NEW CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Profile Book
2009

TO SERVE RATHER THAN BE SERVED

Matthew 16:18

Introduction

New Calvary Baptist Church is proudly entering its 59th year (founded in July, 1949) of service to its members, community and residents in Detroit and the Greater Metropolitan Detroit area. New Calvary has sought to exist and engage in ministry by a simple motto: To serve, rather than be served. Known throughout the city of Detroit, the state of Michigan and the nation, New Calvary has been deeply engaged in the work of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, since its inception in 1961. Prior to 1961, New Calvary and its founding pastor, Rev. Joseph T. Thomas were part of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. With the death of Pastor Thomas, Rev. Dr. Charles William Butler was called to the pastorate of New Calvary in 1962 and served for the next thirty-four years. During that time Dr. Butler transitioned the church into the newly formed Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. and also became president of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. Two years after the retirement of Dr. Butler (1998), Rev. Dr. Michael C.R. Nabors was called to pastor New Calvary Baptist Church. Dr. Nabors served as president of the Michigan Progressive Baptist Convention from 2002-2004. He is entering his tenth year as pastor of New Calvary. During that time, five persons have been licensed to the Christian ministry (Donald J. Beasley, Ms. Johnnie Rivers, Bernard Robinson, Deborah Key and Gloria Moore) and four have been ordained into the Christian Ministry (Stephen Feagin, Richard Patterson, Donald Beasley and Franklin Ruff). The church has also had one student intern, Genetta Hatcher.

New Calvary is located in southeast Detroit, where its ministry has provided service from the same corner for fifty-eight years. Current members are residents of Detroit, Southfield, Grosse Point Park, Belleville, Bloomfield, West Bloomfield, Rochester Hills, and other suburban towns near the city.

In recent years, the demographics in the city of Detroit have markedly changed. Thus, various components of the church have also changed. In an effort to ensure that the ministry of New Calvary was and is meeting the needs of the area, it became evident that an update on the Church Profile was necessary. With the development of this document, we are hopeful and determined that New Calvary's mission shall continue the work of the gospel of Jesus Christ and to spread the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. Our earnest plea is that our community may be transformed as God grants us a spirit for building the Kingdom of God, where we are, to His glory! Our constant and heartfelt prayer is for God to bless New Calvary to be a thriving, life-transforming, intergenerational fellowship with an international message for an interfaith world. It is our constant and abiding belief that what we do on the tiny corner of Concord and Stuart, has significant ramifications for our community and world.

We are concerned about human lives. We are concerned about our environment. We are concerned about our elected officials. We are concerned about the people who populate the earth. Such concern moves us to put our faith into practice, our beliefs into action and our confidence in Christ into the busy lanes of living. New Calvary is a church fellowship seeking to fulfill the needs; spiritual, mental, and physical of all of those we meet. For Jesus said, “In as much as you did it to the least of these my brothers, you did it also to me.”

OVERVIEW
Our faith
What we believe

We believe in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit

Our two ordinances are Baptism and Holy Communion

We are an autonomous body led by the Holy Spirit, looking to God for our direction

MISSION, VISION, CORE VALUES
Who We Are

Vision

New Calvary seeks to be an alive, vibrant, bible-teaching, missions-focused body of believers dedicated in mind and body to serve rather than be served.

Mission

The spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord;
Luke 4:18-19

Core Values

Love of God
Strength of Fellowship
Obedience
Sacrifice
Missions
Christian Education
Spiritual Growth and Development

MINISTRIES AND COMMITTEES

Auxiliary Council

Date Created: July 5, 1949

Purpose: The council is composed of all auxiliary executives. The council's purposes include; 1) Approve and regulate dates for activities at the church during the year, 2) Serve as an information channel for the pastor, official boards and the church, 3) Encourage the full support towards the policy and programs of the church.

“The Auxiliaries and Departments of the Church serve as aids to the Church. Their programs and activities must be approved by the pastor of the Church. The officers of each auxiliary shall be selected by the members thereof, at least three weeks prior to the annual meeting, the names of the persons so selected shall be submitted to the Pastor who shall pass upon the fitness of such persons for office and shall then either submit the names of these persons at the annual meeting or reject such persons and submit the names of other persons for these offices.

In conformity with the provisions of Article II, Paragraph G hereof, the members of the auxiliaries shall, nevertheless, have the right to nominate for office the name of any person rejected and the person elected by the church shall be confirmed in and entitled to the office of the auxiliary affected thereby, providing THE NOMINEE IS A TITHER, AS NO PERSON THAT DOES NOT TITHE MAY HEAD ANY AUXILIARY.” Taken from the Church By-laws, Article VI “Auxiliaries and Departments.”

Altar Circle

Date Created: Unknown

Leader: Sister Lillie King-Scott (Honorary), Jewel Holley, President

Place of Meeting: Social Hall

Time: Third Sunday following morning worship

Purpose: The Altar Circle's ministry involves caring for and helping to beautify the pulpit and altar area. They also may purchase robes for the pastor/clergy and perform other duties and services approved by the pastor. The committee may assist deaconess in preparing altar for Communion Sundays, funerals and during certain liturgical seasons. The Altar Circle may also help to educate the congregation on the symbols of the altar and colors used at various times during the year.

Scripture:
Exodus 27:1ff Build an altar of acacia wood, three cubits high; it is to be square, five cubits wide. Make a horn at each of the four corners, so that the horns and the altar are of one piece, and overlay the altar with bronze….It is to be made just as you were shown on the mountain.

The Altar Circle of the New Calvary Baptist Church was organized in July, 1949 under the leadership of Mrs. Lena Deny.

Adult Usher Board # 1

Date created: Unknown

Leaders: Willie Lackey, President

Time and Place of Meetings: Third Sundays after worship, Trustees area of sanctuary

Sundays to serve:

Adult Usher Board #2

Date Created: 1955 The organizational membership of Adult Usher Board # 2 was primarily comprised of members of the Young People's Usher Board.

Leader: Printess Mathis, Leonard Bonney, Sr.

Time and Place of Meeting: Fourth Sundays in the Anderson Memorial Building

Sundays to serve:

Youth Usher Board

Leader:

Time and Place of Meetings: Meetings are called by the leader

Sundays to serve: Fourth Sundays and as requested

Scripture:
Psalm 84:10: Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

Blood Bank (Nurse's Guild)

Leader: Janet McElrath

Place of Meeting: Social Hall

Time of Meeting: Second Sundays following morning worship

Activity: Provide blood pressure screenings every fourth Sunday following worship

Purpose: The members of the Nurse's Guild are uniformed and on duty for Sunday services and all funerals. They are prepared to care for the sick and/or distressed, the emotionally upset and children. First Aid training is provided to all nurses by qualified instructors to help them provide health assistance to the church and community.

Scripture:
Psalm 103:1-3 Praise the Lord O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits- who forgives all your sins, and heals all your diseases.

Church Anniversary

Leader:

Place and Time of Meetings: Meetings are on Call

Time of Activity: Month of July culminating on Third Sunday

Purpose: The Church Anniversary committee shall serve the congregation by planning activities and events in celebration of our church's founding and service through the years. The committee shall work with the pastor in selecting appropriate guest speakers for the annual day.

Scripture:
Matthew 16:17-19 Jesus replied, Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hell will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

Church School

Leader: Shirlee Beasley

Place and Time of Meetings: Every Sunday, 9:00 A.M. Classes are throughout the church.

Church School Teachers Meetings: Every second Saturday, 10:00 A.M.

Purpose: The New Calvary Church School is dedicated to the proposition of offering quality Christian Education to members and visitors of every age. Classes are designed to stimulate interest in the Christian faith. There are bible-based lessons offered each week. Teachers meet once a month to go over monthly lessons, discuss issues regarding Church School and to offer support and assistance to one another. Classes range from Pre-K to Adult. There are also classes that are gender inclusive. The Pastor teaches on First Sunday to all combined classes.

The Church School is the foundation for the church's doctrine and all spiritual instruction. It aims to teach separate fact from fiction regarding the Word of God. Every serious Christian must heavily consider attending Church School on a regular basis.

Scripture:
II Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

Civic Affairs

Leaders: Sandra Ambrose, President and Samele Ambrose, Vice President

Place and Time of Meetings: Meetings are called by the President

Purpose: The primary purpose of the Civic Affairs Committee is to engender a sense of civic responsibility in members of the congregation. The committee is responsible for stressing the importance of voting and teaching members and visitors how to vote and properly mark ballots. The committee also acquaints the congregation with national, state and local political and social issues that have consequences on the church and residents of the city. The committee also promotes civic education and social concern issues within the church.

Scripture:
Romans 13:1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

Matthew 25:37-40 Then the righteous will answer him, Lord when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The King will reply, I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these my brothers of mine, you did it to me.

Courtesy Ministry

Leader: Gwendolyn Morris

Place and Time of Meetings: Meetings are called by the leader of the committee.

Purpose: The Courtesy Committee is specifically charged with greeting our guests and members during Sunday morning worship service. Courtesy committee members serve as part of the worship service and as formal greeters of worshipers as they enter and exit the sanctuary. The committee is responsible for ensuring that members sign the Guest Book, leaving their full addresses so a thank you card may be sent to them. The committee is to file a completed registry of visitors in the church office, each week. In addition, the committee bears the responsibility of extending a welcome and period of Shalom to all visitors during the worship experience at the designated time.

Scripture:
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law

Media Ministry

Leaders: Deacon Leonard Bonney, Jr., Deacon Pamela Triplett, Trustee Caroyl F. Williams

Place and Time of Meetings: Meetings are called by the leaders

Purpose: The Media Ministry shall handle several critical areas within the church. The committee is chiefly responsible for the tape ministry of the worship service. They tape the service and receive all requests for tapes from members and visitors. They also duplicate tapes, making them available as soon as possible for the purchasers. In addition, the committee facilitates the audio system of the church and is responsible for learning to use the Mixer Board. The committee also is responsible for placement and upkeep of all microphones in the sanctuary and social halls. The committee is to be available at all programs, activities and services when the audio system is needed.

Scripture:
Revelation 3:20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.

Missions Ministry

Leaders: Dora Brown

Time and Place of Meetings: 4th Saturdays at 1:00 P.M. in the Library

Recognition Day: Mission Tea held in March

Purpose: The Mission Ministry's purpose echoes the general mission of the entire church- as it attempts to bring the gospel to men and women through service. Missions Ministry is responsible for ensuring that the church is fulfilling and supporting its responsibilities in the area of Missions activity, local and foreign. The Mission Ministry works closely and is affiliated with the Michigan Progressive Baptist Convention, the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. and the American Baptist Convention.

Scripture:
Matthew 28:18 Then Jesus came to them and said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

Nurse's Guild

Leaders: Janet McElrath, President

Time and Place of Meetings: Second Sunday after worship in the Social Hall

Purpose: members of the Nurse's Guild are uniformed and on duty for each Sunday worship service. In addition, they are required to be on duty during every special service, including funerals. The Nurses are prepared to care for the sick, the emotionally upset and children. First Aid training is provided to all nurses by qualified instructors to help them provide health assistance to the church and community. In 2005, a Defibrillator machine was donated to the church by Dr. Laura DeCastor. Each member of the Guild must be trained in the use of the Defibrillator. It is available for emergencies in the First Aid Room that was designed and stocked by members of the Guild.

Scripture:
Psalm 103:1-3 Praise the Lord, O my soul, all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits- who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.

Pastor's Anniversary

Leaders:

Time and Place of Meetings: Meetings are called by the leaders

Annual Day: Third Sunday in March

Purpose: The Pastor's Anniversary Ministry is designed to help the church recognize and celebrate the pastor's call to the church. This may include a dinner or banquet and a special service with a guest preacher on the third Sunday in March. The effort is to highlight the contributions of the pastor from his arrival at New Calvary and within the past year. The entire church is encouraged to be involved in the celebration.

Scripture:
I Peter 5:2-3 Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers- not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

Pastor's Benefit Club

Leader:

Time and Place of Meetings: Meetings are called by the leader.

Annual Activity: Pastor's Family Appreciation Day is held the third Sunday of December.

Purpose: The Pastor's Benefit Ministry performs special courtesies for the pastor and his family.

Scripture: II Corinthians 9:10-11 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

Retiree's Ministry

Leader: Deacon Ernest Smith, Hazel Jones

Time and Place of Meetings: Fourth Wednesdays- 11:00 A.M., Anderson Social Hall

Purpose: The Retiree's Ministry is designed to help plan activities and focus on the concerns of the seniors of New Calvary. The ministry seeks to assist seniors in personal, social and professional areas. Among the activities are planned trips, seminars, workshops and social gatherings. The Ministry works with retirees, receiving their advice and ideas from in planning annual itineraries. Lunches are served at the meetings.

Scripture:
Job 12:12 Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?

Sisterhood/Women's Day

Leaders: Carmen Smith, Radiance Martin

Time and Place of Meetings: Meetings are called by the leaders

Annual Day: Third Sunday in May

Purpose: Seeks to be a catalyst for the women of New Calvary, assisting the church on an as-needed basis. Additionally the Sisterhood seeks to provide fellowship for the women of New Calvary and to help plan projects, workshops and seminars to increase the faith and commitment of all women in the church. The Sisterhood also seeks to work with girls and young women of the church, assisting them as they grow and mature as women in Christ. The group also researches, plans and implements all components of Women's Day. This usually includes a Prayer Breakfast, Health Summit, and Special Worship Services.

Scripture:
Proverbs 31:29-31 Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Brotherhood/Men's Day

Leaders: Timothy Hibbler, Vince Rosemond

Time and Place of Meetings: Meetings are called by the leaders

Annual Day: Third Sunday in October

Purpose: Seeks to be a catalyst for the men of New Calvary, assisting the church on an as-needed basis. The Brotherhood seeks to provide opportunities for fellowship among the men of New Calvary. Also seeks to motivate and inspire men to help plan projects and workshops especially designed to increase the faith and commitment to the church, for men of all ages. The Brotherhood seeks to work with boys and young men of the church, assisting them as they grow and mature as men in Christ. The Brotherhood plans a number of events revolving around Men's Day. These include; Prayer Breakfast, 100 Men in Black Worship Service, Men's Health Summit, and a Men's Retreat. All men are encouraged to fully participate in this Ministry, to ensure its viability and success.

Scripture:
I Corinthians 16:13-14 Be on guard: stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.

Theatre/Drama Ministry

Date Begun: 2004 by Deborah Key, Church member

Leaders: Sharon Williams, Chair and Caroyl Fennicks Williams

Time and Place of Meetings: Meetings are called by the leaders

Purpose: One of the newest ministries of New Calvary, the Theatre Ministry is designed to bring to life the Word of God through dramatic presentations. The first play, “On This Rock” was written by Deborah Key and was presented in the Thomas Social Hall on July 30, 2004 at 7:00 P.M. From that time, a new ministry was birthed at New Calvary. Since then, several plays have been written and directed by Deborah Key and performed by members of New Calvary and friends of the church. This ministry seeks to offer contemporary techniques for telling the gospel story. Each play is designed to challenge assumptions, increase faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and to renew and warm the fellowship of our church family.

Scripture:
Romans 11:13-14 I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I make much of my ministry in the hope that I may somehow arouse my own people to envy and save some of them.

Tithing/Stewardship Ministry

Leader: Deborah Little, Jerry Bradford

Time and Place of Meetings: Meetings are called by the leader

Purpose: The purpose of the tithing/stewardship ministry is to provide specific instructions and strategies for educating the church family about the benefits of tithing. Thus, there is a concerted effort to uplift the entire church's mission and program by becoming a “Tithing Church” rather than resorting to other commercial method's for securing church finance. The committee also arranges workshops, seminars and presentations on Money Management, Last Wills and Testaments and other appropriate areas where the church family may learn and grow.

Scripture:
Malachi 3:8-10 Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, How do we rob you? In tithes and offerings….. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.

Bible Studies

Leaders: Pastor and his appointed designees

Time and Place of Meetings: Wednesdays, 12 noon- Seniors, 6:00 P.M. Pastor's Study Teen's Study- Every other Thursday evening, 6:00 P.M., Internet Bible Study every other Tuesday

Purpose: Along with Church School, bible studies are designed to stimulate interest and inspiration on the part of church members. The bible studies are designed for dialogue rather than monologue. Various topics are covered and a number of curriculums have been used over the years. Each bible study seeks to offer an environment where the word of God may be studied together. Past themes have included; African Presence in the Bible, Reading the Bible in One Year, Making Your Church Hum, Fresh Wind Fresh Fire, The Book of Revelation and the Gospel of John.

Scripture: John 5:39 You diligently search the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me….

Elected Officials of New Calvary Baptist Church
2009-2010

Deacons and Trustees of New Calvary are elected by the congregation at the Quarterly Business meeting on the first Friday of July. A simple majority is required for the validity of the election. Together, the Deacons and Trustees comprise the Joint Board which, along with the pastor, serve as the primary administrators of church business.

Deacon's Ministry- The Deacon's Ministry meets the fourth Saturday of every month at 1:00 P.M. in the Conference Room of the Thomas Memorial Building.

According to the By-Laws of New Calvary: The Deacons are the helpers, counselors and coadjutors to the Pastor. As servants to the church, they also assist the Pastor in the care of the church, serve at the communion as cabinet members to the Pastor in all matters relating to the general welfare of the church.

“In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word. This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.” Acts 6:1-7

“Deacons likewise are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.” I Timothy 3:8-13

The New Testament sanctions these officers, who are elected from the church's membership, as mutual helpers of the pastor; his assistants in carrying on the great work of the Master. They are to administer the church's charities, caring for the poor, providing for all that pertains to the church's welfare, “to serve tables.” All matters passed upon by the deacons however, are to be submitted to the church for final decision. They are to assist the pastor in serving the Holy Communion, after having made due preparation for the observance of the same.

Commonly, deacons are elected to serve for life, but in some churches deacons are elected for a definite period, and by this method a man/woman whom the church does not find useful as a deacon may be succeeded by another at the will of the church. Deacons are ordained and should always be men/women of honesty, spirituality and wisdom. The ordination is much like that of the minister. The church authorizes the pastor to call a council for the purpose.

Duties of Deacons

The principal duties of the deacons consist in administering the spiritual affairs of the church; these include the relief of the poor, the support of public worship, and the proper provision for the due administration of the ordinances. To serve the “Tables”:

The Table of the Poor
The Table of the Church
The Table of the Pastor

The pastor is the undershepherd, the guide of the church, and should always be recognized as such by the deacons, who are his/her assistants, as well as being recognized as such by the overall congregation.

Chairperson:   Joseph K. Washington, Sr.
Vice-Chair:     Pamela Triplett

Alonzo Anderson *
Shirlee Beasley
Ollie Bell, Jr. *
Leonard Bonney, Jr.
Jerry Bradford
Terrilyne Bradley-Betty
Warren Chupp
Murlene Davis
William C. Fennicks
Carl Johnson*
Deborah Little
Freddy McDonald
Elmer Mitchell
Pamela Morris
Dennis K. Owens
Patricia Owens
James Phillips*
Ernest Smith
Harvey Smith
R.T. Williams

Trustees Ministry- The Trustees Ministry meets once a month on Third Sundays at 9:00 A.M. in the Trustees Room located on the first floor of the Thomas Memorial Center. In addition, Trustees have an Executive Committee responsible for overseeing the payment of church bills, which meets once per week on Thursdays at 6:00 P.M.

According to the By-Laws of New Calvary: The Pastor, together with a majority of the Board of Trustees, shall have the power to appoint an attorney who shall be ex-officio member of the Board of Trustees and shall serve for a period of one year from the organizational meeting of each new Board of Trustees. The Trustees shall check and audit the books of the church every three (3) months and shall obtain an audit of the books of the church by a certified public accountant.

Chairperson:   Frederick T. Little, Sr.
Vice Chair:     Donald Goodwin

Augustus Braden
Leniece Clark
Albert Dawson
Katrina Harris
Paul Easley
Timothy Hibbler
Minnie T. Fennicks
Loretta McDonald
Deborah Little
Vince Rosemond
Egbert Pollard, Jr.
Melvin O. Robinson
Mona Robinson
Lucille Rutledge
Thomas Smith, Chair Emeritus
Eugene Terry
Caroyl Fennicks-Williams

Trustees Responsibilities, Accountability and Duties

New Calvary Baptist Church is recognized as an ecclesiastical corporation under the laws of the Sate of Michigan. This means that New Calvary has met and passed the following state requirements: 1) Filed and received approval of appropriate Articles of Association declaring the nature and purpose of this organization, 2) Filed with the state a copy of our governing document (in this instance, our by-laws, originally called “constitution”) 3) To file appropriate papers annually extending/renewing our legal rights and status to continue as an ecclesiastical corporation in Michigan. This annual filing must list certain trustees by name and position as the responsible officers for the Trustees. The secretary of the Trustees must certify their election to the offices they are listed as holding. On this document, Trustees are called “Directors.”

Under the present state laws, the congregation must elect trustees, but cannot elect the officers of the Trustees. Selection of officers must be done by trustees at their first meeting after the church elects them. The trustees then select their officers to the church.

There is no requirement to have trustees unless a church incorporates. Deacons have and often do expedite the function of trustees in unincorporated congregations. The advantage is for the congregation. Trustees serve as a legal buffer between the church and the general society. This is especially true if churches have certain organizational structures.

What are Church Trustees?

Trustees are persons of accountability and responsibility to the church they serve and the state that gives them recognition. It is a position of delicate and grave responsibility. For trustees are custodians, caretakers, of all tangible and liquid church assets. They are directly responsible to the church for the care and maintenance of these as the church directs and authorizes.

A more specific definition of the terms “accountable” and “responsible” are hereby in order. We hold one accountable for properties entrusted directly to that one, placed in one's hands or immediately under one's care. For example, money being counted or carried to the bank or a vehicle being driven; a building or piece of furniture or equipment made directly available to a trustee with a specific task to perform on the building, furniture, equipment or property we own. But if the accountable person directly charged with its care fails, the responsible persons who selected and directed the accountable person cannot escape responsibility for that failure.

Duties of Trustees- Capsulated

A) It is often assumed that being a trustee is more position than duty. This is an illusion. If that is the feeling about either board (trustee or deacon) then it must be corrected if an individual is to be a successful candidate for general church officer.

B) It is often the assumed that being a trustee means simply counting the Sunday offering! This is also an illusion. While trustees are responsible for all monies, they may name anyone to a finance committee and train them to follow our counting procedures under trustee supervision. Trustees are more than counters of Sunday offerings. They are required to aid in formulating financial goals, how to reach them and setting the example in giving.

C) It is assumed that trustees can afford to be less Christian or less godly than deacons since they only handle “temporal” things. This is also an illusion. Every “temporal” thing we have is the result of someone's sacrificial giving of time or money. Both time and money can only be given because one exchanged some “life” to get or give them. And life is sacred. No semi-Christian should be entrusted with any sacred item. Money given because life was exchanged to get it, is made sacred.

D) Trustees are required to execute all orders of the church, to acquire properties as directed by the church, to maintain and safeguard all church properties and to dispose of properties as approved by the church, to supervise those employees under their direction, to superintend payroll and all payments of outstanding financial obligations.

E) Trustees must work in close and harmonious relationship with the Pastor who is the undershepherd of Christ and responsible for all that is done. They are also required to take emergency action without church approval when in their judgment, jeopardy to life on our part, or damage to our properties may be caused or increased by delay. For example, if our furnace broke down on Monday in January, regardless to cost, we must proceed with repairs as prudently and rapidly as possible and report this matter to the church at the earliest appropriate time. Other such emergencies would be treated the same way.

F) Every able-bodied trustee is assigned to a “working” committee, such as “Building & Grounds Maintenance, Vehicle Maintenance, Mechanical Maintenance, Beautification, etc. Heavy emphases are placed on preventive maintenance. No trustee should expect the chairman and/or Executive Committee to do all the world and make all the decisions. It is a Board's operation and if the Executive Committee is expected to do it all, why have a Board?

G) Trustees have some limited “exposure” as legal custodians of the church's properties. They are the most visible group and the first line of defense in legal action against the church.

H) Trustees must know all possible about care for properties, management of properties and finances, management of staff, contracts, negotiations, property construction and/or acquisition, equipment, furniture, supplies acquisition and believe and practice funding God's church, God's way.

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Unit System

The New Calvary Baptist Church unit system is a division of the church membership into small groups to afford better administration and membership services. It is a geographical area where members live. Some areas may be larger than others, depending on the density of church member households. Normally, a unit is anywhere between households. Presently there are fifteen units. All odd numbered units are east of Woodward and all even numbered units are west of Woodward.

The Unit System of New Calvary has been a key component of its organization from the earliest days. Designed to enhance fellowship among church members, the units are also expected to; 1) Promote programs of the church. 2) Get to know members and keep members informed about church plans and goals. 3) Pass along emergency information from the church to members and from members to the church. 4) Keep the church administration advised of special problems and needs of members. 5) Maintain close and continuous contact with members. 6) Render necessary services to members. Units also serve as valuable bereavement groups at the passing of a church member. The unit to which the member belonged bears the responsibility of organizing and carrying out the Repast.

Each unit has a leader and assistant leader. These leaders are responsible for the ebb and flow of information to members and the church. The unit leaders work with the assistants, along with contact persons within each unit. These persons support the unit by being assigned to a specific number of households and are expected to learn the names and faces of all members of those households. They are to watch for those members during worship and special activities. When they are missed, the should be contacted and a call should be made to inquire about their welfare and to advise them they were missed.

Currently the Units are:

Unit 01 ........... Gayle O’Neal, Flora Johnson
Unit 02 ...........
Unit 03 ........... Carolyn Thomas and Elaine Wallace
Unit 04 ........... Regina Byrd
Unit 05 ........... Minnie Graham, Lorissa Robinson
Unit 06 ........... Ruby Scott, Caroyl F. Willaims, Makeba Ruff, Albert Parks
Unit 07 ........... Sharon and Stephanie Phillips
Unit 08 ........... Arlinda Crossland, Sheila and Nelson Tyus
Unit 09 ........... Charlene Singleton and Claudette Powell
Unit 10 ........... Patricia Franklin and Dorothy Easley
Unit 11 ........... Alvin Lewis, Beverly Hardy
Unit 12 ........... Jean Smith, Sheryn Pickett
Unit 13 ........... Gail Dinkins, Shirlene Greene
Unit 14 ........... Sharon Williams, Vince Rosemond
Unit 15 ........... Printess Mathis, Monica Moore

Demographics

This section shall provide statistical data about attendance, membership statistics, growth (or lack of growth) where the congregation lives and mobility. The majority of this information has been taken from the membership data base located in the church office.

Attendance
Attendance for the past year (2006-2007) at the 10:30 A.M. service averages between 200 and 350 persons. The fluctuation of attendance is of significant concern to the Pastor and Officers of New Calvary. Variations occur from week to week. Generally, the 1st Sunday of each month is most strongly attended. This is primarily related to the fact that it is the Sunday where Baptism and Holy Communion are observed. This usually increases attendance during worship service. In addition, attendance is often increased on second Sunday if there is a baby to be dedicated. Typically, a baby dedication will increase the overall attendance in worship by twenty to thirty persons. Thus, out of the over five hundred persons who are officially registered members, far less than half are usually in attendance at Sunday morning worship services.

The Seniors Bible Study meeting on Wednesdays at from 12 noon to 1:00 P.M. averages around ten to twelve members. The Pastor’s Bible Study meeting on Wednesdays from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. averages around fifteen to twenty members. The Young Adult Bible Study is studying “Going Through the Old Testament in One Year” via the Internet, every other Tuesday. Youth Bible Study takes place before their choir rehearsal every Thursday at 6:00 P.M. Combined Church School classes meeting on Sundays at 9:00 A.M. average around thirty to forty persons, with the majority of them being adults.

There is a grave and great challenge facing the New Calvary family. We must acknowledge that attendance at all of the above mentioned services is inadequate and woefully low. The future of our congregation lies in our capacity to meet this challenge, increase church attendance and attendance at all Christian Education courses. In addition, there must be full attention given to increasing our current membership from around 600 to well over 1,000.

Current Membership Statistics
(As of July, 2007)
Names in File: Around 600

Males:
Females:
Children 10 and under:
Older Children 11-15:
Teens 16-20:
Young Adults 21-40:
Adults 41-65:
Seniors 66 and over:

Total Families with children who are also members and 17 and under: Total Other Families (either w/ children who are not members, single, or married with older children.

Age breakdown of the membership

Age Breakdown     Male-%     Female-%     Total-%     Cumulative-%

0-5
6-10
11-15
16-20
21-25
26-30
31-35
36-40
41-45
46-50
51-55
56-60
61-65
66-70
71-75
76 & Over

Longevity in the Church:

Years in Church             Individuals%
0-5 years
6-10 years
11-15 years
16-20 years
21-25 years
26-30 years
31-35 years
36-40 years
41-45 years
46-50 years
51-55 years
56-58 years

Membership Growth over past 10 years:
Membership beginning in 1998

Number of Members who joined

1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007 (to August)

                How Joined?
                B=Baptism
                C= Ch. Exp.
                L= Letter
                R=Reinstatement
                W=Watch care

Where We Live

New Calvary Baptist Church members live all around the Detroit Metropolitan Area. Generally speaking, those living outside of the city have some connection to New Calvary, causing them to have joined or remained members over the years. The connection is usually traced to the east side of Detroit where a preponderance of persons grew up, attending the church as children. Without question, the vast majority of members remain residents in the city of Detroit. For the past decade or more, the city has suffered from a severely shrinking population based. The 1990 census recorded over one million members while the 2000 census recorded around 900,000.

As of this writing, the city of Detroit is hard hit economically. Along with the entire state, Michigan is losing a significant population base. A large majority of middle class, stable and high tech jobs are related to the auto industry, which is suffering its worst period since the first automobile came off Henry Ford’s Assembly Line nearly a century ago. Indicators suggest the immediate and even mid-term future will only see employment rates drop, real estate grow stagnate and out out-migration of middle and upper middle-class residents to other states throughout the nation.

Thus, New Calvary must plan now for a future that may be unsteady and insecure. Membership growth must begin to take place immediately. Focus upon the immediate geographical area and those living short distances must be a serious goal of present outreach and mission work. Additionally, the church must begin to set tangible and realistic goals for retaining members who live long distances away. These may include specifically targeted programs, activities and events that will add loyalty and commitment to those beyond the east side of Detroit.

Geographic Data

Residence of Members-

Detroit=
Southfield=       6
Bloomfield=       13

The remaining members reside in the following outer lying areas of the city:

Belleville ................. 4
Blanchard .................. 1
Canton ..................... 4
Clinton Township ........... 1
Dearborn ................... 1
Eastpointe ................. 3
Ecorse ..................... 1
Farmington Hills ........... 1
Grosse Pointe, Park ........ 4
Grand Blanc ................ 2
Harper Woods ............... 4
Highland Park .............. 4
Lake Orion ................. 1
Mt. Clemens ................ 4
New Haven .................. 1
Oak Park ................... 2
Rochester Hills ............ 6
Roseville .................. 1
Southgate .................. 2
Taylor ..................... 1
Warren ..................... 2
W. Bloomfield .............. 1
Westland ................... 1
Willis ..................... 2
Ypsilanti .................. 3
Out of State ............... 4

The nature of these statistics offer the clearest observation that the majority of church activities, focus, energy and resources must presently go into the city of Detroit, because of the outstanding percentage of members who reside in the city. At the same time, there should be some attention given to potential growth in each of the above listed areas. In these days and times, car pooling to worship and church activities during the week, are viable options for the membership.