CONSTITUTION PREAMBLE

All People All Truths House of Enlightenment exists to help people throughout the world:

• • raise their level of human consciousness toward the realization of enlightenment
• • help lift all people from human suffrage, spiritually and physically
• • preserve the liberties of each individual congregant of the church
• • ensure freedom of action and independence from any other religious body or organization
• • provide for orderly conduct of internal affairs, in dealing with others, and governing church clergy, congregates, and ministries

ARTICLE I NAME

The name of the organization is All People All Truths House of Enlightenment. Michigan registered Assumed Names for the Church are A Path of Enlightenment, A Path, and APATHOE. The organization is organized as an Ecclesiastical Corporation (Church) in accordance with the Ecclesiastical Corporation Act, Act No. 327 P. A. of 1931. The church has not been formed for the making of any profit or personal financial gain. The church's assets and income shall not be distributable to or benefit the trustees, directors, or officers, or other individuals. The assets and income shall only be used to promote Ecclesiastical purposes, as described below. However, nothing contained herein shall be deemed to prohibit the payment of reasonable compensation to employees and independent contractors for services provided for the benefit of the church. This church shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on by a church exempt from federal income tax. The Church is organized exclusively for purposes subsequent to section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The IRS automatically recognizes churches as 501(c) (3) charitable organizations if they meet the IRS requirements and then issues an Ecclesiastical Corporation EIN subsequent to section 501 (c) (3). All People All Truths House of Enlightenment has been issued its approved Ecclesiastical Corporation EIN and therefore has been so recognized.

ARTICLE II PURPOSE

Section 1. Our Church. To provide a church for; all people welcoming all truths, with fellowship, clergy training, and social outreach programs for those driven away from church because of judgment, discrimination, ill-alignment with beliefs and or practices, those made to feel less than, unworthy, and unwelcome, both domestically and globally; and to provide programs for those suffering and with less than. The organization is organized exclusively for purposes as a church pursuant to section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

• 1.1 To offer spiritual church services and teachings of universal laws, levels of human consciousness and the spiritual path to enlightenment.
• 1.2 To offer clergy training and housing to those called as clergy.
• 1.3 To offer a Community Center for LGBTQ population as well as like-minded people.
• 1.4 To help victims of sexual, physical, and psychological abuse by establishing shelters, mental health support, therapy and long-term support programs and transitional housing.
• 1.5 To help dysfunctional and poverty-stricken individuals and families by providing therapy, rehabilitation, education, training, and shelter facilities, including those suffering from alcohol and/or drug abuse and addiction.
• 1.6 To help homeless, and runaway teens transition to permanent housing arrangements and safe and productive lives, by providing group homes, programs, and assistance.
• 1.7 To offer an animal shelter and refuge.
• 1.8 To establish our presence, churches, and programs in all parts of the world, gradually.
• 1.9 To promote social justice for all people.
• 1.10 To offer other benevolent assistance as needed.

Section 2. Our Belief.

We assert that:

• 2.1 Religion is a relationship between God and individuals, as well as communities. It is primarily about people, before any church or clergy.
• 2.2 There can be multiple paths to reach and know God and to achieve Enlightenment.
• 2.3 We do not discriminate against different religions or belief systems. Our doors are open to people of all faiths and spiritualities, and to people of no specific faith, including those proclaiming atheism and agnosticism. We accept and welcome all who seek.
• 2.4 LGBTQ individuals are as much a progenitor and source of spirituality and religious experience as any other human being. Their inclusion or exclusion is not a matter to be decided by any church or religious institution, their participation is an institution onto itself. They have an inherent human and spiritual right to; interpret any and all scriptures written in any and all holy books of any and all religions, spiritualities, practices, and ways of being, mobilize themselves and organize into churches and congregations as they deem appropriate.
• 2.5 Any response or reaction to their inclusion or exclusion is superfluous. All religious and spiritual members of LGBTQ communities are an integral part of church and spirituality.
• 2.6 Due to years of discrimination, many individuals in the LGBTQ community have distanced themselves from religion despite their inner spiritual needs and aspirations. We intend to remedy this damage and loss by providing our church specifically for; LGBTQ and all other people who have been driven from or left behind exclusive conventional churches.
• 2.7 We are open and welcoming to all individuals, regardless of any and all other religious creeds, spiritualities, and beliefs, as well as any and all races and nationalities, who share our vision of promotion of peace, social justice, and the spiritual transformation of humankind.
• 2.8 We accept as valid all paths to God, all the world religions and their holy books.

Section 3. Our Solution.

• 3.1 We plan to provide, spiritual church services and teachings of Universal Law, with a focus on the levels of human consciousness, kindness, gratitude, forgiveness, love, and the elevation of all humans to enlightenment. We accept there are many paths to enlightenment and that we represent just one path: equal and valid in its own right.
• 3.2 Our church shall provide spiritual enrichment, education, training, fellowship, and other outreach classes for congregants and followers, both in person and virtualy. We will also provide a spiritual magazine, radio station, video streaming and on-demand programming for spiritual outreach.
• 3.3 Housed at our headquarter location shall be a school for the teaching of clergy to be assigned to future church locations domestically, in other nations around the globe.
• 3.4 We will provide a Monastic Retreat for monastic living of our clergy and for the teaching of ZEN Living to congregant participants as a viable retreat, at the same location.
• 3.5 Additionally, our headquarters will provide an Education Center dedicated to training those who seek, and an Event and Convention Center dedicated to hosting of symposiums, conventions, and events for any/all of our related services, programs, churches and clergy around the globe.
• 3.6 Our outreach programs will be developed and implemented locally in order to be expanded, wherever need exists. These benevolent and social justice ministries will include assistance and support for all those in need.

ARTICLE III MEETINGS

Section 1. Annual Meeting. An annual meeting of the Directors shall be held once each calendar year for the purpose of transaction of such business as may properly come before the meeting. The annual meeting shall be held at the time and place designated by the Board of Directors from time to time. Annual Meetings of the Board of Directors is not required to be held at a geographic location if the meeting is held by means of the internet or other electronic communications technology in a manner pursuant to which the directors have the opportunity to read or hear the proceedings substantially concurrent with the occurrence of the proceedings, note on matters submitted to the directors, pose questions, make comments, and vote.

Section 2. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Directors may be requested by the Chair, Vice-Chair, Managing Director, or the Board of Directors. A special meeting of directors is not required to be held at a geographic location if the meeting is held by means of the internet or other electronic communications technology in a manner pursuant to which the directors have the opportunity to read or hear the proceedings substantially concurrent with the occurrence of the proceedings, note on matters submitted to the directors, pose questions, make comments, and vote.

Section 3. Monthly Meetings. Monthly Meetings of the Directors shall be held once each calendar month for the purpose of transaction of such business as may properly come before the meeting. A special meeting of directors is not required to be held at a geographic location if the meeting is held by means of the internet or other electronic communications technology in a manner pursuant to which the directors have the opportunity to read or hear the proceedings substantially concurrent with the occurrence of the proceedings, note on matters submitted to the directors, pose questions, make comments, and vote.

Section 4. Notice. Written notice of all meetings shall be provided under this section or as otherwise required by law. The Notice shall state the place, date, and hour of meeting, and if for a special meeting, the purpose of the meeting. Meeting notice may be emailed. However, a text must also be sent to each Board Member notifying them of the email notification sent and its purpose (i.e., notice of Board of Director's Meeting emailed, etc., etc.)

Section 5. Place of Meeting. Meetings shall be held at the church's principal place of business unless otherwise stated in the notice. Unless the articles of incorporation or bylaws provide otherwise, the board of directors may permit any or all directors to participate in a regular or special meeting by or conduct the meeting through the use of any means of communication by which all directors participating may simultaneously hear each other during this meeting. A director participating in a meeting by this means shall be deemed to be present in person at the meeting. This includes telephone, video, or other electronic platforms.

Section 6. Quorum. A majority of the directors shall constitute a quorum at a meeting but must include the Chair and either the Vice-Chair or Managing Director to hold any vote. In the absence of a quorum, a majority of the directors may adjourn the meeting to another time without further notice. If a quorum is represented at an adjourned meeting, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the meeting as originally scheduled. The directors present at a meeting represented by a quorum may continue to transact business until adjournment, even if the withdrawal of some directors result in the representation of less than a quorum.

Section 7. Rules of Order. The latest edition of ROBERT’S RULES OF ORDER shall be the authority of this ministry on parliamentary law and its usage unless otherwise provided by these bylaws.

ARTICLE IV INCORPORATORS

The Incorporators are the founders of the church. They are Jan Cohen, Donna Cohen, and Barbara C. Corcoran.
Section 1. The Structure. The Incorporators are the Founders of the Church and are to be seated with life tenure as the first Council of Three. They will provide guidance and support to all facets of the Church. All People All Truths House of Enlightenment will follow the rules set forth in the Constitution and Bylaws by the Council of Three.

• 1.1 The hierarchy of the church is delineated in the organizational chart, as follows:
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Section 2. Council of Three. The Incorporators/Founders shall establish the Council of Three and shall be the first appointees to the Council of Three. The purpose of the Council of Three is to establish the head of church, education, and out-reach ministries.

Section 3. Board of Directors. The Incorporators shall appoint the first Board of Directors in accordance with Michigan State Law, within the first year of operation, whose purpose is to develop constitutionally based policy for the church.

Section 4. Executive Committee. The Incorporators shall appoint all Executive Committee whose purpose is to implement the policies approved by the Board of Directors.

Section 5. Clergy Path. the Incorporators shall establish the clergy of the church with three clergy paths which establish that all clergy members are Pastors, and each Clergy path is a specialized path of study and calling. Clergy assignment to designated paths is based on the calling of each individual. Some Clergy are crossovers and have mastered specialized studies while demonstrating knowledge, skills and abilities in multiple paths.

• 5.1 The Incorporators/Founders shall be licensed and ordained as pastors in the clergy path of their individual calling at the first meeting at the Board of Directors.
  • a. Jan Cohen, Pastor
  • b. Donna Cohen, Outreach Minister
  • c. Barbara C. Corcoran, Educator

ARTICLE V COUNCIL OF THREE

Section 1. Council of Three. Council of Three consists of the Presiding Councilor, Councilor of Outreach Ministries and Councilor of Education. All councilors have life tenure.

• 1.1. Presiding Councilor. The Presiding Councilor is the head of Church.
  • a. The Founding Pastor shall serve as the first appointed Presiding Councilor and as such shall be the head of the; Church, Clergy, Council of Three, and shall serve with life tenure. as Chair of the Board of Directors and shall be seated as Chair of each Council and Board of the Church, including the Council of Three.
  • b. All Presiding Councilors may appoint Pro-tem or semi-permanent replacements for their Chair, positions on any Board or Council, as they deem appropriate for efficient management and overseeing purposes. In lieu, Presiding Councilors may appoint Vice positions to retain partial control until they are satisfied with their potential replacement’s demonstrated management capabilities.
• 1.2 Councilor of Outreach Ministries. The Councilor of Outreach Ministries is the head of all Outreach Ministries, with life tenure.
  • a. The Founding Councilor of Outreach Ministries shall serve as Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors and as Vice-Chair of each Council and Board of the church and serve as second in command.
  • b. All Councilors of Outreach Ministries. Council of Ministries may appoint Pro-tem or semi-permanent replacements for their positions on any Board or Council, as they deem appropriate for efficient management and overseeing purposes. In lieu, Councilors of Outreach Ministries may appoint (shared Vice) positions in order to retain partial control until they are satisfied with their potential replacement’s demonstrated management capabilities.
• 1.3 Councilor of Clergy Education.
  • a. The Founding Councilor of Clergy Education shall have life tenure as Managing Director of the Board of Directors and as Managing Director of each council and Board of the church and serve as third in command.
  • b. All Councilors of Clergy Education. All Presiding Councilors may appoint Pro-tem or semi-permanent replacements for their Managing Director positions on any Board or Council, as they deem appropriate for efficient management and overseeing purposes. In lieu, Presiding Councilors may appoint (Shared Managing Director) positions to retain partial control until they are satisfied with their potential replacement’s demonstrated management capabilities.

Section 2. Purpose. The purpose of the Council of Three is the vision and development of the church, including the Constitution and Bylaws, Doctrine, Hierarchy, Training, Education, Clergy, Clergy Paths, Clergy Education, Ordination, Licensing, Management of Church Programs, Outreach Programs, Ministries, Classes and Workshops for both Congregants and community, Church Planting domestically and globally, Fundraising, Human Resources, Management, and additional measures as they become necessary and relevant.

• 2.1. Church Ministries. The Council of Three shall select Church Ministries and develop their purpose and goals.
  • a. Truth & Transformation Ministry. The TT Ministry provides opportunities for all people to learn about church philosophies and beliefs through pastoral sermons, teachings, and interactive participation.
  • b. Education Ministry. Seeks to educate clergy, congregants, and other interested people, about; church’s philosophies, beliefs, and faith, including Universal Law, Philosophy, Theology, World Religions, Spirituality, Levels of Human Consciousness with step-by-step classroom instruction to raise the individual level of consciousness toward the attainment of enlightenment, and the power and impact of the Individual Human Effect on humanity.
  • c. Worship Ministry. Creates and promotes Music that expresses, inspires and strengthens faith, hope, peace and love in congregants and welcomes the stranger by providing inspiration to the wider community outside our church. Worship strengthens our church’s connection while helping to establish and promote our spiritual presence and alliance with all people.
  • d. Wedding Ministry. Plans, performs, and hosts LGBTQ Destination Weddings while providing a variety services including, receptions, rehearsals.
  • e. LGBTQ Community Ministry. Extends community gathering space to advance open mindedness and eradicate dogma surrounding the LGBTQ community. Intentionally promotes an atmosphere of authentic living without discrimination, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Provides social justice training and education, social activities, networking, classes, and workshops, coordination of LGBTQ PRIDE events, demonstration, and marches, as a guiding light to build coalitions and awaken individual awareness.
  • f. Fellowship Ministry. Grows and strengthens congregants and pastoral alliances. Strives to connect and introduce individual churchgoers to each other and to clergy in a social atmosphere in order to forge a more personal bond. Fellowship empowers clergy to nurture interpersonal relationships and enhance and inspire our larger contribution to humankind.
  • g. Finance Ministry. Finance Ministry oversees the management of the church’s resources, including but not limited to, finances, assets, fundraising, donor management, grants, physical facilities, and the supervision of the administrative and custodial staff.
  • h. Outreach: Social Justice Ministry. Fosters and advances our perspective of Social Justice for LGBTQ people and human rights for all people. The Eradication of Racism, Discrimination and Poverty is integral to this Ministry, both inside and outside our church. Endeavors to strengthen our church’s visibility while establishing our spiritual presence, leadership, and alliance. Shepherds opportunities for all people to understand our vision of Social Justice and join our Human Rights initiative.
  • i. Outreach; Philanthropy Ministry. Develops, implements, and champions Humanitarian and Benevolent Programs while fostering altruistic concern for human welfare and advancement. Strengthens and assists the LGBTQ Community, as well as all people and animals, within the congregation and in the wider community, state, country, and world. Programs include but are not limited to; Shelter for the Homeless; Food for the Hungry; Drug & Alcohol Abuse and Dysfunctional In-Patient and Out-Patient Rehabilitation and Educational Programming; Adult & Youth Physical, Emotional, and Sexual Abuse In-Patient and Out-Patient Programming; Group Homes for juvenile runaways, and Halfway Houses for adults to assist in successful re-entry into their community; Educational and Vocational Centers for the Eradication of Generational Poverty; Pet Shelters & Refuge Facilities and other resources for abused and abandoned animals and pets.
  • j. Communications Ministry. Develops, Implements, and fosters communication between our clergy, congregants, and the wider community outside the church using; our radio station, magazine, podcasts, videos, digital media, social media, and other online platforms, as well as offline platforms such as events, public speaking engagements, advertising and marketing platforms. Coordinates internal and external communication activities of the church to ensure; timely and effective, high quality and intentional communications on every level, that enhance the visibility and beliefs of the church.

Section 3. Duties. All Councilors, Directors, Officers and Executive Committee positions within the church will be appointed by the Council of Three. The Presiding Councilor will cast any tie breaking votes, as well as have a solo veto on all matters of the church. Section 4. Term Length and Appointment.

• 4.1 All appointees to the Council of Three shall serve life tenure and be appointed by the Council of Three.
• 4.2 Each appointment shall be a stellar representative, capable of overseeing their respective Clergy Path.
• 4.3 The Pastor seated on the Council of Three shall be the Presiding Councilor. The Outreach Minister seated on the Council of Three shall be the Councilor of Outreach Ministries. The Clergy Educator seated on the Council of Three shall be the Councilor of Education.
• 4.4 The Council of Three shall be seated for life and should a vacancy occur, the remaining Councilors shall agree on the appointment of the vacancy.

Section 5. Authority.

• 5.1 To create the church vision, business plan, by laws, constitution and provide leadership for the church in all its endeavors.
• 5.2 The Council of Three shall be the head of the church and maintain complete authority in all matters of the church and its endeavors.

Section 6. Vote.

• 6.1 The Council of Three shall work diligently agree unanimously or abstain during all votes.
• 6.2 If a dissent is present from a Councilor during a vote, the dissenting Councilor shall author a dissenting opinion in written form.
• 6.3 The Dissenting opinion automatically triggers the writing of formal opinions from the majority councilors to establish and provide a written record of reason and conclusion.

Section 7. Removal Offenses.

• 7.1 All Councilors serve life tenured appointments.
• 7.2 Councilors are removable by a majority vote of the Council of Three, if all the following conditions exist:
  • a. The Councilor has been proven guilty in a court of law of felonious criminal behavior found to be immoral and/or violative of the principles of the church.
  • b. The behavior was committed during their tenure on the Council of Three.
  • c. The criminal acts make it impossible for the individual to continue in this position of Trust.
  • d. The guilty verdict is agreed with by the remaining Councilors seated on the Council of Three and is not disputed by them.

Section 8. Veto Power.

• 8.1The Council of Three shall have complete Veto power over all decisions of the Board of Directors, the Executive Board, and any and all other Boards and Councils established.
• 8.2 Veto shall only be used when the Council of Three or the Presiding Councilor believes a decision of the Board of Directors, the Executive Board or any Board or Council, is a detriment to the Church, its Clergy, Congregation, Staff, or wider community outside the Church; or is not in the best interest of the Church or any other affected parties.
• 8.3 A Veto must be a majority vote decision by the Council of Three. A solo decision to veto by the Presiding Councilor is allowable, following diligent consideration of the advice and counsel of the remaining Councilors, with written dissenting opinions from each individual Councilor or a joint dissenting opinion made a permanent part of the record. A written opinion from the Presiding Councilor, as to the reasoning and conclusion used in the solo decision to veto, must also become a permanent part of the record and must show good cause for taking the action.

ARTICLE VI BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Section 1. The Structure.

• 1.1 The Board of Directors shall be appointed by the Council of Three and shall consist of no more than 27 directors.
• 1.2 Each director shall serve a term of 7 years or until a successor has been appointed and qualified, including Officers.
• 1.3 The Board of Directors shall be representative of the demographics and diversity of the population.

Section 2. The Purpose.

• 2.1 The purpose of the Board of Directors is to create constitutional based policy to ensure the development and implementation of Constitutional goals and mandates.
• 2.2 Regular monthly meetings will be held.

Section 3. Appointment, and Term of Office. The Incorporators shall appoint the first four (4) Directors within the first year, pursuant to Michigan state law. The Council of Three shall appoint the remaining vacancies over the next Four (4) years. Each director shall serve a term of 7 years or until a successor has been appointed and qualified, including Officers, with no term limits.

Section 4. Quorum. A majority of the directors shall constitute a quorum at a meeting but must include the Chair and either the Vice-Chair or Managing Director to hold any vote. In the absence of a quorum, a majority of the directors may adjourn the meeting to another time without further notice. If a quorum is represented at an adjourned meeting, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the meeting as originally scheduled. The directors present at a meeting represented by a quorum may continue to transact business until adjournment, even if the withdrawal of some directors’ results in the representation of less than a quorum.

Section 5. Adverse Interest. In the determination of a quorum of the directors or voting, the disclosed adverse interest of a director shall not disqualify the director or invalidate his or her vote.

Section 6. Regular Meeting. The Board of Directors shall meet monthly. The Board of Directors may provide, by resolution, additional regular meetings without notice other than the notice provided by the resolution.

Section 7. Special Meeting. Special meetings may be requested by the Chair, Vice-Chair, Managing Director, or any two directors by providing 5-day notice electronically. Minutes of the meeting shall be sent to the Board of Directors within two weeks after the meeting. A special meeting of directors is not required to be held at a geographic location if the meeting is held by means of the internet or other electronic communications technology in a manner pursuant to which the directors have the opportunity to read or hear the proceedings substantially concurrent with the occurrence of the proceedings, note on matters submitted to the directors, pose questions, make comments, and vote.

Section 8. Procedures. The vote of a majority of the directors present at a properly called meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors unless the vote of a greater number is required by law or by these by-laws for a particular resolution. A director of the church who is present at a meeting of the Board of Directors at which action on any church matter is taken shall be presumed to have assented to the action taken unless their dissent shall be entered in the minutes of the meeting. The Board shall keep written minutes of its proceedings in its permanent records.

Section 9. Removal/Vacancies.

• 9.1 Directors are appointed by the Council of Three.
• 9.2 All Directors are removable by a majority vote of the Board of Directors, if all the following conditions exist:
  • a. The Director has been proven guilty in a court of law of felonious criminal behavior found to be immoral and/or violative of the principles of the church.
  • b. The behavior was committed during their tenure on the Board of Director,
  • c. The criminal acts make it impossible for the individual to continue in this position of Trust.
  • d. The guilty verdict is agreed with by the majority of the remaining Directors seated, including officers, and approved by the Council of Three.

Section 10. Committees. The Board of Directors may appoint temporary or permanent committees or committee chairs, and designate the duties, powers, and authorities of such committees.

ARTICLE VII BOARD OF DIRECTOR’S OFFICERS

Section 1. The Structure.

• 1.1 The Board of Directors Officers shall be appointed by the Council of Three and shall consist of the Chair, Vice-Chair and Managing Director.
  • a Chair. The Chair is the highest-ranking officer on the Board Directors and only casts tie breaker votes.
  • b Vice-Chair. The Vice-Chair shall perform the Chair's duties in the absence of the Chair and shall assist that office in the discharge of its leadership duties.
  • c Managing Director. The Managing Director shall preside over all meetings of the Board of Directors. The Managing Director shall oversee the Secretary on the Board Directors The Managing Director shall perform the duties of the Chair or Vice Chair in their absence or upon delegation by either Chair.
• 1.2 Each officer shall serve a term of 7 years or until a successor has been appointed and qualified, without term limits.
• 1.3 The Board of Director Officers shall be representative of the demographics and diversity of the population.

Section 2. The Purpose.

• 2.1 The purpose of the Officers is to head the Board of Directors.
• 2.2 Regular monthly meetings will be held.

Section 3. Appointment and Term of Office. The officers shall be appointed by the Incorporators at the first meeting of the Board of Directors. Each officer shall serve a seven (7) year term or until a successor has been appointed and qualified without term limits. Section 4. Removal/Vacancies. All Officers seated on the Board of Director are removable by a majority vote, if all the following circumstances exist.

• 4.1 The Officer has been proven guilty in a court of law of felonious criminal behavior found to be immoral and/or violative of the principles of the church.
• 4.2 The behavior was committed during their tenure on the Board of Directors.
• 4.3 The criminal acts make it impossible for the individual to continue in this position of Trust.
• 4.4 The guilty verdict is agreed with by the remaining Directors, including Officers, seated on the Board of Directors and is not disputed by them.
• 4.5 The Board of Directors has the approval of the Council of Three to proceed with the removal.

ARTICLE VIII BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Section 1. The Structure.

• 1.1 The Executive Committee shall be appointed by the Council of Three and shall consist of Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Operations Officer (COO), President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer.
  • a. Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CEO is the highest-ranking executive in the church, whose primary responsibilities include making major day to day decisions, managing the overall operations and resources of the church, while implementing policy set forth by the Board of Directors.
  • b. Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The CFO shall be responsible for; conducting all the financial affairs of the church as directed and authorized by the Board of Directors, make reports of corporate finances as required, but no less often than monthly.
  • c. Chief Operations Officer (COO). The COO shall be responsible for conducting all the duties of Operational matters that affect the church in the daily operations of the facilities, land, properties technology, equipment and all human resources of the church. The COO oversees all duties of the Secretary on the Executive Committee.
  • d. President. The President shall preside at all meetings of the Executive Committee. Reports to the CEO and shall assist in that office in the discharge of its leadership duties, at the direction of the CEO.
  • e. Vice-President. The Vice President shall perform the duties of the President in the absence of the President and shall assist in that office in the discharge of its leadership duties, at the direction of President.
  • f. Secretary. The Secretary shall give notice of all meetings of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee, shall keep an accurate list of the directors, officers and executive officers and shall have the authority to certify any records or copies of records, as the organization's official records. The Secretary shall maintain the minutes of the Board of Directors' meetings and all Executive Committee meetings, and report directly to the COO.
  • g. Treasurer. The Treasurer shall be responsible for conducting the financial affairs of the church as directed and authorized by the CFO, if any, and shall make reports of corporate finances as required, but no less often than at each monthly meeting of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee.
• 1.2 The Executive Committee shall serve a term of 7 years or until a successor has been appointed and qualified, including Officers, without term limits.
• 1.3 The Executive Committee shall be representative of the demographics and diversity of the community.

Section 2. The Purpose.

• 2.1 The purpose of the Executive Committee is to make the day-to-day operations/decisions, management of the church, and all its entities.
• 2.2 Regular monthly meetings will be held.

Section 3. Appointment and Term of Office. The Council of Three shall appoint the Executive Committee. Each Executive Officer shall serve a seven (7) year term, without term limits.

Section 4. Quorum. For all purposes, including meetings and voting, a Quorum of the Executive Board must be present. A Quorum shall consist of a majority of officers but must include the CEO or CFO and Managing Director, in order for any vote to be held.

Section 5. Adverse Action. In the determination of a quorum of the Executive Committee or voting, the disclosed adverse interest of a select committee member shall not disqualify or invalidate his or her vote.

Section 6. Regular Meetings. The Executive Committee shall meet monthly and as otherwise necessary.

Section 7. Special Meetings. Special meetings may be requested by CEO, CFO, COO and President by providing five (5) days’ notice by electronic mail. Minutes of the meeting shall be sent to the Executive Committee within two weeks after the meeting. A special meeting of Executive Officers is not required to be held at a geographic location if the meeting is held by means of the internet or other electronic communications technology in a manner pursuant to which the directors have the opportunity to read or hear the proceedings substantially concurrent with the occurrence of the proceedings, note on matters submitted to the directors, pose questions, make comments, and vote.

Section 8. Removal/Vacancies. All Executive Committee Officers are removable by a majority vote of the Executive Board, if:

• 8.1 The Executive Officer has been proven guilty in a court of law of felonious criminal behavior found to be immoral and/or violative of the principles of the church.
• 8.2 The behavior was committed during their tenure on the Executive Committee.
• 8.3 The criminal acts make it impossible for the individual to continue in this position of Trust.
• 8.4 The guilty verdict is agreed upon by remaining Executive Officers and is not disputed by them.
• 8.5 The Executive Committee has the approval of the Board of Directors and the Council of Three to proceed with the removal.

ARTICLE IX THREE CLERGY PATHS

Section 1. Clergy Path. The Council of Three shall establish the clergy of the church with three clergy paths which establish that all clergy members are Pastors, and each Clergy path is a specialized path of study and calling. Clergy assignment to designated paths is based on the calling of each individual.
The Church has Three Clergy Paths, as follows:

• 1.1 Pastor. The spiritual leaders of the church, responsible for leading church including services and ministering to the congregation.
• 1.2 Outreach Minister. The spiritual outreach ministers of the church, responsible for the church’s outreach programs to the wider community.
• 1.3 Clergy-Educator. The spiritual Educators of the church, responsible for development and implementation of education for clergy, congregants, and the wider community.

ARTICLE X ORDINATION

All future Clergy Ordinations shall be reviewed and approved by a majority vote of the Board of Directors after receiving designation as Candidate and a Recommendation for Ordination from the Council of Three. Records will be kept in accordance with all classes and various participation to the path of Ordination.
Section 1. Ordination and License Renewals. Ordination and Clergy License Renewals shall occur annually upon recommendation from the Council of Three and approval by the Board of Directors after a majority vote of the quorum.

• 1.1 Life tenured Ordinations do not require annual renewal. All other ordinations require annual renewal.
• 1.2 The Council of Three shall submit to the Board of Directors; a written recommendation of Clergy Licensing for all Indoctrinees successfully completing Phase I Instruction.
• 1.3 All levels of Clergy shall be licensed after completing Phase I Orientation.
• 1.4 Successful competition of each phase and recommendation of Councilor of Education is required.
  • a. The Board of Directors shall review each recommendation of Clergy Licensing submitted to them by the Council of Three and issue both a verbal and written letter of decision in the presence of the Indoctrinees.
  • b. Upon designation of License approval, the Secretary shall prepare the appropriate Clergy License and obtain signatures from the Council of Three.

Section 2. Application and Interview process. Application and Interview process for enrollment is as follows:

• 2.1 School curriculum will be available to all applicants.
• 2.2 Application and fee will be submitted by enrollees.
• 2.3 All enrollees will complete an application and write an accompanying essay on the topic of; “Why I feel I am called to be a clergy” and submit both the essay and the application with accompanying fee.
• 2.4 There will be two interviews in the process. The initial interview will take place after review of the submitted application and essay. The Initial Interviewer shall conduct an inquiry into the applicant’s credentials and references to assist in providing preliminary favorability. The second interview shall take place at such time as the applicant is favorably recommended by the initial interviewer and shall be conducted by the Council of Three. Upon deliberation of the Council or Three, an expedient decision shall be given the applicant. Acceptance of applicants by the Council shall result in the scheduling of enrollment.

Section 3. Phase I Indoctrinee. The Indoctrinee is a newly enrolled student in clergy school. Indoctrinee students enter our clergy programming with Orientation and Indoctrination classroom studies. Mentors are assigned to each Indoctrinee to assist with tutoring and transition to student life.

• 3.1 Phase I (30-45 days)
  • a. Programming aims to introduce students to the Academic, Social, and Spiritual aspects of the Clergy as they transition. Classes will be offered for interested enrollees of the course of study.
  • b. Student Orientation Programming enhanced with Student Indoctrination serve together as a comprehensive transition program as learning outcomes are developed to assess successful transition from Secular life into the Clergy.
  • c. Prior to successfully completing Phase I enrolled students are referred to as Indoctrinees.
• 3.2 Orientation classes are Introduction to Truth, Introduction to Spiritual Transformation and Introduction to Path of Enlightenment.
• 3.3 Licensing shall occur after completion of Phase I.

Section 4. Phase II. Clergy Students. Clergy Students are licensed as Clergy in order to learn and assist in all Clergy paths. In this phase of school, students will participate in classroom and field studies. Mentors shall be assigned to each Clergy Student.

• 4.1 Phase II: 6 months – 9 months
• 4.2 Clergy Students. Students are responsible for meeting the following requirements:
  • a. core classroom studies
  • b. hands-on instruction consisting of field study and shadowing of mentors.
  • c. completion of a thesis

Section 5. Phase III. Clergy Intern. Clergy Interns have completed Phases I and II and are licensed clergy. Mentors in each of the Clergy Paths shall be assigned to each Clergy Intern.

• 5.1 Phase III: 6 – 12 months.
• 5.2 Clergy Interns will be responsible for the successful completion of the following during Phase III of study. Interns are students that have not completed their educational and demonstrative requirements for Ordination but are continuing their education toward that goal.
  • a. Declaration of clergy path. (Pastor, Minister or Educator)
  • b. Advanced classroom studies.
  • c. Mentors are Candidates, Ministers, Pastors, and Educators. This practice allows Interns to accompany and perform duties under the supervision of their mentors at hospitals, hospice, orphanages, funeral homes, weddings, church services and classrooms.
  • d. Interns shall begin learning to mentor Phase I and Phase II students.

Section 6. Phase IV. Ordination Candidates. Candidates are responsible for successful completion of the following during the final phase of clergy education programming:

• 6.1 Phase IV: 12 -24 months of research, data documentation, and writing of Dissertation.
• 6.2 Final stage of education prior to Ordination.
  • a. Documentation of data, and research must be approved before the writing of Dissertation.
  • b. Completed all class work and have been approved for continuance.
  • c. Serves as mentor to other students. This can allow students in Phase I - III to accompany Candidates and assist with their research and studies.
• 6.3 Candidate designation requires the successful completion of their dissertation and the recommendation for Ordination of the Councilor of their chosen clergy path, from the Council of Three. The Board of Directors shall review the recommendation for Ordination and affirm Ordination with a majority vote of the Quorum. The Board of Directors shall provide a letter of Ordination (or rejection) including the reason(s) for their decision for new Ordinations and annual renewal of existing Ordinations.
• 6.4 Upon receiving Ordination approval from the Board of Directors, there shall be an Ordination Ceremony with presentation of the newly Ordained Clergy to all Boards, Council, Clergy and Congregants.

Section 7: Ordained Clergy

• 7.1 Upon ordination the Pastor, Minister and Educator shall receive their first assignment from the Council of Three. Clergy shall be assigned where need exists and may be reassigned from time to time by the Council of Three.

ARTICLE XI CORPORATE SEAL EXECUTION OF INSTRUMENTS

The church shall not have a corporate seal. All instruments that are executed on behalf of the church, must be approved in writing by the Council of Three, in a written letter of approval to proceed with execution. All instruments executed by the church, including a release of mortgage or lien, may be executed by the President and Secretary. Notwithstanding the preceding provisions of this section, any written instrument may be executed by any officer(s) or agent(s) that are specifically designated by a written resolution of the Council of Three.

ARTICLE XII AMENDMENT TO BYLAWS

The bylaws may be amended, altered, or repealed by the Council of Three.

ARTICLE XII INDEMNIFICATION

Any councilor, director, officer or executive officer, including all clergy who is involved in litigation by reason of his or her position as Councilor, Clergy, Director, Officer or Executive Officer of this church shall be indemnified and held harmless by the church to the fullest extent authorized by law as it now exists or may subsequently be amended (but, in the case of any such amendment, only to the extent that such amendment permits the church to provide broader indemnification rights).

ARTICLE XIV DISSOLUTION

The organization may be dissolved only with the authorization of its Council of Three given at a special meeting called for that purpose, and with the subsequent approval by no less than two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Board of Directors. In the event of the dissolution of the church, the assets shall be applied and distributed as follows:
All liabilities and obligations shall be paid, satisfied, and discharged, or adequate provision shall be made. Assets not held upon a condition requiring return, transfer, or conveyance to any other church or individual shall be distributed, transferred, or conveyed, in trust or otherwise, to a LGBTQ charitable and educational organization, organized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, of a similar or like nature to this organization, as determined by the Council of Three.

CERTIFICATION

I certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the above-named church’s approved and duly adopted constitution by the Council of Three.