A16.01. Denial of the Christian faith as described in this constitution, conduct grossly unbecoming a member of the Church of Christ, or persistent trouble-making in this congregation are sufficient cause for discipline of a member. Prior to disciplinary action, reconciliation will be attempted following Matthew 18:15-17, proceeding through these successive steps: Article 16. DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS
- a. private admonition by the pastor,
- b. admonition by the pastor in the presence of two or three witnesses, and
- c citation to appear before the church council.
A16.02 A member charged with the offense shall appear before the Church Council having received a written notice, specifying the exact charges that have been made against the member, at least ten (10 )days prior to the meeting.
A16.03. Should the allegations be sustained by a two-thirds majority vote of the Church Council, and renewed admonition prove ineffectual, then the Church Council shall impose one of the following disciplinary actions:
- a censure before the council or congregation;
- b. suspension from the privileges of membership as defined by Church Council for a definite period of time; or
- c. exclusion from membership in this congregation. Disciplinary actions b. and c. shall be delivered to the member in writing.
A16.04. The member against whom disciplinary action has been taken by the Church Council shall have the right to appeal the decision to the synod council. Such right may not be abridged and the decision of the synod council shall be final.
A16.05. Disciplinary actions may be reconsidered and revoked by the Church Council upon receipt of:
- a. evidence that injustice has been done; or,
- b. evidence of repentance and amendment.