I was wondering where I could find bylaws for a church?

Question

The church I go to is Hamlin Baptist Church

I am not the first person to ask for them our old pastor also tried to get them and it is like they are lost. they act like they are trying to hide something.

Answer 1

you may see a sample of church bylaws here: (pdf file)

http://j.b5z.net/i/u/2034355/f/HOTS_Bylaws.pdf

Answer 2

Some churches are incorporated non-profit organizations for the purpose of limiting liabilities and for tax purposes. Others are not incorporated, but may still file with the IRS as a non-profit organization.

It depends on the status of your church, and the governmental system of your church. Your pastor should be able to direct you to the appropriate sources. Also, if your church is a member of a specific denomination, such as Southern Baptist Convention, you can contact officials of that convention or denomination who can give you better advice.

Answer 3

If you are a member of the church, you have access to the bylaws, articles of incorporation, records of meetings of the board of directors or trustees, etc. If the church has a secretary, she probably keeps a copy of those records. You'd probably be the first one ever to ask for them.

Answer 4

They have to be on file with whoever charters non-profit organizations in your state - in California is it the Secretary of State (the state-level one, in Sacramento, not Condalisa Rice.) Your church secretary or administrator should have a copy somewhere. The president and secretary of your board of trustees should have one.

If the pastor can't get them, something is fishy.

Answer 5

You should ask the Pastor of your church if the church has by-laws and what they are.