GOVERNMENT
of
The Glorious Church of God in Christ
1921
** Revised April 2017**
CONTENTS
Page
Preface 4
Statement of Faith 5
Mission Statement 6
Vision Statement 6
Article I The Church Body 7
Article II Objects and Designs 7
Article III Doctrinal Teachings 8
1. Oneness of God 8
2. Apostolic Faith 8
3. Regeneration 8
4. Justification 8
5. The Blood of Jesus 8
6. Baptism of the Holy Ghost 8
7. Divine Healing 8
8. Second Coming of Christ 8
9. Water Baptism 8
10. Lord’s Supper (Foot Washing) 8
11. Marriage 8
12. Divorce 9
13. Support of the Gospel 9
14. Murder 9
15. Swearing 9
16. Adornment 9
17. False Doctrines 10
18. Civil Laws 10
Article IV Government of the Church 11
1. Divine Head 11
2. Constituency 11
3. Responsibility 11
4. Appointment of Overseers 11
5. Removal of Officers 11
Article V Various Duties 12
1. General Board 12
2. General Bishop 14
3. Vice and Under Bishops 15
4. Overseer (State and District) 16
5. Chief Financial Officer 16
6. Ministers 16
7. General Field Elder 17
8. General, State, District, and Local Church Mother 17
9. Deacons 18
10. Pastors 18
11. Members 19
12. Auditors 19
13. Adjutant 21
14. Chaplain/Director of Prison Ministries 21
Article VI Rules – Governing 22
1. Assemblies 22
2. Issuance of Credentials 22
3. General and National Officials 23
4. Local Church and Auxiliaries 23
5. Church Property 24
6. Disposition of Church Property in Dispute 24
7. Backslidden or Offending Saint 24
Article VII Miscellany 25
Article VIII Marriage Ceremony 26
Article IX Burial Service 30
PREFACE
The Glorious Church of God in Christ of the Apostolic Faith, in continuation of the of the great revival which began at Jerusalem A.D. 33, is founded upon the foundation of the Apostle and Prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the Chief Cornerstone (Acts 2:1, 42; Eph. 2:19-20).
Although of the true followers little has been known, yet from that time until now, there has always been earnest contenders for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints (1 Kings 19:18, Jude 1:3). At various intervals in the past centuries, the followers of the Apostolic Faith and doctrines have become prominent through great revivals that appeared in Great Britain, the United States and Canada.
In the days of Tertullian, A.D. 207, Chysotam, 4th Century, the early Quakers, Wesley, Whitfield, and Irving, the gifts and manifestations of the Apostolic church were in much evidence as the revival spirit swept the country.
In Kansas, 1901, the revival broke forth and moved southward toward Texas, being known locally, but finally reached Los Angeles, California about 1906. From there it spread throughout the whole earth, entering into nearly every nation under heaven. Penetrating the heathen darkness of India, China, Africa, and the isles of the sea, fulfilling the commission of our Lord, “Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature” (Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:46-47; Acts 1:4-8).
So great was the awakening that in nearly every state and every town, there were witnesses to the Pentecostal outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8; Acts 2:4-8) and soon there began to appear different places of worship where the gift of the Spirit was manifested. They designated themselves by the name Pentecostal believers. Their one common aim was to earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. As in the days of the apostles they took the Bible as their creed, discipline, rule of order and charter. They were zealous to glorify God our Savior, even Jesus Christ who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity and purify unto Himself a peculiar people; zealous of good works (Luke 1:79; Phil. 2:15-16; Eph. 5:24-27; 1 Peter 9-10).
STATEMENT OF FAITH
We believe the Bible to be the inspired and only infallible Word of God.
We believe in the oneness of God, who is Father in creation, the Son in redemption, and today He is the Holy Spirit to the church.
We believe that Jesus is God, for in Christ all the fullness of the Godhead lives in bodily form. We proclaim that the Lord Jesus Christ is God, and is the only name given under heaven, whereby men must be saved.
We believe that Jesus Christ shed His blood for the remission of sins and the regeneration of the penitent sinner.
We believe the shed blood of Jesus Christ cleanses the justified believer from all sin.
We believe that the redemptive work of Christ on the cross provides healing of both body and soul in answer to believing in prayer.
We believe that regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential for personal salvation.
We believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit, according to Acts 2:4, and is given to believers who ask for it.
We believe that water baptism is a command and should be performed by immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
We believe in the Blessed Hope, which is the rapture of the Church of God, which is in Christ as His return.
VISION STATEMENT
The vision and purpose of The Glorious Church of God in Christ is to deepen the spiritual life among its members so that all may attain the highest state of Christian perfection in this life as true worshippers of God.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Glorious Church of God in Christ shall provide its members with a higher moral and religious education, by determining to preach the whole council of God and to present a full and holy gospel. The church shall provide care for the widows, the indigent and disabled saints. It is also the duty of the church to go out into all the world and preach the gospel to all mankind.
ARTICLE I
THE CHURCH BODY
Sec.1. This body shall be known as The Glorious Church of God in Christ. (Eph.5:27)
ARTICLE II
OBJECTS AND DESIGNS
Sec.1. The objects and purpose of this church are many so as to deepen the spiritual life among its members so that all may attain the highest state of Christian perfection in this life as true worshippers of God.
Sec.2. The education of the youth in the worship of God.
Sec.3. Specifically determine the whole council of God and to preach a full and holy Gospel.
Sec.4. Teach, obey and keep all the laws of God.
Sec.5. To put man in close touch with the Creator.
Sec.6. To provide the members with a higher moral, religious and industrial education.
Sec.7. To care for the widows, orphans, the indigent, the elderly and disabled saints.
Sec.8. To advocate as its chief government the Holy Word of God as contained in the Holy Bible.
Sec.9. To ordain and appoint divinely called bishops, pastors, elders, evangelists and teachers.
Sec.10. To advocate obedience to local, state and federal government laws, so long as no holy law of God is violated in doing so.
ARTICLE III
DOCTRINAL TEACHINGS
Sec.1. We believe in the oneness of God, who was the Father in creation, the Son in redemption, and today He is the Holy Ghost to the church. (1 Tim. 3:16)
Sec. 2. We believe that Jesus is God, for in Christ all the fullness of the Godhead lives in bodily form. We proclaim that the Lord Jesus Christ is God, and is the only name given under heaven, whereby men must be saved. (Acts 4:12; Col. 2:9)
Sec.3. We believe that Jesus Christ shed His blood for the remission of sins and the regeneration of the penitent sinner. (Rom 3:25; I John 1:7-9)
Sec.4. We believe and teach the doctrine of Justification. (Rom. 5:1; 3:24-28)
Sec.5. We believe the shed blood of Jesus Christ cleanses the justified believer from all sin. (I John 1:7; Rev. 1:5)
Sec.6. We believe in the baptism of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 1:5; 2:4; 10:46; 19:6)
Sec.7. We believe in divine healing of both soul and body. (Isa. 53:5; James 5:14-15; I Peter 2:24)
Sec. 8. We believe in the second coming of Jesus Christ. (Acts 1:10-11; I Thess. 4:16; Heb. 9:28)
Sec.9. We believe that water Baptism is a command and should be performed by immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Matt. 28:19; Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Acts 2:38; 8:12; 19:1-6)
Sec.10. We believe in the Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion) and that it should be carried out as the Bible teaches. Foot washing should be performed annually the Thursday before Easter. (John 13:2-17; Luke 22:19-20; I Cor. 11:23-26)
Sec.11. The Glorious Church of God in Christ believes in marriage according to the bible, and the wedding ceremony is considered to be a Christian worship service. We believe that God has ordained marriage for the procreation of mankind and the establishment of a Christ centered family. Because God has ordained marriage and defined it as the covenant relationship between a man, a woman, and Himself, The Glorious Church of God in Christ will only recognize marriages between a biological man and a biological woman. Therefore we oppose and reject the concept of same-sex marriage and will not permit the sanctioning or blessings of same-sex unions by its ordained clergy. The ordained clergy shall only participate in weddings and solemnize marriages between one biological man and one biological woman. The facilities and properties of The Glorious Church of God in Christ shall only host weddings between one man and one woman. Furthermore, we believe that homosexual and lesbian practices of same sex couples are in violation of religious and biblical standards and are aberrant and deviant behaviors. We believe that these sexual practices are sinful and in direct violation of the law of God in that they are a deviation from the natural use and purpose of the body. Therefore, persons practicing these abnormal behaviors will not receive promotions or appointments to positions of leadership or authority within The Glorious Church of God in Christ. (Gen. 1:27-28; 2:21-24; 1 Cor. 7:2-4; 1 Cor. 6:9-10). Article VIII – Marriage Ceremony
Sec.12. We believe in divorce according to scripture. (Matt. 5:31-32; 19:3-9; I Cor. 7:10-15)
Sec.13. We believe in no standard salaries for pastors, bishops, etc.. We believe the Gospel is supported by free-will offering, donations and tithing. (Lev. 27:30; I Cor. 9:9-11; Gal. 6:6; I Tim. 5:18)
Sec.14. We do not believe in killing or the shedding of human blood. (Gen. 9:6; Prov. 6:16-17; Ex. 20:13)
Sec.15. We believe in no swearing whatsoever. (Lev. 19:12; Jer. 23:10; Matt. 5:34-36; Jas. 5:12)
Sec.16. We believe in dressing as becoming holiness (Heb. 12:14), in modest decent apparel. (I Cor. 6:19-20; 2 Cor. 7:1; I Tim. 2:9-10)
Sec.17. The Glorious Church of God in Christ is opposed to all doctrines which are contrary to God’s written word. (Gal. 1:8-9; I John 2:7-10)
Sec.18. We believe in living subject to all the laws of the land according to the teaching of God’s word. (Rom. 13:1-7; Tit. 3:1)
ARTICLE IV
GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH
Sec.1. DIVINE HEAD: This church shall recognize and acknowledge as its supreme head the Lord Jesus Christ. (Col. 1:18; Eph. 1:22-23; 5:23)
Sec.2. CONSTITUENCY: This church shall be governed by: a General Board, General Bishop, Vice Bishops, Diocese Bishops, State Overseers, District Overseers and Pastors. It shall constitute as officers; Bishops, Overseers, Elders, Evangelists, Mothers, Teachers, Missionaries, Ministers, Deacons and Heads of Auxiliaries.
Sec.3. RESPONSIBILITY: The General Bishop shall be responsible and subject to the General Board. All Vice and Under Bishops shall be responsible and subject to the General Bishop. All State Overseers shall be responsible to their immediate Bishop. All District Overseers shall be responsible and subject to their State Overseer. All Pastors shall be responsible to their District or State Overseer. All members shall be subject and responsible to their Pastor.
Sec.4. APPOINTMENT OF OVERSEER: All Overseers shall be appointed only at the Annual General Assembly.
Sec.5. REMOVAL OF OFFICERS FROM OFFICE: The Officers of this church shall be subject to change and removal if it be for the betterment of the church, or if they be proven by the mouth of two or three witnesses to be guilty of an immoral act
(Deut. 19:15; 2 Cor. 13:1; 1 Tim. 5:19); or if they are found not to be faithful in the body and obedient to the commandments of God, they shall be removed from office. (1 Cor. 5:9-11; Eph. 5:11)
5a. Three or more deacons have the power to silence a minister if he/she be caught in an immoral act (1 Cor. 5:13), but may only hold such authority until the District or State Overseer or Bishop shall arrive and preside over the case. They shall then dispose of the case as pleasing to God and His church.
ARTICLE V
VARIOUS DUTIES
Sec.1. GENERAL BOARD: This board shall convene with the General Assembly or whenever a condition or matter so warrants. The expense of said board shall be drawn from the General Treasury. This board shall look after the general welfare of the church at large and shall be held responsible for its transactions at large. It shall govern the church with all sincerity and good interest. They shall comprise the legal representatives of the church at large. They shall settle disputes whenever it is deemed necessary for them to do so. They shall be subject to the majority of the General Assembly.
1a. Said expenses of the General Board will be received from the General Church Treasury annually in the accepted amount of $1000.00. (August 1993)
1b. The General Board shall have five (5) committees consisting of: Government, Credentials, Leadership, Ways & Means and Real Property. (August 1993)
1c. Each committee chairperson will serve a one (1) year term. All appointments to committee chairmanships will be done by the chairperson of the General Board (June 1993). The duties of the committees are described below:
1c1. Government:
i. Recommend guidelines for collection of all monetary funds for national meetings.
ii. Review church Government Book and submit recommendations and/or addendums.
iii. Review and recommend standard report blanks to be used for all National, State or District meetings.
iv. Review policies and procedures of the General Church and submit recommendations for revisions and addendums. Report to the General Board any irregularities found. Submit recommendations to the General Board for approval and acceptance. (June 1993)
1c2. Credentials:
i. Review senior level officials for qualification for promotion to General Board, General Bishop, Vice Bishop, State Bishop, State Overseer, etc..
ii. Submit recommendations to the General Board for approval and acceptance. (June 1993)
1c3. Leadership:
i. Design, develop and implement a training course for all National, State and Local officials and their subordinates.
ii. Design qualifications for position of: General Bishop, Vice Bishop, State Bishop, Overseer, Elder, Evangelist, Teacher, Minister, Deacon and any other position deemed necessary to fulfill the Word of God.
iii. Submit to the General Board any and all recommendations for revisions and/or addendums to qualifications of any position within the General Church body. (June 1993)
1c4. Finance:
i. Monitor and review monetary holdings of the General Church.
ii. Prepare financial reports for the Chairman of the General Board’s review and approval.
iii. Audit all National and State treasuries for reporting and statistical purposes.
iv. Submit recommendations on funds management to the General Board for review and approval.
v. Submit annual reports of the fiscal state of the General Church and all National and State treasuries. (June 1993)
1c5. Real Property:
i. Act as church representative in any legal transaction relating to real property under direction of the General Bishop.
ii. Review all requests submitted for improvement to church building and/or land.
iii. Submit recommendations to General Board for approval. (June 1993)
1d. Procedure concerning absenteeism. The following procedure was accepted by the General Board on a feasible and applicable standard for board members to adhere to and be held responsible for (March 1993).
At the second (2nd) absence, a call will be made to the member in question by the Chairman of the General Board.
At the third (3rd) absence, the member will be given a written warning as directed by the Chairman of the General Board.
At the fourth (4th) absence, the member will be removed from the board by recommendation of the Chairman of the General Board.
1e. All board members are governed by code of conduct regarding absenteeism as adopted by the General Board. (June 1993)
1f. The General Secretary, Chief Financial Officer, and the General Treasurer or other designated person(s) shall be allowed to sit on each national auxiliary meeting to determine all finance incoming and distribution so as to know the financial standing of each auxiliary and the general church; to monitor all finances and will receive a report from each auxiliary after each meeting who will in turn report the same to the General Bishop and to the General Board. (February 1990)
Sec.2. GENERAL BISHOP: The Bishop shall conduct himself at all times as befits his position. He shall at all times so live as to always be ready to impart the word of God, give spiritual instruction and strength whenever and wherever needed. He must at all times live according to the precepts laid down for him in the scriptures (1 Tim. 3:1-7). He shall dedicate himself to look after the spiritual and general welfare of the church at large and its workers. He shall appoint pastors and silence them when necessary. He shall control all Vice and Under Bishops. He shall make recommendations and suggestions to the General Board for the good and welfare of the body. He cannot be chairman of the General Board while functioning as General Bishop.
The General Bishop shall select the First and Second Vice Bishops from among the Bishops appointed to the General Board, subject to the approval of the General Board.
The General Bishop shall serve in this office until such time he is incapable of performing his executive duties, due to resignation, physical or mental illness, or death, as prayerfully determined by the General Board. Should the General Board determine that he is not able to function effectively in that capacity, the First Vice Bishop will serve as leadership of the church until the General Board convenes to appoint the successor to the General Bishop. The outgoing General Bishop should have a voice in the selection process of his successor. The newly appointed General Bishop Elect will be presented to the general church during the immediate National Convention or General Assembly.
2a. He shall call the church together in a General Assembly annually, (or when a general issue arises).
2b. He shall have power to designate the time and place where the General Assembly shall convene.
2c. The General Bishop shall give his tithe to the General Church Treasury.
Sec. 3. FIRST AND SECOND VICE BISHOPS: shall aid and assist the General Bishop in discharging his Executive functions, and shall serve in their respective order if, for any reason, the General Bishop does not serve or is unable to serve, until the position is filled by the General Board.
Sec.3a. UNDER BISHOPS: They shall conduct themselves and qualify as God’s word provides (1 Tim. 3:1-7). They shall perform the work assigned to them by the General Bishop. They shall oversee the diocese given them and seek to promote its general welfare and growth. They are subject in all respects to the General Bishop.
Sec.4. STATE AND DISTRICT OVERSEERS: The State or District Overseer shall call the pastors, ministers, deacons, and saints of his state or district together in a meeting once each year, such meeting shall be called an Annual Assembly. He shall designate the time and place of the meeting. He shall at all times seek to promote the general welfare of his state or district. He is subject to the General or his immediate Bishop. His personal tithes go to the General Bishop.
4a. The State or District Overseer shall not have two living wives or husbands, i.e. not having put away the wife or husband without a biblical reason, and has not been divorced solely according to the laws of the land.
(Article III, Sec. 10)
4b. The Overseer shall do all in his power to work up new works and to see that all things are in order. He shall visit all the churches over which he has been appointed. The overseer shall assist in meetings and help those under him who are not qualified to conduct funerals, marriages, etc. He shall call the pastors, ministers, deacons, and saints of his state/district together in a meeting at a time and place he shall designate. He shall have power to ordain deacons who pass a legal examination.
Sec.5. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER: Supervises the finance unit and is the chief financial spokesperson for the organization. Responsible for supervising and coordinating the overall planning, organizing, directing and controlling of various functions within the framework of the business / financial services of the church. Accountable for the preparation of financial reports. Builds and manages effective and streamlined administrative/financial systems. Trains the finance unit and other staff on raising awareness and knowledge of financial management matters. Develops and maintains systems of internal controls to safeguard financial assets of the organization. Submits recommendations on funds management to the General Board for review and approval. Oversees the coordination and activities of internal audits. Functions as the lead staff person on the Auditing and Monitoring Committee (AMC) and Finance Committee.
Sec.6. MINISTERS IN GENERAL: All ministers shall be required to be present during the General Assembly.
6a. All ministers (Bishops, Pastors, Elders, Evangelists, Teachers and Ministers) shall be required to teach and preach the doctrine as set forth in the word of God.
6b. All ministers are required to pay for the renewal of their fellowship cards each year.
6c. All ministers are required to monetarily support their churches with tithes and offerings.
Sec.7. GENERAL FIELD ELDERS He/she shall travel and conduct revivals, support and encourage local pastors by the permission of the respective State/District Overseers. They shall endeavor to keep the spiritual tide of all churches in the highest possible state.
Sec.8. GENERAL MOTHER: The General Church Mother must be an ordained minister. Must not hold any other national office and live a life above reproach in harmony with the government of the Glorious Church. Must be obedient to superiors and is responsible to the General Bishop. Must be at least fifty-five (55) years of age. Must have been a faithful member of the Glorious Church for at least twenty (20) years. Compatible with all ages (able to reach). Apt to teach on any subject matter. Must be an uncompromising peacemaker (in church matters). August 1994
8a. She shall visit the churches as often as possible, and hold meetings in the interest of the women of the church. She shall teach the ways of Holiness. Shall in all ways strive to be the prime example to the women of the church.
Sec.8.1. DISTRICT and STATE MOTHER: Shall visit the churches assigned to her as often as possible. She shall call the sisterhood together and teach lessons as pertaining to them (Tit. 2:3-5; 1Tim. 5:2).
Sec.8.2. LOCAL MOTHER: The duty of the local mother is to see that the church is kept clean, help keep love between the saints, and visit the sick and widows (Tit. 2:3-5).
8.2a. She shall instruct the sisterhood of the church in the ways of Holiness.
8.2b. No mother or women preacher shall stand before a congregation if she is not dressed in attire as becomes a minister of God (i.e. loose clothing, a robe is preferred, dress and sleeves shall be at proper length).
Sec.9 DEACONS: All deacons must qualify for their position as is prescribed in God’s word (Acts 6:1-3; 1 Tim. 3:8-13).
9a. It shall be the duty of the deacon to meet as often as necessary, with pastor present, to attend to such business as may come before them, to visit the sick, look after the widows and look after the welfare of the church.
9b. The deacon shall not be permitted to call any minister without the consent of the pastor (Rom. 16:17-18), except as permitted in Article IV, Sec. 5a of this government.
9c. All deacons are required to support their churches monetarily with tithes and offerings.
Sec. 10. PASTORS: It shall be the duty of the shepherd to feed the church of God over which the Holy Ghost has made them the overseer. (Acts 20:28; Jer. 3:15; 23:4)
10a. The pastor shall pay their personal tithes to the State or District Overseer.
10b. All pastors are required to be subject to and advocate all of the teachings and rules of the body.
10c. All pastors are required to support their District, State and General Assembly.
10d. All pastors are subject to their District or State Overseer.
Sec. 11. MEMBERS: The membership of The Glorious Church of God in Christ shall be composed of individuals who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and affirm the tenets of the Church Government, and who offer evidence, by their conduct, that they are living in accord with their affirmations and this Government, and are actively pursuing and continuing in a vital fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ. The General Board of this Church shall have final authority in all matters of church governance, as set forth and described in the Government.
11a. Each member of the church shall do their duty in supporting their church and pastor, with prayer, attendance, free-will offerings and tithes.
11b. Two or more members shall constitute a church. (Dan 3:24-25; Matt. 18:20; Mark 16:12)
11c. No member is permitted to call a minister in without the consent of the pastor, except in Article IV, Sec. 5a. of this government.
11d. All members of the body shall be encouraged to attend services as often as they can. (Heb. 10:25)
11e. All saints are encouraged to fast and pray Tuesdays and Fridays of every week. Tuesday for the saving of souls and Friday for healing of bodies. (Isa. 58:6-8; Matt. 6:17-18)
11f. Each saint shall give 50 cents a month for the State or District Overseer’s support and it shall be given to the Overseer or turned in at the Assemblies. (September 1978)
11g. Members are encouraged to notify their respective pastor when required to be absent from regular scheduled church services.
Sec.12. AUDITORS: The Auditing and Monitoring Committee (AMC) was established by the General Board on March 11, 1995, for the purpose of conducting internal audits and monitoring all National Assemblies (Mission, Young People’s Unity Workers, Women’s Industrial Spiritual Workers, Sunday School and General ) financial transactions. (March 1995)
12a. This committee shall consist of three (3) or more persons selected by the Chairman of the General Board. The General Board will be responsible for the travel expense to and from these conventions, with the exception of conventions where they have a responsibility to be present, then they shall receive a stipend for their service. (March 1995)
12b. The General Board will establish the assignment and travel schedule for the AMC. Two members of the AMC are required to be present at each of the three (3) national conventions. They shall conduct themselves as well as their assignments in a godly and professional manner. The AMC shall properly interface with the official of each convention during the performance their assignment. (March 1995)
12c. The AMC shall submit a report of any problem to the Chairman of the General Board and the Chief Financial Officer. (March 1995)
12d. The AMC is responsible for preparing and submitting a written report to the Chairman of the General Board and the Chief Financial Officer within thirty (30) days of each national convention. (March 1995)
12e. A copy of all expenses incurred should be forwarded to the Chief Financial Officer and the General Treasurer. (March 1995)
12f. Members of the AMC unable to fulfill their assignment should notify the Chief Financial Officer in a timely manner. (June 1995)
12g. Expenses should not be paid until approved by the Chairman of the General Board. Expenses will be distributed within thirty (30) days of approval. (June 1995)
12h. Three (3) auditors are responsible to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to monitor all financial transactions of national meetings. (June 1995)
Sec. 13. ADJUTANT: Serve as administrative assistants to specified church leaders, i.e. the General Bishop, Vice Bishops and the General Secretary. (March 2009)
Sec. 14. CHAPLAIN/DIRECTOR OF PRISON MINISTRY: Functions as an outreach of the National Mission Department and reports directly to the National Missionary President. He/she is responsible for providing chaplaincy endorsements for the organization and oversees all jail, prison, and reentry ministries. He/she serves as the resource person for the jail and prison ministry, community justice, reentry, pen pal programs and provides training appropriate for the organization.
(Matthew 25:43; Hebrews 13:3)
ARTICLE VI
RULES – GOVERNING
Sec.1. ASSEMBLIES: Having assembled and with necessary persons present to carry on, the presiding elder (or designee) shall open the assembly with the singing of hymns, prayer and scripture reading. The presider will then declare the house open for business. He/she shall arrange the assembly, secretary, examination, finance and grievance committees, financial board, recorder, sheriff and postman. There shall be a roll call of churches and their reports shall be received. Minister’s application for credentials shall be turned over to the examination committee to be properly executed. Grievances will be received and settled by the grievance board. Deacons will be ordained and ministers will be appointed and licensed. Ministers will receive ordination only at the Annual General Assembly.
1a. All pastors shall make reports to the assembly on regular report blanks.
1b. All reports are to be submitted the first day if at all possible.
1c. Calendar year of the General Church shall begin at the close of the year’s General Assembly (i.e. November – October).
1d. All changes of designated places for National Assemblies must first be approved by the General Bishop prior to passing of said change. (March 1995)
Sec.2. ISSUANCE OF CREDENTIALS: Credentials or licenses shall not be issued by anyone other than the General Secretary and then only upon application. All such papers must bear the signature of the General Bishop, State Overseer and General Secretary and must be approved by the examination board. The seal of the church must be affixed.
2a. Credentials may be issued between assemblies in cases of emergency.
2b. All applicants must have a good knowledge of the church government, God’s word and meet the approval of the Examination Board before being granted license.
2c. All credentials or license are invalid without the seal of the church properly affixed upon them.
2d. Ministries coming into this body from another body and holding other credentials or licenses of another body shall surrender them to the General Secretary before they may receive credentials from this body.
2e. All credentials and licenses remain the property of the GLORIOUS CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST and may be recalled or revoked as conditions may warrant.
2f. It is understood that all persons receiving credentials of this body are automatically subject to its government.
2g. Each pastor will receive a copy of the examination for credentials that shall be made readily available to each applicant recommended to appear before the Examination Board. Members of the Examination Board will handle all questionable applications in this fashion: the committee will refer to the Chairman of the General Board and the General Bishop, who will in turn refer to the General Board and /or to the Grievance Committee. (August 1994)
Sec.3. GENERAL AND NATIONAL OFFICIALS: Starting with the calendar year September 1993 – August 1994, all new officers will serve four (4) years and if any officer is incapacitated and unable to function efficiently, his or her work is to be carried on by their assistant.
Sec.4. LOCAL CHURCH AND AUXILIARIES: Two or more persons may constitute a church (Article V, Sec.10b).
4a. All churches shall report to their District, State and General Assemblies.
4b. All churches are to give a good offering to all officials of the church whenever they are called or are present on an official visit.
4c. All churches shall try to have the following auxiliaries: Sunday School, Women’s Industrial Spiritual Workers, Young People’s Unity Workers and Mission.
Sec.5. CHURCH PROPERTY: Anything which is purchased as church property under the authority of the GLORIOUS CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST by means of soliciting money, donations or collections shall become church property in general.
5a. This Glorious Church of God in Christ shall have their General Bishop, Chairman of the General Board, and Secretary of the General Board as General Trustees of the Glorious Churches of God in Christ. They shall have authority over the local trustees, they shall be subject to the General Board and they shall have authority over Sec.6a. of this Article.
Sec.6. CHURCH PROPERTY – IN THE EVENT OF A DISPUTE: No church group desiring to leave the GLORIOUS CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST shall have any legal claim on its property or finances. All property and interest shall remain as is, The Glorious Church of God in Christ.
6a. Those leaving the body shall surrender all church property in their possession to the General Trustees. All items must be surrendered including but not limited to deeds, titles, receipts, records, record books, communion materials, bibles, hymnals, dishes, silverware, linen, fans, pins, bags, badges, etc. All persons failing to do so shall be held liable.
Sec.7. AN OFFENDING OR BACKSLIDDEN MEMBER: If the offender meets full repentance they should be restored according to Ps. 51; 2 Cor.7:10; Jam. 5:19-20.
ARTICLE VII
MISCELLANY
Sec.1. No money shall be paid out of any treasurer except by an order by the pastor, auxiliary president or chairperson of that treasury.
Sec.2. The General Secretary shall have possession of the seal of THE GLORIOUS CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST, as well as all general literature pertaining to the body.
Sec.3. Each state secretary shall make a report of all meetings in their state and forward to the General Secretary who in turn shall make it known to the General Board.
Sec.4. No person coming into this body from another body shall hold any office until they have been on trial and met approval.
Sec.5. Each state shall have its own financial committee. Money will be disbursed according to proper rules and regulations, set forth by the State/District Overseer.
ARTICLE VIII
MARRIAGE CEREMONY
At the day and time appointed for Solemnization of Matrimony, the Persons to be married shall come unto the body of the Church, or shall be ready in some proper house, with friends and neighbors, and there standing together, the Man on the right hand, and the Women on the left, the Minister shall say:
DEARLY Beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight of God, and in the face of this company, to join together this Man and this Woman in Holy Matrimony; which is an honorable estate instituted of God, signifying unto us this mystical union that is between Christ and His church; which holy estate Christ adorned and beautified with his presence and first miracle that he performed in
Cana of Galilee and is commended of the Apostle Paul to be honorable among all men; and therefore is not by any to be entered into unadvisedly, or lightly; but reverently, discretely, advisedly, soberly, and in the fear of God. In this holy estate these two persons present come now to be joined. If any man can show legal reasons why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else forever hold his peace.
AND ALSO SPEAKING UNTO THE PERSONS WHO ARE TO BE MARRIED, HE SHALL SAY:
I REQUIRE and charge you both, as ye will answer at the dreadful day of judgment when the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be lawfully joined together in Matrimony, confess it now. For be you well assured, that if any persons are joined together otherwise than as God’s word doth allow, their marriage is not lawful.
Recite The Lord’s Prayer
Minister to Groom:
_________ will you have this Woman to be thy wedded wife, to live together according to God’s holy ordinance in the holy state of Matrimony? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her in sickness and in health; and forsaking all others, keep yourself only for her, so long as you both shall live?
The Man shall answer: I WILL
Minister to Bride:
_______ will you have this Man to be thy wedded husband, to live together according to God’s holy ordinance in the holy state of Matrimony? Will you love him, comfort him, honor and keep him in sickness and in health; and forsaking all others, keep yourself only for him, so long as you both shall live?
The Woman shall answer: I WILL
Then the Minister shall say:
Who gives this Woman to be married to this Man?
Bride’s Father: I do (or he may say, “Her mother and I”)
The Minister will ask them to join their right hands to give their pledge of faithfulness.
Groom to 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, to cherish, till death us do part, according to God’s holy commandment and to you I pledge my faithfulness.
Bride to 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, to cherish, till death us to part, according to God’s holy commandment and to you I pledge my faithfulness.
The Minister will receive the ring from the groomsman and proceed.
The Minister shall say:
The wedding ring is a symbol of marriage in at least two ways: the purity of gold symbolizes the purity of your love for each other, and the unending circle symbolizes the unending vows which you are taking, which may be broken honorably in the sight of God only by death. As a token of your vows, you will give and receive the ring (or rings).
Bless, O Lord, these rings that they that gives and receives them may abide in Thy peace and continue in Thy favor, unto their life’s end, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Man shall give unto the Woman a ring, to put upon the fourth finger of the Woman’s left hand, and the Man holding the ring there, the Minister shall say to the Man:
______, you will give the ring and repeat after me: _____, with this ring I pledge my life and love to you, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ our Lord.
This shall be repeated for the Woman
Then the Minister shall add:
O Eternal God, Creator and Preserver of all mankind, Giver of all spiritual grace, the Author of everlasting life, send Thy blessings upon this Man and this Woman, whom we bless in Thy name; that they, living faithfully together, may surely perform and keep the vow and covenant made between them, (whereof these rings given and received are a token and pledge), and may ever remain in perfect love and peace together, and live according to Thy laws; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Minister to Congregation:
Since they have made these commitments before God and this assembly of witnesses, by the authority of God and The Glorious Church of God in Christ, I declare that _____ and _____ are husband and wife.
Minister to Couple (joining right hands together):
______, and ______, you are no longer two independent persons but one. What therefore God has therefore joined together let no man put asunder (separate).
The Bride and Groom may now kneel, with the Minister adding this blessing:
The Lord bless you and keep you: The Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you: The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.
ARTICLE IX
BURIAL SERVICE
Standing before the coffin, or preceding it from the entrance, if the service is held in the church, the minister shall say: “I am the resurrection and the life: He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live, and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26)
“I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors: and their works do follow them.” (Rev. 14:12-13)
Then the Minister shall say: “Let us pray”
O God, whose days are without end, even from everlasting to everlasting: so teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom, knowing the shortness and uncertainty of human life, and that we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, may we live before thee in godly fear all our days and prepare to give account unto Thee for the deeds done in the body, through faith in the mediation of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Here the Minister may use his discretion in reading the appropriate lesson from the following: Job 14:1-2; Ps. 90:1-12; Ps. 103:13-18; 1 Cor. 15:12-26; 42-58. If thought to be desirable, a sermon or address may be delivered here. The Minister then offers prayers, closing with the Lord’s Prayer.
AT THE GRAVE
Having reached the place of burial, with the Minister standing at the head of the coffin, he shall say:
In the midst of life, we are in death; we come up and are cut down like a flower, we flee as a shadow, and never continue to stay. The hour is coming, in which all
that are in the grave shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and shall come forth; they that have good, to the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.
FORASMUCH as it hath pleased Almighty God, in His wise providence to take out of this world the soul of our deceased brother/sister, we therefore commit his/her body to the ground: earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust, looking for the General Resurrection in the last day, and the life of the world to come through our Lord Jesus Christ; at whose second coming in glorious majesty to judge the world, the earth and the sea shall give up their dead; and the corruptible bodies of those who sleep in Him shall be changed and made like unto His own glorious body; according to the mighty working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto Himself. Let us pray:
Almighty and most merciful God, in whose hands are the issues of life and death, and before whose judgment seat we shall stand and give account of the deeds done in the body, we ask you to grant us at all times a life changing conviction of the frailty of life, and our great responsibility to serve you; the Judge of the living and the dead.
We humbly confess, O righteous Father that we have sinned and come short of your glory. We have been undutiful children, slothful servants, and unfaithful stewards of the manifold mercies of God. Be merciful, O Lord to our unrighteousness, pardon our sins, and raise us from a death of sin to a life of righteousness, through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
We ask you Father God, of all mercies and giver of every good and perfect gift, to grant us grace, that we may serve you acceptably, with reverence and godly fear, all our days; looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior, Jesus Christ to judge the world in righteousness.
O Lord of life and death, we acknowledge the reality of death. Although it separates loved ones, make us aware that it is only for a season. Although it brings grief, may we look to thy Spirit to bring comfort and peace to these who mourn. Although it brings disappointment, give us faith to look to the future with
hope, confidence and courage. Now, O Father, abide with these our friends throughout the coming days, and bring us all together again around thy throne in eternal glory. The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord. This we pray, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
BENEDICTION
Adopted by the General Assembly,
August 25, 1954
Approved by the General Board,
May 12, 1956
Bishop John H. Grant – General Bishop
Bishop Morris E. Mahoney – General Secretary
1st Revision June 1997
2nd Reprint – July 2008
2nd Revision – May 2015
3rd Revision – October 2015
4th Revision – April 2017