Myrtle Baptist Church
Where Love Abides"
Church
21 Curve Street I West Newton, MA I 02465
Myrtle Baptist Church, founded by freed slaves in 1874, was added to the National Register
of Historic Places in 2008 and exists as one of the oldest black churches in New England.
Reverend Brandon Thomas Crowley, Pastor
Reverend Howard M. Haywood, Pastor Emeritus
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Myrtle Baptist Church
Leadership Manual
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Foreword………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….4
Myrtle Baptist Church Leadership…………………………………………………………………………….6
Church History………………………………………………………………………………………………………….7
Our Living Church……………………………………………………………………………………………………10
Church Leadership Positions
Senior Pastor……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..13
Assistant Pastor…………………………………………………………………………………………………………14
Ministerial Team
Description of Ministerial Team Member Responsibilities……………………………………………15
Minister of Christian Education…………………………………………………………………………………..17
Minister of Spiritual Care and Counseling…………………………………………………………………….18
Minister of Discipleship and Spiritual Formation…………………………………………………………18
Minister of New Members…………………………………………………………………………………………...19
Minister of Women……………………………………………………………………………………………………..20
Minister of Youth and Young Adults…………………………………………………………………………….21
Minister of Singles………………………………………………………………………………………………………22
Minister of Community Development………………………………………………………………………….22
Minister of Worship and Arts………………………………………………………………………………………23
Armor Bearer and Church Safety....................…………………………..………………………...…………….23
Church Officers
Deacons……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..25
Trustees……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..26
Treasurer…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...27
Financial Secretary……………………………………………………………………………………………………..28
Clerk……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...…..28
Collector………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…28
Superintendent of Sunday School………………………………………………………………………………..29
Church Staff
Church Administrator……………………………………………………………………………………………………….31
Edmund Kelly Scholar-In-Residence………………………………………………………………………………….32
Church Ministry Descriptions
Affordable Housing Ministry……………………………………………………………………………………………..34
Caregivers Ministry…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..34
Committee on Religious Education……………………………………………………………………………………35
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Daughters of Myrtle………………………………………………………………………………………………………….35
Elders of Color…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………36
History Committee…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..36
Intercessory Prayer Warriors Team…………………………………………………………………………………38
LYFE Youth Ministries……………………………………………………………………………………………………...38
Men's Ministry…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………39
Music Ministry…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………39
Praise Team……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….40
Media Ministry…………………………………………………………………………………………………………...41
Outreach and Missions Ministry………………………………………………………………………………………..41
Security Ministry…………………………………………………………………………………………………………...…42
Ushers Ministry………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..42
Women's Ministry…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….43
Leadership Processes
Diaconate Ordination……………………………………………………………………………………………………….45
Licensure to Preach………………………………………………………………………………………………………….46
Ministerial Ordination………………………………………………………………………………………………………48
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Foreword
“Leadership is influence.”
John C. Maxwell
Every leader has influence. The story is told of a mother who takes her young son shopping. After a day
in the stores, a clerk handed the little boy a lollipop. “What do you say?” the mother said to the boy, to
which he replied, “Just put it on my credit card!” While a humorous story, there is much truth within its
words. That deeper truth is that whether it’s family leadership, professional leadership, classroom
leadership, or even church leadership, we have influence. Not all of us have an elaborate office, drive
the most prestigious automobile, or carry the most recognized title, yet all of us have influence. The
question is, what direction is our influence leading people? In the book of Matthew, we are called upon
to be the “salt of the earth”; and we are well aware that salt is one of the most efficient preservers of
food substances. Expanding our understanding, Richard Halverson once said, “As long as salt retains its
identity, it is useless. It must penetrate to benefit, and when it does, it disappears. Salt is doing its work
only when it is invisible.” Halverson highlights the foundational key to church leadership—hidden
influence. That is to say, we are only effective in our leadership when we penetrate the surface of our
ministry and become an invisible flavoring force in the functioning of the ministry, which ultimately
creates visible results.
In this leadership manual, a call goes out to all leaders to give attention to the development of their
influence; and in order to do this, yield to the following five principles. I challenge you to continue
upholding the crux of faith—love, which is the foundation of our life and ministry with all persons. We
live in a postmodern culture of multiculturalism, globalization, societal injustices, and advanced
technology, where challenges to the faith in practice and theory will be constant and inevitable. Thus, in
the midst of this societal framework, it is crucial that as leaders, we preserve love. I challenge you in
your leadership to ponder the unthinkable. In order to make a difference in the congregation and the
condition of society, you must ponder the seemingly unthinkable things. Ponder that your ministry could
truly bridge the divides of this world, and see that your best hope for the future of the ministry is in a
place of unconditional acceptance and pluralism. I challenge you to question the status quo. Albert
Einstein is noted for saying, “The important thing is not to stop questioning; curiosity has its own reason
for existing.” If we are to advance the work of the ministry and become all God has called us to be, we
have an obligation to question the status quo in an informed, relevant, and confident manner. This is
where we can set our servant-leadership apart from society, that is, with a willingness to challenge
traditional systems and processes for the potentialities of innovative discoveries. I challenge you to be
humble. Remember as you express your point of view, your leadership, and your character of faith as
defined throughout the course of your discipleship at Myrtle Baptist Church, that you are the created,
and not the Creator. As you lead your ministry, seek not to be served, but rather as Jesus did with a
towel in washing the feet of the disciples, seek to serve.
Lastly, I challenge you to do as the French philosopher, Rene Descartes encourages—“know thyself.” It is
in getting to know yourself that you will face risks. You might have to risk stepping out of your comfort
zone to learn and grow in the understanding of others; risk stimulating your spiritual curiosity; and risk
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expanding your leadership methodologies. In getting to know yourself, you will learn that our
commonalities in ministry are greater than our divisions. You have been delivered here at Myrtle for
such a time as this, to get to know yourself in order to serve as a navigational map in congregational
leadership. Therefore, be committed to the purpose for which you have been delivered and allow that
commitment to produce a high-tide of results.
To raise the level of leadership in all ministries of the church will produce the same effect as an incoming
tide. Anchored in the harbor are large luxury liners, professional fishing boats, perhaps a Navy ship,
small row-boats, and even canoes. However, at the moment when the tide comes in, all the boats are
lifted to a higher level. So it will be with the development of leadership. When the tide of leadership
development enters into the harbor of Myrtle, all boats—deacons, ministers, trustees, choir members,
ushers, and all others—will be lifted to higher levels. Thus, as this manual serves to bring a high-tide into
the leadership of Myrtle, uphold the crux of faith, ponder the unthinkable, question the status quo, be
humble, and know thyself. It is in yielding to these five principles that your leadership influence will liken
itself to salt, breaking through the barriers of surface ministry, to provoke a tide of ministry greatness,
built on love, hope, innovation, humility, and authenticity.
Minister Robert S. Harvey
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Myrtle Baptist Church Leadership
What is leadership? It does not happen just as a gift or talent; if a person has a natural ability, he or she
still must learn what it is and what it means. Additionally, a person who has no natural ability can still
rise to the occasion.
A basic description of leadership is the duty and call of the person who is in charge to take charge with
courage and character, and to risk leading his/her people where they need to go and how they need to
be led. It is a position that seeks vision, opportunities and needs and then motivates others to get it
done through the resources, talents and time they can contribute. It is the ability to initiate, empower,
equip, and train, but it does not stop there, because a good leader also prepares his/her people by
his/her example as he/she guides, inspires, supports, influences, and positively challenges the team for
the mission or task at hand. It is not about personality or charisma; it is more about being a positive and
motivating “coach” who loves what he/she does so that people feel cared for and inspired to step up
and move forward for mutual benefit and positive outcomes and goals.
Successful leadership is rooted in the life of our Lord Jesus Christ, as “He took a towel” (John 13:2-5). He
was efficient with people, had goals in sight, but was also relational over being task driven. This kind of
“servant leadership” produces a church filled with real purpose and motivation as people are called,
appreciated, loved, encouraged, discipled, involved by mentoring and discipleship before they are
deployed. The leadership of Christ is producing a church of spiritual maturity and involvement so that
the people are inspired to be devolved, as in caught up in Christ and with one another to be more
admirable in the faith and in the world making God known. (Mark 10:35-45; Luke 22:26; John 13:2-17; 1
Corinthians 3-4; Ephesians 4)
Are you a good leader? Do you want to be? We have to ask ourselves whether we are being an agent of
change or being manipulative and controlling. We have to ask ourselves if we are empowering people or
scheming to get them to do what we want. Are we leading from our authentic spiritual formation or
from personal agendas and adopt God’s will and ways! If you are in leadership, then be a good leader!
Servant leaders are the managers and administers who do the hands-on work of the Lord! We are to do
this by being the people of the Lord.
It is imperative that ALL leaders be accountable, to model and teach it! As mature Christians, we must
come to the point that we allow the search and conviction of the Holy Spirit upon our lives to the very
core of our souls (2 Corinthians 13:5)! Once this happens, the result will be more faith and more use to
Christ. It all starts with your determination to encompass the faith God has given you and obey!
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Church History
“…for the people had a mind to work” – Nehemiah 4:6
The very rich history of Myrtle Baptist Church began with Newton’s early black residents, several of
whom made their home there after relocating from the west end of Boston in the mid-1800s. In 1873,
records show that there were 130 blacks living in the City of Newton. First Baptist Church, now Lincoln
Park Baptist Church, became their first spiritual home, some having been members since 1869.
Nonetheless, feeling the need to worship in their own tradition and the freedom to sit in the front of the
church as well as in the rear, they were encouraged to separate, “not with feelings of unkindness toward
our white brethren but simply for the best good of all concerned.” As a result, Thomas Johnson opened
his home to like-minded neighbors, inviting them to worship with him in the old way. According to an
article written by a former pastor of Myrtle, the Reverend Wade Ryan, it was “as if by divine
appointment,” Deacon Thomas met Reverend Edmund Kelley in Charlestown. Kelley purportedly asked,
“Don’t you people want a church in Newton?” In response, Deacon Thomas invited him to preach to the
small group. Reverend Kelley organized them into a society and remained as pastor from 1874 to 1876.
A former slave, Kelley was an extraordinary man in many ways. While still enslaved, he was licensed to
preach by the Mission Church of Columbia, Tennessee in 1842. He was ordained as an evangelist there
in October, 1843 and organized the First Negro Baptist Church. After gaining his freedom, he traveled
extensively, preaching and organizing churches in several states among which were Calvary Baptist
Church, Haverhill, Massachusetts, Shiloh Baptist Church, Newport, Rhode Island and Myrtle Baptist
Church. After leaving Myrtle, he went on to be an important figure in the beginning of the National
Baptist Convention, was an officer in the New England Missionary Baptist Convention and was among
the organizers of the American Baptist Missionary Convention in New York. Reverend Kelley was also
among the delegates of black pastors who met with both Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Andrew
Johnson.
Reverend Edmund Kelley died October 4, 1894 at the age of 76. He is buried at Oak Grove Cemetery in
New Bedford, MA.
At the monthly meeting of First Baptist Church, September 25, 1874, it was voted that the people who
applied for letters of dismission in order to form another church be granted their letters. Among those
persons were, Thomas Johnson, Lymus Hicks, Sarah Simms, Henrietta Rose, Jane Brewer, and Henry
Jones. Although the dismission was completed with dignity and integrity, Nathaniel T. Allen, a
prominent educator and abolitionist expressed his deep regret that “our fellow colored citizens of this
village have organized a church on the single basis of color… It seems that it was God’s will, for
whatever His purpose, that a church called Myrtle become another proclaimer of His word among His
people…”
The first church structure was built in 1875 on land given as a gift by D.C. Sanger, a deacon at Lincoln
Park Baptist Church. The dedicating sermon, For the People Had a Mind to Work, was preached by
Reverend H. J. Patrick, Pastor of Second Church, Newton, MA.
Reverend Peter Randolph was the second pastor and served until 1879. Under his leadership, the
congregation grew from the original 18 to 39. In an article written for the Boston North Baptist
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Association, Reverend Wade Ryan stated, “About this time a great revival broke out in the church and
many souls were converted.”
On October 22, 1897, a fire destroyed the original church. Within a year, the church was rebuilt upon
the same site as the original building. At that time, two beautiful stained glass windows, depicting
“Philip Baptizing the Ethiopian Eunuch” and “The Ascension” were installed. The design and building of
the windows are attributed to the studios of the prominent Boston stained glass maker George W.
Spence of Spence and Bell of Scollay Square. They were brought to Myrtle on a wagon bed. It has never
been corroborated, but it has been the belief that the windows were the gift of a Mr. Edwin B. Haskell
who was one of Newton’s most distinguished citizens. They were not signed, but the windows have
great sentimental value for the church community. Reverend Charles Morris (1896-1899) supervised
their unveiling.
The mid-twenties was a time of discord within the church. Some members chose to dismiss themselves
from Myrtle and form a new congregation, Mt. Zion Baptist Church that was located on Washington
Street in West Newton. When Mt. Zion was dissolved as a church, many of its members returned to the
Myrtle Baptist Church fellowship. So much has happened since that time it is not possible to include it all
here; nonetheless, it is worth highlighting those people and events that are significant to its history.
Reverend Wade Ryan (1909-1923) was said to have been especially known for his eloquence. It was also
through his influence that The Daughters of Myrtle, the oldest organization of the church, was formed
with a charge “to serve the church and community spiritually and financially”.
Reverend Louis Ford has had the longest tenure to date, as pastor of Myrtle. He remained in the pulpit
from 1933 to 1963. Born in Martinsburg, West Virginia, Reverend Ford graduated Morgan State College
in Maryland and later, Boston University when he came to the attention of Professor Mark Dawber who
helped him to find a scholarship. He ultimately earned a Master of Divinity degree there.
At an early age, he learned the trade of broom making from his grandfather. As a broom maker,
Reverend Ford became one of the most highly regarded manufacturers in the area, supplying brooms to
some of the most prestigious stores in the Boston area. It was said, however, that his first love was the
church and that he taught by example. “He believed that to serve God one must use their will, emotions
and intellect.” He encouraged his flock to be givers, not takers. One of his proudest accomplishments
was the retirement of Myrtle’s indebtedness to the Massachusetts Baptist Convention.
Myrtle has always been the focal point of the black community in West Newton. During the time
between 1962 and 1965 many members of the church had their lives disrupted due to their homes
being taken by eminent domain for the extension to the Massachusetts Turnpike. As a result, the church
lost about half of its members due to relocation outside of the area.
In 1968, Myrtle became a place of refuge on the occasion of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King,
Jr., not only for the black community but, for the entire city of Newton. “The church was filled. People
lined the walls and over-flowed into the street.” Dr. King had frequently preached at Myrtle while a
student at Boston University.
Nineteen seventy-four saw the completion of the renovation of the downstairs facilities and a total
renovation and reorientation of the sanctuary. These changes allowed for expansion of the Sunday
School and creation of the Reverend Louis E. Ford Memorial Fellowship Hall.
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The 1980s brought the church to a new juncture with the installation of one of its own sons, Reverend
Howard M. Haywood as pastor, on June 16, 1985. A life-long resident of Newton, his family has resided
in the city for 7 generations. Second only to Reverend Ford, Reverend Haywood was shepherd to this
flock for 23 years, retiring in May, 2008.
Under Reverend Haywood’s leadership a new addition to the church was completed in 1987 which gave
the church adequate space for the Helen Cooper Evans Day Care Center, a vital ministry to the church
and the community. It also provided additional fellowship space, a new pastor’s study and church
office.
With Reverend Haywood’s consistent message of love, Myrtle has striven to become “the church where
love abides.” As a result of the malicious arson of New Hope Baptist Church in Moro, Arkansas,
Reverend Haywood, along with a small group of members, traveled there to bring both spiritual and
financial support. With his encouragement, the Missions Committee began its international outreach
through its involvement with the Kinyago-Dandora Schools located in a slum of Nairobi, Kenya.
About eight years ago, two students from a Boston University preservations program submitted the
name of the Myrtle Baptist Church neighborhood as a candidate for nomination to the National Register
of Historic Places (NRHP). On December 11, 2008, “The Myrtle Baptist Church Historic District was
accepted for inclusion in the NHRP.
In August, 2005, Hurricane Katrina, called America’s “worst natural disaster in modern times,”
devastated the cities of New Orleans, Louisiana and Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Through the effort of
Myrtle’s Dr. Keith Crawford and with the support of Reverend Haywood, a group of Myrtle men traveled
to Mississippi with a truck load of food, clothing, toys and necessities that were distributed among the
victims of the hurricane.
In Reverend Haywood’s words, “I believe there is only one true test of a church’s collective love of Jesus
Christ… The real test of our love of Christ is whether we obey him or not and His commandment… to
love one another.”
Reverend Haywood was succeeded by Brandon T. Crowley, a native of Rome, Georgia. Reverend
Crowley was certified as a Baptist Evangelical Licentiate on December 2, 2001. He was formerly Youth
Minister of Lovejoy Baptist Church and organizer of the Brandon T. Crowley Ministries. He is a graduate
of the Harvard University School of Divinity and is currently a student at the Boston University School of
Theology. Reverend Crowley brings to Myrtle youthful enthusiasm and contemporary relevance
embodied within a southern “down home” philosophy.
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Myrtle Baptist Church: Our Living Church
Nestled within one of Newton’s thirteen villages, a stone’s throw away from Boston, Myrtle Baptist
Church has fostered a family, down-home, country feeling, where God is always present. A staple of the
African American community for 135 years and a place of spiritual solace for anyone in need, the church
has a distinguished history in the city. It has garnered a reputation, throughout the Boston area and
beyond, as a dynamic church “where love abides”.
Myrtle possesses a warm and welcoming spirit that visitors feel the moment they enter our beautiful,
yet modest, main nave. It continues through the worship service and lasts until the final sip of punch at
collation. We feel that it is not accidental when you enter our doors. God and Jesus make no mistakes.
Therefore, we believe that you have come to Myrtle for a reason and, eventually, the reason will be
revealed.
Our church is blessed with some of the most generous souls and brightest minds in the area, crossing
multiple sociological, racial and economic lines. From media expert to medical doctor, janitor to teacher,
or attorney to day care provider -- we come together and worship our God as one, not judging nor
condemning. Relying on Jesus, working and worshiping together are the foundations of our success and
longevity as a church family.
Myrtle’s continued growth is evidenced by the many young adults and families now calling Myrtle their
home church. Our members, approximately 300 in number, come from a wide geographic area, reaching
as far away as 50 miles. That others want to be a part of Myrtle is a testament to the presence of God
and Jesus Christ is in our midst, as well as to the gospel preached and the missions pursued here. The
geographic reach of Myrtle’s ministries has challenged us to think differently about how we do God’s
work in a responsive and effective manner.
We have a good mix of all age groups which should ensure a bright future. Everyone finds comfort at
Myrtle -- children who love surprising us with their Bible knowledge as much as they love taking candy
from the pastor’s desk; young professionals looking to bring their passion and professional expertise to
edify the Myrtle community; and our precious elders, who inspire and ground us with their well-worn
praises.
The spiritual growth and nurturing of our youngest members is front and center in our regular service.
Our children’s ministries may be more noteworthy by the practice of individuals than by grand group
programming. Myrtle’s children have sponsored read-a-thons to raise money for presidential
candidates, won citizenship awards and have provided untold wisdom at Sunday morning “Children’s
Chat”, a brief, open conversation held during service, when adult members introduce various religious
and ethical topics. We are especially proud of our Sunday School, which boasts about 75 children.
Dedicated teachers employ traditional and novel methods of engaging all youth, our tentative toddlers
through busy teens. Every week they live out our goal of providing religious education to future
generations.
We are blessed to have several choirs, which are well known throughout the Boston area.
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Their heavenly sounds make it very hard not to move your feet and clap your hands during service. Our
music ministry leaders are without equal and have also earned fine reputations within professional
music and religious communities. Recently, some of our musicians and singers spearheaded a state-wide
conference on the origins and history of African American spirituals, signaling that Myrtle values both
the spirit and substance of our religious practices.
The church is financially healthy and lives by the creed that “God Will Provide.” Like all of our strongly
held beliefs, it is short in words and deep in meaning. Our pastors have asked us to give to the offering
as freely as God has provided for us. We listen and respond in kind. Because we have faith in God’s
limitless resources, he has allowed the church to answer every internal need and allowed our missions
to reach far and wide, a blessing for which we are continually grateful and a bounty to which we are
committed to share.
Myrtle is a community of believers, led by the Word of God. We think of ourselves as selfless followers
of Jesus Christ who truly care about one another. Another of our often repeated mottos is “God is Good,
all the time. All the Time, God is good.” We use these words as a call and response between any speaker
and the rest of the congregation. This back and forth is a perfect refrain for the black religious tradition
that anchors our worship. We hold onto the simple truth of this message, which was constantly
preached and demonstrated by our Pastor Emeritus, as something familiar to bind us close. It will likely
be woven into the fabric of our expressions of faith and community for many years to come.
Thanks be to God, we are today and we will remain the church, “Where Love Abides.”
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Myrtle Baptist Church
“Where Love Abides”
CHURCH LEADERSHIP
POSITIONS
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Senior Pastor
The office of Senior Pastor is ordained by God as overseer and teacher of the local church in order to
provide holistic direction and training for the people of God, a Christ-centered minister who provides
spiritual leadership for the church.
Primary Responsibilities
Preaching and Teaching
The Pastor should have a dynamic preaching/teaching ministry that is scripturally based. Being an active
student in the Bible and talented teacher of the word, her/his actions will encourage parishioners to
study, learn and understand the Bible and apply God’s teachings in daily life.
Administration
The Pastor unifies our collective activities around goals and efforts that support members individually
and collectively growing in a Christ-centered environment. Included in this effort is the challenge to the
church to be good stewards over the physical and monetary blessings that God has bestowed. The
Pastor strikes an even balance between guiding the church and letting the spirit lead our works and
fellowship, developing a plan to effectively manage resources and activities while not being inhibited or
controlled by an inflexible structure.
Outreach
Serving as an ambassador for Myrtle, the Pastor will engage in dialogue with community groups and will
encourage an agenda of Social Justice.
Interpersonal
The credo of the church, where love abides, is supported by the interpersonal relationships and example
set by the Pastor. All generations of the church body are inspired by his/her personal testimony of the
love of God and power of the Holy Spirit.
Youth Engagement
The Pastor will continue the strong focus on the youth and young adults including: encouragement of
participation in worship services; development of Christian education programs that attract and retain
active participation; and displaying a genuine interest and love for their development during their
Christian walk through life.
Leadership
The Pastor’s role requires a visionary approach to nurturing and supporting all endeavors, while leading
the church into a closer relationship with God. The Pastor will develop and lead the various ministries
including pulpit staff, deacons, trustees, music department and all other church initiatives. She/he will
formulate, communicate and attract support for some new ministerial priorities while respecting our
treasured missions and capacity.
Membership Cultivation
The pastor has an unselfish interest in the welfare and spiritual growth of others and has a fervent
interest in and commitment to personal needs of the flock.
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Assistant Pastor
The role of the Assistant Pastor is to assist the Senior Pastor in the life of the church from the spiritual
perspective. This requires a firm grasp on the mission, vision, theology, purpose and strategy of the
church.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Offer pastoral leadership to the congregation alongside and, when necessary, in place of the
Senior Pastor.
2. Ensure that the systems, practices, and policies of the church responsibly and effectively
support its ministry activities.
3. Schedule in consultation with the Senior Pastor, for funerals, weddings, baby dedications and
other member-related services.
4. Help members of the church evaluate what ministries best support their spiritual gifts.
5. Oversee and develop effective and efficient ministries for the members of the church that foster
spiritual growth, relational intimacy and community care after consultation with the Senior
Pastor.
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Ministerial Team Member
Responsibilities
* The following guidelines may change at the pastor's discretion. Ministers will be notified of changes in a timely
manner.
From the beginning, God has called leaders to serve the people. Those licensed or ordained to special
ministries are known as Ministers or Reverends. It is the consistent New Testament teaching that the work of a
minister is "for the perfecting of the saints and for the edifying of the body of Christ" (Eph. 4:12). The minister is
called of God to a position of responsibility rather than privilege. A Christian minister's responsibility is to
serve. Jesus provided the pattern for Christian ministry—He came, not to receive service, but to give it. The word
ministry itself means "service," which is an ideal for all Christians. Ministry in the church has as its goal the
edification of individuals. (Eph. 4:7-16).
“Ministers must preach not only in the pulpit, but out of it; their converse must be a constant sermon, and in that
they may be more particular in the application, and descend to persons and cases better than they can in their
public ministry.” - Matthew Henry
Below are the ministerial responsibilities for licentiates and ordained clergy who serve at Myrtle
Baptist Church.
Responsibilities:
· All ministerial team members serve at the will of the Senior Pastor.
· Attend ministerial team meetings
· Be in attendance during Sunday services, ordination services, funerals, and special
liturgical services
· Report absences to the Ministerial Leader before the monthly meetings
· Preaching engagements and ministerial activities performed outside of Myrtle
should be submitted to the Ministerial Leader a month before the engagement.
· Pastoral counseling will only be conducted by ministerial team members upon the
request of the Senior Pastor.
· Conduct weddings, funerals, and other services by request and reference
· General availability to assist in the work of local church life
· Community ministry - cooperation in interdenominational, inter-religious, and
community programs
· Serve as ministerial representative on specified boards and committees
· Share in prospective membership calls
· Hospital visitation
· Follow-up of funerals, weddings and convalescence
· Routine calls on members with special concern for inactive members
· Active participation in crisis management situations
· Assist in planning and teaching preparatory membership classes/groups for children,
youth, and/or adults
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· Small group facilitation (organizing and resourcing study groups, prayer groups or
work groups)
· May be called upon to preach during the calendar year
· He or she will also be asked to assist, or lead when necessary, in the administration
of the ordinances.
· Accountable to: God first and the Senior Pastor second
· Accountable with: The Senior Pastor, Diaconate ministry, and the congregation
· Accountable with: The denomination, Region/State/City and national leaders
Evaluation
Ministerial Team Members will participate in an annual review with the Senior Pastor. The
evaluation is meant to increase effectiveness as well as improve communications. Evaluation
can be a positive and growing experience. This process is meant to emphasize the positive
qualities of leadership, the achieving of all stated objectives, and the determining of new
objectives. Unreached objectives or weaknesses in leadership can be discussed in love and with
plans for improvement. During the evaluation the senior Pastor will seek feedback from the
congregation.
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Minister of Christian Education
The Minister of Christian Education is responsible to the church for the development and promotion of
an effective Christian educational and developmental ministry through the Sunday School and Bible
class.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Work under the direction of the Senior Pastor and in cooperation with the appropriate other
ministers in planning a comprehensive Christian education curriculum and ministry for the
church.
2. Provide nurture, vision and guidance for all aspects of the educational program in accordance
with the goals, objectives and policies established by the mission, vision, and strategy of the
church.
3. Establish and lead a Christian Education Commission, which will serve as a consulting board and
network for the enlisting and training of volunteers.
4. In cooperation with the Ministerial Team, serve as the educator, teacher, and resource person
for the Sunday School teachers.
5. Serve in the selection and research of teaching curriculum for the Sunday School and be
available as a resource for curriculum for other ministries as needed.
6. Stay informed through continuing educational conferences, conventions, and seminars
concerning trends in educational methodology.
7. In cooperation with the Sunday School Superintendent and the Minister of Discipleship and
Spiritual Formation, recruit and train potential leadership for educational programs; as well as
train existing teachers through a systematic training program.
8. Work collaboratively with the Minister of Youth and key leadership in planning ministry to
children and youth through the Sunday School and Bible study.
9. Work with the church staff in the designing and accomplishment of long range plans relating to
educational ministry.
10. Develop and manage, with consult from the Christian Education Commission, the Christian
Education annual budget for recommendation to the Finance Department.
11. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities.
12. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor.
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Minister of Spiritual Care and Counseling
The Minister of Spiritual Care and Counseling is responsible to the church for the development and
oversight of an effective schedule of programming and services that act as resources for members in
crisis.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Develop and sustain an entry-level training program for lay counselors, along with ongoing
supervision and evaluation of those lay counselors.
2. Perform intakes of potential counselees for referral or assignment to lay and ministerial
counselors.
3. Maintain a referral network of various levels of professional counselors.
4. Conduct personal counseling (especially pre-marital, marriage, bereavement and family
counseling).
5. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities.
6. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor.
Minister of Discipleship & Spiritual Formation
The Minister of Discipleship and Spiritual Formation is a spiritual teaching and preaching position whose
sole responsibility is to move persons from “members” to “disciples,” which essentially means advancing
discipleship, connecting spiritual teachings to human living, and developing lay leadership throughout
the church.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Be responsible for providing leadership to the weekly bible study of the church, small groups,
and Sunday litany development.
2. Identify guest instructors, presenters, and moderators that will be available for leading and
teaching these classes during the midweek time of study. S/he will be involved in the
establishment and development of a varied curriculum of Bible study, theological study, life
application study, and interesting courses that are current and spiritually helpful.
3. Cultivate “Community Groups,” which are small groups that generally meet during weekdays or
weekend. The Minister will be responsible for the training, resourcing, and supplying of
consistent encouragement to “Community Group” leaders who will provide direct oversight for
their small group.
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4. Identify and empower lay leaders within the body of the church to lead and support the overall
vision of the Senior Pastor and the Myrtle Baptist Church.
5. Establish measurement and assessment tools to determine the effectiveness of bible studies,
special seminars, assigned resources, and community groups.
6. Work in conjunction with the Minister of New Members to assure there is a clear and effective
path for newcomers that warmly welcomes them, introduces them to Myrtle Baptist Church,
provides them with an understanding of the theological curriculum, and facilitates a significant
connection within a small group, ministry, and/or service opportunity.
7. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities.
8. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor.
Minister of New Members
The Minister of New Members is responsible to the church for the reception and integration of guests
and new members within the community, primarily centered on the Sunday morning experience.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Ensure that all new members of the church are well-acquainted with the mission and vision of
the community, furthermore understanding how they fit in the mission and vision of the
community.
2. Develop a monthly new member’s fellowship around engaging and rooting new members into
the Myrtle Christian community and Christ by preparing them for excellence in ministry through
disciplining, mentoring, spiritual gift discovery, candid discussions, and intimate time with the
Senior Pastor, Pastor Emeritus, and ministry leaders.
3. Organize a Greeter’s Team, made of ushers and congregational volunteers, who will cover all
entrances to church, in order that visitors are provided a friendly face upon initial contact with
the Myrtle community.
4. Work in conjunction with the ushers and greeters to ensure that all visitors of the church are
welcomed and embraced, as well as provided a worship liaison to lead them through the order
of worship.
5. Serve as the initial point of contact during the “Invitation to Discipleship,” attaining all necessary
contact and demographic information from the new members for the official records of the
church.
6. Work with the Church Administrator in order to ensure that all new members receive a followup from the Myrtle community, encouraging them to both return for further visits as well as
unite with us in community.
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7. Assign leadership oversight for each new member in the person of a deacon, in order for each
new member to have a direct contact for spiritual mentoring and growth.
8. In partnership with the Minister of Discipleship and Spiritual Formation, organize small group
sessions to assist new members in identifying and cultivating their spiritual gifts for effective use
in the life of the Myrtle community.
9. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities.
10. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor.
Minister of Women
The Minister of Women is responsible to the church for the design and implementation of effective
ministry strategies and programming that ministers to the women of the congregation and is responsive
to individual as well as communal needs. This minister is responsible for actively building relationships
with and among the women of the church to facilitate spiritual growth, foster intergenerational
relationships and equip women for ministry service.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Serve the mission, vision, and strategy of the church as set forth by the Senior Pastor by
developing, coordinating and administering an effective and comprehensive ministry to meet
the diverse needs of women of the church and to provide leadership to and supervision of staff
members and volunteers involved in this ministry.
2. Develop and coordinate women’s small group Bible studies and monthly meetings, as well as
conferences, luncheons, service projects, and community trips.
3. Recruit, train, and motivate volunteers and leaders from a variety of backgrounds and walks of
life to support and assist the mission of the women’s ministry.
4. Cultivate relationships with community groups in order to enhance special services for womenparticular needs: sexual and emotional abuse, singles, senior women, empty-nest syndrome,
balancing work and home, parenting skills, and others as identified.
5. Serve as a liaison between the women of the church and the spiritual leadership of the church
to ensure that the spiritual care of women is both nurtured and enhanced.
6. In partnership with the Minister of Discipleship and Spiritual Formation, organize small group
sessions to assist new members in identifying and cultivating their spiritual gifts for effective use
in the life of the Myrtle community.
7. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities.
8. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor.
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Minister of Youth & Young Adults
The Minster of Youth & Young Adults is responsible to the church for the development and promotion of
an effective safe place for children and youth to belong, to be loved and accepted, and to have genuine
exploration of the self and what it means to have a personal relationship with God.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Cultivate personal relationships with the children and youth of the church, helping them to
develop a greater sense of self, God, Christ, and their mission in the world.
2. Establish and oversee a Youth Ministry Council, which will assist in the development of a
comprehensive strategy plan, outlining youth ministry goals and objectives.
3. Provide weekly lessons through multiple avenues—Sunday School, Bible study, and Children’s
Chat—that are cooperative with the mission, vision, and strategy of the church, as set forth by
the Senior Pastor.
4. Develop new programs and/or services, as well as continue programs that will accomplish youth
ministry goals including: small group chats, mission experiences, retreats, social gatherings,
community fellowships, and creative ministries—drama, dance, etc.
5. Plan and implement programs to support the parent/child relationship and to strengthen
families.
6. Cultivate relationships with parents, families, and guardians, helping them to feel welcomed and
included in the life of the youth ministry.
7. Working alongside parents and families in the spiritual growth and Christian development of
their children.
8. Be available to serve as a consult and resource for parents and families concerning the whole
life of their youth.
9. Recruit, train, and develop volunteers in partnership with the Minister of Christian Education.
10. To ensure that all youth ministries and programs are adequately staffed for effective and
efficient operations.
11. Study and make recommendations for needed changes and improvements in youth ministries,
including but not limited to, organization, space, equipment, furnishings, and policies and
procedures.
12. Develop the youth ministry budget for recommendation to the finance department.
13. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities.
14. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor.
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Minister of Singles
The Minister of Singles is responsible to the church for the development and promotion of a ministry
that responds to the needs of all non-married, divorced or widowed person of the church.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Develop and oversee the mission, goals, events and budget of the Singles Ministry.
2. Support single parents and develop programs, workshops and training sessions to minister to their
special needs.
3. Plan one or more annual events that bring together all participants in the Singles Ministry,
realizing that single adults encompass a diverse population in regards to such things as age,
professional status, life experiences and individual needs.
4. Develop a monthly biblical fellowship, seeking to foster an encouraging, nurturing and exhorting
environment in which single adults can grow as maturing Christians.
5. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities.
6. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor.
Minister of Community Development
The Minister of Community Development is responsible to the church for developing and sustaining a
strong connection between our church and the community.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Structure and organize all mentoring and student programs with schools and educational
organizations in the surrounding area.
2. Develop and monitor programs that directly affect the surrounding community, such as health
workshops, tutoring programs, housing assistance, job placement, and any other programs as
needed by the community.
3. Interact with community residents and organizations on behalf of the church.
4. Accompany the Senior Pastor in meetings with political (local, state, national and international)
officials when requested.
5. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities.
6. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor.
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Minister of Worship & Arts
The Minister of Worship and Arts is responsible to the church for enhancing the implementation of the
arts to enhance the worship of God within the church and to further the spread of the Gospel outside of
the church.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Plan and lead worship and the Praise Team at all worship services and special services at the
church
2. Audition, along with the Minister of Music and Senior Pastor, members of the Praise Team
(which will not exceed more than 15 members)
3. Rehearse and train Praise Team members weekly for services
4. Maintain a catalog of music to assist Senior Pastor and Minister of Music in coordinating
appropriate songs for worship services
5. Create and implement a performing arts program and assist in outreach productions of the
church
6. Maintain financial records for this ministry
7. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities
8. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor
Armor Bearer & Church Security
An armor bearer is one called by God to serve and help his or her assigned leader in life, ministry, and
especially in the fight of faith. In essence, an armor bearer is called to attend to, minister to, care for,
help, and be of use, assist, benefit, promote, support, nourish, and encourage their leader. Armor
Bearers are not elected but are appointed by the Pastor from congregants who are in good standing,
who are tithers, and who love the church.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Provide a safe place to worship
2. Remove fear from the minds of the members and visitors who attend
3. Provide physical security of the building and its contents
4. Work with local law enforcement agencies to prevent crime
5. Protect financial assets of the church
6. Provide protection and security for the Pastor of the church, both at home and on the road
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7. Provide a safe surrounding for church activities that include the collecting of tithes and
offerings, parking, and general physical security
8. Assist as needed with the planning, conducting, and organizing of special projects for all ages to
include but not be limited to: special conferences or retreats, and other training and enrichment
opportunities
9. Participate as appropriate in services, such as participation in worship services, weddings,
funerals, baptisms, Lord's Supper observances, teaching, and preaching under the direction and
supervision of the Senior Pastor
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Deacons
The office of Deacon in the local church represents an extension of the pastoral ministry. A deacon is
considered a servant-leader of the church. They are to be members of the church whose character and
qualifications shall be as specified in 1Timothy 3:8-13 and Acts 6:1-6 and who have successfully
undergone the process of ordination to the Diaconate ministry.
Qualifications of a Deacon
Both the Scripture and the dignity of the office demand a person of the highest spiritual, moral and
practical qualifications:
1. SPIRITUAL QUALIFICATIONS (ACTS 6:1-6)
a) Full of the Holy Spirit
b) Full of Wisdom
c) Full of Faith
2. MORAL QUALIFICATIONS (I TIMOTHY 3: 8-10, 12-13)
a)
Worthy of respect
b)
Sincere
c)
Not indulging in much wine
d)
Not pursuing dishonest gain
e)
The spouse of one companion
f) Giving evidence of spiritual leadership in the home.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Assist the Ministerial Staff with secondary responsibilities in order that they may spend more
time in prayer and in the ministry of the Word, such as visitation ministry, serving church
committees in administration matters, ministry to the sick & needy, evangelism among the lost
2. Give attention to the needs of the membership, especially to widows
3. Assist with the resolution of problems which arise within the church fellowship and work for
reconciliation and unity
4. Serve as examples of wisdom, spiritual excellence, faithfulness and good character within the
fellowship
5. Provide loyal support for the Senior Pastor and Ministerial Staff
6. Participate faithfully in worship services and church events
7. Promote and participate in the Christian education programs of the church, including Sunday
School and Bible Study
8. Display a consistent commitment to stewardship and self-giving
9. Provide personal evangelism among the lost, visitation of the sick, care for shut-ins, and the
encouragement of the indifferent
10. Lead the church in the pursuit of its mission
11. Regularly attend Diaconate ministry meetings
12. Be available to participate in worship and special services as needed
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13. Participate in Deacon-on-Call duties, which includes taking responsibility for serving the sick
during that time
14. Maintain a high level of confidentiality with information relating to issues that may arise within
the Diaconate Ministry
Trustees
The Board of Trustees of Myrtle Baptist Church manages and is responsible for the physical properties,
facilities, financial obligations and all other assets and business matters of the Church. The Board
enables the execution of God's mission through stewardship, with spiritual sensitivity. Acting as one
body, the Trustees provide direction, leadership, processes, capabilities and capacity to help further
God's word.
“Don’t do anything from selfish ambition or from cheap desire to boast; but be humble toward one
another, always considering others better than yourselves. And look out for one another’s interest,
not just for your own” (Philippians 2:3-4). This is the prayerful vision of the Board of Trustees. The
Trustee Ministry is available to serve God's people. In fulfilling this solemn responsibility, the Trustees
follow a set of guiding principles. Some of the principles are:
• Accountability: We accept responsibility and are accountable to God and the congregation for the
proper administration of our stewardship duties.
• Teamwork: We work as a team with our church family and others on the basis of trust, understanding,
and love.
• Communication: We will proactively communicate with the entire church body and others in a clear,
open, and honest manner.
• Spiritual Sensitivity: We have a love for the Lord and consequently the church body. We will be
sensitive to its needs and will endeavor to administer our responsibilities in a manner that provides a
robust and fruitful worship environment.
The Board of Trustees represents and acts in the best interest of the Church members, to assure the
continuation and protection of the Myrtle Baptist Church's assets and programs. The Board of Trustees
makes sound judgments with respect to Myrtle Baptist Church's assets and fiscal responsibilities and
acts judiciously in its oversight capacity for the well-being of the Church.
The Myrtle Baptist Church bylaws state:
• Section 4. THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES. -There shall be a Board of Trustees, composed of nine members
elected at each Annual meeting. The Clerk, Treasurer, Collector and Financial Secretary shall have the
privilege of attending meetings of the Board and shall be present when so requested by the Board.
• The Board shall hold in trust all property belonging to the Church and shall take all necessary measures
for its protection, management, and upkeep. In cooperation with the Pastor, it shall determine the use
of the Church building by outside groups and shall determine suitable charges to be made for such use.
It shall designate the bank where the funds of the Church shall be deposited, shall secure the services of
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a caretaker of the buildings at such salary as is authorized by the Church and supervise his/her services,
and shall present all material legal transactions in behalf of the Church to the Church membership for
ratification.
• The Board shall supervise ways and means of raising the necessary funds for the support of the Church
and the disbursement of these funds as appropriate. It shall also evaluate and assess the over-all
condition and welfare of the Church. The Trustee Board shall also interview and recommend all salaries
of paid personnel of the Church. No contractual agreements shall be entered into unless ratified by the
Church.
• The Board shall submit to the Church at each Annual Meeting a detailed, comprehensive budget for its
consideration. They shall also be responsible for having the financial records of the Church audited at
least every three years.
• The Board shall choose annually a chairman and a secretary and shall meet on a regular basis. Special
meetings may be called by the chairman. A majority of the members shall constitute a quorum. The
secretary shall notify members of the Board of all meetings.
Treasurer
According to Article 6, Section 7 of the by-laws of Myrtle Baptist Church:
A treasurer shall be elected at each Annual Meeting to serve for one year. The Treasurer shall have
custody of the funds of the Church and all deposits made in the name of the Church, and checks drawn
by the Treasurer shall be in the name of the Church. No funds shall be disbursed by the Treasurer except
for the purposes for which they were raised.
Funds received shall be disbursed by the Treasurer only on receipt of a draft from the Financial Secretary
by order of the Board of Trustees. The Treasurer shall also disperse on a regular basis all funds received
for Missions and charitable work of the denominations with which the Church is affiliated and other
causes which the Church may determine.
The Treasurer shall prepare and present a written report of the record of the Treasurer's total receipts
and disbursements showing the actual financial condition of the Church and shall distribute the report
to the Church membership at the Bi-Annual and Annual business meetings. Immediately after election of
the Treasurer's successor, the Treasurer shall deliver to the new Treasurer all books and records for
which the Treasurer has been responsible.
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Financial Secretary
According to Article 6, Section 9 of the Myrtle Baptist Church by-laws:
A Financial Secretary shall be elected at each Annual Meeting to serve for one year. It shall be the
Financial Secretary's duty to keep a detailed ledger of Church income and expenditures. On request of
the chairman of the Trustee Board, the Financial Secretary shall prepare a report of all Church
disbursements to be given to the Treasurer. The Financial Secretary shall, at the end of each quarter and
fiscal year, report to the Board of Trustees an account of the matters pertaining to the Financial
Secretary's office. The Financial Secretary shall prepare and present a comprehensive, detailed report of
receipts and disbursements to the Church at Bi-annual and Annual meetings. (In writing to be
disbursed). Immediately after the election of the Financial Secretary's successor, the Financial Secretary
shall deliver to the new Financial Secretary all books and records for which the Financial Secretary has
been responsible.
Clerk
According to Article 6, Section 6 of the Myrtle Baptist Church by-laws:
A Clerk shall be elected at each Annual Meeting to serve for one year. The Clerk shall keep a complete
record of the transactions of all business at the meeting of the Church. This record shall be read for
approval at the next following business meeting. The Clerk shall keep a record of the names and
addresses of members, with dates and manner of admission; the Clerk shall also keep a record of
baptisms, dedications, and deaths. The Clerk shall notify all officers, committee members and delegates
of their election and appointment. The Clerk shall issue letters of recommendation ratified by the
Church, preserve on file all communications and written reports, and give legal notice of all such
meetings where such is required by these Bylaws. The Clerk shall also assist in preparing denominational
reports. After voted upon by the Church, the Clerk shall attest all legal and other documents on behalf of
the Church. Immediately after the election of the Clerk's successor, the Clerk shall deliver to the new
Clerk all books and records for which the Clerk has been responsible.
Collector
According to Article 6, Section 8 of the Myrtle Baptist Church by-laws:
A Collector shall be elected at each Annual Meeting to serve for one year. The Collector's duty shall be
to keep a record of all tithes and pledges and other income to the Church and prepare and distribute
individual reports to the Church membership informing each of them of their record of giving. The
Collector's duty requires working closely with the Treasurer and Financial Secretary. Immediately after
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the election of the Collector's successor, the Collector shall deliver to the new Collector all books and
records for which the Collector has been responsible. The Collector shall prepare a written report for
presentation at the Bi-annual and Annual business meetings of the Church to be distributed to the
membership. The Collector shall order and dispense the Church financial donation envelopes.
Superintendent of Sunday School
According to Article 6, Section 10 of the Myrtle Baptist Church by-laws:
At each Annual Meeting of the Church a Superintendent of the Church School shall be elected for a term
of one year. The Superintendent shall be the executive head of the Church School, exercising the
authority and performing the duties of that office, following the general directives and policies of the
Board of Christian Education.
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Myrtle Baptist Church
“Where Love Abides”
CHURCH STAFF
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Church Administrator
The position of church administrator (CA) is established to enhance the capacity of the pastor and the
church to plan for, respond to, and effectively manage ministry, members, resources, relationships and
activities by centralizing business affairs and administrative operations of the church. The administrator
advises on, develops and implements administrative policies and procedures, assuring the effective and
efficient management and administration of church functions. The CA works closely with the pastor and
directly supports the Board of Trustees as well as several committees. Administration is a ministry of
Myrtle Baptist Church. As such, the person hired for this position will be a representative and extension
of the church and its overall ministry of serving God’s people.
Primary Responsibilities: The CA is responsible for managing the business affairs of the church and
working with church members and staff to achieve the church’s mission and objectives.
1. Coordinate and provide ongoing oversight of all work in the church office
2. Prepare and oversee budget for, procurement of and maintenance of supplies, equipment,
furnishings & services
3. Provide administrative support of the pastor and committees
4. Recruit/train/develop staff & volunteers
5. Provide ongoing review and oversight, preparing recommendations for improvement as needed
6. Manage communications with the church office including composing electronic communications
& responding to any received; receiving calls, maintaining outgoing voice mail messages,
retrieving messages and responding accordingly; and managing postal mail received at the
church
7. Receive visitors and foster a welcoming environment and respectful and responsive practices;
improve and implement processes to welcome and engage new members and visitors
8. Coordinate full-service support functions required for membership, baptisms, funerals,
weddings and baby dedications
9. Develop policies and procedures manuals and handbooks
10. Maintain electronic and physical retention/preservation of administrative and financial records
11. Create and oversee record retention policies and procedures
12. Schedule and coordinate use of church facilities in church calendar and develop facility usage
policies and procedures
13. Perform regular walk-arounds to inspect for damages and cleanliness and arrange for needed
maintenance and repairs
14. Maintain content of congregational bulletin boards
15. Contribute content to internal electronic and paper media and produce weekly and monthly
church publications
16. Assist ministry leaders in developing collateral materials
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Edmund Kelley Scholar-In-Residence
This parish residency is designed to provide doctoral students or masters students a quiet forum to write
their dissertations or thesis while practicing their crafts. This collaboration will allow the congregation to
benefit from the differing perspectives of theological scholarship and help the scholar to learn how to
create resources for congregations. Although the academic rigors of Systematic and Biblical theology
predominately find their home within the academic institution, they should, and must continue to be,
present within the church, the actual community of God’s people. The institutions in which they sit
should only be distinguished from the church by geography. Theology, in the context of a parish, should
be understood as the experience of discovering God within a community. It is within the context of
community that God makes God's self known. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the church that she does
not separate herself from the benefits of theological midwifery. Ray Anderson, Professor of Theology
and Ministry at Fuller Theological Seminary, says, “As the church is involved in its mission,… its
theological reflection opens up the more comprehensive discipline of exegetical and systematic
theology. ” These disciplines however, are not explored as theoretical hypothesis. The unpacking of all
theology is not done in a vacuum but rather, within the context of the ongoing mission of Christ in the
world. It is our belief that the Myrtle Scholar-in-Residence will help us in our continued pursuit to know
Christ and his mission.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Lecture five times throughout the calendar year
2. Help the greater Myrtle community to better understand the importance and practicality of
theology for everyday life and work
3. Assist parishioners in discussing their understanding of and commitment to Christ-centered
biblical principles
4. Allot the congregation the space to enjoy positive exposure to noted theologians in their pursuit
to discovering the bridge between theology and life
5. Serve and collaborate with others as a special lecture series teacher, specifically from a
theologically inclusive, pluralistic, progressive, and Afro-centric perspective, within the Myrtle
Baptist Church
6. Provide advanced Christian education at Myrtle and diminish the often arbitrary distinction
between the seminary and the local congregation, and breaking down false, unbiblical
distinctions between clergy and laity
7. Develop and demonstrate new ways of making intentional, local church-based theological
reflection and teaching an active practice and an integrated part of the life of the church at
large, helping laity to grow in personal and corporate discipleship, and helping church leaders to
carry out the Great Ends of the Church
8. Work with the Committee on Religious Education and the Myrtle History committee
9. Assist the Pastor in Publishing bi-yearly Sermon booklets for the Myrtle Baptist Archives
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Myrtle Baptist Church
“Where Love Abides”
CHURCH MINISTRY
DESCRIPTIONS
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Affordable Housing Ministry
The Myrtle Village Development Corporation, a non-profit 501 c 3 corporation, is a ministry of Myrtle
Baptist Church designed to develop affordable housing opportunities in close proximity to the church
located at 21 Curve Street in West Newton. In keeping with our mission, the Myrtle Baptist Church
congregation is “reaching up, out and within”. Our primary goal is to preserve and enhance familyfriendly neighborhoods while fulfilling our God-given mission of service to the community.
In pursuit of this mission, the church purchased a single family home at 18-20 Curve Street in West
Newton a number of years ago and in 1986 it expanded to include two 3-bedroom duplexes. Two
families are currently living in these units with the rent for one family being subsidized through the
Federal Section 8 housing voucher program and the other family paying fair market rent but qualifying
for subsidy. Following recent discussion with NCDF regarding the potential for expanding affordable
housing opportunities in the immediate neighborhood, Myrtle Baptist Church purchased a single family
home at 12 Curve Street, next door to the duplex. The proposal to redevelop these structures features
two attractive homes with landscaped lots and a design that will complement the architecture of the
other homes in the neighborhood dating back to the early 1900’s. The property will include seven units
of housing affordable to families at 50%-90% of area median income (AMI) and will remain affordable in
perpetuity.
We are keenly aware of the critical need for affordable housing in the city of Newton and are pleased to
embark upon this endeavor to expand these opportunities.
Caregivers Ministry
The Caregivers Ministry of Myrtle Baptist Church was established to implement a caregiving support
program. This system will build support networks; train and educate volunteers and caregivers;
coordinate counseling and support group services; alleviate suffering and enrich the lives of those in the
congregation and community facing hardship. Fueled by a desire to “reach up, out and within”, the
Caregivers Ministry seeks to offer services that assist with practical services such as health seminars,
transportation needs, errand running and sitter services, house cleaning, and medical and legal
document assistance. The ministry will also offer spiritual and mental wellness resources such as grief
counseling and support groups.
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Committee on Religious Education
The Committee on Religious Education is generally charged with overseeing Religious Education for all
members of the congregation. This committee deals with coordinating with other ministries within the
church to develop intentional, thoughtful programming for educational opportunities for the whole
congregation. Committee membership will include congregants that represent the different age groups
in the congregation. Leadership positions within the committee can include a Chair and a Secretary.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Plan special and intergenerational events with the pastor.
2. Host monthly lecture series about any range of issues.
3. Plan Quarterly workshops to promote religious diversity.
4. Plan interfaith dialogues and interfaith and ecumenical activities
5. Provide leadership for setting goals and developing philosophy of religious growth and
learning at Myrtle
6. Attend district and area religious education conferences on religious diversity
7. Assist the chair of the Howard Haywood lecture series
8. Assist the designated advisor for the Edmund Kelley Scholar-in-Residence. The first scholar
will be selected by the pastor. After which the committee will develop an application
process and select a scholar.
9. Raise funds to provide the Scholar-in-Residence with a stipend.
10. Develop and present annual RE budget to the Board of Trustees in late winter or early
spring
11. Execute RE budget and maintain up-to-date files and records
12. Arrange for reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenditures for budgeted items with
appropriate receipts for the Treasurer
Daughters of Myrtle
The Daughters of Myrtle came into being in 1921 under the pastorate of Rev. Wade Ryan. He chose a
group of women to prepare dinner for the Northern Baptist Convention’s annual meeting. They did an
excellent job. Rev. Ryan with wisdom and foresight, envisioned the impact of the good these women
could have on Myrtle Baptist Church. He encouraged them to form a group and thus the Daughters of
Myrtle became the church’s first auxiliary.
The obligation of the Daughters of Myrtle was to help the church and community spiritually and
financially when and wherever possible. The mission of the group has not changed. Their most recent
activities include staying connected with our college students, supporting the efforts of local shelters,
participating in the Adopt-an-Angel for the Mississippi Salvation Army and reaching out to the sick and
shut-in members of the community. Annually, they host informational and sponsorship events which
include: Community Health Fair, Spaghetti Dinner, Youth Ski trip, Pamper Drive, Anniversary luncheon,
and the weekly Collation.
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Elders of Color
The Elders of Color luncheons continue to bring together our community of Elders who are our wise,
proud and strong foundation of believers. We honor our elders for their sacrifice and their commitment
to family and community. Their walk by faith and not by sight models for us how our spiritual growth
and trust in the Jesus of our salvation will equip us with the tools to overcome and persevere. The
Elders of Color host the following annual events: Christmas party, yard sale, and June cook out.
History Committee
The Myrtle Baptist History Committee has three major activities (1) collecting and safeguarding all the
records that can be found (2) making sure that the church makes and keeps adequate records of its
current progress (3) and helping all the members to appreciate their church through understanding its
past. The members of the History Committee are enlisted from among those genuinely interested and
willing to work. There are no nominations or elections. The committee meets regularly and submits
reports of its progress to the church.
The committee carries the continuing responsibility for helping the church make an adequate record of
its current affairs. For instance, it should check at regular intervals to see that the minutes of the church
and its various organizations are being written in a way that will be permanently informative. Churches
which record only items which are approved rid their minutes of every trace of division, but at the cost
of making records false to the truth as it actually happened. The history committee should see to it that
important events or accomplishments are fully recorded. The erection of a new building, the call of a
new pastor, and all other church celebrations should be suitably recorded.
There is only one completely adequate way to protect records against all loss and that is by use of
microfilm. All churches should have their minutes, and as much other material as possible microfilmed.
The cost, per year, is too small to be a barrier to the poorest church. The benefit, complete safety, is
priceless.
The committee should make graphic and interesting reports to the church through the use of features
such as "Thirty Years Ago This Month in Our Church"; displays of eye-catching new materials; and
presentations of third or fourth generation church members. The committee could set up and sponsor a
permanent museum, or a series of temporary displays, so that members may see the artifacts of their
church’s past. Finally, the committee should plan for the eventual writing and publication of the church’s
history. This is a once-a-generation job, but it is important, and if well done, it can be epochal.
Though the committee cannot expect to find all the records of the church’s past, it should find as much
material as possible in the following categories:
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1. Legal Papers and Records —The church’s covenant of organization, charter, property deeds, etc.,
although properly the concern of the church trustees, are also related to the work of the history
committee. The committee should make certain that these records exist and are safely stored. It should
search for out-of-date documents, such as former charters, or the record of deeds to former properties.
Copies of these documents and of those currently in force would be a valuable part of the church’s
historical collection.
2. Minutes —The basic church record is found in the minutes of the business and deacons’ meetings. If
any of these records are missing, they should be sought from closet to closet in the church, and from
basement to attic in the homes of members. It might help to contact former pastors, and church officers
who have moved to other churches.
3. Membership Records —Often in smaller churches, or in the beginning years of many older churches,
membership records were kept in the church minute book, which thus preserves the fascinating record
of men and women received and, much more often than now, dismissed for a variety of offenses. Such
records are invaluable and social history. Records of today are of equal value. The important thing is to
find them, make them as complete as possible, and protect them against loss.
4. Financial Records —Ledgers, monthly reports to deacons or finance committees, budgets, balance
sheets, and treasurer’s reports should be kept in the church’s permanent records. In the archives of one
church an odd receipt indicates that a member had paid four dollars rent on his pew in 1856. Probably
hundreds just like it were thrown away. But this one kept is a priceless evidence of a former method of
raising money in a Baptist church.
5. Reports and Records of Organizations —The Sunday School, Vacation Bible school, Training Union,
Woman’s Missionary Union, and Brotherhood all make reports to the church, and keep records and
minutes themselves. The various committees of the church also create records and make reports. All are
important.
6. Church Publications —Many churches have published their history. An occasional one, rent by
controversy, has published pamphlets or books defending one side or both. Today, churches publish a
wide variety of periodicals, pamphlets, folders, largely promotional in nature, but of historical value.
Church bulletins are an invaluable record of weekly activities. In addition to the bulletin, there are
brochures advertising revivals or stewardship campaigns; new member booklets; church handbooks and
directories; and organizational annuals. All these materials are historical records and should be kept.
7. Associational and Convention Records —One of the most important summaries of its work which the
church produces is its associational letter. In addition, annuals of the state and Southern Baptist
Conventions should be kept with the church’s permanent collection of historical materials. As the file of
minutes and annuals grows, it becomes an invaluable reference source which every church needs.
8. Pictures and Miscellaneous Materials —Every church should have a good picture of each of its former
pastors, and each of the buildings from its beginning. Finding these pictures, when the church does not
have them, is a responsibility of the history committee. The search may lead through family albums, old
newspapers, and files of the town’s oldest photographers. Real effort often brings success.
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Intercessory Prayer Warriors Team
The IPWT is a group of committed men and women who believe that God wants his people to intercede
in prayer on behalf of others. This Intercessory Prayer Initiative was born out of the Pastor's desire to
recruit an army of prayer warriors who are willing to go to the front lines of today's spiritual battle. The
vision of this Ministry Team is to assist in the tearing down of strongholds, removing burdens and
destroying yokes, setting the captives free from bondage, and most importantly bringing souls to God,
through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are to be obedient primarily to the Lord, through his Holy
Spirit and intercede in prayer with anointing of the Holy Spirit. We are asking the Lord to bring His
kingdom on earth, establish His government, empower His church, mobilize His people and scatter His
enemies.
Intercessory prayer warriors are men and women who believe in the power of prayer, and believe that
God calls us to stand in the gap for others. Prayer warriors care deeply for others, and know that many
times in crisis situations we are unable to reach out to those in need except through our prayers. Prayer
warriors have a heart for the lost and pray for our church, its ministries, and for world-wide missions
that are working to spread the gospel to those who have not heard and to bring hope to seemingly
hopeless situations. Prayer warriors are concerned about our city, our country, and our world. They
believe that God wants his people to come to Him on behalf of our leaders, not just to pray for them,
but through prayer, to be drawn closer together as a body of believers.
There is a one month training session that will be taught by our Intercessor Team Leader. To register for
the training sessions that will happen on an as needed basis, contact the church office. The required
texts for the training are The Beginner's Guide to Intercession by Dutch Sheets, Naturally Supernatural by
Gary Best, and Intercessory Prayer by Dutch Sheets. The Prayer Warrior meeting schedule is currently as
follows:
Monday 6:00 am - 6:15 am At your individual homes alone
Tuesday 6:00 am - 6:15 am At your individual homes alone
Wednesday 7:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. in the Agape Room (Teams)
Thursday 6:00 am - 6:15 am At your individual homes alone
Saturday at 6:00 p.m. only preceding the First Sunday's of the Month (Whole Church all teams)
Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary
LYFE Youth Ministry
LYFE Youth Ministry at Myrtle Baptist Church seeks to respond to the needs of young people, assist in
the development of emerging leaders, and promote their healthy development and faith growth by
providing a variety of opportunities and experiences to draw youth into active, responsible participation
in the life, mission and work of the greater church.
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Men’s Ministry
The Men’s Ministry endeavors to engage men to grow in their relationship with Jesus and each other.
They exist to be the source of spiritually centered peer connection and the stimulus for the Myrtle
Baptist Men (MBM).
This ministry allows men to connect with each other in Christ, learn how to follow Christ in community,
impact their environment as leaders, and be present for young men to come of age with effective role
models.
Music Ministry
At Myrtle we recognize the important role music plays in the life of our community of faith. As we build
upon the firm foundation of Christ and a rich history of quality church music, we are blessed to have a
diverse group of talented musicians who serve faithfully in the music ministry. Whatever your age, level
of experience or stylistic preference, there is a place for YOU in the music ministry at Myrtle Baptist
Church. It is through song that many Christians, young and old, internalize the basic tenants of our
Christian faith. Each worship service is carefully planned so that there is ample time for all to hear the
Word of God as well as time to respond to God’s love through litany and song. Each and every Sunday
morning you will hear and experience numerous opportunities to communicate with the Lord through
music. Sometimes our song is praise. Sometimes our song is comfort. Sometimes our song is petition to
God. Sometimes our song is proclamation of God’s faithfulness. Whatever our song may be, as
recipients of the grace and mercy of our Lord, how can we keep from singing?
The purpose of the Music Ministry at Myrtle Baptist Church is to lead the church in worship through
music and to provide the congregation with a meaningful worship and musical experience. Music is a
powerful tool. It has the power to create moods, change atmospheres, and move people to action. But
how does music fit into the local church? Is it a legitimate means of expression in the church? Does God
desire for music to be a major part of our corporate worship? We believe God does!
The music ministry of a church is important for the entire congregation. For the unsaved, it sets the
mood for them to hear the gospel and receive the gift of salvation. For the newly saved, it should be
exciting enough to awaken them to hear the Word of God for instruction. For the more mature, it sets
the mood for praise and worship of the Lord.
In our worship services you will experience a variety of songs and instruments. All of our songs are
carefully chosen, insuring that they are biblically accurate and will edify believers in their faith. Words
and phrases that would describe our music are: biblical, worshipful, energetic, spiritual, inspirational,
and full of life! While we respect and sing the hymns and spiritual songs that have stood the test of time,
we believe the Bible teaches that praise and worship of God should also include new songs.
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Because our worship service is focused on corporate worship, the emphasis of our Music Ministry is our
congregational singing and our choir. We will occasionally incorporate solos, duets, ensembles, etc., if a
song reinforces the biblical theme of the service. The goal of our Music Ministry is to glorify God and
minister to the spirit of individuals, not appeal to the fleshly nature of people. Our music is not
entertainment-driven, but God-centered.
Our Goals
 To glorify God through music.
 To foster a personal growth in faith as Christian musicians.
 To provide musical education for our children, youth and adults to enable them to do their best
to serve the church and glorify God in worship.
 To open our program to the whole church by providing a large variety of musical offerings.
 To commit to the music program of the church through dedication, hard work, and service.
Our Calling
 Music is a means of praise and worship. Psalm 150; Revelation 5:8-10
 Music is a valuable teaching tool. Colossians 3:16
 Music is an evidence of Spirit-filled lives. Ephesians 5:18-19
 Music is a vehicle for Christian service. Psalm 100:1-2
 Music is an effective way to testify and express our faith in Christ.
Acts 16:25-30
 Music can be a source of comfort and encouragement. I Samuel 16:23
Music Ministry: The Praise Team
The Praise Team of Myrtle Baptist Church was started in the belief that the goal of our corporate
worship time is to create an environment for believers to passionately and freely express their adoration
of God. From quiet, humble reflection to intense, passionate praise, the members of the Praise Team
are committed to worshipping in spirit and in truth. The aim of this ministry is to lead the body of
believers in offering their praise to glorify the Lord and move all hearts to cry out to the One and Only
Living God each time they come together to minister.
The team meets weekly to rehearse and prepare for the Sunday morning worship service. They take the
call to lead worship seriously and believe that God’s desire is for man to pursue excellence in whatever
we do and that a body functions at its best when each part is doing what it was made to do. Though
every Christian should be passionate about worship, skill is needed to be an effective leader.
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Music Ministry: The Media Ministry
The purpose of the Media Ministry of Myrtle Baptist Church is to provide the best possible atmosphere
for worship through sound reinforcement by way of appropriate audio/music mix and desired multimedia presentations. This ministry and it leaders are responsible for the operation, maintenance and
security requirements and technical aspects for the audio and visual media equipment of the church as
well as for the media recording of services, including CD production, duplication, distribution and
archiving. In addition to operations during worship services, the Media Ministry is also responsible for
making information available through appropriate social media outlets, including postings to the church
website and podcasts.
Outreach & Missions Ministry
The Outreach and Missions Ministry demonstrates Christian love through actions and activities that
relieve suffering and improve the quality of life, including the promotion and coordination of mission
support and outreach programs locally and globally. We will reach out to our and other surrounding
communities in simple and practical ways to demonstrate the radically inclusive love of God.
The ministry acts as intermediary between the church and the individual missionaries, mission
candidates, and their mission or parent church organizations.
Scripture provides us with foundational principles for how the Church lives out its faith in the world. The
Outreach & Missions Ministry is based on the core belief that following Jesus means putting our faith
into action, as it says in Luke 6:46-49. We are called by our Savior to sacrificial servanthood. Following
Jesus’ ministry model, which blended word and deed, we believe that our love for God should lead us to
love people with our actions, to show mercy and make disciples in the world. Actions without words are
insufficient, but words without actions lack credibility. Our good deeds are a means to amplify our
witness and draw people to the light of Jesus Christ.
We believe that God cares for the whole person. God’s love brings deliverance and wholeness into every
area of our lives. Our mission is not simply to win souls while neglecting other areas of need, nor meet
physical needs without offering spiritual care. Rather, we believe that we are called to work as we are
able toward the restoration of healthy individuals and communities and the creation of just societies. As
the people of God, we are to be properly used as instruments of blessing to the world not just by giving
material aid but also by sharing who we are in Christ.
This ministry is open to all members of the congregation who desire to serve. Together, we work to
coordinate outreach and missions activities that engage the entire Myrtle family. Building on Myrtle’s
overall mission to Love God, Love Neighbor and Serve the World, we are committed to supporting our
local community and the world through service, prayer, financial support and fellowship. Our mission
outreach is structured to ensure that everyone, young and old alike, can participate. We believe that
members of our congregation grow in faith through service and that the lives of those served may be
transformed with hope.
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Security Ministry
The primary purpose of the Myrtle Baptist Church Security Ministry is to maintain a peaceful, safe
environment which is conducive to teaching, learning, working, living, and sharing in the word of our
Lord and Savior. The program will work through its dedicated members to actively solicit and encourage
the cooperation of the church family to decrease the opportunity for crime and to facilitate maximum
member participation in crime prevention by following basic rules and guidelines.
The vision of the Myrtle Baptist Church Security Ministry is to assist in reducing crime against the church
by providing a security program that acts as a deterrent for criminals so that they never make Myrtle
Baptist a target. There is a natural hesitancy to implementing church security measures into the church.
Church is generally thought of as a safe and trusting place, protected by the Creator. However, we are
called to be good stewards, caretakers, of all that we have been given. We are called to be on our guard,
and wise. Crimes against churches are rising. Churches are considered "soft targets" for acts of hate and
rebellion. As a ministry we believe that you can take a proactive approach to securing your place of
faith. As church leaders, we are taking a proactive stand on church security issues. The Bible states that
we should not be ignorant of the devices of the enemy. We believe that it is our calling to protect church
property and its people.
Scripture Reference:
I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as
doves." (Mt. 10:16)
The Myrtle Baptist Church Security program goals are:
• Provide a safe place to worship
• Remove fear from the minds of the members and visitors who attend
• Provide physical security of the building and its contents
• Work with local law enforcement agencies to prevent crime
• Protect financial assets of the church
• Provide protection and security for the Pastor of the church, both at home and on the road.
• Provide a safe surrounding for church activities that include the collecting of tithes and
offerings, parking, and general physical security.
Ushers Ministry
The Ushers Ministry serves as the church doorkeepers to ensure that worshippers feel welcome and
assist the Pastor by maintaining reverence and order so members and visitors may receive the message.
Ushers combine a warm welcome with a pleasant smile as they direct and seat worshippers. The Ushers
Ministry, comprised of three groups, includes both women and men: Seniors (over 35), Young Adults (18
to 35) and Juniors (17 and younger). Ushers attend conferences and participate as committee members
and/or officers in district, state, and national associations to grow spiritually and remain proficient. The
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ministry offers fellowship with other sisters and brothers in Christ and an opportunity to serve God in
God's House.
The ushers of Myrtle Baptist Church seek to maintain an atmosphere of reverence and order before,
during and following services. We work to maintain a personal relationship with the Lord through
obeying His Word, prayer, supplication, study, and service to win souls to Christ; maintain love between
one another; and strive for the advancement of our church individually by supporting our church
mission and contribute tithes and offerings regularly as well as the giving of our time and talents. Ushers
are forerunners, for they prepare the church for the guests by being the first to arrive at the church;
they receive the order of the day from the Pastor; they see that the church is in proper condition to
receive the guests; they see that hymnals, fans, church literature, collection envelopes, and any other
items that are to be distributed to the congregation are in their proper places. Church ushers are
missionaries for the church for they perpetuate the spirit throughout the congregation. The church
usher helps the Pastor to make the service a success by putting the congregation in the right frame of
mind to receive the message. The usher meets the people with a pleasant smile, a warm welcome, and
directs them to comfortable seats.
Goals:
1. To continue growing spiritually through worship, prayer, and Bible Study and demonstrate to
the disciples the importance of ushering in the expansion of the Kingdom of God.
2. To always honor and glorify God by ushering God's children into God's house in a humble, meek,
and reverent manner.
3. To be accountable to the vision of Myrtle Baptist Church: utilizing our God-given resources to
educate, equip, and empower kingdom-focused disciples for 21st century ministries.
Objectives:
1. Maintain order in and around the temple.
2. Extend a warm welcome and direct God's disciples to comfortable seats.
3. Distribute fans, church literature, collection envelopes and any other information as needed.
4. Receive the order of the day from our Pastor.
5. Arrive early and prepare the church for service.
6. Be forerunners and doorkeepers.
7. Perpetuate the Holy Spirit throughout the congregation.
8. Revitalize the Youth and Young Adult Ushers and recruit to increase their membership as well as
to continue to teach them the importance of reverence while serving in the Kingdom of God.
9. Teach the church body how to exit the church in an emergency or natural disaster.
Women’s Ministry
The Women’s Ministry seeks to create an atmosphere where the focus can be on the self within the
body of believers as a woman of faith living and growing as a Christian. They work to strengthen the
family and the body of believers, one woman at a time. The objective is to work at changing lives, grow
in faith and engagement, and develop greater openness and sharing as a whole. The group hosts two
annual retreats (Fall and Spring) as well as on-going workshops and gatherings during the course of the
year.
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Myrtle Baptist Church
“Where Love Abides”
CHURCH ORDINATION
PROCESSES
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Diaconate Ordination
Every Baptist church is autonomous and establishes its own policies, but there are some regular
procedures that seem to be used by most Southern Baptist churches. Each local church determines who
they will ordain. The church will elect the deacon and should check with the constitution to follow the
established procedures. The qualifications should also be presented at the start of the ordination
process as well as the completion of recommendation and election process. The church should not be
hasty in ordaining an individual. The church should be certain he or she has the scriptural qualifications
to serve as a deacon. The candidate should prove himself before he or she is considered for ordination.
After the candidate for ordination has undergone the preparation process for ordination, an Ordination
Council will be called to question that individual to determine his or her level of preparedness and make
a recommendation as to whether or not the church should proceed with the ordination process.
Questioning is not done to promote fear but to encourage the candidate to express his or her faith and
beliefs as honestly and fully as possible. Examples of questions asked of a candidate for ordination and
an order of worship for an ordination service are as follows.
Diaconate Ordination Questions
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
Please share with us your salvation experience.
Share your spouse's salvation and does he or she support your call to the ministry?
What are your plans for future spiritual growth?
How would you describe God?
Who is Jesus Christ?
What do you believe about the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ?
When do you receive the Holy Spirit?
What is the work of the Holy Spirit?
What does it mean to be saved and why do you need salvation?
What are the two Scriptural officers of the Baptist Church?
As an ordained deacon will you recognize the spiritual position of the pastor and work with him
or her?
How do you understand the role of the deacon?
Do you see yourself as a supervisor of the church or as a servant?
Are you willing to read any book or attend any deacon training that the church asks you as a
deacon to read or attend?
Do you see yourself as the supervisor of the pastor or his or her helper or assistant?
As a deacon will you set an example to others by your own visitation of the sick, the elderly, and
the widows?
As a deacon will you help see to the benevolence of the needy?
As a deacon will you make sure that your pastor’s physical (material) needs are taken care of to
the very best ability of the church?
How many of the Articles of Faith can you name?
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Example of Order for Diaconate Ordination Service
Prelude
Call to Worship
Processional
Evocation
Hymn
Welcome and Occasion
Scripture Readings
Offering
Introduction of the Preacher
Musical Selection
Evening Message
Musical Selection
The Proclamation of Ordination
Report of the Diaconate Council
Recommendation to the Pastor
Response of the Pastor
Charge
Presentation of the Books
Laying on of Hands and Prayer
Declaration and Presentations
Remarks
Benediction
Licensure to Preach
When an individual feels that he or she has been called to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, that
individual’s first responsibility is to the prayerful consideration of the acceptance of that call. At Myrtle
Baptist Church, the next step is to arrange a meeting with the Senior Pastor to continue prayer, receive
counsel and begin the licensure process of this body of believers. Each candidate for licensure to preach
will complete a ministerial application and begin a series of Ministerial edification courses led by the
Pastor for all of those interested in being licensed to preach. At the completion of this course, each
candidate for licensure will go before the church at a scheduled midweek service to give his or her initial
sermon. At the completion of that sermon, the members present will vote on the question of whether
or not a license to preach should be granted to that individual.
Those who have been licensed to preach are expected to continue to serve in ministry at the church as
they consider and prepare for the continuing process to full ordination at the church.
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Myrtle Baptist Church
Application for Licentiates
(Last Name):___________________ (First Name):________________________
Mailing Address: ___________________________________________________
Home Phone:
(_________)-___________-____________________
Cell Phone:
(_________)-___________-____________________
Work Phone:
(_________)-___________-____________________
Email Address: ___________________________________________________
Ministerial Credentials: please check appropriate boxes and indicate the church and denomination
that conferred the certificate.
License:
__________________________________________
Ordination:
__________________________________________
Education: please the school you attended
and the degree.
Bachelors:
__________________________________________
Masters:
__________________________________________
Doctorate:
__________________________________________
Post Doc.:
__________________________________________
Questions
Please Answer the following questions. Type your response and staple it to the back of the form.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Why are you interested in becoming a member of the ministerial team at Myrtle Baptist Church?
What are some of your spiritual gifts?
What area would you like to work in at Myrtle Baptist Church?
What are your theological views on women in ministry, authority of scripture, biblical literalism,
and homosexuality?
Briefly share your conversion experience.
How would you describe God?
Who is Jesus Christ?
What do you believe about the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ?
Would you be able work with the Senior Pastor of Myrtle Baptist Church ?
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Submission Instructions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Fill out Page 1
Attach a biography and a résumé or CV
Include a copy of your license and ordinations certificates
Attach typed question response
All forms/application should be turned into the Church Office by the 1st Sunday in December
Ministerial Ordination
At Myrtle Baptist Church, we believe that:
Ordination is an act of worship by which the congregation, representative of the people of God, acclaims
the one being ordained as chosen and empowered by the Holy Spirit to exercise gifts for ministry within
the church. For us as Baptists, ordination is a function of an individual church, not of the denomination.
In this, is the embodiment of our true autonomy personified. Although other churches or denominational
entities may be asked to participate, a church is the body that actually ordains. Ordination is the
recognition by the church of one called by God into the Christian ministry as a professional vocation.
An ordained minister is a person specifically called upon to perform certain duties of the Christian
ministry. Persons entering the ministry need to be sure that their personal beliefs are similar to those of
the church in which they want to serve. Ordained ministers have been spiritually called into Christian
service. Their primary purpose is to minister by serving the needs of the local church body and
surrounding community. This service is manifested in various forms--spiritual, physical, and practical.
Ordained ministers often are asked to be a comforter to their congregants and families during times of
bereavement, sickness or crisis. This comfort may be given by being present during these hardships to
pray for and with the ones experiencing the ordeal. The service of counseling is often asked of ordained
ministers. Being ordained does not necessarily mean that a minister has undergone formal training, but
they can be used as a confidante who will not share personal information. Ordained ministers may have
to be called upon to act as an intermediary to help solve church conflicts among individual members or
groups within the church. The minister is expected to be impartial and unbiased and only seek
reconciliation of the issue. Ordained ministers do not have to be licensed teachers, but they act as
teachers when they deliver sermons from the pulpit or when they lead Bible study classes. They are
called upon to help congregants understand the meaning of scripture in the Bible as well as tenets of
Christian living.
An individual seeking ordination into the Christian ministry has several pathways to consider and choose
from.
Standard Ordination: During the time of preparation, the person is usually licensed to preach as a
candidate for ordination. This route is called “Standard Ordination” and the status as an ordained
American Baptist minister is recognized nationally throughout the denomination.
Equivalency Ordination: In exceptional cases, relevant ministry experience may be substituted for a
portion of the educational requirements. This process is called “Equivalency Ordination.”
Recognition of Ordination from Another Denomination: Ministers who have been ordained in
other denominations and who wish to serve in an American Baptist church or ministry may seek to
have their ordination from another denomination recognized. In order for the ordination to be
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recognized as standard, the educational requirements must be met. Those seeking recognition who
do not meet the standard educational requirements may be regionally recognized.
Regional Ordination: There are cases in which a person gifted for ministry wishes to serve in an
ordained position within the certain regional branches of the ABCUSA, but is unable to meet the
educational requirements of Standard Ordination. The Region has provided a process whereby such
a person may obtain educational training through a series of classes taught within the Region.
Satisfactory completion of these classes and other requirements may lead to a “Regional
Ordination.” Such an ordination will be recognized by churches throughout the regional branch, but
may not necessarily be transferred to churches outside the Region. This is rare.
Local Ordination: Finally, because ordination is a function of the autonomous local church, a church
may recognize the gifts for ministry and the call of an individual within that church and ordain that
person without participation by the TABCOM. In some cultural settings, because one has not met
the qualifications and call of the ordained minister through the ABC, it is assumed that their
ordination will not be validated by the larger American Baptist family. Such local ordination is
generally not a problem in the black community and is transferable to all other African American
Baptist denominations.
The Requirements for Local Ordination at Myrtle Baptist Church
1. Ordination is the recognition by the church of one called by God into the Christian Ministry as
a professional vocation. The evidences of such a call are:
 A confession of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
 A good reputation and character of moral integrity and responsibility
 A sufficient grasp of doctrine and polity to be entrusted with the pastoral oversight of a
church
 A sufficient preparation for adequate performance of requisite ministerial functions.
 Understanding of Christian ministry as a professional vocation
 A commitment of life to Christian discipleship
 An inner conviction which the one called identifies as from God
 An endowment of such abilities as are obligatory for a Christian minister
 An opportunity to render a Christian ministry consistent with the character of the Jesus
Christ
2. A person seeking to be ordained should present evidence of the following:
 A call to the vocation of a professional Christian minister
 A dedication to the cause of Christ
 A Character of moral integrity and responsibility
 A sufficient grasp of doctrine and polity to be entrusted with the pastoral oversight of a
church
 A sufficient preparation for adequate performance of requisite ministerial functions
Each individual seeking local ordination at Myrtle Baptist Church is responsible for the completion of the
application for ordination as well as the successful completion of the 18-month preparation process as
outlined. At the end of this preparation process, the individual will be taken through catechism by the
Ordination Council, at which time a recommendation to proceed will be given.
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The Application for Ordination
Applicant Information
Name:
Address:
City, State, Postal Code:
___________________________________________________________________
Home Phone:
Work Phone:
E-mail Address:
Date of Birth:
Marital Status: ___ Married __Divorced ___Re-Married ___Widowed
Spouse’s Name: ________________________________________________
Birth Date: ______________
Children (If applicable, name & birth dates):
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
Employment (Present):________________________________________________________
Education: __High School ____College/University ___Bible College __Other _______________
Last Degree (if any) and granting institution:
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
Ministerial History Please share briefly about the last five (5) years of your ministry to date. Include
places and dates.
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
References: (By listing references I give permission for a Myrtle Administrative Office
representative to make confidential contact with the persons named below.)
Someone who provides you with leadership:
Name: ________________________________ Phone: (____) ____________
Address: _______________________________________________________
City: ____________________________ State: _______ Zip: _____________
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Relationship: ___________________________Email:___________________
Someone who serves on a peer level with you:
Name: ________________________________ Phone: (____) ____________
Address: _______________________________________________________
City: ____________________________ State: _______ Zip: _____________
Relationship: ___________________________Email:___________________
Someone who looks to you for leadership:
Name: ________________________________ Phone: (____) ____________
Address: _______________________________________________________
City: ____________________________ State: _______ Zip: _____________
Relationship: ___________________________Email:___________________
Your Ordinand Advisor who is sponsoring this application:
(May be the same as one listed above):
Name: ________________________________ Phone: (____) ____________
Address: ______________________________________________________
City: ____________________________ State: _______ Zip: _____________
Relationship: ____________________________Email:__________________
Applicants, please answer the following questions:
If you answer yes to any of the following questions, please provide details on a separate attached sheet.
Yes
Yes
No
No
1. Have you ever been refused a professional license?
2. Have you ever been charged with or convicted of a felony, misdemeanor or
crime other than minor traffic violations?
Yes
No 3. Have you now or ever had problems with the use of alcohol, stimulants or
habit forming drugs?
Yes
No 6. Have you ever been the subject of disciplinary action by an employer licensing
organization alleging sexual or ethical misconduct?
Yes
No 7. Have you ever been the subject of discipline by a church or denomination?
Yes
No 8. Do you currently hold credentials with any other organization? If yes, name
and address of the organization and describe your expected future
relationship with that organization.
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
Yes
No
9. Have you ever been denied credentials by any organization. If yes, please
describe.
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
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Yes
No 10. Have you ever had ministerial credentials revoked/suspended. If yes, please
describe, including the resolution of the matter.
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
By your signature below you understand and agree that an investigation of any or all of these matters
may be conducted by the Myrtle Baptist Church to determine your eligibility to pursue credentialing
within the local church. You also understand and agree that you will be subject to removal from the
credentialing process if it is later determined that your answer to any of the above questions was false.
Signature
Date
Catechism Preparation
Think about the following things as you prepare for your examination.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
Your Christian experience
Your call to ministry
Your theological views on:
i. God, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit
ii. The Scripture
iii. Scripture
iv. Humanity, Sin
v. Sanctification
vi. Justification
vii. Purification
viii. Transubstantiation
ix. Divorce
x. The Church
xi. Sexism
xii. Homosexuality
Your understanding of Baptist polity, history, and autonomy
Can you list and explain the Baptist Articles of Faith
The role of the Pastor and laity in ministry
Your view of associational, state convention, and convention involvement, etc.
Baptist Faith and Message
Relationship of pastor and deacons in the work of the church
Philosophy of ministry
What is the mission of the church?
What does the Bible teach about Christian stewardship?
Tell of some person you have led to Christ.
Present the plan of salvation.
Share what you believe about the Bible.
Do you believe in scriptural inerrancy, and what do you mean by the use of that word? How does it
impact your teaching and preaching?
What is your view of creation? How do you relate that view to your viewpoint regarding inerrancy?
How do we determine which books really make up the canon?
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19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
Give your understanding of the term Trinity.
How do you understand the expression “true God and true Man” as applied to Christ?
State your concept of the atonement.
For whom did Christ die?
What difference does His death make? Why was it necessary?
What is the nature of Christ’s resurrection and importance of the resurrection?
What is the role of the Holy Spirit today in the church; in the individual; in the world?
What is the place of Spiritual gifts in the church?
Give your understanding of the following:
(1) Man was created in the image of God.
(2) Man has a sinful nature.
(3) Man is eternally lost.
(4) Are all the heathen lost?
Define repentance.
What does it mean to “believe in the Lord Jesus Christ?”
Give us your views on baptism and the Lord’s Supper.
How do you respond to someone who says you must be baptized to be saved?
Can you support a congregational form of church government?
What is the basis for membership in the local church?
Meeting Dates and Three page Paper Topics
Month 1 – Introduction and Review
Month 2 - Ordination
Month 3 – God
Month 4 - Jesus
Month 5 - The Holy Spirit
Month 6 - Trinity
Month 7 - Scripture
Month 8 - Sanctification
Month 9 - Justification
Month 10 - Communion
Month 11 – Sin
Month 12 – Baptism
Month 13 – Baptist History and Polity
Month 14 - Atonement
Month 15 – Resurrection
Month 16 – Paper Review
Month 17 – Individual Meetings with the Pastor
Month 18 – The Catechism
The Final Ordination Paper
Your paper will have the following parts:
1. Your application
2. A Biographical Sketch of yourself that tells your conversion experience, call to minister, and
personal mission. (2 pages)
3. Your Ordination Project: ______________________________
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4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
The Papers from the previous months
Your version of a wedding ceremony (1 page)
A Short Eulogy and Committal Ceremony (1 page)
A short communion litany (1 page)
A short baptism litany (1 page)
A previous paper you have submitted in seminary
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