Recommended by Rev. William Branham
The following outlines the agreements and operations of the current offices at the Branham Tabernacle. This document serves to inform members about the proper functions of each office, ensuring unity and mutual understanding as we work together to advance the kingdom of God.
The pastor is responsible for conducting and overseeing all programs he deems aligned with God's plan and the Word of God for the Branham Tabernacle. He holds supreme authority and is tasked with promoting the spiritual welfare of the church. The pastor leads the associate pastor, the deacon board, the trustee board, and the entire congregation, guiding God's saints with wisdom and love. His role is one of servitude, fulfilling the calling God has placed upon him.
Pastor: Rev. William Branham
The associate pastor carries out the duties of the pastor in his absence, conducting worship services in accordance with the doctrine of the Branham Tabernacle. He holds the same authority as the pastor, ensuring the church remains orderly and addressing the spiritual needs of the congregation. The associate pastor must report to the pastor on church progress, spiritual matters, and pressing issues. He is not to engage in any business transactions without first consulting the pastor.
Associate Pastor: Rev. Orman Neville
The trustees oversee the church's financial and business affairs. They are elected to manage church funds, properties, investments, and expenditures, ensuring the church avoids undue financial burdens. All financial projects must be presented to the pastor for consultation and approval before proceeding.
Deacons provide spiritual assistance to the pastors, supporting all spiritual activities. They may propose programs to benefit the church's welfare and are expected to teach, assist in communion, serve as ushers, and maintain order during services. Deacons also address the spiritual needs of the congregation and oversee local offerings. They must seek agreement from the pastors or trustees before initiating any program involving church funds and are not to hold meetings without the pastor or associate pastor present.
The treasurer maintains an exact record of the church's financial status, providing reports exclusively to the pastor or trustees upon request. No other office may access this information. The treasurer attends trustee meetings to document proceedings but does not participate in spiritual matters or deacon meetings unless requested by the pastor.
The Sunday School superintendent ensures children's classes are staffed with teachers and equipped with necessary supplies. He assigns teachers to classes and arranges substitutes when needed, ensuring classes align with the worship service schedule. Requests for supplies must be submitted to the trustees for funding approval. The superintendent does not direct teachers beyond assignments and is not involved in deacon or trustee meetings, focusing solely on Sunday School operations.
The music program is supervised exclusively by the pastor and associate pastor. They oversee all musical activities during regular services, special meetings, and revivals. The trustees advise on instrument purchases, but the pastor must be consulted. Suggestions for musical programs from members or deacons should be directed to the pastor, who will evaluate and approve them. The pastor ensures all worship activities, including music and testimonies, align with the church's spiritual goals.