THE CONSTITUTION OF THE CHURCH INTERNATIONAL BODY OF CHRIST
Lot 721 Saligna Road, Mtubatuba 3935
Email: jbwproperties370@gmail.com
Cell: 0665703990
The Secretary
ICSO
contact@icso2024.com
Dear Sir/Madam
RE- APPLICATION FOR DONATIONS
Please,donate the building materials and funds :
TO BUILD A 1500 SEATER CONFERENCE CENTRE ( AUDITORIUM) FOR THE LOCAL CHURCHES AT UMKHANYAKUDE DISTRICT OF KWAZULU/NATAL PROVINCE IN SOUTH AFRICA.
The Centre will be used to host members of the Region’s Local Churches who come for the seminar teachings , daily Church service meetings and regular conferences.It shall also be used to raise funds for the work of the Lord Jesus Christ.
John 17:17:9-10, 20-22
“I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them. “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one.
Banking Details:
Bank Name: First National Bank
Name :The Church International Body of Christ
Account Number: 63121350720
THE CONSTITUTION OF THE CHURCH INTERNATIONAL BODY OF CHRIST
LEGALITY
The Church International Body of Christ is a legally incorporated Body Institute, incorporated as a Non Profit Company in terms of the Companies Act No 71 of 2008 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa,Act No 108 of 1996.
The Church International Body of Christ does not legislate the member Local Churches who become the family in the Body of Christ.Instead,The Church International Body of Christ allows the Local Churches to remain autonomous under the tutelage and jurisdiction of their Church Boards, Leadership and Management Structures .
What we actually do as The Church International Body of Christ,we encourage Christian believers to come together as the members of One Body of Christ.Jesus Christ is the Head of this One Huge Body that is found all over the world.We promote togetherness and support for one another.The Church International Body of Christ, therefore ,promotes unity in Church.
Support for Christian believers in the Local Churches encompasses spiritual growth and physical acts of love and kindness, including sharing scripture and prayer, confessing sins, offering hospitality, carrying one another’s burdens, and participating in the community to build unity and reflect God’s love.
Spiritual Support
Prayer and Spiritual Growth:
Pray for one another, read the Bible together, and encourage spiritual growth through shared devotionals and Bible studies.
Confession and Forgiveness:
Confess sins to one another and offer forgiveness as a way to maintain a clean heart and foster deeper unity in Christ.
Exchanging Ideas:
Share ideas and experiences to encourage spiritual development and growth in faith.
Practical Support
Community and Fellowship:
Attend the church service regularly and engage in the community to build supportive relationships and a strong church community.
Meeting Physical Needs:
Help fellow believers with physical needs, such as providing meals or a place to stay, and offer support to those suffering.
Caring for New Believers:
Provide guidance, mentorship, and spiritual nourishment for new believers to help them feel valued and integrate into the church community.
Biblical Mandates
Love and Serve:
Act in love and serve one another, using your freedom as an opportunity to love and care for your fellow believers.
Carry Burdens:
Take on the responsibility of carrying one another’s burdens as a demonstration of God’s love and a means of strengthening the church.
Hospitality:
Show hospitality to others by opening your homes and providing for those in need.
Reflection of God’s Love:
Christian actions should reflect God’s love for others, contributing to the growth and strength of the church and kingdom.
Unity in Christ:
Support and uplift one another to foster a deeper sense of unity in Christ.
1. THE FOUNDATION OF THE CHURCH INTERNATIONAL BODY OF CHRIST
1.1.The Church International Body of Christ is a fellowship of the Local Churches in the Wards of the Local Municipalities, Districts, Provinces and in the Nations of the world with an aim of promoting unity in the Church as a Body of Christ.
1.2. In order for the people in the Wards to qualify to be called the children of God who will see Jesus Christ coming and be ushered up into Heaven,they must confess the Lord Jesus Christ as God and Saviour according to the scriptures.
1.3. The Local Churches in the Wards shall seek to fulfil together their common calling to the glory of the one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
1.4.The Local Churches shall function together and support one another in the preaching and teaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, promote unity and contribute immensely in the development of the communities in the Wards.
1.5. The Local Churches shall engage themselves in the local civic activities.
1.6 Volunteer for community organizations and initiatives
1.7.Support local businesses and entrepreneurs
1.8. Foster social connections by getting to know their neighbors, maintain a positive and responsible attitude by keeping surroundings clean and following community rules.
1.9. Support grassroots development
1.10. Promote health and well-being of the society
Divine influence is often understood as the work of the Holy Spirit, acting as an agent of God’s will.
1.11. Empower and enrich the members of the communities through education
2. THE LOCAL CHURCHES PARTICIPATE IN THE CIVIC LIFE
2.1. Attend meetings:
Go to the city council or other local government meetings to stay informed and voice your opinions.
2.2.Join boards and commissions:
Serve on local boards or committees that focus on community development.
2.3.Run for the local office for divine influence in the Wards:
Divine influence:
Divine influence is the power, presence, or guidance of a deity affecting individuals and the world, particularly through the Holy Spirit in Christianity, shaping lives, guiding moral actions, and fostering spiritual transformation and renewal. Divine influence is seen as the direct interaction and sustaining power of God, leading people toward righteousness and a deeper connection with the divine.
In Christianity
Moral and Spiritual Guidance:
The Holy Spirit guides believers toward goodness and sanctity, affecting their hearts, minds, and actions.
Spiritual Transformation:
Divine influence facilitates spiritual renewal, shaping character and leading to a righteous life.
Divine Power:
Divine influence is seen as holy power originating from the divine mind, which is reflected and expressed through individuals.
Inspiration and Creation:
The Holy Spirit grants insight and creativity, guiding in the writing of scripture and the communication of the truth.
God’s Sustaining Power:
Divine influence encompasses the ways God interacts with creation, sustaining and transforming it according to His will.
Attracting Others:
Individuals touched by this divine favor may experience a greater capacity to resolve conflict and handle challenges, drawing others to their wisdom.
Spiritual and Moral Character:
It results in a spiritual and moral beauty, which includes a deep conformity to the image of Christ and the manifestation of the Holy Spirit’s graces, explains the Bible Hub .
Consider running for a position like City Council or school board to directly influence local governance for the glory of God.Volunteer and Support Community Initiatives
2.4.Get involved in projects:
Volunteer for hands-on projects such as community gardens, infrastructure development, or educational programs.
2.5.Support local organizations:
Offer your time to groups that help the needy, such as food pantries or children’s charities.
2.6.Help with events:
Volunteer for local events hosted by the city or other community organizations.
2.7.Support the Local Economy.
2.7.1.Shop local:
Support local businesses and entrepreneurs to help them thrive, according to FasterCapital, which states a single order can significantly boost a small business.
2.7.2.Promote local development:
Support initiatives that create jobs and economic opportunities within the community.
2.8. Foster Connections and Well-being
2.8.1.Be a good neighbor:
Get to know your neighbors and build strong, healthy relationships within your community.
2.8.2.Promote health:
Support initiatives that promote physical health, such as using parks and bike paths, and encourage healthy gathering places.
2.8.3.Spread positivity:
Be a positive influence in your community and encourage others to get involved. Embrace Responsible Citizenship.
2.8.4.Keep surroundings clean:
Contribute to a cleaner environment by maintaining the cleanliness of your home and common areas.
2.8.5.Pay dues and follow rules:
Pay maintenance charges on time and respect the rules and guidelines established by your community.
2.8.6.Empower others:
Share your knowledge, mentor others, and encourage a spirit of collective action for positive change.
.
3. MEMBERSHIP
3.1.The Local Churches shall be eligible for membership in The Church International Body of Christ by participating in the activities of the Church in the community.
3.2.Participation in the activities of the Local Churches will be expressing the agreement with the foundation upon which The Church International Body of Christ is founded and satisfy such criteria as The Church International Body of Christ Board of Directors ( International Board of Directors ) may prescribe.
3.3.Election for the committees and boards shall be by a two-thirds vote of the members representing the Local Churches in the meeting or conference.
3.4.Each member shall have one vote.
3 .5. All election processes shall be decided and planned by the International Board of Directors
3.6.If the action is supported by a two-thirds vote of the members of the Committee present and voting, this action shall be communicated to the Local Churches that are members of The Church International Body of Christ, and unless objection is received from more than one-third of the member Local Churches within six months the resolution shall be declared valid and legal.
4. PURPOSES AND FUNCTIONS
4.1.The Church International Body of Christ international is a global initiative to promote understanding, cooperation, and, ultimately, unity amongst the people who believe in Jesus Christ.The Church International Body of Christ is constituted by the Church members , that is, the people who believe in Jesus Christ.
4.1.1. Goal:
To achieve greater unity and fellowship among all Christians by emphasizing common beliefs and goals.
4.1.2. Methods:
This includes promoting love and serving one another with our gifts from the Lord, engaging in collaborative social action on issues like poverty, and encouraging joint worship and prayer.
4.1.3. The Church was founded in the 1st century AD, immediately following the Ascension of Jesus Christ, with its birthday often marked by the holiday of Pentecost. This event occurred after Jesus was executed in Jerusalem around 33 CE and instructed his followers to spread his teachings, leading to the formation of an early community of disciples who became known as “Christians”.
The founding event
Jesus’ Ascension:
Immediately after Jesus returned to heaven, his followers gathered in Jerusalem.
The descent of the Holy Spirit:
At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples, empowering them to spread the Christian message and forming the early Church.
The birth of the Church:
For many Christians, Pentecost is considered the “birthday of the Church,” signifying its official beginning and the establishment of the New Testament community of God.
Early development
Apostolic leadership: The nascent Christian community was led by Jesus’ apostles, who were tasked with spreading his teachings and establishing the Church.
Jewish Christian sect: Christianity began as a Jewish Christian movement within Roman Judea.
Growth and separation: Over time, the Christian movement attracted Gentiles, leading to a distinction from Judaism and the eventual establishment of Christianity as an independent religion, partly due to the efforts of figures like Paul the Apostle
4.1.4.The primary purpose of the fellowship of Local Churches in The Church International Body of Christ is to call one another to visible unity in one faith and in one Holy Communion fellowship, expressed in worship and common life in Christ, through witness and service to the world, and to advance towards that unity in order that the world may believe in the Lord Jesus Christ:
- promote the prayerful search for forgiveness and reconciliation in a spirit of mutual accountability, the development of deeper relationships through theological dialogue, and the sharing of human, spiritual and material resources with one another;
- facilitate common witness in each place and in all places, and support each other in their work for mission and evangelism;
- express their commitment to diakonia in serving human need, breaking down barriers between people, promoting one human family in justice and peace, and upholding the integrity of creation, so that all may experience the fullness of life;
- nurture the growth of an ecumenical consciousness through processes of education and a vision of life in community rooted in each particular cultural context;
- assist each other in their relationships to and with people of other faith communities;
- foster renewal and growth in unity, worship, mission and service.
In order to strengthen the one ecumenical movement, the The Church International Body of Christ will:
- nurture relations with and among Local Churches, especially within but also beyond its membership;
- establish and maintain relations with Regional,Provincial, National Churches and International Churches .
- support ecumenical initiatives at regional, national and local levels;
- facilitate the creation of networks among Local Churches.
- work towards maintaining the coherence of the one Church in its diverse manifestations.
4.1.5 The Church International Body of Christ is constituted for the following functions and purposes:
4.1.5.1 to call the churches to the goal of visible unity in one faith and in one eucharistic fellowship expressed in worship and in common life in Christ, and to advance towards that unity in order that the world may believe; towards that unity in order that the world may believe;
- to facilitate the common witness of the Local Churches in each place and in all places;
- to support the Local Churches in their worldwide missionary and evangelistic task;
- to express the common concern of the Local Churches in the service of human need, the breaking down of barriers between people, and the promotion of one human family in justice and peace;
- to foster the renewal of the Local Churches in unity, worship, mission and service;
- to establish and maintain relations with the International Churches
- to carry on the work of the world movements for Faith and Order and Life and Work and of the International Missionary Council and the World Council of Christian Education.
5. AUTHORITY
The Church International Body of Christ shall not legislate for the Local Churches as they are allowed to have their own legal names, Autonomous Local Church Structures for leadership and management and Constitutions , nor shall The Church International Body of Christ act for them in any manner except providing them with legal advice and guidance.The legal Constitutions of the Local Churches have capacity to sue,to be sued and have their own assets
6. ORGANIZATION
The Church International Body of Christ shall discharge its functions through an Assembly, a Central Committee, an Executive Committee, and other subordinate bodies as may be established.
1. The Church International Body of Christ Board of Directors ( The International Board of Directors ).
a) The International Board of Directors shall be the supreme legislative body governing the The Church International Body of Christ and shall ordinarily meet at once a year or once every two years or once every four years respectively depending on the growth in membership.
b) The International Board of Directors shall be composed of official representatives of the Local Churches , known as delegates, elected by the member the Local Churches
c) The International Board of Directors shall have the following functions:
1) to elect the Ward Executive Committees, Municipality Executive Committees,Regional Executive Committees, Provincial Executive Committees, National Executive Committees and International Board of Directors.
All the above Leadership and management structures shall have the following :
OFFICE BEARERS
- Chairperson
- Deputy Chairperson
- Secretary
- Deputy Secretary
- Treasurer
- Additional member 1
- Additional member 2
- Additional member 3
- Additional member 4
2) to elect not more than 300 members to sit in the International Board of Directors.
3) to elect not more than 5 members from among the representatives which the associate member Local Churches have elected to the International Board of Directors
4) to determine the overall policies of the The Church International Body of Christ and to review programmes undertaken to implement policies previously adopted;
5) to delegate to the International Board of Directors specific functions not mentioned in the Constitution.
2. The International Board of Directors
a) The International Board of Directors shall be responsible for implementing the policies adopted by the Members of the Church International Body of Christ ( The Church) and shall exercise the functions of the The Church
b) The International Board of Directors shall be composed of the Chairpersons of all leading Management structures and not more than 300 members.
1) Not more than 300 International Board of Directors members shall be elected by Board from among the delegates the member Local Churches have elected to the Conference.
2) Not more than 5 members shall be elected by the Board from among the representatives whom the associate member Local Churches have elected to the Conference.
3. Rules
The International Board of Directors may adopt and amend Rules not inconsistent with this Constitution for the conduct of the business of The Church International Body of Christ
4. By-laws
The International Board of Directors may adopt and amend By-Laws not inconsistent with this Constitution for the functioning of its committees, boards, working groups and commissions.
5. Quorum
A quorum for the conduct of any business by the International Board of Directors shall be one-half of its membership.
7. OTHER CHRISTIAN ORGANIZATIONS
1. Such world confessional bodies and such international Christian organizations may be invited to send non-voting representatives to the Conference.
2. Such national councils and regional conferences of Local Churches, other Christian councils and missionary councils as may be designated by the International Board of Directors may be invited to send non-voting representatives to the Conference and in such numbers as the Intentional Board of Directors shall determine.
8. AMENDMENTS
The Constitution may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the delegates to the Conference present and voting, provided that the proposed amendment shall have been reviewed by the International Board of Directors, and notice of it sent to the member Local Churches not less than six months before the conference . The International Board of Directors itself, as well as the member churches, shall have the right to propose such amendment.
Regards
Pastor Jabulani Dlamini
Manager
Copyright © 2024 The Church International Body of Christ NPC.All rights reserved.
Leave a comment