JASPER

ASSOCIATION

of

FREE WILL

BAPTISTS

1983

ANNUAL REPORT

1984 SESSION

OCTOBER 5, CARBON HILL FWB CHURCH OCTOBER 6, NORTHWEST ALABAMA YOUTH CAMP

FWB CHURCH

------------------------------------------------------------

MINUTES

of the

NINETY-SIXTH ANNUAL

SESSION

of the

JASPER ASSOCIATION OF FREE WILL BAPTISTS

When Convened At

Union Chapel Free Will Baptist Church and

Mt. Pleasant Free Will Baptist Church

September 30 October 1, 1983

Table of Contents Page

Articles of Faith .. .. .. .. .. . .. .. ... . .... . ... . .. 16-17-18

Associa tional Directory ..... . .... . .......... . . . . . . . . 3

Associational Enrollment-Delegates .......... . ..... 12

Churches, Pastors & Statistics . . .. . .. . . . . ........ 11-12

Church Clerks .. . .......... . .... .. . .... . . . . . . .... 13 Church Covenant ............. . ............. . ... . ... 16

Deacons .... .... . . . ... . ... . . . .. . .. ...... . .. . . ..... . 13 Decorum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Ministers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Reports of Boards : Christian Education .. . ............ .. ........... 9 General Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Northwest Alabama FWB Youth Camp . . ... . .. 8-9

Reports of Committees: Appreciations Committee ... . . . . .. ... . . . . . ... . 10 Credentials Committee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Finance Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Report of Quarterly Meeting ... . ........ ... ... . ... 9-10 Report of Treasurer . . . . . .... . . .. . ....... . . ... . . .... 14

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ASSOCIATIONAL DIRECTORY OFFICERS MOD ERA TOR: Rec. Fred Jones, Rt. 2, Guin, AL 35563 ASSISTANT MOD ERA TOR: Rev. Bud Hill, Rt. 2, Winfield, AL 35594 CLERK: Rev. David Crowe, Rt. 1, Box 50, Brilliant, AL 35548 ASSISTANT CLERK: Rev. Phillip Cook, Rt. 1, Box 170-A, Hackleburg, AL 35570 TREASURER: Don Collins, Rt. 1 Box 336, Hamilton, AL 35570

BOARDS GENERAL BOARD: Terms to expire in 1984: Bethlehem (?) Carbon Hill-James

Rubley; Calvary-Herbert Boshell; Good Springs-Edward Holland; Lone Star-(?) Mt. Olive-Letus Atkinson ; New Liberty-Aaron Wright; Parrish-Hershel Swarm; Shady Grove-Clyde Freeman; Union Chapel-Phillip Miles; Winfield-Duane Hughes; Gwn Springs-Wyman Holcomb; Holly Springs-David Baldwin.

Terms to expire in 1985: Brilliant-Doug Shirley; Cedrom Grove-Pearl Barnes; FreeWater-Farell Pollard; Guin-Delbert Dobbs; Hackleburg-Ester Gunnin; Hamilton-Ronnie Ellis ; Liberty-Billy Wisham; Mt. Pleasant-Allan Brassell; Pochantas-Jim Hunter; Red Bay-O'neal Funderburk; Union Hill-Paul Jaggers.

STATE GENERAL BOARD MEMBER: Rev. Bud Hill CIDLDREN'S HOME BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Rev. Donald Kivette BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: David Crowe(1984), Richard Cor­

dell(1985), Terry Booker(1986), David Hayes(1987), Woodrow Matthews(1988). YOUTH CAMP BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Billy Ray Smith(1984), Fred

Jones(1985), Woodrow Matthews(1986).

COMMI'I*I'EES CREDENTIALS COMM""flv..."l'~EE : Rev. William Pate(1984), Rev. Billy

Smith(1985), Rev. Clovis Tucker(1986), Rev. Dale Pitta(1987), Rev. Richard Cor­dell ( 1988) .

PROCEEDINGS The Ninety-seventh Session of the Jasper Association ci Free Will Baptists con­

vened with the Union Chapel Free Will Baptist Church Friday September 30, 1983 at 9:00a.m. Rev. Fred Jones, Moderator, presided over the session.

The session was opened with the congregation singing, "When We All Get to Heaven," led by Brother Duane Hughes. Rev. Arlo Peppers was called upon to lead the opening prayer. Bro. Duane Hughes then led the congregation in singing "Victory in Jesus." The Moderator recognized Rev. Phillip Nix who brought a devotion on the manner ci love. Rev. Phillip Miles welcomed the Association to their church. Rev. Ray Ritch delivered the response on the behalf of the Associ­ation. The Moderator appointed the following committees: APPRECIATION­Jane Yielding, Carol Kivette, Betty Bevans. FINANCE- Letus Atkinson, Wise Hol­comb, William Norris. OBITIJARY- Sister Barnes, Emma Orsborne, Sister Dickerson.

Following the reading ci the roll rl delegates by the clerk, the Assistant Moder­ator gave the charge regarding the responsibilities of delegates. Motion was made, seconded, and carried to seat the delegates. The Moderator recognized those visiting with our Association: Rev. & Mrs. Harold Pitts from Tuscaloosa and Rev. Dewey Betts, from the Birmingham District Association.

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The General Board Report was read by the clerk and a motion was made seconded, and passed to adopt the report item by item.

ITEM NO. 1-Thoee to fill vacancies on the General Board were elected at this time.

ITEM NO. 3-The WinfieldF.W.B. Church offered to host the 1984 General Board Meeting on the 1st Thlrsday in September.

ITEM NO. 8-Motion made, seconded, and carried to postpone action until Sat-urday Business Sessim.

ITEM NO. 17-Location fer the Third Quaterly Meeting to be held June 23, 1984 was decided. Clavary F .W.B. Church cordially invited the Association. .

ITEM NO. 18-Location for the first day of the Annual Session to be held Fnday October 5, 1984 was decided Motion made, seconded, and carried to accept the invitation of the Carbon Hill F.W.B. Church.

ITEM NO. 2G-Motion made, seconded, and carried that September 29, 1984 be designated Cleaning Day fer the Youth camp to be used for the Annual Session on Saturday, October 6, 1984. Time was set for work to begin at 9:00 a.m.

All other items ci the report carried. The Moderator recognized Rev. Woodrow Matthews who brought a Financial

Report of the Board of Christian Education. The report was adopted as read. The Moderator called for the Clerk to read a copy of Proposed Constitutional change of Article· VIU, Section I. Motion was made, seconded, and carried to postpone fur­ther consideration until Saturday Business Session in keeping with Rules of Decor­um and Article X of Constitution.

The Moderator recognized the clerk who gave the 1983 Quarterly Meeting Re-port. Motion made, seconded, and passed to adopt the report.

The Moderator declared a recess of the Association ..

MORNING SERVICE Congregational Singing opened the Morning Worship Service led by Bro. Duane

Hughes. The Host Church(Union Chapel) provided Special Music. Selections for special music were "Where Could I Go" and "I Will Trade the 01~ Cross for a Crown., Rev. Fred Jones brought the Moderator's Message from Isa1ah 62:1,10,12. He shared the meaning of Lifting up a Standard for the people. Rev. Harold Pitts was recognized to pray the prayer of blessing m the food and dismissal.

AFTERNOON SESSION Rev. David Crowe directed the Congregation in two old-time numbers that

created a spirit of togetherness. The songs "I Want to Know More" and "I'd Ra­ther Be An Old time Christian" help set the tone for the Afternoon session. Rev. Crowe also led in prayer. The Moderator recognized the Chairman of the Obituary Committee who gave the Committee's report. The report was received as read and followed by a moment of silent prayer for the departed and public gratitude ex­pressed by Rev. Woodrow Matthews for the wonderful lives of those who were car­ried to be with the Lord. The Moderator recognized the Chairman of the Finance Committeee who gave the report of this committee. The report was accepted by vote of delegates. A Partial report of the Appreciation Committee was given and accepted by rising vote of gratitude by the multitude. The Moderator recognized Rev. Ray Ritch who infcrmed the group concerning the State Association con­vening in November. The Host Church again offered Special Music by singing

4

"The Lights of Home." The Moderator then introduced Rev. Woodrow Matthews, Pastor of the Mt. Olive Church who brought the Afternoon Message. His text from Isaiah Chapter 55 dealt with the subject of a Package of Blessings. Afternoon Session was closed with Altar prayer and singing of'' Amazing Grace.''

SATURDAY MORNING SESSION The Saturday Session of the Annual Meeting m the Jasper Association was held

at the Mt. Pleasant Church. Bro. Don Collins opened the session by leading the congregation in singing "Joy Unspeakable." Prayer was offered by Rev. Ronald Watson. Bro. Collins again led the cong~egation in singing. The selection was "Vic­tory in Jesus." The Moderator introduced Hoat Pastor Rev. David Crowe, who welcomed the Association to their church. On the behalf of the Associaton, Rev. Phillip Cook thanked the church for their invitation to host the meeting. The Moderator recognized long-time Free Will Baptist preacher Rev. J .A. Godsey, who brought the Morning Devotion concerning "Christ Journey to the Cross., A season of prayer followed led by Rev. Walter Sloan and Rev. Bud Hill. The Business session was opened by the Assistant Moderator seating the delegates. Action con­cerning the Proposed Constitutional Change was undertaken. The change was amended then voted upon. The motion was passed with one opposed. (See Copy of Change). Delegates were selected to represent Association at State Meeting. Bro. Duane Hughes was the only person selected. However, authority was granted to the Moderator to appoint delegates among those present at the State Meeting from our Associatim.

Proposal was made to make Church Letter Report Form more efficient by elimi­nating unnecessary information and providing space for more vital infcrmatim needed. The Motion to accept this proposal carried. A motion was made to allow the Moderator to appoint a Constitution Committee to examine Constitution for any revisions. This motion was passed and Rev. Fred Jones appointed Rev. Bud Hill, Chairman, Rev. David Hayes, and Rev. Bill Smith to serve on this Com­mittee. The Moderator recognized Rev. Woodrow Matthews, woo gave the report on the Northwest Alabama Youth Camp. The report was accepted as read. The Moderator recognized Rev. David Crowe, who gave a verbal report on the suc­cess of the Teen Week of Camp during the Summer. The Moderator recognized Association Treasurer Bro. Don Collins who gave an update and report of the Fi­nances in the Association. The report was accepted as read. The Moderator de­clared a short recess.

SATURDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICE The Morning Worship Service was opened by Bro: ~~~ Hughes .leading ~e

assembly in singing "I'd Rather Be An Old-Time Christtan. An offe~ totalling $114 was received, and designated for the James Walden Account .m Alabaster, Alabama. Special Music was provided by the Host Pastor, Rev. Davtd Crowe. The Moderator introduced Rev. James Walden, who delivered the Morning Message. His challenge was to Coo tend For The Faith. The Congregation was dismissed ~or the Noon Meal by Assistant Pastor, Rev. Ronnie Lawler, who prayed the blessing over the food.

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SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION The hymn 11How Firm a Foundation" was selected by Bro. Duane Hughes to

open the Afternoon Session. Several members of the Association formed a Quartet to sing 11Winging My Way Back Home." The Moderator opened the Business Session again to consider any further Associational Business. The Appreciation Committee gave its complete report. The report was accepted by a rising vote of gratitude by the congregation. The Moderator introduced Rev. carlton Lambert, Superintendent of the Children's Home for a report concerning the activities of the home. The report was received as information. A motion was made to contribute $200 of Associational Funds to the Annual Pastors & Workers Conference. The motion was passed. The Moderator introduced Rev. Mickey Kirkland, Home Missionary to Montgomery, Alabama, who shared a report concerning the needs of the work there. His report was received as information. The following officers was elected to serve the Association for the coming year: Moderator-Fred Jones, Assistant Moderator-Bud Hill, Clerk-David Crowe, Assistant Clerk-Phillip Cook, Treasurer-Don Collins. The Moderator appointed Fraternal Delegates to represent the Association with other Associations: Ronald Watson, State Line; Wise Hol-comb, State Line.

Nellie Jackson sang 11Amazing Grace," accompanied by Rev. Roger Houston. The Moderator introduced Rev. Ronald Watson, Pastor of the Good Springs Church, to preside over the Ordination Service of Bro. R.C. Humphrie~. ~v. Wat­son brought the Ordination Message from Isaiah Chapter 52. Rev. William Pate, Chairman of the Credentials Committee, gave the charge. The laying on of hands by all ordained ministers and deacons followed .

The Moderator recognized Rev. Clovis Tucker, who gave a report concerntng the new work of a Free Will Baptist Church in the Glen Allen Community near Win­fieeld An offering of $74,90 was received for this work. Motion was made and accepted to adjourn.

The General board met with Moderator and elected an Executive Board con-sisting of: Duane Hughes, Paul Jaggers, Wyman Holcomb, Pearl Barnes, and Letus Atkinson.

GENERAL BOARD REPORT The General Board of the Jasper Association of Free Will Baptists meet Septem­

ber 1 1983 at the Red Bay F.W.B. Church with Moderator Rev. Fred Jones presi­ding.' The meeting was opened with Bro. Farell Pollard leading the group in sin­ging "At the Cross., Bro. Woodrow Matthews led in prayer. Rev. Donald Kivette brought a devotioo from I Corinthians Chapter 4. .

The Moderator recognized the representatives from each church. Et~ht chur­ches were represented with eight others who were officers of the Associa bon.

The following recommendations were discussed and passed. 1. we recommend that the terms of the General Board members from the fol­

lowing churches be filled with nominations by each church and any positions not filled to be filled with recommendations from the floor. Their terms to expire. in 1985: Brilliant-Doug Shirley, Guin-('?), Hackleburgh-Ester Gunnin, Liberty-Bill:Y

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Wisham, Mt. Pleasant-Allan Brassell, Pochantas-Jim Hunter, Union Hill-Paul Jaggers. .

2. We recommend the following be elected to the General Board. whose term 18 to expire in 1985: Cedrom Grove-Pearl Barnes, Hamilton-Ronnie Ellis, FreeWater· Farell Pollard, Red Bay-O'Neal Funderburk.

3. We recommend that each church urge ita General Board Member to attend the meeting of the General Board designated for the 1st Thursday in September 1984 and that the meeting place be decided at the Annual Session following nominations for General Board Members.

4. We recommend that Rev. Donald Kivette be elected to the Children's Home Board of Trustees.

5. We recommend that Rev. Woodrow Matthews be elected to the Board of Chris-tian Education. His term to expire in 1988.

6. We recommend that Rev. Woodrow Matthews be elected to the Youth Camp Board. His term to expire in 1986.

7. We recommend the Rev. Richard Cordell be elected to the Credentials Com­mittee. His term to expire in 1988.

8. We recommend that a Committee be appointed to examine Association Consti­tution for c<rrect wording and report to Annual Meeting in 1984.

9. We recommend that the Constitution Committee report findings to General Board Meeting before Annual Meeting in 1984.

10. We recommend that the Moderator be paid sixty-five (65)dollars, the Assis­tant Moderator twenty(20)dollars, the clerk one hundred(lOO)dollars, the Assis­tant Clerk(85)dollars, and the Treasurer one hundred(lOO)dollars.

11. We recommend that each church send an offering to each Anmal Meeting for retired minis tEl'S and that each church support this cause regularly.

12. We recommend that the money for retired ministers be divided equally be­tween those who are retired at this time.

13. We recommend that each church support regularly the causes r1 foreign mis­sions, home missions, Children's Home, Free Will Baptist Bible College, South­eastern Free Will Baptist College, California Christian College, and Hillsdale Free Will Baptist College.

14. We recommend that each church give to the Youth Camp on a systematic basis (i.e.) monthly r1 quarterly.

15. We recommend that the First Quarterly Meeting be held January 28, 1984 at the Red Bay F.W.B. Church.

16. We recommend that the Second Quarterly Meeting be held March 24, 1984 at the Free Water F.W.B. Church.

17. We recommend that the Third Quarterly Meeting be held June 23, 1984 and the location decided at the Annual Meeting(l983).

18. We recommend that the first day of the Annual Meeting be held Friday, Octo­ber 5 1984 and the location be determined at the Annual Meeting(l983).

19. We recommend that the second day of the Anmal Meeting be held Saturday, October 6, 1984 at the youth Camp. Also, we recommend that a donation r1 fif­teen(l5)dollars be sent to the Association from each church to cover expenses(for food) of approximately three hundred(300)dollars. Each church is encouraged to bring deserts to serve for that day.

20. We recommend that September 29 be set aside as cleaning day. 9 a.m. sent out letters.

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FINANCIAL REPORT OF BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Date: September 1, 1982 - August 31, 1983 Balance Brought Forward .. .. .. . ........................ .. .... ... .. .. .... $366.03 RECEIPTS:

Dis met crs Fees .. . ... I •• I •• I • I I I I • •• I ••• •••• • •••••••••••••• I • • •• •• I $215.00 Caml)ers Fees ................. .. .................... . ................ 4,372.00 Snack Bar Sale~~ ................................ .... . . . . .. . ............ 90'7' .IIC> Credited to accountfrom NW Y C .................... ..... .. . .......... 273.00

Total ..... ... ..... .. .. . .... .. . .. ... . ....................... . . .. . . 5, 767.80

Total to be accoWtted for . .......... .. ..... . ..... .. .............. $6,133.83

EXPENDITURES: Dis met CTS SUpplies .. . . I • •••• •••• •••••••••••••••••••••••• I •••• •••• ••• $36.47 State C1"8 F~ .... I •• ••• I ••• I • I •••• I • • •• ••••• I I ••••••• I I • I ••••• I •••• I • 200.00 Food and Supplies for Camps ............... .. ... ... .. .. .............. 2,506.42 Snack Bar Supplies ..... . . . ............ I • • •••••••••••• • ••• • ••••• • •••••• 794.2'7 Use of Cam.p . . . . .. . . . I •• ••• ••••• I •• • •••••••••••••••••• • •• I • I •••••• I ••• 400.00 Evangelists . I ••••••••••• ••• I • I • I I I ••• I I ••••• •••• I • •• I •• I •• I • I I • I ••• •• • 400.00 Direc::t01"8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I ••••••• I ••• I I I t I I I •• •• • • • I I • • • ••• I • • • • • I • • •••• 100. ()() C<:N:>k & Kitchell Help ............... I •••••••••••• I . I •• • • •• • ••••••••••••• 450.00 Printing I I I I I I I I I I I I I I f I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I f I I f I I I I I I I I 0 I I I I I I I f I I I I f f t t t 1 53 t 45 Change for Snack Bar .... I •••••• •• ••• •• •••••••••••••• I •••• • • I • • • • •••••• 65.00 ltlsurance on Campers ............... .. .. . ...... I ••••••••••••••••••• I • • 323.00 ReimbursementtoNW Ala. Youth Camp ...... ..... .................... 273.00

Total .. ............... I ••••••••••••••• I • I • ••••••••••• •• • • • • •••••• 5,601.61 Balance August 31, 1983 . ................ . ................ . ........ $532.22

s Woodrow Matthews, Secretary

FINANCIAL REPORT OF NOR111WEST ALABAMA FREEW1LLBAPTISTYOUTHCAMP

Date: September 23, 1982 - September 13, 1983 Balance Brought Forward ...... . .. .. .................. .. ............... $5,464.13 RECEIPTS:

Gifts( Churches & Individuals) . ..... .............. .. .. . ......... .. .. $7,650.31 Ra.l.ly Day ... I ••••••• I •••••••••• •• ••••• • ••••••••• • I •• •• •• I ••••• I I •• • • 1,822.40 Use of Camp(Rent)

Vernon Association(Bal. 1982) . ................................. . ... 75.00 Three Associations<Camp Sessions) ........ ... ................... 1,200.00 Vernon YOllthGrCltlp .............. I ••••• I • •••• •• I •••• I •••• •• ••• I •••• 22.50 State Youth Retreat . . .................... . .................... . ... 150.00 Master's Men Gr()llp I • •• I ••••• I ••••••• • • • ••• ••• •••••••••••••• • •• I •• I 25.00 HamiltClll Church ... I I •••••••••••• I • I • • • • • I •••••••••• I I ••• • •• • •••• I • 25.00 State Auxiliary Retreat ................. . ............. . ............ 577.00

Refund(Purnell,s Pride Food Service) ..... . ............ . ............... 16.59 Reimbursement! rom Jasl)er C E Board ............. . ... .. .. . .......... 273.00

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Crt!c:l.it(From Bank) ....................... . ............................... 30

Total ................ . .. .... . . . . . . ....... ... ... .. ... ... .. .. . . . . . 11,837 .10

Total to be accounted for ............... ........ . ............... $17,301.23

EXPENDITURES: Water ...... . ......... . .... . ...... . ................................... $4417.52 Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I ••••• •••• I I I I ••••• I I I I •••• I • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 433.94 Elec::tric .. I I • I I •••• I I •••••••••••••••• I ••• I • I • • •• • • I • I •• I I • •••• • •••• •• 2,130.58 Promotion, Paper, Postage & etc .. ......... .. ..... .... ...... .. ... . ... .. 124.08 Paint for Pool I I •• I I I • • I I I I •• ••• I • I I • I I I •• •• I I •• I • • • I •• • ••••••• I ••••• I • 213.47 Maintel'l&nce I I I I I t I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I t I I t I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 605.02 c ·bem.icals for- Pool .. I •••••••• I I •• I •••••••••••••••••••••••••• • •• I •••••• 733.32 Repair on Pwnp Motor .... .. I ••••••••• I I •• • ••••••• • ••• • • • •• ••• I ••• I • I .193.98 Secretacy Work ... I •••• I I ••••••• I ••••• I • I I ••••••• •• I • I ••• I • • •• I • •• I ••• 35().00 I.nsurance . I ••• • • • ••••••••••••••••• I •• •• ••••••••••••••••••••••••• • ••• 1, 764.00 Annual Payment on Loan ............................................ 5, 721.81 Food for Rally Day & Auxiliary Retreat ................................ 382.90 Kitchen Help( Auxiliary Retreat) .. .... .. .. .. . ... .. . ..... . ... . .......... 75.00 Meals for Board Meeting ............... . .... .. .... . .... .. .............. 51.90 Kitchen Supplies & etc. . ..................................... .. ..... . . . 100.88 Block Wall In Boys Dorm(Lab. & Matl.) .......... · ............ .. ... . . . .. 357.23

Total ... I •••••••••••••• I ••••••••••• I I I • I I ••••• I ••••• I • I ••• • ••• I .13,685.&1 Balance .. I •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• I ••• •• ••••••••• • •••• • •• $3,615.6()

Liabilities: Balance on Loan, Plus Interest .......................... $5,249.34

-s-Woodrow Matthews, Secretary

QUARTERLY MEETING REPORT 1983

The Quarterly Meeting of the Jasper Association of Free Will Baptists convened three times this year. The first meeting was held January 22, 1983 at the FreeWater F.W.B. Cmrch. The session featured Missionary Speakers from the Area-Wide Missionary Conference. The Association was blessed by: Rev. Mike Criswell-Rev. Jesse Dunn(Oregon), Rev. Ernie Deeds-Rev. Jim Sturgill(Brazil), Rev. Eddie Payne-Rev. Jerry Pinkerton(Ivory Coast), Rev. Bill Adkission(New Mexico), Rev. Russell Lowe(Idaho), Rev. Pete Minor(Rhode Island), Rev. Rod­ney Outlaw(Alabama), Rev. Ken Bailey(Japan), and Sister Molly Barker(Ala­bama).Also, this meeting featured the ordination service of Bro. Terry Austin. Twenty-three churches were represented 116 were present for the General Bus­iness Session.

The Second Meeting of the Association was held March 26, 1983 at the Winfield F.W.B. Church. Rev. Philip Miles brought a devotion concerning "Working for Christ.,, Rev. Bobby Thompson was recognized to deliver the first message for the day and he preached about "Minding the Lord" from I Kings Chapter 17. Rev. Ray Edgar was called upon to preach the 11 a .m. message. He shared from Acts Chap-

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ter 3 on "Expecting to Receive Something., Rev. WiJJiam Atkinson conducted the Ordination Service for Bro. Ronnie Lawler. Twenty-three churches were repre­sented.

The Third Meeting ci the Jasper Association was held June 25, 1983 at the New Liberty F.W.B. Church. This meeting featured Dr. Roger Reeds, head of the Na­tional SUnday School Dept. and representing Randall House Publications con­ducting a Sunday School Workshop and preaching the morning message. The Afternoon Session recognized Rev. Charles Fowler accompanied by his family singing. He preached upon "Digging a Valley full of Ditches., Twenty-four churches were represented.

REPORT OF THE APPRECIATION COMMITTEE: We the Jasper Association Committee would like to express our thanks to the

Union Chapel Church for the fantastic way you have hosted the first day of the Associational meeting. According to Mark Chapter 9, verse 41, even a cup of water given in Christ's name to His children will be rewarded. So we know everyone who helped make this such a wonderful day will be bountifully rewarded. September 30, 1983.

We the Jasper Association wish to pay a hearty thank you to all at the Mt. Plea­sant Church for the fine way you made us feel so welcome and attended to our needs, and we truly can say as David did in Psalms 133: 1-' 'Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." October 1, 1983

Your Appreciation Committee:

FINANCE REPORT

Betty Bevans Nellie Jackson Jane Yielding

We, your committee on finance wish to report the receipt of funds as follows: Associa tiona I Funds . . ... .. ...... .. ............................... .. . .. ... $692.00 Reti.red Ministers ............ I •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• I •• I 294.00 State Ass()(!iation I • ••• I •• I •••••••••••• I ••• I • I •••• I •• I •••• I •••• I • •••••• •• I I •• 39.00 Minutes ... I • I •••• • •• I •• •• •• I •• I • • ••• • •••• • • I ••••••• I ••• I •••••••••• I • •• • I •• 205.00 Bible Colleg«!S . . . . ... I • • • ••• I ••• • ••••• I • I •••••••••••••••••••••••••• •• • • ••• I 2Cl.OO Foreign Mi.ssioos ..... I I I • I I •••••••••••• I ••••• I I • I •• I I I •••• ••••• •••••• • I I •• ~ 10.00 y Cl\lth camp 1 t 1 1 1 t t t I t I I t I t t I I I t I I t I t t I t t t t t I I I I I I I t I I I t t I t t I I I I I I t I I I I I t I t .10.00

'I'OTAL ........ . .... . ..................... I I ••••••• •••• I I • •• •••• $1,2'70.00

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Respectfully Submitted, William Norris, Chairman

Letus Atkinson Wise Holcomb

OBITUARY REPORT We wish to report that God bas seen fit to call from wr ranks the following: BRILLIANT: Grace Mullenex CARBON HU..L: Tberman Guyton, George Smith CEDROM GROVE: Vera Boshel FREE WATER: Robert Warren GOOD SPRINGS: Ophelia Warren GUIN: Clarence Causey GUM SPRINGS: Issac Miles, Edna Estes, Nellie Weeks HAMILTON: J.M. May HOLLY SPRINGS: Myrtle Massey HACKLEBURG: Ed Mason MT. OLIVE: Etel Franks, Ilene Burleson, Corey Wilson MT. PLEASANT: John Brassel, Clarence Myers, Ralph Overton POCHANTAS: Garlin Sparks RED BAY: Eula Blanton, W.O. Johnson UNION CHAPEL: W.A. Halliman UNION Hn.,L: Junior Rayburn WINFIELD: John West, Mrs. Cleo Thompson, Wyman Webster, Bruce Mitchell

MINISTERS Barnes, Pearl P., Box 262, Grayville 35073 Beard, Herschel, Rt. 5, Russellville 35653 Bevins, Clavin, 401 Wildwood Dr., Jasper 35501 Booker, Terry, Rt.& Box 11, Hamilton 35570 Boshell, Herbert, Rt. 2 Box 204, Carbon Hill35549 Colley, Dewey, Rt. 2, Guin 35563 Cook, Phillip, Rt. 1 Box 17o-A, Hackleburg 35564 Cordell, Richard, Box 553, Guin 35563 Cox, David, Box 553, Guin 35563 Crowe, David, Rt. 1, Brilliant 35548 Duncan, Bobby, Rt. 2, Hamilton 35570 Edgar, Ray, Rt. 3, Phil Campbell 35581 Fowler, Charles, Rt.5 Box 150, Fayette 35555 Franks, Dave, South America Godsey, J .A., Rt. 3, Hamilton 35570 Hayes, William, Box 457, Red Bay 35582 Hill, Bud, Rt. 2, Winfield 35594 Houston, Roger, Rt.1 Box 63, carbon Hill 35549 Holcomb, Wise, Rt. 2, Guin 35563 Holcomb, Wyman, Rt. 1, Brilliant 35548 Humphries, R.C. James, Wyman, Rt. 7, Russellville 35653 Johnston, Trenton, Rt. 2 Box 121, carbon Hill35549 Jones, Fred, Rt. 2, Guin 35563 Kivette, Donald, Rt. 2, Guin 35563 Lawler, Ronnie

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Matthews, Woodrow, Rt. 2, Guin 35563 Miles, Phillip, Rt. 3, Winfield 35594 Norris, William, Box 256, Guin 35563 Pate, William, Rt. 2, Carbon Hill 35549 Pitts, Dale, Rt. 2, Guin 35563 Peppers, Arlo, Rt. 1, Bankston 35542 Ritch, Ray, 717WestCedar Cone Circle, Birmingham 35214 Roberts, W.A., Rt. 12 Box 185, Carbon Hill35549 Sanderson, William, Box 78, Brilliant 35548 Sloan, Walter, Box 553, Guin 35563 Smith, Billy, Box 246, Brilliant 35548 Spencer, Charles, Vina 35593 Thompson, Bobby, Rt. 4 Box 513, Fulton 38843 Tucker, Clovis, Rt. 4, Winfield 35594 Watson, Ronald, Rt. 3, Phil Campbell 35581 Yielding, Rt. 3, Hamilton 35570

DELEGATES BETHLEHEM: Eulice Guin, Willodean Cagle BRILLIANT: Eunice Dickinson, Rosemary Shirley, Anna Mae Caudle CALVARY: Betty Bevans, Mary Dozier, Calvin Williams CARBON HILL: I.V. Farley, Robin Rubley, Ruby Eaton CEDROM GROVE: Helen Boshell, Alice Barnes, Nellie Jackson FREE WATER: Regina Pratt, Annie Otts, Ruthie Miller GOOD SPRINGS: Brenda Watson, Eloise Humphries, Jimmy Humphries GUIN : Delbert Dobbs, Dempsey Bozeman GUM SPRINGS: Sussie Holcomb, Fannie Bates, Hattie Baccus HACKLEBURG: Buster Wooten, Frank Cole, Connie Cantrell HAMILTON: Joyce Booker, Louise Norris, Judy Lucius HOLLY SPRINGS: Betty Childers, Pear lie Barksdale, Chrislene Cantrell LIBERTY: Rosa Johnson, Lillian Dickinson, Bryan Silas MT. OLIVE : Letus Atkinson, Willie Patterson, Blanche Matthews MT. PLEASANT: Becky Brasseal, Rozzle Raddin, Flozzie Raddin NEW LIBERTY: Gwen Buckner, Mary Lou Fowler, Woodie Chandler POCAHONTAS: Hattie Hunter, Ramona Boyd, Vaudle- Rubley RED BAY: O'Neal Funderburk, Jane Yielding, Roland Yielding SHADY GROVE: Johnny Zainbill, Zola Zainbill, Tina Burfill UNION CHAPEL : J.C. Davis, J .C. White, Susie White UNION HILL: Madge Barker, Regina Fredrick, Burtie Lawler WINFIELD: Melia Earnest, Elmira York, Emma Orsborn

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CHURCH CLERKS BETHLEHEM: Willodean Cagle, Rt. 1, Brilliant 35548 BRILLIANT: Mary Vintson, Rt. 2 Box 288, Guin 35563 CALVARY: Mary Dozier, Box 28, Carbon Hill35549 CARBON HILL: Bernice Atkins, Rt. 1 Box 88, Carbon Hill35549 CEDROM GROVE: Janet Jones, Rt. 2 Box 68-A, Carbon Hill35549 9 EDGAR'S CHAPEL: Dianne Landers, Rt. 3, Phil Campbell35581 FREE WATER: Janie Miller, Rt. 2, Guin 35563 GOOD SPRINGS: Gail Parrish, Box 917, Red Bay 35582 GUIN: Elaine Knight, Box 727, Guin 35563 GUM SPRINGS: Lola Prescott, Rt. 3, Winfield 35594 HACKLEBURG: Carol Anglin, Rt. 2, Hackleburg 35564 HAMILTON: Kathy Cooper, Box 781, Hamilton 35570 HOLLY SPRINGS: Jimmie Lou Nichols, Rt. 1 Box 183, Hackleburg 35564 LIBERTY: Mrs. Bryan Silas, Rt. 2, Guin 35563 LONE STAR: Bobby Spearman, Rt. 1, Tremont 38876 MT. OLIVE: Clark Flippo, Rt. 1, Guin 35563 MT. PLEASANT: Reba May, Rt. 2 Box272, Guin35563 NEW LIBERTY: Angie Smith, Rt. 1 Box 135, Bankston 35542 PARRISH: Audle Romine, Box 289. Parrish 35580 POCAHONTAS: Deborah Stewart, Box 209, Carbon Hill 35549 RED BAY: Linda Blackburn, Rt. 2 Box 82-D, Vina 35593 SHADY GROVE: Rose Mary Beard, Rt. 5 Box 407-B, Russellville 35653 UNION CHAPEL: Martha Miles, Rt. 4 Apt. 2-E, Winfield 35594 UNION HILL: Glenda Anglin, Box 25, Hackleburg 35564 WINFIELD : Mike Adams

DEACONS BE~HEM: Roy Crow, Vance Pollard BRILLIANT: Blaine Doss CALVARY: Thomas Dozier, Michael Pate CARBON HILL: Travis Pair, Willie Aultman CEDROM GROVE: Angelo Boshell, Charles Parr EDGAR'S CHAPEL: L.C. Borden, I.J. Borden, F .T. Edgar, Leonard Lawler FREE WATER: Atris Pugh, Pearce Miller, Marvin Wilson, Hubbard Estes Clo-

visTI~ell ' GOOD SPRINGS: Leemon Humphries, M.M. Warren, Edward Holland GUIN: Bill Smith, Ronald McDonald, Bobby Glasgow, Tommy Nix Charles

~ght ' GUM SPRINGS: J.C. White, Carrol Markham, Ted Simmons HAMIL TON: Don Co11ins, Fray Stone, Lowell Parker, Dewell Emerson HOLLY SPRINGS: Clayton Burgett, Ranzy Baty, James 0 . Childers, Ershell

Childers LIBERTY: Earlie Dickinson, Morgan Bozeman, Billy Norris, Don Wilson

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LONE STAR: Billy Pitts, Claude Russell, Kenneth Pounders, Bobby Bostic MT. OLIVE: Lowell Franks, Milton Rhudy, Paul Wilson, Howard Franks MT. PLEASANT: Olith Erwin, Allan Atkins, Terry May NEW LIBERTY: Victor Smith, Sid Moore, David Fowler, Aaron Wright PARRISH: Howard Romine, Herschel Swan, Henry Thompson POCAHONTAS: Elbert Nelson, Pete Stewart, Joe Hunter, Curt Griffin, Jim

Hunter, Mike Davis, W.l. Tessener RED BAY: Oliver Mink, Willard Purser, Ross White, Raymond Cheekmore,

Ralph Purser, Raymond Blackburn, Elmer Self SHADY GROVE: Charles Nix, Clyde Freeman, Edmund Nix, Edgar McDuffy UNION CHAPEL: O.D. Eads, Tommy Williams, Jimmy Eads, Bill Williams, A.

Burgess UNION HILL: Paul Jaggers, Leburn Hudson, Lewis Lacey, J.D. Jones, Jerry

Anglin WINFIELD: Lee Moore, Ira Baccus, Garland Holliman, B.P. Atkinson, Bill

Overton

JASPER ASSOCIATION OF FREE WILL BAPTISTS TREASURER'S ANNUAL REPORT

OCT. 1, 1982 to SEPT. 30, 1983 Balance Brought Forward ............. . ............................... $1084.55 Money Received:

lo-4-82 Ass~. Fees .. ......... .. .... .. ... .... .. .. ......... . ...... ... . $1539.00 16-4-82 Spec. Off. (AlCAP-Digest) ........ ... .. .. ....... . ......... ... .... 90.04 10-27-82 Tithe <Retired Minister) ......... .. ............. . ............... 14.00 1-Z'T-83 Assc:x:. Fees ......................................... . .......... 230.00 1-27-83 Spec. Off. (Missionaries) .... ... .. . .... . .. .. ......... .. ......... 197.00 2-19-831AteFE!IeS ..... . .............. . ....... . . I •• • •••• •• •••• • •••••• • ••• 10.00 3-26-83 Spec. Off. (Missions) .......................................... . . 94.79 3-26-83 Assc::K:. Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22(). 00 5-19-831AteFees ..... .. ......... . ..... . ............ . .. . ... . ............ 30.00 6--2'7'-83 Ass~. Fees .... . ...... .. . . ... . ....... .. .... .. .................. 210.00 6-27-83 Spec. Off. (Montgomery Land Fund) ... .. ......... . .. ... . . .. . .... 56. 52 7-15-831Ate: FE!IeS ............................. . .. . .. . .... . ... .. .... . .... 30.00

$2721.35 Total To Be Accounted For ......................... . .... .. ....... $3805.90

Expenditures: 9-2-82 Rev. Terry Booker (Supplies) .............. ... ... . ..... . ......... $15.83 9-2-82 Rev. Byron Meyer (Clerk) . ..... . .... . ..... ... .... . ............. . 100.00 10-1-82 Rev. Terry Booker (Asst. Clerk) ... ... ... .. ... .. .. . .. . ... . . ... ... 85.00 10-1-82 Rev. Fred Jones (Moderator) . .... ... .... .. ..... . ........ .. ...... 65.00 10-1-82Rev. Bud Hill (Asst. Moderator) .. . .............................. 20.00 10-1-82 Don Collins (Treasurer) ...................... .. ................. 50.00 16-4-82 State Assoc. <Host Church) . .................................... 198.00 10-4-82 Y oo.th. Camp . .... ... ............................................. 50.00

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16-4-82 Rev. J .A. Godsey <Retired Minister) .......... . ........ . .. . . . ... 127.33 1o-4-82Rev. Wise Holcomb (Retired Minister) ........ . .. . .. . .. . ........ 127.33 16-4-82 Rev. Dewey Colley (Retired Minister) ............. .. ... .. ....... 127.33 10-8-82 A.I£AP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45.02 10-8-82 Alabama Digest . . . . . . .. . ...... . .................... . ....... . .... 45.02 10-27-82 State Assoc. (Dues) . . .. . ..... .. .................... . ........... 250.00 10-27-82 State Assoc. (National Dues) . .. .......... . ..................... 250.00 10-27-82 Correction (Deposit Entered Twice) .. . . . . .. .. .... .. .. ... .. ..... 180.00 2-19-83 Itawamba Times (Minutes) ... . ......... . . .. ... .. . . ... . .. .. ..... 337.87 3-8-83 Home Missions ....... . ... ... .. . .......................... . .... .. . 98.5() 3-8-83 Foreign Missions ........... . ..... . .. . ..... . ................... . . . 98.5() 3-26-83 Pastors-W<rkers Conf .. ............. . ........... . ............... 200.00 3-26-82 Smith's Christian Book Store (Supplies) ............. . ............. 2.10 3-26-83 Y Olltb Camp ................... . ...... . ...................... . ... 47.40 3-28-83 National Home Missions .......... . . . .. . ......................... 47.40 6-7-83 Rev. Terry Booker (Stamps) ................. . ........ . ........... 20.00 6-25-83 Rev. Roger Ree<is ........ .. .. . ................ ... . . ............ 250.00 6-27-83 Montgomery !And Fund .......... . ....... . .......... . .... .. .... . 56.52

I 9-14-83Rev. Terry Booker <Supplies) ................ . .................... 5.00

Total Ex·patditures .. .. ........... . ...... . ................. .. .... $2:899.15 Balance 011 Hand 9-3()..83 . . . . . . . . • . . • • . • • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • . • . . . . . $'9()6. 75

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CHURCH COVENANT

Having given ourselves to God, by faith in Christ, and adopted the Word of God as our rule of faith and practice, we now give ourselves to one another by the will of God in this solemn covenant.

We promise, by his grace, to love and obey Him in all things, to avoid all appearance of evil, to abstain from all sinful amusements and unholy conformity of the world from all sanction of the use and sale of intoxicating beverages, and to "provide things honest in the sight of all men.''

We agree faithfully to discharge our obligations in reference to the study of the Scriptures secret prayer, "family devotions, and social worship; and by self-denial, faith and good works endeavor to "grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

We will not forsake the assembling of ourselves together for church conferences, public worship, and the observance of the ordinances of the Gospel; nor fail to pay according to our ability for the support of the church, of its poor, and all its benevolent work.

We agree to accept Christian admonition and reproof with meekness, and to watch over one another in love, endeavoring to "keep the unity of the Spirit" in the bonds of peace. To be careful of one another's hap­piness and reputation, and seek to strengthen the weak, encourage the afflicted, admonish the erring, and as far as we are able, promote the success of the church and the Gospel.

We will everywhere hold Christian principle sacred and Christian obligations and enterprises supreme; counting it our chief business in life to extend the influence of Christ in society, constantly praying and toiling that the Kingdom of God may come, and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

To this end we agree to labor for the promotion of educational and denominatinal enterprises, and the support of missions, the success of Sunday Schools, and evangelistic efforts for the salvation of the world. And may the God of peace sanctify us wholly, and preserve us blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

ARTICLES OF FAITH

1. The Bible. The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments were given by inspiration of God, and are our infallible rule of faith and practice.

2 Tim. 3:16-17; and 2nd Pet. 1:18-21 2. God. There is one living and true God, revealed in nature as the

Creator, Preserver, and Righteous Governor of the universe; and in the Scriptures as Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; yet as one God. infinitely

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wise and good, whom all intelligent creatures are supremely to love, adore, and obey.

Deut. 6:4; Gen 1:1; Neh. 9:6; Ps. 47:7; Ex. 34:14 3. Christ: C~st is God manifest in the flesh; in His divine nature

truly God, In H1s h~~an nature truly man. The medil!tor between God and man, on.ce crucrfied, He is now risen and glorified, and is our ever present SaVIour and Lord.

John 1:14; Heb. 4:15 4 .. The Holy Spirit. The Scriptures assign to the Holy Spirit all the

attnbutes of God. Heb. 9:14; Ps. 139:7-10; Luke 1:35; 1 Cor. 2:10, 11

5 .. The Government of God. God exercises a wise and benevolent ~rovidence over all beings and all thing by maintaining the constitu­tiOn ~nd laws of natu~e. He also performs special acts, not otherwise provided for, as the highest welfare of men requires.

. Acts 17:28; Eph. 1:11 . 6. The sn~fulness of Man. Man was Created innocent, but by disobe­

dience fell. mt~ a state of sin and condemnation. His prosperity, therefore, inhents a fB:~en n~ture of such tendencies that all who come to years of accountability, s1n and become guilty before God.

Gen. 2:7; Ps. 51:5: Eph. 2:3 ~· The Work of Christ. The Son of God by His incarnation life, suf­

fenn~s, death and resurr~ction effected for all a redemptionfrom sin that IS full and free, and IS the ground of salvation by faith.

John 3:16 8. The !erms of Salvatio~. The conditions of salvation are: 1. Repen­

tance or Sincere sorrow for sin and hearty renunciation of it. 2. Faith or t~e unreserved committal of one's self to Christ as Saviour and Lord ~Ith ~urpose to lo:re and obey Him in all things. In the exercise of sav­I~g fruth •. the soul Is renewed by the Holy Spirit, freed from the domi­ruon _of sin, a~d becomes a child of God. 3. Continuance in faith and obedience until death.

Luke 13:5; Eph. 2:8; 2 Pet. 1:4-10 9. Election. Go~ determine~ from the beginning to save all who

should comply With the conditons of Salvation. Hence by faith in Christ men become His elect.

John 3:16 10. Freedo.m of Will. !he human will is free and self-controlled, having power to yield to the influence of the truth and the Spirit or to resist them and perish. '

Deut. 30:19; John 5:40 11. Salvation F:~e. G~d des~es the salvation of all, the Gospel invites all, the Holy Sp1nt stnves with all, and whosoever will may come and take ot the water of life freely.

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1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9 Rev. 22:17

12. Perseverance. All believers in Christ, who through grace persevere in holiness to the end of life, have promise of eternal salvation.

Rev. 8:38-39; 2 Pet. 1:10 13. Gospel Ordinances. Baptism, or the immersion of believers in water, and the Lord's Supper, are ordinances to be perpetuated under the Gospel. Feet Washing, and ordinance teaching humility , is of universal obligation, and is to be ministered to all true believers.

Matt. 28:19; 1 Cor. 11: 23-26; St. John 134-17 14. Tithing. God commanded tithes and offerings in the Old Testa­ment; Jesus Christ endorsed it in the Gospel [Matt. 23:23], and the apostle Paul said, "Upon the first day of the week let everyone of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him" [1 Cor. 16:2a.]

15. The Christian Sabbath. The divine law requires that one day in seven be set apart from secular employments and amusements, for rest, worship, holy works, and activities, and for personal communion with God.

Gen. 2:3; Luke 24: 1-6; Acts 20:7 16. Resurrection, Judgement and Final Retribution. The Scriptures teach the resurrection of all men at the last day. They that have done good will come forth to the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil unto the resurrection of damnation; then the wicked will ' 'go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

John 5:28-29; Acts 17:31; 2 Cor. 5:10

CONSTITUTION OF THE JASPER ASSOCIATION OF FREE WILL BAPTISTS

ARTICLE I NAME

This body shall be know as the Jasper Association of Free Will Bap­tists of Alabama.

ARTICLE II MEMBERSHIP

SECTION I. The membership of the Jasper Association shall con­sist of all churches that, upon the approval of this body, shall become members.

SECTION II. A local church that wishes to become a member of this Association must adopt the National Treaties and make formal writ­ten request. A two-thirds vote of the delegates present must be record­ed.

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ARTICLE III REPRESENTATION

Each church holding membership in this Association shall be entitl­e~ to three [3) delegates. Ministers and deacons who are in good stan­ding with this Association and members of the General Board shall be standing delegates.

ARTICLE IV OFFICERS

The officers of the Jasper Association shall be a moderator an assis­tant moderator, a clerk, an assistant clerk, and a tre.asur~r each of whom shall be elected at the close of each regular session.

ARTICLE V BOARDS

SECTION I. General Board [a] Composition. The General Board shall be composed of the moderator, assistant moderator, clerk, assis­tant clerk, and treasurer, and one member from each local church that is a part of this body. Each member from a local church shall serve a two ye~r term wi~h one-half of the ~?embers being elected each year. [b) Executive comrruttee. An Executive Committee shall consist of the moderator, assistant moderator, clerk, and treasurer and five [5] members from the General Board. These five members shall be elected annually by the General Board. This committee shall function as the General Board when said Board is not in session. [c) Duties. The General Bo~rd shall formula~e ~ll items of general business during the annual sesswn of the AssociatiOn, as well as other responsibility so delegated by the body. When this Association is not in session, this Board shall have power to act as the body.

SECTION II. Board of Christian Education. The Board of Christian Education shall consist of five [5) members. Each member shall serve for a five [5] year term one term expiring each year.

SECTION III. Directors of North West Alabama Free Will Baptist Youth Camp shall be composed of three [3] members who shall serve for a term of three [3] years each with one term expiring each year.

ARTICLE VI STANDING COMMITTEES

SECTION I. Credentials Committee. The Credentials Committee sJ:lall consist of five (5) persons with the senior member in point of ser­VIce replaced each year. Recommendations for replacement shall come from the General Board. It shall be the responsibility of this commit­~ . to examine all letters coming to this body from churches, rmrusters, and other associations. This committee shall also examine all ministers who become a part of this body either by ordination or by letter.

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It is expected that all minister~ coming from. other associations will present letters of recommendatiOn; however, In some cases the com­mittee may see fit to recommend the ac~eptance of. such pers~n~ who have not year rec.eived such letters. Any Item of busine~s pertai~g to ministers or conduct of ministers should be presented first to this com­mittee. Business matters handled by this committee may be referred to the Association or to the General Board.

SECTION II. The moderator of this Association shall be an ex-officio member of all boards and committees.

ARTICLE VII MEETINGS

SECTION I. This Association shall meet annually on Frida.y before the first Sunday in October at a place ~etermin.ed at .the prev1ous ses­sion; and shall not adjourn finally until all business 1s transacted.

SECTION II. The associational year shall end August 31st and all letters to the Association should be mailed to the clerk no later than the third (3rd] Sunday in September of each year. . .

SECTION Ill. There shall be three [3) quarterly meetl~g~ dunng each associational year. The annual meeting of ~he Assoc1at10n shall take the place of the fourth [4th] quarterly meetu~g ..

SECTION IV. The officers of the Jasper Assoc1at10n shall serve as the officers of the Quarterly Meeting.

ARTICLE VIII ORDINATION

SECTION 1. Any man who becomes convinced that the Lor~ has called him to preach the gospel shall be licensed by the church of which he 1S a,~e~~· (The Church should cootact the Credentials Committee for a copy of Guidelines for Licensed Ministers"). After he has been licensed for a period of two(2) year~ and bas proved his worth, the local church shall then make formal request to this As­sociation that he be ordained. A candidate may be ordained after the first full yea~, provided he has an approved ministerial work such as called to pastor, ci Ass~l­ate Pastor, full-time evangelism, or missionary work. T~ Local church, of which be is a memeber, must be able to show proof of his worthiness as to h~ character, doctrine, ability, sincerity, and desire. U after bee bas been exam~d by ~e responsible ones of this body, be then be found worthy, be shall be ordamed by ~ Association. All ordinations to the ministry must be approved at the annualsess1on or a quarterly meeting. _ .

SECTION II. Each church shall have the rig~~ to select .and ordain all deacons who serve in such church. The orda1mng council shall ~on­sist of two ordained ministers and at least one deacon or one ordained minister and at least two deacons.

SECTION III. Candidates for ordination to the ministry shall pre-sent their request for ordination to the Credentials Com~itt~e at l~ast by the time of the last regular meeting before the ord1nat10n us1ng forms prepared and approved by this body.

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SECTION IV. Preachers coming to us from other Free Will Baptist Associati9ns shall present their requests for membership to the Credentials Committee at the time of the quarterly meeting of the an­nual session, and said requests may be acted on at that session.

B. Preachers coming to us from other denominations shall present their requests to the Credential Committee at the time of a quarterly meeting or the annual session. Such requests shall be acted upon at the time of the following quarterly meeting or annual session. Revised October 6, 1979.

SECTION V. All ministers are required to report yearly to the Credentials Committee of this body. Such report shall be for year beginning September 1st and ending August 31st, and shall be due September 1st of current year. Any minister who fails to comply shall be dropped from the roll of ministers.

ARTICLE IX DISCIPLINE

SECTION I. This body shall be considered an advisory council hav­ing no authority over the internal affairs of any local church unless said church depart from the Articles of Faith or from the National Treatise. Whenever, conditions warrant it, this Association shall have power to withdraw fellowship from any local church.

SECTION II. Any church being dealt with because of a disciplinary problem shall represent to the quarterly meeting and annual session by letter and fees, but shall not have the right to vote by delegates, standing or otherwise, until the matter is settled. Exception: Any minister who is a member of such church but is ministering to another church that is in good standing with the Association shall not be so penalized.

SECTION III. All questions of doctrine and all matters pertaining to a local church, or to an individual minister or group of ministers, shall be decided by a two-thirds vote of this Association.

SECTION IV. No minister whose conduct is being questioned by this Association shall have the right to vote in either the quarterly meeting or annual session.

SECTION V. The pastor, who preaches the word of God, ministers to the needs of the members, and exercises general leadership within the congregation is expected to unite with the local church if he is not a member when called ... " When the minister become pastor of a given local church, it is his responsibiliy to obtain good standing in the association of which that church is a member if he is not already in good standing therein." [A Treatise of the Faith and Practices of the Original Free Will Baptists, 1973 pp. 50 A; Page 59B.

SECTION VI. Each church of this Association shall be urged to pro­mote and support all district, state and national projects of the

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denomination. SECTION VII. No church shall accept as members those who have

not been baptized by an ordained minister.

ARTICLE X AMENDMENTS

SECTION I. This Constitution may be amended at any annual ses­sion of this association by a two-thirds vote of delegates present, pro­vided proposed amendment is presented in writing, read one day, plac­ed on the table, and adopted the next.

RULES OF DECORUM

1. This Association shall be called to order by the moderator and presided over by officers elected at the last session.

2. The association shall be opened and closed by singing and prayer. 3. The names of delegates shall be noted and referred to as often as

is necessary. 4. The moderator shall not be entitled to a vote except in case of a

tie and then he shall give the deciding vote. He shall be entitled to speak on any subject after others have spoken, provided someone else serves as moderator while he speaks.

5. Only one person shall speak at a time and he shall arise and ad­dress the moderator, and after recognition by the moderator, he shall proceed.

6. No person shall be interrupted while speaking unless he shall depart from the subject under discussion or use words of personal reflection.

7. No person will be allowed to speak more than twice on the same subject without permission from the modertor nor more than five [5] minutes at a time.

8. No person shall laugh or talk in a disturbing manner while discus-sion is going on.

9. No delegate ~hall absent himself from the association without leave of the moderator.

10. Any minister absent from the annual session of this association for two years in succession without legal excuse shall be dropped from the roll of ministers

11. These Rules of Decorum may be amended at any annual sessin of this association by a two-thirds vote of delegates present, provided proposed amendment is presented in writing, read one day, placed on the table, and adopted the next.

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GUIDELINES FOR

LICENSED MINISTER IN THE JASPER ASSOCIATION

I. RULES PERTAINING TO THE LICENSED MINISTER

A. Qualifications for the Licensee 1. He must be a member of a church which belongs to the Jasper

Association. 2. He must give evidence to his church that he is divinely called to

preach, whereupon the local church is authorized to examine him for license. This examination should include the areas of tlie candidate's life, doctrine, reputation, and his convictions and abilities regarding the work of the ministry. His present and prospective educational qualifications should also be considered. Upon completion of such an examination, the local church shall determine whether or not to grant license. The ministerial license shall be valid for a period of one year but is renewable annually.

3. He must have his license renewed annually by said church and kept in force until ordination.

B. The Activities of the Licensee 1. According to the general practics of Free Will Baptists, a licensed

minister is urged to afford himself of every opportunity to preach the word. He is free to exercise all the privileges and responsibilites of an ordained minister with the exception of pastoring a church and of­ficiating at the observances of the ordinances and wedding.

2. The licensee should consider the perod between his receiving license and being ordained as a time of study and training in prepara­tion for his calling.

C. His Relationship to the Association 1. The clerk of the church should report the names of licensed

ministers to the clerk of the Association who will forward a copy of these guidelines to each licensee.

2. Licensed ministers are urged and expected to attend the regular meetings of the Jasper Association and the Quarterly Meetings.

II. SUGGESTIONS FOR PREPARATION FOR ORDINATION A. Attend Free Will Baptist Bible College if possible B. Attend ALABAMA BIBLE INSTITUTE C. Seek the counsel of an experienced pastor of pastors. D. Make as thorough a study as possible of the following:

1. The Holy Bible 2. Systematic Theology

23

3. Homiletics 4. Pasteral Theology and Church Administration 5. Evangelism 6. Church History [especially F. W. B. history]

III. A SUGGESTED SCHEDULE OF WORK LEADING TO ORDINATION

A. As soon as licensee feels that he is qualified to become a can­didate for ordination, he should request a list of study questions from the Credentials Committee of the Association. We would strongly en­courage him to proceed with his examination before entertaining a definite call to a church.

B. At least two months before the Credentials Committee meets, he should secure the examination. He should make five copies of the completed examination [one for each member of the Committee], and send them to the Credentials Com­mittee no later than two months before its meeting.

C. The candidate is required to pass an oral examination ad­ministerd by the Committee.

D. The Committee will report to the candidate on whether he passed or what areas he may· need additional study in.

E. When the approved candidate has passed the examination, the Committee will recommend his ordination to the Association. This recommendation will be made only after the candidate has been licens­ed for one full year. It is recommended that the candidate have definate prospects of a church pastorate or another form of Christian service that would justify his being ordained.

24

FORM OF CHURCH CONFERENCE

We, the Free Will Baptist Church in Christ, at _______ after divine service by Rev. met in conference.

1. Opened doors of church for reception of members. 2. Called for reading of minutes of last conference. 3. Called for peace and fe!lowship of the church. 4. General business.

5. On motion of adjournment, we

Rev. Moderator

Bro. Clerk

FORM OF LETTER OF DISMISSION STATE OF ALABAMA TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:

We, the Free Will Baptist Church at do certify that Bro. _____ is a member of our church in full fellowship, and is hereby given this letter of recommendation.

25

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1 708.16 50.1 Bethlehem Fred Graham 4 3 1 78 66 536.14 35.00 299.79 150.00 70.1 Brilliant Billy R. Smith 3 6 3 162 65 25 1 569.71

2 Calvary Calvin Bevans 600.00 115. 2 Carbon Hill William Pate !11 71 40 600.00 151.09 120.00 100.00 150.00 85.1 Cedrom Grove Donald Kivette 8 6 5 63 67 40 2 950.50 3,166.18 200.00 150.00 25 .t 3 200.00 Free Water Fred Jones 4 3 4 150 855.16 40.1

2 1 Good Springs Ronald Watson 2 65 30 6 10.1 Guin Richard R. Cordell 14 6 11 566 351 260 5

616.32 864.70 85.' Gum Springs Ray W. Ritch 3 6 1 75 53 53 3 716.32 651.83 37.03 30.' 3 Hackleburg Phillip Cook 4 3 124 97 50 2,475.01 1,672.38 1,117.68 538.27 85.

65 2 Hamilton Terry Booker 5 1 4 195 90 1 20. Holly Springs Danny Smith 2 6 1 2,285.19 1,049.46 560.00 150.00 75. Liberty L. Dale Pitts 6 1 3 148 85 50 3 7,569.61 4,720.37 778.85 966.51 1,350.00 50. Lone Star 3 6 347 160 84 2 446.49 701.49 300.00 35. 1 Mt. Olive Woodrow Matthews 8 3 3 168 55 200.00 200.00 200.00 225.00 15. 3 Mt. Pleasant David Crowe 5 1 2 225 114 New Liberty Arlo Peppers

3 1,918.00 1,041.16 181.00 100.00 100

Parrish 11 1 73 55 50 3 440.70 860.69 265.65 271.32 175.00 60. Pocahontas Roger Houston 3 4 7 272 212 100

1 251.04 145.25 37.50 37.50 75.

Red Bay David Hayes 4 2 136 77 1 250.00 40. 2 Shady Grove Hershel Beard 5 6 2 116 30 111.52 111.52 60.

Union Chapel Hubert Gardner 5 2 150 100 50 1 2,410.28 3,014.55 1,508.00 600.00 332.25 70. Union Hill Charles Yielding 11 8 5 170 100 1

Winfield Bud Hill

NOTES

NOTES