Committee Handbook

By /

YATES BAPTIST CHURCH

COMMITTEE HANDBOOK

Revised January 22, 2014

PURPOSE

The purpose of this handbook is to provide a description of each of the committees, councils, and elected positions of Yates Baptist Church and to define the policies by which these groups operate. This manual is intended as a guide for the Nominating Committee, for staff, and for the congregation in the conduct of the church’s ministries and business affairs.

The descriptions are based on the Yates Baptist Church Bylaws and have been approved by the congregation.

GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

  1. Term of Service

– Unless otherwise specified, committee members are elected to serve for a term of three (3) years. – Approximately one-third of the members of each committee will rotate off each year. – A person may be re-elected after one (1) year has elapsed since completion of a full term. – Persons filling unexpired terms of one (1) year or less are eligible for immediate re-election.

  1. Composition

– Each committee shall have at least three (3) members unless otherwise specified. – Committees may enlist additional non-voting members to serve in an advisory capacity as needed. – The Senior Pastor and other ministerial staff members shall be ex officio members of all committees and councils except the Nominating Committee.

  1. Election

– All committee members are nominated by the Nominating Committee and elected by the church in regular business session. – Vacancies occurring during the year may be filled by the Nominating Committee, subject to church approval.

  1. Organization and Officers

– Each committee shall elect a chair and a secretary unless otherwise specified. – The chair shall call meetings as needed and be responsible for seeing that reports and recommendations are prepared for the church when appropriate. – The secretary shall keep accurate minutes of each meeting and maintain copies for the committee’s files and for submission to the church office.

  1. Meetings

– Committees shall meet as often as necessary to carry out assigned responsibilities. – A majority of the members of a committee shall constitute a quorum. – Meetings should be opened and closed with prayer.

  1. Reports

– Committees shall report to the church when requested or when committee action requires church approval. – Written annual reports shall be submitted to the church office by January 31 for inclusion in the church’s annual report book.

  1. Budget Requests

– Each committee that requires funds for its work shall submit an annual budget request to the Finance Committee at the time designated for budget preparation.

  1. Records

– Committees shall maintain records of their actions and decisions and shall file copies of minutes, correspondence, and reports with the church office for historical and administrative purposes.

  1. Relationship to Staff

– Committees serve in cooperation with the church staff to carry out the ministry of the church. – Staff members provide guidance and support but do not exercise control over committees except as defined in the Bylaws.

  1. Amendments

– Recommendations for additions, deletions, or changes to this handbook shall be submitted in writing to the Nominating Committee. – The Nominating Committee shall review all proposed amendments and, after consulting with affected committees, recommend changes to the church for approval.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

The committee system of Yates Baptist Church exists to support the mission of the church:

A growing community alive with Christ, energized to share God’s transforming love.

Committees are organized to involve members of the congregation in ministry, to ensure accountability, and to distribute leadership responsibilities broadly. Each committee represents a specific area of service through which members use their gifts to strengthen the life and witness of the church.

Committees operate within the authority granted by the church and are accountable to the church body. While committees function independently within their assigned scope, their actions are ultimately subject to church approval.

STRUCTURE OF THE HANDBOOK

The following pages describe each standing committee, council, and elected position, listed in alphabetical order. Each description includes:

  • The Purpose of the committee or position.
  • Its Membership and Term.
  • The Responsibilities assigned by the congregation.
  • The Reports or actions expected annually.

COMMITTEES

AUDIO/VISUAL COMMITTEE

Purpose To oversee and maintain the church’s sound, projection, and recording equipment and to ensure quality audio and visual support for worship and other church events.

Membership Three (3) members elected for three-year terms. Additional volunteer operators may be enlisted.

Responsibilities

  • Provide sound and projection support for worship services, weddings, funerals, and special programs.
  • Maintain and recommend upgrades for audio and video equipment.
  • Train and schedule volunteers to operate equipment.
  • Coordinate with staff to ensure recordings are made and archived appropriately.
  • Submit an annual budget request for maintenance and equipment replacement.

Reports Reports to the church through the Worship Committee and provides a written annual report.

BAPTISMAL COMMITTEE

Purpose To assist candidates for baptism and prepare the baptistry and related facilities for the ordinance of baptism.

Membership Six (6) members, including both men and women, elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare robes, towels, and dressing areas for baptismal candidates.
  • Assist the minister and candidates as needed during baptism services.
  • Launder and store robes and towels.
  • Maintain the baptistry and related equipment in cooperation with the House and Grounds Committee.

Reports Reports to the church through the Worship Committee.

BUILDING AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE

Purpose To provide oversight, maintenance, and improvement of all church properties, buildings, and grounds.

Membership Nine (9) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Supervise the maintenance, repair, and appearance of all church buildings, furnishings, and grounds.
  • Develop long-range plans for building maintenance and improvement.
  • Recommend major capital improvements to the Finance Committee and to the church.
  • Coordinate volunteer workdays and special projects related to building upkeep.
  • Work with staff to establish priorities for routine maintenance.
  • Oversee the custodial staff in cooperation with the Pastor.
  • Maintain appropriate service contracts (e.g., HVAC, pest control, safety inspections).
  • Ensure compliance with fire, safety, and accessibility regulations.

Reports Reports to the church through the Finance Committee and provides an annual written report.

BYLAWS COMMITTEE

Purpose To review the Bylaws of Yates Baptist Church and recommend revisions when appropriate.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct periodic review of the Bylaws to ensure consistency with church policies and current practices.
  • Receive and consider proposed amendments submitted by committees or members.
  • Draft and present recommended revisions to the church for approval.
  • Maintain an official, updated copy of the Bylaws in the church office.

Reports Reports directly to the church and submits recommendations through regular business meetings.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE

Purpose To oversee the maintenance, use, and recordkeeping of the church cemetery.

Membership Five (5) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Maintain accurate records of plots, interments, and ownership.
  • Supervise the care and upkeep of cemetery grounds.
  • Establish policies for use and appearance consistent with church values.
  • Coordinate with funeral directors and families as needed.
  • Manage the cemetery fund in cooperation with the Finance Committee.

Reports Reports to the church through the Finance Committee and provides an annual written report.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER COMMITTEE

Purpose To provide policy guidance, oversight, and support for the Yates Baptist Church Child Development Center (CDC).

Membership Nine (9) members elected for three-year terms, including at least two CDC parents when possible. The Pastor and CDC Director serve as ex officio members.

Responsibilities

  • Establish and review policies governing the operation of the CDC.
  • Support the Director in administrative matters and act as a liaison with the church.
  • Recommend the annual CDC budget to the Finance Committee and monitor its implementation.
  • Ensure compliance with state and local regulations and accreditation standards.
  • Promote the spiritual and educational mission of the CDC as a ministry of the church.
  • Recruit volunteers and encourage church participation in CDC activities.

Reports Reports to the church through the Personnel Committee and provides an annual written report.

CHURCH COUNCIL

Purpose To coordinate the total program of the church and provide planning and communication among committees, councils, and staff.

Membership Consists of the Pastor (chair), ministerial staff, chairs of all standing committees, council representatives, and the Church Clerk.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as a communication link between committees and the congregation.
  • Assist in scheduling events and avoiding conflicts in the church calendar.
  • Recommend overall goals and priorities for the church’s ministry.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of church programs and activities.
  • Facilitate cooperation among committees and staff in fulfilling the mission of the church.

Reports Reports directly to the church.

CHURCH HOSTESS COMMITTEE

Purpose To provide hospitality and coordinate meals and receptions sponsored by the church.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and supervise church-wide meals and receptions.
  • Coordinate the use of kitchen and dining facilities for church events.
  • Maintain an inventory of kitchen supplies and equipment.
  • Work with staff and other committees to provide refreshments for special events.
  • Recommend policies for use of kitchen equipment and food service areas.

Reports Reports to the church through the Fellowship Committee and provides a written annual report.

COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE

Purpose To develop and implement strategies that support clear, timely, and effective communication among church members and between the church and the community.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee publication of the Yates Newsletter, bulletin, website, and other communication platforms.
  • Promote consistent branding and style in church communications.
  • Support the church staff in communicating major events, mission initiatives, and ministry updates.
  • Recommend policies concerning email lists, social media use, and communication security.
  • Coordinate with the Pastor and ministry teams to ensure that all communications reflect the church’s mission.
  • Evaluate communication methods annually and recommend improvements.

Reports Reports to the church through the Church Council and provides an annual written report.

CONGREGATION AND STAFF COMMITTEE

Purpose To provide support, care, and administrative assistance for the work of the church staff, and to strengthen the relationship between the congregation and staff members.

Membership Nine (9) members elected for three-year terms. The Pastor serves as an ex officio member.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as a liaison between the congregation and staff, maintaining open communication.
  • Encourage and support staff members in their professional and spiritual growth.
  • Review and recommend personnel policies and procedures in cooperation with the Personnel Committee.
  • Assist with staff evaluations and conflict resolution when requested.
  • Help coordinate church-wide appreciation and recognition events for staff.
  • Serve as the Petty Cash custodian oversight group in cooperation with the Ministry Assistant.
  • Maintain confidentiality in all personnel-related matters.

Reports Reports to the church through the Personnel Committee and submits an annual written report.

CONSTITUTION COMMITTEE

Purpose To review and recommend revisions to the church’s Constitution to ensure consistency with current practices and beliefs.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Maintain an official copy of the Constitution and all amendments approved by the church.
  • Review proposed changes and make recommendations for adoption or clarification.
  • Ensure that the Constitution and Bylaws remain in agreement.
  • Consult with the Bylaws Committee and other groups when constitutional revisions are proposed.

Reports Reports directly to the church.

ENDOWMENT COMMITTEE

Purpose To promote, receive, and administer gifts to the Yates Baptist Church Endowment Fund in accordance with established policies.

Membership Five (5) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Manage and steward funds designated for the Endowment, ensuring their investment in accordance with church-approved guidelines.
  • Work in cooperation with the Finance Committee and Trustees to monitor fund performance.
  • Encourage planned giving and provide educational opportunities for members regarding estate gifts.
  • Review requests for disbursement from Endowment earnings and recommend actions to the church.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding donors and fund activity.
  • Prepare an annual financial statement of the Endowment Fund for the church.

Reports Reports to the church through the Finance Committee and provides an annual written report.

EVANGELISM COMMITTEE

Purpose To help the church fulfill its mission by encouraging members to share their faith and by developing ministries of invitation, outreach, and witness.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Encourage members to share the Good News of Jesus Christ in personal and practical ways.
  • Plan and support evangelistic events, training, and community outreach efforts.
  • Coordinate visitation and follow-up with guests and new members.
  • Maintain a supply of evangelistic materials and literature for use by church members.
  • Work in cooperation with the Missions Committee and the church staff to strengthen outreach ministries.
  • Submit an annual budget request to the Finance Committee.

Reports Reports to the church through the Church Council and provides an annual written report.

FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE

Purpose To nurture Christian fellowship and hospitality within the congregation by coordinating social events and gatherings that build community.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and organize church-wide fellowship events, meals, and receptions in cooperation with the Church Hostess Committee.
  • Encourage small group gatherings and intergenerational fellowship opportunities.
  • Assist in welcoming new members and integrating them into church life.
  • Promote a spirit of joy, friendship, and inclusivity in all church events.
  • Coordinate with the Worship Committee for special celebrations such as Homecoming or church anniversaries.

Reports Reports to the church through the Church Council and provides an annual written report.

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Purpose To oversee the financial affairs of the church, ensuring faithful stewardship, transparent accounting, and alignment of spending with mission priorities.

Membership Nine (9) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and present the annual church budget in consultation with staff and committees.
  • Monitor receipts, disbursements, and overall financial performance.
  • Review and recommend financial policies, procedures, and internal controls.
  • Oversee the work of the Treasurer and Financial Secretary.
  • Authorize fund transfers and recommend investment or savings strategies.
  • Review and approve all requests for special offerings or fundraising efforts.
  • Coordinate with Trustees and Endowment Committee on property and investment matters.
  • Encourage the congregation to practice generous stewardship and provide annual financial education opportunities.

Reports Reports directly to the church and provides an annual written financial summary.

FLOWER COMMITTEE

Purpose To provide floral arrangements and decorations for worship services and special occasions.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Arrange flowers for Sunday worship services.
  • Maintain and schedule the flower calendar throughout the year.
  • Coordinate seasonal decorations for Advent, Easter, and other significant services.
  • Deliver floral arrangements to homebound or hospitalized members after worship when appropriate.
  • Work in consultation with the Worship Committee and church staff.

Reports Reports to the church through the Worship Committee.

GREETERS COMMITTEE

Purpose To create a welcoming atmosphere for all who attend worship services and special events at Yates Baptist Church.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Recruit and train volunteers to serve as greeters and ushers.
  • Ensure that worship bulletins and other materials are distributed.
  • Provide special attention to first-time guests and visitors.
  • Maintain an organized plan for welcoming and follow-up in coordination with the Evangelism Committee.
  • Ensure accessibility and assistance for those with mobility needs.

Reports Reports to the church through the Worship Committee and provides an annual written report.

HISTORY COMMITTEE

Purpose To preserve and interpret the historical record of Yates Baptist Church.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Collect and preserve documents, photographs, and artifacts relevant to the church’s history.
  • Maintain a historical archive and prepare displays or publications as appropriate.
  • Support anniversary celebrations and other heritage-related observances.
  • Assist in maintaining accurate congregational records in coordination with the Church Clerk.
  • Encourage awareness of the church’s heritage and continuing story.

Reports Reports to the church through the Church Council and provides an annual written report.

HOUSE AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE

Purpose To maintain, repair, and improve the physical facilities and grounds of the church.

Membership Nine (9) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Provide oversight for routine maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to the church property.
  • Coordinate with the Building and Grounds Committee when joint projects are undertaken.
  • Oversee the maintenance of mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems.
  • Supervise lawn care, landscaping, and seasonal beautification.
  • Recommend major repairs or renovations to the Finance Committee and church.
  • Maintain appropriate maintenance schedules and service contracts.

Reports Reports to the church through the Finance Committee.

LORD’S SUPPER COMMITTEE

Purpose To assist in preparing and serving the elements for the Lord’s Supper.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare communion elements prior to each observance.
  • Set up and clean the communion table and serving trays.
  • Coordinate with the Pastor and Deacons in serving the congregation.
  • Maintain an adequate supply of communion materials and linens.
  • Ensure that all materials are cleaned and stored properly after each observance.

Reports Reports to the church through the Worship Committee.

MISSIONS COMMITTEE

Purpose To lead the church in fulfilling its mission to share the gospel locally and globally through service, giving, and partnership.

Membership Nine (9) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and promote the church’s missions strategy, emphasizing local, national, and international engagement.
  • Support partnerships with mission organizations and field personnel.
  • Recommend the annual missions budget and oversee designated mission funds.
  • Coordinate mission education events and short-term mission trips.
  • Encourage every member to participate in missions through prayer, giving, and service.
  • Collaborate with the Evangelism Committee and Church Council to align outreach goals.

Reports Reports to the church through the Church Council and provides an annual written report.

MUSIC COMMITTEE

Purpose To support the worship and music ministries of the church by assisting the Minister of Music and encouraging congregational participation in musical expressions of faith.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Work with the Minister of Music to plan and evaluate the music ministry.
  • Encourage church members to participate in choirs, ensembles, and other musical activities.
  • Assist with arrangements for special musical events and guest musicians.
  • Support the maintenance and acquisition of musical instruments and equipment.
  • Provide hospitality for music ministry participants as needed.
  • Recommend budget needs and priorities to the Finance Committee.

Reports Reports to the church through the Worship Committee and provides an annual written report.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Purpose To recommend to the church qualified members to serve on all committees, councils, and elected positions of leadership.

Membership Nine (9) members elected for three-year terms. Members of this committee may not serve concurrently on other committees.

Responsibilities

  • Secure from the Church Clerk a list of current officers, committees, and council members, noting terms of service.
  • Identify and enlist members to fill vacancies and new positions.
  • Strive for balanced representation across age, gender, and ministry involvement.
  • Consult with staff and committee chairs to discern leadership needs.
  • Present nominations for approval at the annual church conference and as needed throughout the year.
  • Maintain records of service for archival and historical reference.

Reports Reports directly to the church and provides a list of nominees annually.

PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

Purpose To recommend personnel policies, oversee staff employment, and promote healthy working relationships among staff and congregation.

Membership Nine (9) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain personnel policies and procedures for all church staff.
  • Assist in recruitment, selection, and orientation of staff members in consultation with the Pastor.
  • Recommend salaries and benefits to the Finance Committee.
  • Conduct annual evaluations of staff performance in cooperation with the Pastor.
  • Address staff concerns, grievances, or conflicts in a confidential and constructive manner.
  • Encourage staff professional development and continuing education.
  • Recommend revisions to the Personnel Manual as needed.

Reports Reports to the church through the Church Council and provides an annual written report.

RECREATION COMMITTEE

Purpose To provide opportunities for fellowship and outreach through recreation and sports.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and coordinate recreation activities that promote fellowship and Christian witness.
  • Oversee the use and maintenance of recreation equipment and facilities.
  • Support participation in community sports leagues and church tournaments.
  • Encourage physical wellness and wholesome fun among all age groups.
  • Work with the Fellowship and Evangelism Committees to ensure activities align with the church’s mission.

Reports Reports to the church through the Church Council and provides an annual written report.

SAFETY AND SECURITY COMMITTEE

Purpose To ensure the safety and security of church members, staff, and guests during all church activities.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Develop, implement, and periodically review safety and emergency procedures.
  • Coordinate security for worship services, weekday programs, and special events.
  • Maintain first aid kits, AED units, and emergency supplies.
  • Conduct periodic building safety inspections.
  • Provide safety training and emergency response drills.
  • Collaborate with staff and local authorities as needed.

Reports Reports to the church through the House and Grounds Committee.

SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE

Purpose To administer church-related scholarship funds and assist in encouraging educational advancement among church members.

Membership Five (5) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Publicize available scholarships and receive applications.
  • Evaluate applicants according to established criteria.
  • Recommend scholarship recipients to the church for approval.
  • Maintain confidentiality in reviewing applications and decisions.
  • Ensure that scholarship funds are used in accordance with donor intent.
  • Provide an annual report on disbursements and fund balances.

Reports Reports to the church through the Finance Committee.

STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE

Purpose To lead the church in understanding and practicing faithful stewardship of time, talents, and resources.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Promote stewardship education throughout the year.
  • Develop the annual stewardship emphasis and coordinate with the Finance Committee.
  • Encourage members to commit their gifts and resources to the church’s ministry.
  • Provide resources for planned giving and financial discipleship.
  • Celebrate the generosity and faithfulness of the congregation.

Reports Reports to the church through the Finance Committee.

TRUSTEES

Purpose To serve as the legal representatives of Yates Baptist Church and to hold in trust all property, assets, and contracts on behalf of the congregation.

Membership Three (3) members elected for three-year terms, serving as corporate officers of the church.

Responsibilities

  • Execute legal documents, deeds, and contracts as authorized by the church.
  • Represent the church in legal matters and property transactions.
  • Maintain current records of all deeds, insurance policies, and corporate filings.
  • Work in consultation with the Finance Committee regarding financial obligations.
  • Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations governing nonprofit organizations.
  • Provide signatures for official corporate filings and property transfers.

Reports Reports directly to the church and provides an annual written report.

USHERS COMMITTEE

Purpose To ensure that worship services are conducted in an orderly and welcoming manner and that the needs of the congregation are met during worship gatherings.

Membership Six (6) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Recruit and schedule ushers for all worship services.
  • Provide bulletins and materials for worshippers as they enter.
  • Assist with seating, special needs, and emergencies.
  • Collect offerings and ensure their prompt and secure delivery to the Financial Secretary or designated counting team.
  • Assist the Greeters and Worship Committees in welcoming all guests.
  • Support the safety and decorum of worship gatherings.

Reports Reports to the church through the Worship Committee.

WORSHIP COMMITTEE

Purpose To assist the staff in planning, preparing, and evaluating the worship life of the congregation.

Membership Nine (9) members elected for three-year terms.

Responsibilities

  • Work with the Pastor, Minister of Music, and other staff members in planning worship services.
  • Help coordinate the use of worship resources such as banners, flowers, and paraments.
  • Recommend worship themes, special services, and seasonal emphases.
  • Provide feedback on worship participation and congregational needs.
  • Support the inclusion of various musical, dramatic, and artistic expressions in worship.
  • Encourage participation of all age groups in worship leadership.

Reports Reports directly to the church and provides an annual written report.

COUNCILS

DEACON COUNCIL

Purpose To provide spiritual leadership and practical ministry to the congregation, assisting the Pastor in pastoral care, worship, and service.

Membership Active Deacons elected by the congregation in accordance with the Deacon Covenant and Bylaws.

Responsibilities

  • Model Christ-like service and provide pastoral care to members.
  • Assist with the ordinances of the Lord’s Supper and Baptism.
  • Support the ministries and mission of the church through prayer and participation.
  • Cooperate with the Pastor in identifying and addressing congregational needs.
  • Provide counsel to the Pastor and staff when requested.
  • Encourage unity and spiritual growth within the congregation.

Reports Reports directly to the church.

MISSIONS COUNCIL

Purpose To coordinate the work of the church’s mission efforts and promote engagement in local, national, and global mission activities.

Membership Includes representatives from the Missions Committee, Evangelism Committee, and other mission-related ministries, along with ministerial staff.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain a comprehensive missions calendar.
  • Facilitate communication among committees involved in mission efforts.
  • Evaluate ongoing partnerships and recommend new initiatives.
  • Support mission education and awareness opportunities for all ages.
  • Ensure that mission giving and service align with the church’s overall strategy.

Reports Reports to the church through the Church Council.

WORSHIP COUNCIL

Purpose To provide coordination among the committees and groups involved in planning and leading worship.

Membership Includes representatives from the Worship Committee, Music Committee, Flower Committee, Ushers Committee, and church staff.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and coordinate the church’s worship calendar, including seasonal services.
  • Encourage collaboration and creativity in worship leadership.
  • Review worship experiences and recommend improvements.
  • Support the inclusion of diverse gifts and talents in worship.

Reports Reports to the church through the Worship Committee.

ELECTED LEADERS

CLERK

Purpose To maintain accurate records of church proceedings, membership, and official actions.

Responsibilities

  • Record minutes of all business meetings.
  • Maintain the official membership roll and record baptisms, transfers, and deaths.
  • Preserve historical documents and reports.
  • Serve as a resource for committees and staff regarding church records.
  • Submit required denominational reports as needed.

Reports Reports directly to the church.

TREASURER

Purpose To serve as custodian of all church funds and ensure their proper distribution.

Responsibilities

  • Receive and disburse funds as authorized by the church.
  • Keep accurate financial records in cooperation with the Financial Secretary.
  • Present monthly financial reports to the church.
  • Work with the Finance Committee to prepare the annual budget.
  • Ensure that all disbursements are supported by proper documentation.
  • Oversee banking relationships and fund transfers.

Reports Reports to the church through the Finance Committee.

FINANCIAL SECRETARY

Purpose To maintain accurate records of contributions and income and to provide periodic giving statements to members.

Responsibilities

  • Receive and record all contributions.
  • Deposit funds promptly and accurately.
  • Provide detailed giving records to members upon request and annually.
  • Maintain confidentiality of all financial information.
  • Assist the Treasurer and Finance Committee in financial reporting.

Reports Reports to the church through the Finance Committee.

MODERATOR

Purpose To preside over church business meetings and ensure that proceedings are conducted in an orderly and Christian manner.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as presiding officer at all business sessions.
  • Ensure that meetings are conducted in accordance with the church’s Bylaws and Robert’s Rules of Order.
  • Encourage fairness, participation, and respect in deliberations.
  • Work with the Pastor and Church Clerk in setting the agenda for meetings.

Reports Reports directly to the church.

ASSISTANT MODERATOR

Purpose To serve in the absence of the Moderator and assist in conducting church business meetings.

Responsibilities

  • Become familiar with the responsibilities of the Moderator.
  • Preside over business meetings as needed.
  • Support the Moderator in maintaining orderly proceedings.

Reports Reports directly to the church.

HISTORIAN

Purpose To preserve and interpret the ongoing story of Yates Baptist Church for future generations.

Responsibilities

  • Collect, catalog, and preserve historical documents, photographs, and artifacts.
  • Work in partnership with the History Committee to maintain the church archive.
  • Prepare summaries or displays for significant anniversaries and events.
  • Assist staff and members with historical research or inquiries.

Reports Reports to the church through the Church Council.

PARLIAMENTARIAN

Purpose To advise the Moderator and congregation on procedural matters during business meetings.

Responsibilities

  • Interpret Robert’s Rules of Order in the context of the church’s Bylaws and Constitution.
  • Offer impartial guidance on parliamentary questions.
  • Assist the Moderator in ensuring orderly and fair deliberations.

Reports Reports directly to the church.

TRUSTEES (CORPORATE OFFICERS)

Purpose To serve as the corporate officers of Yates Baptist Church, fulfilling all legal obligations required under North Carolina nonprofit law.

Responsibilities

  • Represent the church in all legal transactions.
  • Execute documents as authorized by congregational action.
  • Maintain insurance and property documentation.
  • Ensure that all corporate filings remain current.
  • Collaborate with the Finance Committee and Pastor on property or liability matters.

Reports Reports directly to the church.

CONCLUSION

This Committee Handbook serves as a living document to guide the ministry structure of Yates Baptist Church. Committees, councils, and leaders share the common purpose of equipping the congregation to live out its mission:

A growing community alive with Christ, energized to share God’s transforming love.

The Nominating Committee, in consultation with church staff and the congregation, shall review this handbook annually and recommend revisions as needed to keep it accurate, functional, and faithful to the church’s mission and bylaws.

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