BYLAWS OF INDIAN FIELD METHODIST CHURCH 
(abridged, unabridged downloadable copy at the bottom)
(Updated to include approved amendments through November 17, 2024)

Name: This congregation shall be known as Indian Field Methodist Church, incorporated as a non-profit under South Carolina law.
Purpose: The church operates exclusively for charitable, religious, and educational purposes under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Its mission includes proclaiming the Gospel, facilitating worship, educating believers, and maintaining missionary outreach.

The Bible is the final authority in all matters. The following beliefs summarize the church’s doctrine:
A. Core Beliefs (Apostles’ Creed Summary)
Belief in God the Father, Jesus Christ His Son, and the Holy Spirit; the universal church; forgiveness; resurrection; and eternal life.
B. Expanded Doctrinal Summary

1. God the Father: Sovereign Creator who is actively involved in the world (e.g., Gen. 1:1, Matt. 6:9).
2. Jesus the Son: Fully God and fully human, who lived, died, and rose to redeem humanity (e.g., John 1:1-18, Rom. 5:6-21).
3. Holy Spirit: Active in conviction, regeneration, sanctification, and gifting (e.g., Acts 1:8, Gal. 4:6).
4. Universal Church and Communion of Saints: A global and local body of believers united in Christ (e.g., Eph. 2:19-22).
5. Salvation and Life Everlasting: Includes regeneration, justification, sanctification, and glorification through faith in Christ alone (e.g., Eph. 2:8-22).

C. Additional Positions

• Marriage and Sexuality: Marriage is between one man and one woman.
• Sanctity of Life: Life begins at conception and ends by God’s authority.
• Love and Conduct: All people are to be treated with love and grace.
• Protection of Children: Zero tolerance for abuse.

Outlines how to become a member, privileges and responsibilities, and procedures for discipline and termination of membership. Includes a category for Affiliated Co-Laborers (non-members with limited involvement).

A. Corporate Officers

• President: Chair of Church Council
• Vice President: Vice Chair of Church Council
• Secretary: Recording Secretary (updated title)
• Treasurer: Church Treasurer

B. Church Officers
Includes the pastor(s), church council members, Recording Secretary, Treasurer, and others as deemed necessary.
C. Eligibility and Elections
Only members in good standing may hold office. Officers (except pastors) are elected annually in November. The Pastor-Parish Relations Committee oversees the calling of a new pastor.

A. Pastor
Responsible for preaching, teaching, ordinances, and church administration. Has final authority in interpreting Scripture and oversees safety and security procedures.
B. Church Council
Assists the pastor, reviews membership, manages benevolence, and handles property, legal, and financial matters as authorized by a church vote.
C. Recording Secretary (Updated Role)
Replaces the “Church Secretary.” Responsible for:

• Keeping bylaws, minutes, membership and historical records
• Filing legal documents
• Issuing notices
• Serving as secretary of the corporation

Covers procedures for annual and special business meetings, voting eligibility, quorum rules, and virtual meeting protocols.

Defines purpose and doctrinal standards for Sunday School and weekday programs.

Committees serve in a research and advisory capacity. The pastor and church council appoint members and oversee their work.

Gifts may be designated for specific purposes but remain under the control of the pastor and church council to ensure alignment with the church’s mission.

Defines what constitutes a conflict of interest and establishes procedures for disclosure, decision-making, and documentation.

Members must resolve legal disputes within the church through Christian arbitration rather than civil litigation.

Clarifies nonprofit status, limits on political activity, procedures for dissolution, and a nondiscrimination policy consistent with the church’s doctrinal beliefs.

Bylaws may be amended by majority vote at a duly called church business meeting, with at least two weeks' public notice.