MSBC Policy and Procedures 16July2018

MORNING STAR 

BAPTIST CHURCH 

POLICY & PROCEDURES MANUAL 

ADOPTED 

JULY 16, 2018 

0

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL 

Morning Star Baptist Church 

Gulfport, Mississippi 

Contents 

POLICY AND PROCEDURAL MANUAL ……………………………………………..…..4 

CHURCH POLICIES …………………………..…………….…………..………………………..4 

I. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................... 4 

1. General:. ........................................................................................................................ 4 

2. Scheduled Church Meetings .......................................................................................... 5 

3. Organizational Structure ................................................................................................ 6 

4. Qualifications and Guidelines for Leaders and Staff………......………………………….6 

II. CHURCH LEADERSHIP..……………………………………..…….……………………….8 

1. Officers .......................................................................................................................... 8 

2. Pastor ............................................................................................................................ 8 

3. Deacons ...................................................................................................................... 10 

4. Chairman of the Board of Deacons .............................................................................. 13 

5. Trustees ....................................................................................................................... 14 

6. Finance Chairman/Committee ..................................................................................... 16 

7. Treasurer ..................................................................................................................... 18 

8. Church Clerk ................................................................................................................ 18 

9. CHURCH COUNCIL .................................................................................................... 19 

III. MEMBERSHIP ......................................................................................................... 20 

1. General: ....................................................................................................................... 20 

2. Active/Voting Members ................................................................................................ 22 

3. Inactive/Nonvoting Members ....................................................................................... 23 

4. Removal from the Roll ................................................................................................. 24 

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Adopted for Implementation by the membership, July 16, 2018




5. New Member Orientation ............................................................................................. 25 

IV. CHURCH LEADERSHIP AND COMMITTEE…………….….…………………………...25 

1. Church Secretary/Assistant Secretary ......................................................................... 25 

2. Personnel Committee .................................................................................................. 26 

3. Pastor Search Committee ............................................................................................ 28 

4. Sunday School Superintendent ................................................................................... 29 

5. Pianists/Organists ........................................................................................................ 30 

6. Custodian .................................................................................................................... 30 

7. Standing Committees .................................................................................................. 31 

8. Leadership Meetings ................................................................................................... 32 

V. DEACONS AND MINISTERS WIVES ...................................................................... 32 

VI. CHURCH MINISTRIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................. 32 

1. Director of Youth Ministries .......................................................................................... 32 

2. Director of Workers Ministries ...................................................................................... 33 

3. Minister of Music .......................................................................................................... 33 

4. Ushers ......................................................................................................................... 34 

5. Church Nurse............................................................................................................... 35 

6. Ministry Chairperson .................................................................................................... 36 

7. Conducting Church Business Meetings ....................................................................... 36 

VII. MISCELLANOUS…….……………………………..………………………………………...38 

1. Conflict of Interest ........................................................................................................ 38 

2. Safety and Security ...................................................................................................... 39 

3. Child Protection ........................................................................................................... 40 

4. Youth Messengers’ Code of Conduct & Dress Code ................................................... 41 

5. Representation in Association ..................................................................................... 43 

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6. Licensing and Ordaining .............................................................................................. 43 

7. Changes to the Constitution and Bylaws ..................................................................... 44 

8. Annual Days ................................................................................................................ 44 

2. Assigning New Members to a Deacon: ........................................................................ 45 

9. Chain of Command ...................................................................................................... 45 

10. Church Anniversary .................................................................................................. 45 

11. Pastor’s Appreciation Day Service ........................................................................... 46 

12. Memorial Tributes ..................................................................................................... 46 

13. Deacon Candidate Training ...................................................................................... 46 

14. Delegates to Conventions and Congresses ............................................................. 46 

15. Elections ................................................................................................................... 48 

16. Weddings ................................................................................................................. 48 

17. Funerals ................................................................................................................... 51 

18. Keys ......................................................................................................................... 54 

19. Scheduling Events at the Church ............................................................................. 54 

20. Selecting Evangelists for Revival ............................................................................. 54 

21. Selecting Ministers and Speakers for Annual Days .................................................. 54 

22. Term of Office ........................................................................................................... 55 

23. Church Expenditures ................................................................................................ 56 

24. Usage of Facilities .................................................................................................... 59 

25. POLICY ADHERENCE ............................................................................................. 64 

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MORNING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH 

POLICY AND PROCEDURES MANUAL 

CHURCH POLICIES 

I. INTRODUCTION 

1. General: This is a Church Administration and Policy Manual designed to make 

clear and more understandable, the basic policies, rules, and procedures of the Morning Star 

Baptist Church. 

a. This manual is a reference guide that provides instructions, functions and 

church operations. It lists routine duties and answers questions that arise as duties are 

performed. 

b. What is a Policy? A Policy is a statement that defines the authority required, 

boundaries set, responsibilities delegated, and guidelines established to carry out a function 

of the church. Policies provide uniform treatment of a situation, thus achieving continuity of 

operation. Policies take personalities out of the picture. Decisions are based on the church 

policy not on the individual, and each decision is governed by policy. 

c. What is a Procedure? Procedures tell how a task is done. A detailed listing is 

made of each step taken to complete the process. A step by step description of the process 

is used to complete the job. Procedures are guidelines that are use in conjunction with job 

descriptions where job descriptions are applicable. 

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2. Scheduled Church Meetings 

a. Church meetings are held as follows: 

Sunday School ........................................... 9:30 A.M. 

Morning Worship ........................................ 10:30 A.M. 

Sunday Communion ..........1st Sunday of each month at 10:30 a.m. 

Bible Study...........................Each Wednesday Night at 6:00 p.m. 

b. BUSINESS MEETINGS – Business Meetings are meetings held for the 

Congregation of the church to conduct the business of the church. 

Congregation/Members shall meet quarterly to conduct the business of the Church on 

Mondays at 7:00 p.m. after the first Sunday in January, April, July, and October. 

c. SPECIAL BUSINESS MEETINGS - Special business meetings may be called by 

the Pastor, the Chairman of the Board of Deacons or Chairman of the Trustees, whenever, 

in their discretion. Notice of such meetings and the purpose shall be given from the pulpit 

and/or published in the weekly Church bulletin on the two (2) consecutive Sundays 

immediately preceding the proposed meeting. 

d. These meetings are to be under the direction of the Pastor and/or deacons or 

conducted by a designated person appointed by the Pastor. 

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3. Organizational Structure 

4. Qualifications and Guidelines for Leaders and Staff 

To serve in any leadership capacity of this church, it is necessary that you: 

a. Be a born-again believer in Christ. 

b. Be a member in good standing for membership of the Morning Star Baptist 

Church (See III, Membership, Sub-para 2. Active/Voting Members). 

c. Exemplify a Christian-lifestyle in and out of Morning Star Baptist Church. 

d. Be supportive of the doctrine, ministry, pastor, and members of this church. 

e. Possess a willingness to serve. 

f. Demonstrate faithfulness to obligation. 

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g. Have a cooperative spirit. 

h. Attend leadership meetings as requested by the pastor, unless prior notice has 

been given. 

i. All leaders and staff should, as courtesy, notify the pastor, in advance, of 

activities of your ministry that involves members of this church. 

j. The Morning Star Baptist Church is your priority as it relates to other activities. 

Leaders and staff should not get involved in outside activities when such activities conflict 

with your responsibilities at Morning Star Baptist Church. 

k. When planning activities for your ministry or other activities, check the master 

calendar with the church secretary and contact the pastor to avoid conflicts with other 

activities. 

l. Leaders and staff are encouraged to take leadership training courses when such 

courses are offered. Those who refuse to participate in leadership training activities will be 

subject for re-evaluation as a church leader. 

m. Leaders and staff are expected to support annual church projects and programs 

with their presence and finances, such as, revivals, conferences, workshops, etc. 

n. Leaders and staff are expected to attend church business meetings. 

o. Leaders and staff are required to incorporate prayer in your ministry. 

p. Leaders and staff are expected to be in regular worship services (Sunday 

services, Sunday school and bible study) and are expected to Tithe (I Corinthians 16:2; 

Malachi 3:10); however, they must contribute at least $2,000.00 annually to hold appointed 

or selected positions. Annual giving exceptions will be made on an individual person by 

person consideration. Individuals who do not annually contribute $2,000.00 have the option 

of: 

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1) providing proof that they earn less than $20,000.00 annually or 

2) evidence that it would create a financial hardship for the individual or family. 

II. 

CHURCH LEADERSHIP 

1. Officers 

The Officers of Morning Star Baptist Church shall be: Pastor, Deacons, Treasurer, 

Financial Secretary, Church Clerk, and Trustees. 

2. Pastor 

a. Accountable to: Board of Deacons and the Congregation 

b. Principle Function: To lead the church in spiritual growth by giving personal 

directions to its total ministry, working through all duly constituted officers and committees in 

promotion of the church program. 

c. Selection: The Pastor shall be called for an indefinite period by two-thirds (⅔) 

vote of the active members present in a duly authorized business meeting. The prospective 

pastor must be the unanimous recommendation of a Pastor Search Committee duly elected 

by the church. 

d. Fringe benefit package: The Pastor life insurance policy shall be divided 

equally (50/50) between the family and the church. 401K percentage shall be based on 

salary only, does not include fringe benefit. 

e. Duties and Responsibilities: 

1) The Pastor shall be a spiritual leader of high Christian character and a duly 

ordained Baptist minister in full fellowship with the National Baptist Convention. (see Articles 

of Faith in MSBC Constitution and Bylaws). 

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2) The Pastor shall be of sound doctrine and meet the Scriptural qualifications 

set forth in 1 Timothy 3:1-7. 

"1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good 

work. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good 

behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of 

filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 4 One that ruleth well his own house, 

having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own 

house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with 

pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover he must have a good report of 

them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” 

3) The Pastor shall preside over all church business meetings when possible, 

shall conduct the church ordinances, shall be ex-officio member of all committees and 

functions of the church, shall have control of the pulpit, and shall be expected, as much as 

possible, to minister to the total spiritual needs of all members, collectively and individually. 

4) The Pastor shall serve the sick and shut-ins with visits, prayer, communion, 

and encouragements. 

5) Private or sensitive issues must be kept confidential 

6) Contribute financially to the well-being of the church (I Corinthians 16:2; 

Malachi 3:10); 

7) Evaluate annually the job performance of staff members. Develop plans of 

assistance and disciplinary measures for staff, as needed. 

8) The Pastor will deem the appropriate number of Deacons (not less than 

twelve (12)) to constitute the deaconship of this Church. 

9) If, at any time, the Pastor shall become dissatisfied or for any reason desire 

to resign, the Pastor shall inform the church thirty (30) days before termination of his 

services. In the event the membership becomes dissatisfied with the Pastor, a two thirds 

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(2/3) vote of the Voting Membership (as provided under Article V (Constitution and Bylaws)) 

in attendance at the meeting in which the Pastor’s status is in question will be required to 

force the Pastor’s resignation. 

3. Deacons 

a. Accountable to: Chairman of the Board of Deacons/Pastor/Congregation 

b. Principal Function: The Deacons are the helpers of the Pastor (Acts 6:1-7) and 

are accountable to the Pastor and church. 

c. Selection: The Pastor will deem the appropriate number of Deacons to 

constitute the deaconship (not less than twelve (12)) of this Church. Act 6:3-4 “ 3 Brothers 

and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and 

wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and 

the ministry of the word." Because the Deacons are accountable to the Pastor, they are to be 

appointed and approved by the Pastor and Congregation. 

1) Newly appointed Deacons shall be voted upon by the membership to serve 

for a period of three years (appointment/selection as Deacon is not a permanent or life-time 

position). After three years, a Deacon can succeed himself. 

2) Currently serving Deacons shall be reviewed annually by the Pastor and the 

Church Council (See page 19, Section 9. Church Council) to assess their status. After 

review, any Deacon who is assessed as ineffective shall be counseled by the Pastor and 

Chairman of the Deacon Board prior to their name being submitted before the church for 

consideration to move to an inactive status. 

3) Reasons for dismissal: 

a) failure to attend Deacon Meetings, Sunday School (II Timothy 2:15), 

Worship Services (Hebrews 10:25), Bible Study, Prayer Meeting, the Lord’s Supper (I 

Corinthians 11:17-34), and expected to Tithe (I Corinthians 16:2; Malachi 3:10); however, 

you must contribute at least $2,000.00 annually, 

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b) being guilty of spreading malicious gossip (Acts 6:3; I Timothy 3:8-11), 

and/or causing division amongst Church members of the church (Romans 16:17); or 

insubordination to the Pastor and/or church (Hebrews 13:17). 

d. Duties: 

1) The Deacons will meet at a time called/designated by the Pastor or 

Chairman of the Board of Deacons. 

2) Serve the sick and shut-ins with visits, prayer, and encouragements. 

3) Assist the pastor in worship services by leading the devotional service. 

Christ. 

4) Be willing to be trained for the work of the ministry in leading others to 

5) Be an example to the Morning Star Baptist Church, showing faithfulness 

and promoting the support of: 

a) Sunday School 

b) Worship Services 

c) Bible Class/Prayer Meeting 

d) Tithe/Financial Giving 

6) Assist the pastor in the administration of church ordinances 

a) The Lord Supper 

b) Baptism 

7) Private or sensitive issues must be kept confidential. 

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8) Be willing to perform other duties as assigned by the pastor. 

9) Be prepared to be called upon if needed by the chairman. 

10) Be Faithful, Available & Teachable (FAT). 

11) Assist in creating a spiritual atmosphere within the church services. 

12) Provide for the spiritual nourishment and enrichment of those members 

assigned to his deacon ministry. 

13) Provide input to the Pastor for annual job performance evaluation of staff 

members. In the absence of a Pastor, conduct annual job performance evaluations of staff 

members. 

14) The Deacons shall have other duties as may be assigned to them from 

time to time by the Pastor and as are described in the Constitution and Bylaws. 

15) Faithfully attend business meetings, deacon board meetings, Sunday 

School, Bible Study, worship services, Lord’s Supper, and special events. 

16) In the absence of a Pastor, it shall be the duty of the Deacons to 

assemble the members of the Church together in a business meeting to establish a time when 

the Church shall elect a Pastor and to give guidance to the Church in electing a Pastor. 

e. Quorum for an official Deacon Board Meeting 

1) A Quorum for a meeting of the Board of Deacons is fifty percent of active 

deacons plus one. Any deacon meeting held without a quorum shall be of NO EFFECT. In 

the event of a lack of a quorum the Chairman, within two days following the meeting, may 

poll the Board of Deacons to act on issues that requires immediate action. A record of each 

deacon’s vote (date and time recorded) and the vote must be ratified at the next meeting 

when a quorum is present. 

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2) Fifty percent, plus 1 of the active deacons in attendance (not on roll) at any 

board meeting must vote to make any action taken at that meeting to be lawful and binding. 

4. Chairman of the Board of Deacons 

a. Accountable to: Pastor, Board of Deacons and Congregation 

b. Principal Function: The Chairman of the Board of Deacons shall assist the 

pastor in providing leadership to other deacons. 

c. Selection: The Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and all officers of the Board of 

Deacons will be elected by the Board of Deacons by open or secret ballot. 

d. Duties: 

1) He shall moderate all Deacons Board meetings and others as assigned by 

the pastor or when the Morning Star Baptist Church is without a pastor. 

2) He shall keep the pastor informed of deaths, illness and/or other crisis as 

they occur within the membership. 

3) He shall arrange a feasible order for important announcements to be 

properly disseminated to other deacons and appropriate staff 

4) He shall direct the visitation schedule of the deacons which includes the 

sick, bereaved, elderly and those with special and/or immediate need. 

5) He shall ensure that the Secretary of the Board of Deacons keep accurate 

records of all activities under his supervision and keep the pastor informed of same. 

6) He shall assist in the training of other deacons. 

7) He shall promote the highest standards of leadership and Christian 

manhood and character within his ministry and train deacons for same. 

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8) He shall be prepared to be called upon if needed by the pastor. 

9) During any interim period when the Church is without a pastor, whether 

because by death, resignation, or severing of the Church/Pastor relationship, it is incumbent 

upon the Chairman of the Board of Deacons to call together the deacons as soon as 

possible for the following: 

a) nominate, on an interim basis, a regular ordained fundamental 

missionary Baptist minister to be in charge of the pulpit by taking care of the regular order of 

services whose duties shall end at the completion of that task; 

b) to call the Board of Deacons to nominate a Pastor Search Committee 

of seven (7) voting members whose duty shall be to supply the pulpit with a fundamental 

missionary Baptist minister to deliver a gospel message when the same is required; 

c) establish a date of a business meeting at which all nominations and 

recommendations of the Pastor Search Committee shall be approved, altered, or rejected by 

the Voting Members of the Church. 

5. Trustees 

10) He shall be willing to perform other duties as requested by the pastor. 


b. Principle Function: The Trustees serve as the legal representatives in all 

transactions related to the church. They hold title to the church property and they sign 

all documents related to the purchase, sale, mortgaging, or rental of church property after 

approval by the church in regular business session. Trustees should act only on the 

authority of church approval. 

c. Selection: The selection of Trustees to fill any vacancy shall be nominated 

by the pastor and members of the Board of Deacons, acting together, and they should 

come to a consensus of selecting one or more individuals to serve as Trustee(s) to be 

submitted to the Church for affirmation. 

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d. Prohibition Against Private Accommodation. No part of the net earnings of 

this Church shall be allotted for the benefit of, or be distributable to, its members, ministers, 

deacons or officers or other private persons, except that the Church shall be authorized and 

empowered to pay reasonable compensation and benefits for services rendered and to make 

payments, distributions and acts of benevolence in furtherance of the purposes of the 

Church. 

e. Duties: 

1) Sign and hold legal title to all church property (as required by state law) and 

act only as directed by the church in regular business session. 

2) Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all church property, mortgage loans, 

and insurance on church property and equipment. 

3) Inspect all church properties annually and submit a report to the church in a 

regular business session. 

4) Maintain a list of holders of church keys and use. 

5) Maintain all church legal documents in conjunction with the Church Clerk in 

a secure lockable fire proof cabinet. 

6) Make recommendations to the Finance Committee regarding annual 

insurance premiums for the facilities and the church van. 

7) Keep the church abreast of latest insurance and legal changes that may 

affect the church. 

8) Any purchase, sale, mortgage or other disposition of real property or 

personal property valued at more than $1,000.00 shall take place only after properly 

authorized by the members at a business meeting. The trustees shall, in consultation with 

the Treasurer, hold, invest, manage and control property given in trust to the Church, upon 

the terms and conditions of the trust under which the property is given. 

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9) Trustees shall have general charge of the buildings and grounds, and their 

upkeep, and can recommend to the Church any repairs or changes that need to be made. 

10) The trustees (excluding the Finance Committee members) shall not be 

required to be bonded but the Church may choose to do so at the church expense in an 

amount to be determined and fixed by the Finance Committee. 

f. Reasons for dismissal: 

1) failure to attend Worship Services (Hebrews 10:25), 

2) failure to attend Trustee and Business Meetings, 

3) properly maintain church records. 

4) failure to Tithe (I Corinthians 16:2; Malachi 3:10); however, you must 

contribute at least $2,000.00 annually, 

5) being guilty of spreading malicious gossip (Acts 6:3; I Timothy 3:8-11), 

and/or causing division amongst Church members of the church (Romans 16:17); or 

insubordination to the Pastor and/or church (Hebrews 13:17). 

6. Finance Chairman/Committee 

a. Accountable to: Pastor and Deacons/Congregation 

b. Principle Function: Works with the Treasurer to ensure accuracy in 

maintaining the financial records of the Morning Star Baptist Church and assisting in the 

preparation of financial reports. 

c. Selection: The members of the Finance Committee are selected by the Board 

of Deacons. The Chairman of the Finance Committee shall be appointed by the Pastor and 

approved by the Board of Deacons. The Finance Committee shall be members of the Board 

of Trustees and Finance Committee. 

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d. Duties: Finance Chairman/Committee shall ensure the: 

1) Receive, count and deposit all church monies. 

2) Post receipts and disbursements of all accounts. 

3) Post church offerings to individual accounts. 

4) Reconcile bank statements. 

5) Prepare monthly and annual financial reports for deacons and church 

business meetings or as requested. 

6) Receive and answer questions regarding financial matters. 

7) Check the total of all invoices, when approved; inform responsible person of 

their budget expenditures. 

8) Maintain a file of invoices, correspondence and reports on all financial 

matters. 

9) Prepare and issue checks to staff, officers, and ministries in accordance 

with policies approved by the church. 

10) Prepare and issue end of year financial statements for individual members 

upon request. 

e. The Chairman of the Finance Committee shall serve for a term of two (2) years, 

unless removed by the Pastor, and he/she shall be eligible to succeed him or herself. 

f. All checks must have two (2) signatures to be considered valid. All checks 

requested should have supporting data on record. 

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7. Treasurer 

a. Accountable: Pastor and Deacons/Congregation 

b. Principle Function: Responsible for ensuring accuracy in maintaining the 

financial records of the Morning Star Baptist Church and assisting in the preparation of 

financial reports. 

c. Selection: The Treasurer of this Church shall be appointed by the Board of 

Deacons and approved by the Church. 

d. Duties: The Treasurer shall provide oversight of or implement the: 

1) Work with the finance committee to develop and recommend policies and 

procedures related to receiving, accounting, and dispersing church funds. 

2) Work with the finance committee in receiving, counting, and depositing the 

money. After the money is deposited, the deposit slip should be verified. The treasurer or 

financial secretary should justify the financial records monthly. 

3) Work with the financial secretary to record members’ contributions; and 

prepare and distribute contribution statements. 

8. Church Clerk 

a. Accountable to: Church Council 

b. Principle Function: The Church Clerk shall be responsible for accurate 

recording of all business transactions approved regarding church business meetings. 

c. Selection: Board of Deacons and approved by the church. 

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d. Duties: 

1) Record and maintain accurate minutes, including typing, filing, documenting 

and submitting copy for review by the Pastor and Board of Deacons. 

2) Preserve and maintain orderly file records of business transaction involving 

(but not limited to) all financial statements, budgets, and annual financial reports. 

3) The Church Clerk shall maintain an updated list of all Church members, 

setting forth their status as active or inactive members. Keep a register of all church 

membership, including names, address, date of admission, dismissal, or death; along with 

record of baptism. 

4) Issue letters of dismissal when voted on by the Morning Star Baptist Church 

and correspond with other churches regarding membership changes. 

5) Work with others to ensure that proper information reflecting the history and 

the ongoing history of the Morning Star Baptist Church is properly recorded. Including 

budgets, outstanding events, new staff members and special events (i.e, remodeling, 

anniversaries, and celebration of centennials). 

9. CHURCH COUNCIL 

The Church Council will seek to correlate and coordinate the activities and 

organizations of the church, yet with advisory powers only. The Council, unless otherwise 

determined by vote of the Church, shall be composed of the Pastor, Chairman of the Board 

of Deacons, Chairman of Finance Committee, Church Clerk (Non-Voting), a Lay Person 

(selected by the Church Council), and Chairman of the Building and Grounds Committee. 

The Council shall meet semi-annually (January and July) or on the call of the Pastor at any 

time deemed necessary. All matters agreed upon by the Council, which call for action not 

already provided for, shall be referred to the Church for approval or disapproval. 

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III. MEMBERSHIP 

1. General: 

a. Membership is a process that best marks and maintains a believer's commitment 

to life transformation, while working to insure the integrity, unity, and building up of the 

church. Thus, membership is more like discipleship than enlistment. It is more than simply 

being saved, but less than what a believer becomes in a lifetime of spiritual growth. 

Membership is not about an organization, but about the living organism of Christ's Body. It is 

not about privilege, but about becoming more like Christ in the context of a local and 

worldwide community. "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in 

him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing 

with thankfulness" (Colossians 2:6-7). 

b. The membership of this church shall consist of persons who have made a 

profession of faith in Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior; who desire to be 

numbered among His disciples; who have experienced believer’s baptism by submersion; 

who are in harmony with the faith and practices of this church; and whose membership is 

confirmed by the church. 

c. The membership of this congregation shall always consist of persons who have: 

1) Believed and confessed the Lord Jesus Christ as the only begotten Son of 

God and Savior of the world; 

2) Candidate for Baptism: Mark 16:16; a person who has previously never 

professed Christ as Lord and Savior and has never held church membership may obtain 

membership as a candidate for baptism. Upon the individual profession of faith, he or she, is 

baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; 

3) Christian Experience: providing said person has been baptized according 

to the doctrines of this Church or those who have once been members of Baptist Churches, 

and in consequence of any peculiar circumstances have no regular letters of dismissal, may 

be received by giving satisfactory evidence of a change of heart, Christian conduct and 

scriptural faith; 

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4) By Letter: Members from other Baptist churches holding the same faith 

may be received by letters of recommendation and dismissal from their respective church; 

5) Restoration: Excluded members may be restored to membership on 

confession of their errors, and giving evidence of repentance (I Corinthians 4:2); 

6) Watch Care: A person wanting to retain membership in another church of 

like faith, but while residing in this community desires to worship in and minister through 

Morning Star Baptist Church of Gulfport may request membership by Watch Care. This 

person will have all the rights of membership except voting privileges. Thus, “Watch Care” 

means temporarily joining a church because you are unable to attend the church where you 

hold your primary membership. The person joining under Watch Care can maintain their 

primary church membership, while becoming a part of a local church congregation. 

d. This church emphasizes that every reasonable measure shall be taken to assist 

a troubled member. The pastor, other members of the ministerial staff, and deacons are 

available for counsel and guidance. Biblical standards and Christian concern for redemption 

rather than punishment shall guide the attitudes of church members toward one another. 

Prior to any disciplinary action, said member shall be called before the pastor and deacons 

to be examined regarding any charge of gross immorality, persistent failure to comply with 

covenant obligations or overt denial of any part of the doctrinal statement of this church. The 

failure of a member to appear when requested shall not serve to stay action of the examining 

body. After prayerful consideration, the pastor and deacons will then make recommendations 

for appropriate action to the church at either a regular or called business meeting. 

e. If any Member fails to abide by the church covenant, the purpose of Morning Star 

Baptist Church, the Articles of Faith, and the membership section of the Constitution and 

Bylaws, or should such a Member be suspended or expelled (Romans 16:17; Matthew 

18:15-19; I Corinthians 6:12) or fails to commune for a three (3) month period of time (I 

Corinthians 11:17-3) or fails to financially contribute for a three (3) month period of time 

(Malachi 3:8-10; Matthew 23:23; Acts 20:35; Luke 6:38; I Corinthians 16:2, II Corinthians 9:6- 

8), shall lose all voting rights and any and all other privileges and all offices bestowed upon 

said Member without any action of the congregation. The member shall be moved from the 

active (voting) roll to the inactive (non-voting) roll and immediately loses the privileges of 

membership, automatically, in this Church. 

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2. Active/Voting Members 

a. Eligibility. In order for an accepted Member to become a Voting Member, he/she 

MUST: 

1) Be a born-again believer in Christ who is current in attendance (attend 

worship services regularly) obligations. Hebrews 10:25; 

2) Be a regular supporter of the financial/giving program of Tithes and 

Offerings Malachi 3:8-10; Matthew 23:23; II Corinthians 9:6-8: 

b. Voting Privileges. Members having voting privileges shall be entitled to vote 

when present in person at any business meeting of the membership called for the purpose of 

voting on any issue with respect to which a vote is required as provided in this Constitution. 

c. Proxy and Secret Ballots. Voting Members shall not be entitled to vote by proxy, 

and there will be no SECRET BALLOT VOTING allowed at this Church except for members 

who have been previously cleared or authorized by the church. 

d. Compliance. Any Voting Member of this Church who neglects to attend worship 

services, and/or the observance of the Lord’s Supper of this Church for any consecutive three 

(3) months or for the same length of time fails to contribute of his/her means to support the 

ministry and Church shall be urged by the Pastor and Deacons to return to duty. If he/she fails 

to do so, following the fourth (4 th ) consecutive month, his/ her name shall be transferred 

automatically from the active (voting) membership roll to the inactive (nonvoting) memberships 

roll. Illness and age are exceptions only if the Pastor or Deacons are notified. 

e. Annual Review. An annual review of membership shall be conducted by the 

Chairman of the Finance Committee, the Church Clerk and Membership Secretary to 

determine the participation of the members. 

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3. Inactive/Nonvoting Members 

a. Any Voting Member of this Church who neglects to attend worship services, 

and/or the observance of the Lord’s Supper of this Church for any consecutive three (3) 

months or for the same length of time fails to contribute of his/her means to support the 

ministry and Church shall be urged by the Pastor and Deacons to return to duty. If he/she 

fails to do so, following the fourth (4 th ) consecutive month, his/ her name shall be 

transferred automatically from the active (voting) membership roll to the inactive (nonvoting) 

memberships roll. 

b. Members whose name appears on the church roll and they regularly attend or 

have joined another church, or they have moved and permanently resides in another city, or 

they just cannot be found are expunged/removed from the church roll all together. 

c. Inactive members will be carried on the church rolls for one year after being 

moved into an inactive status. These individuals are bound by the following regulations: 

1) They are prohibited from voting on any church issue or in any church 

election or holding any elected or appointed office/position in the church: 

2) They are allowed to have their funeral at the church; however, the family 

must bear full financial responsibility for the repast. In addition, the church has no 

responsibility for providing a floral arrangement for the funeral or a financial contribution to 

the family (See Article VII, Miscellaneous, Section 17, Funerals). 

3) Inactive members and members of their immediate household may be 

wed in the church; however, they must pay the full rental fee for usage of the church. (See 

Article VII, Miscellaneous, Section 16, Weddings). 

d. The mechanism for members moving from the inactive to the active membership 

roll is outlined below: 

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1) Inactive members may be restored to “Active” status by regularly attending 

worship services, the observance of the Lord’s Supper of this Church and financially 

supporting the church for three (3) consecutive months. 

2) Financial envelopes and church records will be used to determine/verify the 

member’s financial support of the church. 

4. Removal from the Roll 

a. Membership in this Church may be suspended or terminated by: 

1) Letter of dismissal or transfer to another church of like faith; 

2) By erasure upon evidence of membership in another church; 

b. Dropping from active membership roll for: 

1) Failure to contribute; 

2) Failure to attend worship services; 

3) Causing discord/division amongst the membership, i.e. instituting a court 

case/suit against the Pastor, Board of Deacon, and/or Church: Proverbs 6:16-19; Matthew 

18:15-19; Romans 16:27; 

4) By personal written request; 

5) By death; 

6) By exclusion following church disciplinary action. 

c. At the Church’s discretion, inactive members may be removed from the 

membership on the affirmative vote of 60% of the members present and voting at any 

meeting of the members where such motion is presented for vote. If after one year of 

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inactive membership (12 months from the date an individual is placed on the inactive roll), 

such member’s name shall be presented to the Church for removal from the Church’s roll. 

5. New Member Orientation 

All new members are invited and encouraged to participate in a member orientation 

program conducted by the pastor at the very earliest possible date. Failure to complete the 

orientation in no way reflect on the candidate’s status of becoming a member of the church. 

IV. CHURCH LEADERSHIP AND COMMITTEES 

1. Church Secretary/Assistant Secretary 


b. Principal Function: Perform day-to-day task as directed by the Pastor or 

Board of Deacons and/or Personnel Committee. 

c. Selection: By application and recommendation of Personnel Committee. 

d. Duties: 

1) To serve as official greeter in the church office for members, visitors, 

business representatives and help with needs they may have. 

2) Answer the phone for staff and disseminate to appropriate persons. 

3) Receive prayer requests on the phone and place on prayer list. To place 

hospital admissions in the prayer bulletin. 

4) Make lists/cards of hospital admissions and pray requests for pastors 

and/or Deacons to visit. 

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5) Order flowers for members upon deaths of members, spouses, children or 

parents (as applicable). 

6) Update functions on the church calendar to include weddings, rehearsals, 

receptions, baptismal, etc. after approval by Pastor or Chair of Deacons. 

7) Notify candidates and baptismal committee of times and make baptismal 

certificates. 

8) Prepare baby dedication letters and certificates (as applicable). 

9) Post and/or pick up mail from the Post Office. 

10) Prepare Wednesday night special request for Prayer meeting each week. 

11) Prepare copies of all reports (business meeting minutes from church 

clerk, Treasurer’s report, Sunday School report plus the agenda for the moderator) for the 

Business Meeting. 

12) Process new members by adding to the computer and membership roster, 

issuing contribution envelopes, and placing the new members on the weekly bulleting, etc. 

discount. 

13) Order offering envelopes, utilizing the most economics venue to receive 

14) To coordinate transportation ministry. 

15) Complete all correspondence as requested by Ministerial Staff. 

16) Prepare programs for worship services, revivals, and funerals and perform 

other duties as determined by the Pastor or Chair of Board of Deacons in the Pastor’s 

absence. 

2. Personnel Committee 

a. Accountable to: Pastor and Board of Deacons 

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b. Principle Function: To assist the church in matters related to the 

administration of employed personnel. 

c. Selection: The Personnel Committee consists of nine members; three 

deacons (one of which is church Treasurer), Financial Secretary, Chairman of 

Trustees, and four laypersons. This committee shall elect four officers: Chairman, Vice- 

Chairman, Secretary, and Assistant Secretary. All members of the Personnel Committee are 

appointed by the Deacon Board. 

d. Duties: To achieve its purpose, the Personnel Committee will: 

members. 

employee. 

1) Prepare and update job descriptions for employed church staff 

2) Interview and recommend, under church supervision, any prospective 

3) Develop, review, update, and recommend to the finance committee the 

salaries and benefits for all staff members. 

4) Determine staff needs, personnel services, and staff discipline. 

5) Inform staff members and the church body of any applicable legal and 

governmental requirements. 

6) Serve as a liaison committee between any employee and the church. 

7) Recommend additional church staff positions as needed by the church. 

8) Develop, recommend, maintain and/or update personnel policies. 

9) Encourage professional growth and development for all staff. 

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committee. 

10) Report to the Board of Deacon on a regular basis on the work of the 

11) Confer with the pastor and chairman of the Deacon Board on any 

important issues of concern. 

e. The Personnel Committee comes together on an as-needed basis, but not 

less than twice annually. 

3. Pastor Search Committee 

a. Accountable: Board of Deacons 

b. Principle Function: The individuals who comprise the Search Committee 

literally hold the future of the church in their hands. They should be people of the highest 

integrity and competence. Individuals who have given evidence of their commitment to the 

church and who have exhibited the highest expressions of sound judgment. They should be 

people that the church trusts. Those elected to serve should be representative of the church. 

c. Selection: The Pastor Search Committee shall consist of seven (7) members 

selected by the Board of Deacons and approved by the Congregation. 

d. Search Committee Guidelines: Established by the Deacons. 

e. Duties 

1) It shall be the duty of the Pastor Search Committee to seek a pastor in 

accordance with the wishes and needs of the church. The Pastor Search Committee shall 

have all reasonable expenses paid for by the church (correspondence and mailing, church 

visits, if applicable). 

2) Serve until the church votes approval of a new pastor. 

3) Lead the congregation to declare its expectations of the new pastor and 

provisions regarding the support of the pastor and family. 

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4) Prayerfully and confidentially conduct the search for God's choice of our next 

pastor in a progressive, orderly, and timely manner; reporting periodically to the church. 

5) Prepare the candidate and the church for the opportunity to pray and choose 

the next pastor in cooperation with the policies of the church. 

6) Submit the candidate to the church as prospective pastor by committee 

recommendation. 

7) Upon securing the pastor, lead the congregation to follow his leadership. 

Having fulfilled your task, disband the committee and individually support the work of the 

congregation and its new pastor. 

4. Sunday School Superintendent 

a. Accountable: Pastor and Board of Deacon 

b. Principle Function: Oversee the selection of the Sunday School Teachers and 

establish guidelines for Sunday School operations. 

c. Selection: Pastor 

d. Duties: 

1) He/she shall have the oversight of the entire school and shall administer 

it with the aid of a Council consisting of the Pastor, Director of Christian Education, Youth 

Director, General Officers, and Departmental Superintendents. 

2) Serves as liaison between the Church and Sunday School Congress 

3) Select the delegates for Sunday School Congress and the Congress 

Pageant Representative. Ensure Congress delegates are active participants in Morning Star 

Sunday School activities. 

4) Order Sunday School support materials. 

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5) Make quarterly reports at Church Business Meeting 

5. Pianists/Organists 

a. Accountable: Pastor, Board of Deacons and Minister of Music 

b. Principle Function: The Pianist/Organist is responsible for serving as 

Pianist/Organist in the services and activities of the church. 

c. Selection: Personnel Committee and approved by the Board of Deacon 

d. Duties: 

1) Play for all services of the church, both regular and special services to 

include, but not limited to evangelistic conferences, revivals, weddings, funerals, etc). 

2) Participate in choir rehearsals and choir engagements away from the 

church, as required by his/her job description. 

3) Maintain an accurate account of organ/piano needs and maintenance 

and notify the Minister of Music. 

6. Custodian 

4) Perform other duties as assigned. 

a. Accountable: Trustees 

b. Principle Function: The custodian is responsible for the cleanliness of the 

interior of the church. 

c. Duties: The custodian(s) should: 

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1) Maintain floors, dust furniture and equipment; wash walls and windows 

and vacuum carpet according to scheduled. 

2) Maintain clean restrooms and replenish supplies within. 

3) Make request to church treasurer for maintenance supplies and 

equipment as needed. 

4) Prepare facilities for special use as requested of the church. 

5) Perform other care responsibilities as assigned. 

7. Standing Committees 

a. Accountable: Pastor and Board of Deacons 

b. Principle Function: Standings committees are permanent committee appointed 

to deal with a specified subject or areas of responsibilities. The following shall be the 

Standing Committees of Morning Star Baptist Church: Personnel, Policy, Security, and 

Finance 

c. Selection: Vacancies within the standing committee will be filled by the Board of 

Deacon. 

1) Whenever possible, no member should be assigned to serve on more than 

one Standing Committee at the same time. Committee makeup should be representative of 

the entire church, when possible. All committees should have a minimum of three members 

and a total odd number of members. 

2) Standing committees shall meet as necessary but not less than quarterly 

and make regular reports at Business Meetings. 

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8. Leadership Meetings 

The Pastor will hold and conduct quarterly church leadership meetings to be held on 

Wednesday evening at 5:00 p.m. Attending these meetings with the Pastor will be the 

Church Clerk (Administrative Assistant), Chairman of the Board of Deacons, Chairman of 

the Board of Trustees, Director of Christian Education, Chair of the Finance Committee, 

Director of Mission and Ministries, Director of Youth Ministries, Director of Workers 

Ministries, Chairman of Associate Ministry Team or his appointee, and other church leaders 

as needed. 

V. DEACONS AND MINISTERS WIVES 

1. Accountable: Congregation 

2. Principle Function: Helpmate to their husbands and provide nurturing to the 

church. 

3. Duties: 

a. Purchase and prepare supplies for communion. 

b. Assist candidates for baptism. 

c. Assist deacons as deemed necessary. 

VI. CHURCH MINISTRIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

1. Director of Youth Ministries 

a. Accountable to: Pastor, Board of Deacon and Congregation 

b. Principle Function: Responsible for coordinating and directing the music ministry 

of the church and all youth programs. 

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c. Duties: As outlined in the job description and articulated by the Pastor. 

1) To see that each young person in the church have the opportunity to make an 

informed decision to be a follower of Jesus Christ and have an active part in the church. 

2) Ensure that youth organizations include a youth choir and youth groups 

(Primary, Intermediate, Teens) 

3) Propose activities which shall include youth services, meetings for a time of 

recreation, worship, and discipleship. 

4) SPECIAL EVENTS - Several times throughout the year the youth will 

participate in special events, such as: camps, concerts, mission trips, and trips to Christian 

events. 

2. Director of Workers Ministries 


b. Principle Function: Responsible for giving leadership and continuity to the 

auxiliaries and committees that do not fall under the Education, Mission, or Music 

Departments. This ministry includes, but not limited to, Ushers, Greeting Ministry, Kitchen 

Committee, Public Relations Committee, Clothes Closet, Food Pantry, etc. 

c. Selection: Pastor and Board of Deacons 

d. Duties: As outlined in the job description and articulated by the Pastor. 

3. Minister of Music 

a. Accountable to: Pastor and Board of Deacons 

b. Principle Function: Responsible for assisting in planning, conducting, and 

evaluating music for church services. 

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c. Selection: Pastor and Board of Deacons 

d. Duties: 

4. Ushers 

1) Coordinate the Church music with the calendar and emphasis of the church. 

2) Direct choir groups and congregational singing. 

3) Shall consult with Pastor before accepting engagements. 

4) Perform other duties as assigned. 

a. Accountable: Pastor, Board of Deacon and Congregation 

b. Function: Greet churchgoers as they arrive at the church. 

c. Selection: Volunteers 

d. Duties: 

sanctuary. 

1) Bulletins are usually handed out by ushers at the doors of the church 

2) Church ushers also give assistance with information. Assist as directed in 

conducting the church offering. 

3) Church ushers direct traffic in the church. When visitors arrive, they tell them 

when they can enter the sanctuary to avoid interrupting a service. Escort guests to their 

seats, if assistance is needed. Their most important job may be to keep track of available 

seats and guide attendees to them. 

4) Ushers encourage fellowship among churchgoers, providing information 

about the church to visitors and extending an invitation to join. 

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5) Ushers observe the congregation for any potential problems. If the church 

climate conditions are uncomfortable, they notify the Trustees to adjust AC or Heat; pass out 

fans as necessary. 

6) Ushers should always be alert for any emergency that should arise so that 

they can provide prompt assistance. 

7) Ushers often prepare the church for services and special events, ensuring 

that ample bibles and hymnals are available for the congregation's use, if applicable. They 

also return bibles and hymnals to their proper locations. 

8) For special events, ushers may rope off reserved seats or parking spaces. 

After services, ushers walk the pews to pick up trash. 

9) Ushers ensure that all visitors have an opportunity to hear and enjoy the 

sermon without distractions. They may ask a disruptive churchgoer to step outside of the 

sanctuary or direct a mother with a crying child to a special area for babies. 

5. Church Nurse 

a. Accountable: Pastor and Board of Deacons 

b. Function: Facilitate care for the congregation as needed. 

c. Selection: Volunteer 

d. Qualifications: Trained & certified in CPR, First Aid & AED. Certifications 

must be up to date. (Certification for professionals such as RN's, LVN's, MA's & 

CNA's, is required). A MD supersedes all the above training and certification requirements. 

35 





e. Duties: 

1) Maintain a health room. 

2) Provide support to the Ushers during Church service, Only If Called Upon. 

3) Assist at funerals, if needed. 

4) A church nurse may act as a health educator, a referral source or liaison with 

the community; educate or facilitate the education of volunteers; or provide information on 

the interrelationship between faith and health. Church nurses organize health fairs, provide 

caregiver training and educate congregation members about ethical and moral health issues 

and provide first aid to the ill or injured. 

Note: Remember that crowd control is most important when attending to the 

needs of a person who becomes ill in the Congregation. Try to remove the person away from 

the crowd soon and as quietly as possible. 

6. Ministry Chairperson 

a. Accountable: Pastor, Board of Deacons and Congregation 

b. Function: Oversee/facilitate the activities of the specified auxiliary. 

c. Selection: By members of the Ministry 

a. Duties: The Ministry Chairperson should be present at all designated meetings 

and be prepared to make a report as designated. If a Ministry Chairperson cannot be 

present, he/she should have a representative at the meeting to make the report. 

7. Conducting Church Business Meetings 

a. Church business meeting will be conducted in accordance with Robert’s Rules of 

Order. 

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b. The Pastor shall be the Moderator. In the absence of the Pastor, the Chairman of 

Deacons shall serve as Moderator. In the absence of these two, the church secretary calls 

the church to order and a moderator pro-temp shall be elected. 

1) It shall be the duty of the Moderator to keep order and facilitate the meeting. 

2) He shall cause every meeting to be opened and closed by prayer. 

3) He shall conduct the business of the church in the following order: 

a) Call to Order 

b) Opening Prayer 

c) Adoption of the Agenda 

d) Read the minutes of the previous meeting. 

e) Pastor’s Report 

f) Board of Deacons’ Report 

g) Reports of committees and auxiliaries. 

h) Unfinished Business 

i) New business 

j) Announcement 

k) For the Good of Order 

l) Closing Prayer 

m) Adjournment 

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VII. MISCELLANOUS 

1. Conflict of Interest 

a. A “Conflict of Interest” is any circumstance described in MSBC Conflict of 

Interest Policy. 

b. A “Responsible Person” is any person serving as an officer, employee, or 

member of the board of deacons and trustees of Morning Star Baptist Church. 

c. A “Family Member” is a spouse, parent, child, or spouse of a child, brother, 

sister, or spouse of a brother or sister, of a Responsible Person. 

d. A situation that has the potential to undermine the impartiality of a person 

because of the possibility of a clash between the person's self-interest and Church interest or 

public interest. 

e. A situation in which a party's responsibility to the church limits his/her ability to 

discharge his/her responsibility to the church. 

f. Persons Concerned - This policy is directed to the Pastor, Deacons, Trustees, 

Ministers, volunteer leaders, employees, and any others who serve as “Church 

Representatives” in representing Morning Star Baptist Church in financial, legal, contractual, 

or employment matters. 

g. The Conflict of Interest Form shall be signed by the above applicable individuals. 

The original signed copy will be maintained by the Church Secretary. 

NOTE: A copy of the Conflict of Interest Policy can be obtained from the 

Church Secretary. 

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2. Safety and Security 

a. As a community of faith committed to following Jesus Christ, we strive to extend 

a generous welcome to all who enter our doors and to treat them with the love and dignity 

that God bestows upon each and every one of us. We want our church to be a safe place for 

everyone. 

b. We cannot simply assume that our church is a safe place. We know that we 

cannot eliminate all risks, but we can strive to reach that goal by taking intentional and direct 

actions. The MSBC Security Assessment Committee wants people of all ages to be able to 

deepen their relationship with God and each other in an environment that is safe and secure. 

c. The Morning Star Baptist Church Security Policies and Procedures Manual is 

for your review and provide detail guidelines on safety and security of our members, 

guests, ministers, staff, volunteers and facilities. 

d. Safety means that a person’s spiritual, emotional and physical self is 

protected from injury. 

1) Spiritual safety 

a) People have the freedom to express their faith appropriately 

b) People’s beliefs are treated respectfully 

2) Emotional safety 

a) Kindness and civility are the norm 

b) People refrain from personal attacks and gossip 

c) Confidentiality is honored 

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3) Physical safety 

a) Key holders agree to abide by Church Security policies 

b) Facilities are clean and well lit 

c) Exits are clearly marked and free of debris 

d) Fire alarms are kept in working order 

e) Food preparation areas are clean and health department guidelines for 

food preparation is followed. 

3. Child Protection 

a. Morning Star Baptist Church seeks to provide a safe and secure environment 

for the children who participate in our programs and activities. By implementing the 

procedures below, our goal is to protect the children of Morning Star Baptist Church from 

incidents of misconduct or inappropriate behavior while also protecting our staff and 

volunteers from false accusations. 

1) We will keep on file procedures to follow if an incident of abuse is alleged 

to have occurred during any church activity. 

2) All employees and volunteers involved with minors are required to sign a 

release form which allows the church to run a criminal background check. 

3) No minor should be alone with one adult on church premises or at any 

church activity. 

4) All volunteers must be involved with the church for at least six months 

before they are allowed in any position involving contact with minors. 

b. Morning Star Baptist Church promotes children and youth safety and will expand 

our procedures in the future as programming and ministries warrant. 

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NOTE: A copy of the Security Policies and Procedures Manual can be obtained from 

the Church Secretary or any member of the MSBC Security Assessment Committee. 

4. Youth Messengers’ Code of Conduct & Dress Code 

a. Code of Conduct. On Thursday, May 16, 2013, the Morning Star Baptist 

Church Board of Deacons adopted/ approved/ ratified the Code of Conduct and Dress Code 

for Youth Messengers set forth by the General Missionary Baptist Convention of Mississippi, 

Inc. under the leadership of Dr. Isiac Jackson, President, and Rev. Arthur A. Sutton, 

Executive Director - Young People’s Department. 

b. The General Missionary Baptist State Convention of Mississippi, Inc. is a 

Christian organization based on the principles set forth in the Bible, God’s Holy Word. 

Therefore, all conduct displayed by messengers should reflect those values and morals that 

are pleasing to God and the entire Christian fellowship. Any conduct less than positive will 

be dealt with swiftly and firmly. 

c. Conference Conduct: 

1) Youth Messenger conduct is the responsibility of the chaperone assigned by 

the messenger’s church. Messengers shall keep their chaperones informed of their 

activities and whereabouts at all times. One chaperone shall be responsible for no more 

than five (5) messengers. 

2) Messengers are expected to attend all sessions and scheduled activities. 

Please be prompt and show respect for others. Messengers will follow directions of those in 

authority. Displaying disrespect and being confrontational to those in charge will result in a 

removal of your messenger status. Parents and Pastors will be notified, and child will be 

sent home immediately. 

3) Messengers are to report any accidents, injuries and illnesses to their 

chaperones immediately. 

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4) Messengers are to observe the nightly curfew of 11:00 p.m. Chaperones may 

authorize an earlier curfew if desired, but not a later one. 

5) If a messenger is responsible for stealing or vandalism, the delegate or his 

parents will be expected to pay any damages. Criminal acts may be subject to local police 

authority. 

6) Messengers attending the convention may not purchase, consume or be under 

the influence of alcohol or drugs at any time. Tobacco products are prohibited and illegal 

for minors to possess or use. Messengers who disregard these rules will be subject to 

disciplinary actions and sent home. Chaperones will notify parents. 

7) Messengers of the opposite sex are not allowed to visit in rooms unless a 

chaperone is present. There will not be any display of romantic affection at any time during 

the convention. 

8) Youth Messengers are not allowed in the pool area of the hotel without a 

chaperone. 

pool. 

9) Those using the pool must be properly covered while going to and from the 

10) The use of cell phones during any session is prohibited. If phones are in your 

possession, they should be silent and out of sight. 

d. Dress Code... Messengers must dress appropriately at all times. The chaperone 

shall use the guidelines provided below in determining proper attire. 

1) Pants shall not sag, and all shirts shall be tucked neatly inside pants. There 

shall be no display of midriff by anyone. Skirts and pants shall be at least knee-length. No 

earrings will be worn by male messengers. 

2) Youth Messengers are prohibited from wearing hair curlers, hairnets, roller 

pins, bandanas, or other hair grooming aides. 

42 





garments. 

3) Tank tops, undershirts, gym shorts, and pajamas are not to be worn as outer 

4) Clothing, jewelry, buttons, patches, or any other items with words, phrases, 

symbols, pictures, or signs which use indecent, profane, suggestive, or inflammatory words 

or promote drugs, alcohol or tobacco shall not be worn. 

5) Caps, hats and other head coverings shall not be worn. Youth messengers 

with a medical statement may be exempt. 

6) Youth Messengers shall not wear sunglasses. Youth Messengers with a 

medical statement may be exempt. 

5. Representation in Association 

Several times in each year, delegates shall be appointed to represent the church in 

the Association; whose duty it shall be to furnish to the Association a statement of the 

condition of the church, including its charges; to represent faithfully the desires of the 

church; and to cooperate with the messengers of other churches in advancing the kingdom 

of Christ. 

6. Licensing and Ordaining 

Any brother who in the judgment of the church, gives evidence, by his piety, zeal, 

and “aptness to teach,” that he is called of God to the work of the ministry, after having 

preached in the hearing of the church, may be licensed to preach the gospel of Jesus 

Christ, provided three—fourths of the members present at any regular meeting shall agree 

thereto. If the church unanimously decides that one of its licensed preachers possesses the 

Scriptural qualification for full ordination, it shall call a council of ministers and brethren to 

examine the qualification of the candidate, to which council the propriety of ordaining shall 

be wholly referred. 

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7. Changes to the Constitution and Bylaws 

a. The constitution may be amended or revised by a two-thirds majority vote at any 

regular business meeting on the recommendation of the Deacons, provided two weeks’ 

notice of such proposed revision of amendment is given at five regular services. However, 

Articles III, IV, and IX are not subject to amendment or revision. 

b. Changes in the Bylaws may be made at any regular business meeting of the 

Church provided each amendment shall have been presented in writing at a previous 

business meeting and copies of the proposed amendment shall have been furnished to each 

member present at the earlier meeting. Amendments to the Bylaws shall have a concurrence 

of a majority of the members present and voting. 

8. Annual Days 

c. All Annual Days, except for the Annual Pastor’s Appreciation Service, shall be 

observed or scheduled for the 10:30 a.m. Worship hour on Sunday mornings. The Annual 

Pastor’s Appreciation Service shall be held during a special 10:30 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. service 

on the second Sunday in October. Any other time must be approved by the Church. 

b. Annual Day Committees, such as Black Heritage, Church Anniversary, Women 

and Men Day Committees, will work with and follow established protocol for the 10:30 a.m. 

Worship Services. For example, scheduling of Deacons, Ushers, Choirs, Calendar 

Emphasis, Scripture Reading, and other preplanned activities and schedules of members 

participation will be recognized by Annual Day Committees. 

c. It is strongly recommended that a representative from the departments for 

scheduling these components of the Worship Service (Deacons, Ushers, Choirs, Calendar 

Emphasis, Scripture Reading, etc.) serve on the Annual Day Committee. In the spirit of 

Christian harmony, the program order of service and participants must be approved by the 

Pastor. 

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2. Assigning New Members to a Deacon: The assignment of new members to a 

Deacon is the responsibility of the Vice-Chairman of the Board of Deacons or a designee who 

will take into consideration such factors as: 

a. Geographical location of the new member’s residence 

b. Special requests of the new member or the deacon 

c. The number of members the deacon has as compared to other deacons 

d. The deacon’s willingness to accept the new member 

9. Chain of Command 

The pastor, with the approval of the church and authority from the Board of Deacons, 

is charged with overseeing all services, and to watch over all interests of the church. In the 

absence of the pastor this authority to govern will rest with the Chairman of the Board of 

Deacons. If both the pastor and the Chairman are absent, the Vice-Chairman of the Board 

of Deacons has authority to govern the church. In the unlikely event that the pastor and 

both the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Deacon Board are absent, the authority to 

govern the church will rest with the Chairman of the Board of Trustees. 

10. Church Anniversary 

A special program honoring the founding of the church shall be held at the church the 

fourth Sunday in March of each year. A financial assessment of $1.00 for each year of the 

church’s existence shall be required of each adult member of the church. Children under 

the age of 18, who are members of the church, are encouraged to give $1.00 for each year 

of his/her own age. Thus, a twelve-year-old member of the church would be encouraged to 

give $12.00 to the church’s anniversary. 

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11. Pastor’s Appreciation Day Service 

The Church shall sponsor a Pastor’s Appreciation Day Service on the 2 nd 

Sunday of October at 10:30 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. This annual event shall be held in 

conjunction with National Pastors’ Appreciation month. A special offering or a designated 

gift shall be processed by the Finance Committee before being awarded to the pastor. 

12. Memorial Tributes 

a. It is fitting and proper for deceased members of the church to be recognized at 

anniversaries and special days held at the church. Whenever a necrology list is prepared 

for such purpose, it should be inclusive of members expiring during the period of the last 

anniversary, or special day up until the present anniversary, or special day. 

b. In instances where the program being held is the inaugural or first of its kind, the 

necrology list should be inclusive of members expiring from January 1 st of that year up until 

the time that the program is held. 

13. Deacon Candidate Training 

a. A candidate for the office of Deacon MUST successfully complete a two-year 

course of training as designed and prescribed by the Vice Chairman for Training for the 

Board of Deacons. 

b. Ordained deacons joining this church may, at the pastor’s discretion and 

recommendation, be appointed a deacon of the church with the subsequent approval of the 

Board of Deacons and the membership. The deacon will participate in a church orientation 

session where he will be appraised of the policies, procedures, ministries, finances, and the 

Deacon Family Ministry process of Morning Star Baptist Church. 

14. Delegates to Conventions and Congresses 

a. The church will pay the full expenses and registration fees for a maximum of six 

delegates to attend the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education each year, if funds 

46 





are available. The Board of Christian Education shall administer the process of selecting, 

preparing, and sending these delegates to the Congress each year. 

b. The delegates are to be selected as follows: 

1) The Executive Committee of the Board of Christian Education will select one 

(1) delegate. 

2) The General Sunday School will select one (1) delegate. 

3) The General Assembly of the Baptist Training Union will select one (1) 

delegate, if applicable. 

4) The Mission’s Department will select one (1) delegate with the Senior Mission 

Department and the Brotherhood-Laymen Organization alternating years of sending the 

delegate. 

5) The Worker’s Department will select one (1) delegate with the Music 

Department and the Ushers and Courtesy Committee alternating years of having the 

privilege of selecting the delegate from among its ranks. 

6) The Youth Committee of the Youth Department will select one (1) delegate. 

c. It is required that names of all selected delegates be submitted to The Board of 

Christian Education for final approval and preparation. 

d. The church will pay the registration fee(s), if funds are available, for any other 

member of the church who would like to attend and be responsible for their own expenses, 

these individuals can take advantage of the church transportation, when available, on a first 

come basis. This also includes special groups who appropriate their own expenses. All 

registration will be handled through The Board of Christian Education. 

e. Upon return, each delegate shall present a written report (summary) to the 

Church of activities and events that they participated. Conferences, conventions and 

workshops are the opportunity to bring new ideas, concepts and procedures into the church. 

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Delegates are expected to provide updates and relevant information for consideration and 

possible implementation. 

15. Elections 

a. Elections will be held every two years in even numbered years. Elections within 

all boards, departments and auxiliaries should be completed no later than the first week in 

September with the results forwarded to the Board of Deacons no later than the second 

Sunday in September. The Board of Deacons will present the approved list of candidates to 

the church at its October business meeting. 

b. All new office holders will assume their new offices effective the first day of 

January following the election (odd numbered years). At this time or possibly the week 

before, the out-going administration should surrender all appropriate keys, official minutes, 

and other documentation to the incoming administration. All financial reconciliation should 

be (or have been) completed at this time. 

c. When office holders are permanently no longer able to function in an elected 

office, the officer next in line will move up and assume the office without the benefit of a new 

election. 

d. All voting for office holders in Morning Star Baptist Church shall be determined 

by that board or Ministry as it pertains to the method of voting. That method of voting shall 

be determined prior to the election itself with the Chairman and Secretary being responsible 

for the tallying of the votes. In the case of a tie the election will be repeated until a winner is 

declared. 

16. Weddings 

a. Only traditional ceremonies according to the Missionary Baptist Church will be 

allowed, i.e., there will be no bazaar type wedding or vows. Music will be spiritual in 

nature or spiritual songs. There will not be any “RAP,” “ROCK,” or “BLUES,” music 

played or sung in the church. Wedding participants and guest should dress as befitting in 

God*s house. There will not be any micro, mini, short-shorts, or topless outfits worn in the 

church. Should the wedding party desire to use the Pulpit Area as part of the wedding 

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activities, this desire MUST be expressed during the initial coordination to hold the wedding 

at Morning Star Baptist Church. Upon request and approval, provisions will be made to 

convert the Pulpit Area into a stage for the purpose of holding the wedding. At NO TIME will 

the Pulpit in its present configuration be use for wedding activities. 

b. The use of Morning Star Baptist Church facilities is a privilege of membership. 

However, non-members may be allowed to use the church facilities upon request and 

approval. For non-members desiring to be wed in the Morning Star Baptist Church facility, 

there will be a nominal usage fee of $500.00. Under NO circumstance will the 

church/facility be turned over to the wedding party or supportive personnel; an officer 

or member of the church’s wedding committee must be present to open and lock the 

church, turn on utilities, and ensure that the wedding party abides by rules for use of 

such facilities. 

c. Setting the Time of the Wedding 

1) Careful planning is necessary for All Weddings. You will want to plan as 

early in advance so that the use of the church space can be arranged without conflict. The 

date of the wedding is set in consultation with the pastor and the church’s schedule. At this 

consultation, the wedding application form is filled out and you will make arrangements for 

counseling and conference(s) with the Pastor and Wedding consultant. 

2) It is extremely important that the exact time indicated for the rehearsals and 

weddings are observed, and care should be taken to have all members of the party in their 

place at the time indicated. 

d. Wedding Music 

1) It is most important to keep in mind that a church wedding is a service of 

the church, and the music should be in keeping with the reverence that is observed upon 

entering the House of the Lord. The bride may discuss with the wedding consultant, the 

Minister of Music and the pastor the music to be played. It will be the wedding party’s 

responsibility to arrange for an organist or pianist. 

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2) When there is to be a soloist, it will be the responsibility of the bride to see 

that the soloist contacts the pianist, or organist. In order to help ensure a beautiful wedding 

and also to maintain high musical standards, all soloists or vocalists’ selections must be 

of a spiritual content. Popular classics or blues will not be permitted in the sanctuary 

unless prior approval is obtained. 

3) Arrangements for live music to be played at the reception must be approved 

by the Wedding Committee, if it is held in the church’s Family Life Center/Multi-Purpose 

Building. 

e. Photographers 

If it is desired to have pictures, it is the responsibility of the bride to instruct the 

photographers that no flash pictures are permissible in the sanctuary once the ceremony 

begins (pictures of bride entering and leaving are excluded from this requirement). Pictures 

may be taken of the bridal party following the completion of the services. The official 

photographer or any other person WILL NOT be allowed in the pulpit area, unless the Pulpit 

Area has previously been converted into a stage. 

f. Flowers and Decorations 

1) Whenever candles are used, they must be of the dripless variety and must 

be in candelabras which will catch and contain all drippings, and the floor will be thoroughly 

protected. Florists will be held directly responsible for the cleaning of wax from all floor 

coverings and furniture in every case. 

2) Under no conditions shall decorations be attached to the pews or the 

furniture by pinning, gluing, or nailing. Masking or clear Scotch tape may be used. When 

facilities are use on Saturday night, all decorations, flowers, palms, and other equipment 

shall be removed from the church building immediately following its use in order that the 

facility will be ready for Sunday worship service. 

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17. Funerals 

a. General: All funeral arrangements MUST be made through the pastor or his 

designee. 

b. Active Members of Morning Star Baptist Church: The following policy is 

applicable to active members and governs funerals at the Morning Star Baptist Church. 

below: 

1) Programs: Funeral programs prepared by the church secretary as outlined 

a) 300 printed black and white bi-fold (5 ½ X 8 ½) funeral programs (four 

sheets front and back, inside and outside covers) at no cost to the family. 

b) If the family desires additional copies, a different size, or the addition of 

color, they will be produced at a cost to the family. Cost breakdown: 

(1) Additional 5 ½ X 8 ½” black and white above the 300 that are 

provided at No Cost. - $1.25 per page. 

(2) 300 Color copies (5 ½ X 8 ½”) front and back cover, inside front and 

inside back cover - $300.00 

(3) 300 Black and White (8 ½ X 11”) front and back cover, inside front 

and inside back - $250.00. 

ack - $350.00 

(4) 300 Color copies (8 ½ X 11”) front and back, inside front and inside 

(5) All additional pages (black and white or color) - $1.25 per page. 

(6) Programs more than 300 (any size or color) may be purchased at a 

cost of $1.00 per program. 

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(7) Morning Star Baptist Church will not assume responsibility or cost 

for programs produced outside the church. The family must make all financial arrangements 

for the cost of printing programs outside the church with a printing company, etc. When 

funeral services are held at the Mortuary or Funeral Home, the church assumes no 

responsibility for providing programs. 

2) Food Arrangement: Depending upon the bereaved family’s request, 

Morning Star Baptist Church will provide food for the family at either the church’s Family Life 

Center/Multipurpose Building or the Family Residence. The Kitchen Committee shall prepare 

a repast for the bereaved family to be served in the Family Life/Multi-Purpose Center 

immediately following the committal service. 

a) The bereaved family shall bear no cost for the preparation of this meal. 

Food will be provided by church members donations and the church through the Kitchen 

Committee. The Kitchen Committee will procure, prepare, and serve food as required. 

b) The Kitchen Committee Chairperson will be authorized to purchase 

additional food when necessary to ensure availability to feed the family. 

3) Pallbearers: When requested by the family, members of the Board of 

Deacons will serve as pallbearers and, in all cases, they are the official honorary pallbearers. 

4) Floral & Sympathy Cards: Floral will be sent for the following next-of-kin: 

mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, spouse, sister, brother, son, daughter, or the 

nearest surviving relative. The cost of the floral is not to exceed $50.00 plus 7% sales tax, 

making a total cost not to exceed $53.50. If the family request money in lieu of floral 

arrangement, the equal amount of funds shall be presented to the family excluding tax. 

a) The Church Clerk or secretary is responsible for ordering the floral or 

sending the In-Lieu Of cash. A voucher shall be submitted to the Finance Committee or the 

designee for a check. A receipt and voucher can be submitted for reimbursement 

b) Sympathy Cards will be sent for uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, inlaws, 

grandchildren and cousins. This action is contingent upon a family member reporting 

the death to his or her Deacon Family Minister, Chairman of Deacons, or the Pastor. 

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c. Funerals for Inactive members: The following policy applies for funerals of 

inactive members of Morning Star Baptist Church. 

1) Inactive members are allowed to have their funeral at the church; however, the 

family shall bear full financial responsibility for: 

a) Program printing 

b) Food, beverage and supplies necessary to support the repast 

c) Music 

d) There will be a $250.00 clean-up fee. 

2) In addition, the church has no responsibility for providing a floral arrangement 

for the funeral or a financial contribution to the family. 

/ 

d. Funerals for Non-members: The following policy applies for funerals of nonmembers 

of Morning Star Baptist Church. 

1) Non-members are allowed to have their funeral at the church; however, the 

family shall bear full financial responsibility for: 

a) Program printing 

b) Food, beverage and supplies necessary to support the repast 

c) Musician 

d) Rental of Morning Star Church Facilities: $500.00 for the sanctuary and 

$300.00 for the Family Life Center, these fees do not include audio/video services. 

2) The church has no responsibility for providing a floral arrangement for the 

funeral or a financial contribution to the family. 

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18. Keys 

Keys to the entrances of the church shall be issued to the pastor, deacons, trustees, 

janitor, church secretary and others as approved. Access to keys to the moving vehicles of 

the church (vans, etc.) is limited to the Pastor and the designated operator of the vehicle. 

Access to keys to the pastor’s and secretary’s office is limited to the Pastor, secretary, 

Chairman of Board of Deacons and Chairman of Security. Access to keys to the finance 

office is limited to the members of the Finance Committee, Chairman of the Board of 

Deacons, and Chairman of Security. Access to keys to all other interior doors of the church 

is limited to the pastor, secretary, deacons, trustees, and janitor. Security Access 

Keys/Cards are controlled by the Chairman of Security in coordination with the Chairman of 

the Board of Deacons and Trustees. 

19. Scheduling Events at the Church 

a. Major activities and events planned throughout the year, utilizing the Church 

facility must be approved by the Church through the Board of Deacons and scheduled 

through the Secretary’s Office. Any activity, program, special day, or event scheduled during 

worship service must be approved by the Pastor. 

b. When a pastor or minister of another church is used in the program, special day, 

or activity they must be approved by the Pastor and officially invited by the Pastor. 

20. Selecting Evangelists for Revival 

It shall be the sole responsibility and authority of the pastor to select an evangelist for 

the church’s annual Spring Revival which shall begin Monday after the third Sunday in May. 

In the absence of a Pastor, the Chairman of the Board of Deacon shall make the selections. 

21. Selecting Ministers and Speakers for Annual Days 

a. Only ministers and speakers from within the mainline Protestant Denomination 

may be selected to speak at Morning Star Baptist Church. These ministers and speakers 

should exemplify strong Christian character. They should be of “honest report, full of the 

54 





Holy Ghost and wisdom (Acts 6:3)”. Their doctrine should be biblically sound and in line with 

the teachings of our church and denomination. 

b. Committees selected to recommend ministers or speakers should get the 

approval of the entire committee and Ministry prior to submitting the names to the Pastor for 

approval. Up to three names in order of preference may be submitted to the Pastor. 

Committees are encouraged to observe the guidelines approved by the church regarding 

honorariums (See page 59, Section 22, f. Honorariums for Guest Speakers) and be prayerful 

and seek God’s guidance in selecting speakers. 

c. The authority to select ministers and pastors to speak at Morning Star Baptist 

Church rests solely with the Pastor and only the Pastor can officially extend them an 

invitation. In the absence of a Pastor, the Board of Deacon have this authority. 

22. Term of Office 

a. All elected officers, departments heads, presidents, chairpersons, committees, 

and committee members shall serve for a period of two years. On December 31 st of the 

second year of the term of office, all positions shall be declared vacant. Prior to January 1 st , 

the Board of Deacons shall make recommendations for the top two officer holders in all 

boards, auxiliaries, and departments and present them to the membership of the church for 

approval. All other offices will be filled by nominations from within the committee, ministry, or 

department. All office holders begin serving on January 1. A current office holder may 

succeed himself/herself if submitted by the Committee/Ministry and approved by the Board 

of Deacons and the membership of the church. 

b. The Pastor, Deacons, Trustees, the Director of the Board of Christian 

Education, the Director of Mission and Ministries and the Director of the Music Department 

may serve unlimited terms until such time as the church may see fit to remove them from 

office or they voluntarily resign. 

c. The Chairman of the Board of Deacons, Building and Grounds and Finance 

Committee are limited to serving two two-years (2) terms that run consecutively. After 

serving a maximum of four (4) straight years as chairman, he/she must vacate the office for 

55 





a minimum of one two-year term after which he/she may be reelected to the position of 

Chairman. 

23. Church Expenditures 

a. Payroll 

1) Morning Star Baptist Church will use the Automatic Data Processing 

System for paying its paid staff. 

2) This system will completely administer the church’s payroll tax function by 

depositing all payroll taxes and filing all government forms (940, 941, and W-2's). 

3) All checks and reports will be delivered to the church each pay period. No 

compensation will be disbursed to any substitute musician without all data being submitted to 

the Finance Committee for approval and payment. 

4) An employee may receive an advance on his/her salary checks if its normal 

date falls within vacation time. No advance checks will be administered without approval of 

Deacons and Pastor, and only in rare cases of extreme hardship with a majority of Deacons 

at next scheduled Deacons Meeting. 

b. Pastor’s Compensation 

1) The Church shall award the pastor cost of living raises annually 

commensurate with the national cost of living index, not Less than $500.00, if funds are 

available. This salary adjustment is figured on the pastor’s total base salary, excluding fringe 

benefits. 

2) The Pastor shall be allowed two (2) weeks’ vacation with pay each year, at 

his regular salary basis. 

3) The Pastor shall be allowed to participate in two (2) none Morning Star 

Baptist Church revivals each year and shall be responsible for ensuring a replacement in his 

56 





absence. In the event the Pastor should feel led to participate in a third or fourth revival in 

the same year he must seek approval of the Board of Deacons. 

4) In the event of dismissal, the church shall give the Pastor a thirty (30) day 

salary, less fringe benefits, upon dismissal and declare the pulpit vacant. 

5) In conjunction with National Pastor’s Appreciation month, the Church will 

observe a Pastor’s Appreciation Service each second Sunday in October at 10:30 a.m. 

or 3:00 p.m. 

c. Musician’s Supplementary Compensation 

1) Musicians shall be compensated for services rendered that are not a 

normal part of his/her contractual duties. Supplementary compensation shall be awarded for 

special programs (including revivals), events, or days held at the church; OR travel to special 

services (including revivals), events, or days held at another church both in and out of town. 

Financial compensation is awarded the musician ONLY when the performance is NOT on a 

day that he/she normally plays for the Church or conducts practice for the choir. If, however, 

the performance is on a regular performance or practice day and it is done outside of 

Harrison County, the musician shall be paid. 

2) Supplementary compensation may be awarded for participation according 

to the following scale: 

a) Performances at Morning Star Baptist Church. . . . . . . . . . $50.00 

b) Performances in Jackson, Stone, or Hancock County. . . . $50.00 

c) All other performances (in or out of the State of Mississippi) $75.00 

d. Purchases 

1) Purchases for goods and services are initiated with a properly signed 

requisition that must be approved by the Finance Committee, if funds are available, who will 

57 





in turn issue a purchase order for such purchases. Under no circumstance will purchases be 

made without a properly signed requisition that is approved by the Finance Committee and a 

purchase order issued. 

2) It shall be the responsibility of the Finance Committee to keep an accurate 

and up-to-date fund balance for each department and Ministry of the church. A written report 

of fund balances will be made available on a quarterly basis to each department and Ministry 

of the church. 

3) Any purchase of $500 or more will require a joint meeting and approval of 

the Board of Deacons and the Board of Trustees to determine the worthiness of the 

purchase to be made (whether or not the purchase should be made). 

e. Requisitions 

1) All purchases and payments for goods and services must be processed via 

an official Church requisition form duly signed by the department head of the department or 

Ministry making the request. No requisition will be processed when there are insufficient 

funds in the department’s or Ministry’s budget. All requisitions will be honored by the 

Finance Department when funds are available, and it bears the signature (No Rubber 

Stamps) of the Department Head. 

2) In instances where a requisition is denied, it must be done so in 

consultation with and agreement of a minimum of three members of the Finance Committee 

or two members of the Finance Committee and the Pastor. In all instances when a 

requisition is denied, a written statement to that effect must be provided by the Chairman of 

the Finance Committee and forwarded to the appropriate Department Head within five (5) 

working days of receipt of the requisition by the Finance Committee. 

f. Honorariums for Guest Speakers 

The following amounts will be paid by Morning Star Baptist Church for guest 

speakers for the occasions listed. 

1) Annual Church Anniversary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $200.00 

58 





2) All Annual Days (Auxiliaries) . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $200.00 

3) General Preaching Service . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 

4) Local Lay Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50.00 

5) Annual Church Revival Services . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000.00 

(plus expenses (mileage ($0.31 per mile), hotel cost and meals, not to exceed $2400.00) 

NOTE: The Pastor and Deacons are to submit an annual budget for the Annual 

Revival. 

g. Essential Spending 

1) Whenever the church determines it has less than three (3) months financial 

operating capital in reserve, the pastor, in cooperation with the Board of Deacons, shall 

declare a state of financial emergency and institute a plan of Essential Spending. 

2) Essential Spending mandates that the church makes no new bills, 

suspends all travel to meetings and conventions, and pays only indispensable bills such as 

lights, water, phone, utilities, insurances, and salaries. 

3) Any new spending must be approved in a joint emergency meeting of the 

Pastor, Deacons, Trustees, and Finance Committee. 

4) Essential Spending shall stay in effect until such time that the church has 

accumulated three-month operating capital in reserve. 

24. Usage of Facilities 

a. Sanctuary 

1) Both church groups and non-church groups may use the sanctuary for 

worship type services only. All requests to use the sanctuary must have prior written 

59 





approval by the Pastor or Board of Deacons in the absence of a Pastor. The speaker or 

worship leader for the services must also have prior approval. The speaker’s message 

must be Biblically based and bring glory to God. 

2) All activities held in the sanctuary must be of a religious nature and the 

service must glorify God. All requests for the use of the sanctuary must be approved by the 

Pastor or Chairman of the Board of Deacons. 

3) Service from the pulpit requires that: 

a) Only ordained or licensed individual shall enter the pulpit when God’s 

people are gathered for worship. 

b) Lay speakers shall be required to speak from the lecterns located at 

either side of the pulpit. 

b. Family Life Center/Multi-Purpose Building 

Groups and organizations desiring to use the Family Life Center/Multi-Purpose 

Building must have prior written approval from the Board of Trustees. Services and 

activities held in the Family Life Center/Multi-Purpose Building must be within the context of 

Christian Living and promote Biblical morals. 

c. Usage Fees: 

Usage fees are divided into several categories, depending whether the 

participants are members of the church, and if both the sanctuary and family life center are 

used. 

1) Category I (Weddings for Active Members of the Church) 

When either the bride or the groom is an active member of the church, no usage 

fee is required for the use the church’s facilities. To be considered an active member, you 

must have been a member of Morning Star Baptist Church (Article V, Constitution and 

Bylaws) at least 1 year. However, a $200.00 clean-up fee is charged for the clean-up and 

60 





restoration of the facility. The church does not provide users the option to clean the facility 

themselves in lieu of paying the $200.00 clean-up fee. 

2) Category II (Weddings for Inactive Members of the Church) 

When either the bride or the groom is an inactive member of the church, no 

usage fee is required for the use the church’s facilities. However, a $250.00 clean-up fee is 

charged for the clean-up and restoration of the facility. The church does not provide users 

the option to clean the facility themselves in lieu of paying the $250.00 clean-up fee. 

3) Category III (Weddings for Non-Church Members) 

A fee of $500.00 will be charged for the use of any or all parts of the church’s 

facilities for weddings when neither the bride nor groom is a member of Morning Star. 

Half ($250.00) of the fee must be paid upon the signing of the wedding contract between 

the church and the wedding party. The contract should be executed within ten (10) 

working days after the request to have the wedding is made known to church officials. 

The remaining $250.00 must be paid one month prior to the date of the wedding. 

4) Category IV (Use of the Family Life Center/Multi-Purpose Building) 

A flat fee of $300.00 will be charged all organizations for the use of the Family 

Life Center/Multipurpose Building. Half $150.00 of the fee must be paid upon the signing of 

the wedding contract between the church and the wedding party. The contract should be 

executed within ten (10) working days after the request to have the event is made known to 

church officials. The remaining $150.00 must be paid one month prior to the date of the 

event. In addition to the flat usage fee of $300.00, a non-waivable fee of $250.00 clean-up 

fee is also assessed and required. 

5) Category V (Use of the Church’s Technology and Personnel 

Parties desiring the services of audio/video technicians must contact and 

coordinate directly with these individuals for their services. Only the church’s trained 

audio/video technicians can operate the audio/video equipment. 

61 





6) Category VI (Technology Ministry) 

The church will provide video copies of your event in the DVD format for a 

nominal fee. A fee of $100.00 will be charged for the first four video DVD’s and$15.00 for 

each additional copy. 

7) Category VIII (Large Non-Church Groups) 

The fee to use the church facility or portions of the facility for these types of 

groups shall be negotiated with the select committee in consultation with the Pastor. 

8) Clean-Up Fee: 

A $250.00 clean-up fee is applicable for all parties using the church’s facilities 

for a non-Morning Star Baptist Church scheduled event such as weddings, programs, and 

meetings. This clean-up fee is non-refundable and applies to persons or organizations 

(members or non-members) - all private, community, or fraternal organizations. In those 

instances where both the sanctuary and Family Life Center/Multi-Purpose Building are 

used only one $250.00 clean-up fee is required. Exempted from this fee requirement are 

funerals of members of the church and church scheduled services and events. 

d. Video Memorial Slide Shows and Presentations) 

1) Video Memorial Slide Shows and Presentations will not be permitted in the 

sanctuary or the sanctuary foyer or any other area of Morning Star Baptist Church before or 

during a funeral. Slide shows or other video presentations can only be shown in the Family 

Life Center/Multi-Purpose Building during the repast after services. Under no circumstance 

will Morning Star Baptist Church’s equipment be used for this purpose. 

2) Pictures and memorial tables may only be set up in the foyer of the 

sanctuary before a funeral or memorial service. Pictures are not permitted in the sanctuary 

unless the services are a memorial service (no body present) or services that will not have a 

public viewing. If services are one of the aforementioned services, pictures must be 

removed before services begin. 

e. Who to Contact for the Use of Facilities: 

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f. Facility Usage Chairman Committee shall be contacted for the use of all facilities 

of Morning Star Baptist Church. The Chairman will coordinate with the applicable committee 

to ensure the appropriate contract is executed for the facility for the events. 

g. Scheduling of Programs and/or Activities 

1) Major activities planned throughout the year, utilizing the Church facility, 

must be approved by the Church through the Board of Deacons, and placed on the calendar 

scheduled through the Secretary’s Office. 

2) Any program, special day, or activity scheduled during worship service must 

be approved by the Pastor. 

3) When a pastor or minister of another church is used in the program, special 

day, or activity they must be approved by the Pastor and officially invited by the Pastor. 

NOTE: UNDER NO CONDITIONS SHALL RICE BE THROWN. 

FOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, STATE LAW PROHIBITS THE THROWING OF RICE. 

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25. POLICY ADHERENCE 

Strict adherence to the guidelines of this Policy Manual is mandated. In areas where 

there is written policy governing one’s actions, policy must be observed. Failure to follow 

policy shall result in the perpetrator or violator assuming full financial, moral, and legal 

responsibility for his/her actions. 

This MSBC Policy and Procedural Manual was developed by MSBC Policy and 

Procedure Committee, approved by the Board of Deacons and adopted by the Church: 

Chairman, Deacon Board: Brother Bruce Johnson_____________ 

Chairman, Trustees: _Brother Norman Harris_________________ 

Senior Pastor: _________________________________________ 

Adopted by: MSBC of Gulfport, MS 

Date: _July 16, 2018_____ 

NOTE: The MSBC Policy and Procedural Manual will be reviewed annually by the MSBC 

Policy and Procedural Committee. Recommendations for change will be approved by the 

Deacon Board. 

64

MSBC Policy and Procedures 16July2018

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