NCACI constitution
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE 1
1.0
THE PREAMBLE
7
ARTICLE 2
2.0
DOCTRINAL BELIEFS
2.1
VALUES
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9
ARTICLE 3
3.0
ADMINISTRATION
3.1
CHAIRMAN
3.1.1 QUALIFICATION
3.1.2 FUNCTIONS
3.1.3 ELECTIONS
3.1.4 VOTING
3.1.5 TENURE OF OFFICE
3.1.6 ABSENCE, INCAPACITATION OR DEATH
3.1.7 DISCIPLINARY ACTION
3.1.8 APPEAL
3.2
GENERAL SECRETARY
3.2.1 QUALIFICATION
3.2.2 FUNCTIONS
3.2.3 ELECTIONS
3.2.4 VOTING
3.2.5 TENURE OF OFFICE
3.2.6 ABSENCE, INCAPACITATION OR DEATH
3.2.7 DISCIPLINARY ACTION
3.2.8 APPEAL
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NCACI constitution
3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.3.4
THE INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS DIRECTOR
QUALIFICATION
FUNCTIONS
ELECTIONS
VOTING
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17
17
18
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3.3.5 TENURE OF OFFICE
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ARTICLE 4
4.0
INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS BOARD
4.1
MEMBERSHIP
4.2
FUNCTIONS
4.3
TENURE OF OFFICE
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ARTICLE 5
5.0
COLLEGE OF APOSTLES
5.1
FUNCTIONS
5.2
MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE
5.2.1 APPOINTMENT OF MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE
5.2.2 FUNCTIONS
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20
21
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ARTICLE 6
6.0
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
6.1
MEMBERSHIP
6.1.1 FUNCTIONS
6.1.2 NOMINATION
6.1.3 MEETINGS
6.1.4 TENURE OF OFFICE
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ARTICLE 7
7.0
GENERAL COUNCIL
7.1
MEMBERSHIP
7.1.1 FUNCTIONS
7.1.2 MEETINGS
7.1.3 QUORUM
7.1.4 VOTING
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ARTICLE 8
8.0
MINISTERS
8.1
QUALIFICATIONS
8.1.1 CATEGORIES OF MINISTERS
8.1.2 ASSOCIATE PASTORS
8.1.3 FUNCTIONS
8.2
PASTORS
8.2.1 FUNCTIONS
8.2.2 OVERSEERS
8.2.3 FUNCTIONS
8.3
TEACHERS
8.3.1 FUNCTIONS
8.4
EVANGELIST
8.4.1 FUNCTIONS
8.5
PROPHETS
8.5.1 FUNCTIONS
8.6
APOSTLES
8.6.1 FUNCTIONS
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ARTICLE 9
9.0
RETIREMENT OF MINISTERS
9.1
COMPULSORY RETIREMENT
9.2
PREMATURE RETIREMENT
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28
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ARTICLE 10
10.0 PENSION SCHEME
10.1 BENEFITS OF PENSION SCHEME
10.2 VOLUNTARY RETIREMENT OR RESIGNATION
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29
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ARTICLE 11
11.0 DISCIPLINARY ACTION
29
11.1 CONDUCTS THAT WILL LEAD TO DISMISSAL OF A
MINISTER
29
11.2 SUMMARY DISMISSAL
30
11.2.1 APPEAL
30
ARTICLE 12
12.0 ASSEMBLIES
12.1 COMPOSITION OF ASSEMBLIES
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30
ARTICLE 13
13.0 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
13.1 QUALIFICATION
13.2 TENURE OF OFFICE
13.3 FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES OF DIRECTORS
13.4 DISCHARGE OF DIRECTORS
13.5 QUORUM
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ARTICLE 14
14.0 FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATION
14.1 FINANCE BOARD
14.1.1 MEBERSHIP
14.1.2 FUNCTIONS OF FINANCE BOARD
14.1.3TENURE OF OFFICE
14.2 FINANCE
14.3 SOURCES OF FINANCE
14.4 CENTRAL FUND
14.5 OTHER FUNDS
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ARTICLE 15
15.0 OFFICIAL SEAL
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ARTICLE 16
16.0 AUXILIARIES
16.1 WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP
16.1.1 MEMBERSHIP
16.1.2 FUNCTIONS
16.1.3 WOMEN’S EXECUTIVES
16.1.4 ELECTION
16.1.5 TENURE OF OFFICE
16.2 YOUTH FELLOWSHIP
16.2.1 MEMBERSHIP
16.2.3 FUNCTIONS
16.2.4 YOUTH EXECUTIVES
16.2.5 ELECTION
16.2.6 TENURE OF OFFICE
16.3 YOUTH PASTOR
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16.3.1 FUNCTIONS
16.3.2 TENURE OF OFFICE
16.4 YOUTH FELLOWSHIP BOARD
16.4.1 APPOINTMENT
16.4.2 FUNCTIONS
16.5
MEN’S FELLOWSHIP
16.5.1 FUNCTIONS
16.5.2 ELECTION
16.5.3 TENURE OF OFFICE
16.6
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
16.6.1 MEMBERSHIP
16.7
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY BOARD
16.7.1 FUNCTIONS
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ARTICLE 17
17.0 MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
17.1 CHURCH MEMBERSHIP
17.2 ADULT MEMBERS
17.3 CHURCH ASSETS AND PROPERTIES
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ARTICLE 18
18.0 CHURCH DISCIPLINE
18.1 DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS
18.2 SANCTIONS
18.3 RIGHTS OF APPEAL
18.3.1 REVIEW
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42
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NCACI constitution
ARTICLE 19
19.0 MARRIAGES
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ARTICLE 20
20.0 INHERITANCE
43
ARTICLE 21
21.0 AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION
21.1 MODE OF AMENDMENT
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ARTICLE 22
22. 0 EXTRA MINISTERIAL GROUPS IN THE CHURCH 44
ARTICLE 23
23.0 EXISTING OFFICES, COMMITTEES AND BOARDS
23.1 PROMULGATION OF THE CONSTITUTION
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NCACI constitution
Article 1
1.0
THE PREAMBLE
In the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we the Ministers’
Council and the Congregation of The New Covenant Apostolic Church
International (NCACI) under the protection of the Almighty God
solemnly declared the following as the sixth edition of the constitution
of the Church:
Whereas the Church was established under the name Pentecostal
Christian Church, later the New Covenant Church and now The New
Covenant Apostolic Church International, in 1954 by Rev. Chris Diaba;
Whereas the constitution, laws and regulations of the Church were
passed by the Executive Council in Accra in 1979 and whereas the said
constitution, laws and regulations of the church were subject to
amendments and alterations by the Executive Council were revised
and reprinted in 1985 and 2002.
And whereas upon further revision and amendment proposed by the
Executive Council in 2009 and 2012 in Accra, it is desirable to issue a
revised and amended constitution of the Church.
And whereas the primary aims and objectives of The New Covenant
Apostolic Church International are to practice and propagate what our
Lord Jesus Christ has commissioned us in Matt 10:7 - 8; Mark 16:15 -18;
Luke 24:44 - 47
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NCACI constitution
WE IN A SPIRIT of oneness and peace with all other churches and
organizations with similar doctrines;
And in solemn declaration and affirmation of our commitment to carry
out the mandate of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Do hereby adopt, enact and give to ourselves this constitution.
Article 2
2.0
DOCTRINAL BELIEFS
We believe all that have been revealed in the Holy Scriptures that the
Bible is the Supreme Authority in all matters. (II Tim. 3:16)
We believe and teach that God Is one. (Gen.1:1. Deut 6:4 Isaiah 43:10
John 1:1, I Tim. 3:16)
We believe that Father, Son and Holy Ghost are three manifestations
of the one God. (I John 5:7-8)
We believe that all persons are sinners by nature and therefore need
to be born of water and the Spirit. (Ps. 51:5, John 3:3-6, Rom 3:23)
We believe in baptizing in water by immersion in the name of Jesus
Christ. (Acts 2:38, 10:48, 19:5, 1 Pet. 3:21)
We believe in a three-fold Salvation of the Spirit, soul and body.
(1 Thess. 5:23); man is a tripartite being
We believe that all who are saved must have the baptism of the Holy
Spirit, speaking with other tongues as the Holy Spirit gives them
utterances. (Acts 2:4, 10:44-46, 19:6).
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NCACI constitution
We believe in the second coming of Jesus Christ. (John 14:3, Acts 1:1011, I Thess. 4:16-17)
We believe that God has a place of punishment for the wicked
(Rev.2011-15); we believe in life everlasting. (John 3:16, 1Tim. 1:17,
Titus 1:20)
We believe in Divine Healing as provided in the atonement, the word
of God, prayer and laying on of hands. However, members of the
Church are free to seek medical help from qualified practitioners if
necessary. (Mark 16:18, James 5:13-16, Isaiah 53:4 -5, 1 Pet 2:24,
Matthew 9:12, 11 Kings 20:7, Luke 10:34)
We believe in all the nine spiritual gifts and that they should be
operating in the church, and we believe that one person can have all
the nine gifts in his ministry (I Cor. 12:8-10.)
We believe in the Holy Communion also known as the Lord's Supper
and that it should be partaken by all members who are in true
fellowship with the Lord.
(1 Cor. 11:23-33)
We believe in Women’s Ministry, that women can be Apostles,
Preachers, Teachers, Evangelists, Deaconesses, and Helpers, (Acts 2:89, 10:24, Gal. 3:26-28, Rom. 16-1-6)
As a non profit making organization, we believe in supporting the
Ministry with tithes, freewill offerings and donations. (Gen. 14:20,
28:22, Amos 4:4, Mat. 23:23, Luke 18:12, 1 Cor. 16:2).
We believe what the Scriptures say concerning Marriage and Divorce
(Mat. 5:31-32, Mat. 19:4-12, Mark 10:2 - 12, 1 Cor. 7:10-15,)
We believe in the power of prayer and fasting. (Mat 9:15, Mark 9:29)
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NCACI constitution
We believe in ascended gift ministry - Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists,
Pastors and Teachers (Eph. 4:11 -12)
2.1

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VALUES:
The word of God
Corporate worships, Conventions
Unity
Spreading of the gospel
Article 3
3.0
ADMINISTRATION
3.1
CHAIRMAN
a)
There shall be a Chairman of the Church who shall exercise
oversight responsibility over the affairs of the church.
3.1.1 QUALIFICATION
a)
The NCACI Chairman must be a committed and a professing
Christian according to the Biblical Standard.
b)
He must be a man of integrity, loyal and dedicated, choosing
the church first before personal interests.
c)
He must be a person of good spiritual standing who is above
reproach and trust worthy.
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NCACI constitution
d)
He must be a Minister in the church for not less than 10
continuous years and must be of the rank of an Apostle or
prophet. Where a person elected Chairman is not an Apostle,
he shall automatically be ordained an Apostle before his
induction.
e)
He should not be less than 45 years in age and not more than
61 years at the time of election.
f)
He must have at least a University Degree from any recognized
University and in addition a Diploma in theology from The New
Covenant Institute of Bible and Advanced Leadership Training
(NIBALT)
g)
For the avoidance of doubt, a person shall not be eligible to
stand for the position of Chairman, where his first term will
take him beyond age sixty-five or the retiring age of ministers
at any point in time.
3.1.2 FUNCTIONS
a)
He shall chair the Executive Council and the General Council
meetings
b)
He shall chair every meeting, convention or rally he attends
c)
He shall direct action on issues and correspondence pertaining
to Missionaries and external branches.
d)
He shall assign to the General Secretary and the International
Missions Director such duties as he shall deem necessary in
accordance with the constitution.
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NCACI constitution
e)
He shall during the short absence of the General Secretary or
the International Missions Director not exceeding six (6)
months be responsible for appointing an Acting General
Secretary or an Acting International Missions Director from
among the Executive Council members or Apostles and
Prophets
f)
Subject to the provisions of this constitution, he may take
decisions and actions with any area head where disciplinary or
other action is urgently required in an area and afterwards
report to the Executive Council
g)
He shall organize retreats, seminars and prayer sessions for all
ministers of the church.
h)
He shall give a formal address on the state of the church at
every General Council meeting
i)
Any other action deemed necessary for the furthering of the
church’s growth provided he obtains endorsement from the
Ministers’ Council.
3.1.3 ELECTIONS
a)
The College of Apostles shall, after prayerful consideration,
present a list of eligible candidates, to an Electoral College for
open discussion and secret ballot
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NCACI constitution
b)
Members of the Executive Council, Apostles, Prophets and Area
Heads shall constitute an Electoral College.
C)
Election at the Electoral College shall be done by a secret ballot
to be supervised by a three (3) member Electoral Commission
to be selected from the ministers and the congregation by the
Apostles. The candidate so presented shall be declared a
winner by simple majority of Electoral College votes.
d)
The candidate so elected at the Electoral College shall be
presented to the General Council for approval. Approval shall
be by simple majority votes of the members present.
e)
Where there is a tie, the incumbent Chairman shall cast a
deciding vote.
f)
All directive prophecies and revelations concerning a candidate
for consideration for the position of Chairman shall be
communicated verbally or in writing through the General
Secretary to the College of Apostles.
3.1.4 VOTING
Voting shall be by secret ballot.
3.1.5 TENURE OF OFFICE
a) The person elected as Chairman shall hold office for a term of
four (4) years beginning from the date on which he is inducted
into office as Chairman.
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NCACI constitution
b) The Chairman shall hold office for two (2) terms. He may be
qualified to be re-elected for another term after serving his first
term. He shall not hold office for more than two (2) terms
c) Where upon the completion of two terms as Chairman, a
person has not attained the age of sixty-five or any age which
for all practical purposes shall be the retiring age for ministers
of the church at any point in time, such a person may be reassigned by the Executive Council and ratified by General
Council to serve the church in any other capacity.
3.1.6 ABSENCE, INCAPACITATION OR DEATH
a)
During the absence or incapacitation of the Chairman, the
Executive Council shall appoint an Acting Chairman for a period
not exceeding one (1) year
b)
In case of death, the General Council shall appoint a Chairman
within three (3) months from the date of death.
3.1.7 DISCIPLINARY ACTION
a)
Should the Chairman uses his office to enrich himself, defraud
or commit acts that bring, or are likely to bring the church into
disrepute, it shall be the duty of the Executive Council to
interdict him and appoint an independent body within The
Church to go into the matter according to the Constitution and
the principles of The Church (Refer to articles 10.1, 10.2, 17.1,
17:2)
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NCACI constitution
b)
During the period of interdiction, an Acting Chairman shall be
appointed by the Apostles.
C)
The body so appointed shall report its findings to the Apostles
within three (3) months. If the Chairman is found guilty and the
seriousness of the offence so requires, the Apostles shall give
him a written notice of his removal from office forthwith.
3.1.8
APPEAL
a) The Chairman shall have a right to appeal to the General
Council within one (1) month of the date of service of the
removal notice.
b) The decision of the General Council shall be final after
giving due consideration to the appeal.
3.2
GENERAL SECRETARY
There shall be a General Secretary of the Church.
3.2.1 QUALIFICATION
He must be a mature, a spirit filled and an effective Pastor with
a good standard of education to the level of University Degree
from a recognized tertiary Institution.
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NCACI constitution
3.2.2 FUNCTIONS
a)
He shall be responsible to the Chairman for the Head office
administration of the Church and shall be in charge of all
administrative matters.
b)
He shall be responsible for taking record of all proceedings and
minutes at all General and Executive Council meetings.
c)
He shall deal with all official correspondence of the church in
consultation with the Chairman.
d)
He shall perform such other duties as are assigned to him by
the Chairman and the Executive Council.
e)
He shall be an ex-officio member of all the Boards and
Committees of the church under the constitution.
f)
He shall report to the General Council on the performance of
the headquarters administration.
g)
He shall prepare the agenda for all meetings in consultation
with the Chairman
h)
He shall keep the official seal of the church
i)
He must be a man of integrity and be loyal to the church in all
matters
j)
He must be a good communicator a strong team player and
should have good inter personal skills.
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NCACI constitution
3.2.3 ELECTIONS
a)
The College of Apostles shall, after prayerful consideration,
present a list of eligible candidates, to an Electoral College for
open discussion and secret ballot
b)
Members of the Executive Council, Apostles, Prophets and Area
Heads shall constitute an Electoral College.
C)
Election at the Electoral College shall be done by a secret ballot
to be supervised by a three (3) member Electoral Commission
to be selected from the ministers and the congregation by the
Apostles. The nominee shall be declared a winner by simple
majority.
d)
The candidate so elected at the Electoral College shall be
presented to the General Council for approval by simple
majority votes of the members present and voted.
e)
Where there is a tie, the Chairman shall cast a deciding vote.
3.2.4 VOTING
Voting shall be by secret ballot.
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NCACI constitution
3.2.5 TENURE OF OFFICE
a) The person elected as General Secretary shall hold office for a
term of five (5) years beginning from the date on which he is
inducted into office as General Secretary.
b) The General Secretary shall hold office for two (2) terms. He
may be qualified to be re-elected for another term after serving
his first term. He shall not hold office for more than two (2)
terms
3.2.6 ABSENCE, INCAPACITATION OR DEATH
3.2.7
a)
During the absence or incapacitation of the General
Secretary, the Executive Council shall appoint an Acting
General Secretary for a period not exceeding one (1)
year
b)
In case of death, the General Council shall appoint a
General Secretary within three (3) months from the
date of death.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
a)
Should the General Secretary uses his office to enrich
himself, defraud or seriously misconduct himself, it
shall be the duty of the Executive Council to interdict
him and appoint an independent body within The
Church to go into the matter according to this
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NCACI constitution
Constitution and the principles of The Church(ref
articles 10.1, 10.2, 17.1, 17.2)
b)
c)
3.2.7
During the period of interdiction, an Acting General
Secretary shall be appointed by the Apostles.
The body so appointed shall report to the Apostles
within three (3) months if he is found guilty and the
seriousness of the offence so requires, the Apostles
shall give him a written notice of his removal from office
forthwith.
APPEAL
a) The General Secretary shall have a right to appeal to the
General Council within one (1) month of the date of service of
the removal notice.
b) The decision of the General Council shall be final after giving
due consideration to the appeal.
3.3
THE INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS DIRECTOR
There shall be an International Missions Director as a
Headquarters Officer of the church
3.3.2 QUALIFICATION
a) He shall be an Apostle or Prophet of the church.
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NCACI constitution
b) Must have a good standard of education to the level of
University Degree from a recognized tertiary Institution.
c) Must have a working knowledge of French and any other
international language shall be an added advantage.
3.3.2 FUNCTIONS
a)
He shall liaise with the General Secretary to prepare the agenda
for the meetings of the board in consultation with the Board
Chairman
b)
He shall be responsible to the Chairman through the Mission’s
Board for the administration of all International Missions
c)
He shall be responsible to the Chairman for all correspondence
pertaining to International Missions and any missionary work.
d)
By virtue of his office, he shall be an ex-officio member of each
National Council.
e)
He and the Chairman or his representative(s) shall represent
the Church in all matters relating to Governments or authorities
where missionary activities are involved.
f)
He shall organize seminars and retreats for training ministers
and officers in the International Missions field.
e)
He shall advise missionaries and where appropriate organize
with them crusades, rallies and conventions for effective
evangelism
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f)
He shall implement the decision of the Board and perform such
other functions and duties as may be directed by the Chairman
and the Executive Council.
3.3.3 ELECTIONS
a)
The College of Apostles shall, after prayerful consideration,
present a list of eligible candidates, to an Electoral College for
open discussion and secret ballot
b)
Members of the Executive Council, Apostles, Prophets and Area
Heads shall constitute the Electoral College.
C)
Election at the Electoral College shall be done by a secret ballot
to be supervised by a three (3) member Electoral Commission
to be selected from the ministers and the congregation by the
Apostles. The nominee shall be declared a winner by simple
majority.
d)
The candidate so elected at the Electoral College shall be
presented to the General Council for approval by simple
majority votes of the members present and voted.
e)
Where there is a tie, the incumbent Chairman shall cast a
deciding vote.
3.3.4 VOTING
Voting shall be by secret ballot.
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NCACI constitution
3.3.6 TENURE OF OFFICE
a) The person elected as Missions’ Director shall hold office for a
term of four (4) years beginning from the date on which he is
inducted into office as International Missions Director.
b) The International Missions Director shall hold office for two (2)
terms. He may be qualified to be re-elected for another term
after serving his first term. He shall not hold office for more
than two (2) terms
Article 4
4.0
INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS BOARD
a) There shall be an established International Missions Board
which shall be responsible for the spread of the Gospel
worldwide and in Africa in particular. All National Heads shall
report to this Board through the International Missions Director.
4.1
MEMBERSHIP
The membership shall comprise the Chairman, the General
Secretary and the International Missions Director who shall be
automatic members of the Board by virtue of their offices,
other members shall be One (1) Apostle and one (1) Minister.
4.2
FUNCTIONS
The Board, which shall be responsible to the General Council
through the Executive Council, shall have the following
functions:
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NCACI constitution
b) To develop and maintain relations with overseas church
missions, boards and donor organizations.
c) To organize missions work outside and seek opportunities to
establish churches wherever possible.
d) To plan and co-ordinate missions programmes
e) To establish principles and standards of ethics that shall govern
all parties concerned with missions programmes.
f) To encourage and enable Assemblies of The NCACI to support
missions activities and work
g) To promote the programmers of the Board to raise funds and
interact therein
h) To receive and transmit appeals in matters relating to missions
programmes to the Executive Council for determination.
i) To ensure that all churches outside Ghana owns allegiance to
the mother Church of The NCACI.
4.3
TENURE OF OFFICE
With the exception of the Chairman, the General Secretary and
the International Missions Director who shall serve on the
Board during their term of office. The other two members of
the Board shall serve for four (4) years and may be due for
another one more term.
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Article 5
5.0
COLLEGE OF APOSTLES
There shall be a College of Apostles which shall comprise active,
retired, and serving Apostles of the church.
5.1
FUNCTIONS
They shall formulate policies and take decisions on matters of
spiritual importance to the church.
5.2
MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE
There shall be a Ministerial Committee which shall take
oversight responsibility of vetting nominees for ordination as
pastors.
5.2.1 APPOINTMENT OF MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE
The committee shall be appointed by the Chairman in
consultation with the College of Apostles and approved by the
Ministers’ Council.
5.2.2 FUNCTIONS
a) They shall vet the nominees to be considered for ordination as
pastors
b) The vetting shall focus on their academic, domestic, social and
mental qualifications.
c) They shall present a report on their eligibility to the College of
Apostles for ratification.
d) They shall ensure that their report is delivered timely to the
college of Apostles.
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Article 6
6.0
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
There shall be an Executive Council which shall be responsible
for the day to day administration of the Church.
6.1
MEMBERSHIP
Membership shall be made up of nine (9) members comprising:
a) The Chairman.
b) The General Secretary.
c) The International Missions Director.
d) Other members appointed by Chairman in consultation with
the College of Apostles and approved by the General Council.
e) The Executive Council may co-opt persons with the requisite
expertise to assist them in their meetings, as and when the
need arises. They shall not have the right to vote.
6.1.1
FUNCTIONS
a)
The Executive Council shall be responsible to the
General Council.
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NCACI constitution
b)
It shall implement policies and decisions of the College
of Apostles that have been approved by the General
Council
c)
In cases of emergency, the Executive Council may act on
matters promptly in consultation with the College of
Apostles for and on behalf of the General Council and
report to the same for ratification of its said decisions.
d)
The Executive Council shall receive reports and
memoranda from Boards, Committees, Ministries and
Fellowships and report to the General Council.
e)
During the incapacitation of the Chairman or the General
Secretary or the International Missions Director, the
Executive Council in consultation with the College of
Apostles shall appoint an Acting
Chairman or an Acting General Secretary or an Acting
International Missions Director, as the case may be for a
period not exceeding one (1) year.
f)
In case of death of the Chairman or the General
Secretary or International Missions Director, the
Executive Council shall convene a meeting of the
General Council in consultation with the College of
Apostles within three (3) months to elect a Chairman or
a General Secretary or an International Missions Director
as the case may be. The same process shall be followed
in case any member of the Executive Council dies.
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NCACI constitution
g)
The Executive Council shall be responsible for callings,
upgrading, appointments, revocations, dismissals,
impeachment, transfers and retirement of ministers and
national office holders of the Church. These functions
shall be discharged in consultation with the College of
Apostles and Area Heads where applicable.
h)
The Executive Council may recommend policy matters
for consideration by the College of Apostles and the
General Council.
i)
The Executive Council may take any administrative
measures in any matters not otherwise provided for in
this Constitution, provided that such measures are not
contrary to the fundamental provisions of the
constitution.
6.1.2
NOMINATION
In respect of the representation on the Executive Council, the
Chairman shall nominate members in consultation with the
College of Apostles six (6) candidates from the Ministers’
Council for the approval of the General Council.
6.1.3
MEETINGS
The Executive Council shall meet as and when necessary. The
Chairman or in his absence the Acting Chairman shall preside
over all meetings of the Executive Council. Five (5) members
shall form a quorum for all meetings.
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6.1.4 TENURE OF OFFICE
The term of office of the Executive Council members shall be
four (4) years. Members of the Executive Council may be renominated for one more term.
Article 7
7.0
GENERAL COUNCIL
There shall be a body of ministers known as the General Council
in this part referred to as the Council.
7.1
MEMBERSHIP
The membership of the Council shall be made up of:
All Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, Teachers, Associate
Pastors, Retired Apostles, Pastors and current Overseers. The
Overseers shall not have a casting vote.
7.1.1 FUNCTIONS
a)
The Council shall at all meetings deliberate on such
matters as may concern the general welfare of the
Assemblies
b)
The Council shall be the highest policy implementing
body.
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c)
It shall have the duty to impeach any member of the
Council on grounds of stated misconduct should the
Executive Council fail to do so.
d)
It shall receive and approve reports submitted by the
various organs of the church.
7.1.2 MEETINGS
The Council shall meet two times in a year at places the
Executive shall decide in consultation with the College of
Apostles.
7.1.3
QUORUM
Simple majority of Council members present at the meeting
shall form a quorum.
7.1.4 VOTING
Voting at the Council meetings shall be by secret ballot,
acclamation or show of hands.
Article 8
8.0
MINISTERS
According to New Testament teachings, these are ministers through
whom the ascended Lord governs the Church which is His body (1 Cor.
12:28, Eph. 4:11-13).
Proven men of God are called to these offices by divine revelation,
directive prophecy or recommendation by the Executive Council for
ratification by the General Council.
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New Entrants shall be recommended to the Executive Council by the
Ministerial Committee.
8.1
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
i)
QUALIFICATIONS
The person must be born again and be baptized in the Holy
Spirit.
ii. He must qualify in terms of 1 Tim 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-8
He must possess at least Senior High School Certificate
(WASSCE) or its equivalent.
He must obtain a Diploma Certificate from The New Covenant
Institute of Bible and Advanced Leadership Training
(NIBALT).
He must be of sound body and mind proven by medical
examination.
He must be a mature person not below twenty-one (21) years
and not above forty-five (45) years of age.
He must be obedient to the General Council and the Executive
Council.
He must be recommended by an Apostle or an Area Head in
consultation with the Local, District and Area Presbyteries
respectively.
Elders/Deaconess of proven pastoral ability who are above the
age of forty-five (45) and below fifty-five (55) years may be
called into the Ministry on the recommendation of the
Executive Council provided that in all such cases they have
been approved by the General Council.
All nominations and entry into the ministry of the Church shall
be approved by the General Council.
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8.1.1 CATEGORIES OF MINISTERS
8.1.2 ASSOCIATE PASTORS
New entrants shall be put on probation for at least two (2) years
effective from the date of admission into the Ministry after
which period they may, on the recommendation of the
respective Area Heads to the Executive Council, be confirmed
as pastors or released from the Ministry.
8.1.3
FUNCTIONS
They shall perform the same functions as pastors except
dedication of church building, ordination of officers and
blessing of marriages.
8.2
PASTORS
Associate Pastors who prove themselves capable of pastoral
work shall be confirmed as pastors or released from the
Ministry.
8.2.1
FUNCTIONS
a)
To feed and care for the flock of God.
b)
To administer the Lord’s Supper.
c)
To visit the sick, pray and counsel them.
e)
To bless Marriages when approved and gazetted by the
Government.
f)
To baptize new converts.
g)
To dedicate infants.
h)
To bury the dead.
i)
To do all other things incidental to their calling except
dedication of church buildings and ordination of officers.
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8.2.2 OVERSEERS
They are non-ordained Ministers who are on the fields having
oversight responsibility over some Assemblies.
8.2.3 FUNCTIONS
a) They shall perform all functions of a minister except
blessings of marriages, dedication of Temple and ordination
of presbyters and other ordinations.
b) They shall attend Pastors’ meeting but shall have no voting
rights.
8.3
TEACHERS
Ministers whose ministry stands in the Teaching Ministry may
be called to the Office of a Teacher.
8.3.1
FUNCTIONS
a)
They shall perform pastoral functions.
b)
They shall teach the Word of God and faithfully point
the body of Christ to sound and life-giving Christian
doctrine.
8.4
EVANGELIST
Ministers whose ministry stands out in evangelism may be
called to the office of Evangelist.
8.4.1
FUNCTIONS
a) They shall perform pastoral functions
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b) They shall organize crusades and preach the gospel especially
to the unsaved.
c) Break new grounds for the opening of new assemblies.
8.5
PROPHETS
These are ministers who exercise the prophetic ministry and are
called into the office of a Prophet.
8.5.1
FUNCTIONS
a)
The office of a prophet is complementary to that of an
apostle in directing and ordaining ministers and other
officers of the church. (1 Cor. 12:28, Eph. 4:1-13)
b)
This office is distinguished from the exercise of the gift
of prophecy which edifies, exhorts and comforts the
saints (1 Cor. 14:3,4)
c)
Dedicate church buildings. (temples, manses)
8.6
APOSTLES
They are ordained ministers who exercise Apostolic Ministry
and are called into office of Apostles.
8.6.1
FUNCTIONS
a)
To establish churches, build and care for them; meet the
spiritual needs of the various officers and members in the
church.
b)
To ordain ministers and officers of the church.
c)
Keep discipline in the church.
d)
Impart spiritual gifts to others (Rom 1:11; 2 Tim. 1:6.
Luke 6:13).
e)
Dedicate church buildings. (temples and manses)
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Article 9
9.0
9.1
a)
RETIREMENT OF MINISTERS
COMPULSORY RETIREMENT
Ministers shall retire at the age of sixty-five (65) years. This
shall be the retiring age for all Ministers of the church all times.
b)
Minister’s retiring benefits shall be computed on the salary
pertaining at the age of sixty five (65) years.
9.2
PREMATURE RETIREMENT
A Minister may be prematurely retired from the Ministry:
On medical grounds
In circumstances which will not permit him to continue in the
full-time ministry of the Church.
a)
b)
Article 10
10.0 PENSION SCHEME
a)
The Church shall establish a Pension Scheme for all retiring
ministers.
b)
This scheme shall be based on SSNIT, 2nd Tier and Provident
Fund established by the church
10.1
BENEFITS OF PENSION SCHEME
A Minister who retires at the age of sixty-five (65) years or is
prematurely retired shall be entitled to all benefits under the
Pensions scheme or pro rata.
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10.2
VOLUNTARY RETIREMENT OR RESIGNATION
The Church shall not encourage voluntary retirement of
Ministers called into full-time Ministry before their retiring age.
Nonetheless, a Minister may resign or retire before the retiring
age of sixty-five (65) years and shall be paid such reduced
pension or benefits as are applicable under the Pension Scheme.
Article 11
11.0 DISCIPLINARY ACTION
The Church shall take disciplinary action including dismissals
against erring ministers.
11.1 CONDUCTS THAT WILL LEAD TO DISMISSAL OF A
MINISTER
A Minister may be dismissed
on any of the following
grounds:
a)
Unfaithfulness to the
Church in matters
relating to finance,
policy directive etc.
b)
Disobedience to his calling,
c)
Refusal to fellowship with fellow Ministers after
attempts have been made to settle the misunderstanding.
d)
Preaching erroneous doctrine,
e)
Living a questionable life contrary to Biblical moral
standards ,
(f)
Insubordination,
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g)
Getting involved in any conduct either directly or indirectly,
which in the opinion of the General Council may bring the
Church into disrepute.
11.2
SUMMARY DISMISSAL
The Chairman in consultation with the College of Apostles and
the Executive Council may summarily dismiss a Minister who
commits any of the following offences:
a)
Theft
b)
Fraud
c)
Dishonesty
d)
Immorality
The Executive Council in consultation with the College of
Apostles, shall cause an investigation into the stated
misconduct of a minister. The report shall serve as basis for a
disciplinary action against a minister.
11.2.1 APPEAL
All dismissed ministers or any aggrieved party may appeal to
the General Council through the General Secretary within thirty
(30) days of the notice of dismissal letter. The decision of the
General Council shall be final.
Article 12
11.0 ASSEMBLIES
In order to maintain a policy of expansion and growth geared
towards the propagation and promulgation of the Gospel, the
Church shall set up assemblies in Ghana and elsewhere.
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12.1
COMPOSITION OF ASSEMBLIES
a)
An Assembly shall comprise of 25 members and above.
b)
Any group of members less than 25 in number shall be
called Covenant cell.
c)
An assembly shall comprise of a presbytery and the
congregation.
d)
The Presbytery which serves as the controlling authority
of the local assembly shall comprise:
e)
A pastor or his representative as its head, the Presiding
Elder and Elders.
f)
Deacons and Deaconesses and
g)
Local Secretary who shall serve as an ex-officio member
for all local church committees.
h)
All officers of the presbytery in every assembly shall be
ordained in the local, district and Area level upon the
recommendation of the Executives in consultation of the
College of Apostles.
Article 13
13.0 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
a) There shall be a Board of Directors which shall be registered
in accordance with the laws of Ghana.
b) The General Council shall upon the recommendation of the
Executive Council in consultation with College of Apostles
shall appoint five (5) persons to be the Directors for and on
behalf of the church to hold or acquire, convey, assign,
surrender or demise all movable or immovable properties
acquired by the church.
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c) They shall have power to sue and be sued in the corporate
name. The Directors shall include the General Secretary and
the Chairman.
13.1 QUALIFICATION
a)
A person to be qualified as a director must be spiritually
matured and be a full member of the church.
b)
He must be a person of integrity
c)
He must be a trustworthy person.
d)
A relevant professional qualification is essential but not
a sine qua non for the position of a Director.
e)
The General Council in the appointment of the Directors
shall ensure that more than one of the membership have
professional backgrounds that will enhance their duties
as Directors.
13.2
TENURE OF OFFICE
A Director shall hold office for a term of five (5) years and may
be renewed for a further term subject to satisfactory
performance.
13.3 FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES OF DIRECTORS
a)
All properties of the church of whatever tenure, description or
nature shall vest in the directors.
c)
The directors shall see to the proper documentation of the
church’s properties.
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c)
The directors shall advise the church on the acquisition, holding,
conveyance, or assignment of all properties and capita assets
and shall execute all instruments affecting such properties and
assets.
d)
The directors shall also perform all other duties prescribed under
the company’s code 1963 (Act 179) and its consequent
amendment thereof and any other duty delegated to it by the
General Council. 1963 (Act 179)
13.4 DISCHARGE OF DIRECTORS
a)
Any directors who ceases to be a member of the church, or
becomes insolvent or bankrupt or remains outside Ghana for
more than twelve (12) consecutive months without the
knowledge of the Executive Council or the General Council; or
is declared unfit to act as a Director; dies, or resigns shall
thereupon, immediately cease to be a Director.
b)
If any Director desires to be discharged from office, he shall
give at least three (3) months’ notice in writing to the General
Council.
13.5
QUORUM
The quorum for a meeting of the directors shall not be less than
three (3) of the registered members.
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Article 14
14.0 FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATION
14.1 FINANCE BOARD
There shall be a five – member Finance Board which shall be appointed
by the Executive Council for ratification by the General Council.
Included in the Financial Board shall be the Director of Finance who
shall be in charge of the day-to day activities of the Board.
14.1.1 MEBERSHIP
a) Director of Finance
b) Banker
c) Businessman
d) Pastor
e) Apostle
f) They can co-opt people with special expertise as members to assist
them in their deliberations. No co-opted member shall have a
voting right.
14.1.2 FUNCTIONS OF FINANCE BOARD
a)
To administer the Central Fund of The Church
b)
To prepare and submit an annual Budget for approval at the
General Council
c)
To encourage tithing and the spirit of Christian giving.
d)
To ensure that an effective audit system is maintained at the
Head office and other branch offices of the Church, e.g. Area
and District offices.
f)
To ensure timely internal audit of the General Accounts of the
Church including those of the Headquarters, the Area and
District offices.
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g)
h)
i)
j)
To undertake monthly appraisal of Budget performance of the
area heads and Head office.
To review quarterly budget performance.
To submit to the Executive Council the Balance sheets, Final
Accounts for each year, Audit Reports and action taken thereon.
To invest surplus funds of the Church with the prior approval of
the Executive Council.
14.1.3 TENURE OF OFFICE
The Finance Board shall hold office for a term of four (4) years
and may be renewed for a further term subject to satisfactory
performance of their duties.
14.2
FINANCE
The Finance Board shall devise appropriate measures to raise
funds to meet the various financial commitments of the church.
14.3
SOURCES OF FINANCE
The church shall be financed from tithes and offerings, free-will
offerings, missionary offerings by members and any other
monies received from other sources based on the scriptures.
14.4
CENTRAL FUND
There shall be a Central Fund at the Church’s Headquarters into
which monies received from the assemblies and areas, and any
other sources shall be paid. Both capital and recurrent
expenditure of the church shall be paid out of the central Fund.
The Central Fund shall be operated for and on behalf of the
a)
b)
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Executive Council by the
Council.
14.5
Finance Board appointed by the Executive
OTHER FUNDS
There shall be other funds from the Women, Men, Youth and
Children’s Fellowships and Pension funds and such other funds
as may be approved by Executive Council which shall be used
for the purpose of the Lord’s work.
Article 15
15.0 OFFICIAL SEAL
a)
The official seal of the church shall be an engravement of an
open Bible resting on two Heads.
b)
The common seal shall be affixed on all deeds, agreements and
similar documents by the General Secretary in the presence of at
least one (1) Director
c)
The common seal, when not in use, shall be kept in safe custody
by the General Secretary or a person appointed by the Executive
Council during the General Secretary’s absence.
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Article 16
16.0 AUXILIARIES
There shall be auxiliary groups or fellowships within the church.
These groups shall comprise, Women, Youth, Men, Children
and others as may be approved by the Executive Council.
16.1
WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP
There shall be a Women’s Fellowship which shall consist of all
the women in the Local Assemblies.
16.1.1 MEMBERSHIP
Membership shall be opened to all women from age twenty (20)
years upwards.
16.1.2 FUNCTIONS
a)
To study the word of God (the Bible)
b)
To pray for the growth of the church.
c)
To organize seminars, workshops and lectures and
symposia on all aspects of life including the following:
i.
Marriage enrichment, wives’ responsibilities at home,
child welfare, rearing and education and other activities
peculiar to women.
ii.
Business management techniques
iii.
The teaching of basic principles of law relating to the
family e.g. Succession, marriage etc.
d)
To promote the welfare of widows, orphans, the needy,
etc
e)
To carry out evangelism i.e. preaching, witnessing, and
winning souls for the Lord.
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f)
g)
h)
To train women to be responsible married women in the
church and the society.
To develop the talents of women and the total
womanhood to enhance the social, physical, spiritual and
intellectual status of the women.
The fellowship shall operate at the National, Area,
District and Local Levels.
16.1.3 WOMEN’S EXECUTIVES
The Women’s Fellowship shall be administered by an Executive
Committee made up of seven (7) members namely:
1
The President
2
The Vice President
3
The Secretary,
4
The Vice Secretary,
5
Organizer,
6
Financial Secretary
7
Treasurer
16.1.4
ELECTION
a)
The Executive Committee members shall be elected from among
the women
b)
Election shall be by simple majority vote
c)
Ten (10) delegates shall be drawn from each District of the
church to elect the Executive committee members
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16.1.5 TENURE OF OFFICE
The women fellowship executive committee members shall hold
office for a term of four (4) years and may be re-elected for a
further term only.
16.2
YOUTH FELLOWSHIP
There shall be established a Covenant Youth Fellowship as the
Youth Wing of the Church.
16.2.1 MEMBERSHIP
They shall comprise all the youth of the church from thirteen
years and above.
16.2.3 FUNCTIONS
a)
To bring the youth together to teach, train, and to
develop them to grow spiritually
b)
To carry out Evangelism, i.e., preaching, witnessing and
winning souls
c)
To encourage the youth to participate in the full
programs and activities of the church and to further
expose them to the various ministries within the church.
d)
To afford the youth the full opportunity to plan and
organize programs and activities for evangelism in
schools, colleges and the tertiary institutions and to
encourage them to develop the gifts and qualities of
leadership.
e)
To plan and organize programs and activities that meet
the peculiar needs and aspirations of the youth.
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16.2.4 YOUTH EXECUTIVES
The Youth fellowship shall be administered by a Youth
Executive Committee comprising seven (7) members made up
of
1.
President,
2.
Vice President,
3.
Secretary,
4.
Vice Secretary,
5.
Organizer,
6.
Financial Secretary
7.
Treasurer.
Pastors are allowed to be members of the Youth Fellowship but
shall not comprise of more than three (3) members in the youth
Executive committee.
16.2.5 ELECTION
a) The Executive Committee members shall be elected from
among the youth members.
b) Election shall be by simple majority vote.
c) Ten (10) delegates shall be drawn from each District of the
church to elect the executive committee members
16.2.6 TENURE OF OFFICE
The Youth Fellowship Executive members shall hold office for
a term of four (4) years which may be renewed for another term.
16.3
YOUTH PASTOR
There shall be a Youth Pastor who shall be appointed by the Chairman
in consultation with the College of Apostles and the Executive Council
to be ratified by the General Council.
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16.3.1 FUNCTIONS
a)
He will be responsible to the Youth Fellowship Board for the
Youth Fellowship
b)
He will report the state of the youth to the Ministers at their
council meeting twice a year.
16.3.2 TENURE OF OFFICE
He shall hold office for a term of four (4) years and may be
renewed for a further term subject to satisfactory performance
16.4 YOUTH FELLOWSHIP BOARD
There shall be a Youth Fellowship Board. The Board shall comprise
the following:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Youth Pastor
An Apostle
A Deaconess
An Elder
Ministers’ wife
16.4.1 APPOINTMENT
The appointment of the Youth Board shall be done by the Chairman in
consultation with the College of Apostles.
16.4.2 FUNCTIONS
a) To formulate policies and programs for approval by the college
of Apostles and the General Council
b) To take direct oversight responsibility of the Youth
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16.5 MEN’S FELLOWSHIP
There shall be an established Men’s Fellowship as the men’s wing of
The Church.
The Men’s Fellowship shall be administered by an Executive
Committee comprising of seven (7) members made up of:
a) President
b) Vice President
c) Secretary
d) Vice Secretary
e) Organizer
f) Financial Secretary
g) Treasurer
h) An Apostle as a patron to whom they should report
16.5.1 FUNCTIONS
a) To study the word of God (the Bible)
b) To pray and intercede in prayers for the church
c) To organize seminars, workshops and lectures and symposia on
all aspects of life including the following:
i.
Marriage enrichment, husband’s responsibilities at
home, child care and education
ii.
Business management techniques.
iii.
Leadership and responsibility in the home, church
and the state
iv.
Current affairs at both national and international
levels.
v.
The teaching of basic principles of domestic Law e.g. the
making of wills and Agreements for the purchasing of
real and personal properties and
vi.
Act as a vehicle for the spiritual growth of all male
members of the church.
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16.5.2
ELECTION
a)
The Executive Committee members shall be elected from among
the men
b)
Election shall be by simple majority vote
c)
Ten (10) delegates shall be drawn from each District of the
church to elect the Executive Committee members
16.5.3 TENURE OF OFFICE
The women fellowship executive committee members shall hold office
for a term of four (4) years and may be re-elected for a further term only.
16.6 CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
There shall be a children’s ministry made up of the children and their
teachers in the Local Assembly. The Children’s Ministry shall be
administered by the Children Ministry Board.
16.6.1 MEMBERSHIP
Children who are below thirteen (13) years of age.
16.7
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY BOARD
The Children Ministry shall have a five (5) member Board. The
Board shall comprise:
a)
Children’s Director
b)
One Female Pastor
c)
A Deaconess
d)
An Elder
e)
A patron
16.7.1 FUNCTIONS
a)
To organize children at Sunday morning services to pray,
fellowship and to study God’s word.
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b)
To hold periodic competitions and such other activities as shall
ensure the children’s spiritual growth and sustain their interest in
the ministry
c)
To teach children good morals as expounded in the Bible
including respect for authority, teachers, elderly persons and
one’s own parents.
Article 17
17.0
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
17.1 CHURCH MEMBERSHIP
There shall be both adult and children members of the church.
17.4 ADULT MEMBERS
Any member who is thirteen (13) years or more and who has accepted
the Lord as his Lord and personal Savior and is baptized into the church
becomes an adult member. Continues full membership shall, however,
depend on living a blameless life in accordance with the teachings of
the Lord Jesus Christ and obedience to the rules and conduct of the
church.
17.3 CHURCH ASSETS AND PROPERTIES
All assets including buildings, instruments and pews, chairs acquired by
the church are vested in the New Covenant Apostolic Church
International and not in individual members. Ministers and individual
church members who wish to resign or leave the church shall surrender
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all church assets including land, deeds and documents in their
possession to the local Presbytery or the General Secretary of the
church before leaving.
Article 18
18.0 CHURCH DISCIPLINE
We believe that church discipline is to the glory of God, and is good for
the purity of the church, and the spiritual benefit of members. It serves
as a warning to the congregation and also averts reproach upon the
name of Christ and for the transgressor; especially, that he may repent
and be saved.
18.1 DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS
An officer or member of the church who commits any of the
following offences shall be disciplined in accordance with the
principles of the church:
a)
Habitually visiting questionable places
b)
Falling into open sin
c)
Embracing or spreading false doctrine
d)
Divorcing wife or husband without reasonable grounds
e)
Man marrying more than one wife
f)
A woman getting married to an already married man
g)
Disobeying and showing disrespect to church authority at any
level
h)
Practicing immorality.
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18.2 SANCTIONS
Depending upon the gravity of the offence committed, an
offending officer or member
a)
May be publicly rebuked
b)
May be suspended from taking active part in all church
programs and activities
c)
May be banned from ministering or witnessing on the platform
of the church
d)
May be removed from office when he holds a position in the
church
e)
An Officer, Elder, Deacon or Deaconess may be removed by the
appointing authority.
f)
In extreme cases, an offending member/officer may be
excommunicated from the church by the Executive Council on
the recommendation of the College of Apostles.
18.3 RIGHTS OF APPEAL
There shall be a right of appeal in all cases of sanctions. The appeal
shall first be made to the District Presbytery, then to the Area
Presbytery and finally to the church Executive Council where
applicable.
18.3.1 REVIEW
Decisions of any council; or committee/Board may be reviewed upon a
petition of the affected person. This opportunity will be in addition to
the right of appeal.
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Article 19
19.0 MARRIAGES
The church upholds the sanctity of marriage in accordance with the
word of God. Therefore:
a)
The church believes in chastity before marriage
b)
The church encourages the registration and solemnization of
customary marriages
c)
The church does not encourage divorce, neither does it condone
polygamy (Matt. 5:31-32; 19:3-11, Rom 7:1-3, 1 Cor. 7:10-15).
d)
Homosexuality, lesbianism and other perverse sexual practices
are not allowed in the church as these are not biblically
acceptable practices.
e)
All marriages shall be blessed, and solemnized in the church’s
registered buildings.
Article 20
20.0 INHERITANCE
The church upholds patrilineal inheritance.
Article 21
21.0 AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION
No provision of this Constitution shall be amended or deemed to have
been amended or altered whether directly or indirectly by an act or
conduct of the church unless that act or conduct shall have been
approved at a General Council Meeting by two-thirds (2/3) majority of
the members present and by voting.
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21.1
a)
MODE OF AMENDMENT
Any member of the church who seeks to effect any amendment
of any provision of this constitution shall have the same
considered at the Area level if approved by two-thirds (2/3)
majority of the Presbytery members present and by voting. A
notice of the proposed amendment shall be sent to the General
Council meeting through the General Secretary.
b)
If the proposed amendment originates from any of the national
Bodies created by this Constitution then the proposed
amendment shall be communicated through the General
Secretary to the General Council.
c)
The General Secretary shall cause the said proposal to be
circulated to General Council members at least one (1) month
before the General Council meeting
d)
The proposal shall be put on the agenda and debated and
accepted if it draws two-thirds (2/3) of the votes from General
Council members present through voting.
e)
Voting shall be by secret ballot or show of hands.
Article 22
22. 0 EXTRA MINISTERIAL GROUPS IN THE CHURCH
There shall be extra ministerial groups in the Church, to help
individual church members develop and exercise their gifts and
talents.
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These groups shall include:
a) The Bible study group
b) Prayer group
c) Evangelism groups
d) The Ushering groups
e) Praise and worship groups
f) The Choir or the Church Choir and any groups that may
deem necessary to be formed.
All these groups in their operations will be subject to the
control and directive of their respective local Presbyters.
Article 23
23.0
EXISTING OFFICES, COMMITTEES AND BOARDS
All members of existing Committees and Boards immediately
before the coming into force of this constitution shall continue
in office until their terms expire.
Any person who immediately before the coming into force of
this constitution held or was acting in an office or was serving
on a committee or Board in existence immediately before the
coming into force of this constitution shall continue in office
until his term expires or the committee on which he serves
completes its work when it is an adhoc one.
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23.1
PROMULGATION OF THE CONSTITUTION
This sixth edition of the constitution was promulgated at the
Head Office by the General Council at a meeting held on the 4th
May 2019 at the Grace Temple, Accra.
IN FAITH WHEREOF the undersigned being duly authorized
thereto signed this constitution.
………………………………………………………………………………………
APOSTLE MARTIN AGBEMABIESSE
CHAIRMAN
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