Bethany Governance
As a Baptist church, Bethany is a self-governing congregation. Our Members take collective responsibility for how we worship, who we call as Pastor, and how we steward our resources — guided always by Scripture and the Holy Spirit.
Autonomy
As a Baptist Church we are an autonomous Christian community. As self-governing Members we choose our Pastor, decide how to worship together, elect our officers, approve the annual budget, and have the final say on major decisions recommended by our Council.
We understand our church is built upon the called-out people — not any historic building or denomination. We believe in the Priesthood of all Believers, upholding the principles of individual responsibility, soul liberty, and competency before God to interpret scripture under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
How We’re Organized
Voting body — elect officers, approve budgets, govern the church
Moderator + 9 Deacons — coordinates ministry and administration
Three commissions overseeing specific areas of church life
Full-time calling to preach, teach, counsel, train, and co-ordinate
Bethany Members
The purpose of the local church is to function as the body of Christ to advance God’s Kingdom. Being aware and involved in the running of the church is important if we want to see God’s purposes fulfilled in our community.
Please consider applying to become a Member — it doesn’t mean taking on specific responsibilities, but it does mean you can speak into the future governance and stewardship of the church.
After being approved by the Church Council and Membership, new Members may enter the Bethany community in one of three ways:
from another Baptist church
before the Pastor and Deacons-at-Large
Members are expected to be faithful in spiritual duties, attend worship services and Communion, share in the organized work of the church, attend congregational meetings, and give regularly in support of the church and its missionary work. Members are eligible to vote at congregational meetings, which are held at least four times a year.
Adherents
Our worship service is open to all. Persons who participate regularly in worship and church activities but have not applied for membership are recognized as Adherents — a very welcome and important part of our congregation. Adherents do not have the rights and privileges of church membership or a role in church governance.
Church Officers
Elected from the Membership to manage financial and official paperwork for the church:
| Officer | Role |
|---|---|
| Moderator | Chairs congregational and Church Council meetings |
| Clerk | Official records and correspondence |
| Trustees (3) | Legal and property responsibilities |
| Treasurer | Financial management |
| Envelope Secretary | Donation records and tax receipts |
Church Council
The Council provides overall coordination of the ministries and functions of the church. It is composed of the Moderator and nine Deacons elected from the Membership to assist with pastoral care, Communion, and general administration. Six Deacons serve on Commissions and three serve as Deacons-at-Large. The Pastor and Clerk are ex officio members.
Commissions
Bethany has three commissions overseeing specific aspects of church life:
Oversees legal, financial, and material aspects of church governance.
Supports teaching, discipleship, and community mission.
Fosters fellowship, pastoral care, and congregational wellbeing.
Each commission has two Deacons and four elected Members. Our Pastor is an ex officio member of all three commissions.
Volunteers & Deacons-at-Large
Our volunteers are absolutely essential to the life of Bethany — from nursery coordinators to audio-visual operators and ushers. Volunteering is a great way for Members to contribute to our community.
Three Deacons-at-Large serve as personal advocates for the Pastor, maintaining a healthy relationship between Pastor and congregation. Among other key roles, they interview and recommend new Members to the Church Council and Membership.