PROCEDURE FOR AN EXISTING CHURCH TO AFFILIATE WITH THE CAOG

A. Definition of the applicant “Church”:

A church according to this definition is one, which is autonomous in terms of being self-supporting, having duly elected membership and leadership and a full legal status in terms of incorporation, constitution and by-laws.

This is distinct from a church plant, which is still in the developmental stages. The goal of the process is to have an ample time for review, relationship building and understanding of mutual commitments and possible restructuring.

B. Initial Informational Meeting with CAOG Representative and Church Leadership

A meeting is set up between the church leadership and a representative of the CAOG District (usually the Overseer of the District) and invited CAOG pastors from the area. During this meeting several key areas will be communicated:

1. The Nature, Vision and Values of the CAOG and of the Applicant Church

2. The Benefits and Responsibilities of Affiliating with the CAOG

3. The Process of Affiliation including forms:

a. Affiliate Church Application for Membership

b. Pastoral Questionnaire. The pastor of the church will eventually be asked to meet with CAOG Executive Committee.

4. Possible required changes to the church’s constitution and by-laws

5. Preliminary Decision by Church Leadership to Proceed

6. Following strong church board approval, the Church leadership will contact the CAOG Office and communicate their desire to pursue

affiliation with the CAOG. This request should be in writing.

7. The church chairman (or Secretary) and the Sr. pastor should complete the Affiliate Church Application for Membership and the Pastoral

Questionnaire and mail to the CAOG office (the section pertaining to the congregational vote can be completed later).