2019 Constitution & By-Laws

PREAMBLE Valley Christian Center of Dublin CA, Inc.

WHEREAS, it is the express purpose of God, our Heavenly Father, to call out of the world a redeemed people who shall constitute the body or church of our Lord Jesus Christ, built and established upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the Chief Cornerstone; and

WHEREAS, God having ordained that His Universal Church should find its expression in and through local churches, enjoining them to assemble together for worship, fellowship, counsel, and instruction in the Word of God, and for the work of the ministry, and for the exercise of those spiritual gifts and offices provided for in the New Testament.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that we whose names appear on the Valley Christian Center roster as of this date do recognize ourselves as a local assembly under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ, first organized as such July 7, 1963, and do affirm ourselves to be in cooperative fellowship with the General Council of the Assemblies of God, with headquarters in Springfield, Missouri, and an active member of the Assemblies of God, Northern California and Nevada District Council, a California corporation, and do hereby adopt the following articles of church order this 10th day of July in the year of our Lord 1968, as amended September 29, 1975; and as further amended September 28, 1978; September, 1980; September, 1982; September, 1984; September, 1986; May, 1989; November 1994; May 2002; September 26, 2010, September 18, 2011, September 28, 2014, and October 14, 2019.

The Constitution and Operational Structures are supplemental to the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.

VCC Constitution & Bylaws Governance Board Approved – October 14, 2019 page 1 7500 Inspiration Dr. | Dublin, CA 94568 | 925.560.6202 | comediscovervcc.org

— CONSTITUTION —

ARTICLE I — NAME

The name of this church shall be Valley Christian Center of Dublin, California, hereinafter referred to as Valley Christian Center.

ARTICLE II — PRINCIPLES

SECTION 1:

SECTION 2:

SECTION 3:

We hold the Bible, the Word of God, to be supreme in all matters governing Valley Christian Center in keeping with the spirit of Christ.

We hold as scriptural and fundamental that form of church government which is a voluntary fellowship, the local assembly being sovereign under Christ.

We hold it basic that every Christian should endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace “…till we all come in the unity of faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:13)

ARTICLE III — PURPOSE

SECTION 1:

SECTION 2:

To establish and maintain a place of worship of Almighty God, our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, through the Holy Spirit, and for the promotion of close Christian fellowship and edification.

To conduct under the guidance of the Holy Scriptures the work of evangelism, discipleship, and education, both at home and in foreign fields, in obedience to the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19-20) and in harmony with the teaching and practice of His servants, the Apostles. (Acts 8:4-5, 35-40; 13:1-4; 16:6, 10; Romans 15:18-21; 10:12-17; 2 Corinthians 10:16)

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ARTICLE IV — PREROGATIVES

SECTION 1:

Standards (a) To accept the responsibility for maintaining peace and harmony in Valley Christian Center according to scriptural mandate.

SECTION 2:

SECTION 3:

SECTION 4:

(b) To have a standard of membership determined by Valley Christian Center, and to discipline its members according to the Scriptures and Valley Christian Center’s Bylaws.

Government To choose or call its pastor(s), elect its officers, and transact all other business pertaining to Valley Christian Center’s life and conduct as a local assembly.

Promotion To promote the evangelization of our community, our state, our nation, and the world by all Scriptural means.

Property To have the right to buy, lease, or otherwise dispose of such property, real, personal, and mixed, tangible and intangible of whatsoever kind as may be useful for the implementation of its work.

ARTICLE V — RELATIONSHIP

SECTION 1:

SECTION 2:

SECTION 3:

While recognizing its inherent right to sovereignty in the conduct of its own affairs, Valley Christian Center voluntarily enters into full cooperative fellowship with the Assemblies of God, Northern California and Nevada District Council, Inc., and with the General Council of the Assemblies of God with headquarters at Springfield, Missouri.

It shall share in the privileges and assume the responsibilities enjoined by the above-mentioned affiliations. It shall have the right to representation through its delegates at the District and General Councils.

Valley Christian Center was birthed by the Assemblies of God and will have as a Lead Pastor an Assemblies of God minister.

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ARTICLE VI — TENETS OF FAITH

Valley Christian Center shall accept the Holy Scriptures as the revealed will of God, the allsufficient rule of faith and practice, and for the purpose of maintaining general unity, adopts the Statement of Fundamental Truths approved by the General Council of the Assemblies of God.

1. The Scriptures Inspired

The Scriptures, both the Old and New Testaments, are verbally inspired of God and are the revelation of God to man, the infallible, authoritative rule of faith and conduct.

(1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:21)

2. The One True God

The One True God has revealed Himself as the eternally self-existent “I AM,” the Creator of heaven and earth and the Redeemer of mankind. He has further revealed Himself as embodying the principles of relationship and association as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

(Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; Matthew 28:19; Luke 3:22)

THE ADORABLE GODHEAD

(a) Terms, Defined The terms “Trinity” and “Persons,” as related to the Godhead, while not found in the Scriptures, are words in harmony with Scriptures, whereby we may convey to others our immediate understanding of the doctrine of Christ respecting the Being of God, as distinguished from “gods many and lords many.” We, therefore, may speak with propriety of the Lord our God, who is one Lord, as a trinity or as one Being of three persons, and still be absolutely Scriptural. (Matthew 28:19; John 14:16-17; 2 Corinthians 13:14)

(b) Distinction and Relationship in the Godhead Christ taught a distinction of Persons in the Godhead which He expressed in specific terms of relationship, as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but that this distinction and relationship, as to its mode is inscrutable and incomprehensible, because it is unexplained. (Matthew 11:25-27; 28:10; Luke 1:35; 1 Corinthians 1:24; 2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 John 1:3-4)

(c) Unity of the One Being—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Accordingly, therefore, there is that in the Son which constitutes Him the Son and not the Father; and there is that in the Holy Spirit which constitutes Him the Holy Spirit and not either the Father or the Son.

Wherefore, the Father is the Begetter, the Son is the Begotten, and the Holy Spirit is the one proceeding from the Father and the Son.

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Therefore, because these three persons in the Godhead are in a state of unity, there is but one Lord, God Almighty and His name one.

(Zechariah 14:9; John 1:18; 15:26; 17:11, 21)

(d) Identity and Cooperation in the Godhead The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are never identical as to Person; nor confused as to relation; nor divided in respect to the Godhead; nor opposed as to cooperation. The Son is in the Father and the Father is in the Son as to relationship. The Son is with the Father and the Father is with the Son, as to fellowship. The Father is not from the Son, but the Son is from the Father, as to authority. The Holy Spirit is from the Father and the Son proceeding, as to nature, relationship, cooperation, and authority. Hence, neither Person in the Godhead either exists or works separately or independently of the others.

(John 5:17-30, 32, 37; 8:17-18) (e) The Title, Lord Jesus Christ The appellation, “Lord Jesus Christ,” is a proper name. It is never applied in the New Testament to either the Father or to the Holy Spirit. It, therefore, belongs exclusively to the Son of God. (Romans 1:1-3; 2 John 3) (f) The Lord Jesus Christ, “God With Us” The Lord Jesus Christ, as to His divine and eternal nature, is the proper and only Begotten of the Father, but as to His human nature, He is the proper Son of Man. He is, therefore, acknowledged to be both God and man; who, because He is God and man, is “Immanuel,” God with us.

(Matthew 1:23; 1 John 4:2, 10, 14; Revelation 1:13, 17)

(g) The Title, Son of God Since the name “Immanuel” embraces both God and man in the one Person, our Lord Jesus Christ, it follows that the title, Son of God, describes His proper deity, and the title Son of Man, His proper humanity. Therefore, the title, Son of God, belongs to the order of eternity, and the title, Son of Man, to the order of time.

(Matthew 1:21-23; Hebrews 1:1-13, 7:3; 1 John 3:8; 2 John 3) (h) Transgression of the Doctrine of Christ Wherefore, it is a transgression of the Doctrine to say that Jesus Christ derived the title, Son of God, solely from the fact of the incarnation, or because of His relation to the economy of redemption. Therefore, to deny that the Father is a real and eternal Father, and that the Son is a real and eternal Son, is a denial of the distinction and relationship in the Being of God; a denial of the Father and the Son; and a displacement of the truth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh.

(John 1:1, 2, 14, 18, 29, 49; Hebrews 12:2; 1 John 2:22-23; 4:1-5; 2 John 9)

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(i) Exaltation of Jesus Christ as Lord The Son of God our Lord Jesus Christ, having by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; angels and principalities and powers having been made subject unto Him. And having been made both Lord and Christ, He sent the Holy Spirit that we, in the name of Jesus, might bow our knees and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the Glory of God the Father until the end, when the Son shall become subject to the Father that God may be all in all.

(Acts 2:32-36; Romans 14:11; 1 Corinthians 15:24-28; Hebrews 1:3; 1 Peter 3:22)

(j) Equal Honor to the Father and to the Son Wherefore, since the Father has delivered all judgment unto the Son, it is not only the express duty for all in heaven and on earth to bow the knee, but it is an unspeakable joy in the Holy Spirit to ascribe unto the Son all the attributes of Deity, and to give Him all the honor and the glory contained in all the names and titles of the Godhead [except those which express relationship — see paragraphs (b), (c), and (d)], and thus honor the Son even as we honor the Father.

(John 5:22-23; Philippians 2:8-9; 1 Peter 1:8; Revelation 4:8-11; 5:6-14; 7:9-10)

3. The Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ

The Lord Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. The Scriptures declare:

(a) His virgin birth. (Matthew 1:23; Luke 1:31, 35)

(b) His sinless life. (Hebrews 7:26; 1 Peter 2:22)

(c) His miracles. (Acts 2:22; 10:38)

(d) His substitutionary work on the cross. (1 Corinthians 15:3; 2 Corinthians 5:21)

(e) His bodily resurrection from the dead. (Matthew 28:6; Luke 24:39;1 Corinthians 15:4) (f) His exaltation to the right hand of God. (Acts 1:9, 11; 2:33; Philippians 2:9-11; Hebrews 1:3)

4. The Fall of Man Man was created good and upright; for God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26) “For by one man sin came into the world.” (Romans 5:12) However, man by voluntary transgression fell and thereby incurred not only physical death, but also spiritual death, which is separation from God. (Genesis 1:26-27; 2: 17; 3:6; Romans 5:12-19)

5. The Salvation of Man Man’s only hope of redemption is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

(a) Conditions to Salvation Salvation is received through repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ. By the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, being justified by grace through faith, man becomes an heir of God according to VCC Constitution & Bylaws Governance Board Approved – October 14, 2019 page 6 7500 Inspiration Dr. | Dublin, CA 94568 | 925.560.6202 | comediscovervcc.org

the hope of eternal life. (Luke 24:47; John 3:3; Romans 10:13-15; Ephesians 2:8; Titus 2:11; 3:5-7)

(c) The inward evidence of salvation is the direct witness of the Spirit.

(Romans 8:16) The outward evidence to all men is a life of righteousness and true holiness. (Ephesians 4:24; Titus 2:12)

6. The Ordinances of the Church

(a) Baptism in Water The ordinance of baptism by immersion is commanded in the Scriptures. All who repent and believe on Christ as Savior and Lord are encouraged to follow the example of the Lord and should be baptized. Thus, they declare to the world that they have died with Christ and that they also have been raised with Him to walk in newness of life. (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 10:47-48; Romans 6:4)

(b) Holy Communion The Lord’s Supper, consisting of the elements—bread and the fruit of the vine— is the symbol expressing our sharing the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:4); a memorial of His suffering and death (1 Corinthians 11:26); and is enjoined on all believers “till He come!”

7. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit All believers are entitled to and should ardently expect and earnestly seek the promise of the Father, the baptism in the Holy Spirit, according to the command of our Lord Jesus Christ. This was the normal experience of all in the early Christian church. With baptism, the Holy Spirit bestows the power for life and service, giving gifts for the work of the ministry. (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12:1-31) This experience of the new birth.

(Acts 8:12-17; 10:44-46; 11:14-16; 15:7-9) With the baptism of the Holy Spirit came such experiences as an overflowing fullness of the Spirit (John 7:37-39; Acts 4:8), a deepened reverence for God (Acts 2:43; Hebrews 12:28), and intensified consecration to God and dedication to His work (Acts 2:42), and a more active love for Christ, for His Word and for the lost. (Mark 16:20)

8. The Evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit The full consummation of the baptism of believers in the Holy Spirit is evidenced by the initial physical sign of speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance (Acts 2:4); and by the subsequent manifestation of spiritual power in public testimony and service (Acts 1:8; 2:42-43; 10:44-46; 19:2-6); and by yielding to the Holy Spirit for His manifestation in the believer’s life through the Fruits of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23)

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9. Sanctification Sanctification is an act of separation from that which is evil, and of dedication unto God. (Romans 12:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 13:12) The Scriptures teach a life of “holiness without which no man shall see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14) By the power of the Holy Spirit we are able to obey the command: “Be ye holy, for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15-16)

Sanctification is realized in the believer by recognizing his identification with Christ in His death and resurrection, and by faith reckoning daily upon the fact of that union, and by offering every faculty continually to the dominion of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 6:1-11, 13; 8:1-2, 13; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 2:12-13; 1 Peter 1:5)

10. The Church

The Church is the body of Christ, the habitation of God through the Spirit, with divine appointments for the fulfillment of her great commission. Each believer, born of the Spirit, is an integral part of the General Assembly and Church of the First-born, which are written in heaven. (Ephesians 1:22-23; 2:22; Hebrews 12:23)

11. The Ministry

A divinely called and Scripturally ordained ministry has been provided by our Lord for a two-fold purpose: (1) The evangelization of the world.

(2) The edifying of the Body of Christ. (Mark 16:15-20; Ephesians 4:11-13)

12. Divine Healing

Divine healing is an integral part of the gospel. Deliverance from sickness is provided for in the atonement, and is the privilege of all believers. (Isaiah 53:4-5; Matthew 8:16-17; James 5:14-16)

13. The Blessed Hope The resurrection of those who have fallen asleep in Christ and their translation together with those who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord is the imminent and blessed hope of the Church. (Romans 8:23; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:1617; Titus 2:13)

14. The Millennial Reign of Christ

The second coming of Christ includes the rapture of the saints, which is our blessed hope, followed by the visible return of Christ with His saints to reign on the earth for one thousand years. (Zechariah 14:5; Matthew 24:27, 30; Revelation 1:7; 19:11-14; 20:6) This millennial reign will bring the salvation of national Israel (Ezekiel 37:21-22; Zephaniah 3:19-20; Romans 11:26-27) and the establishment of universal peace. (Psalm 72:3-8; Isaiah 11:6-9; Micah 4:3-4) The rapture of the saints is an event different from and prior to the visible return of Jesus Christ. The second coming of Christ is the return of Jesus Christ to earth.

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15. The Final Judgment There will be a final judgment in which the wicked dead will be raised and judged according to their works. Whosoever is not found written in the Book of Life, together with the devil and his angels, the beast and the false prophet, will be consigned to everlasting punishment in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone, which is the second death. (Matthew 25:46; Mark 9:43-48; Revelation 19:20; 20:1-15; 21:8)

16. The New Heavens and the New Earth

“We, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.” (2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:22)

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— BYLAWS —

ARTICLE I — GOVERNMENT

SECTION 1:

Valley Christian Center Board of Elders (a) There shall be a Board of Elders, called the Valley Christian Center Board, consisting of at least five (5) members sound in the faith and of good report. (b) The Corporate President, Corporate Vice-President, Corporate Secretary, and Corporate Treasurer, together with other members of the Board of Elders, shall constitute the Valley Christian Center Board. The Lead Pastor shall serve as Board Chairperson and Corporate President. The Corporate Vice-Chairperson shall serve as the Board Vice-President and Corporate Vice-President. (c) The Valley Christian Center Board shall act as Trustees of Valley Christian Center of Dublin, California. (d) The Valley Christian Center Board shall serve as the Valley Christian Schools Board. (e) There are no less than five (5) seats on the Board. There must be a quorum of no less than four (4) to take action. (f) The Valley Christian Center Board should be representative of the church congregation and community they serve.

SECTION 2:

Valley Christian Center Elders (a) Qualifications (1) They shall be persons of integrity, humility, morality, godliness, spiritually strong, Spirit-filled, and mature in experience. (John 20:22; Acts 1:4-8; 2:4; 4:31; Ephesians 5:18) (2) They shall have been members of the church for a minimum of three (3) years prior to their appointment.

(3) They shall meet the Scriptural standard of 1 Timothy 3:8-13 and Titus 1.

(4) They shall be members in good standing, regular attenders, tithers and generous givers, and involved in the ministry of the church.

(5) They shall not have a spouse or family member that is employed in the church or school except by Elder Board approval.

(6) They shall be dedicated to Valley Christian Center’s beliefs, vision and mission and to the Lead Pastor and Elder Board.

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(b) Authority (1) As Trustees of the Corporation, they shall be the custodians (watchdog, protector) of the church property and shall be responsible for the care of same.

(2) They shall ensure the safety of persons and property.

(3) They shall act, when required, in the examination of applicants for membership and also in the administration of church discipline.

(4) They shall serve on behalf of the Church membership.

(5) They shall have final legal authority for the Valley Christian Center of Dublin California, a non-profit Corporation.

(6) They shall have final authority over Valley Christian Schools.

(7) They shall act in all matters pertaining to the church in its spiritual life and in the administration of its ordinances.

(8) They shall supply temporary officers to fill vacancies and shall serve as the Nominating Committee for the Lead Pastor as prescribed in Article V, Sections 1 and 2.

(9) They shall have the Corporate Chairperson sign documents on behalf of the Corporation.

(10) They shall have final authority to approve policies.

(11) They shall have the power to evaluate, remove, and replace the Lead Pastor.

(12) They shall have the power to delegate authority to Deacon Committees and operational leaders.

(13) They shall have final authority to create and advocate Valley Christian Center’s identity, course, and culture.

(c) Roles/Responsibilities (1) They shall shepherd, oversee, lead and care for the Corporation.

(2) They shall lead the church (1Tim. 5:17; Titus 1:7; 1Peter 5:1-2), teach and preach the Word (1Tim. 3:2; 2Tim. 4:2; Titus 1:9), protect the church from false teachers (Acts 20:1, 28-31), exhort and admonish the saints in sound doctrine (1Tim.4:13; 2Tim. 3:13-17; Titus 1:9), visit the sick and pray (James 5:14; Acts 6:4), and judge doctrinal issues (Acts 15:6).

(3) They shall attend regularly scheduled meetings.

(4) They shall act with the Lead Pastor in the arrangement of special

meetings and conferences.

(5) They shall supervise the disbursement of funds from the Corporate

treasury.

(6) They shall provide financial oversight, approve annual budgets and financial matters.

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(7) They shall have responsibility and oversight of the Deacon

Committees.

(8) They shall lead the Annual Church Business Council or any Special Church Business Council and report the state of Valley Christian

Center’s spiritual, kingdom, organizational, and financial health to the

membership annually.

(9) They shall ensure that all entities of Valley Christian Center conform to the appropriate regulatory requirements.

(10) They shall approve applications for membership to Valley Christian

Center.

(11) If there is a vacancy on the Elder Board, the Elder Board will appoint a member in good standing.

(12) They shall attend Valley Christian Schools’ graduation ceremony.

(13) They shall establish the General and Administrative allocation

percentage for the Church and Schools per recommendation of the

Finance Committee.

(14) They shall affirm and commission pastors annually.

(d) Manner of Appointment (1) The Elders shall be chosen from the membership of Valley Christian Center. They shall be appointed by a majority of the Elder Board.

(2) Elder Candidates are presented to the congregants/members three (3) weeks prior to the Business Council to allow time for comments/meetings/conversations with Elder Board members, if needed.

(3) They shall be ratified by a simple majority vote of a secret ballot by the members present at the annual Church Business Council.

(4) Elders may be removed by a majority vote of the current standing Elder Board at any time.

(f) Elder Board Meetings (1) The Elder Board shall meet regularly or as the need may require.

(2) Meetings may be called by the Chairperson, or by the ViceChairperson in the Chairperson’s absence, acting for a majority of the members of the Valley Christian Center Board.

(3) Meetings may be held when every member shall have received proper notification of the time and place of the meeting.

(4) Elder Board members must submit any proposed agenda items to the Chairperson at least one week before the scheduled meeting.

(5) The Chairperson sets the agenda, and invites others at their discretion.

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SECTION 3:

(g) Term of Office The term of office shall be for a period of five (5) years with an option to extend successive terms by Elder Board approval, or until the person’s successor qualifies.

Officers (a) There shall be a Lead Pastor, who shall also serve as the Corporate President.

(b) One of the Valley Christian Center Board members shall serve as Corporate Vice-President, one as Corporate Secretary, and one as Corporate Treasurer.

SECTION 4:

(d) There shall be other officers added and approved, as needed.

Corporate President

The Lead Pastor is the Corporate President and the Chairperson of the Valley Christian Center Board.

(a) Authority (1) The Corporate President shall be general supervisor of all activities of Valley Christian Center.

(2) They shall be the President of the Corporation and shall act as Chairperson of all the business meetings of the Valley Christian Center Board and Church Business Councils.

(3) They set the agenda of all business meetings and shall extend an invitation to all invitees.

(4) They shall be an ex-officio member of all other boards and committees.

(b) Manner of Election The Corporate President (Lead Pastor) shall be elected to office by a twothirds majority of the membership present at any annual or special Church Business Council.

(c) Term of Office (1) The term of office for the Corporate President shall be for an indefinite period; the term to expire upon thirty (30) days written notice given either by the resignation of the Corporate President or by the action of the Elder Board.

(2) The Corporate President may, at his/her discretion, call for a secret vote of confidence. This ballot shall be for his/her own use and he/she need not make the results public.

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SECTION 5:

Corporate Vice-President The Corporate Vice-President is Vice-Chairperson of the Valley Christian Center Elder Board.

SECTION 6:

(a) Duties During the absence or incapacitation of the Corporate President, The Corporate Vice-President shall serve as the Acting Chairperson of the Valley Christian Center Elder Board.

Corporate Secretary

(a) Duties The Corporate Secretary shall be a member of the Valley Christian Center Board. They shall: (1) Keep a true and accurate record of all business meetings of the church and the Valley Christian Center Board.

(2) Keep a record of the membership of the church and shall perform other clerical duties.

(3) Keep custody of all corporate documents and of the corporate seal.

(4) Serve as the Acting Vice-President of the Corporation during the absence or incapacitation of the Corporate Vice-President.

SECTION 7:

Corporate Treasurer

(a) Duties By virtue of this office, the Corporate Treasurer shall be Chairperson of the Finance Committee and a member of the Valley Christian Center Elder Board. They shall: (1) Be responsible to ensure that a proper and business-like manner prevails in producing an itemized account of all receipts, disbursements, and other financial records.

(2) Serve as the Acting Secretary of the Corporation during the absence or incapacitation of the Corporate Secretary.

(3) Be responsible for preparation, implementation, and adherence

to the annual budget.

(4) Ensure a financial audit is performed each year.

(5) Monitor and report cash reserves at Elder Board approved level.

(6) Present a plan for reduction of short and long-term debt.

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ARTICLE II — NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS OF ELDERS/OFFICERS

SECTION 1: The Valley Christian Center Board shall present to the voting membership the names of those best qualified for the particular office under consideration.

SECTION 2: Elder candidates are presented to the congregants/members three (3) weeks prior to the Business Council to allow time for comments/meetings/conversations with Elder Board members and the Lead Pastor regarding the candidate(s).

SECTION 3: All appointees shall be ratified by secret ballot at the Annual Church Business Council.

ARTICLE III — VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS

SECTION 1: Valley Christian Center leads all aspects of Valley Christian Schools.

The schools are a ministry of the church as stated below in part of the Declaration of Identity and Purpose Concerning Valley Christian Schools signed by the Valley Christian Center Board on June 26, 2017: (a) That Valley Christian Center is called by God to lead a Christian school. (b) That there is only one organization on this Campus, that being the Church. (c) That our school is a cherished and valuable extension of our Church. (d) That every employee of the school is, in fact, an employee of the Church. (e) That the “DNA” (history, philosophy, values and mission) of the Church will be cultivated and reflected in all aspects of our school. (f) That the Church will lead and oversee all aspects of the school. (g) That the Church is committed to a fully functional, mature, and financially sound school. (h) That we are dedicated to the promotion and preservation of alignment and unity of Church and School. (i) That all families, faculty and staff are welcome to enjoy the beauty of this community as they also embrace, honor and promote the values of Valley Christian Center.

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ARTICLE IV — MEMBERSHIP

The legal voting membership of the Valley Christian Center shall consist of all persons born of the Spirit, in good standing, who shall have met the membership requirements of Valley Christian Center, and subscribe regularly to its financial support, and whose names shall appear on the Valley Christian Center roster.

SECTION 1: The Standard of Membership of Valley Christian Center shall be:

(a) Qualifications (1) Evidence of born-again experience (regeneration). (John 1:12-13; 3:37; 1 Peter 18-25) (2) Evidence of consistent Christian life. (Romans 6:4; 13:13; Ephesians 4:17-32; 5:2; 15; 1 John 1:6-7) (3) Subscription to the tenets of faith as set forth in the Constitution.

(4) Willingness to tithe and contribute regularly to the support of the Valley Christian Center according to his or her ability.

(5) Must be sixteen years of age or older.

(b) Authority (1) The right to request to see the annual audit.

(2) The right to vote at any Business Council meeting.

(3) The right to vote in the sale of Valley Christian Center property.

(4) The Right to initiate a special Church Business Council with at least the signatures of one-third of the voting membership of the church.

SECTION 2:

(c) Roles/Responsibilities (1) Pray for the leadership.

(2) Support the Vision and Mission of the church and schools.

(3) Serve.

(4) Give through tithes and offerings.

(5) Regular attendance at Sunday services.

(6) Attend Business Council meetings.

Active Membership Persons wishing to become active members of the Valley Christian Center shall complete an application at the conclusion of a membership class or series.

Prospective members shall be interviewed by a pastor or elder. The Valley Christian Center Board shall approve applications for membership. Those approved shall be publicly received as members at any regular church service.

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SECTION 3:

SECTION 4:

SECTION 5:

Inactive Membership Inactive membership shall consist of those who, without good cause, absent themselves from the services of Valley Christian Center for a period of two consecutive months or more, or who do not contribute to its support according to his or her ability, or who shall be under charges for misconduct, or who may have fallen under condemnation through sinful practices. Those becoming inactive members shall lose their voting privileges pending investigation and final decision in their case.

Voting Constituency All active members in good standing shall constitute the legal voting membership of Valley Christian Center.

Transfer of Membership Members in good standing desiring a transfer shall be granted a transfer on the approval of a pastor through the Valley Christian Center office. The transfer will be confirmed by email to the designated Pastor and/or the Valley Christian Center Board Secretary.

ARTICLE V — VACANCIES

SECTION 1:

How created (a) Any office may be declared vacant by an act of majority membership of those present at any annual or special Church Business Council.

(b) Grounds for such action shall be: (1) Unscriptural conduct (2) Radical departure from the tenets of faith (3) Incompetency in office

(c) A complaint may be lodged against an incumbent in office only after following the plan set forth in ARTICLE IX, Section 1. The complaint can then be brought before the church for action by any member exercising the right of initiative as described in ARTICLE XI or upon the recommendation of the Valley Christian Center Board.

(d) If so desired, any incumbent under charges shall have the opportunity for a fair and impartial hearing of this case before the church.

(e) In the case of a pastor’s removal from office, a report of such action shall be made to the Assemblies of God district credentialing office. Such action is not to be considered as otherwise affecting the standing of the pastor with the General Council fellowship.

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SECTION 2:

How Filled

(a) Lead Pastor When there is a vacancy in the office of Lead Pastor, the Valley Christian Center Board or its designees, shall act as the nominating committee, and may receive nominations for Lead Pastor from any member of the church, and after careful and prayerful consideration shall present one name to the church for election of the Lead Pastor.

(b) Other Offices The Valley Christian Center Board shall arrange to fill any vacancy.

ARTICLE VI — PARLIAMENTARY LAW

In order to expedite the work of the Valley Christian Center and to avoid confusion in its deliberation, Valley Christian Center shall be governed by the generally accepted rules of parliamentary procedure in keeping with the spirit of Christian love and fellowship, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

ARTICLE VII — QUORUM

SECTION 1:

SECTION 2:

Those active members present at a duly called Church Business Council constitute a quorum.

A majority of the members of any Board or Committee shall constitute a quorum, with the exception of the Elder Board where no less than four (4) members will constitute a quorum provided all members have been properly notified.

ARTICLE VIII — MEETINGS

SECTION 1:

SECTION 2:

Valley Christian Center Board The Chairperson of the Board shall determine the schedule of regular Board meetings and the Annual Church Business Council.

Church Business Councils (a) The Church Business Council shall be a meeting of active voting Members of Valley Christian Center.

(b) The Annual Church Business Council of Valley Christian Center will meet in the fall.

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(c) The ratification of Elders shall take place at the Annual Business Council as well as other pertinent business.

SECTION 3:

(d) Special Church Business Councils may be called: (1) By the Chairperson of the Board.

(2) By the Corporate Secretary upon the written order of a majority of the Valley Christian Center Board.

(3) By the petition of Members of the church exercising the right of initiative.

Notices Notice of all Annual Church Business Councils and Special Church Business Councils shall be emailed, at least ten (10) days before the meeting, supplemented by announcements from the pulpit on the two (2) preceding Sundays.

ARTICLE IX — DISCIPLINE

SECTION 1:

SECTION 2:

SECTION 3:

All discipline shall be prayerfully administered according to the Scriptures.

(Matthew 18:15-17; Romans 16:17; 1 Corinthians 5:9-13; 2 Thessalonians 3:11-15) The Valley Christian Center Board shall be empowered to place on the inactive list those who have disqualified themselves as provided for in ARTICLE IV, Section 3. The Valley Christian Center Board shall also have the power to restore to active membership those who in their opinion are not guilty as charged, and those who through repentance and adjustment have attained to the standard for active membership.

The Valley Christian Center Board shall recognize its duty to interview and encourage a proper attitude on the part of those who have been placed on the inactive list. It shall proceed carefully to press for a final decision in each case.

When the Valley Christian Center Board has rendered its final decision, the member may appeal the decision of the Valley Christian Center Board to the church membership. The decision of the church membership shall be final.

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ARTICLE X — FINANCES

Valley Christian Center shall be financed according to the scriptural method by tithes and offerings of the members and friends of Valley Christian Center. (Malachi 3:10; Matthew 23:23; Hebrews 7:4-9) Funds for our schools shall be financed through tuition. The annual budget allocation of these funds is determined each year by the Elder Board.

The church business year shall be a fiscal year, beginning on July 1 and running through June 30 of each year.

ARTICLE XI— RIGHT OF INITIATIVE

Any member or members may exercise the right of initiative in the calling of a special Church Business Council of Valley Christian Center by presenting a request signed by at least one-third of the voting membership of the church, to the Lead Pastor or Corporate Secretary of Valley Christian Center, who shall proceed to issue a call for said council as prescribed in ARTICLE VIII, Section 2(d)(3).

ARTICLE XII — THE CORPORATION

Valley Christian Center of Dublin, California includes Valley Christian Center, Valley Christian Schools, and all other corporate entities unless otherwise designated by the Valley Christian Center Board.

ARTICLE XIII — DELEGATES TO COUNCILS

Valley Christian Center may send to the Northern California/Nevada District Council of the Assemblies of God, annually, and to the General Council of the Assemblies of God biennially, any of the pastoral staff and a delegate.

ARTICLE XIV — BUSINESS PROCEDURE

The regular order of business for the annual Church Business Council of Valley Christian Center shall be as follows: (1) Worship (2) Selection of Elders (3) Other business (4) Adjournment

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ARTICLE XV — PROPERTY

SECTION 1:

SECTION 2:

SECTION 3:

SECTION 4:

All property of the Corporation shall be deeded to the Corporation in its corporate name.

The Valley Christian Center Elder Board shall act on behalf of the Corporation in legal matters concerning real property. Authorization to purchase, sell, take, acquire, transfer, lease, assign, convey or otherwise alienate said property, will require a two-thirds vote of the voting members, voting at a duly convened annual or special Business Council.

The Valley Christian Center Board shall receive and authorize disbursement of funds, borrow money, and incur indebtedness in the course of business, and for that purpose to cause to be executed and delivered in the name of this corporation, promissory notes, bonds, debentures, deeds of trust, mortgages, pledges, hypothecations, or other evidences of indebtedness or securities, subject to pertinent law and regulations, further subject to the provisions of the Bylaws of this church. Authorization to borrow will require a majority vote of the Elders at a duly convened regular or special Board meeting.

The property of this Corporation is irrevocably dedicated to religious and educational purposes and no part of the net income or assets of this Corporation shall ever inure to the benefit of any director, officer, or member thereof or to the benefit of any private person. Upon the dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, its assets remaining after payments, or provision for payment, of all debts and liabilities of this Corporation are to be distributed to a non-profit fund, foundation, or corporation which is organized and operated exclusively for religious and educational purposes and which has established its tax-exempt status under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Such organization shall be chosen by a majority vote of the then-existing membership, subject to the aforementioned qualifications.

ARTICLE XVI — CIVIL GOVERNMENT

Whereas, the Scriptures declare that government is of God; the powers that be are ordained of God as ministers of good to the governed. Whosoever, therefore, resists that power resists the ordinances of God. Wherefore, we are subject not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake; rendering to all their due, custom, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor (Romans 13:1-7), therefore, be it RESOLVED, that this church hereby declares its loyalty to our government and to its Chief Executive, and that we do hereby state our fixed purpose to assist in every way morally possible, consistent with our faith.

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ARTICLE XVII — AMENDMENTS

Amendments to these bylaws may be made at any annual or special Church Business Council of the Valley Christian Center provided the voting Members have been properly notified of such purpose in writing by email at least ten (10) days prior to the Church Business Council supplemented by announcements from the pulpit on the two (2) preceding Sundays.

Amendments shall require a two-thirds vote of the membership present to be adopted.

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— OPERATIONAL STRUCTURES — ARTICLE I — OFFICIAL FUNCTIONS

SECTION 1:

SECTION 2:

Executive Team The Executive Team may consist of the Lead Pastor, Executive Pastor, Senior Associate Pastor, and Head of Schools. The Lead Pastor shall lead the Executive Team. Members may be added at the Lead Pastor’s discretion.

(a) Qualifications (1) They shall be educated in the Word of God. (2) They shall have a passion for Christian Education.

(3) They shall have demonstrated leadership ability for a “large” organization.

(4) They shall accept, unconditionally, The Declaration of Identity and Purpose Concerning Valley Christian Schools and the LifeStyle Statement.

(5) They shall have a proven track record of effective leadership, judgment, and be above reproach in character.

(6) They shall be a lover of people.

(7) They shall see the City as the mission of the Church.

(8) They shall be members in good standing, regular attenders, tithers, and generous givers of Valley Christian Center.

(9) It is preferred that they are proven leaders within the Valley Christian Center community.

Lead Pastor

(a) Authority (1) The Lead Pastor shall be general supervisor of all activities of Valley Christian Center.

(2) They shall serve as the authority, along with the Elders, over the Corporation.

(3) They shall be the President of the Corporation and shall act as Chairperson of all the business meetings of Valley Christian Center and of the Valley Christian Center Board.

(4) They shall report to the Elder Board.

(5) They have authority to create, sustain, and defend the vision and culture of Valley Christian Center.

(6) They shall supervise and direct the Executive Pastor, Senior Associate, and Head of Schools.

(7) They shall be an ex-officio member of all other boards and committees.

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SECTION 3:

SECTION 4:

SECTION 5:

(8) They shall provide for all the services of Valley Christian Center. No person shall be invited to speak or preach in Valley Christian Center without his/her consent.

(9) The Lead Pastor shall have the oversight of all church activities and may appoint others to assist him/her in this work.

Executive Pastor (a) Authority (1) They shall provide support to the Lead Pastor, Elders, and Deacons.

(2) They shall supervise and direct all Facilities, Finance, Human Resource, IT, Marketing, Media, Communications, and business operations.

(3) They have signing authority over all contracts and leases and to make decisions on behalf of the Corporation.

(4) They report to the Corporate President.

(5) The Executive Pastor shall, in the Corporate President‘s absence, execute any and all documents necessary to continue the operation of the Corporation.

Senior Associate Pastor (a) Authority (1) They supervise and direct the church staff.

(2) They report to the Lead Pastor.

(3) In the areas of Human Resources, Finance, Buildings, Grounds, Media, Marketing, IT, and Communications, they shall be lead by the Executive Pastor.

(4) They shall be capable of stepping into the Lead Pastor role.

Head Of Schools (a) Authority (1) They shall provide support to the Lead Pastor, Elders, and Deacons.

(2) They shall supervise and direct all School employees (3) The Head of Schools reports to the Board of Elders for accreditation matters.

(4) The Head of Schools reports to the Lead Pastor.

(5) In the areas of Human Resource, Finance, Buildings, Grounds, Media, Marketing, IT, and Communications, they shall be lead by the Executive Pastor.

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SECTION 6:

Associate Pastors and Employees All other ministers, department directors, and employees shall be hired by either the Lead Pastor, Executive Pastor, or Head of Schools.

(a) Qualifications (1) Because Valley Christian Center recognizes the leadership and authority of a pastor under the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the head of the Church, it is an essential requirement that a pastor shall be a person of good report.

(2) They shall manage their personal affairs/actions in a Christ-like manner.

(3) Their life and conduct shall conform to the following scriptures: 1

Timothy 3:2-7; Titus 1:6-9; 1 Peter 5:2-3.

(b) Roles/Responsibilities In consultation with the Valley Christian Center Board, the Lead Pastor shall assign the duties of the Associate Pastors, taking into account the gifts and calling of each individual person.

(c) Term of Office The term of office for all Associate Pastors shall be for an indefinite period; the term to expire upon thirty (30) written days notice either by resignation of the Associate Pastor or by the action of the Lead Pastor in consultation with the Valley Christian Center Elder Board.

ARTICLE II — DEACONS

SECTION 1: Qualifications

(a) Deacons shall be Spirit-filled persons of mature Christian experience.

(John 20:22; Acts 1:4-8; 2:4; 4:31; Ephesians 5:18) (b) They shall meet the Scriptural standard of Titus 1. (c) They shall be a regular attender of Valley Christian Center for at least 1 year. (d) They shall be a member in good standing, regular attender, a tither and generous giver, and involved in ministry of the church. (e) They shall be a person of a consistent Christian life: integrity, humility, high principles of morality, spiritually strong, and mature in experience. (f) They shall be dedicated to Valley Christian Center’s beliefs, vision, mission, and leadership.

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SECTION 2: Authority

(a) They shall act as the authoritative representatives of the Elder Board in matters relating to Board assigned Deacon Committees. (b) They are a recommending authority to the Elder Board in matters relating to the Board assigned Deacon committees. (c) They are voting members of the assigned committee. (d) They serve on behalf of the Church membership. (e) They have defined operational authority when granted by the Elder Board. (f) They bring to the Elder Board suggested solutions for assigned church, school, and property problems as recommended by the Deacon Committee.

SECTION 3: Roles/Responsibilities

(a) The biblical role of Deacons is to take care of the physical and logistical needs of the church so that the Elders can concentrate on oversight, leadership, and care for the Body. This distinction is based on the pattern found in Acts 6:1-6. (b) They shall either chair or be a member of one of the Board assigned Deacon Committees. (c) They are accountable and regularly report to the Elder Board on behalf of the assigned committee. (d) They will prepare written reports to the Elder Board, when requested. (e) When required, they will give presentations/proposals to Elder Board for approval.

SECTION 4: Manner of Appointment

(a) The Deacons shall be appointed by the Elder Board. (b) When a vacancy occurs, the Elder Board shall appoint an active member in good standing to fill the vacancy. (c) A Deacon may be removed by a majority vote of the current standing Elder Board at any time.

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SECTION 5: Deacon Committees

(a) There shall be operational committees established by the Lead Pastor and ratified by the Elder Board to serve in an advisory capacity in expediting the work and the ministry of Valley Christian Center. These committees will be assembled as needed:

(1) Finance Committee (2) School Committee (3) Missions Committee

(b) Other committees shall be established from time to time by the Board, as the occasion may demand. (c) The purpose of Deacon Committees is to provide guidance and support to Valley Christian Center leadership and staff. (d) They shall carry out duties and responsibilities as assigned/directed by the Elder Board. (e) They report to the Elder Board. (f) They shall post agendas and keep written minutes. (g) When requested, they shall prepare proposals and reports to the Board. (h) There shall be a Deacon and at least one Valley Christian Center staff member on every committee. (i) These committees assemble as needed. (j) All members of the committee shall have voting rights.

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