Today g e n e r a l A s s e m b ly
74th Church of God International General Assembly July 24-27, 2012 | Orlando, Florida
monday | July 23, 2012
Why we are here A Historical Glance Back at the History of the General Assembly
special issue: Keep all week! This Monday edition of General Assembly Today breaks new ground with important information that makes it valuable to keep all week long. Earlier this year the decision was made to consolidate some of the information received in separate publications into one, convenient issue of GAToday. Within these pages you will find the following items, which will be valuable all week: • A complete schedule with event, date, time, and location (page 9) • General information about GA2012 (page 4) • Instructions to delegates (page 5) • The General Council agenda (page 10) • Parliamentary guide (page 6) • Explanation of the Speaker Recognition System (page 14) • List of exhibitors (page 5) Delegates are encouraged to hold on to this edition of GAToday and refer to it often. Should you misplace your copy, a limited amount of extras will be available. Stop by the Publications Office at N220B in the North Concourse, or at the registration desk. Please present your credentials to obtain a replacement copy.
GA2012 Agenda Addresses Variety of Pertinent Topics There are 20 items on the agenda to be debated and voted upon by the International General Council which gets underway tomorrow (July 24) at 8:30 a.m. The first order of business for the General Council is nomination of the International Executive Committee. Due to a change ratified at GA2010, the eventual leaders will be voted to serve in their posts until 2016 and will not be up for election in 2014. An unknown of the nominations which follow the Executive Committee is the outcome of a measure to eliminate two assistant positions, assistant director of Youth and Discipleship and assistant director of World Missions. Should the General Council vote to eliminate the positions, a special called session of the General Assembly will take place on Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 to approve or nullify the action. Other elected positions include Director of Youth and Discipleship and Director of World Missions. The General Council will complete selection of leaders with —continued on page 10
By Raymond F. Culpepper (Reprinted from the July 2012 Evangel) 1. Historical Roots of the Church of God International General Assembly The first Church of God “Annual Assembly” was held in 1906. Since the Assemblies were held once a year, they were simply called the “Annual Assembly” until 1948. In 1946, the decision was made to conduct the Assembly biennially. Beginning in 1948, the term “General Assembly” was used until the year of 2000. At that time, motions were adopted to change the term to “International General Assembly.” The Assembly originated out of the desire for the churches to have a closer unity and fellowship with one another. It was felt that this would enable them to be more effective in evangelism. “We recommend a closer union and fellowship of all the churches. We, therefore, conclude an assembly composed of elders and chosen men, and the women, from each church, once each year to be of vast importance for the promotion of the gospel of Christ and His Church” (Minutes, First Annual Assembly).
However, from its inception another element was extremely important. The delegates also felt that the Assembly should be more than just a time of fellowship and worship. Resolutions would be adopted in a covenant of brotherhood and then formerly embraced by all the local churches.
“It seemeth good to the Holy Ghost and us, being assembled together with one accord, with the Spirit of Christ in the midst, and after much prayer, discussion, searching the Scriptures and counsel, to recommend these necessary things and that they be ratified and observed by all the local churches” (Minutes, First Annual Assembly).
2. The Old Testament Foundation for the International General Assembly Worship Such celebrations of worship—when God’s people come together from far places and diverse communities—are deeply rooted in Scripture. After the Israelites were delivered from Egypt, God established three great pilgrimage festivals—the feast of unleavened bread, the feast of harvest, and the feast of ingathering (Exodus 23:14-19). The Hebrew word used for these three festivals (chag) literally means, “a feast observed by a pilgrimage” (Vine). The Israelites came from all twelve tribes in order to celebrate together as one nation in Jerusalem. The celebrations were for the entire family. When Moses and Aaron went in to Pharaoh, they said: “Thus says the LORD God of Israel: ‘Let My people go, that they may hold a feast to Me in the wilderness’” (Exodus 5:1 NKJV). Later, Moses told Pharaoh the Israelites must go “with our young and with our old, with our sons and with our daughters.” The word “feast” or “festival” (chag) comes from a primitive verb (chagag) which properly means to “walk in a circle” or “to march in a sacred procession, to observe a festival” (Strong). The word often is translated as celebrate, dance, and “keep a holiday.” So by their very nature, the Old Testament festivals were very joyous occasions, usually lasting for a whole week. But a Hebrew chag was much more than simply a vacation-style festivity. While Moses was on the mountain, the people demanded of Aaron, “make us gods that shall go before us” (Exodus 32:5). So Aaron made them a golden calf. “And Aaron made a proclamation and —continued on page 3
Orlando Even Better the Second Time Around A distinct advantage of returning to the same venue for two General Assemblies is familiarity. As delegates discovered at GA2010, one of the most attractive features of staging the Assembly here at the Orange County
Convention Center (OCCC) is the ease of movement and proximity of the locations for events and sessions. The OCCC is a massive facility capable of accommodating tens of thousands of people. It consists of four distinct sections—north, south, east and west— with the north/south section divided from the east/ west by International Drive. For GA2012, the Church of God is using the north/south concourse, just a portion of the more than 1 million square feet of convention space available in one of the largest convention sites in the nation. The lower level of the South Concourse of the OCCC is the site of the Assembly business sessions, worship and exhibit venues. The concourse is so large —continued on page 3
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
Why We Are Here continued from page 1
said, ‘Tomorrow is a feast (chag) to the LORD.’ Then they rose early on the next day, offered burnt offerings, and brought peace offerings; and the people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play” (Exodus 32:5, 6). This so-called feast had the elements of a pilgrimcelebration away from home, along with the dancing and feasting. But the most critical element of a worship chag was missing. The burnt offering sacrifice was not offered in accordance with God’s word. The people disobeyed God’s commandment, refused to offer up a blood sacrifice in the proper manner, and established their own idolatrous worship before a calf of gold. God’s response to this counterfeit worship was immediate. “And the LORD said to Moses, ‘I have seen this people, and indeed it is a stiff-necked people! Now therefore, let Me alone, that My wrath may burn hot against them and I may consume them’” (vv. 9, 10). Without the offering of a true sacrifice as ordained by God, the festival celebrations were nothing more than idolatrous playtimes. The Church of God International General Assembly fulfills the pilgrimage character and the joyful nature of the Old Testament Festivals. But the rejoicing of singers and musicians and the fellowship of brothers, sisters, and families would be nothing more than idolatry without the celebration of the true sacrifice of God’s own Son, according to God’s own word. It is the marvelous presence of Jesus himself that makes the International General Assembly a biennial pilgrimage as sweet to the saint today as the ascent to the city of Jerusalem was to the Israelites. Because of His presence, we sing the “Pilgrim Psalms.”
g e n e r a l A s s e m b ly
Today General Assembly TODAY is produced in the interest of delegates to the 74th Church of God International General Assembly. It is published daily Monday through Friday, July 23-27, 2012. Produced under the auspices of the General Assembly Cabinet T. Scot Carter, chair Ken Bell, Kevin Brooks, Tom Madden, Anthony Pelt, Julian Robinson, Sam Santana Mark Williams, executive liaison Editor Cameron Fisher News Media/Publications Committee Cameron Fisher, chair, O. Wayne Brewer, Terrah Brinson, Deborah Ortiz, Randall Parris, Hoyt Stone Phyllis Liner, assistant Layout and Design Bob Fisher Photographers Tammy Rockwell, Gary Walker Offices are located in Room N220-B in the North Concourse of the Orange County Convention Center. Printed daily at Central Florida Press, 4560 L B McLeod Rd. Orlando, FL 32811-5811.
Fifteen psalms (Psalms 120-134) are called, “Songs of Degrees.” Many scholars prefer the title “Pilgrim Psalms” because they were sung by the Israelite worshippers as they “went up” to Jerusalem to celebrate the three annual feasts—whether coming from the north, south, east or west. May those same songs always be the heart of the worship of the Church of God International General Assembly. • “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord” (122:1). • “As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the Lord is round about his people from henceforth even for ever” (125:2)
1946 General Assembly
• “When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing” (126:1, 2). • “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (133:1). 3. The New Testament Foundation for the International General Assembly “Business” It is the International General Assembly “business sessions”—that is, business as in “parliamentary business” sessions—which make this biennial event truly a unique occasion. No other gathering in the world is just like the Church of God International General Assembly. This uniqueness begins with the definition of the International General Assembly, which is twofold: 1. As a biennial meeting: “The International General Assembly of the Church of God (Cleveland,
Orlando
continued from page 1 that dividing it in half allows for ample space to accommodate the worship and business sessions on one side and exhibits on the other allowing each to operate independently, yet just a few steps away. Entering the South Concourse from International Drive, Assembly delegates come upon the registration area, flanked by the Children’s Church area to the left and meal and meeting areas to the right. Escalators to the left of registration descend down to the site of the general sessions and worship services, while another escalator to the right takes delegates to the exhibit hall which also includes the Hall of Remembrance, the Heritage Display, Pathway Bookstore and a café. Another feature of the OCCC location is its proximity to the three major host hotels. Since 2010, the Peabody Hotel has completed a $750 million renovation, which includes hundreds more rooms and a
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Tennessee, U.S.A.) is that organized body with full power and authority to designate the teaching, government, principles, and practices of all the local churches composing said Assembly” (Minutes, 2010, p. 65). 2. As a legal definition: “The local churches, the names of which are officially registered with the Church of God, Cleveland, Tennessee, U.S.A., are the result of the faithful services of the ministers and representatives of the International General Assembly, and these churches, when thus received by the representatives of the International General Assembly, then became and composed a part of the International General Assembly” (Minutes, 2010, p. 58).
Historically, this twofold definition goes back to the first annual assembly when the delegates desired: (1) “for the churches to have a closer unity and fellowship with one another;” and, at the same time resolved, (2) “to recommend these necessary things and that they be ratified and observed by all the local churches.” This principle of local churches uniting together in a covenant of brotherhood was established in the New Testament Church. The Jerusalem council was called to consider the issue of whether or not the gentile church believers would have to abide by the Jewish tradition of circumcision as demanded by the law of Moses (Acts 15). The decision of the council was succinctly stated by James. Greetings. Since we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, “You must be circumcised and keep the law”—to whom we gave no such commandment—it seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who will also report the same things by word of mouth. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell (Acts 15:23-29, NKJV).
May the same Holy Spirit who breathed rejoicing and life into the pilgrimage festivals of the Israelites; and unity and wisdom into the apostolic gatherings of the New Testament church; also breathe everlasting life, unspeakable joy, biblical unity, and spiritual wisdom into the worship services and business sessions of the 74th Church of God International General Assembly. covered sidewalk connected to the OCCC. The Hilton is also directly connected via an enclosed walkway, while the Rosen Centre is across from the south concourse. Other hotels are within a short walking distance of the OCCC. While most of the auxiliary functions will be held in rooms A-H in the south concourse, some will be located in adjoining hotels. A critical element of the success of the General Assembly is prayer. Daily prayer will be taking place on the third level of the OCCC in the S310 section. Anyone interested in seeking the Lord’s guidance over the events and proceedings of the 74th General Assembly is invited to participate. A complete schedule of events during the week is available on page 9 of this issue. To register to participate in general sessions, the registration desk is located on the main level of the south concourse. Registration hours are Monday 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Tuesday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
General Information About GA2012 Assembly Delegates—According to the International General Assembly Minutes, “Members and ministers of the Church of God (16 years of age and above) present and registered at the International General Assembly shall comprise the voting constituency.” Registered delegates receive a badge that must be displayed in order to vote in International General Assembly business sessions. Business Office—The business office is located in the S213 in the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC). Hours of operations are: Tuesday–Friday 8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon 1:30 p.m. -5:00 p.m. CD/DVD’s of Services—CD/DVD’s of all International General Assembly worship services are available at the booths located at the main entrance of the South Concourse of the OCCC Children’s Church—Located in S210E of the OCCC. Children’s age 6-12 are invited to attend Children’s Church Wednesday through Friday. Sessions will include Bible stories, puppets, music, and involvement activities. Services will be Wednesday-Friday 7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m.
Credentials—All ordained bishops are required to register to be eligible to vote in International General Council sessions. Questions regarding ministerial status or licensure should be directed to the Registration/ Credential Committee in the registration area located in S220A-G.
Deaf and Hard of Hearing—Reserved seating will be available on the main floor, stage left, for the hearing impaired. Signing will be provided.
Exhibits—The exhibits are conveniently located in Exhibit Hall South B in the Orange County Convention Center. With over 50 displays, you will find materials to assist you and your church in ministry. Exhibit Hall hours of operation: Monday 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Wednesday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• The daily publication, General Assembly TODAY, will be produced and distributed Monday through Friday each morning by 7:30 a.m. Distribution points are at the bottom of the escalators to the exhibit floor and worship venue and in Room N220B.
First Aid/Health Care—Emergency medical assistance is available in the Health Care/First Aid Station Rooms which can be found at: Med 5 – South A–Dock Side Med 6 – South B–Concourse–Level 2
• Newspaper and media personnel may secure information along with a press identification badge at Room N220B.
Handicap Seating—Handicap seating is available on the main floor of the General Session area. The Orange County Convention Center is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and continues to search for ways to better accommodate all visitors. Both buildings are designed with wheelchair ramps, automatic doors, passenger elevators and handicap-accessible restroom facilities.
Connecting Electronically with GA2012 This week there will be multiple ways to interact and get the latest information about the 74th International General Assembly • On the Web: A special website will be devoted to news, information, photos, and videos. Visit www.churchofgod.org/ga2012
• Church of God App: A Church of God “app” for smart phones and tablet devices is unveiled this week. The most popular links of the Church of God website and Faith News Network, as well as GA2012, will be available from your iPad, iPhone and other mobile devices. Get the Church of God app at www. churchofgod.org/mobile
International General Assembly News and Publications—Located in N220B of the OCCC, the following services are available:
• Daily press releases from the General Assembly will be posted online at www.churchofgod.org and www .faithnews.cc.
Message Board—An emergency message center is located near the usher’s table on the main floor of the General Session area. Only absolutely critical messages will be placed on the screen. Parking—The North/South Concourse parking lot can be accessed by two entrances—Universal Boulevard (north side) or International Drive (south side). Using the entrance off of Universal Boulevard is encouraged when attending events in the North/South Concourse. Prayer Ministries—Each morning, Tuesday through Friday, opportunities for intercessory prayer will be held in S310E at 7:00 a.m. in the OCCC. Registration—The registration area is located in S220A-E of the Convention Center. All delegates to the International General Assembly should register. A registration badge is necessary for admission to the International General Council and International General Assembly business sessions. The registration fee is $100 for an individual $125 for married couple, and $40 for young adults 16-19. Ordained bishops can pick up their International General Council Member Manual at the registration desk. Registration Hours of Operation Monday, July 26 9:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.
Tuesday, July 27 8:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.
Wednesday, July 28 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, July 29 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.
• Twitter: Be a part of the discussion! Follow the Church of God on Twitter: @COGHQ. When you Tweet about the General Assembly use the official hashtag: #GA12 • Facebook: If you haven’t already, be one of more than 50,000 to “Like” the official Facebook page of the Church of God at www. churchofgod.org/facebook. Visit it often and feel free to post comments and photos.
Translation of Sessions—Simultaneous translations in Spanish, German, French and Russian will be available. Delegates needing translation services can be seated anywhere in the sessions area. Translation booths will be located in the registration area of the Convention Center for check-in and checkout of personal receivers. A security deposit will be required to check out a receiver. All receivers must be returned to the translation booth at the conclusion of the Assembly on Friday evening. Voting Results—Results of the electronic voting of the International General Council will be posted at the base of the escalators in South Hall A in the OCCC. Wall of Remembrance—This memorial is dedicated to the ministers who have passed away since 2010 International General Assembly. Located in Exhibit Hall South B, the Wall of Remembrance is open during exhibit hours.
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
Instructions to Delegates 1. Parliamentary Authority a. The General Assembly has adopted Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised, as our parliamentary authority. The latest version is the 11th edition, published in 2011. This is the edition that will be used in the General Council and General Assembly business sessions. b. The General Assembly has also adopted some self-imposed rules for the manner in which business can be conducted in the General Council and General Assembly business sessions. We cannot violate our own bylaws. Any motion to suspend the rules and introduce business prior to the work of the agenda is not allowable because it would impinge upon the bylaws and would amount to an attempt to suspend bylaws, which is never allowable. (Bylaws may be amended but only under circumstances of previous notice.) c. All business will be conducted in an orderly fashion. 2. Seating of Delegates a. Only registered ordained bishops are to be seated on the main floor and any other sections identified for ordained bishops. Credentials must be openly displayed at all times. b. During the business sessions of the General Council, ordained ministers, exhorters, and laypersons can be seated in any area beyond those designated for the ordained bishops. c. Audio or video recording of the business sessions is not allowed. d. All delegates must be registered to attend business sessions. This includes ordained ministers, exhorters and laypersons. The registration booth is located in S220A-G of the Convention Center. e. No ordained bishop will be allowed to vote unless his credentials are displayed. If credentials are lost, new ones can be secured from the Registration and Credentials Committee in the registration area. f. Each member of the General Council should have received the International General Council Manual at registration. This manual contains pertinent materials for General Council meetings and should be brought to all business sessions. g. According to the current General Assembly Bylaws, “The General Assembly is composed of all members and ministers of the Church of God 16 years of age and above. Members and ministers of the Church of God present and registered at the General Assembly shall comprise its voting constituency.” 3. Instructions Concerning Deportment During Business Meetings. a. Regular attendance at all General Council sessions and the General Assembly business session is strongly encouraged. The schedule is printed in this publication (page 9) and on the backside of the ordained bishop’s badge. b. There is to be no entering or exiting during voting. The sergeants-at-arms have been directed to control the entrances, so no one will be permitted to enter or exit during voting. c. The moderator will not entertain any questions from the floor when a vote is being taken. 4. Use of the Motion Submission Form This form is provided in the back of the Ordained Bishop manuals and should be used to document in writing extended motions or amendments in either the General Council or General Assembly business sessions. Please have the form completed prior to
making your motion and ready to deliver to the floor monitor located to the right of the stage. 5. Limitation of Speeches a. A recording secretary will tabulate the number of speeches made by individuals. b. A member is not to speak the second time on the same question in the same day as long as someone else desires the floor. Because the moderator cannot always know just how many times one speaks, he will depend upon the recording secretary to keep him informed. 6. Agenda a. The printed Agenda mailed to all ordained bishops thirty days prior to the Assembly is the “official agenda which is to claim the attention of the General Council” (Minutes, S2. Bylaws, Article 6, 2. International General Council, Agenda, Paragraph 1). There is no need for a motion to adopt/receive the Agenda since it is by our rules of procedure, already adopted. b. The Bylaws require that “any new business shall be presented to the chairman of the Motions Committee, which shall receive, classify, clarify, eliminate duplication, and dispatch for placement on the agenda following the completion of the printed agenda.” (Minutes, S2. Bylaws, Article 6, 2. International General Council, Agenda, Paragraph 4). Note: Any new business for the 2012 International General Council should be presented to the chairman of the Motions Committee no later than 12 noon, Thursday, July 26, 2012. c. For Ordained Bishops, please note in your Agenda that material from the current Minutes is on the left side (even-numbered) pages and new motions are on the right side (odd-numbered) pages. 7. Role of the Parliamentarians The role of the parliamentarians is to advise the chair or individual members of the body. The parliamentarian does not rule on any issue. Only the chair is authorized to rule. 8. Appointment of Committees a. Usher Committee (General Council) Keith Ivester, Chairman Gary Harris, Co-chairman Fidencio Burgueno, Co-chairman Tony Cooper, Co-chairman b. Teller Committee Carlos Moran, Chairman James Cossey, Co-chairman c. Sergeants-at-Arms Committee Wayne Dority, Chairman Timothy Nuckles, Co-chairman Doyle Scott, Co-chairman Toby Morgan, Co-chairman d. Motions Committee Jeremy Robinson, Chairman Fedlyn Beason, Co-chairman e. Parliamentarian Committee Kenneth Bell, Chairman Oliver McMahan, Co-chairman 9. Electronic Voting a. Voting for all electoral positions in the General Council will be by an electronic system. An introduction to the equipment and instructions on how to operate the equipment will be given prior to the first vote. b. Ordained bishops should prepare the voting worksheet for the Council of Eighteen in advance to help expedite the voting process.
2012 Assembly Exhibits (outside vendors)
Booth Name
Booth Number
Bags of Hope
206, 208
Benefits Board
300, 302
Billy Graham Evangelistic Assoc.
303
Brotherhood Mutual Insurance
304
Church Link/Teck Link, Inc.
418
Churchbus.com
Back of Exhibit Hall
Color Craft Studios
306, 308
Communications
200, 301
Far‐Flung Tin Can
311
Galagher Charitable
505
Gifts R Us
319
Glitz & Glamour II
400, 501
GuideOne Insurance
407
Holy Land Voyager
309
International Center for Spiritual Renewal
401
International League of Christian Schools 402 Israel Ministry of Tourism
404, 406
JCDM Church Builders
307
Jem Afrik Creations
210
Jewels 4 God International
419
Jewish Outreach International
202, 204
Ladies for Life
507
Mega Voice
408
Mural Mosaic Inc
405
Nationwide Payment Solutions
504
Noseworthy Travel Services
403
One Hope
409
PAR Church Builders
509
Peniel Ministries
316
People for Care & Learning
Back of Hall
Prayer Ministries
315
Prestige Pulpits
317
Ray Hurt Ministries
314
Sassy But Classy
506, 508
Sermons for Preachers
515
Shelby Systems
312
SOAR Ministries
512
Stewart Church Signs
500
Strong Tower Insurance Inc.
305
The Painted Lady
318
The Power Team
218
Travel Your Way
513
Walking with the Prophets
502
Young K. Kim, Tailor
503
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
Delegate Guide to Parliamentary Practices Introduction Parliamentary law is not intended to repress the work of an assembly. It is meant to provide orderly principles by which business may be expedited. Where there are no principles of law and where every individual is allowed to act in his own way, confusion prevails. Perhaps the most important principle of parliamentary law is that of rights: the right of the majority to ultimately rule, the right of the minority to be heard, and the right of the individual to participate in the decisionmaking process. It is hoped that the information included here will be helpful in expediting the business of the General Council and the General Assembly. The material has been adapted from several sources and is in agreement with Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised, published by Da Capo Press, a member of the Perseus Books Group. The information is certainly not exhaustive. Delegates are encouraged to study Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised. A more thorough knowledge of the rules by which our business is conducted will surely make for smoother and more productive business meetings.
Definitions Chair - The presiding officer or the position from which that person presides. The general overseer serves as the presiding officer and should be addressed as MR. CHAIRMAN or MR. MODERATOR. Parliamentarian - The person designated to advise the chair on points of parliamentary law and also to give similar advice to the assembly when requested. The parliamentarian gives an opinion; the chair makes a ruling. Floor - The position of persons other than the chairman and his associates. When a member “has the floor,” he has the opportunity to exercise his speaking rights and should be given appropriate attention. Meeting - A single official gathering of the body to conduct business. Session - A series of connected meetings devoted to a single agenda. Member - A person with the right to full participation. Motion - A formal proposal by a member in a meeting that the assembly take certain action. Question is synonym for motion. Pending - Being processed by chair. Procedure - Priority or rank, applied to motions. Table - To “lay on the table” means entrusting the case to the secretary. To lay on the table permits the assembly to set an issue aside in order to consider a more urgent issue.
Obtaining the Floor Before a member attempts to make a motion or to address a meeting, he should be recognized by the chair. With our present system of speaker recognition, a member is required to go to a numbered light and touch the desired option on the screen. The members are recognized by the chair in the order in which they activate the light. A member does not have the floor until recognized by the chair. Thus, if the subject on the floor changes, a new order will be established to recognize those members wishing to speak to the current subject.
A member wishing to get the chair’s attention for the following reasons need not go to a speaker’s light but may obtain recognition by audibly calling for the attention of the chair with: • Question of privilege • Point of order • Parliamentary inquiry • Appeal from the decision of the chair • Division of the house. Each member has the right to speak on every question. However, he cannot make a second speech on the same question as long as any member who has not spoken on the question desires the floor. It is the prerogative of the moderator to recognize each speaker and to determine a balance of negative and affirmative speeches. (General Assembly Minutes, 2010, p. 63, Parliamentary Procedure and Authority, item 2).
Assigning the Floor A member does not obtain the floor by rising and addressing the chair, nor by proceeding to a speaker’s microphone and turning on a light. The floor must be assigned to him by the chair before he is privileged to speak.
Interrupting a Speaker A member who has been assigned the floor should not be interrupted after he has begun to speak, unless the immediate need is of such urgency to justify the interruption. A member who has been assigned the floor should be interrupted only by one who wishes: • To make a motion to reconsider (and this only if the time limit on the motion is about to run out. The motion must be made and accepted within 24 hours. It may not be considered after 24 hours.) • To rise to a point of order • To voice an objection to the consideration of a question (this must occur before there has been any debate or before any subsidiary motion has been stated by the chair.) • To call for the orders of the day in case they are not being followed • To raise a question of privilege • To request a division of the question when the question consists of more than one independent resolution • To make a parliamentary inquiry • To request information that requires an immediate answer.
Making a Motion In making a motion (this includes any substitute motion), a member first obtains the floor and prefaces the statement of the proposed action by the words “I move that . . .” The motion should be written on the Motion Submission Form (included in manuals of ordained bishops and at the Motions Table for delegates) and given to the floor monitor who is located on the main floor just beneath the secretary general. The floor monitor will have additional copies of the Motion Submission Form, if they are needed.
Seconding a Motion In general, every motion must be seconded before it is discussed or voted upon. A member wishing to second a motion simply says, “I second the motion.” Recognition by the chair is not necessary in order to second a motion, and a second may be made without the member rising. Motions that come from a committee are considered already offered and seconded.
Debate or Discussion of the Question In all debate and discussion, the following principles should prevail: 1. Speakers should avoid all references to specific personalities. 2. The motives of those whose views are opposed should not be questioned. 3. Discussion should be aimed at clarifying the facts rather than at challenging the views of those on the opposite side of the question.
Voting on the Question In calling for the vote, the affirmative vote is called for first. If the chair is in doubt after calling for a vote by voice, he will ask for a show of hands or a standing vote. If a member questions the vote, he has a right to call for “a division of the house.” Division of the house does not demand a counting of the votes. If a member wishes to have the votes counted, he must make a motion (which must be seconded) to that effect.
Kinds of Motions Main Motions Main motions are those which bring some main question before the group. A main motion yields to all subsidiary, privileged, and incidental motions. Subsidiary Motions A subsidiary motion is applied to a pending motion as a means of disposing of the pending one. All subsidiary motions take precedence over the main motion. By means of subsidiary motions, the main motion may be amended, or referred to a committee, or action postponed or hastened. The subsidiary motions in order of precedence are: 1. To lay on the table 2. To call for the previous question 3. To limit or extend the time of debate 4. To postpone to a certain time 5. To commit or refer 6. To amend (can be applied to 3, 4, and 5) 7. To postpone indefinitely (cannot be amended). To Lay on the Table The effect of this motion is to postpone action on the question to which it applies. This motion should be used primarily to enable the group to consider more urgent business, and should not be used as a means of suppressing a question without debate. Parliamentary law allows that only a two-thirds vote can rightfully suppress a main motion without allowing free debate. To Call for the Previous Question The object of this motion is to bring to an end the debate on the question or questions included in the call, and to secure a vote on the question(s). The previous question requires a two-thirds vote. If the motion does not specify otherwise, it applies only to the immediately pending question. The call for previous question should come from a member who has turned on a light and been recognized by the chair. To Limit or Extend Time of Debate Since certain rights are being taken away from the members, adoption of these motions requires a twothirds vote. Motions to limit or extend time of debate are not debatable but may be amended (see note above). To Postpone to a Certain Time The motion is similar to “Lay on the Table.” It differs in that it postpones action to an established time and is debatable.
General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
To Commit or Refer A motion to commit or refer is debatable, can be amended and requires a majority vote. To Amend The motion to amend—that is, to change the words of a pending motion—requires a second and is debatable if the motion to be amended is debatable. Amendments of the first degree and the second degree are permitted. Amendments of the third degree are not. An amendment must be germane (that is, closely related) to the motion to be amended. If not, it will be ruled out of order by the chair. A substitute motion is an amendment of the first degree. To Postpone Indefinitely The real object of this motion is to reject the motion to which it is applied. It is debatable and opens the main question to debate. It requires a majority vote for adoption.
Incidental Motions Incidental motions arise out of the process of business (a pending question), and as a result they must be decided before a decision can be made on the question to which they are incidental. Incidental questions that will be briefly discussed are: 1. To rise to a point of order 2. To appeal from the decision of the chair 3. To suspend the rules 4. To object to the consideration of a question
5. To divide a question 6. To call for a division of the assembly 7. To make a request growing out of pending business a. To make a parliamentary inquiry b. To request information c. To ask permission to withdraw a motion. To Rise to a Point of Order While it is the duty of the chair to enforce the rules of the assembly, any member has the right to call to the attention of the chair any violation which occurs. To Appeal from the Decision of the Chair An appeal may be made from the decision of the chair only at the time the ruling is made. A majority vote is necessary before a decision of the chair can be reversed. To Suspend the Rules The rule or rules which interfere with the action which the assembly wishes to take may be suspended, provided they do not conflict with basic parliamentary law or with General Assembly Bylaws. Constitution and bylaws cannot be suspended. To Object to the Consideration of a Question The purpose of this motion is to present consideration of certain questions which the assembly may feel are not worthy of consideration. It requires no second, cannot be debated, cannot be amended, and requires a two-thirds vote. It must be proposed before debate and/ or before the chair has stated any subsidiary motion.
To Divide a Question This motion can be applied only to main motions and amendments. Parts of a question that are intimately related should not be divided. To Call for a Division of the Assembly The purpose for calling for the division of the assembly is to secure an accurate count of the vote, especially when the vote has been taken viva voce. This motion does not provide for a count. It provides for a standing vote. A counting of the vote must be called for by a motion to that effect. To Make a Request Growing Out of the Business of the Assembly This can occur during a business session when a member rises to the floor in order to a. Make a Parliamentary Inquiry. This privilege should not be abused and will be prevented by the chair when such requests are made for any reason other than an honest attempt to secure information that is immediately needed. b. Request Information. This request has the same privileges as a request for parliamentary inquiry. The primary difference is that the member may be seeking information from another member of the assembly rather than from the chair. c. Ask Permission to Withdraw a Motion. After a question has been stated by the chair, it is in the possession of the group and cannot be withdrawn or modified without the approval of the assembly. However, until a motion has been stated by the chair, the proposer of the motion can withdraw or modify it in any way he desires.
Summary of Facts Relating to Motions
Kind of Motion
Object
Effect
To lay on the table
Clear the floor for more urgent business
Delays action
To call for the previous question
Secure immediate vote on pending question
Ends debate
To limit or extend time of debate
Provides more or less time for discussion
Shortens or lengthens discussion period
To postpone definitely to a certain time
Often gives more time for informal discussion and for securing supporters
Delays action
To commit or refer
To enable more careful consideration to be given
Delays action
To amend
To improve the motion
Changes the original motion
To postpone indefinitely
To prevent a vote on the question
Suppresses the question
To raise a point of order To call attention to violation of rules
Keeps the assembly functioning according to established rules
To appeal from the decision of the chair
Secures ruling of the assembly rather than by the chair
To determine the attitude of the assembly on the ruling made by the chair
To suspend the rules To permit action not possible under the rules
Secures action which otherwise could not be presented by the rules
To object to the consideration of a question
Prevent wasting time on unimportant business
Suppresses the motion
To divide the question
Secure more careful consideration of parts
Secures action by parts
To call for a division of the assembly
(a) To determine the accuracy of a viva voce vote (b) To secure expression of individual member’s vote
Secures an accurate check on vote
To raise a question of privilege
To correct undesirable conditions
Corrects undesirable condition
To take from the table
Continue the consideration of the question
Continues consideration of the question
To reconsider To reconsider the question
Secures further consideration and another vote on the question
To rescind
Same
Repeal action previously taken
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
World Missions Accounting & Donor Relations Office Time: 8:00am-5:00pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Manatee Springs Room
Schedule at a Glance Tuesday, July 24 General Council - 8:30am–Noon General Council -*2:00pm–4:30pm General Council - 7:00pm–9:30pm *If the Special Order of the Day prevails, a General Assembly Business Meeting will convene at 2:00pm, Tuesday. Wednesday, July 25 General Council - 8:30am–Noon General Council - 2:00pm–4:30pm Worship Service - 7:00pm–9:30pm Speaker: Ravi Zacharias Thursday, July 26 General Council - 8:30pm–Noon. General Council - 2:00pm–4:30pm Worship Service - 7:00pm–9:30pm Speaker: Ishmael Charles Friday, July 27 General Council - 8:30am–Noon. General Assembly Business Session - 2:00pm–4:30pm Worship Service - 7:00pm–9:30pm Commissioning of and address by new General Overseer
Special Activities and Meals Monday, July 23 Praying Church Movement Kick-Off Time: 8:30am-4:30pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230ABC Chaplains Commission: Meet with Director and Endorser Time: 8:00am-5:00pm (by appointment) Location: The Peabody Orlando Chaplains Commission: Peer Reviews (as arranged) Time: 8:00am-5:00pm (by appointment) Location: The Peabody Orlando Smoky Mtn Children’s Home/Women’s Ministries Awards Brunch Time: 9:00am-12:00pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Lake Mizell International Educator’s Luncheon Time: 11:30am-2:00pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Orlando Ballroom L-M World Missions Accounting & Donor Relations Office Time: 12:00pm-5:00pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Manatee Springs Room State Ministerial Training Leaders Conference Time: 2:30pm-4:30pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Plaza International I International Ministerial Trainers Consultation Time: 2:30pm-4:30pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Plaza International K
Florida-Tampa State Council Luncheon Time: 12:00pm-2:00pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230A Europe/Middle East/CIS Reception (by invitation only) Time: 9:00pm-10:30pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Plaza International I LMR (Local Missions Representative) Reception (invitation only) Time: 9:00pm-10:30pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Plaza International Ballroom D New York Church of God Time: 9:00pm-11:00pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230B Wednesday, July 25 Intercessory Prayer Room Time: 7:00am-10:00pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S310E Latin America Breakfast (by invitation only) Time: 7:00am-8:30am Location: Peabody Orlando, Discovery 43 America Ablaze/Cultural Pioneering Time: 7:00am-9:00am Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230A World Missions Accounting & Donor Relations Office Time: 8:00am-5:00pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Manatee Springs Room Black Ministries Luncheon Time: 12:00pm-2:00pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Florida I-IV Caribbean Region Luncheon Time: 12:00pm-2:00pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Plaza International G-H Alaska Church of God Luncheon Time: 12:00pm-2:00pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Orange Ballroom C Alabama State Council Luncheon Time: 12:15pm-1:30pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Orange Ballroom F North Georgia State Council Luncheon Time: 12:00pm-1:30pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Orange Ballroom E Enliven, Bible Study Series, Premiere and Book Signing Time: 3:00pm-5:00pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, Exhibit Hall, Resources Area Lee University Alumni Reception Time: 9:00pm-12:00am Location: The Hilton Orlando, Florida I-IV Pentecostal Theological Seminary Alumni Reception Time: 9:30pm-11:30pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230DEF
Reunion De Enriquecimiento de Educadores Hispanos Time: 2:30pm-4:30pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Plaza International J
International Youth & Discipleship Department Dinner (by invitation only) Time: 9:30pm-11:30pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Lake Eola
World Missions Banquet (by invitation only) Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Int’l Ballroom D-H
Pennsylvania Church of God Reception Time: 9:30pm-11:30pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Lake Mizell
Tuesday, July 24 Intercessory Prayer Room Time: 7:00am-10:00pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S310E
Thursday, July 26 Intercessory Prayer Room Time: 7:00am-10:00pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S310E
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Pentecostal Theological Seminary Pastoral Covenant Group Facilitator’s Breakfast (by invitation only) Time: 7:00am-8:00am Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230D Multi-Cultural Ministries Breakfast (by invitation only) Time: 7:00am-9:00am Location: The Hilton Orlando, Lake Mizell B Bethel Bible College Alumni Jamaica Breakfast Time: 7:00am-11:00am Location: Wyndham Orlando Resort Empowered 21 Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230AB French Language Committee Time: 7:30am-10:00am Location: The Peabody Orlando, Blue Spring Rooms World Missions Accounting & Donor Relations Office Time: 8:00am-3:00pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Manatee Springs Room Division of World Evangelization-USA Missions In partnership with the Executive Committee, all full-time evangelists will be presented with a free gift by visiting the USA Missions exhibit in the Exhibit Hall. Hours: 11:30am-2:30pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, Exhibit Hall Romanian Territory Luncheon (by invitation only) Time: 12:00pm-2:00pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Lake Mizell USA Missions: Latin American Banquet Time: 12:00pm-1:30pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Orange D Tennessee State Council Luncheon Time: 12:15pm-1:30pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Lake Eola B Ohio State Council Luncheon Time: 12:30pm-2:00pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230A Fraternal Guest Reception (by invitation only) Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Championsgate West Coast Bible College, Northwest Bible College & Patten University Alumni Reception Time: 9:15pm-11:15pm Location: The Hilton Orlando, Orange Ballroom C Ministry to the Military Reception Time: 9:30pm-11:30pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230CD Canada-National Ministers & Spouses Reception Time: 9:45pm-11:45pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230AB East Coast Bible College Alumni Reception Time: 10:00pm-12:00am Location: The Hilton Orlando, Lake Highland Friday, July 27 Intercessory Prayer Room Time: 7:00am-10:00pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S310E World Missions Accounting & Donor Relations Office Time: 8:00am-3:00pm Location: The Peabody Orlando, Manatee Springs Room Memorial Service Reception (by invitation only) Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm Location: Orange County Convention Center, S230A-F
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
Agenda
continued from page 1 the election of the International Executive Council, or Council of Eighteen. Highlights of the General Council Agenda include a re-visitation to the question of church affiliations. Several concerns have been addressed since the last Assembly. State and regional leadership are being offered more flexibility in defining the roles of youth and evangelism directors. Some changes are being considered in the operation of the Motions Committee, as well as the Aged Ministers Fund. Item #9 deals with lowering the age for ministers to become ordained bishops, provided they meet other criteria. An item on Women in Ministry opens the door for women to serve on church boards that have previously been open to men only. The measure reflects the spirit of motions passed in previous Assemblies where women are now active participants. There will also be reports given from task forces put in place. One critical report will be addressed on Thursday morning and deals with a National Church Planting Strategy. After four days of General Council sessions (July 24-27), the nominations, deliberations, and decisions of the group, comprised of ordained bishops, then heads to a Friday afternoon session of the General Assembly, which is made up of all registered delegates age 16 years and older, who will then further discuss or ratify the Council’s actions. International General Council Schedule Tuesday, July 24 General Council - 8:30 a.m.– Noon General Council -*2:00 p.m.– 4:30 p.m General Council - 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. *If the Special Order of the Day prevails, a General Assembly Business Meeting will convene at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday. Wednesday, July 25 General Council - 8:30 a.m.– Noon General Council - 2:00 p.m.– 4:30 p.m. Thursday, July 26 General Council - 8:30 a.m.– Noon. General Council - 2:00 p.m.– 4:30 p.m. Friday, July 27 General Council - 8:30 a.m.– Noon. General Assembly Business Session - 2:00 p.m.– 4:30 p.m. International General Council Agenda The following is the complete agenda as presented to the Ordained Bishops General Council: • The agenda item title is highlighted in gray • The title is followed by the item as it is currently stated in the Minutes • The yellow section is the recommendation OFFICIAL OPENING INSTRUCTIONS TO DELEGATES APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEES Usher, Motions, Teller, Parliamentarians, Sergeant-at-Arms NOMINATIONS OF INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 1. General Overseer 2. First Assistant General Overseer 3. Second Assistant General Overseer
4. Third Assistant General Overseer 5. Secretary General SPECIAL ORDER OF THE DAY “Elected Positions” OTHER NOMINATIONS 6. Director of Youth and Discipleship 7. Assistant Director of Youth and Discipleship* 8. Director of World Missions 9. Assistant Director of World Missions* *If the Special Order of the Day prevails in the International General Council and in the International General Assembly, no nomination will be made for this position. ELECTION OF COUNCIL OF EIGHTEEN 1. SPECIAL ORDER OF THE DAY – ELECTED POSITIONS Page 61, S2. BYLAWS OF THE CHURCH OF GOD, ARTICLE VI. GOVERNING BODIES, 1. International General Assembly, Elections: The International General Assembly shall elect the general overseer, the assistant general overseers, the secretary general, the director of Youth and Discipleship, the assistant director of Youth and Discipleship, the director of World Missions, and the assistant director of World Missions. We recommend: 1) That we amend page 61, S2. BYLAWS OF THE CHURCH OF GOD, ARTICLE VI. GOVERNING BODIES, 1. International General Assembly, Elections by striking the words, “the assistant director of Youth and Discipleship.” 2) That we amend page 61, S2. BYLAWS OF THE CHURCH OF GOD, ARTICLE VI. GOVERNING BODIES, 1. International General Assembly, Elections by striking the words, “the assistant director of World Missions.” 3) That other references to these positions in the Minutes be amended to reflect these motions (page 62, S2., VI. 2., 5; page 67, S4., II., 2; page 78, S10., II.; page 82, S12., II, B., 2.; pages 83, 84, S12., IV.). Note: If adopted by the International General Council and the International General Assembly, these motions will terminate the two positions identified and remove them from the list of nominations by the International General Council on page 62 of the Minutes. 2. AFFILIATION WITH CHURCH OF GOD Pages 137, 138, S49. AFFILIATION WITH CHURCH OF GOD: [1994] When a church or association of churches desires to become affiliated with the Church of God, thus becoming part of the International General Assembly, the church or association must follow the established procedure for acceptance into the Church of God as set forth by the International General Assembly. Appropriate forms of organization, with resolutions to unite with the church, must be processed in a legal business meeting to show acceptance of the faith, government, polity, and practices of the Church of God, and the willingness to abide by the actions of the International General Assembly. All of the necessary forms pertaining thereto, including deeds, shall be submitted not more than five (5) years after the date of the affiliation/organization meeting, renewable at the request of the local church and with the approval of the administrative bishop.
We recommend: That we amend pages 137, 138, S49. AFFILIATION WITH CHURCH OF GOD, by substituting the following: That non-Church of God churches that wish to affiliate with the Church of God be allowed to join as associate churches. They shall be able to retain ownership of their properties. They shall make monthly reports to the state/regional and general offices with the same financial accountability as International General Assembly congregations. The pastor shall submit to a background check and he/she shall secure Church of God ministerial credentials in accordance with the denomination’s polity. An associate church can remove its associate status by placing the church properties on a Church of God warranty deed with the approval of the administrative bishop and the state/regional council. 3. STATE EVANGELISM AND MISSIONS DIRECTOR Page 106, Section S27. STATE EVANGELISM AND MISSIONS DIRECTOR (USA MISSIONS), I. SELECTION, paragraph 1: 1. The state overseer shall submit to the State Council the names of nominees for state Evangelism and Missions director for election prior to the International General Assembly. Ordained bishops (where practical) shall be used to fill the office. We recommend: 1) That on page 106, Section S27. STATE EVANGELISM AND MISSIONS DIRECTOR (USA MISSIONS), I. SELECTION, paragraph 1. be amended by striking the word shall, and inserting the word may, so as to read: The state overseer may submit to the State Council the names of nominees for state Evangelism and Missions director for election prior to the International General Assembly. Ordained bishops (where practical) shall be used to fill the office. 2) That on page 107, Section S27. STATE EVANGELISM AND MISSIONS DIRECTOR (USA MISSIONS), II. DUTIES AND AUTHORITIES be deleted. 4. STATE YOUTH AND DISCIPLESHIP DIRECTOR Page 106, S26. STATE YOUTH AND DISCIPLESHIP DIRECTOR, II. DUTIES AND AUTHORITIES: II. Duties and Authorities The state Youth and Discipleship director shall: 1. Work under the supervision of the state overseer. 2. Draft a state program under the supervision of the state overseer that will implement programs and policies of Christian education and discipleship. This would include, the establishment of the Sunday school in each local church, the establishment of Family Training Hour and/or YPE in each local church, and the implementation of all other recommended Christian education and discipleship ministries. 3. Stimulate interest in behalf of Bible schools, colleges, and home and foreign missions. 4. Visit the churches in his state, ministering the Word, conducting seminars and workers conferences, and consulting with the pastor and his staff in areas of Christian education and discipleship. 5. Plan for and promote the general interest of the Home for Children.
General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
6. Appoint, with the district overseer, a district Youth and Discipleship director on each district. Each state shall formulate its own plan for district directors’ travel expense. We recommend: That we amend page 106, S26. STATE YOUTH AND DISCIPLESHIP DIRECTOR, II. DUTIES AND AUTHORITIES, by substituting the following paragraph: 1. The State Youth and Discipleship director shall work under the supervision of the state overseer and the duties and authorities of the Youth and Discipleship director are to be defined by the state overseer and state council. 5. REPORT – MISSIONS 2.0 6. MOTIONS COMMITTEE Page 68, S4. INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL, IV. INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL MOTIONS COMMITTEE: All new motions and resolutions that are to claim the attention of the International General Council shall be written and given a place on the agenda, and to serve this purpose we recommend the appointment, by the chair, of a motions committee of five, who shall receive, classify, and place on the agenda such motions and resolutions. (This committee is to function during the time that the International General Council is in session.) We recommend: That we amend page 68, S4. INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL, IV. INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL MOTIONS COMMITTEE, by adding the following paragraph: Previous notice shall be required for any motion which greatly alters the organizational structure of the Church of God. When motions are presented to the Motions Committee, the following guidelines will be followed: 1. Each motion will be processed and prioritized by the Motions Committee according to the guidelines of the General Assembly Minutes. 2. The Motions Committee will initially determine if the motion would “greatly alter the organizational structure of the Church of God.” 3. If in the opinion of the moderator the motion would “greatly alter the organizational structure of the Church of God,” the motion will be read to the body by the chairman of the Motions Committee at the direction of the moderator with the notation that it is a motion that will require previous notice before final disposition. 4. The moderator will explain that if the motion passes in the present International General Council, it will be placed on the agenda of the following International General Council in order to fulfill the requirement of previous notice. 5. The item will then be open for full debate on the presently-convening International General Council floor. 6. If the motion does not receive a majority vote, it falls to the floor. 7. If the motion receives a majority vote, it is committed to the International Executive Council with the mandate that it be placed on the agenda for the next International General Council in a manner that fulfills the requirements of previous notice.
7. AGED MINISTERS FUND Pages 181, 182, S72. AGED MINISTERS’ PENSIONING PLAN: [Enrollments in the Aged Ministers’ Pensioning Plan ceased as of December 31, 1982. Applications for benefits from this plan ceased as of August 31, 1992. As of that date, the contributions of eligible ministers enrolled in the plan, who had not as yet applied for a pension, were either (1) applied toward the purchase of a guaranteed annuity for the minister, or (2) rolled over into the Church of God Ministers’ Retirement Plan in the name of the minister. For a more detailed description of this plan, see the Supplement of the 1992 Minutes of the International General Assembly, S65.] We recommend: That we amend pages 181, 182, S72. AGED MINISTERS’ PENSIONING PLAN, by adding the following paragraph: Based upon actuarial studies, the Aged Ministers’ Pension Fund, Disabled Ministers’ Pension Fund, and the Ministers Widows’ Fund shall be adjusted by the International Executive Council according to the needs of the funds. 8. CONCLUDED AND DECIDED AGENDA ITEMS Page 67, S4. INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL, III. INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL AGENDA : Inasmuch as the official agenda, which is to claim the attention of the International General Council, is mailed to the ordained bishops at least thirty (30) days prior to the opening of the International General Council, all recommendations must be received by the International Executive Council in time for consideration at its April session in order to appear on the Assembly agenda. We recommend: That we amend pages 67, 68, S4. INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL, III. INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL AGENDA, by adding the following: Furthermore, no agenda item concluded and decided by the International General Council and/or concluded and decided by the International General Assembly is to be included on the published agenda for the next International General Council unless approved by a two-thirds majority of the International Executive Council. This does not apply to items of previous notice or informational reports. 9. QUALIFICATIONS OF ORDAINED BISHOPS Pages 149, 150, S56. ORDAINED BISHOP, II. QUALIFICATIONS OF ORDAINED BISHOPS, paragraph 2: 2. An applicant for ordination as bishop may be ordained when he is twenty-five (25) years of age, provided he has at least eight (8) years of active ministry, or when he is thirty (30) years of age, provided he has had at least five (5) years of active ministry, if he is otherwise qualified. In those cases in which a ministerial applicant has had verifiable active ministerial experience prior to receiving credentials, exceptions to the age qualifications can be made upon recommendation by the ministerial applicant’s administrative bishop and with the approval of the Executive Council. We recommend: That we amend pages 149, 150, S56. ORDAINED BISHOP, II. QUALIFICATIONS OF ORDAINED BISHOPS, paragraph 2, by
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striking the words, “provided he has had at least eight (8) years of active ministry, or when he is thirty (30) years of age.” 10. CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION We recommend: That we amend page 66, S3. INTERNATIONAL ASSEMBLY, II. PROCEDURES, by adding the following paragraph: 5. The International General Assembly authorizes the International Executive Council to call a constitutional convention to review all aspects of Church of God polity (with the exception of doctrine, mission, vision, core values, and scriptural principles of ministry), and bring back recommendations to the International General Council. 11. STATE OVERSEERS Page 101, S21. STATE OVERSEERS, VI. DUTIES AND AUTHORITIES, paragraph 20: 20. Live in the state or province over which he is made overseer. We recommend: 1) That we amend page 101, S21. STATE OVERSEERS, VI. DUTIES AND AUTHORITIES, by adding the following paragraph: “21. Provide formal training and guidance to pastors in the following areas: Preparing and managing an annual local church budget; dealing with local church conflict resolution; and impacting the local community.” 2) That we amend page 101, S21 STATE OVERSEER VI. DUTIES AND AUTHORITIES, paragraph 20, by adding, Exceptions may be granted by the International Executive Committee in cases where a mission state/regional overseer simultaneously serves as a pastor of a church in another area or as an overseer of another state/ region,” so as to read: 20. Live in the state or province over which he is made overseer. Exceptions may be granted by the International Executive Committee in cases where a mission state/regional overseer simultaneously serves as a pastor of a church in another area or as an overseer of another state/region. 12. VIOLATION OF CONFIDENCES Page 157, S63. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR MINISTERS, paragraph 8: 8. No Church of God minister shall be required to violate a confidence, when such has been entrusted to him/her in the performance of his/her professional duties or in the course of his/ her care of souls, except with the express permission of the person who has confided in him/her or in order to prevent a crime. We recommend: That we amend page 157, S63. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR MINISTERS, paragraph 8., by adding, “This provision shall not preempt any applicable state or other required reporting laws,” so as to read: 8. No Church of God minister shall be required to violate a confidence, when such has been entrusted to him/her in the performance of his/her professional duties or in the course of his/ her care of souls, except with the express permission of the person who has confided in him/her or in order to prevent a crime. This provision shall not preempt any applicable state or other required reporting laws (51st A., 1966, p. 77). Agenda continued on next page >
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
13. TRIAL BOARD PROCEDURES Page 164, S65. OFFENDING MINISTERS, I. MINISTERIAL DISCIPLINE, Trial Procedures and Appeals for Church of God Ministers: Inasmuch as Church of God hearings and/or trials of its ministers or members are ecclesiastical rather than civil in nature, and concern matters within the Christian brotherhood, to be judged by the guidelines of Holy Scripture rather than civil law, the ministers and members of the Church of God do hereby agree that defense attorneys may not attend or participate in those proceedings. We recommend: That we amend page 164, S65. OFFENDING MINISTERS. I. MINISTERIAL DISCIPLINE, Trial Procedures and Appeals for Church of God Ministers, by deleting “defense attorneys” and inserting “legal counsel,” so as to read: Inasmuch as Church of God hearings and/or trials of its ministers or members are ecclesiastical rather than civil in nature, and concern matters within the Christian brotherhood, to be judged by the guidelines of Holy Scripture rather than civil law, the ministers and members of the Church of God do hereby agree that legal counsel may not attend or participate in those proceedings.
14. REPORT – CHURCH PLANTING This report will be given as a special order of the day on Thursday morning, July 26 at 10:00. 15. WOMEN IN MINISTRY 1) PASTOR’S SPOUSE ELIGIBLE TO SERVE AS HIS/ HER ASSISTANT We recommend: That on page 122, S40. PASTOR, IV. ASSISTANT PASTOR, paragraph 2, be deleted: 2. The pastor’s wife shall be considered ineligible for appointment as his assistant. 2) WOMEN SERVING ON CONGREGATIONAL TRIAL BOARD We recommend: That we amend page 118, S38. MEMBERSHIP, V. PROCEDURE IN DEALING WITH MEMBER, by striking the word “male,” so as to read: If a member who is not a minister shall be charged with any offense which makes it necessary to deal with the member, formal charges in writing shall be given to the member not less than three days (when practical) prior to the time and place of the meeting. The member shall have a right to be heard and offer corroborating testimony at the meeting. Further, the charges shall be heard and a decision rendered by the local church and pastor’s council or (if a church does not have a pastor’s council or board of elders) by the male members who are present at the meeting and in good standing with the church. Disciplinary options include but are not limited to: official reprimand, restitution, censure, restrictions, and, where necessary, excommunication.
3) WOMEN SERVING ON THE PUBLICATIONS BOARD We recommend: That we amend page 94, S20. MINISTRY OF PUBLICATIONS, I. MINISTRY OF PUBLICATIONS BOARD, A. Selection, by striking the word “men” and inserting the word “members,” so as to read: The Ministry of Publications Board shall consist of seven members appointed biennially by the International Executive Committee. 4) WOMEN SERVING ON THE USA MISSIONS BOARD We recommend: That we amend page page 79, S11. MINISTRY OF USA MISSIONS, I. USA MISSIONS BOARD, A. Selection, by striking the word “men” and inserting the word “members,” so as to read: The USA Missions Board shall consist of not less than five members who shall be appointed biennially by the International Executive Committee. 16. TENURE OF NATIONAL/TERRITORIAL OVERSEERS Page 81, S12. MINISTRY OF WORLD MISSIONS, I. WORLD MISSIONS BOARD, B. Duties and Authorities: 5. To appoint all [World Missions] overseers, missionaries, educational coordinators, and presidents/ directors of all educational institutions. We recommend: That we amend page 81, S12. MINISTRY OF WORLD MISSIONS, I. WORLD MISSIONS BOARD, B. Duties and Authorities, paragraph 5 by adding, “Where practical, the tenure of national/territorial overseers of World Missions areas is for two years with a maximum tenure of twelve consecutive years in office.” 17. PERMANENT RECORDS OF TRIAL BOARD DECISIONS Page 168, S65. OFFENDING MINISTERS, I. MINISTERIAL DISCIPLINE, B. Trial Procedures, 7. Notification of Decision, b: b. The trial board’s decision will become a part of the defendant’s or complainant’s record at the state office. In case of conviction, the record will also be filed at International Offices. We recommend: That we amend page 168, S65. OFFENDING MINISTERS, I. MINISTERIAL DISCIPLINE, B. Trial Procedures, 7. Notification of Decision, b., by substituting the following paragraph, “The trial board’s decision will become part of the defendant’s permanent record at the state office and will also be filed at International Offices.”
18. RESPONSIBLE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA We recommend: That we amend pages 156, 157, S63. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR MINISTERS, by adding the following: 10. Responsible Use of Social Media Christians are exhorted by Scripture to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), to provide things honest in the sight of all persons (Romans 12:17), and to do all things for the edification of others (Romans 15:2). The use of social media (such as MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, blogs, websites, and so forth) by believers should conform to these and other biblical standards. Church of God ministers, as examples of believers in speech, life, faith, and purity (1 Timothy 4:12), shall at all times agree: a. To write and post only under their own name. b. To not attack fellow ministers or members of the Church of God. One may disagree with others, provided the tone is respectful and does not become a personal attack. c. To not disclose any sensitive, confidential, or financial information about the church, its ministers, or its members, other than what is publically available. d. To not post any material that is defamatory, libelous, threatening, harassing, abusive, or embarrassing to any person or entity. e. To uphold the doctrine of the Church of God by not writing or posting anything contrary to the accepted doctrine of the Church of God. Failure to follow these guidelines on the use of social media shall result in the offending minister being subject to discipline for unbecoming ministerial conduct. 19. NATIONAL DISTRICT OVERSEERS MEETING Page 45, COMISSION ON ORGANIZATION REPORT, DISTRICT, paragraph 5: 5. That the general church leadership meet with the district overseers at least every two years for the purpose of discussing the ministry of the church at the district level. We recommend: That on page 45, COMISSION ON ORGANIZATION REPORT, DISTRICT, paragraph 5. be deleted. 20. RESOLUTIONS The chairman of the Resolutions Committee will give a report of recommended resolutions.
Supplemental and Explanatory Notes 1. SPECIAL ORDER OF THE DAY, ELECTED POSITIONS—As part of the continued restructuring process in response to the reallocation of resources to the International Offices, the Executive Council recommends the deletion of these two positions. There is no intent to appoint replacements to these two offices. The savings realized will enhance the effectiveness of these ministries along with the other strategic realignments being implemented at the International Offices. The rationale can be summarized as follows: Reality—it is a budgetary issue with total savings of $408,000 per year; Resources—this will provide additional funds for ministry; and, Responsibility—the leadership of the church is continuing the restructuring process in response to the reallocation of resources. If the recommendations prevail in the Church of God International General Council as a Special Order of the Day on Tuesday morning, July 24, 2012, a special business session of the International General Assembly will convene at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday afternoon, July 24, 2012.
General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
2. AFFILIATION WITH CHURCH OF GOD—A similar motion was passionately debated at the 2010 International General Assembly. This motion endeavors to address the negatives expressed at that time by: (a) requiring all associate churches to make monthly reports with the same financial accountability as all other local Church of God congregations; (b) requiring all pastors to submit to a background check and secure ministerial credentials in accordance with the denomination’s polity; and, (c) requiring all associate churches who desire to become full members in the International General Assembly to place the church properties on a Church of God warranty deed with the approval of the administrative bishop and the state/regional council. 3. STATE EVANGELISM AND MISSIONS DIRECTOR—This motion allows states/regions which desire to do so to continue to have a state Evangelism and Missions director without mandating specific duties and responsibilities. 4. STATE YOUTH AND DISCIPLESHIP DIRECTOR—States and regions vary greatly in size, economy, ethnicity, culture, and geography. Therefore, it is felt that each state and region should set the parameters of the duties and authorities of the state Youth and Discipleship director and he/she should work directly under the supervision of the state overseer. 5. REPORT: MISSIONS 2.0—The Missions 2.0 initiative began many months ago as a research committee in World Missions. A Global Leadership Survey was sent to national overseers, two missionary surveys were sent to full-time career missionaries, consultations were held with World Missions field directors and superintendents, questions were discussed with the International Council in the fall of 2011, and conferences were conducted with current and former general directors of World Missions. After officially receiving the initial Missions 2.0 Committee Report, the International Executive Council directed, “that this committee continue working on the development of this report as well as identifying items for possible inclusion on the International General Council Agenda.” This report fulfills that directive. World Evangelization is a core value, or “essential DNA,” of the Church of God, and every true Church of God congregation—whether it is found in Cleveland, Tennessee, or Krakow, Poland. At the dawn of a new century of Church of God World Missions and a renewed emphasis on the Great Commission, now is the time for this Mighty international Army to move as one to reach the lost. “Missions 2.0” begins with this assumption, and sees a global missions initiative where borders are not barriers, departments are no demarcations, and efficient, effective making of disciples trumps every other consideration. Only a global missions initiative can reach a global harvest. In order to implement that vision, major shifts are needed in our organizational structure that might be compared to the rewriting of a computer software program. The name “Missions 2.0” invokes the useful software metaphor, but it is also a way to focus on the most essential “two points” which require us to rewrite our existing program. Even as we celebrate 100 years of World Missions, we must also recognize that both the “World” and “Missions” have changed. The World for which the existing program was written is radically different than the world today. The most dramatic changes, to which even the most recent “patches” fail to respond, are Globalization and retribalization; Globalization as in the dissipation of geographical/national boundaries and retribalization as in the rise of tribal identity over assimilation as people groups move across the globe. The original Missions program was written in a time of fixed borders and mass societies. The question is no longer where, but who. While viewing Missions as originating from the United States is completely consistent with the initiation of the program 100 years ago, today national churches around the world are sending missionaries and supporting missions. Further, missions has “come home” as we now need the partnership of national churches to reach emigrant people groups. Only by being woven together as a net may we contain the great harvest the Lord has prepared—our individual fishing lines will not do. It is time to acknowledge, celebrate, and unite the missions endeavors of the Church of God as a global initiative. “World” and “Missions” have changed. “World Missions” must change to meet the challenges and opportunities this presents. “Missions 2.0” marks the passing from the first century of missions in the Church of God into a new, second century—full of fresh possibilities. Now, more than ever, Church of God congregations around the world who are committed to missions need a vision which captures their prophetic imaginations even as they are challenged with the realities of economic downturns and budget reductions. Missions 2.0 celebrates and builds upon the past century of World Missions by “upgrading” from a national Missions program to a Global Missions Initiative. It is time to ask, not what is, but what if. 6. MOTIONS COMMITTEE—The Motions Committee has served the General Council since 1956. From time to time, its effectiveness has been
hampered by a prevailing sense of fear that a measure might be adopted in haste without due consideration of its practical implications. In 1962, the General Assembly adopted a measure which required previous notice for any motion which would alter a doctrine of the Church of God (Minutes, 1962, p. 34). In 1970, the Bylaws of the General Assembly and the General Council were adopted (Minutes, 1970, pages 27, 28). By their nature, these require previous notice (Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, pages 580, 581). However, these measures do not protect the church from hasty decisions which would greatly alter the organizational structure of the church. While such motions might eventually prevail, it is felt that the entire church should be notified of such changes, that sufficient time should be provided for proper consideration, and that adequate plans could and should be provided for practical implementation. This measure addresses those needs by establishing a process whereby the motion can be immediately debated but if adopted will require previous notice and be brought back to the next General Council. 7. AGED MINISTERS FUND—The reduction in the number of participants receiving a pension from the Aged Ministers’ Fund, the Disabled Ministers’ Fund, and the Widows’ fund; the longevity of the original measure (1962); the governmental projected mortality rates; and the requirement that the security and solvency of the program be safe according to all actuarial studies, are all used together as the rationale for the passage of this measure. 8. CONCLUDED AND DECIDED AGENDA ITEMS—From time to time, an item will be concluded and decided in the International General Council and/or International General Assembly which might merit further debate at the following General Assembly. While this motion does not automatically forbid such action, it does require that the International Executive Council be in high agreement with at least a two-thirds majority vote before bringing a measure back to the next International General Assembly after it has been concluded and decided in the previous Assembly. 9. QUALIFICATIONS OF ORDAINED BISHOPS—This measure simply enables qualified candidates to be ordained as bishops at the age of twenty-five (25) or older with at least five (5) years of active ministry. 10. CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION—For several years, the church has endeavored to keep its polity practical and relevant in an ever-changing world. This has become increasingly difficult as local churches have grown and the international church has matured. Therefore, it seems that the calling of a constitutional convention could greatly facilitate a more up-to-date process designed to keep our church entities viable in an everchanging world. The details for such a meeting will be designed by the International Executive Council. Recommendations from the convention will be brought back to the International General Council. 11. STATE OVERSEERS—In 2011, the churchwide survey of Church of God senior pastors indicated three specific areas of need: 48 percent of local Church of God congregations operate without an annual budget; 34 percent of local Church of God congregations have experienced disruptive conflict in the last year; and 75 percent of churches felt they had not made a strong impact in either one of the seven areas considered strategic for impacting a local community. Part 1 of this motion gives direction for state overseers to address these weaknesses by providing formal training and guidance to pastors in these three areas of need. Part 2 of this motion allows the International Executive Committee to grant exceptions to mission state/regional overseers to allow them to live in another state or area when they are serving in a dual role of ministry. 12. VIOLATION OF CONFIDENCES—This motion comes to the International General Council as a recommendation from our Church of God Legal Counsel. It simply clarifies that there is no intent for church polity to violate applicable state or required reporting laws in the name of violation of confidences. 13. TRIAL BOARD PROCEDURES—Since the phrase “legal counsel” is used elsewhere in this section on “OFFENDING MINISTERS” (item h. on page 166), it is felt it would be more consistent to use the term here as well. 14. REPORT: “NATIONAL CHURCH PLANTING STRATEGY”—The Church of God has a long and successful history in the planting of new churches. It is rooted in our DNA, established by hundreds of pioneer preachers within the early moments of our movement. Throughout unbelievable circumstances and many untold stories of persecution, they established the foundation for our seven million-member family, located in 178 countries. All of our missions, educational institutions, orphanages, benevolence endeavors, publications, and churches began from the seed of a planted church. And it was the continual planting of churches that
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gave us the momentum and resources to go into all nations of the world. The Church Planting Task Force believes that all of the elements needed to build a highly successful church planting movement are truly within our reach. You will find those elements contained in this strategic plan. We believe to accomplish this goal, we must create a new level of interdependency—a place for buy-in on all levels and relevant resourcing to the state and local level. Further, we believe that an effective denominational vision for church planting empowers the body with simple vision, creates connectivity within each division, and expands the resources and commitment of our grassroots. The Church of God Department of Evangelism and Home Missions has traditionally held the responsibility of church planting. In the early days of our movement, state overseers lead the charge into previously unpioneered fields. First in 1916, a fund “to send ministers where they ought to go” was established. Soon the giving to work within our own cultural context exploded, and T. S. Payne in the 1919 General Assembly was appointed as secretary treasurer to care for the work of home missions. National programs such as A Church a Day, The Pioneer Spirit, the district approach, Double in a Decade, and Mission America have served the Church of God over the years as we have endeavored to plant new churches. On November 4, 2010, a new Church Planting Task Force was appointed by the International Executive Committee with the assignment to prepare a strategic plan that would discover and implement the needed elements required for the Church of God to become a church planting movement. A primary objective is to recommend the process providing a full-service national church planting network for the Church of God, thus meeting the needs of our movement in resourcing every level of leadership. The idea of church planting mandates a clear spiritual passion that cannot be created by the designs of man. God alone places this passion within a person, division, or ministry. The Church Planting Task Force embraces the concept that there are five basic values that must be found in every division, partner, or component of our new strategy: (1) calling, (2) commitment, (3) passion, (4) empowerment, and (5) values. The Church Planting Task Force believes these values will lead us effectively into truly fulfilling the Great Commission. 15. WOMEN IN MINISTRY—All four of these items reflect the sentiment and spirit that have been expressed in motions passed by the General Assembly during the last few years. Item 1 deletes a paragraph that was originally passed sixty years ago. In today’s world, it is felt that pastors’ wives/husbands often can serve very effectively as an assistant pastor as long as proper selection/appointment procedures are followed. This motion removes the prohibition against spouses serving as a pastor’s assistant when a congregation, pastor, spouse, and state overseer agree that such a selection/appointment can be a positive ministry in the church. Item 2 allows female members in a local congregation to also serve as part of a congregational trial board when a local church does not have a Church and Pastor’s Council. Items 3 and 4 will allow women to serve on the Ministry of Publications Board and the USA Missions Board in the same manner that they currently serve on many other general boards including the Care Division Board of Directors, Discipleship Divisional Board, Division of Education Board of Directors, and the World Missions Board. 16. TENURE OF NATIONAL/TERRITORIAL OVERSEERS—In many parts of the world, the tenure of national/territorial overseers follows the same general pattern as state/regional overseers in the USA/Canada. The International Advisory Council feels it would be prudent to adopt the tenure limitations as a policy in all World Missions areas where it is practical. 17. PERMANENT RECORDS OF TRIAL BOARD DECISIONS—It is felt that this motion will be more consistent with the need to ensure that permanent records are maintained for all trial board decisions at both the state/ regional office and the International Offices. 18. RESPONSIBLE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA—The proper use of social media offers an excellent opportunity for ministers and laity to present the gospel to the whole world. At the same time, irresponsible messaging by credentialed Church of God ministers tarnishes the witness of the entire church. This motion places the same type of moral and ethical responsibility for online communication on each minister as that which is required in his/her daily life and in the pulpit and classroom. 19. NATIONAL DISTRICT OVERSEERS MEETING—While this motion does not forbid general church leadership from having a national meeting with the district overseers at least every two years, it allows the leadership to consider all of the logistics and responsibilities required for convening such a meeting on a biennial basis. 20. RESOLUTIONS—Resolutions for appreciation and regarding current issues will be presented.
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
Instructions for Speaker Recognition System mic #1 touch
3. Depending upon the option selected, you will see one of the screens in Templates 2-5 below. 4. Once you have completed speaking or you no longer wish to speak, you can simply touch the CLEAR option and the light will be turned off and your position in the speaking order will be canceled. Step 1: INDICATE YOUR OPTION (See Template 1)
Speak for
Speak against
Ask question
other
A. If you desire to speak, approach a speaker stand where the light is off. B. Touch the desired option on the screen.
template 2
template 1 1. Each speaker stand is equipped with an electronic touch screen. (See Template 1 above) This screen gives an individual four options:
• • • •
Speak FOR a motion Speak AGAINST a motion Ask a QUESTION OTHER
2. When one of these options is pressed, the light turns on, a signal is sent to the podium indicating you wish to speak and your place in the speaking order is set automatically.
template 4
C. The light will come on and the screen will indicate you are waiting to be recognized according to your choice. D. Wait to be recognized by the moderator before speaking.
Step 2: CLEAR THE SCREEN (See Templates 2-5) Once you have finished speaking, touch the CLEAR option on the screen and this will turn off the light and prepare the speaker stand for the next speaker.
Waiting for recognition to speak: FOR
Waiting for recognition to speak: against
clear
clear
Waiting for recognition to Ask question
Waiting for recognition to Do other
clear
clear
template 3
template 5
General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
¿Por qué estamos aquí? Un repaso de la historia de la Asamblea General Internacional Por Raymond F. Culpepper (Tomado de la edición de julio de 2012, Evangel) 1. Raíces históricas de la Asamblea General Internacional de la Iglesia de Dios En 1906 se celebró la primera “Asamblea Anual” de la Iglesia de Dios. Su título responde a que hasta el 1948 era celebrada una vez al año. En el 1946 se decidió celebrarla cada dos años. De 1948 a 2000 fue conocida como la “Asamblea General”. Ese año se aprobó una medida para reconocerla como la Asamblea General Internacional. La Asamblea nació del deseo de las iglesias de fomentar su unidad y comunión, pues entendían que era necesario para la eficacia de la evangelización.
2. El Antiguo Testamento provee una base para la adoración en la Asamblea General Internacional Las Escrituras proveen una base sólida para la reunión del pueblo, en determinado lugar, para rendir culto a Dios. Después que los israelitas fueron liberados de Egipto, Dios estableció tres grandes fiestas de peregrinación: los Panes sin Levadura, la Siega y la Cosecha (Éxodo 23:14-19). En el hebreo se usa la palabra jag, que significa, ‘una fiesta observada por una peregrinación’. Los israelitas acudían desde sus doce tribus a reunirse como nación y celebrar en Jerusalén. 1946 Asamblea General
Recomendamos que las iglesias confraternicen y estén más unidas. Por lo tanto, concluimos que una asamblea una vez al año, compuesta por ancianos, hombres y mujeres de cada congregación, sería de gran importancia para la promoción del evangelio de Cristo y su iglesia (Minutas, Primera Asamblea Anual).
Sin embargo, desde sus inicios hubo otro elemento muy importante. Los delegados también decidieron que la Asamblea fuera más allá de la comunión y adoración. Era una buena oportunidad para venir como una hermandad y aprobar las resoluciones que luego serían adoptadas por las iglesias locales. Pareció bien al Espíritu Santo y nosotros que, unánimes en acuerdo con el Espíritu de Cristo en nuestro medio y después de mucha oración, discusión, escrutinio de las Escrituras y consejo, el recomendar estas cosas necesarias y que sean ratificadas y observadas por todas las iglesias locales (Minutas, Primera Asamblea Anual).
Las celebraciones eran para toda la familia. Moisés y Aarón dijeron al Faraón: «Jehová, el Dios de Israel, dice así: Deja ir a mi pueblo para que me celebre una fiesta en el desierto» (Éxodo 5:1). Más tarde, Moisés le dice que debían ir con sus “niños y nuestros viejos, con nuestros hijos y con nuestras hijas”. “Fiesta” o “festival” (jag) proviene de un verbo primitivo (jagag) que significa, ‘caminar en un círculo’ o ‘hacer una procesión sagrada, celebrar un festival’ (Strong). También es traducida como ‘celebrar, danzar o estar de fiesta’. Así que por naturaleza, las fiestas del Antiguo
Primera Consulta de Educadores y Líderes Hispanos Por primera vez en la historia de la educación hispana de la Iglesia de Dios, Ministerios Educacionales Hispanos en los EE.UU. ha sido honrado con la oportunidad de celebrar la primera Reunión de consulta y enriquecimiento de educadores y líderes hispanos durante el período de Pre-Asamblea 2012. Están invitados a participar todos los educadores y las educadoras de institutos, centros hispanos del CEM, escuela bíblica, pastores, ministros y demás líderes involucrados en la educación cristiana, ministerial, teológica y de estudios generales. La reunión se llevará a cabo el lunes, 23 de julio, de 2:30-4:00 pm, en el salón Plaza International D-H del Hotel Peabody. La entrada es gratuita. Auspicia Ministerios Educacionales Hispanos en EE.UU.
Testamento eran ocasiones muy alegres, que casi siempre duraban una semana. Pero el jag hebreo no era meramente una vacación. Mientras Moisés estaba en la montaña, el pueblo exigió de Aarón: «Levántate, haznos dioses que vayan delante de nosotros» (Éxodo 32:1). Así que Aarón les hizo un becerro de oro: «Cuando Aarón vio esto, edificó un altar delante del becerro y proclamó: ¡Mañana será un día de fiesta dedicado a Jehová! Al día siguiente madrugaron, ofrecieron holocaustos y presentaron ofrendas de paz. Luego se sentó el pueblo a comer y a beber, y se levantó a regocijarse» (Éxodo 32:5-6). Esta supuesta fiesta tenía los elementos de una celebración-peregrinación, junto con danza y banquete. Pero faltaba el elemento más crítico: el holocausto quemado en obediencia a la Palabra de Dios. El pueblo desobedeció al negarse a ofrecer el sacrificio y en su lugar rendir un culto idólatra al becerro de oro. Dios respondió de inmediato: «Continuó diciendo Jehová a Moisés: Yo he visto a este pueblo, que por cierto es un pueblo muy terco. Ahora, pues, déjame que se encienda mi ira contra ellos y los consuma; pero de ti yo haré una nación grande» (v. 9-10). La fiesta no respetó el sacrificio ordenado por Dios y terminó siendo otro festival pagano. La Asamblea General Internacional de la Iglesia de Dios cumple con el patrón del Antiguo Testamento porque es una peregrinación y una fiesta alegre. Pero el regocijo de los cantores y músicos, la confraternización entre hermanos, hermanas y familias, de nada valdrán si no ofrecemos la verdadera adoración que, según la Palabra, es debida al Hijo de Dios. 3. El Nuevo Testamento provee una base para los “trabajos” de la Asamblea General Internacional La celebración bienal de la Asamblea General Internacional se distingue por sus “sesiones de negocios”; esto es, los trabajos conducidos al estilo de “sesiones parlamentarias”. En ninguna otra parte se da un evento de esta naturaleza. Esta singularidad comienza con la definición de la Asamblea General Internacional, que es doble: 1. Como reunión bienal: «La Asamblea General Internacional de la Iglesia de Dios (Cleveland, Tennessee) es un cuerpo organizado con pleno poder y autoridad para designar la enseñanza, el gobierno, los principios y las prácticas de todas las iglesias locales que componen dicha asamblea» (Minutas 2010, p. 67). 2. Como definición legal: «Las iglesias locales, cuyos nombres están oficialmente registrados con la Iglesia de Dios de Cleveland, Tennessee, en los Estados Unidos de América, son el resultado del fiel servicio de los ministros y representantes de la Asamblea General Internacional, y estas iglesias, habiendo sido recibidas así por dichos representantes, vienen a formar parte de la Asamblea General Internacional» (Minutas 2010, p. 58).
La Iglesia del Nuevo Testamento estableció este modelo para la confraternización de las iglesias. El Concilio de Jerusalén fue convocado para examinar si los creyentes gentiles debían ser obligados a cumplir con el requisito mosaico de la circuncisión (Hechos 15). Esperamos que el mismo Espíritu Santo que sopló vida y regocijo en las peregrinaciones de los israelitas, unidad y sabiduría en las discusiones de la Iglesia del Nuevo Testamento, también infunda vida eterna, un gozo indescriptible, la unidad bíblica y sabiduría espiritual en los servicios de adoración y las sesiones de negocios de la 74ª Asamblea General Internacional de la Iglesia de Dios.
General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
Instrucciones para los delegados 1. Autoridad parlamentaria: a. La Asamblea General Internacional ha adoptado el manual de procedimiento parlamentario Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised. La versión más reciente fue publicada en el 2011 y será utilizada en las sesiones de negocios del Concilio General Internacional y la Asamblea General Internacional. b. La Asamblea también ha adoptado normas para la realización de los trabajos. No podemos violar nuestros propios estatutos. Por lo tanto, no daremos paso a mociones para la suspensión de las reglas y la inclusión de asuntos que no sean parte de la agenda. (Los estatutos solamente pueden ser modificados bajo las circunstancias establecidas para los asuntos de previo aviso). c. Todos los trabajos se llevarán a cabo de manera ordenada. 2. Acomodo de los delegados a. Solo los obispos ordenados inscritos podrán sentarse en el piso principal y en cualquiera de las secciones reservadas para estos. Las credenciales deben llevarse puestas en todo momento. b. Durante las sesiones del Concilio General Internacional, los ministros ordenados, exhortadores y laicos podrán sentarse fuera del área designada para los obispos ordenados. c. Prohibida la grabación de sonido o video de las sesiones de negocios. d. Todos los delegados deben inscribirse para asistir a las sesiones de negocios. Esto incluye a los ministros ordenados, exhortadores y laicos. El área de inscripción se encuentra en S220A-G del Centro de Convenciones. e. Ningún obispo ordenado podrá votar a menos que muestre sus credenciales. Si las ha perdido, debe acudir al Comité de Credenciales, en el área de inscripción. f. Cada miembro del Concilio debe haber recibido el Manual del Concilio General Internacional. Ahí encontrará los materiales pertinentes para cada sesión.
g. Según el Reglamento: La Asamblea General Internacional está compuesta por todos los miembros y ministros de la Iglesia de Dios. Todos los miembros de 16 años en adelante y ministros de la Iglesia de Dios, presentes y registrados en la Asamblea General Internacional, constituirán su cuerpo con derecho al voto. 3. Instrucciones sobre la conducta esperada durante las sesiones de negocios. a. Exhortamos la asistencia a todas las sesiones del Concilio General Internacional. El programa aparece en la parte posterior de la insignia o gafete del obispo ordenado. b. Durante las votaciones no se permitirá la salida ni la entrada a la sala. Los sargentos de armas tienen instrucciones de negar la entrada o salida durante la votación. c. El moderador no responderá preguntas mientras las votaciones estén en curso. 4. Uso de la hoja para presentar una moción Este formulario aparece en la parte posterior del Manual y debe utilizarse para documentar por escrito las mociones o enmiendas sometidas durante las sesiones del Concilio o de la Asamblea. Téngalo listo antes de presentar su moción y entréguelo al monitor, que está ubicado a la derecha del escenario. 5. Límite para los discursos a. El secretario de registro contará el número de veces que cada persona tome la palabra. b. Un miembro no puede retomar la palabra ese día, sobre el mismo asunto, mientras otro esté esperando por su turno. El moderador depende de la información del secretario para decidir quién tiene el derecho a la palabra. 6. La Agenda a. La Agenda enviada con 30 días de anticipación es la «…oficial, que ha de considerarse en las sesiones de negocios del Concilio General Internacional» (Minutas, S4. Concilio General Internacional, Agenda, párrafo 3). No es necesario secundarla porque ya es parte de nuestro Reglamento. b. El Reglamento exige: «Cualquier asunto nuevo será presentado al presidente del comité de mociones. Este comité lo recibirá, clasificará, aclarará, eliminará cualquier duplicación e incluirá al final de la
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agenda impresa» (Minutas, S2. Reglamento, Artículo 6, 2. Concilio General Internacional, Agenda, párrafo 4). Nota: Cualquier asunto nuevo para la consideración del Concilio General Internacional 2012 debe ser presentado ante el presidente del Comité de Mociones a no más tardar de las 12 del mediodía del jueves, 26 de julio de 2012. c. Los obispos ordenados notarán que el texto actual de las Minutas aparece en el lado izquierdo de la Agenda (páginas pares), mientras que las medidas propuestas están en el lado derecho (páginas nones). 7. Función de los parlamentarios Los parlamentarios se dedican a asesorar al presidente o los miembros particulares del cuerpo. No pueden pronunciarse sobre los asuntos. El presidente es el único autorizado a moderar la sesión. 8. Comités nombrados: a. Ujieres (Concilio General) Keith Ivester, presidente Gary Harris, vicepresidente Fidencio Burgueño, vicepresidente Tony Cooper, vicepresidente b. Escrutinio Carlos Morán, presidente James Cossey, vicepresidente c. Sargento de armas Wayne Dority, presidente Timothy Nuckles, vicepresidente Doyle Scott, vicepresidente Toby Morgan vicepresidente d. Mociones Jeremy Robinson, presidente Fedlyn Beason, vicepresidente e. Parlamentario Kenneth Bell, presidente Oliver McMahan, vicepresidente 9. Votación electrónica a. Las votaciones serán llevadas a cabo a través de un sistema electrónico. Las instrucciones sobre la operación del equipo serán impartidas antes de la primera votación. b. Los obispos deben preparar por adelantado la hoja de votación para el Concilio de los Dieciocho y así agilizar el proceso.
Procedimiento Parlamentario: Resumen de los tipos de mociones Moción
Propósito
Efecto
Dejar un asunto sobre el tapete o sobre la mesa
Dar paso a asuntos de mayor urgencia.
Retrasa la acción.
Cuestión previa
Detiene inmediatamente el debate y hace que se lleve a debate la moción original.
Concluye el debate.
Limitar o extender el tiempo para el debate
Extiende o limita el tiempo de la discusión.
Extiende o limita la discusión.
Posponer indefinidamente
Evita que el asunto sea llevado a votación.
Elimina el asunto.
Referir o encomendar a un asunto a un comité
Un asunto pasa un comité para su estudio.
Retrasa la acción.
Enmendar
Altera la moción principal.
Cambia la moción principal.
Posponer por tiempo definido
Propone que el asunto sea pospuesto para otra ocasión.
Retrasa la acción.
Cuestión de orden
Llamar la atención a la violación de las reglas.
Mantiene el orden.
Apelar
Algún miembro entiende que la decisión de la presidencia es injusta y recurre al mecanismo de apelación a la asamblea.
Asegura que la asamblea tenga la última palabra.
Suspender las reglas o el reglamento
Permite la toma de una acción fuera del reglamento.
Asegura que se tome una acción prevenida por el reglamento.
Objeción
Evita que se pierda el tiempo en una discusión frívola.
Suprime la moción.
Dividir un asunto
Asegurar que la moción sea discutida por partes.
Asegura la toma de acción en cada parte.
Dividir la asamblea.
Establecer la exactitud del voto a viva voz Asegurar la expresión del voto de cada miembro.
Garantizar un voto exacto.
Cuestión de privilegio
Corrige condiciones indeseables
Protege la dignidad del proceso.
Levantar los trabajos
Retomar la discusión del asunto
Retomar la discusión.
Reconsiderar
Reconsiderar el asunto.
Asegura una nueva discusión y un nuevo voto.
Rescindir
Revoca la acción tomada.
Asegura una nueva discusión y un nuevo voto.
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
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General Assembly Today | Monday, July 23, 2012
