BYLAWS (Provisional)

THE FATHER’S HOUSE FAMILY OF CHURCHES –

DIOCESE OF RESTORATION, INC.

Dated: Effective September 25, 2006

Preamble to the Bylaws

The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. is comprised of churches that endeavor to be Churches of the Lord Jesus Christ as described, established, and mandated by the New Testament. The purpose of these Bylaws is to help us accomplish the task of this Diocese in a “decent and orderly” manner through the use of effective and efficient means of good stewardship of the body’s time, gifts and resources. Our ultimate desire is to bring glory to God through the Church.

These Bylaws are to provide general guidance on organization, governance and operation, based upon biblical principles and practices. However, the ultimate authority for The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. organization, governance and operation is the Bible. When a conflict or ambiguity exists with regard to these Bylaws, deference is to be given to the biblical reference to resolve the conflict or ambiguity.

ARTICLE I Offices

Section 1. The Name of the Corporation. The name of the Corporation is The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc., hereinafter referred to as the “Diocese.”

Section 2. Principal Office. The principal office of the Diocese shall be 1505 East 20th, Hutchinson, Kansas 67502.

Section 3. Other Offices. The Father’s House – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. may have such other offices, either within or without the county of Reno, State of Kansas, as the Diocesan Council may from time to time determine.

1 Section 4. Registration. The Corporation is incorporated in the State of Kansas and is registered as a Kansas-based non-profit corporation.

Section 5. IRS Exemption. The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. is qualified to receive tax-exempt donations as an IRS 501(c)(3) organization.

Section 6. The Corporation. Not-For-Profit Association of Churches is the legal term recognized by the IRS for the legally registered and tax-exempt organization. The term Corporation refers to the legal status in the State of Kansas. The Officers, Bishop’s Council and Diocesan Council may refer to The Father’s House – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. as an “Organization.”

Section 7. Officers, Bishop’s Council, and Diocesan Council.

1. Officers of the Corporation. The Officers are legal representatives for the non-profit Corporation for the purpose of registration with the State of Kansas.

2. Bishop’s Council. The Bishop’s Council is that group of persons vested with the spiritual affairs of this corporation.

3. Diocesan Council. The Diocesan Council is that group of persons vested with management of the secular affairs of this corporation.

Section 8. Miscellaneous. The use of pronouns describing appointments is non- specific and includes male and female gender.

ARTICLE II Association with The Christian Communion International (a province of the Communion of Evangelical Episcopal Churches)

The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. is in communion with the Christian Communion International (CCI), which is in itself a province of the larger Communion of Evangelical Episcopal Churches (CEEC), for the purpose of maintaining the worship of God and preaching of the Gospel. We do

2 faithfully commit ourselves to conformity to the Bylaws and the Constitution and Canons of the CCI and, by extension, the CEEC

The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. acts as the Diocese for associated and affiliated churches with The Father’s House Family of Churches - Diocese of Restoration, Inc. By acceptance into membership of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc., an affiliated missionary church and associated church agrees to abide by the Constitution, Canons, and Bylaws of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc.

Disassociation with The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc., requires a concurring two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Council of Elders and Church Council of the withdrawing church.

ARTICLE III Tenets Of Faith And Doctrine

The Diocese accepts the Scriptures as the revealed Will of God, the all-sufficient rule of faith and practice, and for the purpose of maintaining general unity, adopts these fundamental Tenets of Faith and Doctrine.

Section 1. The Scriptures Inspired. The Bible is the inspired Word of God, a revelation from God to man, the living, infallible, and everlasting rule of faith and conduct, and is superior to conscience and reason. (II Timothy 3:15-17; 1 Peter 1:23-25; Hebrews 4:12).

Section 2. The One True Godhead. The triune Godhead is comprised of three (3) separate and distinct personalities: The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit, who are eternally self-existent, self-revealed and function as one entity. Jesus Christ, who is God manifested in the flesh, is the second member of the Godhead, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and the Holy Spirit. (John 1:1-5, 10-14; Matthew 28:18-20).

Section 3. Man, His Fall and Redemption. Man was created good and upright, for God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness”. But, man, by voluntary transgression, fell, and his only hope of redemption is in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. (Genesis 1:26-31, 3:1-7; Romans 5:12-21).

Section 4. The Salvation of Man.

3 (a)Man’s only hope of redemption is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. (Romans 3:24; John 3:3). On the cross Jesus Christ became sin and sickness providing both salvation and divine healing for all mankind (Psalm 103:3), being justified freely by His Grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. For by grace we are saved through faith. (Ephesians 2:8). “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart; that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved; for with the heart man believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.” (Romans 10:8-10).

(b)The Evidences of Salvation. The inward evidence to the believer of his salvation is the direct witness of the Spirit. (Romans 8:16; 1 John 3:18-19, 24). The outward evidence to all men is a life of righteousness and true holiness. “You will know them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:16-20).

(c)Faith and Works. Salvation is by faith in Jesus Christ and not by human works; however, our works will determine the rewards in eternity. (Ephesians 2:8-10); Galatians 2:16; II Corinthians 5:10).

Section 5. Baptism in Water. The ordinance of baptism by a burial with Christ should be observed as commanded in the Scriptures by all who have truly repented and in their hearts have truly believed on Christ as Savior and Lord. In so doing, they declare to the world that they have died with Jesus and that they have also been raised with Him to walk in newness of life. (Matthew 28:10; Romans 6:4; Acts 10:47-48).

Section 6. The Lord’s Supper. “And when He had given thanks, He broke it, and said, ‘This is my body which is broken for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ Let a man examine himself, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.” (I Corinthians 11:24-25, 28).

Section 7. The Promise of the Father. 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. (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4-5; Acts 2:38). With it comes the endowment of power for life and service, the bestowment of the gifts and their uses in the work of the ministry. (Acts 1:8; I Corinthians 12:1-31). This wonderful experience is distinct from and subsequent to the experience of the new birth. (Acts 2:38; 10:44-46; 11:14-16).

4 Section 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 and by the subsequent manifestation of spiritual power in public testimony and service. (Acts 2:4; 10:44-46; 19:2, 6; 1:8; Galatians 5:16-26).

Section 9. 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, whose names are written in Heaven. (Ephesians 1:22-23; 2:19-22; Hebrews 12:23).

Section 10. Total Prosperity. (a)Spiritual. III John 2; II Corinthians 5:17-21. (b)Mental. II Timothy 1:7; Romans 12:2; Isaiah 26:3. (c)Physical. Isaiah 53:4,5; Matthew 8:17; I Peter 2:24. (d)Financial. Malachi 3:10-11; Luke 6:38; II Corinthians 9:6-15; Deuteronomy 28:1-14. (e)Social. Proverbs 3:4; Luke 2:52; Esther 2:15.

Section 11. Blessed Hope. Jesus is coming again to gather all His Saints to ever be with Him. (I Corinthians 15:51-52; I Thessalonians 4:16-17).

Section 12. The Lake of Fire. Those who have not accepted the redemptive work of Jesus Christ will suffer eternal separation from the Godhead. The devil and his angels, the beast and the false prophet, and anyone whose name is not found written in the Book of Life, shall be consigned to everlasting punishment in the lake of fire which burns with brimstone. This is the second death, the lake of fire. (Revelation 19:20; 20:10-15).

Section 13. The Millennial Reign of Jesus. The Scriptures promise the return of our Lord Jesus Christ with His saints from Heaven to rule and reign for one thousand years on earth. (II Thessalonians 1:7; Revelation 19:11-16; 20:1-6). After this, there shall be a new heaven and a new earth. (Revelation 21).

ARTICLE IV Membership

Section 1. General.

5 The New Testament presents a picture of definable groups of people who, once committed to the Lord, identified themselves with and committed themselves to a particular local body. (Rom. 16:1; 1 Cor. 1:2; 2 Cor. 8:1; Phil. 1:1; Acts 11:26).

In order to implement the principles of accountability and commitment as defined in the New Testament and practiced in the early churches, The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. recognizes the need for formal membership. Membership in the Diocese shall consist of all churches who have applied and been accepted for membership in the Diocese.

Section 2. Candidacy and Membership. Any church with members who have personally received Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, and who desires to be committed to The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. may become a member of the Diocese through the following procedures:

Any church interested in becoming a member of the Diocese shall complete a request for membership form and submit it to the Diocese office.

The church shall give clear evidence members have accepted Jesus Christ, live a consistent Christian life, and worship at the local Church on a regular basis, support the Diocese financially, and subscribe to the Tenets of Faith, as defined by the local church Bylaws.

Section 3. Members. In an effort to properly reflect the membership of the Diocese rolls shall be maintained. These rolls shall be updated periodically.

Section 4. Responsibilities of Active Membership. The responsibilities of membership include but are not limited to: •Commitment to the Diocese Bylaws, Canons and Constitution. •Nurturing of his or her personal walk with Christ. •Commitment by local church members to regular participation in corporate worship and fellowship of the local church.

Section 5. Termination of Membership. Members shall be removed from the Diocese roll for the following reasons: •Transfer of membership to another Diocese. •Any member of the Diocese may resign by notifying the Diocese office of their resignation. •The Bishop’s Council, by an affirmative vote of two-thirds (2/3), may suspend or expel membership in the Diocese for cause after an appropriate hearing.

6 Section 6. Reinstatement. A former member of the Diocese may submit to the Diocese office a request for reinstatement of membership. Membership may be reinstated upon the affirmative vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the Bishop’s Council.

Section 7. Code of Discipline. (a)Cooperative Action. The members of the Diocese shall give consent to its forms of government, together with its past policies, and to the policy of fundamental unity and agreement, alike in doctrine, conduct, and action, and shall conform to the Scriptural injunctions that there be no division in the Body. They shall be subject to the Bishop’s Council so that, as the Word of God plainly teaches, the principle of Christian fellowship may be kept inviolate and perpetuated.

(b)Attitude Toward Strife. Inasmuch as no Christian institution can comply with the plain teaching of Scripture unless unity and harmony predominate within its circle, no member of the Diocese may use means to incite or engender strife, but shall work in harmony with the other members of the Diocese, the Bishop’s Council and the Diocese’s officers, as did the early church. (Acts 2:42). If there is cause for dissatisfaction, it shall be called to the attention of the Presiding Bishop or a member of the Bishop’s Council. At their discretion, necessary adjustments may be made. (Acts 6:1-7; Matthew 18:15-17).

(c)Financial Support. As the Lord shall prosper them, churches affiliated with the Diocese shall provide financial support to the Diocese, (Malachi 3:10; I Corinthians 16:1,2; II Corinthians 9:6-9), thereby acknowledging that the Diocese can serve God fully only as its members accept their responsibility to support and maintain the Diocese financially.

(d)Discipline of Members. The purpose of discipline is to glorify God by maintaining (1) purity in the Church (1 Cor. 5:6), (2) protecting believers by deterring sin (1 Tim. 5:20), and (3) promoting the spiritual welfare of the offending believer by calling him or her to return to biblical standards of doctrine and conduct (Gal. 6:1). Furthermore, upon joining this Diocese, all churches affiliated with the Diocese have affirmed their commitment to the philosophy of ministry of the Diocese.

7 The responsibility of administering discipline in the Diocese is that of the Bishop’s Council. Some grounds for exercising discipline, suspension, or expulsion from membership in the congregation are as follows:

(1) There shall be an annual membership renewal for all churches within the Diocese. Failure to renew will result in automatic removal from membership in the Diocese. (2)Any church in the Diocese who shall cease to fellowship with the Diocese and its associate and affiliate churches shall be temporarily removed from active membership in the Diocese. The Bishop’s Council may inquire whether the temporarily removed church desires to continue membership in the Diocese. (3)Unscriptural conduct, failure to maintain membership requirements, or doctrinal departure from the Tenets of Faith, shall be considered sufficient grounds upon which any church may be disqualified as a member. The Bishop’s Council shall prayerfully administer such discipline according to Scriptures. (Matthew 18:15-17; Romans 16:17; I Corinthians 5:9-13; II Thessalonians 3:6). (4)The Bishop’s Council shall be empowered to place on the inactive list those churches that have been disqualified as provided for in these Bylaws. The Bishop’s Council shall also have the authority to restore to active membership in the Diocese those, who in the opinion of the Bishop’s Council, are not at fault and those who, although at fault, have through repentance re-qualified for membership in the Diocese. (5)The Bishop’s Council 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. The decision of the Bishop’s Council shall be final.

Process. Members of the Diocese who err in biblical doctrine or conduct shall be subject to discipline according to Matthew 18:15-18. (Such church/person hereafter will be referred to as an “Erring Person.”) Before such discipline reaches its final conclusion:

•It shall be the duty of any member of the Diocese who has knowledge of the Erring Person’s unbiblical beliefs or misconduct to warn and to correct such Erring Person in private, seeking his, her, or their repentance and restoration. If the Erring Person does not heed this warning; then, •The warning member shall again go to the Erring Person accompanied by one or two witnesses to warn and correct such Erring Person, seeking his, her, or

8 their repentance and restoration. If the Erring Person still refuses to heed this warning; then, •The allegations shall be brought to the attention of the Presiding Bishop. (It is understood that this process will continue to conclusion, whether the Erring Person leaves the Diocese or otherwise seeks to withdraw from membership to avoid the discipline process.) The Bishop’s Council will appropriately investigate any allegation brought by one member against another. If these allegations are warranted, two or more members of the Bishop’s Council will contact the Erring Person and seek his/her/their repentance and restoration. If the Erring Person refuses to be restored, the matter will be presented to the entire Bishop’s Council, who will act to protect the Church by removing the Erring Person’s membership and notifying the Diocese and Affiliated Church in accordance with Matthew 18. However, even at this point, the Diocese will continue to pray for restoration. •All claims or disputes, which cannot be resolved in accordance with Matthew 18 principles, shall be settled by biblically based and legally binding arbitration.

Section 8. Regular Worship Services. The members of the local churches shall meet for regular worship services. The local church’s Council of Elders and Church Council shall establish the day(s) of the week and time(s) for each regular worship service.

Section 9. Voting Rights. There shall be three (3) classes of members of the Diocese. The Bishop’s Council shall have voting rights in the spiritual matters of the Diocese and the amending of the Bylaws, Constitution and Canons of the Diocese. The Diocesan Council shall have voting rights in the management of the Diocese. General members of the Diocese shall have no voting rights.

Section 10. Schools, Seminars, and Conferences. Instruction in the Word of God may be provided at schools, seminars, and conferences for members of the Diocese.

ARTICLE V Bishop’s Council

Section 1. Scope. The Diocese is committed to the teachings of the Bible. No other authority or tradition is to guide the means, faith, or structure of the Lord Jesus Christ’s Church.

9 In order to assure the diversity of ministry, The Diocese requires a sufficient number of qualified members to serve on the Bishop’s Council. The Bishop’s Council shall consist of a team of active members of the Diocese including: 1) the Presiding Bishop who will serve as a member of the Bishop’s Council, and 2) appointed ordained presbyters (elders) who have been qualified to oversee the ministry of the Word and Sacraments and are under the direct spiritual authority of the episcopate, who are qualified to bring spiritual leadership to the Diocese.

Each member of the Bishop’s Council must meet specific moral and spiritual qualifications before they can serve. Selection will be based on biblical directives such as: character (1 Tim. 3:1-10), giftedness (1 Cor. 12:12-31), function (Rom. 12:3-8) and results (Eph. 4:11-16). They must publicly installed into office (1 Tim. 5:22; Acts 14:23). They must be motivated and empowered by the Holy Spirit to do their works of ministry (Acts 20:28).

After review, examination, and appointment, as described in this Section, individuals affirmed to serve on the Bishop’s Council shall constitute the “Bishop’s Council.” To effectively perform their duties, the Bishop’s Council needs the prayers and support (1 Tim. 5:17-18) of members of the Diocese (Heb. 13:17). The Diocese is called upon to honor their Bishop’s Council and to protect them against false accusations (1 Tim. 5:19). Finally, if a member of the Bishop’s Council falls into sin, and continues in sin, the member may be publicly rebuked (1 Tim. 5:20).

The Presiding Bishop shall appoint the members of the Bishop’s Council.

Section 2. Qualifications and Discipline. “An overseer then must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, uncontentious, and free from the love of money. He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping children under control with all dignity…and not a new convert, he must have a good reputation with those outside the Church, so he may not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” (1 Tim. 3:2-7)

“If a man be above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion…above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just devout, self-controlled, holding fact the faithful word…that he may be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and refute those who contradict.” (Titus 1:6-9)

10 An overseer, hereafter referred to as “Elder”, must be blameless, presenting no patterns of scriptural disobedience or grounds for accusation. Elders, if married, must be devoted spouses. Elders must be self-controlled, enslaved to nothing, free from excesses. Elders must be sober, sensible, wise, balance in judgment, not given to quick, superficial decisions based on immature thinking. Elders must demonstrate a well-ordered life and good behavior. Elders must be unselfish with their personal resources. They must be willing to share blessings with others. Elders must be able to communicate the truth of God and exhort sound doctrine in a non-argumentative way. (2 Tim. 4:2 & 2:24) Elders must be free from addictions, and must be willing to limit their liberty for the sake of others. Elders must be gentle and characterized by forbearance and tenderness not having a quick temper. Elders must not be given to quarreling or selfish arguments. Elders must not be stingy, greedy or out for sordid gain. They should not be preoccupied with amassing material things, but rather should be a model of giving. Elders must have a well-ordered household, a healthy family life, and well-behaved children. (Pertains to those children still under the authority of the parents.) Elders must not be new believers. They must have been Christians for long enough to demonstrate the reality of their conversion and the depth of their spirituality. NOTE: Suggested guideline – at least two years since conversion and at least twenty-five years of age. Elders must be well respected by unbelievers, and must be free from hypocrisy. Elders must not be stubborn, insensitive or prone to force opinions on others. They must be more interested in service than pleasure. Elders must be able to exercise self-control and patience in difficult situations. Elders must desire the will of God in every decision. Elders must be fair and impartial. Their judgments must be based on scriptural principles. Elders must be reverent, continually desiring to be separated from sin. They must be devoted to prayer, the study of Scripture and the guarding of their own spiritual walk. (Acts 20:28) Elders must be stable in the faith, obedient to the Word of God, continually seeking to be controlled by the Holy Spirit. Seeking maturity and like-mindedness within the congregation, Elders “must make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Eph. 4:3, 13)

It is the Bishop Council’s responsibility to discipline or remove any member of the Diocesan Council who no longer fulfills the qualification, who fails to fulfill his or her responsibilities, or who violates the intent of these Bylaws. Discipline or removal shall be by a three-fourths (3/4) vote of all the Bishop’s Council (except the individual being disciplined or removed).

Section 3. Duties of the Bishop’s Council.

It is the Bishop’s Council members’ duty to exercise personal holiness. They shall oversee, lead, shepherd, and care for the spiritual condition of the Diocese, associated churches, and affiliated missionary churches, as set forth in scripture (1 Tim. 5:17; Titus 1:9; 1 Peter 5:1-2).

11 Specific list of responsibilities:

1) The Bishop’s Council shall be responsible for casting the vision of the Diocese.

2) The Bishop’s Council shall oversee of the spiritual life of the Diocese and shall have a fiduciary obligation to the Diocese. They must be people who can “rule well.” (1 Tim. 5:17)

3) The Bishop’s Council shall give spiritual support to the Presiding Bishop of the Diocese. This includes, but is not limited to, discipling new converts, praying for the sick (James 5:14), encouraging and developing spiritual gifts and ministries in the Body, and assisting in the administration of the ordinances of the Church. Their number and term of office shall not be pre-determined.

4) The Bishop’s Council shall shepherd the flock. Serving in all humility, elders are to guide, direct, guard and protect the members of the body, seeking to meet their needs and assist in any way possible, warning against harmful influences and guarding against false teachers. (Acts 20:35)

5) The Bishop’s Council shall lead through example. Elders are to provide a scriptural role model and are to set a pattern before the flock of a rightly ordered life – with a single purpose, to glorify God. (1 Tim. 3:4-5; 5:17)

6) The Bishop’s Council shall teach and exhort. Elders are to see that the flock is fed through insightful and accurate Biblical instruction and admonition. Teaching will be centered on equipping the members of the Body to perform works of ministry. (1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:9-16; John 21:17)

7) The Bishop’s Council shall refute those who contradict Truth. Elders are to confront those who are teaching what they should not teach or who are continuing in a pattern of behavior contradictory to Biblical truth. Thus, elders are to keep closing potential entrances for Satan so that the truth of Christ will remain credible to both the congregation and the community. (Acts 20:17, 28-31; 1 Thess. 5:12)

8) The Bishop’s Council shall pray for the sick. Elders are to pray for the spiritual and physical well being of members of the Diocese. (James 5:14-15)

12 9) The Bishop’s Council shall have no individual authority but must act together as a Council to represent the best interest of the Diocese. All Bishop’s Council actions must be authorized by the entire Council. The Bishop’s Council shall have any other duties and responsibilities that are described in these Bylaws.

Section 4. Number, Term, and Qualifications. The number of members of the Bishop’s Council shall be no less than three (3) and shall have no maximum number. The Presiding Bishop shall appoint the members of the Bishop’s Council with the confirmation of the Bishop’s Council.

Section 5. Council Decisions. An act of a majority of the Bishop’s Council present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the entire Bishop’s Council, unless the act of a greater number is required by law or by these Bylaws.

The Bishop’s Council and/or Diocesan Council has authority to override a decision of the Church Council of affiliate missionary churches not in line with the vision of the Diocese and affiliate missionary church. The Bishop’s Council, Diocesan Council, Diocese, and officers and directors of the Diocese shall not be liable for the decisions of the Council of Elders of the associate churches and affiliate missionary churches, and shall be indemnified by the applicable associate church(es) and/or affiliate missionary church(es).

Section 6. Regular Meetings. A regular meeting of the Bishop’s Council shall be held annually. The Bishop’s Council may provide by resolution the time and place for holding additional meetings without notice. Additional meetings shall be held at the principal office of the Diocese in the absence of any contrary designation in the resolution.

Section 7. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Bishop’s Council may be called by or at the request of any two (2) members of the Bishop’s Council, and shall be held at the principal office of the Diocese or at such other place as may be determine.

Section 8. Notice. Notice of the regular meeting of the Bishop’s Council shall be given to each member of the Bishop’s Council at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting. The attendance of a Bishop Council member at any meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where a Bishop Council member attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.

13 Section 9. Quorum. Any and all present members of the Bishop’s Council shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Bishop’s Council.

Section 10. Vacancies, Additions, and Removal. Any vacancy occurring on the Bishop’s Council shall be filled by the Presiding Bishop with the advice and consent of a majority of the remaining Bishop’s Council.

A member of the Bishop’s Council may be removed by an act of unanimous movement of the Bishop’s Council at any regular or special meeting. Grounds for such action shall be:

a)Immorality (scripturally defined) b)Departure from the teachings of God (heresy) as set forth in the Holy Bible.

If Bishop’s Council, after due examination, shall determine that a member of the Council no longer fulfills the requirements, he shall be removed from his position.

An accusation regarding a member of the Bishop’s Council will only be received in the context prescribed by Scripture (I Tim. 5:19-20) following the reconciliation guidelines of Matthew 18. The primary goal is to bring to repentance, not removal.

1) Take it to him alone…if he will not hear you, 2) Take it to the Presiding Bishop with at least one other Elder present. 3) The Presiding Bishop will determine any further course of action. 4) Should the Presiding Bishop be the one in question, a majority of all other members of the Bishop’s Council would determine the further course of action. Removal can only be done according to Section 10, a) and b) above.

Section 11. Compensation. Bishop’s Council members shall not receive any salary or other compensation for their services as a member of the Bishop’s Council but may receive salary or other compensation for services as officers or employees of the Diocese. The Diocese may reimburse members of the Bishop’s Council for substantiated expenses reasonably incurred by a member on behalf of the Diocese.

Section 12. Presiding Bishop. (a)General. The Diocese finds its headship under the Lord Jesus Christ, in its bishop, referred to herein as the “Presiding Bishop.” The Presiding Bishop shall be a continuing member of the Bishop’s Council and Diocesan Council and an ex-officio member of all committees. He shall have oversight and

14 supervision over all the officers. He shall preside at all meetings of the Bishop’s Council.

(b)Recruitment and Confirmation. In the event the Presiding Bishop dies or is removed, a special committee shall be appointed by the Diocesan Council to recruit and present a candidate to the membership of the Diocese for Presiding Bishop. This process shall be spiritually directed and accomplished as expeditiously as possible.

(i) Presentation. Upon recommendation of the special committee, the pastoral candidate shall be presented to the Diocesan Council for their approval and recommendation.

(ii) Final Approval. In the event a candidate for Presiding Bishop is approved by the Bishop’s Council, said candidate shall be presented to the Diocese for their review.

ARTICLE VI Diocesan Council

Section 1. Scope. The Diocese is committed to the teachings of the Bible. No other authority or tradition is to guide the means, faith, or structure of the Lord Jesus Christ’s Church.

In order to assure the diversity of ministry, The Diocese requires a sufficient number of qualified members to serve on the Diocesan Council. The Diocesan Council shall consist of a team of active members of the Diocese which may include: 1) the Presiding Bishop who will serve as a member of the Diocesan Council; 2) ordained presbyters (elders) who have been qualified to oversee the ministry of the Word and sacraments and are under the direct spiritual authority of the episcopate; 3) ordained deacons may be assigned to the Diocesan Council; and 4) lay elders, ordained for service, who while not being clergy, are equally qualified to bring spiritual leadership to the Diocese.

Each member of the Diocesan Council must meet specific moral and spiritual qualifications before they can serve. Selection will be based on biblical directives such as: character (1 Tim. 3:1-10), giftedness (1 Cor. 12:12-31), function (Rom. 12:3-8) and results (Eph. 4:11-16). They must publicly installed into office (1 Tim. 5:22; Acts 14:23).

15 They must be motivated and empowered by the Holy Spirit to do their works of ministry (Acts 20:28).

After review, examination, and appointment, as described in this Section, individuals affirmed by the Diocese to serve on the Diocesan Council shall constitute the “Diocesan Council.” To effectively perform their duties, the Diocesan Council needs the prayers and support (1 Tim. 5:17-18) of members of the Diocese (Heb. 13:17). The Diocese is called upon to honor their Diocesan Council and to protect them against false accusations (1 Tim. 5:19). Finally, if a member of the Diocesan Council falls into sin, and continues in sin, the member may be publicly rebuked (1 Tim. 5:20).

The members of the Diocesan Council shall be selected as provided in the Articles of these Bylaws. The Diocesan Council will be established and granted authority specifically to oversee legal and financial matters and provide for the care and maintenance of all properties owned by the Diocese. As necessary, further delineation of responsibilities shall be determined jointly by the Diocesan Council.

An overseer, hereafter referred to as “Elder”, must be blameless, presenting no patterns of scriptural disobedience or grounds for accusation. Elders, if married, must be devoted spouses. Elders must be self-controlled, enslaved to nothing, free from excesses. Elders must be sober, sensible, wise, balance in judgment, not given to quick, superficial decisions based on immature thinking. Elders must demonstrate a well-ordered life and good behavior. Elders must be unselfish with their personal resources. They must be willing to share blessings with others. Elders must be able to communicate the truth of God and exhort sound doctrine in a non-argumentative way. (2 Tim. 4:2 & 2:24) Elders must be free from addictions, and must be willing to limit their liberty for the sake of others. Elders must be gentle and characterized by forbearance and tenderness not having a quick temper. Elders must not be given to quarreling or selfish arguments. Elders must

16 not be stingy, greedy or out for sordid gain. They should not be preoccupied with amassing material things, but rather should be a model of giving. Elders must have a well-ordered household, a healthy family life, and well-behaved children. (Pertains to those children still under the authority of the parents.) Elders must not be new believers. They must have been Christians for long enough to demonstrate the reality of their conversion and the depth of their spirituality. NOTE: Suggested guideline – at least two years since conversion and at least twenty-five years of age. Elders must be well respected by unbelievers, and must be free from hypocrisy. Elders must not be stubborn, insensitive or prone to force opinions on others. They must be more interested in service than pleasure. Elders must be able to exercise self-control and patience in difficult situations. Elders must desire the will of God in every decision. Elders must be fair and impartial. Their judgments must be based on scriptural principles. Elders must be reverent, continually desiring to be separated from sin. They must be devoted to prayer, the study of Scripture and the guarding of their own spiritual walk. (Acts 20:28) Elders must be stable in the faith, obedient to the Word of God, continually seeking to be controlled by the Holy Spirit. Seeking maturity and like-mindedness within the congregation, Elders “must make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Eph. 4:3, 13)

It is the Bishop Council’s responsibility to discipline or remove any member of the Diocesan Council who no longer fulfills the qualification, who fails to fulfill his or her responsibilities, or who violates the intent of these Bylaws. Discipline or removal shall be by a three-fourths (3/4) vote of all elders (except the elder being disciplined or removed).

Section 3. Duties of the Diocesan Council.

It is the Diocesan Council members’ duty to exercise personal holiness.

Specific list of responsibilities:

1) The affairs of the Diocese shall be managed by the Diocesan Council and shall have a fiduciary obligation to the Diocese. They oversee the life of the Diocese with the assistance of other godly leaders. They must be people who can “rule well.” Qualified individuals are to be selected to assist the Council in the ministry of the Diocese. (1 Tim. 5:17)

2) The Diocesan Council oversees the affiliate missionary churches until such time as the affiliate missionary church is no longer deemed to be a missionary church by the Diocese. The Diocesan Council oversees the affiliate missionary churches to see that all decisions are in line with the vision of the Diocese and affiliate missionary church. The Diocesan Council has authority to override a decision of the affiliate missionary

17 churches not in line with the vision of the Diocese and affiliate missionary church. The Diocesan Council, Bishop’s Council, Diocese, and officers and directors of the Diocese shall not be liable for decisions of the affiliate missionary church and shall be indemnified by the affiliate missionary church.

3) The Diocesan Council may choose representative Elder(s) of affiliate missionary churches to sit on the Diocesan Council of the Diocese.

4) The Diocesan Council shall have no individual authority but must act together as a Council to represent the best interest of the Diocese. All Diocesan Council actions must be authorized by the entire Council. The Diocesan Council may also establish various advisory committees to assist them in both administrative and ministry matters. The Diocesan Council shall have any other duties and responsibilities that are described in these Bylaws.

Section 4. Number, Term, and Qualifications. The number of members of the Diocesan Council shall be no less than three (3) and shall have no maximum number. The Presiding Bishop shall appoint the members of the Diocesan Council.

Section 5. Diocesan Council Decisions. An act of a majority of the Diocesan Council present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the entire Diocesan Council, unless the act of a greater number is required by law or by these Bylaws.

The Diocesan Council has authority to override a decision of the affiliate missionary churches not in line with the vision of the Diocese and affiliate missionary church. The Diocesan Council, Bishop’s Council, Diocese, and officers and directors of the Diocese shall not be liable for the decisions of the associate churches and affiliate missionary churches and shall be indemnified by the applicable associate church(es) and/ or affiliate missionary church(es).

Section 6. Regular Meetings. A regular meeting of the Diocesan Council shall be held annually. The Diocesan Council may provide by resolution the time and place for holding additional meetings without notice. Additional meetings shall be held at the principal office of the Diocese in the absence of any contrary designation in the resolution.

Section 7. Special Meetings.

18 Special meetings of the Diocesan Council may be called by or at the request of any two (2) members of the Diocesan Council, and shall be held at the principal office of the Diocese or at such other place as may be determine.

Section 8. Notice. Notice of the regular meeting of the Diocesan Council shall be given to each member of the Diocesan Council at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting. The attendance of a Diocesan Council member at any meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where a Diocesan Council member attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.

Section 9. Quorum. Any and all present members of the Diocesan Council shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Diocesan Council.

Section 10. Vacancies, Additions, and Removal. Any vacancy occurring on the Diocesan Council shall be filled by the Bishop’s Council with the advice and consent of a majority of the remaining Diocesan Council.

A member of the Diocesan Council may be removed by an act of unanimous movement of the Diocesan Council at any regular or special meeting. Grounds for such action shall be:

a)Immorality (scripturally defined) b)Departure from the teachings of God (heresy) as set forth in the Holy Bible.

If the Diocesan Council, after due examination, shall determine that a member of the Council no longer fulfills the requirements, he shall be removed from his position.

An accusation regarding a member of the Diocesan Council will only be received in the context prescribed by Scripture (I Tim. 5:19-20) following the reconciliation guidelines of Matthew 18. The primary goal is to bring to repentance, not removal.

1) Take it to him alone…if he will not hear you, 2) Take it to the Presiding Bishop with at least one other Elder present. 3) The Presiding Bishop will determine any further course of action. 4) Should the Presiding Bishop be the one in question, a majority of all other members of the Diocesan Council would determine the further course of action. Removal can only be done according to Section 10, a) and b) above.

19 Section 11. Compensation. Diocesan Council members shall not receive any salary or other compensation for their services as a member of the Diocesan Council but may receive salary or other compensation for services as officers or employees of the Diocese. The Diocese may reimburse members of the Diocesan Council for substantiated expenses reasonably incurred by a member on behalf of the Diocese.

ARTICLE VII Officers of the Corporation(Diocese)

Section 1. Corporate Officer Positions and Responsibilities. The officers of the corporation (Diocese) shall be a President, a secretary, a treasurer, one or more vice-presidents, and such other officers as may be elected in accordance with the provisions of this Article. The Presiding Bishop shall serve as a ex- officio member. The Bishop’s Council shall elect or appoint such other officers, including one or more assistant secretaries and one or more assistant treasurers, as it shall deem desirable, such officers to have the authority and perform the duties prescribed, from time to time, by the Bishop’s Council. Two or more offices may be held by the same person, except that the offices of President and Secretary may not be held by the same person. They shall have the same duties and responsibilities as the same officials in a corporation formed for profit.

Section 2. Election and Term of Office. The officers of the Diocese shall be appointed annually by the Bishop’s Council at the regular annual meeting of the Bishop’s Council. If the election of officers is not held at such meeting, such election shall be held as soon thereafter as is convenient. New offices may be created and filled at any meeting of the Bishop’s Council. Each officer shall hold office until his successor has been duly elected and qualified.

Section 3. Removal. Any officer, with the exception of the Presiding Bishop of the Diocese, appointed by the Bishop’s Council may be removed by the Bishop’s Council by a majority vote.

Section 4. Vacancies. A vacancy in any office, except that of Presiding Bishop, because of death, resignation, removal, disqualification, or otherwise, may be filled by the Presiding Bishop for the unexpired portion of the term. In the event the vacant position being filled is that of the Presiding Bishop of the Diocese, the Bishop’s Council shall fill said position pursuant to these Bylaws and the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese.

Section 5. Powers of Officers.

20 (a) The President: He shall preside at all meetings of the Diocesan Council and see that all orders and resolutions of the Diocesan Council is carried into effect, subject, however, to the right of the Bishop’s Council and/or Diocesan Council to delegate to any other officer or officers of the Diocese any specific powers, other than those that may be conferred only upon the Presiding Bishop. He shall execute in the name of the Diocese all deeds, bonds, mortgages, contracts and other documents authorized by the Diocesan Council except where otherwise provided.

No person shall be invited to speak, teach, or minister in the Diocese without his approval. He shall have the authority to appoint and approve any assistants that would be necessary to carry on the work of the Lord properly.

(b) The Vice President: The Vice President shall perform the duties and exercise the powers of the President in case of his temporary absence from the office of the Diocese, and shall perform such other duties as may from time to time be granted or imposed by the Bishop’s Council and/or Diocesan Council. He shall serve as an ex-officio member of the Diocesan Council. c)The Secretary: The Secretary shall attend all sessions of the Diocesan Council held at the office of the Diocese, act as clerk thereof and record the Minutes of all proceedings in a book to be kept for that purpose. He shall perform like duties for the Committees when required. He shall give, or cause to be given, notice of meetings of the Diocesan Council. He shall have custody of the seal to all authorized documents requiring a seal. He shall keep the membership rolls of the Diocese, and in general perform the duties usually incident to the office of Secretary and such further duties as shall from time to time be prescribed by the Presiding Bishop and Diocesan Council. d)The Treasurer: The Treasurer shall keep full and accurate account of the receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Diocese, shall deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the Diocese in such banks and depositories as may be designated by the Diocesan Council, but shall not be personally liable for the safekeeping of any funds or securities so deposited pursuant to the order of the Diocesan Council. He/she shall disburse the funds of the Diocese as may be ordered by the Diocesan Council and shall render to the Presiding Bishop and Diocesan Council at the regular meeting of the Diocesan Council, and whenever

21 they may require, accounts of all his/her transactions as Treasurer and of the financial condition of the Diocese. He/she shall perform the duties usually incident to the office of Treasurer and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Presiding Bishop and Diocesan Council.

e)Delegating Powers to Other Officers: In case of the absence of any officer of the Diocese, or for any other reason that may seem sufficient to the Diocesan Council, the Diocesan Council may delegate his duties and powers to any other officer, or to any Bishop. ARTICLE VIII Committees

Section 1. Committees. Committees may be designated by a resolution adopted by a majority of the Diocesan Council. Except as otherwise provided in such resolution, members of each such committee shall be members of the Diocese. The members of the committee shall be appointed by the Diocesan Council. A committee member may be removed by the Diocesan Council whenever in their judgment the best interests of the Diocese shall be served by such removal.

ARTICLE IX Affiliate Missionary Church

Section 1. Definition and Affiliation. An affiliate missionary church is a bishop-led missional ministry in canonical relationship with the Diocese. The affiliate missionary church is one under development; it is thus non self-supporting and dependent upon either Diocesan or other outside support. The Bishop is the Senior Pastor of a mission church. The Bishop may appoint such clergy, as he deems necessary to fulfill the needs of the Mission Church.

In the organization of mission Church, the below listed Article of Association and Conformity shall be signed by at least ten (10) persons of adult age who meet the following qualifications:

1. They must have been those who have been duly examined by the Bishop, or some presbyter of his appointment. 2. They have given evidence of personal faith in a manner conformable to that expected of a member of a current CCI church by means of (a) public profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior or (b) by proof of Confirmation by a bishop.

22 3. They give evidence they fully intend to be supporters of the mission church.

ARTICLE OF ASSOCIATION AND CONFORMITY

We, the undersigned, hereby associate ourselves for the purpose of maintaining the worship of God and the preaching of the Gospel according to the doctrine, discipline, and worship of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and the CCI, under the name of ______, of the city of ______, in the State of ______and we do faithfully commit ourselves to conformity to the Canons of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and the CCI. We agree that the Church so formed under this agreement shall remain within The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and the CCI for a minimum of ten (10) years unless released by the Diocese under which it is authorized. We do hereby authorize the Chairman and Secretary of this meeting to certify this action in writing to the Presiding Bishop of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc., or to a Bishop authorized to receive these articles.” A church founded as a mission church shall remain under the authority of the original authorizing Diocese and its Bishop for a period of time set at the Bishop’s discretion, being no less than ten (10) years. A mission church may apply for Established Church Status at such time that it evidences a minimum of twelve (12) families in membership, capability of financial support of its facilities and appropriate clergy, and conformance to the Canons of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Hutchinson and the CCI.

The reception of said Church into full communion shall be witnessed by the Bishop of the Diocese having jurisdiction over said Church.

At the time of reception into Established Church Status the Bishop of the Diocese shall provide the Established Church with a Letter of Charter.

Section 2. Church Council. If an Affiliate Missionary Church progresses to and becomes an Associate Church the Presiding Bishop together with the Bishop’s Council shall appoint the Senior Elder, Council of Elders, and Church Council. The Diocesan Council has complete and full authority in the management and oversight of the affiliate missionary church.

23 It shall be the responsibility and privilege of the Diocesan Council to provide Godly counsel to the Senior Elder of the affiliated missionary church. Counsel shall be in organization, financial, legal, maintenance, or other areas wherein the Senior Elder determines that professional counsel is needed and/or desirable. The advice and consent of the Diocesan Council shall be required to establish and/or change salary and other compensation payable to the Senior Elder and all pastors.

Section 3. General Powers and Management. The Diocesan Council shall be responsible for the management of the affiliate missionary church. The Diocesan Council shall have the responsibility to oversee the legal, financial, and business matters of the affiliate missionary church. The Diocesan Council shall oversee all committees and shall provide for the care and maintenance of all properties owned by the affiliate missionary church. [Also see Article XII, Contracts, Checks, Deposits, and Funds.]

To oversee or to provide oversight for the purposes of these Bylaws is defined as the responsibility of the Diocesan Council to be sufficiently informed in financial, legal and business matters that pertain to the welfare and direction of the church that they are able to advise and consent. The Diocesan Council shall create whatever internal organization it deems appropriate to carry out its responsibilities and to fulfill any requirements necessary for them to act as representatives.

The Diocesan Council shall have oversight of the affiliate missionary churches to make sure all decisions are in line with the vision of the Diocese and the affiliate missionary church.

The Bishop’s Council shall cast the vision of the affiliate missionary churches.

The Diocesan Council shall have management of the affiliate missionary church as set out herein. The Diocesan Council shall have authority to override a decision of the affiliate missionary church not in line with the vision of the affiliate missionary church and the Diocese. The Diocesan Council, Bishop’s Council, Diocese, and officers and directors of the Diocese shall not be liable for the decisions of the affiliate missionary church and shall be indemnified by the applicable affiliate missionary church.

Section 4. Responsibilities/Duties.

1) The Diocesan Council shall have management of the affiliate missionary church. The Diocesan Council shall determine and ensure that all of the administrative committees of the Church are performing their designated responsibilities.

24 2) The Diocesan Council shall provide counsel and oversight of legal, financial, and business matters and manage the affairs of the Church.

3) The Church Council has the authority to approve or disapprove recommendations of the committees.

4) The Diocesan Council shall oversee the general financial operation of the affiliate missionary church by approving the annual budget, reviewing audit and internal controls, fiscal policies, compensation, debt elimination, and Church giving.

5) The Diocesan Council shall procure and maintain property and facilities, and be instrumental in planning and building of new facilities.

6) The Diocesan Council shall review and make recommendations for the formation of the Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation of the affiliate missionary church and any revisions or amendments.

7) The Diocesan Council shall participate in the strategic planning of the affiliate missionary church.

8) The Diocesan Council shall make decisions and take action in line with the vision of the Diocese and affiliate missionary church.

9) The Bishop’s Council has the complete and final authority in determining if and when an affiliated missionary church becomes an associate church.

ARTICLE X Associate Churches

Section 1. Definition and Association.

For a Church with Less than Twelve Families: An existing Church having less than twelve (12) families in active membership will be categorized a mission church (affiliate missionary church).

An Existing Church of More than Twelve Families. An existing Church of more than twelve (12) families may present itself for interview by the Presiding Bishop of the Diocese. Upon completion of a mutually satisfactory interview including but not limited to a review of the financial records, the leadership, and the clergy of the applying Church, an Article of Association and Conformity shall be signed by at least ten (10) active, confirmed members of the Church, and all actively involved clergy, to wit:

25 ARTICLE OF ASSOCIATION AND CONFORMITY We, the undersigned, hereby associate ourselves for the purpose of maintaining the worship of God and the preaching of the Gospel according to the doctrine, discipline, and worship of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and the CCI, under the name of ______, of the city of ______, in the State of ______and we do faithfully commit ourselves to conformity to the Canons of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and the CCI. We agree that this Church, named ______, shall by this agreement remain within The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and the CCI for a minimum of seven (7) years unless released by the Diocese. We the ordained clergy of this Church, named ______, by this agreement intend to conform to the spirit and the Canons of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and the CCI and, if not already a member of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and the CCI clergy, to duly progress towards reception under the guidelines of the Constitution, Canons, and Bylaws of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and Title II of the Canons of the CCI . We do hereby authorize the Chairman and Secretary of this meeting to certify this action, in writing, to the Presiding Bishop of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc. and the CCI.

Reception of the Church: The reception of said Church into full communion shall be witnessed by the Bishop of the Diocese for the confirmation and reception of the communicants. At the time of reception into Established Church Status the Bishop of the Diocese shall provide the Established Church with a Letter of Charter.

Section 2. Church Council. The Church Council of associate churches shall be appointed by the Senior Elder and Council of Elders. The appointment and assignment of a committee shall not operate to relieve the Church Council, individually or corporately, of responsibility imposed by law.

Members of the Church Council shall be chosen from members of the associate church demonstrating that their lives conform to the Scriptural qualifications thereof. (I Timothy 3:2-7; Titus 1:6-9; I Peter 5:2-3). They shall give counsel and mutual assistance

26 in the administration of business and work of the associate church as specifically assigned by the Senior Elder.

It shall be the responsibility and privilege of the Church Council to provide Godly counsel to the Senior Elder and the Council of Elders of the associate church. Counsel shall be in organization, financial, legal, maintenance, or other areas wherein the Senior Elder determines that professional counsel is needed and/or desirable. No minimum or maximum number of members of the Church Council shall be established, and the appointment to the Church Council and tenure thereon shall be at the pleasure and in the complete discretion of the Council of Elders. The advice and consent of the Council of Elders shall be required to establish and/or change salary and other compensation payable to the Senior Elder and all pastors.

Section 3. General Powers and Management. The Church Council shall be responsible for the management of the associate church. The Church Council shall have fiduciary responsibility to the associate church. The Church Council shall have the responsibility to oversee the legal, financial, and business matters of the associate church. The Church Council shall oversee all committees and shall provide for the care and maintenance of all properties owned by the associate church. [Also see Article XII, Contracts, Checks, Deposits, and Funds.]

The Church Council shall create whatever internal organization it deems appropriate to carry out its responsibilities and to fulfill any requirements necessary for them to act as representatives.

The officers of the church corporation of the associate churches may be appointed to one, two, or three-year appointments.

The Diocesan Council shall have authority to override a decision of the Church Council of the associate church not in line with the vision of the associate church and the Diocese. The Diocesan Council, Bishop’s Council, Diocese, and officers and directors of the Diocese shall not be liable for the decisions of the Church Council and shall be indemnified by the applicable associate church(es).

Section 4. Responsibilities/Duties.

1) The Associate Church shall form its own 501(c)(3) organization, and establish its own Bylaws. The formation documents shall be compatible with the Bylaws, Constitution and Canons of The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc.

2) The Church Council shall assist the Council of Elders and Senior Pastor in the administration of the Church. The Church Council shall determine and

27 ensure that all of the administrative committees of the Church are performing their designated responsibilities. The Church Council has no vote on the Council of Elders; however, they shall give counsel and mutual assistance to the Senior Elder and Council of Elders in the administration of business and work of the Church as specifically assigned by the Senior Elder.

3) The Church Council shall provide counsel and oversight of legal, financial, and business matters of the Church.

4) The Diocesan Council together with the Church Council shall have oversight of the committees to see that the recommendations of the committees are in line with the management and decisions of the Church Council and the vision of the associate church.

5) The Church Council has the authority to approve or disapprove recommendations of the committees.

6) The Church Council shall oversee of the general financial operation of the associate church by approving the annual budget, reviewing audit and internal controls, fiscal policies, compensation, debt elimination, and Church giving.

7) The Church Council shall procure and maintain property and facilities, and be instrumental in planning and building of new facilities.

8) The Church Council shall review and make recommendations for the formation of the Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation of the associate church and any revisions or amendments.

9) The Church Council shall participate in the strategic planning of the associate church.

10) The Church Council shall make decisions and take action in line with the vision of the Diocese and associate church.

11) The Church Council shall establish the goals of the committees, appoint members from the Church Council to sit on the committees, and approve or disapprove recommendations of the committees.

a.Recommendations of a committee shall be presented to the entire Church Council for approval/disapproval prior to implementation.

28 b.Actions of a committee shall be binding on an associate church if presented to and approved by the Church Council prior to implementation. c.The Church Council, corporately and individually, shall be indemnified by the associate church for any action implemented by a committee without prior approval of the entire Church Council. d.The committee shall implement the action approved by the Church Council after it has been approved by the entire Church Council.

12) The members of the Church Council shall maintain regular church attendance and provide financial support of the associate church.

Section 5. Council Decisions. The act of a majority of the Church Council present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Church Council, unless the act of a greater number is required by law or by these Bylaws.

The Church Council shall make decisions and take action in line with the vision of the Church and the Diocese.

Decisions and recommendations of committees shall be binding on the associate church if presented to and approved by the Church Council prior to implementation.

The Diocese and its officers and directors, Bishop’s Council, Diocesan Council, and the Church Council of the associate church, corporately and individually, shall be indemnified by the associate church for decisions made and implemented by any individual, Council, board, committee of the associate church without prior approval of the entire Church Council.

Should a decision be needed of the Church Council between regular meetings, a special meeting shall be called, i.e. in-person or phone meeting, of the entire Church Council. Each member of the Church Council shall be individually notified a minimum of 24 hours prior to the special meeting.

Section 6. Number of Members. The Church Council shall have no maximum number of members. Officers of the Church Council shall be appointed by the Council of Elders.

Section 7. Qualifications. A Church Council member shall be either an Elder or other active member of the Church who is not on the Church staff and who is at least twenty-four (24) years of age.

29 He or she shall also have been an active member of the Church for a period of at least one (1) year. Each Church Council member must be supportive of the Elders, Senior Pastor, staff, and ministry philosophy of the Church and Diocese.

Section 8. Regular Meetings. The Church Council shall meet annually and shall notify each member in writing at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting in accordance with state law. A written agenda for the annual meeting shall be given to each member of the Church Council at least ten (10) days prior to the annual meeting. Additional special meetings may be called by any member of the Church Council by giving ten (10) days notice prior to the meeting.

Section 9. Special Meetings. Special meetings may be called by or at the request of any member of the Church Council. Each member of the Church Council shall be given notice according to these Bylaws and the Kansas state law. Special meetings may be in-person or via phone so long as all members have been notified a minimum of 24 hours prior to the meeting. No action can be taken at a special meeting unless a majority of the Church Council is present or a proxy is given to another member.

Section 10. Notice. Each member of the Church Council shall be notified in writing of each meeting at least ten (10) days prior to each meeting and provided a copy of the meeting agenda with the Notice in accordance with state law.

Section 11. Quorum. A majority of the total number of Church Council members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Church Council; but, if less than a majority of the total number of Church Council members are present at any meeting, a majority of the Church Council members present may adjourn the meeting without further notice.

Section 12. Vacancies and Additions. Any vacancy occurring on the Church Council and/or any vacancy to be filled by reason of an increase in the number of members, shall be filled by the Senior Elder of the associate church with the advice and consent of the Council of Elders.

Section 13. Conflict of Interest. In order to avoid a conflict of interest, all the following criteria must be met to complete any business transaction between a Church Council member of the associate church, the Diocese, and the Church: 1) The Church Council member with whom the transaction is being considered is excluded from any discussion for approving the transaction; 2) The Church Council shall consider competitive bids or comparable valuations; 3) The Church Council shall act upon and demonstrate that the transaction is

30 in the best interest of the Church. Additionally, in any Church Council business matter in which a member of the Church Council has a vested interest, including but not limited to, a financial interest, the member shall recuse himself or herself from voting on the matter.

ARTICLE XI Ministers

Section 1. Ordination and Licensing. The Bishop’s Council may ordain and/or license a person as a minister of the Gospel after first examining the applicant’s background, moral and religious character, and the previous Bible courses and/or independent study applicant has undertaken according to the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese. Final determination shall be within the absolute discretion of the Bishop’s Council.

Section 2. Limitation. The Bishops Council may, in the discretion of the Bishop’s Council, limit any license or ordination to an area of special emphasis. The following areas are recognized by the Bishop’s Council, however they are not exclusive: (a)Music; (b)Youth; (c)Christian education; and (d)Outreach ministry.

Section 3. Presiding Bishop. The Presiding Bishop and Senior Pastor shall be a licensed or ordained minister of the Gospel. Assistant or Associate ministers may or may not be either licensed or ordained.

Section 4. Application. Application for ordination and/or licensing as a minister of the Gospel shall be on a form provided by the Bishop’s Council according to the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese. An applicant’s application shall be either approved or denied within thirty (30) days of the completion of the investigation of the applicant. Those applicants who are approved shall receive a certificate evidencing the approval.

Section 5. School of Ministry. The Bishop’s Council may establish a School of Ministry, setting forth a prescribed curriculum and course of study leading to ordination and licensing of ministers. The School of Ministry shall prepare the student in the knowledge of the Word of God and in ministering to the needs of mankind through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

31 ARTICLE XII Contracts, Checks, Deposits, And Funds

Section 1. Contracts. The Diocesan Council may authorize any officer or officers, agent or agents of the Diocese, in addition to the officers so authorized by these Bylaws, to enter into any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Diocese, and such authority may be general or may be confined to specific instances.

Section 2. Checks, Drafts, or Orders. All checks, drafts, or orders for the payment of money, notes, or other evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of the Diocese shall be signed by such officer or officers, agent or agents of the Diocese, and in such manner, as shall be from time to time determined by resolution of the Diocesan Council. In the absence of such determination by the Diocesan Council instruments may be signed by either the Treasurer or another officer of the Corporation.

Section 3. Deposits. All funds of the Diocese shall be deposited from time to time to the credit of the Diocese in such banks, trust companies, or other depositories as the Diocesan Council may select.

Section 4. Gifts. The Diocesan Council may accept on behalf of the Diocese any contribution, gift, bequest, or devise for any purpose of the Diocese. (Malachi 3:10; Luke 6:38; I Corinthians 16:1-2; II Corinthians 9:6-8).

ARTICLE XIII Books And Records

The Diocese shall keep correct and complete books and records of account and shall also keep Minutes of the proceedings of the Bishop’s Council and Diocesan Council, and shall keep at the principal office a record giving the names and addresses of the Bishop’s Council and Diocesan Council entitled to vote. All books and records of the Diocese may be inspected in the Diocese office at any reasonable time according to the laws of the State of Kansas.

ARTICLE XIV Conflict Of Interest

32 Any director, officer, or key employee who has an interest in a contract, salary negotiation, or other transaction presented to the Diocesan Council thereof for authorization, approval, or ratification shall make a prompt and full disclosure of his interest to the Diocesan Council, and committee prior to its acting on such contract or transaction. Such disclosure shall include any relevant and material facts known to such person about the contract or transaction which might reasonably be construed to be adverse to the corporation’s interest.

The body to which such disclosure is made shall thereupon determine, by a vote of seventy-five percent (75%) of the votes entitled to vote, whether the disclosure shows that a conflict of interest exists or can reasonably be construed to exist. If a conflict is deemed to exist, such person shall not vote on, nor exert his personal influence regarding, nor participate in (other than to present factual information or to respond to questions) the discussions or deliberations with respect to such contract or transaction. Such person may be counted in determining whether a quorum is present but may not be counted when the Diocesan Council or a committee takes action on the transaction. The Minutes of the meeting shall reflect the disclosure made, the vote thereon, the abstention from voting and participation (where applicable), and whether a quorum was present.

ARTICLE XV Nondiscriminatory Policy

Any school operated by this corporation shall admit students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. The school shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its education policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, or other school administered programs.

ARTICLE XVI Fiscal Year

The fiscal year of the Diocese shall be the calendar year.

ARTICLE XVII Dissolution

33 Upon the dissolution of the Diocese, the Diocesan Council shall, after the payment of all liabilities of the Diocese, transfer all of the assets of the Diocese in such manner, or to such organization or organizations established and operated exclusively for the purposes of the Diocese, or to such organization or organizations established and operated exclusively for charitable, educational, religious, or scientific purposes as shall qualify as an exempt corporation or organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (or of the corresponding provisions of any future United States Revenue Law), as the Diocesan Council shall determine.

ARTICLE XVIII Indemnification

The corporation shall, to the maximum extent permitted by law, indemnify each of its Agents, officers, directors, Bishop’s Council, and Diocesan Council against expenses, judgments, fines, settlements, and other amounts actually and reasonably incurred in connection with any proceeding arising by reason of the fact any such person is or was an agent of the corporation. For purposes of this Article, an “agent” of the corporation includes any person who is or was an Elder, Director, Officer, employee, member of the Diocesan Council, or other agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as Elder, Officer, member of the Bishop’s Council or Diocesan Council, employee, or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or other enterprise, or was an Elder, Officer, Director, employee or agent of a corporation which was a predecessor corporation of the corporation or of another enterprise at the request of such predecessor corporation.

ARTICLE XIX Inurement

No part of the net earnings of the Diocese shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to, its members, Officers, Elders, members of the Diocesan Council, employees, or any person except that the Diocese shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered. Notwithstanding any other provisions of the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws of the Diocese, the Diocese shall not carry on any activity not permitted to be carried on by (a) a corporation exempt from Federal Income Tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (or by the corresponding section of any future Revenue Code of the United States of America), or (b) a corporation contributions of which are deductible under Section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (or corresponding section of any future United States Revenue Law).

34 ARTICLE XX Seal

The Bishop’s Council shall provide a corporate seal, which shall be as set forth below.

ARTICLE XXI Jurisdiction

The laws of the State of Kansas and these Bylaws shall govern The Father’s House Family of Churches – Diocese of Restoration, Inc.

35 ARTICLE XXII Amendment Of Bylaws

These Bylaws or any provision of them may be altered, amended, or repealed, and new Bylaws may be adopted by a two-third (2/3) majority vote of the Bishop’s Council at a regular or special meeting. Notice of said meeting shall be given to each member in accordance with these Bylaws explaining the proposed changes.

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