Article 1
Name
This body shall be known as the Bend Southern Baptist Church of Horseshoe Bend, Boise County in the state of Idaho.
Church Constitution
The governing documents that define the structure, order, and mission of Bend Southern Baptist Church.
The following constitution governs the life and order of Bend Southern Baptist Church. It is grounded in Scripture and reflects our commitment to biblical church governance.
Contents
Constitution
Bylaws
Preamble
To the members of this church, and to all who would read this Constitution, grace and peace be with you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Because the Lord has graciously called us into fellowship with Himself and with one another through the gospel of His Son, we believe it both wise and necessary to set forth, in an orderly manner, the principles by which this church shall be governed and the convictions by which we shall live together as the household of faith.
We confess that Holy Scripture, being the inspired, sufficient, and authoritative Word of God, is the final and supreme rule in all matters of faith, doctrine, and practice. To the Scriptures alone we gladly submit, desiring that all things in the life, worship, and governance of this church be ordered in a manner pleasing to the Lord.
In continuity with the faithful witness of those who have gone before us, we further identify ourselves with the historic beliefs and practices of the Baptist tradition. In voluntary cooperation with churches of like faith and order, and for the advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ, we maintain fellowship with the Baptist State Convention of Utah–Idaho and the Southern Baptist Convention.
Therefore, for the purpose of preserving the truth entrusted to the saints, protecting the spiritual liberties and responsibilities of each member, promoting peace and good order within the body, and clearly defining our relationship to other churches and bodies of like faith, we do hereby establish and adopt this Constitution.
Constitution
Article 2
Church Covenant
Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, and having publicly professed our faith and been baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, we now, in the presence of God, this congregation, and heavenly witnesses, joyfully and solemnly enter into covenant with one another as one body in Christ.
Relying on the help of the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to:
- Live for Christ by fostering unity and reconciliation, and pursuing holiness, spiritual growth, and maturity (John 13:34–35; Ephesians 4:15–16); by honoring and upholding the authority of the pastors as God's under-shepherds on earth as they seek to oversee the flock, teach the Scriptures, observe the ordinances of the church, see to its discipline and defend its doctrine (Hebrews 13:17; 2 Timothy 3:16–17).
- Support the Church and Its Mission by participating actively in worship, prayer, service, and joyful giving; contributing faithfully, cheerfully, and regularly to the work of the ministry, the care of the poor, and the spread of the gospel locally and globally (1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:7; Matthew 28:18–20).
- Live a Godly Life by maintaining personal and family devotion, instructing our children in the ways of Christ, and earnestly seeking the salvation of family, friends, and neighbors (Deuteronomy 6:6–7; Acts 16:31); living with integrity, acting justly, keeping commitments, and reflecting Christ in word and deed (Micah 6:8; Colossians 3:1); guarding our speech, avoiding gossip, slander, and false witness, and exercising self-control in all aspects of life (Ephesians 4:29; Galatians 5:22–23; 1 Corinthians 6:18–20).
- Care for One Another by watching over one another in brotherly love, remembering one another in prayer, offering encouragement, and providing help in times of sickness, distress, or need (Galatians 6:1–2; James 5:16); being slow to take offense, quick to forgive, and eager to seek reconciliation in accordance with the teachings of our Lord (Matthew 18:15–17; Colossians 3:13).
- Continue in Faithful Fellowship. Should we move from this congregation, we commit, as soon as possible, to unite with another church of like faith, where we may continue to live out the principles of God's Word and the spirit of this covenant (Acts 2:42; Hebrews 10:24–25).
By God's grace, we pledge to live in obedience to Christ, to uphold this covenant, and to encourage one another to faithfulness, holiness, and love, as we await His return.
Article 3
Purpose
The purpose of this body will be to obey the Word of our Savior by regularly gathering the saints together before the living God in reverent, regulated, and joyful public worship, responding to His self-revelation with adoration, confession, repentance, thanksgiving, faith, giving, and obedience. Through the faithful preaching of the Word, the right administration of the ordinances, prayer, and congregational song, this church seeks to offer worship that is shaped by Scripture and directed toward God's glory.
In response to God's grace in Christ, the church exists to nurture its members through sound Christian instruction, to cultivate holy affections and upright living consistent with New Testament doctrine and ethics, and to steward its offerings for the advancement of Christ's Kingdom. Compelled by the gospel, this body also labors to proclaim and propagate among all peoples the saving revelation of God through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
Article 4
Our Confession of Faith
Section 1. Christ Our Supreme Authority
We confess that Jesus Christ is the Head of His Church, the sole Lord who possesses all authority in heaven and on earth. All that the Church is, believes, and practices must remain joyfully and humbly submitted to Him.
Section 2. Scripture as the Revelation of Christ's Authority
Christ exercises His authority over His Church through the Scriptures, which are His complete, sufficient, and trustworthy revelation. In the written Word, God has given us everything necessary for life and godliness, and therefore the Scriptures stand as our final and infallible authority in all matters of faith, doctrine, and practice.
Section 3. The Role of Our Confession of Faith
Our Confession of Faith serves as a useful, unifying, and clarifying summary of what we believe the Scriptures teach. It provides doctrinal alignment for our members and guidance for our teaching ministries. However, because only Scripture is God‑breathed, our Confession of Faith is subordinate to the Word of God. Where any human document is found to be inconsistent with Scripture, Scripture alone must govern our belief and practice.
Bylaws
Bylaw Article 1
Church Officers
Section 1.1 — Headship of Christ
We affirm that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Chief Shepherd and sole Head of the Church (Ephesians 1:22–23; 1 Peter 5:4). He governs His Church by His Holy Spirit through His written Word, which is sufficient for doctrine, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
Section 1.2 — Officers
The officers of this church shall be pastors/elders/overseers and other leadership, whether vocational or volunteer, as needed, deacons, trustees, clerk, treasurer, and such other officers as shall be required for the work of the church in any of its departments or organizations. All of these shall be members in good standing elected by the church. We affirm that the consistent pattern of the New Testament is the raising up of qualified men as elders, appointing them as overseers, for the shepherding (pastoring) of the body in each local church (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5). The terms elder, overseer, and pastor are complementary titles that all describe the same office (Acts 20:17, 28; 1 Peter 5:1–2; Acts 6:4; 1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9). See Confession of Faith section X. Pastors/elders/overseers are called by Christ and recognized and affirmed by the congregation.
Section 1.3 — The Lead Pastor
Among the pastors/elders/overseers, the church shall recognize one as the Lead Pastor. He shall serve as the primary preacher and teacher of the Word in the public assembly and shall ensure that the pulpit is faithfully supplied with sound biblical preaching each Lord's Day. He may coordinate preaching schedules and arrange for qualified pulpit supply when necessary. The Lead Pastor shall serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors, preside over meetings of the pastors/elders/overseers and congregation, and oversee the orderly conduct of the church's legal and administrative affairs. He shall be an ex officio member of all organizations, departments, and committees; he may call a special meeting of any committee, in accordance with procedures that may be set forth in the bylaws. He shall be the administrative head of the church and shall help arrange and approve all absences and vacations of all church staff. The Lead Pastor shall be paid a basic salary as mutually agreed upon between him and the church. The Lead Pastor is first among equals within the plurality of pastor/elder/overseer. He does not possess greater authority than the other pastor/elder/overseer but serves alongside them with particular responsibility for legal administration, coordination of the pulpit ministry, and contributing to the articulation and implementation of the church's shared vision.
Section 1.4 — Duties of the Pastors/Elders/Overseers
The pastors/elders/overseers shall collectively provide spiritual oversight of the church through prayer and the ministry of the Word. Their responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 1. Shepherding and teaching the congregation. 2. Guarding the doctrine and practice of the church. 3. Leading in worship and overseeing the ordinances. 4. Examining and recommending candidates for membership. 5. Overseeing church discipline and restoration. 6. Setting the agenda for congregational meetings. Pastors/Elders/Overseers shall also serve as a Board of Directors as required by the state.
Section 1.5 — Calling a Lead Pastor
A Lead Pastor shall be called by the church to serve until the relationship is dissolved by request of either the pastor or the church. In either case, at least 30 days' notice shall be given of termination, unless otherwise mutually agreed, with both pastor and the church seeking to follow the will of God and the leadership of the Holy Spirit. The call of the pastor shall take place at a meeting specially set for that purpose. The election shall be upon the recommendation of a special committee appointed to seek out and nominate as pastor a minister of the gospel whose Christian character and qualifications fit him for the office of pastor of this church. The committee shall bring only one name at a time for consideration of the church. Should the one recommended by the committee not be elected, the committee will be instructed to seek out another minister, and the meeting shall be adjourned without debate. If the candidate has not previously been ordained, the procedures of Section 5.1 shall apply. If previously ordained, Section 5.3 shall apply.
Section 1.6 — Deacons
1.6.A. Office and Qualifications Deacons shall be called from among the members who meet the biblical qualifications set forth in Scripture (Acts 6:1–6; 1 Timothy 3:8–13). 1.6.B. Duties Deacons serve the church by assisting the pastor/elder/overseer, particularly in matters of mercy, service, and the practical needs of the congregation. Their responsibilities may include: 1. Caring for the physical and temporal needs of the church. 2. Assisting in the administration of the ordinances. 3. Supporting the pastor/elder/overseer by addressing matters that could distract from prayer and the Word. 4. Overseeing property and facilities as assigned. Deacons are servants of the church and do not exercise governing authority.
Section 1.7 — Clerk
1.7.A. Office The Clerk shall be elected annually from among the members of the church. 1.7.B. Duties The Clerk serves the church by maintaining accurate and trustworthy records essential to the church's life and witness. The Clerk's responsibilities include: 1. Attending, or ensuring representation at, all church business meetings. 2. Recording and preserving accurate minutes of all business transactions. 3. Maintaining an up‑to‑date roll of church membership, including dates and methods of admission and dismissal, name changes, and contact information. 4. Preparing the annual associational letter. 5. Issuing letters of dismissal as authorized by the congregation. 6. Preserving historical, legal, and significant documents belonging to the church. The Clerk serves in an administrative capacity and serves under the oversight of the pastor/elder/overseer and does not exercise governing authority.
Section 1.8 — Treasurer
1.8.A. Office The Treasurer shall be elected annually from among the members of the church. 1.8.B. Duties The Treasurer serves the church by stewarding its financial resources with integrity, transparency, and accountability. The Treasurer's responsibilities include: 1. Receiving, safeguarding, and depositing all funds and assets given to the church. 2. Disbursing funds upon proper authorization. 3. Maintaining accurate, itemized records of all receipts and disbursements. 4. Providing regular financial reports to the congregation. 5. Ensuring that all financial books and records are preserved as property of the church. 6. Meeting with the leadership upon request and serving as an ex‑officio member of the finance committee. The Treasurer serves under the oversight of the pastor/elder/overseer and does not exercise governing authority.
Section 1.9 — Officers and Church Organization
1.9.A. General Principles The church may elect officers as necessary for the orderly and effective operation of its ministries. It is the desire of the church that, whenever possible, all such offices be filled first by pastors/elders/overseers, then by deacons, and then by other active members who are spiritually mature and competent to serve. 1.9.B. Duties of Officers All officers shall carry out the responsibilities of their office in a manner that: 1. Promotes unity, harmony, and cooperation within the church. 2. Supports the spiritual leadership of the pastor/elder/overseer. 3. Advances the mission and ministries of the church. 4. Encourages the involvement and edification of every member. Officers serve the church in administrative and practical capacities and do not exercise spiritual oversight unless they also hold the office of pastors/elders/overseers.
Bylaw Article 2
Membership
Section 2.1 — Qualifications and Reception of Membership
Membership in this church shall consist of persons who give a credible profession of faith in Jesus Christ, have been baptized following conversion, and affirm the Constitution and Covenant and the Confession of Faith of this church (see Article 1 and Article 4). All candidates for membership shall participate in a discussion with the pastor/elder/overseer to ensure that their life and doctrine are consistent with the faith, practice, and qualifications upheld by this church. When an applicant has previously belonged to another church, the pastor/elder/overseer shall make reasonable effort to contact the former church to confirm that the applicant left in good standing and is not under church discipline or unresolved accountability. Upon satisfactory examination by the pastor/elder/overseer, candidates may be received into membership by majority vote of the congregation.
Section 2.2 — Letters of Recommendation or Letter of Transfer
Letters of Recommendation may be granted to members in good standing of a Baptist church of like faith and order upon request and approval by the congregation. When a letter is granted, a specified period may be set, not to exceed thirty (30) days, during which membership is retained to allow for orderly transfer; at the end of that period, membership in this church shall be considered terminated.
Section 2.3 — Termination by Transfer to Another Church
When a member voluntarily joins a church of a differing faith or order, this church shall consider membership in this church terminated without further congregational action.
Section 2.4 — Responsibilities of Membership
Membership in this local body of Christ is not merely a formality, but a commitment to live under the authority of Scripture. Those who seek membership are expected to live faithfully in accordance with the duties essential to the Christian life, including regular participation in the worship and ministry of the church, faithful stewardship of their resources in support of the church and the work of Christ's Kingdom, and active involvement in the life and mission of the congregation.
Section 2.5 — Membership Status: Active and Inactive Members
2.5.A. Definition of Active Members Active Members are all members of the church, regardless of age, who: 1. Have made a credible profession of faith in Jesus Christ; 2. Have been baptized following conversion; 3. Remain in good standing with the pastors/elders/overseers and the congregation; and 4. Have not been placed into inactive status by congregational action. Active membership pertains to one's standing within the covenant life of the church and is not determined by age. 2.5.B. Definition of Inactive Members Inactive Members are those who remain members in good standing but are not currently participating in the regular life and ministry of the church to the extent expected of active membership. Inactive Members: 1. Remain under the pastoral care of the church; 2. Are not counted for the purpose of determining a quorum; 3. Do not possess voting privileges; and 4. May be restored to active status by congregational action. Inactive status is an administrative and pastoral designation intended for the orderly care of members and governance of the church and does not, in itself, constitute church discipline (see Section 2.7). Inactive status is not to be understood as removal from membership, church discipline, or exclusion from the fellowship of the church, but as an administrative designation intended to reflect the member's present ability or desire to participate in the regular life of the congregation. 2.5.C. Identification of Prolonged Absence A member who has ceased regular participation in the worship, fellowship, or ministry life of the church for a period of four (4) consecutive weeks shall be contacted by the pastors/elders/overseers for the purposes of pastoral care, encouragement, and clarification regarding their intentions concerning continued membership. In some cases, prolonged absence may arise from circumstances beyond the member's control, including, but not limited to, military service, college attendance, extended medical treatment, temporary relocation, or other providential circumstances requiring residence outside the normal reach of the congregation. The purpose of identifying prolonged absences is to ensure the extra needs that may arise are fulfilled and so that the body can continually be in prayer for all of its members. In such cases, for the orderly administration and continued governance of the church, a member may be placed into inactive status while still remaining a member in good standing and under the pastoral care of this body. 2.5.D. Transition Between Active and Inactive Status If, after pastoral engagement, a member remains willfully inactive in the life of the church, the pastors/elders/overseers may recommend a change in membership status to the congregation. 1. A member may be placed into inactive status by a majority vote of the congregation at a duly-called meeting. 2. An inactive member may be restored to active status by a majority vote of the congregation at a duly-called meeting. 3. Any change of status shall take effect immediately upon an affirmative vote. Membership status is not intended as a punishment or an honor, but as an administrative and pastoral measure for the care of members and the orderly governance of the church. Inactive members are encouraged to continue attending worship and fellowship and to pursue restoration to active status. 2.5.E. Duration and Removal of Inactive Status A member who remains in inactive status for a period of one (1) year shall be reviewed by the pastors/elders/overseers for the purpose of determining whether continued inactive membership remains appropriate. In cases where the absence is due to circumstances beyond the member's control—including military service, college attendance, extended medical treatment, temporary relocation, or other providential hindrances—the member may remain in inactive status and in good standing for such additional time as the congregation, upon recommendation of the pastors/elders/overseers, deems appropriate. If, after continued pastoral contact and reasonable efforts toward restoration, the member demonstrates no intention or desire to resume covenant participation in the life of the church, the pastors/elders/overseers may recommend administrative removal from the membership roll to the congregation. Such removal shall require a majority vote of the congregation and shall be considered an administrative action, not church discipline. 2.5.F. Reactivation of Membership A person removed from the membership roll due to prolonged inactivity who desires to return to membership shall complete the church's membership process in full, including pastoral interviews, membership class (if applicable), and congregational affirmation.
Section 2.6 — Voting Membership
2.6.A. Definition of Voting Members Any active member who is sixteen (16) years of age or older shall be considered a voting member. Voting membership is a solemn privilege and responsibility entrusted to qualified members for the orderly governance and spiritual stewardship of the church. Voting members are expected to exercise this responsibility prayerfully, faithfully, and in submission to the authority of Scripture, seeking the unity, health, and mission of the congregation. Only members who are considered voting members shall have the right to vote in matters of church business and governance. 2.6.B. Quorum A quorum for any duly-called congregational meeting shall consist of fifty-five percent (55%) of voting members. Only members who are considered voting members shall be counted for the purpose of determining a quorum. Inactive members and non-voting members shall not be counted toward a quorum. 2.6.C. Voting Requirements Unless otherwise specified in this Constitution and Bylaws, all matters brought before the congregation shall be decided by a simple majority of voting members present and voting. For matters of greater spiritual and congregational significance, a supermajority shall be required. For the purposes of this Constitution, a supermajority is defined as at least eighty percent (80%) of Voting Members present and voting.
Section 2.7 — Church Discipline
In obedience to the teaching of Scripture, this church shall practice loving and redemptive discipline in accordance with Matthew 18:15–20, 1 Corinthians 5, Galatians 6:1, and related passages. Church discipline shall ordinarily proceed in the following manner: 1. Private Admonition – When a member is found in sin, the matter shall first be addressed privately and personally, seeking repentance and reconciliation. 2. Witnessed Admonition – If the member refuses to listen, one or two additional members may be involved in accordance with Scripture. 3. Pastor/Elder/Overseer Involvement – If repentance is still refused, the matter shall be brought to the pastor/elder/overseer, who shall prayerfully investigate, provide pastoral counsel, and seek restoration. 4. Congregational Action – If the member remains unrepentant after these steps, the pastor/elder/overseer shall recommend disciplinary action to the congregation. Such action, including suspension from the Lord's Table or removal from membership, shall be enacted only by a majority vote of the congregation. Disciplinary acts shall take effect immediately. Throughout the process, the pastors/elders/overseers shall lead with patience, clarity, and care, and the congregation shall participate as instructed, seeking restoration rather than punishment.
Section 2.8 — Restoration to Membership
A member who has been removed from membership or placed under formal discipline may be restored upon clear evidence of repentance, including a public confession where the sin was public, a demonstrated turning from sin, and, where appropriate, restitution consistent with biblical principles. The pastor/elder/overseer shall meet with the repentant individual to examine the credibility of repentance. Upon credible repentance, the congregation shall be called to affirm the restoration of the member. Upon such affirmation, the member shall be fully restored to the fellowship, privileges, and responsibilities of membership.
Bylaw Article 3
Meetings
Section 3.1 — The Gathering of the Church
This church shall assemble regularly as a visible congregation, gathered in obedience to Christ, for the public worship of God, the preaching of the Word, prayer, the singing of psalms and hymns, the administration of the ordinances, and mutual edification.
Section 3.2 — Stated Times of Assembly
The church shall ordinarily meet for public worship on the Lord's Day and at such other times as may be appointed. The times and frequency of these assemblies shall be set by the pastors/elders/overseers and made known to the congregation. The Lord's Supper shall be observed regularly as an ordinance of Christ, at times determined by the pastors/elders/overseers, and administered in a manner consistent with Scripture.
Section 3.3 — Congregational Meetings for the Care of the Church
The church shall also assemble at appointed times to attend to matters concerning the spiritual and material well-being of the congregation. In such meetings, the pastors/elders/overseers shall lead and the congregation shall exercise its responsibility to affirm decisions according to the authority given to the church by Christ. These meetings are not separate from the spiritual life of the church, but are acts of stewardship and obedience conducted in dependence upon God.
Section 3.4 — Calling and Moderation of Meetings
Regular congregational meetings shall be held at stated intervals, as determined by the pastors/elders/overseers. Special congregational meetings may be called by the pastors/elders/overseers when necessary, provided a ten-day notice is given to the congregation. The Lead Pastor shall moderate congregational meetings. In his absence, another pastor/elder/overseer shall serve. If no pastor/elder/overseer is present, the congregation may appoint a moderator for that meeting.
Section 3.5 — Order of Business
Items ordinarily considered in a regular business meeting shall include: 1. Prayer and Scripture 2. Approval of minutes from the previous meeting 3. Financial report 4. Reports from pastors/elders/overseers, deacons, and other officers or ministries as requested 5. Unfinished business 6. New business 7. Other matters properly brought before the congregation Congregational meetings shall be conducted with prayer, Scripture, charity, and order. Matters brought before the church shall ordinarily come to the pastors/elders/overseers to be presented. Decisions requiring congregational vote are addressed in Section 2.6.
Section 3.6 — Other Assemblies
Other assemblies of the church, whether for instruction, prayer, fellowship, or ministry, may be held as needed and shall be ordered under the oversight of the pastors/elders/overseers.
Section 3.7 — Order and Decorum
All meetings of the church shall be conducted decently and in good order, consistent with the teaching of Scripture. Accepted parliamentary procedures may be used as a tool for clarity and fairness, but shall always remain subordinate to Scripture and to the governing documents of the church.
Bylaw Article 4
Observance of the Ordinances
This church shall faithfully observe the two ordinances instituted by the Lord Jesus Christ, namely Baptism and the Lord's Supper, as acts of obedience, remembrance, and worship, according to the teaching of Holy Scripture. The administration of the ordinances shall be overseen by the pastors/elders/overseers.
Bylaw Article 5
Ordination and Recognition for Ministry
Ordination constitutes the church's public recognition of Christ's gifting and appointment. It does not create spiritual authority, which belongs to Christ alone, but acknowledges the man's responsibility to shepherd under Christ's lordship, in submission to Scripture, and in accountability to the congregation.
Section 5.1 — Ordination to the Office of Pastor/Elder/Overseer
This section applies when a man is called to serve in the office of pastor/elder/overseer in this church and has not previously been ordained. 5.1.A. Initiation of Procedure To recommend a man for the office of pastor/elder/overseer, any active member may submit a written request to the pastors/elders/overseers to begin the ordination process. The pastors/elders/overseers may also initiate the process. 5.1.B. Examination The pastors/elders/overseers shall examine the candidate's conversion, calling, doctrine, character, and family life (if applicable). All qualifications shall be in accordance with Scripture (1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9; 1 Peter 5:1–4). 5.1.C. Ordination Council The pastors/elders/overseers shall convene an ordination council composed of pastors and representatives from sister churches of like faith and practice. The council shall examine the candidate and provide an advisory recommendation. 5.1.D. Congregational Vote and Public Service Upon favorable recommendation from the council, the congregation shall vote at a business meeting. A supermajority vote of the members present shall be required to ordain the candidate. The pastors/elders/overseers shall then oversee a public service of ordination, including prayer and the laying on of hands.
Section 5.2 — Ordination to Gospel Ministry (Missionary or Vocational Ministry)
This section applies when the church ordains and sends a member into vocational gospel ministry outside the pastor/elder/overseer office of this local church. 5.2.A. Purpose of Ordination Ordination is a solemn act of the church, consisting of public prayer and the laying on of hands, by which the congregation recognizes God's call upon a man and authorizes him to represent this church in gospel ministry. 5.2.B. Process for Ordination and Sending The process for examining, recommending, and voting to ordain a man for missionary or vocational ministry shall follow the same steps outlined in Article 5, Section 1.
Section 5.3 — Recognition and Installation of Pastor/Elder/Overseer Within This Church
This section applies when a man is called to serve as a pastor/elder/overseer of this church and has previously been ordained to gospel ministry. 5.3.A. Examination and Recommendation The pastors/elders/overseers shall examine the man's doctrine, character, and qualifications for the office. Upon determining he is fit for the office, the pastors/elders/overseers shall recommend him to the congregation. 5.3.B. Congregational Affirmation A supermajority vote of the members present and voting at a duly-called business meeting shall be required to affirm a man to the office of pastors/elders/overseers. 5.3.C. Public Installation Upon congregational affirmation, the pastor/elder/overseer shall publicly install the man into the office through prayer and the laying on of hands.
Bylaw Article 6
General
Section 6.1 — Missions
Recognizing the command of our Lord Jesus Christ to make disciples of all nations, this church shall diligently labor to proclaim the gospel in our community, across our nation, and throughout the world. The church shall support and cooperate with missionary efforts that align with its faith and practice, to the extent that the membership, under the oversight of the pastors/elders/overseers, determines is proper.
Section 6.2 — Licensing to the Ministry
The church may license to the ministry any member who has given a credible profession of divine calling and whose life demonstrates godly character and fitness for service in line with the qualifications of Scripture. The pastors/elders/overseers shall examine candidates and make recommendations to the congregation for approval. Any member who perceives a calling in another may bring such a recommendation to the pastors/elders/overseers, who shall investigate and report to the congregation. Licensing does not confer ordination but authorizes the exercise of ministry under the oversight of the church.
Section 6.3 — Affiliation with Associations and Conventions
This church acknowledges the mutual benefit of fellowship with other churches of like faith and practice for encouragement, accountability, and cooperation in the work of Christ. We recognize voluntary associations and conventions—such as the Treasure Valley Baptist Association of Churches, the Baptist State Convention of Utah–Idaho, and the Southern Baptist Convention—as organizations formed to advance missions, education, and benevolence. Participation in these bodies shall be exercised through messengers elected by the congregation and through support of ministries consistent with the church's doctrine and constitution. The church engages in such affiliations under the guidance of the pastors/elders/overseers, with the congregation affirming its participation in a manner that promotes unity, faithfulness to Scripture, and the edification of the body of Christ.
Section 6.4 — Denominational Identity and Property
This church is organized and shall continue to operate as a particular Baptist Church, holding and administering all church property, real and personal, exclusively for purposes consistent with Scripture and the Constitution of this church. This church shall remain a Baptist church holding to the doctrines expressed in our Confession of Faith. Any change to this doctrinal identity requires a unanimous vote of the congregation (see Section 2.6). In the event of the dissolution of this church, the Treasure Valley Southern Baptist Association shall be given the first opportunity to receive the property for continued gospel ministry. If the Treasure Valley Southern Baptist Association declines, the property may be transferred or sold to another Baptist church or organization of like faith and practice, to be used exclusively for ministry consistent with this Constitution and our Confession of Faith. No property of the church shall be sold, transferred, or otherwise disposed of for purposes inconsistent with this section, except as provided herein and in accordance with applicable law.
Bylaw Article 7
Adoption and Amendment of the Constitution and Bylaws
Section 7.1 — Initial Adoption
This Constitution and Bylaws shall be adopted and take immediate effect upon approval by a majority vote of the members present and voting at a duly-called business meeting of the church.
Section 7.2 — Amendments
This Constitution and Bylaws may be amended, altered, or repealed by a supermajority vote at any duly-called regular business meeting of the church, provided that written notice of the proposed changes is given to the congregation ten days preceding a duly-called business meeting (see Section 2.6.C). All amendments must be consistent with Holy Scripture and the doctrinal commitments of this church as stated herein.
Section 7.3 — Supersession of Prior Rules
Upon adoption of this Constitution and Bylaws, all previously adopted constitutions, bylaws, policies, or rules that are in conflict herewith shall be repealed and rendered null and void.
Bend Southern Baptist Church — Established, August 14, 1977 — Constitution amended May 29, 2026
For questions regarding the constitution or church governance, please contact the church office.