MANUAL

2023

•
HISTORY
CONSTITUTION
GOVERNMENT
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

NAZARENE PUBLISHING HOUSE

Kansas City, Missouri, USA
 Copyright 2023
by Nazarene Publishing House

Published by the authority of the

30th General Assembly held in
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
11-15 June 2023

Editing Committee
DEAN G. BLEVINS
SARAH B. COLESON-DERCK
STANLEY J. RODES
TERRY S. SOWDEN
GARY W. HARTKE

ISBN 978-0-8341-4286-2 (Hardcover)

ISBN 978-0-8341-4285-5 (Softcover)
ISBN 978-0-8341-4287-9 (Leather Cover)

rev 2023-02-06

All scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International
Version ® (NIV®). Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by the
International Bible Society. Used by permission of
Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved.
The seal and logo of the Church of the Nazarene are registered trademarks
of The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. Use or reproduction thereof,
without the expressed, written consent of The Church of the Nazarene, Inc.
is strictly prohibited.
 CHURCH CONSTITUTION
AND THE COVENANT OF
CHRISTIAN CONDUCT
(1-99 Series)

LOCAL GOVERNMENT
(100 Series)

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT
(200 Series)

GENERAL GOVERNMENT
(300 Series)

HIGHER EDUCATION
(400 Series)

MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

(500 Series)

JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION
(600 Series)
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS
(700 Series)

NAZARENE YOUTH INTERNATIONAL,

NAZARENE MISSIONS INTERNATIONAL, AND
NAZARENE DISCIPLESHIP INTERNATIONAL
CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS/
CONSTITUTION/BYLAWS
(800 Series)

FORMS
(800 Series)

To use the thumb index, fan the pages APPENDIX

with your right hand until mark appears (900 Series)
opposite the section head.
 FOREWORD
The Statement of Mission in the Church of the Nazarene is to
make Christlike disciples in the nations.
The Core Values of the Church of the Nazarene are that we
are Christian, Holiness, and Missional.
The seven Characteristics of the Church of the Nazarene
are Meaningful Worship, Theological Coherence, Passionate
Evangelism, Intentional Discipleship, Church Development,
Transformational Leadership, and Purposeful Compassion.
The primary objective of the Church of the Nazarene is to
advance God’s kingdom by the preservation and propagation
of Christian holiness as set forth in the Scriptures.
The critical objectives of the Church of the Nazarene are
“holy Christian fellowship, the conversion of sinners, the entire
sanctification of believers, their upbuilding in holiness, and
the simplicity and spiritual power manifest in the primitive
New Testament Church, together with the preaching of the
gospel to every creature.” (19)
The Church of the Nazarene exists to serve as an instrument
for advancing the kingdom of God through the preaching and
teaching of the gospel throughout the world. Our well-defined
commission is to preserve and propagate Christian holiness as
set forth in the Scriptures, through the conversion of sinners,
the reclamation of backsliders, and the entire sanctification of
believers.
Our objective is a spiritual one, namely, to evangelize as a
response to the Great Commission of our Lord to “go and make
disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19; cf. John 20:21; Mark
16:15). We believe that this aim can be realized through agreed
upon policies and procedures, including doctrinal tenets of faith
and time-tested standards of morality and lifestyle.
This 2023 edition of the Manual includes a brief historical
statement of the church; the Church Constitution, which defines
our Articles of Faith, our understanding of the church, the

5
6 FOREWORD

Covenant of Christian Character for holy living, and principles

of organization and government; the Covenant of Christian
Conduct, which addresses key issues of contemporary society;
and policies of church government dealing with the local,
district, and general church organization. The 2023 Manual
replaces the 2017-2021 Manual which remained in effect for
an additional two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and
the postponement of the 30th General Assembly.
The General Assembly is the supreme doctrine-formulating
and lawmaking body of the Church of the Nazarene. This
Manual includes the decisions and judgments of ministerial
and lay delegates of the 30th General Assembly, which
met in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, 11-15 June 2023, and is
therefore authoritative as a guide for action. Because it is the
official statement of the faith and practice of the church and
is consistent with the teachings of the Scriptures, we expect
our people everywhere to accept the tenets of doctrine and the
guides and helps to holy living contained in it. To fail to do so,
after formally taking the membership vows of the Church of
the Nazarene, injures the witness of the church, violates her
conscience, and dissipates the fellowship of the people called
Nazarenes.
The government of the Church of the Nazarene is distinctive.
In polity it is representative—neither purely episcopal nor
wholly congregational. Because the laity and the ministry have
equal authority in the deliberative and lawmaking units of the
church, there is a desirable and effective balance of power.
We see this not only as an opportunity for participation and
service in the church but also as an obligation on the part of
both laity and ministry.
Commitment and clear purpose are important. But
an intelligent and informed people following commonly
agreed-upon practices and procedures advance the kingdom
faster and enhance their witness for Christ. Therefore, it is
incumbent upon our members to acquaint themselves with
this Manual—the history of the church and the doctrines
and ethical practices of the ideal Nazarene. Adherence to the
FOREWORD 7

injunctions of these pages will nurture loyalty and faithfulness

both to God and the church and will increase the effectiveness
and efficiency of our spiritual efforts.
With the Bible as our supreme Guide, illuminated by the
Holy Spirit, and the Manual as our official agreed-upon
statement of faith, practice, and polity, we look forward to
the new quadrennium with joy and unswerving faith in Jesus
Christ.
The Board of General Superintendents
DAVID A. BUSIC CARLA D. SUNBERG
GUSTAVO A. CROCKER T. SCOTT DANIELS
FILIMÃO M. CHAMBO CHRISTIAN D. SARMIENTO
 CONTENTS
Foreword 5

PART I
Historical Statement 16

PART II
CHURCH CONSTITUTION
Preamble 26
Articles of Faith 26
The Church 35
Articles of Organization and Government 39
Amendments 42
PART III
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT
A. The Christian Life 44
B. Sanctity of Human Life 51
C. Human Sexuality and Marriage 54
D. Christian Stewardship 58
E. Church Officers 61
F. Rules of Order 61
G. Amending the Covenant of Christian Conduct 62

PART IV
CHURCH GOVERNMENT
Preamble 64
I. Local G overnment 65
A. Local Church Organization, Name, Incorporation,
Property, Restrictions, Mergers, Transfers,
Disorganization 65
B. Local Church Membership 72
C. Local Church Evangelism and Church
Membership Committee 74
 D. Change of Local Church Membership 75
E. Termination of Local Church Membership 76
F. Local Church Meetings 77
G. The Local Church Year 81
H. Calling of a Pastor 81
I. The Pastor 85
J. The Local Church/Pastoral Relationship 89
K. Renewing the Local Church/Pastoral
Relationship 90
L. The Local Church Board 94
M. The Stewards of the Local Church 102
N. The Trustees of the Local Church 103
O. The Local Church Nazarene Discipleship
International Board 104
P. The Local Church Nazarene Youth International 110
Q. Nazarene Childcare/Schools (Birth through
Secondary) of the Local Church 111
R. The Local Church Nazarene Missions
International 111
S. Prohibition of Financial Appeals for a Local
Church 112
T. Use of the Local Church Name 113
U. Church-sponsored Corporation 113
V. Associates in the Local Church 114
II. District G overnment 117
A. District Bounds and Name 117
B. Membership and Time of District Assembly 122
C. Business of the District Assembly 124
D. The District Assembly Journal 131
E. The District Superintendent 132
F. The District Secretary 140
G. The District Treasurer 140
H. The District Advisory Board 141
I. The District Ministerial Credentials Board 147
J. The District Ministerial Studies Board 149
 K. The District Evangelism Board or Director of
Evangelism 151
L. The District Church Properties Board 152
M. The District Advisory Committee 153
N. The District Chaplaincy Director 153
O. The District Nazarene Discipleship International
Board 154
P. The District Nazarene Youth International 157
Q. The District Nazarene Missions International 157
R. District Paid Assistants 157
S. Disorganization of a District 158
III. General G overnment 159
A. General Assembly Functions and Organization 159
B. Membership of the General Assembly 159
C. The Time and Place of General Assembly 161
D. Special Sessions of the General Assembly 161
E. General Assembly Arrangements Committee 162
F. Business of the General Assembly 162
G. The General Superintendents 164
H. General Superintendents Emeriti and Retired 166
I. The Board of General Superintendents 166
J. The General Secretary 169
K. The General Treasurer 170
L. The General Board 171
M. Pension Plans 180
N. Subsidiaries of The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. 180
O. Nazarene Publishing House 182
P. The General Christian Action Committee 182
Q. Committee on the Interests of the God-Called
Evangelist 183
R. International Course of Study Advisory
Committee 184
S. The Global Nazarene Youth International 184
T. The Global Council of the Global Nazarene
Missions International 185
 U. National Boards 186
V. The Region 187

PART V
HIGHER EDUCATION
I. Church and College /University 192
II. Global Nazarene Education Consortium 193
III. I nternational Board of Education 193

PART VI
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE
I. Call and Qualifications of the M inister 198
II. Categories of M inistry 200
A. Ministry of Laypersons 200
B. Ministry of the Clergy 201
III. Roles of M inistry 202
IV. Education of Clergy 208
A. Educational Foundations for Ordained
Ministry 208
B. Cultural Adaptations of Educational
Foundations for Ordained Ministry 212
V. Credentials and M inisterial R egulations 213
A. The Local Minister 213
B. The Licensed Minister 214
C. The Deacon 219
D. The Elder 221
E. The Recognition of Credentials 222
F. The Retired Minister 223
G. The Transfer of Ministers 224
H. General Regulations 225
I. The Filing, Suspension, Resignation, or
Revocation of a Ministerial Credential 234
J. The Restoration of Members of the Clergy 237
 PART VII
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION
I. I nvestigation of Possible Wrongful Conduct A nd
Church Discipline 246
II. R esponse to Possible M isconduct 246
III. R esponse to M isconduct by a P erson in a
Position of Trust or Authority 248
IV. Contested Discipline of a L ayperson 250
V. Contested Discipline of a M ember of the Clergy 251
VI. Rules of P rocedure 256
VII. District Court of A ppeals 256
VIII. R egional Court of A ppeals 257
IX. General Court of A ppeals 257
X. Guarantee of R ights 258

PART VIII
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS
I. Sacraments 262
A. Lord’s Supper 262
B. Baptism of Believers 266
C. Baptism of Infants or Young Children 268
II. R ituals 271
A. Dedication of Infants or Young Children 271
B. Reception of Church Members 274
C. Matrimony 277
D. Funeral Service 282
E. Installation of Officers 288
F. Organization of a Local Church 293
G. Church Dedications 297

PART IX
CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS/
CONSTITUTION/BYLAWS
I. Charter for Nazarene Youth I nternational 300
 II. Constitution for Nazarene M issions
I nternational 342
III. Bylaws of the Nazarene Discipleship
I nternational 365

PART X
FORMS
I. The Local Church 384
II. The District A ssembly 388
III. Bills of Charges 388

PART XI
APPENDIX
I. General Officers 390
II. A dministrative Boards, Councils, and
Educational I nstitutions 391
III. A dministrative Policies 396
IV. Current Moral and Social Issues 400
Special Revision Index 413
Index of Vacant Paragraphs 415
Manual Index 416
 PART I

Historical Statement
16 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

HISTORICAL STATEMENT
The Church of the Nazarene confesses itself to be a branch
of Christ’s “one, holy, universal, and apostolic” church,
embracing as its own the history of God’s people recorded in
the Old and New Testaments and God’s people through the
ages, in all expressions of Christ’s church. Our denomination
receives the creeds of the first five Christian centuries as
expressions of its own faith. We identify with the historic
church in preaching the Word, administering the sacraments,
maintaining a ministry of apostolic faith and practice, and
inculcating the disciplines of Christlike living and service. Our
denomination heeds the Biblical call to holy living and entire
devotion to God, which we proclaim through the theology of
entire sanctification.
Our Christian heritage was mediated through the 16th-
century English Reformation and 18th-century Wesleyan
revival. Through the preaching of John and Charles Wesley,
people throughout England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales
turned from sin and were empowered for Christian service.
This revival was characterized by lay preaching, testimony,
discipline, and circles of earnest disciples known as “societies,”
“classes,” and “bands.” The Wesleyan revival’s theological
landmarks were: justification by grace through faith;
sanctification, or Christian perfection, likewise by grace
through faith; and the witness of the Spirit to the assurance
of grace. John Wesley’s distinctive contributions included an
emphasis on entire sanctification as God’s gracious provision
for the Christian life. These emphases were disseminated
worldwide. In North America, the Methodist Episcopal
Church was organized in 1784 “to reform the Continent, and
to spread scriptural Holiness over these Lands.”
A renewed emphasis on Christian holiness developed in the
mid-19th century. Timothy Merritt of Boston, Massachusetts,
HISTORICAL STATEMENT 17

USA, spurred interest as editor of the Guide to Christian

Perfection. Phoebe Palmer of New York City, New York, USA,
led the Tuesday Meeting for the Promotion of Holiness and
became a sought-after speaker, author, and editor. In 1867,
Methodist preachers J. A. Wood, John Inskip and others, at
Vineland, New Jersey, USA, initiated the first in a long series
of holiness camp meetings that renewed the Wesleyan quest
for holiness around the world. Wesleyan Methodists, Free
Methodists, the Salvation Army, and certain Mennonites,
Brethren, and Quakers all emphasized Christian holiness.
Evangelists carried this movement to Germany, the United
Kingdom, Scandinavia, India, and Australia. New holiness
churches arose, including the Church of God (Anderson,
Indiana, USA). Holiness churches, urban missions, and
missionary associations grew from this endeavor. The Church
of the Nazarene was born from the impulse to unite many of
these into one holiness church.

Unity in Holiness
Fred Hillery organized the People’s Evangelical Church
(Providence, Rhode Island, USA) in 1887. The Mission Church
(Lynn, Massachusetts, USA) followed in 1888. In 1890,
they and eight other New England congregations formed the
Central Evangelical Holiness Association. Anna S. Hanscome
was ordained in 1892, the first ordained female minister in
the Nazarene lineage. In 1894-1895, William Howard Hoople
organized three holiness congregations in Brooklyn, New York,
USA, which formed the Association of Pentecostal Churches of
America. “Pentecostal” was a synonym for “Holiness” to these
and other Nazarene founders. Hillery and Hoople’s groups
merged in 1896, established ministry in India (1899) and
Cape Verde (1901), and missions executive Hiram Reynolds
organized congregations in Canada (1902). The group reached
from Nova Scotia, Canada to Iowa, USA by 1907.
Robert Lee Harris organized the New Testament Church
of Christ at Milan, Tennessee, USA in 1894. Mary Lee Cagle,
18 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

his widow, spread it into west Texas, USA, in 1895. C. B.

Jernigan organized the first Independent Holiness Church at
Van Alstyne, Texas, USA, in 1901. These churches merged
at Rising Star, Texas, USA (1904), forming the Holiness
Church of Christ. By 1908, it stretched from Georgia, USA,
to New Mexico, USA, ministering to outcasts and the needy,
supporting orphans and unwed mothers, and with workers in
India and Japan.
Phineas F. Bresee and Joseph P. Widney, with about 100
others, organized the Church of the Nazarene at Los Angeles,
California, USA in 1895. They held that Christians sanctified
by faith should follow Christ’s example and preach the gospel
to the poor. They believed that their time and money should
be given to Christlike ministries for the salvation of souls and
the relief of the needy. The Church of the Nazarene spread
chiefly along America’s west coast, with some congregations
east of the Rocky Mountains as far as Illinois, USA. They
supported an indigenous mission in Calcutta, India.
In October 1907, the Association of Pentecostal Churches
of America and the Church of the Nazarene jointly convened
in Chicago, Illinois, USA, to fashion a church government
that balanced superintendency with congregational rights.
Superintendents were to foster and care for established
churches, organize and encourage new churches, but not
interfere with the independent actions of a fully organized
church. Holiness Church of Christ delegates participated.
The First General Assembly adopted a name drawn from both
organizations: Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene. Bresee
and Reynolds were elected general superintendents.
In September 1908, the Pennsylvania Conference of the
Holiness Christian Church, under H. G. Trumbaur, united
with the Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene.
In October, the Second General Assembly convened at Pilot
Point, Texas, USA, with the General Council of the Holiness
Church of Christ. On Tuesday morning, 13 October, R. B.
Mitchum moved and C. W. Ruth seconded the proposition:
“That the union of the two churches be now consummated.”
HISTORICAL STATEMENT 19

Bresee exerted continual effort toward this outcome, and at

10:40 a.m., amid great enthusiasm, the motion to unite was
adopted by a unanimous rising vote.
Led by J. O. McClurkan, the Pentecostal Mission formed
in Nashville, Tennessee, USA in 1898, uniting holiness
people from Tennessee and adjacent states in the USA. They
sent pastors and teachers to Cuba, Guatemala, Mexico, and
India. In 1906, George Sharpe was ejected from Parkhead
Congregational Church in Glasgow, Scotland, for preaching
the Wesleyan doctrine of Christian holiness. The Parkhead
Pentecostal Church was formed, other congregations were
organized, and the Pentecostal Church of Scotland was
founded in 1909. The Pentecostal Mission and Pentecostal
Church of Scotland united with the Pentecostal Church of
the Nazarene in 1915.
The Fifth General Assembly (1919) changed the
denomination’s official name to Church of the Nazarene
because new meanings had become associated with the word
“Pentecostal.”

A Global Church
The Church of the Nazarene’s essential character was
shaped by the parent churches that had united by 1915.
There was an international dimension to this character. The
denomination supported fully organized churches in the
United States of America, India, Cape Verde, Cuba, Canada,
Mexico, Guatemala, Japan, Argentina, the United Kingdom,
Eswatini, China, and Peru. By 1930, it reached into South
Africa, Syria, Palestine, Mozambique, Barbados, and Trinidad.
National leaders were essential to this process, like district
superintendents V. G. Santin (Mexico), Hiroshi Kitagawa
(Japan), and Samuel Bhujbal (India). This international
character was reinforced further by new accessions.
In 1922, J. G. Morrison led many Layman’s Holiness
Association workers and over 1,000 members in the Dakotas,
USA, Minnesota, USA, and Montana, USA, into the church.
20 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

Churches in Australia under A. A. E. Berg united in 1945.

Alfredo del Rosso led Italian churches into the denomination
in 1948. The Hephzibah Faith Missionary Association’s South
African ministry and its center in Tabor, Iowa, USA, united
with the Nazarenes around 1950.
The International Holiness Mission, founded in London,
England, by David Thomas in 1907, developed extensive
ministry in southern Africa under David Jones. Holiness
congregations in Korea were formally organized in 1948 under
the superintendency of evangelist Chung Nam Soo. In 1952,
its churches in England under J. B. Maclagan and ministry in
Africa united with the Nazarenes. Maynard James and Jack
Ford formed the Calvary Holiness Church in Britain in 1934
and united with the Nazarenes in 1955. The Gospel Workers
Church, organized by Frank Goff in Ontario, Canada, in 1918,
joined the Church of the Nazarene in 1958. Nigerians formed
an indigenous Church of the Nazarene in the 1940s and,
under Jeremiah U. Ekaidem, united with the international
body in 1988.
Nazarenes have consciously developed a model of church
that differs from the Protestant norm. In 1976, a study
commission was raised to examine the denomination’s future
shape. Reporting in 1980, it recommended internationalization
based on two principles. First, it recognized that Nazarene
churches and districts globally constituted a “worldwide
fellowship of believers in which there exists full acceptance
within their cultural contexts.” Second, it identified a common
commitment to “the distinctive mission of the Church of the
Nazarene,” namely “to spread scriptural holiness . . . [as] the
key element in a core of nonnegotiables which represent the
Nazarene identity.”
The 1980 General Assembly embraced “international
theological uniformity” around the Articles of Faith, affirmed
the importance of theological training for all ministers, and
called for adequate support of institutions of theological
education in each world area. It summoned Nazarenes toward
maturity as an international holiness communion within a
HISTORICAL STATEMENT 21

single connectional framework in which the colonial mentality

that evaluated peoples and nations in terms of “strong and
weak, donor and recipient” gave way to “one that assumes an
entirely new way of looking at the world: one recognizing the
strengths and equality of all partners.”
NOTE: Journal of the 20th General Assembly, Church of the Nazarene,
(1980): 232. Franklin Cook, The International Dimension (1984): 49.
The Church of the Nazarene has a unique growth pattern
among Protestants. By 1998, half of Nazarenes no longer
lived in the United States of America and Canada, and 41%
of delegates at the 2001 General Assembly spoke English as
their second language or did not speak it at all. An African,
Eugénio R. Duarte of Cape Verde, was elected one of the
church’s general superintendents in 2009. In 2013, a Central
American, Gustavo A. Crocker of Guatemala, was elected
general superintendent. In 2017, another African, Filimão M.
Chambo, a native of Mozambique, was also elected general
superintendent, and, for the first time, more than half the
members of the Board of General Superintendents were
individuals born and raised outside North America. In 2023,
a South American, Christian D. Sarmiento of Colombia, was
elected general superintendent. By 2022, across six global
regions, the church had 2.6 million members in 501 districts
and pioneer areas in 164 world areas.
From its inception, the Church of the Nazarene has
supported the historic right of women to be elected and
appointed to all places of ministry leadership, including that of
pastor, evangelist, educator, theologian, administrator, district
superintendent, and general superintendent. In 2005, Nina
G. Gunter, having served as the global director of Nazarene
Missions International, became the first female elected general
superintendent. In 2017, Carla D. Sunberg, born to pioneer
Nazarene missionaries in Germany, and herself a pioneer
Nazarene missionary along with her husband to the former
Soviet Union, became the second female elected general
superintendent.
22 HISTORICAL STATEMENT

Distinctives of International Ministry

Nazarene strategic ministries have centered historically
around evangelism, social ministry, and education. They
flourish through the mutual cooperation of cross-cultural
missionaries and thousands of local ministers and lay workers,
who have indigenized Wesleyan principles within their
respective cultures.
Evangelization. Hiram F. Reynolds was a strategic personality
in establishing Nazarene cross-cultural ministries. During
a quarter-century as general superintendent, his constant
advocacy helped raise missions to a denominational priority.
Since 1915, Nazarene Missions International (originally the
Women’s Missionary Society) has raised funds and promoted
mission education in congregations around the world. Home
missions were a central part of North American evangelization,
while national missionaries John Diaz (Cape Verde),
Santos Elizondo (Mexico), Samuel Krikorian (Palestine),
J. I. Nagamatsu (Japan), and Chung Nam Soo (Korea) were
pioneer leaders. The Mid-Century Crusade for Souls directed
new energies toward world evangelization after World War
II. Home missions expanded in North America. New fields
opened on other continents. Urban evangelism compelled the
church to rediscover the city as a primary locus of ministry
in the 1970s. New types of urban ministry developed, and
the church undertook an international “Thrust to the Cities”
emphasis in the 1980s. The church entered Eastern Europe in
the 1990s. Nazarenes participate in the East African revival
and serve in nations as diverse as Bangladesh, where on 24
March 2010, 193 elders were ordained to the ministry in a
single service—a remarkable event in Christian history.
Compassion. Early Nazarenes witnessed to God’s grace by
supporting famine relief in India, and establishing orphanages,
maternity homes for unwed girls and women, and urban
missions that ministered to addicts and the homeless. In
the 1920s, the church’s social ministry priorities shifted
to medicine, as hospitals were built in China and Eswatini,
HISTORICAL STATEMENT 23

and later in India and Papua New Guinea. Nazarene medical

professionals cared for the sick, performed surgeries, trained
nurses, and sponsored mobile field clinics among some of the
world’s poorest people. Specialized clinics were established,
such as a leprosy clinic in Africa. The creation of Nazarene
Compassionate Ministries in the 1980s permitted a wider
range of social ministries that endure today, including child
sponsorship, disaster relief, AIDS education, orphan support,
water projects, and food distribution.
Education. Nazarene Sunday schools and Bible studies have
always been part of congregational life and play significant
roles in forming Christlike disciples. The church has invested
in basic education and literacy since the early years of Hope
School for Girls in Calcutta, founded 1905. Nazarene schools
prepare people around the world for fuller participation
in social, economic, and religious life. Most early Nazarene
colleges in the United States of America had grade schools and
high schools attached to them until the mid-20th century. The
Nazarene founders invested significantly in higher education,
believing it essential for training pastors and other Christian
workers and for shaping the laity. The International Board
of Education lists 50 Nazarene institutions in our 6 global
regions: 14 liberal arts institutions, 7 graduate seminaries
and theological colleges, 18 undergraduate seminaries and
theological colleges, 8 certificate and Bible colleges, and 3
specialized training schools for teaching and nursing.
The Church of the Nazarene has moved over time from a
church with a global presence toward a global community
of believers. Grounded in the Wesleyan tradition, Nazarenes
understand themselves to be a people who are Christian,
Holiness, and Missional, and embrace as their mission
statement: “To make Christlike disciples in the nations.”
 24
CHURCH GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
(with detail)

◆ Global Church of the Nazarene ◆ Constitution and Articles of Government – Manual Paragraphs 22-27 ◆

GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Doctrinal and Legislative Authority
Delegates from Districts Worldwide
Paragraphs 25-25.8

GENERAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT GOVERNMENT LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Paragraphs 300s Paragraphs 200s Paragraphs 22.3, 23, 100s

GENERAL BOARD GENERAL DISTRICT ASSEMBLY LOCAL CHURCH

Paragraph 335 SUPERINTENDENTS Paragraphs 24, 200s Paragraphs 23, 100s
Paragraphs 306-307.16

(corporate board elected (delegates from local churches (elects pastor and local
by General Assembly (elected by General meet annually to ordain church board)
delegates for policy Assembly to administer ministers, elect district
and fiduciary matters international church superintendent, officers and
of international church ministries; preside over boards)
ministries in the interim General Board and district LOCAL CHURCH
of General Assembly) assemblies; give leadership to PASTOR
BOARD
the mission objectives) DISTRICT Paragraphs 117,
DISTRICT BOARDS Paragraphs 137-137.1,
SUPERINTENDENT 124-131, 514
139-140
Paragraphs 224-238,
Paragraphs 22.2, 208,
240
211-213.1
(elected by the local (elected by the local
church, nominated church to manage local
(elected by district (Advisory, Ministerial by the church board, church finances and have
assembly to give Credentials, Ministerial approved by the district charge of all other matters
leadership in spiritual, Studies; other district superintendent, to give pertaining to the life and
financial, and pastoral boards and officers) oversight of a local work of the local church)
ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

matters) church)
 PART II

Church Constitution

PREAMBLE

ARTICLES OF FAITH

THE CHURCH

ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION
AND GOVERNMENT

AMENDMENTS
26 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

PREAMBLE TO CHURCH
CONSTITUTION
In order that we may preserve our God-given heritage, the
faith once delivered to the saints, especially the doctrine and
experience of entire sanctification as a second work of grace,
and also that we may cooperate effectually with other branches
of the Church of Jesus Christ in advancing God’s kingdom, we,
the ministers and lay members of the Church of the Nazarene,
in accordance with the principles of constitutional legislation
established among us, do hereby ordain, adopt, and set forth
as the fundamental law or Constitution of the Church of the
Nazarene the Articles of Faith, the Covenant of Christian
Character, and the Articles of Organization and Government
here following, to wit:

ARTICLES OF FAITH
NOTE: Scripture references are supportive of the Articles of Faith and were
placed here beginning with action of the 1976 General Assembly. They are not
to be considered part of the Constitutional text.

I. The Triune God

1. We believe in one eternally existent, infinite God,
Sovereign Creator and Sustainer of the universe; that He only
is God, holy in nature, attributes, and purpose. The God who
is holy love and light is Triune in essential being, revealed as
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
(Genesis 1; Leviticus 19:2; Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Isaiah 5:16; 6:1-7; 40:18-31;
Matthew 3:16-17; 28:19-20; John 14:6-27; 1 Corinthians 8:6; 2 Corinthians
13:14; Galatians 4:4-6; Ephesians 2:13-18; 1 John 1:5; 4:8)

II. Jesus Christ

2. We believe in Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the
Triune Godhead; that He was eternally one with the Father;
that He became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and was born of
the Virgin Mary, so that two whole and perfect natures, that
is to say the Godhead and manhood, are thus united in one
Person very God and very man, the God-man.
CHURCH CONSTITUTION 27

We believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins, and that He
truly arose from the dead and took again His body, together
with all things appertaining to the perfection of man’s nature,
wherewith He ascended into heaven and is there engaged in
intercession for us.
(Matthew 1:20-25; 16:15-16; Luke 1:26-35; John 1:1-18; Acts 2:22-36;
Romans 8:3, 32-34; Galatians 4:4-5; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 1:12-22;
1 Timothy 6:14-16; Hebrews 1:1-5; 7:22-28; 9:24-28; 1 John 1:1-3; 4:2-3, 15)

III. The Holy Spirit

3. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the
Triune Godhead, that He is ever present and efficiently active
in and with the Church of Christ, convincing the world of
sin, regenerating those who repent and believe, sanctifying
believers, and guiding into all truth as it is in Jesus.
(John 7:39; 14:15-18, 26; 16:7-15; Acts 2:33; 15:8-9; Romans 8:1-27; Galatians
3:1-14; 4:6; Ephesians 3:14-21; 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; 1
Peter 1:2; 1 John 3:24; 4:13)

IV. The Holy Scriptures

4. We believe in the plenary inspiration of the Holy
Scriptures, by which we understand the 66 books of the Old
and New Testaments, given by divine inspiration, inerrantly
revealing the will of God concerning us in all things necessary
to our salvation, so that whatever is not contained therein is
not to be enjoined as an article of faith.
(Luke 24:44-47; John 10:35; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; 1 Peter
1:10-12; 2 Peter 1:20-21)

V. Sin, Original and Personal

5. We believe that sin came into the world through the
disobedience of our first parents, and death by sin. We believe
that sin is of two kinds: original sin or depravity, and actual or
personal sin.
5.1. We believe that original sin, or depravity, is that
corruption of the nature of all the offspring of Adam by reason
of which everyone is very far gone from original righteousness
or the pure state of our first parents at the time of their
28 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

creation, is averse to God, is without spiritual life, and inclined

to evil, and that continually. We further believe that original
sin continues to exist with the new life of the regenerate, until
the heart is fully cleansed by the baptism with the Holy Spirit.
5.2. We believe that original sin differs from actual sin in
that it constitutes an inherited propensity to actual sin for
which no one is accountable until its divinely provided remedy
is neglected or rejected.
5.3. We believe that actual or personal sin is a voluntary
violation of a known law of God by a morally responsible
person. It is therefore not to be confused with involuntary
and inescapable shortcomings, infirmities, faults, mistakes,
failures, or other deviations from a standard of perfect
conduct that are the residual effects of the Fall. However, such
innocent effects do not include attitudes or responses contrary
to the spirit of Christ, which may properly be called sins of the
spirit. We believe that personal sin is primarily and essentially
a violation of the law of love; and that in relation to Christ sin
may be defined as unbelief.
(Original sin: Genesis 3; 6:5; Job 15:14; Psalm 51:5; Jeremiah 17:9-10; Mark
7:21-23; Romans 1:18-25; 5:12-14; 7:1-8:9; 1 Corinthians 3:1-4; Galatians
5:16-25; 1 John 1:7-8
Personal sin: Matthew 22:36-40 {with 1 John 3:4}; John 8:34-36; 16:8-9;
Romans 3:23; 6:15-23; 8:18-24; 14:23; 1 John 1:9-2:4; 3:7-10)

VI. Atonement
6. We believe that Jesus Christ, by His sufferings, by the
shedding of His own blood, and by His death on the Cross,
made a full atonement for all human sin, and that this
Atonement is the only ground of salvation, and that it is
sufficient for every individual of Adam’s race. The Atonement
is graciously efficacious for the salvation of those incapable
of moral responsibility and for the children in innocency but
is efficacious for the salvation of those who reach the age of
responsibility only when they repent and believe.
(Isaiah 53:5-6, 11; Mark 10:45; Luke 24:46-48; John 1:29; 3:14-17; Acts
4:10-12; Romans 3:21-26; 4:17-25; 5:6-21; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 2 Corinthians
CHURCH CONSTITUTION 29

5:14-21; Galatians 1:3-4; 3:13-14; Colossians 1:19-23; 1 Timothy 2:3-6; Titus

2:11-14; Hebrews 2:9; 9:11-14; 13:12; 1 Peter 1:18-21; 2:19-25; 1 John 2:1-2)

VII. Prevenient Grace

7. We believe that the grace of God through Jesus Christ
is freely bestowed upon all people, enabling all who will to
turn from sin to righteousness, believe on Jesus Christ for
pardon and cleansing from sin, and follow good works pleasing
and acceptable in His sight. We also believe that the human
race’s creation in Godlikeness included the ability to choose
between right and wrong, and that thus human beings were
made morally responsible; that through the fall of Adam they
became depraved so that they cannot now turn and prepare
themselves by their own natural strength and works to faith
and calling upon God.
(Godlikeness and moral responsibility: Genesis 1:26-27; 2:16-17; Deuteronomy
28:1-2; 30:19; Joshua 24:15; Psalm 8:3-5; Isaiah 1:8-10; Jeremiah 31:29-30;
Ezekiel 18:1-4; Micah 6:8; Romans 1:19-20; 2:1-16; 14:7-12; Galatians 6:7-8
Natural inability: Job 14:4; 15:14; Psalms 14:1-4; 51:5; John 3:6a; Romans
3:10-12; 5:12-14, 20a; 7:14-25
Free grace and works of faith: Ezekiel 18:25-26; John 1:12-13; 3:6b; Acts 5:31;
Romans 5:6-8, 18; 6:15-16, 23; 10:6-8; 11:22; 1 Corinthians 2:9-14;10:1-12;
2 Corinthians 5:18-19; Galatians 5:6; Ephesians 2:8-10; Philippians 2:12-13;
Colossians 1:21-23; 2 Timothy 4:10a; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews 2:1-3; 3:12-15;
6:4-6; 10:26-31; James 2:18-22; 2 Peter 1:10-11; 2:20-22)

VIII. Repentance
8. We believe the Spirit of God gives to all who will repent
the gracious help of penitence of heart and hope of mercy, that
they may believe unto pardon and spiritual life. Repentance,
which is a sincere and thorough change of the mind in regard
to sin, involving a sense of personal guilt and a voluntary
turning away from sin, is demanded of all who have by act or
purpose become sinners against God.
We believe that all persons may fall from grace and
apostatize and, unless they repent of their sins, be hopelessly
and eternally lost. We believe that regenerate persons need not
return to sin but may live in unbroken fellowship with God
30 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit who bears

witness with our spirits that we are children of God.
(2 Chronicles 7:14; Psalms 32:5-6; 51:1-17; Isaiah 55:6-7; Jeremiah 3:12-14;
Ezekiel 18:30-32; 33:14-16; Mark 1:14-15; Luke 3:1-14; 13:1-5; 18:9-14; Acts
2:38; 3:19; 5:31; 17:30-31; 26:16-18; Romans 2:4; 2 Corinthians 7:8-11; 1
Thessalonians 1:9; 2 Peter 3:9)

IX. Justification, Regeneration, and Adoption

9. We believe that justification is the gracious and judicial
act of God by which He grants full pardon of all guilt and
complete release from the penalty of sins committed, and
acceptance as righteous, to all who believe on Jesus Christ and
receive Him as Lord and Savior.
9.1. We believe that regeneration, or the new birth, is
that gracious work of God whereby the moral nature of
the repentant believer is spiritually quickened and given a
distinctively spiritual life, capable of faith, love, and obedience.
9.2. We believe that adoption is that gracious act of God by
which the justified and regenerated believer is constituted a
child of God.
9.3. We believe that justification, regeneration, and adoption
are simultaneous in the experience of seekers after God and
are received by faith, preceded by repentance; and that to this
work and state of grace the Holy Spirit bears witness.
(Luke 18:14; John 1:12-13; 3:3-8; 5:24; Acts 13:39; Romans 1:17; 3:21-26,
28; 4:5-9, 17-25; 5:1, 16-19; 6:4; 7:6; 8:1, 15-17; 1 Corinthians 1:30; 6:11; 2
Corinthians 5:17-21; Galatians 2:16-21; 3:1-14, 26; 4:4-7; Ephesians 1:6-7; 2:1,
4-5; Philippians 3:3-9; Colossians 2:13; Titus 3:4-7; 1 Peter 1:23; 1 John 1:9;
3:1-2, 9; 4:7; 5:1, 9-13, 18)

X. Christian Holiness and Entire Sanctification

10. We believe that sanctification is the work of God which
transforms believers into the likeness of Christ. It is wrought
by God’s grace through the Holy Spirit in initial sanctification,
or regeneration (simultaneous with justification), entire
sanctification, and the continued perfecting work of the Holy
Spirit culminating in glorification. In glorification we are fully
conformed to the image of the Son.
CHURCH CONSTITUTION 31

We believe that entire sanctification is that act of God,

subsequent to regeneration, by which believers are made
free from original sin, or depravity, and brought into a state
of entire devotement to God, and the holy obedience of love
made perfect.
It is wrought by the baptism with or infilling of the Holy
Spirit, and comprehends in one experience the cleansing of
the heart from sin and the abiding, indwelling presence of
the Holy Spirit, empowering the believer for life and service.
Entire sanctification is provided by the blood of Jesus, is
wrought instantaneously by grace through faith, preceded by
entire consecration; and to this work and state of grace the
Holy Spirit bears witness.
This experience is also known by various terms representing
its different phases, such as “Christian perfection,” “perfect
love,” “heart purity,” “the baptism with or infilling of the Holy
Spirit,” “the fullness of the blessing,” and “Christian holiness.”
10.1. We believe that there is a marked distinction between
a pure heart and a mature character. The former is obtained in
an instant, the result of entire sanctification; the latter is the
result of growth in grace.
We believe that the grace of entire sanctification includes
the divine impulse to grow in grace as a Christlike disciple.
However, this impulse must be consciously nurtured, and
careful attention given to the requisites and processes of
spiritual development and improvement in Christlikeness of
character and personality. Without such purposeful endeavor,
one’s witness may be impaired and the grace itself frustrated
and ultimately lost.
Participating in the means of grace, especially the fellowship,
disciplines, and sacraments of the Church, believers grow in
grace and in wholehearted love to God and neighbor.
(Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Malachi 3:2-3; Matthew 3:11-12; Luke
3:16-17; John 7:37-39; 14:15-23; 17:6-20; Acts 1:5; 2:1-4; 15:8-9; Romans
6:11-13, 19; 8:1-4, 8-14; 12:1-2; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1; Galatians 2:20; 5:16-
25; Ephesians 3:14-21; 5:17-18, 25-27; Philippians 3:10-15; Colossians 3:1-17; 1
Thessalonians 5:23-24; Hebrews 4:9-11; 10:10-17; 12:1-2; 13:12; 1 John 1:7, 9)
32 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

(“Christian perfection,” “perfect love”: Deuteronomy 30:6; Matthew 5:43-48;

22:37-40; Romans 12:9-21; 13:8-10; 1 Corinthians 13; Philippians 3:10-15;
Hebrews 6:1; 1 John 4:17-18
“Heart purity”: Matthew 5:8; Acts 15:8-9; 1 Peter 1:22; 1 John 3:3
“Baptism with the Holy Spirit”: Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Malachi
3:2-3; Matthew 3:11-12; Luke 3:16-17; Acts 1:5; 2:1-4; 15:8-9
“Fullness of the blessing”: Romans 15:29
“Christian holiness”: Matthew 5:1-7:29; John 15:1-11; Romans 12:1-15:3; 2
Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 4:17-5:20; Philippians 1:9-11; 3:12-15; Colossians
2:20-3:17; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; 4:7-8; 5:23; 2 Timothy 2:19-22; Hebrews
10:19-25; 12:14; 13:20-21; 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Peter 1:1-11; 3:18; Jude 20-21)

XI. The Church

11. We believe in the Church, the community that confesses
Jesus Christ as Lord, the covenant people of God made new in
Christ, the Body of Christ called together by the Holy Spirit
through the Word.
God calls the Church to express its life in the unity and
fellowship of the Spirit; in worship through the preaching
of the Word, observance of the sacraments, and ministry in
His name; by obedience to Christ, holy living, and mutual
accountability.
The mission of the Church in the world is to share in the
redemptive and reconciling ministry of Christ in the power of
the Spirit. The Church fulfills its mission by making disciples
through evangelism, education, showing compassion, working
for justice, and bearing witness to the kingdom of God.
The Church is a historical reality that organizes itself in
culturally conditioned forms, exists both as local congregations
and as a universal body, and also sets apart persons called of
God for specific ministries. God calls the Church to live under
His rule in anticipation of the consummation at the coming of
our Lord Jesus Christ.
(Exodus 19:3; Jeremiah 31:33; Matthew 8:11; 10:7; 16:13-19, 24; 18:15-20;
28:19-20; John 17:14-26; 20:21-23; Acts 1:7-8; 2:32-47; 6:1-2; 13:1; 14:23;
Romans 2:28-29; 4:16; 10:9-15; 11:13-32; 12:1-8; 15:1-3; 1 Corinthians 3:5-9;
7:17; 11:1, 17-33; 12:3, 12-31; 14:26-40; 2 Corinthians 5:11-6:1; Galatians 5:6,
13-14; 6:1-5, 15; Ephesians 4:1-17; 5:25-27; Philippians 2:1-16; 1 Thessalonians
CHURCH CONSTITUTION 33

4:1-12; 1 Timothy 4:13; Hebrews 10:19-25; 1 Peter 1:1-2, 13; 2:4-12, 21; 4:1-2,
10-11; 1 John 4:17; Jude 24; Revelation 5:9-10)

XII. Baptism
12. We believe that Christian baptism, commanded by our
Lord, is a sacrament signifying acceptance of the benefits of
the atonement and incorporation into the Body of Christ.
Baptism is a means of grace proclaiming faith in Jesus Christ
as Savior. It is to be administered to believers indicating their
full purpose of obedience in holiness and righteousness. As
participants in the new covenant, young children and the
morally innocent may be baptized upon request of parents
or guardians. The church shall give assurance of Christian
training. Baptism may be administered by sprinkling, pouring,
or immersion.
(Matthew 3:1-7; 28:16-20; Acts 2:37-41; 8:35-39; 10:44-48; 16:29-34; 19:1-6;
Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:26-28; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:18-22)

XIII. The Lord’s Supper

13. We believe that the Communion Supper instituted by
our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is a sacrament, proclaiming
His life, sufferings, sacrificial death, resurrection, and the
hope of His coming again. The Lord’s Supper is a means of
grace in which Christ is present by the Spirit. All are invited to
participate by faith in Christ and be renewed in life, salvation,
and in unity as the Church. All are to come in reverent
appreciation of its significance, and by it show forth the Lord’s
death until He comes. Those who have faith in Christ and love
for the saints are invited by Christ to participate as often as
possible.
(Exodus 12:1-14; Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:17-20; John
6:28-58; 1 Corinthians 10:14-21; 11:23-32)

XIV. Divine Healing

14. We believe in the biblical doctrine of divine healing and
urge our people to offer the prayer of faith for the healing
34 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

of the sick. We also believe God heals through the means of

medical science.
(2 Kings 5:1-19; Psalm 103:1-5; Matthew 4:23-24; 9:18-35; John 4:46-54; Acts
5:12-16; 9:32-42; 14:8-15; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10; James
5:13-16)

XV. Second Coming of Christ

NOTE: Constitutional changes adopted by the 2023 General Assembly are
in the process of ratification by the district assemblies at the time of printing.
Where changes are being made, words in italics are new words and words in
brackets [ ] are words being deleted.
15. We believe that at the end of the age the Lord Jesus
Christ will be revealed as Lord of all. He will come again in
glory and power to establish fully the kingdom of God that He
proclaimed and initiated in His life and ministry. As the Triune
God first created heaven and earth, God will renew them in the
new creation where He will dwell eternally with His redeemed
people. [; that w]We who are alive at His coming shall not
precede them that are asleep in Christ Jesus; but [that], if we
are abiding in Him, we shall be caught up with the risen saints
to meet the Lord in the air, so that we shall ever be with the
Lord. In that day, God, who in the cross triumphed over all evil
powers, will complete His loving purposes for creation. There will
be no more suffering, injustice, or death, and God will wipe away
every tear.
(Deuteronomy 10:17; Isaiah 11:1-9; 65:17-25; 66:22-23; Matthew 6:9-13, 24;
25:31-46; 28:18; Luke 4:18-21; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; 3:21; Romans 8:18-
22; 1 Corinthians 13:12-13; 15:24-25, 28; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Philippians 1:6;
2:5-11; 3:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews 9:26-28; 2
Peter 3:3-15; Revelation 1:7-8; 12:10-12; 21:1-8; 22:7-20)

XVI. Resurrection, Judgment, and Destiny

16. We believe in the resurrection of the dead, that the
bodies both of the just and of the unjust shall be raised to life
and united with their spirits—“they that have done good, unto
the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the
resurrection of damnation.”
CHURCH CONSTITUTION 35

16.1. We believe in future judgment in which every person

shall appear before God to be judged according to his or her
deeds in this life.
16.2. We believe that glorious and everlasting life is assured
to all who savingly believe in, and obediently follow, Jesus
Christ our Lord; and that the finally impenitent shall suffer
eternally in hell.
(Genesis 18:25; 1 Samuel 2:10; Psalm 50:6; Isaiah 26:19; Daniel 12:2-3;
Matthew 25:31-46; Mark 9:43-48; Luke 16:19-31; 20:27-38; John 3:16-18;
5:25-29; 11:21-27; Acts 17:30-31; Romans 2:1-16; 14:7-12; 1 Corinthians
15:12-58; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 20:11-15;
22:1-15)

THE CHURCH

I. The General Church

17. The Church of God is composed of all spiritually
regenerate persons, whose names are written in heaven.

II. The Churches Severally

18. The churches severally are to be composed of such
regenerate persons as by providential permission, and by the
leadings of the Holy Spirit, become associated together for
holy fellowship and ministries.

III. The Church of the Nazarene

19. The Church of the Nazarene is composed of those
persons who have voluntarily associated themselves together
according to the doctrines and polity of said church, and who
seek holy Christian fellowship, the conversion of sinners, the
entire sanctification of believers, their upbuilding in holiness,
and the simplicity and spiritual power manifest in the primitive
New Testament Church, together with the preaching of the
gospel to every creature.
36 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

IV. Agreed Statement of Belief

20. Recognizing that the right and privilege of persons
to church membership rest upon the fact of their being
regenerate, we would require only such avowals of belief as are
essential to Christian experience. We, therefore, deem belief
in the following brief statements to be sufficient. We believe:
20.1. In One God—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
20.2. The Old and New Testament Scriptures, given by
plenary inspiration, contain all truth necessary to faith and
Christian living.
20.3. Human beings are born with a fallen nature, and are,
therefore, inclined to evil, and that continually.
20.4. The finally impenitent are hopelessly and eternally
lost.
20.5. The atonement through Jesus Christ is for the whole
human race; and that whosoever repents and believes on the
Lord Jesus Christ is justified and regenerated and saved from
the dominion of sin.
20.6. The believers are to be sanctified wholly, subsequent
to regeneration, through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
20.7. The Holy Spirit bears witness to the new birth, and
also to the entire sanctification of believers.
20.8. Our Lord will return, the dead will be raised, and the
final judgment will take place.

V. The Covenant of Christian Character

21. To be identified with the visible Church is the blessed
privilege and sacred duty of all who are saved from their sins
and are seeking completeness in Christ Jesus. It is required
of all who desire to unite with the Church of the Nazarene,
and thus to walk in fellowship with us, that they shall show
evidence of salvation from their sins by a godly walk and vital
piety; and that they shall be, or earnestly desire to be, cleansed
from all indwelling sin. They shall evidence their commitment
to God:
CHURCH CONSTITUTION 37

21.1. FIRST. By doing that which is enjoined in the Word of

God, which is our rule of both faith and practice, including:
(1) Loving God with all the heart, soul, mind, and strength,
and one’s neighbor as oneself (Exodus 20:3-6; Leviticus 19:17-
18; Deuteronomy 5:7-10; 6:4-5; Mark 12:28-31; Romans 13:8-
10).
(2) Pressing upon the attention of the unsaved the claims of
the gospel, inviting them to the house of the Lord, and trying
to compass their salvation (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8;
Romans 1:14-16; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20).
(3) Being courteous to all people (Ephesians 4:32; Titus 3:2;
1 Peter 2:17; 1 John 3:18).
(4) Being helpful to those who are also of the faith, in love
forbearing one another (Romans 12:13; Galatians 6:2, 10;
Colossians 3:12-14).
(5) Seeking to do good to the bodies and souls of people;
feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and
imprisoned, and ministering to the needy, as opportunity and
ability are given (Matthew 25:35-36; 2 Corinthians 9:8-10;
Galatians 2:10; James 2:15-16; 1 John 3:17-18).
(6) Contributing to the support of the ministry and the
church and its work in tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:10;
Luke 6:38; 1 Corinthians 9:14; 16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-10;
Philippians 4:15-19).
(7) Attending faithfully all the ordinances of God, and the
means of grace, including the public worship of God (Hebrews
10:25), the ministry of the Word (Acts 2:42), the sacrament
of the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:23-30); searching the
Scriptures and meditating thereon (Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy
2:15; 3:14-16); family and private devotions (Deuteronomy
6:6-7; Matthew 6:6).
21.2. SECOND. By avoiding evil of every kind, including:
(1) Taking the name of God in vain (Exodus 20:7; Leviticus
19:12; James 5:12).
(2) Profaning of the Lord’s Day by participation in
unnecessary secular activities, thereby indulging in practices
38 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

that deny its sanctity (Exodus 20:8-11; Isaiah 58:13-14; Mark

2:27-28; Acts 20:7; Revelation 1:10).
(3) Sexual immorality, such as premarital, extramarital,
or same-sex relations; perversion in any form or looseness
and impropriety of conduct (Genesis 19:4-11; Exodus 20:14;
Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Matthew 5:27-32; Romans 1:26-27; 1
Corinthians 6:9-11; Galatians 5:19; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7; 1
Timothy 1:10).
(4) Habits or practices known to be destructive of physical
and mental well-being. Christians are to regard themselves as
temples of the Holy Spirit (Proverbs 20:1; 23:1-3; 1 Corinthians
6:17-20; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 5:18).
(5) Quarreling, returning evil for evil, gossiping, slandering,
spreading surmises injurious to the good names of others (2
Corinthians 12:20; Galatians 5:15; Ephesians 4:30-32; James
3:5-18; 1 Peter 3:9-10).
(6) Dishonesty, taking advantage in buying and selling,
bearing false witness, and like works of darkness (Leviticus
19:10-11; Romans 12:17; 1 Corinthians 6:7-10).
(7) The indulging of pride in dress or behavior. Our people
are to dress with the Christian simplicity and modesty that
become holiness (Proverbs 29:23; 1 Timothy 2:8-10; James
4:6; 1 Peter 3:3-4; 1 John 2:15-17).
(8) Music, literature, and entertainments that dishonor God
(1 Corinthians 10:31; 2 Corinthians 6:14-17; James 4:4).
21.3. THIRD. By abiding in hearty fellowship with the
church, not inveighing against but wholly committed to its
doctrines and usages and actively involved in its continuing
witness and outreach (Ephesians 2:18-22; 4:1-3, 11-16;
Philippians 2:1-8; 1 Peter 2:9-10).

***
CHURCH CONSTITUTION 39

ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION
AND GOVERNMENT
Article I. Form of Government
22. The Church of the Nazarene has a representative form
of government.
22.1. We are agreed that there are three legislative entities
in the structure of the Church of the Nazarene: local, district,
general. The regions serve as administrative entities for mission
strategy and implementation.
22.2. We are agreed on the necessity of a superintendency that
shall complement and assist the local church in the fulfilling
of its mission and objectives. The superintendency shall build
morale, provide motivation, supply management and method
assistance, and organize and encourage organization of new
churches and missions everywhere.
22.3. We are agreed that authority given to superintendents
shall not interfere with the independent action of a fully
organized church. Each church shall enjoy the right to select its
own pastor, subject to such approval as the General Assembly
shall find wise to institute. Each church shall also elect delegates
to the various assemblies, manage its own finances, and have
charge of all other matters pertaining to its local life and work.

Article II. Local Churches

23. The membership of a local church shall consist of all
who have been organized as a church by those authorized so
to do and who have been publicly received by those having
proper authority, after having declared their experience of
salvation, their belief in our doctrines, and their willingness to
submit to our government. (100-109)

Article III. District Assemblies

24. The General Assembly shall organize the membership
of the church into district assemblies, giving such lay and
ministerial representation therein as the General Assembly
40 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

may deem fair and just, and shall determine qualifications

of such representatives, provided, however, that all assigned
ordained ministers shall be members thereof. The General
Assembly shall also define the powers and duties of district
assemblies. (200-207.4)

Article IV. The General Assembly

25. How Composed. The General Assembly shall be
composed of ministerial and lay delegates in equal numbers,
elected thereto by district assemblies of the Church of the
Nazarene; such ex-officio members as the General Assembly
shall from time to time direct; and such delegates as may be
provided for by the General Assembly.
25.1. Election of Delegates. At a district assembly within
16 months of the meeting of the General Assembly or within
24 months in areas where travel visas or other unusual
preparations are necessary, an equal number of ministerial
and lay delegates to the General Assembly shall be elected by
plurality vote, provided that the ministerial delegates shall be
assigned ordained ministers of the Church of the Nazarene.
Each Phase 3 assembly district shall be entitled to at least one
ministerial and one lay delegate, and such additional delegates
as its membership may warrant on the basis of representation
fixed by the General Assembly. Each assembly district shall
elect alternate delegates not exceeding twice the number of
its delegates. In situations where travel visas are problematic,
a district assembly may authorize the District Advisory Board
to select additional alternates. (205.23, 301-301.1)
25.2. Credentials. The secretary of each district assembly
shall furnish certificates of election to the delegates and
alternates severally elected to the General Assembly, and shall
also send certificates of such elections to the general secretary
of the Church of the Nazarene immediately following the
adjournment of the district assembly.
25.3. Quorum. The quorum at any meeting of the General
Assembly shall be a majority of the voting delegates who have
been registered on site with the General Assembly Credentials
CHURCH CONSTITUTION 41

Committee. If a quorum has once been obtained, a smaller

number may approve the unapproved minutes and adjourn.
25.4. General Superintendents. The General Assembly shall
elect by ballot from among the elders of the Church of the
Nazarene six general superintendents, who shall constitute
the Board of General Superintendents. Any vacancy in the
office of general superintendent in the interim of General
Assemblies shall be filled by a two-thirds vote of the General
Board of the Church of the Nazarene. (305.2, 316)
25.5. Presiding Officers. A general superintendent appointed
thereto by the Board of General Superintendents shall preside
over the daily meetings of the General Assembly. But if no
general superintendent be so appointed or be present, the
General Assembly shall elect one of its members as temporary
presiding officer. (300.1)
25.6. Standing Rules. The General Assembly shall adopt
rules of order governing its manner of organization, procedure,
committees, and all other matters pertaining to the orderly
conduct of its business. It shall be the judge of the election and
qualifications of its own members. (300.2-300.3)
25.7. General Court of Appeals. The General Assembly shall
elect from among members of the Church of the Nazarene a
General Court of Appeals and shall define its jurisdiction and
powers. (305.7)
25.8. Powers and Restrictions.
(1) The General Assembly shall have power to legislate for
the Church of the Nazarene, and to make rules and regulations
for all the departments related to or associated with it in any
respect, but not in conflict with this Constitution. (300, 305-
305.8)
(2) No local church shall be deprived of the right to call its
pastor, subject to such approval as the General Assembly shall
find wise to institute. (117)
(3) All local churches, officers, ministers, and laypersons
shall always have the right to a fair and orderly trial and the
right to make an appeal.
42 CHURCH CONSTITUTION

AMENDMENTS
26. The provisions of this Constitution may be repealed
or amended when concurred in by a two-thirds vote of the
General Assembly members present and voting, and when
ratified by not less than two-thirds of all the Phase 3 and Phase
2 district assemblies of the Church of the Nazarene. A two-
thirds vote is required on each constitutional amendment item
by any Phase 3 or Phase 2 district assembly. Either the General
Assembly or any Phase 3 or Phase 2 district assembly may take
the initiative in the matter of proposing such amendments.
As soon as such amendments shall have been adopted as
herein provided, the result of the vote shall be announced
by the Board of General Superintendents, whereupon such
amendments shall have full force and effect.
27. Resolutions amending the Articles of Faith (paragraphs
1-16.2) shall be referred by the General Assembly to the Board
of General Superintendents for review by a study committee,
including theologians and ordained ministers, appointed by
the Board of General Superintendents that reflects the global
nature of our Church. The committee shall report, with any
recommendations or resolutions, to the Board of General
Superintendents, who shall report to the subsequent General
Assembly.
 PART III

The Covenant of
Christian Conduct

THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

SANCTITY OF HUMAN LIFE

HUMAN SEXUALITY AND MARRIAGE

CHRISTIAN STEWARDSHIP

CHURCH OFFICERS

RULES OF ORDER

AMENDING THE COVENANT

OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT
44 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

A. The Christian Life

28. The church joyfully proclaims the good news that new
life can be found through Jesus Christ. Scripture begins with
God’s good work of creating, though the appearance and ever-
increasingly devastating effects of sin followed. Yet, because
of God’s grace and mercy, God constantly acts to restore what
has been damaged by sin. The fullness of God’s redemptive
plan is revealed in the good news of the gospel that in Christ
God was reconciling the world to himself. “If anyone is in
Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new
is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17-19) God’s restorative work calls
the people of God to embody and witness to this new life in
the present day. The Christian life calls the disciple, the whole
person –body, mind, and spirit, to commitments and choices
in response to God’s transforming grace. Therefore, “offer
your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God –
this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the
pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of
your mind” (Romans 12:1b-2b).
(Romans 12:1b-2b, Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:9-11, I Thess. 5:23-24)
28.1. God’s people commit themselves to enduring Scriptural
truth, found in both the Old and New Testaments. We hold
that the Ten Commandments, as reaffirmed in the teachings
of Jesus Christ, demonstrated in the Great Commandment
and the Sermon on the Mount constitute the basic Christian
ethic. We consider it imperative that in every specific cultural
context we earnestly seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and
the wisdom of the Christian tradition in living Christlike lives.
(John 14:26; 16:13)
28.2. God invites us to join in His work of restoration through
commitment to wholeness. Thus, our shared conviction is that
the Christian life will mean continually ‘putting on’ some
things and ‘laying down’ others. Such practices are often
sacrificial, and shape us for a life of witness in the world in
which we live. These move believers toward ever-increasing
Christlikeness, are intentional, and develop over time as
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 45

people discern and respond to God’s call to participate in

Christ. Therefore:
(Genesis 2:1-3; Exodus 20:8-11; Leviticus 25:1-5; 1 Thessalonians 5:23)
28.3. We call our people to discipleship in the context of
faithful congregations. Nurture, grace, and accountability are
the responsibility of the Christian community. As the family
of God, we take seriously the responsibility to raise children
into Christlikeness, teaching them from birth that they are
recipients of the fullness of Jesus’ love. We are called to become
the family of God for those who have never experienced the
love of Jesus.
(1 Corinthians 12:27-28; Ephesians 2:14-16)
28.4. We call our people to proclaim and demonstrate
God’s grace and love to the world. Equipping believers for
reconciling love as ambassadors for Christ in the world is the
shared responsibility of every congregation. God calls us to
attitudes, practices of hospitality, and relationships that value
all persons. We participate as joyful disciples, engaging with
others to create a society that mirrors God’s purposes. Our
faith is to work through love. Therefore, the Church is to
give herself to the care, feeding, clothing, and shelter of the
poor and marginalized. A life of Christian holiness will entail
efforts to create a more just and equitable society and world,
especially for the poor, the oppressed, and those who cannot
speak for themselves.
(Leviticus 19:18, 34; Deuteronomy 15:7-8, 11; Isaiah 61:1; Zechariah 9:12;
Matthew 25:34-44; Romans 5:7-8, 12:1; 2 Corinthians 5:16, 20; Galatians 5:6;
Ephesians 2:10,6:12; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 1:27; James 2:1-9)
28.5. We call our people to remember that all time is God’s.
The entirety of our lives should serve God’s purposes. The
way we use time impacts others, so together we commit to
using time in ways that proclaim God’s love to the world, build
each other up, and craft healthy communities of grace. In this
way, our leisure time, our active time, our sleep time, our
work time, our worship time, and our whole time is offered in
stewardship to God.
(Ephesians 5:14-16)
46 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

28.6. We call our people to remember the value of

learning. Education is of the utmost importance for the
social and spiritual well-being of society. We call educational
organizations and institutions to teach children, youth, and
adults, biblical principles and ethical standards in such a way
that our doctrines may be known. Education from public
sources should be complemented by Christian teaching in
the home. Because all truth is God’s truth, Christians should
also be encouraged to work in and with public institutions to
witness to and influence these institutions for God’s kingdom.
(Matthew 5:13-14, Colossians 1:16)
28.7. We call our people to remember that all our work is
offered in service to God. As people fully committed to God,
and uniquely gifted by Christ, the whole of each of our lives
should fulfil God’s purposes. All our work, paid or unpaid,
should be done generously, ethically, and justly, in ways that
promote the well-being of society and mirror Christlikeness.
(Genesis 12:1-3; Deuteronomy 24:14-15; Ephesians 4:28; Colossians 3:22-25)
28.8. We call our people to careful and considered use
of media and technologies. We affirm the churches’ use of
technology in service to the Kingdom, using it in a balanced
way, prioritizing interpersonal relationships. Care must be
taken to intentionally include those who have limited access.
We must practice formation that helps people discern ways
in which technologies may draw them away from engagement
in actual community and family participation. We encourage
disciples to live out the value of personal, face-to-face
connection and to resist any form of living that would lead
to isolation or create a culture of only virtual relationships,
unless medically advised.
(Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 10:23-24; 2 Timothy 1:7)
28.9. We call our people to care for creation. God
pronounced the original creation to be good and appointed
humanity to steward creation for God’s greater purposes.
Care for this created world includes such things as avoiding
lifestyles of pollution and of unnecessary consumption of
goods and resources.
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 47

(Genesis 1:26-28; John 1:3; Romans 8:18-25; Colossians 1:15-20)

28.10. We call our people to be peacemakers. Because Jesus
blessed peacemakers and commanded us to love our enemies,
we commit ourselves to being agents of reconciliation in our
families, among friends, at the workplace, in our churches,
societies, nations, people groups, and tribes.
(Psalm 34:14; Matthew 5:9, 43-48; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20; Ephesians 2:14-16;
Hebrews 12:14)
29. As we search the Scriptures and develop discernment,
we become aware of practices that do not promote the full
potential of human beings. Such practices prevent the
development of Christlikeness in believers and dishonor
creation. Discernment calls us to “lay aside” those things that
hinder us. We suggest that the standard given to John Wesley
by his mother, Susanna, helps form a basis for the discernment
of evil. She taught him, “Whatever weakens your reason,
impairs the tenderness of your conscience, obscures your sense
of God, or takes off the relish of spiritual things, whatever
increases the authority of your body over mind, that thing
for you is sin.” Discernment regarding the things we lay aside
forms part of our discipleship, accountability, and corporate
witness. Growth in discipleship will increase our people’s
ability to discern harmful messages that encourage or glorify
destruction, impurity, immorality, or violence, and to refuse
to participate in them or in what promotes them.
Therefore, we call our people to manifest the fruit of the
Spirit in their lives as a witness to God’s transforming and
creative power over sin and death. In full awareness that sin
takes new forms in each generation, often working in innovative
and destructive ways, the above calls are not intended to be
exhaustive, but representative of a way of life that is formed
by the Spirit enabling us to become Christlike, to the glory of
God the Father. These practices form part of our discipleship
and pursuit of corporate Christlikeness, as we continue on a
journey of grace.
(Ephesians 4:22; Colossians 3:9; Hebrews 12:1)
48 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

29.1. We call our people to wisdom in their use of time, money

and bodies. Entertainment and activities subversive of the
Christian ethic that promote consumerism, self-centeredness,
violence, sensuality, and treating others as objects rather than
persons created in the image of God are to be avoided. Because
we are living in a day of moral confusion in which we face the
encroachment of evil into our thoughts and lives through the
various avenues of print and digital media, it is essential that
we observe safeguards to keep us from becoming secularized
and worldly. We have an obligation to witness against whatever
trivializes or blasphemes God, as well as such social evils as
violence, sensuality, pornography, profanity, and the occult,
as portrayed by and through the commercial entertainment
industry in its many forms and to endeavor to bring about
the demise of enterprises known to be the purveyors of this
kind of entertainment. This would include the avoidance of
all types of entertainment ventures and media productions
that produce, promote, or feature the violent, the sensual, the
pornographic, the profane, or the occultic, or which feature or
glamorize the world’s philosophy of secularism, sensualism,
and materialism and undermine God’s standard of holiness
of heart and life. This includes all forms of dancing that
detract from spiritual growth and break down proper moral
inhibitions and reserve. We encourage the church to teach
and respond in keeping with practices of personal holiness,
including Sabbath-keeping, and to contribute to the creation
of positive modes of entertainment, arts, and sports.
(Philippians 4:8-9; Colossians 3:23; Romans 14:7-13; 1 Corinthians 10:31-33;
Ephesians 5:1-18; Philippians 4:8-9; 1 Peter 1:13-17; 2 Peter 1:3-11)
29.2. We call our people to identify, prevent, and resist
behaviors that lead to unhealthy habits or compulsive actions.
Commitment to excellence and wellness requires us to
resist habits of mind and life that could lead to addictions.
This endeavor demands corporate and personal wisdom,
discernment and truth speaking. Because these behaviors
and habits may remain hidden, we encourage the church to
develop means of accountability in areas of potential bondage.
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 49

As Christians, we are called to resist all forms of compulsive

actions, from the most pernicious to those culturally
acceptable. Recognizing these vary from nation to nation, they
may include food, sporting or fitness life, legal stimulants,
cosmetic surgery, internet, or shopping. We also encourage the
church community to seek solutions for and understanding of
those caught up in addictions.
(Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
29.3. We call our people to abstain from drinking alcohol,
thereby witnessing to the world. From its earliest days,
Nazarenes refrained from drinking alcohol, as a witness to
transformed lives. Because of the prevalence of alcohol abuse in
our world, we ask our people to refrain from alcohol and other
intoxicating substances as an expression of self-giving love and
solidarity with individuals, families, and communities who
suffer pain and trauma because of alcohol abuse and addiction.
We recognize that other Christian traditions may respond
to these issues differently. Nazarenes choose to abstain in
response to the biblical mandate to love others. We welcome
into our congregations those who are struggling with alcohol
or other addictions, and in our welcome, we willingly abstain
to make our faith community an environment of safety. Our
position must be embodied with grace.
(Leviticus 19:18, 34; Proverbs 20:1; Proverbs 23:21; Mark 12:28-34; Romans
13:8-10; Romans 14:13-23; 1 Corinthians 5:11; 6:10; Ephesians 5:18;
Philippians 2:4)
29.4. We call our people to abstain from intoxicants,
tobacco, stimulants, depressants, and hallucinogens outside
proper medical care and guidance, regardless of the legality
and availability of such substances. Medical evidence
demonstrates that these substances, when used outside of
proper medical care and guidance, can be destructive, not
just of the body, but of the mind, as well as families, social
structures, and communities.
(1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
29.5. We call our people to resist greed in all forms. It is
vital that we reject all acts of greed that promote wealth over
50 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

wellness or status over humility. We do not support distorted,

biblically unsound messages about prosperity. Economic
practices that oppress and take advantage of others are to be
avoided. Schemes such as lotteries, legal or illegal gambling,
payday loan organizations, pyramid schemes, often take
needed financial resources from the poor and elderly with false
promises of return.
(Ephesians 4:28; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13)
29.6. We call our people to reject attitudes and actions that
undermine the good of people and devalue individuals. All
humans are created in the image of God and Christ died for
all, therefore every person we encounter merits our highest
regard and love. As a people of God, reflecting Christ’s love
for the world, we reject all forms of racism, ethnic preferences,
tribalism, sexism, religious bigotry, classism, exclusionary
nationalism, and any other form of prejudice. All of these are
contrary to God’s love and the mission of Christ.
29.7. We call our people to resist any loyalty that would
compete with Christ’s Lordship, which is idolatry. We reject
joining any oath-bound societies whether political, secret
orders, or guilds that would dilute commitment to Christ
and prevent open, transparent communication of primary
allegiances. The cost of this refusal can be very real; so, the
Christian community must offer support to those who resist.
(Exodus 1:17; Daniel 6:10; Acts 5:29; Revelation 7:14)
29.8. We call our people to resist corruption in all its forms.
All forms of corruption undermine humanity, and create
unhealthy divisions in communities and societies. We must
resist the temptation to be drawn into corrupt practices such
as the use of power to get our own way, manipulate others,
engage in bribery, rely on wealth to buy influence, support
practices of corruption, and harass or draw others into
corruption.
(Leviticus 19:11,13, 15; Luke 3:8, 10-14; Hebrews 13:5)
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 51

B. Sanctity of Human Life

30. The Church of the Nazarene believes in the sanctity of
human life and strives to protect against abortion, embryonic
stem cell research, euthanasia, and the withholding of
reasonable medical care to handicapped or elderly.
30.1. Induced Abortion. The Church of the Nazarene
affirms the sanctity of human life as established by God the
Creator and believes that such sanctity extends to the child
not yet born. Life is a gift from God. All human life, including
life developing in the womb, is created by God in His image
and is, therefore, to be nurtured, supported, and protected.
From the moment of conception, a child is a human being with
all of the developing characteristics of human life, and this life
is dependent on the mother for its continued development.
Therefore, we believe that human life must be respected
and protected from the moment of conception. We oppose
induced abortion by any means, when used for either personal
convenience or population control. We oppose laws that
allow abortion. Realizing that there are rare, but real medical
conditions wherein the mother or the unborn child, or both,
could not survive the pregnancy, termination of the pregnancy
should only be made after sound medical and Christian
counseling.
Responsible opposition to abortion requires our commitment
to the initiation and support of programs designed to provide
care for mothers and children. The crisis of an unwanted
pregnancy calls for the community of believers (represented
only by those for whom knowledge of the crisis is appropriate)
to provide a context of love, prayer, and counsel. In such
instances, support can take the form of counseling centers,
homes for expectant mothers, and the creation or utilization
of Christian adoption services.
The Church of the Nazarene recognizes that consideration
of abortion as a means of ending an unwanted pregnancy often
occurs because Christian standards of sexual responsibility
have been ignored. Therefore the church calls for persons
52 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

to practice the ethic of the New Testament as it bears upon

human sexuality and to deal with the issue of abortion by
placing it within the larger framework of biblical principles
that provide guidance for moral decision making.
(Genesis 2:7, 9:6; Exodus 20:13; 21:12-16, 22-25; Leviticus 18:21; Job 31:15;
Psalms 22:9; 139:3-16; Isaiah 44:2, 24; 49:5; Jeremiah 1:5; Luke 1:15, 23-25,
36-45; Acts 17:25; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 6:16; 7:1ff.; 1 Thessalonians
4:3-6)
The Church of the Nazarene also recognizes that many
have been affected by the tragedy of abortion. Each local
congregation and individual believer is urged to offer the
message of forgiveness by God for each person who has
experienced abortion. Our local congregations are to be
communities of redemption and hope to all who suffer
physical, emotional, and spiritual pain as a result of the willful
termination of a pregnancy.
(Romans 3:22-24; Galatians 6:1)
30.2. Genetic Engineering and Gene Therapy. The Church
of the Nazarene supports the use of genetic engineering to
achieve gene therapy. We recognize that gene therapy can
lead to preventing and curing disease, and preventing and
curing anatomical and mental disorders. We oppose any
use of genetic engineering that promotes social injustice,
disregards the dignity of persons, or that attempts to achieve
racial, intellectual, or social superiority over others (eugenics).
We oppose initiation of DNA studies whose results might
encourage or support human abortion as an alternative to term
live birth. In all cases, humility, a respect for the inviolable
dignity of human life, human equality before God, and a
commitment to mercy and justice should govern genetic
engineering and gene therapy.
30.3. Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research and Other
Medical/Scientific Endeavors that Destroy Human Life after
Conception. The Church of the Nazarene strongly encourages
the scientific community to aggressively pursue advances in
stem cell technology obtained from sources such as adult
human tissues, placenta, umbilical cord blood, animal sources,
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 53

and other non-human embryonic sources. This has the

righteous end of attempting to bring healing to many, without
violating the sanctity of human life. Our stand on human
embryonic stem cell research flows from our affirmation that
the human embryo is a person made in the image of God.
Therefore, we oppose the use of stem cells produced from
human embryos for research, therapeutic interventions, or any
other purpose.
As future scientific advances make new technologies
available, we strongly support this research when it does not
violate the sanctity of human life or other moral, biblical laws.
However, we oppose the destruction of human embryos for
any purpose and any type of research that takes the life of a
human after conception. Consistent with this view, we oppose
the use, for any purpose, of tissue derived from aborted human
fetuses.
30.4. Human Cloning. We oppose the cloning of an
individual human being. Humankind is valued by God, who
created us in His image, and the cloning of an individual
human being treats that being as an object, thus denying the
personal dignity and worth bestowed on us by our Creator.
30.5. Euthanasia (Including Physician Assisted Suicide).
We believe that euthanasia (intentionally ending the life
of a terminally ill person, or one who has a debilitating and
incurable disease that is not immediately life-threatening,
for the purpose of ending suffering) is incompatible with the
Christian faith. This applies when euthanasia is requested or
consented to by the terminally ill person (voluntary euthanasia)
and when the terminally ill person is not mentally competent
to give consent (involuntary euthanasia). We believe that the
historic rejection of euthanasia by the Christian church is
confirmed by Christian convictions that derive from the Bible
and that are central to the Church’s confession of faith in
Jesus Christ as Lord. Euthanasia violates Christian confidence
in God as the sovereign Lord of life by claiming sovereignty
for oneself; it violates our role as stewards before God; it
contributes to an erosion of the value the Bible places on
54 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

human life and community; it attaches too much importance

to the cessation of suffering; and it reflects a human arrogance
before a graciously sovereign God. We urge our people to
oppose all efforts to legalize euthanasia.
30.6. Allowing to Die. When human death is imminent, we
believe that either withdrawing or not originating artificial life
support systems is permissible within the range of Christian
faith and practice. This position applies to persons who are
in a persistent vegetative state and to those for whom the
application of extraordinary means for prolonging life provide
no reasonable hope for a return to health. We believe that when
death is imminent, nothing in the Christian faith requires that
the process of dying be artificially postponed. As Christians
we trust in God’s faithfulness and have the hope of eternal
life. This makes it possible for Christians to accept death as
an expression of faith in Christ who overcame death on our
behalf and robbed it of its victory.

C. Human Sexuality and Marriage

31. The Church of the Nazarene views human sexuality as
one expression of the holiness and beauty that God the Creator
intended. Because all humans are beings created in the image
of God, they are of inestimable value and worth. As a result
we believe that human sexuality is meant to include more
than the sensual experience, and is a gift of God designed to
reflect the whole of our physical and relational createdness.
As a holiness people, the Church of the Nazarene affirms
that the human body matters to God. Christians are both
called and enabled by the transforming and sanctifying work
of the Holy Spirit to glorify God in and with our bodies. Our
senses, our sexual appetites, our ability to experience pleasure,
and our desire for connection to another are shaped out of the
very character of God. Our bodies are good, very good.
We affirm belief in a God whose creation is an act of love.
Having experienced God as holy love, we understand the
Trinity to be a unity of love among Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Therefore, we are made with a yearning for connection with
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 55

others at the core of our being. That yearning is ultimately

fulfilled as we live in covenanted relationship with God, the
creation, and loving one’s neighbor as one’s self. Our creation as
social beings is both good and beautiful. We reflect the image
of God in our capacity to relate and our desire to do so. The
people of God are formed as one in Christ, a rich community
of love and grace.
Within this community, believers are called to live as
faithful members of the body of Christ. Singleness among
the people of God is to be valued and sustained by the rich
fellowship of the church and the communion of the saints. To
live as a single person is to engage, as Jesus did, in the intimacy
of community, surrounded by friends, welcoming and being
welcomed to tables, and expressing faithful witness.
Also within this community, we affirm that some believers
are called to be married. As defined in Genesis, “a man leaves
his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become
one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24) The marriage covenant, a reflection
of the covenant between God and the people of God, is one of
exclusive sexual fidelity, unselfish service, and social witness.
A woman and a man publicly devote themselves to one another
as a witness to the way God loves. Marital intimacy is intended
to reflect the union of Christ and the Church, a mystery of
grace. It is also God’s intention that in this sacramental union
the man and woman may experience the joy and pleasure of
sexual intimacy and from this act of intimate love new life may
enter the world and into a covenantal community of care. The
Christ-centered home ought to serve as a primary location for
spiritual formation. The church is to take great care in the
formation of marriage through premarital counseling and
teaching that denotes the sacredness of marriage.
The Scriptural story, however, also includes the sad chapter
of the fracturing of human desire in the Fall, resulting in
behaviors that elevate self-sovereignty, damage and objectify
the other, and darken the path of human desire. As fallen
beings, we have experienced this evil on every level—personal
and corporate. The principalities and powers of a fallen
56 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

world have saturated us with lies about our sexuality. Our

desires have been twisted by sin and we are turned inward on
ourselves. We have also contributed to the fracturing of the
creation by our willful choice to violate the love of God and
live on our own terms apart from God.
Our brokenness in the areas of sexuality takes many forms,
some due to our own choosing and some brought into our lives
via a broken world. However, God’s grace is sufficient in our
weaknesses, enough to bring conviction, transformation, and
sanctification in our lives. Therefore, in order to resist adding
to the brokenness of sin and to be able to witness to the beauty
and uniqueness of God’s holy purposes for our bodies, we
believe members of the body of Christ, enabled by the Spirit,
can and should refrain from:
• Unmarried sexual intercourse and other forms of
inappropriate sexual bonding. Because we believe that it
is God’s intention for our sexuality to be lived out in the
covenantal union between one woman and one man, we
believe that these practices often lead to the objectification
of the other in a relationship. In all its forms, it also
potentially harms our ability to enter into the beauty and
holiness of Christian marriage with our whole selves.
• Sexual activity between people of the same sex. Because
we believe that it is God’s intention for our sexuality to
be lived out in the covenantal union between one woman
and one man, we believe the practice of same-sex sexual
intimacy is contrary to God’s will for human sexuality.
While a person’s homosexual or bi-sexual attraction may
have complex and differing origins, and the implication of
this call to sexual purity is costly, we believe the grace of
God is sufficient for such a calling. We recognize the shared
responsibility of the body of Christ to be a welcoming,
forgiving, and loving community where hospitality,
encouragement, transformation, and accountability are
available to all.
• Extra-marital sexual relations. Because we believe this
behavior is a violation of the vows that we made before
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 57

God and within the body of Christ, adultery is a selfish

act, a family-destroying choice, and an offense to the God
who has loved us purely and devotedly.
• Divorce. Because marriage is intended to be a life-long
commitment, the fracturing of the covenant of marriage,
whether initiated personally, or by the choice of a spouse,
falls short of God’s best intentions. The church must take
care in preserving the marriage bond where wise and
possible, and offering counsel and grace to those wounded
by divorce.
• Practices such as polygamy or polyandry. Because we
believe that the covenantal faithfulness of God is reflected
in the monogamous commitment of husband and wife,
these practices take away from the unique and exclusive
fidelity intended in marriage.
Sexual sin and brokenness is not only personal but pervades
the systems and structures of the world. Therefore, as
the church bears witness to the reality of the beauty and
uniqueness of God’s holy purposes we also believe the church
should refrain from and advocate against:
• Pornography in all its forms, which is desire gone awry. It is
the objectification of people for selfish sexual gratification.
This habit destroys our capacity to love unselfishly.
• Sexual violence in any form, including rape, sexual
assault, sexual bullying, hateful speech, marital abuse,
incest, sex trafficking, forced marriage, female genital
mutilation, bestiality, sexual harassment, and the abuse
of minors and other vulnerable populations. All people
and systems that perpetrate sexual violence transgress the
command to love and to protect our neighbor. The body
of Christ should always be a place of justice, protection,
and healing for those who are, who have been, and who
continue to be affected by sexual violence. A minor is
defined as any human being under the age of 18, unless the
age of majority is attained later under a state’s or country’s
own domestic legislation.
Therefore we affirm that:
58 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

• Where sin abounds grace abounds all the more. Although

the effects of sin are universal and holistic, the efficacy
of grace is also universal and holistic. In Christ, through
the Holy Spirit, we are renewed in the image of God. The
old is gone and the new comes. Although the forming
of our lives as a new creation may be a gradual process,
God’s healing is effective in dealing with the brokenness
of humanity in the areas of sexuality.
• The human body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. We
affirm the need for our sexuality to be conformed to God’s
will. Our bodies are not our own but have been bought
with a price. Therefore, we are called to glorify God in our
bodies through a life of yielded obedience.
• The people of God are marked by holy love. We affirm
that, above all the virtues, the people of God are to
clothe themselves with love. The people of God have
always welcomed broken people into our gathering. Such
Christian hospitality is neither an excusing of individual
disobedience nor a refusal to participate redemptively
in discerning the roots of brokenness. Restoring humans
to the likeness of Jesus requires confession, forgiveness,
formative practices, sanctification, and godly counsel – but
most of all, it includes the welcome of love which invites
the broken person into the circle of grace known as the
church. If we fail to honestly confront sin and brokenness,
we have not loved. If we fail to love, we cannot participate
in God’s healing of brokenness.
As the global church receives and ministers to the people
of our world, the faithful outworking of these statements as
congregations is complex and must be navigated with care,
humility, courage, and discernment.
(Genesis 1:27; 19:1-25; Leviticus 20:13; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-
11, 15-20; 1 Timothy 1:8-10)

D. Christian Stewardship
32. Meaning of Stewardship. The Scriptures teach that God
is the Owner of all persons and all things. We, therefore, are
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 59

His stewards of both life and possessions. God’s ownership

and our stewardship ought to be acknowledged, for we shall
be held personally accountable to God for the exercise of our
stewardship. God, as a God of system and order in all of His
ways, has established a system of giving that acknowledges
His ownership over all human resources and relationships. To
this end all His children should faithfully tithe and present
offerings for the support of the gospel. (150)
(Malachi 3:8-12; Matthew 6:24-34; 25:31-46; Mark 10:17-31; Luke 12:13-24;
19:11-27; John 15:1-17; Romans 12:1-13; 1 Corinthians 9:7-14; 2 Corinthians
8:1-15; 9:6-15; 1 Timothy 6:6-19; Hebrews 7:8; James 1:27; 1 John 3:16-18)
32.1. Storehouse Tithing. Storehouse tithing is a scriptural
and practical performance of faithfully and regularly placing
the tithe into that church to which the member belongs.
Therefore, the financing of the church shall be based on
the plan of storehouse tithing, and the local Church of
the Nazarene shall be regarded by all of its people as the
storehouse. All who are a part of the Church of the Nazarene
are urged to contribute faithfully one-tenth of all their
increase as a minimum financial obligation to the Lord and
freewill offerings in addition as God has prospered them for
the support of the whole church, local, district, educational,
and general. The tithe, provided to the local Church of the
Nazarene, shall be considered a priority over all other giving
opportunities which God may lay upon the hearts of His
faithful stewards, in support of the whole church.
32.2. Fundraising and Distribution. In the light of the
scriptural teaching concerning the giving of tithes and offerings
for the support of the gospel, and for the erection of church
buildings, no Nazarene church should engage in any method
of fundraising that would detract from these principles, hinder
the gospel message, sully the name of the church, discriminate
against the poor, or misdirect the people’s energies from
promoting the gospel.
In disbursing to meet the requirements of the local, district,
educational, and general programs of the Church of the
Nazarene, local churches are urged to adopt and practice a
60 THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

financial apportionment plan, and to pay general, educational,

and district apportionments monthly. (140, 163, 164-164.2,
125.13)
32.3. Support of the Ministry. “In the same way, the Lord
has commanded that those who preach the gospel should
receive their living from the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:14). The
church is obligated to support its ministers, who have been
called of God, and who, under the direction of the church,
have given themselves wholly to the work of the ministry. We
urge therefore that the members of the church voluntarily
commit themselves to the task of supporting the ministry by
gathering money weekly for this holy business and that the
pastor’s salary be paid regularly every week. (117.4, 117.6,
139.8)
32.4. Life Income Gifts, Planned and Deferred Giving. It is
essential in the exercise of Christian stewardship that careful
thought be given as to what shall be done with one’s income and
possessions over which the Lord makes the Christian a steward
during this life. The Church of the Nazarene, recognizing the
need for faithful stewardship in this life and the God-given
vision to leave a legacy for the future, has established the
Church of the Nazarene Foundation to enhance Christian
stewardship through planned and deferred giving. Civil laws
often do not provide for the distribution of an estate in such
a way as to glorify God. Each Christian should give attention
to the preparation of a last will and testament in a careful
and legal manner, and the Church of the Nazarene through
its various ministries of missions, evangelism, education, and
benevolences—local, district, educational, and general—is
recommended for consideration.
32.5. Shared Responsibility for the Denominational
Mission. The government of the Church of the Nazarene is
representative. Each local congregation supports the overall
mission of the church as defined by the General Assembly and
implemented through the leadership of the Board of General
Superintendents in world evangelism, education, ministerial
support, and district ministries.
THE COVENANT OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 61

The Board of General Superintendents and the General

Board are authorized and empowered to develop, revise, and
maintain a system for raising the World Evangelism Fund
and to establish funding goals and responsibilities for local
churches through the assembly districts.
Subject to paragraph 337.1, national boards and/or
regional advisory councils are authorized and empowered to
establishministerial retirement savings plans on their region.
Reporting of such plans shall be as provided in paragraph
337.2. The provisions of paragraph 32.5 shall not apply to
Nazarene Benefits USA.
National boards and/or regional advisory councils are
also authorized and empowered to establish support for
International Board of Education institutions on their region.
Each district is authorized and empowered to establish
funding goals and responsibilities for local churches for
district ministry support through the District Advisory Board.
(225.19, 317.10, 345, 346.3, 402)

E. Church Officers
33. We direct our local churches to elect as church officers
active members of the local church who profess the experience
of entire sanctification and whose lives bear public witness to
the grace of God that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony
with the doctrines, polity, and practices of the Church of
the Nazarene; and who support the local church faithfully
in attendance, active service, and with tithes and offerings.
Church officers should be fully engaged in “making Christlike
disciples in the nations.” (115.11, 137, 155-157)

F. Rules of Order
34. Subject to the applicable law, the Articles of
Incorporation and the Bylaws of government in the Manual,
the meetings and proceedings of the members of the Church of
the Nazarene, local, district, and general, and the committees
of the corporation shall be regulated and controlled according
to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (latest edition) for
parliamentary procedure. (115, 205, 300.3)

G. Amending the Covenant of Christian Conduct

35. The provisions of the Covenant of Christian Conduct
may be repealed or amended when concurred in by a two-
thirds vote of the members present and voting of a given
General Assembly.
 PART IV

Church Government

PREAMBLE

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

GENERAL GOVERNMENT
64 CHURCH GOVERNMENT

PREAMBLE TO CHURCH
GOVERNMENT
The task of the Church of the Nazarene is to make known
to all peoples the transforming grace of God through the
forgiveness of sins and heart cleansing in Jesus Christ. Our
mission first and foremost is “to make Christlike disciples
in the nations,” to incorporate believers into fellowship
and membership (congregations), and to equip (teach) for
ministry all who respond in faith. The ultimate goal of the
“community of faith” is to present everyone fully mature in
Christ (Colossians 1:28) at the last day.
It is in the local church that the saving, perfecting, teaching,
and commissioning takes place. The local church, the Body of
Christ, is the representation of our faith and mission. These
churches are grouped administratively into districts and
regions.
The bases of unity in the Church of the Nazarene are those
beliefs, polity, definitions, and procedures as articulated in the
Manual of the Church of the Nazarene. The core of this unity is
declared in the Articles of Faith of the Manual. We encourage
the church in all regions and languages to translate—widely
distribute—and teach these beliefs to our constituency. This
is the golden strand that is woven into the fabric of all we are
and do as Nazarenes.
A visible reflection of this unity is represented by the General
Assembly, which is the “supreme doctrine-formulating,
lawmaking, and elective authority of the Church of the
Nazarene.” A second reflection is the international General
Board, which represents the entire church. A third reflection
is the Board of General Superintendents, who may interpret
the Manual, approve cultural adaptations, and ordain to the
ministry.
The government of the Church of the Nazarene is
representative, and thus avoids the extremes of episcopacy on
the one hand and unlimited congregationalism on the other.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 65

In global regions served by the church where cultural and

political differences may necessitate, adaptations of church
government procedures contained in Part IV, sections 100,
200, 300, may be made. Requests for all such adaptations
shall be submitted in writing to and approved by the Board of
General Superintendents. (300)

I. LOCAL GOVERNMENT
A. Local Church Organization, Name,
Incorporation, Property, Restrictions,
Mergers, Transfers, Disorganization
100. Organization. Local churches may be organized by
the district superintendent, or by the general superintendent
having jurisdiction, or by an elder authorized by either of
them. Upon organization, local churches shall be a part of
the district within whose bounds they are located. If a local
church is within the bounds of more than one district, the
general superintendent(s) in jurisdiction will determine which
district the church is part of. Official reports of new churches
shall be filed with the General Secretary’s office through the
respective jurisdictional office. (23, 109, 211.1, 530.15)
100.1. Church-Type Mission. New congregational works
that have not yet been organized according to paragraph 100,
may be registered by the general secretary as a church-type
mission, with the approval of the district superintendent
where the new work is located. A member of the clergy
serving a church-type mission as pastor or as associate shall
be considered an assigned minister with the approval of
the district superintendent. A church-type mission may be
incorporated according to paragraph 102 and receive and
report members. (100.2, 109.2, 148.1, 169, 211.6)
100.2. The Multicongregational Church. Organized local
churches may enlarge their ministry by establishing Bible
classes in various languages using the facilities of these
churches. These Bible classes may develop into church-type
66 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

missions or organized churches. This may result in more

than one congregation existing under one church name,
with the approval of the district superintendent. In such
multicongregational churches where not all the individual
congregations are organized churches, the District Advisory
Board, with the approval of the district superintendent and
the general superintendent in jurisdiction, may grant to such
congregations the rights and privileges of an organized local
church subject to the following conditions:
1. Such congregations may not be incorporated separate
from the organized local church.
2. Such congregations shall not hold title to property
separate from the organized local church.
3. Such congregations shall not incur indebtedness without
the approval of the district superintendent, the church
board of the organized local church, and the District
Advisory Board.
4. No such congregation may withdraw as a body from the
organized local church, or in any way sever its relation
thereto, except by the express permission of the district
superintendent in consultation with the pastor of the
local church. (100-100.1)
100.3. Parent-Affiliated Congregation. A congregation
that is not incorporated civilly (102) may officially choose to
become registered with the denomination as an independent
congregation under a name that meets the criteria of the
Manual (101). Such a church remains under the affiliation
of another Nazarene church and such a congregation shall
be referred to as a Parent-Affiliated Congregation until such
time as it incorporates and becomes a Church-Type Mission
(100.1) or a fully organized church (100). Such a congregation
will be required to comply with all of the four criteria of a
Multicongregational Church (100.2). One purpose of the
Parent-Affiliated Congregation status would be to give ample
time for leadership development as the congregation is moving
toward becoming self-governing, self-supporting, and self-
propagating.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 67

101. Name. The name of a newly organized church shall

be determined by the local church in consultation with the
district superintendent and with the approval of the District
Advisory Board. (102.4)
101.1. Change of Name. A local Church of the Nazarene
may change its name by this process:
1. The local church board submits the proposed change to
the district superintendent in writing for approval.
2. A two-thirds ballot vote in an annual or special meeting
of the church membership;
3. The proposed change is submitted to the District
Advisory Board for final approval. Upon approval the
District Advisory Board reports the change of name to
the district assembly. (102.4)
102. Incorporation. In all places where the statutes will
permit, the trustees shall have the local church incorporated,
and the said trustees and their successors shall be the trustees
of the said corporation. Where not inconsistent with civil law,
the Articles of Incorporation shall set forth the powers of the
corporation, and provide that the corporation shall be subject
to the government of the Church of the Nazarene, as from
time to time authorized and declared in its Manual by the
General Assembly of said church. All the property of this
corporation shall be managed and controlled by the trustees
subject to the approval of the local church.
102.1. Where property is purchased and developed by
the District Advisory Board for a local church or where a
new church is formed, it is recommended that the District
Advisory Board transfer the title to the local church upon the
repayment by the local church of the money invested by the
District Advisory Board.
102.2. When a local church is incorporated, all property
acquired shall be deeded directly to the church in its corporate
name when it is possible to do so. (102.6)
102.3. The pastor and the secretary of the church board shall
be the president and secretary of the church, incorporated or
not incorporated, and shall execute and sign all conveyances
68 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

of real estate, mortgages, releases of mortgages, contracts, and

other legal documents of the church not otherwise provided
for in the Manual and subject to the restrictions set forth in
paragraphs 104-104.3.
Upon a local church being declared inactive or disorganized
as provided in paragraphs 108-108.4, the district
superintendent and the District Advisory Board secretary shall
be the president and secretary of the inactive or disorganized
church, incorporated or not incorporated, and shall execute
and sign all conveyances of real estate, mortgages, releases of
mortgage, contracts, or other legal documents of the inactive
or disorganized church not otherwise provided for in the
Manual.
102.4. The Articles of Incorporation of each local church
shall include the following provisions:
1. The corporate name shall include the words “Church of
the Nazarene.”
2. The bylaws of the corporation shall be the Manual of the
Church of the Nazarene.
3. The Articles of Incorporation shall not contain any
provision that might prevent the local church from
qualifying for any tax exemption available to churches in
the same area.
4. Upon dissolution, the assets of the corporation shall be
distributed to the District Advisory Board.
The Articles of Incorporation may contain additional
provisions when appropriate under local law. No provision,
however, shall be included that can cause the property of the
local church to be diverted from the Church of the Nazarene.
(101-101.1, 104.3, 108.1-108.3)
102.5. In multicongregational churches, where more than
one organized church shares the same facility, incorporation
may take place in partnership where local laws allow.
102.6. In localities where incorporation is not possible,
the church name shall include the words “Church of the
Nazarene” on all legal documents including, but not limited to
the property deed(s) and deed(s) of trust. (102.2)
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 69

103. Property. The local church considering the purchase

or sale of real estate, the erection of churches or church-
related buildings, a major remodeling of either, or leasing real
property for any reason, shall submit its proposal to the district
superintendent and the District Church Properties Board for
their consideration, advice, and approval. No indebtedness,
whether involving a mortgage or not, shall be incurred in
the purchase of real estate or the erection of buildings or a
major remodeling of either, without the written approval of
the district superintendent and the District Church Properties
Board. The local church shall submit quarterly financial and
status reports to this board throughout the construction
process. (236-237.5)
103.1. In case agreement cannot be reached between the
church board and the district superintendent and the District
Church Properties Board, the issue may be submitted to the
general superintendent having jurisdiction for a decision. Either
the church or the district superintendent may appeal such
decision to the Board of General Superintendents for a final
decision. All such appeals, rebuttals of appeals, or arguments
pertaining thereto, whether to the general superintendent in
jurisdiction or the Board of General Superintendents, shall
be in writing. A copy of the appeal, rebuttals of appeals, or
arguments pertaining thereto by either the church board or
the district superintendent shall be sent to the other party
involved. The minute record of a church board appeal shall
include the appeal resolution, arguments sustaining it, and the
record of the vote taken.
104. Restrictions. The local church may not purchase or
lease real estate, nor sell, mortgage, refinance with accrual
of additional debt, exchange, or in any other way encumber
real property, or otherwise dispose of real estate unless
approved by a two-thirds vote of the members present at an
annual meeting, or at a special meeting properly called. If a
church is refinancing an existing debt, and the refinancing
arrangement does not increase the debt of the church and does
not further encumber the real estate of the church, approval
70 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

for the refinancing may be granted by a two-thirds vote of the

board, without the need to take a congregational vote on the
matter. The church board may approve by two-thirds vote of
its members present and voting, the disposition of properties
donated for the specific purpose of providing funds for the
local church. All items above require the written approval of
the district superintendent and the District Church Properties
Board. (115.3-115.4, 115.7-115.8, 225.26, 237.3-237.4)
104.1. The real estate of the local church shall not be
mortgaged to meet current expenses.
104.2. A local church which mortgages or sells real estate,
or receives insurance claims on real estate, shall use the
proceeds only for the purchase or capital improvement of real
estate, the planting of a new church, or to reduce other real
estate indebtedness. Only with the approval of the district
superintendent and the District Advisory Board shall any
proceeds be used for other purposes.
104.3. Trustees and/or a local church may not divert property
from the use of the Church of the Nazarene. (115-115.1)
105. Mergers. Two or more local churches may be merged
upon two-thirds favorable vote by ballot of the members
present and voting at specially called meetings of the churches
involved, provided: the merger shall be recommended by a
majority vote by ballot of all the members of the respective
church boards, and the merger shall have been approved in
writing by the district superintendent, the District Advisory
Board, and the general superintendent in jurisdiction.
For an inactive congregation, the District Advisory Board
may approve a merger in place of the votes of the church board
and the congregation.
The merger shall be finalized in a special meeting of the new
congregation for the purpose of electing officers and making
pastoral arrangements. The district superintendent, or an
elder appointed by the superintendent, shall preside.
The organization thus created shall combine the total
membership of the former churches, the membership of all
departments of those churches, and may combine part or all
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 71

of the assets and liabilities of those churches subject to the

approval of the district superintendent, the District Advisory
Board, and the general superintendent in jurisdiction. The
merger will also combine the general, educational, and district
apportionments.
Upon notification by the district superintendent, the general
secretary of the Church of the Nazarene is authorized to
remove the names of the inactive churches from the roll of
churches.
106. Transfer of a Local Church to Another District. A
local church shall be transferred to another district upon
the affirmative vote of both respective district assemblies. A
recommendation to the district assemblies shall be made upon
a favorable vote from the local church board, and approval
of the district superintendent, District Advisory Board, and
general superintendent(s) in jurisdiction of both districts.
Notification of a transfer shall be filed with the General
Secretary’s office through the respective jurisdictional offices.
(205.2)
107. Withdrawal of Churches. No local church may
withdraw as a body from the Church of the Nazarene, or in
any way sever its relation thereto, except by provision of the
General Assembly, and upon agreed conditions and plans.
(108.2-108.3)
108. Declaring Churches Inactive or Disorganized.
Churches may be declared inactive for a period of transition by
action of the District Advisory Board prior to being officially
disorganized, reactivated, or reorganized.
108.1. A local church may be disorganized as follows:
1. recommendation from the district superintendent;
2. affirmative response from the general superintendent in
jurisdiction; and,
3. a two-thirds vote of the District Advisory Board.
108.2. In case a local church becomes inactive or disorganized,
or in the event of withdrawal or attempted withdrawal from
the Church of the Nazarene (as certified by the District
Advisory Board), any church property that may exist may in
72 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

no way be diverted to other purposes, but title shall pass to

the District Advisory Board acting as agent for said district
where such has been incorporated, or other authorized agents,
for the use of the Church of the Nazarene at large, as the
district assembly shall direct. Local church trustees holding
property for the inactive or disorganized church shall sell or
dispose of the same only on the order and under the direction
of the District Advisory Board or other appointed agent of
the district assembly, with the written approval of the general
superintendent in jurisdiction; either conveying said property
or delivering the proceeds from the sale thereof as directed by
the district assembly or its District Advisory Board. (102.3,
107, 108, 225.23)
108.3. No trustee or trustees of an inactive or disorganized
church, or a church that withdraws or attempts to withdraw
from the Church of the Nazarene, may divert property from
the use of the Church of the Nazarene. (107, 151-154, 225.23)
108.4. Only officially disorganized churches may be dropped
from the records of the general secretary.
108.5. When a local church has been declared inactive, the
signatories on all church monetary and/or security accounts
must transfer the proceeds of the same to the District Advisory
Board for deposit. Refusal to comply authorizes the District
Advisory Board by resolution to close all accounts and assume
jurisdiction of all assets where the law allows.

B. Local Church Membership

109. Full Membership. The full membership of the local
church shall be composed of all persons who have been
organized into a local church by those authorized so to do, and
all who have been publicly received by the pastor, the district
superintendent, or the general superintendent, after having
declared their experience of salvation, their belief in the
doctrines of the Church of the Nazarene, and their willingness
to submit to its government. The local church leadership shall
seek to place every member into a ministry of service and a
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 73

circle of care and support. (23, 109.2, 113, 115.1, 125.1, 129,
524.8, 530.8-530.9)
109.1. When persons desire to unite with the church, the
pastor shall explain to them the privileges and responsibilities
of membership in the church, the Articles of Faith, the
requirements of the Covenant of Christian Character and the
Covenant of Christian Conduct, and the purpose and mission
of the Church of the Nazarene.
After consulting with the Evangelism and Church
Membership Committee, the pastor shall receive qualified
candidates into the membership of the church in a public
service, using the approved form for the reception of members.
(21, 28-33, 112-112.4, 228, 704)
109.2. Members of a Church-Type Mission. Where the
organization of a local church has not been effected, a church-
type mission shall receive and report church members in the
annual statistics according to paragraphs 109 and 109.1.
109.3. Voting and Office-bearing. Only those who are full
and active members of the local church, and have reached their
15th birthday, may hold office in the church where local law
allows, vote in annual or special church meetings, or represent
the church as delegates to the district assembly.
110. Fellowship Membership. Where a district makes
provision, a local church may have fellowship members who
shall have all the privileges of church members, with the
exception of voting and holding church office. (205.24)
110.1. Fellowship members may be received into full
membership or dropped at any time, at the discretion of the
pastor and Evangelism and Church Membership Committee.
111. Inactive Membership. A local church may designate
persons as “inactive members” for the reasons stated in
paragraphs 111.1 and 111.2. (114.3, 143)
111.1. A member of a local church who has moved to another
community and ceases to be active at his or her church of
membership should be urged to attend the Church of the
Nazarene there and to request a transfer of membership to
that church.
74 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

111.2. When a member of a church has been absent from

all religious services of the church for six successive months
without a reason deemed justifiable by the church board, and
attempt has been made to encourage him or her to become
active when possible, that person’s membership may be
declared inactive upon recommendation of the Evangelism
and Church Membership Committee and action of the church
board. The person shall be informed by a redemptive letter
from the pastor within seven days of the action of the church
board. After such action of the church board, the pastor shall
update the membership roll of the local church with “Placed
on the Inactive Membership Roll by the church board (date).”
111.3. Inactive members shall be included in the full
membership of the local church with active members.
Membership shall be reported to the district assembly
in separate categories, namely (1) active and (2) inactive
members.
111.4. Inactive members shall not be eligible to vote in
annual or special church meetings or hold office.
111.5. An inactive member may request in writing that the
church board return his or her name to the active membership
roll of the church. Such request must include a reaffirmation
of the vows of membership and renewed participation in the
worship activities of the local church. The church board shall
respond to the request within 60 days. Active membership
may be restored to such a person by recommendation of the
Evangelism and Church Membership Committee and action
of the church board.

C. Local Church Evangelism and

Church Membership Committee
112. The church board shall provide an Evangelism and
Church Membership Committee of not fewer than three
persons acting in an advisory capacity to the pastor, who shall
be the chairperson (148.3). The duties of the Evangelism and
Church Membership Committee shall be:
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 75

112.1. To promote evangelism in the local church and seek

to conserve the fruits of evangelism. (109-109.1, 139.24)
112.2. To study and recommend to the church board and
departments ways to emphasize evangelism in the whole life
of the church.
112.3. To serve as the local committee to implement both
general and district denominational programs of evangelism.
112.4. To urge new converts to qualify for church membership
by a consistent devotional life, a study of the Bible and the
Manual, individually and/or in a pastor’s membership class,
remembering that members received by profession of faith
help to conserve the fruits of evangelism. (20-21)
112.5. To endeavor to bring new members into total
fellowship and service of the church.
112.6. To work with the pastor in developing a continuing
program of spiritual guidance for new members.
112.7. To recommend to the church board, upon nomination
by the pastor, the evangelists for local campaigns. It is
recommended that at least one campaign each year be conducted
by a tenured, commissioned, or registered evangelist.
112.8. No person shall be received into full membership
of the local church until the pastor first consults with the
Evangelism and Church Membership Committee concerning
that person’s reception. (109.1)

D. Change of Local Church Membership

113. Transfer. The pastor, when requested by a member, may
grant a transfer of church membership (see form in paragraph
817) to any local Church of the Nazarene that may be named,
such transfer to be valid for three months only. When the
reception of the transfer is acknowledged by the receiving
local church, such person’s membership in the former local
church shall cease. (818)
113.1. Commendation. The pastor, when requested by
a member, may grant a Certificate of Commendation (see
form in paragraph 815) to any evangelical church that may
be named, after which such person’s membership in the local
76 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

church issuing the certificate shall cease immediately. (114.2,

531.5, 815)

E. Termination of Local Church Membership

114. Members of the Clergy. When a licensed or an ordained
minister ceases to be an active member of a local church, that
minister may not be removed from local church membership
without the action of the District Ministerial Credentials
Board or District Board of Ministry. The pastor of the local
church in which the minister is a member shall immediately
notify the district superintendent who shall notify the District
Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry. If
the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry determines that the member of the clergy will
be removed from the Roster of Ministers, the pastor of the
local church will also remove the person’s name from the
membership roll of the church. (524.9, 530.8, 530.10, 530.13-
530.14)
114.1. Laypersons. When a lay member of a local church has
accepted membership, license to preach, or ordination from
any other religious organizations, or is engaging in independent
church or missionary work, his or her membership in the local
church shall, because of that fact, immediately cease, except in
case that person shall secure the annual written approval of the
local church board of the church in which said membership is
held, and the annual written approval of the District Advisory
Board of the district in which that church is located.
114.2. Release from Membership. The pastor, when
requested by a member, may grant a letter of release (see form
in paragraph 816), thus terminating such person’s membership
immediately. (113.1, 114)
114.3. Removal of Inactive Members. After at least one
year from the date when a person’s membership was declared
inactive, his or her name may be removed from the church
roll by action of the church board. After such action of the
church board, the pastor shall update the membership roll
with, “Removed by the church board (date).” (111, 143)
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 77

F. Local Church Meetings

115. A meeting of the members of a local church for
conference and for the transaction of business shall be known
as a church meeting. Subject to the applicable law, the Articles
of Incorporation and the Bylaws of government in the Manual,
the meetings and proceedings of the members of the Church of
the Nazarene, local, district, and general, and the committees
of the corporation shall be regulated and controlled according
to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (latest edition) for
parliamentary procedure. (34, 104, 115.7-115.8, 117, 127)
115.1. Only those persons who are full and active members
and have reached their 15th birthday shall be entitled to vote
in church meetings. (109.3, 111-111.4)
115.2. All local church meetings, church boards, and councils
and committees shall be authorized to meet by telephone
conference or through other electronic media if all involved
have opportunity to communicate and participate. Voting in
annual and special meetings in multiple sites and times shall
be conducted via a process approved by the District Advisory
Board. All communications and voting may be carried out
electronically. There is no provision for absentee voting in
church meetings. (138)
115.3. Business Transactions. Business, including elections,
in harmony with the spirit and order of the church, and not
otherwise specially provided for, may be transacted at any
church meeting.
115.4. Comply with Civil Law. In all cases where the civil
law requires a specific course of procedure in calling and
conducting church meetings, that course should be strictly
followed. (152)
115.5. Presiding Officer. The pastor, who shall be ex-officio
president of the local church, or the district superintendent,
or the general superintendent having jurisdiction, or someone
appointed by the district superintendent or the general
superintendent, shall preside at annual or special church
meetings. (125.15, 213.1, 307.10)
78 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

115.6. Secretary. The secretary of the church board shall be

the secretary of all church meetings; in his or her absence a
secretary pro tempore shall be elected. (145.4)
115.7. Annual Meeting. An annual church meeting shall
be held within 90 days prior to the meeting of the district
assembly. Public notice of the annual meeting shall be
conveyed to the congregation at least two weeks before the
meeting. This annual meeting may be conducted on more
than one day or in more than one service upon approval by the
church board.
115.8. Special Meetings. Special church meetings may be
called at any time by the pastor, or by the church board after
having obtained the consent of the pastor or of the district
superintendent or of the general superintendent having
jurisdiction. Public notice of special church meetings shall
always be given at least two weeks before the meeting, or in
such manner as meets the requirements of civil law. (104,
115.1, 117-117.1, 133-133.7, 147, 149, 152.1, 154)
115.9. Reports. Reports shall be given at the annual church
meeting by the pastor, the president of Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI), the president of Nazarene Youth
International (NYI), the president of Nazarene Missions
International (NMI), the deaconesses, the local ministers, the
secretary, and the treasurer of the church board. (125.7, 145.2,
146.5, 156.6, 162.2, 508, 523.1)
115.10. Nominating Committee. A nominating committee
shall be used to nominate officers, boards, and district assembly
delegates, whose nominations are not provided for elsewhere.
The Nominating Committee shall consist of not fewer than
three nor more than seven members of the church, including
the pastor. The nominating committee is to be appointed by
the pastor, and approved by the church board annually. The
pastor shall be chairperson of the committee. All persons
nominated by this committee shall affirm that they fulfill the
qualifications required of church officers in paragraph 33.
In a local church meeting, if nominations are made from
the floor, they may be referred by majority vote of the
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 79

members present to the Nominating Committee for screening

and approval, to be certain that such nominees meet the
qualifications for church officers as specified in paragraph 33.
115.11. Elections. At the annual church meeting there shall
be an election, by ballot, of the stewards, the trustees, the
Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) president, and the
members of the NDI Board, to serve for the next church year
and until their successors are elected and qualified. Where
laws permit and when it is approved by a majority vote of the
church members present, all those elected may serve a two-
year term. All those elected shall be active members of that
same local Church of the Nazarene.
Where laws permit, a church may elect one-half of its
church board members for two-year terms, or one-third of its
church board members for three-year terms if the following
conditions are met:
1. written approval of the district superintendent;
2. approval by a majority vote of the church members
present at a properly called annual meeting; and,
3. to the extent possible, an equal number are elected
annually.
When the church board is elected in this manner, the
number of stewards and trustees chosen must comply with
paragraphs 147 and 151.
We direct our local churches to elect as church officers active
members of the local church who profess the experience of
entire sanctification and whose lives bear public witness to the
grace of God that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony
with the doctrines, polity, and practices of the Church of
the Nazarene; and who support the local church faithfully
in attendance, active service, and with tithes and offerings.
Church officers should be fully engaged in “making Christlike
disciples in the nations.” (33, 137, 147, 151, 152.1, 155-157)
115.12. Where laws permit, and in churches where such
procedure and the number to be elected are approved by a
majority vote of the church members present, the church board
may be elected, and then appropriate proportions designated
80 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

as stewards and trustees, in harmony with paragraphs 147

and 151. When a church board is elected in this manner,
the board shall organize itself into committees to carry out
assigned responsibilities. If a church has elected an education
committee as part of its board in harmony with paragraph 155,
that committee will constitute the Education Committee of
the church board. Alternative board and committee structure
may be used by a local church in organizing itself for ministry
and missional action, provided such alternatives are approved
in writing by the district superintendent and the District
Advisory Board, and such structure complies with civil
requirements. (155-155.10)
115.13. At the annual church meeting, there shall be an
election, by ballot, of lay delegates to the district assembly,
or, if approved by a majority vote of the church membership
at the annual meeting, delegates may be recommended by the
pastor and approved by the local church board on the basis
of representation fixed by the General Assembly according to
paragraphs 201-201.2. All those elected as delegates shall be
active members of that same local Church of the Nazarene.
(109.3, 115.11)
115.14. If vacancies occur after the annual meetings, delegates
and alternates for district assembly and auxiliary conventions
may be recommended by the pastor and elected by the church
board (with the exception of NMI due to provision in Article
V. Section 1.C.3.b. of the NMI Constitution). (139.1)
115.15. District assembly delegates from a church-type
mission (CTM) may be appointed by its pastor based
on criteria outlined in paragraphs 33, 201.1, and 201.2.
Delegates may also be named by the CTM pastor for district
conventions, according to the Nazarene Youth International
Charter, Nazarene Missions International Constitution, and
the Nazarene Discipleship International Bylaws. (100.1, 810,
811, 812)
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 81

G. The Local Church Year

116. The administrative year shall run concurrently with the
statistical year of the local church and shall be recognized as
the church year.
116.1. The statistical year shall close within 120 days prior
to the opening of the district assembly, and the new statistical
year shall begin the day following its close. The exact date
of the beginning and close of the statistical year within these
bounds shall be set by the District Advisory Board. (225.1)

H. Calling of a Pastor
117. An ordained elder or licensed minister (elder track) may
be called to pastor a church by two-thirds favorable vote by
ballot of the church members of voting age present and voting
at a properly called annual or special meeting of the church,
provided that:
1. The nomination shall have the prior approval of the
district superintendent.
2. The nomination shall have been approved by the District
Advisory Board when the individual nominated is a
member of that same local church, or serving as a paid or
unpaid associate of that local church; and
3. The individual shall have been nominated to the church
by the church board by two-thirds vote by ballot of all its
members.
This call shall be subject to review and continuance as
hereinafter provided. (121, 132-135.5, 139.2, 169.8, 211.10,
225.16, 514, 524, 525.4, 526.3)
117.1. Acceptance of a call to pastoral relations shall be given
by the minister not later than 15 days from the date of the
church meeting voting the call.
117.2. The church board and the pastor should clearly
communicate their goals and expectations to each other in
writing. (132, 139.3-139.4)
117.3. As soon as practical after a pastor begins serving, the
pastor and the congregation may participate in an installation
82 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

or bonding service. The objective of the service should be to

celebrate unity and direction concerning the will of God.
Where practical, the district superintendent shall preside.
117.4. Upon issuing a call, the local church will specify the
proposed remuneration. The amount of this remuneration
shall be determined by the church board. When agreement
has been entered into between the church or the church board
and the pastor, providing the agreed remuneration in full shall
be considered a moral obligation by the church. If, however, the
church becomes unable to provide the agreed remuneration,
such inability and failure shall not be considered a sufficient
cause for civil action against the church by the pastor. In no
case shall the church or District Advisory Board be legally
responsible in excess of funds raised during the term of the
pastor’s actual service, and not otherwise designated. If civil
action is taken against the church or District Advisory Board
by a current or former pastor, a district may take steps to
obtain the minister’s credential and subsequently remove the
minister’s name from the Roster of Ministers.
The local church should also make provision for the pastor’s
traveling and moving expenses. (32-32.3, 139.8-139.9)
117.5. The remuneration of the pastor shall commence on
the Monday preceding the first official Sunday of service to
the local church.
117.6. Local churches may consider alternative plans for
pastoral support in cooperation with their respective districts.
(32.3, 139.8)
118. Affirming the value of family and the importance of
pastors modeling peaceful and integrated lives, local churches
should consider providing a maternity or paternity leave for
the pastor and associates. District superintendents should
encourage local churches to adopt maternity or paternity leave
policies and provide for their development. Such policies may
contain the following provisions:
1. Timing and duration of maternity or paternity leave
should be determined by mutual agreement of the pastor
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 83

and church board prior to anticipated childbirth or

adoption placement.
2. Maternity or paternity leave should be considered in
addition to and separately from vacation.
3. The local church should consult with the pastor and
district superintendent to arrange for a supply pastor
during the period of maternity or paternity leave.
4. During maternity or paternity leave the pastor’s full
salary and benefits continue. Any other arrangement shall
be placed in writing and signed by the pastor, secretary of
the church board, and the district superintendent.
119. Pastoral Appointment. The district superintendent
may appoint or reappoint the pastor of a church that has
been organized for fewer than five years, or had fewer than 35
members voting in the previous annual church meeting, or is
receiving financial assistance from the district, including not
paying apportionments in full. This appointment, for a term
of one or two years, will be made in consultation with the local
church board, and with the consent of the District Advisory
Board. (211.17)
119.1. When a church exceeds 35 voting members or has
been organized for at least five years, and its pastor has served
as its appointed pastor for at least two years, a process to be
moved from “appointed status” may be initiated. Such process
must include a church/pastoral relationship review, majority
vote of church board members present, approval of the district
superintendent, and approval of the District Advisory Board.
The anniversary date for future four-year regular church/
pastoral relationship reviews shall be the date of final approval.
120. In case of disagreement between the church board and
the district superintendent regarding pastoral arrangements,
the church board or the district superintendent may submit
the matter to the general superintendent having jurisdiction
for his or her decision. From such decision either the church
board or the district superintendent may appeal to the Board
of General Superintendents. All such appeals, rebuttals of
appeals, or arguments pertaining thereto, whether to the
84 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

general superintendent in jurisdiction or the Board of General

Superintendents, shall be in writing. A copy of the appeal,
rebuttals of appeals, or arguments pertaining thereto by either
the church board or the district superintendent shall be sent
to the other party involved. The minute record of a church
board appeal shall include the appeal resolution, arguments
sustaining it, and the record of the vote taken. If a minister
under consideration withdraws his or her name, or if a pastoral
candidate is found to be unavailable for consideration, the
appeal process should terminate immediately, and the district
superintendent and church board shall continue with pastoral
arrangements.
121. The call of a pastor who is a licensed minister (elder
track) will terminate at the end of the district assembly if the
minister’s license is not renewed.
122. The pastor desiring to resign from a pastoral assignment
shall:
1. First consult with the district superintendent;
2. Provide a written resignation to the church board at least
30 days prior to termination of the pastorate; and
3. Send a copy to the district superintendent.
When the resignation is received by the church board
and approved in writing by the district superintendent, the
termination date shall be finalized within 30 days.
122.1. The pastor who resigns shall, in cooperation with
the secretary of the church board, prepare a correct list of
the church membership roll with current addresses. This roll
must correspond numerically with the last published district
minutes showing deletions and additions for the current year.
123. Upon the recommendation of the church board and
approval of the district superintendent, a congregation may
elect co-pastors to serve. In this case, the following stipulations
will apply:
1. The co-pastors shall work with the church board, under
the direction of the district superintendent, to develop a
plan for shared responsibility and authority.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 85

2. Co-pastors are equals in the pastoral office. If required

by law, one person shall be officially designated by the
church board as the presiding officer, serving as president
of the corporation and chairperson of the church board.
3. The church/pastoral relationship review process shall be
conducted as provided for in paragraphs 133-133.7.
4. A local church whose pastor has not been appointed and
who has served for at least two years may add one or more
ministers as co-pastors by following paragraph 117 for this
process. Upon approval by the district superintendent
and a two-thirds vote of all the church board members,
the church will vote whether to add any co-pastor. A co-
pastor candidate would need to receive a two-thirds vote
of the active church members of voting age present at a
properly called annual or special meeting of the church to
be approved to serve as co-pastor for that local church.
5. If the necessary two-thirds vote is received, the two-year
term would then begin on the same date for each minister.
A regular church/pastoral relationship review would be
scheduled within 60 days of the second anniversary of the
pastoral service of the co-pastors. (117, 133-133.7)
123.1. Within 60 days upon the resignation or termination
of a co-pastor, the district superintendent, or appointed
representative, shall conduct a regular church/pastoral
relationship review as outlined in paragraphs 133-133.7. If the
church board decides to no longer call a co-pastor, such decision
will require the approval of the district superintendent and the
two-thirds vote of the active church members of voting age
present at a properly called annual or special meeting of the
church.

I. The Pastor
124. The core duties of a pastor are to:
124.1. Pray.
124.2. Preach the Word.
124.3. Equip the saints for the work of the ministry.
86 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

124.4. Administer the sacraments of the Lord’s Supper and

Baptism. The Lord’s Supper should be administered at least
once a quarter. Pastors are encouraged to move toward a more
frequent celebration of this means of grace. A district licensed
minister who has not complied fully with the provisions of
paragraph 524.7 shall arrange for the administration of the
sacrament by an ordained minister. A local licensed minister
shall not be eligible to administer the sacraments of baptism
or the Lord’s Supper. Consideration should be given for
extending the Lord’s Supper to homebound persons, under
supervision of the pastor. (523.7, 700)
124.5. Care for the people by pastoral visitation, particularly
the sick and needy.
124.6. Comfort those who mourn.
124.7. Correct, rebuke, and encourage, with great patience
and careful instruction.
124.8. Seek the conversion of sinners, the entire sanctification
of the converted, and the building of God’s people in holiness.
(19)
124.9. Give due care to matters relating to solemnizing
marriages. Pastors shall convey the sacredness of Christian
marriage through careful attention to their own marital state,
through all forms of communication, through ministering to
others, and through premarital counseling and solemnizing
the marriage ceremony. (31, 530.19)
124.10. Nurture the call people feel toward Christian
ministry and mentor such persons, guiding them toward
appropriate preparation for ministry.
124.11. Fulfill the expectations of God and the Church for a
program of lifelong learning. (530.18)
124.12. Nurture his or her own call through the years of
ministry, maintain a life of personal devotion that enriches
his or her own soul, and, if married, guard the integrity and
vitality of that marriage relationship.
125. The administrative duties of a pastor are to:
125.1. Receive persons as members of the local church
according to paragraphs 109 and 109.1.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 87

125.2. Shepherd all departments of local church work.

125.3. Appoint the teachers of the Sunday School/Bible
studies/small groups in harmony with paragraph 155.8.
125.4. Read to the congregation the Constitution of the
Church of the Nazarene and the Covenant of Christian
Conduct contained in paragraphs 1-21, 28-33, both inclusive,
within each year, or have this section of the Manual distributed
annually to the members of the church. (116)
125.5. Supervise the preparation of all statistical reports
from all departments of the local church, and present promptly
all such reports through the district secretary to the district
assembly. (116.1)
125.6. Give leadership to the evangelism, education,
devotion, and expansion programs of the local church in
harmony with the district and general church promotional
goals and programs.
125.7. Submit a report to the annual church meeting,
including a report on the status of the local church and its
departments, and outline areas of future needs for study and/
or implementation.
125.8. Appoint an investigating committee of three church
members in case of accusation filed against a church member.
(605)
125.9. See that all World Evangelism Fund moneys raised
through the local NMI are remitted promptly to the general
treasurer; and that all moneys for District Ministry Funds are
remitted promptly to the district treasurer. (146.2)
125.10. Nominate to the church board all paid employees
of the local church, and to supervise the same. (169.1-169.3)
125.11. Sign in conjunction with the church secretary all
conveyances of real estate, mortgages, releases of mortgages,
contracts, and other legal documents not otherwise provided
for in the Manual. (102.3, 103-104.3)
125.12. Notify the pastor of the nearest church when a
member or friend of a local church or any of its departments
moves to another locality in the same assembly district where
88 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

vital association with the previous local church is impractical,

giving the member’s or friend’s address.
125.13. Arrange and raise, together with the church board,
funds for all denominational goals assigned to the local church,
including the World Evangelism Fund, any applicable District
Ministry Funds, and any funding goals established by regional
or national boards. (32.2, 140, 163)
125.14. The pastor may, when requested by a member,
grant a transfer of church membership, a Certificate of
Commendation, or a letter of release. (113-113.1, 114.2, 815-
818)
125.15. The pastor shall be, ex-officio, president of the local
church, chairperson of the church board, and a member of all
elected and standing boards and committees of the church he
or she serves. The pastor shall have access to all records of the
local church. (137, 155, 160, 161, 162.1)
126. The pastor shall have the right to a voice in the
nomination of all heads of all departments of the local church,
and any Nazarene childcare/school (birth through secondary)
organization.
127. The pastor and members of his or her immediate family
are prohibited from creating financial obligations, spending
funds, counting moneys, or having unrestricted access to
financial accounts of the church. The church board or church
meeting may, by majority vote, request an exception from the
District Advisory Board and district superintendent. If the
district superintendent and a majority of the District Advisory
Board approve the exception, the district superintendent will
provide written approval of the request to the church board
secretary, who will record the action in the church records.
Immediate family shall include spouse, children, siblings, or
parents. (139.1, 139.21-139.22)
128. The pastor shall always show due regard for the united
advice of the district superintendent and the District Advisory
Board. (225.2, 530.2)
129. In case a licensed or ordained minister presenting
a credential from another denomination shall, during the
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 89

interim of sessions of the district assembly, make application

for membership in a local church, the pastor may not receive
such applicant without first having obtained the favorable
recommendation of the District Advisory Board. (109, 228)
130. For the exercise of this office the pastor shall be
amenable to the district assembly, to which he or she shall
report annually and give brief testimony to his or her personal
Christian experience. (205.4, 524.8, 530.9)
131. The pastor shall automatically become a member of the
church of which he or she is pastor; or, in case of more than
one church in his or her charge, of the church of his or her
choice. (530.8)

J. The Local Church/Pastoral Relationship

132. Every year, the pastor and the church board shall
conduct a planning session to renew the expectations and
goals of the church and the pastor. The written understanding
of goals, plans and objectives between the church and the
pastor shall be updated. Such written understanding shall be
filed with the district superintendent. (117.2, 139.4)
132.1. Pastors and congregations shall endeavor to articulate
a clear understanding of each other’s expectations and to
resolve differences by sincerely following biblical principles
including those found in Matthew 18:15-20 and Galatians
6:1-5. In a spirit of cooperation and reconciliation within the
church,
1. Individual or collective members of the congregation
shall be encouraged to resolve differences by discussing
them face-to-face with the pastor or discreetly with a
church board member. Individual or collective members
of the church board shall seek to resolve differences by
discussing them face-to-face with the pastor.
2. If either of the foregoing face-to-face discussions fails to
bring resolution, the complainant shall seek the assistance
of one or two spiritually mature members of the
congregation or church board in resolving the differences.
90 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

3. The persons involved in such small-group efforts shall

bring the differences to the full church board only after
face-to-face discussions and small-group efforts have
failed. If so called upon, the church board shall work at
resolving differences in a spirit of love, acceptance, and
forgiveness, and in accordance with church discipline.
(133-136.2, 139.1)

K. Renewing the Local

Church/Pastoral Relationship
133. The Regular Church/Pastoral Relationship Review.
The church/pastoral relationship shall be reviewed by the
church board, meeting with the district superintendent, or
an ordained minister or layperson appointed by the district
superintendent, within 60 days of the second anniversary of
pastoral service and every four years thereafter. At this review
meeting, the question of continuing the church/pastoral
relationship shall be discussed. The objective is to discover
consensus without the need of a formal church board vote.
133.1. The district superintendent, or an ordained minister
or layperson appointed by the district superintendent,
shall be responsible for scheduling and conducting the
review meeting(s) with the church board. The district
superintendent shall determine the review methodology. The
review meeting(s) shall be scheduled in consultation with the
pastor. The review meeting(s) shall be conducted in executive
session (church board, including pastor). At the discretion of
the district superintendent, a portion of the review may be
conducted in the absence of the pastor. In case the pastor’s
spouse is an elected member of the board, he or she shall
not participate in the review. In addition, other immediate
relatives of the pastor or of the previous pastor may be recused
from the review, per the request of the district superintendent
or appointed representative.
133.2. A public and/or printed announcement explaining
the purpose of this church board meeting shall be conveyed
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 91

to the congregation the Sunday before the church board and

district superintendent meet for the regular church/pastoral
relationship review.
133.3. If the church board does not vote to present the
question of continuing the church/pastoral relationship to
the church membership, the church/pastoral relationship will
continue.
133.4. The church board may vote to present to the church
membership the question of continuing the pastoral call. The
vote by the board will be by ballot and require a two-thirds
vote of all church board members present and voting to carry.
133.5. If the church board votes to present the question
of continuing the church/pastoral relationship to the church
membership, the matter shall be presented at a church
meeting properly called for this purpose and held within 30
days following such action. The question shall be presented,
“Shall the present church/pastoral relationship continue?” The
vote shall be by ballot and require a two-thirds vote to carry,
except where civil law of a given country requires otherwise.
133.6. If the church membership votes to continue the
church/pastoral relationship, the church/pastoral relationship
shall continue as though such a vote had not been taken;
otherwise, the church/pastoral relationship shall end on a
date set by the district superintendent not fewer than 30 nor
more than 180 days following the vote. If the pastor chooses
not to proceed with the vote of the congregation or chooses
not to accept the vote, he or she shall submit a resignation. In
such case, the church/pastoral relationship shall end on a date
set by the district superintendent not fewer than 30 nor more
than 180 days following the pastor’s decision not to proceed
with or accept the congregational vote. (122)
133.7. As a part of the regular review, a report will be made
to the district superintendent by the pastor and church board
regarding progress toward fulfilling the mission, vision, and
core values of the church.
92 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

134. The chairperson of the Board of Tellers shall personally

inform the pastor of the results of a pastoral vote before any
public announcement is made.
135. Special Church/Pastoral Relationship Review. In the
interim of regular reviews, a local church board meeting shall
become officially a special review only by a majority vote of the
entire elected church board with the district superintendent
or an elder appointed by the district superintendent present
and serving as chairperson. (211.11)
135.1. This special church/pastoral relationship review
meeting shall be conducted in executive session (church
board, including pastor). At the discretion of the district
superintendent, a portion of the review may be conducted
in the absence of the pastor. In case the pastor’s spouse is an
elected member of the board, he or she shall not participate
in the review. In addition, the district superintendent or
appointed representative may recuse other immediate relatives
of the pastor or of the previous pastor from the review.
135.2. If the district superintendent and the local church
board shall be of the opinion that the question of the
continuance of the church/pastoral relationship should be
submitted to the church, the district superintendent and the
local church board by a two-thirds vote by ballot of all its
members present, except where civil law of a given country
requires otherwise, may order the question submitted for vote
at a special church meeting. The question shall be submitted
in the following form: “Shall the present church/pastoral
relationship be continued?”
135.3. If by a two-thirds vote by ballot of the church
members of voting age present and voting, except where civil
law of a given country requires otherwise, the church decides
to continue its present church/pastoral relationship, the term
of office of the pastor shall continue as though such vote had
not been taken.
135.4. If, however, the church fails to decide by such vote to
continue the present church/pastoral relationship, the term of
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 93

office of the pastor shall terminate on a date, set by the district

superintendent, not more than 180 days following the vote.
135.5. If the pastor chooses not to proceed with the vote
of the congregation or chooses not to accept the vote, he
or she shall submit a resignation. In such case, the church/
pastoral relationship shall end on a date set by the district
superintendent, not fewer than 30 nor more than 180 days
following the pastor’s decision not to proceed with or accept
the congregational vote. (115.8, 133-134)
136. Local Church in Crisis. Upon learning that a local
church is approaching crisis, the district superintendent
with the approval of the District Advisory Board shall have
the authority to impanel a committee to review the situation
and implement procedures to avert a crisis. The committee
shall consist of two assigned ordained ministers and two lay
members of the District Advisory Board, and the district
superintendent who shall serve as chairperson. (211.3)
136.1. When in the opinion of the district superintendent
and the District Advisory Board, a local church is declared
in crisis—financial, morale, or otherwise—and this crisis
seriously affects the stability and future of the church, (a)
the question of continued church/pastoral relationship
may be submitted to the local congregation by the district
superintendent or a member of the District Advisory Board
appointed by the district superintendent as if the church board
had requested the vote under paragraph 133-133.7, or (b) the
tenure of a pastor and/or church board may be terminated
with the approval of the general superintendent in jurisdiction,
and by the majority vote of the District Advisory Board. The
district superintendent, with approval of the District Advisory
Board, may appoint members of the church board for any
church that has been declared in crisis. Notification of the
District Advisory Board action shall be sent to the general
superintendent in jurisdiction within 30 days. (211.3)
136.2. When in the opinion of the district superintendent,
a local church declared in crisis in accordance with paragraph
136.1 has fulfilled the interventions set in place and is ready
94 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

to resume its ministry under normal circumstances, the local

church may be declared out of crisis by the majority vote of
the District Advisory Board. The general superintendent in
jurisdiction shall be notified of the District Advisory Board
action within 30 days. (211.4)

L. The Local Church Board

137. Membership. Every local church shall have a church
board, composed of the pastor, the president of Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI), the president of Nazarene
Youth International (NYI), the president of Nazarene Missions
International (NMI), the stewards, and the trustees of the
church, and the members of the NDI Board when elected as
the Education Committee of the church board by the annual
church meeting. If the NDI president, the NYI president, and/
or the NMI president is the pastor’s spouse, and chooses not
to serve on the board, the vice president may serve; however,
if the president is the pastor’s spouse and chooses to serve on
the board, he or she shall not be a part of the church/pastoral
relationship review process of the pastor.
There shall be no more than 25 regular members of the
church board. Ordained and district licensed ministers are not
eligible to serve on the local church board with the exception
of individuals approved by the pastor and the district
superintendent. Such district licensed ministers are recused
from church board action recommending the minister to the
district assembly for renewal of district minister’s license. Paid
employees of the local church are not eligible to serve on the
local church board.
We direct our local churches to elect as church officers active
members of the local church who profess the experience of
entire sanctification and whose lives bear public witness to the
grace of God that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony
with the doctrines, polity, and practices of the Church of
the Nazarene; and who support the local church faithfully
in attendance, active service, and with tithes and offerings.
Church officers should be fully engaged in “making Christlike
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 95

disciples in the nations.” (33, 115.11, 138.1, 147, 151, 155-157,

162.2, 169.4)
137.1. When the annual meeting of a local church comes
during a time of pastoral transition, the local nominating
committee, chaired by the district superintendent, may,
with the approval of the district superintendent, present the
congregation with a resolution, no later than 30 days prior to
the annual meeting, to retain the current church board for
the upcoming church year. This resolution may be adopted
by majority favorable vote by ballot of the church members
of voting age present and voting at a properly called special
meeting of the church. Should the resolution fail to pass, the
church board shall be elected by the annual meeting as usual.
137.2. A church board member may be removed by two-
thirds vote of the church board when it is determined by the
pastor and church board that the board member is out of
harmony with paragraph 33, providing the pastor first consults
with the district superintendent, that subsequent restorative
efforts prove unsuccessful, and that the written approval of
the district superintendent is received prior to any such vote.
137.3. In the event of a vacancy on the local church board,
the church board may, upon recommendation of the pastor,
with prior written approval of the district superintendent, and
by majority vote of its remaining members, elect a qualified
church member nominated by the pastor to serve the remaining
term. The results of the election must be announced to the
congregation. If the remaining members of the board vote
initially to leave the seat vacant, the option to fill the vacancy
by election remains until the next annual meeting.
138. Meetings. The church board takes office at the beginning
of the church year and shall have at least a bimonthly meeting
and shall meet specially when called by the pastor or district
superintendent. The church board secretary shall call a special
meeting of the board only with the approval of the pastor, or
the district superintendent when there is no pastor. Meetings
of the church board, including voting, may be conducted
electronically. Such meetings and votes shall have the same
96 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

force and effect as votes at a meeting of members gathered in

one room or area. Between the annual church meeting and
the beginning of the church year, the newly elected church
board may meet for organization purposes, at which time it
shall elect a church board secretary and a church treasurer as
provided hereafter and any other officer that it shall be their
duty to elect. (139.19-140)
138.1. Local church board members shall disclose any matter
in which they (or an immediate family member) have a direct
personal or vested interest not common to other members
of the board, and abstain from voting on any such matter.
Immediate family shall include spouse, children, siblings, or
parents.
139. Business. The business of the church board shall be:
139.1. To care for the interests of the church and its work,
not otherwise provided for, in harmony with the pastor.
(115.15, 127, 165)
139.2. To nominate to the church, after having consulted
with the district superintendent, any elder or licensed minister
(elder track) whom it may deem the proper person to become
pastor, provided the nomination be approved in accordance
with paragraph 117. (169.8, 211.10, 225.16)
139.3. To cooperate with an incoming pastor in the
development of a written statement of goals and expectations.
(117.2)
139.4. To conduct at least once a year, along with the pastor,
a planning session for the purpose of updating a clear written
understanding of expectations, goals, plans and objectives.
(132)
139.5. To arrange for pastoral supply, with approval of the
district superintendent, until such time as a pastor shall be
regularly called by the church. (212, 516)
139.6. To provide for the development and adoption of
an annual budget for the church, NMI, NYI, NDI, and any
childcare/schools (birth through secondary) projecting
income and expenditures.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 97

139.7. To assign a committee of the board, whose

responsibilities include: (a) monitoring the church budget, (b)
reporting to the board on the financial conditions and concerns
of the church.
139.8. To determine the amount of remuneration and
benefits, including retirement benefits, the pastor shall
receive, and to review them at least once a year. (32.3, 117.4,
117.6, 133-133.7)
139.9. To provide ways and means for the support of the
pastor, the pastoral supply, or any other paid workers of the
church; to encourage and support through planning and
budgeting the lifelong learning commitment of the pastor and
staff. (117.4)
139.10. In order to encourage a healthy pastoral ministry
and strong spiritual life of the pastor, the church board, in
consultation with the district superintendent, should provide a
sabbatical leave for the pastor during each fifth consecutive year
of service in one congregation of the Church of the Nazarene.
The timing and duration of the sabbatical shall be determined
in consultation with the pastor, church board and district
superintendent. The suggested timing is a minimum of four
weeks. It is strongly urged that the pastor’s salary continue in
full and the church board provide for pulpit supply during the
sabbatical period. This topic is to be addressed by the district
superintendent as part of the church/pastoral relationship
review process that would come after year two and again in
year six, once the viability of continuing the relationship has
been established. Materials shall be developed and distributed
by the Global Education and Clergy Development office to
guide local congregations in establishing and implementing a
sabbatical leave policy and procedure. At the church board’s
discretion, such a program may also be implemented for a
member of the pastoral staff.
139.11. To determine the financial support and housing
allowance an evangelist should receive and notify the person
of such minimum support at the time of the call by the church
board.
98 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

139.12. To license, or renew the license of, at its discretion,

any person who has been recommended by the pastor for (a)
local minister, or (b) lay minister. (503.3-503.5, 523.1-523.3,
813)
139.13. To recommend, at its discretion, to the district
assembly, upon nomination by the pastor, any person who
desires to receive a certificate for any of the roles of ministry,
including all lay and ministerial candidates aspiring to be
recognized for ministries beyond the local church, if such
recommendation is required by the Manual.
139.14. To recommend, at its discretion, to the district
assembly, upon nomination by the pastor, any person who
desires the Licensed Minister’s Credential or its renewal.
(523.5, 524.1)
139.15. To recommend, at its discretion, to the district
assembly, upon nomination by the pastor, renewal of deaconess’
license in harmony with paragraph 508.
139.16. To elect, upon nomination of the Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) Board, with the approval of
the pastor, a discipleship coordinator of Children’s Ministries
and a discipleship coordinator of Adult Ministries. (155.6)
139.17. To approve the Nazarene Youth International (NYI)
president elected by the NYI organization of the local church,
as provided in the NYI Charter.
139.18. To approve the selection of the administrators
of Nazarene childcare/schools (birth through secondary).
(125.10, 161, 169.1, 211.13)
139.19. To elect a secretary from among the church
membership who meets the qualifications for church officers
as specified in paragraph 33. Such election shall be held at the
first meeting of the new board. The individual so elected shall
serve until the close of the church year and until a successor
has been elected and qualified, and has voting privileges only
if elected to the church board at a properly called meeting
of the members of the congregation. (33, 115.6-115.8, 115.11,
138, 145.1-145.7)
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 99

139.20. To elect a treasurer from among the church

membership who meets the qualifications for church officers as
specified in paragraph 33. Such election shall be held at the first
meeting of the new board. The individual so elected shall serve
until the close of the church year and until a successor has been
elected and qualified, and has voting privileges only if elected to
the church board at a properly called meeting of the members of
the congregation. No member of the pastor’s immediate family
can serve as the local church treasurer without the approval
of the district superintendent and the District Advisory Board.
Immediate family shall include spouse, children, siblings, or
parents. (33, 115.7-115.8, 115.11, 138, 146.1-146.6)
139.21. To cause careful accounting to be kept of all money
received and disbursed by the church, including any childcare/
schools (birth through secondary) and Nazarene Missions
International (NMI), Nazarene Youth International (NYI),
Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI), and make report
of the same at its regular monthly meetings and to the annual
meeting of the church. (146.3-146.5)
139.22. To provide a committee, no fewer than two members
of which shall count and account for all money received by the
church.
139.23. To appoint an auditing committee or a committee
of independent examiners, or such other qualified persons,
that shall audit or examine, to at least the minimum standard
required by national or state law if applicable, or other
recognized professional standards, at least annually, the
financial records of the treasurer of the church, the Nazarene
Youth International (NYI), the Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI) Board, Nazarene childcare/schools (birth
through secondary), and any other financial records of the
church. The pastor shall have access to all records of the local
church. (125.15)
139.24. To provide an Evangelism and Church Membership
Committee of no fewer than three persons. (112)
139.25. To function, if advisable, as the NDI Board in
churches of no more than 75 members. (155)
100 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

139.26. To appoint a Local Board of Discipline of five in case

signed charges are pending against a church member. (605)
139.27. To elect, with the written approval of the district
superintendent and upon the nomination of the pastor, such
paid associates as the local church may designate. (161, 169-
169.1, 211.13)
139.28. To elect a local minister or a licensed minister as an
unpaid associate pastor only if approval is given annually in
writing by the district superintendent. (117.6)
139.29. To provide for a long-range planning committee for
the church with the pastor as ex-officio chairperson.
139.30. To adopt and implement a plan to reduce the risk
that individuals placed in positions of authority within the
church will use the position of trust or authority to engage
in misconduct. The plan for each local church must take into
consideration its own unique circumstances.
140. The church board, together with the pastor, shall
follow plans adopted by the Board of General Superintendents
and the General Board for raising the World Evangelism Fund
and District Ministry Funds by the local church, and shall
regularly remit these amounts to the general treasurer and
district treasurer, respectively. (317.10, 335.7)
141. Meaning of Stewardship. Refer to paragraphs 32-32.5.
142. The church board shall perform the duties of a NDI
Board in a newly organized church until such board has been
regularly elected. (155)
142.1. The church board and pastor of the newly organized
church shall decide when a Nazarene Discipleship International
(NDI) president will be elected. (139.25, 155, 156)
143. The church board may remove from the membership
roll the name of an inactive church member after a period of at
least one year has elapsed from the date when his or her name
was declared inactive. (111-111.4, 114.3)
144. The church board may suspend or revoke a local
minister’s license.
145. Church Secretary. The duties of the secretary of the
church board are:
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 101

145.1. To record correctly and preserve faithfully the

minutes of all church meetings and meetings of the church
board, and do whatever else may pertain to the office. Board
minutes should identify all voting board members as present
or absent to clearly document a quorum. (122.1, 139.19)
145.2. To present to the annual meeting of the church
an annual report of the major activities of the local church,
including statistics on membership. (115.9)
145.3. To see that official papers, records, and legal
documents pertaining to the local church, including deeds,
abstracts, insurance policies, loan documents, church
membership rolls, historical records, church board minutes,
and incorporation papers are held in trust in either fireproof
or secure safes on the local church premises, or when feasible,
they may be placed in safe deposit facilities in local banks or
similar institutions. Access to such shall always be shared with
the pastor and church treasurer, and care for such shall be
delivered immediately to the church secretary’s successor in
office.
145.4. To be the secretary of all annual and special church
meetings; and to be custodian of the minutes and other papers
of such annual and special church meetings. (115.6)
145.5. To certify in writing to the district superintendent
the results of the vote from the calling of a pastor and the
continuation of the church/pastoral relationship. Such
certification shall be made within one week of the vote.
145.6. To send to the district superintendent a copy of the
minutes of all church meetings and meetings of the church
board within three days of such meetings when that local
church is without a pastor.
145.7. To sign in conjunction with the pastor all conveyances
of real estate, mortgages, releases of mortgages, contracts,
and other legal documents not otherwise provided for in the
Manual. (102.3, 103-104.2)
146. Church Treasurer. The duties of the treasurer of the
church board are:
102 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

146.1. To receive all moneys not otherwise provided for, and

disburse the same only on order of the church board. (139.21)
146.2. To make monthly remittances of all district funds to
the district treasurer, and of all general funds to the general
treasurer through the appropriate office, except as otherwise
provided. (125.9)
146.3. To keep a correct book record of all funds received
and disbursed. (139.21)
146.4. To present a detailed monthly financial report for
distribution to the church board. (139.21)
146.5. To present an annual financial report to the annual
church meeting. (115.9, 139.21)
146.6. To deliver to the church board the complete
treasurer’s records at such time as the treasurer shall cease to
hold the office.

M. The Stewards of the Local Church

147. The stewards of the church shall be no fewer than two
or more than 13 in number. They shall be elected by ballot,
at the annual or a special church meeting, from among the
members of the church, to serve for the next church year and
until their successors have been elected and qualified. (33,
115.7, 115.11, 137)
148. The duties of the stewards are:
148.1. To serve as a church growth committee, unless
otherwise provided for, with the responsibilities of outreach,
evangelism, and promotion of new churches and church-type
missions, with the pastor as ex-officio chairperson.
148.2. To provide assistance and support for the needy and
distressed. A biblical role of lay leaders is that of ministering in
areas of practical service (Romans 12:6-8). Therefore stewards
should offer their time and spiritual gifts in acts of service,
administration, encouragement, mercy, visitation, and other
ministries.
148.3. To serve, at the discretion of the church board, as the
Evangelism and Church Membership Committee as outlined
in paragraphs 112-112.8.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 103

148.4. To assist the pastor in organizing the church so that

Christian service opportunities are available to all members.
Special attention should be given to the development of
ministries toward those of other cultural and socioeconomic
backgrounds in the immediate and nearby communities.
148.5. To serve as liaisons to community Christian action
and service organizations.
148.6. To give assistance to the pastor in public worship and
Christian nurture in the local church.
148.7. To provide the elements for the Lord’s Supper, and
when requested by the pastor, to assist in the distribution of
the same. (124.4, 700)
149. A vacancy in the office of steward may be filled by the
local church at a properly called church meeting or as provided
in 137.3. (115.8)
150. The stewards shall constitute the Stewardship
Committee, whose duty it shall be to promote the cause of
Christian stewardship of life resources in the local church in
cooperation with the pastor and the Stewardship Ministries
office. (32-32.5)

N. The Trustees of the Local Church

151. The trustees of the church shall be no fewer than three
or more than nine in number. They shall be elected from
among the members of the local church to serve for the next
church year and until their successors have been elected and
qualified. (33, 115.11, 137)
152. In all cases where the civil law requires a specific mode
of election of church trustees, that mode shall be strictly
followed. (115.4)
152.1. Where no particular mode of election is required by
civil law the trustees shall be elected by ballot at the annual
meeting of the local church or at a special meeting properly
called for that purpose. (115.7, 115.11)
153. The duties of the trustees are:
153.1. To hold the title to church property and manage it
as trustees of the local church, where the local church is not
104 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

incorporated, or where the civil law requires it, or where for

other reasons it is deemed best by the district superintendent
or the District Advisory Board, subject to the guidance and
the restrictions as set forth in paragraphs 102-104.3.
153.2. To give guidance to the development of the physical
facilities and to financial planning, unless the church board
has provided otherwise.
154. A vacancy in the office of trustee may be filled by the
local church at a properly called church meeting or as provided
in 137.3. (115.8)

O. The Local Church Nazarene

Discipleship International Board
155. Each local church shall establish a Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI) Board, or an Education Committee as
part of the church board, at the annual church meeting, to be
responsible for the Christian education ministries of the church.
In churches of 75 members or fewer, the responsibilities may be
performed by the church board. Members are: ex-officio the
NDI president; the pastor; the Nazarene Missions International
(NMI) president; the Nazarene Youth International (NYI)
president; Children’s Ministries (CM) discipleship coordinator;
Adult Ministries (AM) discipleship coordinator; and three to
nine persons elected from the church membership at the annual
church meeting. The members may be elected for staggered
terms of two years and until their successors are elected and
qualified. When an elected member vacancy occurs, it may
be filled at a properly called church meeting or as provided in
137.3. If a church elects an education committee as part of the
church board, it shall follow Manual requirements for minimum
number of stewards and trustees. Ex-officio personnel shall be
members of the committee, though some may not be members
of the church board.
We direct our local churches to elect as church officers active
members of the local church who profess the experience of
entire sanctification and whose lives bear public witness to the
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 105

grace of God that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony

with the doctrines, polity, and practices of the Church of
the Nazarene; and who support the local church faithfully
in attendance, active service, and with tithes and offerings.
Church officers should be fully engaged in “making Christlike
disciples in the nations.” (33, 147, 151, 156)
The duties and powers of the Nazarene Discipleship
International Board or Education Committee are:
155.1. To plan, organize, promote, and conduct the ministry
of Christian education for the local church. This is to be done
subject to the direct care of the pastor, and the leadership
of Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) president,
and the direction of the local church board, in keeping with
denominational objectives and standards established by the
General Board and promoted through the Local Church
Ministries Committee and offices of Adult Ministries (AM),
Nazarene Youth International (NYI), and Children’s Ministries
(CM). These include both curriculum and program-oriented
ministries for adults, youth, and children. The Sunday
School/Bible studies/small groups, along with the preaching
ministry, provide the core of the church’s study of Scripture
and doctrine. Childcare/Schools (birth through secondary)
and annual/special ministries and training, such as Caravan or
other children’s weekly programming, Vacation Bible Schools,
and singles’ ministries, provide opportunities through which
scriptural doctrines are lived out and integrated into the life of
the congregation. (125.15)
155.2. To reach the largest number of unchurched people
for Christ and the church, bringing them into the fellowship,
teaching the Word of God effectively, and encompassing
their salvation; teaching the doctrines of the Christian faith
and developing Christlike character, attitudes, and habits;
helping to establish Christian homes; preparing believers for
membership in the church and equipping them for appropriate
Christian ministries.
106 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

155.3. To determine the curricula of the various ministries,

always using Church of the Nazarene materials to form the
basis of biblical study and doctrinal interpretation.
155.4. To plan for and organize the total Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) of the local church in
keeping with the NDI Bylaws. (812)
155.5. To nominate to the annual church meeting one or
more persons approved by the pastor, for election to the office
of Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) president. The
nominations are to be made in a meeting with the incumbent
president not present.
155.6. To nominate to the church board persons approved by
the pastor, to serve as a discipleship coordinator of Children’s
Ministries (CM) and a discipleship coordinator of Adult
Ministries (AM).
155.7. To elect the Children’s Ministries (CM) and Adult
Ministries (AM) councils from nominations by the discipleship
coordinators of CM and AM with approval of the pastor and
the Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) president.
155.8. To elect all age-group Sunday School/Bible studies/
small groups supervisors, teachers, and officers who shall be
professing Christians, exemplary in life, and in full harmony
with the doctrines and polity of the Church of the Nazarene,
from nominations by the Nazarene Youth International (NYI)
president and the discipleship coordinators of Children’s
Ministries (CM) and Adult Ministries (AM). The nominees
shall be approved by the pastor and the Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI) president.
155.9. To elect a local coordinator of Continuing Lay
Training (CLT), who shall organize, promote, and supervise
regular training opportunities for Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI) workers and the entire membership of
the church. The NDI Board shall have the option of naming
the CLT coordinator as an ex-officio member to this board.
155.10. To hold regular meetings; and to organize, by
electing a secretary and other officers considered necessary,
at the beginning of the Nazarene Discipleship International
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 107

(NDI) year, which shall be the same as the church year. The
pastor or the NDI president may call special meetings. (116)
156. The Nazarene Discipleship International President. The
annual church meeting shall elect by majority vote by ballot,
of those present and voting, from among its full members, a
Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) president to serve
for one year, or until his or her successor is elected. The NDI
Board, with the pastor’s approval, may call for an incumbent
NDI president to be elected by a “yes” or “no” vote. A vacancy
shall be filled by the local church at a properly called church
meeting. The NDI president, newly elected, shall be a member
ex-officio of the district assembly, the local church board, and
the NDI Board.
We direct our local churches to elect as church officers active
members of the local church who profess the experience of
entire sanctification and whose lives bear public witness to the
grace of God that calls us to a holy life; who are in harmony
with the doctrines, polity, and practices of the Church of
the Nazarene; and who support the local church faithfully
in attendance, active service, and with tithes and offerings.
Church officers should be fully engaged in “making Christlike
disciples in the nations.” (33, 115.11, 137, 155, 155.5, 201)
The duties and powers of the Nazarene Discipleship
International President are:
156.1. To have executive supervision of the Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) in the local church.
156.2. To administer the Nazarene Discipleship International
(NDI) in keeping with the NDI Bylaws. (812)
156.3. To promote programs of growth in enrollment,
attendance, and leadership training.
156.4. To preside over the regular meetings of the Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) Board, or the Education
Committee of the church board, and to lead the NDI Board in
performing its duties.
156.5. To submit an annual budget for Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI) to the church board.
108 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

156.6. To make a monthly report to the church board and to

submit a written report to the annual church meeting.
157. Children’s Ministries (CM)/Adult Ministries (AM)
Councils and Discipleship Coordinators. The work of Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) is best organized by age-
groups: children, youth, and adults. For each age-group there
should be a council responsible to organize and administer the
work. Such council is composed of the age-group discipleship
coordinator and representatives from the Sunday School/Bible
studies/small groups and other ministries the church provides
for that age-group. The task of the council is to work with the
age-group discipleship coordinator to plan ministries for that
age-group, and to make provisions for the implementation of
those plans. All work of the CM and AM councils is subject to
approval of its coordinator and the NDI Board.
The duties of the age-group discipleship coordinators are:
157.1. To chair the respective age-group council in
organizing, promoting, and coordinating the total Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) for persons within that age-
group.
157.2. To give leadership to the appropriate age-group of
the Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) by promoting
programs of growth in enrollment and attendance for children,
youth, or adults in the local church, in cooperation with the
NDI Board.
157.3. To give leadership for additional Sunday, childcare/
schools (birth through secondary), annual and special
ministries, evangelism and fellowship activities for the age-
group he or she represents.
157.4. To nominate to the Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI) Board the leadership for the various
ministries assigned to his or her age-group, including Sunday
School/Bible studies/small groups supervisors, teachers, and
officers, with exception of Nazarene Youth International
(NYI) who will nominate youth Sunday School/Bible studies/
small groups supervisors, teachers, and officers. The nominees
shall be approved by the pastor and the NDI president. (33)
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 109

157.5. To obtain the approval of the Nazarene Discipleship

International (NDI) Board before using supplemental
curriculum.
157.6. To provide leadership training for age-group workers
in cooperation with the Nazarene Discipleship International
(NDI) Board and the coordinator of Continuing Lay Training.
157.7. To submit an annual budget request to the Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) Board and/or church board,
and to administer funds in accordance with such budget
approval.
157.8. To receive all reports of the various ministries
functioning within the age-groups of the local church
under his or her direction. A monthly report of all
Discipleship Ministries (Sunday School/Extended Ministries
Responsibilities/ Discipleship/Bible Study) shall be submitted
to the Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) president.
157.9. To submit a quarterly calendar of his or her age-group
activities to the Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI)
Board to be coordinated with the total NDI of the local church.
158. Children’s Ministries Council. The Children’s
Ministries (CM) Council is responsible for planning the total
Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) for children from
birth to age 12 in the local church. The council is composed
of at least one Sunday School/Bible studies/small groups
representative and the discipleship coordinators of any other
children’s ministry being offered in the local church, such
as: children’s church, Caravan, Vacation Bible School, Bible
quizzing, missions, Cradle Roll, and any others deemed
necessary. The council size will vary with the number of
ministries being offered to children in the local church as
needs are identified and leadership is available.
The duties of the Children’s Ministries coordinator are:
158.1. To perform those duties assigned to all age-group
discipleship coordinators in paragraphs 157.1-157.9.
158.2. To work with the Nazarene Missions International
(NMI) Executive Committee of the local church in appointing
a children’s mission coordinator. The person appointed
110 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

becomes a member of both the NMI and Children’s Ministries

(CM) councils. Nominees for this position shall be approved
by the pastor and the Nazarene Discipleship International
(NDI) president.
159. Adult Ministries Council. The Adult Ministries (AM)
Council shall be responsible for planning the total Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) for adults in the local church.
The AM Council is composed of at least one Sunday School/
Bible studies/small groups representative and the coordinators
of any other ministry being offered in the local church, such
as: marriage and family life, senior adult ministries, single
adult ministries, lay ministries, women’s ministries, men’s
ministries, and any others deemed necessary. The council size
will vary with the number of ministries being offered to adults
in the local church as needs are identified and leadership is
available.
The duties of the Adult Ministries discipleship coordinator
are:
159.1. To perform those duties assigned to all age-group
coordinators in paragraphs 157.1-157.9.

P. The Local Church Nazarene Youth International

(NYI)
160. Nazarene youth ministry is organized in the local
church under the auspices of Nazarene Youth International
(NYI). Local groups are organized under the NYI Charter and
the authority of the local church board.
160.1. The local Nazarene Youth International (NYI) shall
organize itself according to the NYI Local Ministry Plan
(810.100-810.118), which may be adapted in response to local
youth ministry needs (see 810.103), consistent with the NYI
Charter and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 111

Q. Nazarene Childcare/Schools (Birth through

Secondary) of the Local Church
161. Nazarene childcare/schools (birth through secondary)
may be organized by the local church board(s) after receiving
the approval of the district superintendent and the District
Advisory Board, and following criteria established by
Children’s Ministries/Nazarene Discipleship International
office. The director and school board shall be accountable to
and shall submit an annual report to the local church board(s).
(125.15, 126, 139.18, 211.13-211.14, 225.14)
161.1. School Closings. In the event a local church should
find it necessary to suspend operations of its childcare/
school(s), (birth through secondary), it should do so only after
consulting with the district superintendent and the District
Advisory Board and presenting a financial report.

R. The Local Church Nazarene Missions

International
162. Upon the authorization of the church board, local
organizations of the Nazarene Missions International (NMI)
may be formed within any age-group in harmony with the
NMI Constitution approved by the Global Nazarene Missions
International Convention. (811)
162.1. The local Nazarene Missions International shall
be a constituent part of the local church and subject to the
supervision and direction of the pastor and the church board.
(125)
162.2. The president of the local Nazarene Missions
International (NMI) shall be nominated by a committee of
three to seven members of the NMI appointed by the pastor,
who shall serve as chairperson. This committee shall submit
one or more names for the office of president subject to the
approval of the church board. The president shall be elected by
a majority vote by ballot of the members (excluding associate)
present and voting. The president shall be a member of the
local church whose NMI is served, a member ex-officio of the
112 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

church board (or in churches where the president is the pastor’s

spouse, the vice president may serve on the church board), and
a member of the district assembly held immediately prior to
his or her year of office. The president shall present a report
to the annual meeting of the local church. (115.9, 116, 133,
137, 201)
163. All funds raised by the local Nazarene Missions
International (NMI) for general interests of the Church of
the Nazarene shall be applied to the World Evangelism Fund
with the exception of mission special projects that have been
approved by the Ten Percent Committee.
163.1. After primary consideration has been given to the
full payment of the World Evangelism Fund, local churches
are encouraged to support other global mission work through
approved mission specials.
164. Funds for the support of general interests shall be raised
in the following manners:
164.1. From gifts and offerings designated for the World
Evangelism Fund and general interests.
164.2. From special offerings such as the Easter Offering
and Offering of Thanks.
164.3. No part of the above funds shall be used for local or
district expense or other charitable purposes.

S. Prohibition of Financial Appeals

for a Local Church
165. It shall not be lawful for a local church, its officers,
or members, to send appeals to other local churches, their
officers, and members, to solicit money or financial assistance
for their local church needs or for the interests that they may
support. It is provided, however, that such solicitation may be
made to local churches and church members located within
the bounds of the assembly district in which the solicitor is
located, but only on condition that the solicitation be approved
in writing by the district superintendent and the District
Advisory Board.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 113

166. Members of the Church of the Nazarene who are not

authorized by the General Board or one of its committees
shall not solicit funds for missionary or kindred activities apart
from the World Evangelism Fund, from congregations of local
churches, or from members of such churches.

T. Use of the Local Church Name

167. The name of the Church of the Nazarene, any local
church, or any corporation or institution that is a part or in
any manner affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, or
any part of any such name, shall not be used by any members
of the Church of the Nazarene nor any one or more members
thereof, or by any corporation, partnership, association, group,
or other entity in connection with any activity (whether of a
commercial, social, educational, charitable, or other nature)
without the prior written approval of the General Board
of the Church of the Nazarene and the Board of General
Superintendents, provided, however, that this provision shall
not apply to such activities of the Church of the Nazarene as
are authorized by its official Manual.

U. Church-sponsored Corporation
168. No local church, local church board, district corporation,
district board, nor any two or more members of any of them,
acting individually or otherwise, shall directly or indirectly
form or become members of any corporation, association,
partnership, group, or other entity that promotes, sponsors,
encourages, or in any manner engages in any activity (whether
of a commercial, social, educational, charitable, or other
nature) in which members of the Church of the Nazarene are
solicited or in any manner sought as prospective participants,
customers, tenants, clients, members, or associates, or in
any activity (whether of a commercial, social, educational,
charitable, or other nature) that directly or indirectly purports
to be sponsored or operated primarily or exclusively by or
for the benefit or service of members of the Church of the
Nazarene, without the express prior written consent of the
114 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

district superintendent, the District Advisory Board, and the

Board of General Superintendents.

V. Associates in the Local Church

169. There may be those who feel called to prepare
themselves for certain vital lay services in the church, either
part-time or full-time. The church recognizes the place of
such lay workers, and yet it is basically constituted a voluntary
institution, with service to God and others the duty and
privilege of all its members according to their abilities. When
paid associates in the local church, or any subsidiary and/
or affiliated corporations of the local congregation, whether
ministerial or lay, become necessary for greater efficiency, it
must be such as will not devitalize the spirit of free service
by all its members or tax the church’s financial resources
including the payment of all financial apportionments.
However, a request may be made in writing for review by
the district superintendent and District Advisory Board for
exceptions in special cases. (139.27)
169.1. All local paid or unpaid associates who provide
specialized ministry within the context of the local church
and enter into a relationship of vocational ministry within
the church, including directors of childcare/schools (birth
through secondary), shall be elected by the church board,
having been nominated by the pastor. All nominations must
have prior approval in writing by the district superintendent,
who shall respond within 15 days after receipt of the request.
(169.4, 211.13)
169.2. The employment of such associates shall be for no
more than one year and may be renewed upon recommendation
of the pastor with the prior written approval of the district
superintendent and the favorable vote of the church board.
The pastor shall be responsible to conduct an annual review
of each staff member. The pastor, in consultation with
the church board, may make recommendations for staff
development or modifications in job description as indicated
by the review. The dismissal of all local associates prior to
LOCAL GOVERNMENT 115

the end of the employment term (end of fiscal church year)

must be by recommendation of the pastor, approval of the
district superintendent, and the majority vote of the church
board. Notification of dismissal or non-renewal must be given
in writing not fewer than 30 days prior to the termination of
employment. (139.27)
169.3. The duties and services of such associates are to be
determined and supervised by the pastor. A clear, written
statement of responsibilities (job description) shall be made
available to such associates within 30 days of the beginning of
their responsibility to the local church.
169.4. No regularly compensated employee or staff,
including part-time employees, of the church shall serve on
the church board. If a regularly compensated employee of the
church should become a church board member, the employee
would have to choose whether to continue serving on the board
or give up the position as a regularly compensated employee
of the church. If a church board member should become a
regularly compensated employee of the church, he or she shall
not remain a member of the church board.
169.5. In times of pastoral transition, the stability, unity, and
ongoing ministry of the local church is crucial. Consequently,
the district superintendent (or a representative appointed by
the district superintendent) will work closely with the local
church board to implement the following steps which (a) may
allow the local church to retain some or all staff for at least a
period of time during the transition; (b) will still allow the new
pastor freedom to develop his or her own team of associates, if
desired; and (c) will allow a board and district superintendent
discretion to provide transitioning staff a reasonable amount of
time to make necessary personal and professional adjustments.
Upon resignation or termination of the pastor, any associates
shall also submit their resignations effective concurrently with
the pastor.
Directors of childcare/schools (birth through secondary)
shall submit their resignations effective at the end of the current
school year. The chief executive officer of any subsidiary and/
116 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

or affiliated corporation shall submit his or her resignation at

the end of that contractual period.
A local church board may request that the district
superintendent approve the continued service of any or
all associates, directors, and chief executive officers. This
approval, if granted, could continue until 90 days after the
new pastor’s assumption of duties or until the incoming pastor
nominates his or her paid associates for the coming year in
harmony with paragraph 169.
169.6. Communication with staff members, the church
board, and the congregation regarding the effect of paragraph
169.5 on staff members at the time of pastoral change shall be
the responsibility of the district superintendent. (211.13)
169.7. The pastor of a congregation having approval to
function as a local church according to paragraph 100.2 shall
not be considered a staff member.
169.8. Any person serving as paid staff would be ineligible
to be called as pastor to the church of which he or she is a
member without approval of the district superintendent and
the District Advisory Board. (117, 139.2, 211.10, 225.16)
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 117

II. DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

A. District Bounds and Name
200. The General Assembly shall organize the membership
of the church into districts.
A district is an entity made up of interdependent local
churches organized to facilitate the mission of each local
church through mutual support, the sharing of resources, and
collaboration.
The bounds and name of a district shall be such as shall be
declared by the General Boundaries Committee and approved
by a majority vote by the assembly district(s) involved, with
the final approval of the general superintendent(s) having
jurisdiction.
Where districts from more than one field would consider
merger into one district, the General Boundaries Committee
would determine the field the new district would be a part of, in
consultation with the general superintendent(s) in jurisdiction.
200.1. The Creation of New Districts. New districts in the
Church of the Nazarene may be created by:
1. The division of one district into two or more districts
(requires a two-thirds vote of the district assembly);
2. The combination of two or more districts out of which a
differing configuration of districts may be created;
3. The formation of a new district in an area not encompassed
by any existing district;
4. The merger of two or more districts; or
A recommendation to establish a new district shall be
submitted to the general superintendent(s) in jurisdiction.
The district superintendent(s) and District Advisory Board(s)
or national board(s) may approve and refer the matter to the
district assembly/assemblies for vote with the approval of the
general superintendent(s) in jurisdiction and the Board of
General Superintendents. (24, 200, 200.2-200.5)
200.2. Work in the Church of the Nazarene may begin as a
pioneer area and lead to the establishment of new districts and
118 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

district assembly boundaries. Phase 3 districts may emerge as

quickly as possible according to the following pattern:
Phase 1. A Phase 1 district shall be designated when
opportunity for entry into a new area is presented, within
guidelines for strategic development and evangelism. Requests
may be made by a regional director, a district through
the Regional Advisory Council, or the sponsoring district
superintendent and/or District Advisory Board for final
approvals by the general superintendent(s) in jurisdiction and
the Board of General Superintendents.
A Phase 1 district superintendent shall be recommended
by the regional director, in consultation with the Global
Missions director, to the general superintendent having
jurisdiction who shall appoint. The region shall give guidance
to the Phase 1 district regarding resources available for
development. In cases where there are sponsoring districts,
the district superintendent shall be appointed by the general
superintendent in jurisdiction after consultation with the
district superintendent(s) and Advisory Board(s) of the
sponsoring district(s).
When, in the opinion of the field strategy coordinator and
regional director, a Phase 1 district is in crisis—financial,
morale, or otherwise—and this crisis seriously affects the
stability and future of the district, a district may be declared
in crisis with the approval of the general superintendent in
jurisdiction and in consultation with the Global Missions
director. The regional director, with the approval of the general
superintendent in jurisdiction, may appoint an interim board
for the management of the district and in lieu of all existing
boards, until the next regularly scheduled district assembly.
Phase 2. A Phase 2 district may be designated when a
sufficient number of organized churches and ordained
ministers and a district infrastructure of adequate maturity
exists to recommend such designation.
Such designation will be by the Board of General
Superintendents upon recommendation of the general
superintendent in jurisdiction after consultation with
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 119

the Global Missions director, regional director, and other

individuals and boards involved in the appointment of the
district superintendent. A district superintendent will be
elected or appointed.
Quantifiable criteria would include a minimum of 10
organized churches, 500 full members, and 5 ordained
ministers, and a minimum of 50% of district administration
expense shall be generated by district ministries fund income at
the time of designation. A District Advisory Board or national
board may request the general superintendent in jurisdiction
for an exception to these criteria. A Phase 2 district may revert
to Phase 1 district status until such time as it can meet the
requirements for Phase 2 status.
When, in the opinion of the field strategy coordinator and
regional director, a Phase 2 district is in crisis—financial,
morale, or otherwise—and this crisis seriously affects the
stability and future of the district, a district may be declared
in crisis with the approval of the general superintendent in
jurisdiction. The regional director, with the approval of the
general superintendent in jurisdiction, may appoint an interim
board for the management of the district and in lieu of all
existing boards, until the next regularly scheduled district
assembly.
Phase 3. A Phase 3 district may be declared when a
sufficient number of organized churches, ordained ministers,
and members exist to warrant such designation. Leadership,
infrastructure, budgetary responsibility, and doctrinal
integrity must be demonstrated. A Phase 3 district must be
able to shoulder these burdens and share the challenges of the
Great Commission within the global scope of an international
church.
Such designation will be by the Board of General
Superintendents upon recommendation of the general
superintendent in jurisdiction after consultation with
the Global Missions director, regional director, and other
individuals and boards involved in the appointment of the
120 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

district superintendent. A district superintendent will be

selected in accordance with Manual provisions.
Quantifiable criteria include a minimum of 20 organized
churches, 1,000 full members, and 10 ordained ministers.
A District Advisory Board or national board may request to
the general superintendent in jurisdiction for an exception to
these criteria.
A Phase 3 district must be 100% self-supporting in regard to
district administration.
Phase 3 districts are an integral part of their respective
regions. In regions having a regional director, the general
superintendent in jurisdiction may enlist the assistance of
the regional director to facilitate communication with and
supervision of the district.
When in the opinion of a general superintendent in
jurisdiction, a district is in crisis—financial, morale, or
otherwise— and this crisis seriously affects the stability and
future of the district, a district may be declared in crisis with
the approval of the Board of General Superintendents. The
general superintendent in jurisdiction, with approval of the
Board of General Superintendents may take one or more of
the following actions:
1. Remove the district superintendent;
2. Appoint an interim board for the management of the
district in lieu of all existing boards, until the next
regularly scheduled district assembly; and
3. Initiate such special interventions as may be necessary
to restore the district’s health and mission effectiveness.
(200.1, 205.13, 206.2, 209.1, 307.9, 322)
200.3. Criteria for District Division or District Boundary
Changes. A proposal for district development or district
boundary changes developed by a regional office, a national
board, or a District Advisory Board may be presented to the
general superintendent in jurisdiction. Such a plan should take
into consideration:
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 121

1. That the proposed new districts or realigned districts

have population centers that justify the creation or
realignment of such districts;
2. That lines of communication and transportation are
available to facilitate the work of the districts;
3. That a sufficient number of mature ordained ministers
and lay leaders are available for the work of the districts;
4. That the sponsoring districts will have, wherever possible,
sufficient district ministries fund income, sufficient
membership and organized churches to maintain their
Phase 3 district status.
200.4. Mergers. Two or more Phase 3 districts may be
merged upon two-thirds favorable vote by each of the district
assemblies involved, provided: The merger shall have been
recommended by the respective District Advisory Boards,
(and national board{s} where applicable), and approved in
writing by the general superintendents in jurisdiction of the
districts involved.
The merger and all pertinent related matters shall be finalized
at a time and place determined by the district assemblies
involved, and the respective general superintendents in
jurisdiction.
The organization thus created will combine the assets and
liabilities of the respective districts.
Phase 1 and Phase 2 districts may be merged in accordance
with provisions for new district formation outlined in
paragraph 200.2. (200.1)
200.5. If any or all of the district assemblies involved fail to
act, or if the actions of the several district assemblies are in
disagreement, the recommendation may be submitted to the
next General Assembly for action, if requested by two-thirds
of the affected District Advisory Boards.
200.6. A district superintendent may use zone facilitators or
mission area directors to assist in:
1. Building a sense of community and camaraderie among
the pastors of that zone or mission area;
122 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

2. Promoting the cause of Christ by encouraging and

strategizing for ministerial development, church growth,
evangelism, starting and restarting churches;
3. Carrying out specific assignments on behalf of the district
superintendent and the District Advisory Board; and
4. Serving as a communications bridge between the local
congregations and the district.

B. Membership and Time of District Assembly

201. Membership. The district assembly shall be composed
of all assigned elders; all assigned deacons; all assigned
licensed ministers; all retired assigned ministers; the district
secretary; the district treasurer; chairpersons of standing
district committees reporting to the district assembly; any lay
presidents of Nazarene institutions of higher education, whose
local church membership is on the district; the president of
the district Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI); the
district NDI age-group discipleship coordinators (children and
adult); the District NDI Board; the president of the district
Nazarene Youth International (NYI); the president of the
district Nazarene Missions International (NMI); the newly
elected president or vice president of each local NDI; the
newly elected president or vice president of each local NYI;
the newly elected president or vice president of each local
NMI; or an elected alternate may represent the NMI, NYI,
and NDI organizations in the district assembly; those serving
in assigned roles of ministry; the lay members of the District
Advisory Board; active lay missionaries whose local church
membership is on the district; all retired lay missionaries
whose local church membership is on the district who were
active missionaries at the time of retirement; and the lay
delegates from each local church and church-type mission in
the assembly district. (24, 115.14-115.15, 156, 162.2, 201.1-
201.2, 219.2, 222.2, 224.4, 241.2, 243.2, 505-520.1, 524.8,
525-525.4, 526-526.3, 527-527.1, 528-528.2, 530.9)
201.1. Local churches and church-type missions in districts
of fewer than 5,000 full church members shall be entitled
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 123

to representation in the district assembly as follows: two lay

delegates from each local church or church-type mission
of 75 or fewer full church members, and one additional lay
delegate for the next 50 full members, and for each successive
additional 50 full members. (See chart below.) (24, 115.14-
115.15, 201)
Number of Full Members Number of Delegates
0-75 2
76-125 3
126-175 4
176-225 5
226-275 6
276-325 7
326-375 8
376-425 9
426-475 10
(For every 50 members above 475, 1 additional lay delegate)
201.2. Local churches and church-type missions in districts
of 5,000 or more full church members shall be entitled to
representation in the district assembly as follows: one lay
delegate from each local church or church-type mission of 75
or fewer full church members, and one additional lay delegate
for the next 50 full members, and for each successive additional
50 full members. (See chart below.) (24, 115.14-115.15, 201)
Number of Full Members Number of Delegates
0-75 1
76-125 2
126-175 3
176-225 4
226-275 5
276-325 6
326-375 7
376-425 8
426-475 9
476-525 10
(For every 50 members above 525, 1 additional lay delegate)
124 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

202. Time. The district assembly shall be held annually,

at the time appointed by the general superintendent having
jurisdiction, and in the place designated by the District
Advisory Board or arranged for by the district superintendent.
203. Nominating Committee. Prior to the convening of the
district assembly, the district superintendent in consultation
with the District Advisory Board shall appoint a nominating
committee to serve the district assembly. This committee may
prepare nominations for the usual committees and offices in
advance of the convening of the district assembly. We direct
the district nominating committee to nominate only those
who profess the experience of entire sanctification; who are
in harmony with the doctrines, polity, and practices of the
Church of the Nazarene; who are committed to the local
and district ministries; and who are fully engaged in “making
Christlike disciples in the nations”.
In a meeting of the district assembly, if nominations are
made from the floor, they may be referred by majority vote
of the assembly to the Nominating Committee for screening
and approval, to be certain that such nominees meet the
qualifications for church officers as specified in paragraph 33.
(215.2)
204. All district entities shall be authorized to meet
electronically. Voting methods shall be approved by the
District Advisory Board. All communications and voting
required may be carried out electronically.

C. Business of the District Assembly

205. Rules of Order. Subject to the applicable law, the
articles of incorporation, and the bylaws of government in
the Manual, the meetings and proceedings of the members
of the Church of the Nazarene (local, district, and general),
and the committees of the corporation shall be regulated and
controlled according to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised
(latest edition) for parliamentary procedure. (34)
205.1. The business of the district assembly shall be:
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 125

205.2. To consider and care for the entire work of the

Church of the Nazarene within the bounds of the assembly
district. (109)
205.3. To hear and receive an annual report of the district
superintendent which summarizes the ministry of the district
including newly organized churches.
205.4. To hear or receive reports from all ordained and
licensed ministers serving as pastors or commissioned
evangelists; and to consider the character of all elders, deacons,
and deaconesses. By vote of the district assembly the record of
written reports received by the secretary may be accepted in
place of oral reports of all other elders, deacons, deaconesses,
and licensed ministers not engaged in active service, and those
ministers having district certificates for all roles of ministry in
paragraphs 505-520.2. (130, 524.8, 530.9)
205.5. To license as licensed ministers, after careful
examination, persons who have been recommended by
church boards or the District Advisory Board and who may be
judged to be called to the ministry and to renew such license
upon favorable recommendation of the District Ministerial
Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry. (139.14,
523.5, 524.1, 524.3)
205.6. To renew as licensed deaconesses, after careful
examination and in harmony with paragraph 508, persons
who have been recommended by church boards and who may
be judged to be called to the office of deaconess upon favorable
recommendation of the District Ministerial Credentials Board
or District Board of Ministry. (139.15)
205.7. To elect to the order of elder, or to the order of
deacon, persons judged to have fulfilled all the requirements
for such orders of ministry upon favorable recommendation of
the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of
Ministry. (525.3, 526.3)
205.8. To recognize the orders of ministry and credentials
of persons coming from other denominations who may be
judged qualified and desirable for placement in the Church of
the Nazarene upon favorable recommendation of the District
126 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry.

(524.2, 527-527.2)
205.9. To receive, by transfer from other districts, persons
having ministerial credentials, members of the clergy, and
those having commissioned roles of ministry, including
interim transfers approved by the District Advisory Board,
who may be judged as desirable for membership in the district
assembly upon favorable recommendation of the District
Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry.
(231.9-231.10, 505, 508-511.1, 529-529.2)
205.10. To issue a transfer of members of the clergy, and
those having commissioned roles of ministry, including interim
transfers approved by the District Advisory Board, who desire
to transfer to another district upon favorable recommendation
of the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry. (505, 508-511.1, 231.9-231.10, 529-529.1)
205.11. To commission or register for one year those persons
deemed qualified for the roles of ministry named and defined
in paragraphs 505-520.2 upon favorable recommendation of
the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry.
205.12. To elect, by two-thirds favorable vote, by ballot,
an elder to the office of district superintendent, to serve
until 30 days following the final adjournment of the second
district assembly following his or her election and until a
successor is elected or appointed and qualified. The procedure
for reelection of a district superintendent shall be by a “yes”
or “no” ballot vote. No elder shall be considered eligible for
election to this office who has at any time surrendered his
or her credential for disciplinary reasons. No superintendent
shall be elected or reelected following his or her 70th birthday.
205.13. After a district superintendent of a Phase 2 or Phase
3 district has served a district for at least two assembly years,
the district assembly may reelect said superintendent for
a period of four years subject to the approval of the general
superintendent in jurisdiction. The procedure for election to
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 127

an extended term of office shall be by a two-thirds favorable

“yes” or “no” ballot. (200.2)
205.14. In case the general superintendent and the District
Advisory Committee (DAC), shall be of the opinion that the
services of the district superintendent should not continue
beyond the current year, the general superintendent having
jurisdiction and the DAC may order the question submitted
for a vote of the district assembly. The question shall be
submitted in the following form: “Shall the present district
superintendent be continued in office beyond this district
assembly?”
If the district assembly, by a two-thirds vote by ballot,
decides to continue the district superintendent in office, he or
she shall continue to serve as though such vote had not been
taken.
If, however, the district assembly fails to decide by such vote
to continue the district superintendent in office, his or her
term of office shall terminate 30-180 days following the close
of that district assembly, with the date to be determined by
the general superintendent in jurisdiction in consultation with
the DAC. (206.2, 208, 238)
205.15. To elect, by ballot, up to three assigned ordained
ministers and up to three laypersons to the District Advisory
Board, to serve for a term not to exceed four years, as
determined by the district assembly, and until their successors
are elected and qualified.
However, when the district exceeds a total membership of
5,000, it may elect one additional assigned ordained minister
and one additional layperson for each successive 2,500
members and the final major part of 2,500 members. (224)
(As an example, see chart below.)
Number of Full Members Ordained Ministers Laypersons
0-6,250 3 3
6,251-8,750 4 4
8,751-11,250 5 5
11,251-13,750 6 6
128 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

13,751-16,250 7 7
16,251-18,750 8 8
18,751-21,250 9 9
21,251-23,750 10 10
23,751-26,250 11 11
(For every 2,500 members above 26,250, 1 additional ordained
minister and 1 additional layperson)
205.16. To elect a District Ministerial Credentials Board of
not fewer than five assigned ordained ministers, two of whom
shall be the district superintendent and the district secretary,
if ordained, to serve for four years and until their successors are
elected and qualified. A district secretary who is a layperson
serves as a non-voting member of the board. This board shall
meet prior to the district assembly to consider all matters
subject to its authority and, insofar as is possible, to complete
its work prior to the district assembly. (229-231.10)
205.17. To elect a District Ministerial Studies Board of five
or more assigned ordained ministers, to serve for four years
and until their successors are elected and qualified. (232)
205.18. To facilitate its efforts to prepare candidates for
ordination and provide support and clergy development
opportunities for its ministers, a district may elect the total
number necessary to serve on both the District Ministerial
Credentials Board and the District Ministerial Studies Board
as a District Board of Ministry. Those ministers elected shall
serve for four years.
The District Board of Ministry, with the district
superintendent as ex-officio chairperson shall organize the
District Board of Ministry to carry out all the duties and
responsibilities of the District Ministerial Credentials Board
and of the District Ministerial Studies Board. (216, 229-234.1)
205.19. To elect a District Church Properties Board in
keeping with provisions of paragraph 236. (206.1)
205.20. To elect at its discretion either or both of the
following:
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 129

1. A District Evangelism Board of no fewer than six

members including the district superintendent,
2. A district director of evangelism.
The persons elected shall serve until the final adjournment
of the next district assembly and until their successors are
elected and qualified. (206.1, 215)
205.21. To elect a District Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI) Board in harmony with the procedure
stated in paragraph 240, to serve until their successors are
elected and qualified. (206.1, 215)
205.22. To elect a District Court of Appeals, consisting
of three assigned ordained ministers, including the district
superintendent and two laypersons, to serve for a term not to
exceed four years and until their successors are elected and
qualified. (610)
205.23. To elect, by ballot, at a session within 16 months of
the meeting of the General Assembly, or within 24 months
in areas where travel visas or other unusual preparations are
necessary, all of the lay delegates and all but one of the ministerial
delegates, since one shall be the district superintendent. Every
Phase 3 district assembly shall be entitled to representation at
the General Assembly by an equal number of ministerial and
lay delegates. The district superintendent at the time of the
General Assembly shall be one of the ministerial delegates,
and the remaining ministerial delegates shall be ordained
ministers. In case the district superintendent is unable to
attend, or in case there has been a vacancy and the new district
superintendent has not been appointed, an elected ministerial
alternate shall be seated in the district superintendent’s place.
The Nominating Committee shall submit a nominating ballot
containing at least six times the number of delegates eligible
from that district in each category, ministerial and lay. From
these nominees, the number of names for the electing ballot
will be reduced to no more than three times the number to
be elected. Then, the allowed delegates and alternates shall
be elected by plurality vote, according to paragraphs 301.1-
301.3. Each district assembly may elect alternates not to
130 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

exceed twice the number of delegates. In situations where

travel visas are problematic, a district assembly may authorize
the District Advisory Board to select additional alternates.
Delegates elected are expected to attend faithfully all
meetings of the General Assembly from opening to closing
unless providentially prevented. (25-25.2, 301.1-301.3, 303,
332.1)
205.24. To establish, at its discretion, a system of fellowship
membership for its local churches. (Fellowship members must
not be counted as full members for purposes of representation.)
(110)
205.25. To provide for the auditing of all district treasurers’
books annually, to at least the minimum standard required
by national or state law if applicable, or other recognized
professional standards, either by a District Auditing
Committee, a committee of independent examiners, or by
such other appropriately qualified persons elected by the
District Advisory Board. (225.24)
205.26. To grant a retired relation to a minister upon
recommendation of the District Ministerial Credentials Board
or District Board of Ministry. Any change in status must be
approved by the district assembly, upon recommendation by
the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of
Ministry. (231.8, 528)
205.27. To transact any other business pertaining to the
work, not otherwise provided for, in harmony with the spirit
and order of the Church of the Nazarene.
206. Other Rules Pertaining to the District Assemblies. The
district assembly may authorize, where civil law permits, the
District Advisory Board to incorporate. After incorporation
as above provided, the District Advisory Board shall have
power, on its own resolution, to purchase, own, sell, exchange,
mortgage, deed in trust, hypothecate, lease, and convey any
property, real and personal, as may be necessary or convenient
for the purpose of the corporation. (225.6)
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 131

206.1. As far as possible membership of district boards and

committees shall be equal between ministers and laypersons
unless specifically provided otherwise by the Manual.
206.2. The district superintendents of Phase 1 and Phase 2
districts shall be chosen in accordance with paragraph 200.2.
206.3. When the presiding officer of a district assembly
deems that it is impossible to convene or continue with the
business of the district assembly, and therefore postpones,
cancels, or adjourns the district assembly, the general
superintendent in jurisdiction, in consultation with the Board
of General Superintendents, shall appoint all district officers
not elected prior to the adjournment of the district assembly
to serve for a period of one year.

D. The District Assembly Journal

207. The journal shall be the record of the regular proceedings
of the district assembly.
207.1. The journal shall be edited carefully and filed annually
following each District Assembly, in a format permitted, with
the General Secretary’s office for its quadrennial examination
by the General Assembly. Paper copies may be printed locally.
(220.5)
207.2. Separate items of business shall be placed in separate
paragraphs.
207.3. The journal shall be arranged as far as possible according
to the table of contents prepared by the general secretary in
consultation with the Board of General Superintendents. The
table of contents shall be furnished to the district secretary
prior to the convening of the district assembly.
207.4. The journal shall contain not only the assignment
of pastors to local churches but also all regular and special
engagements entered into by ministerial and lay members
of the district assembly who are engaged in any line of
denominational service that may entitle them to consideration
if applying for benefits from the pensions board, or equivalent
authorized body having the responsibility for the pensions
132 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

and benefits program in which that district participates. (117,

530.3)

E. The District Superintendent

208. The initial term of office for a district superintendent
who is elected at a district assembly begins 30 days after the
adjournment of the district assembly. It runs for two full
assembly years ending 30 days after the adjournment of the
assembly that marks the second anniversary of the election.
At the time of said assembly, the superintendent may be
reelected or a successor elected or appointed and qualified.
The initial term of office for a district superintendent who is
appointed by the general superintendent in jurisdiction begins
at the time of the appointment, includes the remainder of the
church year in which the superintendent was appointed, and
extends through the two following church years. The term of
office ends 30 days after the adjournment of the assembly that
marks the end of the second full assembly year of service. At
said assembly the superintendent may be elected for another
term, or a successor will be elected or appointed and qualified.
No elder employed by the district office shall be eligible to be
elected or appointed to the office of district superintendent
on the district where they are serving without the approval of
the District Advisory Board and the general superintendent in
jurisdiction (in harmony with paragraph 117). (205.12-205.14)
209. If for any cause a vacancy shall occur in the interim of
sessions of the district assembly, the general superintendents,
jointly and severally, may fill the vacancy upon consultation
with the District Advisory Committee (DAC). Consultation
shall include an invitation for the committee, as a whole, to
submit names for consideration in addition to those names
brought forward by the general superintendent in jurisdiction.
(238, 307.7)
209.1. The office of a Phase 1 or Phase 2 district
superintendent may be declared vacant with cause upon
the recommendation of the general superintendent having
jurisdiction. The office of district superintendent in a Phase 3
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 133

district may be declared vacant upon a two-thirds vote of the

District Advisory Committee. (238, 321)
209.2. In the event of temporary incapacitation of an
incumbent district superintendent, the general superintendent
having jurisdiction, in consultation with the District Advisory
Board, may appoint a qualified elder to serve as interim
district superintendent. The question of incapacitation shall
be determined by the general superintendent in jurisdiction
and the District Advisory Board. (307.8)
209.3. Upon the resignation or termination of the district
superintendent, the staff members of the district office, the
chief executive officer or any subsidiary and/or affiliated
corporations of the district, paid and unpaid, such as assistant
superintendent and office secretary, shall submit their
resignations effective concurrently with the final date of the
district superintendency. However, one or more of the staff
members may remain with the written approval of the general
superintendent in jurisdiction and the District Advisory
Board, but not longer than the date of the new superintendent’s
assumption of duties. (244.3)
209.4. After consultation with the District Advisory Board
and the approval of the general superintendent in jurisdiction,
the newly elected or appointed district superintendent may
have the privilege of recommending the employment of staff
members previously employed. (244.3)
210. The role of the district superintendent is to provide
oversight and spiritual leadership for the pastors and
congregations of the district by:
• modeling a life of prayer and devotion to the Scriptures
• promoting biblical pastoral theology and practices among
district clergy
• promoting Wesleyan-holiness theology and practices
throughout the district
• casting vision for evangelism and planting churches in the
district
• resourcing district congregations toward organizational
health.
134 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

211. The duties of a district superintendent are:

211.1. To organize, recognize, and superintend local churches
within the bounds of his or her assembly district, subject to
the approval of the general superintendent having jurisdiction.
(100, 102.3, 108-108.5, 530.15)
211.2. To be available to the local churches in his or her
assembly district as needed and, as necessary, meet with the
church board to consult with reference to spiritual, financial,
and pastoral matters, giving such helpful advice and assistance
as the superintendent may deem proper.
211.3. In circumstances where the district superintendent
has determined that a church is in an unhealthy, declining
situation, the continuation of which threatens the viability
of the church and its mission effectiveness, the district
superintendent may pursue contact with the pastor or the
pastor and the church board to evaluate the circumstances.
Every effort shall be made to work with the pastor and
church board toward resolution of issues that have led to the
circumstances which are impeding mission effectiveness.
If the district superintendent, after working with the pastor
and/or board, concludes that further intervention is necessary,
he or she may declare the church in crisis, with the approval
of the District Advisory Board and take appropriate action
to address the situation. Such action may include, but is not
limited to:
1. The removal of the pastor;
2. The dissolution of the church board;
3. The initiation of such special interventions as may be
necessary to restore the church’s health and mission
effectiveness.
The assets of an organized church remain under the control
of an incorporated local church, unless declared inactive
in accordance with paragraph 108.5 or disorganized in
accordance with paragraph 108.1. The general superintendent
in jurisdiction shall be notified of actions taken within 30
days. (136-136.1)
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 135

211.4. When in the opinion of the district superintendent,

a local church declared in crisis in accordance with paragraph
136.1 has fulfilled the interventions set in place and is ready
to resume its ministry under normal circumstances, the local
church may be declared out of crisis by the majority vote of
the District Advisory Board. The district superintendent shall
notify the general superintendent in jurisdiction within 30
days.
211.5. To schedule and conduct, with each local church
board, the regular church/pastoral relationship review
according to the provisions of paragraphs 133-133.7. The
district superintendent shall provide an annual record of
regular church/pastoral relationship reviews conducted to the
District Advisory Board and the general superintendent in
jurisdiction.
211.6. To have special supervision of all the church-type
missions of the Church of the Nazarene within the bounds of
his or her assembly district.
211.7. To nominate to the District Advisory Board someone
to fill a vacancy, should one occur in the office of district
secretary. (219.1)
211.8. To nominate to the District Advisory Board someone
to fill a vacancy, should one occur in the office of district
treasurer. (222.1)
211.9. To appoint a district chaplaincy director to promote
and amplify holiness evangelism through the specialized
ministry of chaplaincy. (239)
211.10. To consult with the church board concerning the
nomination of an elder or a licensed minister (elder track)
to pastor a local church and to approve or disapprove such
nomination, with additional approval of the District Advisory
Board as required in paragraph 117.
The district superintendent is to ensure that the candidate
has been adequately vetted prior to a church board vote.
The vetting process should include communication with the
candidate’s current district superintendent, or if the candidate
136 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

is not assigned as pastor, with his or her ministry supervisor.

(139.2, 169.8, 225.16)
211.11. To schedule a special church/pastoral relationship
review, within 90 days of the request of a church board for
such review, on the continuance of the church/pastoral
relationship. (135)
211.12. To approve or disapprove the granting of license to
any member of the Church of the Nazarene who may request
local minister’s license or renewal of local minister’s license
from the church board of a local church not having an elder as
pastor. (523.1, 523.3)
211.13. To approve or disapprove in writing requests from
the pastor and the local church board to have or to employ
any unpaid associate pastors or paid local associates (such
as associate pastors; ministers or directors of Christian
education, children, youth, adult, music, childcare/schools
{birth through secondary}, etc.). The primary criteria for the
district superintendent’s decisions to approve or disapprove,
in concept, the hiring of paid staff will be the willingness and
ability of the church to meet its local, district, and general
obligations. It is the pastor’s responsibility to screen and select
pastoral associates. However, the district superintendent shall
have the right to disapprove the nominee. (139.27, 169-169.8)
211.14. To approve or disapprove, with the District Advisory
Board, requests from local churches to operate Christian
childcare/school (birth through secondary) ministries. (126,
161, 225.14)
211.15. To execute and sign, along with the secretary of the
District Advisory Board, all legal documents of the district.
(225.6)
211.16. To nominate to the District Advisory Board and to
supervise any paid assistants on the district. (244)
211.17. To appoint pastors in keeping with paragraph 119.
211.18. The district superintendent may, with the approval
of the District Advisory Board, appoint the members of
the church board (stewards, trustees), the president of the
Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) Board, and other
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 137

church officers (secretary, treasurer) if a church has been

organized for fewer than five years, or had fewer than 35
voting members in the previous annual church meeting, or is
receiving regular financial assistance from the district, or has
been declared in crisis. The total number of members of such
board shall not be fewer than three. (119, 136)
211.19. To cause to be investigated written accusations
against a minister in his or her assembly district, according to
paragraphs 606-606.3.
211.20. To appoint in consultation with the District Advisory
Board qualified clergy and laity to serve as a recovery team
prepared to provide a timely and redemptive response to the
minister, his or her spouse and family, church, and community
in situations of clergy misconduct. When such situations arise,
the district superintendent shall deploy a recovery team as
immediately as possible and in accordance with the district
plan. (225.5, 532.1)
211.21. The district superintendent shall schedule and
conduct a self-assessment and review in consultation with the
tenured evangelist in accordance with paragraph 510.4.
211.22. To strongly encourage, along with district leadership,
each local church to achieve its individual general, district,
and educational funding goals.
212. The district superintendent, with the consent of the
church board, may appoint a pastoral supply to fill a vacancy
in the office of pastor until the next district assembly. Such
appointed pastoral supply shall be subject to removal by
the district superintendent when his or her services are not
satisfactory to the church board and the local church. (139.5,
516, 523.6)
212.1. The district superintendent, with the consent of the
church board and the District Advisory Board, may appoint
an interim pastor to fill a vacancy in the office of pastor, until
a permanent pastor can be called. The district superintendent
shall also be authorized to extend the time of service of the
interim pastor as he or she deems necessary in consultation
with the church board. The interim pastor would be authorized
138 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

to fulfill all responsibilities of the pastor. The interim pastor

would also serve as a delegate from that church to the district
assembly if said pastor holds membership on the district of
interim assignment.
Such an assigned interim pastor is subject to the authority of
the district superintendent and the District Advisory Board at
all times. The interim pastor shall also be subject to removal
by the district superintendent in consultation with the church
board. (518)
213. The district superintendent is authorized to perform
for a local church within the bounds of his or her assembly
district all the functions of pastor when that local church is
without a pastor or pastoral supply. (514)
213.1. The district superintendent may preside at the annual,
or a special meeting of a local church, or appoint a surrogate
for such duty. (115.5)
214. If for any reason the general superintendent having
jurisdiction fails to be present or to appoint a representative
to be present in his or her stead at the district assembly, the
district superintendent shall call the district assembly to order
and shall preside until other provision may be made by the
district assembly. (307.5)
215. The district superintendent may fill vacancies in the
following:
1. District Auditing Committee;
2. District Ministerial Credentials Board and District
Ministerial Studies Board (or District Board of Ministry);
3. District Evangelism Board or the district director of
evangelism;
4. District Church Properties Board;
5. District Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI)
Board;
6. District Court of Appeals;
7. Other district boards and standing committees where
such are not provided in the Manual or by assembly
action. (205.25, 229.1, 232.1, 235, 236, 240, 610)
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 139

215.1. The district superintendent may appoint all

chairpersons, secretaries and members of the district boards
and standing committees where such are not provided in the
Manual or by assembly action.
215.2. The district superintendent, in consultation with
the District Advisory Board, shall appoint a nominating
committee to prepare nominations for the usual committees
and offices in advance of the district assembly. (203)
216. The district superintendent shall be ex-officio
chairperson of the District Advisory Board and the District
Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry.
(224.2, 230.1)
216.1. The district superintendent shall be a member ex-
officio of all elected and standing boards and committees on
the district he or she serves. (205.21, 237, 240, 810, 811)
217. The district superintendent shall not create financial
obligations, count moneys, or disburse funds for the district
unless authorized and directed by majority vote of the District
Advisory Board; such action, if taken, must be properly
recorded in the minutes of the District Advisory Board. No
district superintendent or any member of his or her immediate
family shall be authorized to have unrestricted access to the
financial accounts or assets of the district without clearly
defined and written internal controls approved by the District
Advisory Board. Immediate family shall include spouse,
children, siblings, or parents. (218, 222-223.2)
218. All official acts of the district superintendent shall be
subject to review and revision by the district assembly and
subject to appeal.
218.1. The district superintendent shall always show
due regard for the advice of the general superintendent in
jurisdiction and the Board of General Superintendents with
consideration to pastoral arrangements and other matters
relating to the office of the district superintendent.
140 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

F. The District Secretary

219. The district secretary, elected by the District Advisory
Board, shall serve for a period of one to three years and until
his or her successor is elected and qualified. (225.22)
219.1. If the district secretary shall cease to serve, for any
cause, in the interim of sessions of the district assembly, the
District Advisory Board shall elect his or her successor upon
nomination by the district superintendent. (211.7)
219.2. The district secretary shall be a member ex-officio of
the district assembly. (201)
220. The duties of the district secretary are:
220.1. To record correctly and preserve faithfully all minutes
of the district assembly.
220.2. To record correctly and preserve all statistics of the
district.
220.3 To forward all statistical charts to the general
secretary to be audited before their publication in the official
journal. (326.6)
220.4. To be custodian of all documents of the district
assembly and turn them over promptly to his or her successor.
220.5. To preserve and file the full official journal following
each district assembly with the General Secretary’s office.
(207.1)
220.6. To do whatever else may pertain to his or her office.
220.7. To refer all items of business coming to him or her
during the year to the proper assembly committee or standing
board.
221. The district secretary may have as many assistants as
the district assembly shall elect.

G. The District Treasurer

222. The district treasurer, elected by the District Advisory
Board, shall serve for a period of one to three years and until
his or her successor is elected and qualified. (225.21)
222.1. If the district treasurer shall cease to serve, for any
cause, in the interim of sessions of the district assembly, the
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 141

District Advisory Board shall elect his or her successor upon

nomination by the district superintendent. (211.8)
222.2. The district treasurer shall be a member ex-officio of
the district assembly. (201)
223. The duties of the district treasurer are:
223.1. To receive all such moneys from his or her district as
may be designated by the General Assembly, or by the district
assembly, or by the District Advisory Board, or as the needs
of the Church of the Nazarene may require, and disburse the
same according to the direction and policies of the district
assembly and/or the District Advisory Board.
223.2. To keep a correct record of all moneys received
and disbursed and to render a monthly report to the district
superintendent for distribution to the District Advisory Board
and an annual report to the district assembly, to which he or
she shall be amenable.

H. The District Advisory Board

224. The District Advisory Board shall be composed of the
district superintendent ex-officio and up to three assigned
ordained ministers and up to three laypersons elected by ballot
by the district assembly annually or for terms not to exceed
four years to serve until the final adjournment of the next
district assembly and until their successors are elected and
qualified. However, their terms of service may be staggered by
electing a proportion of the board annually.
When a district exceeds a total membership of 5,000, it
may elect one additional assigned ordained minister and one
additional layperson for each successive 2,500 members or the
final major part of 2,500 members.
This board shall meet as necessary and shall be chaired by
the district superintendent or the general superintendent in
jurisdiction or their designee. (205.15)
224.1. A vacancy on the District Advisory Board may be
filled by the remaining members thereof.
224.2. The district superintendent shall be ex-officio
chairperson of the District Advisory Board.
142 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

224.3. The board shall elect from its membership a

secretary, who shall carefully record all actions of the board
and promptly transmit them to his or her successor.
224.4. The lay members of the District Advisory Board
shall be ex-officio members of the district assembly, ex-officio
members of the District NDI Convention, ex-officio members
of the District NMI Convention, and ex-officio members of
the District NYI Convention. (201, 224)
224.5. District Advisory Board members shall abstain from
voting on any matter in which they (or an immediate family
member) have a direct personal or vested interest not common
to other members of the board. Immediate family shall include
spouse, children, siblings, or parents.
224.6. A District Advisory Board member may be removed
by two-thirds vote of the District Advisory Board when it
is determined by the district superintendent and District
Advisory Board that the board member is out of harmony
with paragraph 33, providing the district superintendent first
consults with the general superintendent in jurisdiction, that
subsequent restorative efforts prove unsuccessful, and that the
written approval of the general superintendent in jurisdiction
is received prior to any such vote. (33)
225. The duties of the District Advisory Board are:
225.1. To set the date for the beginning and closing of the
statistical year in harmony with the provisions of paragraph
116.1.
225.2. To give information to and consult with the district
superintendent respecting the ministers and local churches of
the assembly district. (117.6, 128)
225.3. To appoint an investigating committee consisting of
three or more assigned ordained ministers and not fewer than
two laypersons in case an accusation is filed against a member
of the clergy. (606-606.3)
225.4. To select a board of discipline when charges are made
against a member of the clergy. (606.5-606.6)
225.5. To develop and annually review a written,
comprehensive plan that is in harmony with Manual directives
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 143

to guide its efforts in providing a timely, compassionate, and

informed response to members of the clergy involved in
conduct unbecoming a minister, to their families, and to any
congregation involved. (530.20, 531-531.13)
225.6. To incorporate, where civil law permits and when
authorized by the district assembly. After incorporation, as
above provided, the District Advisory Board shall have power,
on its own resolution, to purchase, own, sell, exchange,
mortgage, deed in trust, hypothecate, lease, and convey any
property, real and personal, as may be necessary or convenient
for the purpose of the corporation. The district superintendent
and the secretary of the District Advisory Board, or
other persons authorized by the District Advisory Board,
incorporated or not incorporated, shall execute and sign all
conveyances on real estate, mortgages, releases of mortgages,
contracts, and other legal documents of the District Advisory
Board. (206)
225.7. When a District Advisory Board incorporates,
the Articles of Incorporation, bylaws, or comparable legal
documentation will provide that the corporation is governed
by the provisions of the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.
They will include such provisions as shall be recommended by
the general superintendent in jurisdiction to ensure that upon
dissolution or attempt to leave the Church of the Nazarene,
the assets of the corporation will not be diverted from the
Church of the Nazarene. Once the district’s incorporation has
been approved by the Board of General Superintendents, upon
recommendation of the general superintendent in jurisdiction,
the proposed Articles of Incorporation shall be sent to the
General Secretary’s office for review and filing and they shall
include provisions similar to those in paragraph 102.4. (225.6)
225.8. In areas where the civil law does not permit such
incorporation, then the district assembly may elect the
District Advisory Board as district trustee with power, on its
own resolution, to purchase, own, sell, exchange, mortgage,
deed in trust, hypothecate, lease, and convey any property,
real and personal, as may be necessary or convenient for the
144 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

purpose of carrying on its work in the district. (102.6, 108.2,

225.6)
225.9. The District Advisory Board, in areas where it
is possible for local churches to incorporate, shall, with
the advice of competent legal counsel, provide pattern
incorporation forms adequate for the areas of its district. This
pattern incorporation form shall always include the provisions
set forth in paragraphs 102-102.5.
225.10. To serve in an advisory capacity to the district
superintendent in his or her supervision of all the departments,
boards, and committees of the district.
225.11. In order to encourage a healthy superintendency
and the strong spiritual life of the district superintendent,
the District Advisory Board, in consultation with the general
superintendent in jurisdiction, should provide a sabbatical
leave for the district superintendent during or after each
seventh consecutive year of service to the district. During the
sabbatical, the district superintendent’s salary and benefits
will continue in full. The district superintendent shall work
with the District Advisory Board to develop a proposal for the
sabbatical including duration, personal development plan, and
a plan to care for essential duties during the sabbatical period.
225.12. To submit to the Board of General Superintendents
any plans proposed for the creation of a district center. Such
plans shall require the approval in writing of the Board of
General Superintendents before they are put in operation.
(319)
225.13. To recommend the granting of an initial license, or
renewal of a license for the licensed minister serving as pastor.
(523.2, 524.5)
225.14. To approve or disapprove requests from local
churches to operate Christian childcare/school (birth through
secondary) ministries. At the discretion of the district
superintendent and the District Advisory Board, a District
Christian Childcare/Schools (birth through secondary)
Committee may be established. Its function shall be to
recommend policy, procedures, and philosophy to the District
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 145

Advisory Board for application in the local church childcare/

school (birth through secondary), and to help establish,
support, and monitor such childcare/schools (birth through
secondary). (126, 161, 211.14)
225.15. To approve Compassionate Ministry Centers (CMCs)
annually according to regionally established guidelines. Only
Compassionate Ministry Centers that are approved by a district
will qualify as “approved mission specials” for contribution
purposes in keeping with paragraph 163.1.
225.16. To approve or disapprove a request from a local
church board to nominate an ordained elder or a licensed
minister (elder track) to be called as pastor when that person
is also a member of that local church or serving as a paid or
unpaid associate of that local church. This decision will be
made in consultation with the district superintendent. (117,
139.2, 169.8, 211.10)
225.17. To approve or disapprove a request from a member
of the clergy to regularly conduct independent church
activities that are not under the direction of the Church of the
Nazarene, or carry on independent missions or unauthorized
church activities, or be connected with the operating staff of an
independent church or other religious group or denomination.
Approval of any such request shall be required annually. (520,
530.13)
225.18. To elect or dismiss any paid assistants employed by
the district. (244-244.1)
225.19. To act, in consultation with the district
superintendent, with authority to:
• set district operational budgets and adjust between
assemblies as deemed necessary, and report the same to
the district assembly;
• establish funding goals and responsibilities for local
churches for district ministry support;
• publish in the district journal the method used to determine
all authorized funding goals and responsibilities, and
financial apportionments; and
146 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

• do whatever else the district assembly may direct in areas

of district finance. (32.5, 223.1)
225.20. To protect all district property, real or personal,
including all equity therein, from being diverted to any
personal or corporate use other than for the Church of the
Nazarene. (102.4, 108.5, 206)
225.21. To elect a district treasurer, to serve for a period of
one to three years and until his or her successor is elected and
qualified. (222)
225.22. To elect a district secretary, to serve for a period of
one to three years and until his or her successor is elected and
qualified. (219)
225.23. To certify the withdrawal or attempted withdrawal
of any local church from the Church of the Nazarene for the
purpose of implementing the transfer of title to real property
as provided for in paragraph 108.2.
225.24. If required, pursuant to paragraph 205.25, to elect a
District Auditing Committee to serve until the adjournment
of the following district assembly. (205.25)
225.25. To give an annual report to the district assembly
summarizing the activity of the work of the board including
the number of convened meetings.
225.26. To develop and annually review a policy for local
churches entering into leases of real property or personal
property; or into other contractual agreements on personal
property, lines of credit, debt or other obligation involving an
extension of credit that will not be fully paid in less than a
year. (104)
226. The District Advisory Board may issue a transfer of
membership to a member of the clergy, a minister of Christian
education, or a deaconess, who desires to transfer to another
district assembly, before the meeting of the district assembly
in which such person’s membership is held. Such transfers may
be accepted by the receiving District Advisory Board, granting
to those transferred full rights and privileges of membership
on the district on which it is received. The receiving district
assembly shall have final approval of all such District Advisory
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 147

Board transfer receptions upon favorable recommendation by

the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of
Ministry. (205.9-205.10, 231.9-231.10, 508, 511, 529-529.2)
226.1. The District Advisory Board may, upon request, issue
a Certificate of Commendation to a member of the district
assembly who wishes to unite with another denomination.
(815)
227. The District Advisory Board, with the approval of the
district superintendent, may suspend a licensed deaconess
when it is required for the good of the church, after a
conference with the church board of the local church of which
the licensed deaconess is a member, and after giving her a fair
hearing.
228. In case a licensed or ordained minister presenting
a credential from another denomination shall, during the
interim of sessions of the district assembly, make application
to unite with the Church of the Nazarene, his or her credential
shall be examined by the District Advisory Board. Only with
the favorable recommendation of the District Advisory Board
shall such applicant be received into membership in the local
church. (129, 524.2, 527)

I. The District Ministerial Credentials Board

229. The District Ministerial Credentials Board shall be
composed of not fewer than five assigned ordained ministers,
two of whom shall be the district superintendent and the
district secretary, if ordained. A district secretary who is a
layperson serves as a non-voting member of the board. Those
elected shall serve for a period of four years and until their
successors are elected and qualified. However, their terms of
service may be staggered by electing a proportion of the board
annually. (205.16)
229.1. A vacancy occurring in the District Ministerial
Credentials Board in the interim of the district assemblies may
be filled by appointment by the district superintendent. (215)
148 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

230. Following the election of the District Ministerial

Credentials Board the district superintendent shall call a
meeting of the board for organization as follows:
230.1. The district superintendent shall serve as chairperson
ex-officio of the board; however, upon his or her request
the board may elect an acting chairperson to serve in such
relationship until the close of the next district assembly. (216)
230.2. The board shall elect from its membership a
permanent secretary who shall provide a suitable system of
records, at the expense of the district assembly, which shall
be the property of the district. The secretary shall carefully
record all actions of the board and faithfully preserve them
along with such other records as shall be relevant to the work of
the board and promptly transmit them to his or her successor.
231. The duties of the District Ministerial Credentials
Board are as follows:
231.1. To carefully examine and evaluate all persons who
have been properly presented to the district assembly for
election to the order of elder, the order of deacon, and for
minister’s license.
231.2. To carefully examine and evaluate all persons desiring
to receive a certificate for any of the roles of ministry, including
all lay and ministerial candidates aspiring to be recognized
for ministries beyond the local church, and any other special
relations provided by the Manual.
231.3. To carefully inquire of each candidate and make any
other investigation deemed advisable concerning his or her
personal experience of salvation; personal experience of entire
sanctification by the baptism with the Holy Spirit; knowledge
of the doctrines of the Bible; full acceptance of the doctrines,
the Covenant of Christian Character and the Covenant of
Christian Conduct, and the polity of the church; evidence of
graces, gifts, intellectual, moral, and spiritual qualifications,
and general fitness for the ministry to which the candidate
feels called.
231.4. To carefully investigate the conduct of each candidate
to seek to identify whether or not the candidate is engaging
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 149

in or has a pattern of conduct, which if continued would be

inconsistent with the ministry for which the candidate has
applied.
231.5. To review for approval for reappointment any local
minister who has been appointed as supply pastor if he or she
is to continue such service after the district assembly following
the appointment. (523.6)
231.6. To investigate and review the cause of failure of an
ordained minister to report to the district assembly for two
successive years and make recommendation to the district
assembly relative to the continued listing of the name on the
published Roster of Ministers.
231.7. To investigate reports concerning an ordained
minister indicating that he or she has placed his or her church
membership with any other church or that he or she has
joined with the ministry of another denomination or group
or is participating in independent activities without properly
authorized permission, and make recommendation to the
district assembly relative to his or her retention on the Roster
of Ministers. (114, 530.13)
231.8. To recommend to the district assembly retired
relationship for a minister requesting such relation who
desires to discontinue active ministerial service because of age
or disability. (205.26, 528)
231.9. To recommend to the district assembly, members of
the clergy, and those licensed roles of ministry, for transfer to
another district, including interim transfers approved by the
District Advisory Board. (205.10, 529-529.2)
231.10. To recommend to the district assembly, persons
having ministerial credentials, members of the clergy, and
those licensed roles of ministry for reception of transfer from
other districts, including interim transfers approved by the
District Advisory Board. (205.9, 529-529.2)

J. The District Ministerial Studies Board

232. The District Ministerial Studies Board shall be
composed of five or more assigned ordained ministers, elected
150 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

by the district assembly to serve for a term of four years and

until their successors are elected and qualified. However, their
terms of service may be staggered by electing a proportion of
the board annually. (205.17)
232.1. Vacancies occurring in the District Ministerial Studies
Board, in the interim of sessions of the district assembly, may
be filled by appointment by the district superintendent. (215)
232.2. Before the close of the district assembly in which
the board is elected, the district superintendent or district
secretary shall call a meeting of all the members of the board
for organization.
233. The duties of the District Ministerial Studies Board are
as follows:
233.1. To elect from among its members a chairperson and
an assigned ordained minister as secretary. The secretary
shall, according to instructions in the Regional Sourcebook for
Ministerial Development, collect and preserve as the property
of the district assembly all relevant data concerning each
candidate’s progress in meeting the educational requirements
for ordination. (233.2, 521.1-521.3)
233.2. To encourage, counsel, and guide all candidates
toward completion of a validated course of study for ministerial
preparation in accordance with the Regional Sourcebook for
Ministerial Development and in cooperation with the Global
Education and Clergy Development office through the
respective Course of Study Advisory Committee (COSAC).
233.3. To train candidates by example and by conversation
in the ethics of being a member of the clergy with specific
attention to developing practices that strengthen wellbeing
and help safeguard the minister from engaging in misconduct,
sexual or otherwise.
233.4. To report all relevant data concerning each candidate’s
educational progress to the District Ministerial Credentials
Board or Board of Ministry in time for that board to consider
the data prior to the district assembly.
233.5. To recognize a candidate’s completion of a validated
course of study in accordance with provisions of the Regional
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 151

Sourcebook for Ministerial Development and recommend to the

district assembly the candidate’s graduation from the course
of study.
233.6. To promote and monitor the participation of
members of the clergy in lifelong learning in cooperation
with officially recognized Nazarene institutions as strategic
partners in clergy development. Specific attention is to be
given to education concerning ethics of being a member of
the clergy, including developing practices that strengthen
wellbeing and help safeguard the minister from engaging
in misconduct, sexual or otherwise. Efforts of the board to
promote and provide opportunities for lifelong learning shall
be under the general guidance of the district superintendent
and subject to the provisions of the Regional Sourcebook for
Ministerial Development. (521.6)
234. The board may establish classes or seminars to
assist licensed ministers or other candidates in completing
a validated course of study subject to the provisions of the
Regional Sourcebook for Ministerial Development.
234.1. The board shall carry out its responsibilities in
conformity with the Regional Sourcebook for Ministerial
Development (346.7).

K. The District Evangelism Board

or Director of Evangelism
235. The district assembly may elect either a District
Evangelism Board or a district director of evangelism. The
persons elected shall serve until the final adjournment of the
next district assembly and until their successors are elected
and qualified. (205.20)
235.1. In cooperation with the district superintendent,
the District Evangelism Board, or the district director of
evangelism, shall seek to promote and amplify the necessity of
holiness evangelism, by providing training opportunities, by
conducting rallies and conferences, by emphasizing the need
for local church revivals with God-called evangelists, and by
152 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

every other available means, to impact the district with the

Great Commission of Jesus Christ as a first priority in the
functioning of the Body of Christ.

L. The District Church Properties Board

236. The District Church Properties Board shall be
composed of the district superintendent ex-officio and no
fewer than two assigned ministers and two lay members.
Members may be elected by the district assembly to serve
for a term of four years or until their successors are elected
and qualified. The District Advisory Board may serve as the
District Church Properties Board upon favorable vote of the
district assembly.
237. The duties of the District Church Properties Board are:
237.1. To advance the cause of constructing church-related
buildings within the bounds of the assembly district, in
cooperation with the District Advisory Board.
237.2. To verify and conserve the titles to local church
property.
237.3. To consider propositions submitted by local churches
relating to the purchase or sale of real estate or the erection of
church buildings or parsonages, and to advise them concerning
the propositions submitted. (103-104)
237.4. To approve or disapprove, in conjunction with the
district superintendent, propositions submitted by local
churches relative to church building plans and the incurring
of indebtedness in the purchase of real estate or the erection
of buildings. The Church Properties Board shall normally
approve a request to increase indebtedness subject to the
following guidelines:
1. The local church requesting approval to increase
indebtedness paid all financial apportionments in full for
the two years preceding the request.
2. The amount of total indebtedness will not exceed three
times the average of the amount raised for all purposes in
each of the preceding three years.
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 153

3. The details of the planned remodeling or construction

shall have been approved by the Church Properties
Board.
4. The amount of indebtedness and the terms of payment
will not jeopardize the spiritual life of the church.
The Church Properties Board may approve requests that do
not meet these guidelines only with the approval of the district
superintendent and the District Advisory Board. (103-104)
237.5. To do whatever else the district assembly may direct
regarding the matter of local church property.

M. The District Advisory Committee

238. The District Advisory Committee (DAC) shall be
composed of the District Advisory Board, the president of the
District NDI Board, the president of the district NMI, the
president of the district NYI, the district secretary, and the
district treasurer. This committee shall meet as necessary and
shall be chaired by the district superintendent or the general
superintendent in jurisdiction or his or her designee. (209)

N. The District Chaplaincy Director

239. The district superintendent may appoint a district
chaplaincy director. In cooperation with the district
superintendent, the district chaplaincy director shall seek
to promote and amplify holiness evangelism through the
specialized ministry of chaplaincy. The director will promote
and support evangelism through industrial, institutional,
campus, and military opportunities. The director shall give
special attention to Nazarene servicemembers and other
military members located on military installations, appointing
and assisting host pastors located near these bases to impact
servicemembers and their families for Christ, bonding them
to our church while they are serving their country. (211.9)
154 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

O. The District Nazarene

Discipleship International Board
240. The District Nazarene Discipleship International
(NDI) Board shall be composed of the district superintendent,
the district Nazarene Missions International (NMI) president,
the district Nazarene Youth International (NYI) president,
and the district Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI)
president, who comprise an Executive Committee, and at
least three additional members. The three additional members
shall be elected from among six nominees by the district
assembly or the District NDI Convention. Members shall be
elected to staggered terms of three years: initially with one
being elected for a term of three years, one for a term of two
years, and one for a term of one year. They shall serve until
their successors are elected and qualified. However, when
the district total membership exceeds 5,000, the number
of members nominated and elected may be doubled, and,
when possible, at least four of the ten board members should
be laypersons. Vacancies occurring in the NDI Board, in the
interim of sessions of the district assembly, may be filled by
appointment by the district superintendent. (215)
The duties of the District Nazarene Discipleship
International Board are:
240.1. To meet within one week following their election
and to organize by electing a secretary, treasurer, district
discipleship coordinators of Adult Ministries and Children’s
Ministries, and a coordinator of Continuing Lay Training,
who then shall become ex-officio members of the Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) Board. Other district
coordinators, as deemed necessary, may be nominated by the
Executive Committee and elected by the board. (240)
240.2. To give supervision to all Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI) interests of the district.
240.3. To elect a Children’s Ministries Council whose
chairperson shall be the district discipleship coordinator of
Children’s Ministries and whose members shall be the district
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 155

coordinators of: boys’ and girls’ camps, Caravan, Vacation

Bible School, Bible quizzing, children’s church, Cradle Roll,
and any others deemed necessary.
NOTE: For additional information concerning the duties of Children’s and
Adult Ministries councils, see the respective NDI regional handbook.
240.4. To elect an Adult Ministries Council whose
chairperson shall be the district discipleship coordinator of
Adult Ministries and whose members shall be the district
coordinators of: marriage and family life, senior adult
ministries, single adult ministries, lay retreat, small-group
Bible studies, women’s ministries, men’s ministries, and any
others deemed necessary.
240.5. To arrange for an annual district Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) convention. (240)
240.6. To determine, in consultation with the district
superintendent, whether elections for the District Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) Board members and
president will be held in the district assembly or in the District
NDI Convention.
240.7. To encourage all local Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI) presidents and age-group discipleship
coordinators/Nazarene Youth International presidents to
be present in the District NDI Convention and take part as
opportunity affords.
240.8. To organize the district into zones and appoint NDI
zone coordinators who shall assist the board at its direction to
carry forward the work of Nazarene Discipleship International
(NDI) on the district.
240.9. To plan and implement district or zone Continuing
Lay Training classes.
240.10. To assist the Nazarene Discipleship International
(NDI) office of The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. in securing
information relating to district and local NDI interests.
240.11. To recommend to the District Advisory Board the
annual District Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI)
Board budget.
156 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

240.12. To be responsible for the district lay retreat. The

district discipleship coordinator of Adult Ministries shall be
member ex-officio of the District Lay Retreat Committee.
240.13. To approve the report of its president to be presented
to the district assembly.
240.14. To meet as frequently as deemed necessary by
the district superintendent or the president of the District
Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) Board to plan and
execute effectively the responsibilities of the board.
241. The District Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI)
President. The district assembly or the NDI Convention shall
elect a president of the District NDI Board to serve for a one
or two-year term, from two or more nominees submitted by
the District Nominating Committee. An incumbent president
may be reelected by a favorable “yes” or “no” vote when such
vote has been recommended by the District NDI Board,
and approved by the district superintendent. A vacancy in
the interim of sessions of the district assembly may be filled
according to the provisions of paragraph 215. (240.6)
The duties and powers of the District Nazarene Discipleship
International president are:
241.1. To give responsible leadership to the Nazarene
Discipleship International (NDI) on the district by:
1. Promoting programs of growth in enrollment and
attendance;
2. Coordinating all programs relating to Children’s and
Adult Ministries (CM, AM), and;
3. Working in cooperation with Nazarene Youth
International (NYI) to coordinate youth Sunday School/
Bible studies/small groups.
241.2. To be an ex-officio member of the district assembly
and the District Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI)
Board.
241.3. To prepare for the District NDI Board a written
report for the annual assembly journal.
DISTRICT GOVERNMENT 157

P. The District Nazarene Youth International

242. Nazarene youth ministry is organized on the district
under the auspices of Nazarene Youth International (NYI),
under the NYI Charter, and the authority of the district
superintendent, the District Advisory Board, and the district
assembly. The district NYI shall be composed of the members
and local groups of Nazarene Youth International of the
assembly district.
242.1. The district Nazarene Youth International (NYI)
shall organize itself according to the NYI District Ministry
Plan (810.200-810.219), which may be adapted in response to
district youth ministry needs (see 810.203), consistent with
the NYI Charter and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

Q. The District Nazarene Missions International

243. The district Nazarene Missions International (NMI)
shall be composed of the local NMI within the boundaries of
the assembly district. The district NMI shall represent Global
Nazarene Missions International in district ministries. (811)
243.1. The district Nazarene Missions International (NMI)
shall be governed by the NMI Constitution approved by the
Global Nazarene Missions International Convention. It shall
be subject to the district superintendent, the District Advisory
Board, the district assembly, and the district NMI Council. (811)
243.2. The president of the district Nazarene Missions
International shall serve without salary and shall be a member
ex-officio of the district assembly. (201)

R. District Paid Assistants

244. When paid assistants become necessary for the
greater efficiency of the district administration, such
persons, ministerial or lay, shall be nominated by the district
superintendent, after having secured the written approval
of the general superintendent in jurisdiction. They shall be
elected by the District Advisory Board. The employment of
such assistants shall be for no more than one year but may
158 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT

be renewed by recommendation of the district superintendent

and the majority vote of the District Advisory Board. (211.16)
244.1. Dismissal of such assistants prior to the end of the
employment period must be by the recommendation of the
district superintendent and the majority vote of the District
Advisory Board. (225.16)
244.2. The duties and services of such district assistants are to
be determined and supervised by the district superintendent.
244.3. Upon the resignation or termination of the district
superintendent, the term of service of the paid assistants
shall be considered concluded, unless otherwise stipulated
by national labor law. However, one or more of the staff
members may remain with the written approval of the general
superintendent in jurisdiction and the District Advisory
Board, but not longer than the date of the new superintendent’s
assumption of duties. (209.3-209.4)
244.4. Service as a paid district assistant shall not prohibit
one from serving in other district elected or appointed offices
such as district secretary or district treasurer. A paid district
assistant is not eligible to serve on the District Advisory Board.

S. Disorganization of a District
245. When it seems clear to the Board of General
Superintendents that a district no longer should continue as
such, it may, upon their recommendation, be disorganized by a
two-thirds favorable vote of the General Board of the Church
of the Nazarene and a formal pronouncement thereof. (200)
245.1. In case a district becomes officially disorganized, any
church property that shall exist may in no way be diverted to
other purposes, but shall pass to the control of The Church of
the Nazarene, Inc., for the use of the denomination at large,
as the General Assembly shall direct; and trustees holding
property, or corporations created to hold property, for the
disorganized district shall sell or dispose of the same only on
the order and under the direction of the appointed agent of
The Church of the Nazarene, Inc., and turn the funds over to
such agent. (108.2, 108.5, 225.6)
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 159

III. GENERAL GOVERNMENT

A. General Assembly Functions and Organization
300. The General Assembly is the supreme doctrine-
formulating, lawmaking, and elective authority of the Church
of the Nazarene, subject to the provisions of the Church
Constitution. (25-25.8)
300.1. The General Assembly shall be presided over by the
general superintendents. (25.5, 307.3)
300.2. The General Assembly shall elect officers and
organize for transaction of business. (25.6)
300.3. Rules of Order. Subject to applicable law, the Articles
of Incorporation and Bylaws of government in the Manual,
meetings and proceedings of the Church of the Nazarene, local,
district, and general, and the committees of the corporation
shall be regulated according to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly
Revised (latest edition) for parliamentary procedure. (34)

B. Membership of the General Assembly

301. The General Assembly shall be composed of ministerial
and lay delegates in equal numbers from each Phase 3
district, the district superintendent serving as one of the
assigned ordained ministerial delegates, remaining assigned
ordained ministerial delegates and all lay delegates elected
by district assemblies; general superintendents emeriti and
retired; general superintendents; Global Nazarene Missions
International president; Global Nazarene Youth International
Council chair; The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. officers
and directors who have global responsibility and report to
the plenary of the General Board; General Board members;
one-half of the regional International Board of Education
school presidents from each region will be voting members,
and the other one-half will be non-voting members, with the
number and selection process determined by the International
Board of Education; and one General Board-commissioned
missionary delegate per region elected by the General Board-
160 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

commissioned missionaries serving in that region. In the

absence of such election the missionary representative shall be
elected by the Global Missions Committee.
301.1. Each Phase 3 district shall be entitled to representation
in the General Assembly by: two assigned ordained ministers
and two laypersons for the first 6,000 or fewer full church
members, and one additional assigned ordained minister and
one additional layperson for the next 4,000 full members, and
for each successive additional 5,000 full members. “Assigned
ordained minister” shall include elders and deacons. (See chart
below.)
Number of Full Members Number of Delegates
0-6,000 4 (2 lay, 2 ministerial)
6,001-10,000 6 (3 lay, 3 ministerial)
10,001-15,000 8 (4 lay, 4 ministerial)
15,001-20,000 10 (5 lay, 5 ministerial)
20,001-25,000 12 (6 lay, 6 ministerial)
25,001-30,000 14 (7 lay, 7 ministerial)
30,001-35,000 16 (8 lay, 8 ministerial)
35,001-40,000 18 (9 lay, 9 ministerial)
(For every 5,000 members above 40,000, 1 additional lay
delegate and 1 additional ministerial delegate)
301.2. Each Phase 2 district shall be entitled to one assigned
ordained minister and one layperson delegate to the General
Assembly. The assigned ordained ministerial delegate shall be
the district superintendent. An alternate will be elected for
each delegate.
301.3. A Phase 1 district shall be entitled to one non-voting
delegate to the General Assembly. The district superintendent
shall be the delegate, providing he or she holds his or her
membership on the district. If the district superintendent does
not hold his or her membership on the district, an alternate
who is a member of the district will be elected.
301.4. The right of an assigned ministerial delegate-elect
to the General Assembly to represent the district assembly
electing him or her shall be vacated in case he or she shall
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 161

move to a new ministerial assignment on another district, or

if the delegate-elect shall leave the active, assigned ministry
of the Church of the Nazarene prior to the convening of the
General Assembly. Any minister who has been granted official
retirement status by a district is ineligible to serve as a delegate
to the General Assembly.
301.5. The right of a lay delegate-elect to the General
Assembly to represent the district assembly electing him or
her shall be vacated in case he or she shall remove his or her
church membership to some local church on another district
prior to the convening of the General Assembly.

C. The Time and Place of General Assembly

302. The General Assembly shall meet every fourth year
at a time and place determined by a General Assembly
Commission composed of the general superintendents and
an equal number of persons chosen by the Board of General
Superintendents. The General Assembly Commission shall
have power, in case of an emergency, to change the time and
place of the meeting of the General Assembly.
302.1. The Board of General Superintendents in consultation
with the Executive Committee of the General Board is
authorized, when appropriate, to select a simultaneous site(s)
for the General Assembly. Voting from such simultaneous
sites will be recognized as official voting along with the votes
of the delegates at the primary site.
302.2. The General Assembly shall open with devotional
and inspirational services. Provision shall be made for
transaction of business and other inspirational services. The
General Assembly shall set the time of adjournment. (25.3)

D. Special Sessions of the General Assembly

303. The Board of General Superintendents, or a majority
thereof, with the written consent of two-thirds of all the district
superintendents, shall have power to call a special session of
the General Assembly in case of an emergency, the time and
162 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

place to be determined by the general superintendents and a

commission chosen by the Board of General Superintendents.
303.1. In case of a special session of the General Assembly,
delegates and alternates to the last preceding General
Assembly, or their elected and qualified successors, shall serve
as delegates and alternates to the special session.

E. General Assembly Arrangements Committee

304. The general secretary, general treasurer, and three
persons appointed by the Board of General Superintendents at
least one year before the convening of the General Assembly
shall constitute the General Assembly Arrangements
Committee.
304.1. The General Assembly Arrangements Committee
shall have authority to arrange all necessary details, and enter
into contracts regarding the General Assembly.
304.2. The General Assembly Arrangements Committee
with the general superintendents shall formulate a program
for the General Assembly, including emphases for each general
interest; Communion service; and religious services; which
shall be subject to approval by the General Assembly.

F. Business of the General Assembly

305. The business of the General Assembly, subject to
paragraph 25.8 of the Church Constitution, shall be to:
305.1. Reference, through its Reference Committee,
resolutions, recommendations, and implementing legislation
from commissions and special committee reports and other
documents to standing or special legislative committees of
the assembly, or to regional caucuses for consideration before
being presented to the assembly. The Reference Committee
may submit legislation affecting only a specific region/regions
to the General Assembly delegates of said region(s) meeting
in caucus for action. Changes that affect the Manual must be
acted upon by the entire General Assembly.
305.2. Elect, by a two-thirds vote of its members present and
voting, six general superintendents who shall hold office until
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 163

30 days following the final adjournment of the next General

Assembly and until their successors are elected and qualified;
a. First, there shall be a “yes” or “no” ballot for the general
superintendents presently serving.
b. Vacancies remaining after the ballot process is completed
for all general superintendents presently serving shall be
filled by ensuing ballots until the elections are completed.
In the event that someone who is ineligible under this
provision receives votes on the first ballot, that person’s name
shall be deleted from the elective ballot and the report of the
first ballot shall include this statement: “One or more names
have been deleted due to ineligibility for the office.”
No elder shall be considered eligible for election to the office
of general superintendent who has at any time surrendered his
or her credential for disciplinary reasons. No person shall be
elected to the office of general superintendent who has not
reached the age of 35 years or who has reached the age of 70
years. (25.4, 307.16, 900)
305.3. Elect a general superintendent to the emerita/
emeritus honor when deemed advisable, provided the
superintendent shall have become disabled or shall have been
granted retired status. It is thereby understood that election to
emerita/emeritus relation is of life tenure. (314.1)
305.4. Place in retired status a general superintendent who
has requested such relationship, or who, in the judgment of
the General Assembly, has become disqualified by physical
disability, or by any other disqualification that would prevent
such a person from caring adequately for the work of the
general superintendency; and provided that superintendent
has served in the office of general superintendent for at
least one full term. Should a general superintendent request
retirement in the interim of General Assemblies, the request
may be granted by the General Board in regular session upon
recommendation of the Board of General Superintendents.
(314.1)
305.5. Set a suitable retirement pension for each retired
general superintendent.
164 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

305.6. Elect a General Board, as provided in paragraphs

332.1-333.4, to serve until the final adjournment of the next
General Assembly and until their successors are elected and
qualified. (331, 901)
305.7. Elect a General Court of Appeals, consisting of
five assigned ordained ministers, to serve until the final
adjournment of the next General Assembly and until their
successors are elected and qualified. The Board of General
Superintendents shall select the chairperson and secretary.
(25.7, 612, 902)
305.8. Do anything else, in harmony with the Holy
Scriptures, that wisdom may dictate for the general welfare
of the Church of the Nazarene and the holy cause of Christ,
subject to the Church Constitution. (25.8)

G. The General Superintendents

306. The role of the general superintendents is to provide
apostolic and visionary spiritual leadership by:
• articulating mission
• casting vision
• ordaining members of the clergy
• propagating theological coherency, and
• providing jurisdictional and general administrative
oversight for the general church.
307. The duties and powers of the general superintendents
are as follows:
307.1. Have general supervision of the Church of the
Nazarene, subject to law and order as adopted by the General
Assembly.
307.2. Serve as ex-officio members of the General Assembly.
(301)
307.3. Preside over the General Assembly and over the
meetings of the General Board of the Church of the Nazarene.
(300.1, 335.3)
307.4. Have discretionary power to ordain, or appoint others
to ordain, those who have been properly elected to be elders or
deacons. (320, 530.5-530.6)
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 165

307.5. Preside over each district assembly as scheduled by the

Board of General Superintendents. A general superintendent
may appoint an ordained elder to serve as chairperson. (202,
214)
307.6. The general superintendent presiding over a district
assembly, the district superintendent, and District Advisory
Board, in concurrence with delegates of local churches, shall
appoint pastors of local churches that have not called pastors.
(218.1)
307.7. The general superintendents may appoint district
superintendents over assembly districts where vacancies occur
in the interim of district assembly sessions, upon consultation
with the District Advisory Committee. Pursuant to paragraph
208, all qualified elders are eligible for consideration, including
those of that district. (209, 238)
307.8. In the event of temporary incapacitation of an
incumbent district superintendent, the general superintendent
having jurisdiction, in consultation with the District Advisory
Board, may appoint a qualified elder to serve as interim
district superintendent. The question of incapacitation shall
be determined by the general superintendent in jurisdiction
and the District Advisory Board. (209.2)
307.9. The general superintendent in jurisdiction may
recommend to the Board of General Superintendents that a
Phase 3 district be declared in crisis. (200.2, 322)
307.10. The general superintendent having jurisdiction may
preside at the annual, or a special meeting of a local church, or
appoint a representative to do so. (115.5)
307.11. No general superintendent shall be a voting member
of any board of the Church of the Nazarene, other than the
Board of General Superintendents, unless provided for by the
bylaws of said boards. (307.12)
307.12. A general superintendent shall hold no other general
office in the church while serving as general superintendent.
(307.11)
307.13. All official acts of the general superintendents shall
be subject to review and revision by the General Assembly.
166 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

307.14. Any official act of a general superintendent may be

nullified by a unanimous vote of the remaining members of
the Board of General Superintendents.
307.15. The office of any general superintendent may be
declared vacant, for cause, by the unanimous vote of the
remaining members of the Board of General Superintendents,
supported by a two-thirds vote of the General Board.
307.16. The general superintendents, elected by the General
Assembly, shall serve until 30 days following the final
adjournment of the next General Assembly and until their
successors are elected and qualified. (305.2)

H. General Superintendents Emeriti and Retired

314. All emeriti and retired general superintendents shall be
ex-officio members of the General Assembly. (301)
314.1. A general superintendent who has been placed in
retired status, or voted emerita/emeritus honor, shall not be a
member of the Board of General Superintendents. However,
in the event that an active general superintendent should be
incapacitated by illness, hospitalization, or other unavoidable
emergency necessitating absence from any assignment, the
Board of General Superintendents is empowered to call into
temporary assignment any retired general superintendent.
(305.3-305.5, 900.1)

I. The Board of General Superintendents

315. The general superintendents shall organize as a board
and arrange for and assign to the members work over which
they shall have special jurisdiction.
316. Vacancy. If a vacancy occurs in the Board of
General Superintendents, in the interim of sessions of the
General Assembly, the question of calling for an election
to fill the vacancy shall be decided by the Board of General
Superintendents. Upon receipt of the board’s decision, the
general secretary shall notify all members of the General
Board. When an election is called for, the members of the
General Board shall elect, by a two-thirds vote, an elder of the
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 167

Church of the Nazarene to fill the vacancy and to perform the

duties of the general superintendent until 30 days following
the final adjournment of the next General Assembly, and until
a successor is elected and qualified. (25.4, 305.2)
316.1. The general secretary shall report the result of the
ballot to the Board of General Superintendents, which shall
announce the ballot results.
317. The duties of the Board of General Superintendents
shall be to:
317.1. Provide supervision, guidance, and motivation for the
general church, with appropriate attention to leadership and
theology for all districts, agencies, and ministries of the global
Church of the Nazarene.
317.2. Recommend, in consultation with the director of
Global Missions, and respective national administrative
directors and/or regional directors, changes in assignment of
geographical areas subject to approval of the General Board.
317.3. Have primary authority with regard to ecclesiastical
policies and plans, and to advise the General Board, its
committees, and all boards of the Church of the Nazarene
on other matters. The Board of General Superintendents
shall make recommendations they deem advisable to the
General Board and to the committees. The Board of General
Superintendents shall approve or disapprove all nominations
made by the Global Missions Committee to the General
Board for appointment as missionaries.
317.4. Serve together with the General Board Executive
Committee as a Nominating Committee, to bring one or more
names to the General Board for election of a general secretary
and a general treasurer.
317.5. Declare vacant by a two-thirds vote the office of
general secretary, general treasurer, or department director.
317.6. Fill vacancies that may occur in the membership of
the General Court of Appeals in the interim of sessions of the
General Assembly, and to select the chairperson and secretary
of the court. (305.7, 613, 902)
168 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

317.7. Fill vacancies that may occur in any special commission

or committee in the interim of General Assemblies or General
Board.
317.8. Appoint general superintendents to serve as advisers
of institutions of higher education affiliated with the
International Board of Education. (905)
317.9. Arrange, in conjunction with Global Education and
Clergy Development, ministerial studies for those serving in
roles of ministry, lay or credentialed. (521-522)
317.10. Plan, preserve and promote the World Evangelism
Fund which is the lifeline of global mission interests. The
Board of General Superintendents and the General Board
are authorized and empowered to establish funding goals
and responsibilities for the World Evangelism Fund to local
churches. (32.5, 140, 335.7)
317.11. Approve in writing the return of credential to a
former elder or deacon as required. (531.11, 532.8, 532.13)
318. The Board of General Superintendents shall be the
authority for interpretation of law and doctrine of the Church
of the Nazarene, and meaning and force of provisions of the
Manual, subject to an appeal to the General Assembly.
319. The Board of General Superintendents shall consider
for approval plans for district centers. Plans shall not be carried
out until they have been approved in writing by the Board of
General Superintendents. (225.12)
320. The Board of General Superintendents shall have
discretionary power in the ordaining of divorced persons.
(307.4, 525.3, 526.3)
321. The Board of General Superintendents may declare
vacant with cause the office of a district superintendent of
any Phase 2 or Phase 1 district upon recommendation of the
general superintendent having jurisdiction and may declare
vacant the office of district superintendents in Phase 3 districts
upon a two-thirds vote of the District Advisory Committee.
(209.1, 238)
322. The Board of General Superintendents may approve
that a Phase 3 district be declared in crisis. (200.2, 307.9)
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 169

323. Following each general assembly, the revised Manual of

the Church of the Nazarene is to be effective in all appropriate
languages when the Board of General Superintendents
announces the official release date.
324. The Board of General Superintendents shall have
authority to do anything in the service of the Church of the
Nazarene, not otherwise provided for, in harmony with the
general church order, and subject to the Church Constitution.

J. The General Secretary

325. The general secretary, elected by the General Board
as provided by General Board Bylaws, shall serve until final
adjournment of the next General Assembly and until a
successor is elected and qualified, or until removed according
to paragraph 317.5. (900.2)
325.1. The general secretary shall be a member ex-officio of
the General Assembly. (301)
325.2. If in the interim of sessions of General Board a
vacancy should occur in the office of the general secretary,
it shall be filled by the General Board, upon nomination as
provided in paragraph 317.4. (335.19)
325.3. The general secretary shall be amenable to the Board
of General Superintendents and General Board.
326. The duties of the general secretary are to:
326.1. Serve as ex-officio secretary of The Church of the
Nazarene, Inc., the General Board, and the General Assembly
and shall record and preserve the journal of their proceedings.
(331.2)
326.2. Record and preserve general statistics of the Church
of the Nazarene.
326.3. Preserve documents belonging to General Assembly,
and deliver the documents to his or her successor.
326.4. Preserve all permanent records and decisions made
by the General Court of Appeals. (615)
326.5. Catalogue and preserve filed, surrendered, revoked,
and resigned credentials of ministers and deliver them only
170 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

on proper order made by the district from which they were

received. (531-531.3, 531.8)
326.6. Audit district statistical charts. (220.3)
326.7. Maintain the records of persons who have been
granted a district minister’s license.
326.8. Make available minutes of the General Assembly
sessions to the delegates.
326.9. Make available the latest version of the Manual.
326.10. Do faithfully whatever else may be necessary for the
fulfillment of the duties of the office.
327. The general secretary shall hold in trust, legal documents
belonging to the general church.
327.1. The general secretary is authorized to collect
historic material relating to the rise and development of the
denomination, and shall be the custodian of these records and
materials.
327.2. The general secretary shall keep a register of Historic
Sites and Landmarks according to paragraph 913.
328. The general secretary, in conjunction with the general
superintendents, shall, prior to the opening of General
Assembly, prepare necessary forms, including Standing
Rules, “Manual” Abridgment for revision, and other things for
expediting the work of General Assembly. Expense incurred
shall be provided for out of General Assembly expense fund.
328.1. The general secretary may have as many assistants as
General Assembly shall elect, or, in the interim of sessions of
General Assembly, the Board of General Superintendents may
appoint.

K. The General Treasurer

329. The general treasurer, elected by General Board as
provided by General Board Bylaws, shall serve until final
adjournment of the next General Assembly and until a
successor is elected and qualified or until removed according
to paragraph 317.5. (900.3)
329.1. The general treasurer shall be a member ex-officio of
General Assembly. (301)
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 171

329.2. The general treasurer shall be amenable to the

general superintendent in jurisdiction for the Global Ministry
Center Financial office, Board of General Superintendents,
and General Board.
330. The duties of the general treasurer are to:
330.1. Have custody of funds belonging to general interests
of the Church of the Nazarene.
330.2. Receive, and disburse funds of the Global
Administration and Finance Committee, Global Education
and Clergy Development Committee, Global Missions
Committee, Local Church Ministries Committee, and
other funds belonging to the General Board, or to any of its
departments; general superintendents’ fund; general contingent
fund; General Assembly expense fund; general benevolent
church funds; funds of Global Nazarene Youth International;
and funds of Global Nazarene Missions International. (331.3)
330.3. Give bond for performance of duties, in a reliable
surety company, as the General Board may direct.
330.4. Furnish reports to boards and departments, for whose
funds he or she may be custodian.
330.5. Furnish to the General Board an annual report of all
finances of the Church of the Nazarene, including investments.
(335.12)
330.6. Safeguard annuity funds invested in real estate by
proper insurance policies and to provide against the lapsing of
such policies.

L. The General Board

331. The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. is a nonprofit
corporation incorporated under the laws of the state of
Missouri, USA. The General Board shall be composed of
members who shall be elected by ballot by the General
Assembly from among the persons nominated as provided
in paragraphs 332.1-333.5. To be elected a member of the
General Board as a representative of a church region, one must
be a resident on that region as well as a member of a local
church on that region. (305.6, 334)
172 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

331.1. No one shall be eligible for election to the General

Board or shall remain a member of the General Board who is
an employee of The Church of the Nazarene, Inc., or entities
including educational institutions that receive financial
subsidy from The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. Individuals
from districts or other entities receiving operating funds from
the general church are likewise ineligible.
331.2. The general secretary shall be ex-officio secretary of
The Church of the Nazarene, Inc., and the General Board.
331.3. The general treasurer shall be ex-officio treasurer of
The Church of the Nazarene, Inc., and the General Board and
also of the departments of The Church of the Nazarene, Inc.
(330.2)
332. Nominations for the General Board shall be made as
herein provided:
332.1. After the delegates to the General Assembly have
been elected, each Phase 3 district delegation shall meet to
select candidates for nomination to the General Board in the
following manner. Each Phase 3 district may present names
of two assigned ordained ministers and two laypersons. The
multicultural composition of the nominating district should be
considered in selecting names for nomination. For such regions
that have a Regional Advisory Council, the names of these
candidates shall be sent first to the national board and then to
the Regional Advisory Council, which may reduce the number
of names to three for each member that the caucus needs to
vote on, after which the names shall be sent immediately to
the office of the general secretary to be placed on ballots for
presentation to the General Assembly delegates from each
region. (205.23)
332.2. From the list of these candidates, the General
Assembly delegates from each region shall nominate to the
General Assembly as follows:
Each region of 100,000 or fewer full members shall
nominate one assigned ordained minister and one layperson;
each region exceeding 100,000 and up to 200,000 full
members shall nominate two assigned ordained ministers, one
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 173

district superintendent and one pastor or evangelist, and two

laypersons; and one additional layperson and one additional
assigned ordained minister for regions exceeding 200,000 full
members, with the following provisions:
On those regions whose membership is in excess of 200,000
full members, one assigned ordained minister shall be a pastor
or evangelist; another shall be a district superintendent; and
the other assigned ordained minister may be in either category.
No district shall be entitled to more than two members on the
General Board, and no region shall be entitled to more than six
members (with the exception of institutional representatives
and members of Nazarene Missions International {NMI} and
Nazarene Youth International {NYI}). Whenever more than
two candidates from a district receive a higher number of
votes than candidates from other districts on the region, those
on another district receiving the next highest number of votes
shall be selected as nominees from the region.
In each region the layperson(s), the pastor or evangelist, and/
or the district superintendent who receive the highest number
of votes in their respective classifications shall be nominated
by majority vote to the General Assembly. In the instance of
the larger regions where six members are to be elected, the
layperson and the assigned ordained minister who receive the
next highest number of votes shall be the additional nominees.
If a Regional Advisory Council determines that it is likely
that a majority of elected delegates will be prevented from
attending the General Assembly, the regional caucus voting
may be conducted via postal or electronic means within six
months prior to the start of General Assembly. The specific
process by which this postal or electronic nomination of
General Board members to the General Assembly occurs
shall be proposed by the Regional Advisory Council and
submitted to the General Secretary’s office for approval prior
to implementation. (305.6, 901)
332.3. The International Board of Education (IBOE) shall
nominate to the General Assembly four persons from the
educational institutions, two assigned ordained ministers
174 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

and two laypersons. The General Assembly will elect two

representatives, one assigned ordained minister and one
layperson for the General Board. (331.1)
332.4. The Global Council of the Nazarene Youth
International (NYI) shall nominate to the General Assembly
the newly elected Global NYI Council chair. In the event that
the newly elected Global NYI Council chair cannot serve the
General Board, the Global NYI Council will nominate one
member from the Global NYI Council. (343.4)
332.5. The Global Council of the Nazarene Missions
International (NMI) shall nominate to the General Assembly
one member of the Global NMI Council. The General
Assembly shall elect one representative for the General Board.
(344.3)
332.6. The regional Nazarene Discipleship International
(NDI) coordinators and the Global NDI director shall
nominate one person to the General Assembly. The General
Assembly shall elect one representative for the General Board.
333. Elections to the General Board shall be as herein
provided:
333.1. Each nominee presented by the respective regions
shall be elected by the General Assembly by a majority “yes”
vote by ballot.
333.2. From the nominees presented by the International
Board of Education, the General Assembly shall elect two,
one of whom shall be an assigned ordained minister and one
a layperson.
333.3. From the nominee presented by the Global Council
of the Nazarene Youth International, the General Assembly
shall elect by a majority “yes” vote by ballot. (343.4, 903)
333.4. From the nominee presented by the Global Council
of the Nazarene Missions International, the General Assembly
shall elect by a majority “yes” vote by ballot. (344.3, 904)
333.5. From the nominee presented by the regional NDI
coordinators and the Global NDI director, the General
Assembly shall elect by a majority “yes” vote by ballot. (332.6)
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 175

334. The members of the General Board shall hold office

until final adjournment of the next General Assembly and
until their successors are elected and qualified. In the event
that a member of the General Board shall move his or her
church membership or residence from the region he or she
represents, or if a minister changes from the category of
ministerial assignment for which elected, or if a minister
becomes unassigned, or if a layperson requests and receives
a district minister’s license, his or her membership shall be
terminated immediately. The vacancy so created shall be filled
promptly. (331)
334.1. Vacancies. The Board of General Superintendents
will nominate two eligible persons to fill a vacancy in the
membership of the General Board. The names of the nominees
will be sent to the general secretary who will submit them for
election by a majority vote of the appropriate group.
• Regional representative. The Phase 2 and Phase 3 District
Advisory Boards of the region will elect the replacement,
with each board entitled to one vote.
• Educational representative. The General Board will elect
the replacement.
• NYI representative. The Global NYI Council will elect
the replacement.
• NDI representative. The General Board will elect the
replacement.
• NMI representative. The Global NMI Executive
Committee will consult with the general superintendent
in jurisdiction. It will select one nominee to fill the vacancy
and send the name to the Board of General Superintendents
for approval according to Article V. Section 3.C.6.e. of the
NMI Constitution. The Global NMI Council shall elect
the replacement by majority vote.
(332.3-332.6)
335. The duties of the General Board. The General Board
shall serve as the board of directors of The Church of the
Nazarene, Inc., and shall have primary authority with regard to
non-ecclesiastical policies and plans. The General Board shall
176 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

encourage and expect all national, regional, district, and local

boards to fulfill the mission of the Church of the Nazarene,
which is to propagate Christian holiness in the Wesleyan
tradition by making Christlike disciples in the nations, and
shall facilitate the progress of the global church in each nation
and/or region. The General Board shall promote the financial
and material affairs of all committees of The Church of the
Nazarene, Inc., subject to instructions as may be given by the
General Assembly. It shall coordinate, correlate, and unify
plans and activities of the constituent committees so that a
unified policy may be established by and in all activities of
The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. It shall have power to direct
auditing of the accounts of all its departments and all entities
legally related to The Church of the Nazarene, Inc., and it
shall direct the business and administrative affairs of The
Church of the Nazarene, Inc., and its departments and of all
entities legally related to The Church of the Nazarene, Inc.
These departments and entities, shall give due consideration
to the advice and recommendations of the General Board.
335.1. The General Board shall have power to buy, own,
hold, manage, mortgage, sell, convey, and donate, or otherwise
acquire, encumber, and dispose of both real and personal
property, sold, devised, bequeathed, donated, or otherwise
conveyed to The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. in trust for any
lawful purpose, and to execute such trust; to borrow and to
loan money in the execution of The Church of the Nazarene,
Inc.’s lawful purposes.
335.2. The General Board shall fill a vacancy in the Board of
General Superintendents in accordance with paragraphs 316
and 305.2.
335.3. The General Board shall meet before or immediately
following the final adjournment of the General Assembly
and shall organize by electing officers and committees,
and members to committees as required by its Articles of
Incorporation and bylaws, to serve for the quadrennium and
until their successors are elected and qualified. The general
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 177

superintendents shall preside over the meetings of the General

Board.
335.4. Meetings. The General Board shall meet in session at
least three times between General Assemblies, at a time and
place specified by the bylaws of the said board or at the hour,
date, and place unanimously adopted at any regular or special
meeting in order to suit the best interests of the General Board
and its committees.
335.5. Special Meetings of the General Board may be called
by the Board of General Superintendents, president, or secretary.
335.6. World Evangelism Fund. Each local Church of the
Nazarene is part of the global effort “to make Christlike disciples
in the nations.” The World Evangelism Fund shall be used by the
denomination for the support, maintenance, and promotion of
general mission and related activities. Annual budgets for the
general church will be based on contribution projections, with
input from departments and agencies of the general church,
and considering financial statements of the general treasurer.
From time to time, the General Board shall determine the
amount to be allotted from the World Evangelism Fund to
each department and fund. When such allotments have been
agreed upon, they shall be submitted to the Board of General
Superintendents for consideration, suggestions, or amendments
before final adoption by the General Board.
335.7. The General Board and the Board of General
Superintendents are authorized and empowered to establish
funding goals and responsibilities for the World Evangelism
Fund to local churches. (140, 317.10)
335.8. The General Board shall have authority to increase
or diminish the amount requested by any department or fund.
Items of finance adopted by the General Assembly shall be
referred to the General Board, who shall be authorized to
adjust proportionately with existing economic conditions the
annual allocation of any institution or agency of the church,
in keeping with the total financial commitment of the general
church.
178 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

335.9. The General Board shall approve appropriations

from the World Evangelism Fund for Nazarene Theological
Seminary (USA) and Nazarene Bible College (USA) as it may
deem advisable in line with the availability of funds.
335.10. The General Board shall annually review and make
appropriate adjustments in salaries and related benefits of the
general superintendents in the interim of General Assemblies.
335.11. Reports. The General Board shall, at its regular
meeting, receive a detailed report of activities of the
departments for the past year, including a financial report.
Each department shall also submit a proposed expenditures
budget for the ensuing year.
335.12. The general treasurer shall annually present to
the General Board a detailed financial report of receipts
and disbursements of all funds of which he or she has been
custodian during the past year, including trust funds and
investments, together with a detailed statement of the
proposed expenditures for the ensuing year of funds not
included in the budgets of departments of The Church of
the Nazarene, Inc. The general treasurer shall be responsible
to the General Board for the faithful performance of official
duties. (330.5)
335.13. The General Board shall meet before or immediately
following the final adjournment of the General Assembly
and shall elect a general secretary and a general treasurer as
provided in General Board Bylaws, who shall hold office until
the final adjournment of the next General Assembly and until
their successors are elected and qualified.
335.14. A General Board agenda item affecting only a
specific region/nation shall be referred upon approval of the
Executive Committee of the General Board and the Board of
General Superintendents, to the General Board members of
said region/nation meeting in caucus.
335.15. The General Board shall relate any commission or
committee authorized by the General Assembly or General
Board to some department(s), or to the board as a whole, and
assign work, responsibility, and budget.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 179

335.16. Department Directors. The General Board shall

elect The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. department directors
pursuant to the procedures set forth in the General Board
Bylaws and the General Board Policy Manual, to serve until
final adjournment of the next General Assembly and until
their successors are elected and qualified, unless removed
from office. (317.5)
335.17. Department directors shall be nominated according
to the following procedures: If there is an incumbent director,
the Nominating Committee may recommend either a “yes”
or “no” vote, or present multiple nominees. The search for
capable candidates for these offices shall be conducted by a
search committee as provided by General Board Bylaws. This
committee will bring two or more names to the Nominating
Committee along with supporting rationale for their
recommendation.
The Nominating Committee, composed of the six general
superintendents and the Personnel Committee from the
respective committee, shall submit one or more names to the
General Board for election as provided in the General Board
Bylaws.
335.18. Executives’ Salaries. The General Board shall
establish and document a “performance evaluation” and salary
administration program that includes the department director
and ministry/service directors and provides for a salary
structure that recognizes both levels of responsibility and
merit. The General Board shall annually review and approve
the salaries of department directors and other officers as may
be authorized and elected by the General Board.
335.19. The General Board, during the interim of sessions of
the General Assembly and/or General Board, upon nomination
as provided in the General Board Bylaws and paragraph
317.4, shall fill any vacancy that may occur in offices listed in
paragraphs 335.13 and 335.16, and any other executive offices
created by General Assembly, General Board, or their elected
committees.
180 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

336. The retirement for all officers and any director listed in
paragraphs 335.13 and 335.16, and any agency head employed
by The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. shall occur at the time
of the General Board meeting following their 70th birthday.
Where there are vacancies, they shall be filled in accordance
with Manual procedures.

M. Pension Plans
337. There shall be a pensions board, or equivalent authorized
body, with fiduciary responsibility for each church-related
pension plan. A pension plan may apply at organizational,
district, multidistrict, national, regional, or multiregional level
as the needs may dictate.
337.1. The General Board shall establish and maintain
suggested guidelines that are relevant to pension programs
worldwide. The General Board does not guarantee any pension
plan from loss or depreciation. The General Board does not
guarantee the payment of any money that may be or becomes
due to any person from any pension plan, and shall not be
liable in the case of the underfunding of any pension plan.
(32.5)
337.2. All pension plans shall submit an annual report to the
General Board through Nazarene Benefits International in the
form and format requested. (32.5)

N. Subsidiaries of
The Church of the Nazarene, Inc.
338. Subsidiary corporations of The Church of the Nazarene,
Inc. will be organized and governed according to the following
principles:
a. Sole Member
i. The Sole Member of all subsidiaries incorporated in
the United States of America must be “The Church
of the Nazarene, Inc.”
b. Board of Directors Membership
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 181

i. Composition: Each organization shall determine

the appropriate number of directors according to its
needs and purpose. Minimum requirements are:
1. One director of the Board of General
Superintendents is an ex-officio member
2. One denomination senior staff appointed by the
Board of General Superintendents
ii. All directors must be nominated by the Board of
General Superintendents in consultation with the
other directors of the Corporation.
iii. All directors must be elected by the Board of General
Superintendents acting on behalf of the Sole Member.
They will hold office until their successors are elected
and qualified.
iv. Removal: Any one or more of the directors may be
removed either with or without cause, at any time, by
vote of the Board of General Superintendents acting
on behalf of the Sole Member at any special meeting
called for that purpose.
c. Officers and Executives: The number and titles of the
officers shall be determined by each entity according to
their bylaws.
d. Meetings of the Corporation:
i. Meetings of the Sole Member will take place at a
date and location set from time-to-time by the Sole
Member (The Church of the Nazarene, Inc.).
ii. Meetings of the Directors will take place at the
discretion of the Corporation.
e. Executives of the Corporation: Are selected and removed
in accordance with the subsidiary’s bylaws.
f. Fiscal Year: All subsidiaries shall adopt a fiscal year
identical to the fiscal year of The Church of the Nazarene,
Inc.
g. Dissolution: Upon dissolution of the Corporation, all its
assets will be transferred to the Sole Member.
h. Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
182 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

i. Subsidiaries may be established by a two-thirds vote

of the General Board of the Sole Member. Articles of
Incorporation and Bylaws are Subject to approval of
the General Board of the Sole Member.
ii. Amendments are proposed by a two-thirds vote of
the Board of Directors of the Corporation and they
are subject to the approval of the General Board of
the Sole Member.

O. Nazarene Publishing House

339. The mission of Nazarene Publishing House is to
publish or otherwise produce, merchandise, own, license, and
manage content for the benefit of the Church of the Nazarene
and other Christian markets consistent with the mission of
the Church. In order to protect and manage the media assets
utilized by the Church of the Nazarene and its affiliates, the
Church of the Nazarene entrusts Nazarene Publishing House
with these primary responsibilities.

P. The General Christian Action Committee

340. Following the General Assembly, the Board of General
Superintendents shall appoint a General Christian Action
Committee, one of whom shall be the general secretary, who
shall report the committee’s work to the General Board.
The duties of the General Christian Action Committee are
to:
340.1. Provide and develop constructive information
regarding matters such as alcohol, tobacco, narcotics, gambling
and other current moral and social issues in harmony with
church doctrine, and to disseminate the information in
denominational communications.
340.2. Emphasize the sanctity of marriage and the sacredness
of the Christian home and to point out the problems and evils
of divorce. In particular, the committee should emphasize the
biblical plan of marriage as a lifelong covenant, to be broken
only by death.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 183

340.3. Encourage people to serve in places of leadership in

organizations working for civic and social righteousness.
340.4. Alert people regarding the Lord’s Day observance,
oath-bound secret orders, entertainments that are subversive
of the Christian ethic, and other types of worldliness. 340.5.
Assist and encourage each district to establish a Christian
Action Committee; and to provide each district committee
with information and material on current moral issues to be
disseminated to each local church.
340.6. Monitor moral issues of national and international
importance and present the scriptural viewpoint.

Q. Committee on the Interests

of the God-Called Evangelist
341. The Committee on the Interests of the God-Called
Evangelist shall be composed of the revivalism coordinator,
who shall be ex-officio chairperson of the committee, plus
four tenured evangelists and one pastor. The USA/Canada
office director, in consultation with the revivalism coordinator
shall submit a list of nominees for the committee to the Board
of General Superintendents for approval and appointment.
The committee or its designee shall personally interview
commissioned evangelists who have been recommended by
their respective district assemblies for “tenured evangelist”
status. It shall also review the state of itinerant evangelism
in the Church of the Nazarene and make recommendations
concerning both revivals and evangelists to the appropriate
committee of the General Board. Vacancies shall be filled
by appointment from the Board of General Superintendents
from recommendations received from the USA/Canada office
director, in consultation with the revivalism coordinator.
(317.7, 510.3)
184 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

R. International Course of
Study Advisory Committee
342. Following the General Assembly, the Global Education
and Clergy Development director, in consultation with regional
education coordinators, shall submit a list of nominees to serve
on the International Course of Study Advisory Committee
(ICOSAC). Nominees to the committee may include
pastoral, administrative, educational, and lay representatives.
Composition of ICOSAC should substantially represent
the global church. The Board of General Superintendents
shall appoint the International Course of Study Advisory
Committee to serve for the quadrennium.
The International Course of Study Advisory Committee
shall meet not fewer than once every two years at a location
determined by the Global Education and Clergy Development
director (521.1-521.2, 521.5).

S. The Global Nazarene Youth International

343. Nazarene youth ministry is organized globally under
the auspices of Nazarene Youth International (NYI), under the
NYI Charter, and the authority of the general superintendent
in jurisdiction for NYI and General Board. The Global NYI
shall be composed of members, local groups and district
organizations, of Nazarene Youth International around the
world. The Global NYI is governed by the NYI Charter and the
NYI Global Ministry Plan approved by the General Assembly.
343.1. There shall be a quadrennial Global Nazarene Youth
International (NYI) Convention which shall meet at a time
set by the Board of General Superintendents, in consultation
with the Global Council of Nazarene Youth International.
The quadrennial convention shall be composed of members as
are designated in the NYI Global Ministry Plan (810).
343.2. The convention shall elect a Global NYI Council
chair. The Global NYI vice chair is elected by the Global
NYI Council at its first meeting during or following General
Assembly. The Global NYI Council chair and vice chair
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 185

shall be members ex-officio of the Global Nazarene Youth

International (NYI) Council and shall serve without salary.
343.3. The Global Nazarene Youth International (NYI)
Council shall be composed of the chair, vice chair, and
representation from each region as designated by the NYI
Global Ministry Plan. The director of Nazarene Youth
International shall serve ex-officio on the council. The council
shall be responsible to the General Board through the Local
Church Ministries Committee, and general superintendent
in jurisdiction for NYI, and shall conduct itself under the
authority of the NYI Charter and the NYI Global Ministry
Plan. The Global NYI Council members shall hold office until
the conclusion of the next General Assembly, when their
successors are elected and qualified. (810)
343.4. The Global Nazarene Youth International (NYI)
shall be represented on the General Board of the Church of
the Nazarene by the Global NYI Council chair elected by the
General Assembly from the nomination made by the Global
NYI Council. (332.4, 333.3)
343.5. The Global Nazarene Youth International (NYI)
shall be represented at the General Assembly by the Global
NYI Council chair at the close of his or her term (301).

T. The Global Council of the Global

Nazarene Missions International
344. The Global Council of the Global Nazarene Missions
International (NMI) shall be composed of the global president,
global director, and the number of members prescribed and
elected in accordance with the Constitution of the Global
NMI.
344.1. The Global Council shall be governed by the NMI
Constitution. The Global Council shall report to the Local
Church Ministries Committee of the General Board. (811)
344.2. Nomination and Election of Global NMI Director.
The global NMI executive committee and the general
superintendent in jurisdiction will form the search committee
186 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

to identify potential candidates for the position of global NMI

director. Up to two names of potential candidates will be
submitted to the Local Church Ministries Committee of the
General Board.
The Local Church Ministries Committee of the General
Board with the general superintendent in jurisdiction will
consider the names submitted to it and ratify up to two names
for election by the Board of General Superintendents.
The Board of General Superintendents will elect the global
NMI director by ballot from the names submitted to it by the
Local Church Ministries Committee of the General Board.
The global NMI director shall be an ex-officio member of
the Global Nazarene Missions International (NMI) Council
and a member of the staff of Global Missions.
344.3. The Global Nazarene Missions International shall be
represented on the General Board by one member elected by
the General Assembly from nominations made by the Global
Council of the Global Nazarene Missions International.
(332.5, 333.4)
344.4. There shall be a Quadrennial Convention held
under the direction of the Global Council of the Global
Nazarene Missions International immediately preceding the
regular meeting of the General Assembly. This convention
shall elect the Global Council of the Global Nazarene
Missions International in harmony with the Constitution.
The convention shall elect a global president, who shall be
a member ex-officio of the Global Council of the Global
Nazarene Missions International. (811)

U. National Boards
345. Upon the recommendation of the Board of General
Superintendents, a national board may be created when such
an entity is necessary to facilitate the mission and strategy of
the church in that nation. A national board shall have such
authority as shall be extended to it by the regional director
and Phase 3 District Advisory Board(s) of the nation, if any,
and in consultation with the general superintendent(s) in
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 187

jurisdiction for the region, and the districts of that nation,

to act on behalf of the church in fulfillment of the regional
strategy. It may, when deemed necessary by the regional
director, in consultation with the general superintendent in
jurisdiction for the region, be the registered lawful authority of
the Church of the Nazarene in that nation. When deemed no
longer necessary for mission fulfillment or legal requirement,
a national board may be dissolved by the Board of General
Superintendents.
The membership and structure of each national board
shall be in the manner approved by the Board of General
Superintendents.
A copy of the articles of organization or incorporation of such
board shall be filed immediately with the general secretary.
These articles shall be kept current by filing any changes with
the general secretary. Business transacted by the national board
in regard to facilitation of mission and strategy of the Church
shall be conducted in consultation with the regional director.
The minutes of the annual and special meetings of the national
board shall be examined by the Regional Advisory Council,
before they are submitted to the general secretary for review
and comment as appropriate by the General Board. (32.5)

V. The Region
346. Origin and Purpose. In the growth of the church
worldwide, there has developed a grouping of several organized
districts into geographical areas identified as regions. A cluster
of districts amenable to the general government of the Church
of the Nazarene and having a sense of area and cultural
identification may be formed into an administrative region
by action of the General Board and approval of the Board of
General Superintendents.
346.1. Regional Policy. In keeping with the non-
symmetrical approach to organization, the Board of General
Superintendents may, and in consultation with the Regional
Advisory Council, structure administrative regions according
to the particular needs, potential problems, existing realities
188 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

and diverse cultural and educational backgrounds in their

particular geographic areas of the world. In such situations,
the Board of General Superintendents shall establish a policy
that embraces non-negotiable commitments including the
Articles of Faith, faithful adherence to holiness doctrine and
lifestyle, and support of extensive missionary outreach efforts.
346.2. Duties. The principal duties of the regions are to:
1. Implement the mission of the Church of the Nazarene
through the pioneer areas, districts, and institutions;
2. Develop regional awareness, fellowship, and strategies
to fulfill the Great Commission, bringing district and
institutional representatives together periodically for
planning, prayer, and inspiration;
3. Nominate persons to the General Assembly and Global
Conventions for elections to the General Board;
4. In harmony with Manual provisions, to establish and
maintain schools and colleges or other institutions;
5. Be authorized to recruit and screen missionary candidates
from the region in accordance with policy (346.3);
6. Plan Regional Advisory Council meetings and conferences
for the region;
7. Facilitate National Boards as stipulated in paragraphs 345
and 346.3.
346.3. Regional Advisory Council (RAC). A region may
have a Regional Advisory Council whose responsibilities will
be to assist the regional director in strategy development for
the region, review and recommend approval or disapproval
of national board minutes before forwarding to the office of
the general secretary, interview missionary candidates for
recommendation to the General Board for global appointment,
and receive reports from the regional director, field strategy
coordinators, and ministry coordinators.
Membership of the RAC shall be flexible in order to
shape the RAC according to the needs, development and
requirements of the individual regions. The regional director
will recommend the number of members of the RAC to
the Global Missions director and general superintendent
GENERAL GOVERNMENT 189

in jurisdiction for approval. Ex-officio members will be the

general superintendent in jurisdiction of the region, Global
Missions director and regional director who will serve as
chairperson. Personnel accountable to Global Missions shall
not be candidates for election to the RAC but may serve as
resource persons. Members of the RAC will be elected by
ballot by the regional caucus at the General Assembly. The
RAC will fill any vacancy between General Assemblies.
The regional director, in consultation with the RAC, may
convene a regional conference or area evangelism conference.
(32.5)
346.4. The Regional Director. A region may have a
director elected by the Board of General Superintendents in
consultation with the Global Missions director, and ratified by
the General Board, to work in harmony with the policies and
practices of the Church of the Nazarene giving leadership to
districts, churches, and institutions of the region in fulfillment
of the mission, strategies, and program of the church.
Prior to the reelection of a regional director, a review shall
be conducted by the Global Missions director and general
superintendent in jurisdiction, in consultation with the
Regional Advisory Council. A positive review will constitute
an endorsement for recommendation for reelection.
Each regional director is to be administratively accountable
to Global Missions, and General Board, and in jurisdictional
matters, accountable to the Board of General Superintendents.
346.5. The Field Strategy Coordinator. When considered
necessary, the regional director could institute a field structure
in the region, and recommend to the Global Missions director
the appointment of field strategy coordinators according to
the Global Missions Operations Handbook. The field strategy
coordinator would be responsible to the regional director.
346.6. Regional Course of Study Advisory Committee. The
Regional Course of Study Advisory Committee (RCOSAC)
shall be composed of the regional education coordinator,
who may be ex-officio chairperson of the committee, plus
representatives selected in consultation with the regional
190 GENERAL GOVERNMENT

director. Members of the RCOSAC should represent all

parties interested in ministerial education (i.e., pastors,
administrators, educators, and laity) for the region.
346.7. Duties of the Regional Course of Study Advisory
Committee (RCOSAC). The principal duties of the RCOSAC
are to:
1. Develop a regional sourcebook for ministerial
development outlining the minimum educational
standards for ordination on the region. The regional
sourcebook must reflect minimum standards established
in the Manual and elaborated in the International
Sourcebook for Ministerial Development;
2. Develop validation procedures for the ministerial
educational programs of the region, verify that the
programs meet the RCOSAC and ICOSAC minimum
standards;
3. Collaborate with regional educational providers to
interpret standards in ministerial education programs;
4. Review ministerial education program submissions
for compliance with its regional sourcebook and the
International Sourcebook for Ministerial Development;
5. Endorse regional ministerial education programs to the
International Course of Study Advisory Committee for
adoption and approval.
 PART V

Higher Education

CHURCH AND COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY

GLOBAL NAZARENE EDUCATION CONSORTIUM

INTERNATIONAL BOARD OF EDUCATION

192 HIGHER EDUCATION

I. CHURCH AND COLLEGE/

UNIVERSITY
400. The Church of the Nazarene, from its inception, has
been committed to higher education. The church provides
the college/university with students, administrative and
faculty leadership, and financial and spiritual support. The
college/university educates the church’s youth and many of
the church’s adults, guides them toward spiritual maturity,
enriches the church, and sends out into the world thinking,
loving servants of Christ. The church college/university, while
not a local congregation, is an integral part of the church; it is
an expression of the church.
The Church of the Nazarene believes in the value and the
dignity of human life and the need for providing an environment
in which people can be redeemed and enriched spiritually,
intellectually, and physically, “made holy, useful to the Master
and prepared to do any good work” (2 Timothy 2:21). The
primary task and traditional expressions of local church
activity—evangelism, religious education, compassionate
ministries, and services of worship—exemplify the church’s
love for God and concern for people.
At the local church level, the Christian education of youth
and adults at various stages of human development intensifies
the effectiveness of the gospel. Congregations may incorporate
within their objectives and function childcare/school
educational programs at any or all levels, from birth through
secondary. At the general church level, the historic practice
of providing institutions for higher education or ministerial
preparation will be maintained. Wherever such institutions
are operated, they shall function within the philosophical
and theological framework of the Church of the Nazarene as
established by the General Assembly and expressed through
the Manual.
400.1. Educational Mission Statement. Education in the
Church of the Nazarene, rooted in the biblical and theological
commitments of the Wesleyan and holiness movements and
HIGHER EDUCATION 193

accountable to the stated mission of the denomination, aims

to guide those who look to it in accepting, in nurturing, and in
expressing in service to the church and world consistent and
coherent Christian understandings of social and individual life.
Additionally, such institutions of higher education will seek to
provide a curriculum, quality of instruction, and evidence of
scholastic achievement that will adequately prepare graduates
to function effectively in vocations and professions such
graduates may choose.
400.2. General Assembly authorization, upon the
recommendation of the International Board of Education, is
required to establish degree granting institutions.
Authorization for the development or change of status of
existing institutions may be granted by the General Board
upon recommendation of the International Board of Education.
No local church or combination of churches, or persons
representing a local church or group of churches, may
establish or sponsor a post-secondary level or ministerial
preparatory institution on behalf of the church, except upon
the recommendation of the International Board of Education.

II. GLOBAL NAZARENE

EDUCATION CONSORTIUM
401. There shall be a Global Nazarene Education Consortium
composed of the president, principal, rector, or director (or
his or her designated representative) of each International
Board of Education institution of the Church of the Nazarene,
regional education coordinators, Global Education and Clergy
Development Director, Global Missions director, and general
superintendent in jurisdiction for the International Board of
Education.

III. INTERNATIONAL BOARD

OF EDUCATION
402. The International Board of Education (hereinafter
“IBOE”) shall be the general church advocate for educational
194 HIGHER EDUCATION

institutions in the Church of the Nazarene and shall provide

guidance and oversight as described below.
This board shall be composed of 12 members: eight elected
by the General Board, plus these members ex-officio: the two
education representatives on the General Board, the Global
Missions director, and the Global Education and Clergy
Development director. A Nominating Committee composed
of the Global Education and Clergy Development director,
Global Missions director, two education representatives on the
General Board, and general superintendents in jurisdiction for
the IBOE and Global Missions shall present eight nominees
approved by the Board of General Superintendents to the
General Board for election.
In an effort to ensure broad representation throughout the
church, the Nominating Committee shall submit nominees as
follows: one regional education coordinator; three laypersons;
two assigned ordained ministers from Global Missions regions
where no person who is an education coordinator has been
nominated; two “at large” nominees. No Global Missions
region shall have more than one elected member on the IBOE
until each region has a representative.
Throughout the nominating and election process, attention
shall be given to the election of persons with cross-cultural
perspective and/or experience as educators.
The functions of the International Board of Education are
to:
402.1. Ensure that Nazarene institutions of higher education
(hereinafter “IBOE institutions”) are under legal control of
their respective governing boards whose constitutions and
bylaws shall conform to their respective charters or articles of
incorporation and that shall be in harmony with the guidelines
set by the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene and the IBOE.
402.2. Ensure that governing boards of IBOE institutions
shall: (1) be composed entirely of members (whether elected,
appointed or ex-officio) who are in full accord with the
Articles of Faith, the doctrine of entire sanctification, and the
covenants of the Church of the Nazarene as set forth in the
HIGHER EDUCATION 195

latest version of the Manual; (2) have no less than 75% who
are full and active members of the Church of the Nazarene
who are not under discipline; and (3) insofar as reasonably
possible, have an equal number of ministers and laity, unless
otherwise mandated by organizations or accreditation and/
or local government regulation or law. In the event an IBOE
institution is unable to comply with one or more of the above-
enumerated standards, the IBOE institution shall report that
inability to both its jurisdictional General Superintendent and
the Global Education and Clergy Development director.
Each IBOE institution is expected to conduct a thorough
orientation process of its new board members so that all
members are clear as to the Articles of Faith, the doctrine of
entire sanctification and the covenants of the Church of the
Nazarene, as well as the role and fiduciary obligations of a
board member.
402.3. Receive such funds as may be contributed for
educational purposes through gifts, bequests, and donations,
and shall annually recommend allocations from these funds
to each educational institution in accordance with policy
adopted by the General Board. Institutions shall not continue
to receive regular support unless their education standards,
plan of organization, and financial reports are filed with the
IBOE.
402.4. Receive and deal appropriately with a yearly report
from the Global Education and Clergy Development director
summarizing the following information from all IBOE
institutions: (1) annual statistical report, (2) annual audit
report, and (3) current annual fiscal budget.
402.5. Recommend and provide support and advocacy,
although its role is advisory to the institutions, to the Board of
General Superintendents and to the General Board.
402.6. Serve the church in matters pertaining to IBOE
institutions in order to strengthen the bonds between the
institutions and the church at large.
402.7. Submit its business and recommendations to the
appropriate committee of the General Board.
196 HIGHER EDUCATION

403. All institutional constitutions and bylaws must include

an article on dissolution and disposal of assets indicating that
the Church of the Nazarene shall receive such assets to be
used for educational services for the church.
 PART VI

Ministry and
Christian Service

CALL AND QUALIFICATIONS OF THE MINISTER

CATEGORIES OF MINISTRY

ROLES OF MINISTRY

EDUCATION OF CLERGY

CREDENTIALS AND MINISTERIAL REGULATIONS

198 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

I. CALL AND QUALIFICATIONS

OF THE MINISTER
NOTE: The Manual Editing Committee, in recognition of the validity of the
opening words of paragraph 500, has attempted to use language that reflects
this distinctive. However, due to the nature of this section of the Manual,
the terms “minister” or “the minister” will usually refer to a person holding
credentials, whether licensed, ordained, or commissioned.
500. The Church of the Nazarene recognizes all believers
are called to minister to all people.
We also affirm Christ calls some men and women to a
specific and public ministry even as He chose and ordained
His 12 apostles. When the church, illuminated by the Holy
Spirit, recognizes such a divine call, the church endorses and
assists the individual’s entry into a lifetime of ministry.
501. Theology of Women in Ministry. The Church of the
Nazarene supports the right of women to use their God-given
spiritual gifts within the church and affirms the historic right
of women to be elected and appointed to places of leadership
within the Church of the Nazarene, including the offices of
both elder and deacon.
The purpose of Christ’s redemptive work is to set God’s
creation free from the curse of the Fall. Those who are “in
Christ” are new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). In this
redemptive community, no human being is to be regarded as
inferior on the basis of social status, race, or gender (Galatians
3:26-28). Acknowledging the apparent paradox created by
Paul’s instruction to Timothy (1 Timothy 2:11-12) and to
the church in Corinth (1 Corinthians 14:33-34), we believe
interpreting these passages as limiting the role of women in
ministry presents serious conflicts with specific passages of
Scripture that commend female participation in spiritual
leadership roles (Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:17-18; 21:8-9; Romans
16:1, 3, 7; Philippians 4:2-3), and violates the spirit and practice
of the Wesleyan-holiness tradition. Finally, it is incompatible
with the character of God presented throughout Scripture,
especially as revealed in the person of Jesus Christ.
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 199

502. Theology of Ordination. While affirming the scriptural

tenet of the universal priesthood and ministry of all believers,
ordination reflects the biblical belief that God calls and
gifts certain men and women for ministerial leadership in
the church. Ordination is the authenticating, authorizing
act of the Church, which recognizes and confirms God’s
call to ministerial leadership as stewards and proclaimers of
the gospel and the Church of Jesus Christ. Consequently,
ordination bears witness to the Church universal and the
world at large that this candidate evidences an exemplary life
of holiness, possesses gifts and graces for public ministry, and
has a thirst for knowledge, especially for the Word of God, and
has the capacity to communicate sound doctrine.
(Acts 13:1-3; 20:28; Romans 1:1-2; 1 Timothy 4:11-16; 5:22; 2 Timothy 1:6-7)
502.1. The Church of the Nazarene depends largely upon
the spiritual qualifications, character, and manner of life of its
ministers. (530.17)
502.2. The minister of the gospel in the Church of the
Nazarene must have peace with God through our Lord Jesus
Christ, and be sanctified wholly by the baptism with or
infilling of the Holy Spirit. The minister must have a deep
love for unbelievers, believing they are perishing, and a call to
proclaim salvation.
502.3. The minister is to be an example to the church:
punctual, discreet, diligent, earnest, and in purity,
understanding, patience, kindness, love, and truth by the
power of God (2 Corinthians 6:6-7).
502.4. The minister must likewise have a deep sense of the
necessity of believers going on to perfection and developing
the Christian graces in practical living, that their “love may
abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight”
(Philippians 1:9). One who would minister in the Church of
the Nazarene must have a strong appreciation of both salvation
and Christian ethics.
502.5. The minister should respond to opportunities to
mentor future ministers and to nurture the call to ministry.
200 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

502.6. The minister must have gifts and graces for the
ministry. He or she will have a thirst for knowledge, especially
of the Word of God, and must have sound judgment, good
understanding, and clear views concerning salvation as
revealed in the Scriptures. Saints will be edified and sinners
converted through his or her ministry. Further, the minister of
the gospel in the Church of the Nazarene must be an example
in prayer.

II. CATEGORIES OF MINISTRY

A. Ministry of Laypersons
503. All Christians should consider themselves ministers
of Christ and seek to know the will of God concerning their
appropriate avenues of service. (500)
503.1. The Church of the Nazarene recognizes a ministry of
laypersons. It also recognizes that the layperson may serve the
church in various capacities (Ephesians 4:11–12). The church
recognizes the following roles of service in which a district
assembly may place a layperson: pastor, evangelist, missionary,
teacher, administrator, chaplain, and special service. Lay
training is normally required, or greatly desired, to fulfill these
categories. (605.3)
503.2. Lay Minister. Any member of the Church of the
Nazarene who feels called to serve as a church planter,
bivocational pastor, teacher, lay evangelist, lay song evangelist,
stewardship minister, church staff minister, and/or other
specialized ministry on behalf of the church, but who does not
at the present time feel a special call to become an ordained
minister, may pursue a validated course of study leading to a
certificate of lay ministry.
503.3. The local church board, upon the recommendation of
the pastor, shall initially examine and approve the lay minister
as to personal experience of salvation, effective involvement in
church ministries, and knowledge of the work of the church.
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 201

503.4. The local church board may issue to each lay minister
candidate a certificate signed by the pastor and the secretary
of the church board.
503.5. The certificate of the lay minister may be renewed
annually by the church board upon the recommendation
of the pastor, if the lay minister has completed at least two
subjects in the lay ministry educational program as outlined
by the Continuing Lay Training. The lay minister shall report
annually to the church board.
503.6. For a lay minister serving under district assignment as
church planter, supply pastor, bivocational pastor, and/or other
specialized ministry, upon completion of a validated course of
study, a certificate of lay ministry may be issued by the District
Advisory Board, signed by the district superintendent and
the secretary of the District Advisory Board. The certificate
of lay ministry may be renewed annually by the District
Advisory Board upon the recommendation of the district
superintendent.
503.7. The lay minister serving outside the local church
where he or she is a member shall be subject to the appointment
and supervision of the district superintendent and the District
Advisory Board, and shall report annually to them. When
district assignment shall cease, reference shall be made back to
the local church in which the lay minister holds membership
for renewal and reporting.
503.8. After completion of a lay ministry validated
course of study, a lay minister shall proceed in a specialized
concentration of study according to his or her chosen ministry
through the Continuing Lay Training office.
503.9. A lay minister shall not be eligible to administer the
sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and shall not
officiate at marriages.

B. Ministry of the Clergy

504. The Church of the Nazarene recognizes only one order
of the preaching ministry, that of elder. It also recognizes that
the member of the clergy may serve the church in various
202 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

capacities (Ephesians 4:11-12). The church recognizes the

following categories of service in which a district assembly
may place an elder, deacon, or as circumstances warrant, a
licensed minister: pastor, evangelist, missionary, teacher,
administrator, chaplain, and special service. Ministerial
training and ordination are normally required, or greatly
desired, to fulfill these categories as an “assigned minister.”
The Regional Sourcebook for Ministerial Development shall
provide guidelines for each category of ministry that will
aid district boards in identifying the qualifications necessary
for consideration to be an assigned minister. Only assigned
ministers shall be voting members of the district assembly.
504.1. All persons assigned to a particular role shall file a
report annually to the assigning district assembly.
504.2. All persons assigned to a particular role may request
and obtain annually from the assigning district a certificate of
their role of service, signed by the district superintendent and
the district secretary.
504.3. All persons assigned to a particular role of ministry,
when placed on disability by approved medical authority, may
be listed as “assigned disabled.”

III. ROLES OF MINISTRY

505. The roles of ministry are as follows:
506. Administrator. The administrator is an elder or a
deacon either elected by the General Assembly as a general
official; or a member of the clergy elected or employed to serve
in the general church. An administrator may also be an elder
elected by the district assembly as district superintendent;
or a member of the clergy elected or employed as his or her
primary assignment in the service of a district. Such person is
an assigned minister.
507. Chaplain. The chaplain is an ordained minister who feels
divinely led to specialized ministry in military, institutional,
or industrial chaplaincy. All ministers seeking to serve in
chaplaincy must be approved by their district superintendent.
An ordained minister serving in chaplaincy as his or her
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 203

primary assignment shall be an assigned minister, and shall

report annually to the district assembly and give due regard to
the advice and counsel of the district superintendent and the
District Advisory Board. The chaplain may receive fellowship
members into the Church of the Nazarene in consultation with
an officially organized Church of the Nazarene, administer
the sacraments in harmony with the Manual, give pastoral
care, comfort the sorrowing, reprove and encourage and seek
by all means the conversion of sinners, the sanctification of
believers, and the upbuilding of the people of God in the most
holy faith. (128, 530.9, 530.13)
508. Deaconess. A woman who was in the years preceding
1985 licensed or consecrated as a deaconess shall continue in
such standing. (115.9, 139.15, 503.2-503.9)
509. Educator. The educator is an elder, deacon, or licensed
minister employed to serve on the administrative staff or
faculty of one of the IBOE institutions of the Church of the
Nazarene. The district shall designate such a person as an
educator for their ministry assignment. (400.2, 905)
510. Evangelist. The elder or licensed minister who is
an evangelist is one devoted to traveling and preaching the
gospel, and who is authorized by the church to promote
revivals and to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ abroad in the
land. The Church of the Nazarene recognizes three levels of
itinerant evangelism to which a district assembly may assign
ministers: registered evangelist, commissioned evangelist,
and tenured evangelist. An evangelist who dedicates time to
evangelism outside his or her local church as his or her primary
assignment, and who does not sustain a retired relationship
with the church or any of its departments or institutions, shall
be an assigned minister.
510.1. A registered evangelist is an elder, or a district licensed
minister, who has indicated a desire to pursue evangelism as
his or her primary ministry. Such registration shall be for
one year. Renewal by subsequent district assemblies shall be
granted on both the quality and quantity of work in evangelism
in the year prior to the assembly.
204 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

510.2. A commissioned evangelist is an elder who has met all

the requirements of a registered evangelist for two complete
years. The commission is for one year and may be renewed by
subsequent district assemblies for one who continues to meet
the requirements.
510.3. A tenured evangelist is an elder who has met all the
requirements of a commissioned evangelist for four complete
and consecutive years immediately prior to application for
tenured evangelist status, and has been recommended by
the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry and approved by the Committee on the Interests
of the God-Called Evangelist and the Board of General
Superintendents. This role designation shall continue until
such time as the evangelist no longer meets the requirements
of a commissioned evangelist, or until he or she is granted
retired status. (231.2, 528)
510.4. A regular self-assessment and review similar to the
church/pastoral relationship review shall be conducted by
the evangelist and district superintendent together at least
every four years after the election to the tenured role. The
district superintendent shall be responsible for scheduling
and conducting the meeting. This meeting shall be scheduled
in consultation with the evangelist. Upon completion of
the review, a report of the results shall be forwarded to the
Committee on the Interests of the God-Called Evangelist to
evaluate qualification requirements for continued approval.
(211.21)
510.5. An elder or licensed minister who sustains a retired
relationship with the church or any of its departments, and
who wishes to perform a ministerial function through revivals
or evangelistic meetings, may receive certification for “retired
evangelism service.” Such certification shall be for one year,
shall be voted by the district assembly upon recommendation
by the district superintendent, and may be renewed by
subsequent district assemblies on the basis of actual work in
evangelism in the year prior to the assembly.
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 205

510.6. An elder or licensed minister desiring to enter the

field of evangelism between district assemblies may be
recognized by the general office of Global Education and
Clergy Development upon recommendation of the district
superintendent. The registration or commission shall be voted
by the district assembly upon recommendation by the district
superintendent.
510.7. Guidelines and procedures for certification of
evangelists’ roles will be contained in the Regional Sourcebook
for Ministerial Development.
511. Minister of Christian Education. A member of the
clergy employed in a ministerial capacity in a Christian
education program of a local church may be assigned as a
minister of Christian education.
511.1. A person who was, in the years preceding 1985, licensed
or commissioned as a minister of Christian education, shall
continue in good standing. However, those persons desiring to
begin the pursuit of the role of minister of Christian education
may complete the requirements for ordination to the order of
deacon as their credential for this ministry.
512. Minister of Music. A member of the Church of the
Nazarene who feels called to the ministry of music may be
commissioned as a minister of music for one year by the
district assembly, provided such person:
1. has been recommended for such work by the church
board of the local church in which membership is held;
2. gives evidence of grace, gifts, and usefulness;
3. has had at least one year of experience in music ministry;
4. has had not fewer than one year of vocal study under an
accredited teacher and is pursuing a validated course of
study or its equivalent prescribed for ministers of music
or has completed the same;
5. is regularly engaged as a minister of music; and
6. has been carefully examined, under the direction of
the district assembly of the assembly district within
the bounds of which the person holds his or her church
206 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

membership, regarding his or her intellectual and spiritual

qualifications, and general fitness for such work. (205.11)
512.1. Only such persons who maintain this ministry as
their primary assignment and vocation and have ministerial
credentials shall be considered assigned ministers.
513. Missionary. The missionary is a member of the clergy
or a layperson who ministers under the supervision of Global
Missions. A missionary with an appointment and having a
ministerial credential shall be considered an assigned minister.
514. Pastor. A pastor is an ordained elder or licensed minister
(elder track) who, under the call of God and His people, has
the oversight of a local church. A pastor of a local church is an
assigned minister. For duties of a pastor, see paragraphs 124-
125.15. (117, 124-131, 213, 525.4)
515. Pastoral Service is the ministry of a pastor in an associate
role who may serve in specialized areas of ministry recognized
and approved by the appropriate governing, licensing and
endorsing agencies. A member of the clergy called to any of
these levels of pastoral service in connection with a church
may be considered an assigned minister.
516. Supply Pastor. A district superintendent shall have the
power to appoint a supply pastor, who shall serve subject to
the following regulations:
1. A supply pastor may be a Nazarene member of the clergy
serving in some other assignment, a local minister or a
lay minister of the Church of the Nazarene, a minister
in process of transfer from another denomination, or a
minister who belongs to another denomination.
2. A supply pastor shall be appointed temporarily to fill
the pulpit and to provide a spiritual ministry, but shall
not have authority to administer the sacraments or to
perform marriages unless that authority adheres to him
or her on some other basis, and he or she shall not perform
the administrative function of the pastor except in the
filing of reports, unless authorized to do so by the district
superintendent.
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 207

3. A supply pastor’s church membership shall not be

automatically transferred to the church where he or she
is serving.
4. A supply pastor shall be a nonvoting member of the
district assembly unless he or she is a voting member by
some other right.
5. A supply pastor may be removed or replaced at any time
by the district superintendent.
517. Parent-Affiliated Congregation (PAC) Pastor. An
elder or district licensed minister leading a Parent-Affiliated
Congregation shall be an assigned minister and may be
designated by the district as a “PAC pastor.” (100.3)
518. Interim Pastor. An elder may be approved by the
district assembly as district interim assigned (DIA) by the
recommendation of the district superintendent and the
District Advisory Board, and will serve when called upon by
the district superintendent and a local church board. (212.1)
519. Song Evangelist. A song evangelist is a member of the
Church of the Nazarene whose intention is to devote the
major portion of his or her time to the ministry of evangelism
through music. A song evangelist who has a ministerial
credential, and who is involved in active ministry, and who has
evangelism as his or her primary assignment, and who does
not sustain a retired relationship with the church or any of
its departments or institutions, shall be an assigned minister.
519.1. Guidelines and procedures for certification of song
evangelists’ roles are contained in the Regional Sourcebook for
Ministerial Development.
520. Special Service. A member of the clergy in active
service not otherwise provided for shall be appointed to
special service, if such service is approved by the district
assembly, and shall be listed by the district as an assigned
minister. Persons designated special service are required to
maintain relationship with the Church of the Nazarene and
will submit annually in writing to the District Advisory Board
and District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
208 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

of Ministry, the nature of their ongoing connection with the

Church of the Nazarene.
520.1. A member of the clergy employed in a ministerial
capacity as an officer in a church-related organization serving
the church, or approved upon careful evaluation of his or
her District Advisory Board and district assembly to serve
with an educational institution, evangelistic, or missionary
organization not directly related to the church, may be
appointed to special service subject to paragraph 530.13.
520.2. A member of the clergy between assignments for a
short period of time or on leave of absence may be appointed
to special service by the District Advisory Board, upon
recommendation by the district superintendent.

IV. EDUCATION OF CLERGY

A. Educational Foundations for Ordained Ministry
521. Ministerial education is designed to assist in the
preparation of God-called ministers whose service is vital to
the expansion and extension of the holiness message into new
areas of evangelistic opportunity. We recognize the importance
of a clear understanding of our mission “to make Christlike
disciples in the nations” based on Christ’s commission to His
Church in Matthew 28:19-20. Much of the preparation is
primarily theological and biblical in character, leading toward
ordination in the ministry of the Church of the Nazarene.
521.1. The Church of the Nazarene has established a variety
of educational institutions and programs around the world
to provide the educational foundations for ministry. The
resources of some global areas allow for development of more
than one program. Each student is to take advantage of the
most appropriate validated course of study provided by the
Church in his or her area of the world. When not possible,
the Church will utilize as much flexibility as feasible to
prepare every person called by God to ministry in the Church
subject to provisions of the Regional Sourcebook for Ministerial
Development. (522.2)
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 209

521.2. When a licensed minister satisfactorily completes a

validated course of study, the education provider shall issue
a certificate of completion to the licensed minister. The
licensed minister shall present the certificate of completion
to the District Ministerial Studies Board or Board of Ministry.
(233.4)
521.3. General Curriculum Areas for Ministerial
Preparation. Though curriculum is often thought of only as
academic programs and course content the concept is much
larger. The character of the instructor, the relationship of
the students and instructor, the environment, and students’
past experiences join with the course content to create the
full curriculum. Nevertheless, a curriculum for ministerial
preparation will include a minimal set of courses that provide
educational foundations for ministry. Cultural differences
and a variety of resources will require differing details in
curriculum structures. However, all programs providing
educational foundations for the ordained ministry that seek
approval by Global Education and Clergy Development
should give careful attention to content, competency,
character, and context. The purpose of a validated course of
study is to contain courses that include all four elements in
varying degrees and that will help ministers fulfill the mission
statement of the Church of the Nazarene as agreed upon by
the Board of General Superintendents as follows:
The mission of the Church of the Nazarene is “to make
Christlike disciples in the nations.”
The primary objective of the Church of the Nazarene is to
advance God’s Kingdom by the preservation and propagation
of Christian holiness as set forth in the Scriptures.
The critical objectives of the Church of the Nazarene are
“holy Christian fellowship, the conversion of sinners, the entire
sanctification of believers, their upbuilding in holiness, and
the simplicity and spiritual power manifest in the primitive
New Testament Church, together with the preaching of the
gospel to every creature”. (Foreword, Preamble to the Church
Constitution, 19)
210 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

A validated course of study is described in the following

categories:
• Content—Knowledge of the content of the Old and New
Testaments, the theology of the Christian faith, and the
history and mission of the Church is essential for ministry.
Knowledge of how to interpret Scripture, the doctrine of
holiness and our Wesleyan distinctives, and the history and
polity of the Church of the Nazarene must be included in
these courses.
• Competency—Skills in oral and written communication;
management and leadership; finance; and analytical
thinking are also essential for ministry. In addition to
general education in these areas courses providing skills in
preaching, pastoral care and counseling, biblical exegesis,
worship, effective evangelism, biblical stewardship of life
resources, Christian education, and Church administration
must be included. Graduation from a validated course of
study requires the partnering of the educational provider
and a local church to direct students in ministerial
practices and competency development.
• Character—Personal growth in character, ethics,
spirituality, and personal and family relationship is vital
for the ministry. Courses addressing the areas of Christian
ethics, spiritual formation, human development, the
person of the minister, and marriage and family dynamics
must be included.
• Context—The minister must understand both the
historical and contemporary context and must interpret
the worldview and social environment of the culture
where the Church witnesses. Courses that address the
concerns of anthropology and sociology, cross-cultural
communication, missions, and social studies must be
included.
521.4. Preparation for the ordained ministry pursued in
non-Nazarene schools or under non-Nazarene auspices shall
be evaluated by the District Ministerial Studies Board in
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 211

conformity with the curricular requirements stated in the

Regional Sourcebook for Ministerial Development.
521.5. All courses, academic requirements, and official
administrative regulations shall be in a regional sourcebook
developed by the region/language group in cooperation with
Global Education and Clergy Development. This regional
sourcebook with necessary revisions shall be endorsed by
the International Course of Study Advisory Committee and
approved by Global Education and Clergy Development, the
General Board, and the Board of General Superintendents. The
regional sourcebook shall be in compliance with the Manual and
with the International Sourcebook for Ministerial Development,
produced by Global Education and Clergy Development with
the International Course of Study Advisory Committee. The
International Course of Study Advisory Committee shall be
appointed by the Board of General Superintendents. (346.7)
521.6. Once a minister has fulfilled the requirements of a
validated course of study for ministry, he or she will continue
a pattern of lifelong learning to enhance the ministry to
which God has called him or her. A minimum expectation
is 20 hours of lifelong learning each year or the equivalent
determined by the region/language group and stated in its
Regional Sourcebook for Ministerial Development. All assigned
and unassigned licensed and ordained ministers shall report
on their progress in a program of lifelong learning as part of
their report to the district assembly. An up-to-date report
on his or her lifelong learning program will be used in the
church/pastoral relationship review process and in the process
of calling a pastor. The regional sourcebook for the region/
language group will contain the details of the accrediting and
reporting process. (233.6)
521.7. Failure to complete the lifelong learning requirements
for more than two consecutive years shall result in the
ordained minister being required to meet with the District
Ministerial Studies Board at its regular meeting time. The
District Ministerial Studies Board shall give guidance to the
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minister in completing the lifelong learning required. (117,

133, 124.11, 530.18)

B. Cultural Adaptations of Educational

Foundations for Ordained Ministry
522. The variety of cultural contexts around the world makes
one curriculum unsuited for all global areas. Each region of
the world will develop specific curricular requirements,
providing the educational foundations for ministry in a way
that reflects the resources and the expectations of that global
area. Approval of the International Course of Study Advisory
Committee, the General Board, and the Board of General
Superintendents will be required before implementing a
regionally designed program. Even within global regions there
are varieties of cultural expectations and resources. As a result,
cultural sensitivity and flexibility will characterize regional
provisions for the educational foundations for ministry, which
shall be directed and supervised by the District Ministerial
Studies Board as described in paragraphs 233-234.1. Cultural
adaptations of each region’s program for providing educational
foundations for ministry will be approved by Global Education
and Clergy Development and the International Course of
Study Advisory Committee in consultation with the regional
educational coordinator. (521.5)
522.1. A validated course of study, together with the
necessary procedures concerning completion for those seeking
a credential as elder and deacon or certification in categories
and roles of ministry, are to be found in the Regional Sourcebook
for Ministerial Development.
522.2. All validated courses of study will be governed by the
Regional Sourcebook for Ministerial Development. (521.2-521.3,
521.5)
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 213

V. CREDENTIALS AND MINISTERIAL

REGULATIONS
A. The Local Minister
523. A local minister is a lay member of the Church of
the Nazarene whom the local church board has licensed for
ministry, under the pastor’s direction, and as opportunity
affords, thus providing for the demonstration, employment,
and development of ministerial gifts and usefulness. He or she
is entering into a process of lifelong learning.
523.1. Any member of the Church of the Nazarene who feels
called of God to preach or to pursue lifetime ministry through
the church may be licensed as a local minister for one year by
the church board of a local church having an ordained minister
as pastor, upon the pastor’s recommendation; or by the church
board of a local church not having an ordained minister as
pastor, if the granting of license is recommended by the pastor
and approved by the district superintendent. The candidate
must first be examined as to his or her personal experience
of salvation, knowledge of the doctrines of the Bible, and the
order of the church; he or she must also demonstrate that the
call is evidenced by grace, gifts, and usefulness. He or she shall
undergo an appropriate background check administered by the
local church. A local minister shall make a report to the local
church at its annual church meetings. (115.9, 139.12, 211.12)
523.2. The church board shall issue to each local minister
a license signed by the pastor and the secretary of the church
board. Where a church is supplied by a person who does
not have a district license, that person may be issued a local
minister’s license, or the renewal of license, by the District
Advisory Board upon the recommendation of the district
superintendent. (211.12, 225.13)
523.3. The license of a local minister may be renewed
by a local church board having an elder as pastor, upon the
recommendation of the pastor; or renewed by a local church
board not having an elder as pastor, provided that the renewal
214 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

of license is recommended by the pastor and approved by the

district superintendent. (139.12, 211.12)
523.4. Local ministers shall pursue a validated course
of study for ministers under the direction of the District
Ministerial Studies Board. A local license cannot be renewed
after two years without the written approval of the district
superintendent if the local minister has not completed at least
two courses in the required studies in a validated course of
study.
523.5. A local minister, having served with a local license for
at least one full year, and having passed the necessary studies,
may be recommended by the church board to the district
assembly for minister’s license; but, if not received, he or she
shall sustain his or her former relation. (139.12, 521, 524.1)
523.6. A local minister who has been appointed as supply
pastor must be approved by the District Ministerial Credentials
Board or District Board of Ministry if he or she continues this
service after the district assembly following the appointment.
(212, 231.5, 516)
523.7. A local minister shall not be eligible to administer the
sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and shall not
officiate at marriages. (524.7)

B. The Licensed Minister

524. A licensed minister is one whose ministerial calling and
gifts have been formally recognized by the district assembly
through the granting of a ministerial license. The district
license authorizes and appoints the minister to a larger sphere
of service and to greater rights and responsibilities than those
pertaining to a local minister, normally as a step toward
ordination as an elder or a deacon. The district ministerial
license shall include a statement indicating whether the
minister is preparing for ordination as an elder or a deacon or
a district license not leading to ordination. (524.7)
524.1. When members of the Church of the Nazarene
acknowledge a call to a lifetime of ministry, they may be
licensed as ministers by the district assembly provided they:
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 215

1. have held a local minister’s license for one full year;

2. have completed one-fourth of a validated course of
study for ministers, and can demonstrate appreciation,
comprehension, and application of the Manual and history
of the Church of the Nazarene, and of the doctrine of
holiness, by successfully completing the related portions
of a validated course of study;
3. have been recommended for such work by the church
board of the local church of which they are members, to
which recommendation shall be attached the Application
for a District Minister’s License carefully filled in;
4. have given evidence of grace, gifts, and usefulness;
5. have been carefully examined, under the direction of
the district assembly of the district within the bounds
of which they hold their church membership, regarding
their spiritual, intellectual, and other fitness for such
work, including appropriate background checks as
determined by the District Advisory Board;
6. have promised to pursue immediately a validated course
of study prescribed for licensed ministers and candidates
for ordination;
7. have had any disqualification, which may have been
imposed by a district assembly, removed by an explanation
in writing by the district superintendent and the District
Advisory Board of the district where the disqualification
was imposed; and provided further that their marriage
relationship does not render them ineligible for a district
license; and
8. in case of a previous divorce, the recommendation of the
District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry along with supporting documents will be
given to the Board of General Superintendents, which
may remove this as a barrier to pursuing a license.
The minister must have completed the equivalent of one-
fourth of a validated course of study in the Church of the
Nazarene. Exceptions to this requirement may be made by
the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
216 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

of Ministry provided the candidate is pastoring an organized

church and is registered in a system of approved studies, and
provided the candidate annually fulfills the minimum amount of
studies required by the Manual for the renewal of a license, and
provided the district superintendent approves the exception.
In the case where a background check reveals criminal
misconduct prior to one’s salvation, this fact should not be
interpreted by the District Ministerial Credentials Board
or District Board of Ministry as automatically excluding
the applicant from credentialed ministry, except under the
provisions of paragraph 532.9. (139.14, 207.4, 523.5)
524.2. Licensed ministers from other denominations,
desiring to unite with the Church of the Nazarene, may be
licensed as ministers by the district assembly, provided they
present the credentials issued to them by the denomination
in which they formerly held their membership; and further
provided that they:
1. have passed a course of study equivalent to one-fourth of
a validated course of study in the Church of the Nazarene
for local ministers and can demonstrate appreciation,
comprehension, and application of the Manual and history
of the Church of the Nazarene, and of the doctrine of
holiness, by successfully completing the related portions
of a validated course of study;
2. have been recommended by the church board of the local
Church of the Nazarene of which they are members;
3. have given evidence of grace, gifts, and usefulness;
4. have been carefully examined under the direction of the
district assembly regarding their spiritual, intellectual,
and other fitness for such work;
5. have promised to pursue immediately a validated course
of study prescribed for licensed ministers and candidates
for ordination;
6. have had any disqualification, which may have been
imposed by a district assembly or its equivalent, removed
by an explanation in writing by the district superintendent
or his or her equivalent and the District Advisory Board
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 217

or its equivalent of the district where the disqualification

was imposed; and provided further that their marriage
relationship does not render them ineligible for a district
license; and
7. in case of a previous divorce, the recommendation of the
District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry along with supporting documents will be
given to the Board of General Superintendents, which
may remove this as a barrier to pursuing a license. (524.1)
524.3. A minister’s license shall terminate with the close of
the next district assembly. It may be renewed by vote of the
district assembly, provided that the candidate:
1. shall file with the district assembly the Application for a
District Minister’s License; and
2. shall have completed with a passing mark at least two
courses in a validated course of study; and
3. has been recommended for the renewal of license by the
church board of the local church of which he or she is a
member, upon the nomination of the pastor.
A District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry may recommend renewal of a district license
when a candidate has not achieved a passing mark in a
course belonging to a validated course of study only upon its
approval of the candidate’s written explanation, subject to any
applicable provisions of the Regional Sourcebook for Ministerial
Development. The district assembly may, for cause and at its
discretion, vote against the recommendation of renewal of a
minister’s license.
Licensed ministers who have graduated from a validated
course of study and have been placed in retired relation by
the district assembly shall, with the recommendation of the
District Advisory Board, have their license renewed without
the filing of an Application for a District Minister’s License.
(205.5)
524.4. To qualify for ordination, candidates must achieve
graduation from a validated course of study within 10 years
from the granting of the first district license. Any exception,
218 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

due to unusual circumstances, may be granted by the District

Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry,
subject to the approval of the general superintendent in
jurisdiction.
A licensed minister who is not pursuing ordination or who is
disqualified from ordination for failure to complete a validated
course of study within the prescribed time limit may be
granted renewal of minister’s license upon recommendation
of the District Advisory Board and the District Ministerial
Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry. Such
recommendation shall be contingent upon the minister
having graduated from a validated course of study or having
completed at least two courses in a validated course of study
during the past year.
524.5. In the case of licensed ministers who are serving as
pastors, the recommendation for the renewal of minister’s
license shall be made by the District Advisory Board. In
the case of local ministers who are serving as pastors, the
recommendation for the granting of minister’s license shall be
made by the District Advisory Board. (225.13)
524.6. The general superintendent having jurisdiction shall
issue to each licensed minister a minister’s license, bearing
the signature of the general superintendent in jurisdiction, the
district superintendent, and the district secretary.
524.7. Licensed ministers shall be vested with authority
to preach the Word and/or to use their gifts and graces in
various ministries to the Body of Christ. In addition, provided
they serve in an assigned ministry recognized by the district
on which they hold their ministerial membership, licensed
ministers shall also be vested with authority to administer
the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper in their own
congregations, and to officiate at marriages where the laws of
the state do not prohibit. (124, 124.4, 511-512, 515, 524.8,
525-525.2, 526-526.2, 700, 701, 705)
524.8. All licensed ministers shall hold their ministerial
membership in the district assembly of the district wherein
their church membership is held, and shall report to this
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 219

body annually. Reports may be submitted on the appropriate

annual report form or the Application for a District Minister’s
License if renewing. (130, 201, 205.4)
524.9. If a licensed minister unites with a church or
denomination other than the Church of the Nazarene or
engages in other Christian ministry without the approval of his
or her District Advisory Board or without the written approval
of the Board of General Superintendents, he or she shall be
released immediately from the ministry and membership
of the Church of the Nazarene. In its minutes, the district
assembly will record the following statement: “Released from
the membership and ministry of the Church of the Nazarene
by uniting with another church, denomination, or ministry.”
(109, 114)

C. The Deacon
525. A deacon is a minister whose call of God to Christian
ministry, gifts, and usefulness have been demonstrated and
enhanced by proper training and experience, who has been
separated to the service of Christ by a vote of a district assembly
and by the solemn act of ordination, and who has been invested
to perform certain functions of Christian ministry.
525.1. The deacon does not witness to a specific call to
preach. The church recognizes, on the basis of Scripture and
experience, that God calls individuals to lifetime ministry
who do not witness to such a specific call, and believes that
individuals so called to such ministries should be recognized
and confirmed by the church and should meet requirements,
and be granted responsibilities, established by the church.
This is a permanent order of ministry.
525.2. The deacon must meet the requirements of the order
for education, exhibit the appropriate gifts and graces, and be
recognized and confirmed by the church. The deacon shall
be vested with the authority to administer the sacraments of
baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and to officiate at marriages
where the laws of the state do not prohibit, and on occasion to
conduct worship and to preach. It is understood that the Lord
220 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

and the church may use this person’s gifts and graces in various
associate ministries. As a symbol of the servant ministry of the
Body of Christ, the deacon may also use his or her gifts in roles
outside the institutional church. (124.4, 124.9)
525.3. A deacon candidate professes a call of God to this
ministry. The candidate currently holds a district license,
and has at one time held a license for not fewer than three
consecutive years. In addition, the candidate has been
recommended for renewal of district license by the church
board of the local church in which he or she holds membership
or by the District Advisory Board. Further, the candidate has:
1. fulfilled all the requirements of the church for the same,
2. successfully completed a validated course of study
prescribed for licensed ministers and candidates for
ordination as deacon, and
3. been carefully considered and favorably reported by the
District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry to the district assembly.
The candidate may be elected to the order of deacon by
two-thirds vote of the district assembly provided he or she is
currently an assigned minister and has served as an assigned
minister not fewer than three years. The three years of assigned
ministry must accrue without any lapse in assignment lasting
longer than the total number of months of assigned ministry
accumulated prior to the lapse. The three years must also accrue
without any lapse in district licensing. In the case of part-time
assignment, it should be understood that there should be an
extension of the years of assigned ministry, depending on their
level of involvement in local church ministry, and that their
testimony and service demonstrate that their call to ministry
is primary to all other pursuits. Further, any disqualification
that may have been imposed by a district assembly has been
removed in writing by the district superintendent and District
Advisory Board of said district; and provided further that
his or her marriage relationship does not render him or her
ineligible for ordination. (205.7, 320, 521)
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 221

525.4. If in the pursuance of his or her ministry, the ordained

deacon feels called to the preaching ministry, he or she may be
ordained elder upon completion of the requirements for that
credential and the return of the deacon credential.

D. The Elder
526. An elder is a minister whose call of God to preach,
gifts, and usefulness have been demonstrated and enhanced by
proper training and experience, and who has been separated
to the service of Christ through His church by the vote of
a district assembly and by the solemn act of ordination, and
thus has been fully invested to perform all functions of the
Christian ministry.
526.1. We recognize but one order of preaching ministry—
that of elder. This is a permanent order in the church. The
elder is to lead well in the church, to preach the Word, to
administer the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper,
and to solemnize matrimony, all in the name of, and in
subjection to, Jesus Christ, the great Head of the Church. (31,
124.2, 124.4, 124.9)
526.2. The church expects that one called to this official
ministry should be a steward of the Word and give full energy
through a lifetime to its proclamation.
526.3. An elder candidate professes a call of God to this
ministry. The candidate currently holds a district license,
and has at one time held a license for not fewer than three
consecutive years. In addition, the candidate has been
recommended for renewal of district license by the church
board of the local church in which he or she holds membership
or by the District Advisory Board. Further, the candidate has:
1. fulfilled all the requirements of the church for the same,
2. successfully completed a validated course of study
prescribed for licensed ministers and candidates for
ordination as elder, and
3. been carefully considered and favorably reported by the
District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry of the district assembly.
222 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

The candidate may be elected to the order of elder by

two-thirds vote of the district assembly provided he or
she is currently an assigned minister and has served as an
assigned minister for not fewer than three years. The three
years of assigned ministry must accrue without any lapse in
assignment lasting longer than the total number of months
of assigned ministry accumulated prior to the lapse. The
three years must also accrue without any lapse in district
licensing. In the case of part-time assignment, it should be
understood that there should be an extension of the years of
assigned ministry, depending on their level of involvement in
local church ministry, and that their testimony and service
demonstrate that their call to ministry is primary to all other
pursuits. Further, any disqualification that may have been
imposed by a district assembly must be removed in writing by
the district superintendent and the District Advisory Board of
the district where the disqualification was imposed before the
minister is eligible for election to elder’s orders. In addition,
the candidate’s marriage relationship must be such as not to
render him or her ineligible for ordination. (205.7, 320, 521)

E. The Recognition of Credentials

527. Ordained ministers from other denominations, desiring
to unite with the Church of the Nazarene and presenting their
ordination papers, may have their ordination recognized by
the district assembly, after satisfactory examination by the
District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of
Ministry as to their conduct, personal experience and doctrine,
provided that:
1. they demonstrate appreciation, comprehension and
application of the Manual and history of the Church of the
Nazarene and of the doctrine of holiness by successfully
completing the related portions of a validated course of
study;
2. they file with the district assembly the Ordination/
Recognition Questionnaire, carefully filled in; and
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 223

3. they meet all requirements for ordination as outlined in

paragraphs 525-525.3 or 526-526.3; and
4. provided further that the candidate must currently be
serving in a ministry assignment. (205.8, 228, 521, 524.2)
527.1. The general superintendent having jurisdiction shall
issue to the ordained minister a recognition of ordination
certificate, bearing the signature of the general superintendent
in jurisdiction, the district superintendent, and the district
secretary. (530.6)
527.2. When the credential of a minister from another
church has been recognized, the credential issued by said
church shall be returned to him or her inscribed in writing or
stamped on the reverse side of the credential as follows:
Accredited by the ________________ District Assembly of
the Church of the Nazarene this day of __________________,
__________, (year) as the basis of the new credentials.
______________________, General Superintendent
______________________, District Superintendent
______________________, District Secretary

F. The Retired Minister

528. A retired minister is one who has been placed in the
retired relation by the district assembly in which he or she
holds ministerial membership, upon recommendation by
the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry. Any change in status must be approved by the
district assembly, upon recommendation by the District
Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry.
528.1. Retirement shall not compel cessation from
ministerial labors or in itself deprive of membership in the
district assembly. A minister who was serving in an “assigned”
role at the time of requesting retired relation or at the age
for normal retirement may be placed in a “retired assigned”
relation. A “retired assigned” minister is a member of the
district assembly. However, a minister in an “unassigned”
status in either of the above situations will be placed in a
224 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

“retired unassigned” relation. A “retired unassigned” minister

is not a member of the district assembly. (201, 530.9)
528.2. Retired ministers (assigned or unassigned) remain
obligated to report annually to the district assembly. In the
case of retired ministers who are unable to report due to
limitations beyond their control, the district assembly may,
upon recommendation of the District Ministerial Credentials
Board or District Board of Ministry, grant “exempt” status to
such a minister, thus perpetually fulfilling the obligation of
annual reporting. (530.9)

G. The Transfer of Ministers

529. When a member of the clergy desires to transfer to
another district, transfer of ministerial membership may
be issued by vote of the district assembly, or by the District
Advisory Board in the interim of assemblies, in which his
or her ministerial membership is held. Such transfer may
be received by the District Advisory Board in the interim
before the district assembly meets, granting to said minister
full rights and privileges of membership on the district on
which it is received, subject to final approval of the Ministerial
Credentials Board and the district assembly. (205.9-205.10,
226, 231.9-231.10)
529.1. The transfer of a licensed minister shall be valid only
when a detailed record of the licensee’s grades in a validated
course of study for licensed ministers, properly certified by
the secretary of the District Ministerial Studies Board of the
issuing district assembly, has been sent to the secretary of the
District Ministerial Studies Board of the receiving district.
The secretary of the District Ministerial Studies Board of the
receiving district shall notify his or her district secretary that
the licensee’s record of grades has been received. The minister
being transferred shall actively pursue the matter of the
reporting of his or her grades in a validated course of study to
the receiving district. (233.1-233.2)
529.2. The district assembly receiving a transfer shall notify
the district assembly issuing said transfer of the reception
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 225

of the transferred person’s membership. Until the transfer is

received by vote of the district assembly to which addressed,
the person thus transferred shall be a member of the issuing
district assembly. Such transfer is valid only until the close
of the next session following the date of issue of the district
assembly to which addressed. (205.9, 226, 231.10)

H. General Regulations
530. The following definitions are of terms relating to general
regulations for ministers of the Church of the Nazarene:
Members of the Clergy—Elders, deacons and licensed
ministers. (524, 525, 526)
Laity—Members of the Church of the Nazarene who are not
members of the clergy.
Active—A member of the clergy fulfilling an assigned role.
Assigned—The status of a member of the clergy who is
active in one of the roles listed in paragraphs 505-520.
Unassigned—The status of a member of the clergy who is in
good standing but not presently active in one of the roles listed
in paragraphs 505-520.
Retired Assigned—The status of a retired member of the
clergy who was assigned at the time retirement was requested.
Retired Unassigned—The status of a retired member of
the clergy who was not assigned at the time retirement was
requested.
Roster of Ministers—A district’s roll of ministers, licensed
and ordained, who are in good standing as members of the
clergy and who have not filed their credential.
Good Standing—The status of a member of the clergy
who has no unresolved accusations pending and who is not
currently under discipline.
Removed—The action taken by a district assembly to exclude
from the Roster of Ministers the names of those members
of the clergy who have filed, resigned, or surrendered their
credential or have had their credential suspended or revoked.
Disciplined—The status of a member of the clergy who has
been relieved, in whole or in part, of the rights, privileges, and
226 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

responsibilities of being a member of the clergy by disciplinary

action.
Suspension—A range of disciplinary actions, excluding
surrender of credential, by which a minister is temporarily
relieved of the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of being
a member of the clergy until the conditions for reinstatement
are met.
Released—The status of a member of the clergy who has
resigned his or her credential or whose credential has been
revoked and who has been removed from membership in the
Church of the Nazarene.
Filed Credential—The status of the credential of a member
of the clergy in good standing who, because of inactivity in the
ministry, has given up the rights, privileges, and responsibilities
of being a member of the clergy by filing his or her credential
with the general secretary. A person who has filed his or her
credential remains a member of the clergy and may have the
rights, privileges, and responsibilities of being a member of the
clergy reinstated in accordance with paragraph 531.10. (531,
531.1)
Surrendered Credential—The status of the credential of a
member of the clergy who, because of misconduct, accusations,
confessions, result of action by a board of discipline, or voluntary
action for any reason other than inactivity in the ministry has
been relieved of the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of
being a member of the clergy. The person whose credential is
surrendered is a member of the clergy under discipline. The
rights, privileges, and responsibilities of being a member of the
clergy may be reinstated to this individual upon restoration to
good standing and return of credential.
Resigned Credential—The status of the credential of a
member of the clergy who gives up the rights, privileges, and
responsibilities of being a member of the clergy. A member of
the clergy who is not in good standing may resign his or her
credential only upon approval of the District Advisory Board.
Upon resignation of credential, the member of the clergy
becomes a lay member of the church unless choosing to unite
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 227

with the membership or ministry of a church other than the

Church of the Nazarene. (114, 530.10, 531.2, 531.6)
Revoked Credential—The status of the credential of a
member of the clergy who has been released from the ministry
and membership of the Church of the Nazarene by action
initiated by the District Ministerial Credentials Board or
District Board of Ministry.
Return of Credential—The action accompanying the
reinstatement of the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of
being a member of the clergy to a minister whose credential
has been filed, suspended, surrendered, resigned, or revoked.
Recovery—The process of assisting a minister relieved,
voluntarily or otherwise, of the rights, privileges, and
responsibilities of being a member of the clergy, and his or her
spouse and family in the recovery of health and wholeness.
Efforts toward recovery are to be undertaken independently
of the process to determine whether a return of credential to
the minister is appropriate and advisable.
Reinstatement—The granting of the rights, privileges, and
responsibilities of being a member of the clergy to a minister
whose credential was filed, suspended, surrendered, resigned,
or revoked, on condition of restoration to good standing and
all required approvals.
Accusation—A written document signed by at least two
members of the Church of the Nazarene accusing a member
of the Church of the Nazarene of conduct which if proven
would cause the member to be subject to discipline under the
terms of the Manual.
Knowledge—The awareness of facts learned by the exercise
of one’s own senses.
Information—Facts learned from others.
Belief—A conclusion reached in good faith based upon
knowledge and information.
Investigating Committee—A committee appointed in
accordance with the Manual to gather information with regard
to alleged or suspected misconduct.
228 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

Charges—A written document describing specifically the

conduct of a member of the Church of the Nazarene which
if proven would be the basis of discipline under the terms of
the Manual.
530.1. A member of the clergy shall be subject to discipline
if regularly conducting independent church activities with
another religious group without the written approval of the
District Advisory Board of the assembly district in which he
or she holds ministerial membership, and the written approval
of the Board of General Superintendents when required.
(530.13, 530.14, 606.1)
530.2. A member of the clergy shall always show due regard
for the united advice of the district superintendent and the
District Advisory Board. (128)
530.3. Any claim to participation by a member of the
clergy, and/or his or her dependents in any plan or fund that
the church may have now or hereafter for the assistance or
support of its disabled or aged ministers shall be based only
upon regular, active service rendered by the minister as an
assigned pastor or evangelist or other recognized role, under
the sanction of the district assembly. This rule shall exclude
from such participation all those in part-time and occasional
service. (207.4, 337)
530.4. A licensed minister actively assigned as pastor or
associate pastor of a Church of the Nazarene shall be a voting
member of the district assembly. (201)
530.5. The candidate elected to the order of elder or order
of deacon shall be ordained by the laying on of the hands
of the general superintendent and ordained ministers with
appropriate religious exercises, under the direction of the
presiding general superintendent. (307.4)
530.6. The general superintendent having jurisdiction shall
issue to the person ordained a certificate of ordination, bearing
the signature of the general superintendent in jurisdiction,
district superintendent, and district secretary. (527.1)
530.7. In case the ordination certificate of an elder or deacon
has been misplaced, mutilated, or destroyed, a duplicate
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 229

certificate may be issued upon the recommendation of the

District Advisory Board. Such recommendation shall be made
directly to the general superintendent in jurisdiction, and
upon the authority of that approval, the general secretary shall
issue a duplicate certificate. On the back of the certificate,
the original number should be identified along with the
word DUPLICATE. If the general superintendent, district
superintendent, or the district secretary signing the original
certificate is not available, the general superintendent having
jurisdiction, district superintendent, and district secretary of
the district requesting the duplicate certificate shall sign the
certificate. On the reverse side thereof shall be the following
statement inscribed in writing or printing, or both writing
and printing, and signed by the general superintendent having
jurisdiction, district superintendent, and district secretary.
This certificate is given to replace the original certificate of
ordination given to (name) on the ________ day of (month),
(year), A.D. by the (ordaining organization), at which date
(he or she) was ordained and (his or her) original ordination
certificate signed by (General Superintendent), (District
Superintendent), and (District Secretary).
The original certificate was (misplaced, mutilated, destroyed).
______________________, General Superintendent
______________________, District Superintendent
______________________, District Secretary
530.8. All members of the clergy (assigned and unassigned)
shall be active members in a local Church of the Nazarene
where they will be faithful in attendance, in tithe, and in
participation in the ministries of the church. Exceptions to
this requirement may be granted only by approval of the
District Advisory Board. Any member of the clergy who does
not hold active membership in a local Church of the Nazarene
on the district where his or her credential is held and who has
not been granted an exception is subject to discipline by action
of the District Advisory Board. (131, 530.10)
530.9. All elders and deacons shall hold their ministerial
membership in the district assembly of the district wherein
230 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

their church membership is held, to which body they shall

report annually. Any elder or deacon who for two consecutive
years does not report to his or her district assembly either in
person or by letter shall, if the district assembly so elect, cease
to be a member thereof. (130, 201, 205.4, 528.1)
530.10. Any member of the clergy uniting with a church
or denomination other than the Church of the Nazarene,
or other Christian ministry, will cease membership in the
Church of the Nazarene unless he or she obtains approval of
the District Advisory Board of the assembly district in which
he or she holds ministerial membership. The district assembly
shall cause to be entered into its minute record the following
statement: “Released from the membership and ministry of
the Church of the Nazarene by uniting with another church,
denomination, or ministry.” (109, 114)
530.11. Any member of the clergy who withdraws or is
released from local church membership when he or she is
not in good standing may reunite with the Church of the
Nazarene only with the consent of the District Advisory Board
of the assembly district from which he or she withdrew or
was released from membership. The District Advisory Board
may grant its consent on condition that the former minister
shall subsequently remain a lay member of the church or, with
the approval of the district superintendent and the general
superintendent in jurisdiction, that the former minister be
readmitted as a member of the clergy under discipline having
affirmed his or her willingness to participate actively and
consistently in a recovery process. (531.6)
530.12. An elder or deacon whose name has been removed
from a district assembly Roster of Ministers and who has not
filed his or her credential shall not be recognized in any other
district without having secured the written consent of the
district assembly from whose Roster of Ministers his or her
name was removed, unless a transfer of jurisdiction has been
completed per 532.12. The District Advisory Board may act
on a request of transfer of jurisdiction between assemblies.
(530.11, 532.12)
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 231

530.13. A member of the clergy must have the annual

written approval of the District Advisory Board in order to do
the following:
• regularly conduct independent church activities not under
the direction of the Church of the Nazarene, or
• carry on independent missions or unauthorized church
activities, or
• be connected with the operating staff of an independent
church or other religious group, Christian ministry, or
denomination.
Should a member of the clergy fail to comply with these
requirements, he or she may, on recommendation by a two-
thirds vote of the entire membership of the District Ministerial
Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry, and by action
of the district assembly, be released from the membership
and ministry of the Church of the Nazarene. The final
determination as to whether any specific activity constitutes
“an independent mission” or “an unauthorized church activity”
shall rest with the Board of General Superintendents. (114-
114.1, 524.9)
530.14. Prior to granting approval to the member of the
clergy to participate in independent church activities, the
District Advisory Board must request the written approval of
the Board of General Superintendents when such participation
is to be on more than one district, or a district other than the
district on which the minister holds ministerial membership.
The Board of General Superintendents shall notify the
respective District Advisory Boards that a request for said
approval is pending.
530.15. An assigned minister may start a local church when
authorized to do so by the district superintendent or the general
superintendent having jurisdiction. Official organization
reports are to be filed with the General Secretary’s office by
the district superintendent. (100, 211.1)
530.16. Membership in the assembly shall be by virtue
of being a pastor or other assigned minister who is actively
serving and maintains employment in such ministry as his or
232 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

her primary vocation in one of the assigned ministerial roles

defined in paragraphs 505-520.
530.17. Information disclosed to a minister during the
course of counseling, advising, or spiritual direction shall
be held in the strictest confidence possible, and shall not be
disclosed without the informed consent of the person, except
as required by law.
Whenever possible and as soon as possible, the minister should
disclose those circumstances under which confidentiality may
be breached:
1. When there is the clear and present threat of harm to self
or others.
2. When there is the suspicion of abuse or neglect
perpetrated on a minor, disabled person, elderly person,
or other vulnerable person as defined by local law. It is
not the responsibility of the reporter to ascertain the
veracity of the report or to investigate the context of the
report, but only to report suspicion to the appropriate
authorities. A minor is defined as any human being under
the age of 18, unless the age of majority is attained later
under a state’s or country’s own domestic legislation.
3. In legal cases when under court order to provide evidence.
Ministers should keep secure minimal records of the
content of sessions, including a record of the disclosures
given and the informed consent received.
Knowledge that arises from professional contact may be used
in teaching, writing, homilies, or other public presentations
only when measures are taken to absolutely safeguard both the
individual’s identity and the confidentiality of the disclosures.
While counseling a minor, if a minister discovers there
is a serious threat to the welfare of the minor and that
communication of confidential information to a parent or legal
guardian is essential to the minor’s health and well-being, the
minister should disclose information necessary to protect the
health and well-being of the minor.
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 233

530.18. All elders and deacons are expected to be involved

in 20 hours of lifelong learning per year, to be administered by
the District Ministerial Studies Board. (521.6)
530.19. A minister may solemnize marriage only for those
who have been qualified by careful counseling, and who have
a biblical basis for marriage.
Biblical marriage only exists in a relationship involving one
man and one woman. (31, 124.9)
530.20. Each district is to have and annually review a
written, comprehensive plan to guide its efforts in providing a
timely, compassionate, and informed response to members of
the clergy involved in conduct unbecoming a minister, to their
families and to any congregation involved. The district plan
shall be in harmony with Manual directives and shall include
a provision for establishing and maintaining a record of the
facts and circumstances of the change in status of any minister
who ceases to be entitled to exercise the rights, privileges, and
responsibilities of being a member of the clergy. This record
shall include all correspondence and official actions related to
the status of the member of the clergy in question and the
names and date of appointment of those persons selected to
the recovery team as may be provided in accordance with
paragraph 532.1. (225.5)
530.21. Separation/Divorce. Within 48 hours of the filing
of a request for divorce or legal termination/separation of
a marriage of a minister or within 48 hours of the physical
separation of the minister and his or her spouse for the purpose
of discontinuing the physical cohabitation, the minister
shall (a) contact the district superintendent, notifying the
superintendent of the action taken; (b) agree to meet with the
district superintendent and a member of the District Advisory
Board at a mutually agreeable time and place, or if no mutually
agreeable time and place can be arranged, at a time and place
designated by the district superintendent; and, (c) explain (at
the meeting designated in item “b”) the circumstances of the
action taken, explain the marital conflict, and explain the
biblical basis for justification as to why the member of the
234 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

clergy should be permitted to continue to serve as a member

of the clergy in good standing. If a member of the clergy fails to
comply with the subsections above, such noncompliance shall
be cause for discipline. All ministers whether active, retired,
assigned, or unassigned, are subject to these provisions, and
must show due regard for the united advice of the district
superintendent and the District Advisory Board. No active or
assigned minister may continue in any member of the clergy
role without the affirmative vote of the District Advisory
Board.

I. The Filing, Suspension, Resignation, or

Revocation of a Ministerial Credential
531. The general secretary is authorized to receive and hold
for safekeeping the credentials of a member of the clergy in
good standing who, because of inactivity in the ministry for
a period of time, wishes to file them. At the time of filing
the credential, the District Advisory Board of the minister’s
assembly district shall certify to the general secretary that
the credential is not being filed for the purpose of avoiding
discipline. The filing of the credential shall not prevent
a member of the clergy from being subject to discipline
as a member of the clergy. Members of the clergy who file
their credentials with the general secretary may have them
reinstated. (531.10)
531.1. A member of the clergy in good standing who has
not been granted retirement status and who has remained
unassigned for four or more consecutive years is considered
to be no longer participating as a member of the clergy and is
required to file his or her credential. The District Ministerial
Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry shall report to
the district assembly “the credential of (the elder or deacon in
question) has been filed by the District Ministerial Credentials
Board or District Board of Ministry.” This action should be
considered nonprejudicial to character. The individual who
files may have his or her credential reinstated. (531.10)
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 235

531.2. When an ordained minister in good standing ceases

from an assigned ministry to pursue a calling or vocation
other than being a member of the clergy in the Church of
the Nazarene, he or she may resign the rights, privileges and
responsibilities of being a member of the clergy. The district
assembly, in which he or she holds standing, shall receive the
credential and place it in the care of the general secretary. The
record in the district minutes will show that he or she was
“removed from the Roster of Ministers, having resigned his or
her order.” A member of the clergy who thus resigns may have
his or her credential returned. (531.11)
531.3. When an unretired ordained minister ceases from
active service as a member of the clergy and takes full-time
secular employment, after a period of two years he or she may
be required by the District Ministerial Credentials Board or
District Board of Ministry to resign from being a member of
the clergy or file his or her credential with the general secretary.
This two-year period shall begin at the district assembly
immediately following the cessation of activity as a member
of the clergy. The District Ministerial Credentials Board or
District Board of Ministry shall report its action to the district
assembly. This action should be considered nonprejudicial to
character.
531.4. The rights, privileges, and responsibilities of a member
of the clergy may be suspended and his or her name removed
from the Roster of Ministers if he or she changes his or her
residence from the address of record without providing a new
address of record to the District Ministerial Credentials Board
or District Board of Ministry within one year, or if he or she
fails to submit an annual report as required in paragraphs 524.8
and 530.9. Such action to suspend shall be the responsibility
of the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board
of Ministry.
531.5. A member of the clergy who receives a Certificate
of Commendation from his or her local church and has not
joined another Church of the Nazarene by the time of the
next district assembly, or who declares in writing that he or
236 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

she has withdrawn from the Church of the Nazarene, or who

joins another denomination either as a member or a minister,
and who has not resigned his or her ministerial credential, may
be released from the ministry of the Church of the Nazarene
by order of the district assembly upon the recommendation of
the District Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of
Ministry and his or her name be removed from the Roster of
Ministers and the membership roll of the local church. (113.1,
815)
531.6. A member of the clergy not in good standing may
resign his or her credential only upon approval of the District
Advisory Board. (532)
531.7. A member of the clergy may be released from the
ministry of the Church of the Nazarene as provided in
paragraphs 531.5 and 532.10, or through disciplinary action
according to paragraphs 606-609.
531.8. When an elder or deacon has been released, the
credential of the member of the clergy shall be sent to the
general secretary to be catalogued and preserved subject to the
order of the district assembly of the district where the elder or
deacon held membership at the time he or she was released.
(326.5)
531.9. Pastors, local church boards, and others who
determine assignments within the church shall not engage
a member of the clergy who is not in good standing in any
ministerial role or in any other position of trust or authority
(such as leading worship, teaching a Sunday School class, or
leading a Bible study or small group) until good standing is
restored. Exceptions to this prohibition require the written
approval of both the district superintendent of the district
to which the minister belonged when relieved of the rights,
privileges, and responsibilities of being a member of the clergy,
and the general superintendent in jurisdiction of that same
district. (532.4)
531.10. Reinstatement of a Filed Credential. When an elder
or deacon in good standing has filed his or her credential,
such credential may, at any subsequent time when the elder
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 237

or deacon is in good standing, be returned to the elder or

deacon upon order of the district assembly where jurisdiction
is held, provided that the return of his or her credential shall
have been recommended by the district superintendent and
the District Advisory Board. Between district assemblies, a
District Advisory Board may vote to approve the return of a
minister’s filed credential.
531.11. Reinstatement of a Resigned or Revoked Credential.
An elder or deacon who, while a minister in good standing,
resigned his or her order of ministry or whose credential was
revoked upon uniting with another church, denomination,
or ministry, may have his or her credential returned by
the district assembly upon submitting the Ordination/
Recognition Questionnaire, reaffirming the vows of ministry,
being examined and favorably recommended by the District
Ministerial Credentials Board or District Board of Ministry,
and upon prior approval of the district superintendent and the
general superintendent in jurisdiction. (531.2)
531.12. The certificate of ordination of a deceased minister
whose credential was filed and who was in good standing at
the time of death, may be conveyed to the minister’s family
upon written request to the general secretary and approval by
the district superintendent of the district where such filing is
recorded.

J. The Restoration of Members of the Clergy

532. The Church of the Nazarene recognizes its responsibility
to extend the hope and healing of God’s redeeming and
renewing grace to any of its own ministers who, by surrender
of credential, voluntary or otherwise, have been relieved of
the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of being a member of
the clergy due to conduct unbecoming a minister. The church
also acknowledges its obligation to invite into the embrace
of God’s loving care the spouse and family, congregation,
and community of the minister. For this reason, the process
leading toward restoring the minister to good standing is to be
conducted in two distinct steps:
238 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

1. Recovery. Without regard for the severity of the minister’s

misconduct, the likelihood of his or her eventual return
to ministerial service, or his or her initial receptivity to
grace and offers of help extended, the recovery of the
minister’s well-being (spiritually and otherwise) and
that of his or her spouse and family is to be diligently,
prayerfully, and faithfully pursued by the district in
accordance with paragraphs 532.1-532.7. Such recovery
is to be the singular aim of this step.
2. Reinstatement. Restoration to good standing of the
minister and recommendation for the return of his or
her credential is to be considered in a process separate
from and subsequent to efforts seeking the recovery of
the health and well-being of the minister and his or her
spouse and family. (532.6-532.13)
532.1. Appointment of a Recovery Team. When clergy
misconduct becomes evident, a timely response of appropriate
and compassionate intervention is critical for the sake of the
minister and his or her spouse and family, the congregation,
and the community. Since such developments are rarely
anticipated, advance selection and preparation of qualified
persons, both clergy and laity, to facilitate recovery is an
important element of the district response plan. These
persons are to be appointed by the district superintendent in
consultation with the District Advisory Board. When situations
of clergy misconduct arise, these persons, acting as a recovery
team, are to be deployed by the district superintendent as
immediately as possible and in accordance with the district
plan. A recovery team so deployed should be comprised of no
less than three persons. (211.20, 225.5, 532)
532.2. Duties of a Recovery Team. A recovery team is
responsible for facilitating the recovery of the health and
wellbeing of the minister and of the minister’s spouse and
family. It has neither the responsibility nor the authority to
determine whether the rights, privileges, and responsibilities
of being a member of the clergy should be reinstated to the
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 239

minister. Insofar as the situation permits, the duties of a

recovery team include:
1. extending care to the minister’s spouse and family as well
as to the minister;
2. providing clarity to the minister and spouse on the
process and purpose of recovery;
3. coordinating the combined efforts of the minister, the
district, and any congregation involved in developing a
plan to address financial, housing, medical, emotional,
spiritual, and other needs that typically arise with urgency
in situations where misconduct has become evident;
4. implementing the district-approved plan, including
reporting regularly on its own efforts and on the status
of the progress of the minister and his or her spouse and
family in the recovery of health and well-being;
5. communicating to the minister and his or her spouse, to
the district superintendent, and to the appropriate district
board when it judges its work is nearing completion or has
progressed as far as can be expected;
6. submitting to the District Ministerial Credentials
Board or District Board of Ministry or appointed
committee responsible for considering reinstatement,
upon application by the minister for reinstatement of
the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of being a
member of the clergy, its recommendation as to whether
consideration for restoration of the minister to good
standing is appropriate. (532.8)
532.3. In the event the minister under discipline is or
becomes unresponsive to the recovery process, diligent effort
should be given to furthering the recovery of the minister’s
spouse and family while actively seeking to engage or re-
engage the minister in recovery. Upon review of the recovery
efforts and with due regard for the well-being of the minister’s
spouse and family, the district superintendent may suspend,
conclude, or otherwise redirect its recovery efforts.
In the event a district does not appoint a recovery team or the
recovery team appointed fails to undertake its responsibilities
240 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

within 180 days from the date the minister was placed under
discipline, the minister under discipline may petition the Board
of General Superintendents to transfer to another district the
responsibility of facilitating efforts toward his or her recovery
and of acting upon his or her subsequent application, if any, for
restoration to good standing and reinstatement to the rights,
privileges, and responsibilities of being a member of the clergy.
This option is also available to the minister in question should
a district fail to respond to his or her application for restoration
to good standing. (532-532.2, 532.4-532.13)
532.4. A member of the clergy who is not in good standing
shall not hold any position of trust or authority in the church
or in its worship, such as: preach, lead worship, teach a Sunday
School class, lead a Bible study or small group. The minister
may only serve in these roles or be given a ministerial role
upon the favorable recommendation of the district-appointed
recovery team assigned to the minister and the consent of the
District Advisory Board, the District Ministerial Credentials
Board or District Board of Ministry, the district superintendent,
and the general superintendent in jurisdiction. A favorable
recommendation indicates a determination that the individual
and his or her spouse and family have made sufficient progress
in the recovery process to warrant once again allowing the
individual to be of service in a position of trust or authority.
Approval to serve in a position of trust or authority may be
granted with or without restrictions and may be withdrawn by
the district superintendent in consultation with the recovery
team. (606.1-606.2, 606.5, 606.11-606.12)
532.5. Upon application by a minister under discipline for
restoration to good standing as provided in paragraph 532.6, the
recovery team may recommend to the district superintendent
and the appropriate district board or appointed committee
that the application be considered in accordance with the
provisions of paragraph 532.8; or, that the minister continue
in the recovery process for an additional and specified length
of time before reapplying.
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 241

In the event the recovery team has concluded its efforts and
the minister under discipline does not apply for restoration
to good standing, the minister shall remain under discipline
unless action is taken 1) to release the minister from the
membership and ministry of the Church of the Nazarene; or 2)
to grant approval to the minister to resign his or her credential
and become a lay member of the church. In situations of the
resignation of credential by a minister who has been under
discipline where there is evidence of substantial and sustained
recovery, care should be given to appropriately recognize and
celebrate such progress. (531.5, 532.10)
532.6. Application for Restoration to Good Standing. A
minister having been relieved of the rights, privileges, and
responsibilities of being a member of the clergy may apply
for restoration to good standing and the return of his or her
credential subject to the eligibility requirements of paragraph
532.7. Such application must be submitted to the district
superintendent at least six months prior to the next scheduled
meeting of the district assembly and must comply with the
district-approved plan. The district superintendent shall
acknowledge receipt of the application within 30 days.
532.7. A minister may apply for restoration to good standing
and the return of his or her credential provided the recovery
team assigned to the minister favorably supports such
application and can attest that the minister has participated
actively and consistently for at least two years in a recovery
process under its supervision. A minister who, in his or
her judgment, has endeavored to participate actively and
consistently for at least four years in such a recovery process
may apply for restoration to good standing with or without
the favorable support of the application by the recovery team.
When a minister under discipline has pursued participation
in recovery from the outset, the minimum time required before
applying for restoration to good standing shall commence with
the earlier of the first official meeting of the minister with the
recovery team or 60 days after the date a recovery team was
initially assigned to the minister. In cases where a minister
242 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

postponed or interrupted his or her participation in the

recovery process, the district superintendent in consultation
with the recovery team shall determine whether the minimum
time required before applying for restoration to good standing
has been satisfied. (530, 532.3)
532.8. Response to an Application for Restoration to
Good Standing. The District Ministerial Credentials Board
or District Board of Ministry, or a committee of the same
appointed by the district superintendent, shall consider any
application for restoration to good standing received by the
district superintendent, and:
1. verify that the application is valid, having met all
conditions for submission;
2. request and evaluate the recommendation of the recovery
team;
3. interview the minister seeking restoration to good
standing and any other persons it deems appropriate to
interview;
4. determine whether to recommend the rights, privileges,
and responsibilities of being a member of the clergy
be reinstated to the minister and his or her credential
returned.
When an application has been submitted at least 180 days in
advance of the next scheduled district assembly, consideration
of the application shall be completed and recommendation
made to the district superintendent prior to that district
assembly. A recommendation to reinstate the rights, privileges
and responsibilities of a member of the clergy to a minister
whose credential is surrendered due to sexual misconduct
shall require a two-thirds approval of the District Advisory
Board. The recommendation is to be submitted to the Board
of General Superintendents within one year of the date of
the minister’s most recent application for restoration to good
standing. Exceptions to any time frames specified in this
paragraph must have the prior written approval of the general
superintendent in jurisdiction. (532.2, 532.3, 532.6, 532.7,
532.13)
MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE 243

532.9. An individual guilty of sexual misconduct involving

minors should not be restored to good standing as a member
of the clergy or permitted to hold any ministerial credential,
serve in any position of responsibility for or ministry with
minors, or be elected or appointed to any leadership role in
the local church. A minor is defined as any human being under
the age of 18, unless the age of majority is attained later under
a state’s or country’s own domestic legislation. (139.30, 600,
606.1-606.2, 606.5, 606.11-606.12, 916)
532.10. The District Ministerial Credentials Board or
District Board of Ministry or committee of the same, having
considered an application for restoration to good standing
submitted within the time frame allowed, may recommend to
the district superintendent and appropriate district boards any
one of the following:
1. that the minister be restored to good standing and his or
her credential returned;
2. that the minister continue in a recovery process for a
specified length of time before reapplying for restoration
to good standing;
3. that the recovery period be extended and the recovery
plan revised (such as monitored re-engagement in
ministry, assigning a new recovery team, or addressing
personal, marital, or family concerns);
4. that the minister continue under discipline;
5. that the minister not be restored to good standing, but
evidence of recovery be appropriately acknowledged and
celebrated, and permission granted for the minister to
resign his or her credential;
6. that the minister be released from the membership and
ministry of the Church of the Nazarene. (531.5, 532.7,
532.13)
532.11. Should two applications for reinstatement by
a minister under discipline be denied, a request may be
granted by the Board of General Superintendents to transfer
jurisdiction, in cooperation with the receiving district. If a third
application for restoration to good standing and reinstatement
244 MINISTRY AND CHRISTIAN SERVICE

to the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of being a member

of the clergy is denied, the minister may become a layperson
upon approval of the District Advisory Board. (530.13, 531.6,
532.12)
532.12. Transfer of Jurisdiction. A transfer of jurisdiction
for any minister whose credential has been filed or who is not
in good standing may be granted upon approval of the district
superintendent and the District Advisory Board of both the
transferring and receiving districts. Once the transfer of
jurisdiction is completed, the receiving district has authority
to act, at its discretion, on any credentials matters including
all aspects of the restoration process. A district receiving
transfer of jurisdiction for a minister not in good standing is
not required to grant credential reinstatement. (532.2, 532.8,
532.10, 532.13)
532.13. Reinstatement to the Rights, Privileges and
Responsibilities of Being a Member of the Clergy. A
member of the clergy who has lost good standing and whose
application for restoration to good standing has resulted in a
recommendation for reinstatement to the rights, privileges,
and responsibilities of being a member of the clergy, may
be restored to good standing and have his or her credential
returned only by the following process:
1. approval of the district superintendent;
2. approval of the District Ministerial Credentials Board or
District Board of Ministry;
3. a two-thirds approval of the District Advisory Board;
4. approval of the Board of General Superintendents; and
5. approval of the district assembly where jurisdiction is
held.
(606.1-606.2, 606.5, 606.11-606.12)
 PART VII

Judicial Administration

INVESTIGATION OF POSSIBLE WRONGFUL

CONDUCT AND CHURCH DISCIPLINE

RESPONSE TO POSSIBLE MISCONDUCT

RESPONSE TO MISCONDUCT BY A PERSON IN A

POSITION OF TRUST OR AUTHORITY

CONTESTED DISCIPLINE OF A LAYPERSON

CONTESTED DISCIPLINE OF A
MEMBER OF THE CLERGY

RULES OF PROCEDURE

DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS

REGIONAL COURT OF APPEALS

GENERAL COURT OF APPEALS

GUARANTEE OF RIGHTS
246 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

I. INVESTIGATION OF POSSIBLE
WRONGFUL CONDUCT AND
CHURCH DISCIPLINE
600. The objectives of church discipline are to sustain the
integrity of the church, to protect the innocent from harm, to
protect the effectiveness of the witness of the church, to warn
and correct the careless, to bring the guilty to salvation, to
rehabilitate the guilty, to restore to effective service those who
are rehabilitated, and to protect the reputation and resources
of the church. Members of the church who do violence to the
Covenant of Christian Character or the Covenant of Christian
Conduct, or who willfully and continuously violate their
membership vows, should be dealt with kindly yet faithfully,
according to the grievousness of their offenses. Holiness of
heart and life being the New Testament standard, the Church
of the Nazarene insists upon a clean ministry and requires that
those who bear its credentials as a member of the clergy be
orthodox in doctrine and holy in life. Thus the purpose of the
discipline is not punitive or retributive but is to accomplish
these objectives. Determination of standing and continued
relationship to the church is also a function of the disciplinary
process.

II. RESPONSE TO POSSIBLE

MISCONDUCT
601. A response is appropriate any time a person with
authority to respond becomes aware of information that a
prudent person would believe to be credible. In addition, a
response is also appropriate when information which would
cause a prudent person to believe that harm is likely to come
to the church, to potential victims of misconduct, or to any
other person as a result of misconduct by a person in a position
of trust or authority within the Church.
601.1. When a person who does not have authority to respond
for the church becomes aware of information which a prudent
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 247

person would consider to be credible and which would cause a

prudent person to believe that wrongful conduct by a person
in a position of trust or authority may be occurring within
the church, the person with the information shall make the
representative of the church who has the authority to respond
aware of the information.
601.2. The person who has authority to respond is
determined by the position within the church of the individual
or individuals who may be involved in misconduct as follows:
Person Implicated Person with Authority to Respond
Nonmember Pastor of local church where the
conduct in question takes place.
Layperson Pastor of church where
layperson is a member.
Member of the clergy District superintendent (in
conjunction with the District
Advisory Board) where the
person implicated is a member
or the pastor of the local church
where the person is on staff.
District superintendent General superintendent in
jurisdiction
Regional director General superintendent in
jurisdiction
Field strategy coordinator General superintendent in
jurisdiction
Not otherwise defined General secretary
The person with authority to respond should also in a timely
manner notify respective persons in leadership at the district,
field, regional, and/or global dimensions about the accusations.
The person with authority to respond may enlist the help of
others in any fact-finding or response.
601.3. If no accusation has been made, the purpose of an
investigation shall be to determine whether or not action
is needed to prevent harm or to reduce the impact of harm
that has previously been done. In circumstances in which a
248 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

prudent person would believe that no further action was

needed to prevent harm or to reduce the impact of harm, no
investigation will continue unless an accusation has been filed.
Facts learned during an investigation may become the basis of
an accusation.

III. RESPONSE TO MISCONDUCT

BY A PERSON IN A POSITION
OF TRUST OR AUTHORITY
602. Whenever a person authorized to respond learns facts
which indicate that innocent parties have been harmed by the
misconduct of a person in a position of trust or authority, action
shall be taken to cause the church to respond appropriately. An
appropriate response will seek to prevent any additional harm
to victims of the misconduct, seek to respond to the needs of
the victims, the accused, and others who suffer as a result of
the misconduct. Particular concern should be shown for the
needs of the spouse and family of the accused. The response
will also seek to address the needs of the local church, the
district and the general church concerning public relations,
protection from liability and protection of the integrity of the
church.
Those who respond for the church must understand that what
they say and do may have consequences under civil law. The
duty of the church to respond is based on Christian concern.
No one has the authority to accept financial responsibility for
a local church without action by the church board, or for a
district without action by the District Advisory Board. One
who is uncertain about what action is appropriate should
consider seeking counsel from an appropriate professional.
602.1. In each local church, it is appropriate for the church
board to fashion a response to any crisis which may arise;
however, it may be necessary to respond before a board
meeting can take place. It is wise for each local church to have
an emergency response plan.
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 249

602.2. On each district the primary responsibility for

responding to a crisis rests with the District Advisory Board;
however, it may be necessary to respond before a meeting
of the board can take place. It is wise for a district to adopt
an emergency response plan. The plan may include the
appointment by the District Advisory Board of a response
team composed of people with special qualifications such as
counselors, social workers, those trained in communications
and those familiar with the applicable law.
603. Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation in the Church.
Disagreement is a part of life, even in the church. However,
when this disagreement becomes a conflict which divides
congregants or disrupts the fellowship of the church, an
informal process of discernment should precede any formal
process of resolution. Whether informal or formal, the goal
should be resolution and reconciliation.
603.1. Informal Process: When conflict arises in the church,
a period of discernment and counsel should be sought with a
desire to live at peace with all people. All parties involved are
encouraged to submit the matter to the Lord in prayer, and in
fact the entire process must be bathed in prayer. Individuals
in conflict should approach one another in humility with the
hope of reconciliation.
603.2. Formal Process: If this process fails, the individuals
may decide to embark upon the formal process of reconciliation.
The matter should be arbitrated with a representative group
of mature and unbiased individuals in the church. If fault is
determined, this group may recommend appropriate action as
described in paragraph 604.
604. Resolution of Disciplinary Matters by Agreement. The
disciplinary process described in this Manual is intended to
provide an appropriate process for resolving allegations of
misconduct when the allegations are contested by the accused.
In many situations, it is appropriate to resolve disciplinary
matters by agreement. Efforts to resolve disciplinary matters
by agreement are encouraged and should be pursued whenever
practical.
250 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

604.1. Any matter which is within the jurisdiction of a Local

Board of Discipline may be resolved by a written agreement
between the person accused and the pastor if approved by the
church board and the district superintendent. The terms of
such an agreement shall have the same effect as an action by a
Local Board of Discipline.
604.2. Any matter which is within the jurisdiction of a
District Board of Discipline may be resolved by a written
agreement between the person accused and the district
superintendent if the agreement is approved by the District
Advisory Board and the general superintendent in jurisdiction.
The terms of such an agreement shall have the same effect as
an action by a District Board of Discipline.

IV. CONTESTED DISCIPLINE

OF A LAYPERSON
605. If a lay member is accused of unchristian conduct,
such accusations shall be placed in writing and signed by at
least two members who have been in faithful attendance for
at least six months. The pastor shall appoint an investigating
committee of three members of the local church, subject to the
approval of the district superintendent. The committee shall
make a written report of its investigation. This report must be
signed by a majority and filed with the church board. After
the investigation and pursuant thereto, any two members in
good standing in the local church may sign charges against
the accused and file same with the church board. Thereupon
the church board shall appoint, subject to the approval of the
district superintendent, a Local Board of Discipline of five
members, who are unprejudiced and able to hear and dispose
of the case in a fair and impartial manner. If in the opinion
of the district superintendent, it is impractical to select five
members from the local church due to the size of the church,
the nature of the allegations, or the position of influence of
the accused, the district superintendent shall after consulting
the pastor, appoint five laypersons from other churches on the
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 251

same district to be the Board of Discipline. This board shall

conduct a hearing as soon as practicable and determine the
issues involved. After hearing the testimony of witnesses and
considering the evidence, the Board of Discipline shall either
absolve the accused or administer discipline as the facts shall
establish to be proper. The decision must be unanimous.
Discipline may take the form of reprimand, suspension, or
expulsion from membership in the local church. (125.8)
605.1. An appeal from the decision of a Local Board of
Discipline may be taken to the District Court of Appeals
within 30 days by either the accused or the church board.
605.2. When a layperson has been released from membership
in the local church by a Local Board of Discipline, he or she
may reunite with the Church of the Nazarene on the same
district only with the approval of the District Advisory Board.
If such consent is granted, he or she shall be received into the
membership of that local church using the approved form for
the reception of church members. (21, 28-33, 114.1-114.4,
704)
605.3. Laypersons serving in leadership roles are held to
a high standard. When misconduct occurs, the impact is
often very serious. An individual guilty of sexual misconduct
involving minors should not be permitted to serve in any
position of responsibility for or ministry with minors, or be
elected or appointed to any leadership role in the local church.
A minor is defined as any human being under the age of 18,
unless the age of majority is attained later under a state’s or
country’s own domestic legislation. (503.1)

V. CONTESTED DISCIPLINE
OF A MEMBER OF THE CLERGY
606. The perpetuity and effectiveness of the Church of the
Nazarene depend largely upon the spiritual qualifications, the
character, and the manner of life of its members of the clergy.
Members of the clergy aspire to a high calling and function
as anointed individuals in whom is placed the church’s trust.
252 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

They accept their calling knowing that they will be held to high
personal standards by those to whom they minister. Because
of the high expectations placed upon them, the members of
the clergy and their ministry are peculiarly vulnerable to any
accusation of misconduct. It is therefore incumbent upon
members to use the following procedures with the biblical
wisdom and maturity that befits the people of God.
606.1. If a member of the clergy is accused of conduct
unbecoming a minister such accusations shall be placed in
writing and shall be signed by at least two members of the
Church of the Nazarene who are at the time in good standing.
If a member of the clergy is accused of promoting doctrines
out of harmony with the doctrinal statement of the Church of
the Nazarene, such accusations shall be placed in writing and
shall be signed by at least two ordained elders of the Church of
the Nazarene who are at the time in good standing.
The written accusation must be filed with the district
superintendent who shall present it to the District Advisory
Board of the district where the accused has ministerial
membership. This accusation shall become part of the record
in the case. The District Advisory Board shall give written
notice to the accused that accusations have been filed, as soon
as practical by any method which gives actual notice. When
actual notice is not practical, notice may be provided in the
manner that is customary for serving legal notices in that
locality. The accused and his or her counsel shall have the
right to examine the accusations and to receive a written copy
of the same immediately upon request. (532.4, 532.9, 532.13)
606.2. A person’s signature on an accusation against a
member of the clergy constitutes certification by the signer
that, to the best of the signer’s knowledge, information and
belief formed after reasonable inquiry, the accusation is well
grounded in fact. (532.4, 532.13)
606.3. When a written accusation of conduct unbecoming a
minister is filed with the district superintendent and has been
presented to the District Advisory Board, the District Advisory
Board shall appoint a committee of three or more assigned
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 253

ordained ministers and not fewer than two laypersons as the

District Advisory Board deems to be appropriate to investigate
the facts and circumstances involved and report their finding
in writing and signed by a majority of the committee.
When a written accusation is filed related to promoting
doctrines out of harmony with the doctrinal statement of
the Church of the Nazarene, the District Advisory Board or
the accused may request a review by a Regional Theological
Committee to evaluate the accusation in order to provide
insight and clarity regarding its merit. This Regional
Theological Committee would be appointed by the Board
of General Superintendents and be comprised of three
theologians from regional Universities/Seminary and two
assigned ordained pastors in good standing.
If after considering the Theological Committee’s report,
and it appears that there are probable grounds for charges,
the District Advisory Board shall appoint an Investigative
Committee of three or more assigned ordained ministers
and not fewer than two laypersons as the District Advisory
Board deems to be appropriate to investigate the facts and
circumstances involved and report their finding in writing and
signed by a majority of the committee.
If after considering the District Investigative Committee’s
report, and it appears that there are probable grounds for
charges, such charges shall be drawn up and signed by any two
ordained ministers from the district in which the accused is
credentialed. The District Advisory Board shall give the accused
notice thereof, as soon as practical, by any method which gives
actual notice. When actual notice is not practical, notice may
be provided in the manner that is customary for serving legal
notices in that locality. The accused and his or her counsel shall
have the right to examine the charges and specifications and to
receive a copy thereof immediately upon request. No accused
shall be required to answer charges of which he or she has not
been informed as specified herein. (225.3)
606.4. If, after investigation it appears that an accusation
against a member of the clergy is without factual basis and
254 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

has been filed in bad faith, the filing of the accusation may be
grounds for disciplinary action against those who signed the
accusation.
606.5. In case charges are filed, the District Advisory Board
shall appoint five assigned ordained ministers and not fewer
than two laypersons as it deems advisable of the district to
hear the case and determine the issues; these persons so named
shall constitute a District Board of Discipline to conduct the
hearing and dispose of the case according to the laws of the
church. No district superintendent shall serve as prosecutor or
as assistant to the prosecutor in the trial of an ordained minister
or licensed minister. This Board of Discipline shall have power
to vindicate and absolve the accused in connection with said
charges or to administer discipline commensurate with the
offense. Such discipline may provide for discipline intended to
lead to the salvation and rehabilitation of the guilty party. The
discipline may include repentance, confession, restitution,
suspension, recommendation for removal of credential,
expulsion from the ministry or membership of the church, or
both, public or private reprimand, or any such other discipline
that may be appropriate including suspension or deferment of
discipline during a period of probation. (225.4, 532.4, 532.13,
606.11-606.12)
606.6. If either the accused or the District Advisory Board
shall so request, the Board of Discipline shall be a Regional Board
of Discipline. The regional board for each case shall be appointed
by the general superintendent in jurisdiction of the district where
the accused minister holds his or her membership.
606.7. It is provided that in no case shall disciplinary action
be taken against a missionary by a Phase 1 district as such.
606.8. The decision of a Board of Discipline shall be
unanimous, written and signed by all members, and shall
include a finding of “guilty” or “not guilty” as to each charge
and specification.
606.9. Any hearing by a Board of Discipline herein provided
for shall always be conducted within the bounds of the district
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 255

where the charges were filed at a place designated by the board

that is to hear the charges.
606.10. The procedure at any hearing shall be according to
Rules of Procedure hereinafter provided. (225.3-225.4, 524.9,
530.13, 609)
606.11. When a minister is charged with conduct
unbecoming a minister and shall admit to guilt, or shall confess
to guilt without being charged, the District Advisory Board
may assess any of the disciplines provided for in paragraph
606.5. (532.4, 532.13)
606.12. When a minister is accused of conduct unbecoming
a minister, and shall admit to guilt, or shall confess to guilt
prior to being brought before a Board of Discipline, the District
Advisory Board may assess any of the disciplines provided for
in paragraph 606.5. (532.4, 532.13)
607. Following a decision by a Board of Discipline, the
accused, the District Advisory Board, or those who sign the
charges shall be entitled to appeal the decision to the Regional
Court of Appeals. The appeal shall be begun within 30 days
after such decision, and the court shall review the entire record
of the case and all steps that have been taken therein. If the
court discovers any substantial error prejudicial to the right
of any person, it shall correct such error by ordering a new
hearing to be conducted in a manner capable of giving relief
to that person affected adversely by previous proceedings or
decision.
608. When the decision of a Board of Discipline is adverse to
the accused minister and the decision provides for suspension
from the ministry or cancellation of credential, the minister
shall thereupon immediately suspend all ministerial activity; and
refusal to do so will result in the forfeiture of the right to appeal.
608.1. When the decision of a Board of Discipline provides
for suspension or cancellation of credential and the accused
minister desires to appeal, he or she shall file with the
secretary of the court to which the appeal is made, at the time
the notice of appeal is filed, his or her written credential as a
minister, and his or her right of appeal shall be conditioned
256 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

upon compliance with this provision. When such credential

is so filed, it shall be safely kept by the said secretary until the
conclusion of the case, and thereupon the same shall either be
forwarded to the general secretary or returned to the minister
as the court may direct.
608.2. Appeals to the General Court of Appeals may be
made by the accused or the Board of Discipline from decisions
of a Regional Court of Appeals. Such appeals shall be by the
same rules and procedures as other appeals to the General
Court of Appeals.

VI. RULES OF PROCEDURE

609. The General Court of Appeals shall adopt uniform
Rules of Procedure governing all proceedings before boards of
discipline and courts of appeal. After such rules are adopted
and published, they shall be the final authority in all judicial
proceedings. Printed Rules of Procedure shall be supplied by
the general secretary. Changes or amendments to such rules
may be adopted by the General Court of Appeals at any
time, and when these are adopted and published, they shall
be effective and authoritative in all cases. Any steps that are
thereafter taken in any proceeding shall be in accordance with
such change or amendment. (606.1)

VII. DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS

610. Each organized district shall have a District Court
of Appeals composed of two laypersons and three assigned
ordained ministers, including the district superintendent,
elected by the district assembly according to paragraph 205.22.
This court shall hear appeals of church members concerning
any action of local boards of discipline. Notice of appeal must
be given in writing within 30 days after such action or after
appellant has knowledge thereof. Such notice shall be delivered
to the District Court of Appeals or a member thereof, and a
copy of such notice shall be delivered to the pastor of the local
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 257

church and to the secretary of the church board concerned.

(205.22)
610.1. The District Court of Appeals shall have jurisdiction
to hear and decide all appeals of laypersons or churches from
the action of a Board of Discipline appointed to discipline a
layperson.

VIII. REGIONAL COURT OF APPEALS

611. There shall be a Regional Court of Appeals for each
region. Each Regional Court of Appeals shall consist of
five or more assigned ordained ministers elected by the
Board of General Superintendents following each General
Assembly. Vacancies shall be filled by the Board of General
Superintendents. The Rules of Procedure shall be the same for
the Regional Courts of Appeals as for the General Court of
Appeals, in both the church Manual and the Judicial Manual.
A quorum of five shall be required for appeals referred to the
court.

IX. GENERAL COURT OF APPEALS

612. The General Assembly shall elect five assigned ordained
ministers to serve as members of the General Court of Appeals
during each ensuing quadrennium, or until their successors
are elected and qualified. This court shall have jurisdiction as
follows:
612.1. To hear and determine all appeals from the action
or decision of any District Board of Discipline or Regional
Court of Appeals. When such appeals are so determined by
said court, such determination shall be authoritative and final.
(305.7)
613. Vacancies that may exist in the General Court of
Appeals during the interim between sessions of the General
Assembly shall be filled by appointment of the Board of
General Superintendents. (317.6)
614. Per diem and expense allowances for members of the
General Court of Appeals shall be the same as that of members
258 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

of the General Board of the church, when the members of

the court are engaged in official business of the court, and
payment therefor shall be made by the general treasurer.
615. The general secretary shall be custodian of all
permanent records and decisions of the General Court of
Appeals. (326.4)

X. GUARANTEE OF RIGHTS
616. The right to a fair and impartial hearing of charges
pending against an accused minister or layperson shall not be
denied or unduly postponed. Written charges shall be given
an early hearing in order that the innocent may be absolved
and the guilty brought to discipline. Every accused is entitled
to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. As to
each charge and specification, the prosecution shall have the
burden of proving guilt to a moral certainty and beyond a
reasonable doubt.
616.1. The cost of preparing the record of a case for a
minister, including a verbatim transcript of all testimony given
at the trial, for the purpose of an appeal to the General Court
of Appeals, shall be borne by the district where the hearing
was held and disciplinary action taken. Every minister who
appeals shall have the right to present oral as well as written
argument upon his or her appeal, but this right may be waived
in writing by the accused.
The cost of preparing the record of a case for a layperson,
including a verbatim transcript of all testimony given at the
trial, for the purpose of an appeal to the District Court of
Appeals, shall be borne by the local church of the district
where the hearing was held and disciplinary action taken.
Every layperson who appeals shall have the right to present
oral as well as written argument upon his or her appeal, but
this right may be waived in writing by the accused.
616.2. The highest court for a minister to appeal is the
General Court of Appeals, and the highest court for a
layperson to appeal is the District Court of Appeals.
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION 259

616.3. A minister or layperson who is accused of misconduct

or any violation of the church Manual and against whom
charges are pending shall have the right to meet his or her
accusers face-to-face and to cross-examine the witnesses for
the prosecution.
616.4. The testimony of any witness before a Board of
Discipline shall not be received or considered in evidence unless
such testimony be given under oath or solemn affirmation.
616.5. A minister or layperson who is brought before a Board
of Discipline to answer charges shall always have the right to
be represented by counsel of his or her own choosing, provided
such counsel be a member in good standing in the Church
of the Nazarene. Any full member of a regularly organized
church against whom no written charges are pending will be
considered in good standing.
616.6. A minister or layperson shall not be required to answer
charges for any act that occurred more than five years before
the filing of such charges, and no evidence will be considered
at any hearing for any matter that occurred more than five
years before the charges were filed. Provided, however, that if
the person aggrieved by any such act was under the age of 18
or found to be mentally incompetent of making an accusation
or filing a charge, such five-year limitation periods would not
begin to run until the aggrieved person reached age 18 or
became mentally competent. In the case of the sexual abuse
of a minor, no time limit shall apply. A minor is defined as any
human being under the age of 18, unless the age of majority
is attained later under a state’s or country’s own domestic
legislation.
If a minister is convicted of a felony by a court of competent
jurisdiction, he or she shall surrender his or her credential to
the district superintendent. At the request of such minister,
and if the Board of Discipline has not previously been involved,
the District Advisory Board shall investigate the circumstances
of the conviction and may restore the credential if it deems
appropriate.
260 JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

616.7. A minister or layperson shall not be twice placed

in jeopardy for the same offense. It shall not be considered,
however, that such person was placed in jeopardy at any
hearing or proceeding where the court of appeals discovers
reversible error committed in the original proceeding before a
Board of Discipline.
 PART VIII

Sacraments and Rituals

NOTE: In order to edit or to make additions to any item in the Sacraments

and Rituals section of the Manual, action by a General Assembly is required.

LORD’S SUPPER

BAPTISM OF BELIEVERS

BAPTISM OF INFANTS OR YOUNG CHILDREN

DEDICATION OF INFANTS OR YOUNG CHILDREN
RECEPTION OF CHURCH MEMBERS

MATRIMONY

FUNERAL SERVICE

INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

ORGANIZATION OF A LOCAL CHURCH

CHURCH DEDICATIONS
262 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

I. SACRAMENTS
700. LORD’S SUPPER
The administration of the Lord’s Supper may be introduced
by an appropriate sermon and the reading of 1 Corinthians
11:23-29; Luke 22:14-20, or some other suitable passage.
Let the minister then give the following invitation:

The Communion Supper, instituted by our

Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is a sacrament, which
proclaims His life, His sufferings, His sacrificial
death, and resurrection, and the hope of His
coming again. It shows forth the Lord’s death until
His return.
The Supper is a means of grace in which Christ
is present by the Spirit. It is to be received in
reverent appreciation and gratefulness for the work
of Christ.
All those who are truly repentant, forsaking
their sins, and believing in Christ for salvation are
invited to participate in the death and resurrection
of Christ. We come to the table that we may be
renewed in life and salvation and be made one by
the Spirit.
In unity with the Church, we confess our faith:
Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come
again. And so we pray:
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 263

The minister may offer a prayer of confession and

supplication, concluding with the following prayer of
consecration:

Holy God,
We gather at this, your table, in the name of your
Son, Jesus Christ, who by your Spirit was anointed
to preach good news to the poor, proclaim release
to the captives, set at liberty those who are
oppressed. Christ healed the sick, fed the hungry,
ate with sinners, and established the new covenant
for forgiveness of sins. We live in the hope of His
coming again.
On the night in which He was betrayed, He took
bread, gave thanks, broke the bread, gave it to His
disciples, and said: “This is my body which is given
for you; do this in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19)
Likewise, when the supper was over, He took
the cup, gave thanks, gave it to His disciples, and
said: “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of
the covenant, which is poured out for many for the
forgiveness of sins. Do this in remembrance of me.”
(Matthew 26:27-29)
And so, we gather as the Body of Christ to offer
ourselves to you in praise and thanksgiving. Pour
out your Holy Spirit on us and on these your gifts.
Make them by the power of your Spirit to be for
us the body and blood of Christ, that we may be
264 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

for the world the Body of Christ, redeemed by His

blood.
By your Spirit make us one in Christ, one with
each other, and one in the ministry of Christ to
all the world, until Christ comes in final victory.
In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
Amen.
And now, as our Savior Christ has taught us, let
us pray: (Here the congregation may pray the Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be your
name, your kingdom come, your will be done on
earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily
bread. Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive
those who trespass against us. Lead us not into
temptation, but deliver us from evil. For yours is
the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.
Amen.
Before the partaking of the bread, let the minister say:

The body of our Lord Jesus Christ, broken for

you, preserve you blameless, unto everlasting life.
Eat this in remembrance that Christ died for you,
and be thankful.
Before the partaking of the cup, let the minister say:

The blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, shed for you,

preserve you blameless unto everlasting life. Drink
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 265

this in remembrance that Christ died for you, and

be thankful.
After all have partaken, the minister may then offer a
concluding prayer of thanksgiving and commitment.
(124.4, 524.7, 525.2, 526.1)
NOTE: Only unfermented wine should be used in the sacrament of the Lord’s
Supper.
266 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

701. BAPTISM OF BELIEVERS

Dearly Beloved: Christian baptism is a
sacrament signifying participation by faith in
the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and
incorporation into His Body, the Church. It is a
means of grace proclaiming Jesus Christ as Lord
and Savior.
The Apostle Paul declares that all who are
baptized into Christ Jesus are baptized into His
death. We are buried with Him through baptism
so that just as Christ was raised from the dead, we
too are raised to walk in newness of life. As we
have been united with Him in His death, we will
also be united with Him in His resurrection.
The Christian faith, into which you now come
to be baptized, is affirmed in the Apostles’ Creed,
which we confess:
The minister leads the congregation in the affirmation of
the confession of faith.

“We believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker

of heaven and earth;
“And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord;
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the
Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was
crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into
hell; the third day He rose again from the dead;
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 267

He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand

of God the Father Almighty; from there He shall
come to judge the living and the dead.
“We believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Church
of Jesus Christ, the communion of saints, the
forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.”
Will you be baptized into this faith?
Response: I will.
Do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as your Lord
and Savior, and do you believe that He saves you
now?
Response: I do by faith.
As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ, will
you follow Him all the days of your life, growing in
grace and the love of God and neighbor?
Response: I will with God’s help.
The minister, giving the full name of the person and using
the preferred form of baptism—sprinkling, pouring, or
immersion—shall say:

______________________, I baptize you in the

name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit. Amen.
268 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

702. BAPTISM OF INFANTS

OR YOUNG CHILDREN
When the sponsors shall have presented themselves with
the child (or children) the minister shall say:

Dearly Beloved: The sacrament of baptism is

the sign and seal of the new covenant of grace. It
is a means of grace and signifies the prevenient
nature of God’s gracious acceptance of this young
child within the community of Christian faith. It
anticipates her/his personal confession of faith in
Jesus Christ.
The Christian faith, into which you now bring
this child to be baptized, is affirmed in the
Apostles’ Creed, which we confess:
The minister leads the congregation in the affirmation of
the confession of faith.

“We believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker

of heaven and earth;
“And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord;
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the
Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was
crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into
hell; the third day He rose again from the dead;
He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand
of God the Father Almighty; from there He shall
come to judge the living and the dead.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 269

“We believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Church

of Jesus Christ, the communion of saints, the
forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.”
Will you have your child baptized into this faith?
Response: I will.
In presenting this child for baptism you are
hereby witnessing to your own personal Christian
faith and to your purpose to guide her/him early in
life to a knowledge of Christ as Savior. To this end
it is your duty to teach her/him, as soon as she/he
shall be able to learn, the nature and end of this
holy sacrament; to watch over her/his education,
that she/he may not be led astray; to direct her/his
feet to the sanctuary; to restrain her/him from evil
associates and habits; and as much as in you lies, to
bring her/him up in the nurture and admonition
of the Lord.
Will you endeavor to do so by the help of God?
If so, answer, “I will.”
The minister may then ask the parents or guardians to
name the child, and shall then baptize the child, repeating
her/his full name and saying:

________________________, I baptize you in the

name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit. Amen.
270 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

Pastor: Baptism also signifies the acceptance of

this child into the community of Christian faith.
I now ask you, the congregation; will you commit
yourself as the Body of Christ to support and
encourage these parents as they endeavor to fulfill
their responsibilities to this child and to assist by
nurturing her/his growth toward spiritual maturity?
Response: We will.
The minister may then offer the following prayer or may
use an extemporary prayer.

Heavenly Father, we humbly pray that You will

take this child into Your loving care. Abundantly
enrich her/him with Your heavenly grace; bring
her/him safely through the perils of childhood;
deliver her/him from the temptations of youth;
lead her/him to a personal knowledge of Christ
as Savior; help her/him to grow in wisdom, and
in stature, and in favor with God and all people,
and to persevere therein to the end. Uphold the
parents with loving care, that with wise counsel
and holy example they may faithfully discharge
their responsibilities to both this child and to You.
In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 271

II. RITUALS
703. DEDICATION OF INFANTS
OR YOUNG CHILDREN
When the parents or guardians have presented themselves
with the child (or children) the minister shall say:

“Then people brought little children to Jesus for

him to place his hands on them and pray for them.
But the disciples rebuked them. Jesus said, ‘Let
the little children come to me, and do not hinder
them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as
these’” (Matthew 19:13-14).
In presenting this child for dedication you signify
not only your faith in the Christian religion but also
your desire that she/he may early know and follow
the will of God, may live and die a Christian, and
come unto everlasting blessedness.
In order to attain this holy end, it will be your
duty, as parents (guardians), to teach her/him
early the fear of the Lord, to watch over her/his
education, that she/he be not led astray; to direct
her/his youthful mind to the Holy Scriptures, and
her/his feet to the sanctuary; to restrain her/him
from evil associates and habits; and, as much as in
you lies, to bring her/him up in the nurture and
admonition of the Lord.
272 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

Will you endeavor to do so by the help of God?

If so, answer, “I will.”
Pastor: I now ask you, the congregation; will you
commit yourself as the Body of Christ to support
and encourage these parents as they endeavor to
fulfill their responsibilities to this child and to
assist by nurturing her/his growth toward spiritual
maturity?
Response: We will.
Pastor: Our loving Heavenly Father, we do here
and now dedicate _________________ in the name
of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit. Amen.
Then the minister may offer the following prayer, or may
use an extemporary prayer.

Heavenly Father, we humbly pray that You will

take this child into Your loving care. Abundantly
enrich her/him with Your heavenly grace; bring
her/him safely through the perils of childhood;
deliver her/him from the temptations of youth;
lead her/him to a personal knowledge of Christ
as Savior; help her/him to grow in wisdom, and
in stature, and in favor with God and all people,
and to persevere therein to the end. Uphold the
parents with loving care, that with wise counsel
and holy example they may faithfully discharge
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 273

their responsibilities both to this child and to You.

In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
274 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

704. RECEPTION OF CHURCH MEMBERS

It is expected that prospective members have professed
the Christian faith and been instructed in the doctrine
and practices of the Church of the Nazarene. They may
come forward to stand before the congregation and the
pastor shall address them as follows:

Dearly Beloved: The privileges and blessings

that we have in community together in the Church
of Jesus Christ are sacred and precious. There is in
it such hallowed fellowship, care, and counsel as
cannot otherwise be known apart from the family
of God.
There is the godly care of pastors, with the
teachings of the Word and the inspiration of
corporate worship. And there is cooperation in
service, accomplishing that which cannot otherwise
be done.
Today we affirm again the Agreed Statement of
Belief for the Church of the Nazarene:
We believe in one God—the Father, Son, and Holy
Spirit.
We believe the Old and New Testament Scriptures,
given by plenary inspiration, contain all truth
necessary to faith and Christian living.
We believe human beings are born with a fallen
nature, and are, therefore, inclined to evil, and that
continually.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 275

We believe the finally impenitent are hopelessly and

eternally lost.
We believe the atonement through Jesus Christ is
for the whole human race; and that whosoever repents
and believes on the Lord Jesus Christ is justified and
regenerated and saved from the dominion of sin.
We believe that believers are to be sanctified wholly,
subsequent to regeneration, through faith in the Lord
Jesus Christ.
We believe the Holy Spirit bears witness to the new
birth, and also to the entire sanctification of believers.
And we believe our Lord will return, the dead will
be raised, and the final judgment will take place.
(Manual paragraphs 20.1-20.8).

Do you heartily believe these truths? If so,

answer, “I do.”
Do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as your Lord
and Savior, and do you believe that He saves you
now?
Response: I do by faith.
Desiring to unite with the Church of the
Nazarene, do you commit to love the Lord your
God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength
and your neighbor as yourself as expressed by the
Covenants of Christian Character and Conduct?
Do you commit to the mission of God as expressed
276 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

in the doctrine, fellowship, and work of the Church

of the Nazarene? Will you support the teachings of
the Church of the Nazarene and strive, with God’s
help, to grow in your understanding and practice of
the same in a way that enhances the witness of the
church? Will you endeavor in every way to glorify
God, by a humble walk, godly conversation, and
holy service; by devotedly giving of your resources;
and by faithfully participating in the means of
grace? Will you follow Jesus Christ all the days of
your life, abstain from all evil, and seek earnestly
to perfect holiness of heart and life in the fear of
the Lord?
Response: I will.
The minister shall then say to the person or persons:

I welcome you into the Church of the Nazarene

and the fellowship of this local congregation with
its benefits and responsibilities. May the great Head
of the Church bless and keep you, and enable you
to be faithful in all good works, that your life and
witness may be effective in care for the poor and
oppressed and in leading others to Christ.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 277

705. MATRIMONY
Recognizing the varied global and cultural
contexts regarding marriage, the Church of the
Nazarene suggests the following principles:
• Equality between husband and wife
• Covenantal relationship reflecting the
covenantal relationship between Christ and
His church
• Use of language that is legally and culturally
appropriate. This ritual does not eliminate or
replace the legal requirements of any country.
The following ceremony is offered as a resource.
At the day and time appointed for the solemnization of
matrimony, the persons to be married—having been
qualified according to law and by careful counsel and
guidance by the minister—standing together, the couple
shall face the minister, and the minister shall address the
congregation as follows:

Dearly Beloved: We are gathered together here

in the sight of God, and in the presence of these
witnesses, to join together (Name of Groom) and
(Name of Bride) in holy matrimony, which is an
honorable estate, instituted of God in the innocence
of Eden, symbolizing the mystical union between
Christ and His Church. This holy estate Christ
adorned and sanctified with His presence and first
miracle that He performed, in Cana of Galilee,
278 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

and the writer to the Hebrews commended as

being honorable among all people. It is, therefore,
not to be entered into unadvisedly, but reverently,
discreetly, and in the fear of God.
Into this holy estate these persons present now
come to be joined.
Addressing the couple to be married, the minister shall
say:

_________________ and _________________, I

require and charge you both as you stand in the
presence of God, to remember that the commitment
to marriage is a commitment to permanence. It is
the intent of God that your marriage will be for
life, and that only death will separate you.
If the vows you exchange today be kept without
violation, and if you seek always to know and do
the will of God, your lives will be blessed with His
presence, and your home will abide in His peace.
Following the charge the minister shall say unto the man:

_________________, will you have this woman

to be your wedded wife, to live together after
God’s ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony?
Will you love, comfort, honor, and keep her, in
sickness and in health; and forsaking all others,
keep yourself only unto her, so long as you both
shall live?
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 279

Response: I will.
Then shall the minister say unto the woman:

_________________, will you have this man to

be your wedded husband, to live together after
God’s ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony?
Will you love, comfort, honor, and keep him, in
sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others,
keep yourself only unto him, so long as you both
shall live?
Response: I will.
Then the minister shall ask:

Will you as (parents of the bride and groom,

members of the families, and/or members of God’s
family) give your blessings to this union?
Response (by parents of the bride and groom,
members of the families, and/or members of God’s
family): We will.
Facing each other and joining right hands, the couple shall
then exchange the following vows:

The man shall repeat after the minister:

I, _______________, take you, ________________,

to be my wedded wife, to have and to hold from
this day forward, for better-for worse, for richer-
for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to
280 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

cherish, till death us do part, according to God’s

holy ordinance; and thereto I pledge you my faith.
The woman shall repeat after the minister:

I, ________________, take you, _______________,

to be my wedded husband, to have and to hold from
this day forward, for better-for worse, for richer-
for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to
cherish, till death us do part, according to God’s
holy ordinance; and thereto I pledge you my faith.
If desired, a ring ceremony may be inserted at this point.
The minister receives the ring from the groomsman and,
in turn, passes it to the groom. As he then places it upon
the bride’s finger, he shall repeat, after the minister:

This ring I give you as a token of my love and as

a pledge of my constant fidelity.
Repeat for double ring ceremony.

The couple then shall kneel as the minister offers the

following, or an extemporaneous prayer:

Eternal God, Creator and Preserver of all, Giver

of all spiritual grace, the Author of everlasting
life, send Your blessing upon these Your servants,
(Name of Groom) and (Name of Bride), whom
we now bless in Your name; so they may keep the
vow and covenant made between them this hour
and may ever remain in love and peace together,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 281

Then shall the minister say:

Forasmuch as this man and woman have

consented together in holy wedlock, and have
witnessed the same before God and this company,
and have declared the same by joining of hands, I
pronounce that they are husband and wife together,
in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the
Holy Spirit. Those whom God has joined together
let no one put asunder. Amen.
The minister shall then add this blessing:

God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,

bless, preserve, and keep you; the Lord mercifully
with His favor look upon you, and fill you with
all spiritual benediction and grace. May you so live
together in this life that in the world to come you
may have life everlasting.
The minister may then conclude with an extemporaneous
prayer and/or benediction. (524.7, 525.2, 526.1, 530.19)
282 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

706. FUNERAL SERVICE

Dearly Beloved: We are gathered today to
pay our final tribute of respect to that which was
mortal of our deceased loved one and friend. To
you members of the family who mourn your loss,
we especially offer our deep and sincere sympathy.
May we share with you the comfort afforded by
God’s Word for such a time as this:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe
in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has
many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told
you that I am going there to prepare a place for
you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will
come back and take you to be with me that you
also may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3).
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who
believes in me will live, even though they die; and
whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”
(John 11:25-26).
I nvocation (in the minister’s own words or the following):

Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we come

into this sanctuary of sorrow, realizing our utter
dependence upon You. We know You do love us
and can turn even the shadow of death into the
light of morning. Help us now to wait before You
with reverent and submissive hearts.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 283

You are our Refuge and Strength, O God—a

very present Help in time of trouble. Grant unto
us Your abundant mercy. May those who mourn
today find comfort and healing balm in Your
sustaining grace. We humbly bring these petitions
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
A hymn or special
Song selections of scripture:
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord
Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new
birth into a living hope through the resurrection of
Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance
that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance
is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are
shielded by God’s power until the coming of the
salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last
time. In all this you greatly rejoice, though now
for a little while you may have had to suffer grief
in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the
proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth
than gold, which perishes even though refined by
fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when
Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen
him, you love him; and even though you do not see
him now, you believe in him and are filled with an
inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving
284 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

the end result of your faith, the salvation of your

souls” (1 Peter 1:3-9).
(Other passages that might be used are: Matthew 5:3-4, 6,
8; Psalms 27:3-5, 11, 13-14; 46:1-6, 10-11.)

Message
A hymn or special song
Closing Prayer

***
At the Graveside:
When the people have assembled, the minister may read
any or all of the following Scriptures:

“I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the

end he will stand on the earth. And after my skin
has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God;
I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and
not another. How my heart yearns within me!” (Job
19:25-27).
“Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all
sleep, but we will all be changed— in a flash, in
the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For
the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised
imperishable, and we will be changed…then the
saying that is written will come true: ‘Death has
been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is
your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’ The
sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 285

law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory

through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand
firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves
fully to the work of the Lord, because you know
that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1
Corinthians 15:51-52, 54-58).
“Then I heard a voice from heaven say, Write
this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord
from now on. “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest
from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”
(Revelation 14:13).
The minister shall then read one of the following
committal statements:

For a Believer:
Forasmuch as our departed loved one has
returned to God, we therefore tenderly commit
her/his body to the grave in sure trust and certain
hope of the resurrection of the dead and the life
of the world to come, through our Lord Jesus
Christ, who shall give to us new bodies like unto
His glorious body. “Blessed are the dead who die in
the Lord.”
For a Nonbeliever:
Forasmuch as our departed loved one has
returned to the dust, we therefore tenderly commit
286 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

her/his body to the grave in sure confidence that

God is both just and merciful, and will do right.
Let us who remain dedicate ourselves to worship
and love God, sharing the sure and certain hope of
eternal life.
For a Child:
In the sure and certain hope of the resurrection
to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ, we
tenderly commit the body of this child to the
grave. And as Jesus, during His earthly life, took
the little children into His arms and blessed them,
we believe He has already received this dear one
into his loving arms. Jesus said, “The kingdom of
heaven belongs to such as these.”
Prayer:
Our Heavenly Father, God of all mercy, we look
to You in this moment of sorrow and bereavement.
Comfort these dear ones whose hearts are heavy
and sad. Will You be with them, sustain and guide
them in the days to come. Grant, O Lord, that they
may love and serve You and obtain the fullness of
Your promises in the world to come.
“Now may the God of peace, who through the
blood of the eternal covenant brought back from
the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the
sheep, equip you with everything good for doing
his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 287

him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for

ever and ever. Amen.” (Hebrews 13:20-21).
288 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

707. INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

Following the singing of an appropriate hymn, let the
secretary read the names and positions of the officers to be
installed. These may come forward and stand at the altar
of the church, facing the minister. A covenant card should
be provided for each. The minister shall then say:

Recognizing God’s method of setting apart

certain workers for specific areas of Christian
service, we come to this moment of installation
of these officers (and/or teachers) who have been
properly chosen to serve in our church for the
ensuing year. Let us consider God’s instructions to
us from His Holy Word.
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in
view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a
living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is
your true and proper worship. Do not conform to
the pattern of this world, but be transformed by
the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able
to test and approve what God’s will is—his good,
pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2).
“Do your best to present yourself to God as
one approved, a worker who does not need to be
ashamed and who correctly handles the word of
truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you
richly as you teach and admonish one another with
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 289

all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs

from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in
your hearts.” (Colossians 3:16).
“Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction
in the word should share all good things with their
instructor.” (Galatians 6:6).
We now come to this important moment when
you who stand before the altar are to take upon
yourselves the task of caring for the affairs of
the church and Nazarene Missions International
(NMI), Nazarene Youth International (NYI), and
Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI). May
you look upon the assignments you now assume
as special opportunities for service for our Lord,
and may you find joy and spiritual blessing in the
performance of your respective duties.
Yours is no light task, for the ongoing of the
church and the destiny of souls is in your hands.
The development of Christian character is your
responsibility, and leading the unsaved to Jesus
Christ is your highest objective. May God grant
you wisdom and strength as you do His work for
His glory.
You have been given a card on which is printed a
covenant. We shall read it in unison, and as we do
so, let us make it a personal commitment.
290 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

WORKER’S COVENANT
In consideration of the confidence placed in me
by the church in being selected for the office I now
assume, I hereby covenant:
To maintain a high standard of Christian living
and example in harmony with the ideals and
standards of the Church of the Nazarene.
To cultivate my personal Christian experience
by setting aside each day definite time for prayer
and Bible reading.
To be present at the regular Sunday School, the
Sunday morning and Sunday evening preaching
services, and the midweek prayer meeting of the
church, unless providentially hindered.
To attend faithfully all properly called meetings
of the various boards, councils, or committees to
which I have been, or will be, assigned.
To notify my superior officer if I am unable to
be present at the stated time, or to carry out my
responsibilities in this office.
To read widely the denominational publications,
and other books and literature which will be helpful
to me in discharging the duties of my office.
To improve myself and my skills by participating
in Continuing Lay Training courses as opportunity
is afforded.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 291

To endeavor to lead people to Jesus Christ by

manifesting an active interest in the spiritual
welfare of others and by attending and supporting
all evangelistic meetings in the church.
The minister shall then offer an appropriate prayer, and
a special song of dedication may be sung, after which the
minister shall say:

Having pledged together your hearts and hands

to the task of carrying forward the work of this
church in your particular assignments, I herewith
install you in the respective positions to which you
have been elected or appointed. You are now a vital
part of the organizational structure and leadership
of this church. May you, by example, by precept,
and by diligent service, be effective workers in the
vineyard of the Lord.
The minister shall ask the congregation to rise, and shall
address them as follows:

You have heard the pledge and covenant entered

into by your church leaders for the coming year.
I now charge you, as a congregation, to be loyal
in your support of them. The burdens which we
have laid upon them are heavy, and they will need
your assistance and prayers. May you always be
understanding of their problems and tolerant of
their seeming failures. May you lend assistance
292 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

joyfully when called upon, so that, as we work

together, our church may be an effective instrument
in winning the lost to Christ.
The minister may then lead in a concluding prayer or have
the congregation repeat the Lord’s Prayer in unison.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 293

708. ORGANIZATION OF A LOCAL CHURCH

District Superintendent: Loved ones in Christ,
we are gathered on this Lord’s Day for the special
purpose of officially organizing the (name) Church
of the Nazarene. Indeed you are already a church
but today the life of this congregation moves to
a new level as you embrace the rights, privileges,
and responsibilities of an organized congregation in
accordance with the Constitution and polity of the
Church of the Nazarene.
On behalf of the global family of Nazarenes, I
commend you for your vision, your faith, and your
diligent labor as you have worked together hand in
hand and heart to heart to be a community of faith
that lives as an authentic expression of the kingdom
of God in the world. By this act of organization, you
declare your intention to share with the global family
of Nazarenes in fulfilling our common mission: “To
make Christlike disciples in the nations.”
Three core values guide us in this mission:
We are a Christian people. We stand with
Christians everywhere in affirming the historic
Trinitarian creeds, and we deeply value our
particular heritage in the Wesleyan-holiness
tradition. We look to the Bible as our primary
source of truth as it proclaims Christ to us, and “all
things necessary to our salvation.”
294 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

We are a Holiness people. We believe that the

grace of God provides not only forgiveness for sins
but also the cleansing of our hearts by faith. By this
gracious act of the Holy Spirit, we are sanctified and
empowered to live Christlike lives in the world.
We are a Missional people. We believe God
calls us to participation in the kingdom mission of
reconciliation. We do this by preaching the gospel,
by acts of compassion and justice, and by making
disciples after the pattern of Jesus.
District Superintendent to the pastor: Pastor,
would you please now present those who will be
the charter members of (name) Church of the
Nazarene?
Pastor: (name of district superintendent), it is
my honor to present to you the charter members
of this congregation. I commend them to you as
brothers and sisters in Christ who are committed
to our common mission as members of the Church
of the Nazarene.
(Pastor reads the names or introduces each member or
family.)

District Superintendent: Brothers and Sisters, I

ask you now to reaffirm your membership vows.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 295

Do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as your Lord

and Savior, and do you believe that He saves you
now?
Response: I do by faith.
Do you affirm the Agreed Statement of Belief of
the Church of the Nazarene?
Response: I do.
Do you covenant to give yourself to the fellowship
and work of God in connection with the Church
of the Nazarene as set forth in the Covenant of
Christian Character and the Covenant of Christian
Conduct? Will you endeavor in every way to glorify
God, by a humble walk, godly conversation, and
holy service; by devotedly giving of your means; by
faithful attendance upon the means of grace; and,
abstaining from all evil, will you seek earnestly to
perfect holiness of heart and life in the fear of the
Lord?
Response: I will.
District Superintendent: Therefore, by the
authority entrusted to me as superintendent of the
(name) District Church of the Nazarene, I hereby
declare the official organization of the (name)
Church of the Nazarene. Welcome to the global
family of Nazarene congregations. May the Lord in
His great mercy equip you daily with everything
296 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

good for doing His will. And may the peace of

Christ be with you.
SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS 297

709. CHURCH DEDICATIONS

Minister: Having been prospered by the hand of
the Lord and enabled by His grace and strength to
complete this building to the glory of His name,
we now stand in God’s presence to dedicate this
structure to the service of His kingdom.
To the glory of God our Father, from whom
cometh every good and perfect gift; to the honor
of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior; and to the
praise of the Holy Spirit, Source of light, and life,
and power—our Sanctifier,
Congregation: We do now, with joy and gratitude,
humbly dedicate this building.
Minister: In remembrance of all who have loved
and served this church, establishing the heritage
we now enjoy, and who are now part of the Church
Triumphant,
Congregation: We gratefully dedicate this edifice
(sanctuary, education building, fellowship hall,
etc.).
Minister: For worship in prayer and song, for
the preaching of the Word, for the teaching of the
Scriptures, and for the fellowship of the saints,
Congregation: We solemnly dedicate this house
of God.
Minister: For the comfort of those who mourn,
for the strengthening of the weak, for the help of
298 SACRAMENTS AND RITUALS

those who are tempted, and for the giving of hope

and courage to all who come within these walls,
Congregation: We dedicate this place of fellowship
and prayer.
Minister: For the sharing of the good news
of salvation from sin, for the spreading of
scriptural holiness, for the giving of instruction in
righteousness, and for the service of our fellowmen,
Congregation: We reverently dedicate this
building.
Unison: We, as laborers together with God, now
join hands and hearts and dedicate ourselves anew
to the high and holy purposes to which this building
has been set apart. We pledge our loyal devotion,
faithful stewardship, and diligent service to the
end that in this place the name of the Lord shall
be glorified, and His kingdom shall be advanced;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 PART IX

Charter & Ministry

Plans/Constitution/
Bylaws

NAZARENE YOUTH INTERNATIONAL

NAZARENE MISSIONS INTERNATIONAL

NAZARENE DISCIPLESHIP INTERNATIONAL

300 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

I. NAZARENE YOUTH INTERNATIONAL

810. NAZARENE YOUTH INTERNATIONAL
CHARTER
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young,
but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct,
in love, in faith, and in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12

810.1 Our Mission

The mission of Nazarene Youth International is to call
our generation to a dynamic life in Christ.

810.2 Our Members

Membership in Nazarene Youth International includes
all persons participating in Nazarene youth ministry
who choose to embrace our stated vision and values.

810.3 Our Vision

The Church of the Nazarene believes that young
people are an integral part of the Church. Nazarene
Youth International exists to lead young people into a
lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ and to facilitate
their growth as disciples for Christian service.

810.4 Our Values

1. We value Young People…significant in the kingdom
of God.
2. We value the Bible…God’s unchanging truth for
our lives.
3. We value Prayer…vital interactive communication
with our heavenly father.
4. We value the Church…a global holiness community
of faith, diverse in culture but one in Christ.
5. We value Worship…life-changing encounters with
an intimate God.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 301

6. We value Discipleship...a lifestyle of becoming like

Christ.
7. We value Community…building relationships that
help bind us together and to God.
8. We value Ministry…extending God’s grace to our
world.
9. We value Witness...sharing God’s love in word and
deed.
10. We value Holiness…a work of grace whereby God,
through the working of His Holy Spirit, enables us
to live a life representing Christ in who we are and
in everything we do.
These values are important dimensions of the holy
life and are to be reflected in the life and ministry
of NYI at every level of the church. (Please refer to
the Articles of Faith in the Manual of the Church of
the Nazarene for more information on these values.) In
reflecting these values, we acknowledge the following
Guiding Principles.

810.5 Our Guiding Principles

1. NYI exists for youth.
Nazarene Youth International exists to attract,
equip, and empower young people for service in the
kingdom of God and to facilitate their integration
into the Church of the Nazarene.
2. NYI focuses on Christ.
Christ is central to who we are, the Word of God our
authoritative source for all we do, and holiness our
pattern for life.
3. NYI is built on relational ministry to youth in the
local church.
Effective ministry to young people in the local
church is critical to the health and vibrancy of NYI.
Relationships and incarnational ministry form the
foundation for Nazarene youth ministry, guiding
young people toward spiritual maturity in Christ.
302 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

4. NYI develops and mentors young leaders.

NYI provides opportunities for emerging leaders to
develop and utilize their gifts within an environment
of nurture and support, assuring strong leadership
for the Church of the Nazarene. Leadership training,
accountability, and mechanisms for evaluation and
modification of ministry are vital functions of NYI.
5. NYI is empowered to lead.
Relevant youth ministry requires that responsibility
for ministry and organizational decisions reside with
NYI leadership and the appropriate governing bodies
at every level. A sense of belonging and ownership,
a passion for service, and input in decision-making
are key ingredients for the empowerment of young
people through NYI.
6. NYI embraces unity and diversity in Christ.
NYI is committed to understanding and celebrating
differences and diversity in language, color, race,
culture, socioeconomic class, and gender. Our
differences do not diminish unity but enhance our
potential and effectiveness. Sharing the good news
of Jesus Christ in culturally relevant ways must
always be a high priority.
7. NYI creates networks and partnerships.
A climate of cooperation characterizes our
relationships at every level of NYI. Networking
within the church enhances the development and
deployment of young people for service; NYI actively
participates in such cooperative endeavors.

810.6 Our Ministry Framework

The Nazarene Youth International Charter provides the
foundation for organizing, planning, and implementing youth
ministry at every level of the Church of the Nazarene. Standard
ministry plan templates are provided that local, district, and
regional NYI groups are encouraged to adapt in response to
youth ministry needs in their own ministry situation. Ministry
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 303

plans at every level must be consistent with the NYI Charter

and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.

810.7 Revisions
The NYI Charter may be amended through resolutions
approved by the Global NYI Convention, according to the
Global Ministry Plan.

A. LOCAL MINISTRY PLAN TEMPLATE

Ministries
810.100 Evangelism
The NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing
ministries and special events to reach young people for
Christ.

810.101 Discipleship
The NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing
ministries and special events to nurture and challenge
young people to grow as disciples of Christ, in personal
devotion, worship, fellowship, ministry, and leading
others to Christ.

810.102 Leadership Development

The NYI develops and implements a variety of ongoing
ministries and special events to mentor and equip
young people to be leaders for Christ and His church.

Revisions
810.103 Provision
1. This local ministry plan template provides a standard
format for the organization, function, and leadership of
NYI at the local level. A local NYI group may adapt the
plan in response to local youth ministry needs, consistent
with the Nazarene Youth International Charter and the
Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.
304 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

2. Any area not covered by this ministry plan is under the

authority of the local NYI Council.

810.104 Process
1. The NYI Council establishes and publicizes the process
for adapting and revising the local ministry plan and must
approve proposed revisions prior to their being brought to
the annual NYI meeting.
2. Proposed revisions to the local ministry plan must be
distributed to NYI members prior to the NYI annual
meeting.
3. Revisions must be approved by a two-thirds vote of all NYI
members present and voting at the annual NYI meeting
and are subject to church board approval.
4. All changes in the local ministry plan become effective no
later than 30 days following the NYI annual meeting. The
revised plan must be posted in written form prior to taking
effect.

Membership and Ministry Focus

810.105 Composition and Accountability
1. Local NYI membership consists of those who affiliate
themselves with an NYI group by participating in its
ministries and joining the local group.
2. The local NYI maintains an accurate roster of all active
members.
3. The local NYI is accountable to its membership, the local
church board, and the pastor.
4. The local NYI reports monthly to the church board and to
the annual church meeting.
810.106 Ministry Focus
1. The traditional ministry focus of the local NYI is to youth
ages 12 and older, college/university students, and young
adults. A local NYI Council may modify the ministry focus
as seen fit with the approval of the pastor and local church
board.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 305

2. For the purposes of representation and programming, the

local NYI council establishes age divisions in response to
local youth ministry needs.

Leadership
810.107 Officers
1. The officers of the local NYI are a president and up to three
persons elected by the annual NYI meeting with assigned
ministry responsibilities according to local church needs.
These officers serve on the Executive Committee.
2. Local NYI officers must be members of the local church
whose NYI they serve, active in local youth ministry, and
leaders in personal example and service.
3. In churches not having an organized NYI (no local NYI
Council), the pastor, with church board approval, may
appoint the NYI president so that the church may begin to
reach young people for Christ and respond to their spiritual
growth needs.

810.108 Elections
1. Officers are elected annually by the members of the local
NYI at the annual meeting and serve until their successors
are elected and assume their ministry roles.
2. A nominating committee nominates the officers for NYI.
A Nominating Committee is appointed by the pastor and
consists of NYI members, as well as the pastor and the
NYI president. All nominees are to be approved by the
pastor and church board. Persons nominated as local NYI
president must have reached their 15th birthday at the time
of their election.
3. Officers are elected by majority vote of the NYI members
present at the annual NYI meeting. When there is only
one nominee for a position, a “yes” and “no” ballot is used,
with approval by two-thirds vote. Only those who are also
members of the local Church of the Nazarene may vote for
the president.
306 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

4. An incumbent officer may be reelected by a “yes” or “no”

vote when such vote is recommended by the NYI Council
to the nominating committee, approved by the pastor and
church board, and approved by two-thirds vote at the
annual NYI meeting.
5. A vacancy occurs when an officer moves his or her
membership from the church, resigns, or is removed from
office by two-thirds vote of the council due to neglect of
duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a vacancy occur
among officers, the NYI Council fills the vacancy by two-
thirds vote if there is one nominee or by majority vote if
two or more nominees. If the vacancy occurs in the office
of NYI president, the pastor, youth pastor, or his or her
designee chairs the meeting for election.

810.109 Responsibilities
1. The responsibilities of the NYI president include:
a. Chairing the NYI Council to cast a vision for youth
ministry in the church.
b. Facilitating the development of youth ministry and
working with the NYI Council to define the ministry
focus in response to the needs of their young people.
c. Serving on the church board and submitting a monthly
report to the board. A local church board may establish
prior to the annual election a minimum age for the
NYI president to serve on the church board; should
the president be younger, alternate representation for
NYI on the church board may be appointed by the NYI
Council, subject to the approval of the board.
d. Submitting an annual report of ministry and finances to
the annual church meeting.
e. Recommending the budget for the local NYI, as
approved by the NYI Council, to the church board.
f. Serving as an ex officio member of the Nazarene
Discipleship International Board to coordinate youth
Sunday School/Bible studies/small groups in the church.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 307

g. Working with the Nazarene Missions International

(NMI) president in the development of a missions
emphasis for youth.
h. Serving as a delegate to the District NYI Convention and
the District Assembly. Should the president be unable to
attend, a representative elected by the NYI Council and
approved by pastor and the church board may provide
alternate representation.
2. The responsibilities of other NYI officers include:
a. Developing and designating leaders for various local
NYI ministries.
b. Being role models and spiritual guides for youth both
within and outside the church.
c. Defining and assigning titles and youth ministry
responsibilities in response to local church needs.
d. Distributing the following responsibilities to insure
accountability and effectiveness:
(1) Keeping a correct record of all meetings of the
NYI Council and attending to all matters of
correspondence for the local NYI.
(2) Disbursing, receiving, and keeping records of NYI
funds according to church board policy.
(3) Compiling an annual financial report of all moneys
raised and disbursed to submit to the annual church
meeting.
(4) Working with the NYI president to create an annual
budget to present to the council and to the church
board for approval.
e. Cooperating with the president in every way possible to
facilitate the local NYI ministry.
f. Carrying out other ministries as assigned by the NYI
Council.

810.110 Paid Staff

1. When a youth pastor is employed in a church, the pastor,
in consultation with the church board and NYI Council,
assigns the responsibility for NYI to the youth pastor. In
308 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

that case, the youth pastor carries out some of the duties
otherwise designated to a local NYI president. However,
the importance of the NYI president remains, in providing
vital lay leadership, support, and representation for local
youth ministry. The pastor, youth pastor and NYI Council
work together to define the roles and responsibilities of the
two positions and how they work together for the benefit of
the church’s youth ministry.
2. A youth pastor may not serve as the NYI president.
3. The youth pastor serves ex officio on the NYI Council,
the Executive Committee, and the NYI Nominating
Committee.
4. The youth pastor may serve as the pastor’s designee for
NYI-related responsibilities.
5. If a church has multiple paid staff that minister to specific
age divisions within NYI, it may develop officers for each
age division under staff leadership and determine from
among those officers how NYI is to be represented on the
church board.

Council
810.11 Composition
1. The Local NYI Council is composed of the NYI officers,
other elected or appointed youth member-at-large and
ministry leaders as deemed necessary, and the pastor and/
or youth pastor, who collectively cast the vision for local
youth ministry.
2. NYI Council members must be members of the local
Nazarene Youth International. Local church membership
is strongly encouraged and NYI Council members should
be expected to become church members.

810.112 Elections
1. A NYI Nominating Committee nominates local NYI
members to be elected to the NYI Council.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 309

2. The NYI membership then elects the members of the NYI

Council from submitted nominations by majority vote at
the annual NYI meeting.
3. A vacancy occurs when a council member moves his or her
membership from the local NYI, resigns, or is removed
from office by two-thirds vote of the council due to neglect
of duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a vacancy occur
among council members, the NYI Council fills the vacancy
by two-thirds vote if there is one nominee or by majority
vote if two or more nominees.
4. If a church has fewer than seven NYI members, the pastor
may appoint the members of the NYI Council so that youth
ministry may be developed and young people are reached
for Christ.

810.113 Responsibilities
1. The NYI Council is responsible for planning and organizing
the total ministry for youth within the local church and,
through its officers and directors, initiates and directs
ministries and activities to reach young people for Christ
and to respond to their spiritual growth needs, in harmony
with local church leadership.
2. The NYI Council defines the ministry focus of the local NYI
in response to local youth ministry needs, and develops and
assigns titles and job descriptions for ministry directors.
3. The NYI Council gives leadership to the youth area of
Sunday School/Bible studies/small groups by promoting
growth in enrollment and attendance for youth, nominating
and providing training for youth Sunday School/Bible
study/small group teachers and leaders, and recommending
curriculum and resources to be used, in cooperation with
the Nazarene Discipleship International Board.
4. The NYI Council cooperates with the District NYI Council
in promoting district, regional, and global NYI ministries
to young people of the church.
5. The NYI Council establishes and communicates the
process for submitting revisions to the local ministry plan.
310 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

810.114 Committees
1. The NYI Executive Committee consists of elected NYI
officers and the pastor or youth pastor. The Executive
Committee may conduct the business of the NYI Council
when necessary. All actions of the Executive Committee
are communicated to the remaining members of the council
and are subject to the approval of the entire council at its
next meeting.
2. The NYI Council may establish specific ministry or age
division committees in response to youth ministry needs.

810.115 Paid Staff

1. The pastor designates the responsibilities of a youth pastor,
in consultation with the church board and the NYI Council.
2. The NYI Council and youth pastor work in cooperation
and harmony with each other.
3. If a church has multiple paid staff who minister to specific
age divisions within NYI, it may develop NYI councils
or committees for each of these age divisions under staff
leadership. The church may decide whether a coordinating
council for the various groups is used.

Meetings
810.116 Local NYI Meetings
1. A variety of local NYI gatherings help provide effective
ministry to young people.
2. The local NYI group participates in district, regional, and
global NYI gatherings that further enhance youth ministry
in the church.

810.117 NYI Council Meetings

1. The NYI Council meets regularly to fulfill the mission and
vision of NYI.
2. Meetings of the council may be scheduled or called by the
president or pastor.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 311

810.118 Annual Meeting

1. The annual meeting of the local NYI is held within 60 days
of the District NYI Convention and in harmony with the
Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.
2. NYI officers and council members and delegates to the District
NYI Convention are elected at the annual NYI meeting.
3. The NYI local ministry plan may be revised by two-thirds
vote at the NYI annual meeting.

B. DISTRICT MINISTRY PLAN

TEMPLATE
Ministries
810.200 Evangelism
The district NYI develops and implements a variety of
ongoing ministries and special events to reach young
people for Christ.

810.201 Discipleship
The district NYI develops and implements a variety of
ongoing ministries and special events to nurture and
challenge young people to grow as disciples of Christ in
personal devotion, worship, fellowship, ministry, and
leading others to Christ.

810.202 Leadership Development

The district NYI develops and implements a variety
of ongoing ministries and special events to mentor and
equip young people to be leaders for Christ and His
church.

Revisions
810.203 Provision
1. This district ministry plan template provides a standard
format for the organization, function, and leadership of
312 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

NYI at the district level. The district NYI may adapt and
revise the plan in response to youth ministry needs on the
district, consistent with the Nazarene Youth International
Charter and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.
2. Any area not covered by this ministry plan is under the
authority of the District NYI Council

810.204 Process
1. The District NYI Council establishes and publicizes the
process for adapting and revising the district ministry plan,
and must approve proposed revisions prior to their being
brought to the District NYI Convention.
2. Proposed revisions to the district ministry plan must be
distributed in written form to local NYI groups prior to the
District NYI Convention.
3. Revisions must be approved by a two-thirds vote of all
delegates and members present and voting at the District
NYI Convention and are subject to the approval of the
district superintendent and District Advisory Board.
4. All changes in the district ministry plan become effective
no later than 60 days following the Convention. The revised
document must be distributed in written form prior to
taking effect.

Membership and Ministry Focus

810.205 Composition and Accountability
1. All local NYI groups and members of NYI within the
boundaries of a district form the district Nazarene Youth
International.
2. The district NYI is accountable to its membership, the
district superintendent, and the District Advisory Board.
3. The district NYI reports annually to the District NYI
Convention and the District Assembly through the district
NYI president.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 313

810.206 Ministry Focus

1. The traditional ministry focus of the district NYI is to
youth ages 12 and older, college/university students, and
young adults. A District NYI Council may modify the
ministry focus as seen fit, with the approval of the district
superintendent and District Advisory Board.
2. For the purposes of representation and programming, the
District NYI Council establishes age divisions according to
youth ministry needs on the district.

Leadership
810.207 Officers
1. The officers of the district NYI are the president, vice
president, secretary, and treasurer.
2. District NYI officers must be members of a local Church
of the Nazarene within the bounds of the district at the
time of their election, be active in local and district youth
ministry, and be viewed as leaders in personal example and
ministry.
3. District NYI officers serve without salary. Financing for the
administrative expenses of district NYI officers is allocated
as a part of the district NYI budget.
4. Should a district not yet have an organized NYI (no
District NYI Convention), the district superintendent may
appoint a district NYI president so that local churches
may be assisted in reaching young people for Christ and in
responding to their spiritual growth needs.

810.208 Elections
1. District NYI officers are elected by the District NYI
Convention to serve for a one-year term, from the close of
the convention until their successors are elected and assume
their ministry roles. At the recommendation of the district
NYI Nominating Committee and with the approval of the
district superintendent, an officer may be elected for a two-
year term.
314 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

2. A district NYI Nominating Committee nominates the

officers of the district NYI. The nominating committee
is appointed by the District NYI Council and consists of
at least four district NYI members, and also includes the
district superintendent and the district NYI president. All
nominees must be approved by the District NYI Council
and district superintendent.
3. Officers are then elected by ballot by majority vote at the
annual NYI Convention. When there is only one nominee
for a position, a “yes” and “no” ballot is used, with approval
by two-thirds vote. If recommended by the nominating
committee, the convention may vote to allow the District
NYI Council to appoint the district NYI secretary and
treasurer.
4. An incumbent officer may be reelected by a “yes” or “no”
vote when such vote is recommended by the District NYI
Council, with the approval of the district superintendent
and approved by two-thirds vote of the District NYI
Convention.
5. A vacancy occurs when an officer moves his or her
membership from the district, resigns, or is removed from
office by two-thirds vote of the council due to neglect of
duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a vacancy occur
in the office of district NYI president, the vice president
assumes the responsibilities of president until the next
District NYI Convention. Should a vacancy occur among
other officers, the District NYI Council fills the vacancy by
two-thirds vote if there is one nominee or by majority vote
if two or more nominees.

810.209 Responsibilities
1. The responsibilities of the district NYI president include:
a. Giving leadership and direction to district NYI, working
in cooperation with NYI and district leadership.
b. Chairing the District NYI Council to cast a vision for
youth ministry on the district.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 315

c. Facilitating the development of youth ministry on the

district and working with the District NYI Council
to define the district NYI ministry focus according to
needs.
d. Presiding at the District NYI Convention.
e. Encouraging the development of NYI ministry in each
local church within the district.
f. Representing the interests of NYI on all appropriate
district boards and committees.
g. Submitting an annual report to the District NYI
Convention and District Assembly.
h. Presenting an annual budget to the District Advisory
Board (or appropriate district body) and to the District
NYI Convention for approval.
i. Serving as an ex officio delegate to the District Assembly.
j. Serving as a delegate to the Global NYI Convention.
Should the president be unable to attend, a representative
elected by the District NYI Council and approved by
district superintendent and district advisory board may
provide alternate representation.
k. Serving as a member of the Regional NYI Council, if so
designated by the ministry plan of the region.
2. The responsibilities of the vice president include:
a. Cooperating with the president in every way possible to
carry out effective youth ministry on the district.
b. Performing the duties of the president in his or her
absence.
c. Carrying out other duties as assigned by the District
NYI Council and Convention.
d. In case of a vacancy in the office of district NYI president,
fulfilling the functions of president until a successor is
elected and installed.
3. The responsibilities of the secretary include:
a. Keeping a correct record of all the proceedings of the
District NYI Council, the Executive Committee, and
the District NYI Convention.
316 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

b. Attending to all matters of correspondence for the

district NYI.
c. Notifying the global NYI Office and regional NYI chair
of the names and addresses of the various district NYI
officers and ministry directors as soon as possible after
election.
d. Carrying out other duties as assigned by the District
NYI Council and Convention.
4. The responsibilities of the treasurer include:
a. Disbursing, receiving, and keeping record of district
NYI funds.
b. Compiling an annual financial report of all moneys
raised and disbursed to submit to the annual District
NYI Convention.
c. Working with the president to create an annual budget
to present to the appropriate bodies.
5. Other responsibilities may be assigned to officers according
to district youth ministry needs.

810.210 Paid Staff

1. When a district employs a youth pastor, the district
superintendent, in consultation with the District Advisory
Board and District NYI Council, assigns the responsibility
for the district NYI to the district youth pastor. In that
case, the district youth pastor carries out some of the
duties otherwise designated to a district NYI president.
However, the importance of the district NYI president
remains, in providing additional leadership, support, and
representation for district youth ministry. The District
NYI Council and district superintendent work together to
define the roles and responsibilities of the two positions and
how they work together for the benefit of the district youth
ministry.
2. A district youth pastor may not serve as the district NYI
president.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 317

3. The district youth pastor serves ex officio on the District

NYI Council, the Executive Committee, and the District
NYI Nominating Committee.
4. The district youth pastor may serve as the district
superintendent’s designee for NYI-related responsibilities.

Council
810.211 Composition
1. The District NYI Council is composed of the officers of the
district NYI, other elected or appointed youth members-
at-large and ministry leaders as deemed necessary by the
council, and the district superintendent and/or district
youth pastor.
2. Only NYI members who are members of the Church of the
Nazarene on the district may serve as District NYI Council
members.

810.212 Elections
1. The district NYI Nominating Committee nominates
district NYI members to be elected to the District NYI
Council.
2. The District NYI Convention then elects the members of
the District NYI Council from submitted nominations by
majority vote.
3. A vacancy occurs when a council member moves his or her
membership off of the district, resigns, or is removed from
office by the council by two-thirds vote due to neglect of
duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a vacancy occur
among council members, the District NYI Council fills the
vacancy by two-thirds vote if there is one nominee or by
majority vote if two or more nominees.
4. The nominating committee may authorize the District
NYI Council to appoint district ministry directors.
318 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

810.213 Responsibilities
1. The District NYI Council is responsible for planning and
organizing the total ministry for youth within the district
and, through its officers and directors, initiates and directs
ministries and activities to reach young people for Christ
and to respond to their spiritual growth needs, in harmony
with district leadership.
2. The District NYI Council defines the ministry focus of
district NYI in response to district youth ministry needs
and develops and assigns titles and responsibilities for
district NYI ministry directors.
3. The District NYI Council encourages and equips local
churches across the district for effective youth ministry.
4. The District NYI Council gives leadership to the youth area
of the district Sunday School/Bible studies/small groups by
promoting growth and enrollment in attendance for youth
and by providing training for youth Sunday School/Bible
study/small group teachers and leaders in cooperation with
the District Nazarene Discipleship International Board.
5. The District NYI Council promotes regional and global
NYI ministries and programs to local NYI groups.
6. The District NYI Council makes recommendations to the
District NYI Convention concerning the ministry of NYI.
The convention may revise these recommendations prior to
adoption.
7. The District NYI Council establishes and communicates
the process for amending the district ministry plan.

810.214 Committees
1. The NYI Executive Committee consists of elected district
NYI officers and the district superintendent and/or district
youth pastor. Should the secretary and treasurer be
appointed members of the council, the council may elect
by majority vote two other District NYI Council members
to serve on the Executive Committee. All actions of the
Executive Committee are communicated to the remaining
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 319

members of the council and are subject to the approval of the

entire council at its next meeting.
2. The District NYI Council may establish specific ministry
or age division committees in response to district youth
ministry needs.

810.215 Zone NYI

1. In cooperation with district leadership, the District NYI
Council may authorize various zones within the existing
structure of the district to organize for leadership of NYI,
in order to coordinate and maximize NYI ministry across
the district.
2. A zone NYI council may be created to have responsibility
for specific ministries and activities on the zone.
3. A president or representative from each zone may serve on
the District NYI Council, if so specified by the District
NYI Convention.

810.216 Paid Staff

1. The district superintendent designates the responsibilities
of a district youth pastor, in consultation with the District
Advisory Board and District NYI Council.
2. The District NYI Council and district youth pastor work in
cooperation and harmony with each other.

Meetings
810.217 District NYI Meetings
1. A variety of district NYI gatherings help provide effective
ministry to young people.
2. The district NYI also encourages and enhances local NYI
ministry by meeting with local NYI groups across the
district to resource them for effective ministry.
3. The district NYI participates in regional and global NYI
gatherings that further enhance effective youth ministry
across the district.
320 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

810.218 District NYI Council Meetings

1. The District NYI Council meets regularly to fulfill the
mission and vision of district NYI.
2. Meetings of the council may be scheduled or called by the
district NYI president or district superintendent.

810.219 District NYI Convention

1. The annual District NYI Convention provides for
inspirational sessions and programs to advance youth
ministry across the district. Reports are received, leadership
is elected, and any legislative business pertaining to the
work of NYI is transacted at the Convention. Delegates
to the Global NYI Convention are also elected consistent
with the NYI Global Ministry Plan.
2. The District NYI Council arranges for and oversees the
District NYI Convention, in cooperation with the district
superintendent. The Convention convenes at a time and
place designated by the District NYI Council, with the
approval of the district superintendent and within 90 days
of the District Assembly.
3. The District NYI Convention is composed of the members
of the District NYI Council, the district superintendent,
local pastors, other assigned ordained ministers of the
district who participate in NYI ministry, and local NYI
delegates.
4. All local NYI delegates to the District NYI Convention
must be members of the Church of the Nazarene that they
represent.
5. The number of local NYI delegates for each church is
determined by the membership figures on the most recent
local Pastor’s Report prior to the District Assembly. District
NYI leadership encourages local churches to make suitable
arrangements for the expenses of delegates attending the
District NYI Convention.
6. The local NYI delegation to the District NYI Convention
for churches with 30 or fewer NYI members consists of:
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 321

a. The pastor and youth pastor or any fulltime paid pastoral

staff who participate in NYI ministry;
b. The newly-elected local NYI president;
c. Up to four elected delegates, with at least half being
within the district-established NYI ministry focus.
d. Local churches may add an additional delegate for each
successive 30 local NYI members and/or final major part
of those 30 members (i.e., 16-29 members). At least
half of any additional delegates must be also within the
district-established NYI ministry focus.
7. The pastor of any local church or director of an approved
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Center not having an
organized NYI may appoint one delegate.
Number of Number of Number of Number of
members delegates* members delegates*
5-45 4 136-165 8
46-75 5 166-195 9
76-105 6 196-225 10
106-135 7 226-255 11
*Number of elected delegates from a local NYI does not include ex officio
delegates (NYI president, pastor, youth pastor, District NYI Council members
from a local church, etc.).

C. REGIONAL MINISTRY PLAN

TEMPLATE

Ministries
810.300 Evangelism
The regional NYI develops and implements a variety
of ongoing ministries and special events to reach young
people for Christ.
322 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

810.301 Discipleship
The regional NYI develops and implements a variety
of ongoing ministries and special events to nurture and
challenge young people to grow as disciples of Christ in
personal devotion, worship, fellowship, ministry, and
leading others to Christ.

810.302 Leadership Development

The regional NYI develops and implements a variety
of ongoing ministries and special events to mentor and
equip young people to be leaders for Christ and His
church.

Revisions
810.303 Provision
1. The regional ministry plan template provides a standard
format for the organization, function, and leadership of
NYI at the regional level. A regional NYI may adapt and
revise the plan in response to youth ministry needs on the
region, consistent with the Nazarene Youth International
Charter and the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene.
2. Any area not covered by this ministry plan is under the
authority of the Regional NYI Council.

810.304 Process
1. The Regional NYI Council, in cooperation with the
region, establishes and publicizes the process for adapting
and revising the regional ministry plan and must approve
proposed revisions prior to their being brought to the
Regional NYI Caucus.
2. Proposed revisions to the regional ministry plan must be
distributed in written form to district NYI councils prior to
the Regional NYI Caucus at the Global NYI Convention.
3. Revisions must be approved by a two-thirds vote of all
delegates and members present and voting at the Regional
NYI
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 323

Caucus and are subject to the approval of the regional director

and Regional Advisory Council (where applicable).
4. All changes in the regional ministry plan become effective
no later than 90 days following the Global NYI Convention.
The revised document must be distributed in written form
prior to taking effect.

Membership and Ministry Focus

810.305 Composition and Accountability
1. All local NYI groups, district NYI ministries, and members
of NYI within the boundaries of a region form the regional
Nazarene Youth International.
2. The regional NYI is accountable to its membership, regional
director, global NYI director, regional NYI council, and to
the Global NYI Council
3. The regional NYI reports to the Global NYI Council on an
annual basis.

810.306 Ministry Focus

1. The traditional ministry focus of the regional NYI is to
youth ages 12 and older, college/university students, and
young adults. A Regional NYI Council may modify the
ministry focus as seen fit, with the approval of the districts
on the region and the regional director.
2. For the purposes of representation and programming, the
Regional NYI Council may establish age divisions according
to youth ministry needs on the region.

Leadership
810.307 Officers
1. The officers of the Regional NYI Council are a chair, vice
chair, and secretary. These officers and the regional youth
coordinator serve as the Executive Committee.
2. Regional NYI officers must reside and hold membership
in the Church of the Nazarene within the bounds of the
region at the time of their election, be active in youth
324 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

ministry, and be viewed as leaders in personal example and

ministry.
3. Regional NYI officers serve without salary. Financing for
the administrative expenses of regional NYI officers is
allocated as a part of regional funds.

810.308 Elections
1. Regional NYI officers are elected by the Regional NYI
Caucus at a special meeting during the Global NYI
Convention. The regional officers serve from the close of
the Global NYI Convention until the close of the following
Global NYI Convention.
2. A regional NYI Nominating Committee nominates the
officers of the regional NYI. The nominating committee
is appointed by the Regional NYI Council and consists of
at least four regional NYI members, including the regional
NYI chair and regional director. At least two names are
submitted to the Regional NYI Caucus for each position.
The Regional NYI Council and regional director must
approve all nominees.
3. An incumbent regional NYI chair who is eligible to be
elected for another term may be re-elected by a “yes” or
“no” vote, when such election is recommended by the
Regional NYI Council, approved by the regional director,
and approved by two-thirds vote by ballot of the Regional
NYI Caucus during the Global NYI Convention.
4. A vacancy occurs when an officer moves his or her
membership off the region, resigns, or is removed from
office by two-thirds vote of the Regional NYI Council due
to neglect of duties or inappropriate conduct. Should a
vacancy occur among officers, the Regional NYI Council
fills the vacancy by two-thirds vote if there is one nominee
or by majority vote if two or more nominees. In the case
of such a vacancy in the office of regional NYI chair, the
region elects a new chair consistent with the NYI Global
Ministry Plan.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 325

810.309 Responsibilities
1. The responsibilities of the regional NYI chair include:
a. Giving leadership and direction to the regional NYI,
working in cooperation with NYI global and regional
leadership.
b. Chairing the Regional NYI Council to cast a vision for
youth ministry on the region.
c. Facilitating the development of youth ministry on the
region and working with the Regional NYI Council to
define the regional NYI ministry focus according to
needs.
d. Presiding at the Regional NYI Caucus during the Global
NYI Convention.
e. Encouraging the development of NYI ministry on each
district and field within the region.
f. Representing the interests of regional NYI on appropriate
regional boards and committees.
g. Submitting an annual report to the Regional NYI
Council, regional director and Regional Advisory
Council (where applicable), and the Global NYI
Council.
h. Recommending an annual budget to the Regional NYI
Council and the Regional Office.
i. Serving as a delegate to the Global NYI Convention.
j. Serving as a liaison between the regional NYI and
Nazarene institutions of higher education on the region
to promote communication, cooperation, and ministry
partnership.
2. The responsibilities of regional NYI officers include:
a. Developing and designating leaders for the various
regional NYI ministries.
b. Defining and assigning titles and youth ministry
responsibilities according to regional needs.
c. Distributing the following responsibilities to insure
accountability and effectiveness:
326 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

(1) Keeping a correct record of all meetings of the

Regional NYI Council and attending to all matters
of correspondence for the regional NYI.
(2) Disbursing, receiving, and keeping records of
regional NYI funds, according to Global NYI
Council, General Board, and regional office policies.
(3) Assisting the chair in compiling an annual financial
report of all moneys raised and disbursed to submit
to the Global NYI Council and other appropriate
bodies.
(4) Working with the chair to create an annual budget
to present to the Regional NYI Council and to the
regional director for approval.
(5) Notifying the Global NYI Office and the regional
office of the names and addresses of the various
regional NYI officers and ministry directors as soon
as possible after election or appointment.
d. Cooperating with the chair in every way possible to
facilitate regional youth ministry.
e. Carrying out other ministries as assigned by the Regional
NYI Council or Regional NYI Caucus.

810.310 Paid Staff

1. When a region employs a regional youth coordinator, the
regional director, in consultation with the Regional Advisory
Council and Regional NYI Council, assigns the responsibility
for the regional NYI to the regional youth coordinator. In
that case, the regional youth coordinator may carry out
some of the duties otherwise designated to a regional NYI
chair. However, the importance of the regional NYI chair
remains, in providing additional leadership, support, and
representation for regional youth ministry. The Regional
NYI Council and regional director work together to define
the roles and responsibilities of the two positions and how
they work together for the benefit of the regional youth
ministry.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 327

2. A regional youth coordinator may not serve as regional NYI

chair.
3. The regional youth coordinator serves ex officio on the
Regional NYI Council, the Executive Committee, and the
Regional NYI Nominating Committee.
4. The regional youth coordinator may serve as the regional
director’s designee for NYI-related responsibilities.

Council
810.311 Composition
1. The Regional NYI Council is composed of the officers
of the regional NYI, other elected or appointed
youth members-at-large, ministry leaders as deemed
necessary by the council, the regional director and
regional youth coordinator.
2. Only those NYI members who are members of the
Church of the Nazarene on the region may serve as
Regional NYI Council members.
3. When applicable, representatives from Nazarene
colleges or universities responsible for shared ministry
with the regional NYI may also serve on the Regional
NYI Council.

810.312 Elections
1. A regional NYI Nominating Committee nominates
regional NYI members to be elected to the Regional
NYI Council.
2. The Regional NYI Caucus at the Global NYI
Convention then elects by majority vote the members
of the Regional NYI Council from submitted
nominations. The Regional NYI Caucus may authorize
the Regional NYI Council to appoint regional ministry
directors.
3. A vacancy occurs when a member moves his or her
membership off of the region, resigns, or is removed
from office by two-thirds vote of the council due to
328 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

neglect of duties or inappropriate conduct. Should

a vacancy occur among council members elected or
appointed by the council, the Regional NYI Council
fills the vacancy by two-thirds vote if there is one
nominee or by majority vote if two or more nominees.
If a vacancy occurs among members representing a
district on the region, the vacancy is filled according
to that district’s ministry plan.

810.313 Responsibilities
1. The Regional NYI Council is responsible for planning and
organizing the total ministry for youth within the region
and, through its officers and directors, initiates and directs
ministries and activities to reach young people for Christ
and to respond to their spiritual growth needs, in harmony
with regional leadership.
2. The Regional NYI Council defines the ministry focus of
regional NYI in response to regional youth ministry needs,
and develops and assigns titles and responsibilities for
regional NYI ministry directors.
3. The Regional NYI Council encourages and equips districts
across the region for effective youth ministry.
4. The Regional NYI Council gives leadership to the youth area
of Sunday School/Bible Studies/small groups regionally by
promoting growth in enrollment and attendance for youth
and providing training for youth Sunday School/Bible
study/ small group teachers and leaders in cooperation with
Nazarene Discipleship International.
5. The Regional NYI Council promotes global NYI ministries
and programs to regional membership.
6. The Regional NYI Council directs the expenditure of
funds provided to the region through NYI events and
partnerships.
7. The Regional NYI Council makes recommendations to
the Regional NYI Caucus at the Global NYI Convention
concerning the ministry of NYI. The council also appoints
up to two persons to serve the region as members of the
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 329

Resolutions Committee at the Global NYI Convention,

consistent with the Global Ministry Plan.
8. The Regional NYI Council works in consultation with the
regional director to select one representative to serve on the
Global NYI Council.
9. The Regional NYI Council establishes and communicates
the process for amending the regional ministry plan.

810.314 Committees
1. The NYI Executive Committee consists of the elected
regional NYI officers and the regional director and/or
regional youth coordinator. The Executive Committee may
conduct the business of the Regional NYI Council when it
is impractical or impossible to convene the entire council.
All actions of the Executive Committee are communicated
to the remaining members of the council and are subject to
the approval of the entire council at its next meeting.
2. The Regional NYI Council may establish specific ministry
committees in response to regional youth ministry needs.
3. In countries where there are a number of districts, a region
may organize national NYI leadership to coordinate and
facilitate youth ministry in that country.

810.315 The Field NYI

1. Where applicable and in cooperation with regional church
leadership, the Regional NYI Council may organize for
leadership of NYI on the various fields within the existing
structure of a region, in order to coordinate and maximize
NYI ministry across the region.
2. A field NYI council may be created to have responsibility
for specific ministries and activities on the field.
3. A representative from each field may serve on the Regional
NYI Council, if so specified by the Regional Caucus.
330 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

810.316 Paid Staff

1. The regional director designates the responsibilities of
a regional youth coordinator, in consultation with the
Regional Advisory Council and the Regional NYI Council.
2. The Regional NYI Council and regional youth coordinator
work in cooperation and harmony with each other.

Meetings
810.317 Regional NYI Meetings
1. A variety of regional NYI gatherings help provide effective
ministry to young people on the region.
2. The regional NYI also encourages and enhances district
NYI ministry by meeting with district NYI groups across
the region to resource them for effective ministry.
3. The regional NYI participates in global NYI gatherings that
further enhance effective youth ministry across the region.

810.318 Regional NYI Council Meetings

1. The Regional NYI Council meets regularly to fulfill the
mission and vision of regional NYI.
2. Meetings of the council may be scheduled or called by
the regional NYI chair, regional director, regional youth
coordinator, or the global NYI director.

810.319 Regional NYI Caucus

1. A Regional NYI Caucus is convened during the Global
NYI Convention. The caucus provides for inspirational
sessions and programs to advance youth ministry across the
region. Reports are received, leadership is elected, and any
legislative business pertaining to the work of NYI on the
region is transacted at the caucus
2. The Regional NYI Council, in cooperation with the global
NYI director, arranges for and oversees the Regional NYI
Caucus.
3. The Regional NYI Caucus is composed of the members
of the Regional NYI Council, the regional director and/
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 331

or regional youth coordinator, and the delegates from the

region to the Global NYI Convention who are elected,
consistent with the Global Ministry Plan.
4. The caucus convenes during the Global NYI Convention
at a time and place designated by the global NYI director.
When approved by the Regional NYI Council, the regional
director, and the Global NYI Council, a caucus may be
convened by postal or electronic means within six months
prior to the Global NYI Convention in order to conduct
regional NYI business when circumstances prohibit a
majority of elected delegates from attending the Global
NYI Convention.

D. GLOBAL MINISTRY PLAN TEMPLATE

Ministries
810.400 Evangelism
Nazarene Youth International at the global level
develops and implements a variety of ongoing ministries
and special events to reach young people for Christ.

810.401 Discipleship
Nazarene Youth International at the global level
develops and implements a variety of ongoing
ministries and special events to nurture and challenge
young people to grow as disciples of Christ in personal
devotion, worship, fellowship, ministry, and leading
others to Christ.

810.402 Leadership Development

Nazarene Youth International at the global level
develops and implements a variety of ongoing ministries
and special events to mentor and equip young people
to be leaders for Christ and His church.
332 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

Revisions
810.403 Provision
1. The Nazarene Youth International Charter and Global
Ministry Plan provide the structure for organization,
function, and leadership of NYI at the global level. The
Global NYI Convention may revise the NYI Charter and
Global Ministry Plan in response to youth ministry needs
around the world through submitted resolutions. All
amendments to the Global Ministry Plan must be consistent
with the NYI Charter and the Manual of the Church of the
Nazarene.
2. Any area not covered by the NYI Charter or Global
Ministry Plan is under the authority of the Global NYI
Council and the director of NYI.

810.404 Process
1. The Global NYI Council, in cooperation with the director
of NYI, establishes and publicizes the process for amending
the Global Ministry Plan and the Nazarene Youth
International Charter through submitted resolutions.
2. Any District NYI Council, Regional NYI Council, the
Global NYI Council, or at least six sponsoring delegates to
the Global NYI Convention may submit these resolutions.
Resolutions must be in proper resolution form and received
by the stated deadline.
3. The NYI office must receive all resolutions at least 30 days
prior to the annual meeting of the Global NYI Council in
the year of the Global NYI Convention.
4. Resolutions must be distributed in written form to Global
NYI Convention delegates prior to the Global NYI
Convention.
5. Resolutions are considered first by the Global NYI
Council and by a Resolutions Committee of the Global
NYI Convention, composed of up to two NYI delegates
appointed from each region by the Regional NYI Council.
Resolutions which receive a majority vote of either body
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 333

to recommend their approval are then considered by the

Convention.
6. Resolutions must be approved by a two-thirds vote of all
delegates present and voting at the Global NYI Convention.
7. All approved changes in the Nazarene Youth International
Charter and Global Ministry Plan become effective no
later than 90 days following the Global NYI Convention.
The revised document must be distributed in written form
prior to taking effect.

Membership and Ministry Focus

810.405 Composition and Accountability
1. All local NYI groups, district, field and regional NYI
ministries, and their members constitute Nazarene Youth
International.
2. The global NYI is accountable to NYI membership, the
general superintendent in jurisdiction for NYI, the Global
Missions director, the General Board, and the Board of
General Superintendents.
3. The global NYI reports annually to the General Board and
reports to the Global NYI Convention and to the General
Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene.
4. The director of NYI is responsible for general coordination
and supervision for the development of youth ministry
for the Church of the Nazarene through Nazarene Youth
International.
5. NYI offices around the world work together with the
Global NYI Council for the effective implementation of
youth ministry for the Church of the Nazarene.

810.406 Ministry Focus

1. The ministry focus of Nazarene Youth International is to
youth ages 12 and older, college/university students, and
young adults. Regional, field, district, and local NYI councils
may modify the ministry focus as seen fit, consistent with
the ministry plan for that level.
334 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

2. For the purposes of representation and programming,

Nazarene Youth International establishes three divisions
— early youth, senior youth, and college/university/young
adult.

Leadership
810.407 Officers
1. The elected officers of the global NYI are a council chair
and a vice chair.
2. No one shall be eligible for election as the Global NYI
Council chair who is an employee of the Church of
the Nazarene, Inc., or entities including educational
institutions that receive financial subsidy from the Church
of the Nazarene, Inc. Individuals from districts or other
entities receiving operating funds from the general church
are likewise ineligible.
3. Global NYI officers must be members of NYI and the
Church of the Nazarene, be active in youth ministry, be
leaders in personal example and ministry, and be members
of the Global NYI Council.
4. Global NYI officers serve without salary. Financing for the
administrative expenses of global NYI officers is allocated
as a part of NYI funds.
5. A global NYI officer may serve in his or her position no
more than one full term.

810.408 Elections
1. The Global NYI council chair is elected by majority vote
in the Global NYI Convention and will serve until the
close of the following General Assembly or until his or her
successor is elected.
2. Each region nominates one name for the global NYI council
chair from the regional NYI caucus meeting of the global
NYI Convention.
3. The Global NYI vice chair is elected by the Global NYI
Council at its first meeting during or following the General
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 335

Assembly and will serve until the close of the following

General Assembly or until his or her successor is elected.
4. A vacancy occurs in the position of global NYI chair or vice
chair when he/she resigns from office or is removed from
office by two-thirds vote of the Global NYI Council due
to neglect of duties or inappropriate conduct. In the case of
a vacancy among the global NYI officers, the Global NYI
Council will elect his or her replacement.

810.409 Responsibilities
1. The responsibilities of the global NYI council chair include:
a. Presiding at the business meetings of the Global NYI
Convention and the meetings of the Global NYI Council.
b. Representing NYI as a member of the General Board
and as a delegate to the General Assembly.
c. Carrying out other duties as assigned by the Global NYI
Council and Convention.
2. The responsibilities of the global NYI vice chair include:
a. Cooperating with the global NYI council chair in every
way possible to carry out effective youth ministry
globally.
b. Ensuring accurate records of all proceedings of the
Global NYI Convention and all meetings of the Global
NYI Council are kept for submission to the General
Board.
c. Chairing the Global NYI Council, providing alternate
representation on any boards or councils, and fulfilling
any designated duties in the absence of the global NYI
council chair.
d. Carrying out other duties as assigned by the Global NYI
Council and Convention.

810.410 Paid Staff

1. The general superintendent in jurisdiction for NYI and the
General Board assign the responsibility for the global NYI
to the director of NYI. The director of NYI is subject to the
oversight of the Board of General Superintendents.
336 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

2. The Board of General Superintendents elects the director

of NYI subject to General Board election procedures.
3. Should a vacancy occur in the position, it is filled according
to the following sequence:
a. The general superintendent in jurisdiction nominates
the director of NYI, in consultation with the Global
NYI Council and Board of General Superintendents.
b. A ballot is then presented to the Global NYI Council
for approval by majority vote and is subject to General
Board election procedures.
4. After nomination by the general superintendent in
jurisdiction responsible for NYI, an incumbent director
of NYI is approved by majority vote of the Global NYI
Council at its first scheduled meeting following the
General Assembly, and is subject to General Board election
procedures.
5. The director of NYI may not serve as an elected global NYI
officer.
6. The director of NYI serves ex officio on the Global NYI
Council, the Executive Committee, all regional councils,
and other global NYI committees as appointed.

Council
810.411 Composition
1. The Global NYI Council is composed of the director of
NYI, the global NYI council chair, and one representative
from each world region, who is selected according to each
region’s adopted ministry plan.
2. Other appointed persons as deemed necessary by the
Global NYI Council may be appointed to serve as non-
voting members of the council.
3. All Global NYI Council members must be members of
NYI and the Church of the Nazarene.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 337

810.412 Responsibilities
1. The Global NYI Council, in collaboration with the director
of NYI and NYI staff, establishes procedures for global
NYI and gives direction and support to the development
of youth ministry resources for all levels of NYI, subject to
approval of the general superintendent in jurisdiction for
NYI and the General Board. The NYI ministry is designed
to reach young people for Christ and respond to their
spiritual growth needs; it is facilitated through the director
of NYI and NYI leadership around the world.
2. The Global NYI Council provides a forum for the support
and development of effective youth ministry programs,
events, and resources at the regional level, consistent with
the mission and vision of NYI.
3. The Global NYI Council provides avenue for the
representation of regional, field, district, and local levels of
NYI by council members to the NYI staff. Council members
also represent the global NYI by initiating contact with
their region, fields, districts, and local churches on behalf
of the Global NYI Council and the Global NYI Office.
4. The Global NYI Council assists in the planning and
administration of the Global NYI Convention.
5. The Global NYI Council gives input to the youth area of
the Sunday School/Bible studies/small groups and helps
promotes growth in enrollment and attendance for youth
and training for youth Sunday School/Bible study/small
group teachers and leaders globally, in cooperation with
Nazarene Discipleship International.
6. The Global NYI Council reviews the annual budget and
expenditures of the NYI office provided through the
General Board.
7. The Global NYI Council directs and reviews the
expenditure of funds provided through NYI events
and partnerships subject to the approval of the general
superintendent in jurisdiction.
338 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

810.413 Committees
1. The Executive Committee consists of the elected Global
NYI officers and the director of NYI. The Executive
Committee may conduct the business of the Global NYI
Council when it is impractical or impossible to convene the
entire council. All actions of the Executive Committee are
communicated to the remaining members of the council
and are subject to the approval of the entire council at its
next meeting.
2. The Global NYI Council may establish specific ministry
committees as necessary for advancing its work.

810.414 Paid Staff

1. The director of NYI is subject to the oversight of the Global
Missions director and the Board of General Superintendents.
The Global NYI Council may recommend revisions to
these duties to the general superintendent in jurisdiction
for NYI.
2. The director of NYI, in consultation with the Global NYI
Council, designates the responsibilities of global NYI office
paid staff. The Global NYI Council and global NYI Office
staff work in cooperation and harmony with each other.
3. The director of NYI may not serve as the Global NYI
council chair.

Meetings
810.415 Global NYI Meetings
1. To provide effective ministry to young people, global NYI
ministry may involve a variety of gatherings for worship,
teaching, training, fellowship, and evangelism. Global NYI
leadership works together with regional, field, district, and
local NYI leadership to plan ministry globally, related to
specific groups, and geared to multiple regions, so that
youth ministry in the Church of the Nazarene may be most
effective.
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 339

2. Global NYI leaders and staff are actively involved with NYI
on every level as a resource for effective ministry.

810.416 Global NYI Council Meetings

1. The Global NYI Council meets annually to advance the
mission and vision of NYI. The meeting is scheduled in
connection with the annual meeting of the General Board.
2. The global NYI officers or director of NYI may call special
meetings as necessary, in consultation with the general
superintendent in jurisdiction for NYI.

810.417 Global NYI Convention

1. A Global NYI Convention provides for inspirational sessions
to advance youth ministry around the world. Reports are
received and any legislative business pertaining to the work
of NYI is transacted at the Global NYI Convention.
2. The Board of General Superintendents sets the length
of the Convention and the time it convenes, from
recommendations of the Global NYI Council to the
General Assembly Program Committee. The global NYI
officers and director of NYI oversee the convention, with
the assistance of the Global NYI Council.
3. All delegates of the Global NYI Convention must be
members of the Church of the Nazarene and Nazarene
Youth International and 12 years of age or older at the time
of the Global NYI Convention. Additionally, each district
NYI delegate must be a member of and reside on the district
he/ she represents at the time of the convention.
4. The Global NYI Convention is composed of the Global
NYI Council, the director of NYI, duly elected executive
regional officers (no more than three), the regional, field,
national, and district youth coordinators, and district NYI
delegates as follows:
a. Districts with 1,000 or fewer NYI members may send
the following delegates:
(1) The district NYI president serving at the time of the
Global NYI Convention;
340 NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS

(2) One ministerial delegate active in NYI leadership

who is an assigned elder, deacon, or district licensed
minister;
(3) One lay delegate over the age of 23 at the time of
the Global NYI Convention who is active in NYI
leadership; and
(4) One youth delegate between the ages of 12 and 23
at the time of the Global NYI Convention who is
active in NYI.
b. In addition, a district may send an additional ministerial
delegate, lay delegate, and youth delegate between the ages
of 12 and 23 at the time of the Global NYI Convention,
for each successive 1,500 NYI members and/or the final
major part of 1,500 members (751-1,499 members).
c. The size of the district delegation is based on the district
NYI membership report for the District Assembly in
the calendar year immediately prior to the Global NYI
Convention.
d. All district delegates are to be elected by ballot by
majority vote at a session of the District NYI Convention
within 18 months of the Global NYI Convention or
within 24 months in areas where travel visas or extensive
preparations are necessary. Alternate delegates may be
elected after elected delegates on another ballot from
the remaining nominations by plurality vote, with
first alternate, second alternate, third alternate, etc.,
designated by the number of votes received. Delegates
and alternates must be elected by 31 March of the year
of the Global NYI Convention.
e. The student body president of each Nazarene university,
college, or theological school, may also serve as a
delegate, as a representative of the partnership of NYI
with his or her institution. Should he/she be unable to
serve or attend, a representative selected by the student
government may provide alternate representation.
5. In the case of districts without an organized NYI (no
District NYI Convention), Global NYI Convention
NYI CHARTER & MINISTRY PLANS 341

representation may be comprised of one delegate of NYI

membership age chosen by the District Assembly. Should
a delegate withdraw prior to the convention, the District
Advisory Board may appoint a qualified delegate.
6. The bar of the Global NYI Convention is set to enable all
duly elected delegates to participate in the voting of the
Global NYI Convention. This voting will take place by the
voting procedures established by the Convention Business
Committee.
7. A caucus for each region is held during the Global NYI
Convention and is composed of the Regional NYI Council,
the regional director and regional youth coordinator, and
elected district NYI delegates from that region.
Number of Number of Number of Number of
members delegates* members delegates*
4-1750 3 4751-6250 12
1751-3250 6 6251-7750 15
3251-4750 9 7751-9250 18
*Number of elected delegates from a district NYI does not include ex officio
delegates (district NYI president, regional NYI presidents and coordinators,
and global officers, etc.).
342 NMI CONSTITUTION

II. NAZARENE MISSIONS

INTERNATIONAL
811. NAZARENE MISSIONS INTERNATIONAL
CONSTITUTION

Article I. Name
The name of this organization shall be Nazarene Missions
International (NMI) of the Church of the Nazarene.

Article II. Purpose

The purpose of this organization shall be to mobilize the
Church of the Nazarene in missions through 1) praying, 2)
giving, 3) educating, and 4) engaging children and youth.

Article III. Structure

Section 1. Local
The local Nazarene Missions International (NMI) shall be an
organization of the local church and shall work cooperatively
with the pastor and church board through the local NMI
council.

Section 2. District
The leaders constituting the district NMI council shall
work cooperatively with the district superintendent, district
advisory board, and other district-related leaders.
All local NMI organizations within the boundaries of a
district shall constitute the district NMI.

Section 3. Global
The leaders constituting the Global NMI Council shall
work cooperatively with the Global Missions Office, the Local
Church Ministries Committee of the General Board, and the
general superintendent in jurisdiction.
NMI CONSTITUTION 343

All district and local NMI organizations shall constitute the

Global NMI.

Article IV. Membership

Section 1. Members
Any person who is a member of the Church of the Nazarene
and supports the Nazarene Missions International (NMI)
purpose will be a member of NMI in that local church.
Voting and holding office shall be limited to members who
are 15 years of age or older, except in children’s and youth
groups.
Unless otherwise stated in this constitution, reference to
“members” means NMI members who are members of the
church.

Section 2. Associate Members

Any person who is not a member of the Church of the
Nazarene and supports the NMI purpose will be an associate
member of NMI.

Article V. Councils and Officers

Section 1. Local Council

A. Purpose
The local council shall promote the purpose of NMI to
mobilize the Church of the Nazarene in missions through
1) praying, 2) giving, 3) educating, and 4) engaging
children and youth.
B. Composition
1. The NMI council shall be composed of a president
and the number of officers and/or council members
as agreed upon by the president and the lead pastor,
according to the needs and size of the church.
2. A local council may have an executive committee
composed of the president, lead pastor (ex officio), and
344 NMI CONSTITUTION

two or more additional members as determined by the

local NMI council.
3. Additional council members may be responsible for
specific areas of NMI including but not limited to
praying, giving, educating, and engaging children and
youth.
4. A council member may hold more than one position but
shall have only one vote.
5. Any district NMI council member shall be an ex officio
member of the local council with the approval of the
local council.
C. Nominations, Elections, Appointments, and Vacancies
The local council may determine the need for the use of a
nominating committee, other than the church nominating
committee, as part of the process of identification of suitable
candidates for election to the local council. If a nominating
committee is to be used, then the nominating committee
shall be appointed by the president in agreement with the
local council.
1. President
a. The local council in position at the end of the
church year may recommend names to a nominating
committee that may submit one or more names for
the election of the office of president, subject to the
approval of the church board.
b. The president shall be elected or reelected by a
majority vote by ballot of the members present and
voting for a term of service of one or two church
years or until a successor is elected or appointed.
The NMI council and the pastor shall recommend
the length of the term of service.
c. An incumbent may be reelected by a yes/no ballot
when such election is recommended by the local
council and approved by the pastor and church
board.
d. Alternatively, in a church that has not yet been
organized, has been organized for less than 5 years,
NMI CONSTITUTION 345

or with a membership of less than 35 members,

the president may be appointed by the pastor in
discussion with, and approval of, the church board.
2. Council
a. On recommendation of the current president
and upon agreement with the lead pastor, a local
council other than the president may be elected by
a plurality vote of the NMI membership or by the
annual meeting of the church, or appointed by the
president and pastor with the approval of the church
board.
b. The length of service shall be one or two years, or
until their successors are elected or appointed,
by recommendation of the NMI council or, in its
absence, the church board and the pastor.
c. These leaders shall begin serving on the first day of
the new church year after the election.
d. If the church has a unified treasurer who accounts
for church funds including NMI monies, that
person shall be the NMI treasurer and an ex officio
member of the local NMI council with all rights and
privileges, unless otherwise specified by the local
council.
3. Delegates to the District Convention
a. Delegates and alternates shall be elected by ballot at
the annual meeting by a plurality vote.
b. If an election is not possible or feasible, the election
may be by the local council, or in its absence, the
church board, by a plurality vote. Refer to Article
VI, Section 3.A.3. for determining the number of
delegates.
4. Vacancies
a. President: The local council may recommend names
to the church board who shall nominate one or more
names. Election shall be by ballot with a majority vote
of the NMI members at a meeting called according
to the provisions of the Manual. Alternatively, where
346 NMI CONSTITUTION

there is no NMI council, the church board shall fill

any vacancy by election by a majority vote.
b. Other council members: The NMI council, or in its
absence the church board, shall fill any vacancy by
appointment.
D. Duties of Council Members
1. President
a. Directs and facilitates the work of NMI in the local
church.
b. Presides at all regular and special meetings of the
NMI.
c. Assigns duties to council members as may be
required from time to time.
d. Serves as an ex officio member of the church board,
Nazarene Discipleship International Board, district
NMI convention, and district assembly.
e. Other duties as listed in the job description.
f. In the case where the spouse of the local president is
a member of the church board, or the spouse is the
pastor of the church, if the local president chooses not
to serve on the church board, an NMI representative
determined by the NMI council is authorized to
serve on the church board in the president’s place
with all rights and privileges.
2. Executive Committee
a. Transacts business between council meetings.

Section 2. District Council

A. Purpose
The district council shall promote the purpose of NMI to
mobilize the Church of the Nazarene in missions through
1) praying, 2) giving, 3) educating, and 4) engaging children
and youth within the district.
B. Composition
1. In phase 3 districts, the council shall have four officers:
a president, a vice president, a secretary, and a treasurer
NMI CONSTITUTION 347

(the NMI officers), plus three or more members

according to the needs and size of the district.
2. A council member may hold more than one position but
shall have only one vote.
3. The executive committee shall be the president and
other NMI officers. If desired, at least three other
council members may be elected or appointed by the
district council to serve on the executive committee for
a term of service of one convention year or until their
successors are elected. The district superintendent shall
be an ex officio member of the executive committee.
4. For pioneer, phase 1, and phase 2 districts, refer to
Section 2.C.3. below.
C. Nominations, Elections, Appointments, and Vacancies
1. Nominations: The council shall be nominated by a
committee of not less than five (5) members of the
NMI. All nominees shall be NMI members of a local
Church of the Nazarene on the district where they will
serve.
a. The district executive committee shall appoint the
nominating committee and determine the number
of council members to be elected.
b. The district superintendent shall serve as the
committee chairperson for the nomination of the
district president. Upon approval of the district
superintendent, the district NMI president may
serve as chairperson of the nominating committee
for other nominations.
2. Elections: The president and at least three additional
members shall be elected by ballot at the annual district
convention. The three additional members will be vice
president, secretary, and treasurer. The term of service
shall be one or two convention years as determined
by the district NMI council with the approval of the
district superintendent or until their successors are
elected. In the event of the election of a new president,
the new president shall take office within 30 days of
348 NMI CONSTITUTION

the conclusion of the district convention. A convention

year is from the adjournment of the district convention
to the adjournment of the next district convention.
These four council members will form the executive
committee of the council. Three or more other council
members may be elected or appointed to serve on the
executive committee by the district council.
a. President
1) The nominating committee shall submit one or
more names for the office of president except
when the district council recommends a yes or
no ballot for an incumbent standing for another
term.
2) Incumbent nominees may be reelected by a yes/
no ballot when such election is recommended by
the district council and approved by the district
superintendent. An incumbent being reelected
by a yes/no ballot must receive a two-thirds vote
of the members present and voting.
3) The president shall be elected by a two-thirds
vote of the members present and voting in the
event of one name being presented for the
position of president or by majority vote when
there are at least two candidates nominated for
president. The term of service shall be one or two
convention years or until the successor has been
elected. The district NMI council and the district
superintendent shall recommend the length of
the term of service.
4) On merger of two districts, the two incumbent
district presidents may serve as co-presidents.
Co-presidents may continue to be elected by the
district convention until the district executive
committee in conjunction with the district
advisory board determines it is preferable to elect
a single district president. The co-presidents will
lead by consensus. In event of disagreement that
NMI CONSTITUTION 349

cannot be resolved, the matter will be determined

by vote of the district executive committee. Only
one co-president will represent the district NMI
at the district assembly, district committees,
and the Global NMI Convention and will be
determined by the district executive committee.
b. Vice president shall be elected by ballot in one of the
following ways:
1) The nominating committee shall submit one or
more names for the office of vice president except
when the district council with the approval of the
district superintendent recommends a yes or no
vote for an incumbent standing for another term;
or
2) To the council as a whole with specific council
positions to be determined by the council.
3) On a district where there are co-presidents, there
is no requirement for a vice president.
c. Secretary and treasurer shall be elected by ballot by:
1) The nominating committee shall submit one
or more names for the offices of secretary and
treasurer except when the district council with
the approval of the district superintendent
recommends a yes or no vote for an incumbent
standing for another term; or
2) If the district has a unified treasurer who accounts
for district funds including NMI monies, that
person shall be the NMI treasurer as an ex officio
member of the district NMI council with all
rights and privileges, unless otherwise specified
by the district council.
d. Additional council members: Other council
members, in addition to the president, vice
president, secretary, and treasurer, may be elected
by ballot for one or two convention years with
responsibilities to be determined by the council. The
nominating committee and district superintendent
350 NMI CONSTITUTION

shall recommend the length of the terms of service

of one or two convention years. Alternatively, other
council members may be appointed by the executive
committee or district council with all rights and
privileges.
e. Nominations for a youth representative may
be requested from the district Nazarene Youth
International (NYI).
3. Pioneer, Phase 1, and Phase 2 Districts: In pioneer, phase
1, and phase 2 districts, a district president may be
elected by the District NMI Convention or, where there
is no such convention, the district superintendent shall
appoint a district NMI president who shall promote the
purpose of NMI on the district. The president may serve
alone or may consult with the district superintendent to
appoint other church members of the district to assist
the president by serving as the NMI council.
4. Vacancies
a. President: The executive committee shall nominate
one or more names. Election shall be by ballot with
a majority vote of the district council present and
voting. The person elected shall serve until the
adjournment of the next district convention or until
a successor has been elected.
b. Other council members: The executive committee or
district council shall fill any vacancy by appointment.
The newly appointed council members shall serve
until the adjournment of the next district convention
or until their successors have been elected.
c. Unified treasurer: If a district has a unified treasurer
serving as the district NMI treasurer, that vacancy
shall be filled by the district advisory board.
D. Duties of Council Members
1. President
a. Directs and facilitates the district council to ensure
achievement of the purpose of NMI on the district.
NMI CONSTITUTION 351

b. Presides at all meetings of the district council,

executive committee, and the district convention.
c. Prepares an annual budget for approval by the
District Advisory Board.
d. Submits annually a written report to the district
NMI convention and to the Global NMI Council
regional representative; and where applicable, the
regional NMI coordinator for Global Missions
regions.
e. Assigns duties to other council members as may be
required from time to time.
f. Serves as ex officio member of the district committee
referenced in the Manual paragraph 238.
g. Performs other duties as described in the job
description.
2. Vice President
a. Performs all duties of the president when the
president is absent.
b. Serves in other areas as assigned by the district NMI
council.
c. Performs other duties described in the job description
or which may be assigned by the district president as
required from time to time.
3. Secretary
a. Records the minutes of all business meetings.
b. Provides support and assistance when requested by
the president to:
1) Send report forms annually to local NMI
presidents.
2) Compiles statistical records and submits an
annual report to the district president, global
NMI director, Global Council representative, and
where applicable the regional NMI coordinator
for Global Missions regions.
c. Performs other duties as described in the job
description or which may be assigned by the district
president as required from time to time.
352 NMI CONSTITUTION

4. Treasurer
a. Keeps an accurate account of all funds collected and
expended.
b. Remits funds to designated treasurers in a timely
manner.
c. Furnishes regular itemized reports to the district
council and prepares an annual report for the district
convention.
d. Arranges with appropriate district personnel the
annual audit of the district NMI treasurer’s books.
e. Performs other duties as described in the job
description or which may be assigned by the district
president as required from time to time.
5. Executive Committee
a. Appoints additional district council members and,
as needed, fills vacancies on the council.
b. Transacts business between council meetings.
c. Nominates one or more names for president if a
vacancy occurs between annual conventions.
6. Other Council Members
a. Perform duties as requested by the district president
and district council.

Section 3. Global Council

A. Purpose
The Global NMI Council shall promote the purpose of
NMI to mobilize the Church of the Nazarene in missions
through 1) praying, 2) giving, 3) educating, and 4) engaging
children and youth throughout the denomination utilizing
the network of regions, fields, districts, and local churches
within the denomination.
B. Composition
1. The Global NMI Council shall be composed of the
global NMI president, the global NMI director, one
representative from each region in the Church of the
Nazarene, and the director of Global Missions.
NMI CONSTITUTION 353

2. The Global NMI executive committee shall be

composed of the global NMI president, the global NMI
director, the global NMI vice president, the global NMI
secretary, one other council member, and the director
of Global Missions.
C. Nominations, Elections, and Vacancies
1. Nominations and Election of Global NMI Director
a. The Global NMI executive committee and the
jurisdictional general superintendent will form the
search committee to identify potential candidates
for the position of global NMI director. Up to two
names of potential candidates will be submitted
to the Local Church Ministries Committee of the
General Board.
b. The Local Church Ministries Committee of the
General Board with the jurisdictional general
superintendent will consider the names submitted
to it and ratify up to two names for election by the
Board of General Superintendents.
c. The Board of General Superintendents will elect
the global NMI director by ballot from the names
submitted to it by the Local Church Ministries
Committee of the General Board.
2. Nomination and Election of Global NMI President
a. The nominating committee shall be composed of
6, 7, or 8 people and chaired by the global NMI
director. The committee shall be composed of
both council members and non-council members
representative of Global NMI and will be appointed
by the executive committee.
b. The committee shall submit one or more names for
election as global president. The nominee(s) shall be
approved by the Board of General Superintendents.
Nominees shall not be employees of the General
Board.
c. From these nominee(s) the Global NMI Convention
shall elect a global NMI president by a majority vote
354 NMI CONSTITUTION

by ballot when there are two or more nominees for

president and by a two-thirds vote when there is
only one nominee.
d. The global president shall serve for a four-year term
from the close of the General Assembly until the
close of the following General Assembly or until the
successor is elected.
e. The global president shall be limited to serving for
three full terms of service. A term of service shall
be one quadrennium. If a person is elected to fill a
vacancy in the office of global president, that person
is also eligible to serve three full terms.
3. Nomination and Election of Global Council Members
a. Each district NMI council may submit one or two
names to the Global NMI Office from its region as
the regional representative for a nominating ballot.
1) These persons shall be residents of and members
of a Church of the Nazarene in the region they
will represent.
2) The provision does not apply to anyone whose
home residence is just across a regional boundary
from the place of church membership.
3) Employees of the General Board are not eligible
for nomination.
b. From these names on the nominating ballot, each
region in caucus at the Global NMI Convention
shall choose by ballot two nominees. The two with
the highest number of votes shall be declared the
nominees; however, the two nominees shall not be
from the same district. If this happens, the person
with the second highest number of votes is replaced
by the person with the next highest number of votes
from a different district.
c. The region in caucus shall then elect one person by
a majority vote to represent the region on the Global
Council.
NMI CONSTITUTION 355

d. Council members shall serve for a four-year term

from the close of the General Assembly until the
close of the following General Assembly or until
their successors are elected.
e. The term of service shall be limited to three
consecutive terms. A term shall be one quadrennium
(four years). If a person is elected to fill a vacancy of a
Global Council member, that person is also eligible
to serve three consecutive full terms. A person may
be elected to serve again after not serving for at least
one full term.
4. Nomination and Election of Global NMI Executive
Committee
a. The Global NMI Council shall in its first meeting,
which may be before the adjournment of the General
Assembly, nominate and elect a vice president, a
secretary, and one additional member for the Global
NMI executive committee.
b. Election shall be by ballot by a majority vote of those
present and voting.
5. Nomination and Election of NMI Representative to
General Board
a. The Global NMI Council shall nominate one
member of the council to represent NMI on the
General Board of the Church of the Nazarene.
b. The General Assembly shall elect the NMI
representative by ballot by a majority vote.
6. Vacancies
a. If a vacancy occurs in the office of global NMI
president between Global NMI Conventions, a new
global president shall be elected by a two-thirds vote
of the Global Council from nominees selected by
the executive committee in consultation with the
general superintendent in jurisdiction. The person
will perform the duties of the global president until
the adjournment of the next General Assembly.
The question of calling for an election to fill the
356 NMI CONSTITUTION

vacancy shall be decided by the Global Council in

consultation with the general superintendent in
jurisdiction.
b. If a vacancy occurs in the Global NMI executive
committee between Global NMI Conventions, the
Global Council shall nominate one or more people.
The vacancy shall be filled by a majority vote by
ballot of the Global NMI Council.
c. If a vacancy occurs on the Global NMI Council
between Global Conventions, each district
executive committee on the region concerned shall
be requested to submit one nominee from the region
to the Global NMI executive committee. From these
names, the executive committee shall present two
names as nominees. The vacancy shall then be filled
by a majority vote by the district NMI presidents on
the region. The question of calling for an election
to fill the vacancy shall be decided by the Global
NMI executive committee in consultation with
the general superintendent in jurisdiction. If the
Global NMI President and Global NMI Director,
in consultation with the General Superintendent
in jurisdiction, regional director, and regional NMI
coordinator, determine it is more appropriate to
proceed with an appointment, this appointment may
be made by the Global NMI Executive Committee.
The Global NMI President and Global NMI
Director will consult with the regional director,
and the regional NMI coordinator to identify the
candidate(s) for consideration by the Global NMI
Executive Committee.
d. If a vacancy occurs in the office of global NMI
director, the same process shall be followed for the
nomination and election of the global director (see
Article V, Section 3.C.1.).
e. If a vacancy occurs in the NMI representative to the
General Board, the Global NMI executive committee
NMI CONSTITUTION 357

shall submit one nominee after consultation with

the general superintendent in jurisdiction and the
approval of the Board of General Superintendents.
The Global NMI Council shall elect the General
Board representative by a majority vote.
D. Duties
1. Global President
a. Presides at the meetings of the Global Council,
executive committee, and the Global NMI
Convention.
b. Serves as an ex officio member of the General
Assembly.
c. Assigns duties to other council members as may be
required from time to time.
d. Performs other duties as described in the job
description.
2. Vice President
a. Performs the duties of the president when the
president is absent.
b. Performs other duties as described in the job
description or which may be assigned by the global
president as required from time to time.
3. Executive Committee: Transacts business between
council meetings.
4. Global Council Member
a. Cooperates with the global NMI president, global
NMI director, and regional NMI coordinator in
promoting the purpose of NMI.
b. Promotes NMI in the region he or she represents.
c. Submits a report of the NMI work in the region to
each Global NMI Council meeting.
d. Acts on any legislation passed by the General
Assembly relevant to regional representation.
e. Performs other duties as described in the job
description or as may be assigned by the global
president from time to time.
5. Global Director
358 NMI CONSTITUTION

a. Serves as the executive officer of NMI.

b. Advances the mission interests of NMI throughout
the districts around the world in cooperation with
the Global Council.
c. Interprets the NMI Handbook and Constitution.
d. Directs the personnel and business of the Global
NMI Office.
e. Serves as editor-in-chief of all NMI publications.
f. Makes an annual financial and statistical report to
the Global Council, the Local Church Ministries
Committee, and the General Board.
g. With the global president, directs the organization
and program of the Global Convention in
collaboration with the Global Council.
h. Prepares the Global Convention report, both
financial and statistical, with a condensed version
through the General Secretary’s Office for the
General Assembly.
i. Serves as an ex officio member of the General
Assembly.
j. Performs other duties as described in the job
description.

Article VI. Meetings

Section 1. Electronic Meetings and Communications
A. Meetings
All NMI conventions, councils, committees,
subcommittees, and task forces shall be authorized
to meet by telephone conference or through other
electronic communications media if all the members can
simultaneously hear each other and participate in the
meeting.
B. Communications
Unless members indicate otherwise, all communications
required of this Constitution may be sent electronically.
NMI CONSTITUTION 359

Section 2. Local Activities and Meetings

A. Ongoing Activities
1. There shall be regular, ongoing missions activities for
missions information, inspiration, and prayer held each
month.
2. Activities may take the form of meetings, missions
services, missions speakers, missions lessons, missions
activities and events, missions moments, NMI
emphases, etc.
3. The pastor, NMI president, and the council shall work
cooperatively in planning both missions education and
involvement for the local church.
4. In church plants and church-type missions, the district-
appointed leader of the congregation is encouraged to
ensure missions education and involvement for the local
congregation.
B. Annual Meeting
1. The annual meeting shall be held no later than 30 days
prior to the district convention.
2. Voting and election to the local council shall be limited
to NMI members who are 15 years of age and older.
C. Council Meetings
The local council shall meet a minimum of four times a
year to plan, report, evaluate, inform, inspire, and carry
out the work of the local organization. In addition, special
meetings may be called by the president. A majority of
council members shall constitute a quorum.

Section 3. District Meetings

A. Convention
1. There shall be an annual district convention to report,
pray, inform, inspire, present plans, and conduct
business pertaining to the organization.
2. The time and place of the convention shall be decided
by the district council in consultation with the district
superintendent.
3. Membership
360 NMI CONSTITUTION

a. Only members of the respective district shall be

eligible to serve as ex officio or elected delegates.
b. Ex officio members of the convention shall be the
district NMI council, district superintendent, all
assigned ministers and full-time salaried associate
ministers of local churches; lay members of the
district advisory board; the local NMI presidents of
the assembly year just ending and newly elected NMI
presidents or newly elected vice presidents if the
newly elected president cannot attend; Global NMI
Council member; retired assigned ministers; retired
missionaries; missionaries on home assignment;
and missionary appointees; and any former district
presidents who retain their membership on the
district.
c. Elected delegates from each local church or church-
type missions shall be NMI members (15 years of
age or older). The number of maximum elected
delegates shall be based on the following formula:
two delegates from each local NMI of 25 members or
fewer, and one additional delegate for each additional
25 members or major portion thereof. Membership
shall be based on the NMI membership reported at
the local NMI annual meeting when elections take
place.
4. The delegates present shall constitute a quorum.
B. Council
The district council shall meet a least biannually to
transact business in the interim between the annual
district conventions. In addition, special meetings may be
called byy the president. A majority of council members
shall constitute a quorum.

Section 4. Global Meetings

A. Convention
1. There shall be a Global Convention of Nazarene
Missions International immediately preceding the
NMI CONSTITUTION 361

General Assembly to report, pray, inform, inspire,

present plans, and conduct business pertaining to the
organization. A majority of delegates as registered in
attendance shall constitute a quorum.
2. The time and place of the Convention shall be decided
by the Global Council in consultation with the general
superintendent in jurisdiction. The Global Council
shall approve all official locations.
3. Membership
a. Ex officio members of the Global Convention shall
be members of the Global Council; regional NMI
coordinators, district NMI presidents regardless of
organizational status of the district, or in the event
a district president cannot attend, the district vice
president may be allowed to represent that district
with all rights and privileges.
b. Delegates and alternates to the Global Convention
shall be elected by ballot at a district convention.
Alternates may be elected on a separate ballot or
at the recommendation of the district council on
the same ballot as the delegates. Delegates and
alternates may be elected by a plurality vote by
ballot on approval by a two-thirds vote of the district
convention upon recommendation of the district
council. (Refer to 3.c. for determining the number
of delegates and time of election).
c. Elected delegates to the Global NMI Convention
shall be based on the following formula: two
delegates from each phase 3 and phase 2 district of
1,000 or fewer NMI members excluding associates,
and one additional delegate for each additional 700
members or major portion thereof. Membership
shall be based on the NMI membership reported at
the district convention when elections take place.
The district NMI nominating committee shall
nominate delegates. (See Manual paragraph 200.2
for definition of district phases.) The district NMI
362 NMI CONSTITUTION

council shall determine the number of alternates the

district convention shall elect.
d. One global commissioned missionary delegate
for every Global Missions region of 50 or fewer
global commissioned missionaries, or two global
commissioned missionary delegates for each region
with 51 or more global commissioned missionaries
shall be nominated and elected from and by the
assigned global commissioned missionaries serving
in that region by ballot issued from the global NMI
director’s office. The first ballot will be a nominating
ballot to determine at least two names for the
election by majority ballot.
e. Delegates are to be elected by ballot by the district
convention within 16 months of the Global
Convention or within 24 months in areas where travel
visas or other unusual preparations are necessary.
f. Any elected delegate shall be residing at the time of
the Global Convention on the district where he or she
held membership at the time of the election. If any
elected delegate moves off the district, the privilege
of representing the former district is forfeited. This
provision does not apply to anyone whose home
residence is just across a district boundary from the
place of church membership.
g. In the event that the district president, district vice
president, elected delegate, duly elected alternate
delegate, or designated alternate delegates are
unable to attend the Global Convention and this
fact is identified after the last district convention
before the Global Convention, then replacement
alternate delegates may be appointed by the district
NMI council, or in the event of no district council,
the district NMI president with the approval of the
district superintendent.
NMI CONSTITUTION 363

B. Council Meetings
The Global NMI Council shall meet annually during
the quadrennium to transact business pertaining to the
organization. A majority of council members in office shall
constitute a quorum.

Article VII. Funds

Section 1. Raised by Local Churches
A. World Evangelism Fund
1. All funds raised for the World Evangelism Fund (WEF)
shall be sent to the general treasurer.
2. World Evangelism Fund is based on the following
formula: every church shall contribute 5.5 percent of
their income.
3. Churches may solicit WEF funds through various
means, such as Faith Promise, Easter and Thanksgiving
Offerings, regular WEF offerings, Prayer and Fasting
offerings.
B. Approved Mission Specials
1. Opportunity shall be given to contribute to Approved
Mission Specials over and above WEF giving.
2. Additional Approved Mission Specials may be approved
and authorized by appropriate personnel at Nazarene
Global Ministry Center.
3. The Global NMI Council shall authorize all Approved
Mission Specials that are promoted and raised through
NMI from the global level.
C. Funds Exclusive
No part of the World Evangelism Fund and Approved
Mission Specials raised by the local or district church shall
be used for any local or district purpose or causes other
than Nazarene missions.
D. Local Expenses
The local church board shall ensure a suitable budget
for the operation of NMI in the local church, including
364 NMI CONSTITUTION

consideration of reimbursement of expenses for the local

leadership.

Section 2. Raised by Districts

The District Advisory Board shall ensure that a suitable budget
exists for the operation of NMI on the district, including
consideration of reimbursement of expenses for the district
leadership.

Section 3. Remuneration
The ministry of NMI shall be a love service to the church.
No salaries shall be paid to leaders elected at any level—local,
district, global, with the exception of the global director, who
is employed by the Church of the Nazarene, Inc.
Adequate remuneration shall be provided for the expenses
of council members at all levels—local, district, and global.

Article VIII. Policies and Procedures

The Global NMI Council shall establish additional policies
and procedures for NMI to be contained in the NMI Handbook
along with the NMI Constitution.

Article IX. Parliamentary Authority

The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of
Order Newly Revised, when not in conflict with applicable law,
the Articles of Incorporation of the Church of the Nazarene,
the NMI Constitution, and any other rules of order that NMI
may adopt, shall govern the organization.

Article X. Amendments
The NMI Constitution may be amended by two-thirds vote
of members present and voting at a Global Convention of
Nazarene Missions International.
NDI BYLAWS 365

III. NAZARENE DISCIPLESHIP

INTERNATIONAL
812. NAZARENE DISCIPLESHIP
INTERNATIONAL BYLAWS
ARTICLE I – NAME
The name of this organization shall be Nazarene Discipleship
International (NDI)

ARTICLE II – MISSION, PURPOSE

AND CORE PRINCIPLES

SECTION 1. Mission Statement

The mission of Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI)
is to carry out the Great Commission to children, youth, and
adults in preparation for a lifelong journey of being and making
Christlike disciples in the nations.

SECTION 2. Purpose
The purpose of NDI is to assist local churches in:
a. Reaching non-believers for Jesus
b. Establishing new believers in their faith in Christ
c. Walking with believers to a fully surrendered, heart-
cleansed, fruit-bearing, and Spirit-filled life.

SECTION 3. Core Principles

NDI promotes the following five Core Principles that are
essential to the discipleship process:
a. Fervent Prayer
b. Compassionate Outreach
c. Comprehensive Biblical Learning
d. Intentional Mentoring and Equipping
e. Authentic Relationships
366 NDI BYLAWS

These Core Principles, promoted and modelled on each

region, field, district, and local church, will develop Christlike
disciples of every age and in every culture.
1) Principle #1 of NDI: Fervent Prayer
Prayer is an essential part of discipleship. In its purest
form, prayer is communicating with and responding to
God. Prayer was expressly modeled by Jesus who taught
His disciples to pray. Jesus’ disciples were then instructed
to teach each following generation of disciples to pray.
The Scriptures reveal that intentional and consistent
prayer nurtures and develops our relationships with both
God and others, enabling us to see and experience God’s
activities through His prevenient, saving and sanctifying
grace.
Prayer is the bedrock upon which all other ministry
efforts are built. As we pray, God inspires us to be actively
engaged in the world. Through prayer, we participate in
the Holy Spirit’s transforming power, both for ourselves
and for our neighbor.
Prayer guides us to spiritual success. By deepening our
relationship with God through prayer, we experience
the Holy Spirit’s guidance and find greater measures of
spiritual growth and direction. Through intentional,
specific, and consistent prayer, the body of Christ
becomes the eyes, hands, and feet of the Savior.

2) Principle #2 of NDI: Compassionate Outreach

God’s compassionate and redemptive love is foundational
to discipleship and the appropriate motivation for
Christian outreach. Compassionate outreach reveals
God’s love for humanity. God is continually reaching
out to prepare people’s hearts to receive salvation. It is
a disciple’s care for non-believers, both local and global,
that places a face and hand to God’s grace and love.
Therefore, a disciple’s authentic and loving relationship
NDI BYLAWS 367

with non-believers is essential to communicating the

beauty of God’s grace and salvation.

Outreach is every disciple’s calling. Every disciple,

faithfully living and loving like Jesus, is to be engaged
in nurturing genuine relationships with others. Through
a disciple’s prayerful and compassionate action, God is
reaching out and preparing hearts to receive salvation.
When disciples are in relationship with non-believers,
they are obeying Jesus’ command to go into all of creation
to proclaim the Good News (Mark 16:15).

3) Principle #3 of NDI: Comprehensive Biblical Learning

Jesus placed a high priority on teaching his disciples from
the Scriptures. It was the knowledge of the Scriptures
combined with his instructions that shaped their
knowledge of God and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Learning the Scriptures, through individual and group

study, helps disciples to become more like Christ. When
we study the Word of God, which is active and living, we
uncover who God is, how God loves, and how we are to
love others. In doing this, we allow God to speak to us,
mold us, and sanctify us.

Knowing God’s Word is essential to Christlike

discipleship. Being actively engaged in the systematic
study and application of the Word of God is a catalyst
for spiritual transformation and growth. As we grow
and learn, we begin to fully understand and obey God’s
mission for his disciples to go and reach out to unbelievers
with God’s love. When we allow the Word of God to
transform us, we are modeling to others the importance
of learning God’s Word.
368 NDI BYLAWS

4) Principle #4 of NDI: Intentional Mentoring and

Equipping
Jesus’ method of discipleship was through personal
mentoring and equipping of a chosen group of individuals.
It was these methods that helped Christianity grow and
transform society.
Mentoring and equipping is a discipleship process that
introduces new believers to Jesus and reveals how to
follow Him personally and fully. Mentoring is a loving
way to teach accountability and introduce non-believers
to the full knowledge of Christ. All disciples are
challenged and continue to grow and become Christlike
when every disciple is providing and receiving mentoring.
To become all that God has created us to be as Christ’s
disciples, we need to be willing to grow and to help others
grow as Jesus did. Therefore, mentoring, and equipping
others on the journey of discipleship is essential to
Christian growth and maturity.

5) Principle #5 of NDI: Authentic Relationships

In the same way that Jesus gathered travelling companions
around Himself, we as His disciples, are called to journey
together as members of the Body of Christ. Everyone
committed to the Great Commission should be engaged
in relationships that honor God and edify the Body of
Christ.
The core of our faith and life is to love God and love
others. When we know we are unconditionally loved by
God and unconditionally loved by one another, unity
in the Body of Christ results. This unconditional love
knows no cultural, generational, or structural bounds.
This unconditional love is made possible only through
the working of the Holy Spirit.
NDI BYLAWS 369

When we deeply care for one another, we discover just

how rich our identity is in Christ, and spiritual growth
results. Such loving relationships help us walk the path
of holiness because we are receiving both encouragement
and loving correction. These Spirit-enabled relationships
are necessary as we support one another in living a fully
surrendered and Spirit-filled life.

SECTION 4. Global Mission

As we live out the core principles of NDI in the life and
ministries of the local church and in the practices and
behaviors of every Nazarene, we will accomplish the mission
of making Christlike disciples in the nations. We recognize
that discipleship will look different as culture shapes our
methodologies, but our global mission, purpose, and core
principles remain the same. To discover regional expressions
of these core principles, as well as more information regarding
NDI, please see the articles below and your NDI regional
handbooks.
ARTICLE III. NDI Accountability Care List (ACL)
SECTION 1. Each local church should strive to reach all
unsaved persons in the community. In order to accomplish
this goal, the NDI ministry of the local church shall create
and sustain an up-to-date Accountability Care List (ACL).
An ACL should include the name and contact/follow-up
information for every person who regularly attends any
of its NDI ministries and any individual the local church
has encountered through outreach ministries or relational
discipleship/evangelism. Once a person is added to the ACL,
the local church should actively seek to minister to that person
in the name of Jesus as he or she is brought into the fellowship
of the local church.
The ACL should be divided among active NDI ministries
across the church to include all those contained on the full list.
Teachers/leaders of each ministry shall facilitate regular care and
connection between the local congregation and those on the ACL.
370 NDI BYLAWS

The ACL shall become an active prayer list for the church
through its regular NDI ministries. The ACL should prompt
the local church to build Christ centered relationships with all
people on the list. The ACL is intended to provide relational
accountability for the body of Christ to its responsibility in
the community.
The total number of all individuals on the ACL is to be
reported in the Annual Pastor’s Report. The ACL includes all
age groups and all NDI ministries. (For a full description of
the varying NDI ministries refer to your regional handbook.)
SECTION 2. The following groups of people shall be
included on the ACL. A person may attend more than one
group. In this instance the ACL grouping represents the group
for ensuring accountability for discipleship of that person.
a. Sunday School/Bible Studies/Small Groups/Home
Groups: All those who regularly attend regular small
groups of any kind in the church should be included on
the ACL.
b. One-on-one Discipleship/Mentoring: Any individual
being discipled or mentored by someone in the church
should be included on the ACL list.
c. Online outreach ministries: Any individual who visits the
church through technology should become a part of an
online ACL list.
d. Home Bound: Any person relationally connected to a
local church who is physically or vocationally unable to
attend a regular NDI ministry should be listed on the
ACL.
e. Nursing Home/Convalescent Center/Health Care
Facility, etc.: Any resident confined to one of these
centers who is relationally connected to a local church
shall be included on the ACL.
f. Childcare/Schools: Any group of students in a Nazarene
childcare/school (birth-secondary) sponsored/operated
by a local Church of the Nazarene.
g. Students: When students of the church leave for
educational purposes, the role of the local church is not
NDI BYLAWS 371

completed. These students shall continue to be on the

ACL. The sending church should regularly reach out to
the student in loving care.
h. Child Development Centers (CDC): Sponsored/operated
by a local Church of the Nazarene.
SECTION 3. Review of Names/Removal of Names
The ACL shall be reviewed and updated quarterly by the
local NDI board in consultation with the pastor.
Caring responsibility for a person or family on the ACL may
be transferred from one NDI ministry group to another with
the approval of the local NDI board.
Removing names from the church’s master ACL should only
be done with the approval of the pastor when a person:
a. moves out of town.
b. joins another church.
c. specifically asks to have his or her name removed.
d. has not attended for one year and has been faithfully
ministered to by an appropriate NDI leader (with the
exception of d, e and g in Section 2).
ARTICLE IV. NDI ATTENDANCE
The purpose of counting and reporting NDI attendance
in the local church is to help measure the effectiveness of
that church’s effort to make Christlike disciples, fulfilling
the purpose of NDI. All NDI efforts should lead to the lost
coming to faith in Jesus, new Christians being established in
their faith in Christ, and believers experiencing the fullness of
the Spirit, maturing in grace, and becoming disciple-makers.
NDI attendance measures, therefore, should reflect this
desired purpose.
NDI attendance includes all NDI ministries. These ministries
shall be counted each week by the local church according to
the guidelines listed below and in Article III, Section 1 above.
The regional NDI office shall obtain reports of the ACL
and NDI attendance from each district in order to compile
an accurate account of NDI growth within the denomination
annually.
372 NDI BYLAWS

SECTION 1. Definitions and Reports

The attendance of all Discipleship Ministry groups shall
be defined as persons involved in Bible engagement and its
application of the biblical principles for Christlikeness.
a. NDI attendance should consider:
1) How many individual people is the local church engaging
with along their discipleship journey? In this case, every
individual is counted only once. This number allows the
church to evaluate the effectiveness (growth or decline)
of reaching new people from its community.
2) How many discipleship “touches” occur during any given
week/month? With NDI’s purpose of walking with
every individual into a deeper experience with God
toward holiness, believers may attend multiple NDI
activities during any given period of time. The purpose
of this number is to see the full effect of the discipleship
effort of a local church. People, in this category, may be
counted more than once as they may attend more than
one meeting each week.
b. Attendance figures from all discipleship ministries groups
shall be reported regularly to the local church board and
on the Annual Pastor’s Report.
c. The District NDI Board, in consultation with the district
superintendent, shall determine the frequency of the
reporting (monthly, quarterly, or annually). All reporting
will be submitted to the district.
ARTICLE V. LOCAL NDI BOARD
SECTION 1. Responsibilities of the local NDI Board are
defined in Manual 155- 155.10 and include:
a. Work with the pastor and the local church board to
develop/organize an NDI Board.
b. Work with the pastor to develop and implement a
strategic plan for discipleship in the local church that
is in line with the church’s strategies/objectives and in
harmony with the district vision and the mission of the
Church of the Nazarene.
NDI BYLAWS 373

c. Research, create, develop, and ultimately approve

curriculum consistent with the Church of the Nazarene
theology and mission.
d. Coordinate with NYI and NMI to develop training
programs for:
1) Prayer Ministries across the local church.
2) Compassionate outreach to meet the felt and real needs
of the surrounding community and help people come to
faith in Jesus.
3) Comprehensive biblical learning to include teacher
training and Bible engagement of the entire congregation.
4) Intentional Mentoring and Equipping. In an effort to
develop leadership among church members, mentoring
and equipping ministry workers involved in all age group
ministries should be ongoing.
5) Authentic Relationships. Since the world will recognize
Christ’s disciples by our love (John 13:35), developing
Christ-centered relationships in the local church shall be
a priority for NDI ministries.
e. Evaluate and report at the annual church meeting current
local church education and discipleship ministries/
projects clearly articulating their outcomes.
ARTICLE VI. NDI MINISTRY ORGANIZATION
AND LEADERSHIP
SECTION 1. When a local church offers Sunday School
for all ages, the Sunday School program shall be divided into
classes for children and youth on the basis of age or school
grade. For adults, the classes should be determined by
seasons of life, common interests, mission, topic, etc. Where
appropriate, intergenerational classes may also be considered.
SECTION 2. Other NDI ministries such as small groups,
home groups, one-on-one discipleship/mentoring may last for
a set period of time with breaks in between the formation of
new groups.
SECTION 3. When the number of classes within the
children’s, youth, or adult age groups increase, attention should
374 NDI BYLAWS

be given to age level organization with a supervisor appointed

by the local NDI Board in consultation with the pastor.
SECTION 4. The duties of the department supervisor shall
be determined by the local NDI Board in consultation with
the pastor. Suggested responsibilities are listed in the NDI
regional handbooks.

ARTICLE VII. NDI MINISTRIES TEACHERS

AND LEADERS
SECTION 1. NDI Ministries teachers and leaders shall be
appointed annually according to Manual 155.8.
SECTION 2. The NDI Board, in consultation with the
pastor, may declare the position of any officer or teacher/
leader vacant in cases of proven unsound doctrine, imprudent
conduct, or neglect of duty. This loving accountability to both
the individual and the congregation as a whole is vital and
necessary to healthy discipleship in the body of Christ.
SECTION 3. All teachers/leaders and substitutes should
be persons of prayer, engaged in the Word, and intentionally
being and making Christlike disciples.

ARTICLE VIII. NDI MINISTRIES LEADERSHIP

RESPONSIBILITIES
SECTION 1. The local NDI President shall be elected each
year according to Manual 115.10-115.11 and 137. The duties of
the NDI President shall be to:
a. Coordinate the NDI under the supervision of the pastor.
b. Plan regular meetings for NDI ministry leaders.
c. Provide training opportunities for present and prospective
local NDI leaders.
d. Annually evaluate, develop, and implement with the
NDI Board a discipleship strategy to ensure all attendees
of the local church and those on the ACL are encouraged
and supported in their journey from no faith to new faith
to mature faith, from being a disciple to being a disciple-
maker.
NDI BYLAWS 375

e. Regularly report local NDI statistics to the designated

zone, district, or field office.
f. Encourage attendance at local, zone, district, field,
regional, and global NDI functions.
SECTION 2. The duties of the age-group discipleship
coordinators are outlined in Manual 157.1-157.9 and 158.2.
SECTION 3. The NDI Board shall elect a person to keep
the NDI records. He or she shall keep an accurate record of
the Accountability Care List (ACL), attendance, visitors, and
other statistics as may be required of all NDI ministries.
SECTION 4. Where appropriate, the NDI Board shall elect
a treasurer to keep accurate account of all moneys raised by
NDI ministries and authorize the disbursement according
to the direction of the Board. A monthly report shall be
submitted to the NDI Board or NDI President (if the church
does not have an NDI Board), and pastor.
SECTION 5. All curriculum and other resources used in
NDI ministries shall be approved by the NDI Board, or NDI
President (if the church does not have an NDI Board), and
pastor.

ARTICLE IX. NDI ADMINISTRATION

AND SUPERVISION
SECTION 1. NDI is under the care of the pastor, accountable
to the local church board, under the general supervision of the
NDI Board and the immediate leadership of the NDI President
and the ministry coordinators. The NDI Board should ensure
the local church is protecting its youth and children (see
Manual paragraph 139.30).
SECTION 2. If a church has employed someone to give
oversight to NDI responsibilities such as a director of
Christian education, and wishes that person to fulfill the
responsibilities of the NDI President, the church should elect
another layperson to represent NDI on the local church board
as a voting member. We encourage all possible efforts be made
to train and resource local lay leaders for leadership in NDI.
376 NDI BYLAWS

SECTION 3. When a pastor/leader/ministry coordinator

to children, youth, or adults is employed by a church, the
pastor, in consultation with the church board, the NDI Board,
and/or NYI Council, assigns the responsibility for children,
youth, or adult ministries to the age-level staff member. In
that case, the staff member serving children, youth, or adult
ministries carries out some of the duties otherwise designated
to a local Children’s Ministries (CM) coordinator, NYI
president, or Adult Ministries (AM) coordinator. However,
the responsibility of the local CM coordinator, NYI president,
or AM coordinator remains to provide vital lay leadership,
support, and representation for local age-group ministries.
The pastor and age group ministry staff member shall consult
with the NDI Board and NYI Council to define the roles and
responsibilities of the three lay positions.

ARTICLE X. NDI CONVENTIONS AND

ELECTIONS
SECTION 1. District NDI Convention
It is important that each district plan a District NDI
Convention annually in order to provide inspiration,
motivation, training, and the business of reports and elections.
The promotion of evangelism and disciple making ministries
should be a highlight of each convention.
a. Ex-officio members of the District NDI Convention
shall be: the district superintendent; all pastors, assigned
ordained ministers, assigned district licensed ministers,
retired assigned ministers, full-time associates; district
NDI President; district coordinators of CM and AM;
district NYI president; district NMI president; all local
NDI Presidents, local discipleship coordinators, local
NYI presidents; elected members of the District NDI
Board; lay members of the District Advisory Board; any
Nazarene full-time professors of Christian education
with membership on that district; and field, regional, and
global NDI officers.
NDI BYLAWS 377

b. In addition to the delegates listed above, each local

church in the annual meeting shall elect additional NDI
delegates to the Convention. This number shall be 25
percent of the number of officers, teachers, and leaders
of the local NDI ministries. In case elected delegates
cannot attend the convention, alternate delegates shall be
designated in the order of the votes received.
c. The District NDI Board shall appoint a nominating
committee to select twice the number of nominees for
the elected positions of district NDI President and the
three elected members of the District NDI Board, which
are then to be elected by plurality vote at the District
NDI Convention. These nominees must be members of
the Church of the Nazarene, actively involved in one or
more of the ministries of NDI, and should be selected
from the various discipleship ministries, including but
not limited to children, youth, and adult.
d. The District NDI President, three elected members
of the district NDI board, and delegates to the Global
NDI Convention shall be elected according to Manual
paragraph 241.
SECTION 2. Global NDI Convention
In conjunction with each General Assembly, NDI shall
observe a Global Convention with delegates in one or more
locations around the world. Elected delegates (and guests) shall
meet for the purpose of inspiration, motivation, and training
to equip and enrich involvement in fulfilling the mission and
purpose of NDI globally.
The Global Convention shall also include regional forums
(onsite or via electronic means) composed of the Regional NDI
Council, the regional director, the regional NDI coordinator,
and the elected and ex-officio district NDI delegates from that
region. The forums shall include in their agenda the election of
a nominee for consideration to serve as the NDI representative
on the General Board. The Global NDI Council and Global
NDI director will then select one name from the six regionally
378 NDI BYLAWS

nominated names and submit that one name to the General

Assembly for approval (Manual 332.6).
a. Ex-officio delegates to the Global NDI Convention shall be:
district superintendents, district NDI Presidents, elected
district coordinators of specific discipleship ministries;
NDI regional coordinators, NDI field coordinators, other
discipleship ministry regional coordinators; and directors
and staff of the global NDI office. In addition, professors
of Christian education at Nazarene colleges, universities,
and seminaries may attend as delegates.
b. In addition to the ex-officio delegates, each district
should elect four additional delegates or a number equal
to ten percent of the organized churches on the district,
whichever is greater.
c. The following guidelines should be followed in elections
for the Global NDI Convention delegates:
1) The Nominating Committee shall be comprised of the
district superintendent, district NDI President, and at
least three others appointed by the District NDI Board.
They shall select three times the number of nominees to
be elected.
2) The District NDI Convention shall elect an equal
number of delegates and alternates representing the
various NDI ministries (including teachers/workers
of youth). Those elected should be persons who are
presently and actively involved in the respective area
from which they are elected. The number of alternates
elected should include alternates for ex-officio district
officers. Persons should not be elected who will serve as
delegates to the Global Nazarene Missions International
Convention or the Global Nazarene Youth International
Convention because the three conventions run
concurrently.
3) Delegates shall be elected by ballot (secure electronic
balloting is acceptable when in-person balloting is not
possible) in the District NDI Convention within 16
months of the meeting of the General Assembly or
NDI BYLAWS 379

within 24 months in areas where travel visas or other

unusual preparations are necessary.
4) As nearly as possible, elect an equal number of laity and
clergy—50 percent laypersons and 50 percent assigned
ministers, elders, deacons, or licensed ministers. When
the total number is uneven, the extra representative
should be a layperson.
5) District NDI leaders elected prior to and holding office
at the time of the Global Convention shall be the ex-
officio members of the convention.
6) A plurality vote shall be sufficient for election.
7) If any elected delegates cannot attend the Global NDI
Convention, alternate delegates shall be designated
in the order of votes received. If elected delegates
and alternates are unable to attend, the district
superintendent, district advisory board, and district
NDI President together are authorized to fill such
vacancies.
8) At the convening of the Global NDI Convention, each
delegate shall reside on and be a member of a local
Church of the Nazarene on the district he or she was
elected to represent.
9) Districts who are able to financially support NMI, NYI,
and NDI delegate attendance at the global conventions
should aim at providing fair support for all attending
delegates.
10) If the election of delegates for the Global NDI Convention
does not take place at the District NDI Convention,
delegates can be elected at the District Assembly or by
another method approved by the NDI global director
and regional office.
SECTION 3. Election of Global NDI Director
The NDI Global Director is elected according to the General
Board Policy Manual (section 5.6) which states:
a. The JGS, in consultation with the Global NDI Council
and BGS, have nominating authority to fill a vacancy in
the position of Global NDI Director.
380 NDI BYLAWS

b. The JGS and the Global NDI Council serve as the search
committee to consider the nomination of candidates.
c. The search committee submits a ballot with up to two
names to the Local Church Committee of the General
Board.
d. The Local Church Committee of the General Board
ratifies the ballot by two-thirds vote if the ballot consists
of one individual or by majority vote if the ballot consists
of more than one individual.
e. The BGS elects the Global NDI Director from the ballot.
ARTICLE XI. GLOBAL NDI COUNCIL
SECTION 1. Purpose
The Global council exists to guide, facilitate, and promote
the total mission of NDI by working with regional, field,
district, and local NDI leaders in connecting global strategies
for effective disciple making.
SECTION 2. Composition
a. The Global NDI Council shall meet at least annually,
either in person or by electronic media, and consists of
the regional NDI coordinator from each Global Missions
region and the Global NDI director, who chairs the
meeting. The NDI General Board Representative should
be invited to participate in selected meetings throughout
the year.
b. The regional NDI coordinators are to be appointed by
the respective regional director in consultation with the
Global NDI director.
SECTION 3. Duties of the regional NDI coordinators shall
be:
a. To represent and champion the purposes of NDI on their
region.
b. To provide vision and inspiration related to the
implementation of strategies and resourcing consistent
with the global and regional vision for the church.
c. To research, create, develop, and coordinate training
initiatives for intentional discipleship leadership
NDI BYLAWS 381

development for regional, field, and district church

advancement, connecting all the ministries of the church
to the task of making Christlike disciples who reproduce
Christlike disciples.
d. To attend and submit a report at the annual Global NDI
Council meeting.
e. To bring the nominee(s) for NDI General Board
representative, selected by their regional forum, to the
Global NDI Council. The Council will present one
name to the General Assembly for election as the NDI
representative to the General Board (Manual 332.6).
ARTICLE XII. NDI AMENDMENTS
These bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of the
General Board members present and voting.
 PART X

Forms

THE LOCAL CHURCH

THE DISTRICT ASSEMBLY

BILLS OF CHARGES
384 FORMS

I. THE LOCAL CHURCH

NOTE: The following forms may be prepared and used by the local church
as needed.

813. Local Minister’s License

THIS IS TO CERTIFY that __________________ is licensed
as a Local Minister in the Church of the Nazarene for one year,
provided that _______________________ spirit and practice are
such as become the gospel of Christ, and ________________
teachings correspond with the established doctrines of the Holy
Scriptures as held by said church.
By Order of the Church Board of the ____________________
Church of the Nazarene.
Done at _______________, this _____________________ day of
______________________, (year).
______________________________________________________
Chairperson
______________________________________________________
Secretary

814. Recommendation to the District Assembly

(to be completed annually for district licensed ministers)
(Check the appropriate board.)
 The Church Board of the _____________________________
 The District Advisory Board of the (Manual 225.13) ______
recommends ________________________________________
to the (Ministerial Credentials Board) District Assembly for:
 District Minister’s License
 Renewal of District Minister’s License
Recommended Role of Ministry (Manual 505-520)
 CED—Minister of Christian Education (employed in a
ministerial capacity in a Christian education program of a
local church)
 DA-FT—(elected or employed on a full-time basis by a
district as his or her primary ministry)
FORMS 385

 DA-PT—(elected or employed on a part-time basis by a

district as his or her primary ministry)
 EDU—Education (employed to serve on the administrative
staff or faculty of one of the educational institutions of the
Church of the Nazarene)
 EVR—Evangelist, Registered (is devoted to traveling
and preaching the gospel as his or her primary ministry,
promoting revivals and spreading the gospel abroad in the
land)
 GA—General Assignment, Missionary (appointed by the
General Board through the Global Missions Committee to
minister for the church)
 GA—General Assignment, Other (elected or employed to
serve in the General Church)
 PAC—Pastor, Parent-Affiliated Congregation (leading a
Parent-Affiliated Congregation designated by the district)
 PAS—Pastor (elder track, may be called or appointed)
 PSV-FT—Pastoral Service Full-Time (associate role, serving
on a full-time basis, in connection with a church)
 PSV-PT—Pastoral Service Part-Time (associate role, serving
on a part-time basis, in connection with a church)
 SER—Song Evangelist, Registered (devotes the major
portion of his or her time to the ministry of evangelism
through music as his or her primary assignment)
 SPC—Special Service/Interdenominational (in active
service in a manner not otherwise provided for, which must
be approved by the district assembly upon recommendation
by the District Advisory Board. Persons designated SPC are
required to maintain relationship with the Church of the
Nazarene and will submit in writing to the District Advisory
Board annually, the nature of their ongoing connection with
the Church of the Nazarene.)
 STU—Student (enrolled in a validated course of study)
 U—Unassigned
NOTE: Please mark both a recommendation for licensing and a recommendation
for the individual’s ministry role certification.
386 FORMS

Review the requirements a candidate for district licensing

must meet in order for such license to be granted or renewed
(Manual 524-524.9).
*If a role of PSV-FT or PSV-PT, either paid or unpaid, is
recommended for the coming year, has the written approval
of the district superintendent been received (139.27; 169.1-
169.2)?
 Yes  No
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
If a role other than STU or U is indicated above, describe the
candidate’s ministry focus while serving in the recommended
role of ministry.
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
We certify that _____________________________________ has
fulfilled all the requirements for such a request.
By vote of the Board this ___________ (date) and by receipt
of a letter of permission from the district superintendent this
___________________ (date).
______________________________________________________
Chairperson
______________________________________________________
Secretary

815. Certificate of Commendation

This certifies that ________________________________ is a
member of the Church of the Nazarene at _________________
and is hereby commended to the Christian confidence of those
to whom this certificate may be presented.
______________________________________________________
Pastor
Date ____________________________, _____________ (year)
NOTE: When a certificate of commendation is given, that person’s membership
immediately ceases in the local church issuing the certificate. (113.1)
FORMS 387

816. Letter of Release

This certifies that _____________________________________
has been until this date a member of the Church of the
Nazarene at ___________________________________________
_ and, at h___________ request, is granted this letter of release.
______________________________________________________
Pastor
Date __________________________, ____________ (year)
NOTE: Membership terminates immediately upon issuance of a letter of
release. (114.2)

817. Transfer of Members

This certifies that __________________________ is a member
in the Church of the Nazarene at _________________________
and at h __________ request, is hereby transferred to the Church
of the Nazarene at _____________________________ in the
______________________________________________ District.
When the reception of this transfer is acknowledged by the
receiving local church, membership in this local church will
cease.
______________________________________________________
Pastor
______________________________________________________
Address
Date ________________________________ (year)
NOTE: A transfer is valid for three months only. (113)

818. Transfer Acknowledged

This certifies that ________________________________ has
been received into membership by the Church of the Nazarene
at ________________________________ this ________________
day of __________________________, ___________ (year).
______________________________________________________
Pastor
______________________________________________________
Address
388 FORMS

II. THE DISTRICT ASSEMBLY

819. Official district forms may be secured from the General
Secretary, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, KS 66220,
USA

III. BILLS OF CHARGES

Section 1. In Trial of a Church Member
Section 2. In Trial of an Ordained Minister
Section 3. In Trial of a Licensed Minister
820. Bills of Charges may be secured from the General
Secretary, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, KS 66220,
USA
 PART XI

Appendix

GENERAL OFFICERS

ADMINISTRATIVE BOARDS, COUNCILS, AND

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES

CURRENT MORAL AND SOCIAL ISSUES

390 APPENDIX

I. GENERAL OFFICERS
900. General Superintendents
David A. Busic
Gustavo A. Crocker
Filimão M. Chambo
Carla D. Sunberg
T. Scott Daniels
Christian D. Sarmiento

900.1. General Superintendents

Emeriti and Retired
Donald D. Owens, Emeritus
Jim L. Bond, Emeritus
W. Talmadge Johnson, Emeritus
James H. Diehl, Emeritus
Nina G. Gunter, Emerita
Jesse C. Middendorf, Emeritus
Jerry D. Porter, Emeritus
J. K. Warrick, Emeritus
Eugénio R. Duarte, Emeritus
David W. Graves, Emeritus

900.2. General Secretary

Gary W. Hartke

900.3. General Treasurer

Keith B. Cox

CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

GLOBAL MINISTRY CENTER
17001 PRAIRIE STAR PARKWAY
LENEXA, KS 66220, USA
APPENDIX 391

II. ADMINISTRATIVE BOARDS,

COUNCILS, AND EDUCATIONAL
INSTITUTIONS
901. General Board
M embers by Church R egions
Minister Layperson
Africa Region
Ansenio Manjate Benjamin Langa
Dance Mathebula Loreto Sepeng
Sipho Ncongwane Daniel Sithole
Asia-Pacific Region
Min-Gyoo Shin Emily Bolinas
Peter Kui Yekip Wallace White Kintak
Canada Region
C. Dale Thistle Rose Graham
Central USA Region
Timothy Kellerman Cheryl Seymour
East Central USA Region
Samuel Barber Larry Hammond
Eastern USA Region
Olivia Metcalf Wavny Toussaint
Eurasia Region
Peter Paul George Wouter Boor
Carl McCann Mangesh Jadhav
Dennis Mohn Udaya Kumar
Mesoamerica Region
Sirlene Bustos Rosa Delia Ayala
Miguel Angel Ceballos Josue Jimenez Gonzalez
Elimelec Juantá Ellier Moises Lucas Mejía
North Central USA Region
Steven Hoffman Greg Hephner
Northwest USA Region
Virgil Askren Joel K. Pearsall
392 APPENDIX

South America Region

Marcelo Correa Galdina de Souza Arrais
Adalberto Herrera David Lara Ascorbe
Elio Ribero Tomaz Gerson Rueda
South Central USA Region
Rick Harvey Cheryl Crouch
Southeast USA Region
Dwight M. Gunter II Michael T. Johnson
Southwest USA Region
Rob Songer Daniel Spaite
Education
Dan Boone Bob Brower
Nazarene Discipleship International
Susan Booth
Nazarene Missions International
Debra Voelker
Nazarene Youth International
Christiano Malta

902. General Court of Appeals

Kafoa Muaror, Chairperson Julie Cheney, Secretary
Frederick Amolo Ian Wills
Antoine St. Louis

903. Global Council of

Nazarene Youth International
David González, Nazarene Youth International Director
Christiano Malta, Council Chair
Shaun Bati, Africa
Janary Suyat, Asia-Pacific
Amy Warner, Eurasia
Benjamín Soria, Mesoamerica
Leo Barreto, South America
Justin Pickard, USA/Canada
APPENDIX 393

904. Global Council of

Nazarene Missions International
Lola Brickey, Global Director
Christine Trent-Mosuela , President
Elizabeth Musimbi Ndungani, Africa Region
Yrnah Lobutsa-Reyes, Asia-Pacific Region
Penny Ure, Canada Region
Jill Rice, Central USA Region
Patty Williams, East Central USA Region
Sally Mellinger, Eastern USA Region
Vania Fink, Eurasia Region
Maria Lucia Manuel Vazquez, Mesoamerica Region
Kelly Love, North Central USA Region
Debra Voelker, Northwest USA Region
Romina Miño, South America Region
Tim Evans, South Central USA Region
Teresa Hodge, Southeast USA Region
Joshua Jorgensen, Southwest USA Region
Verne Ward, Global Missions Director
The General Superintendent in Jurisdiction (Adviser)

905. Nazarene Institutions of Higher Education

GLOBAL NAZARENE EDUCATION CONSORTIUM
Africa Region
Africa Nazarene University
Nairobi, Kenya—Serving Eastern Africa
Nazarene Bible College of East Africa
Nairobi, Kenya—Serving the East Field
Nazarene Theological College
Honeydew, South Africa—Serving the South Field
Nazarene Theological College of Central Africa
Malawi, Central Africa—Serving the South East Field
Nazarene Theological Institute
Serving the Central and West Fields
Seminário Nazareno de Cabo Verde
Santiago, Cape Verde
394 APPENDIX

Seminário Nazareno em Moçambique

Maputo, Mozambique—Serving the Lusophone Field
Southern Africa Nazarene University
Manzini, Eswatini—Serving Southern Africa
Asia-Pacific Region
Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary
Rizal, Philippines
Central Philippine Nazarene College
Cebu City, Philippines
Chapman International College
Bangkok, Thailand
Indonesia Nazarene Theological College
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Japan Nazarene Theological Seminary
Tokyo, Japan
Korea Nazarene University
Choong Nam, Korea
Melanesia Nazarene Bible College
Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea
Melanesia Nazarene Teachers College
Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea
Nazarene College of Nursing
Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea
Nazarene Theological College
Thornlands, Queensland, Australia
Nazarene Theological College
Serving the East Asia Field
Philippine Nazarene Bible College
Baguio City, Philippines
South Pacific Nazarene Theological College
Suva, Fiji
Eurasia Region
European Nazarene College
Serving Europe and the Eurasia Fields
Nazarene Nurses Training College
Washim, Maharashtra, India
APPENDIX 395

Nazarene Theological College—Manchester

Manchester, England
South Asia Nazarene Bible College
Bangalore, India—Serving India and South Asia Field
Mesoamerica Region
Caribbean Nazarene College
Santa Cruz, Trinidad
Iglesia del Nazareno en México Seminario (SENAMEX)
Mexico City D.F., Mexico
Instituto Bíblico Nazareno
Cobán, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala—Serving Northern
Guatemala
Séminaire Théologique Nazaréen d’Haiti
Petion-Ville, Haiti
Seminario Nazareno Dominicano
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Seminario Teológico Nazareno
Guatemala City, Guatemala—Serving Guatemala, El
Salvador, Honduras, Belize
Seminario Teológico Nazareno Cubano
La Lisa, La Habana, Cuba
Universidad Nazarena del Continente (UNINAZ)
San José, Costa Rica
South America Region
Seminario Bíblico Nazareno Chile
Santiago, Chile
Seminario Nazareno Boliviano
La Paz, Bolivia
Seminario Teológico Nazareno del Cono Sur
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Seminario Teológico Nazareno del Perú
Chiclayo, Peru
Seminário Teológico Nazareno do Brasil
São Paulo, Brazil
Seminario Teológico Nazareno Sudamericano
Quito, Ecuador
396 APPENDIX

USA/Canada Region
Ambrose University College
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Eastern Nazarene College
Quincy, Massachusetts, USA
MidAmerica Nazarene University
Olathe, Kansas, USA
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon, Ohio, USA
Nazarene Bible College
Serving USA/Canada Region
Nazarene Theological Seminary
Kansas City, Missouri, USA
Northwest Nazarene University
Nampa, Idaho, USA
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, Illinois, USA
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, California, USA
Southern Nazarene University
Bethany, Oklahoma, USA
Trevecca Nazarene University
Nashville, Tennessee, USA

III. ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES

906. Manual Editing Resolution. Be it Resolved, That the
Board of General Superintendents appoint and authorize
a Manual Editing Committee to harmonize conflicting
statements that may appear in the record of the actions of the
General Assembly in regard to changes in the Manual; and
also to make such editorial changes in the text of the present
Manual as will correct the language without altering the
meaning; also to make such editorial changes in the copy of
the newly adopted matter as may serve to correct the language
without altering the meaning.
The Manual Editing Committee is hereby further authorized
to substitute plainly understood words or expressions for
APPENDIX 397

confusing words or expressions, to revise the numbering of

paragraphs, sections, and other divisions of the Manual in
harmony with any actions adopted by the General Assembly,
and also to prepare the index in harmony with any actions
adopted by the General Assembly.
Further resolved that the supervision of all translations of
the Manual shall be a duty of the Manual Editing Committee.
(2017)
907. Manual Appendix Review. Any item remaining in
Sections III and IV of the Appendix (paragraphs 906-934) for
three quadrennia without reconsideration shall be referred by
the Committee on Reference to the proper committee of the
General Assembly for the same consideration as a resolution to
the General Assembly. (2013)
908. Annuities. The General Board and institutions of the
church are prohibited from using annuity gifts until such have
become their valid property by the death of the annuitant.
Such gifts are to be carefully invested in funds usually accepted
as trust funds by the courts of the land. (2017)
909. Debt. No entity may collateralize charitable pledges for
the purpose of underwriting debt. (2017)
910. Bible Societies.
1. Approved Bible Societies. The Church of the Nazarene
places special emphasis upon the Bible as the written
revelation of God, and we believe that it is the primary
agency to win new followers to Jesus Christ, and because
there is an increasing need for more copies of the
Scripture; therefore be it Resolved,
First, That the General Assembly express its hearty approval
of and sympathy with the work of the United Bible Societies
around the world.
Second, That we endorse the observance of Universal Bible
Sunday, directing attention on this day to the essential place
the Scriptures should occupy in the lives of Christian people.
2. Offering for Bible Societies
Resolved, That the Church of the Nazarene designate the
second Sunday of December of each year as a special time for
398 APPENDIX

the presentation of this important matter and the taking of

an offering for each nation’s Bible Society. The Bible Society
chosen shall be members (associate or full), of the worldwide
fellowship of the United Bible Societies or in the absence of a
member society, such other Bible Society designated by the
district; also that a special effort be made to have all of our
churches take part in such an offering. All churches should
consult their district office for instructions regarding how to
send their contributions to their respective country’s Bible
society. (2017)
911. Tenure of Committees. Any special committee created
for any purpose, unless specified otherwise, will cease to exist
at the following General Assembly. (2017)
912. General Assembly Business.
(From the 30th General Assembly Standing Rules)

Resolutions and Petitions

Rule 16. Presenting Resolutions to the General Assembly.
District assemblies, a committee authorized by the district
assembly, regional advisory councils, the General Board
or any of its recognized departments, official boards or
commissions of the general church, the Global Nazarene
Missions International Convention, the Global Nazarene
Youth International Convention, or five or more members of
the General Assembly, may present resolutions and petitions
for the consideration of the General Assembly in accordance
with the following rules:
a. Resolutions and petitions shall be submitted in a format
permitted by the general secretary.
b. Each resolution or petition presented will include the
subject and the name of the delegates or group making
the presentation.
c. All resolutions that call for action that requires
expenditures must include an estimated cost to complete
the action.
d. Proposals for changes in the church Manual must be
presented in writing and shall give paragraph and section
APPENDIX 399

of Manual to be affected and the text of the change,

should it be adopted.
e. They shall have been presented to the general secretary
no later than 1 December prior to the convening of the
assembly, to be numbered and sent to the Reference
Committee for reference in accordance with Rule 28 and
Manual 305.1.
f. Any resolutions which are non-Manual items must
indicate which entity has responsibility to enact
legislation.
Rule 17. Resolutions and Petitions for Late Reference. After
the deadline in Rule 16, late resolutions, petitions, and other
items may only be presented to the general secretary from
the General Board, the Board of General Superintendents, or
commissions/committees of the general church for reference
to a legislative committee no later than 1 June. Resolutions
from global conventions which meet just prior to the General
Assembly, will be processed for consideration.
Rule 18. Manual Changes. Resolutions adopted by the
General Assembly shall be submitted to the Manual Editing
Committee to be harmonized with other Manual provisions.
913. Historic Sites and Landmarks. District and regional
assemblies may designate places of historic significance
within their boundaries as Historic Sites. At least 50 years
must elapse after a place achieves historic significance before
it is recognized as a Historic Site. A Historic Site does not
need original buildings or structures surviving in order to
be designated. The assembly secretary shall report newly
designated Historic Sites to the general secretary, reporting
the action taken, information on the site, and the site’s
significance.
District and regional assemblies can ask the General
Assembly to designate places of denomination-wide
significance as Historic Landmarks. Nominations are
restricted to previously designated Historic Sites. The general
superintendents or a committee appointed for the purpose of
400 APPENDIX

screening nominations must concur with a nomination before

it receives General Assembly consideration.
The general secretary shall keep a register of Historic Sites
and Landmarks and publicize them appropriately (paragraph
327.2). (2023)

IV. CURRENT MORAL

AND SOCIAL ISSUES
914. Organ Donation. The Church of the Nazarene
encourages its members who do not object personally to
support donor/recipient anatomical organs through living
wills and trusts.
Further, we appeal for a morally and ethically fair distribution
of organs to those qualified to receive them. (2013)
915. Discrimination. The Church of the Nazarene reiterates
its historic position of Christian compassion for people of all
races. We believe that God is the Creator of all people, and
that of one blood are all people created.
We believe that each individual, regardless of race, color,
gender, or creed, should have equality before law, including
the right to vote, equal access to educational opportunities,
to all public facilities, and to the equal opportunity, according
to one’s ability, to earn a living free from any job or economic
discrimination.
We urge our churches everywhere to continue and strengthen
programs of education to promote racial understanding and
harmony. We also feel that the scriptural admonition of
Hebrews 12:14 should guide the actions of our people. We
urge that each member of the Church of the Nazarene humbly
examine his or her personal attitudes and actions toward
others, as a first step in achieving the Christian goal of full
participation by all in the life of the church and the entire
community. We reemphasize our belief that holiness of heart
and life is the basis for right living. We believe that Christian
charity between racial groups or genders will come when the
hearts of people have been changed by complete submission to
APPENDIX 401

Jesus Christ, and that the essence of true Christianity consists

in loving God with one’s heart, soul, mind, and strength, and
one’s neighbor as oneself.
Therefore, we renounce any form of racial and ethnic
indifference, exclusion, subjugation, or oppression as a grave
sin against God and our fellow human beings. We lament
the legacy of every form of racism throughout the world,
and we seek to confront that legacy through repentance,
reconciliation, and biblical justice. We seek to repent of every
behavior in which we have been overtly or covertly complicit
with the sin of racism, both past and present; and in confession
and lament we seek forgiveness and reconciliation.
Further, we acknowledge that there is no reconciliation
apart from human struggle to stand against and to overcome
all personal, institutional and structural prejudice responsible
for racial and ethnic humiliation and oppression. We call upon
Nazarenes everywhere to identify and seek to remove acts
and structures of prejudice, to facilitate occasions for seeking
forgiveness and reconciliation, and to take action toward
empowering those who have been marginalized. (2017)
916. Abuse of the Unempowered. The Church of the
Nazarene abhors abuse of any person of any age or sex and
calls for increased public awareness through its publications
and by providing appropriate educational information.
The Church of the Nazarene reaffirms its historical policy
that all those who act under the authority of the Church are
prohibited from sexual misconduct and other forms of abuse
of the unempowered. When placing people in positions of
trust or authority, the Church of the Nazarene will presume
that past conduct is usually a reliable indicator of likely future
behavior. The Church will withhold positions of authority
from people who have previously used a position of trust
or authority to engage in sexual misconduct or abuse of the
unempowered, unless appropriate steps are taken to prevent
future wrongful behavior. Expressions of remorse by a guilty
person shall not be considered sufficient to overcome the
presumption that future wrongful conduct is likely, unless
402 APPENDIX

the expressions of remorse are accompanied by an observable

change of conduct for a sufficient length of time, to indicate
that a repeat of the wrongful misconduct is unlikely. (2023)
917. Responsibility to the Poor. The Church of the Nazarene
believes that Jesus commanded His disciples to have a special
relationship to the poor of this world; that Christ’s Church
ought, first, to keep itself simple and free from an emphasis
on wealth and extravagance and, second, to give itself to the
care, feeding, clothing, and shelter of the poor. Throughout
the Bible and in the life and example of Jesus, God identifies
with and assists the poor, the oppressed, and those in society
who cannot speak for themselves. In the same way, we, too,
are called to identify with and to enter into solidarity with the
poor and not simply to offer charity from positions of comfort.
We hold that compassionate ministry to the poor includes
acts of charity as well as a struggle to provide opportunity,
equality, and justice for the poor. We further believe that the
Christian responsibility to the poor is an essential aspect of
the life of every believer who seeks a faith that works through
love.
Finally, we understand Christian holiness to be inseparable
from ministry to the poor in that holiness compels the
Christian beyond his or her own individual perfection and
toward the creation of a more just and equitable society
and world. Holiness, far from distancing believers from the
desperate economic needs of people in our world, motivates us
to place our means in the service of alleviating such need and
to adjust our wants in accordance with the needs of others.
(2013)
(Exodus 23:11; Deuteronomy 15:7; Psalms 41:1; 82:3; Proverbs 19:17; 21:13;
22:9; Jeremiah 22:16; Matthew 19:21; Luke 12:33; Acts 20:35; 2 Corinthians
9:6; Galatians 2:10)
918. Careful Use of Language. The Church of the Nazarene
affirms and encourages the careful use of language regarding
women and men. Publications, including the Manual and
public language should reflect this commitment to equality
as expressed in paragraph 501. Language changes shall not
APPENDIX 403

be applied to any scriptural quotations or references to God.

(2023)
919. Gender Identity. In the story of God, the formation
of humankind culminated in the creation of male and female
as an enduring divine design. Biologically, the vast majority
of people are born distinctly male or female. God gives our
bodies to us for spiritual and relational purposes, as well as
physical ones.
There are instances, though infrequent, where people are
born with ambiguous genital formation or genetic conditions
that impact the development of primary and secondary sexual
characteristics. In these instances, wise biblical counsel and
medical science can help inform the prayerful discernment
about how to help families understand the implications
and how to best support those with these medical/genetic
conditions.
In addition to these important biological realities, we
note the increasing complexity associated with gender
identification. Although gendered roles, behaviors, and
temperaments are the product of numerous influences,
including biology, social norms, and cultural construction,
we believe that a person’s birth sex is primary, formative, and
God-given. We acknowledge that, as we serve God’s mission
through the church, we will encounter those, who for various
reasons, are struggling to embrace their createdness. In such
circumstances, we are to engage with such persons graciously
as they come into congregations, to lead them into the fullness
of life in Christ, to equip them to live as faithful stewards
of the physical body they have been given and call them into
lifelong holiness. (2023)
(Matthew 19:4; 11-12)
920. The Church and Human Freedom. Concerned that our
great Christian heritage be understood and safeguarded, we
remind our people that both political and religious freedom rest
upon biblical concepts of the dignity of humankind as God’s
creation and the sanctity of one’s own individual conscience.
We encourage our people to participate in appropriate activity
404 APPENDIX

in support of these biblical concepts and to be ever vigilant

against threats to this precious freedom.
These freedoms are constantly in danger; therefore we urge
election of persons to public office at all levels of government
who believe in these principles and who are answerable only
to God and the constituency that elected them when carrying
out a public trust. Further, we resist any invasion of these
principles by religious groups seeking special favors. We stand
in solidarity with our brothers and sisters who have been denied
such freedom, either by political or societal restrictions.
We believe that the role of the Church is to be prophetic and
constantly to remind the people that “righteousness exalts a
nation” (Proverbs 14:34). (2017)
921. Affirmation and Declaration of Human Freedom.
Whereas, as Nazarenes, we embrace the divine call to a life
of holiness, wholeness, and restorative living where all things
and all peoples are reconciled to God. In response, the Holy
Spirit brings freedom to the marginalized, oppressed, broken,
and hurting, and justice to right injustices and cease selfish
influence caused by sin, until all things are restored in God’s
reign.
Consistent with our Wesleyan-holiness heritage and
character, we confront the contemporary scourge of modern
slavery, illegal or forced labor, and the trafficking of human
beings and bodies.
And, in keeping with these affirmations,
We resolve that members and congregations of the
International Church of the Nazarene will:
1. As a holiness people, in our pursuit of justice, recognize
that we are called to repent of any injustices in our past,
amend our present, and create a just future;
2. Call to account those who oppress others;
3. Engage in compassionate care for those caught up in illegal
or forced labor, organ harvesting, and sex slavery (along
with any other emerging oppression as yet unknown to
us);
4. Listen actively for and amplify the cries of the oppressed;
APPENDIX 405

5. Denounce injustices and work humbly against the causes

of injustice;
6. Act in solidarity with our sister and brother against
whatever binds in order to move together toward
freedom; and
7. Come alongside those who are vulnerable through godly
practices that bring redemption, restoration, healing, and
freedom (1 John 3:8).
Built upon our Wesleyan-holiness Christian heritage and
call to holiness, we make the following affirmations:
1. We affirm that the pursuit of justice, reconciliation, and
freedom is at the heart of God’s holiness being reflected
in people. We commit ourselves and our ecclesial
resources to working for the abolition of all forms of
slavery, trafficking, and oppression, and to participate
in intentional networks, conversations, and actions that
provide hopeful alternatives.
2. We affirm that churches should faithfully respond to the
impulse of God’s holy love by working for God’s reign to
be ever more visible. We are called to be faithful witnesses
in thought, word, and deed, to the holy God who hears
the cries of those who are oppressed, imprisoned,
trafficked, and abused by economic, political, selfish,
and evil systems and persons. God calls us to respond in
humility with compassion and justice.
3. We affirm that acting justly involves the compassionate
care for those in our immediate surroundings and also
being able to name injustice, and denounce the powers
that cause it. Acting justly and loving mercy have often
brought the people of God in conflict with the ruling
powers and principalities of the day. God’s justice calls
us beyond equal treatment, beyond tolerance of one
another’s differences, and beyond simply reversing the
role of oppressed and oppressor. By Jesus’ example, we
are called to a justice whereby we are willing to give
ourselves up for the sake of another.
406 APPENDIX

4. We affirm that Christian justice requires a deep

commitment to both personal and corporate confession,
repentance, and forgiveness as necessary steps.
5. We affirm that we must advocate for just and hopeful
practices in all areas of life. Reflecting the compassionate
hope of Christ and love for all people, we identify with
the conditions that bring dehumanizing circumstances.
We will speak for those who are not heard, and come
alongside the vulnerable by offering practices that bring
redemption, restoration, healing, and freedom.
6. We affirm that we are called to become a people who
embody a hopeful alternative to oppression and injustice.
We are called to reflect the holy God in holy lives, bringing
justice in motive and practice to people, circumstances,
systems, and nations. While we may not end all suffering,
as the Body of Christ we are compelled to bring the
holiness of God in healing fashion to the redemptive
enterprise of restoring all things.
7. We affirm that as a collaborative network we must think
deeply, work holistically, and engage locally and globally.
Complex issues drive modern slavery; therefore, multiple
solutions must be undertaken.
These will proceed from the fabric of who we are in Christian
community naturally flowing into what we do.
We therefore pledge:
1. To work separately and together, as individuals and
institutions, consistent with our Wesleyan-holiness
identity to serve with compassion and to prophetically
challenge oppressive systems;
2. To support, encourage, resource, plan, and engage
together in effective, wise, sustainable action;
3. To labor as a worshipping community, with Christ at
the center, infused with the power of the Spirit as a
movement of hope;
4. To think deeply, pray with expectation, and act with
courage.
APPENDIX 407

For this we live and labor until God’s reign comes “on earth
as it is in heaven.” (2017)
922. Value of Children and Youth. The Bible commands
every Christian to, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for
themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute” (Proverbs
31:8). The Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-7; 11:19) admonishes
us to communicate God’s grace to our children. Psalm 78:4
declares, “We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy
deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.”
Jesus affirms this in Luke 18:16, “Let the little children come
to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God
belongs to such as these.”
As a response to this biblical perspective, the Church of the
Nazarene acknowledges that children are important to God
and a priority in His kingdom. We believe God directed us
to attend to all children—to love, nurture, protect, uphold,
guide, and advocate for them. It is God’s plan that we introduce
children to the life of salvation and growth in grace. Salvation,
holiness, and discipleship are possible and imperative in the
lives of children. We recognize that children are not a means
to an end, but full participants in the Body of Christ. Children
are disciples in training, not disciples in waiting.
Thus, holistic and transformational ministry to children
and their families in every local church will be a priority as
evidenced by:
• providing effective and empowering ministries to the
whole child—physically, mentally, emotionally, socially,
and spiritually;
• articulating Christian positions on current social justice
issues that affect children;
• connecting children to the heart of the mission and
ministry of the faith community;
• discipling children and training them to disciple others;
• equipping parents to nurture the spiritual formation of
their children.
Since the church’s educational institutions (Bible schools,
colleges, universities, and seminaries) prepare students for
408 APPENDIX

leadership, they play a crucial role in carrying out the vision

and mission of communicating the value of children. They join
local churches and families in taking responsibility to prepare
members of the clergy and laity to raise the next generation
of children and youth to be biblically and theologically
literate and to meet the known and unforeseen challenges for
evangelizing, discipling, and transforming their societies. The
Church of the Nazarene envisions an intergenerational faith
community where children and youth are loved and valued,
where they are ministered to and incorporated into the
Church family through a wide variety of means and methods,
and where they have opportunities to minister to others in
ways consistent with their ages, development, abilities, and
spiritual gifts. (2023)
923. War and Military Service. The Church of the Nazarene
believes that the ideal world condition is that of peace and
that it is the full obligation of the Christian Church to use its
influence to seek such means as will enable the nations of the
earth to be at peace and to devote all of its agencies for the
propagation of the message of peace. However, we realize that
we are living in a world where evil forces and philosophies
are actively in conflict with these Christian ideals and that
there may arise such international emergencies as will require
a nation to resort to war in defense of its ideals, its freedom,
and its existence.
While thus committed to the cause of peace, the Church
of the Nazarene recognizes that the supreme allegiance of the
Christian is due to God, and therefore it does not endeavor to
bind the conscience of its members relative to participation in
military service in case of war, although it does believe that
the individual Christian as a citizen is bound to give service to
his or her own nation in all ways that are compatible with the
Christian faith and the Christian way of life.
We also recognize that, as an outgrowth of the Christian
teaching and of the Christian desire for peace on earth,
there are among our membership individuals who have
conscientious objection to certain forms of military service.
APPENDIX 409

Therefore the Church of the Nazarene claims for conscientious

objectors within its membership the same exemptions and
considerations regarding military service as are accorded
members of recognized noncombatant religious organizations.
The Church of the Nazarene, through its general secretary,
shall set up a register whereon those persons who supply
evidence of being members of the Church of the Nazarene
may record their convictions as conscientious objectors. (2017)
924. Creation. The Church of the Nazarene believes in the
biblical account of creation (“In the beginning God created
the heavens and the earth.”—Genesis 1:1). We are open
to scientific explanations on the nature of creation while
opposing any interpretation of the origin of the universe and
of humankind that rejects God as the Creator (Hebrews 11:3).
(1, 5.1, 7) (2017)
925. Creation Care. With deep appreciation of God’s creation
we believe we are to strive to exhibit the stewardship qualities
that help preserve His work. Recognizing we have been given
a stake in sustaining the integrity of our surroundings, we
accept the individual and collective responsibilities of doing
so. (2023)
(Genesis 2:15, Psalms 8:3-9; 19:1-4; 148)
926. Evidence of Baptism with the Holy Spirit. The Church
of the Nazarene believes that the Holy Spirit bears witness to
the new birth and to the subsequent work of heart cleansing,
or entire sanctification, through the infilling of the Holy
Spirit. We affirm that the one biblical evidence of entire
sanctification, or the infilling of the Holy Spirit, is the cleansing
of the heart by faith from original sin as stated in Acts 15:8-9:
“God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them
by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He
did not discriminate between us and them, for he purified
their hearts by faith.” And this cleansing is manifested by the
fruit of the Spirit in a holy life. “But the fruit of the Spirit is
love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no
law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh
410 APPENDIX

with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:22-24). Baptism in

the Holy Spirit by nature will result in witness to the gospel
(Acts 1:8; Luke 24:48).
To affirm that even a special or any alleged physical evidence,
or “prayer language,” is evidence of the baptism with the Spirit
is contrary to the biblical and historic position of the Church.
We do not believe that speaking in unknown tongues is the
evidence of being filled with the Holy Spirit. (2023)
927. Pornography. Pornography is an evil that is undermining
the morals of society. We recognize that pornography is always
destructive and may be an addiction. Printed and visual
materials that degrade the dignity of humankind and are
contrary to the scriptural view of the sanctity of marriage and
the wholesomeness of sex are to be abhorred.
We believe that we are created in the image of God and
that pornography degrades, exploits, and abuses men, women,
and children. We also recognize that the use of pornography
results in increasing sexual perversion in the individual. The
pornography industry is motivated by greed, is the enemy of
family life, has led to crimes of violence, poisons the mind, and
defiles the body.
To honor God as Creator and Redeemer, we urge active
opposition to pornography by every legitimate means. We also
urge making positive efforts to reach for Christ and bring to
wholeness those who are addicted to or involved in any way in
this evil. (1 Thessalonians 4:3-7) (2023)
928. Christian Modesty of Dress. Recognizing the
increasing trend toward immodesty of dress in public places,
we remind our people of the Christian concept of modesty as
an expression of holiness and urge that Christian modesty be
exercised at all times in public. (2017)
929. Wellness. The Scripture calls all believers to balance,
health, and wholeness through the transforming power of
the Holy Spirit. Gluttony is the practice of consuming to
the detriment of body, community, and spiritual life. While
obesity may arise due to genetics, cultural constraints, or
physical limitations, gluttony, on the other hand, reflects a
APPENDIX 411

way of life that consumes God’s good creation: food, resources

and relationships that harm both persons and community. The
practice of Christian stewardship calls us to seek to maintain
the health and fitness of our bodies as the temple of the Holy
Spirit and to live temperate lives with all the resources and
relationships God provides. (2009)
(Proverbs 23:19-21; Matthew 11:19; 23:25; 1 Corinthians 9:27; Galatians 5:23;
Philippians 3:19; Titus 1:8; 2:12; Hebrews 12:16; 2 Peter 1:6)
930. Substance Abuse. The Church of the Nazarene continues
to strongly object to substance abuse as a social malignancy.
We encourage church members to take an active and highly
visible role and to participate in education and rehabilitation
relative to substance abuse and the incompatibility of such use
with a Christian experience and a holy life. (2013)
931. Alcohol Desocialization. The Church of the Nazarene
publicly supports the desocialization of alcohol consumption.
We encourage civic, labor, business, professional, social,
voluntary, and private agencies and organizations to assist in
such desocialization to counteract the advertising and media
promotion of the social acceptability of the “alcohol culture.”
(2013)
932. Tobacco Use and Advertising. The Church of the
Nazarene urges its people to continue to speak out against
the use of tobacco, both as a health hazard and a social evil.
Our historic stand is based on God’s Word, where we are
admonished to maintain our bodies as temples of the Holy
Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:19-20).
Our stand opposing the use of tobacco in all its forms is
strongly supported by medical evidence, documented by
numerous social, governmental, and health agencies around
the world. They have demonstrated that it is a major health
hazard, and have shown conclusively that its use may produce
changes in normal bodily physiology, both serious and
permanent.
We recognize that our young people are greatly influenced
by the millions of dollars that are spent on tobacco advertising,
and its twin evil, beverage alcohol. We endorse a ban on all
412 APPENDIX

advertising of tobacco and beverage alcohol in magazines, on

billboards, and on radio, television, and other media. (2013)
933. HIV/AIDS (Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired
Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Since 1981, our world has been
confronted with a most devastating disease known as HIV/
AIDS. In view of the deep need of HIV/AIDS sufferers,
Christian compassion motivates us to become accurately
informed about HIV/AIDS. Christ would have us to find a
way to communicate His love and concern for these sufferers
in any and every country of the world. (2013)
934. Use of Social Media. First and foremost, the content
that we share should be respectful. As in all interpersonal
relationships, we believe that the content of our social media
should also be a reflection of the sanctified hearts for which
we strive. Clergy and laity alike must be mindful of how their
activities on social media affect the image of Christ and His
church and impact its mission within their communities. Our
activities should be life-giving and affirming, and should seek
to uplift all persons. (2017)
(Proverbs 15:4, 15:28, 16:24; Ecclesiastes 5:2-4; Matthew 15:11; Galatians
5:13-15; Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 4:62; 2 Timothy 2:16; James 3:1-13)
INDEX 413

SPECIAL REVISION INDEX

Changes authorized by the 2023 General Assembly
are indexed here in numerical order.

Church Constitution 115.11 Local Church Meeting

15 Second Coming of Elections
Christ 115.14 Filling Delegate
Vacancies
The Covenant of Christian Conduct
116.1 Statistical Year
28-29.8 The Christian Life
119 Pastoral Appointment
32.5 Reassignment of
123-123.1 Clarification
District Assembly
for Voting
Finance Committee
Requirements
Duties
124-131 Relocation of the
Local Government Duties of the Pastor
100 Organization of Local 125.4 Constitution and
Churches Covenant of
100.3 Parent-Affiliated Christian Conduct:
Congregation Distribution
101.1 Church Name Change 133.1 Recusals During
102.3 President and Church/Pastoral
Secretary of the Relationship
Inactive and Review
Disorganized 133.4 Renewing the Local
Church Church/Pastor
105 Mergers Relationship
106 Transfer of a Local 135.1 Recusals During
Church to Another Church/Pastoral
District Relationship
114 Termination of Review
Local Church 137 Membership of
Membership for Church Board
Members of Clergy 137.2 Removal of Church
114.3 Removal of Inactive Board Member
Members 137.3 Filling Church Board
115.2 Electronic and Multi- Vacancies
site Local Church 138.1 Direct Interest in
Meetings Voting
115.7-115.8 Local Church Meeting 139.10 Pastoral Sabbaticals
Notice 143 Removal of Inactive
115.10 Nominations Members
414 INDEX

147 Church Stewards 225.26 District Advisory

149, Filling Church Board Board Duties:
154-155 Vacancies Contractual
155.1 The Ministry of Agreements
Christian Education 233-234.1 Duties of the District
for the Local Ministerial Studies
Church Board
240.11 Reassignment of
169.4 Employees as Elected
District Assembly
Board Members
Finance Committee
169.5 Pastoral Transition/
Duties
Resignation -
Directors of General Government
Childcare/ 301 Membership of the
School & CEOs of General Assembly
Subsidiaries 305.2 Eligibility for
Election to the
District Government Office of General
201.1-201.2 District Assembly Superintendent
Delegate
Clarification Higher Education
402-402.6 International Board of
203 Nominations
Education
205.6 Deaconess
207.1 The District Assembly Ministry and Christian Service
Journal 508 Deaconess
211.3 Harmonizing Church 514 Relocation of the
in Crisis Paragraphs Duties of a Pastor
515 Pastoral Service
211.10 Pastoral Candidate
Definition
Vetting
521-521.2 Education for
220.5 The District Assembly
Ordained Ministry
Journal
523.5 Local License/
224 District Advisory Applying for
Board Meeting and District License
Chairperson 524.3 Conditions &
224.5 Direct Interest in Responsibility for
Voting Renewal of District
224.6 Removal of District Licenses
Advisory Board 524.9 Change of
Member Terminology and
225.19 Reassignment of Definition related
District Assembly to Ministers
Finance Committee and Ministerial
Duties Credentials
INDEX 415

525.3 Ministry Service Time 532.5, Change of

526.1 Order of Elder 532.10 Terminology and
526.3 Ministry Service Time Definition related
530 Change of to Ministers
Terminology and and Ministerial
Definition related Credentials
to Ministers 532.11- Transfer of
and Ministerial 532.12 Jurisdiction
Credentials
Judicial Administration
530.8 Membership Defined
606.1, Contested Discipline
530.10- Change of
606.3 of a Member of the
530.11 Terminology and
Clergy
Definition related
to Ministers Sacraments and Rituals
and Ministerial 702 Baptism of Infants or
Credentials Young Children
530.12 Transfer of 704 Reception of Church
Jurisdiction Members
530.13, Change of 706 Funeral Service
531.5, - Terminology and Appendix
531.7, 531.8 Definition related 918 Careful Use of
to Ministers Language
and Ministerial 919 Gender Identity
Credentials 926 Evidence of Baptism
531.10 Transfer of with the Holy Spirit
Jurisdiction 927 Pornography

INDEX OF VACANT PARAGRAPHS

36-99, 170-199, 246-299, 308-313, 347-399, 404-499,
533-599, 617-699, 710-799, 800-809, 821-899, 935-999
416 INDEX

MANUAL INDEX
(Numbers refer to paragraphs.)
Abortion, 30.1-30.2 See General Court of Appeals
Abuse of the unempowered, 916 See Regional Court of Appeals
Accusation Appendix, 900-934
Of church member, 125.8, 530, 601, Application for minister’s license, 524.1-
605 524.3, 524.8
Of licensed or ordained minister, Appointment, district superintendent,
211.19, 225.3, 530, 601, 606- see District superintendent,
606.4 appointment
Addiction, 29.2-29.3, 927 Appointment, pastoral, see Pastor,
Adoption appointment
Article of Faith, 9.2-9.3 Apportionment
Adult Ministries discipleship Local church, 32.2, 125.13, 140, 237.4
coordinator District, 225.19
District, 240.1, 240.4, 240.12 Arrangements Committee, 304-304.2
Local, 157-157.9, 159.1 Articles of Faith, 1-16.2
Adultery, 21.2, 31 Amendments, 26-27
Advisory Board, see District Advisory Articles of Incorporation, see Church,
Board local
Age-group councils Articles of Organization and
Local, 157.1 Government, 22-25.8
Age-group discipleship coordinators, Assemblies, see District assembly, and
Local, 157-157.1 General assembly
AIDS, see HIV/AIDS Assistants, paid
Alcohol, 29.3 District, 211.16, 225.18, 244-244.4
Desocialization, 931 Local, see Associates, paid
Amendments Associate pastor, see Associates, paid
Articles of Faith, 26-27 Associates, paid
Church Constitution, 26 Local church
General Court of Appeals, 609 Approval of, 139.27-139.28, 211.13
Subsidiaries, 338 Maternity/Paternity leave of, 118
Annual Meetings Sabbatical of, 139.10
District assembly, 202 Securing of, 169-169.8
General Board, 335.4 Atonement, 6, 12, 20.5
Local church, 115.7, see Church Auditing Committee
meetings District, 205.25, 215, 225.24
Annuities, 908 Local, 139.23
Apostatize, 7-8 Baptism
Appeal Administered by whom, 124.4, 503.9,
Of church members, 605.1 523.7, 525.2, 526.1
Of local church, 103.1, 120 Article of Faith, 12
Of ministers, 607, 608-608.2 Modes, choice of, 12
Right to, 25.8 Rituals for, 701, 702
Appeals Baptism with the Holy Spirit, 5.1, 10,
Financial, kinds prohibited, 167-168 926
See District Court of Appeals Belief, Agreed Statement of, 20-20.8
INDEX 417

Benevolence, ministerial, see Pensions Article of Faith, 2

and benefits Atonement, 6, 12, 20.5
Bible, see Scriptures, the Holy Belief on, 7, 9, 20.5
Bible societies, 907 Blood, 6, 10
Boards Death, 2, 6, 13
District, see Eternal, 2
Advisory Board, District Faith in, 12-13, 20.6
Church Properties Board, District Head of the Church, 526.1
Discipline, Board of, District Incarnation, 2
Evangelism Board, District Resurrection, 2
Ministerial Credentials Board, Revealed in Trinity as Son, 1-2, 20.1
District Second Coming, 11, 15, 20.8
Ministerial Studies Board, District Sufferings, 6, 13
Ministry, Board of, District Virgin Birth, 2
Nazarene Discipleship International Christian Action Committee, General,
Board, District 340
General, see Christian compassion, 400, 915, 933
General Board Christian day schools, see Nazarene
General Superintendents, Board of schools
Local, see Christian education
Church Board, local Approval, 126, 139.18, 161-169.1,
Discipline, Board of, Local 211.13-211.14
Nazarene Discipleship International Minister, 511-511.1
Board, Local Securing of, 28.6, 169.1
Stewards, Board of See Associates, paid
Trustees, Board of See Nazarene Discipleship
Bresee, Phineas F., page 18 International
Budget system, see Apportionment Christian ethic, 28.1, 29.1, 340.4, 502.4,
Buildings, see Church buildings 521.3
Bylaws for local Nazarene Discipleship Christian family life, see Marriage and
International, 156.2, 812 family life
Caravan director Christian holiness, 10
District, 240.3 Christian life, the, 28-29.8
Local, 158 Christian perfection, 10
Careful Use of Language, 918 Christian schools, see Nazarene schools
Chaplain, 503.1, 504, 507 Church
Charter Church constitution, 1-27
NYI, 810 Article of Faith—The Church, 11
District, 810.200 Church of God, 17
Global, 810.400 Church of the Nazarene, 19
Local, 810.100 Historical Statement, pages 16-23
Regional, 810.300 Church of the Nazarene, Inc., 240.10,
Children, value of, 922 245.1, 331, 335-335.1, 338
Children’s Ministries discipleship Churches severally, 18
coordinator General church, 17
District, 240.1, 240.3 Church attendance, 21.1, 111.2, 115.11,
Local, 158-158.2 137.1, 138, 145.1, 155-156
Christ, doctrine of Church board, local
418 INDEX

Chairperson, 123, 125.15, 135, 136 Commendation, 113.1, 125.14, 815

Duties, 115.13-115.14, 135-135.2, Committee, 109.1, 110.1, 111.2,
137-137.3, 138, 139-139.30, 142- 111.5, 112-112.8, 139.24,
142.1, 143, 144, 503.3-503.5, 148.3
523-523.5, 531.9 Conditions of, 20
Meetings, 138-138.1 Fellowship, 110-110.1
Church buildings, 32.2, 237.3 Inactive, 111-111.5, 114.3, 143
Church Constitution Letters, see Church letters
Amendments, 26-27 Removal, 114-114.3, 143, 816
Articles of Faith, 1-16.2 Transfer, 111.1, 113, 125.14, 817-
Articles of Organization and 818
Government, 22-25.8 Mergers, 105
Church, the, 17-20.8 Name, church, 101, 102.4, 102.6
Preamble, page 26 Officers, 33, 115.11, 137, 145-146,
Church letters 155-157, 162.2, 169.9
Commendation, 113.1, 125.14, 815 Organization and disorganization, 23,
Release, 114.2, 125.14, 816 100, 109, 211.1, 530.15
Transfer, 111.1, 113, 125.14, 817-818 Pastor/Church relationship, see
Church, local Church/Pastor Relationship
Annual meetings, see Church Pastoral relations
meetings Call, 117-123.1
Articles of Incorporation, 102.4 Duties, administrative, 125-125.15
Board, see Church board, local Duties, core, 124-124.12
Change of name, 101.1 Election, 117, 133-134
Church/Pastor relationship Financial safeguards, 127
Local church in crisis, 136-136.1 Moving expenses, 117.4
Planning session, church board and President of, 102.3, 115.5, 123,
pastor, 132, 139.4 125.15
Regular church/pastoral Property
relationship review, 119.1, 123- Disposition of, 104, 108.2, 225.23
123.1, 133-134, 139.10 Restrictions, 103-104.3
Resolving differences, 132.1 Signatories on accounts, 108.5
Sabbatical leave, 139.10 Title to, 102-102.3, 102.6
Salary, 32.3, 117.4, 118, 139.10 See Real estate
Special church/pastoral review, Secretary, 102.3, 115.6, 115.9, 122.1,
135-135.1 127, 138, 139.19, 145-145.7
Constitution on, 23 Transfer to another district, 106
Crisis Treasurer, 115.9, 138, 139.20, 145.3,
Declared in, 136-136.2 146-146.6
Declared out of, 136.2 Year
Finances, 22.3, 139.20-139.23, Church, 116
146-146.6 Statistical, 116.1
Liability limited, 117.4 Church meetings, 115-115.15
Prohibition of appeals, 166-167 Annual, 115.7
Records, 139.23 Elections by, 115.11-115.15
Membership, 23, 109-109.5, Notice and time, 115.7, 115.8
Associate, see Church, local, Officers of, 115.11
Membership, Fellowship Reports to, 115.5-115.6
INDEX 419

Voting, 109.3, 115-115.2 Interests of the God-called Evangelist,

Definition, 115 Committee on the, 341
Special Investigating Committee, 225.3, 530,
Call and notice, 115.4, 115.8, 605, 606.3
117-117.1 Membership Committee, Evangelism
Continue church/pastoral and Church, 112-112.8
relationship, 133-133.7 Nominating Committee
Fill Vacancies, 149, 154, 155, 156 District, 203
Real estate transactions, 102.3, Local, 115.10
104, 104.2 Reference Committee, 305.1, 907,
Church members, see Members, church 912 Rule 16
Church membership class, see Members, Regional Theological Committee,
church, class for 606.3
Church name, use of, 102.4, 102.6, 168 Tenure of committees, 911
Church of the Nazarene, see Church Communion, see Lord’s Supper
Church Properties Board, District Communion service
Appeals from, 103.1 General Assembly, 304.2
Duties, 103, 104, 236-237.5 Ritual, 700
Election, 205.19 Compassion, see Christian compassion
Members, 205.19, 206.1, 236 Compassionate Ministry Centers,
Church regions, 346 225.15
Church sites, see Church buildings Conscientious objectors, 923
Church-type missions, 100.1-100.2, Constitutions
109.2, 115.15, 148.1, 201-204, Church, See Church Constitution
211.16 NDI, see Nazarene Discipleship
Church year International Bylaws
Administrative/Assembly year, 116 NMI
Statistical year, 116.1 District, 811
Clergy, member of the, 504, 522, 523, Global, 811
524, 529, 530 Local, 811
Cloning, human, 30.4 Regional, 811
Colleges/Universities NYI, see Charter, NYI
Representation on General Board, Continuing Lay Training, 155.9, 157.6,
332.3, 333.2 240.1, 240.9, 503.5, 503.8, 707
See International Board of Education Contributions, 21.1(6)
(IBOE) Corporation, see Church, Church of the
See Global Nazarene Education Nazarene, Inc. and Incorporation
Consortium (GNEC) Corporation, church-sponsored, 168
Commissions Corruption, 5.1, 29.8
General Assembly Commission, 302 Councils, District
Related to General Board, 335.15 Adult Ministries, 240.4
Committees Children’s Ministries, 240.3
Education, see Nazarene Discipleship Course of study
International Board International Course of Study
General Assembly Arrangements Advisory Committee, 342
Committee, 304-304.2 Ministers, 521.3
General Christian Action Committee, International Sourcebook on Ministerial
340-340.6 Development, 346.7, 521.5
420 INDEX

Regional Course of Study Advisory Debt, administrative policies, 909

Committee, 346.6-346.7 Debt, local church, 103-104.2
Regional Sourcebook on Ministerial Dedications, church, 709
Development, 233.2, 233.5, 346.7, Delegates
521.1, 521.4-521.6, 522.1-522.2 District assembly
Court, see Judicial Administration Church-type mission
Court of Appeals representation, 115.15
District Election, 115.14
Duties, 610 Ratio of representation, 201.1-201.2
Election, 205.22 Right to elect, 22.3
Membership, 203.22, 610 District conventions
Rules of procedure, 606.10, 609 NDI, Nazarene Discipleship
Vacancies, 215 International, 812, Article X,
See Judicial Administration Section 1
General NMI, Article V, Section 1.C.3,
Duties, 612-612.1 Article V, Section 2.C.2.
Jurisdiction, 25.7 NYI, 810.118, 810.219
Membership, 25.7, 305.7, 610, 902 General Assembly
Per diem, 614 Alternate, 25.1, 201, 205.23, 301.2-
Records, 326.4, 615 301.3, 303.1
Vacancies, 612 Basis of representation, 25
See Judicial Administration Credentials, 25.2
Regional Election, 25.1
Duties, 608.2, 610, 611 Eligibility forfeited, 301.4-301.5
Jurisdiction, 610.1, 611 Global Conventions
Membership, 611 NDI, Nazarene Discipleship
Rules of procedure, 609, 611 International, 812, Article X,
Vacancies, 611 Section 2.
See Judicial Administration NMI, 811, Article VI, Section
Covenant of Christian Character, The, 4.A.1.
21 NYI, 810.417
Covenant of Christian Conduct, The, Departments/Committees of General
28-35 Board, 335.16-335.17
Cradle Roll, 158, 240.3, 812, Article I, Duties and powers, 335
Section 1a. Depravity, 5-5.1
Creation, 15, 28.9, 924 Destiny, 20.4
Care of, 28.9, 925 Article of Faith, 16, 16.2
Credential Discipleship, 28.3
Deacon’s, see Minister, ordained, Discipline
credential Board of
Elder’s, see Minister, ordained, District, 606.5, 608-608.2, 610,
credential 612.1
Status, definition of, 530 Local, 604.1
Dancing, 29.1 Church lay member, 605-605.3,
Day schools, see Nazarene schools 616.7
Deacon, see Minister, ordained Minister, 530, 616.1-616.7
Deaconess, 508 Purpose, 605
Death, human, 30.6 See Judicial Administration
INDEX 421

Discrimination, see Racial Records proceedings, 207-207.4

discrimination Representation, 25, 201-201.2
Dishonesty, 21.2 Transacts other business, 205.27
District Advisory Board Meeting, time of, 202
Chairperson, 244, 224.2 Membership, 25, 115.14-115.15,
Duties and powers, 25.1, 32.5, 100.2, 201-201.2
101-101.1, 102.1, 102.3-102.4, Year
104.2, 105, 108-108.5, 106, Church, 116
114.1, 115.2, 115.12, 116.1, Statistical, 116.1
117, 117.4, 119-119.1, 127-129, District Board of Ministry, 205.18, 216
136-136.2, 139.20, 153.1, 161, See District Ministerial Credentials
168, 169, 169.8, 200.1-200.6, Board
201-204, 205.5-205.10, 205.15, District boundaries, 200-200.3
205.23, 205.25, 206, 208, 209.2- District centers, approval of, 225.12, 319
209.4, 211.3, 211.7-211.20, 212.1, District chaplaincy director, 239
215.2, 216-217, 219-223.2, 224- District, crisis in, 200.2, 307.9, 322
228, 231.9-231.10, 236, 237.1, District disorganization, 245-245.1
237.4, 238, 242, 243.1, 244-244.4, District mergers, 200, 200.4
307.6, 307.8, 334.1, 345, 503.6- District Ministerial Credentials Board
503.7, 507, 518, 520-520.2, Duties, 114, 231-231.10
523.2, 524.1-524.9, 525.3, 526.3, Election, 205.16, 205.18, 229
529, 530-530.14, 530.21, 531, Membership, 229
531.6, 531.10, 532-532.4, 532.8, Organization, 230-230.2
532.11-532.13, 601.2, 602, 602.2, Vacancy, 215, 229.1
604.2, 605.2, 606.1, 606.3, District Ministerial Studies Board
606.5-606.6, 606.12, 607, 616.6 Duties, 205.17-205.18, 233-234.1,
Election, 205.15 521-521.7, 522, 523.4, 529.1,
Ex-officio members of district 530.18
assembly, 201 Election, 205.17, 232
Membership, 224-224.4 Membership, 232
Vacancies, 224.1 Organization, 232.2, 233.1
District Advisory Committee, 205.14, Vacancies, 215, 232.1
238 District minister’s license records, 326.7
District assembly District mission area directors, 200.6
Bounds and name, 100, 200 District organization, 200
Duties and powers, 205.1-206 District paid assistants, 211.16, 225.18,
Authorizes commissions, 244-244.4
credentials, licenses, and District phase, 200.2
transfers, 137, 139.13-139.15, District property, 102.4, 108.2-108.3,
205.4-205.11 225.20, 225.23
Authorizes incorporation of District secretary
District Advisory Board, 206, Assistants, 221
225.6-225.7 Duties, 125.5, 205.16, 207.3, 220-
Controls church property, when, 221, 504.2, 524.6, 527.1-527.2,
108.2-108.3 529.1, 530.6-530.7
Elects officers, boards, committees, Election, 219, 225.22
205.12-205.23 Ex-officio member of district
Hears reports, 205.3-205.4 assembly, 201
422 INDEX

Vacancy, 219.1 Temporary incapacitation, 209.2

District superintendent Vacancy, 209-209.1, 307.7, 321
Appointment, 200.2, 208, 307.7 District treasurer,
Assistants, paid, 225.18, 244-244.1 Duties, 125.9, 223-223.2
Constitution on, 22.2-22.3 Election, 222,
Duties and powers, 211-217 Ex-officio member of district
Duties and powers, district, 208, assembly, 201, 222.2
224.2 Vacancy, 222.1
Annual report, 205.3 District zone facilitators, 200.6
Arranges for assembly, 202 Divine healing
Fills vacancies, 211.7-211.8, 212- Article of Faith, 14
212.1, 215 Divorce, 31, 340.2
Financial safeguards, 217 Barrier to licensing, 524, 524.2
Holds ex-officio relationship, 216 Minister filing, 530.21
Presides at district assembly, when, Ordaining of persons, 320
214, 307.5
Dress, pride/modesty in, 21.2, 928
Serves as chairperson of boards and
Drugs, 29.4
committees, 205.21, 216.1,
See Substance abuse
237, 240, 810, 811
Education, see Higher education
Duties and powers, local
Education Committee, local, 115.12,
Approve pastoral associates, paid
137, 155, 156.4
or unpaid, 139.27, 169-169.8,
Elder, see Minister, ordained
211.13
Church in crisis, 136-136.2, 211.3- Emerita/Emeritus general
211.4 superintendent, see General
superintendent, emerita/emeritus
Have oversight, 210
relationship
Inactive or disorganized churches,
102.3 Entertainment, 21.2, 29.1, 340.4
Make pastoral arrangements, 105, Entire sanctification, see Sanctification,
120, 211.3, 218.1, 307.6 entire
Organized by, 100 Eternal punishment, see Punishment,
Written approval, 103, 104, 115.11, eternal
139.27, 169.2, 523.4, 531.9, Euthanasia, 30, 30.5
814 Evangelism and Church Membership
Duties and powers, other Committee, 112-112.8
Acts in credential and/or Evangelism Board, District, 205.20, 215,
disciplinary matters, 114, 235-235.1
523.1-523.4, 524.1-524.2, Evangelist, 510-510.7, 814
524.6, 525.3, 526.3, 527.1- Committee on the Interests of the
527.2, 530.2, 530.6-530.8, God-called Evangelist, see
530.11, 530.21, 531.9-531.12, Committees, Interests of the
532.13, 601.2, 604.1, 606.1, God-called Evangelist
606.3, 616.6 Local, 112.7
Appointment of a Recovery Team, Report, annual, 205.4
532.1-532.8 Support, 139.11
Election, 205.12-205.14 Evil, 5.1, 15, 16, 20.3, 21.2, 29-29.1, 31,
Immediate family, 271 927, 932
Sabbatical leave, 225.11 False witness, 21.2
INDEX 423

Fellowship, Christian, 18, 19, 21, 21.3, General Court of Appeals

31, 521.3 jurisdiction, 25.7
Field strategy coordinator, 346.5 Elects:
Finances, 32.5, 908, 909 General Assembly officers, 300.2
Appeals prohibited, 165-166 General Board, 305.6, 332.1-
Pastor’s limitations, 127 333.4
See Debt, local church General Court of Appeals, 305.7,
Foreign missions, see Global Missions 609
Foreword, pages 5-7 General superintendents, 25.4,
Forms 305.2, 307.16
Bills of charges General superintendents,
Trial of licensed minister, 819 emerita/emeritus
Trial of ordained minister, 819 relationship, 305.3-305.4
Trial of layperson, 819 General superintendents, retired
District assembly use relationship, 305.4-305.5
Certificates, commissions, licenses, General superintendents, when,
and transfers, 814 25.4
Local church use Presiding officers, when, 25.5
Church letters, licenses, Receives:
recommendations and Assembly journals, 220.7
certificates, 813-818 Meetings, 302-302.1, 303-303.1
Foundation, Church of the Nazarene, Minutes, 326.8
32.4 Organization and procedure, 25.3,
Freewill offerings, 32.1 25.5-2.5.6, 300.1-301, 307.3,
Fullness of the blessing, 10 326.1, 328
Funeral ritual, 706 Powers, limitation of, 22.3, 25.8
Gambling, 29.5, 340.1 Quorum required, 25.3
Gender Identity, 919 Resolutions and petitions, 305.1, 912
Gene therapy, 30.2 Simultaneous sites, 302.1
General Assembly Standing rules, 25.6, 328
Arrangements Committee, 304-304.2 General Board of the Church of the
Authorized, 25-25.8, 300 Nazarene
Constitutional changes, 26 Determines:
Delegates and/or members, 25-25.2, World Evangelism Fund, 317.10,
205.23, 301-301.5 335.6-335.7
Eligibility, 301.4-301.5 Elects:
District representation, 301.1-301.3 Department directors, 335.16
Duties and powers, 25.8, 305-305.8 General secretary, 335.13
Approves: General treasurer, 335.13
General Assembly program, Fills vacancies, 325.2, 335.19
304.2 Fixes salaries:
Withdrawal of local churches, Department directors, 335.18
107 Ministry service directors, 335.18
Determines: Incorporated, 331
District assembly powers and Meetings, 335.4-335.5
duties, 24 Members, 305.6, 331-331.1, 332-333,
District boundaries, 24, 200 901
424 INDEX

Ex-officio members of the General Presides at district assemblies,

Assembly, 301 307.5
Organization and procedure, 307.3, Sets time for district assembly, 202
331.2-331.3, 335.3 Duties and powers, general
Receives reports, 330.5, 335.11- Ordains ministers, 306, 307.4,
335.12 527.1
Representation Presides at General Assembly, 25.5,
International Board of Education, 300.1, 307.3
332.3 Presides at General Board meetings,
Nazarene Discipleship 307.3, 335.3
International, 332.6 Serves on Board of General
Nazarene Missions International, Superintendents, see General
332.5 Superintendents, Board of
Nazarene Youth International, Duties and powers, local
332.4 Assists in pastoral relations, 307.6
Region, 332.2, 333.1 Hears appeals, 120
Secretary, 331.2 Organizes local churches, 100
Treasurer, 331.3 Presides at annual and special
Vacancies, 334-334.1 meetings, 115.5, 307.10
General secretary Duties and powers, other
Amenability, 325.3 Articulating mission, 306
Assistants, 328.1 Casting vision, 306
Duties, 25.2, 220.3, 316-316.1, 326- Declare effective date of new
328, 615 Manual, 323
Election, 325 Propagating theological coherency,
Ex-officio member of: 306
General Assembly, 301, 325.1 Provides oversight for general
General Assembly Arrangements church, 306, 307.1
Committee, 304 Election, 25.4, 305.2, 307.16
General Christian Action Emerita/Emeritus relationship, 301,
Committee, 340 305.3, 314-314.1
Ex-officio secretary of General Board, Ex-officio member of the General
331.2 Assembly, 301, 307.2
Vacancy, 317.5, 325.2, 335.19 Restricted from holding other offices,
General superintendent 307.11-307.12
Amenability, 307.13-307.15 Retired status, 301, 305.4, 314-314.1
Constitution on, 22.2 Role, 306
Duties and powers, 307-307.16 Vacancy, 25.4, 305.2, 316-316.1
Duties and powers, district, 224 General Superintendents, Board of
Election of district superintendent, Announces constitutional changes, 26
205.13-205.14 Appoints and/or fills vacancies:
Fills vacancy in district General Assembly Arrangements
superintendency, 209-209.2, Committee, 304
307.7-307.8 General Assembly Commission,
Issues certificates, commissions, 302
and licenses, 524.6, 527.1, General Court of Appeals, 317.6
530.6 General secretary’s assistants, 328.1
INDEX 425

General superintendents to General treasurer

educational institutions, 317.8 Amenability, 329
Regional Theological Committee, Duties, 304, 330-330.6, 335.12
606.3 Election, 329
Approves: Ex-officio member of General
District center plans, 319 Assembly, 301, 329.1
General Board and committee Ex-officio treasurer of General Board,
work, 317.3 331.3
Global missionary appointments, Vacancy, 317.4, 335.19
317.3 Genetic engineering, 30.2
Global NYI Council appointments, Giving, planned and deferred, 32.4
810 Global Nazarene Education Consortium
Independent church activities of (GNEC), 401, 905
ministers, 530.1, 530.13- Global Ministry Center Address, 900
530.14 Global Missions
Removals Director, 301, 335.17
Department directors, 317.5 Funds, 330.2
General secretary, 317.5 Global NMI director, 344, 344.2
General superintendents, 307.15 Supervision, 317.1-317.2
General treasurer, 317.5 Global Missions Committee, 317.3,
Transfer of jurisdiction, 532.11 330.2, 343.3, 344.1-344.2
Arranges: God, doctrine of
Course of study, 317.9 Act of, 9, 9.2, 10
General Assembly place and time, Church of, 17
302-302.2 Eternal, 1
General Assembly program, 304.2 Father, 1-2
Disorganize, may Judgment, 16.1-16.2
Districts, 245 Judicial act, 9
Local churches, 108.1 Son, 1-2
Duties, 317-324 Sovereignty, 1
Hears appeals, 120 Spirit, 1-3, 8, 10, 11, 18
Interprets law, doctrine, and Manual, Unity, 1, 20.1
318 Triune, 1, 2, 3
Jurisdictions, 315, 317.1 Will of, 4
Membership, 25.4 Gossip, 21.2
Nominations, Assists in: Government, church, page 24
Department directors, 335.17 Grace, prevenient,
General secretary, 317.4 Article of Faith, 7
General treasurer, 317.4 Grace of God, 7, Preamble, page 26, 708
Organization, 315 Growth in grace, 10.1, 922
Presides at General Assembly, 25.5, Greed, 29.5, 927
300.1, 307.3 Guarantee of rights, see Judicial
Supervises: Administration
Committees, 317.3 Guilt for sin, 8, 9
General Board, 317.3 Healing, see Divine healing
Global Church, 317.1 Heart purity, 10
Global missionaries, 317.3 Higher Education
Vacancy, 305.2, 316, 335.2 Church and college/university, 400
426 INDEX

Constitutions, educational Duties and functions, 332.3, 402.1-

institutions, 403 402.7
Educational Mission Statement, 400.1 Institutions, 32.5, 402.1-402.2, 403,
Establishment of new institution, 905
400.2 Interim Pastor, 212.1, 518
Global Nazarene Education Internet, 29.2
Consortium, 401, 905 International Course of Study Advisory
International Board of Education, Committee, 342, 346.7, 521.5, 522
402-402.7 Jesus Christ, doctrine of, see Christ,
Historic Sites and Landmarks, 327.2, doctrine of
913 Journal, district assembly, 207-207.4
History, Church of the Nazarene Judgment
Custodian of historical records, 327.1 Article of Faith, 16.1
Name change, page 18-19 Final, 16.2, 20.8
Statement, pages 16-23 Future, 16.1
HIV/AIDS, 933 Judicial Administration
Holiness, see Sanctification, entire Layperson
Holy Scriptures, see Scriptures, the Holy Appeal, 25.8, 605.1
Holy Spirit, the doctrine of Discipline, 605-605.3
Article of Faith, 3 Guarantee of rights, 616-616.7
Baptism with, 5.1, 10, 926 Investigating Committee, 125.8,
605
Bears witness, 9.3, 10, 20.7, 926
Procedure, 124.8, 602-604.2,
Convincing the world of sin, 3
605-605.3
Leadings of, 18
Trial, 25.8, 819
Regenerates, 3
Minister
Sanctifies, 3
Appeal, 25.8, 607, 608-608.2, 610
Third Person of Trinity, 3
Credentials, (filed, revoked,
Triune God, 1, 2, 3, 20.1
resigned, surrendered), 326.5,
Home, Christian, 155.2, 340.2 530, 531-531.10
Homosexuality, see Human sexuality Discipline, 530.1, 530.8, 530.11,
Human cloning, 30.4 530.21, 531.7, 606-608.2
Human freedom, The church and, 920, Guarantee of rights, 616-616.7
921 Procedure, 606-610, 616-616.7
Human life, sanctity of, 30-30.3 Trial, 25.8, 225.4, 606.5, 616.1, 819
Human sexuality, 30.1, 31 Justice, 11, 30.2, 31, 915, 917, 921, 922
Illegal votes, see Voting Justification, 9, 9.3
Impenitence, final, 16.2, 20.4, 704 Language, Careful us of, 918
Incorporation Lay minister, see Minster, lay
District Advisory Board, 225.7-225.8 Lay missionaries, delegates to district
General corporation, see Church, assembly, 201
Church of the Nazarene, Inc. Lay representation, see various boards,
Local churches, 102-102.6 committees, district assembly
Inspiration of the Scriptures, see members, and General Assembly
Scriptures, the Holy members
Installation service, 117.3, 707 Learning, value of, 28.6
International Board of Education Licensed minister, see Minister, licensed
(IBOE), 402 Literature, secular, 21.2
INDEX 427

Local church, see Church, local Voting, 109.3, 115.1-115.2, 117,

Local church in crisis, see Church, local, 135.3, 137.1
pastoral relations Membership Committee, Church,
Lodges, see Oath-bound secret orders see Evangelism and Church
Lord’s Day, 21.2, 340.4 Membership Committee
Lord’s Supper Merging groups, pages 16-23
Administered by whom, 124.4, 503.9, Minister
523.7, 524.7, 525.2, 526.1 Call, divine, 500, 514, 526, 526.3
Article of Faith, 13 Lay, 503-503.9
Elements, 148.7 Licensed, 524-524.9
Partakers, 13, 700 Background checks, 523.1, 524.1
Ritual, 700 Basis for pensions and benefits aid,
Lotteries, 29.5 207.4
Loving God, 21.1, 915 Called of God, 500, 514, 526, 526.3
Magazines, see Literature, secular Course of study, 521-521.6, 522-
Manual, 112.4, 125.4 522.2, 524.1-524.4, 527, 529.1
Appendix review, 907 Discipline, 530-530.1, 530.11,
Editing Committee, 906, 912, Rule 18 530.21, 531, 532.3, 532.5,
Interpretation, 318 532.10-532.11, 606.1, 606.5,
Official release date, 323 606.11-606.12
Translations, 906 Licensed, how, 521.1-521.6
Marriage and divorce, 31, 340.2 Membership, church, 114-114.1,
Marriage and family life, 521.3 228, 129, 524.2, 527
Marriage, solemnizing, 31, 124.9, 526.1, Membership, district, 201, 524.2,
530.19 524.7-524.8, 530.4, 530.16,
Means of grace, 10.1, 12, 13, 21.1 532-532.13
Members, church Ordained, how, 524.4, 525.3,
Associate members, see Fellowship 526.3, 530.5
members Deacon, 525-525.4
Class for, 112.4 Elder, 526-526.3
Discipline and/or removal, 600 Requirements, 205.4, 524.1-524.3
Fellowship members, 110-110.1, Rights and powers, 124.4, 524.7
205.24, 507 Transfer, 205.9-205.10, 226, 231.9-
Full members, 19, 109-109.3, 112.8, 231.10, 529-529.2
205.24, 616.5 Local, 115.9, 139.12-139.13, 523.4-
Inactive, 111-111.5, 114.3, 143 523.5, 524.5, 813
Members of church-type missions, Ordained, 525-527
status of, 109.2 Basis for pensions and benefits aid,
Ministerial applicants, 129 207.4
Moving, 111.1 Called of God
Reception of, 109.1 Deacon, 500, 525, 525.3
Requirements, responsibilities, and Elder, 500, 514, 526, 526.3
prohibitions, 20, 21-21.2, 28-33, Credentials, 326.5, 527.1, 528.12,
165-166 529.9, 530.6-530.7, 530.21,
Rights and privileges, 226, 529 531-531.12
Ritual, 704 Discipline, see Court of Appeals,
Transfer, 111.1, 817 General
428 INDEX

Membership, church, 114-114.3, Conventions and Elections, Article

129, 228, 530.8-530.11 X
Membership, district, 201, 527- Core Principles, Article II, Section
527.2, 530.9-530.10 3
Order of ministry, 525.1, 526.1 Global Council, Article XI
Ordination, 205.7, 525-526.3, Global Mission, Article II, Section
530.5-530.6 4
Recognition of orders, 205.8, Leadership Responsibilities, Article
527-527.2 VIII
Regulations, general, 530-530.20 Local Board, Article V
Requirements, 205.4, 205.7 Mission Statement, Article II,
Rights and powers, 525.1-525.2, Section 1
530.13-530.14 Name, Article I
Transfer, 205.9, 205.10, 226, 231.9, Organization and Leadership,
231.10, 529-529.2 Article VI
Jurisdiction, 530.12, 532.11- Purpose, Article II, Section 2
532.12 Teachers and Leaders, Article VII
Qualifications, 502.1 District
Retired, 205.26, 231.8, 528-528.1 Appointments, 211.18
Minister of Christian education, 169- Board, 240-240.14
169.1, 226, 511-511.1
Board chairperson, 241-241.3
Minister of music, 169-169.1, 512
Board election, 205.21
See Associates, paid
Convention, 812, Article X,
Ministerial benevolence, see Pensions
Section 1
and benefits
Membership, 201
Ministering to the needy, 21.1
Vacancies, 215
Ministry, see Minister
General Board
Mission area directors, see District
Elections, 333-334
Mission specials (approved), 163.1,
225.15 Nominations, 332.6
Missionary, 114.1, 346.1-346.3, 503.1, Vacancies, 334.1
504, 513, 606.7, 811.VI.3.a.b., 814 Global Council, 812, Article XI
Music director, see Associates, paid, and Global Convention, Article X,
Minister of music Section 2
Nazarene Benefits USA, See pensions Global Director, 335.16-336
and benefits Election of, 812, Article X, Section
Nazarene Bible College (USA), 905 3
Funds from World Evangelism Fund, Local Church
335.9 Adult Ministries Council, 159
Nazarene Church, see Church Adult Ministries discipleship
Nazarene Discipleship International coordinators, 157.1-157.9
Bylaws, 812 Age-group discipleship
Accountability Care List (ACL), coordinators, 157.1-157.9
Article III Board, 155-155.10, 812, Article V
Administration and Supervision, Children’s Ministries Council, 158
Article IX Children’s Ministries discipleship
Amendments, Article XII coordinator, 158.1-158.2
Attendance, Article IV President, 156-156.6
INDEX 429

Nazarene Institutions of Higher Nominations, 126, 162.2, 811,

Education, 905 Article V, Section 1
Nazarene Missions International Officers, 811, Article V, Section 1
District, 243-243.2 Organization, 162-162.2, 811,
Amenability, 243-243.1 Article III, Section 1
Constitution, 243.1, 811 Pastor’s relation to, 126
Convention, 811, Article VI, President, 115.9, 137, 162.2, 201,
Section 4 811, Article V, Section 1
Council, 811, Article V, Section 2 Nazarene Publishing House, 339
Membership, 216.1, 240, 243, 811, Nazarene schools, (birth through
Article IV secondary), 161-161.1, 211.14,
Organization, 240, 243.1, Article 225.14
III, Section 2 Nazarene Theological Seminary, 905
President, 201, 238, 240, 243.1- Funds from World Evangelism Fund,
243.2, 811, Article V, Section 2 335.9
Global Nazarene Youth International
District, 242-242.1
Constitution, 811
Charter, 242, 810
Convention, 344.4, 811 Article VI,
Convention, 810.219
Section 4
Council, 810.211-810.213
Council, 344-344.4, 811, Article V,
Meetings, 810.217
Section 3, 904
Membership, 810.205
Delegates to, 811, Article VI,
Ministry Plan Template, 810.200-
Section 4
810.219
Director, 344.2, 811, Article V,
Organization, 810.205-810.206
Section 3
President, 201, 205.14, 240,
Duties, 344.2-344.4
810.207-810.209
Funds, 163-164.3, 330.2
Youth pastor, 820.210
Membership, 811, Article IV, Global, 343
Section 3
Chair, 343.2, 810.407-810.409
President, 301, 344.4, 811, Article Charter, 810
V, Section 3
Convention, 343.1, 810.7, 810.403-
Regional representation, Article V, 810.405, 810.408-810.409,
Section 3 810.412, 810.417, 912 Rule 16
Relationship to Local Church Delegates to, 810.209, 810.309,
Ministries Committee, 344.1- 810.404
344.2 Council, 332.4, 343.2-343.5,
Representation on General Board, 810.411-810.414, 903
332.5, 344.2-344.3, Article V, Funds, 330.2
Section 3 Membership, 343, 810.405
Vacancy, 811, Article V, Section 3 Ministry Plan Template, 810.400-
Local 810.417
Amenability, 163.1 Representation at General
Constitution, 811 Assembly, 343.5
Finances, 139.21, 163-164.3, 811, Representation on General Board,
Article VII, Section 1 332.2, 333.3, 343.4, 810.405,
Meetings, 811, Article VI, Section 1 810.409-810.410
Membership, 811, Article IV Local, 160-160.1
430 INDEX

Charter, 810 Regular, 133

Divisions, 810.106, 810.110 Special, 135
Finances, 139.21, 139.23 Termination, 122, 133.6, 135.4-
Meetings, 810.116-810.118 135.5
Membership, 810.105 Called of God, 514
Ministry Plan Template, 160.1, Church membership, 131
810.100-810.110 Co-pastors, 123-123.1
Nominations, 126, 810.108, Confidentiality, 530.17
810.112 Duties and powers, 29.1, 109-109.1,
Officers, 810.107-810.109 110.1, 111.2, 112, 112.7-112.8,
Organization, 160, 810.105- 113-113.1, 114, 114.2-114.3, 115.5,
810.106 115.8-115.10, 115.14-115.16,
President, 115.9, 137, 201, 810.107- 124-132, 137-138, 139.23, 139.27,
810.109 139.29, 140, 145.7, 155.1, 162.1-
Purpose, 810.106 162.2, 169.2-169.8, 503-503.6,
Regional, 810.305 514, 530.4, 530.16, 604.1, 605
Chair, 810.307-810.309 Immediate family, 127, 139.20
Council, 810.311-810.313 Interim, 212.1, 518
Meetings, 810.317-810.319 Lifelong learning, 124.11, 139.9,
Membership, 810.305 521.6-521.7, 523, 530.18
Ministry Plan Template, 810.300- Maternity/Paternity leave, 118
810.319 Moving expenses, 117.4
Nominations, 810.312 Parent-Affiliated Congregation
Officers, 810.307 (PAC), 517
Organization, 810.305-810.306 President of local church, 102.3,
New birth, 9.1, 20.7 115.5, 123, 125.15
New Testament, see Scriptures, the Holy Recommends
Nominating Committee Assigned minister’s certificate,
District, 203, 205.23, 215.2, 241 139.13
Local, 115.10, 137.1 Deaconess’ license, 139.15, 508
Oath-bound societies and secret orders, Lay minister’s certificate, 139.12,
29.7, 340.4 503.3-503.5
Old Testament, see Scriptures, the Holy Local minister’s certificate, 139.12,
Ordained minister, see Minister, 523.1-523.3
ordained Minister’s license, 139.14
Ordination/Recognition Questionnaire, Records, access to, 125.15, 139.23
527 Resignation of, 122-123.1
Ordination, theology of, 502 Sabbatical leave, 139.10
Organ donation, 914 Salary, 117.4-117.5, 139.8-139.9
Parent-Affiliated Congregation (PAC), Pastoral arrangements, 120, 218.1
100.3, 517 See Pastor, Call to church
Pastor Pastoral associates, 118, 139.27, 169-
Amenability, 205.4, 130 169.8, 211.13
Appointment, when, 117, 119-119.1 Pastoral Service, 515
Call to church, 117-121 Pensions and benefits,
Acceptance of, 117.1 Conditions for aid, 207.4, 337.1
Duration, 121 Nazarene Benefits International, 337.2
Review, church/pastoral Nazarene Benefits USA, 32.5
INDEX 431

Plans, 337-337.2 Deacon, 317.11, 531.9, 531.10-531.11,

Pledges, see Finance 532.8
Plenary inspiration of the Scriptures, see Elder, 317.11, 530.10-530.11
Scriptures, the Holy Resurrection
Polity, 19 Articles of Faith, 16
Pornography, 29.1, 31, 927 Of the dead, 16
Prayer, 14 Of Jesus Christ, 13
Preacher, licensed, see Minister, licensed Retired minister, see Minister,
Preacher, local, see Minister, local Ordained, Retired
Preamble to Church Constitution, Ritual
page 26 Baptism of believers, 701
Prejudice, see Discrimination Baptism of infants or young children,
President of local church, see Church, 702
local president Church dedications, 709
Procedure, judicial, see Judicial Church organization, 708
Administration Dedication of infants or young
Procedure, parliamentary, see Rules of children, 703
order Funeral, 706
Profanity, 29.1 Installation of officers, 707
Property agreements, see Real estate Matrimony, 705
Punishment, eternal, 16.2, 20.4 Reception of church members, 704
Quarreling, 21.2 Roles of Ministry, 505-520
Racial discrimination, 915 Rules
Real Estate, 102.3-104.2, 125.11, 145.7, General, see Covenant of Christian
237.3-237.4, 330.6 Character, The
Reception of church members, see Special, see Covenant of Christian
Members, church, reception of Character, The
Recognition of orders, see Minister, Standing, see General Assembly,
ordained Standing rules
Regeneration, 7, 9-9.3, 10, 20.6 Rules of order, 34, 115, 205, 300.3
Article of Faith, 9-9.3 Sabbath observance, see Lord’s Day
Regional Advisory Council, 345.3 Sacraments, see Lord’s Supper
Regional director, 200.2, 345, 346.4 Salvation, 6
Regions, see Church regions Sanctification, entire, Preamble, page
Reinstatement of credentials, 530, 26, 10-10.1, 19, 20.7, 33, 115.11,
531.10-531.11, 532, 532.13 124.8, 137, 155, 156, 231.3, 402.2,
Release, from membership, see Church, 521.3, 926
local membership Article of Faith, 10-10.1
Religious education, see Nazarene Related to growth in grace, 10.1
Discipleship International Schools
Repentance Bible, 922
Article of Faith, 8 Childcare, 155.1, 161-161.1, 211.14,
Of minister, 606.5 225.14
Representative form of government, 22 Christian, see Nazarene schools
Responsibility to the poor, 28.4, 917 Scriptural truth, 28.1
Restoration of credentials, 317.11, 530, Scriptures, the Holy, 20.2, 305.8
532-532.13 Article of Faith, 4
Restoration of membership Plenary inspiration, 4, 20.2
432 INDEX

Word of God, 21.1, 155.2, 502, 502.6 Title to district property, see District
Second coming of Christ, 11, 15, 20.8 property, and Real estate
Secret societies, see Oath-bound secret Title to local church property, see
orders Church, local, property, title to
Secretary, church board, see Secretary, Tobacco, 29.4, 340.1, 932
local church Transfer, ministers, see Minister,
Secretary, district, see District secretary licensed, and Minister, ordained
Secretary of district assembly, see Treasurer, district, see District treasurer
District secretary Treasurer, general, see General treasurer
Secretary, general, see General secretary Treasurer, local, see Church, Local,
Secretary of General Assembly, see treasurer
General secretary Trial, church member, see Judicial
Secretary of General Board, see General Administration, Layperson, trial
Board, secretary Trial, minister, see Judicial
Sin Administration, Minister, trial
Article of Faith, 5-5.3 Trinity, 31
Atonement for, 6, 20.5 Triune God, see God, doctrine of,
Cleanse from indwelling, 21 Triune
Original, 5-5.2, 10, 20.3, 926 Trustees, Board of
Slander, 21.2 Duties, 102, 153-153.2
Social media, 934 Election, 115.11-115.12, 137, 151-
Social justice, 922 152.1
Solicitation of funds, see Finances, Restrictions on, 104.3, 108.2-108.3,
appeals prohibited 245.1
Song evangelist, 503.2, 519-519.1, 814 Vacancy, 137.3, 154
Standing rules, General Assembly, see Truth, scriptural, 28.1
General Assembly, Standing rules Universal Bible Sunday, 910
Stem cell research, human embryonic, Vacancies, see specific office,
30, 30.3 committee, or board
Stewards, Board of Vacation Bible Schools, 155.1
Duties, 148-150 Value
Election, 115.11-115.12, 137, 147 Human, 29.6, 30.4-30.5, 31, 400
Vacancy, 137.4, 149 Of children and youth, 922
Stewardship, rules on, 32-32.4 Voting
Committee, local, 150 Absentee, 115.2
Storehouse tithing, see Tithing Age requirement, 109.3, 117, 135.3,
Structure, denominational 137.1
organizational, page 24, 22.1 War and military service, 923
Substance abuse, 930 Wellness, 929
Suicide, physician assisted, see Witness of the Spirit, 9.3, 10, 20.7
Euthanasia Women in Ministry, Theology of, 501
Sunday, see Lord’s Day Word of God, see Scriptures, the Holy
Sunday school, see Nazarene Work, 28.7
Discipleship International Worldliness, 340.4
Supply Pastor, 118, 231.5, 503.6, 516, Worship, 11, 21.1, 400, 521.3, 524.2,
523.6 531.9, 532.4, 921
Thank offering, 164.2 Zone facilitators, see District zone
Tithing, 32.1 facilitators