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CONSTITUTION AND BYELAWS OF
ALL NATIONS CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY
Irmiya Samson Amoka
Notes for Church Leaders Orientation
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Definitions
Constitution:
1. statement of fundamental laws: a written statement outlining the basic
laws or principles by which a country or organization is governed
2. document containing fundamental laws: the document or statute setting
out the fundamental laws or bylaws of a country or organization
3. composition of something: the parts or members of something, or the
way in which they combine to form it
4. act or process of establishing something: the formal creation or
establishment of something
Bylaw
1. PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION local law: a law made by a local authority
that applies only in the area that the authority governs
2. internal rule: a law or regulation that governs the internal affairs of a
company or other organization
3. LAW secondary law: a secondary law
Policies
Policy, course of action: a programme of actions adopted by an individual,
group, or government, or the set of principles on which they are based
Microsoft® Encarta® Premium Suite 2004. © 1993-2003 Microsoft Corporation
GENERAL PROVISIONS
 Identity, distinction
 Interpretations/ definitions
 Motto: vision & mission
 Organization – structure, proceedings, administration
 Discipline
All Nations Christian Assembly 1

CONTENTS
Constitution
1.0 General Provisions
2.0 Aims and Objectives
3.0 Article of Faith and Practice
4.0 Composition of the Assembly
5.0 Officers
6.0 Mode of Operation
7.0 Discipline
8.0 Finance
9.0 Marriage
10.0 Assembly Properties
11.0 Amendment of Constitution
12.0 Bye-Laws
Byelaws
1.0 Trustees
2.0 The Common Seal
3.0 The Church Council
4.0 Local Assemblies
5.0 Gospel Ministries
6.0 Functionaries and their Duties
7.0 Finance Policy
8.0 Legal Advisers
9.0 External Auditors
10.0 Discipline
11.0 Marriage
12.0 Ministering in the Assembly
13.0 Handing Over
14.0 Partisan Politics
15.0 Income and Property
16.0 Amendment of Byelaws
17.0 Winding Up.
Policies
1.0 Missionary Policy
2.0 Church Planting Policy
3.0 Welfare Policy
4.0 Marriage Policy
5.0 Publications Policy

6.0 Staff Welfare and Condition of Service
Signatures
Constitution Drafting Committee
Joint Leadership Forum
CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE 1.0 GENERAL PROVISION

a. The Church shall be known and addressed as ALL NATIONS
CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY (Name), Hereinafter referred to as “The
Assembly”
b. The Motto of the Church shall be “… That in all things He (Christ)
might have the pre-eminence: Colossians 1:18" (Motto).
c. Membership of the Church shall be open to all believers who adhere
to the Constitution and Bye-Laws of the Assembly irrespective of race,
sex, social standing, political affiliation or tribe, who desire to
fellowship with God and His people in accordance with Biblical
injunctions. (Membership).
d. The provision of this Constitution shall have binding effect on all
members of the Church (Bindingness of the Constitution).
ARTICLE 2.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

a. To maintain, assert and defend the immutability, infallibility, absolute
authority, completeness and the bindingness of the Bible as the word
of God;
b. To study, teach and propagate the word of God, the Bible through the
power of the Holy Spirit;
c. To assemble, disciple and build a body of believers for the worship
and service of God the Father through the Son, the Lord Jesus Christ;
d. To evangelise and promote evangelistic activities through members
and by the establishment of Gospel Ministries and Missions;
e. To promote welfare work through the establishment of educational,
medical and other similar programmes consistent with the charter and
purpose of the Assembly;
f. To communicate these objectives through Publication, Radio,
Television, Drama etc as consistent with the charter and purpose of
the Assembly;
g. To identify spiritual gifts of members in the Assembly and encourage,
develop and use these for the edification of the body of believers;

h. To engage Church workers and to allocate funds for their
emoluments;
i. To relate to Missionaries, encourage and support their specific
programmes where possible and to pray for their ministries;
j. To purchase, lease or otherwise acquire lands, buildings, investments
and properties of any kind movable or immovable or any interest in
the same or in connection with the Assembly's objectives or any of
them;
k. To lease, mortgage, sublet, exchange, change, erect structures upon
or sell or otherwise deal with or dispose of all or any part of the
properties above-mentioned for any of the purposes aforementioned;
l. To enter into any arrangement with the Government of Nigeria or
with any other governments or authorities: federal, state, local,
municipal, etc. and to obtain from such government(s) or authorities
all rights, concessions and privileges as may be conducive to the
above mentioned purposes or any of them;
m. To help the government - Federal, State or Local in the efforts to
promote a just, peaceful, prosperous and united country for the
promotion of the welfare of the people of Nigeria and to the glory of
God;
n. To join hands with the government of the land in the upliftment of
moral and physical development of the country;
o. To do all or any of the above things as Principal, Trustees or Agents
or otherwise and either alone or in conjunction with any other Church,
Company, Undertaking or Body or Persons and either by or through
Agents, Trustees or otherwise;
p. To establish Assemblies in Nigeria and beyond;
q. To endeavour to maintain cordial and brotherly relationship with other
Christian organisations for the promotion of the cause of Jesus Christ;
r. To ensure always that the Lord Jesus Christ has the pre-eminence in
all things;
s. To conduct the affairs of the Church in ways and manners prescribed
by the Bible and in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution;
t. To do all such other things as are incidental or conducive to the
attainment of the objectives herein above mentioned.
ARTICLE 3.0: ARTICLES OF FAITH AND PRACTICE
We believe and practise as follows:
3.1 The Holy Bible

The divine inspiration, authority and sufficiency of the Holy Scripture:
II Timothy 3:15-17; II Peter 1:20-21; Psalm 19:7-11
3.2 The Eternal Godhead

The unity of the Godhead with the distinction of three Persons in that
unity, namely, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, co-equal, and
co-eternal, to whom equal honour is due: Deuteronomy 6:4; 33:27,
Genesis 1:2, 26; John 1:1, 2; 5:17, 22, 23; 14:25, 26, 16:7, 27, 28;
Romans 1:20; Philippians 2:6; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 1:1-3, 8.
3.3 The Person of Jesus Christ

a. The Incarnation: That Jesus Christ the Son of God truly became man,
being begotten of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary; John
1:14; Romans 8:3; Galatians 4:4-5; Matthew 1:20 - 25; Matthew
3:17; 17:5; Luke 1:35; I Timothy 3:16.
b. The Death of Jesus Christ: That Jesus Christ died on the cross and His
death was a sacrifice to God, and propitiation for the remission of
sins, and His righteousness is imputed to all believers in Him: Romans
4:22-25; II Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 9:24 - 28; 10:12-14; I Peter
2:24; 3:18, Galatians 3:13; I John 2:2; Matthew 26:28.
c. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ: That He was raised from the dead
according to the scriptures Matthew 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-8; Luke
24:13-35; I Corinthians 15:1-10; Psalm 16:10.
d. The Ascension of Jesus Christ: That Jesus Christ ascended to Heaven.
Psalm 68:18; Mark 16:1-8; Mark 16:19-20; Luke 24:50-51; Ephesians
1:20; Hebrews 4:14; I Peter 3:22
e. The Second Coming of Jesus Christ: That Jesus Christ is coming
again to take His Own to Himself, and to judge the world. Matt
24:29-30; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:11; 1Thess 4:16-17; Rev 1:7; 22:12
3.4 The Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity comprising the Father,
the Son and the Holy Spirit, Matthew 3:16-17; 18:19. The Holy Spirit
performs the following functions in the lives of believers:
a. He regenerates: He gives new life to anyone who being dead in sins
and trespasses exercises saving faith in the Lord Jesus Christ: John
3:5-8; 6:63; Rom 8:11.
b. He indwells: The Holy Spirit resides in everyone who truly believes in
the Lord Jesus Christ. Eph. 1:13,14; Rom. 8:9,16
c. He baptises: The Holy Spirit places every true believer in the body of
Christ (the Church) thereby joining every believer to Jesus Christ in a
mystical union. Acts 1:5, Rom 6:3-4; 1 Cor 12:13.

d. He seals: The Holy Spirit through His abiding presence in the believer
put the divine mark of ownership eternally on the believers to
indicate that the one so marked is God's own eternal possession:
Ephesians 4:30; 1:13,14.
e. He fills: The Holy Spirit fills and empowers those yielded to God in
daily conduct and service. The Ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify
God in the life of the believer as He guides, instructs, empowers and
gives spiritual ability for service: Matthew 4:1; Acts 2:4; Ephesians
5:18; Romans 8:26-27; I Corinthians 12:11; Acts 1:8, John 16:14.
f. He teaches: the Holy Spirit teaches and reminds believers of all that
the Lord Jesus Christ has taught them as they follow Him: John
14:26.
3.5 Man
a. The Creation of Man: Man was created by God in His image and
likeness. Genesis 1:27
b. The Fall of Man: In consequence of Adam’s disobedience, man fell
into sin and became a sinner by nature and action. So, man fell
short of God’s glory and thus without strength to do the will of God
apart from God’s grace through Jesus Christ: Genesis 3:6-8; Isaiah
53:6; John 3:16; Romans 3:23; 6:26.
3.6 Justification by faith in Jesus Christ

a. That the justification of sinners is by faith in Jesus Christ alone
without the deed of the law: Acts 13:38-39; Romans 3: 21-26, 28;
4:4-5, 5:1; Galatians 2:16.
b. That every justified person is born of God and has new life in Jesus
Christ. John 1:12-13; 2 Cor. 5:17; James 1:18; I Peter 1:23
c. That this new birth results in new fruit and is made evident in holiness
of life and good works: Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 2:10; 4:24; Titus
3:4-8.
3.7 Complete and Eternal Salvation in Christ

By faith in Jesus Christ, every believer in Him has eternal salvation
and is kept by Him, and shall never perish – John 3:16; 6:39, 47;
10:10, 27-30; Rom. 8:1, 38-39; Heb 5:9; 7:25; 1 John 5:11-13; Jude
24,25
3.8 The Resurrection of the Dead and Life after Death

At death, the Spirit of man does not cease to exist or become
unconscious. Ecclesiastes 12:7; Luke 16:19-31; 23:42-43; 2
Corinthians 5:6-8

a. That the dead in Christ shall be raised from the dead unto everlasting
life: I Thessalonians 4:13-17.
b. That the dead without Christ shall also be raised from the dead
but unto everlasting condemnation John 3:18-19; 5:29.
3.9 The Church

The Church embraces all true believers - that is, the Bride of Christ
formed by the baptism of the Holy Spirit [the placing of individual
believers in the Body of Christ]. The local Church is the organised
Local Assembly representing the Body of Christ composed only of true
believers in a particular locality. Matt 16:18; 18:20; Acts 2:41; 5:14; 1
Cor. 12:13
3.10 Church Ordinances

a. Believers’ Water Baptism: The observance of the ordinance of
Believers’ Baptism by immersion on personal confession of faith in the
Lord Jesus Christ. Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:41-42; 8:36-38; 10:47-
48; Romans 6:3-4.
b. The Lord’s Table: The remembrance of the Lords death in the
Breaking of Bread on the first day of the week. Matthew 26:26-29;
Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:19-20; Acts 20:7; I Corinthians 11:23-26
c. Reception at the Lord’s Table: The Assembly shall receive at the
Lord’s Table all believers known to be baptised who are also sound in
faith and practice. Acts 2:41; Romans 15:7; I Corinthians 5:6-8;
10:14:17; 11:27-32
3.11 Christian Life and Service

Christians are called to a holy life of service and testimony in the
power of the Holy Spirit which service includes the propagation of the
gospel to the whole world. Faith without works is dead and the
Christians are saved unto good works. Christians will give account of
and will receive rewards for their faithful service at the judgement
seat of Christ. I Corinthians 4; 1-2; 3:10-13; 15:58; James 2:17
3.12 Spiritual Gifts

That the Holy Spirit bestows by His own sovereign will diverse gifts of
grace upon all who believe in Jesus Christ for enablement in service
for God’s glory. These gifts include faith, administration, wisdom,
knowledge, discernment, tongues, healing etc. These are meant for
the edification of the Body of Christ and for service to the glory of
God. The Assembly encourages members to discover their gifts and

use them for the edification of the Church. I Corinthians 12:4-11;
Ephesians 4:11; I Timothy 4:14
3.13 Worship and Fellowship

The Assembly shall conduct its worship and fellowship meetings under
the leading and guidance of the Holy Spirit with opportunities for the
exercise of all spiritual gifts for the edification of the Body of Christ.
Romans 12:6-8; Hebrews 10:25; I Peter 4:10-11
3.14 Elders and Deacons

The oversight of the Assembly is entrusted to the Elders and Deacons
who have the qualifications specified in I Timothy 3:1-13; and filled
with the Holy Spirit. Acts 6:1-7.
The responsibilities of Elders and Deacons are given by the Church
under the leadership and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and it is the duty
and privilege of the Assembly to recognise those whom such
responsibilities have been entrusted to. Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5
ARTICLE 4.0: ORGANISATION OF THE ASSEMBLY

The Organs of the Assembly shall comprise the following:
a. The Trustee
b. The Church Council
c. The Secretariat
d. The Local Assemblies
e. Gospel Ministries
f. Institutions
g. The Members
4.1 The Trustees: The Trustees of the Assembly shall be the Legal
Representatives of the Assembly to Governments and other
organisations. All properties of the Assembly shall be vested in the
Trustees.
4.2 The Church Council (hereinafter referred to as “the Council): The

Council which shall be the policy formulator for the Assembly shall be
made up of three Leadership member representing each of the Local
Assemblies.
a. The Church Council’s Meeting: The Council’s meeting shall be based
on a quorum of two – thirds of the membership of the Council or of
the Assemblies. The meeting of Council shall hold twice a year
provided that emergency meetings of Council may hold outside those
stipulated as the circumstances shall demand.

b There shall be a Secretary for the Council who shall also be the General
Secretary of the Assembly.
c. Decisions of Council: In taking decisions, the Council shall have
powers to set up committees to advise or make recommendations to
Council on any issues pending before the Council but submitted to
such committee for such advice or recommendation.
4.3 The Secretariat: The Secretariat shall be headed by the General

Secretary and it shall be responsible for the dissemination and
implementation of all the decisions of the Church Council through
effective communication with the Local Assemblies and institutions of
the Assembly.
4.4. The Local Assembly: The Church shall encourage the establishment of
Local Assemblies where the conditions for establishing such
Assemblies exist. A Local Assembly is a body of believers gathered
together in a locality in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ who
subscribe to the principles contained in this Constitution, and in line
with the church planting policy of the Assembly. Any such new
Assembly is to be formally recognised as a part of the Assembly by
subscribing to the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly in writing
addressed to the General Secretary and signed by the members in
fellowship.
4.5 The Membership: An individual is a member of the Assembly who

after belief and public confession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and
Saviour, and duly instructed in the word of God, is baptised as
prescribed in the Articles of Faith and Practice of the Assembly and
who adheres to the Constitution and the Bye-Laws of the Assembly.
Each member of the Assembly is expected to belong to a Local
Assembly. Each Local Assembly shall maintain a register of its
members.
4.6. The Gospel Ministries: The Assembly being an evangelical Church

shall encourage the establishment of Gospel Ministries where
members can serve God in the propagation of the Gospel of Jesus
Christ and towards realising the aims and objectives of the Assembly.
These Ministries shall be under and supervised by the Local
Assemblies.
4.7 Institutions: The Assembly shall set up institutions for the purpose of
realising its aims and objectives.

.
ARTICLE 5.0: OFFICERS
5.1 Church Council: Officers of the Church Council who shall be
appointed from among Council members shall comprise the
Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Assistant Secretary, and Treasurer, all of
whom shall serve for not more than two consecutive terms of two
years each. The General Secretary shall serve as the Secretary to
Council.
5.2 Secretariat: The Secretariat shall be headed by the General Secretary

and staffed for effective operations with an Administrative Officer, and
an Accountant, among others.
5.3 Local Assembly: The following officers shall function in a Local

Assembly:
a. Chairman
b. Church Secretary
c. Assistant Church Secretary
d. Financial Secretary
e. Treasurer
f. Resident Minister(s)
These shall all be Elders and Deacons in a Local Assembly as specified in

the Articles of Faith and Practice in this Constitution. The Local Assemblies
shall appoint Administrative Officers and other workers as may become
necessary. Apart from the Resident Ministers, all other officers shall serve on
part-time basis; no officer shall serve in the same portfolio for more than
two consecutive terms of two years each.
5.4 Institution’s Officers: There shall be Heads of institutions and as many

other officers as shall be deemed necessary. Both governing and
advisory boards shall be set up over institutions.
ARTICLE 6.0: MODE OF OPERATIONS

The Assembly shall act through its Trustees, the Church Council, its Officers,
the Leadership of Local Assemblies and their Officers, Executive Bodies,
Committees, Boards and Ministries. The day-to-day administration of the
Assembly shall be governed by the Scripture, the Constitution and Byelaws,
Conditions of service and the rules and regulations governing the various
institutions of the Assembly.

ARTICLE 7.0: DISCIPLINE
All members, groups and bodies within the Assembly shall be subject to
disciplinary provisions as contained in the Scriptures, the Byelaws, the
Conditions of Service, and the Rules and Regulations governing institutions
as the case may be. All matters of discipline shall be governed by the
Articles of Faith and Practice of the Assembly.
ARTICLE 8.0: FINANCE

The Assembly shall derive its finances from tithes, free-will offerings, free-
will gifts, sales of Assets, subscriptions for services rendered and such other
means consistent with the Articles of Faith and Practice of the Assembly.
ARTICLE 9.0: MARRIAGE

The marriages of members of the Assembly conducted by the Assembly shall
be in accordance with the Scripture, the Bye-Laws of the Assembly and the
provisions of the Marriage Act of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1990, and
as may be amended from time to time.
ARTICLE 10.0: ASSEMBLY’S PROPERTIES

All the properties and assets belonging to the Assembly shall be vested in
the Trustees of the Assembly who shall hold them in trust for the Assembly:
provided that no constituted authorities of the Assembly shall have the
power or right to dispose of any of the Assembly's properties or assets
without the consent of the Trustees and the Church Council.
ARTICLE 11.0 AMENDMENT

Where an amendment to this Constitution is proposed by any member of the
Assembly, the proposal must be submitted to the Secretariat in writing
through the Leadership of the Local Assembly where the person proposing
belongs. The Secretariat shall then circulate the proposed amendment to all
Local Assemblies, for their consideration and response within two months.
The Secretariat shall prepare a brief of such response for Council’s
deliberation. The Council shall decide whether the proposed amendment
shall be approved, modified, or rejected. The decision of the Council shall
be final though such decision of the Council shall be given to the Secretariat,
which shall inform the Trustees, the Leadership of all the Local assemblies
and all the institutions in the Assembly.
ARTICLE 12.0 BYELAWS

The Church Council shall make Byelaws for the Assembly in accordance with
the provisions of this Constitution for the smooth running of the Assembly.

BYE - LAWS
1.0 Trustees
1.1 Qualification of Trustees
a. A Trustee of the Assembly must be a registered member of the
Assembly.
b. A Trustee must meet the scriptural qualifications specified in I
Timothy 3:1-13.
1.2. Appointment of Trustees

The Assembly shall have not less than seven Trustees to be appointed
by the Church Council in consultation with the Local Assembly of each
of the Trustees to be so appointed. In appointing Trustees, the
Assembly shall make efforts to ensure the geographical spread of the
Trustees among the Local Assemblies.
1.3 Method of Appointing Trustees

The Council shall adopt the following method in appointing the
Trustees for the Assembly:
a. The Council shall appoint no less than seven Trustees from among the
Local Assemblies;
b. The Council shall then send the names of the appointees to their
various Local Assemblies for comment about the suitability of the
appointees to the office of Trustees;
c. Upon receiving the comments from the Local Assemblies of the
appointees, the Church Council shall then decide whether or not to
confirm such appointments. The decision of the Church Council shall
be based on majority opinion.
1.4 Registration of Trustees

The Trustees of the Assembly shall be registered as the Registered
Trustees of the Assembly. Where there are changes in the Trustees,
such changes must also be registered.
1.5. Tenure of Office

A Trustee of the Assembly shall hold office for life unless he ceases to
be a Trustee in accordance with the provisions of these Byelaws.
1.6 Cessation of Office of a Trustee

1.6.1 A Trustee shall cease to hold office as such a Trustee in any of the
following circumstances:
a. If he ceases to be a member of the Assembly.
b. If he is removed from office by a special resolution of the Church
Council. A “Special Resolution” means a Resolution passed at a
special meeting of the Council supported by not less than two
thirds of the members of the Council present at the meeting.
c. If he voluntarily resigns his office as such a Trustee upon giving two
months notice to the General Secretary of his intention to resign as
such a Trustee.
d. If he is adjudged to have a poor Christian testimony.
e. If he becomes insane or incapacitated permanently or deceased.
f. If he is excommunicated by the Assembly.
g. If he permanently ceases to reside in Nigeria.
1.6.2 The cessation of office of a Trustee in any of the above circumstance

shall be communicated to the Trustee concerned, all Local Assemblies
and other relevant organisations, through the Secretariat.
2.0 The Common Seal

There shall be a common seal for the Assembly to symbolise the
authority of the Assembly. The Common Seal shall at all times be in
the custody of the General Secretary who shall be empowered to affix
same on all the documents to be executed by the Trustees on behalf
of the Assembly. All executed documents in favour of the Assembly
shall be signed by two-thirds of the Trustees of the Assembly.
3.0 The Church Council

3.1 Membership
A member of the Church Council shall be appointed by the majority
opinion of the Leadership of a Local Assembly where the member
belongs. Such appointment shall be communicated to the General
Secretary in writing under the hands of all the members of the
Leadership of the particular Local Assembly.
3.2 Officers
There shall be the following officers for the Church Council namely;
a. Chairman
b. Vice Chairman
c. Secretary
d. Assistant Secretary
e. Treasurer
All the officers apart from the Secretary shall hold office on part-time basis.

3.3 Functions
The Church Council shall perform the following functions:
a. Formulating policies for the Assembly;

b. Setting up committees deemed necessary for the operations of
the Assembly;
c. Deliberating and adopting resolutions on annual report of the
operations of the Assembly;
d. Approving the membership of a newly set up Assembly;
e. Approving and ratifying the budgets of all operations of the
Secretariat and receiving all annual audited reports of all
finances;
f. Ratifying the appointment on the recommendation of the
committees of Council charged with the appointment,
promotion and discipline of senior staff members;
g. Performing any other functions necessary in the pursuit of the
aims and objectives of the Assembly;
h. Upholding the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
3.4 The Language of the Council

English shall be the official language of the Council though vernacular
translation will be provided when necessary.
3.5 Procedures at Council Meetings

The business of Council shall be conducted according to the following
procedures:
a. Every meeting of the Council shall be conducted according to an
agenda prepared by the Secretary in consultation with the current
Chairman of Council.
b. Contributions, discussions and decisions at the meeting shall strictly
be according to the scriptures.
c. The adopted Proceedings and resolutions of Council meetings shall be
evidenced in writing under the hands of the Chairman and the
Secretary and such writing shall be conclusive evidence that any
resolution or decision therein expressed to have been passed was
passed at a meeting duly convened and held.
d. The decisions of the Council shall be based on majority opinion.
3.6 Notices of Council Meetings

Notices and agenda of Councils meetings shall be given to members
of the Council no less than three weeks before the day of such
meetings
3.7 Minutes of Meetings
The minutes of previous meeting of Council shall be delivered to
the members of Council along with the notices and agenda of the
next meeting not less than three weeks before the next meeting.

4.1 Leadership in a Local Assembly
The Leadership in the Local Assembly shall be made up of the Elders
and Deacons of such Local Assembly who shall hold its meetings at
least once in a month for prayers, exhortations and deliberations on
the daily running of the Local Assembly. Each meeting of the
Leadership of a Local Assembly shall be presided over by a Chairman
to be appointed from among the members of the Leadership present
at the meeting. The meeting of the Leadership of a Local Assembly
shall be convened by the Secretary of the particular Local Assembly.
4.1.1 Cessation of Office of a Member of Leadership

A member of Leadership shall cease to hold office in any of the following
circumstances:
a. If he ceases to be a member of the Assembly.
b. If he is removed from office by a special resolution of the Local
Assembly. A “Special Resolution” means a Resolution passed at
a special meeting of the Local Assembly supported by not less
than two thirds of the members of the Local Assembly.
c. If he voluntarily resigns his office upon giving two months notice
to the Church Secretary of his intention to resign.
d. If he is adjudged to have a poor Christian testimony.
e. If he becomes insane or incapacitated permanently or deceased.
f. If he is excommunicated by the Assembly.
g. If he permanently ceases to reside in Nigeria.
The cessation of office of a member of Leadership in any of the above

circumstance shall be communicated to the member concerned, all Local
Assemblies and other relevant organisations, through the Secretariat, as
directed by the Church Council.
4.2 Workers Committee Meetings

The Workers Committee of a Local Assembly shall be made up of the
Elders, Deacons and Ministry Leaders of the Local Assembly. The
Committee shall hold its meetings at least twice in a year for prayers,

planning; exhortation, monitoring and evaluation of budgets and the
general activities of the Local Assembly.
4.3 Membership Forum

This is a meeting of all the members in Fellowship of a particular Local
Assembly which meeting shall hold at least twice in a year. The
meeting shall be convened by the Leadership of the particular Local
Assembly. This meeting shall be for the purpose of discussing the
affairs of the Local Assembly including the effectiveness of its
Ministries, Projects, Plans, Programmes, and Finances etc. Where
such meeting holds, a member of Leadership shall chair it and there
shall be a Secretary for such meeting, which Secretary shall not be a
member of the Leadership.
5.0: Gospel Ministries

The following Ministries may be established and function in the Local
Assemblies:
5.1 Church Ministries, e.g. Counseling and Follow-up, Deaf Ministry, Choir,
Service Conductors, Ushers, Sunday school (Children/Adult),
Welfare/Visitation
5.2 Fellowship Groups, e.g. Youth and Sports Ministry, Ladies/ Women,
Men
5.3 Evangelistic Outreach, e.g. Prison, Hospital/Beggars, Travellers, Hotel,

Sound and Vision, Sports, Pilot Light, Literature and Tracts
5.4 The local Assemblies may establish such other Ministries that shall be
approved to function.
5.5 The Ministries shall appoint their leaders and such officers as shall
enhance the effectiveness of such Ministries. Such appointments shall
be subject to the approval of the Leadership of Local Assembly.
6.0 Functionaries, Duties and Qualifications
6.1 Trustees
a. All Assemblies’ properties shall be vested in the Trustees to be
held in trust for the Assembly
b. To acquire land on behalf of the Assembly according to the laws
of the land.

c. The Trustees shall have advisory responsibilities to the Church
Council.
d. The Trustees shall subscribe to and uphold the Constitution
and Byelaws of the Assembly.
6.2 Officers
6.2.1 Chairman of Council

The Chairman of Council shall preside over Council's meetings and
shall together with the Secretariat ensure that the decisions of Council
falling due for implementation are implemented within his tenure of
office as such Chairman.
6.2.2 Vice-Chairman
The Vice-Chairman shall assist the Chairman on part-time basis as
determined by the Council.
6.2.3 General Secretary

The General Secretary, as the Chief Administrator of the Assembly,
shall be appointed by the Council to serve for a four-year tenure of
not more than two consecutive terms, and he shall have the following
responsibilities:
1. He shall serve as the Secretary of the Church Council of the
Assembly;
2. He shall disseminate and co-ordinate all policies of the Council
through the machineries of the Secretariat;
3. He shall receive and disburse funds for the Secretariat as approved by
the Church Council; in consultation with the Chairman.
4. He shall convene the meetings of the Church Council;
5. He shall see to the day-to-day running of the Secretariat;
6. He shall take minutes of Council and circulate same as well as notices
and agenda of Council's meetings;
7. He shall co-ordinate the production of all gazettes, bulletins and all
other publications that the Church Council approves for such
publication and distribution;
8. He shall handle all correspondences to and from the Secretariat;
9. He shall keep and preserve the Common Seal and records and
historical documents of the Assembly;
10. He shall receive reports from the Local Assemblies and Head of
Institutions of the Assembly;
11. He shall attend or be represented at the meetings of all boards of the
Assembly's institutions.
12. He shall issue letters of appointment or termination to Executive
positions of the Secretariat, and institutions of the Assembly;
13. He shall ensure the maintenance of the organizational structure
and promote good communication, leadership and administration in
the Assembly;
14. He shall be responsible for the implementation of the decisions and
resolutions of the Church Council;
15. He shall be a signatory to the Secretariat's accounts and other official
documents;
16. He shall be answerable to the Church Council.
17. He shall represent the Assembly in administrative and other public
matters both within and outside the Assembly;
18. He shall uphold the Constitution, Byelaws and Conditions of Service
and regulations at all levels of the Assembly.
Qualifications for General Secretary

i. He must be born again.
ii. He must have been a member of the Assembly for not less than 10
years.
iii. He must believe in the principles, doctrines, Bye - laws and the
Constitution of the Assembly.
iv. He must have personal and family testimony as prescribed in I
Timothy 3:1-7.
v. He must have been a member of the Leadership of a Local Assembly
for not less than 5 years
vi. In addition to a minimum of National Diploma or its equivalent,
certificates obtained from theological colleges or Seminaries such as
BMTC Ikwa, BAPTIST, or ECWA Seminary may be an advantage
vii. Post graduation experience in administration in any public or private
establishment.
viii. Computer literacy may be advantage.
ix. Must not be below thirty-five (35) years of age
6.2.4 Assistant General Secretary

The Assistant General Secretary shall assist the General Secretary on
part-time basis as determined by the Council. The duties of the
Assistant Secretary shall include:
i. To assist the General Secretary in every area necessary and in the
absence of the General Secretary to act for him;
ii. To attend the meetings of the Church Council;
iii. To attend to other such duties as may be assigned to him by the
General Secretary.
iv. To uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
v. He shall be a signatory to the Secretariat bank accounts.
6.2.5 Treasurer
The Treasurer shall be a member of the Council and his duties shall
include:
i. To ensure that all monies received are banked not later than
Wednesday of the following week and a copy of the Bank teller
kept for auditing purposes;
ii. To make funds available by preparing cheques for all
obligations and expenditures;
iii. To issue receipts of all gifts of money received from the outside
to the General Secretary for proper acknowledgement;
iv. To carry out any such functions as shall be assigned to the
Treasurer by the Council;
v. To uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
6.3 The Secretariat Staff
6.3.1 Administrative Officer

i. He shall assist the General Secretary in the general administration of
the Secretariat;
ii. He shall assist the General Secretary in handling correspondences
either to or from the Secretariat;
iii. He shall deputise for the General Secretary where and when
necessary;
iv. He shall be in charge of Libraries, stationeries and office equipment;
v. For effective assistance to the General Secretary, he may attend
meetings with him when and where detailed to do so;
vi. To chair the meetings of the Secretariat's intermediate and junior staff
appointment, promotion and disciplinary committee;
vii. To help in the administrative arrangement of the Church Council's
meetings, meetings of Trustees, Board meetings, etc.
viii He shall be a signatory to the Secretariat accounts;
ix To assist the General Secretary in the general spiritual well being of
the staff of the Secretariat;
x. To uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
Qualifications for Administrative Officer

i. Must be born again with Christian testimony.
ii. Must possess a minimum of National Diploma or its equivalent in
Public/Business Administration or related disciplines awarded by a
recognized institution. Additional qualifications in Management
and/or Computer Literacy shall be added advantage.
iii. Must have at least 5 years post-graduation working experience
in administration from any public or recognized private organization.
iv. Must have a stable family (if married).
v. Any other relevant qualifications will be an advantage.
6.3.2 Accountant
The Accountant shall be in-charge of the accounts of the Secretariat
and shall be responsible to the General Secretary and his duties shall
include:
1. To establish and operate a sound accounting system including
opening and keeping all necessary books of account to show at any
given time the actual position of the financial operations in terms of
income and expenditure of the Secretariat;
2. To establish and/or operate a statistical analysis of the Financial
records of the Assembly with a view to enabling him to prepare a
sound statement of the assets and liabilities at all levels of the
Assembly;
3. To establish and maintain a reliable system of preparing cash flow on
a monthly basis as a means of enabling the Assembly organise its
spending from time-to-time in relation to cash projections and
anticipated expenses;
4. To establish and maintain an internal control system such that the
financial operations of the Assembly shall be carried out in an orderly
manner to safeguard its assets and secure as far as possible the
reliability and accuracy of its records and to issue monthly trial
balances;
5. To establish and operate effective method which enables the
Accounting Department to collect revenue stipulated from the Local
Assemblies; institutions and other external and internal sources;
6. To establish and/or operate a sound retirement benefit scheme as
approved by the Church Council with a view to enabling the Assembly
to pay any of its employees under the gratuity scheme on retirement.
7. To prepare the annual income and expenditure accounts and balance
sheet of the Assembly for the Church Council classifying all receipts
and disbursements under their respective heads in such a manner
that the account is simple to understand;
8. To be a signatory to all the accounts operated by the Secretariat;
9. To prepare financial reports and the annual budget of the Secretariat;

10. To ensure that all expenditures of the Secretariat in a Financial Year
are within the approved budget including supplementary budget
if any;
11. To perform all such other duties as may be assigned to him by the
General Secretary or Council;
12. To uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
Qualifications for Accountant

i. Must be born again, with clear Christian testimony.
ii. Must have a fraud-free record.
iii. Must possess a B.Sc./HND or its equivalent in Accountancy.
iv. Possession of any recognized professional qualification enabling
him/her to practise the accounting profession shall be an added
advantage
v. Computer Literacy shall be an advantage.
vi. Must have acquired a minimum of 5 years cognate working
experience in the accounting profession in any public or private
organization.
vii. Any other relevant qualifications may be an advantage.
6.3.3 Internal Auditor

There shall be appointed an Internal Auditor for the Secretariat whose
duties shall include:
i. To monitor all financial transactions of the Secretariat;
ii To establish and operate a reliable system of auditing the accounts of
the Secretariat;
iii. To ensure that all financial transactions conform to the rules and
regulations stipulated by the Church Council;
iv. To scrutinize all payment vouchers of the secretariat before payment;
v. To assist in the conduct of yearly auditing of financial transactions of
the Secretariat
vi. To prepare and submit quarterly report to the General Secretary;
vii. To verify from any Local Assembly where there is auditing problem
and submit his findings to the General Secretary;
vii. To attend to such other duties as may be assigned to him by the
General Secretary;
viii. To uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.

6.4.1 Chairman
The duties of the Chairman of the meeting session of the Leadership
of the Local Assembly shall include:
i. Presiding over the Leadership meetings and shall together with
the Secretary ensure that the decisions of the Leadership fallen due for
implementation are implemented within his tenure of office as such
Chairman;
ii. To ensure that policies, reports, information and resolutions of
the Church Council, and the Secretariat, are transmitted
through the Church Secretary and executed;
iii To uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
6.4.2 Resident Minister(s)

Resident Minister(s) may be employed and maintained by each Local
Assembly. A Resident Minister shall be responsible to the Leadership
of the Local Assembly engaging his services. This covers
employment, discipline, remuneration, etc. The assignments of a
Resident Minister being a member of Leadership in each Local
Assembly shall include the following.
i. He shall be ready to carry out scriptural counselling and meeting
other spiritual needs of members to ensure the maintenance of their
spiritual health and that of the church in general.
ii. He shall draw up visitation programme to visit brethren who are
sick, or need specific spiritual attention.
iii. He shall liaise and discuss with callers from the government or from
any member of the public and third parties.
iv. He shall uphold and defend the beliefs, doctrines, Bye Laws and the
Constitution of the Assembly.
v. The Leadership may saddle him with any other duties as the need
arises from time to time.
Qualifications for Resident Minister

i. He must be born again.
ii. He must have been a member of the Assembly for not less than five
(5) years
iii. He must believe in the principles, doctrines, the Constitution and
Bye-Laws of the Assembly
iv. He must be married to one wife, have personal and family
testimonies as prescribed in I Timothy 3:1-7.
v. He must be a lover of the brethren and possess pastoral gifts.
vi. In addition to Secondary School Certificate and its equivalent,
Certificates obtained from theological colleges/seminaries such as
BMTC Ikwa, Baptist or ECWA will be an advantage in considering his
appointment.

6.4.3 Church Secretary
This is the principal officer of the Local Assembly who shall be a
member of the Leadership of the Local Assembly serving on part-time
basis and his duties shall include:
i. Preparing agenda for each over-sight meeting of the Leadership and
distributing to members at least one week before the day fixed for the
meeting;
ii. To attend all over-sight meetings, take minutes and distribute copies
to members at least one week before the next meeting;
iii. To write official and formal letters within one week or as directed;
iv. To write letters of commendation, jointly signed by two members of
Leadership of a Local Assembly;
v. To reply incoming letters within two weeks of the receipt of such
letters;
vi. To keep the Church membership Register, and the Church Diary
containing the following information:
The number of those who prayed to receive the Lord Jesus
Christ;
Date of Baptism and names and addresses of those baptised;
Marriages conducted in the Local Assembly; Births;
Deaths; Other Church events
vii. To work in concert with the current Chairman of the Leadership
meetings for the execution of all decisions;
viii. To serve as co-signatory on the bank accounts operated by the Local
Assembly;
ix. To keep record of Fellowship Meetings of a Local Assembly;
x. To forward to the Secretariat all statistics, report and financial dues
required from the Local Assembly to be forwarded to the Secretariat;
xi. To attend to such other responsibilities as may be assigned by the
Leadership of the Local Assembly;
xii. To ensure a good filing system for the Local Assembly;
xiii. To take care of legal and official matters about the Local Assembly;
xiv. To prepare covering letters to accompany all stipulated financial
transactions;
xv. To uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
6.4.4 Assistant Church Secretary

The holder of this office shall be a member of Leadership assisting the
Local Assembly Church Secretary and shall render:
i. Due assistance to the Church Secretary and in his absence to
act for him in the discharge of the duties of the Church
Secretary;
ii. To attend to such other duties as may be assigned to him by
the Church Secretary;
iii. To uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
6.4.5 Financial Secretary

This shall be a member of the Leadership of the Local Assembly and
shall have knowledge of the rudiments of accounting principles whose
service shall be part-time performing the following functions:
i. To ensure that all necessary books of account are kept which
will show the financial position of the Local Assembly as per
income and expenditure;
ii. To be responsible for paying out all monies in respect of the
Local Assembly expenditure and obligations and to keep the
records of same;
iii. To ensure that all income and expenditures are within
approved budgets and supplementary budgets;
iv To submit bi-annual reports of income and expenditure
classifying all receipts and disbursements under their respective
heads in a manner that is simple to interpret;
v. To ensure that an annual budget of income and expenditure
for the next calendar year is prepared and presented to the
Leadership before the 15th day of November of each year;
vi. To ensure that all due bills covering electricity, water rates and
ground rents etc are settled not later than a week after they
are received;
vii. To reconcile the Church's accounts with Bank Statements every
three months (starting from January of each year) by the 15th
of the following month and report to the Leadership in writing
by the end of the month;
viii To ensure that all payments made from the Church's accounts
are fully receipted and recorded in the accounts books;
ix. To balance and reconcile his accounts monthly before the 20th
of each month;
x. To ensure that all accounting books and records maintained by
the Local Assembly are made available to the auditors by
January of each year;
xii. To be acquainted with all correspondences coming in or going
out from the Local Assembly in relation to his job;

xii. To attend to all duties as may be assigned to him by the
Leadership of the Local Assembly;
xiii. To uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
6.4.6 Treasurer
The Treasurer shall be a member of the Leadership and his duties
shall include:
i. Ensuring that all monies collected for each week are counted
by two people and signed by both of them in the receipt book
and the figures entered in the announcement book and the
account book;
ii. To ensure that all such monies are banked not later than
Wednesday of each week and a copy of the Bank teller kept for
auditing purposes;
iii. To make funds available by preparing cheques for all
obligations and expenditures upon receipt of the appropriate
vouchers from the Financial Secretary;
iv. To issue receipts of all gifts of money received from the outside
to the Secretary for proper acknowledgement;
v. To carry out any such functions as shall be assigned to the
Treasurer by the Leadership;
vi. to uphold the Constitution and Byelaws of the Assembly.
6.5 Ministries
6.5.1 Ministry Leader
Each Ministry shall appoint its own leader who shall be a member of
the Local Assembly and in fellowship, who shall see to the general co-
ordination of the activities of such Ministry.
6.5.2 Ministry Officers

Each Ministry shall be at liberty to appoint such other officers as may
be required for the effective execution of the programmes of the
Ministry.
6.6 Institutions
6.6.1 Chairman of Board

The Council shall make the appointment to the position of Chairman
of Board for an institution of the Assembly. The duties of the holder
of such an office shall include:
i. Presiding over Board meetings of the institution;

ii. To confer with the head of the institution from time to time on
matters affecting the general administration of the institution;
iii. To serve as Chairman of the Executive and Senior Staff
appointment, promotion and disciplinary matters to be decided upon
by the Board;
iv. To issue letters of appointment, promotions or discipline to senior
staff;
v. To ensure that Board minutes and Chairman's reports are submitted
to the Church Council through the General Secretary;
vi. To be responsible to the Church Council through the office of the
General Secretary;
vii. To ensure that the aims, objectives, policies, decisions, rules and
regulations for the institution, as formulated by the Church Council,
are implemented;
6.6.2 Head of Institution: This shall be the principal administrative and

accounting officer of the institution appointed on merit by the Church
Council or the Local Assembly as the case may be. His duties shall
include:
i. Seeing to the day-to-day affairs of the institution;
ii. To be a member of the Board of the institution and to report
to same where such exists - he shall be responsible to the
Church Council or the Local Assembly through the General
Secretary or Church Secretary where there is no Board;
iii. To serve as a member of the senior staff appointment,
promotions and disciplinary committee where there is no
Board;
iv. To serve as Chairman of intermediate and junior staff
appointments, promotions, and disciplinary committee;
v. To issue letters of appointment, promotions and discipline of
these cadres of staff on behalf of the Church Council or Local
Assembly or the Board where such exists;
vi. To submit quarterly report to and confer with the General
Secretary or Church Secretary and Board Chairman if any on
matters affecting the general administration of the institution;
vii. To attend to such other duties as may be directed by the
General Secretary or Church Secretary or the Board as the
case may be;

7.0 Financial Policy
In order to achieve the objectives and aims of the Assembly, the
Assembly shall organise for herself scriptural methods of generating
income and consequently a proper and thorough record keeping of all
monies received and expended shall be ensured having regards for
accountability and transparency. The following shall apply to the
Assembly in her financial matters:
7.1 The Assembly shall encourage her members to give cheerfully and
willingly in appreciation of God's love that is demonstrated by the
giving of His only begotten Son the Lord Jesus Christ;
7.2 Giving shall be by faith and according to the Bible;
7.3 The Assembly shall not levy her members or make appeal to the
members of the public for any financial assistance of whatever sort;
7.4 The Assembly shall operate within the following guidelines for her
regular collections:
a. Tithe
b. Faith Promise-giving
c. Thanksgiving
d. Offerings
e. Donations
f. Payments for services rendered
g. Contributions for special and capital projects;
7.5 All monies coming into the Assembly shall be counted by not less than
2 brethren and recorded in appropriate books by the Financial
Secretary and deposited in the Banks in the Assembly's name by the
Treasurer not later than Wednesday of the week of collection;
7.6 All expenditures shall be approved by the Leadership
7.7 All the cheques issued by the Assembly shall be drawn by not less
than two signatories to the Assembly's accounts;
7.8 The Assembly shall not give any loans to any members of the
Assembly. However, each Local Assembly shall be encouraged to
operate a welfare scheme exclusively for the needy brethren, to be
disbursed on the basis of temporary loan or gift by a committee set
up for that purpose, provided that the prohibition on loan shall not
apply to workers in the Secretariat, Local Assembly or any institutions
set up by the Assembly where the conditions of service of such workers
allow loans to be given;
7.9 The Secretariat shall derive its income from 10% of all receipts of
each Local Assembly, except contributions for special and capital
projects. These exclude income raised by Gospel Ministries. Such
contributions shall be remitted to the Secretariat monthly not later
than the 15th day of the following month. Other sources include
voluntary contribution from individual believers or group of believers.
7.10 All such monies contributed to the Secretariat shall be utilized as

follows:
a. 10% of the total sum collected by the Secretariat shall be used to
subsidize the expenses of Local Assemblies for Church Planting;
b. A further 10% of the total income of the Secretariat shall be lodged in
a Special Project Purse for special projects approved by the Church
Council, or used for other purposes as may be directed by the Church
Council;
7.11 The Assembly shall maintain a Missionary Fund into which each
Local Assembly shall pay/contribute 10% of its monthly total
collection (except contribution for special and capital projects), or
any percentage as may from time to time be determines by the
Church Council, including income from institutions. The Missionary
Fund shall be used exclusively for Mission work.
7.12 The total expenses budget of the Secretariat shall be based on 60%
of income budget derived from the contributions expected from the
Local Assemblies;
7.13 The Secretariat, each Local Assembly and the institutions of the
Assembly shall operate an annual budget in accordance with existing
financial policy of the Assembly;
7.14 Institutions of the Assembly may charge for services rendered, in

addition to other legitimate means of generating income for their
operation as approved by the Council.
7.15 The Gospel Ministries shall derive their finances from contributions
made by the members of the Ministries, subventions from their parent
Local Assemblies and voluntary contributions from other believers in
the Lord Jesus Christ. Where Ministries are engaged in rendering
support services, such ministries may derive some income from goods
and services offered subject to approval of the Leadership. However,
the Ministry of the gospel must be seen as a cost centre to ensure the
ministration of the gospel is free to beneficiaries.
8.0 Legal Adviser

The Assembly shall engage the services of Legal Advisers.
9.0 External Auditors

The Assembly shall engage the services of External Auditors to audit
its accounts annually. A copy of such audited Accounts shall be made
available to the Council through the office of the General Secretary.
10.0 Discipline
10.1 Purpose: The purpose of discipline in the Assembly shall be to correct

the wrong doer and to deter others from engaging and continuing
along the paths of error or sin. (I Tim. 1:20; 5:20)
10.2 Scope of Discipline:

a. The fact of discipline by the Church of any erring members
shall not be a substitute or replacement of the responsibilities
or duties of duly constituted civil authorities and vice versa.
b. No member or officer of the Assembly shall be above
disciplinary action for a contravention of the Constitution,
Byelaws, Rules and Regulations of the Assembly, or for
committing sin, or for an offence having been so adjudged by a
competent court of law.
10.3 Procedure for Discipline

a. Disciplinary action at each level of the Assembly shall be carried
out by the Executive body or Board or a disciplinary committee
at such level that may be set up.
b. The Executive body, Board or its disciplinary committee shall
investigate all matters brought to it giving all parties concerned
fair hearing.
c. The Executive body, Board or the committee report or finding
shall be submitted to the Executive body or Board as the case
may be for consideration, and appropriate disciplinary
measures taken where the party investigated is found guilty.
10.4 Restoration
The Local Assembly Leadership shall maintain contact with the
brethren under discipline with the view to encouraging them not to
yield more grounds to the enemy. The Leadership shall ensure the
restoration of the disciplined brethren as soon as there is evidence of
genuine repentance.
10.5 Sanctions
Sanctions shall be taken against any Local Assembly, Ministry and
institution of the Assembly who defaults in upholding the Constitution,
Byelaws, Rules and Regulations of the Assembly. Disciplinary action
among other things shall include:
a. The withdrawal of rights and privileges such as the refusal to
admit the representative of the defaulting bodies to meetings
of various levels.
b. EXCOMMUNICATION: This shall be taken as a last step of
discipline against individuals, groups, or bodies, within the
Assembly who persist in acts of flagrant violation of the
Constitution, Bye-Laws, rules and Regulations of the Assembly
or by holding membership of secret societies or cult, and
persistence in teaching heresy: Titus 3:10-11.
11.0 Marriage
All marriages contracted or solemnised in the Assembly shall be
governed by the provisions hereunder. No member of the Leadership
of Assembly, or a member of the Assembly, shall contravene these
provisions, within or outside the Assembly without facing disciplinary
action. Marriages contracted and solemnised in the Assembly shall be
in accordance with Christian beliefs, the Bible, the Articles of Faith and
Practice in this Constitution and as provided hereunder.
11.1 Marriage shall be recognised as a holy estate and honourable in the
sight of God (Heb. 13:4). It shall not be entered into lightly or
unadvisedly (Ephesians 5:21-33). A Christian marriage is the joining
together of two persons male and female, who having individually
confessed Jesus Christ as Saviour, and living lives worthy of His name
and have of their individual wills, entered into a permanent and life-
long one flesh bond between one man and one woman in a lawful
way as husband and wife. This union is binding until the death of one
or the other of them. (Genesis 1:27; 2:24; Matthew 19:6; 1 Cor.
7:27a).

11.2 The Leadership of the Local Assembly shall constitute a Panel to
interview the brother and the sister intending to marry, to
ensure:
a. That both parents have given their consent to the proposed marriage
of their son and daughter. The consent shall be in writing.
b. That the brother has fully paid the dowry/bride price and also
complied with the demands of his would-be in-laws, based on the
scriptures except in cases where the parents of the bride to be do not
insist on payment of dowry
c. They are believers with Christian testimony
d. They are convinced of God’s leading to marry
e. They have not known each other sexually, contrary to the word of
God
f. Neither of them has promised marriage to another person at the
same time.
g. They have had proper marriage counselling
11.3 The Interview Panel’s findings shall be submitted to the Leadership for
ratification.
11.4 No announcement will be made to the congregation, until the brother

and the sister have been interviewed and the Leadership is satisfied
that the Assembly can identify with the proposed wedding. A
minimum of four Sunday morning service announcements following
each other must be made by the Church Secretary or a member of
the Leadership; with the man and the woman standing up on the first
occasion for the congregation to recognise them. There is no
provision whatsoever for emergency wedding at short notice.
11.5 The Assembly shall make necessary arrangement for the Officiating
Ministers. It may approve that a guest speaker be invited to speak
during the wedding service.
11.6 Reception shall be an entirely private arrangement by the couple if
they decide to hold it. Alcohol must not be served during the
occasion.
11.7 Marriages shall be contracted in the Assembly under the provisions of
the Marriage Act of Nigeria. To this end, the Assembly shall ensure
that the intending marriage couple satisfies this civil regulation.
11.8 Marriage in the Assembly shall be solemnised in designated places of
worship, and by the members of the Leadership, as officiating
ministers in the presence of at least two or three witnesses.

11.9 The Assembly Marriage Certificate shall bear the marks and/or
signatures of the couple, two officiating ministers, and two or more
witnesses, including the parent or their representatives.
11.10 No member of the Assembly shall reproduce or produce Assembly
Marriage Certificates for his own use, or for use by any other person
or persons.
11.11 Any member of the Assembly not yet joined in holy matrimony, but
engages in the act or acts of unchastity or loose living, shall be
subject to church discipline. In view of this, the Assembly shall not
knowingly join together in holy matrimony a couple when the bride-
to-be is already pregnant, or when both have committed fornication.
In like manner, disciplinary action shall be taken against any member
in the Assembly, though married, who commits acts of adultery (I
Corinthians 5:11; 6:18-20; 7:8-9, Hebrews 13:4).
11.12 No members who having satisfied customary requirement of marriage
and have started to live as husband and wife shall expect to be
wedded by the Assembly thereafter.
11.13 The Assembly shall not join in holy matrimony
i) a Christian and a non-Christian (II Corinthians 6:14-18); and
ii) non Christians
11.14 The Assembly shall not join in holy matrimony, persons who have
been married and divorced, and whose previous marriage partner is
still living. (Mark 10: 11, 12; I Corinthians 7:10, 11).
11.15 The Assembly shall not permit members to contract another marriage
whether inside or outside the Assembly while the previous partner or
partners are still alive, whether or not the previous partner or partners
have re-married. A divorcee who re-marries while the previous
partner is still alive shall be committing adultery according to the Holy
Bible (Mark 10:11, 12; Romans 7:1-3, I Corinthians 7:10, 11; Malachi
2:15-16).
11.16 The Assembly shall not solemnise polygamous marriages in view of
the fact that the Christian Marriage is a one-flesh union between two
persons - one man and one woman (Genesis 1:24; Matthew 19: 4-6;
Mark 10:6-8).
11.17 The Assembly shall not under any circumstances dissolve or annul a
marriage, whether or not contracted or solemnised in the Assembly;
for “what God has joined together, let no man put asunder” (Genesis
2:24, Matthew 19:6; Mark 10:8-9).
11.18 If one or two parties in a marriage dies, the living partner shall be
free to contract another marriage (Romans 7:1-3) which marriage if

solemnised in the Assembly, shall be governed by the aforementioned
provisions.
ARTICLE 12.0: MINISTERING IN THE ASSEMBLY

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are for the edification of the Body of Christ
(Ephesians 4:11-12). Through their proper exercise, the Lord makes
increase of the Body unto the edifying of the Church in love
(Ephesians 4:16). Although particular individuals may by God’s grace
become truly mighty in the scriptures (Acts 18:24-28); or regarded as
pillars in the church (Galatians 2:9) , or respected as chief men
among the brethren (Acts 15:22), the New Testament does not
present us with one man authority in the Assembly.
12.1 The Assembly shall therefore encourage her members blessed with
Spiritual gifts to edify the body and serve God through the Gospel
Ministries, and by appropriate plans and programmes set up by the
leadership of each Local Assembly. The gifts of the Spirit include:
Faith, Administration, Care, Pastors/Teachers, Evangelists, Wisdom,
Knowledge, Discernment, Tongues, Healing, etc.
12.2 PASTORAL/TEACHING AND COUNSELLING SERVICES: The Leadership

of each Local Assembly shall depend upon God for the identification of
members with matured Christian character who have pastoral/
teaching gifts to minister the word of God in services and meetings,
Bible studies, counselling etc by collating the names of such gifted
brethren from time to time, and working with such members to plan
and prepare suitable programmes and time table for an organised,
continuous and effective ministration in the Assembly
12.3 In like manner those gifted for evangelism or called to the mission
field for a period of time (such as during annual leave) shall have
programmes planned for them by the Assembly so that the work of
the Lord will continue to make progress.
12.4 The Assembly shall continue to uphold the universal priesthood of

believers. Consequently, the members of Leadership and the
matured believers in the Local Assembly shall continue to minister the
word of God and officiate in the sacraments of the Assembly.
ARTICLE 13.0: HANDING OVER

An officer in the Assembly shall upon relinquishing his post promptly
hand over all official properties in his custody to his superior officer or
his successor. For this purpose the officer shall prepare a
comprehensive handing over report in triplicate declaring the receipt of
the said properties and sign the report, which shall also be signed by
his superior officer and/or his successor. The original report duly
signed shall be forwarded to the appropriate Body, Board or
Institutional Head as the case may be. The remaining copies shall be
for the retiring and the relieving officers concerned. If the retiring
officer shall refuse to hand over as required, such refusal shall be
visited with a disciplinary action or the withholding of entitlements,
which ever is applicable.
ARTICLE 14.0: PARTISAN POLITICS

14.1 Any officer of the Assembly that wishes to become active in partisan
politics must first resign his appointment as such officer; otherwise
such officer shall be removed from office.
14.2 Members of the Assembly other than officers as above prescribed
shall be at liberty to participate in partisan politics at any levels they
shall decide upon.
14.3 The Assembly shall not endorse any political party nor use the forum
of the Assembly for partisan politics
ARTICLE 15.0: INCOME AND PROPERTY

All the incomes and properties of the Assembly shall be utilised for the
promotion of the aims and objectives of the Assembly as contained in
the Constitution and Byelaws, Rules and Regulations of the Assembly.
Therefore, no part or portion of them shall be directly or indirectly
transferred by way of dividend, bonus or otherwise to any members
of the Assembly. However, nothing shall prevent, in good faith, the
payment of reasonable and proper remuneration to staff or
employees of the Assembly or any of her institutions, nor prevent the
payment of interest on any legitimate transactions between the
Assembly and any members of the Assembly.
ARTICLE 16.0 AMENDMENT OF THE BYE-LAWS

The provisions regarding the amendment of the Constitution as
contained under Article 11.0 of the Constitution shall also apply to
these Byelaws.
ARTICLE 17.0 WINDING UP

In the event of the winding up or dissolution of the Assembly, all
debts and liabilities of the Assembly shall be settled and whatever
property or money is left shall be given or transferred to some other
institution(s) having similar objectives with the Assembly. Such
transfer shall not be made unless the members of the Assembly shall
have determined at the winding up that such institution(s) is a fit and
proper institution to benefit from the property or money of the
Assembly.
POLICIES
(1) MISSIONARY POLICY
1.0 PREAMBLE
The Lord Jesus in Mark 16:15 commands us to go “into the entire
world and preach the gospel to every creature”. If the gospel is to
be taken to the entire world, it means that mountains and rivers
must be crossed. Cultural, educational and other barriers must be
crossed. The rural and urban populace must be reached. The task is
so enormous and highly demanding that in order to achieve a
meaningful result, consideration has to be given to having full - time
or career Missionaries.
Missionaries who will be able to go purposefully to evangelize
a field, making disciples of men, women and children there, who
also will be able to spread the good news wherever they go, some
of who can provide leadership in their own areas which they are well
familiar with. The approach of the Missionaries of the early church
and those that came to evangelize Nigeria will be worthy of
emulation as we seek to obey the Lord’s command. Every Missionary
shall therefore note that he is first and foremost responsible to God.
2.0 OBJECTIVES
The focus of going into Missions shall be:-
(i) To win souls
(ii) To establish local assemblies
(iii) To strengthen the existing ones
3.0 MISSIONS BOARD

3.1 The Church Council shall establish a Missions Board whose
membership shall be drawn from the Assembly.
3.2 The Church Council shall dissolve and reconstitute the Board at the
end of each term of three years.
3.3 A member shall not serve more than two consecutive terms.
3.4 The Board shall monitor Missionary activities and make report to the
Church Council.
3.5 The Board shall prepare Annual Budget for mission work and
present it to the Church Council for approval.
3.6 There shall be four signatories to the Missionary Fund Account
made up of two groups:
GROUP A - The General Secretary and the Accountant of the
Secretariat.
GROUP B - The Chairman and Secretary of the Missions Board
The signature of one signatory from each group shall be necessary
for all banking transactions.
3.7 The Board shall identify viable Missions Fields and make necessary
arrangement for commencement of Mission work.
4.0 PROCEDURES FOR RECOGNITION/APPOINTMENT OF MISSIONARY

4.1 Candidates for recognition/appointment as Missionaries must have
had a clear call from God.
4.2 Such appointment shall be in accordance with Assembly’s guidelines
on employment
4.3 Candidates must pass through prayerful scrutiny of the Leadership
of the Local Assembly and be finally accepted by Church Council.
5.0 PREPARATION
Before a Missionary recognized/appointed by the Assembly departs
for his Mission field, the church shall:-
5.1 Pray for the person called and the Ministry.
5.2 Counsel with him.
5.3 Organize an induction course where the person called shall be
taught on:
- The Constitution of the Assembly
- Mission work
- Church Administration
5.4 Organize a SEND - FORTH service.
6.0 POSTING
The scope of mission activities is large and this may warrant
movement of missionaries from their duty posts. A Missionary shall
therefore be subject to posting as the need arises on the
recommendation of the Missions Board, which shall be approved of
by the Church Council.
7.0 DUTIES OF A MISSIONARY

7.1 A Missionary shall be required to evangelise his Mission Field -
through witnessing organizing evangelistic crusades: etc.
7.2 He shall disciple new converts
7.3 He shall organize regular fellowship
7.4 He shall regularly liaise with Missions Board on the progress on
the Mission field.
7.5 He shall study the culture and custom of the people in order to be
able to relate well with them.
7.6 He shall submit to the Missions Board quarterly Report of his
activities in the mission Field.
8.0 WELFARE
8.1 Salaries of Missionaries shall be paid in accordance with the existing
salary structure approved by the Church Council.
9.0 FUNDING
9.1 A Missionary Fund shall be maintained in accordance with the
Assembly’s financial policy.
9.2 The Missionary Fund shall be used exclusively for Mission work.
9.3 The Mission Board shall ensure that each Local Assembly effects
payments of its contributions as herein for provided.
9.4 Brethren shall be encouraged to give in support of Mission work.
10.0 TRAINING
10.1 As far as possible, a system of training shall be provided for all
categories of missionaries of the Assembly.
10.2 Missionaries shall receive such training as may from time to time be
recommended by Missions Board and approved by the Church
Council.
11.0 ACCOUNTABILITY
11.1 It shall be the aspiration of every Missionary of the Assembly to seek
holiness of character and life after the pattern of Christ and the
teaching of the New Testament
11.2 In the light of this, a Missionary shall be accountable to the Church
Council through the Missions Board.
12.0 DISCIPLINE
12.1 Church discipline has to be exercised for the spiritual and moral
welfare of the whole Local Assembly and of erring members and to
maintain a truly Christian witness to the community. Discipline must
be so exercised, as not to forget mercy, mercy must be so practised
as not to be remised. Whenever disciplines is exercised an effort
should be made to help the missionary to understand why he has
been disciplined so that the act of discipline itself may well readily
advance his spiritual welfare and growth.
12.2 A Missionary shall be subject to discipline if he:
12.2.1 does not faithfully continue to discharge the obligation laid
upon him by the Church Council; which the Assembly has
received from the Lord Jesus Christ to testify to the gospel
of the grace of God.
12.2.2 deviates and ceases to uphold the Assembly’s Constitution
and Bye-Laws
12.2.3 is adjudged incompetent of discharging his Mission’s duties.
12.2.4 fails to exercise self-control and discipline.
12.3 When an allegation is made against any Missionary, and the
Missions Board is satisfied that the case should be pursued and the
Missionary denies the allegation, he shall defend himself before the
Missions Board, which shall hear the allegation, the evidence and
the defence. After full and prayerful discussion, in the spirit of
paragraph (12.1) above, the Board shall reach a decision. If this is
such to require disciplinary action, the Board shall make its
recommendation to the Church Council.
12.4 Where the Missionary accepts the allegation levied against him, the
Missions Board shall carryout full investigations and make
appropriate recommendations to the Church Council.
12.5 The Missions Board shall communicate to the Missionary its
recommendations to the Church Council.
12.6 A missionary who has been recommended for discipline has the right
to appeal to the Church Council. Such an appeal must be through
the Missions Board, which shall forward it, with its own comment to
the Church Council.
All appeal shall be made within one month of the recommendation
of the Missions Board to the Church Council. The Church Council’s
decision shall be final.
(2) CHURCH PLANTING POLICY
1.0 THE CHURCH AND THE LOCAL ASSEMBLY
1.1 The Church

“The Church of the living God” (I Tim. 3:15) refers to the assembly
of called out ones throughout the world. Individuals become
members of the church following personal faith in the Lord Jesus
Christ (John 1:12, 13; Eph. 2:8) through the working of the Holy
Spirit (Romans 8:9,16).
1.2 Its Head And Members
The Bible speaks of the church, among others respectively, as:
1.2.1 A Body, whose Head is Christ (Eph. 1:22, 23)
1.2.2 A Household, with members all under Christ (Eph. 2:19)
1.2.3 A Building, the corner stone being Jesus Christ (Eph. 2:20)
1.2.4 A Bride, being prepared for Christ the Bridegroom (Rev. 19:7; 21:9)
1.3 The Local Assembly

The one invisible Church has its members gathering regularly in
place, such as No. 14 Borno Road, Kaduna. In such a Local
Assembly, there are visible members of the one church; but only the
Lord knows those who are truly His (II Tim. 2:19).
1.4 THE ASSEMBLY

As an Assembly, it maintains an evangelical and missionary identity
and emphasis. The Assembly insists on Biblical authority for its
convictions and practices. It owns only Christ as Head, and takes
directives from no other body; it also depends on Christ alone.
Brethren from the Assembly freely fellowship with, minister to and
are blessed also through spiritual ministry by known believer.
Hebrews 10:24-25)
1.5 FELLOWSHIP AMONG CHURCHES

Assemblies in the New Testament had much in common. They
enjoyed fellowship in doctrine (II John 9-11), ministered to
others in material need (I Cor. 16:1-3), and encouraged individuals
who travelled about ministering the Word (III John 6). Church
planting among the assemblies will be strengthened through such
practical expressions of unity among us.
2.0 BIBLICAL CHURCH PLANTING
2.1 Early Assemblies

The Lord who has promised to build His Church Himself (Matt.
16:18) saw to it that new souls were added to the early Church
(Acts 2:47;5:14), and graciously continues to do so. Believers
normally begin to meet in small groups: households, secret cave
meetings during persecution, Bible study or prayer fellowship -
whatever way the Lord brings two or three together in His name. In
the early church, many meetings were probably small, taking place

in homes (Philemon 2). At Ephesus, on the other hand, it seemed
they even rented a schoolroom or hall to start with (Acts 19:9).
2.2 Later Assemblies

With the visible church growing more comfortable and officially
accepted, large assemblies and property ownership become
possible. New crusade - types evangelism also meant new problems;
and emphasis on numbers for measuring success in outreach and
church growth developed. Missionary effort in other lands brought
into prominence competition for government recognition. Not all
these have helped the Church's testimony to the world.
2.3 The Assembly On Church Planting

The picture we get from the New Testament, study of the situation
around us, and the Assembly's own experience lead us to the
following position and recommendation: Based on the foregoing, the
Assembly will adopt the following guidelines:
2.3.1 Believers in a locality should prayerfully begin to meet in a home or
any other available places as the Lord grants them the conviction,
especially those who are in places where the Assembly does not
exist.
2.3.2 Assemblies are established: Through evangelism or two or three
brethren who are led to such a local Assembly.
2.3.3 They should embark on soul winning rather than erect a building
first.
2.3.4 Ministry of the word and other spiritual responsibilities are primarily
those of brethren in the Local Assembly, with others available to
help.
2.3.5 The gifts of the Holy Spirit are "for the edifying of the body of
Christ" (Eph. 4:11). Through the proper exercise, the Lord “maketh
increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love” (Verse 16).
2.3.6 Brethren in the Assemblies receive the necessary gifts for ministry
from Christ the Head, (Eph. 4:1-13), and as such should be
encouraged to recognize their gifts and use them for the edification
of the Church.
2.3.7 Although particular individuals may, by God's grace, become truly
“mighty in the scriptures”, Acts 18:24-28 or regarded as pillars in
the Church (Galatians 2:9), or respected as "chief men among the
brethren" (Acts 15:22), the New Testament does not present us
with one – man authority in the Assembly.
2.3.8 A Local Assembly should maintain contact and fellowship with other
Assemblies commending members in writing as appropriate (Acts
18:27). Also older Assemblies should be encourage to establish
fellowship with the new ones to build them up along with Assembly’s
principles.
3.0 ASSEMBLY LEADERSHIP

3.1 Leadership in the local Assembly shall not be a one - man. As we are
warned against “being lords over God’s heritage” (I Peter 5:3)
3.2 Elders and Deacons which constitute the leadership of the Local
Assembly shall be appointed as the Holy Spirit leads and shall be
recognized by the Local Assembly (Acts 6:3, 13:1-4, I Tim 3:1-3;
Tit.1:5-9).
3.2.1 The evangelist, or missionaries or any other brethren used of
the Lord to start an Assembly should appoint elders and
deacons as the Holy Spirit leads (Titus 1:5-9).
3.2.2 The elders and deacons in existing Assembly who constitute
the leadership should appoint elders and deacons as the Lord
leads them. (Acts 13:1-4, Acts 6:1-7).
3.2.3 In all cases, the criteria should be as laid out in 1 Tim. 3:1-13
4.0 SUMMARY
In summary the Assembly shall ensure the following:
In order that none would tamper with the One and only Headship
position of Christ over His Church, and to ensure that each Assembly
is led by the Holy Spirit, we should:
4.1 Allow gifted brethren to minister around the Assemblies.
4.2 Avoid one-man ministry and authority situations.
4.3 Encourage the development of gifted younger brethren.
4.4 Insist on evident spiritual qualifications for service in the Assembly.
4.5 Strengthen younger Assemblies through fellowship in ministry.
(3) WELFARE POLICY
1.0 PREAMBLE
1.0 DEFINITIONS
1.1 Welfare is assistance provided, support, help given to the one who
needs it to enhance his or her good health, happiness, prosperity,
joy and encouragement. Areas of such needs include:
- Burial, Thanks giving, Marriage, Widow/Fatherless, Jobless/ Sick/
Persecuted
1.2 Membership of the Assembly refers to any brother or Sister that
Breaks Bread. The Definition of this term is important as it touches
on the sole beneficiary of the scheme. Where he/she does not
Break Bread, the Leadership of the Local Assembly shall decide on
appropriate assistance.
2.0 BEREAVEMENT AND BURIAL
2.1 Corpse To Be Buried At Immediate Locality

When a member of the Assembly sleeps in the Lord, the Assembly
should bear the following responsibilities:
i. Identify the next of kin of the deceased.
ii. Appoint not less than two brethren who are of good report to liaise
with the next of kin in all matters that relate to the burial.
iii. Release Money to church representatives above in company of the
next of kin for the preservation and preparation of the corpse for
burial.
iv. The church shall provide the sum of = N 20,000 as its assistance
towards final interment of the deceased. This shall be subject to
annual review by Council.
v. Arrange for the grave digging.
vi. Programme of events of burial.
a. Organise the burial service
b. Return to the residence of the deceased from the burial
ground for prayer and condolence.
c. Three nights consecutive meetings at the local residence of
the deceased by the Assembly, before burial.
2.2 Corpse To Be Buried Outside Immediate Locality

The following shall apply in addition to 2.1 above (where applicable)
for any corpse to be buried outside immediate locality.
i. A short service shall be arranged to hold at the mortuary premises
before the departure of the corpse to its destination.
ii. Appoint two representatives to accompany the corpse on the
journey, notwithstanding the number of other brethren who may
wish to accompany the deceased on the journey at their expense.
iii. They should liaise with the next of kin at home and deal with/issues
and situations in the light of the scripture
iv. Bear the cost of transporting and feeding the two appointed
representatives to and fro plus the cost of accommodation for not
more than two nights.
v. All the welfare suggested points above are in addition to the
supports and assistance of groups of individual members of the
Assembly as the spirit leads.
vi. It is deemed as above that the deceased shall have been given a
decent burial but relatives of the deceased shall be free to do as they
please, and where they insist, without hindrance or let. (The
Assembly shall participate only with things that are in line with
Scripture)
Note:
The two representatives suggested above must be matured and of
good report. They should be able to perform or conduct burial
service. They shall at the end of the activities feed the leadership
back on their representation and shall render due account.
3.0 JOY AND THANKSGIVING

Members are encouraged to invite brethren to celebrate joyous
occasions and thanksgiving to God in the Assembly or in their
residence. It should be done in consultation with the leadership of
the Local Assembly
4.0 MARRIAGE
4.1 A Bible shall be presented to every wedded couple as a gift.
5.0 THE WIDOW(ER)/ORPHANS/AGED

The Assembly shall discharge its responsibility to widow(er)s,
orphans, and aged brethren as follows:-
5.1 Names of the brethren concerned shall be compiled
5.2 The level of needs shall be ascertained.
5.3 Assistance or support shall be given to them based upon the level of
need and according to available resources.
6.0 OTHERS
6.1 This category of the needy consists of the jobless, the sick and
those who are facing persecution of one kind or the other due to
their faith or belief in the Lord Jesus Christ.
6.2 The Assembly shall discharge its responsibility towards them as
follows:
6.3 The genuineness of need shall be determined.
6.4 The level of needs shall also be ascertained.
6.5 Support or assistance shall be given based upon the level of need
and the resources available
Note:

6.6 The suggested support/assistance above shall be in addition to the
help or assistance that any group or individuals are ready or willing to
give under God.
7.0 IMPLEMENTATION MODALITY

The burden of implementation of the above is naturally borne on
finance. Therefore the following guidelines for funding shall be
adopted:
7.1 Establishment of welfare fund in each local Assembly to which
members are to be encouraged to make their donations.
7.2 Other donations that shall be made from time to time by groups or
individuals.
8.0 CHANNEL OF IMPLEMENTATION

For smooth and effective implementation of these guidelines the
following organs shall be constituted:
8.1 Welfare Committee at each local Assembly level.
8.2 The Welfare Committee shall function and be allowed to solve all
welfare-related problems at the local Assembly level.
8.3 The Committee shall liaise with other Assemblies for cases that
cannot be solved at the local level
8.4 The Committee shall be free to co-opt other members for specific
functions.
8.5 The Leadership shall supervise the activities of the Welfare
Committee
(4) MARRIAGE POLICY
The following are guidelines for all counseling, interviews and precepts
needed in all preparations for weddings and in all marital issues for
brethren in the Assemblies.
1.0 PRE – WEDDING REQUIREMENTS AND COUNSELLING

1.1 Parental Involvement
Brethren intending to be joined together in holy matrimony
(hereinafter referred to as “intending couples”) at any of the
Assemblies are required to inform their parents early enough before
involving the Church Leadership
1.2 Early Notification of the Assembly

Intending couple or their parents shall inform the Assembly
Leadership in writing not less than one month before any traditional
ceremony or formal betrothal.
Intending couple shall note as follows:

a) The Assembly forbids all traditional rituals involving invoking of
ancestral or familiar spirits in the form of kola nut breaking, wine
pouring, etc (1 John 5:21)
b) The Assembly also totally forbids serving of alcohol.
c) Pre-marital sex and any provision of occasions to gratify fleshly lust/
temptations (Romans 13:4) are not allowed, even at this stage of
courtship: i.e. the veil must be worn (Gen. 24:64-65) in spite of the
betrothal or traditional wedding
d) The intending couple’s moderation, in all the above should be made
known – Phil. 4:5
1.3 Legal Requirement

In compliance with the law of the land, after the leadership has
interviewed the intending couple, a letter given to them by the
Church Secretary shall be submitted to the Marriage Registry. They
shall thereafter submit a copy of the Registrar’s Certificate to the
Church Secretary for filing.
2.0 FINANCIAL INVOLVEMENT IN WEDDING

2.1 Moderation in Wedding Expenses (Phil. 4:5)
Moderation in terms of wedding expenses should be the watchword
here. Thus intending, and our young people generally, shall be
counselled to minimise wedding expenses and be pointed to the
greater financial commitments that follow the wedding i.e. in the
marriage proper (1 Tim. 5:8)
2.2 Cautions
Prospective couples shall be encouraged, when planning their
wedding, to guard against the following:
a) Competition: The temptation to do the wedding like other previous
persons should be avoided (2 Cor. 10:12).
b) Borrowing: While it may not be easy to avoid advancing some
money in many weddings,
young people shall be counselled to do their wedding within the
limits of their resources. The borrowing or hiring of used but clean

wedding costumes, like the wedding gown (for brides) may,
however, be encouraged.
c) Taxing/Levying Others
i) While general appeals may be made, the financial involvement
of other brethren, in wedding, should be left to the discretion,
willingness or capabilities of such brethren.
ii) Parents whose children are to be involved in bridal trains
should not be made target of special levies, e.g. for dress-
making
d) Bridal Train
Young people should be counselled that a wedding can be
beautifully and happily conducted without a bridal train (i.e. the
usual entourage of bridesmaid, flower girls, page-boys, little bride
etc.)
e) Photographs
While a few photographs may be necessary for record purposes,
young people should be advised that a wedding could be very
successfully conducted without the conventional long list of groups
to be photographed before reception
f) Reception
Necessary as people may think the wedding reception is, intending
couples should realise that a wedding can be happily and
successfully conducted without a reception.
g) Wedding Invitation Cards
Any intending couple that cannot afford the printing of the usual
fanciful postcard as wedding invitation, can either produce a good
quantity of simple invitation letter, or simply make it a church
announcement for several (or even few) weeks.
3.0 WEDDING PROCEDURE

After all the necessary pre-wedding requirements and counselling, as
detailed in the foregoing, have been met by and given to the
intending couple, the following is the procedure for joining couple in
holy matrimony at any of the Assemblies.
3.1 Pre – wedding Arrangements

All pre – wedding arrangements likely to involve or affect the
Assembly in any way are to be fully discussed with the Secretary.
Note: Only the Wedding Service itself may hold inside the Church.
The other occasion that may take place within the premises of the
Church, upon request, is a Reception – when suitable facilities exist.

3.2 Date/Time of Wedding
The Day/Date and Time will be decided upon through discussion with
the Secretary of the Church.
3.3 Announcements
A minimum of four Sunday Morning Service announcements
following each other must be made by the Secretary of the Church,
with the man and woman standing up on the first occasion for the
congregation to recognise them.
3.4 Wedding Invitation Cards and Order of Service

Wedding Invitation Cards, Order of Service, and any other
publications related to the wedding may be printed and distributed
only upon receiving approval, through the Church Secretary, of a draft
that conforms to Assembly’s beliefs and practices.
3.5 The Wedding Service

The officiating ministers are free to obtain the assistance of brethren
known to the Assembly as approved by the Leadership.
3.6 The Reception

Wedding Reception is optional. Where it holds, it is an entirely
private arrangement by the couple, but shall conform to the belief
and practices of the Assembly.
3.7 Wedding Photographs/Video coverage

These are optional and private matter for the couple to arrange.
4.0 POST – WEDDING/MARRIAGE COUNSELLING

Bearing in mind the usual attendant problems encountered by new
couples, during their adjustment period, and by couples generally, in
the reality of two different individuals sharing the joys and pains of
life together, the following counselling provisions should be put in
place for married brethren in the Assemblies:
4.1 Family Marriage Counsellors

Every newly wedded couple shall be assigned to a family in the
Assembly (preferably in the particular/local Assembly concerned)
who shall keep close to and thus follow – up the new couple in all
practical aspects of the marital relationship – Tit. 2:3-8.
4.2 Spending of Quality Time Together

Young couples shall be counselled to see the need to spend good
quality time together – going to as many places and doing as many
things as possible together. This will help the new couple to know
each other quickly and properly and so adjust very well. In this
respect also, where possible, long distant courses of study, transfer,
etc, should be avoided. Deut. 24:5
4.3 Need for Happy and Safe Sexual Relationship

a) Basic Hygiene
New (and even the older) couples shall be counselled to maintain
high level of cleanliness, by observing the basic rules of hygiene in
their sexual relationships, to avoid infection, and in their home
generally, for their good health – 2 Cor. 7:1
b) Right Conjugal/Sexual Attitudes

Couples (New and old) shall be counselled to rightly, fully and
selflessly exercise their conjugal rights to ensure satisfactory and
happy sexual relationship – 1 Cor. 7:1-5; Prov. 5:15-21.
c) Child Spacing and Birth Control

To avoid undue proliferation of children, couples shall be counselled
to seek guidance on how to space and so control the number of
children using safe birth control techniques.
4.4 Need for Sound Home Economy

a) Gainful Training/Employment
Couples shall be counselled and encouraged to be gainfully trained
and/or employed – i.e. not to “eat the bread of idleness …” Prov.
31:13-20, 27,20:13; 24:33-34; 2 Tim. 3:10, Eph. 4:28. The same
shall be taught to their children if and when they come and grow.
b) Prudent Spending
Couples shall be counselled to guard against extravagant spending
and all forms of wastefulness – John 6:10-13.
c) Divine Investment
Couples shall be counselled to learn to invest in God – Luke 18:28-
30, Matt. 19:20, 6:33-34; Mal. 3:13-18
4.5 Right Attitude to In-Laws

a) Parents – In Law

i) Couples should be counselled to trust God to accept both parents in
an effort to “honour … father and … mother” when the need
arises, so that they will not miss the promised blessings Eph.
6:2
ii) Couples should be counselled to learn to "leave father and mother"
(Gen. 2:24), but to remember to “honour father and mother”
(Exodus 20:12)
b) Other Relations
Couples shall be counselled to adopt the principle of “… your people
shall be my people…” (Ruth 1:16) as much as is practicable
4.6 Right Attitude to the Blessing of Children

a) Acceptance of All Children
Couples shall be counselled to accept children as and when they
come in spite of family planning decisions and techniques. The
Assembly forbids the termination of pregnancies (or abortion) in the
homes – Psalm 127:3-5.
b) Patience in Case of Delays

Couples shall be counselled to trust God for patience and mutual
endurance and acceptance in case the blessing of the fruit of the
womb delays or even fails to come, so that the joy and beauty of
such marriages are not affected – Gen. 25:20-26.
c) Sound Training/Nurture
Couples shall be counselled to receive the blessing of children
gratefully and with right vision and thus provide adequately for their
safety, physical and spiritual nurture and/or training – Ex. 2:2; Is.
8:18, Gen. 18:19, Prov. 22:6.
4.7 Divorce
a) Assembly’s Stand
Couples should be counselled, warned and reminded that God, and
therefore, the Assembly hates divorce – Mal 2:16; Matt. 19:1-10.
b) In case of Divorce
Couples must be counselled that if anyone must divorce for the
woeful condition specified in the scriptures (Matt. 19:9a, 1Cor.
7:15), the person must remain unmarried for as long as the divorced
partner is alive – Matt. 19:9b, 1 Cor. 7:11-12; 39.
c) Counsel and Settlement.

Any matters tending towards separation or divorce must be referred
to the Assembly that joined the couple (preferably the officiating
minister(s) – if they are still alive and are around) for counselling and
settlement.
4.8 Mutual Trust/Confidence

a) God’s Desire
Couples should be counselled to trust God to transparently open to
each other so that the mutual trust and confidence God desires in
the home will be possible and be enjoyed by both – Gen. 2:25.
b) Areas of Trust/Confidence
Couples shall know usual, sensitive, but important aspects of their
lives where they need to trust God for openness and mutual trust.
Such areas as their incomes, accounts, and consequences of their
past that can affect their mutual joy, if otherwise uncovered – e.g.
pre-marital children, ancestral spiritual agreements (if known),
hidden chronic/genetic health problems/sickness etc. Possible
spiritual, legal and medical counselling and solutions should be
suggested/provided for all such areas that the Local Assembly may
itemise in this respect.
5.0 COMMUNICATION FORUM/MEDIUM

5.1 Counselling Committees, Sessions/Seminars
Each Assembly shall appoint a Marriage Counselling Committee that
should organise regular Marriage/Wedding Seminars at which
relevant portions of this Policy would be focused. Similar sessions
should be organised for intending couples, or hurting, older couples
as and when necessary.
5.2 Publications
Existing or new publications, shall be used as a medium to publish
either all or desired/chosen portions of the Marriage Policy so that
readers can become acquainted with them. The Marriage Policy
itself shall be published into a standard booklet, and sold to
intending and older couples for constant consultation and for
reference during counselling sessions.
(5) PUBLICATIONS POLICY
1.0 ASSEMBLY PUBLICATIONS

Assembly publications shall include the following:
1.1 Weekly Bulletin - to publish weekly programmes and
announcements; to include a gospel message. It shall be
published by individual assemblies, and distributed at Sunday Gospel
meetings for the week ahead. The Assembly Secretary shall be the
Editor
1.2 Assembly Calendar - shall be published once every year to highlight

the major programmes of the Assemblies, both individual Assemblies
and combined or joint programmes. It shall contain at least four
scriptural passages on a chosen theme for the year, as approved by
the Church Council.
The Central Planning Committee shall coordinate its production and
circulation.
1.3 Gospel Tracts: shall be published on appropriate titles written by

talented brethren. An Editorial Board shall be appointed for gospel
tracts.
1.4 Assembly Prayer Guide: A prayer guide shall be published, which

shall be updated every two years. It shall contain names, of all
members of each household, residence and office/business address
of the parents. It shall cover all married and unmarried brothers and
sisters in Breaking of Bread Fellowship and shall be produced by the
Secretariat, which shall ask for and receive necessary details from
each Assembly.
1.5 Books and Literature: Individuals, joint-authors and Assemblies

interested in publishing Christian books, pamphlets and other
literature items shall be given necessary encouragement, advice and
assistance. Authors shall bear full responsibility for all doctrinal
matters covered in such literature material. The Publication
Committee shall appoint three Editorial Advisers to assess each
manuscript submitted for consideration. The manuscript shall be
considered suitable for publication only if at least two of the
assessment reports are positive. Detail publication conditions shall
be determined and published by the Publication Committee.
1.6 Magazines
(a) The following Magazines shall be published with the general aim of
encouraging, exhorting and edifying the brethren:

i. Periodicals: published as an official quarterly bulletin of the
Assemblies. It shall contain features articles (including Bible
study/exposition notes gospel, etc), news (from Assemblies and
individuals), including reports/news; announcement of coming
events; occasional information, e.g. Assembly regular meetings,
beliefs, practices, etc; testimonies; praise/prayer items; youth
forum.
ii. Women’s magazine: published by the Women’s Fellowship of the
Assembly and devoted to Bible expositions and features on women,
family, home, children and other subjects of general interest.
(b) Each magazine shall have a seven - member Editorial Board, and
three Editorial Advisers. In addition, each Assembly shall appoint a
brother or sister who shall serve as the official Correspondent to
each magazine respectively. The Correspondent shall be responsible
for the collection, collation, and forwarding of news items, reports,
and articles from the respective Assembly for the Magazine
concerned.
2.0 AUDIO - VIDEO MINISTRY

Local Assemblies shall operate an audio/video ministry. The ministry
shall be responsible for audio/video recording, editing and
distributing of Assembly programmes, message, teachings, etc., as
may be deemed necessary. The Assembly concerned shall appoint
an Editor to co-ordinate the ministry. Editors from various
Assemblies shall constitute the Editorial Committee to co-ordinate
joint Assembly programmes.
3.0 LIBRARY
Assemblies and the Secretariat shall operate Libraries to keep
Assembly and other approved publications for easy reference. All
items for library must be inspected and approved by the Local
Assembly Leadership before they are displayed and/or circulated by
the library.
4.0 BOOKSTORES
There shall be a bookstore at the Secretariat to stock and market
Assembly publications. Local Assemblies may also operate
bookstores as may be deemed necessary.
5.0 GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

5.1 Publications Committee

The Church Council shall appoint a Publications Committee. The
Committee shall be responsible to Council for the overall supervision
of all Assembly publications. The Publications Committee shall also
monitor publications from all other sources intended for the libraries
and bookstores.
5.2 Finance
Tracts, Weekly Bulletins, and Prayer Guides shall be distributed free,
while all other publications shall carry price tags. The relevant
Editorial Board/Committee in consultation with the Assembly
Publication Committee shall determine prices, quantities and
publications schedules.
Funding of each item shall be as follows:
1. Weekly Bulletin, by respective local Assemblies
2. Tracts, Prayer Guide by Secretariat
3. Magazine, books, audio/video cassettes and calendars shall be
self- sustaining
5.3 Remuneration
Remuneration of full - time publication workers and honorarium for
all categories of workers shall be in line with Assembly’s general
financial regulations.
(6) STAFF WELFARE AND CONDITION OF SERVICE
PREAMBLE
“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any
would not work, neither should he eat” 2Thessalonians 3:10. This makes it
imperative for all staff of the Assembly to be paid in relation to the services
rendered. The Scripture saith, “Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth
out the corn. And, the labourer is worthy of his reward” I Tim. 5:18. It is the
genuine intention of the Church and its agencies to promote and improve
mutual relationship and to strive for increased productivity of member of
staff, knowing that they have a Master to account to here after. “...
Forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” I Cor.
15:58 Accordingly, this staff welfare and condition of service serves as the
official contract document between the Staff and Church Council or
Leadership of Local Assembly or Institution.
1.0 EMPLOYMENT
1.1 Recruitment

Any person seeking employment with the Assembly and its agencies
shall apply in writing and attend an interview to be conducted by a
panel constituted by the Church Council or the Local Assembly
Leadership, or Board, as the case may be. Based on their
recommendation a letter of appointment shall be issued to the
successful candidate
1.2 Probation
All staff so engaged shall undergo a probationary period of six
calendar months during which the appointment may be terminated
by either party giving a month notice or equivalent basic pay in lieu.
However the probation may be extended at the instance of the
Council or Local Assembly Leadership or Board of Directors or
Management. On successful completion of probation, an employee
shall be informed in writing of his confirmation and shall be deemed
to have been employed from the original date of employment. In
this case date of employment is defined as the date the employee
assumes duty.
1.3 Staff Categorization

Staff members shall be recognized in these three categories
Grade 1-5 Junior Staff
Grade 6-9 Senior Staff
Grade 10-12 Management Staff
1.4 Hours Of Work

The standard hours of work for basic pay shall be forty (40) hours
per week, which shall be spread over five (5) days as follows:
Monday - Friday 8.00am to 5.00pm with one-hour break

1.00pm - 2.00pm
Public holidays/work-free days as may be declared by governments

shall be observed. These times not withstanding Management
reserves the right to ask staff to work beyond or outside the hours
of work.
1.5 Promotion
Promotion for all staff shall be the responsibility of the Church
Council or Board or Local Assembly Leadership as the case may be.
1.6 Discipline
The Church Council or Board of Directors or Leadership of Local
Assembly shall administer all disciplinary matters affecting staff as the
case may be.
1.7 Retirement
The official retirement age shall be sixty-five (65) years. However an
employee below sixty-five (65) years may retire voluntarily or may
be retired on disciplinary or health grounds with three months notice
or three months salary in lieu of notice. This notwithstanding, the
Council or Board or of Local Assembly Leadership reserves the right
to extend the service of an employee as it deem fit in writing.
1.8 Resignation
An employee on Grade Level 1-9 may resign his/her appointment by
giving one month notice or pay one month basic salary in lieu of
notice. All employees on level 10 and above shall be required to give
three months notice or pay three months basic salary in lieu of
notice.
1.9 Termination
An employee may have his/her employment terminated with one-
month notice or one-month salary in lieu of notice on any of the
following grounds:
(i) Gross insubordination or negligence of duty
(ii) Incompetence
(iii) Absconding from work.
(iv) Declining productivity
(v) Criminal conviction in a court of law
(vi) A life incompatible with Biblical teaching.
1.10 Summary Dismissal

All cases of fraud or theft or acts that are considered grievous by
the Church Council or Board of Directors or Leadership of Local
Assembly shall be regarded as an offence punishable by summary
dismissal.
2.0 ALLOWANCES
2.1 Transport Allowance
Where transport is not provided an employee shall be paid the
transport allowance on monthly basis as attached to his grade.
2.2 Housing Allowance

Where possible staff may be provided with a house. Staff not
provided with accommodation shall be entitled to housing allowances
as per his grade payable monthly.
2.3 Out Of Station Allowance

Where a staff member is required to work outside his normal station
on a temporary basis, he shall be entitled to the following rates as
outstation allowance:
Grade level 1-5 =
N 1000.00per night
Grade level 6-9 =
N 1500.00per night
Grade level 10-12 = N 2000.00per night
This amount covers lodging, feeding and local transportation. The
prevailing transport fare to and fro shall be borne by the
Management, Leadership of Local Assembly or Board of Directors.
3.0 LEAVE
3.1 Annual Leave/Leave Allowance
Leave shall be granted to an employee who has completed twelve
continuous services. Annual leave allowance shall be
determined as follows.
GL 10 -12 GL 6-9 GL 1-5
LEAVE ALLOWANCE 50% of Monthly Basic Salary
30 Working days 25 Working days 21 Working days
3.2 Casual Leave

An employee shall be entitled to a maximum of five-(5) working
days casual leave with pay within one calendar year. Where such
employee has already enjoyed his annual leave, these days shall be
deducted from his next annual leave. In the event the employee
leaves the service before the next annual leave the prorated amount
shall be deducted from his terminal benefits.
3.3 Maternity Leave

A married female employee shall be entitled to a maternity leave of
twelve (12) weeks with pay maternity leave provided she has served
for one year.
During the leave, she shall be paid full basic salary. She will not be
entitled to annual leave that year. She will however be entitled to

annual leave allowance only when her leave becomes due. Where
she is absent from work after the expiration of maternity leave as a
result of illness, certified by a registered Medical Practitioner, which
renders her unfit to work, she shall be allowed additional leaves as
recommended by the medical practitioner with pay for a period not
exceeding 6 months.
3.4 Study Leave

Where a staff, who has served for a period not less than two
calendar years, requires further training to enhance his work and
admission has been secured, the Management shall apply to the
Church Council, Leadership of Local Assembly or Board of Directors
for approval.
If approved the employee shall be entitled to either
a. Study leave with full pay or
b. Study leave with half pay.
3.5 Leave Of Absence

Where a staff requires time off due to national assignment or in
pursuit of studies not approved under study leave scheme, he shall
apply in writing with evidence to the Management. The Management
shall make recommendation to the Church Council, Leadership of
Local Assembly or Board of Directors for approval. If approved it
shall be without pay but the service period shall remain unbroken.
4.0 TERMINAL BENEFITS

4.1 Gratuity Benefit
In recognition of long service, gratuity payment shall be made to an
employee who leaves by retirement, termination, resignation or
death (NOT SUMMARY DISMISSAL) after completing a minimum of
five years continuous service. The rates shall be 70% of monthly
basic salary for each year served.
4.2 Death Benefit

Should an employee lose his/her life during his/her employment,
his/her next of kin shall be entitled to an ex -gratia payment of
Three (3) month basic salary in addition to his/her gratuity (where
applicable); and a burial expenses allowance of 6months basic
salary.

5.0 LOAN SCHEME
Loan is prerogative of Management. However in order to
enable staff members perform their duties effectively and efficiently
Management shall make money available as loan to staff from time
to time as and when funds are available. Staff loan deduction must
not be more than one-third (1/3) of his total monthly salary. No
fresh loan/advance in the same category will be granted until an
earlier loan granted has been fully repaid.
5.1 Vehicle Refurbishing Loan

All staff members may be granted vehicle-refurbishing loans as
follows or as may from time to time be determined:
Grade 1-2 Maximum of = N 5,000.00
Grade 3 -4 Maximum of = N 7,000.00
Grade 7-9 Maximum of = N 30,000.00
The repayment period shall not exceed forty-eight (48) months.
5.2 Salary Advance

Staff's members shall be allowed to apply in case of emergency for
salary advance, which should not exceed his one - month basic
salary, and shall be deductible from his monthly salary over a period
not exceeding three (3) months.
5.3 Personal Loan

A Staff member may apply for personal loan not more than three
months basic salary and this shall be recovered over a maximum
period of twelve (12) months.
SIGNED:
CONSTITUTION DRAFTING COMMITTEE
JOINT LEADERSHIP FORUM
ADOPTED/COMMENCED

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CONSTITUTION AND BYELAWS OF

ALL NATIONS CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY

Irmiya Samson Amoka

Notes for Church Leaders Orientation

All Nations Christian Assembly 1

All Nations Christian Assembly 2

ARTICLE 1.0 GENERAL PROVISION

ARTICLE 2.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

All Nations Christian Assembly 3

ARTICLE 3.0: ARTICLES OF FAITH AND PRACTICE

We believe and practise as follows:

3.1 The Holy Bible

All Nations Christian Assembly 4

3.2 The Eternal Godhead

3.3 The Person of Jesus Christ

3.4 The Holy Spirit

All Nations Christian Assembly 5

3.6 Justification by faith in Jesus Christ

3.7 Complete and Eternal Salvation in Christ

3.8 The Resurrection of the Dead and Life after Death

All Nations Christian Assembly 6

3.9 The Church

3.10 Church Ordinances

3.11 Christian Life and Service

3.12 Spiritual Gifts

All Nations Christian Assembly 7

3.13 Worship and Fellowship

3.14 Elders and Deacons

ARTICLE 4.0: ORGANISATION OF THE ASSEMBLY

4.2 The Church Council (hereinafter referred to as “the Council): The

All Nations Christian Assembly 8

4.3 The Secretariat: The Secretariat shall be headed by the General

4.5 The Membership: An individual is a member of the Assembly who

4.6. The Gospel Ministries: The Assembly being an evangelical Church

All Nations Christian Assembly 9

5.2 Secretariat: The Secretariat shall be headed by the General Secretary

5.3 Local Assembly: The following officers shall function in a Local

These shall all be Elders and Deacons in a Local Assembly as specified in

5.4 Institution’s Officers: There shall be Heads of institutions and as many

ARTICLE 6.0: MODE OF OPERATIONS

All Nations Christian Assembly 10

ARTICLE 8.0: FINANCE

ARTICLE 9.0: MARRIAGE

ARTICLE 10.0: ASSEMBLY’S PROPERTIES

ARTICLE 11.0 AMENDMENT

ARTICLE 12.0 BYELAWS

All Nations Christian Assembly 11

1.2. Appointment of Trustees

1.3 Method of Appointing Trustees

1.4 Registration of Trustees

1.5. Tenure of Office

1.6 Cessation of Office of a Trustee

1.6.2 The cessation of office of a Trustee in any of the above circumstance

2.0 The Common Seal

3.0 The Church Council

All Nations Christian Assembly 13

a. Formulating policies for the Assembly;

3.4 The Language of the Council

3.5 Procedures at Council Meetings

3.6 Notices of Council Meetings

4.0 Local Assemblies

4.1.1 Cessation of Office of a Member of Leadership

The cessation of office of a member of Leadership in any of the above