How
Can My Ministry Affiliate with IFCM?
One of the purposes of IFCM to provide a basis for fellowship
between churches and minstries, as well as spiritual support and counsel
as requested or needed, according to the scriptures: Hebrews 10:24-25;
Acts 20:28; Deuteronomy 17:8-11.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Question:
Is International Fellowship of Christian Ministries, Inc. a denomination?
Answer:
No. Each church retains it's own name. It may or may not have the IFCM
name somewhere on it's sign or printed material by choice. This is different
than identifying denominational churches. All financial contributions
are given to and accounted for by the local church, and do not become
assets of International Fellowship of Christian Ministries, Inc.
The
church may take payments to various special funds of International Fellowship
of Christian Ministries, Inc. on a voluntary basis. A scriptural tithe
is encouraged, but a 5% contribution to the operation of International
Fellowship of Christian Ministries, Inc. is encouraged. There are no
other assignments or prorated assessments as have some denominations.
Question:
Does affiliation with IFCM affect the ownership of local church property
or restrict the options for building, mortgaging, selling, etc.
Answer:
No. Each church owns its own property and governs it's own affairs.
Question:
Why should a local church affiliate with International Fellowship of
Christian Ministries, Inc.?
Answer:
There are many reasons why an independent church or ministry should
not be totally alone in the Body of Christ. Years of Church history
reveal that very few independent churches survive into the second or
third generation. They usually last as long as the founder still in
a position of leadership.
The connectional relationship between IFCM and your Ministry assures
accountability for a pastor from among his peers and the spiritual oversight
of a plural presbytery of counselors. Pastors, elders, deacons and other
church leaders have fellowship with other leaders of other churches
of like faith through sharing guest speakers, attending seminars, conferences
and special events as well as the annual conferences at IFCM in Mt.
Dora, FL.
Being part of IFCM lets a local church have a window to the world by
participating in the evangelism efforts of IFCM ministries in foreign
countries. Members of affiliated churches can travel on short term mission
projects and participated in ministry in a developing country. Every
church needs to be touching the lives of people in some other part of
the world. We believe God is blessing those who do.
1. Each
local church should be a legal entity, registered with the Secretary
of State's office in the State the church meets, it is American, or
the Provincial Capital if Canadian. In most states this means the
church is incorporated as a not-for-profit religious corporation.
2. Each
local church should adopt a form of church government which can be
defined in the By-Laws of the corporation. Model Articles of Incorporation
and By-Laws are available from the IFCM office.
3. An
affiliated church must have as its Pastor an IFCM current ministry
credential and/or associate membership holder.
4. Each
affiliated church shall file its own IFS reporting annually, if any
be required.
1.
Purpose:To provide a basis for fellowship between churches and ministries,
as well as spiritual support and counsel as requested or needed, according
to the Scriptures: Hebrews 10:24-25; Acts 20:28; Deut. 17:8-9
2.
Benefits: Provides oversight and covering.
Provides a broader basis for recognition of your ministry.
Provides source for support ministry.
Provides a source of fellowship with likeminded ministries and churches.
Provides leadership training for your ministry.
Provides a connection with a worldwide organization of Missionaries.
3. Method:
Fill out the Application for Church Affiliation. Mail in a copy of your
church charter or Articles of Incorporation. Upon consideration of IFCM
you will be notified as to your acceptance and will receive a certificate
of affiliation suitable for framing.