Church Membership

Churches will be admitted to HIM as member churches based on the criteria below.

A bona fide church exhibits the following:

A Pastor

Someone acknowledged as a pastor by a group of people meeting at least weekly for spiritual nourishment and discipleship. Though the pastor may hold outside employment he/she must fulfill the position of overseer of the flock.

A Church Government

A form of church government should be in place. This may consist of a pastor and an elder who meet on a regular basis for prayer and decision making. Written guidelines, bylaws, or policies should be in place.

Meetings

Regular weekly meetings where the Bible is taught, the Gospel is preached and members are cared for. These meetings must represent more than a home group or Bible study.

Membership

People are committed to the group as their home church. We look for an attendance of at least 35 to qualify for membership in HIM. Exceptions may apply.

Records and Accounting

Records should be kept on attendance and membership along with bank account records for the tithes and offerings received by the church.

References

References will be relied upon, especially where relationship with HIM staff is nonexistent.