundary

from the place of church membership.

b. From these names on the nominating ballot, each

region in caucus at the general NMI convention

shall choose by ballot two nominees. The two

with the highest number of votes shall be declared

the nominees; however, the two nominees

shall not be from the same district. If this happens,

the person with the second highest number

of votes is replaced by the person with the next

highest number of votes from a different district.

c. The region in caucus shall then elect one person

by a majority vote to represent the region on the

General Council.

d. Council members shall serve from the adjournment

of the General Convention until the adjournment

of the next General Convention or until

their successors have been elected and qualified.

e. The term of service shall be limited to two full

terms. A term of service shall be one quadrennium.

If a person is elected to fill a vacancy of a

General Council member, that person is also eligible

to serve two full terms.

4. Nomination and Election of Executive Committee

a. The General Council shall in its first meeting

nominate and elect a vice president and two additional

members for the executive committee.

b. Election shall be by ballot by a majority vote of

those present and voting.

5. Nomination and Election of NMI Representative to

General Board

a. The General Council shall nominate two mem-

324 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

bers of the council to represent NMI on the General

Board of the Church of the Nazarene.

b. The General Assembly shall elect the NMI representative

by ballot.

6. Vacancies

a. If a vacancy occurs in the office of general president

between General Conventions, a new general

president shall be elected from nominees selected

by the executive committee in consultation

with the general superintendent in jurisdiction

by a two-thirds vote of the General Council. The

person will perform the duties of the general

president until adjournment of the next General

Convention. The question of calling for an election

to fill the vacancy shall be decided by the

General Council in consultation with the general

superintendent in jurisdiction.

b. If a vacancy occurs on the council between General

Conventions, each district executive committee

on the region concerned shall be requested to submit

one nominee from the region to the general

executive committee. From these names, the general

executive committee shall present two names

as nominees. The vacancy shall then be filled by a

majority vote by the district NMI presidents on

the region. The question of calling for an election

to fill the vacancy shall be decided by the General

Council executive committee in consultation with

the general superintendent in jurisdiction.

c. If a vacancy occurs in the office of general director,

the same process will be followed for the

nomination and election of the general director

(see Article V. Section 3. C. 1).

d. If a vacancy occurs in the executive committee

between General Conventions, the General Council

shall nominate two people. The vacancy shall

be filled by a majority vote by ballot of the General

NMI Council.

e. If a vacancy occurs in the NMI representative to

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 325

the General Board, the general executive committee

shall submit two nominees after consultation

with the general superintendent in jurisdiction

and the approval of the Board of General Superintendents.

The General NMI Council shall elect the

General Board representative by a majority vote.

D. Duties

1. General Council Members

a. Cooperate with the general NMI director in developing

NMI policy and program.

b. Promote the total program of the NMI in the geographic

region they represent.

c. Submit a report of the NMI work in the region to

each General Council meeting.

d. Nominate two members of the council for election

by the General Assembly as the NMI representative

on the General Board.

e. Act on any legislation passed by the General Assembly

relevant to regional representation.

f. Elect a vice president and two other members

from the council to the executive committee.

2. General Director

a. Serves as the executive officer of NMI.

b. Advances the mission interests of NMI throughout

the districts around the world in cooperation

with the General Council.

c. Interprets the NMI Handbook and Constitution.

d. Directs the personnel and business of the general

office.

e. Serves as editor-in-chief of all NMI publications.

f. Directs the compilation and maintenance of

records and reports.

g. Makes an annual financial and statistical report

to the General Council, the World Mission Committee,

and the General Board.

h. Prepares a condensed report of business transacted

in each meeting of the council for approval

by the World Mission Committee of the General

Board.

326 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

i. Directs the organization and program of the General

Convention in collaboration with the General

Council.

j. Prepares the General Convention report, both financial

and statistical, with a condensed version

through the World Mission Department for the

General Assembly.

k. Serves as an ex-officio member of the General Assembly.

3. General President

a. Presides at the meetings of the General Council,

executive committee, and the General Convention.

b. Promotes the purpose and programs of NMI.

4. Vice President

a. Performs the duties of the president when the

president is absent.

5. Executive Committee

a. Transacts business between council meetings.

b. Nominates two names for general president if a

vacancy occurs between General Conventions.

c. Nominates two names for a vacancy on the executive

committee.

d. Appoints the nominating committee for general

president.

Article VI. Meetings

Section 1. Local Meetings

A. Monthly

There shall be one or more meetings for mission information,

inspiration, and prayer held each calendar

month.

1. Meetings may take the form of mission services,

mission speakers, mission lessons, mission activities

and events, mission moments, NMI emphases, etc.

2. The NMI president and the council shall work in cooperation

with the pastor in planning mission education

and involvement for the local church.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 327

B. Annual

1. The annual meeting shall be held no later than 30

days prior to the district convention to elect the executive

committee/council for the next church year

and the delegates to the district convention.

2. Voting and election to the local council shall be limited

to NMI members who are 15 years of age or

older.

C. Council Meetings

The local council shall meet at least quarterly to plan,

report, evaluate, inform, inspire, and carry out the

work of the local organization. A majority of council

members shall constitute a quorum.

Section 2. District Meetings

A. Convention

1. There shall be an annual district convention to report,

pray, inform, inspire, present plans, and conduct

business pertaining to the organization.

2. The time and place of the convention shall be decided

by the district council in consultation with the

district superintendent and shall be held within 30

days prior to the district assembly.

3. Membership

a. Only members of the respective district shall be

eligible to serve as ex-officio or elected delegates.

b. Ex-officio members of the convention shall be district

NMI council; district superintendent; all assigned

ministers and full-time salaried associate

ministers of local churches; lay members of the

district advisory board; the local NMI presidents

of the assembly year just ending, and newly elected

NMI presidents or newly elected vice presidents

if the newly elected president cannot attend;

General NMI Council member; retired

assigned ministers; retired missionaries, missionaries

on home assignment, and missionary appointees;

and any former district presidents who

reside on the district that they served.

328 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

c. Elected delegates from each local church shall be

NMI members (15 years of age or older). The

number of elected delegates shall be based on the

following formula: two delegates (excluding associate

members) from each local NMI of 25 members

or fewer, and one additional delegate for

each additional 25 members or major portion

thereof.

4. The delegates present shall constitute a quorum.

B. Council

The district council shall meet at least biannually to

transact business in the interim between the annual

district conventions. A majority of council members

shall constitute a quorum.

Section 3. General Meetings

A. Convention

1. There shall be a General Convention of Nazarene

Missions International immediately preceding the

General Assembly to report, pray, inform, inspire,

present plans, and conduct business pertaining to

the organization. A majority of registered delegates

shall constitute a quorum.

2. The time and place of the convention shall be decided

by the General Council in consultation with the

general superintendent in jurisdiction.

3. Membership

a. Ex-officio members of the General Convention

shall be members of the General Council; NMI

program coordinators of World Mission regions;

district NMI presidents, or in the event a district

president cannot attend, the district vice president

may be allowed to represent that district;

and the NMI president of each Phase 1 district,

or if the president cannot attend, the president,

with the approval of the district superintendent

may designate an alternate to be seated.

b. Elected delegates to the General Convention

shall be based on the following formula: two dele-

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 329

gates from each Phase 3 and Phase 2 district of

1,000 or fewer NMI members, excluding associates,

and one additional delegate for each additional

700 members or major portion thereof.

c. One global missionary delegate for every World

Mission region of 50 or fewer missionaries, or two

global missionary delegates for each region with

51 or more missionaries shall be elected by the

Regional Advisory Council in each region.

d. Delegates are to be elected by ballot by the district

convention within 16 months of the General

Convention or within 24 months in areas where

travel visas or other unusual preparations are

necessary.

e. Any elected delegate shall be residing at the time

of the General Convention on the district where

he or she held membership at the time of election.

If any elected delegate moves off the district,

the privilege of representing the former district

is forfeited. This provision does not apply to

anyone whose home residence is just across a district

boundary from the place of church membership.

B. Council Meetings

The General Council shall meet a minimum of three

times during the quadrennium to transact business

pertaining to the organization. A majority of council

members shall constitute a quorum.

Article VII. Funds

Section 1. Raised by Local Churches

A.World Evangelism Fund

1. All funds raised for the World Evangelism Fund

shall be sent to the general treasurer.

2. World Evangelism Fund (WEF) shall be raised in

the following manner:

a. Regular WEF offerings

b. Easter and Thanksgiving offerings

c. The WEF portion of Faith Promise giving

330 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

d. Prayer and Fasting offerings

B. Approved Mission Specials

1. Opportunity shall be given to contribute to Approved

Mission Specials (such as Alabaster, World Mission

Broadcast, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries,

Deputation, Missionary Health Care, LINKS, Work

& Witness, NMI International Student Scholarship

Fund, etc.) over and above WEF giving.

2. Additional Approved Mission Specials may be approved

and authorized by appropriate personnel at

Nazarene International Headquarters.

3. The General NMI Council shall authorize all Approved

Mission Specials that are promoted and

raised through NMI from the general level.

C. Funds Exclusive

1. No part of the World Evangelism Fund and Approved

Mission Specials shall be used for local or

district expense or charitable purposes.

D. Local Expense

1. A local expense fund shall be provided for NMI as

determined by the local NMI council and approved

by the church board.

2. A portion of the local expense shall be designated

for the expenses of the district convention delegates.

Section 2. Raised by the Districts

A. District Expense

1. A district expense fund shall be provided for NMI as

determined by the district NMI council and approved

by the district finance committee.

2. A portion of the district expense fund shall be designated

to pay for district delegate expenses to the

General Convention.

3. World Evangelism Fund and Approved Mission Specials

shall not be used for district expense.

Section 3. Remuneration

A. The ministry of NMI shall be a love service to the

church. No salaries shall be paid at any level—local,

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 331

district, and general—with the exception of the general

director, who is employed by the General Board.

B. Adequate remuneration shall be provided for the expenses

of council members at all levels—local, district,

and general.

Article VIII. Policies and Procedures

The General NMI Council shall establish additional policies,

procedures, and job descriptions for NMI to be contained

in the NMI Handbook along with the NMI Constitution.

Article IX. Parliamentary Authority

The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s

Rules of Order Newly Revised, when not in conflict with applicable

law, the Articles of Incorporation of the Church of

the Nazarene, the NMI Constitution, and any other rules of

order that NMI may adopt, shall govern the organization.

Article X. Amendments

The NMI Constitution may be amended by two-thirds favorable

vote of members present and voting at a General

Convention of Nazarene Missions International and by the

approval of the World Mission Committee of the General

Board.

332 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

CHAPTER III

812. BYLAWS OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Sunday School Ministries (SSM) is to carry

out the Great Commission to children, youth, and adults in

preparation for a lifetime of Christian holiness.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the Sunday School is threefold:

A. To teach the Word of God effectively until pupils are

saved, sanctified wholly, and maturing in Christian experience.

B. To help Christians grow spiritually by involving them

in a reaching, teaching, and soul-winning ministry.

C. To locate and visit unchurched people until they become

enrolled and regular in attendance.

ARTICLE I. MEMBERSHIP

Responsibility List

Each local church should assume responsibility for reaching

all persons in the community who are not actively involved

in another local church. To assist in this mission,

maintaining three lists will be helpful:

A. Active Responsibility List (Enrollment) (Line 25, Pastor's

Annual Report, PAR). This is the traditional enrollment

list and shall include all persons who declare

their willingness to attend the regular Sunday School

session (see Article II, Section 1) with some degree of

regularity. Each teacher is expected to be responsible

for the spiritual welfare of those on his or her class Responsibility

List.

B. Prospect List. This list includes the names of all persons

who have the potential of becoming regular

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 333

attenders of the local Sunday School. Each Sunday

School class should consistently strive to bring them

into regular attendance. This list should include persons

who only attend morning worship.

C. Extended (Outreach) Ministry List (Line 27, PAR).

This list shall include all persons who are regularly involved

in an extended (outreach) Sunday School ministry

(see Article II, Section 2), but not in a regular

Sunday School session each week.

SECTION 1. Participants in the following ministries shall

be included on either the Sunday School Active Responsibility

List (Enrollment), the Prospect List, OR the Extended

(Outreach) Ministry List, according to the following guidelines:

a. Cradle Roll (Line 16, PAR): Children under four years

of age who, along with their parents, do not attend

Sunday School may be enrolled on the Prospect List as

Cradle Roll.

1. The children are considered as prospects for the

Sunday School early childhood classes, and the parents

as prospects in the corresponding adult classes.

2. The Sunday School superintendent and the children’s

ministries director, in consultation with the

pastor, shall appoint a Cradle Roll director each

church year who is responsible to visit and take program

materials to these families.

3. When they begin attending Sunday School with

some degree of regularity, they should be transferred

to the Sunday School Active Responsibility

List (Enrollment) of the corresponding age-group

class.

4. If they have not started attending by the child's

fourth birthday, they should be removed from the

Cradle Roll list and added to the prospect list of the

Preschool and Adult departments.

5. Until they begin attending with some degree of regularity,

they shall remain on the prospect list.

b. Home Department: Any person physically or vocationally

unable to attend a regular Sunday School class

334 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

may be enrolled in the Home Department and listed on

either the Active Responsibility List (Enrollment) OR

the Extended (Outreach) Ministries List according to

the following guidelines:

1. The Sunday School superintendent and adult ministries

director, in consultation with the pastor, shall

appoint a Home Department supervisor each church

year whose responsibility is to visit and teach the

Sunday School lesson each week.

2. Those persons visited weekly and taught the Sunday

School lesson shall be listed on the Active Responsibility

List (Enrollment), and included in the

weekly regular Sunday School attendance (Line 26,

PAR).

3. If there is no regular weekly visit, or if approved

Sunday School curriculum is not taught, these persons

should be listed on the extended (outreach)

ministry list (Line 27, PAR) and counted in the extended

(outreach) ministries average weekly attendance

(Line 28, PAR).

c. Nursing HomeConvalescent CenterHealth Care Facility:

Any residents confined to one of these centers who

attend a weekly session sponsored by the local church

may be listed on either the Active Responsibility List

(Enrollment) OR the extended (outreach) ministry list

according to the following guidelines:

1. If the resident actively participates in a weekly

study of approved Sunday School curriculum he or

she shall be included on the Active Responsibility

List (Enrollment) (Line 25, PAR) and counted in the

average weekly attendance (Line 26, PAR).

2. If the resident attends a weekly service but is unable

to actively participate, or if approved Sunday

School curriculum is not taught, he or she shall be

added to the extended (outreach) ministry list (Line

27, PAR) and counted in the extended (outreach)

ministries average weekly attendance (Line 28,

PAR).

d. Church-Type Mission: Any group sponsored by the lo-

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 335

cal church or district who meets weekly for at least a

half hour in another location to study approved Sunday

School curriculum with the goal of becoming an

organized Church of the Nazarene shall be added to

the Active Responsibility List (Enrollment) (Line 25,

PAR) and average weekly regular Sunday School attendance

(Line 26, PAR) of the sponsoring church by

designating name/location of the new work.

1. The attendance figures of any Church-Type Mission

shall be listed separately from the regular Sunday

School session of the sponsoring church when reporting

to the district each month, but included in

the monthly Sunday School attendance total for the

district.

2. If a local church sponsors a Church-Type Mission in

close proximity to the church, this attendance

should be listed and reported separately by name

and location under the sponsoring church’s attendance.

If a local church sponsors more than one new

work, each new work should be listed by name and

location.

3. Attendance totals for the week, month, and year

should be recorded per the following example:

Regular Sunday School Attendance 125

Church-Type Mission (Corporate Hills) 30

Church-Type Mission (Blue Valley) 15

Extended (Outreach) Ministries 25

4. If a district or local church is promoting a large

group of church planting situations, these Church-

Type Missions may be listed separately with their

own name and location, if desired by the district.

e. Childcare/Schools: Any group of students in a Nazarene

childcare/school (birth-secondary) under the sponsorship

of the local church shall be listed on either the

Active Responsibility List (Enrollment) OR the Extended

(Outreach) Ministries List, according to the following

guidelines:

1. If students not currently enrolled in a Nazarene

Sunday School actively participate in a regular

336 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

weekly study of approved Sunday School curriculum

for at least a half hour, they shall be included on the

Active Responsibility List (Enrollment) (Line 25,

PAR), and counted in the average weekly attendance

(Line 26, PAR).

2. If students attend a weekly class but approved Sunday

School curriculum is not taught, they shall be

added to the extended (outreach) ministry list (Line

27, PAR) and counted in the extended (outreach)

ministries average weekly attendance (Line 28,

PAR).

f. Bible Study/Small Groups: Persons attending any

group assembled under the sponsorship of the local

church for the purpose of studying biblical principles

shall be listed on either the Active Responsibility List

(Enrollment) OR the Extended (Outreach) Ministries

List according to the following guidelines:

1. If the group meets weekly for at least a half hour to

study biblical principles and approved curriculum,

members shall be listed on the Active Responsibility

List (Enrollment) (Line 25, PAR) and average weekly

regular Sunday School attendance (Line 26, PAR).

2. If the group does not meet weekly for at least a half

hour to study approved curriculum, it shall be listed

on the Extended (Outreach) Ministries List (Line

27, PAR) and counted in the extended (outreach)

ministries average weekly attendance (Line 28,

PAR).

SECTION 2. Removal of Names

Once a person is listed on any responsibility list, the local

church should actively seek to minister to that person until

he or she is brought into the fellowship of that church. Removing

names should be done only with the approval of the

pastor when:

a. the enrollee moves out of town

b. the enrollee joins another Sunday School

c. the enrollee specifically asks to have his or her name

removed

d. the enrollee dies

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 337

ARTICLE II. ATTENDANCE

Counting Sunday School Attendance

The purpose of counting Sunday School Ministries attendance

in the local church is to measure the effectiveness of

that church’s effort to reach people with the biblical message.

All Sunday School ministry efforts should lead to

bringing people into fellowship with Christ by experiencing

the new birth and identification with the local church.

It is important to remember that even though some people

may be involved in more than one Sunday School ministry,

they shall be counted only once in either the Regular

Sunday School Attendance OR Extended (Outreach) Ministry

Attendance. Attendance counts for Sunday School ministries

occurring on weekdays should be counted in the following

Sunday’s attendance.

The General Sunday School Ministries Department needs

to have correct responsibility list and attendance figures

from each district in order to compile an accurate report of

Sunday School growth within the denomination each year.

Sunday School ministries attendance is divided into two

categories: Regular Sunday School Session (Line 26, PAR)

and Extended (Outreach) Ministries (Line 28, PAR). These

categories shall be counted each week by the local church

according to the guidelines listed below and in Article I, Section

1 above.

SECTION 1. Regular Sunday School Session. A regular

Sunday School session shall be defined as an organized

group of people who meet each week at a specified time and

place. The purpose of this meeting must be to study biblical

principles, using Sunday School curriculum approved by the

local Sunday School Ministries Board, for at least a half

hour. This will constitute the regular Sunday School weekly

attendance (Line 26, PAR).

a. Attendance counts shall be closed no later than the

halfway point of the Regular Sunday School Session.

This shall also apply to unified/combined services,

those occasions when the Regular Sunday School Session

does not meet due to a special worship service.

338 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

b. An enrollee in a local Sunday School shall be considered

present in his or her local Sunday School when attending

on that Sunday a local, zone, district, region, or

general church-sponsored function such as a retreat,

assembly, camp meeting, etc., as long as he or she is

not counted in another local Sunday School where he

or she is attending. Such functions shall include at

least a half hour of study of biblical principles.

c. All Regular Sunday School Sessions shall be used in

determining the average attendance for the year and

that attendance shall be reported monthly to the district.

For most churches, the number of Sunday School

sessions held will be 52. In some geographical areas

weather will occasionally prohibit regular Sunday

School sessions. The District Sunday School Ministries

Board, in consultation with the district superintendent,

shall determine any valid exceptions.

d. Attendance counts from Home Department, Nursing

HomeConvalescent CenterHealth Care Facility,

Church-Type Missions, Nazarene Childcare/Schools

(birth-secondary), and Bible Study/Small Groups may

be included in the average weekly regular Sunday

School attendance OR the extended (outreach) ministries

average weekly attendance according to the

guidelines in Article I, Section 1.

SECTION 2. Extended (Outreach) Ministry. The attendance

of all extended and outreach ministries of the local

church shall be counted as the Extended (Outreach) Ministry

Attendance (Line 28, PAR). The Extended (Outreach)

Ministry Attendance shall be defined as persons involved in

a study of biblical principles for at least a half hour, but not

otherwise meeting the criteria of a Regular Sunday School

Session (see Article II, Section 1).

a. A local church having more than one type of extended

(outreach) ministry should combine responsibility list

figures and report a single figure each month. The

same is true for extended (outreach) ministry weekly

attendance.

b. Since extended (outreach) ministries and new works

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 339

can begin or end any time during the church year, the

yearly average should be determined by dividing accumulative

figures by the number of weeks the ministries

were conducted.

ARTICLE III. CLASSES AND DEPARTMENTS

SECTION 1. The Sunday School shall be divided into

classes for children and youth on the basis of age or school

grade. For adults the classes should be determined by common

interests.

SECTION 2. When the number of classes within the children's,

youth, or adult age-groups increase, attention should

be given to departmentalization with a supervisor appointed

by the Sunday School Ministries Board.

SECTION 3. The duties of the department supervisor

shall be to:

a. coordinate the work of the teachers within the department

b. conduct departmental meetings when necessary

c. insure that each teacher within the department has

the necessary curriculum, additional resources, and

equipment available when needed

d. be responsible for ordering all necessary curriculum

and materials for the department (give order to ordering

secretary)

e. work with the corresponding age-group director of the

Sunday School Ministries Board to promote Sunday

School enrollment and attendance and implement any

special campaigns

f. present training needs of the department's teachers to

the corresponding age-group director for presentation

to the Sunday School Ministries Board

g. keep accurate enrollment and attendance records for

the department and see that all absentees and

prospects are contacted regularly

h. work with the teachers in the department to see that

the entire area is attractive and conducive to learning

i. be responsible for the securing of substitute teachers

within the department.

340 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

ARTICLE IV. TEACHERS

SECTION 1. The department supervisors and teachers

shall be appointed annually according to Manual 145.8.

SECTION 2. While the ideal is for each teacher to serve

for the entire year, in certain circumstances it may be advisable

to appoint teachers for a shorter term.

SECTION 3. In cases of proven unsoundness of doctrine,

imprudent conduct, or neglect of duty, the Sunday School

Ministries Board shall have the right to declare the office

of any officer or teacher vacant according to Manual

145.8.

SECTION 4. All Sunday School teachers and substitutes

should:

a. attend workers' meetings regularly

b. contact each student, absentee, and prospect on a regular

basis

c. avail themselves of all training opportunities provided

d. provide fellowship opportunities for the class periodically

e. be responsible for seeing that the teaching area is attractive

and conducive to learning

f. prepare an effective lesson each week

g. be alert to salvation opportunities for each student.

ARTICLE V. OFFICERS AND THEIR DUTIES

SECTION 1. The local Sunday School superintendent

shall be elected each year according to Manual 113.9-13.10

and 127. The duties of the Sunday School superintendent

shall be to:

a. be superintendent of the Sunday School under the direction

of the pastor

b. represent Sunday School Ministries at the monthly

church board meeting

c. plan regular teachers' and workers' meetings

d. provide training opportunities for teachers, substitute

teachers, and prospective teachers

e. communicate Sunday School responsibility list and attendance

growth campaign plans to all workers

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 341

f. report the statistics of the Sunday School to the zone

chairman each month

g. encourage attendance at district and general Sunday

School Ministries functions.

SECTION 2. The duties of the age-group directors are outlined

in Manual 147.1-147.9.

SECTION 3. The Sunday School Ministries Board shall

elect a person to keep the Sunday School records. He or she

shall keep an accurate record for the entire Sunday School,

of the responsibility list (enrollment), prospect list, extended

(outreach) ministry list, attendance, visitors, and other statistics

as may be required.

SECTION 4. The Sunday School Ministries Board shall

elect a treasurer to keep an accurate account of all moneys

raised by the Sunday School each week and authorize the disbursement

according to the direction of the board. A monthly

report shall be given to the Sunday School superintendent.

SECTION 5. The Sunday School Ministries Board shall

appoint a person to be responsible for ordering the Sunday

School curriculum and other resources requested by the agegroup

directors and/or department supervisors. The appointee

shall distribute to the appropriate age-group director

all information received from Nazarene Publishing

House and prepare the order after approval of the superintendent

and pastor.

ARTICLE VI. ADMINISTRATION AND SUPERVISION

SECTION 1. The Sunday School is under the care of the

pastor, amenable to the local church board, under the general

supervision of the Sunday School Ministries Board and

the immediate leadership of the superintendent and agegroup

directors.

SECTION 2. If a church who has employed a full-time director

of Christian education wishes to elect that person as

Sunday School superintendent, the procedure is as follows:

a. the local church Nominating Committee would recommend

to the annual church meeting that no superintendent

be elected for the coming church year, and that

the full-time associate will serve as superintendent

342 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

b. the congregation should affirm the decision by majority

vote

c. the full-time associate will become the Sunday School

superintendent and will attend church board meetings

to discuss Christian education interests but will not be

a voting member, Manual 160.4.

The same procedure should be followed for full-time paid

associates who are requested to serve as the Children's or

Adult Ministry directors.

It shall be understood that these are temporary arrangements,

and that all possible effort should be made to train

and resource local lay leaders for these positions as soon as

possible.

SECTION 3: When a pastor to children, youth, or adults is

employed in a church, the pastor, in consultation with the

church board, the Sunday School Ministries Board, or NYI

Council, assigns the responsibility for children, youth, and

adults to the age-level pastors. In that case, the pastor to

children, youth, or adults carries out some of the duties otherwise

designated to a local children’s director, NYI president,

or adult director. However, the importance of the local

children’s director, NYI president, or adult director remains

to provide vital lay leadership, support, and representation

for local children’s, youth, and adult ministries. The pastor,

pastors to children, youth, and adults, and the Sunday

School Ministries Board or NYI Council work together to define

the roles and responsibilities of the three positions and

how they work together for the benefit of the church’s agerelated

ministries.

ARTICLE VII. CONVENTIONS

SECTION 1. District Sunday School Ministries Convention.

It is important that each district plan a District Sunday

School Ministries Convention annually in order to provide

inspiration, motivation, and training for all Sunday

School ministries workers. The promotion of Sunday School

should be a highlight of each convention.

a. Ex-officio members of the District SSM Convention

shall be: the district superintendent; all pastors, as-

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 343

signed ordained ministers, assigned district licensed

ministers, retired assigned ministers, full-time associates;

district SSM chair, and local Sunday School superintendents

newly elected prior to and holding office

at the time of the SSM District Convention; the district

and all local children's and adult directors; the district

NYI president and all local NYI presidents; elected

members of the District SSM Board; lay members of

the District Advisory Board; and any Nazarene fulltime

professors of Christian education with membership

on that district.

b. In the annual church meeting, each local Sunday

School shall elect additional representatives to the

Convention, equal to 25 percent of the officers and

teachers of the Sunday School (Line 24, PAR).

c. The District SSM Board shall serve as a nominating

committee to select twice the number of nominees to be

elected by plurality vote. These nominees should be

members of the Church of the Nazarene, actively involved

in one of the ministries of Sunday School Ministries,

and should be selected from the various agegroups

(children, youth, adult workers). In case elected

representatives cannot attend, alternate representatives

shall be designated in the order of the votes received.

d. The representatives to the District SSM Convention

may elect the District SSM chair and the elected members

of the District SSM Board according to Manual

239 and representatives to the General SSM Convention

each quadrennium.

SECTION 2. General Sunday School Ministries Convention.

In connection with each General Assembly, Sunday

School Ministries shall observe a General Convention. Elected

representatives (and guests) shall meet for the purpose of

inspiration, motivation, and training to equip and enrich involvement

in fulfilling the mission and purpose of Sunday

School Ministries globally.

a. Ex-officio representatives to the General SSM Convention

shall be: district superintendents, district SSM

344 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

chairs, district directors of Children’s and Adult Ministries,

professors of Christian education at Nazarene

colleges, universities, and seminaries, and directors

and staff of the general Sunday School Ministries Department.

b. Each district should elect four additional representatives

which is the number equal to the district ex-officio

members or a number equal to one percent of the

Sunday School officers on the district, whichever number

is larger.

c. The following guidelines should be adhered to in elections

for General SSM Convention representatives:

1. The Nominating Committee shall be comprised of

the district superintendent, district SSM chair, and

at least three others appointed by the District SSM

Board. They shall select three times the number of

nominees to be elected.

2. The District SSM Convention shall elect an equal

number of representatives and alternates from all

Sunday School ministries (including youth Sunday

School teacher/workers). Those elected should be

persons who are presently and actively involved in

the respective area to which they are elected. The

number of alternates elected should include alternates

for ex-officio members. Persons should not be

elected who will serve as delegates to the General

Nazarene Missions International Convention or the

General Nazarene Youth International Convention,

because the three conventions run concurrently.

3. Representatives shall be elected by ballot in the

District SSM Convention within 16 months of the

meeting of the General Assembly or within 24

months in areas where travel visas or other unusual

preparations are necessary.

4. As nearly as possible, elect an equal number of

laity and clergy—50 percent laypersons and 50

percent full-time active ministers, elders, or licensed

ministers. When the total number is uneven,

the extra representative shall be a layperson.

AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS 345

5. Incumbent district Sunday School ministries leaders

newly elected prior to and holding office at the

time of the General Convention shall be the ex-officio

members of the convention.

6. All elected and ex-officio representatives present in

the District SSM Convention shall be eligible to

vote for General SSM Convention representatives.

7. A plurality vote shall be sufficient for election.

8. In case elected representatives cannot attend, alternate

representatives shall be designated in the

order of the votes they received.

9. At the convening of the General SSM Convention,

each representative shall reside on and be a member

of a Church of the Nazarene on the district he

or she was elected to represent. (This is not intended

to apply to those living near district boundaries

where home residence may be across the district

line from the place of regular church participation.)

10. If a district cannot finance the full number of representatives

to the General SSM Convention as

recommended, the District SSM Board may elect

as many persons as the district can afford to send.

11. Representatives who attend the convention should

have financial assistance from the district comparable

to expenses provided from the district for

Nazarene Youth International and Nazarene Missions

International Convention delegates.

12. If election of representatives for the General SSM

Convention does not take place at the District SSM

Convention, representatives shall be elected at the

District Assembly.

ARTICLE VIII. AMENDMENTS

These bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of the

General Board members present and voting.

346 AUXILIARY CONSTITUTIONS

PART IX

Forms

THE LOCAL CHURCH

THE DISTRICT ASSEMBLY

BILLS OF CHARGES

CHAPTER I

813. THE LOCAL CHURCH

813.1. Recommendation to the District Assembly*

(to be completed annually for district licensed ministers)

(Check the appropriate board.)

The Church Board of the _____________________________

The District Advisory Board of the (Manual 222.10)

_______________ recommends ___________________ to the

(Ministerial Credentials Board) District Assembly for:

District Minister’s License

Renewal of District Minister’s License

Renewal of Deaconess’ License

Renewal of Director of Christian Education License

Ministry Role Certification (Manual 402-423)

CED—Christian Education Minister

EDU—Education (employed to serve on the administrative

staff or faculty of one of the educational institutions

of the Church of the Nazarene)

EVR—Evangelist, Registered (is devoted to traveling

and preaching the gospel as his or her primary ministry,

promoting revivals and spreading the gospel abroad in

the land)

MIS—Missionary (appointed by the General Board to

minister for the church through the World Mission Committee

or through the USACanada MissionEvangelism

Committee)

PSV-FT or PSV-PT—Pastoral Service Full-time or

Part-time (associate pastor, performing pastoral service

348 FORMS

*This form may be used for different recommendations. Please mark the

applicable title for such, as well as designating the ministry role certification.

in connection with a church, in specialized areas of ministry

recognized and approved by the appropriate governing,

licensing and endorsing agencies)

SER—Song Evangelist, Registered (devotes the major

portion of his or her time to the ministry of evangelism

through music as his or her primary assignment)

SPC—Special Service/Interdenominational (in active

service in a manner not otherwise provided for,

which must be approved by the district assembly upon

recommendation by the District Advisory Board and/or

the Ministerial Credentials Board)

STU—Student

U—Unassigned

Review the minimal requirements for ordination (Manual

428.3, 429.3) and also the procedures for formalization of relationship,

either paid or unpaid. (Manual 160-60.3) This is

important for establishing and maintaining the candidate’s

history of ministry.

If a designation other than “STU” or “U” is indicated above,

describe the formal relationship that exists with the candidate,

as approved by the church board and the district superintendent.

______________________________________________

________________________________________________________

We certify that _____________________________________ has

fulfilled all the requirements for such a request.

By vote of the Board this ____________ (date), and by receipt

of a letter of permission from the district superintendent

this ______________ (date).

________________________________________________________

Chairperson

________________________________________________________

Secretary

Referred ________ Reported ________ Disposition ________

FORMS 349

813.2. Certificate of Commendation

This certifies that ________________________________ is a

member of the Church of the Nazarene at ________________

and is hereby commended to the Christian confidence of

those to whom this certificate may be presented.

________________________________________________________

Pastor

Date_______________________________, _________(year)

NOTE: When a certificate of commendation is given, that person’s membership

immediately ceases in the local church issuing the certificate. (111.1)

813.3. Letter of Release

This certifies that ____________________________ has been

until this date a member of the Church of the Nazarene at

_______________________________________ and, at h________

request, is granted this letter of release.

________________________________________________________

Pastor

Date_______________________________, _________(year)

NOTE: Membership terminates immediately upon issuance of a letter of

release. (112.2)

813.4. Transfer of Members

This certifies that ________________________ is a member

in the Church of the Nazarene at _________________________

and, at h______ request, is hereby transferred to the Church

of the Nazarene at ________________________________ in the

______________________ District.

When the reception of this transfer is acknowledged by

the receiving local church, membership in this local church

will cease.

________________________________________________________

Pastor

________________________________________________________

Address

Date ________________________________________________

NOTE: A transfer is valid for three months only. (111)

350 FORMS

813.5. Transfer Acknowledged

This certifies that _________________________________ has been

received into membership by the Church of the Nazarene at

___________________________ this _________ day of _____________,

________(year).

________________________________________________________

Pastor

________________________________________________________

Address

NOTE: Forms 813.2, 813.3, 813.4, and 813.5 may simply be prepared

on local church stationery as needed.

813.6. Local Minister’s License*

THIS IS TO CERTIFY that ____________________ is licensed

as a Local Minister in the Church of the Nazarene for one

year, provided that _________ spirit and practice are such as

become the gospel of Christ, and ________________ teachings

correspond with the established doctrines of the Holy Scriptures

as held by said church.

By Order of the Church Board of the ___________ Church

of the Nazarene.

Done at ______________, this _________ day of __________,

______(year).

________________________________________________________

Chairman

________________________________________________________

Secretary

FORMS 351

*Available from Nazarene Publishing House, No. U-190.

CHAPTER II

814. THE DISTRICT ASSEMBLY

Official district forms may be secured from the General

Secretary, 6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64131-1213,

U.S.A.

CHAPTER III

815. BILLS OF CHARGES

Section 1. In Trial of a Church Member

Section 2. In Trial of an Ordained Minister

Section 3. In Trial of a Licensed Minister

Bills of Charges may be secured from the General Secretary,

6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64131-1213, U.S.A.

352 FORMS

PART X

Appendix

GENERAL OFFICERS

ADMINISTRATIVE BOARDS, COUNCILS, AND

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES

CURRENT MORAL AND SOCIAL ISSUES

CHAPTER I

900. GENERAL OFFICERS

900.1. General Superintendents

James H. Diehl Jesse C. Middendorf

Paul G. Cunningham Nina G. Gunter

Jerry D. Porter J. K.Warrick

General Superintendents Emeriti and Retired

Orville W. Jenkins, Emeritus

William M. Greathouse, Emeritus

Eugene L. Stowe, Emeritus

Raymond W. Hurn, Emeritus

Jerald D. Johnson, Emeritus

Donald D. Owens, Emeritus

John A. Knight, Emeritus

William J. Prince, Emeritus

Jim L. Bond, Emeritus

W. Talmadge Johnson, Emeritus

900.2. General Secretary

Jack Stone

900.3. General Treasurer

Marilyn J. McCool

INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

6401 THE PASEO

KANSAS CITY, MO 64131-1213

U.S.A.

354 APPENDIX

CHAPTER II

901. ADMINISTRATIVE BOARDS, COUNCILS,

AND EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

901.1. GENERAL BOARD

MEMBERS BY CHURCH REGIONS

Minister Layperson

Africa Region

Emanuel David Lima Araujo Stanley Bhebhe

Collen Smith Magagula Jafete Alberto Mabote

Timothy Mogorosi Mecildes Tavares

Asia-Pacific Region

Andrew Moime Graeme Sheppard

Canada Region

D. Ian Fitzpatrick Hugh Hawthorne

Caribbean Region

Victor George Carmen Luisa Checo Acosta

Raul Puig William H.Woolford

Central U.S.A. Region

Ted R. Lee John Q. Dickey, Sr.

East Central U.S.A. Region

Eddie Estep James Couchenour, Sr.

Eastern U.S.A. Region

Jossie E. Owens Jan Lanham

Eurasia Region

Hans-Guenter Mohn Paul D. Tarrant

Mexico and Central America Region

Marcos Joel Galicia Rodriguez Juan Alfonso Cienega R.

Danilo Solis Ana Maria Crocker de Diaz

APPENDIX 355

North Central U.S.A. Region

Edmond P. Nash Larry McIntire

Northwest U.S.A. Region

Randy J. Craker Bob Helstrom

South America Region

Amadeu Aparecido Teixeira Haroldo Millet Neves

Flavio Valvassoura Oswaldo Quispe T.

South Central U.S.A. Region

Duane E. Srader Ron Mercer

Southeast U.S.A. Region

Larry D. Dennis Charles Davis

Gary A. Henecke Dennis Moore

Southwest U.S.A. Region

John H. Calhoun Dan W. Spaite

Education

John Bowling Loren Gresham

Nazarene Missions International

Eunice Brubaker

Nazarene Youth International

Mark E. Holcomb

901.2. General Court of Appeals

David Wilson, Chairperson Dan Boone, Secretary

Jossie Owens Duane Strader

Tim Stearman

901.3. Council of

Nazarene Youth International

Global NYI Council

Gary Hartke, Nazarene Youth International Director

Monte Cyr, President (Africa, Regional Coordinator)

Mark Holcomb, Vice President (U.S.A./Canada, Regional

President)

Ronald Miller, Africa (Regional President)

Dave Harris, Asia-Pacific (Regional President)

Rudolph Prescod, Caribbean (Regional President)

356 APPENDIX

Tim Evans, Eurasia (Regional President)

Josue Jimenez, Mexico and Central America (Regional

President)

Alexandre Cesar Da Silva, South America (Regional President)

Ed Belzer, U.S.A./Canada (Regional President)

Danny Dyer, U.S.A./Canada (Regional President)

Paul Coy, Asia-Pacific (Regional Coordinator)

Eduardo Donath, Caribbean (Regional Coordinator)

Sabine Wielk, Eurasia (Regional Coordinator)

David Gonzalez Perez, Mexico and Central America (Regional

Coordinator)

Timothy McKeithen, South America (Regional Coordinator)

Dave Curtiss, U.S.A./Canada Regional Coordinator

Jennifer Wilson, Early Youth Member-at-large

Johanna Radziszewski, Senior Youth Member-at-large

Simone Finney, Young Adult Member-at-large

U.S.A./Canada Council

Gary Hartke, Nazarene Youth International Director

Dave Curtiss, U.S.A./Canada Regional Coordinator

Mark Holcomb, Chair (Central U.S.A.)

Danny Dyer, Vice Chair (South Central U.S.A.)

Ed Belzer, Secretary (Northwest U.S.A.)

Pat Wiens, Canada

Roger Bonzo, East Central U.S.A.

James Heyward, Eastern U.S.A.

Brian Smith, North Central U.S.A.

Michael Johnson, Southeast U.S.A.

Charles Brodhead, Southwest U.S.A.

Jennifer Wilson, Early Youth Representative

Carissa Ulmet, Senior Youth Member-at-large

Simone Finney, Young Adult Member-at-large

The Assigned General Superintendent in Jurisdiction (Adviser)

APPENDIX 357

901.4. General Council of

Nazarene Missions International

Dr. Daniel D. Ketchum, General Director

Rev. Eunice Brubaker, President

Mrs. Esther Ribisi, Africa Region

Mrs. Raquel Fausto, Asia-Pacific Region

Mrs. Elizabeth Wall, Canada Region

Mrs. Jennifer Brown, Caribbean Region

Rev. Carol Techau, Central U.S.A. Region

Mrs. Sue Call, East Central U.S.A. Region

Mrs. Geraldine Perry, Eastern U.S.A. Region

Dr. Philip Weatherill, Eurasia Region

Sra. Ana Maria Crocker de Diaz, Mexico and Central America

Region

Mrs. Susan Dillow, North Central U.S.A. Region

Mr. Bob Shea, Northwest U.S.A. Region

Rev. Marcos Vinicio Pedrosa Monteiro, South America Region

Mr.Wes Harper, South Central U.S.A. Region

Mrs. Carol Anne Eby, Southeast U.S.A. Region

Rev. Theron Friberg, Southwest U.S.A. Region

Dr. Louie E. Bustle,World Mission Department Director

The Assigned General Superintendent in Jurisdiction (Adviser)

901.5. Nazarene Institutions of Higher Education

INTERNATIONAL HIGHER EDUCATION COUNCIL

Africa Region

Africa Nazarene School of Extension

Nairobi, Kenya

Africa Nazarene University

Nairobi, Kenya

Institut Biblique Nazareen

Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire,West Africa

Nazarene College of Education

Manzini, Swaziland

358 APPENDIX

Nazarene College of Nursing

Manzini, Swaziland

Nazarene College of Theology

Siteki, Swaziland

Nazarene Theological College

Honeydew, Republic of South Africa

Nazarene Theological College of Central Africa

Lilongwe, Malawi, Central Africa

Nigeria Nazarene Theological College

Abak, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria,West Africa

Seminario Nazareno em Mozambique

Maputo, Mozambique

Asia-Pacific Region

Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary

Manila, Philippines

Indonesia Nazarene Theological College

Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Japan Christian Junior College

Chiba Shi, Japan

Japan Nazarene Theological Seminary

Tokyo, Japan

Korea Nazarene University

Chonan City, Choong Nam, Korea

Luzon Nazarene Bible College

Baguio City, Philippines

Melanesia Nazarene Bible College

Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea

Nazarene Nursing College

Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea

Nazarene Theological College

Thornlands, Queensland, Australia

South Pacific Nazarene Theological College

Suva, Fiji Islands

Southeast Asia Nazarene Bible College

Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Taiwan Nazarene Theological College

Peitou, Taiwan, Republic of China

Visayan Nazarene Bible College

Cebu City, Philippines

APPENDIX 359

Caribbean Region

Caribbean Nazarene College

Santa Cruz, Trinidad

Seminaire Theologique Nazareen d’Haiti

Petion-Ville, Haiti

Seminario Nazareno Dominicano

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Seminario Teologico Nazareno Cubano

Ciudad Habana, Cuba

Eurasia Region

CIS Education Centers

Moscow, Russia

Eastern Mediterranean Nazarene Bible College

Beirut, Lebanon

European Nazarene College

Busingen, Switzerland

Nazarene Nurses Training College

Washim, Maharashtra, India

Nazarene Theological College-Manchester

Manchester, England

South Asia Nazarene Bible College

Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Mexico and Central America Region

Instituto Biblico Nazareno

Coban, Guatemala

Seminario Nazareno de las Americas

San Jose, Costa Rica

Seminario Nazareno Mexicano, A.C.

Mexico City D.F., Mexico

Seminario Teologico Nazareno de Guatemala

Guatemala City, Guatemala

South America Region

Brazil Nazarene College

Campinas, Brazil

Facultad Teologico Nazareno

Campinas, Brazil

360 APPENDIX

Instituto Biblico Nazareno

Bagua Chica, Amazonas, Peru

Seminario Biblico Nazareno

Santiago, Chile

Seminario Teologico Nazareno

Chiclayo, Peru

Seminario Teologico Nazareno de Bolivia

LaPaz, Bolivia

Seminario Teologico Nazareno Del Cono Sur

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Seminario Teologico Nazareno Sudamericano

Quito, Ecuador

U.S.A./Canada Council of Education

Canadian Nazarene University College

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Eastern Nazarene College

Quincy, Massachusetts, U.S.A.

MidAmerica Nazarene University

Olathe, Kansas, U.S.A.

Mount Vernon Nazarene University

Mount Vernon, Ohio, U.S.A.

Nazarene Bible College

Colorado Springs, Colorado, U.S.A.

Nazarene Theological Seminary

Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.A.

Northwest Nazarene University

Nampa, Idaho, U.S.A.

Olivet Nazarene University

Bourbonnais, Illinois, U.S.A.

Point Loma Nazarene University

San Diego, California, U.S.A.

Southern Nazarene University

Bethany, Oklahoma, U.S.A.

Trevecca Nazarene University

Nashville, Tennessee, U.S.A.

APPENDIX 361

CHAPTER III

902. ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES

902.1. Annuities

The General Board and institutions of the church are prohibited

from using annuity gifts until such have become

their valid property by the death of the annuitant. Such

gifts are to be carefully invested in funds usually accepted

as trust funds by the courts of the land. (2005)

902.2. Debt

No institution may incur any debt on the strength of

pledges. Pledges are not to be counted as assets. (2005)

902.3. Bible Societies

(1) Approved Bible Societies

The Church of the Nazarene places special emphasis upon

the Bible as the written revelation of God, and we believe

that it is the only effective agency to win new followers to

Jesus Christ, and because there is an increasing need for

more copies of the Scripture; therefore be it Resolved,

First, That the General Assembly express its hearty approval

of and sympathy with the work of the United Bible

Societies around the world.

Second, That we endorse the observance of Universal

Bible Sunday, directing attention on this day to the essential

place the Scriptures should occupy in the lives of Christian

people.

Third, That the General Assembly authorize its general

secretary and director of Sunday School Ministries Department,

or any alternates who may be appointed, to attend

during the ensuing quadrennium each annual session of the

Advisory Council of the American Bible Society held in December

at Bible House in New York City.

362 APPENDIX

(2) Offering for Bible Societies

Resolved, That the Church of the Nazarene designate the

second Sunday of December of each year as a special time

for the presentation of this important matter and the taking

of an offering for each nation’s Bible Society. The Bible Society

chosen shall be members (associate or full), of the worldwide

fellowship of the United Bible Societies or in the absence

of a member society, such other Bible Society designated by

the district; also that a special effort be made to have all of

our churches take part in such an offering. (2005)

NOTE: It is understood that our churches in Scotland

send their contributions to the National Bible Society in

Scotland; the churches in England, to the British and Foreign

Bible Society; and the churches in Canada, to the Canadian

Bible Society. The churches of the United States forward

contributions to our denominational Headquarters,

6401 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64131-1213, for the support

of the American Bible Society.

902.4. Dramatics

WHEREAS, There is danger in the excessive use of dramatic

productions in our schools and colleges; be it

Resolved, That this practice be carefully restricted and

greater emphasis be placed on the spiritual exercise that

leads to sound Christian experience. (1997)

902.5. Manual Editing Resolution

Be it Resolved, That the members of the Manual Editing

Committee appointed by the Board of General Superintendents

be and they are hereby constituted the Manual Editing

Committee; and be it further

Resolved, That the Manual Editing Committee be and

they are hereby authorized to harmonize conflicting statements

that may appear in the record of the actions of the

Twenty-sixth General Assembly in regard to changes in the

Manual; and also to make such editorial changes in the text

of the present Manual as will correct the language without

altering the meaning; also to make such editorial changes in

APPENDIX 363

the copy of the newly adopted matter as may serve to correct

the language without altering the meaning.

The Manual Editing Committee is hereby further authorized

to substitute plainly understood words or expressions

for confusing words or expressions, to revise the numbering

of chapters, paragraphs, sections, and other divisions of the

Manual in harmony with any actions adopted by the Twenty-

sixth General Assembly, and also to prepare the index in

harmony with any actions adopted by the Twenty-sixth

General Assembly.

Further resolved that the supervision of all translations of

the Manual shall be a duty of the Manual Editing Committee.

(2005)

902.6. Manual Appendix Review

Any item remaining in Chapters III and IV of the Appendix

for three quadrennia without reconsideration shall be

referred by the Committee on Reference to the proper committee

of the General Assembly for the same consideration

as a resolution to the General Assembly. (2001)

902.7. Tenure of Committees

Any special committee created for any purpose, unless

specified otherwise, will cease to exist at the following General

Assembly. (2005)

902.8. General Assembly Business

(From the 2005 Delegate’s Handbook)

RESOLUTIONS AND PETITIONS

Rule 26. Presentation. District assemblies, a committee

authorized by the district assembly, regional councils, the

General Board or any of its recognized departments, official

boards or commissions of the general church, the General

Nazarene Missions International Convention, the Global

Nazarene Youth International Convention, or five or more

members of the General Assembly, may present resolutions

and petitions for the consideration of the General Assembly

in accordance with the following rules:

364 APPENDIX

a. Resolutions and petitions shall be presented in duplicate

and typewritten on the official form furnished by

the general secretary.

b. Each resolution or petition presented will include the

subject and the name of the delegates or group making

the presentation.

c. Proposals for changes in the church Manual must be

presented in writing and shall give paragraph and section

of Manual to be affected and the text of the

change, should it be adopted.

d. They shall be presented to the general secretary no

later than December 1 prior to the convening of the

assembly to be numbered and sent to the Reference

Committee for reference in accordance with Rule 37

and Manual 305.1, and in order that they may be

printed in the Delegate’s Handbook.

Rule 27. Resolutions and Petitions for Late Reference.

With the consent of the assembly, resolutions, petitions,

and other items for consideration by the assembly

may be presented to the general secretary for reference to a

legislative committee no later than June 1 prior to the convening

of the assembly, with the exception of the general/

global conventions which meet just prior to the General Assembly.

Rule 28. Manual Changes. Resolutions adopted by the

General Assembly shall be submitted to the Manual Editing

Committee to be harmonized with other Manual provisions.

902.9. Restrictions on Membership—

General Church Boards

No person shall serve on more than one of the following

boards: General Board, Nazarene Theological Seminary

(U.S.A.) Trustees, Nazarene Bible College (U.S.A.) Trustees.

(2001)

902.10. Historic Sites and Landmarks

District and regional assemblies may designate places of

historic significance within their boundaries as Historic

Sites. At least fifty years must elapse after a place achieves

APPENDIX 365

historic significance before it is recognized as a Historic

Site. A Historic Site does not have to have original buildings

or structures surviving in order to be designated. The assembly

secretary shall report newly designated Historic

Sites to the general secretary, reporting the action taken, information

on the site, and the site’s significance.

District and regional assemblies can ask the General Assembly

to designate places of denomination-wide significance

as Historic Landmarks. Nominations are restricted to

previously designated Historic Sites. The general superintendents

or a committee appointed for the purpose of screening

nominations must concur with a nomination before it receives

General Assembly consideration.

The general secretary shall keep a register of Historic Sites

and Landmarks and publicize them appropriately (paragraph

326.2). (1997)

366 APPENDIX

CHAPTER IV

903. CURRENT MORAL AND SOCIAL ISSUES

903.1. Organ Donation

The Church of the Nazarene encourages its members who

do not object personally to support donor/recipient anatomical

organs through living wills and trusts.

Further, we appeal for a morally and ethically fair distribution

of organs to those qualified to receive them. (2001)

903.2. Discrimination

The Church of the Nazarene reiterates its historic position

of Christian compassion for people of all races. We believe

that God is the Creator of all people, and that of one

blood are all people created.

We believe that each individual, regardless of race, color,

gender, or creed, should have equality before law, including

the right to vote, equal access to educational opportunities,

to all public facilities, and to the equal opportunity, according

to one’s ability, to earn a living free from any job or economic

discrimination.

We urge our churches everywhere to continue and strengthen

programs of education to promote racial understanding

and harmony. We also feel that the scriptural admonition of

Hebrews 12:14 should guide the actions of our people. We

urge that each member of the Church of the Nazarene

humbly examine his or her personal attitudes and actions

toward others, as a first step in achieving the Christian goal

of full participation by all in the life of the church and the

entire community.

We reemphasize our belief that holiness of heart and life

is the basis for right living. We believe that Christian charity

between racial groups or gender will come when the

hearts of people have been changed by complete submission

APPENDIX 367

to Jesus Christ, and that the essence of true Christianity

consists in loving God with one’s heart, soul, mind, and

strength, and one’s neighbor as oneself. (2005)

903.3. Abuse of the Unempowered

The Church of the Nazarene abhors abuse of any person

of any age or sex and calls for increased public awareness

through its publications and by providing appropriate educational

information.

The Church of the Nazarene reaffirms its historical policy

that all those who act under the authority of the Church are

prohibited from sexual misconduct and other forms of abuse

of the unempowered. When placing people in positions of

trust or authority, the Church of the Nazarene will presume

that past conduct is usually a reliable indicator of likely future

behavior. The Church will withhold positions of authority

from people who have previously used a position of trust

or authority to engage in sexual misconduct or abuse of the

unempowered, unless appropriate steps are taken to prevent

future wrongful behavior. Expressions of remorse by a

guilty person shall not be considered sufficient to overcome

the presumption that future wrongful conduct is likely, unless

the expressions of remorse are accompanied by an observable

change of conduct for a sufficient length of time, to

indicate that a repeat of the wrongful misconduct is unlikely.

(1997)

903.4. Responsibility to the Poor

The Church of the Nazarene believes that Jesus commanded

His disciples to have a special relationship to the

poor of this world; that Christ’s Church ought, first, to keep

itself simple and free from an emphasis on wealth and extravagance

and, second, to give itself to the care, feeding,

clothing, and shelter of the poor. Throughout the Bible and

in the life and example of Jesus, God identifies with and assists

the poor, the oppressed, and those in society who cannot

speak for themselves. In the same way, we, too, are

called to identify with and to enter into solidarity with the

poor and not simply to offer charity from positions of com-

368 APPENDIX

fort. We hold that compassionate ministry to the poor includes

acts of charity as well as a struggle to provide opportunity,

equality, and justice for the poor. We further believe

that the Christian responsibility to the poor is an essential

aspect of the life of every believer who seeks a faith that

works through love.

Finally, we understand Christian holiness to be inseparable

from ministry to the poor in that it drives the Christian

beyond his or her own individual perfection and toward the

creation of a more just and equitable society and world. Holiness,

far from distancing believers from the desperate economic

needs of people in our world, motivates us to place

our means in the service of alleviating such need and to adjust

our wants in accordance with the needs of others. (2001)

(Exodus 23:11; Deuteronomy 15:7; Psalms 41:1; 82:3;

Proverbs 19:17; 21:13; 22:9; Jeremiah 22:16; Matthew 19:21;

Luke 12:33; Acts 20:35; 2 Corinthians 9:6; Galatians 2:10)

903.5. Women in Ministry

The Church of the Nazarene supports the right of women

to use their God-given spiritual gifts within the church, affirms

the historic right of women to be elected and appointed

to places of leadership within the Church of the Nazarene,

including the offices of both elder and deacon.

The purpose of Christ’s redemptive work is to set God’s

creation free from the curse of the Fall. Those who are “in

Christ” are new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). In this redemptive

community, no human being is to be regarded as

inferior on the basis of social status, race, or gender (Galatians

3:26-28).

Acknowledging the apparent paradox created by Paul’s instruction

to Timothy (1 Timothy 2:11-12) and to the church

in Corinth (1 Corinthians 14:33-34), we believe interpreting

these passages as limiting the role of women in ministry

presents serious conflicts with specific passages of scripture

that commend female participation in spiritual leadership

roles (Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:17-18; 21:8-9; Romans 16:1, 3, 7;

Philippians 4:2-3), and violates the spirit and practice of the

Wesleyan-holiness tradition. Finally, it is incompatible with

APPENDIX 369

the character of God presented throughout Scripture, especially

as revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. (2001)

903.6. The Church and Human Freedom

Concerned that our great Christian heritage be understood

and safeguarded, we remind our people that both political

and religious freedom rest upon biblical concepts of

the dignity of humankind as God’s creation and the sanctity

of one’s own individual conscience. We encourage our people

to participate in appropriate activity in support of these biblical

concepts and to be ever vigilant against threats to this

precious freedom.

These freedoms are constantly in danger, therefore we

urge election of persons to public office at all levels of government

who believe in these principles and who are answerable

only to God and the constituency that elected them

when carrying out a public trust. Further, we resist any invasion

of these principles by religious groups seeking special

favors.

We believe that the role of the Church is to be prophetic

and constantly to remind the people that “righteousness exalts

a nation” (Proverbs 14:34). (2005)

903.7. War and Military Service

The Church of the Nazarene believes that the ideal world

condition is that of peace and that it is the full obligation of

the Christian Church to use its influence to seek such means

as will enable the nations of the earth to be at peace and to

devote all of its agencies for the propagation of the message

of peace. However, we realize that we are living in a world

where evil forces and philosophies are actively in conflict

with these Christian ideals and that there may arise such international

emergencies as will require a nation to resort to

war in defense of its ideals, its freedom, and its existence.

While thus committed to the cause of peace, the Church of

the Nazarene recognizes that the supreme allegiance of the

Christian is due to God, and therefore it does not endeavor to

bind the conscience of its members relative to participation

in military service in case of war, although it does believe

370 APPENDIX

that the individual Christian as a citizen is bound to give

service to his or her own nation in all ways that are compatible

with the Christian faith and the Christian way of life.

We also recognize that, as an outgrowth of the Christian

teaching and of the Christian desire for peace on earth, there

are among our membership individuals who have conscientious

objection to certain forms of military service. Therefore

the Church of the Nazarene claims for conscientious objectors

within its membership the same exemptions and considerations

regarding military service as are accorded members

of recognized noncombatant religious organizations.

The Church of the Nazarene, through its general secretary,

shall set up a register whereon those persons who supply

evidence of being members of the Church of the Nazarene

may record their convictions as conscientious objectors.

(2005)

903.8. Creation

The Church of the Nazarene believes in the biblical account

of creation (“In the beginning God created the heavens

and the earth . . .”—Genesis 1:1).We oppose any godless

interpretation of the origin of the universe and of humankind.

However, the church accepts as valid all scientifically

verifiable discoveries in geology and other natural phenomena,

for we firmly believe that God is the Creator. (Articles I.

1., V. 5.1, VII.) (2005)

903.9. Evidence of Baptism with the Holy Spirit

The Church of the Nazarene believes that the Holy Spirit

bears witness to the new birth and to the subsequent work

of heart cleansing, or entire sanctification, through the infilling

of the Holy Spirit.

We affirm that the one biblical evidence of entire sanctification,

or the infilling of the Holy Spirit, is the cleansing of

the heart by faith from original sin as stated in Acts 15:8-9:

“God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by

giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He made

no distinction between us and them, for he purified their

hearts by faith.” And this cleansing is manifested by the fruit

APPENDIX 371

of the Spirit in a holy life. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love,

joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness

and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful

nature with its passions and desires” (Galatians 5:22-24).

To affirm that even a special or any alleged physical evidence,

or “prayer language,” is evidence of the baptism with

the Spirit is contrary to the biblical and historic position of

the Church. (1997)

903.10. Pornography

Pornography is an evil that is undermining the morals of

society. Printed and visual materials that degrade the dignity

of humankind and are contrary to the scriptural view of

the sanctity of marriage and the wholesomeness of sex are

to be abhorred.

We believe that we are created in the image of God and

that pornography degrades, exploits, and abuses men,

women, and children. The pornography industry is motivated

by greed, is the enemy of family life, has led to crimes of violence,

poisons minds, and defiles the body.

To honor God as Creator and Redeemer, we urge active

opposition to pornography by every legitimate means and

the making of positive efforts to reach for Christ those who

are involved in this evil. (1997)

903.11. Christian Modesty of Dress

Recognizing the increasing trend toward immodesty of

dress in public places, we remind our people of the Christian

concept of modesty as an expression of holiness and urge that

Christian modesty be exercised at all times in public. (2005)

903.12. Substance Abuse

The Church of the Nazarene continues to strongly object

to substance abuse as a social malignancy. We encourage

church members to take an active and highly visible role

and to participate in education relative to substance abuse

and the incompatibility of such use with a Christian experience

and a holy life. (2001)

372 APPENDIX

903.13. Alcohol Desocialization

The Church of the Nazarene publicly supports the desocialization

of alcohol consumption.We encourage civic, labor,

business, professional, social, voluntary, and private agencies

and organizations to assist in such desocialization to

counteract the advertising and media promotion of the social

acceptability of the “alcohol culture.” (2001)

903.14. Tobacco Use and Advertising

The Church of the Nazarene urges its people to continue

to speak out against the use of tobacco, both as a health hazard

and a social evil. Our historic stand is based on God’s

Word, where we are admonished to maintain our bodies as

temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:19-20).

Our stand opposing the use of tobacco in all its forms is

strongly supported by medical evidence, documented by numerous

social, governmental, and health agencies around

the world. They have demonstrated that it is a major health

hazard, and have shown conclusively that its use may produce

changes in normal bodily physiology, both serious and

permanent.

We recognize that our young people are greatly influenced

by the millions of dollars that are spent on tobacco advertising,

and its twin evil, beverage alcohol.We endorse a ban on

all advertising of tobacco and beverage alcohol in magazines,

on billboards, and on radio and television. (2001)

903.15. HIV/AIDS

(Human Immunodeficiency Virus/

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)

Since 1981, our world has been confronted with a most

devastating disease known as HIV/AIDS. In view of the

deep need of HIV/AIDS sufferers, Christian compassion motivates

us to become accurately informed about HIV/AIDS.

Christ would have us to find a way to communicate His love

and concern for these sufferers in any and every country of

the world. (2001)

APPENDIX 373

Constitution

27 The Covenant of

Christian Character

(General Rules)

32 Amendments to the

Constitution

The Covenant of Christian Conduct

34.5 The Christian Life–

Administering

Sacraments

36 Sanctity of Human

Life

38-8.1, 38.4 Christian Stewardship

Local Government

100 Local Church Organization

100.1 Multicongregational

Church

102.4 Use of Local Church

Name

104 Local Church Property

Restrictions

105 Local Church Mergers

106.1 Approval for Disorganized

Church

106.2-6.3 Jurisdiction of Local

Church Property

107.1 Church Membership

Procedures

109.1 Relocation of Church

Members

113.2 Absentee Voting in

Church Elections

113.11 Alternative Church

Board/Committee

Structure

115.4 New Pastor’s Remuneration

120-20.1 Copastors

121 The Church/Pastor

Relationship

122 Regular Church/Pastoral

Review

123 Special Church/Pastoral

Review

124.1 Local Church in Crisis

127 Church Board Meetings

128 Frequency of Church

Board Meetings

129.10 Pastor Sabbatical

Leave

129.20 Election of Church

Board Treasurer

129.23 Local Church Auditing

Committee

131 Meaning of Stewardship

134 Jurisdiction of Locally

Licensed Persons

136.2 Remittances of District

Funds

140 Stewardship Committee

152-52.1 Nazarene Childcare/

Schools

154 Local NMI Funds

154.1 Approved Mission

Specials

159 Church-sponsored

Corporation

160.1-60.2 Associates in the Local

Church

District Government

200 District Bounds and

Name

200.1 Creation of New Districts

200.2 Pioneer Area; Phase

1, 2, 3 Districts

200.4 District Mergers

200.6 District Zone Facilitators/

Mission Area

Directors

374 INDEX

SPECIAL REVISION INDEX

Changes authorized by the 2005 General Assembly

are indexed here.

These changes are indexed in numerical order.

203.2 District Superintendent’s

Annual Report

203.11 Election/Reelection of

District Superintendent

203.13 Review of District

Superintendent

203.21 District Assembly Finance

Committee

203.22 District Court of Appeals

203.25 District Auditing

Committee

204.3 Convening a District

Assembly

205.6 District Journal

Records

207 District Superintendent

Vacancy

207.3-7.4 Resignation of District

Staff

208.1 District Superintendent

Responsibility

to Local Churches

208.12 Approval for Paid/Unpaid

Local Church

Associates

212-12.1 Vacancies in Boards/

Committees

213 District Superintendent

as Chairperson

219 Election of District

Treasurer

222.6-22.7 Advisory Board Duties

Regarding Local

Church Incorporation

222.13 Finance Committee in

between Assemblies

222.17 Jurisdiction of Local

Church Property

222.18 District Auditing

Committee

222.19 District Advisory

Board Annual Report

230.6 District Ministerial

Studies Board Duties

231.3-31.4 District Ministerial

Studies Board Duties

234.1 District Church Properties

Board Duties

235.3 District Assembly Finance

Committee

Duties

General Government

301 Membership of the

General Assembly

305.3 Term of Office for

General Superintendents

307.8 Declaration of Distict

in Crisis

316.1 Special Election of

General Superintendent

Announcement

317.11 Duties of Board of

General Superintendents

320 Ordination of Divorced

Persons

322 Declaration of Phase

3 District in Crisis

325.7-25.9 Duties of the General

Secretary

331.2 General Board Elections

333.1 Vacancies in the General

Board

334.14 Election Processes of

Headquarters officers

334.20 Election Processes of

Headquarters officers

339 Committee on the Interests

of the God-

Called Evangelist

340 International Course

of Study Advisory

Committee

344.2 Duties of the Regions

344.3 Membership of the

Regional Advisory

Council

344.4 Regional Director

344.5 Field Strategy Coordinator

344.6-44.7 Regional Course of

Study Advisory

Committee

INDEX 375

383 Election of Education

Commissioner

Ministry and Christian Service

401.6 Theology of Ordination

402-2.8 The Lay Minister

413.11 Pastor’s Duties Related

to Sacraments of

the Lord’s Supper

413.23 Pastor’s Membership

on Boards and

Committees and

Access to Local

Church Records

415 Restriction for Signing

Checks in Local

Church

421 Supply Pastors

424.3 General Curriculum

Areas for Ministerial

Preparation

424.6 Minister Lifelong

Learning/Reporting

425.1-25.2 General Guidelines

for Preparation for

Christian Ministry

427 District License Not

Leading to Ordination

427.1 Educational Requirements/

Background

Checks for Licensed

Ministers

427.4 District License Not

Leading to Ordination;

Exception of

Time Limit for

Graduation from a

Validated Course of

Study

427.7 Rights and Privileges

of Licensed Minister

428.3 Service Time/Qualifications

for Ordination

as a Deacon

429.3 Service Time/Qualifications

for Ordination

as an Elder

430 Qualifications for

Recognition of Credential

430.2 Inscription of Credential

from Other Denomination

431.1 Minister’s Retirement

Relationship

433 General Regulations–

Definition for Resignation

of Credential

433.8 Minister’s Membership

in a Local

Church

434.2 Unassigned Member

of the Clergy

434.4 Resignation of Credential

434.8 Unassigned Minister

in Secular Employment

435.1 Transfer of Jurisdiction

of a Minister

435.8 Restrictions Related

to Misconduct of a

Minister

Judicial

505.3 District Investigating

Committee

505.5 District Board of

Discipline

509 District Court of

Appeals

510.1 General Court of Appeals

515.1 Guaranty of Rights

Ritual

801 Reception of Church

Members

802 The Sacrament of the

Lord’s Supper

Auxiliary CharterConstitution

Bylaws

810 NYI Charter

811 NMI Constitution

812 Sunday School Ministries

Bylaws

Appendix

902.1 Annuities

902.2 Debt

902.3 Bible Societies

376 INDEX

902.7 Tenure of Committees

903.2 Discrimination

903.6 The Church and Human

Freedom

903.7 War and Military Service

903.8 Creation

903.11 Christian Modesty of

Dress

INDEX 377

INDEX OF VACANT PARAGRAPHS

42-99, 125-26, 161-99, 215, 243-99, 308-13, 345-79, 385-99,

436-99, 516-99, 600-99, 700-99, 807-9, 816-99

Abortion, 36

Abstinence, total, 34.5

Abuse of the unempowered, 903.3

Accusation

Of church member, 504

Of licensed minister, 505

Of ordained minister, 505

Adoption

Article of Faith, 11-12

Adult ministries director

District, 237.1, 237.4, 237.7

Local, 147-47.9, 237.7

Adultery, 27.2, 35.1-35.3, 435.8

Advisory Board, see District Advisory

Board

Africa Nazarene School of Extension

(Kenya), 901.5

Africa Nazarene University (Kenya),

901.5

Age-group councils, see Sunday

School

Age-group directors, see Sunday

School

AIDS, see HIV/AIDS

Alcohol, 34.5

Desocialization, 903.13

Amendments to the church Constitution,

32

American Bible Society, 902.3

Annual meetings

District assembly, 202

General Board, 334.4

Local church, 113.7

See Church meetings

Annuities, 902.1

Apostatize, 7

Appeal

Of church members, 504.1

Of local church, 103.1, 117

Of ministers, 506

Right to, 31.9

Appeals

Financial, kinds prohibited, 156-57

See District Court of Appeals

See General Court of Appeals

See Regional Court of Appeals

Appendix, 900-903

Application for minister’s license,

427.1, 427.3

Appointment, district superintendent,

see District superintendent,

appointment

Appointment, pastoral, see Pastor,

appointment

Apportionment system, 38.2, 130,

154.1, 237.11, 317.12, 334.7-

34.8, 413.17

Area, pioneer, 200.2, 344.2

Arrangements Committee, see General

Assembly

Articles of Faith, 1-22

Articles of Incorporation, see

Church, local

Articles of Organization and Government,

28-31.9

Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological

Seminary (Philippines), 901.5

Assemblies, see District assembly,

and General assembly

Assistants, paid

District, 207.3-7.4, 241

Local, see Associates

Associate pastor, see Associates

Associates, paid

Local church

Approval of, 129.27, 208.12

Securing of, 160

Association of Pentecostal Churches

of America, page 16

Atonement, 16, 26.5

Article of Faith, 6

Auditing Committee

District, 203.25

Local, 129.23

Backsliding, 7

Baptism

Administered by whom, 413.4,

427.7, 428.2, 429.1

378 INDEX

MANUAL INDEX

(Numbers refer to paragraphs.)

Article of Faith, 16

Modes, choice of, 16

Rituals for, 800

Baptism with the Holy Spirit, 13,

903.9

Behavior, 27

Belief, Agreed Statement of, 26

Benevolence, ministerial, see Pensions

Board

Beulah Christian, The, page 17

Bible, see Scriptures, the Holy

Bible societies, 902.3

Boards

District, see

Church Properties Board, District

Discipline, Board of, District

District Advisory Board

District Board of Ministry

Evangelism Board, District

Ministerial Credentials Board,

District

Ministerial Studies Board, District

Sunday School Ministries, District

General, see General Board

General Superintendents, Board

of

Local, see

Church board, local

Discipline, Board of, Local

Stewards, Board of

Sunday School Ministries

Board, Local

Trustees, Board of

Brazil Nazarene College (Brazil),

901.5

Bresee, Phineas F., pages 18-20

British and Foreign Bible Society,

902.3

British Commonwealth

Representation on General Board,

331.2

Budget system, see Apportionment

system

Buildings, see Church buildings

Bylaws for local Sunday Schools,

145.4, 812

Calvary Holiness Church, page 22

Canadian Nazarene University College

(Canada), 901.5

Caravan director

District, 237.3

Local, 148

Caribbean Nazarene College

(Trinidad), 901.5

Charter

NYI, 810

Children’s ministries director

District, 237.1, 237.3, 237.7

Local, 147.1-47.9

Christ, doctrine of

Article of Faith, 2

Atonement, 6, 16, 26.5

Belief on, 7, 9, 26.5

Blood, 6, 13

Death, 2, 6, 17

Eternal, 2

Faith in, 16-17, 26.6

Head of the Church, 400, 429.1

Incarnation, 2

Resurrection, 2

Revealed in Trinity as Son, 1-2,

26.1

Second Coming, 15, 26.8

Article of Faith, 19

Sufferings, 6

Virgin Birth, 2

Christian Action Committee, General,

338

Christian day schools, see Nazarene

schools

Christian education

Approval, 129.27, 152, 160.1,

208.12-8.13, 413.18

Commission, 409.1

Minister, 409

Securing of, 33.5, 160, 424

See Associates, paid

See Sunday School Ministries

Christian family life, see Marriage

and family life

Christian holiness, 13

Christian Holiness Partnership,

page 16

Christian life, the, 33-33.5

Conscientious, 33.2-33.3

Holiness ethic, 33.2-33.3

Holy living, guidelines for, 33.2-

33.3

Principles, biblical, 33.1, 33.4

Christian perfection, 13

INDEX 379

Christian schools, see Nazarene

schools

Church

Church Constitution, 1-32

Article of Faith—The Church, 15

Church of God, 23

Church of the Nazarene, 25

Historical statement, pages 14-

24

Church of the Nazarene (Nigeria),

page 22

Churches severally, 24

General church, 23

Church attendance, 27.1, 39, 113.10,

127, 135-36, 145, 146

Church board, local

Chairperson, 127, 412, 413.23

Duties, 113.11-13.12, 113.14, 115,

115.2, 115.4, 117, 119-34,

402.2-2.7, 410, 426-26.3,

426.5, 427.1-27.3, 428.3,

429.3, 434.7

Meetings, 128

Church buildings

Advice on, 103-3.1, 104.2, 208.2,

234.3

Church Constitution

Amendments, 32

Articles of Faith, 1-22

Articles of Organization and Government,

28-31.9

Church, the, 23-27

Preamble, page 26

Church government flow chart, page

27

Church letters

Commendation, 111.1, 413.22,

813.2

Release, 112.2, 413.22, 813.3

Transfer, 111, 413.22, 813.4-13.5

Church, local

Annual meetings, see Church

meetings

Articles of Incorporation, 102.4

Change of name, 101.1

Church/Pastor relationship

Local church in crisis, 124-24.1

Planning session, church board

and pastor, 121

Regular church/pastoral review,

122-22.1

Resolving differences, 121.1

Sabbatical leave, 129.10

Salary, 38.3, 115.4, 129.8-29.9

Special church/pastoral review,

123

Constitution on, 29

Crisis in, 124-24.1

Finances, 28.2, 129.20-29.23, 136

Liability limited, 115.4

Prohibition of appeals, 156-57

Records, 129.23

Membership, 29, 107-9.4

Associate, 108-8.1

Commendation, 111.1, 413.22,

813.2

Committee, 107.1, 108.1-10.8

Conditions of, 26

Inactive, 109-9.4, 112.3, 133

Letters, see Church letters

Removal, 112.1-12.3, 133, 813.2-

13.3

Transfer, 111, 413.22, 813.4-13.5

Merger, 105

Name, church, 101. 102.4, 102.6

Officers, 39, 113.10, 127, 135-36,

145, 146

Organization and disorganization,

100, 106-6.5, 208.1, 433.12

Pastor/church relationship, see

Church/Pastor relationship

Pastoral relations

Call, 115-19.1

Election, 115, 122-23

Moving expenses, 115.4

President of, 102.3, 113.5, 413.23

Property

Disposition of, 106.1-6.5

Restrictions, 103-4.4

Signatories on accounts, 106.5

Title to, 102-2.3, 102.6, 234.2

See Real estate

Secretary, 129.19, 135-35.7

Treasurer, 129.20, 136-36.6

Year

Church, 114

Statistical, 114.1

Church meetings, 113-13.15

Annual, 113-13.15

Elections by, 113.9-13.13

Notice and time, 113.4, 113.7

Officers of, 113.5-13.6

Reports to, 113.8

Voting, 107, 113.1-13.2

380 INDEX

Definition, 113

Special

Call and notice, 113.4, 113.14-

13.15, 115

Continue church/pastoral relationship,

122-23

Fill vacancies, 139, 144

Real estate transactions, 104

Church members, see Members,

church

Church membership class, see Members,

church, class for

Church Membership Committee,

Evangelism and Duties, 110-

10.8

Church name, use of, 102.4, 102.6,

159

Church of the Nazarene, see Church

Church Properties Board, District

Appeals from, 103.1

Duties, 103, 104, 234-34.5

Election, 203.18

Members, 203.18, 233

Church regions, 344

Church sites, see Church buildings,

advice on

Church-type missions, 100.1, 107.2,

138.1, 208.5

Church year

Administrative/Assembly year, 114

Statistical year, 114.1

CIS Education Centers (Russia),

901.5

Civil government, 903.6

Cleanse from indwelling sin, 27

Clergy, member of the, 433

Cloning, human, 36

Colleges/Universities

Dramatics, 902.4

Representation on General Board,

331.3, 332.2

See International Board of Education,

382

Commissions

General Assembly Commission,

302

Related to General Board, 334.19

Committees

Education, see Sunday School

Ministries Board

General Assembly Arrangements

Committee, 304-4.2

General Christian Action Committee,

338

Interests of the God-called Evangelist,

339

Investigating Committee, 222.3

Membership Committee, Evangelism

and Church, 110-10.8

Nominating Committee

District, 202.1

Local, 113.9

Communion, see Lord’s Supper

Communion service

General Assembly, 304.2

Ritual, 802

Computers, 34.1

Conduct, see Behavior

Conscientious Christian, 33.2-33.3

Constitutions

Church, see Church Constitution

NMI

district, 811

general, 811

local, 811

NYI, see Charter, NYI

Sunday School Bylaws, 812

Continuing Lay Training, 145.9,

237.1, 237.9

Contributions, 27.1

Corporation, see General Boards

(corporations) and Incorporation

Corporation, church-sponsored, 159

Councils

Adult Ministries, 237.4

Children’s Ministries, 237.3

NYI, 150

Regional Advisory Council, 344.3

Course of study

International Advisory Committee,

340, 424.1-24.2, 424.5

Minister’s, 424

Regional Advisory Committee,

344.6-44.7, 424.1

Sourcebook for Ministerial Development,

424.4

Court, see Judicial Administration

Court of Appeals

District

Duties, 509

Election, 203.22

Membership, 203.22, 509

Rules of procedure, 508

Vacancies, 212

INDEX 381

See Judicial Administration

General

Duties, 510, 513

Jurisdiction, 31.8

Membership, 31.8, 305.7, 510

Per diem, 512

Records, 325.4, 513

Vacancies, 317.6, 511

See Judicial Administration

Regional

Duties, 506, 507.2, 514

Jurisdiction, 514

Membership, 514

Rules of procedure, 508

Vacancies, 514

See Judicial Administration

Courtesy enjoined, 27.1

Covenant of Christian Character,

The, 27

Covenant of Christian Conduct, The,

33-41, 413.12

Cradle Roll, 237.3, 812, Article I,

Section 1(a)

Creation, 903.8

Credential

Deacon’s, see Minister, ordained,

credentials

Elder’s, see Minister, ordained,

credentials

Status, definition of, 433

Cursing, 27.2

Dancing, 27.2, 34.4

Day schools, see Nazarene schools

Deacon, see Minister, ordained

Deaconess, 406

Debt, local church, 103-4, 902.2

Dedications, church, 806

Delegates

District assembly

Election, 113.13

Ratio of representation, 201.1-

1.2

Right to elect safeguarded, 28.2

District conventions

NMI, 811, Article VI, Section 2

NYI, 810, District Ministry

Plan, Article IV, Section 3

Sunday School Ministries, 237.5,

812, Article VII, Section 1

General Assembly

Alternate, 31.2, 203.23

Basis of representation, 31.1-

31.2, 301-1.3

Credentials, 31.3

Election, 31.2, 203.23

Eligibility forfeited, 301.4-1.5

Faithful attendance expected,

203.23

General/Global conventions

NMI, 811, Article VI, Section 3

NYI, 810, Article IV, Section 3

Sunday School Ministries, 812,

Article VII, Section 2

Departments/Committees of General

Board, 334.20

Duties and powers, 334

Depravity, 5, 7, 13, 26.3

Destiny, 26.4

Article of Faith, 20, 22

Discipline

Board of

District, 505-5.9, 506-7.1

Local, 504-4.1

Church member, 504

Minister, 505

Purpose, 500

See Judicial Administration

Discrimination, racial, see Racial

discrimination

Dishonesty, 27.2

District Advisory Board

Chairperson, 213, 221.2

Duties and powers, 100.1, 101-1.1,

102.1, 102.4, 104.2, 105,

106-6.2, 106.5, 113.11,

114.1, 115, 116, 124.1,

129.20, 152-52.1, 156, 160.8,

200.1-0.5, 203.13, 203.25,

208.3, 208.6-8.7, 208.13,

208.15, 208.17, 212.2, 222-

25, 307.5-7.7, 427.1, 427.3-

27.5, 428.3, 429.3, 432,

433.7, 433.11, 434.4, 435.1,

435.6-35.7, 504.2-5.6, 505.8-

506, 515.5

Election, 203.14, 221

Ex-officio members of district assembly,

201, 221.3

Finance Committee (interim),

222.13

Membership, 203.14, 213, 221,

221.2

Vacancies, 221.1

382 INDEX

District assembly

Bounds and name, 200

Duties and powers

Authorizes commissions, credentials,

licenses, and transfers,

129.13-29.15, 203.3-3.10,

222.10-22.11, 814

Authorizes incorporation of District

Advisory Board, 222.5

Controls church property, when,

106.2, 106.5

Elects general assembly delegates,

203.23

Elects officers, boards, committees

203.11-3.23, 206, 216,

219, 221, 226, 229, 232-33,

235-37, 241, 509

Hears reports, 203.2-3.3, 220.2,

235.1, 418, 427.8, 433.9

Records proceedings, 205-5.6

Representation, 30, 201-1.2

Transacts other business,

203.28-3.29

Meeting, time of, 202, 204.3

Membership, 30, 113.13, 201-1.2

Year

Church, 114

Statistical, 114.1

District Board of Ministry, 203.17

District boundaries, 200

District centers, approval of, 222.9,

319

District chaplaincy director, 236

District, crisis in, 200.2, 307.8, 322

District disorganization, 242

District mergers, 200.4

District minister’s license records,

325.7

District Ministry Plan, see NYI

District mission area directors, 200.6

District organization, 200.1

District paid assistants, 207.3-7.4,

241

District phase, 200.2

District property, 204, 222.5-22.9,

242.1

District secretary

Assistants, 218

Duties, 31.3, 203.26, 217-17.9,

403.2, 413.13, 427.6, 430.1,

433.6-33.7, 814

Election, 216, 222.16

Ex-officio member of district assembly,

201, 216.2

Vacancy, 216.1

District superintendent

Amenability, 208.1, 214

Appointment, 206-7, 307.6

Constitution on, 28-28.2

Duties and powers, district, 33.4,

203.2

Annual report, 203.2

Arranges for assembly, 202

Fills vacancies, 208.6-8.7, 209-

12, 216.1, 219.1, 226.1,

229.1, 237

Holds ex-officio relationship,

213-13.1

Presides at district assembly,

when, 211, 307.4

Serves as chairperson of boards

and committees, 213-14,

221.2, 227.1

Duties and powers, local

Approve pastoral associates,

paid or unpaid, 208.12

Church in crisis, 124-24.1, 208.3

Have oversight, 100, 104, 106.1,

113.5, 128, 208-10.1, 426.1-

26.4

Make pastoral arrangements,

115-17, 119, 124, 129.2,

208.9-8.10, 209, 307.5

Duties and powers, other

Acts in disciplinary matters,

435.2-35.3

Election, 203.11-3.13, 206

Vacancy, 207-7.1, 307.6, 321

Assistants, paid, 207.2-7.3,

241

Temporary incapacitation,

207.2

District treasurer

Amenability, 220.2

Duties, 220-20.2, 413.17

Election, 219, 222.15

Ex-officio member of district assembly,

201, 219.2

Vacancy, 219.1

District zone facilitators, 200.6

Divine healing

Article of Faith, 18

Divisions, see Departments

INDEX 383

Divorce, 35.2-35.4, 320, 427.1, 428.3,

429.3

Dramatics, 902.4

Dress, pride/modesty in, 27.2, 903.11

Drugs, 34.5-34.6, 903.13-3.14

See Substance abuse

Easter Offering, 155.2

Eastern Mediterranean Nazarene

Bible College (Lebanon), 901.5

Eastern Nazarene College (U.S.A.),

901.5

Editor, Holiness Today, see Holiness

Today editor

Education, see Higher Education

Education Committee, local, 145

Elder, see Minister, ordained

Emeritus general superintendent,

see General superintendent,

emeritus relationship

Entertainments, 27.2, 34.1

Entire sanctification, see Sanctification,

entire

Eternal punishment, see Punishment,

eternal

European Nazarene College

(Switzerland), 901.5

Euthanasia, 36

Evangelism and Church Growth Division,

see USACanada Mission

Evangelism Department

Evangelism and Church Membership

Committee, see Church

Membership Committee

Evangelism Board, District, 203.19,

232-32.1

Evangelist, 408-8.7

Report, annual, 203.3

Support, 129.11

Evil, 5-5.3, 27.2

Facultad Teologico Nazareno

(Brazil), 901.5

False witness, 27.2

Fellowship of Christians, 24, 27.3

Field strategy coordinator, 344.5

Finance Department, see Headquarters

Financial Office

Finances, 329.2, 902.1-2.2

Appeals prohibited, 156-57

Monthly reports from district and

institutions, 329.7

Pastor’s limitations, 415

See Debt, local church

Foreign missions, see World Mission

Department

Foreword, pages 5-6

Forms

Bills of charges

Trial of licensed minister, 815

Trial of ordained minister, 815

Trial of layperson, 815

District assembly use

Certificates, commissions, licenses,

and transfers, 814

Local church use

Church letters, licenses, recommendations,

and certificates,

813-13.6

Foundation, Church of the Nazarene,

38.4

President, 301

Free agency, see Grace, prevenient

Freewill offerings, 38.1

Fullness of the Spirit, 13, 903.9

Funeral ritual, 804

Gambling, 34.2, 338.1

Gene therapy, 36

General Assembly

Arrangements Committee, 304-4.2

Authorized, 31.1-31.9, 300

Constitutional changes, 32

Delegates and/or members, 31.1-

31.2, 203.23, 301.1-1.3

Eligibility, 301.4-1.5

District representation, 301.1-1.3

Duties and powers, 31.9, 305

Approves:

General Assembly program,

304.2

Withdrawal of local churches,

104.4

Determines:

District assembly powers and

duties, 30

District boundaries, 30, 200

General Court of Appeals jurisdiction,

31.8

Elects:

General Assembly officers,

300.2

General Board, 305.6, 331-32

General Court of Appeals,

305.7, 510

General superintendents,

305.2, 306

384 INDEX

General superintendents,

emeritus relationship, 305.3

General superintendents, retired

relationship, 305.4-5.5

General superintendents,

when, 31.5

Presiding officers, when, 31.6

Receives:

Assembly journals, 203.26,

217.7

Meetings, 302-3

Minutes, 325.8

Organization and procedure, 31.4,

31.6-31.7, 300.1-301, 307.2,

325.1, 327

Powers, limitation of, 28.2, 31.9

Quorum required, 31.4

Resolutions and petitions, 305.1,

902.8

Rules of order, 31.7, 327

General Board of the Church of the

Nazarene

Determines:

World Evangelism Fund, 317.12,

334.7-34.8

Elects:

Department directors, 334.20

General secretary, 334.14

General treasurer, 334.14

Nazarene Publishing House

president, 334.17

Fills vacancies, 324.2, 334.22

Fixes salaries:

Department directors, 334.21

Nazarene Publishing House

president, 334.21

Incorporated, 330

Meetings, 334.4-34.5

Members, 305.6, 330-30.1, 331-32

Organization and procedure,

307.2, 330.2-30.3, 334.3

Receives reports, 329.5, 334.12-

34.13

Region representation, 331.2,

332.1

Vacancies, 333-33.1

General Boards (corporations)

Nazarene Publishing House,

317.9, 334.16, 337

Pensions Board, 336-36.1

General Rules (see Covenant of

Christian Character, The)

General secretary

Amenability, 324.3

Assistants, 327.1

Duties, 31.3, 217.3, 316-16.1, 325-

27, 513

Election, 324

Ex-officio member of:

General Assembly, 301, 324.1

General Assembly Arrangements

Committee, 304

General Christian Action Committee,

338

Ex-officio secretary of General

Board, 330.2

Vacancy, 317.5, 324.2, 334.22

General superintendent

Amenability, 307.11-7.13

Constitution on, 28

Duties and powers, district, 33.4

Election of district superintendent,

203.12-3.13

Fills vacancy in district superintendency,

207-7.2, 307.6-7.7

Issues certificates, commissions,

and licenses, 427.6, 430.1,

433.6

Presides at district assemblies,

307.4

Sets time for district assembly,

202

Duties and powers, general

Ordains ministers, 307.3, 433.5

Presides at General Assembly,

31.6, 300.1, 307.2

Presides at General Board meetings,

307.2, 334.3

Serves on Board of General Superintendents,

see General

Superintendents, Board of

Duties and powers, local

Assists in pastoral relations,

307.5

Hears appeals, 117

Organizes local churches, 100

Presides at annual and special

meetings, 113.5, 307.9

Duties and powers, other

Supervises entire church, 307.1

Election, 31.5, 305.2, 306

Emeritus relationship, 301, 305.3,

314-14.1

INDEX 385

Ex-officio member of the General

Assembly, 301, 306.2

Restricted from holding other offices,

306.1, 307.10

Retired relationship, 301, 305.4-

5.5, 314-14.1

Vacancy, 31.5, 307.13, 316-16.1

General Superintendents, Board of

Announces constitutional changes,

32

Appoints and/or fills vacancies:

Corporations, 317.9

General Assembly Arrangements

Committee, 304

General Assembly Commission,

302

General Court of Appeals, 317.6

General secretary’s assistants,

327.1

General superintendents to departments

of General

Board, 317.10

General superintendents to educational

institutions, 317.10

Approves:

District center plans, 319

General Board and department

work, 317.3

General Board elections, 334-

34.1

Global NYI Council appointments,

810

Independent church activities of

ministers, 433.1, 433.11

Removals

Department directors, 317.5

General secretary, 317.5

General superintendents,

307.13

General treasurer, 317.5

Nazarene Publishing House

president, 317.5

World missionary appointments,

317.3

Arranges:

Course of study, 317.11

General Assembly place and

time, 302-3

General Assembly program,

304.2

Authorization, 315

Disorganize, may

District, 242

Local churches, 106.1

Duties, 317-22

Hears appeals, 117

Interprets law, doctrine, and Manual,

318

Jurisdictions, 315, 317.1

Membership, 31.5

Miscellaneous duties, 323

Nominations

Assists in:

Department directors, 334.20

General secretary, 317.4

General treasurer, 317.4

Nazarene Publishing House

president, 334.17

Organization, 315

Presides at General Assembly,

300.1

Supervises:

Committees, 317.3

General Board, 317.3

International Church, 317.1

World missionary work, 317.3

Vacancy, 316

General treasurer

Amenability, 328.2

Duties, 155.3, 304, 329-29.7,

334.13

Election, 328

Ex-officio member of General Assembly,

301, 328.1

Ex-officio treasurer of General

Board, 330.3

Vacancy, 317.5, 334.22

Genetic engineering, 36

Giving, planned and deferred, 38.4

Global Ministry Plan, see NYI

God-Called Evangelist, Committee

on Interests of, 339

God, doctrine of

Act of, 11, 13

Church of, 23

Eternal, 1

Father, 1-2

Judgment, 21-22

Judicial act, 9

Son, 1-2

Sovereignty, 1

Spirit, 1-3, 8, 13, 15, 24

Unity, 1, 26.1

Triune

386 INDEX

Article of Faith, 1

Will of, 4

Gospel Workers church, page 22

Gossip, 27.2

Government, church, 28

Grace, prevenient

Article of Faith, 7

Grace of God, 7-12

See Growth in grace

Growth in grace, 14

See Grace of God

Guaranty of rights, see Judicial Administration

Guilt for sin, 8-9

Headquarters Financial office,

Director, 301, 334.14

Funds, 329.2

Healing, see Divine healing

Heart purity, 13

Hephzibah Faith Missionary Association,

page 21

Herald of Holiness editor, see Holiness

Today

Higher Education

Church and college/university, 380

Constitutions, educational institutions,

384

Education commissioner, 383

Educational Mission Statement,

380.1

Establishment of new institution,

380.2

International Board of Education,

382

Functions, 382.1-82.7

International Higher Education

Council, 381

Historic Sites and Landmarks,

902.10

History, Church of the Nazarene

Custodian of historical records,

326.1

Name change, page 20

Statement, pages 14-24

See Pentecostal Church of the

Nazarene

HIV/AIDS, 903.15

Holiness, see Sanctification, entire

Holiness Christian Church (Pennsylvania

Conference), page 20

Holiness Church of Christ, pages 17-

18

Holiness ethic, 33.2-33.3

Holiness Evangel, The, page 18

Holiness Today editor

Ex-officio member of General Assembly,

301

Vacancy, 317.5

Holy living, guidelines for, 33.2-33.3

Holy Scriptures, see Scriptures, the

Holy

Holy Spirit, the, doctrine of

Article of Faith, 3

Baptism with, 5.1, 13, 903.9

Bears witness, 12-13, 26.7

Convicts of sin, 3

Leadings of, 24

Regenerates, 3

Sanctifies, 3

Third Person of Trinity, 3

Triune God, 1, 26.1

Home, Christian, 35

Home Department, 812, Article I,

Section 1(b)

Homosexuality, see Human sexuality

Human cloning, 36

Human life, sanctity of, 36

Human sexuality, 37

Illegal votes, see Voting

Impenitence, final, 26.4

Incorporation

District Advisory Board, 222.5-

22.7

General corporations, see General

Boards (corporations)

Local churches, 102-2.6

Indonesia Nazarene Theological College

(Indonesia), 901.5

Inspiration of the Scriptures, see

Scriptures, the Holy

Installation service, 805

Internet, 34.1

International Course of Study Advisory

Committee, 340, 424.1,

424.5

International Holiness Mission, page

21

Institut Biblique Nazareen (Côte

d’Ivoire), 901.5

Instituto Biblico Nazareno

(Guatemala), 901.5

Instituto Biblico Nazareno (Peru),

901.5

INDEX 387

Japan Christian Junior College

(Japan), 901.5

Japan Nazarene Theological Seminary

(Japan), 901.5

Jesus Christ, doctrine of, see Christ,

doctrine of

Journal, district assembly, 205-5.6

Judgment

Article of Faith, 21

Final, 22, 26.8

Future, 21

Judicial Administration

Layperson

Appeal, 31.9, 504.1

Discipline, 413.16, 504

Guaranty of rights, 515-15.6

Investigating Committee,

413.16, 504

Procedure, 413.16, 504, 508, 515-

15.6

Trial, 31.9, 504

Minister

Appeal, 31.9, 506, 508

Credentials, (filed, removed, resigned,

surrendered), 325.5

Discipline, 434.5-34.6, 505.5,

505.7

Guaranty of rights, 515-15.6

Procedure, 505-8, 515-15.6

Trial, 31.9, 222.4, 505-7

Junior programs, see Children’s ministries

director

Justification, 12

Article of Faith, 9

Korea Nazarene University (Korea),

901.5

Lay minister, see Minister, lay

Lay missionaries, delegates to district

assembly, 201

Lay representation, see various

boards, committees, district assembly

members, and General

Assembly members

Laymen’s Holiness Association, page

21

Licensed minister, see Minister, licensed

Liquor, 34.5, 903.13-3.14

Literature, secular, 27.2, 34.1

Local church, see Church, local

Local church in crisis, see Church,

local, pastoral relations

Local Ministry Plan, see NYI

Local NMI, see NMI, local

Local NYI, see NYI, local

Lodges, see Oath-bound secret orders

Lord’s Day, 27.2, 338.4

Lord’s Supper

Administered by whom, 413.4,

413.11, 427.7, 428.2, 429.1

Article of Faith, 17

Elements, 138.7

Partakers, 17, 27.1(7)

Ritual, 802

Who may partake, 802

Lotteries, 34.2

Loving God, 27.1

Luzon Nazarene Bible College

(Philippines), 901.5

Magazines, see Literature, secular

Manual, 110.4, 413.12

Editing Committee, 902.5

Interpretation, 318

Marriage and divorce, 35-35.4, 320,

338.2, 803

Marriage and family life, 237.4

Means of grace, 27.1

Melanesia Nazarene Bible College

(Papua New Guinea), 901.5

Members, church

Associate members, 108-8.1,

203.24

Class for, 110.4

Discipline and/or removal, 500

Duty to report, 109.1-9.2

Full members, 25, 107-7.2, 110.8

Members of church-type missions,

status of, 107.2

Ministerial applicants, 417

Moving, 109.1, 413.20

Reception of, 107.1, 801

Requirements, responsibilities,

and prohibitions, 26-27, 33-

39, 156-57

Rights and privileges, 26, 801

Ritual, 801

Transfer, 111

Voting, 107, 113.1-13.2, 115, 122,

123

Membership Committee, Church, see

Church Membership Committee,

Evangelism and

Merging groups, pages 16-22

388 INDEX

MidAmerica Nazarene University

(U.S.A.), 901.5

Minister

Call, divine, 400, 412, 426.1, 427.1

Lay, 402-2.8

Licensed, 427-27.9

Background checks, 427.1

Basis for P&B aid, 433.3

Called of God, 400, 412, 427.1

Course of study, 424.3-24.6,

427.1-27.4

Discipline, 427.9, 434.4-34.7,

434.9

Licensed, how, 427.1-27.5

Membership, church, 112-12.1,

225, 417, 419, 427.8

Membership, district, 201, 427.2,

427.7-27.8, 433.4, 433.13,

435

Ordained, how, 427.4, 428.3,

429.3

Deacon, 428-28.4

Elder, 429-29.3

Requirements, 203.3, 427.1,

427.3

Rights and powers, 413.11,

427.7

Transfer, 203.8-3.9, 223, 228.9-

28.10, 432-32.2

Local, 113.8, 129.12-29.13, 426.1-

26.7, 813.6

Ordained, 428-29.3

Basis for P&B aid, 433.3

Called of God

Deacon, 400, 428

Elder, 400, 412, 429

Credentials, 325.5, 430.1, 433.6-

33.7, 434-34.9, 435.1-35.8

Discipline, see Court of Appeals,

General

Membership, church, 112-12.1,

225, 417, 419, 433.8-33.11

Membership, district, 201, 430-

30.2, 433.9-33.10, 433.13

Order of ministry, 428.1, 429.1

Ordination, 203.6, 428-29.3,

433.5-33.6

Recognition of orders, 203.7,

430-30.2

Regulations, general, 433-33.15

Requirements, 203.3, 203.6

Rights and powers, 428.2, 429.1,

433.12

Transfer, 203.8-3.9, 223, 228.9-

28.10, 432-32.2

Jurisdiction, 435.1

Qualifications, 401

Retired, 203.27, 228.8, 431-31.1

Minister of Christian education, 160-

60.1, 409

Minister of music, 160-60.1, 410, 814

See Associates, paid

Ministerial benevolence, see Pension

Boards

Ministerial Credentials Board, District

Duties, 228-28.10, 426.6, 427.4

Election, 203.15, 226

Membership, 226

Organization, 227

Vacancies, 212, 226.1

Ministerial Studies Board, District

Duties, 230-31.4, 426.4, 432.1

Election, 203.16

Membership, 203.16, 229

Organization, 230

Vacancies, 212, 229.1

Ministering to the needy, 27.1

Ministry, see Minister

Mission area directors, see District

Mission specials (approved), 154.1

Missionary, see World Mission Department

Missionary societies, see Nazarene

Missions International (NMI)

Mount Vernon Nazarene University

(U.S.A.), 901.5

Movies, 34.1, 338.4

Music director, see Associates, paid,

and Minister of music

Music, minister of, see Minister of

music

National Boards of Administration,

343

Nazarene Bible College (U.S.A.),

901.5

Nazarene Church, see Church

Nazarene College of Education

(Swaziland), 901.5

Nazarene College of Nursing (Swaziland),

901.5

Nazarene College of Theology

(Swaziland), 901.5

INDEX 389

Nazarene Messenger, The, page 19

Nazarene Missions International

District, 240-40.2

Amenability, 240-40.1

Constitution, 240.1, 811

Convention, 811, Article VI, Section

2

Council, 811, Article V, Section 2

Membership, 213.1, 240, 811,

Article IV

Organization, 240, 811, Article

III

President, 201, 203.13, 240.2,

811, Article V, Section 2

General

Constitution, 811

Convention, 342.4, 811, Article

VI, Section 3

Delegates to, 811, Article VI,

Section 3

Council, 342-42.4, 811, Article V,

Section 3

Duties, 342.2-42.4

Funds, 154-55.3, 329.2

Membership, 811, Article IV

President, 301, 342.4, 811, Article

V, Section 3

Relationship to World Mission

Committee, 342.1-42.2

Representation on General

Board, 331.5, 332.4, 342.3,

811, Article V, Section 3

Vacancy, 811, Article V, Section 3

Local, 153-55.3

Amenability, 153.1

Chapters, 811, Article III

Constitution, 811

Finances, 129.23, 154-55.3, 811,

Article VII, Section 1

Meetings, 811, Article VI, Section

1

Membership, 811, Article IV

Nominations, 153.2, 414, 811,

Article V, Section 1

Officers, 811, Article V, Section 1

Organization, 153-53.2, 811, Article

III

Pastor’s relation to, 414

President, 113.8, 127, 153.2,

201, 811, Article V, Section 1

Nazarene Nursing College (Papua

New Guinea), 901.5

Nazarene Nurses Training College

(India), 901.5

Nazarene Publishing House, 337-

37.6

See President, Nazarene Publishing

House

Nazarene schools (birth through secondary),

152-52.1, 208.13

Nazarene Theological College (Australia),

901.5

Nazarene Theological College (Republic

of South Africa), 901.5

Nazarene Theological College—Manchester

(England), 901.5

Nazarene Theological College of

Central Africa (Malawi), 901.5

Nazarene Theological Seminary

(U.S.A.), 901.5

Board of Trustees, 305.8

President, member of General Assembly,

301

Nazarene World Mission Society, see

Nazarene Missions International

Nazarene Youth International

District, 239-39.4

Charter, 239.1, 810

Convention, 239.4, 810, District

Ministry Plan, Article IV,

Section 3

Membership, 213.1, 239, 810,

District Ministry Plan, Article

I, Section 1

Ministry Plan, 239.1, 810

Organization and council, 810,

District Ministry Plan, Article

I, Sections 1-2, Article

III, Section 1

President, 201, 203.13, 239.3-

39.4, 810, District Ministry

Plan, Article II, Sections 1-3

Youth pastor, 810, District Ministry

Plan, Article II, Section

4

Global, 341-41.5

Charter, 810

Convention, 341.1, 810, Global

Ministry Plan, Article IV,

Section 3

Delegates to, 341.1, 810, Global

Ministry Plan, Article IV,

Section 3

390 INDEX

Council, 810, Global Ministry

Plan, Article III

Funds, 329.2

Membership, 341, 810, Global

Ministry Plan, Article I,

Section 1

Ministry Plan, 341, 810

President, 810, Global Ministry

Plan, Article II

Representation on General

Board, 331.4, 332.3, 341.4,

810, Global Ministry Plan,

Article II, Section 3

Local, 150-50.4

Charter, 810

Divisions, 150.3, 810

Finances, 129.23

Meetings, 810, Local Ministry

Plan, Article IV

Membership, 810, Local Ministry

Plan, Article I, Section

1

Ministry Plan, 150.1, 810

Nominations, 151, 414, 810, Local

Ministry Plan, Article II,

Section 2

Officers, 810, Local Ministry

Plan, Article II, Sections 1-2

Organization, 151.4, 810, Local

Ministry Plan, Article I

President, 113.8, 127, 151-51.5,

201, 810, Local Ministry

Plan, Article II

Purpose, 150.2, 810, Local Ministry

Plan, Article I, Section

2

Regional, 810

Council, 810, Regional Ministry

Plan, Article III

Meetings, 810, Regional Ministry

Plan, Article IV

Membership, 810, Regional Ministry

Plan, Article I, Section

1

Ministry Plan, 810

Nominations, 810, Regional

Ministry Plan, Article II,

Section 2

Officers, 810, Regional Ministry

Plan, Article II

Organization, 810, Regional

Ministry Plan, Article I

President, 810, Regional Ministry

Plan, Article II

New birth, 10, 26.7

New Testament, see Scriptures, the

Holy

NewStarts, see church-type missions

Nigeria Nazarene Theological College

(Nigeria), 901.5

Nominating Committee

District, 202.1

Local, 113.9

Northwest Nazarene University

(U.S.A.), 901.5

Oath-bound secret orders, 34.3,

338.4

Old Testament, see Scriptures, the

Holy

Olivet Nazarene University (U.S.A.),

901.5

Ordained minister, see Minister, ordained

Ordination, theology of, 401.6

Organ donation, 903.1

Original sin, 13, 26.3

Article of Faith, 5

Pastor

Amenability, 203.3, 418

Appointment, when, 115

Call to church, 115-24

Acceptance of, 115.1

Duration, 118, 122

Review, church/pastoral

Regular, 122

Special, 123

Termination, 119, 122

Called of God, 412

Church membership, 419

Copastors, 120-20.1

Confidentiality, 433.14

Duties and powers, 33.4, 35.2, 107-

7.1, 108-8.1, 113.5, 113.8,

113.14, 121, 127-28, 130,

145.1, 150-51, 150.3, 151.5,

160.1-60.3, 160.5, 203.3,

401-1.6, 412-19, 504

Lifelong learning, 129.9-29.10,

424.6, 433.15

Moving expenses, 115.4

Planning session, 121

President of local church, 102.3,

113.5, 413.23

Recommends

INDEX 391

Assigned minister’s certificate,

129.13

Deaconess’ license, 129.15, 406

Lay minister’s certificate,

129.12, 402.2, 402.4

Local minister’s license, 129.12,

426.1, 426.3

Minister’s license, 129.14

Records, access to, 413.23

Relation to district superintendent,

416

Resignation of, 119-19.1

Sabbatical leave, 129.10

Salary, 115.4-15.5, 129.8-29.9

Pastoral arrangements, 115-19, 122-

124.1

Manual Church Of The Nazarene 2005-2009 manual2005-2009 Church...

16 HISTORICAL STATEMENT