examples

Sample Constitution from Chi Alpha at Stanford

xaglen — Fri, 24 Mar 2006 18:53:22 -0600

this is the constitution used by Chi Alpha at Stanford

Stanford University Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship

Constitution

ARTICLE I – Name

The name of this organization shall be Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship.

ARTICLE II – Purpose

The purpose of this organization shall be to develop the spiritual life of the students in relation to God, to each other, and to the world at large within a Pentecostal Christian context.

ARTICLE III – Membership

Section 1: Eligibility

Stanford students shall be eligible for voting membership. Individuals who do not fall under this category, as well as Stanford students who are not interested in becoming voting members, shall be allowed to participate as non-voting members with approval from the officers.

Section 2: Criteria

Voting membership shall be given to individuals who:

i. express interest in becoming members.

ii. attend at least three non-business meetings.

iii. embrace the purpose of the fellowship as stated in Article II of the Constitution.

Section 3: Removal

Voting and non-voting members shall be eligible for removal by vote of the officers after missing four successive meetings. Instead of removing these members, the officers may also vote to place them on the inactive roster. Those on the inactive roster shall be suspended temporarily from voting, and may seek approval from the officers for reinstatement after attending a non-business meeting (provided they still fulfill all other membership requirements).

ARTICLE IV – Officers

Section 1: Titles

The elected offices of this fellowship shall be president, vice-president, and treasurer. There shall be other committees as may be deemed necessary by the officers of this fellowship.

Section 2: Responsibilities

i. President

The president shall preside at all business and officer meetings.

ii. Vice-President

The vice-president shall assist the president in his/her duties, and keep a list of the members in the fellowship. (S)he shall perform the duties of the president when the president is unable to do so.

iii. Treasurer

The treasurer shall manage all financial records and facilitate transactions with the university administration.

Section 3: Elections

The election of officers shall be conducted during the first month of the Spring Quarter of each year. Their term shall be one year long beginning in the first Summer Quarter after the election. The date of election shall be announced to the members at least one week in advance. Nominations from the voting members shall be accepted during the week before election, and shall be closed in the election meeting. Only members who have been active in the fellowship for at least one quarter and embrace the purpose of the fellowship as stated in Article II of the Constitution may qualify for an officer position. Elections shall be held in a manner compliant with the most recent edition of Robert’s Rules of Order.

Section 4: Removal Process

The process for removal of any officer shall be commenced by a petition bearing the signature of at least two-thirds of the voting membership of this fellowship. The officer in question shall be informed immediately and have at least one week to prepare a written response to the petition. Subsequently, a business meeting of the membership shall be scheduled to discuss the matter of removal. The officer in question shall have the right to speak at this meeting. Then, a second business meeting of the membership to decide upon the matter of removal shall be scheduled no earlier than one week after the first meeting. Again, the officer in question shall have the right to speak at this second meeting. Removal requires a two-third vote of the membership present at this second meeting. A quorum of one half of the voting membership must be established at both meetings.

ARTICLE V – Chapter Affiliations

The fellowship shall affiliate annually with Chi Alpha Campus Ministries, USA because of the common goals which both organizations pursue.

ARTICLE VI – Dissolution of Organization

Upon dissolution, all uncommitted funds and property shall be turned over to another Christian ministry at Stanford as voted upon by the remaining members. If there should be no members, all assets shall be divided equally between all of the following Christian ministries which remain as registered student organizations on Stanford:

i. InterVarsity Christian Fellowship

ii. Campus Crusade for Christ

iii. Asian Baptist Student Koinonia

iv. Cornerstone

ARTICLE VII – Provision for By-Laws

By-laws shall be established or amended by a simple majority of the voting membership at any publicly announced business meeting.

ARTICLE VIII – Procedure to Amend Constitution

Amendments to the Constitution may be made by a two-thirds vote of a quorum (representing one-half of the voting membership) present at any business meeting of this fellowship, provided that the proposed amendment(s) shall have been deposited in written from with the secretary, reviewed by the officers, and presented in published form to the members at least two weeks prior to the date of voting.

Sample Constitution From Minnesota State Chi Alpha

xaglen — Fri, 24 Mar 2006 18:26:41 -0600

this is the constitution used by Chi Alpha at Minnesota State University

CONSTITUTION OF CHI ALPHA CAMPUS MINISTRY

PREAMBLE

Chi Alpha Campus Ministry is an organization of students and non-students at Minnesota State University, Mankato who have united to express the person and claims of Jesus Christ to the campus community, to call others into a relationship with Him, and so to establish the Kingdom of God at Mankato State University.

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE I: Name

The name of this organization shall be Chi Alpha Campus Ministry. Chi Alpha is a chartered ministry, affiliated with Chi Alpha, Christian Fellowship USA; the College Ministries Department of the Assemblies of God. We choose this name as a witness that Jesus Christ called His disciples to be active testimonies of His resurrection and love for the world.

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE II: Purpose

Section 1. As an organization and as individuals, Chi Alpha Campus Ministry finds its purpose, mission, and identity in the Biblical passages, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors...” (II Corinthians 5:20) and “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20) Also, “Salvation is found in no one else (Jesus Christ) for there is no other name under heaven given to men which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

Section 2. We accept the Bible as the infallible , inerrant, authoritative Word of God and the sole basis for doctrine and morals.

Section 3. Chi Alpha desires to invite students into a personal faith in Jesus Christ so that they may grow in an understanding of Biblical knowledge and further to apply that knowledge to their daily lives. It is our hope and desire that this will enhance their academic and professional lives as well. Also, it is the further purpose of this group to help provide and foster opportunities for Christian ministry and leadership.

Section 4. To fulfill our purpose, we come together as a community of worship, prayer, fellowship, discipleship, witness and service.

Constitution Article III: Membership

Section 1. There are two categories of membership/association with Chi Alpha Campus Ministry: associate membership and voting membership.

Section 2. Associate (non-voting) members is considered by the following criteria: We believe that Jesus Christ calls people to repentance of sin, forgiveness, and discipleship (Matthew 28:19-20) “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9) Also, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes on Him shall not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His son into the world to condemn the world but to save the world through him.” (John 3:16-17)

Section 3. Associate (non-voting) membership of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry is open to persons who
A. are students or non-students alike
B. are willing to attend without any disruption during the meetings

Section 4. The responsibilities and privileges of associate members are as follows; they may attend any open meetings as stated in the By-Laws of Article III, Section 2.

Section 5. Voting membership. Any person is eligible to become a voting member of Chi Alpha if they meet the criteria outlined in Article III, Section 6.

Section 6. Voting members of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry is open to persons who:
2. Are currently registered full time or part-time students at Minnesota State University
3. Are in agreement with out purpose and philosophy as stated in this Constitution and Bylaws of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry.
4. Have attended the minimum number of open meetings required as stated in the Bylaws
5. Have made a public profession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior
6. Are actively attempting to grow in the knowledge of the Bible, and actively applying Biblical principles to their lives and actions
7. Are in attendance at a publicly announced business meeting
8. Comply with guidelines, principles and doctrines, as set forth by the national office of the Assemblies of God denomination, College Ministries Department.
9. Are approved by the Campus Pastor and/or Campus Ministry staff

Section 7. The responsibilities and privileges of voting members are:
A. they may hold the floor at a business meeting
B. they may vote at a business meeting
C. they may hold office
D. they may serve on a committee
Section 8. The responsibility for removal, sanction, and discipline of the membership of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry shall reside solely in the disciplinary Committee. Criteria for removal, sanction, and discipline shall be defined in the By-Laws of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry

Constitution Article IV. Officers

Section 1. There shall be appointed at least three officers (student leaders) for Chi Alpha Campus Ministry: President, Vice-President & Treasurer. Any other officers (student leaders) necessary for the efficient functioning of the group shall be appointed by the President (if a student is officially serving in that role) and/or Campus ministry staff.

Section 2. The responsibility of the student President shall be as follows:
1. the President, in joint cooperation with the Campus Ministry staff, shall be responsible for
maintaining Chi Alpha Campus Ministry
2. the President, in joint cooperation with the Campus Ministry staff, shall direct and lead all
business meetings personally.

Section 3. The responsibility of the Vice-President shall be as follows:
5. The Vice-President shall be responsible for acting in place of the President in the event of the President’s absence or inability or failure to carry out his assigned duties
6. The Vice-President shall have the same powers as the President in the event of the President’s absence
7. The Vice-President will act as interim President in the event that the President cannot complete his term

Section 4. The Treasurer of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry shall be responsible for accurate record-keeping of the finances of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry, working in association with the Campus Ministry staff.

Section 5. Appointment of officers.
• Officers shall be appointed by the Campus Pastor and/or the Campus ministry staff with or without recommendation and advice from the Executive Committee
• New officers shall take office at the annual business meeting and shall serve until the next school year’s business meeting
• Only persons who qualify as voting members are eligible to hold office

Section 6. Removal of officers shall be the responsibility of the Campus Pastor and/or the Campus ministry staff. Criteria for the removal of officers shall be established in the By-Laws of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry.

Constitution Article V: Committees

Section 1. The standing committees of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry shall be the Executive Committee, the Disciplinary Committee and the Constitutional Reform Committee.

Section 2. The Executive Committee shall consist of the President, the Vice-President and Treasurer during their term of office. The responsibilities of this committee shall consist of appointing chairmen and members of the remaining standing committees and to establish any committees that they deem necessary by consensus opinion. The duration of any special committees is to be publicly stated by the Executive Committee.

Section 3. The Disciplinary Committee shall be appointed within one week of any situation that is deemed necessary for disciplinary action to be taken against an individual member or members of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry. This committee shall consist of the Campus Ministry staff, the Executive Committee, and if necessary, the staff advisor and/or any members that the committee shall appoint at the time of the infraction. Their responsibilities are as follows:
a. to remove, sanction, and discipline members according to the criteria set forth in the By-Laws
10. b. to remove officers according to the criteria set forth in the By-Laws
11. c. to insure orderly conduct of members in accordance with the conduct code of Minnesota State University – Mankato

Section 4. The Constitutional Reform Committee shall be formed by the Executive Committee at the request of three or more voting members to draw up changes, reforms and additions to the Constitution and By-Laws. The Constitutional Reform Committee shall have the responsibility of presenting changes, reforms or additions at the Annual Business Meeting, or any other publicly announced business meeting.

Section 5. Standing Committees may take action only after a consensus has been reached by all members of the committee. In the case of the Disciplinary Committee, temporary action may be taken by any member of that committee if that member believes the situation merits such action. Such temporary action must be approved or disapproved within seven days by the whole Disciplinary Committee.

Section 6. Special Committees will make decisions and take action on the basis of a simple majority of the members of that committee, unless the Executive Committee publicly states otherwise at the time of the anouncement of the committee and its duration.

CONSTITUITON ARTICLE VI. Statement of Non-Profit Status

Chi Alpha Campus Ministry at Minnesota State University is a non-profit religious organization affiliated with the Assemblies of God.

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE VII. Restrictions on use of funds

Chi Alpha Campus Ministry shall no provide monetary gain, incidentally or otherwise, to its directors, officers or membership. This does not restrict the payment of wages, salaries, or incentives by the organization for services rendered.
CONSTITUTION ARTICLE VIII. Financial Matters

Section 1. All finances obtained from University funding shall be contained in the University Business Office.
Section 2. Any finances of funding provided from private donations , offerings, or sales shall be deposited in the checking account of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry at a local bank.

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE IX. Amendments to the Constitution

Amendments to the Constitution shall be passed by a two thirds majority vote at a publicly announced business meeting.

CONSITUTION ARTICLE X. Provision for By-Laws

The Constitutional Reform Committee shall be reposnsible for proposing any necesssary By-Laws at any business meeting. By-Laws shall be established by a simple majorityvoting membership at the annual business meeting, or at any publicly announced business meeting.

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE XI. Statement of National Affiliation

Chi Alpha Campus ministry of Minnesota State University – Mankato is in voluntary cooperation and association with Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship, the national college ministry of the Assemblies of God and the Minnesota District of the Assembly of God. As such, the campus ministry staff positions shall be filled by individuals approved by the above mentioned offices.

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE XII. Campus Ministry Staff

Chi Alpha Campus ministry of Minnesota State University – Mankato may have associated with it campus ministry staff. The staff positions are at the discretion and creation of the Campus Pastor.

CONSTITUTION ARTICLE XIII. Dissolution

Section 1. In the event that the group desires to dissolve, a notice must be written to the Minnesota State University Student Senate Association informing them of the group’s intentions.

Section 2. A vote of two-thirds of the Executive Committee shall be needed for formal dissolution.

Section 3. A notice must also be sent to the Campus Ministries District Representative who oversee Chi Alpha in the state of MN.

Section 4. After dis-establishment and after all liabilities of Chi Alpha are rectified, the Student Organization Finance Department will hold the remaining money in trust for Chi Alpha Campus Ministry for three years following the last meeting of Chi Alpha Campus Ministry. If, after that period, Chi Alpha Campus Ministry has not reactivated, the funds shall be distributed to the Minnesota District of the Assemblies of God and designated for home missions within the Minnesota District.