6/21/11

Now therefore come thou, let us make a covenant,

I and thou; and let it be for a witness between me and thee.

                                                               Genesis 31:44 (KJV)

We realize that there are areas in which honest, sincere Christians can disagree. We do not stand in judgment on those who do not agree with us in these areas. Nevertheless, we feel that the following is based on our understanding of scripture and elect to bind ourselves with a covenant agreement to practice this in our fellowship. 

1. While traditions of men in and of themselves can be good or bad, they will not bind us. We will try to be sensitive to one another’s feelings and show love in all things, however, we must grow in our relationship with Jesus and in our journey to be more like Him.

2. Male members who are identified with this congregation shall continue to have the leadership roles in the worship service. During special events younger children may have roles such as giving talks, having prayers, or leading singing.

3. Those teaching classes or taking an active role in worship services shall be identified members of this congregation and shall have placed themselves under the leadership of this congregation. The leadership of the congregation must approve any deviation from this.

4. We recognize that some members of our church family have varied and special God given talents and we will encourage the development of and use of these talents to the glory of God.

5. On Sundays and Wednesday nights, the OAR church of Christ will sing songs in an A cappella manner only. No background music or instruments will be used at any time during Sunday and Wednesday services. No songs (A cappella or instrumental) will be played during communion service on Sundays. The minister will be allowed to use video clips for his lessons which may contain musical instruments. The use of musical instruments and/or background music at Praise Fest Events may happen any time other than Sundays and Wednesday nights.

6. Voice enhancement equipment may be used by the minister, speakers, prayer leaders, song leaders and members of the congregation if desired and used to the glory of God.

7. We will participate in the communion service every first day of the week.

8. In the absence of an eldership, the church will expect the Deacons to continue to maintain the day-to-day operation of the church.

9. Understanding that communication is critical to church harmony, we will have congregational meetings as the need arises. Furthermore, the Elders will meet with the Deacons on a regular

basis.

10. We have engaged in a 12 month commitment, agreed by all the Deacons and other members present, to be a service driven church body.