The Constitution of UCJCI With by Laws April 2021

The united church
in Jamaica and the

cayman islands
Constitution and By Laws
April 2021
The Constitution of
The United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands
Basis of Union
of
The United Church of Jamaica and Grand Cayman
and
The Disciples of Christ in Jamaica
We the regularly constituted representatives of the United Church of Jamaica and Grand Cayman and the Disciples of Christ
in Jamaica, moved by the conviction that we are united in spirit and purpose and are in agreement on the substance of the
Christian faith and essential character of the Christian life;
affirming our devotion to one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and affirming our membership in the One Holy Catholic (i.e.
universal) Apostolic Church;
do now declare ourselves to be one body, and set forth the following articles of agreement as the basis of our worship,
fellowship, life and witness to all persons throughout the world.
1. Name
The name of the Church formed by this Union shall be the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands
(hereinafter referred to as "The United Church") being the union of the United Church of Jamaica and Grand Cayman
and the Disciples of Christ in Jamaica.
2. Faith
The faith in God which unites us and to which we bear witness is that which the Scriptures of the Old and New
Testaments set forth, which the Church expressed in the ancient Creeds, Apostolic and Nicene Creeds, to which our own
spiritual antecedents gave utterance in the Evangelical Confessions of the Reformation, and which we are in duty bound
to express in the language of our time as God Himself gives us light.
3. Government
a. The United Church recognizes Jesus Christ alone as the Lord and Head of the Church.
b. The polity of the United Church is to affirm and give expression to the best features identified and practised in both
traditions.
i) In each Congregation there shall be held at least three times per year, a Congregational Meeting. All members
in full communion shall be entitled to be present and to vote. Normally, the Minister will preside. If unable to
do so, he/she has the right to name his/her own deputy. Where this is not possible, the meeting shall elect a
Chairperson from among the members.
The Congregational Meeting shall have the right to debate and deliberate upon all matters affecting the life of
the Congregation, except the following: the Communion Roll, the Sacraments, and discipline.
ii) From among the members of each Congregation there shall be elected Elders, who, along with the minister,
shall constitute the Congregational Board. The Minister or his/her nominee shall preside over the
Congregational Board.
However, in case the minister or his/her nominee be detained by any unforeseen emergency, the meeting shall
elect a Chairperson from among its members.
The Congregational Board shall be responsible for the discipline and care of the Congregation. The
Congregational Board shall be the local executive body and shall normally meet monthly.
iii) There shall be Regional Mission Councils which shall have the oversight of the whole work and witness of the
Church within specified geographical bounds. It shall be responsible for the proper workings of all
Congregational Boards and Congregations within its bounds.
The business of each Regional Mission Council shall be presided over by a Chairperson. The Regional
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Mission Council shall consist of all Ministers and Full-Time Commissioned Workers living within its
geographical bounds and a delegate or delegates from each Congregation, who will normally be a member of
the Congregational Board.
Each Congregation shall appoint annually to The Regional Mission Council at least one church delegate.
The Chairperson of each Regional Mission Council shall be appointed annually.
The Regional Council shall normally meet at least two times annually.
iv) There shall be a Synod whose membership shall consist of the members of The Regional Mission Councils or
their accredited alternates. The Synod shall be the supreme legislative and administrative body of the Church,
and shall meet biennially. Its business shall be presided over by a Moderator, who shall be elected biennially,
with the possibility of one additional term. The Synod shall administer its affairs through the Synodical
Committees. There shall be a convention-type meeting in between the meetings of Synod.
There shall be a Central Mission Council appointed by Synod to consist of the Moderator, General Secretary,
Chairpersons of Regional Mission Councils, Secretaries of Regional Mission Councils, Treasurer,
Chairperson of each Committee, one representative from each Regional Mission Council, which shall see to
the implementation of decisions and plans of Synod.
4. The Ministry
To the Church is committed the trust of proclaiming Christ in word and deed. Every member is called to participate in
the worshipping, witnessing, serving life of the whole Church. This is a part of the Priesthood of all believers.
The Ministry of Word and Sacraments, pastoral care and counselling are God's gifts to His Church. Some persons are
set apart by Ordination for this Ministry. This ordained Ministry is exercised within the Priesthood of the whole
Church.
The oversight of the preaching of the Word and the administration of the Sacraments; the pastoral care and counselling
of the people, and the provision for the perpetuation of this ministry through the rite of ordination are the permanent
functions of the ordained ministry.
Candidates for the Ministry at the time of Union shall, after the Union, have the same status as before. Those accepted
for ordination shall be commissioned and ordained as Ministers by the authority of Synod.
5. The Sacraments
Baptism
While the operations of Divine Grace cannot be limited by us, means of grace were instituted by the Lord Jesus Christ
by which we are united to God and through which God works in us. The United Church believes that the Sacraments
of Baptism and the Lord's Supper are two such means of grace.
Inasmuch as the uniting Churches have historically administered the Sacrament of Baptism through various forms, to
both infants and adults, but with a fundamental agreement as to the meaning of baptism; the United Church shall
administer baptism to infants as well as adults with water by either immersion or sprinkling in the name of the Father,
Son, and Holy Spirit. The Sacrament of Baptism shall be administered by an ordained minister, or by one who has
received authority thereto by the Church.
The Lord's Supper

The observance of the Lord's Supper by the United Church is varied, both in frequency of observance and in the
liturgical form of the service. The frequency of observance and any form of service in use by any of the uniting
Churches may be used.
The celebration of the Lord's Supper shall be entrusted to those who have been ordained, or to those who have
received authority local or Synodical, thereto by the Church.
6. Members
All persons who are members of the uniting Communions at the time of the Union, shall be members of the United
Church.
New members shall be admitted into the fellowship of the United Church through baptism/ confirmation, or profession
of faith in Christ as Lord and Saviour, or by Certificate of Transfer from other recognized denominations.
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7. Organization of Synodical Committees
The Synod of the United Church shall appoint its Central Mission Council as well as Standing Committees to carry out
its regular business.
8. Legal Obligation
Due protection shall be given to all property rights, trust funds and pension funds of the Uniting Communions. In due
time all properties and funds shall be vested in the Synod of the United Church.
9. Approval and Implementation of the Basis of Union

The basis of Union shall be submitted to the Synods of the United Church of Jamaica and Grand Cayman, and the
Disciples of Christ in Jamaica.
Each shall proceed according to its own polity in the approval or disapproval of the Basis of Union.
When the Basis has been approved by the regular action of the two Bodies, the President of the Disciples of Christ and
the Moderator of the United Church Synod shall together call a joint meeting of the Synods.
The Joint meeting, being duly called and assembled, shall receive the reports upon the Basis of Union from the two
Communions and shall declare by joint resolution, that union of the two Communions be effected at that time. The joint
meeting shall become the first Synod of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, and shall be the
successor of the Synods of the two uniting Churches.
From the time of the United Synod mentioned above, the Basis of the Union adopted shall regulate the affairs of the
Church until a constitution be worked out and adopted.
The Synod of the United Church, at its first meeting, shall take appropriate steps to ensure the continuity and to effect the
consolidation of all Boards and Agencies of the two uniting Communions, and to make effective an interim plan for their
continued operation.
10. Revision and Amendments

Revision and Amendments of the Basis of Union, while it is in force before the adoption of a Constitution, may be made
by the consent of two thirds (2/3) of the members of the Synod of the United Church duly assembled.
The Constitution of
Chapter One - The Congregation
Section 1: Rights and Duties of Members
Members of a Congregation are persons who have been received into full communion by profession of faith in Jesus
Christ as Saviour and Lord through Baptism/Confirmation or transfer or on restoration or by re-affirmation of faith in the
absence of a certificate/letter of transfer.
It is the duty as well as joy and privilege for members of the Church to attend regularly the services of the Church, to
become actively involved in all the functions of the Church, to contribute regularly and systematically to the financial
support of the Church and to enjoy or abide by the other privileges and responsibilities as contained in the By-Laws.
Members in full communion and good standing are those who faithfully perform their duties.
Members who fail to perform their duties will be considered delinquent and will stand in need of special encouragement
and counselling on the part of the Minister and Elders of the Church.
If a member is absent from Holy Communion for more than one year excepting for reasons which must be satisfactory to
the Congregational Board, that member is no longer considered to be in full communion and good standing.
Persons who have been dedicated to God by infant baptism or blessing, and adherents are under the pastoral care of the
Church and are to be considered as part of the constituents of the Church.
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Only members in full communion have a right to take part in the business of Congregational Meetings. They have direct
access to the Congregational Board with submissions. In all submissions there is an appeal to the higher Courts.
Through the Congregational Board they have access to Regional Mission Councils and through Regional Mission
Councils to Synod.
Section 2: Congregational Meetings and Congregational Board

a. The Congregational Meeting
In each Congregation there shall be held at least three times per year, a Congregational Meeting. All members in full
communion shall be entitled to be present and to vote. Normally the Minister will preside. If the Minister is unable to
do so, the meeting shall be presided over by the one of the following persons where such a person has been duly
commissioned, elected or appointed within the congregation, in the order of priority listed, namely the Associate
Minister, Lay Pastor, or Deputy Chairperson of the Congregational Board. Where this is not possible, the meeting shall
elect a Chairperson from among its members. Should the Minister or other ex-officio Chairperson aforesaid arrive late,
he/she shall assume the Chair for the remainder of the meeting. Subject thereto, the meetings shall be convened,
constituted and their proceedings conducted in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution and its Bylaws in
force from time to time.
In the event there are exceptional circumstances which require the calling of a special meeting by the Minister, it may be
called in a shorter period than hereinafter provided or notice may be waived. Otherwise, notice of all Congregational
Meetings, specifying the date, time and place of the meeting, shall be given by the Minister. This shall be announced in
the regular worship services for at least two clear Sundays preceding the date fixed for the meeting.
No business shall be conducted at a Congregational Meeting unless a quorum is present when the meeting proceeds to
business. Each congregation shall establish, by resolution duly approved at a Congregational Meeting of which notice to
pass such a resolution has been duly given as aforesaid, the quorum for its Congregational Meetings. The quorum may
be changed from time to time, to take account of the applicable circumstances of the congregation, by resolution
approved in the manner aforesaid.
Except where specifically provided otherwise in the Constitution or these Bylaws, questions shall be decided by simple
majority of the votes cast for or against a motion. Every Member in full communion and good standing present at a
Congregational Meeting shall have one vote, either by show of hands or by ballot. The chairperson of the Meeting has no
vote.
The word “Minister” as used on this Chapter One and the corresponding section of the Bylaws shall be interpreted to
include the “Interim Minister” appointed while the position of Minister is vacant in the Congregation.
b. The Congregational Board

Each Congregation shall elect or re-elect (subject to the principle of rotation set out in the By-Laws) from among its
members, suitable persons to serve as Elders for three year periods NB. Persons who were ordained as Life Elders prior
to 1972 in the former United Church of Jamaica and Grand Cayman or who were ordained as Life Elders by the former
Disciples of Christ before the union in 1992, do not cease to be Elders under the foregoing procedures, though they may
elect not to be a serving Elder for any year, by giving written notice to the Minister before the last Congregational
Meeting of the preceding year. The number of Elders to be appointed to the Congregational Board shall be determined
by the Congregation, based on its number of members and other factors considered relevant, but shall not be less than
five (5). Elections shall be held by secret ballot, each member present having one vote for each vacancy due to be filled
at the meeting.
An Elder shall be elected when at least two-thirds of those present at the Congregational Meeting at the time the Meeting
proceeded to vote voted in favour of the nominee.
Any casual vacancy occurring in the number of Elders serving in any year may be filled by election at a Congregational
Meeting in the same manner outlined above.
The Elders when duly elected and set apart, shall constitute, along with the Minister (and, where such a person is then so
serving in the Congregation, the Associate Minister or Lay Pastor), the Congregational Board. The continuing
Congregational Board may act notwithstanding any vacancy in their body. The Congregational Board shall also include,
either the President or the Secretary of the Youth Fellowship who shall sit on the Board but with no right to vote.
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Except as hereinafter otherwise provided, the Congregational Board shall be presided over by the Minister, Associate
Minister, Lay Pastor or Deputy Chairperson. There shall be a Deputy Chairperson who shall be an Elder appointed by
the Congregation and who shall preside over meetings of the Congregational Board (or portions of such meetings) as
requested so to do by the Minister, and shall also preside at meetings held in the absence of the Minister, the Associate
Minister or Lay Pastor. In the absence of all the foregoing persons, the meeting shall be presided over by the Graduate
Intern assigned to the congregation and otherwise by an Elder chosen by the meeting.
The Congregational Board shall be the local executive body, and shall normally meet monthly. Persons who are not
members of the Congregational Board may only attend by invitation.
Chapter Two - The Regional Mission Council
Section 1: Constitution and Officers
Membership
The Regional Mission Council, as a Court of the Church, shall consist of:
1. The ordained Ministers of the Congregations within the geographical bounds as fixed by Synod.
2. Ministers without Charge (A Minister without Charge is one who has been ordained, appointment approved by the Church,
and may not be in the employment of the Church but is still under the control and discipline of the United Church).
3. Retired Ministers living within the bounds of the Regional Mission Council.
4. Commissioned Ministers living within the bounds of the Regional Mission Council.
5. Commissioned Ministry Interns working within the bounds of the Regional Mission Council (Ministry Interns are students
in training who have been approved by the Synod’s Committee on Church and Ministry).
6. Commissioned or Licensed Lay Pastors serving congregations with the Regional Mission Council.
7. Congregational representatives, who shall normally be Elders, appointed biennially from each Congregation on the basis
of two representatives for the first three hundred members and one representative for each additional hundred members
or part thereof.
8. Youth Representatives, who shall be elected from the young people, and young adults in The Regional Mission Council
on the basis of three representatives from the young people and two representatives from the young adults.
9. The Regional Deputy General Secretary
10. The Programme Secretary
Corresponding Members
A Regional Mission Council may invite persons other than members, who are present at its meeting, to be
Corresponding Members. A Corresponding Member is accorded the right to speak, but not to vote on any matter before
the Court.
Regional Mission Council Executive

The Regional Mission Council Executive shall consist of the following members:
 A Chairperson, who shall preside over the Council providing strategic oversight and pastoral care for Ordained and
Commissioned Ministers and Lay Pastors
 The Immediate Past Chair
 A Deputy General Secretary who shall have overall responsibility for the Administration of the Council affairs
 Five (5) Vice-Chairs who will focus on the Mission Priorities for the Council
 One Representative from each auxiliary (Men’s Fellowship, Women’s Fellowship, Youth Fellowship and Young
Adults)
 Three other members at large.
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The Chairperson and the Vice-Chairs will be elected by the Regional Mission Council and shall normally serve for a
period of three years. The three members at large will be appointed by the Chair in consultation with the other members.
(See the By Laws, Chapter Two Section 1, for the duties of the members of the Council Executive)
Section 2: Powers and Duties (From UCJGC Constitution, Chapter 2, Section 2.)
General Oversight
1. a. The Regional Mission Council has the general oversight of all ecclesiastical matters within its bounds, subject
to the decisions of Synod.
b. The Regional Mission Council is responsible for church funds and property, guards them from injury or
improper use, and sees that Congregational property is kept in such a state of repair that the work of the Church is
unhindered.
c. The Regional Mission Council exercises oversight of Congregations within its bounds.
2. The Regional Mission Council shall promote new Congregations. It shall provide supply to Congregations either
during vacancy or in the event of illness or absence of the Minister; to take the oversight of vacant Congregations to
appoint a Chairperson to the Congregational Board when necessary; to guide a Congregation in the call of a
minister; to ascertain that all collections appointed by the Synod are made according to regulations.
Petitions, etc.
3. Regional Mission Council has the power to judge petitions from Congregational Boards,, Congregations, or
communicant members of the Church; and to review protests, appeals, complaints or overtures which are to be laid
before Synod.
4. Regional Mission Council shall recommend candidates to the Church and Ministry Committee. The Regional
Mission Council shall appoint a small committee to interview the candidate, which shall report its findings and
recommendations to The Regional Mission Council. The Regional Mission Council shall have the responsibility of
submitting a report to the Church and Ministry Committee. The Regional Mission Council shall provide guidance
and encouragement to the Candidates which they have recommended.
Ordination and Induction

5. The Regional Mission Council shall oversee probationers who are placed under that Regional Mission Council; shall
satisfy itself as to the fitness of probationers who are called to the ministry within its bounds. The Regional Mission
Council shall ordain them to office; shall induct Ministers who have been located within its bounds.
(See Appendix 1 for Ordination and Induction Procedures.)
Complaints against Ministers

[6. Transferred to section on Discipline.]
Visitation of Congregations
7. The Regional Mission Council shall have the power to visit Congregations within its bounds:
a) As a means of showing interest in and imparting stimulus to Church life and work, The Regional Mission
Council shall at least once every three years visit, by deputation or otherwise, the Congregations within its
bounds. They shall confer with the Minister, the Congregational Board, and with such organisations as are
closely identified with the life and work of the Congregations. They shall consult with the Congregations, and
shall address such counsel and encouragement as may be suitable in the circumstances.
b) At each visitation, full inquiry shall be made into the condition, efficiency and progress of the Congregation,
having due regard to all departments of Ministerial, Congregational, and mission work. A brief report
embodying the results of the visitation shall be prepared, a copy of which shall be sent to the Congregational
Board and read to the Congregation.
c) The reports of visitations along with statistical returns from Congregations visited shall be in the hands of the
Secretary of The Regional Mission Council by a date stated, at which time the reports shall be read and
carefully considered, due intimation being given to the Congregational Boards concerned.
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d) Regional Mission Councils shall report annually to Synod their diligence in this matter, specifying the
Congregations concerned.
Schedule and Records

9. The Regional Mission Council shall, at the January meeting, obtain from each Congregation the schedules issued by
Synod; and it shall ascertain that the queries set forth are fully answered and correctly tabulated.
10. The Regional Mission Council shall examine the records of each Congregation; the Communion Roll, financial
records, Minutes of the Congregational Board, baptismal records and Log Books. These records shall be attested by
the Chairperson of the Regional Mission Council at the January meeting.
Members of Synod Boards and Committees

11. At the January meeting, the Regional Mission Council shall make such nominations to the Synod Boards and
Committees as are necessary.
Section 3: Meetings and Procedures

Quorum
1. One third of the membership, at least two of whom must be Ministers and at least two of whom must be lay persons,
shall constitute a quorum.
Ordinary Meetings
2. A regular meeting is one held for ordinary business at the time and place fixed at a previous meeting of the Regional
Mission Council or according to the appointment of Synod.
Special Meetings and Emergency Special Meetings

3. A special meeting is one called for the transaction of specified business. A special meeting may be appointed by
The Regional Mission Council, in which case notice shall be given as for an ordinary meeting. If an emergency
occurs between the ordinary meeting of The Regional Mission Council, the Chairperson, or in the case of his/her
absence, or inability to act, the Secretary has the power to call an emergency special meeting of The Regional
Mission Council, either on his/her own authority or upon the requisition of at least nine of the members of The
Regional Mission Council. Notice of the emergency special meeting shall be given in writing to all members of The
Regional Mission Council seven clear days before the time fixed for the meeting. The notice must specify the time
and place of the meeting, and the object for which it is called. No business except that specified in the call to the
meeting shall be transacted at any special meeting of The Regional Mission Council.
Meetings During Synod
4. Regional Mission Councils shall not meet during the meeting of Synod, except under the authority of Synod and at
such time and place as Synod may appoint, intimation of such a meeting being publicly made.
Representation on Synod
5. The D. G. Secretary of the Regional Mission Council shall prepare and transmit to the General Secretary of Synod
the certified lists of representatives to Synod, along with their postal addresses, not later than twenty-one (21) days
before Synod.
Minute Book to Synod
6. The Minute Book of The Regional Mission Council shall be submitted to the Synod at each [biennial] meeting of the
Synod for examination.
7. The Regional Mission Council shall regulate its proceedings, as nearly as the circumstances permit by the rules of
order laid down for Synod.
Overtures
8. Notice of motion to overture the Synod should be given at a meeting of The Regional Mission Council previous to
the motion being made.
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Section 4: New Mission Stations, New Congregations, and New Buildings
New Mission Stations
1. Requests for the opening of a New Mission Station may be made by a Congregation of the Regional Mission
Council, by individuals within the bounds of the Regional Mission Council, or by a Committee of The
Regional Mission Council.
Notification of Congregational Boards
2. When a Regional Mission Council decides that the request to open a New Mission Station has merit, it shall
notify Congregational Board of the Congregation adjacent to the proposed New Mission Station to hear their
interests on the matter. Notice must be given to the Congregational Board thirty (30) days before the meeting of
Regional Mission Council at which the matter will receive consideration.
Superintendence
3. When a Regional Mission Council opens a New Mission Station, it shall appoint the Congregational Board of a
sponsoring Congregation to superintend and promote the work of the Mission Station.
New Congregations
4. Request for forming a new congregation from a mission station may be made through the relevant committee
of the Regional Mission Council by the sponsoring Charge. A new congregation may be formed only after it
has at least thirty (30) members.
Approval by the Synod
5. When a Regional Mission Council has decided in favour of forming a new Congregation, it shall forward to
the Synod a statement to the effect, together with all documents relative to the case. When Synod has given
its approval, The Regional Mission Council shall then proceed to establish the Congregation.
Assessor Elder/Deacon
6. The Regional Mission Council shall appoint Assessor Elders who shall be responsible for the oversight of the
Congregation until the Regional Mission Council approves of the election of Elders by the Congregation.
Building Location
7. When it is proposed to erect any new Church, Hall, Manse, or other building, and whether the building is on a
new site or on a site presently occupied by church buildings, the proposed site must be approved by The
Regional Mission Council before any building plans are transmitted to the Property Committee of Synod for
approval.
8. Preliminary plans for any new Church, Hall, Manse, or other building must be submitted to The Regional
Mission Council for approval before further steps are taken by the Congregation. If the preliminary plans are
approved by The Regional Mission Council, they shall then be forwarded to the Property Committee of the
Synod who shall have the responsibility of approval of the detailed plans.
Financing of Buildings
9. When preliminary building plans are submitted to The Regional Mission Council, they are to be accompanied
by an estimate of the probable cost, together with a statement of provisions for defraying these costs. The
Regional Mission Council shall not give sanction to any building plans until it is satisfied that the
Congregation is able to meet the cost involved. When the financial arrangements for the building are
approved by The Regional Mission Council, they shall be forwarded to the relevant Committee of Synod at
that time. If as more detailed plans are developed, it is found that there will be an appreciable increase in the
cost over the original estimate, the Finance Committee may refer the matter to The Regional Mission Council
for reconsideration.
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Section 5: Duties of Regional Mission Councils in Vacant Congregations
Interim Ministers
1. The Regional Mission Council shall appoint an Interim Minister to be the Chairperson of the Congregational
Board and to oversee the work of the Congregation during the vacancy.
Personnel Committee
2. The Regional Mission Council shall intimate the vacancy to the Committee of Church and Ministry with a
request for a suitable nominee.
Rolls, Records, Buildings, and Assessments
3. The Regional Mission Council shall see to it that the Congregational Roll and other records are up to date;
that the church buildings and manse are in a satisfactory order; and that the Congregational assessments are
fully met.
Nominee
4. The Regional Mission Council shall judge upon the nomination of the Committee of Church and Ministry for
the vacancy. It shall ascertain the willingness of the nominee and of the Congregation to accept the
nomination.
Induction
5. The Regional Mission Council shall be responsible for planning and executing the induction of ministers to
Charges within its bounds. (See Appendix 1 for procedure.)
Chapter Three - The Synod
Section 1: Constitution of Synod

The Synod is the Supreme Court of the Church, and consists of all members of The Regional Mission Councils.
a. Functions:
The functions of the Synod are judicial, legislative and administrative. It gives judgement in cases which are brought
before it. It deliberates on matters which concern the whole Church in her doctrine, worship, discipline, government
and administration and declares the Church's decision on any such matter. The Synod makes rules for the regulation
of its own procedure and the procedure of the lower Courts. It inspects Regional Mission Councils, examines records,
takes care that they observe the rules and procedures of the Church, exhorts Regional Mission Councils, appoints full-
time workers for Synod ventures, regulates and superintends the training of students for the Ministry, seeks to promote
the unity of the Congregations under its care, maintains correspondence with Partner Churches at home and abroad,
directs the missionary work of the Church and promotes the extension of the Gospel throughout the world. It assesses
the Congregations through Regional Mission Councils in order to provide funds for carrying on this work.
b. Declaration of Synod:
The Synod from time to time declares the mind of the Church in matters of doctrine, worship, discipline and
government in order to determine and regulate its constitution and laws. This may be done by a Declaratory Act,
which declares for the guidance of the Church what the Synod holds to be the law of the Church on any point on which
questions have been raised. Such a Declaratory Act referring to doctrine or constitution must be sent down to The
Regional Mission Councils, but on matters of difficulty should be sent to The Regional Mission Councils under the
Referral Act, before Synod passes them into the law, at least one year later.
c. Rights of Review:
The Synod has a general right of review extending to decisions and resolutions of Regional Mission Councils and
matters brought before it by reference, by protest and appeal, by protest and complaint and by dissent.
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d. Examination of Records:
The Synod receives, in the manner prescribed, annual reports from all Regional Mission Councils concerning the life
and work of the Church. The Synod exercises the right of review through the periodical examination of the records of
Regional Mission Councils. The Synod examines these records either by itself or by a Committee or Committees.
1. It pronounces judgement as to the correctness and accuracy with which each record is kept, requires serious errors
to be rectified and instructs Regional Mission Councils as to improvements that may be adopted in their mode of
conducting business.
2. It may for sufficient reasons review and recall any decision of a Regional Mission Council appearing on record. The
Synod may order sections of The Regional Mission Council's record to be deleted or amended. This may be carried
out by the Regional Mission Council or General Secretary of Synod under the order of Synod. The minutes of
Synod ordering the deletion must be inserted in the record. Before pronouncing any judegment with respect to any
deliverance of a Regional Mission Council or before ordering the Minutes of a Regional Mission Council to be
altered the Synod must hear the Regional Mission Council.
3. The Synod may find that a certain procedure of a Regional Mission Council has been ultra vires or contrary to the
rules of the Church and may declare it to be null and void or order the Minutes to be altered. Before doing so it
must hear the Regional Mission Council.
4. If it appears to the Synod that a Regional Mission Council has failed to deal with a matter that calls for enquiry, the
Synod may instruct the Regional Mission Council to proceed in the matter according to the laws of the Church; and
may where it seems desirable, appoint Assessors to assist the Regional Mission Council.
(The Regional Mission Council exercises a like right of review over Congregational Boards)
e. Open Court:
This Synod is an open Court but has a right to deliberate in private, when this is considered necessary.
f. Committee of Whole House:

The Synod for the greater freedom of discussion has the power of resolving itself into a Committee of the whole house,
in which case the Moderator leaves the chair and a Chairperson is appointed.
A separate Minute is taken of the proceedings of the Committee. When the Synod resumes, the Moderator takes the
chair and the Minutes of the Committee are read. The resolution or resolutions formed by it are then read and without
discussion are approved and sanctioned as the determination of the Synod.
g. Remit to a Committee:
The Synod reserves to itself the right of sending any cause brought before it, to a Committee to consider the matter and
to report to the Court.
Section 2: Officers of Synod

1. Moderator:
a. Office of Moderator
The Synod is presided over by a Moderator whose duty it is to open and close each sitting with prayer, to preserve
order, to declare the decisions of the Court, to administer censure, and generally to ensure that all the proceedings
are conducted according to the rulesCthe Synod supporting him/her in the exercise of his/her authority.
The Moderator has no deliberative vote, but in cases of equality he/she has a casting vote. He/She is not entitled to
make a motion or speak on any subject before the Court unless he/she leaves the chair when any case in which
he/she is a party is under consideration. In such circumstances or when the Moderator is absent, the immediate past
Moderator present presides: failing which the Synod appoints one of its members to occupy the chair.
Constitution Page 10
During his/her term of office the Moderator shall provide spiritual leadership for the Church. The Moderator
through the Central Mission Council shall have the responsibility to take new initiatives and to represent new ideas,
new challenges, and new programmes to extend the Church's expression of its understanding of ministry and
mission.
b. Duties of Moderator
Other duties of the Moderator are found in the By Laws.
c. Election of Moderator
The Moderator shall be elected by the Synod [through the majority of the Regional Mission Councils in
accordance with the procedure prescribed in the Bye Laws and shall serve for a period of two years. He/She
shall be eligible for re-election for an additional period of two years but shall not serve for a period of more
than four consecutive years.
d. Past Moderators:
If for any reason the Moderator is unable to fulfill any of his/her functions, the most recent past Moderator
shall act as Moderator.
2. General Secretary
There shall be a General Secretary of the Synod who shall be called by the Synod in accordance with the
Procedure prescribed in the By Laws. He/She shall serve for a period of five years and shall be eligible for
re-appointment. The General Secretary shall be the Executive Officer of the Synod and as such shall be
responsible for the Church's Administration.
a. Duties of General Secretary
The duties of the General the General Secretary are found in the By Laws.
3. Deputy General Secretaries

There shall be a DGS in each Regional Mission Council who shall be called by the Synod in accordance with
the Procedure prescribed in the By Laws. He/She shall serve for a period of five years and shall be eligible for
re-appointment.
4. The Director of Finance and Property and the Director of Human Resource Management and Operations:
The General Secretary shall be assisted in the performance of his/her duties by a Director of Finance and
Administration and a Director of Human Resource Management and Operations. The Director of Finance and
Administration and a Director of Human Resource Management and Operations shall be appointed by the
Synod. There shall be an annual performance evaluation of each.
Section 3: Meetings of Synod

(From the UCJGC Constitution, Chapter 3, Section 2)
a. Biennial Meeting
The Biennial Meeting of Synod is held at such time and place as has been determined by the previous meeting.
b. Special Meetings
During the interval between meetings of Synod, the Moderator has the power, either on his own authority
or on requisition from a Court or Committee, to call a special meeting to dispose of any business which has
occurred, and which seems to require immediate attention. No business is to be entered upon except the
particular business for which the meeting has been convened. The meeting is called by circular stating the
special business, signed by the Moderator and General Secretary, addressed to every member of Synod, and
delivered or dispatched at least three weeks before the time of the meeting.
In the event of the decease of the Moderator during his/her term of office, the duties falling to him/her are
discharged by the latest surviving Moderator.
c. Quorum of Synod
One Hundred and fifty members of Synod constitute a quorum provided always that there be present members of at
least three Regional Mission Councils.
d. Synod Roll
Ten days before the meeting of Synod, the General Secretary makes up the Synod Roll from the certified list
transmitted to him/her by Regional Deputy General Secretaries; and when the Regional Mission Council lists have
been submitted no alterations can be made upon them. This Roll shall be placed in the hands of members before the
opening of Synod or the Roll shall be called during the first meeting.
e. Opening of Synod
At the time and place previously determined, the members being assembled, the Moderator of the preceding meeting
of Synod conducts public worship and preaches a sermon, and immediately thereafter, by prayer, constitutes the
Synod in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the King and Head of the Church.
f. Changes on Roll
Reports are then made from the several Regional Mission Councils of the ordinations, inductions, deaths,
demissions, or depositions of Ministers that have taken place within their bounds since the preceding meeting, with
the dates of these events, and also of any changes that affect the Roll of Congregations. These are duly recorded and
the Roll of Synod is thus amended, and with the names of these present marked, is laid on the table.
Section 4: Central Mission Council
Central Mission Council

For the purpose of effecting business in between Synods, Synod delegates its authority to a Central Mission Council.
1. Powers
a. The Central Mission Council shall have power to implement the decisions of Synod
b. It shall have power to act in matters requiring Synodical action between meetings of Synod, and shall take
decisions on matters affecting the life of the Church excepting anything that has to do with the Constitution
or Doctrine.
c. It shall receive reports and recommendations from Standing Committees and Regional Mission Councils
and take action where necessary.
d. It shall report to Synod biennially or whenever it is required to do so - all action to be subject to the
decision of Synod.
2. Membership
The Central Mission Council shall consist of:-
a. The Moderator, who shall be the Chairperson
b. The General Secretary
c. The Regional Deputy General Secretaries
d. The Chairpersons of Standing Committees of Synod
e. The Chairpersons of Regional Mission Councils
f. Chairperson of Education Commission
g. The immediate Past Moderator is ex-officio for one term after he/she demits office.
h. The Director of Human Resource Management and Operations
i. The Director of Finance and Administration
j. Seven persons selected by the Synod, including four lay persons
k. The Presidents of the Synodical Auxiliaries
3. Quorum
The quorum of the Central Mission Council shall be 15 members. At least three Regional Mission Councils must
be represented.
4. Meetings
The Central Mission Council shall normally meet at least two times annually.
Section 5: Standing Committees of Synod

Standing Committees established by Synod are guided by the instructions they receive from Synod, and they present to
Synod written reports of their proceedings.
a. Functions of Standing Committees

Standing Committees shall be accountable for the implementation of all decisions of Synod in their respective spheres.
Committees shall initiate policy and make recommendations to Central Mission Council on any matter within their
spheres, which has not yet been decided by Synod.
b. Chairpersons of Standing Committees

Each Committee has a Chairperson and a Deputy Chairperson appointed by Synod. The Chairperson has both a
deliberative and a casting vote. The Chairperson shall be elected for a term of two years and is eligible for re-election
for two additional consecutive terms.
Members of Standing Committees shall be appointed by Synod. The Moderator, The General Secretary and The
Directors of Human Resources Management, and Operations and the Director of Finance and Administration are ex-
officio members of all Standing Committees.
c. Tenure of Membership
Membership of Standing Committees shall be for a term of two years. Members may be re-elected.
f. Reports
Each committee shall have a Secretary who shall keep regular Minutes of its proceedings, and these Minutes shall be
available for the Synod.
g. Leave to Meet
Committees cannot meet during the hours of Synod's sittings without having obtained leave of the Court.
Chapter Four - Ministers
Section 1: Ordained Ministers

a. Ordained Ministers are those who on the decision of the Central Mission Committee based on a recommendation by
the Committee of Church and Ministry have had hands laid upon them as symbol of their being set apart to the
ministry of Word and Sacraments or otherwise those who the Synod may receive on the reaffirmation of their
Ordination Vows.
b. Persons being ordained to the Ministry of Word and Sacraments in the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman
Islands are required to answer satisfactorily the set of questions put to them and to sign the relevant documents which
represent the covenant into which they have entered.
c. Ordained Ministers include those Mission Partners ordained prior to their entering into a partnership with the Synod.
(From the UCJGC Constitution. Chapter 3, Section 4)
Section 2: Rules for [Call], Settlement, and Transfer of Ministers
a. Responsible Committee
The Committee of Church and Ministry through the Personnel Committee shall be the channel through which all
vacancies and Ministerial and other Full-Time Personnel needs shall be filled.
b. Regional Mission Council Application

When vacancies occur, The Regional Mission Council shall apply to the Committee of Church and Ministry for
nominees to fill the vacant charges within their bounds.
c. Minister with over Five Years of Service in Charge

Any Minister who has served in a Congregation or Congregations for five years or more may be relocated by the
Committee of Church and Ministry.
d. Request for Change

Ministers, Congregations, or Regional Mission Councils may request the Committee of Church and Ministry for a
change in pastorate.
e. Right of Petition
Ministers, Congregations, or Regional Mission Councils may petition Synod against the decisions of the Committee of
Church and Ministry which directly affect them.
The Committee of Church and Ministry may petition Synod against the decision of Ministers, Congregations, or
Regional Mission Councils with reference to nominations for vacancies.
Chapter Five - Disciplinary Procedures

(From the Synod Papers of the 1995 Synod of the UCJCI)
1. General Principles
The basis for Church Discipline is an offence which is calculated to bring reproach on the Church and the Christian
Faith. The ends contemplated by discipline are the maintenance of the Church's purity and the spiritual benefit of the
members. It is one of the ordinances appointed by our Lord Jesus Christ in the New Testament (Matthew 18:15-18).
Persons should be treated justly regardless of age, status, social position, wealth or any other such consideration. The
whole proceedings ought to be distinguished by faithfulness to God's Word and gentleness to the offender.
The hope should be that the disciplinary action might lead to eventual growth in grace (2 Corinthians 2:6-11).
2. Subjects of Discipline
The persons who are subject to discipline are Ministers, full-time workers, lay pastors, elders or deacons, members,
and all other persons who are under the authority of Synod.
3. Modes of Discipline
The modes of discipline are:
a. Admonition
This is the lowest degree of Church censure. It consists in solemnly addressing the offender, placing the
offence before the person, and exhorting the person to greater rectitude.
b. Rebuke
This is a more severe form of censure involving stern words of reproof.
c. Suspension
This is a temporary exclusion from all the privileges of full communion and other rights of membership.
Suspension may or may not be for a specified time, and is removed as soon as sufficient cause for its
removal appears. Suspension of an office bearer is uniformly accompanied by suspension from office.
In the case of a Minister, suspension from office may be accompanied by removal from his/her charge.
d. Deposition
This consists in depriving an office bearer of office with which the person is vested in consequence of
some gross immorality, dangerous heresy, or contemptuous resistance of the authority of the Church
courts.
e. Excommunication
This is the most severe form of Church censure and consists of solemnly casting the offender out of the
Church. It is to be resorted to only in cases of peculiar aggravation, when all other means have failed,
and when the offender continues impenitent and contemptuous of the courts of the Church.
A. Discipline of Elders and Members of the Church

1. Grounds for Disciplinary Action
Conduct: Sexual immorality (including fornication, adultery and homosexual acts), drunkenness,
dishonest business practices, and any other thing which dishonours the Name of Christ or tends to
demoralize members or others.
Disputes: In cases of disputes involving members, they are expected to refer the matter first to the
Church for peaceful settlement, rather than to the civil courts (1 Corinthians 6:1-11). However due
regard must be had to any obligation under applicable law to report the commission of a criminal
offence.
2. Inquiry into Scandal
Inquiry is made only by the authority of the congregation to which the person belongs at the time of
the report. If after the lapse of five years no judicial action has been taken on the offence, it cannot be
considered by the Board.
A Congregational Board may take up a case of discipline either on a charge by an individual member
or on the ground of public report.
3. Private Settlement
In the case of a private offence, it is the duty of a member of the Church, before bringing a charge
against another member, to have recourse to private settlement agreeable to our Lord's precept in
Matthew 18:15-17. Unless this course has been followed without satisfaction, the person is not
warranted in bringing the complaint before the Board.
If the member thus complaining does not obtain satisfaction, the person should report to the Minister
or Elder/Deacon of his/her district who may seek assistance to converse with both parties with the view
of settling the case amicably.
4. Matters to be Brought to the Board
When the Elder has failed to settle a matter amicably, it should be brought to the Congregational
Board. If the offence has reached the Board through public report, the Minister may enquire into the
matter with a view to bringing the party or parties to repentance. If this fails, or if the matter is a
scandal which may bring reproach on the Church, or the Christian faith, it should be brought to the
Board.
5. Notice to Party
The party or parties accused should be given full details of the charge brought against them and should
be summoned to appear at a meeting to be held not less than fourteen (14) days after the summons has
been delivered.
6. Serving of Summons
The summons should be in writing and may be served either by mailing it to the accused or by leaving
it at the home of the accused.
Before a written summons is served, the Minister, accompanied by a witness, may serve the first
summons by word of mouth.
In all cases the accused should be informed that he/she may bring witnesses.
7. Failure to Appear
If a party does not appear after a second summons, which must be in writing, has been served, the
accused shall be suspended from membership for contempt of the Courts of the Church. If the matter
is a grave offence, trial in the absence of the accused may be proceeded upon by the Board.
Such absence, except there is reasonable excuse, will be interpreted as a design to avoid conviction and
censure.
8. Confession
If the accused appears, the charge is stated to him/her. He/She is asked whether he/she admits it, and is
fully heard. If he/she confesses, it may be expedient to have his/her confession in writing, have it
signed by him/her, and then recorded in the Minutes of the Board. Even if it is not in writing, it should
be recorded in the minutes of the Board.
9. Denial
If the accused denies the charges, then the trial proceeds including the calling of relevant witnesses if
necessary.
10. Witnesses
All members of the Church are bound to attend when summoned as witnesses, and are liable to censure
if they refuse. Persons who are not members of the Church can only be requested to attend or give
evidence.
The examination of witnesses is conducted in the presence of the accused, but may proceed in his
absence if he fails to attend (as in number 7).
When the evidence on both sides is closed, the parties may comment on it as they may choose.
11. Deliberation and Judgement
Parties having been heard, the Board proceeds to deliberate with the view to arriving at a judgement. It
may delay judgement, or refer the case to a superior Court. Any party refusing to accept the judgement
of the Court is suspended from membership for contempt.
12. Membership Status of Accused
No member against whom a charge is pending or who is under suspicion may be transferred from their
congregation to another. Any reception into membership granted to such a person by any congregation
is void.
13. Persons Resisting Discipline by Turning to Other Denominations
Persons who refuse to submit to discipline by becoming members of another denomination should not
be received back into fellowship of the Church unless they acknowledge their additional offence and
submit to the original disciplinary measures which they sought to evade.
14. Restoration to Membership
A member who has been disciplined by a Court of the Church may be restored to full membership only
after sincere repentance. Such restoration must be in public.
Where suspension has been for a specified period of time, the accused shall appear before the Board at
the expiry of the period of time. When the suspension is for an indefinite period of time, application
may be made to the Court for the removal of the censure after a reasonable time.
15. Restoration to Office
Restoration to membership does not automatically mean restoration to office. The latter is not to take
place despite evident repentance unless the general interest of the Christian faith will be advanced and
not injured by the step.
16. Appeals
Any person convicted by a Congregational Board has the right of appeal to The Regional Mission
Council and from The Regional Mission Council to the Synod.
B. Discipline of Ministers, Lay Pastors, Interns and Other Full-Time Workers

1. Grounds for Discipline
In addition to the grounds listed in Section A the following additional grounds are applicable:
 Teaching, preaching, publishing or professing doctrine or belief incompatible with that of the
United Church
 Willful neglect of the duties of office, or persistent carelessness or gross inefficiency in the
discharge of such duties
 Conduct giving just cause for scandal or offence
 Willful disobedience or flagrant disregard of any of the provisions of the Constitution
 Willful disobedience or flagrant disregard of any of the rules and regulations of the RMC in which
the person holds office or resides or of the rules and regulations of the Synod
 Willful insubordination with respect to the authority and government of the church
 Causing disunity within the church
2. Proper Court
The Regional Mission Council is the proper Court for the trial of Ministers, Lay Pastors, Interns and
other Full-Time Workers. Normally all processes against a Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern, or other Full-
Time Worker begin before The Regional Mission Council to which the person belongs.
3. Disciplinary Committee
For this purpose each Regional Mission Council shall establish a Disciplinary Committee consisting of
three members of the Regional Mission Council, one of whom shall be the chair, the Chairperson of
the Synod Committee of Church and Ministry, or his/her nominee and one other independent member
from within the region.
4. Report Affecting a Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern, or other Full-Time Worker
When a report affecting a Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern, or other Full-Time Worker is in circulation and
involves a serious charge against either his/her conduct or his/her teaching, The Regional Mission
Council, through the Disciplinary Committee, institutes an Enquiry respecting the rise of the report, the
ground on which it rests, and if necessary, the persons originating it. The Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern,
or other Full-Time Worker is made aware of the intention to institute this Enquiry and has an
opportunity to make such statements as he/she thinks necessary. He/She is not to be present during
this Enquiry unless the Committee deems his/her presence expedient.
5. Notice to Party
The party or parties accused should be given full details of the charge brought against them and should
be summoned to appear at a meeting to be held not less than fourteen (14) days after the summons has
been delivered.
6. Witnesses at Enquiry
The rule under A-10 above in regard to the attendance of witnesses when summoned, shall apply.
A witness must not give evidence in the presence of another witness. A protest or complaint by the
Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern, or other Full-Time Worker does not prevent the Enquiry from taking
place, if in the opinion of the Committee the Enquiry should proceed.
7. Settlement in Private
If it appears from the Enquiry that there exists proper ground for a charge, in accordance with Christian
charity, the Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern, or other Full-Time Worker is dealt with in private at first with
a view to the accused making a full and candid declaration of the truth.
8. Confession
If the accused confesses to the whole of the charge against him/her or as much to warrant censure, the
Committee may proceed at once to judgement. Where confession is made at any state of the
proceedings it should be put in writing, signed by the accused and recorded in the Minutes at The
Regional Mission Council meeting which follows.
9. Procedure where Charge is not Admitted
If the Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern, or other Full-Time Worker does not make a confession and does not
admit the charge, the Committee shall proceed to a trial.
10. Procedure of Trial
Interdict - The accused may or may not be interdicted. If he/she is interdicted, the accused shall cease
to exercise any of the functions of his/her office until the case is decided. Intimation to this effect
must be made to his/her congregation by The Regional Mission Council through an Interim
Minster.
If the interdiction is disregarded by the accused, he/she shall be summarily dealt with for contempt
and be deposed from office and excommunicated.
No Interdict - If the accused is not interdicted, he/she may continue to exercise the functions of his/her
office while the case is being tried.
The trial shall be presided over by the Chairperson of The Regional Mission Council or the nominee of
The Regional Mission Council.
11. Summons to Appear
When a Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern, or other Full-Time Worker is accused of any offence, a statement
of the alleged offence or offences against him/her shall be served to the accused at least twenty-one
(21) days before the trial. This statement, together with a written summons to appear at a particular
place and time, shall be signed by the Chairperson of Council.
12. Non-Appearance of Accused
If the accused fails to appear without a reasonable excuse, given beforehand, he/she shall be held guilty
and dealt with accordingly.
13. Procedures when Appearance is Made
If the accused appears, the charge is read to him/her and he/she is asked if he admits the charge. If
he/she admits the charge censure is inflicted.
14. Witnesses
The rule under A-10 in regard to the attendance of witnesses when summoned shall apply.
If he/she denies the charge then witnesses are called to substantiate the charge. No witness must give
evidence in the presence of another witness.
15. Right to Cross-Examine
The accused has the right to cross-examine any witness and must be allowed full opportunity to do so.
16. Witness for the Accused
The accused has the right to call witnesses and to produce evidence in exculpation. Such witnesses
shall be open to cross-examination by the Disciplinary Committee of Council.
The accused may give evidence and shall be open to cross-examination.
17. Judgement
After all evidence has been presented the Council shall proceed to judgement.
The judgement may be "Guilty" or "Not Guilty".
18. Censure
If the verdict is "Guilty", in whole or in part, the Court pronounces the censure.
19. Appeal
The accused has the right to appeal to the Synod if not satisfied with the verdict of the Court or the
Committee.
Any sentence passed shall not be executed until the appeal is disposed of by the Synod.
C. Trial by Disciplinary Committee of the Synod

1. Initiation of Proceedings
When for any reason a Regional Mission Council believes that there are circumstances requiring
special disciplinary action against a Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern, or other Full-Time Worker, or where
the Committee of Church and Ministry deems this to be expedient, the trial of a Minister, Lay Pastor,
Intern, or other Full-Time Worker shall be referred by a Council or by the Committee of Church and
Ministry to the Disciplinary Committee of the Synod.
2. Resignation in the face of Disciplinary Action
Where a report has been made against a Minister, Lay Pastor, Intern or other Full-Time Worker, and
he/she resigns before the Enquiry has been instituted or a trial commenced, the Disciplinary
Committee of Synod, after giving him/her an opportunity to respond to the report, shall proceed to
enquire into the matter taking into account all the circumstances of the case, including whether the
resignation was with the intention to avoid censure, and submit its recommendations to the Central
Mission Council.
3. Composition of Disciplinary Committee of the Synod
The Committee shall consist of a past Moderator (who shall normally be chair), representatives of
the four Regional Mission Councils and two (2) other lay persons who shall serve for a period of two
(2) years.
4. Procedure
As this Committee is an arm of the Synod, it has power to determine its own procedure and rules.
5. Decisions
The decisions of the Disciplinary Committee may be appealed to the Central Mission Council, which
will appoint a panel to deal with the appeal. The decisions of the CMC in such matters are final.
Chapter Six - Constitution (Adoption and Amendment)
1. Basis of Union
The Basis of Union shall form the Constitution of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands until a fuller
Constitution is adopted.
2. Constitution in Accord with Basis of Union

Parts of the New Constitution which are in accordance with the Basis of Union shall require a two-thirds (2/3) majority
vote for adoption.
3. Changes from Basis of Union

Any part of the New Constitution which departs from the Basis of Union shall require a ninety percent (90%) majority
for adoption.
4. Changes in Constitution, Parts not Covered

Future changes in the constitution shall require a two-thirds majority vote and must be sent to The Regional Mission
Councils under the Referral Act.
Changes in the Bye Laws shall require a simple majority vote.
Any items covered neither by the Basis of Union nor the New Constitution shall be dealt with in accordance with the
regulations of the Churches before Union.
Any doctrinal issue which arises during a meeting shall be referred to the Committee on Doctrine for consideration
and report. The report on this Committee shall be accepted, rejected, or sent back to the Committee for further study,
but shall not be amended from the floor of Synod. All such reports on Doctrine shall be adopted by a two-thirds
majority, and when adopted, shall be sent to The Regional Mission Councils under the Referral Act.
5. Scope of the Referral Act

Any proposal which involves a change in the Constitution or Doctrine of the Church, or any proposal on any other
matter which Synod deems to require the opinion of The Regional Mission Councils, shall be transmitted to The
Regional Mission Councils as a Referral.
6. Referral
When Synod has approved a proposal that comes under the Referral Act, it shall be transmitted to all of The Regional
Mission Councils with a time stated, before which the answers are to be received by Synod.
7. Procedure of Regional Mission Council
Before Regional Mission Councils consider the proposal, they shall notify the Congregational Boards within their
bounds asking for opinions on the proposal. Regional Mission Councils shall require a two-thirds majority of those
present at the meeting for the approval.
8. Returns
The returns of The Regional Mission Councils shall be sent to the [General] Secretary of Synod, or to such other parties
as are appointed to receive them before the date named.
9. Lack of Approval
Unless three of The Regional Mission Councils of the Church approve the proposal, the Synod shall set it aside or shall
remit it, either in the same form or with modifications.
10. Approval
When at least three Regional Mission Councils of the Church have approved the proposal, the Synod may pass the
proposal into the standing law of the Church.
The By Laws to the Constitution of
Chapter One-The Congregation
1. Additional provisions in respect of Members

1. Members in full Communion and good standing have the right to all the privileges of Church membership. They
have direct access to the Congregational Board and, through the Board, to Council, and through the Council to
Synod, by Petition.
2. All persons being admitted into membership must do so with the knowledge and approval of the Congregational
Board.
3. In addition to the duties specified in the Constitution, the following is expected of members:
a. Worship: members must be punctual and regular at Divine Worship and at Holy Communion, and must
conduct themselves in a seemly manner, entering the house of God quietly and reverently and maintaining
a reverent spirit throughout the service, remembering the promise of Jesus, “Where two or three are
gathered together in My Name, there am I in the midst of them.”
b. Witnessing: All members should seek to bring others to Christ using whatever skill they have from God.
c. Serving: Members should take an active interest in the Church School and all other organisations of the
Church. Every member should belong to one of the groups in the Church, e.g. the Choir, men’s Fellowship,
Women’s Fellowship, the Young Adults, etc., and should also give some time to voluntary work in the
Church.
d. Giving: Members are to tithe and contribute liberally and regularly to the funds of the Church for the
support of Gospel Ordinances and Ministerial, Congregational, Synodical and Missionary work.
e. Conduct: Members are to refrain from sexual immorality (including fornication, adultery and
homosexuality), drunkenness, dishonest business practices, and any other thing which dishonours the Name
of Christ, and tends to demoralise themselves or others.
f. Disputes: In cases of disputes involving members, they are expected to refer the matter first to the Church
for peaceful settlement, rather than to Civil Courts (1 Cor. 6: 1 – 11). However, due regard must be had to
any obligation under applicable law to report the commission of a criminal offence.
g. Discipline: Members are in duty bound to attend meetings of the Congregational Board when summoned.
Refusal will result in suspension.
h. Family Life: It is the duty of all members to gather for family worship and to regulate family life so that it’s
a living witness for Christ in the community.
i. Baptism: Members desiring to have their children baptised, must arrange with the Minister in advance of
the day on which the Sacrament may be administered in order that the true meaning of this Sacrament may
be explained.
j. Church School: It is the duty of members to ensure that children attend Church School and any other
meetings and practices held for children, regularly and punctually.
4. Upon request, any member in good standing may have his/her membership transferred to another
congregation/Denomination by letter from the minister.
5. Persons being transferred from other denominations shall be required to attend the candidate’s classes before being
admitted into membership.
6. Members who are not in full communion and good standing shall be classified as “inactive members” until they
again become in full communion and good standing or until they cease to be members. Members may also be
subject to suspension in accordance with the Disciplinary Procedures of the Church. Members suspended for any
reason cannot be restored to full fellowship without satisfying the Congregational Board as to their repentance.
Restoration may be in private or in public as the board deems fit.
7. A member shall cease to be a member and must be taken off the Communion Roll (the roll of members) upon:
a) Having his/her membership transferred to another congregation/Denomination.
b) Excommunication under the Disciplinary Procedures of the Church.
By Laws Page 21
c) Resigning his/her membership, or requesting the removal of his/her name from the roll of members, by written
notice/request.
d) The Congregational Board having reasonably concluded, after due enquiry (notwithstanding that a written
notice was not obtained), that an inactive member is unlikely to resume the duties required of members in full
communion and good standing in the congregation. A minute shall be maintained of all such conclusions of the
Congregational Board, signed by the Minister and Secretary (or the person(s) then duly acting as chairperson
and/or secretary of the meeting). Nothing herein shall preclude a member so removed from being restored to
membership by an act of restoration.
8. A Minister shall be a member of the congregation in which the Induction Service took place.
a) Although it is desirable that the names of the minister’s spouse and children appear on the same membership
roll (assuming they are members of the United Church), the final decision as to where they attach their
membership remains with each individual.
9. Persons residing overseas and who wish to retain their membership with their particular United Church (their home
Church) will be allowed to do so once they are in contact with their particular United Church through an Elder (who
is assigned to deal with these persons). No contact for a period in excess of two years will result in a loss of their
membership.
10. Members shall meet together in Congregational Meeting as provided in the Constitution.
a) The Congregational Meeting shall elect the Elders and Officers, approve the annual Budget of the
Congregation, receive from the Congregational Board the annual financial accounts and the reports of the
congregational auditors, and generally have the right to debate and deliberate upon all matters affecting the life
of the Congregation, except the Communion (Membership) Roll, the Sacraments and Discipline.
b) The Members shall cause minutes to be made and kept recording the proceedings of all Meetings. Once they are
approved at a subsequent Meeting, the chairperson of the Meeting or the chairperson of the next Meeting at
which the minutes of the earlier Meeting are approved, shall sign the minutes. When so signed, the minutes
cannot be altered, and any change later authorised by a Congregational Meeting shall be inserted in the minutes
of that subsequent Meeting.
2. Election of Elders
At the end of each calendar year, normally the number of Elders nearest to one-third shall retire from office (but shall
be eligible for re-election). The Elders retiring under the preceding sentence shall be those who have been longest in
office since last being elected or re-elected. Where the full one-third number cannot be established in that way, the
Board shall agree the names of the other Elders who shall retire at the end of the year. The names of the Elders to
retire at the end of each year shall be determined before the last scheduled Congregational Meeting for that year. At
the last scheduled Congregational Meeting in each year, the new Elders shall be elected (or re-elected, as the case
may be) to fill the vacancies expected at the end of the year and to take office from the 1 st January following. The
Elders shall be elected from a slate of nominees recommended by the Nomination Committee hereinafter provided
for and/or from any nominees nominated from the floor by any member entitled to vote at the Meeting (provided
such nominee has agreed to serve). (In order to allow a period of personal refreshment, more participation, fresh
energy and new thinking, as far as it is possible, different members should be nominated to fill at least some of the
vacancies arising at that time, rather than all the retiring Elders being nominated for immediate re-election.)
Consequent on the provisions of the Constitution requiring the affirmative vote of two-thirds of those present at the
Congregational Meeting at which the voting for the election of the Elder is to take place, when there are more
nominees than the number of Elders to be elected, those persons equal to the number of vacancies to be filled who
receive the greatest number of votes shall be deemed the Elected Nominees. Any Elected Nominee who had received
the votes of at least two-thirds of the members present at the time of voting shall be declared to have been duly
elected an Elder. A second round of voting shall then immediately be held, by private ballot, to affirm or otherwise
the election as Elders of the remaining Elected Nominees. Any Elected Nominee then receiving affirmative votes of
at least two-thirds of the members then present shall be declared to have been duly elected an Elder. If all vacancies
have not been filled in this way, the Minister shall arrange for further nominations and elections to take place at a
later date.
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3. Duties of the Board
The Congregational Board shall administer the affairs of the church, appoint standing or ad hoc committees as they
deem necessary, recommend policies and practices to the Congregational Meeting, receive from the Congregational
Meeting matters for discussion and decision, receive reports from the Congregational Representatives to Council and
deliberate on matters to be referred to Council and, in general, direct the total programme of the church and, in the
Name and in the Spirit of Christ, exercise the disciplinary functions of the Congregation in accordance with the
procedures detailed in the Constitution. To this end, the Elders:
 Shall also support the Minister in the Spiritual oversight of the church and in providing pastoral care
and support, ensuring the orderly administration of the worship life of the congregation
 Shall assist the presiding pastor by the preparation and serving of the elements in the Communion
Service;
 Shall, in conjunction with the Minister, watch carefully over the life and conduct of members
 Shall be regular and punctual at all meetings and services
 Shall visit families assigned to them (under the Elders’ District system)
 Shall seek after persons for commitment to Christ and lead them to candidacy for Church membership
 Shall enquire after candidates; set a good example of Christian conduct and service in the Church
 Shall assist members to live peaceably with one another, that all may witness to the reconciling power
of God (1 Peter 5: etc.)
 Shall facilitate the overall stewardship of the Church by helping members discover their gifts, and
skills for ministry within and outside of the congregation
 Shall see that Church buildings and other property are kept in good order
 Shall assist with the financial management of the congregation, including contribution to mission
work; and represent the congregation when elected to do so.
The Board shall be guided in carrying out its duties by The Manual for Elders and other guidelines issued from
time to time by the Synod.
Any committees so appointed by the Board may be made up of Elders, members or adherents (provided that the
number of adherents on any such committee does not exceed one-quarter of the total number of its members) and
shall act in accordance with the objectives, terms and conditions approved by the Board. The Minister shall be, ex-
officio, a member of all committees appointed by the Board. The Congregational Board may delegate such of its
powers as it deems advisable to any committee so appointed and may set limits and conditions for the exercise of
any delegated powers. Notwithstanding the generality of the foregoing, each congregation shall normally have a
Finance Committee whose Chairperson shall not also be the Treasurer except where, in a small congregation, this is
unavoidable.
a. Meetings of the Board

The Congregational Board shall normally meet at least once per month (and no less frequently than once every two
months). One-third of the membership of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
Special meetings of the Board may be called at any time at the request of the Minister (or the person deputizing for
the Minister pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution), provided that due notice of such meeting is given in
time (but it shall not be necessary to state the particular business to be considered at a meeting, whether a regular or
special meeting). Every Elder present at a Meeting shall have one vote, either by show of hands or by ballot. The
chairperson of the Meeting has no deliberative vote, but in cases of equality, where the decision is to be decided on
by simple majority of the votes cast, s/he has a casting vote. Unless and except where specifically provided
otherwise in the Constitution or these Bye-Laws, questions shall be decided by simple majority of the votes cast for
or against a motion.
The Board shall cause minutes to be made and kept recording the proceedings of all Meetings. Once they are
approved at a subsequent Meeting, the chairperson of the Meeting or the chairperson of the next Meeting at which
the minutes of the earlier Meeting are approved, shall sign the minutes. When so signed, the minutes cannot be
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altered, and any change later authorised by a meeting of the Congregational Board shall be inserted in the minutes of
that subsequent Meeting.
b. Officers of the Congregation

The following officers shall (in a similar manner as provided for the Constitution and Bylaws in respect of Elders)
be elected at the final, scheduled Congregational Meeting for each calendar year from a slate of nominees
recommended by the Congregational Board and from any nominees nominated from the floor by any member
entitled to vote at the Meeting (provided such nominee has agreed to serve). The officers to be elected shall be:
i. The Deputy Chairman of the Congregational Board (who shall be elected from amongst the Elders due to
be holding office at the 1st January following)
ii. The Secretary of the church (who shall normally, be elected from amongst the Elders due to be holding
office at the 1st January following)
iii. The Treasurer of the church (who shall normally, be elected from amongst the Elders due to be holding
office at the 1st January following)
Unless the position to which the person has been elected is already vacant, the person elected shall take office with
effect from 1st January in the year following or such earlier date as the position becomes vacant.
c. Duties of Church Officers

1. The Secretary of the Congregation
The Secretary shall be elected for a period of one year and may be re-elected as the Members see fit,
provided that normally, that person should not be re-elected for more than four (4)) further consecutive one
year terms. The Secretary shall be responsible for:
i. Maintaining, or supervising the maintenance of, the Membership Roll of the church in
consultation with the Minister
ii. Taking minutes of the Congregational Board Meetings and the Congregational Meetings
iii. Undertaking such other duties and responsibilities as shall be agreed by the Minister and
Congregational Board from time to time.
iv. Acting administratively during a vacancy prior to the appointment of the Interim Minister.
2. The Treasurer of the Congregation

The Treasurer shall be elected for a term of one year, but may be re-elected as the Members see fit,
provided that normally, that person should not be re-elected for more than four (4) further consecutive one
year terms. In general, the Treasurer's duties are to be responsible for the receipt and expenditure of all
church funds, to keep an accurate record of all accounts, and to see that all funds are counted, recorded and
safely deposited in a bank so designated by the Board, in accordance with the established policies and
guidelines of the Congregation, Council and Synod. The Treasurer shall ensure that expenditure is in
accordance with the Budget approved by the Congregation or has been separately authorised by, or
pursuant to authority granted by, the Congregational Board and submit reports to all meetings of the Board
giving account of all financial transactions. The Treasurer should not also be the Chairman of the church’s
Finance (or equivalent) Committee (except where, in a small congregation, this is unavoidable).
4. Auditors
An auditor or team of auditors should be elected for a term of one year and can be re-elected for an indefinite
period according to the discretion of the Members. Persons to be elected in this way may be proposed by the
Congregational Board or by a member from the floor of the meeting (provided the person has agreed to so
serve). The auditors must be persons who are independent of any control of the church’s accounts and must be
appointed in accordance with such other terms and conditions as shall be issued by the Synod and Council from
time to time. The auditor(s) shall be responsible for checking that the church’s records are accurate, authentic
and maintained in compliance with the established policies of the congregation, Council and Synod, and shall
report thereon to the Congregation and the Council by 31st March annually.
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5. Nomination Committee
The Congregational Board shall normally appoint a Nomination Committee to recommend to the Congregation
a slate of nominees for the positions of Elders to be filled in accordance with the Constitution and Bylaws each
year or whenever an interim vacancy has occurred amongst the Elders. Such Nomination Committee may be
presided over by an Elder but shall be comprised of a majority of members who are not Elders. The Nomination
Committee shall ensure that nominees so proposed shall meet the qualifications specified by or pursuant to the
Constitution for election as an Elder and who shall, in the opinion of the Committee, exhibit the characteristics
required for the position and specified from time to time by the Synod for an Elder.
Chapter Two-The Regional Mission Council

[From the Constitution of the U.C.J.C.I.]
Regional Mission Council Executive

The Regional Mission Council Executive shall consist of the following members:
 A Chairperson, who shall preside over the Council providing strategic oversight and pastoral care for Ordained
and Commissioned Ministers and Lay Pastors
 The Immediate Past Chair
 A Deputy General Secretary who shall have overall responsibility for the Administration of the Council affairs
 Five (5) Vice-Chairs who will focus on the Mission Priorities for the Council
 One Representative from each auxiliary (Men’s Fellowship, Women’s Fellowship, Youth Fellowship and
Young Adults)
 Three other members at large.
The Chairperson and the Vice-Chairs will be elected by the Regional Mission Council and shall normally serve for a
period of three years. The three members at large will be appointed by the Chair in consultation with the other members.
Duties of Regional Mission Council Officers
1. Duties of Chairperson
a. The Chairperson of the Regional Mission Council shall preside at Inductions, Installations, Dedications, of buildings
and other ceremonial occasions, except the Moderator is present.
b. The Chairperson of the Regional Mission Council shall provide encouragement, counsel, support, etc. to the
Ministers, Lay Pastors and full-time and part-time workers of the Church within the bounds of the RMC.
c. The Chairperson shall seek to provide assistance and enabling for the effective implementation of the programmes
of Synod, and the total Ministry and Mission of the Church.
d. With the Deputy General Secretary of the Regional Mission Council and, the Chairperson of the Regional Mission
Council shall undertake the co-ordinating functions of the Regional Mission Council.
Note: Where necessary, adequate assistance shall be provided him/her for Congregational work.
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2. Duties of the Vice-Chairs
The (5) vice-chairs will have portfolio responsibility and organize ministry teams to provide strategic support for
Congregations in the following areas:
 Evangelism and Church Planting
 Congregational Transformation and Growth
 Nurture (including ministry to children) and Capacity Building
 Discipleship and Stewardship
 Schools and Social Services institutions
3. Duties of the Recording Secretary of Council

The Council shall elect annually, from among its Executive, a Recording Secretary, whose duty it is to take and produce
the minutes of Executive and Regional Meetings, and to carry out any special instructions of the Council.
4. Duties of the Treasurer of Council

(From the UCJGC Constitution, Chapter 2, Section 1, paragraph 11.)
The Council has the right to assess the congregations under its jurisdiction so as to obtain such funds as may be
necessary for carrying on its business. A Treasurer may be appointed to take charge of the Council's Funds.
5. Meeting Constituted, Rolls, Minutes

Meetings of The Regional Mission Council shall be constituted with devotions. The recording secretary shall mark
the attendance of those present, adding at a latter point in the Minutes those who arrive late. Changes in the roll
occasioned by the death, removal, or admission of Ministers - ordained or commissioned,, or by the appointments of
Congregational representatives shall be made and entered in the Minutes. If it be an ordinary meeting, Minutes of
the last regular meeting, and of any special meeting held in the interval are read, and if found correct, are signed by
the Chairperson and Secretary in the presence of the Court. When so signed, the Minutes cannot be altered, and any
change later authorised by The Regional Mission Council shall be inserted in a subsequent Minute.
6. Business
After the minutes are signed, all petitions, references, or papers to be submitted to the meeting, which includes all
petitions, references, and papers which have been forwarded to the Secretary, are laid upon the table. The Secretary
intimates all causes and business to be brought before the Court and presents an agenda suggesting the order in
which they are to be taken up. The Regional Mission Council may amend the agenda either by agreement or by a
simple majority vote. Business left over from the last meeting ordinarily has precedence over new matters.
Business appointed for a special hour must be taken up at the time fixed.
7. Decisions
The decision relating to each item of business shall be announced before The Regional Mission Council passes on to
the next item of business.
8. Time of Next Meeting
Before the close of regular meetings, the time and place of the next meeting shall be fixed and recorded. If this is
not done, or if the meeting is not held at the time appointed, the meeting is called in the same way as an emergency
special meeting in section 3 above.
9. Duties of Interim Minister
The duties of the Interim Minister appointed by The Regional Mission Council shall be as follows:
a) to declare the Congregation vacant
b) to see to the regular pulpit supply in the vacancy
c) to see that the pastoral duties are not neglected
d) to chair the meetings of the Congregational Board
e) to chair the meetings of the Congregation
f) to place the nominations of the Committee of Church and Ministry before a meeting of the Congregation
duly intimated at public worship on two previous Sundays.
g) The Congregation shall be asked to vote for or against the nominee and a Call will be adjudged to have
been made if not less than two-thirds (2/3) of those present voted in favour of the nominee.
h) to present the call to The Regional Mission Council, stating the result of the voting, indicating numbers.
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i) to act for The Regional Mission Council in all its relationships with the Congregation during the vacancy,
e.g., Rolls, Records, Buildings, Manse, Assessments.
j) to ascertain whether the Congregation has made all necessary arrangements for the reception and settlement
of the new Minister.
Chapter Three-The Synod
Section 1: Procedure for Meetings

(From UCJGC Constitution, Chapter 3, Section 2, paragraph 9.)
The biennial Synod shall assemble for its meeting at the time and place appointed.
Devotional Exercises: Each sitting shall be commenced with praise and the reading of a portion of Scripture, after which
the Moderator constitutes the Synod with prayer. The first hour on Tuesday morning shall be set apart for the
observance of the Lord's Supper.
At the first sitting, immediately after the approval of the Minutes, the procedure shall be that stated under "Order of
Business".
Minutes: At each sitting after the first, immediately after the Synod is constituted, the Minutes of the preceding sitting
shall be read and confirmed, and the record shall be signed by the Moderator and the [General] Secretary in the presence
of the Court. The [General] Secretary shall also sign each page of the record.
Section 2: Duties of Synod Officers
a. Election of Moderator
A Nominations Committee shall be formed representing all the Regional Mission Councils and comprising the
following:
a) a representative of each Regional Mission Council
b) the immediate past Moderator
c) the General Secretary
Each Regional Mission Council shall have the right to nominate persons for the position of Moderator and submit
such names to the Nominations Committee through their representative. The Committee will in turn select two
persons from the list of names submitted by Regional Mission Councils. The two names will be presented to
Regional Mission Councils which shall select one of the two persons to serve as Moderator. The person who is
selected by the majority of Regional Mission Councils shall be the Moderator for the ensuing [Synodical] period.
Formal voting must be completed by November, after which the General Secretary shall advise the whole Church of
the person elected and must have it formalized at the January meeting of the Central Mission Council.
b. Duties of Moderator:
1. The Moderator presides over the Synod and the Central Mission Council. He/She shall provide spiritual leadership
for the Church.
2. The Moderator normally presides over Ordinations, Inductions, Installations, Dedications of buildings and other
ceremonial occasions. Where he/she is unable to be present, the Chairperson of the Regional Mission Council shall
act in his/her place.
3. The Moderator presents the mind of Synod to the Church and seeks to motivate the whole Church towards the
achievement of the agreed objectives.
4. The Moderator normally represents the Church at formal, ecumenical, or national occasions. Where he/she is not
able to do so, the General Secretary, a Deputy General Secretary or the Moderator's nominee shall act in his/her
place.
5. The Moderator shall be the Pastors' Pastor, responsible for the pastoral care of the ordained clergy, Lay Pastors,
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persons in training for the Ministry, and full-time commissioned/installed workers of the Church.
6. The General Secretary shall assist the Moderator in this responsibility which shall be exercised with due regard to
the Plans and Programmes of pastoral care and support of the Church and Ministry Committee.
Note: In order that the Moderator may have the necessary time to carry out these duties, where necessary,
adequate assistance shall be provided him/her for Congregational work, by the Church and Ministry Committee.
c. Call of General Secretary

1. When there is a vacancy in the office of General Secretary the Central Mission Council Shall:
 Declare the position vacant determine timelines from nomination to installation of new General Secretary.
 Commission consultation within each Regional Mission Council to:
 Pray for guidance
 Examine expectations of the position, qualifications of person to fill vacancy, holding in careful balance,
the spiritual and the administrative functions of the office
 Propose two names as potential candidates for filling the vacancy
2. Identify a Nominations Committee that will:

 Receive proposals from RMC’s;
 Create a shortlist from those proposed;
 Submit shortlist accompanied by profiles of those shortlisted to RMC’s for an election
The Nominations Committee shall be comprised of the Moderator, the Chairpersons of the Church and
Ministry and the Finance Committees, and one lay person, and one ordained person appointed by the Central
Mission Council.
3. Declare the new General Secretary-Designate:

 Request RMC’s to endorse person elected from this.
4. Recommend areas of specialized training to improve GS-Designate’s capacity to function.
5. Make arrangements for Installation of the New General Secretary
d. Duties of General Secretary:

1. To be ultimately responsible for the administrative functions of the Church, and as such to establish and maintain
effective methods for communicating with other staff members who have administrative responsibilities.
2. As Chairperson of the Strategic Planning for Mission Committee, to be responsible for initiating, co-ordinating,
and monitoring all the Strategic Planning activities.
3. To supervise and monitor the work of the Regional Deputy General Secretaries
4. As Secretary of the Church and Ministry Committee, to administer all matters relating to the recruitment, training
and conditions of service of full-time and part-time ministry personnel.
 To liaise with the Deputy General Secretaries of the Regional Mission Councils of the Church to ensure
that the work of all Regional Mission Councils is consistent with the Church's overall plans.
 To supervise and co-ordinate the work of Central Administrative Staff to ensure acceptability of processes
and congruence of programmes and activities.
5. To assist with the counselling of Pastors and other full-time and part-time personnel.
6. As Chairperson of the Strategic Planning for Mission, and in consultation with Synodical Committees to prepare the
annual budget of the Church and
 Engage actively in plans for securing/providing adequate funding for the Church's programmes;
 Implement new approaches to budget formation;
 Assist in preparing long-term budgetary forecasts for approval by the Finance Committee;
 Exercise overall management of the Church's budget.
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7. In collaboration with the Deputy General Secretaries to arrange and service the meeting(s) of Synod as set out in the
Constitution.
8. To act as the legal representative of the Church.
9. Along with the Moderator, to interpret the work of the Church to the Church and to the societies at large and to the
world Church.
10. Along with the Deputy General Secretaries to act as liaison between the Synod and fraternally related Churches at
national and international levels.
11. To present written reports on responsibilities/activities to Central Mission Council at its regular meetings.
12. To undertake such other responsibilities as may be identified from time to time by the Synod, which will enhance
the Church's mission and witness.
e. Review of General Secretary

The office of the General Secretary shall have a performance evaluation each year and at the end of four years a
review by the Review Board consisting of the Moderator, the Chairpersons of the Church and Ministry and the
Finance Committees, and one lay person, and one ordained person appointed by the Central Mission Council.
f. Call of Regional Deputy General Secretary

1. When there is a vacancy in the office of Regional deputy General Secretary, the General Secretary, in consultation
with the Chair of the respective Regional Mission Council (RMC), shall:
 Advise the Central Mission Council (CMC) of the impending vacancy and the timelines for the call and
induction of a new Deputy General Secretary
 Present the desirable profile of the considered candidate, in keeping with the needs of the Church at the
given point in time, to the CMC for deliberation and ratification
 Formalize and Activate the Search Committee, consisting of the General Secretary, who shall be Chair,
Chair of the respective Council, Chair of Personnel Sub Committee, and two additional persons from the
respective RMC, one of whom shall be a lay person and the other a clergy
 Establish a period of prayerful discernment to be carried out in all Regional Mission Councils
2. The Search Committee, having been duly constituted, shall:
 Acquaint itself with the demand of the office for the moment in time, the procedure to be followed and
agree on the strategy to be engaged in the search for and recommendation of a Deputy General Secretary
 Obtain a list of suitable candidates for consideration through a process of wide base consultation. (n.b. As
with call to other offices within the UCJCI, eligibility is determined by membership in the United Church
and not by membership in a particular Regional Mission Council)
 Engage a discernment process, which includes examining the profile and qualification of each candidate,
through which candidates are short listed to at least two persons.
 Engage key prospects in conversation, provide social contexts for interaction and engage in prayer with a
view to coming to decision as to the one candidate to be recommended for the position of Deputy General
Secretary
 Advise all short listed candidates of the outcome of the process. The selected candidate should be advised
that he/she is being recommended for consideration by the respective RMC; and that the decision for
appointment of for the Central Mission Council
 Present the selected candidate to a constituted meeting of the respective RMC for decision of affirmation
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by secret ballot. A clear recommendation shall be made with supporting documents detailing the process
engaged, the outcome of its search, and the reason of choice. No less than 2/3 of the votes of those
present will be required for the candidate to be considered for presentation to the CMC.
3. The General Secretary, being satisfied that the RMC has voted in the affirmative, shall:
 Present the name and profile of the considered Candidate to the CMC for approval and appointment
 Inform the candidate and the RMC of the decision of the CMC and proceed with formalizing the
appointment
 Advise Congregations of the appointment of the new Deputy General Secretary and the process of
engagement leading to the date for his/her induction
 Advise the Chair of Council to arrange for the induction of the new Deputy General Secretary within the
bounds of the RMC.
g. Duties of Deputy General Secretary

1. To be responsible for the effective management and operations of the Regional Mission Council Offices.
2. To responsible for the delivery of the Mission objective of the Synod as determined. These include:
 Planning, training, implanting and reviewing programmes
 Collaborating with the Congregation in setting of and ensure growth targets
 Financial oversight of the Council
 Identifying resources to achieve ministry objectives of Congregations within the bounds of the Council
 The employment and supervision of the staff of the Council
3. To establish and maintain an efficient communication system which enables the Central Administration to be in
effective communication with Regional Mission Councils.
4. To ensure that the decisions of Synod are implemented.
5. To be responsible for all property related matters within their Region taking such steps as are necessary to ensure
that the Property Register and all other property documents so as to reflect changes in the Church's real estate and
other assets.
6. To liaise with the General Secretary in the performance of the above duties so as to ensure the effectiveness and
efficiency of the Central Administration.
7. To act in the office of the General Secretary in the incumbent's absence and to undertake such matters as may be
delegated by the General Secretary from time to time.
8. To undertake such other responsibilities as may be assigned by the Synod Administration from time to time.
Section 3: Standing Committees of Synod
a. Standing Committees
The Standing Committees of Synod are as follows:
 Church and Ministry
 Strategic Planning for Mission
 Finance
 Property
 Constitution and Doctrine
b. Sub-Committees
Each Standing Committee shall have power to appoint Sub-Committees according to need.
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c. Power to Co-opt:
Standing Committees and Sub-Committees shall have the power to co-opt additional members for special purposes as
non-voting members.
d. Other Committees:
Synod shall appoint other Committees as it shall deem necessary.
Section 4: Terms of Reference of Standing Committees of Synod

a. Church and Ministry
To advise on all matters affecting the Ministry such as Ordinations, Inductions, Unions, and Re-adjustments of
Congregations, and generally to supervise the whole work of the Ministry. To supervise the appointment, re-
appointment and service of all Full-time Commissioned Workers not engaged in the Pastoral Ministry, and Lay Pastors.
To license Lay Pastors, Interns and Other Full-time Commissioned Workers to administer the Sacraments.
To recruit candidates for service at home and abroad. To supervise their studies and practical work during their period of
training and during their Internship period. To prepare for service and oversee persons serving abroad.
To nominate to Synod the membership of Synodical Committees.
To seek and to maintain co-operation with other Churches, denominations, and religious agencies at home and abroad,
and to receive reports from representatives on Inter-denominational Committees and Regional Mission Councils.
b. Strategic Planning for Mission

To determine the long term vision of the Church
In relation to the socio-economic context of the Church design a broad missional framework within which the whole
Church may interpret and understand its purpose. Within this framework ensuring an effective Youth and Children’s
ministry policy towards the transformation and growth of the Church
To ensure an annual Implantation Plan to guide the mission of the Church.
c. Finance
To be accountable for all financial assets of the United Church.
To oversee the preparation of the annual budget and present the financial accounts to the Synod.
To be responsible for determining the stipends and other emoluments of Ministers, Lay Pastors, and other full-time and
part-time workers of the Church.
To be accountable for the pensions, gratuities, and allowances to be paid to Ministers and other workers of the Church.
To be accountable for the proper investment and protection of the Trust Assets of the Church.
To monitor the accounting procedure of the Synod Administration, Regional Mission Councils, and Congregations and
to recommend appropriate action where necessary.
To be responsible for the efficient working of the Church Office, including the appointment of senior staff and the
supervision of other office arrangements.
The Corporations operating under the United Church shall be accountable to Synod through the Finance Committee for
matters involving finance.
d. Property
To be accountable for the care and development of the properties of the United Church.
To be accountable for all contracts, agreements, titles, and documents involving the property of the United Church.
To examine and approve all plans for buildings, major repairs to buildings, and other major structural alterations to
property within the United Church.
To oversee the use of any property by Regional Mission Councils or Congregations.
In consultation with the relevant RMC to recommend and monitor schemes for the more efficient utilisation of the
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property of the United Church in order that the Church's mission may be enhanced.
The Corporations operating under the United Church shall be accountable to Synod through the Property Committee for
matters involving property.
e. Constitution and Doctrine

To formulate and interpret the Constitution and Doctrine of the Church.
To advise on matters of Constitution and Doctrine referred to the Committee by the Synod, Synodical Committees,
Regional Mission Councils, Congregational Boards, or members of the Church.
To examine the Constitutions of the organisations and other bodies of the Church to ensure that they accord with the
Constitution and Doctrine of the Church.
To prepare or examine all documents such as Books of Orders of Services, Sunday School and Lay Training materials,
and public pronouncements of the Church which impinge on the Doctrine or Constitution of the Church.
Chapter Four-Rules for Debate and Voting

Notice of Motion
1. The Synod invites notices of motion on important subjects. All resolutions shall be submitted to a Resolution Committee
which shall be appointed by Synod at its first sitting. The Resolutions Committee shall function until such time when the
resolutions are taken.
Order of Motion
2. The motion, notice of which was first laid on the Synod's table, has the precedence in the discussion of the cause to
which it refers, unless the Synod determines otherwise.
Motions to be Seconded and in Writing

3. When a motion or amendment is submitted, it must be seconded; and unless it be a Procedural motion, it must be
committed in writing, and read from the table before it can be discussed. When a motion or amendment has been made,
any member who rises to second it has precedence at this stage.
Procedural Motions
4. Procedural motions are motions: (1) to adjourn, (2) to proceed with the cause now, (3) to delay it till a time fixed, or (4)
to consider the parts of a motion or the recommendations of a report separately in the order given above if two or more
of them be proposed at the same time. A motion "to lie on the table" for discussion during this Synod, or "to lie on the
table till next Synod" may be made in dealing with the merits, and may be discussed as any other motion.
Withdrawal of Motions
5. Motions and amendments made and seconded cannot be altered or withdrawn without the consent of the proposer and
seconder.
Speaking to Motions
6. No member is permitted to speak more than once on any one subject, unless in explanation and by special permission of
the Court, never to the exclusion of anyone who has not spoken but the proposer of the first motion is heard in reply,
after which no further discussion is allowed, and no other motion can be received.
Call to Order
7. The Moderator has authority, when he/she sees cause to call any member of the Synod or any person to order.
8. Any member has a right to call a speaker to make a point of order and immediately on his doing so, the speaker stops
until the question of order is determined. The member making the point of order is then allowed to state briefly the
grounds on which the call has been made but no other member is entitled to speak to the point or order unless at the
request of the Moderator, the point on which the ruling was given is submitted without discussion, to the judgment of the
By Laws Page 32
Synod.
Moderator's Decision
9. When the Moderator has announced a decision with regard to a point of Order, or the competency of a motion submitted,
the Synod in all ordinary circumstances accepts the decision as final. When a member intimates that he cannot acquiesce
in the ruling of the Moderator, the point on which the ruling was given is submitted without discussion to the judgment
of the Synod.
Rule after Three-Hour Debate

10. When a cause has been brought before the Synod whether by overture, report of a committee or otherwise and a motion
has been duly made and seconded for the disposal of it, and when the further discussion of the question has occupied
three hours, if the Moderator is called upon by any member of the court to do so, he/she shall put the question: "Whether
the debate shall now be closed, or adjourned or continued". Before the vote on this question of procedure is taken the
motions already submitted on the cause under discussion are read, and an opportunity is given for moving any additional
motion which must meanwhile be made and seconded without remark.
Closure and Adjournment

11. In disposing of motions the following rules are observed:-
1. Moderator decides as to arrangement of motions
When it appears to the Moderator that the motions and amendments submitted can properly be voted upon as against
each other it shall be competent to him/her to rule that the motions and amendments be voted upon in the order and
manner that shall seem best fitted to elicit the judgment of the Synod on the question in hand.
2. Verbal Amendments
When an amendment on any motion before the court is moved and seconded, proposing an alteration in the language
or form, but not affecting its substance, such amendment shall be separately voted on "Adopt or not?" and if it be
adopted the motion shall be altered accordingly before it is finally put.
3. When more motions than one:
When there are more motions than one before the court, they shall be put successively in the order in which they
have been proposed; the motion having the fewest votes shall be dropped and the vote taken again on the remaining
motions, and so on, till only one motion remains. But when one motion has a larger number of votes than all the
other collectively, these others shall be set aside without further voting.
4. When only one motion
When only one motion remains or there is only one motion before the Court, the question shall be put "Adopt or
not?"
5. Designation of Motions
When there are more motions than one the question may either be stated as "First or Second motion", etc. or motions
may bear the names of their movers, or such designation as serves clearly to distinguish them.
6. Voting and Exclusion of Strangers
When motions have been finally adjusted and before the vote is taken, the General Secretary announces that if there
are any strangers in the body of the house they must withdraw behind the bounds of the Synod. The motions before
the court are then read by the General Secretary but no explanation or alteration can be made. The vote must first be
taken by a show of hands without counting. If this show of hands does not enable the Moderator at once to decide
which motion has the majority, or if his/her decision is challenged the hands are counted, or the Roll may be called.
In important cases in which it is desirable to ascertain the exact number of votes for and against, it is competent to
the Moderator to order a count of hands or the calling of the Roll at once. When the Moderator does this, it is not
competent to any member to make any objection to the order.
A count must also be taken when the Court calls for this.
By Laws Page 33

The Constitution of UCJCI With by Laws April 2021

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The united church

in Jamaica and the

Constitution and By Laws

The Lord's Supper

9. Approval and Implementation of the Basis of Union

10. Revision and Amendments

Chapter One - The Congregation

Section 1: Rights and Duties of Members

Section 2: Congregational Meetings and Congregational Board

b. The Congregational Board

Chapter Two - The Regional Mission Council

Section 1: Constitution and Officers

Regional Mission Council Executive

Ordination and Induction

Complaints against Ministers

Schedule and Records

Members of Synod Boards and Committees

Section 3: Meetings and Procedures

Special Meetings and Emergency Special Meetings

Chapter Three - The Synod

Section 1: Constitution of Synod

f. Committee of Whole House:

Section 2: Officers of Synod

3. Deputy General Secretaries

Section 3: Meetings of Synod

Section 4: Central Mission Council

Central Mission Council

Section 5: Standing Committees of Synod

a. Functions of Standing Committees

b. Chairpersons of Standing Committees

Chapter Four - Ministers

Section 1: Ordained Ministers

b. Regional Mission Council Application

c. Minister with over Five Years of Service in Charge

d. Request for Change

Chapter Five - Disciplinary Procedures

A. Discipline of Elders and Members of the Church

B. Discipline of Ministers, Lay Pastors, Interns and Other Full-Time Workers

C. Trial by Disciplinary Committee of the Synod

2. Constitution in Accord with Basis of Union

3. Changes from Basis of Union

4. Changes in Constitution, Parts not Covered

5. Scope of the Referral Act

Chapter One-The Congregation

1. Additional provisions in respect of Members

a. Meetings of the Board

b. Officers of the Congregation

c. Duties of Church Officers

2. The Treasurer of the Congregation

Chapter Two-The Regional Mission Council

Regional Mission Council Executive

Duties of Regional Mission Council Officers

3. Duties of the Recording Secretary of Council

4. Duties of the Treasurer of Council

5. Meeting Constituted, Rolls, Minutes

Chapter Three-The Synod

Section 1: Procedure for Meetings

Section 2: Duties of Synod Officers

c. Call of General Secretary

2. Identify a Nominations Committee that will:

3. Declare the new General Secretary-Designate:

4. Recommend areas of specialized training to improve GS-Designate’s capacity to function.

5. Make arrangements for Installation of the New General Secretary