Member Handbook - Avant Ministries [PDF]

Avant Ministries. Member Handbook. Revised September 1, 2017 .... Manitoba, is composed of a Board of Directors, an Exec

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Avant Ministries Member Handbook Revised

September 1, 2017

Avant Ministries

Member Handbook

Welcome to Avant! Welcome to the Avant Ministries family! We are excited that you have sensed the call of God on your life—to devote yourself to bringing Him glory through missionary service with Avant. It is a high calling, and we hope that you will be able to thrive spiritually and emotionally, in ministry as part of our team. This handbook is filled with expectations and policies, which explain how we interact with each other. As a religious order, we have defined spiritual beliefs and guidelines that are core to who we are. The doctrinal statement has been developed with high expectations, and while it does not speak to every possible spiritual issue, it does spell out the key beliefs that we hold dear. If there is anything in this manual that you don’t completely understand, please contact Human Resources for clarification. It is important that we as a mission family are unified in our beliefs. When we agree on this, it avoids confusion and harm to the national churches we plant. That is why we only appoint individuals to membership who are in complete agreement with these policies and beliefs. Thank you for your willingness to serve! Scott Holbrook President

Core Values At the heart of our organization is our deeply rooted belief that our Creator has allowed us to be part of His redemptive plan. In honoring Him and each other through the process, we hold firm these core values, which are the epicenter of how we conduct ourselves, engage in relationships and approach our work. There are additional values honored and expected within our organization, but these three ar e differentiators for our organization. Care: We are a mission that recognizes the people of the Creator (Genesis 1:26-29). In our pursuit of and obedience to God, we will relentlessly care for others (Galatians 6:2; Philippians 2:4; Romans 12:10). We will also care for those in our mission and in our team (Galatians 6:10), while not neglecting those in need around us (Matthew 25: 31-46; James 1:27). Collaborate: We are a mission that recognizes the plan of the Creator (Psalms 86:9; Isaiah 40:3-15; Revelation 7:912). God allows us to participate with Him to redeem creation (2 Corinthians 6:1; 2 Peter 1:2-4). It is through partnerships with other believers, united in the common task, that we see God’s kingdom expanding (1 Corinthians 3:4-11). In our pursuit to obey God and make Him renowned, we will receive an eternal reward (Deuteronomy 5:33; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Galatians 6:9; James 1:12). Create: We are a mission that recognizes the power of the Creator (Genesis 1). His wisdom and power are the source of our creativity and ability (Exodus 35:31-32; Deuteronomy 8:17-18; James 1:17). As stewards of the time God has given us, we will use innovative methods to creatively engage with people whom God brings across our path, sharing His redemptive plan to plant the church where there is no church (Mark 2:1-12; Luke 5:17-20; Acts 17).

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Table of Contents I. INTRODUCTION A. Who is Covered by this Handbook? B. Effective Date C. Handbook Contents and Revisions D. Responsibility Regarding this Handbook

1 1 1 1 1

II. GENERAL INFORMATION A. Financial Integrity and Organizational Leadership B. History C. Mission D. Global Ends E. Composition F. Doctrine G. Financial Support

1 1 1 2 2 2 3 4

III. BOARD OF DIRECTORS A. Authority B. Membership C. Joint Activity Agreement and Ownership D. Terms of Appointment E. Meeting Dates

4 4 4 4 4 4

IV. EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION A. President B. Executive Team

5 5 5

V. ADMINISTRATION IN SUPPORT OF SPECIFIC MINISTRIES A. Purpose B. Structure

5 5 5

VI. CLASSIFICATIONS, SELECTION AND TRAINING A. Membership Classifications B. Volunteer Classifications C. Member Qualifications D. Application Process E. Orientation and Training

8 8 9 9 10 12

VII. PERSONAL FINANCES A. Support Funds B. Work Funds C. Medical, Life Insurance, and Retirement D. Projects E. Service Charges

12 12 13 13 14 15

VIII. LEAVES OF ABSENCE FROM THE FIELD 1. Home Ministry Assignment 2. Vacation 3. Sick Leave 4. Holidays 5. FMLA 6. Personal Leave of Absence

15 16 16 16 16 16 16

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IX. GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES A. Commissioning, Licensing, Ordination B. Housing and Property C. Engagement, Marriage and Family Relationships D. Divorce E. Children F. The Role of the Missionary Wife/Mother G. Widows and Widowers H. Visitors I. Lifestyle J. Discipline K. Misconduct and Dishonesty L. Conflict Resolution M. Handling of Grievances N. Qualifications for Release to the Field

17 17 17 17 17 17 18 18 18 18 18 18 19 19 19

X. CHILD PROTECTION AND RESPONSE

20

XI. SEPARATION POLICY A. Separation Allowance B. Withdrawals by Appointees C. Resignation D. Dismissal

20 20 20 20 21

XII. THE CHURCH AND THE ORDINANCES A. The Church B. The Ordinances

21 21 21

XIII. GENERAL RELATIONSHIPS A. Governments B. Ransom Policy C. Mission Cooperation D. The Charismatic Movement E. Contextualization F. Conflict of Interest G. Intellectual Property Rights H. Publications I. Social Media & Internet J. Donor Privacy

21 21 22 22 22 22 22 22 23 23 23

RECEIPT AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

25

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Avant Ministries MEMBER HANDBOOK I. INTRODUCTION A. Who is Covered by this Handbook? This handbook covers all Avant Ministries (Avant) members and volunteer workers not based in the home office. B. Effective Date Effective December 1, 2016, this handbook supersedes all previous member policies, and all prior verbal or written communications issued on subjects covered within this handbook. C. Handbook Contents and Revisions 1. The President of Avant, with the assistance of his Executive Team, is responsible for the development of staff and member policies within the limits given him by the Board of Directors. In exercising that responsibility he will seek policies which: a. Align with the directives of the International Board of Directors b. Give clear guidance to members and staff c. Promote excellence in all ministries d. Assist Avant in achieving its Global Ends 2. This handbook is provided as a guide to how members and volunteers will work together. Since it is not possible to foresee all situations that might arise, the President reserves the right to deviate from the handbook if in his best judgment such deviation is warranted based on the facts of a particular situation. 3. No handbook can anticipate every circumstance or question. Accordingly, some of the practices and guidelines described in this handbook may need to be changed from time to time. The President reserves the right to do so within the limits set forth by the International Board of Directors. Revisions may include changing, rescinding, or adding to any procedures, benefits, or practices described in this handbook, and may be made without prior notice to members or staff. 4. If other verbal or written communications issued prior or subsequent to the distribution of this handbook appear to change any of this handbook's contents, the guidelines set forth in this handbook will be considered the official position of Avant until such time that a written revision of handbook contents, signed by the President, is issued. D. Responsibility Regarding this Handbook 1. All members and volunteer workers of Avant are expected to read, understand, and comply with the guidelines set forth in this handbook. 2. If you have any questions regarding this handbook, please feel free to ask your immediate supervisor. II. GENERAL INFORMATION A. Financial Integrity and Organizational Leadership Avant is a member in good standing of Missio Nexus, Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, and The Canadian Council of Christian Charities. These organizations maintain explicit requirements in the areas of financial integrity and organizational leadership. B. History 1. The passion and conviction of the founding fathers of Avant was clearly stated in The Gospel Message, dated January 1892:

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“The organization is not the result of an outburst of enthusiasm, but the fruit of deep and earnest consideration of the unreached millions in this and other lands, and the solemn conviction that the Lord would bestow His richest blessings upon any effort, no matter how humble, which should be made to touch them with the gospel. …To be able in any measure to arouse sluggish hearts, to awaken desires in indifferent souls, and to unite in effort a number of God’s people for the accomplishment of His own purpose, is a task well worth our highest effort, and to this we purpose to give ourselves.” 2. For more than a century, Avant has maintained a strong commitment to taking the gospel to people living in the un-evangelized areas of the world. 3. Avant emerged out of the missionary movement of the last two decades of the nineteenth century, a movement that brought into being numerous foreign missionary societies. Through the evangelistic efforts of the YMCA, young men of Kansas were challenged to Christian service. The Secretary of the Kansas State YMCA was George S. Fisher, whose parents had been missionaries in Jamaica. 4. Fisher’s conviction was that the gospel must be preached in all the earth, wherever Christ was not named. In 1892, Fisher and other Kansas leaders resigned from the YMCA and formed a new independent organization called the World’s Gospel Union. The name was changed in 1901 to Gospel Missionary Union. 5. It was on October 22, 2003 that Gospel Missionary Union changed its name to Avant Ministries. C. Mission The mission of Avant is to plant and develop new churches in the unreached areas of the world. D. Global Ends 1. Global Ends refers to the effect an organization seeks to have on the world outside itself. The International Board of Directors has established the following Global Ends for Avant. 2. Because of Avant there will be developing churches where there is no church. a. There will be developing churches where most needed. (1) Peoples or areas with no available church will receive the highest priority for service. (2) The primary geographical concentration of ministry will be outside the United States and Canada. (3) People of different cultures and languages will receive priority of emphasis. b. Churches will be Biblically healthy, defined as or when: (1) Unsaved people are brought to Christ (2) Believers are discipled toward maturity (3) No longer being dependent on the mission or missionaries (a) Self-governing. (b) Self-supporting. (c) Self-propagating. (4) There is interdependence and partnering with other churches. (5) Missionaries are sent out cross-culturally. E. Composition 1. Avant, with its International Service Center in Kansas City, Missouri and Canadian Service Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is composed of a Board of Directors, an Executive Team, an administrative staff appointed to both field and homeland activities, and a body of members serving in the various fields around the world. 2. Final authority is vested in the International Board of Directors, which is made up of the members of the United States and Canadian Boards of Directors.

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F. Doctrine 1. The Bible We believe in the verbal, plenary inspiration of the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, inerrant as originally given, God’s final written revelation of Himself and His will, and the sole authority for all faith and practice (II Timothy 3:16-17; II Peter 1:21). 2. The Godhead We believe in God, who is revealed in Scripture as subsisting in three distinct persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, yet One in being, essence and power (Matthew 3:16-17; 28:18-19; II Corinthians 13:14; Galatians 4:6-7; Hebrews 9:14; I John 2:22-23). 3. The Lord Jesus Christ a. We believe in the supernatural birth of Jesus Christ, who was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, the incarnate Son of God, Immanuel, God with us (Matthew 1:20-23; Luke 1:35). b. We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is very God, the express image of the Father, the One by whom and for whom all things were created and consist (John 1:1-3, 14; Colossians 1:16-17). c. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ lived a sinless life, that He died as a perfect substitutionary sacrifice for the sins of all people, and that the believer’s justification is made sure by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead (Matthew 28:6-7; Romans 3:24-25; I Corinthians 15:4-8; Hebrews 2:9, 4:15; I Peter 3:18). d. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ ascended to the right hand of God, where He is the High Priest and Advocate for His people (Acts 1:9-11; Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25, 9:24; I John 2:1). e. We believe in the imminent coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the air to receive His Church unto Himself (John 14:3; I Corinthians 15:51-52; I Thessalonians 4:13-18; Titus 2:13). f. We believe in the subsequent, visible and premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ, with His Church, to establish His promised worldwide kingdom on the earth (Zechariah 14:4-11; Revelation 19:11-16; 20:4-6). 4. The Holy Spirit a. We believe in the personality and deity of the Holy Spirit, who convicts of sin, who is the supernatural agent in regeneration, and who, at the moment of conversion, baptizes and seals the believer into the Body of Christ, immediately indwelling him or her (John 14:16-17, 16:7-11; I Corinthians 12:12-14; Ephesians 1:13-14). b. We believe that it is the duty and privilege of the believer to be filled with the Holy Spirit, who illumines, guides and energizes the believer, enabling him or her to maintain a consistent Christian walk (John 16:13; Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 5:18; I John 2:20,27). c. We believe that the ascended Christ gives gifts through the sovereign will of the Holy Spirit for the edification and unity of the Body of Christ (I Corinthians 12:4-12; Ephesians 4:7-13). 5. Angels We believe in the reality and personality of angels, both good and fallen, including Satan, the great enemy of God and man, whose opposition is ever increasing but whose ultimate doom is sure (Job 1:6-7; Psalms 103:20; Matthew 4:11; Luke 2:13; Hebrews 1:14; Revelation 20:10). 6. Mankind We believe that Man was created, male and female, by a direct act of God, fell into sin and thereby became depraved and guilty before God; that the first man and woman were married by God and that biblical marriage is between a man and a woman only. Sexual intimacy is to occur only within the context of marriage so defined. (Genesis 3; 1:27; 2:19-25; Psalms 51:5; Isaiah 64:6; Romans 1:21-23, 3:23, 5:12,21; Ephesians 5:31). 7. Salvation We believe in salvation uniquely by the substitutionary atonement of Christ, by grace through faith in His shed blood to accomplish mankind’s redemption from sin and reconciliation to God (Romans 3:24-26, 5:9; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; I Peter 1:18-21).

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8. The Believer’s Position We believe in the sonship of all born-again believers in the family of God, their justification, sanctification, and eternal redemption being fully provided for and assured in the finished work of Christ on Calvary and in His continued intercession in heaven (John 1:12-13; Romans 5:1, 8:14-17; Galatians 3:26, 4:5-7; Ephesians 1:1314; Hebrews 7:25; I Peter 2:9; I John 3:2, 5:11-13). 9. The Resurrection We believe in the bodily resurrection of all people, each in his own order: the saints to everlasting life in God’s presence; the wicked to conscious and everlasting condemnation in hell (Matthew 25:46; John 3:18, 36; 5:2829; Revelation 20:5-6, 11-15). 10. The Church and its Mission We believe in the Great Commission as the primary mission of the Church, i.e. the preaching to all the world of the gospel of the grace of God, teaching converts to obey the Lord in baptism by immersion in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, to remember Christ’s death till He comes, in observance of the Lord’s Supper, to be always careful to live godly lives in the world, and to pursue fellowship and seek ministry in visible, organized churches (Matthew 16:18; Acts 1:8, 13:1-3, 14:23; I Corinthians 1:2, 4:17, 12:12-13; Ephesians 1:2223, 5:23-27; Colossians 1:18; I Thessalonians 2:14; Titus 2:11-15). G. Financial Support Avant is an evangelical, interdenominational, international faith mission, supported by the freewill offerings and contributions of churches, individuals, foundations, corporations, and organizations. The needs of the work are constantly laid before God in prayer, and information concerning the work is circulated among the Lord’s people. All monies received are under the control of the International Board of Directors. III. BOARD OF DIRECTORS A. Authority Avant U.S. and Avant Canada each has a Board of Directors, which constitutes the final authority for the legal and financial accountability (corporate and fiduciary responsibilities) of Avant Ministries in the two respective countries. B. Membership Each board is a self-perpetuating body and is composed of representative persons of good standing in the Christian community who have a zeal for missionary objectives and who subscribe annually to the statement of faith held by Avant. C. Joint Activity Agreement and Ownership 1. Through a joint ministry agreement in accordance with the objectives, powers and authority of their respective boards, the two boards created the Avant Ministries International Board of Directors. 2. Operating under Policy Governance, the International Board of Directors now represents the moral ownership (stakeholders) of Avant Ministries in prescribing the Ends and Executive Limitation Policies, which provide focus, accountability, and governance to the organization. D. Terms of Appointment The members of the International Board of Directors are appointed for three-year terms by the respective boards of Avant U.S. and Avant Canada in accordance with the requirements of the Joint Activity Agreement and their respective bylaws. E. Meeting Dates The International Board of Directors meets at least quarterly in order to exercise its governance responsibilities.

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IV. EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION A. President/Chief Executive Officer 1. The President is the chief executive officer of Avant U.S. and Avant Canada. He is appointed by and reports directly to the International Board of Directors and to the Canadian Board of Directors for issues solely Canadian. 2. The President is responsible for all organizational compliance with Board policies, including achievement of the Global Ends. B. Executive Team 1. The President works with and is assisted by an Executive Team in: a. Reporting compliance with Board policies b. Recruiting, training and deploying members c. Moving the entire organization toward fulfillment of the Ends Policies of the Board d. Promoting the work of Avant in the public arena e. Overseeing the work of both the International Service Center and Canadian Service Centre 2. The Executive Team is made up of the President and the following positions appointed by the President: a. Vice President & Chief Financial Officer b. Vice President of Public Ministries c. Vice President of Field Ministries for Europe & the Americas d. Vice President of Field Ministries for Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe & B4T e. Vice President & Executive Director of Canada f. Vice President of Ministry Relations (retires effective May 31, 2017) g. Director of Member Care

V. ADMINISTRATION IN SUPPORT OF SPECIFIC MINISTRIES A. Purpose 1. To facilitate achieving the Global Ends of Avant B. Structure 1. Avant US & Avant Canada Directors a. Appointed by the President to oversee the work of specific ministries administered through either the Kansas City or Winnipeg offices, currently including: Director of Training, Director of Recruitment (US), Director of Mobilization (Canada), Pastor to Missionaries, Regional Director of the Americas, Director of Personal Development, Director of Missionary Preparation, Director of Public Relations & Media, Director of Information Technology, Director of Maintenance, Controller (US), Comptroller (Canada), US Treasurer. b. Directors report to a specified member of the Executive Team or to the Director of Training. c. Qualifications: 1. Spiritual and emotional maturity 2. Demonstrated leadership ability 3. Demonstrated skill in developing people 4. Excellent relational skills

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5. Ability and willingness to travel 6. Demonstrated networking skills d. Responsibilities: 1. Assist missionaries in achieving the Global Ends 2. Participate in caring for our missionaries, a process that begins with application to join Avant Ministries 3. Assist in organizational, regional and/or ministry strategic planning, as needed 4. Assist in provision of resources (training, funding, personnel, partners, etc.) 5. Coach and advise missionaries, which may include those preparing to serve with Avant 6. Model, promote and facilitate innovation and excellence 7. Facilitate personal and professional growth of members and staff 8. Serve as a liaison between missionaries and the International Service Center, Canadian Service Centre and/or our constituency 9. Other responsibilities as assigned by their supervisor 2. Ministry Directors in the Field a. Appointed by the Vice President of Field Ministries for Europe & the Americas to oversee one of our larger ministries (currently Echo Ranch Bible Camp and the Malaga Media Center). b. Reports to the Vice President of Field Ministries for Europe & the Americas c. Qualifications: 1. Spiritual and emotional maturity 2. Demonstrated leadership ability 3. Demonstrated skill in developing people 4. Excellent relational skills 5. Ability and willingness to travel 6. Fluency in at least one of the region’s major languages 7. Demonstrated networking skills d. Responsibilities 1. Assist teams in achieving the Global Ends 2. Participate in caring for our missionaries 3. Oversee ministry strategic planning 4. Assist in provision of resources (training, funding, personnel, partners, etc.) 5. Model, promote and facilitate innovation and excellence 6. Facilitate personal and professional growth of members and staff 7. Other responsibilities as assigned by their supervisor 3. Assistants to the Vice President of Field Ministries and Regional Strategy Advisors a. These are positions, which are appointed by the respective Vice President of Field Ministries to oversee specific issues within specific time frames, as assigned by the VP. b. Reports to the respective Vice President of Field Ministries. c. Qualifications:

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1. Spiritual and emotional maturity 2. Demonstrated leadership ability 3. Demonstrated skill in developing people 4. Excellent relational skills 5. Ability and willingness to travel 6. Fluency in at least one of the region’s major languages 7. Demonstrated networking skills d. Responsibilities – For the purpose of the Global Ends, examples of the roles that this position could fulfill include, but are not limited to: 1. Offering analysis of field situations and strategies 2. Helping select future strategies 3. Site visits 4. Site selection for new opportunities 5. Assisting teams with strategic planning 6. Assisting in development of team dynamics or intervention 7. Oversight of national strategies 8. Other responsibilities as assigned by the respective VP of Field Ministries 4. Team Leaders a. Team Leaders are appointed by the Director of Training, to oversee the work of a ministry team. b. Reports to the respective Vice President of Field Ministries. c. Qualifications: 1. Spiritual and emotional maturity 2. Leadership ability 3. Skill in developing people 4. Excellent relational skills d. Responsibilities include: 1. Achieving the Global Ends on the field 2. Developing team strategy 3. Facilitating team members’ success 4. Developing teamwork and the team 5. Providing for administrative needs of the team 6. Ensuring team members are cared for 7. Serving as liaison with the broader Avant community and other local outside entities 5. Members a. Members are formally appointed to membership by the Executive Team; they are assigned to their team by the Director of Training. b. Duties: 1. Contribute to achieving the Global Ends through personal ministry Page 7

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2. Continually improve their ministry ability by developing language and cultural skills, as well as other lifelong learning endeavors 3. Actively cooperating with leaders, other members, national believers and others who may be part of the ministry 4. Ministering in alignment with the Avant principles and team, or ministry strategy 5. Facilitate one another’s success a. Practicing personal integrity b. Maintaining spiritual health and vitality c. Communicating regularly with supporters * Members will be expected to send out updates on a monthly or bi-monthly basis. At a minimum, members will be required to send out an update at least once a quarter. d. Honoring the stewardship of ministry and funds entrusted to them

VI. CLASSIFICATIONS, SELECTION AND TRAINING A. Membership Classifications 1. Long-Term Member a. Long-term members are those individuals appointed by the Executive Team to a term of two years or more. b. They are full members of the mission, subject to all policies as noted herein, and receive all benefits accruing to them as a result of such membership. 2. Short-Term Member a. Short-term members are appointed by the Executive Team and/or the Director of Training to a limited term of three months to two years. b. A short-term member may be assigned to additional terms if approved by the Executive Team. c. A short-term member may have his or her status changed to that of long-term upon meeting the following requirements: (1) Completion of candidate orientation (2) A review of the individual’s qualifications (2) Approval by the respective VP of Field Ministries and, if applicable, the Regional/Ministry Director (3) Appointment by the Executive Team d. A short-term member, who has been approved for appointment as a long-term member, may be required to return to the United States or Canada in order to raise additional support and/or receive additional training. The length of time permitted for this will be determined by the respective VP of Field Ministries, the Director of Training, and, if applicable, the Regional/Ministry Director but ordinarily may not be more than one year. 3. Affiliate Member a. Affiliate members are those members who qualify for an assigned ministry but may not qualify for appointment as regular long-term or short-term members (e.g., they do not meet the citizenship or work eligibility requirements). b. Missionaries on loan from other mission organizations are affiliate members. c. Affiliate members are appointed by the Executive Team and are subject to all the rules and regulations set forth in this handbook. 4. International Member

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a. International members are affiliate members who have met all of the following requirements: (1) Already have been acting in cooperation with Avant, are aligned with our ends and have built a certain level of rapport with our community (2) Have been invited to apply for membership with Avant (3) Have been known for at least two years by an Avant missionary, who is willing to act as their primary reference during the international member application process (4) Have completed the international member application and candidate orientation process (5) Have been appointed by the Executive Team to a term of two years or more b. International members are appointed as church planters, not pastors. B. Volunteer Classifications 1. Missionary Associates Program (MAP) a. MAP volunteers are workers sent out in a supportive role on field approved assignments with a term of one to three months. b. MAP volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, be approved by the respective VP of Field Ministries/Regional Director/Ministry Director, the VP of Ministry Relations, and the Director of Training and have a volunteer information form approved and on file at the International Service Center before leaving for the field. 2. Volunteers in Avant (VIA) a. VIA is for teams, couples or individuals involved in temporary, on-field work or ministry projects usually less than one month in duration. b. Not all VIA projects are suitable for children. However, junior and senior high students ages 13-17 may participate in VIA projects approved for teens by the VP of Field Ministries/Regional Director/Ministry Director, the VP of Ministry Relations, and the Director of Training. Teens must be accompanied by an adult age 21 or older. Teams must have at least one adult for every four teens. Parents may bring their children if approved in advance by the VP of Field Ministries/Regional Director/Ministry Director, the VP of Ministry Relations, and the Director of Training. c. VIA volunteers must have the approval of the respective VP of Field Ministries/Regional Director/Ministry Director, the VP of Ministry Relations, and the Director of Training and have a volunteer information form approved and on file at the International Service Center before leaving for the field. 3. Avant Internship Program a. The Avant Internship Program is for university, college, and seminary students involved in supervised internships or on-field learning programs with Avant. b. Avant Internship Program projects must have the approval of the Executive Team. C. Member Qualifications 1. Clear evidence of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior 2. Spiritually mature and able to use and apply God’s Word 3. Evidence of experience in evangelism and Christian service 4. Education or training appropriate for the specific ministries in which they will be engaged 5. Appropriate job skills and work experience 6. Must be in good physical health. Will be required to pass a thorough medical examination prior to appointment NOTE: The health/medical exam qualification does not apply to international members. 7. Evidence of moderation and sensitivity to local standards in the areas of dress, grooming and personal habits

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8. Emotionally healthy and mature, able to get along with others and adjust to change, able to cope, handle stress, overcome hardships, resilient, adaptable 9. Evidence of healthy, maturing relationship with family, friends, colleagues, and church members 10. Resourceful, flexible and able to generate support 11. At least eighteen years of age and a working knowledge of English 12. Able to subscribe to the Doctrinal Statement of Avant and must be prepared to lay no undue emphasis upon doctrines or religious practices not covered by the Doctrinal Statement. 13. Since the goal of Avant is the establishment and development of local churches in every field of its activity, we insist that all member candidates be functional members of a local church. D. Application Process 1. Long-Term or Short-Term Members a. A complete application form and five references are required to start the application process. No long-term or short-term candidate will be approved without a positive, local church reference. b. Individuals applying for long-term or short-term ministry must also submit a signed copy of the Avant Doctrinal Statement and a brief sketch of their Christian life including details of their conversion, spiritual development, experience in Christian work and call to missionary service. c. The Candidate Review Committee (comprised of a combination of the following members: the respective VP of Field Ministries, the VP of Ministry Relations, the VP & Executive Director of Canada, the Director of Member Care, the Director of Church Relations, the Regional/Ministry Director, the Director of Missionary Preparation, the Director of Training, and if appropriate, the future Team Leader) are responsible for reviewing materials and approving applicants for the next step in the application process. As part of the Candidate Review Committee, the Director of Training has the final say on who is invited to Avant Start. d. Approved applicants will then be invited to Avant Start and asked to take a thorough medical exam, sign a background screening release, and complete the required on-line assessments. e. Upon successful completion of Avant Start, candidates will become eligible for appointment to missionary service by the Executive Team. f. The application process may be adjusted for candidates coming from a partnering JV church as part of a church planting team. g. Field appointments are contingent upon the provision of ongoing support and outgoing funds, completion of Personal Development Plan (PDP) requirements and completion of Avant Go and any additional required prefield training. In the event that these requirements are not met by the end of eighteen months, the Executive Team will review the appointment. 2. Affiliate Members a. Individuals seconded (on loan) to Avant will be approved as affiliate members through a written agreement between Avant, the individual, and the partnering mission. b. Other affiliate members will be approved through a written agreement between Avant and the individual. All such agreements must be approved the Executive Team. 3. International Members a. A complete international application form and three references are required to start the application process. No international candidate will be approved without a positive reference from an Avant missionary who has known them for at least two years prior to writing the reference. b. Individuals applying for international membership must also provide a brief sketch of their Christian life including details of their conversion, spiritual development, experience in Christian work and call to missionary service.

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c. The requesting appropriate Vice President of Field Ministries, the Director of Training, the Executive Team, and, if applicable, the Regional/Ministry Director are responsible for reviewing materials and approving applicants for the next step in the application process. d. Once all these requirements are complete, the approved applicants will be invited to candidate orientation. Candidate orientation for these applicants may be abbreviated, but at minimum, it will include interviews with the Candidate Interview Committee and training in Child Safety & Protection, in Avant’s accounting policies and in support-raising. e. Approved applicants will then be asked to submit the results of a criminal background check from their country of residence and to complete the requested on-line assessments. f. Upon successful completion of the requested candidate orientation, the international candidate will become eligible for appointment to missionary service by the Executive Team. g. Appointments are contingent upon the provision of ongoing support and work funds and completion of any required pre-field training. In the event that these requirements are not met by the end of eighteen months, the Executive Team will review the appointment. 4. Missionary Associates Program (MAP) a. A complete volunteer information form and three references are required to start the application process. b. The completed volunteer information form must include proof of medical insurance, a signed responsibility waiver and release to obtain medical care, emergency contact information, and a signed background screening release (US)/a copy of a criminal background check (Canada). The applicant may be requested to complete a medical exam. c. Individuals applying for MAP positions must also submit a signed copy of the Avant Doctrinal Statement and complete a brief sketch of their Christian life including details of their conversion, spiritual development and experience in Christian work. d. As a subsequent step, each applicant must complete the requested Child Safety & Protection paperwork/process. e. The application materials are then reviewed by the Director of Training, the requesting VP of Field Ministries, and, if applicable, the Regional/Ministry Director. The Child Safety & Protection paperwork/process is approved through the MK Education Consultant. f. Approved applicants are then eligible for release to the field by the Director of Training and either the Regional/Ministry Director or the respective VP of Field Ministries. 5. Volunteers in Avant (VIA) a. A volunteer information form must be completed by each applicant. b. The completed form and accompanying paperwork must include a signed copy of Avant’s Doctrinal Statement, proof of medical insurance, a signed responsibility waiver and release to obtain medical care, emergency contact information, and a signed background screening release (US) or provision of a criminal background check (Canada). c. As a subsequent step, each applicant must complete the requested Child Safety & Protection paperwork/process. d. The application materials will then reviewed by the Director of Training, the requesting VP of Field Ministries, and, if applicable, the Regional/Ministry Director. The Child Safety & Protection paperwork/process is approved through the MK Education Consultant. e. Approved applicants will then be eligible for release to the field by the Team Leader/Ministry Director. 6. Avant Internship Program a. A complete volunteer information form and two references are required to start the application process.

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b. The completed volunteer information form must include proof of medical insurance, a signed responsibility waiver and release to obtain medical care, emergency contact information, and a signed background screening release (US)/a copy of a criminal background check (Canada). The applicant is required to complete a medical exam and medical history form for overseas Internships. c. Individuals applying for Intern positions must also submit a signed copy of the Avant Doctrinal Statement and complete a brief sketch of their Christian life including details of their conversion, spiritual development and experience in Christian work. d. As a subsequent step, each applicant must complete the requested Child Safety & Protection paperwork/process. e. The application materials are then reviewed by the Director of Training, the requesting VP of Field Ministries, and, if applicable, the Regional/Ministry Director. The Child Safety & Protection paperwork/process is approved through the MK Education Consultant. f. Approved applicants are then eligible for release to the field by the Director of Training and either the Regional/Ministry Director or the respective VP of Field Ministries. E. Orientation and Training 1. Long-Term and Short-Term Members a. Candidates must successfully complete Avant Start before they are eligible for appointment to missionary service by the Executive Team. b. Upon raising approximately 50% of their support, appointees will complete the Avant Go portion of their missionary training. c. The Director of Missionary Preparation gives the final release for the field. d. On-field orientation is conducted under the direction of any combination of: the Director of Training, the Vice President of Field Ministries, and/or the Regional/Ministry Director. 2. Affiliate Members Orientation and training for affiliate members will be provided on a case-by-case basis by any combination of: the International Service Center, the respective VP of Field Ministries, the Regional/Ministry Director and/or the Director Training. 3. International Members a. Candidates must have their own health insurance coverage while they are attending candidate orientation and raising support in the U.S. and Canada. b. Upon successfully completing their candidate orientation and being appointed by the Executive Team, the international member is then eligible to begin raising support in North America. c. On-field orientation is conducted under the direction of any combination of: the Director of Training, the Vice President of Field Ministries, and/or the Regional/Ministry Director. 4. Retired Members a. To qualify for retirement status an Avant missionary must have served with Avant for the past ten consecutive years and the total of their years-of-service with Avant and their age equal to at least 75 (e.g. 65 years of age and 10 years of current service, or 50 years of age and 25 years of current continuous service). VII. PERSONAL FINANCES A. Support Funds 1. Each member receives a salary at a fixed rate per month, varying by field and with the number of children in the family. This salary rate is set by each field and approved by the Executive Team on an annual basis as part of an overall support schedule. You are eligible to receive salary after you have a minimum of 50% of the required

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support coming in for two consecutive months. NOTE: International members are not permitted to receive a salary while in the U.S. or Canada, unless they have a valid work permit. 2. If full support for a member is not received, salary adjustments will be made until the support can be brought back to the specified level. 3. Each member will make the level of support and ministry needs known to their constituency of interested churches and individuals. 4. All support raised is under the control of the Board of Directors and must be used for the ministry of Avant. 5. Support for a child will continue until the child is no longer a dependent or the child reaches the age of twentythree, whichever comes first. B. Work Funds 1. In addition to regular support, a member may raise funds intended for field ministry. These work funds may be used for such items as transportation, equipment, outgoing expenses and projects approved by the mission. 2. Any support funds in excess of the required level are made available to the member as work funds. 3. All work funds must be accounted for and reported to the Regional Team Leader and to the accounting office at the International Service Center or Canadian Service Centre on a monthly basis. 4. Funds spent for ministry will be reimbursed only if work funds are available and must be requested within sixty days. 5. All work funds raised are under the control of the Executive Team, empowered by the Board of Directors, and must be used for the ministry of Avant. C. Medical, Life Insurance, and Retirement 1. Medical Coverage a. All United States long-term members and dependents are enrolled, with the limitation of medical eligibility to the members who have a minimum of 50% of the required support coming in for two months, in an in-house medical program that provides coverage for certain types of medical, dental and optical needs. b. In-house medical coverage is not an insurance plan. Rather, it is an employee benefit program for United States members of Avant. As such, Avant can only provide medical coverage to members and their dependents. c. Medical coverage for a child will continue until the child is no longer a dependent or the child reaches the age of twenty-six, whichever comes first. For purposes of the medical plan, dependents are defined as unmarried children who are either born into a family or have been legally adopted, and are still living at home or enrolled full-time in a college undergrad program. Children who have moved away from parents and are not in college are no longer considered dependents and are not eligible to remain on the plan. (It is the responsibility of the parent to notify Avant of a child becoming independent.) d. Any member resigning or being dismissed must be removed from medical coverage at the same time that support terminates and resignation or dismissal becomes effective. e. Canadian members are enrolled in a group medical insurance plan in Canada. f. Affiliate/ST members, as well as ST volunteers, are required to be enrolled in medical insurance that will cover them during the period they will be serving with Avant Ministries – this coverage will need to be effective both overseas and for any time they will be in North America on HMA. f. International members enroll in local medical coverage available in their country of residence. When they travel to North America, they must carry travel medical insurance. 2. Life Insurance NOTE: This section does not apply to international members.

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Members and full-time employees are enrolled in a self-funded group term life insurance program that pays $50,000 upon death for all active members under the age of 65, $25,000 for all active members ages 65 through 69, and $10,000 for all retirees and any active members age 70 and over at the time of death. 3. Retirement a. Avant provides U.S. missionaries the option of continuing their life insurance benefits and transferring to the Avant Medical Supplement program following retirement. Avant provides Canadian missionaries the option of continuing their existing life insurance benefits following retirement. b. To qualify for retirement status, an Avant missionary must have served with Avant for the past ten consecutive years and have the total of their years-of-service with Avant and their age equal to at least 75 (e.g., 65 years of age and 10 years of current continuous service, or 50 years of age and 25 years of current continuous service). c. Retirees who elect coverage must maintain adequate support level from donors or from personal contributions towards support to cover the allocations for life insurance and/or the medical assistance program. The medical assistance program is only available to retirees who are also enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. If a member does not maintain enrolment in either plan upon retirement, or if they drop either plan (i.e., fail to have adequate support to cover cost allocations) they cannot reenroll at a later date. d. Both the medical and life insurance programs may be discontinued at any time at the discretion of the Executive Team or Board of Directors at which time no more obligation for benefits will be incurred by Avant. e. While retirement is normally set at the normal retirement age in a member’s home country, it is recognized that some members will not wish to retire at that point. Their continuance in the work will be considered by the respective Vice President of Field Ministries, and if applicable the Regional/Ministry Director, as well as the Executive Team on a year-to-year basis. The primary factor for consideration is whether or not the individual can carry on effectively in an assigned ministry. f. As part of the annual review, the Executive Team may recommend or require a physical examination to confirm satisfactory health for continued active ministry on the field. g. Avant has a retirement program for U.S. and Canadian missionaries that sets aside monthly amounts that will be invested by the individual member, choosing from a variety of mutual funds and a fixed interest account as part of a group account chosen by Avant. h. Retiring members are also encouraged to raise support through their retirement years to provide a supplemental pension, work funds for ministry use and, in the United States, medical coverage as a supplement to Medicare. i. Although members meeting these criteria are eligible to raise continued support after retirement, all are encouraged to make preparations for retirement during active service in case support is no longer available. D. Projects 1.

All field and missionary projects must be approved as outlined below before any fundraising towards the project may begin.

2.

To gain approval, the project must be in compliance with the Global Ends of Avant. The approval level required will be based on the financial level of the project as follows:

3.

a.

Small - Projects (other than those specifically covered as allowable work fund expenses in the finance manual) up to $10,000 require approval of the Team Leader.

b.

Medium - Projects between $10,001 and $20,000 require approval by the Team Leader and Regional Director or Ministry Director. Those involving fundraising by the ISC Development Group also require approval by the Vice President of Field Ministries.

c.

Large - Projects over $20,000 require approval by each level of leadership up to and including the Executive Team.

All projects must follow the approval process for the appropriate monetary level as defined in the Process Flow pop up in the online Project Request Form.

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4.

National Worker accounts are considered a project with approval required by the appropriate VP of Field Ministries or if applicable, Regional/Ministry Director. The respective VP of Field Ministries or Regional/Ministry Director must submit a list of approved workers to the CFO annually who they consider acceptable, who benefit the work of Avant, and who are eligible to receive funds through this project.

5.

All project funds are subject to a service charge. Those promoted solely by the missionary or team are charged an 11.5% rate and those promoted by the Development Group a 14% rate.

6.

Out of pocket expenses for production and mailing or distributing project promotion materials will be covered from contributions towards the project.

7.

Any funds over and above the actual expenses of the project will be reassigned jointly by the CFO, the respective Vice President of Field Ministries, and the Executive Team, as they deem appropriate.

E. Service Charges 1. A service charge will be assessed on all receipted contributions to Avant Ministries, as well as direct gifts received by the member for the ministry of Avant. 2. This charge is set at 11.5% for long-term members and for project gifts raised by members, and 14% for shortterm and affiliate members, and project gifts raised by the International Service Center. Exceptions may be made for international affiliate members. 3. US ST non-member volunteers (Missionary Associate Program, Volunteers in Avant, etc.) will be assessed a service charge of 14% on any donations received towards their service through Avant. US Summer Interns will be charged a flat rate of $250 as a substitute for the traditional 14% General Admin Fee. Canadian MAP volunteers are assessed a $50/month service charge for the duration of their term. Other Canadian ST volunteers are assessed 14% of any support raised through Avant. VIII. LEAVES OF ABSENCE FROM THE FIELD (this section does not apply to international members) Item HMA1

Vacation2 No carry-over from year to year. Sick leave3 Holidays4 FMLA5 Personal LOA6

Accrual and Conditions -No HMA until after first 2 years -1 week accrued per 1 ½ months of service -6 weeks is minimum HMA length -Accrual begins when missionary leaves for the field -5 weeks per year -No Accrual -See footnote for explanation

Annual Total 8 weeks

Max Accrual 40 weeks

5 weeks

No Accrual

-2 weeks per year beginning at deployment -12 days per year -12 weeks unpaid/year, dependent on qualifying event -1 year of unpaid leave

2 weeks 12 Days 12 weeks 52 weeks

4 weeks 20 days 12 weeks 52 weeks

1

Home Ministry Assignment (HMA) is part of missionary service. During the months prior to HMA, missionaries will work with their Team Leader/Ministry Director to develop a written HMA plan. The plan should always include reporting to donors, bringing support up to required levels, rest and renewal, and taking care of medical and family needs. It may also include continuing education, attendance at Avant events, assisting in recruiting or other activities to benefit the mission. While HMA will include rest and renewal, it is neither vacation nor personal time. The Team Leader/Ministry Director will forward the HMA plan to the respective Vice President of Field Ministries at least one month prior to the missionary’s departure for HMA. Occasionally, because of health, family needs, low support, or other reasons, it may become necessary to extend HMA. To do so, the missionary must notify in writing the respective Vice President of Field Ministries, stating the reason for

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extending and the length of extension desired. The request is subject to approval by the Vice President of Field Ministries and may be conditional. Before returning to the field, missionaries must – • • • •

have full support submit a list of donors and amounts to the Vice President of Field Ministries, or to the Winnipeg office have a valid will and have the location of the will on file at the home office in Kansas City or Winnipeg be released to return by the Vice President of Field Ministries

2

The purpose of vacation is time away from work for rest and renewal and is an important contributor to personal health and effective ministry. Generally, we expect everyone to use their vacation and to take it in ways that enable them to experience rest and renewal, realizing those ways will differ by individual and family. Missionaries will work with their Team Leader or Ministry Director to schedule vacations in order to ensure enough people are available to maintain an appropriate level of ministry at any given time. Team Leaders and Ministry Directors have discretion in adjusting vacation time for team members in unusual situations or with extraordinary needs. There is no carryover of vacation from year to year. It must be used or lost. 3

Sick leave exists to allow time off when a person is actually ill without them having to use vacation time. Its use will be inherently unequal as it extends grace to those who are ill or need medical attention. As good stewards, we will use it only for its intended purpose. Up to 20 days of sick leave can be carried over into the next year. 4

Holidays vary from country to country so this policy only defines the number of days. Teams will decide which 12 holidays they will celebrate as days off, with the Team Leader or Ministry Director having final say when consensus does not exist. Team Leaders/Ministry Directors are responsible to keep records of team member’s HMA, vacation, and sick leave use. 5

Members are eligible for FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act), as defined in the list below. Members meeting these requirements are allowed to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons with continuation of group health insurance coverage under the same terms and conditions as if the member had not taken leave. Members are eligible for: •



Twelve workweeks of leave in a 12-month period for: • the birth of a child and to care for the newborn child within one year of birth; • the placement with the employee of a child for adoption or foster care and to care for the newly placed child within one year of placement; • to care for the employee’s spouse, child, or parent who has a serious health condition; • a serious health condition that makes the employee unable to perform the essential functions of his or her job; • any qualifying exigency arising out of the fact that the employee’s spouse, son, daughter, or parent is a covered military member on “covered active duty;” or Twenty-six workweeks of leave during a single 12-month period to care for a covered service member with a serious injury or illness if the eligible missionary is the service member’s spouse, son, daughter, parent, or next of kin (military caregiver leave).

If member has unused sick leave or vacation, these must be used concurrently with the FMLA leave, beginning on the first day of FMLA leave. Missionaries will work with their Team Leader or Ministry Director to schedule FMLA leave. 6 A Personal Leave of Absence may be granted after home assignment for members who expect to return to the field, but for various reasons (family, health, extended study) plan to stay in North America for a period beyond home assignment.

Personal leave of absence may be granted for a period of up to one year. Support, salary and benefits, to include the accrual of personal time off or home assignment leave, do not continue during the leave of absence. If member is using FMLA, it is used concurrently with Personal Leave of Absence.

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The Executive Team must approve any and all arrangements before donors are notified. Requests will be acted upon by the Executive Team in consultation with the Regional/Ministry Director, if applicable. IX. GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES A. Commissioning, Licensing, Ordination Long-term member appointees should be commissioned, licensed or ordained by their home churches. B. Housing and Property NOTE: International members do not need permission from Avant for personal housing decisions. 1. Except in the case of permanent ministry sites, Avant does not typically provide any mission-owned housing. Missionaries are expected to find and contract for their own rental housing in consultation with their Team Leader. They should always seek locations and types of homes that a) fit team strategy, b) will enhance ministry in the culture and c) minimize security concerns. 2. When mission housing is not available or if a member believes it is in his or her best interest, private ownership of housing on the field may be allowed on a case-by-case basis. The respective Vice President of Field Ministries, and if applicable the Regional/Ministry Director, as well as the Executive Team must approve eligibility for private ownership. If approved and the member purchases housing, all financial obligations become the member’s personal responsibility and the member may not excuse himself or herself from relocation because of owning the home. 3. All property acquired for mission purposes, or improvements made upon mission property with private funds, will be considered the property of Avant. C. Engagement, Marriage and Family Relationships 1. Married couples will be accepted for missionary service after careful consideration of the qualifications of both husband and wife. 2. Unmarried candidates who are engaged must state this fact and will be accepted only when the qualifications of both parties have been approved. 3. Long-term members who enter into marital relationships with persons not meeting the requirements of Avant must become affiliates of Avant, with the effective date corresponding to the wedding date. 4. International members who enter into marital relationships with persons not meeting the requirements of Avant, or who choose to attend an abbreviated portion of Avant Start or Avant GO without their spouse: a. Are eligible to re-attend Avant Start or Avant GO with their spouse in order to raise support as a couple/family unit. b. Are eligible to continue serving in ministry, while using the support schedule of a single person. D. Divorce Avant will consider divorced applicants on a case-by-case basis. E. Children 1. Final arrangements for the education of children are to be made by the parents. 2. Should it be desirable that member children be sent home at a time other than with their parents on home assignment, the children’s parents will make the guardianship arrangements. 3. In the event of children losing both parents while on the field, the respective Vice President of Field Ministries, or if applicable, the Regional/Ministry Director will arrange for their temporary care and will report immediately to the Vice President of Field Ministries. Final arrangements for their guardianship and support will receive careful and sympathetic consideration by the Executive Team. NOTE: This policy does not apply to international members. F. The Role of the Missionary Wife/Mother 1. Avant considers the Biblical roles of wife and mother to be important in-home ministries.

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2. Families will work with the Team Leader to define a balance between these roles and language and cultural orientation and ministry that is appropriate for their situation. G. Widows and Widowers 1. Should a member with dependent children be widowed and continue in missionary service, personal salary shall remain at the marriage rate. NOTE: This policy does not apply to international members. 2. In the event of there being no children, he or she shall revert to the single rate of salary after a period of twelve months. 3. The respective Vice President of Field Ministries, or if applicable, the Regional/Ministry Director will determine whether it is advisable for the widowed member to remain on the field or to return home. H. Visitors NOTE: This section does not apply to international members. 1. Members expecting a visit of more than two weeks by relatives and/or friends while they are on the field must notify the Team Leader as early as possible of the visit. 2. Members wishing to invite a visitor for ministry on the field must have the approval of the Team Leader before plans are initiated (see Missionary Classifications). Consideration must be given to Avant’s liability, medical insurance and doctrine. I. Lifestyle 1. As a Christian religious order engaged in international missionary ministries, Avant requires that all its members, workers and staff adhere to the highest standards of Christian conduct in life and ministry. 2. We believe the Bible to be God’s inspired Word and a clear guide by which to conduct our lives. J. Discipline 1. While Avant does not have strict and formal disciplinary policies, we expect our members to be mature professionals, and to behave in a Christ-like manner. 2. We also expect our members to give their best efforts to their work and ministry, and to treat others as they would have others treat them. 3. The handling of a particular situation and/or action to be taken in a particular situation will be determined at the sole discretion of Avant. K. Misconduct and Dishonesty 1. Like all organizations, Avant is faced with risks from wrongdoing, misconduct, dishonesty and fraud, and must be prepared to manage risks and their potential impact in a professional manner. 2. The goal must be to establish and maintain an environment of fairness, ethics, and honesty for Avant members, volunteers, employees, supporters, suppliers, and anyone else with which Avant may have a relationship. Maintaining such an environment requires the active assistance of each member every day. 3. For purposes of this policy, misconduct and dishonesty include but are not limited to: a. Acts that violate the guidelines set forth in this handbook b. Theft or other misappropriation of assets, including assets of Avant, its supporters, suppliers, or others with whom we have a business relationship c. Misstatements and other irregularities in organizational records, including the intentional misstatement of results of operations or projects c. Forgery, plagiarism, or other unlawful acts d. Any other similar acts 4. Avant specifically prohibits these and any other illegal activities in the actions of its members, employees, managers, executives and others responsible for carrying out its activities.

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5. It is the responsibility of every member to report suspected misconduct or dishonesty to his or her Team Leader or Regional/Ministry Director, who must immediately report such acts to the respective Vice President of Field Ministries. For those not reporting through a Team Leader or Regional/Ministry Director, the necessary information should be reported to the respective Vice President of Field Ministries. 6. The respective Vice President of Field Ministries has the primary responsibility for all investigations involving misconduct and dishonesty. L. Conflict Resolution 1. Avant is committed to biblical conflict resolution and will respond to conflict according to the following principles: a. We will seek to please God in all we do and will faithfully obey his commands as we seek to maintain a loving, merciful and forgiving attitude towards others. b. We will take responsibility for our own contribution to conflicts by confessing our own shortcomings, seeking God’s help in changing any of our own attitudes or habits that lead to conflict, and seeking to repair any harm we have caused. c. We will choose to overlook minor offenses, and will talk directly and graciously with those whose offense seems too serious to overlook. d. We will actively pursue genuine peace and reconciliation—forgiving others as God, for Christ’s sake, has forgiven us, and seeking just and mutually beneficial solutions to our differences. 2. Avant recognizes that people working in close contact with each other will have misunderstandings, irritations and complaints from time to time. Even minor problems can develop into major problems if not resolved in a satisfactory and timely manner. 3. If, after making a good faith effort, a member is not able to resolve the conflict, then they should seek assistance from their Team Leader, Regional/Ministry Director or the next level in their chain of command. M. Handling of Grievances 1. All grievances are to be investigated by the individual’s next level in the chain of command (Team Leader, Regional/Ministry Director, or the respective VP of Field Ministries), and the results of the investigation will be reported to the complaining party. 2. Avant does not allow anyone to discriminate against any staff member for non-disruptive expressions of dissent. 3. If the Avant leader investigating the grievance is unable to resolve the issue, the individual may take the grievance to the next level of their chain of command up to and including the President. 4. If the President is unable to resolve the issue, the individual may take his or her grievance directly to the Board. N. Qualifications for Release to the Field NOTE: This section does not apply to international members. 1. Must have 50% incoming support for two consecutive months before you begin drawing salary and/or, for U.S. members, enroll in Avant’s medical plan. 2. Must have 85% pledged before you can apply for visa. 3. Must have 100% pledged support, approval from Director of Missionary Preparation, before you can purchase plane tickets to leave for field. 4. It is required that each member have a legal will, including guardianship of minor children if applicable, and a statement of burial preference. Avant must be notified of where the will is being kept, prior to a member leaving for the field. Your will should be reviewed at least every five years. X. CHILD PROTECTION AND RESPONSE

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The safety and protection of children is of great importance to Avant. Our members need to know that: 1. Any staff or volunteer who has observed some form of child abuse or neglect is expected to notify the Child Safety Officer within 24-48 hours. Our Child Safety Officer is Deb Michaud ([email protected]). 2. Avant’s complete Child Safety and Protection Policies and Procedures can be found in the “Members” section of the mission website. 3. Avant’s Code of Conduct can also be found in the “Members” section of the mission website. XI. SEPARATION POLICY A. Separation Allowance 1. Good standing is in reference to the state of your relational behavior and financial account. 2. In the case of a member in good standing leaving Avant (through resignation or retirement), the policy for work funds (vehicle funds, etc.) as funds are available in their account, will be as follows: a. Five years or more years of service: 50% up to a limit of $2,000 b. Ten years or more years of service: 75% up to a limit of $4,000 c. Fifteen or more years more years of service: 100% up to a limit of $6,000 B. Withdrawals by Appointees 1. New members, who, while on support team development, withdraw from Avant, may receive support that comes in for them for one month after withdrawal from the mission, within the limits set by the support schedule. 2. Any remaining balance in their account will be re-designated for another member or project by the Executive Team. C. Resignation 1. Members who are resigning are asked to give at least three months’ notice to (1) if applicable, their Regional/Ministry Director, who will then notify the respective Vice President of Field Ministries, or (2) their respective VP of Field Ministries. 2. If the Executive Team approves, a resigning member may continue receiving support for up to one month for every year of service, but not to exceed one year. The continuing support begins when the member leaves the field or ministry. All continuing support must be approved by the Executive Team and must still be coming in to the resigning member’s account from supporters. a. Factors the Executive Team consider when granting permission to keep your account open and allow you to continue support: 1. Reason for departure 2. Provision of at least three months’ notice prior to intended departure 3. How your departure will impact your team and the planting of a church 4. Ability to get a new job or ministry 5. Commencement date of new health insurance b. If you take home assignment and then decide to resign, the number of months that your account may remain open begins with the date you left the field. 3. A member leaving the mission must turn over all mission money, records or property in his or her charge to the person appointed by the Regional/Ministry Director or by the respective VP of Field Ministries. This includes all documentation related to ministry or projects in which the member was involved. 4. If a member’s account is overdrawn at the time of resignation or dismissal, he or she will be expected to pay the entire amount to Avant within one year of the resignation.

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D. Dismissal 1. Should an occasion necessitate the Executive Team has the authority to dismiss any member or volunteer worker with the mission at any time. Any sexual misconduct including but not limited to premarital sex, adultery, homosexual conduct, indecent exposure, sexual harassment, use of or trafficking pornographic material, sexually offensive conduct or speech, and sexual abuse of children is forbidden in Scripture and will be considered a breach of Avant’s moral standards. a. This would include, but is not limited to: 1. Long-Term and Short-Term Members 2. Affiliate Members 3. International Members 4. Retired Members 2. When a dismissal occurs, consideration will be given to the worker’s practical needs on a case-by-case basis. XII. THE CHURCH AND THE ORDINANCES A. The Church 1. The focus of Avant centers on developing the church, by first seeking to bring local bodies into existence through evangelistic and discipleship efforts, and then progressively moving that church toward biblical maturity through Biblical teaching and leadership development. 2. Several principles will guide our efforts: a. From the very beginning, members will trust local believers to take on increasing levels of commitment and responsibility. b. Members will trust God to build His church. c. Members will work diligently to teach the church to know and obey the Word of God, while also being equally diligent to remove their own cultural biases and assumptions from their teaching. d. Members will love and nurture the church and lovingly release it to become fully “church” in its cultural context. e. Members will encourage cooperation and fellowship between local bodies. f. Members will primarily target areas where less than 2% of the population is evangelical. B. The Ordinances 1. The Lord’s Supper and Baptism will be observed from the very beginning of new works, and may be administered by the national pastor and/or designated lay leader(s). Cultural issues must be considered. 2. The mode of the administration of baptism as practiced and taught by all Avant missionaries is that of believer’s baptism by immersion. XIII. GENERAL RELATIONSHIPS A. Governments 1. Avant and its members will respect the sovereignty and obey the laws of all governments except in cases where they directly contradict scripture. 2. Neither Avant nor its overseas members will affiliate with any political party or movement in their country of service, unless that is also their home country. 3. Field members will act as guests and refrain from publicly stating political views or accepting official appointments that would be seen as allying them with any government or political group. Page 21

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4. No member may become an intelligence agent of any government. B. Ransom Policy 1. Avant recognizes that members, visiting staff, board members or visitors may face the risk of being taken hostage, which could even lead to death. 2. Members working in dangerous areas or in crisis situations have the freedom to personally decide about leaving a field in such situations, but may also be ordered to leave by their Team Leader, Regional/Ministry Director or Vice President of Field Ministries when the conditions necessitate it. 3. While we reaffirm our full backing of members serving in crisis areas, Avant will not pay ransom or yield to the demands of hostage takers. C. Mission Cooperation 1. Members of Avant are expected to work in harmony with and render assistance to other missions of like faith as the opportunity occurs, while carefully avoiding conflict or competition with other missions. 2. Since our primary objective is developing indigenous, autonomous churches, we urge cooperation and partnership where it serves the interests of both parties. D. The Charismatic Movement 1. Avant Ministries recognizes the diversity of perspectives regarding the modern-day manifestation of spiritual gifts, as well as the fact that this diversity may lead us into areas of disagreement. 2. While Avant Ministries holds and teaches a non-charismatic position, we will address those areas of difference with respect and love while maintaining the principle that these gifts are for the edification and unity of the Body of Christ. E. Contextualization 1. Contextualization plays a central role in modern missiology. As with other major facets of missiological practice, diverse views have spawned passionate and often heated debate – especially where contextualization involves Muslim cultures. To provide clarity and enable a unified focus among our missionaries working with Muslims, Avant has adopted the following position: Avant seeks to develop churches that are biblical and appropriate in the local culture. On the “C” Scale describing contextualization, that has our ministries generally directed toward C3. However, within the range of C2-C4 we will trust the Holy Spirit and the local leaders of churches we plant to select the appropriate level of contextualization for their setting. Outside that range, we believe that C1 churches miss the mark culturally, while C5 and C6 do not meet biblical qualifications. F. Conflict of Interest 1. Avant will maintain the highest standards of integrity. Conflicts of interest will be diligently avoided. 2. Transactions with related parties may only be undertaken if all four following criteria are met: a. Material transactions are fully disclosed in the audited financial statements of Avant. b. The party with the potential or actual conflict of interest is excluded from discussion and approval of such transactions. c. A competitive bid or independent comparative valuation exists in written form and is appended to the minutes of the acting body. d. In cases where the monetary value is in excess of $5,000, the International Board of Directors has acted upon and agreed that the transaction is in the best interest of Avant. G. Intellectual Property Rights 1. In the event that a member’s job responsibilities require the creation of intellectual property, unless otherwise agreed to in writing between such member and the President, any intellectual property related by a member in the

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performance of their respective job duties shall be owned by Avant as a “work-made-for-hire” under the Copyright Act of 1976. 2. As such, Avant retains all rights to the use, duplication, distribution, and sale of all such materials. H. Publications 1. Because of the enormous resources involved in book writing, editing, publishing and marketing, Avant will enter into such projects only on rare occasions, and only when the project would further the mission of Avant, be of great value to a broad segment of Avant missionaries and supporters, and fit within agreed upon time and budget constraints. I. Social Media & Internet 1. A mission agency is a unique entity, which is rightly held to the highest standards, and we take that responsibility very seriously. This online usage policy governs all social media and internet usage including, but not limited to: Facebook, Twitter, blogging, websites, email and whatever comes out next. In general, we view personal engagement in social media and internet usage positively, and respect the right of our members to use them as an avenue of self-expression and outreach. 2. As a member of Avant Ministries, you are seen by our donors and outside parties as a representative of the mission. Therefore, as in all areas of daily life, your personal use of social media and the internet is a reflection on the mission, whether or not the mission is specifically discussed or referenced. In light of this, Avant expects our members to observe the following important guidelines: a. Respect Confidentiality. You must take proper care not to purposefully or inadvertently disclose any information that is confidential or proprietary to Avant Ministries. b. Respect the Mission and the Avant community. Since social media is a public space, we expect you to be respectful to the mission and its leaders, members, employees, volunteers and donors. Remember, we have people working in limited access countries. c. Respect our Beliefs. As a member of Avant, it is important to remember that our leadership’s decisions governing membership in the Avant community is based upon our Christian beliefs, as outlined in the Avant Doctrinal Statement. d. Respect Copyright. Be sure to follow the guidelines given by the Public Ministries department for proper usage of the Avant logo. 3. Avant reserves the right to review your email/internet usage at any time without giving notification. If your usage of social media violates any of the above policies – disclosing confidential/proprietary information; disparaging the mission, its practices, the Avant community; displaying inappropriate images or reflecting personal opinions/lifestyle choices that are contrary to Avant’s Doctrinal Statement, etc. – you may be subject to discipline, up to and including immediate termination of employment/missionary service. For this reason, we encourage you to first seek guidance from your direct supervisor on the field, if you have any questions. 4. In summary, use common sense in all communications, particularly on a website accessible to anyone. If you would not be comfortable with your donors, Sending Church, or Avant leadership reading your words, do not write them. J. Donor Privacy 1. Avant recognizes the importance of privacy to our staff, members, donors and all others affiliated with the organization. Our relationship is founded on trust and we are committed to maintaining that trust at all levels of the organization. 2. This policy applies to those serving with Avant in all capacities, including but not limited to staff, members, volunteers, and retirees. 3. Constituent refers to any individual, church, foundation, or corporation providing prayer and/or financial support for Avant, or Avant members, staff, or volunteers. 4. Constituent information, such as personal information, contact information, and giving records will be maintained by the International Service Center and made available as follows:

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a. Members will only have access to information regarding constituency supporting their ministry assignment, including basic personal information, contact information, and giving records. b. Members may voluntarily share their constituency information with other active Avant members; however, members are not required to share this information. c. Members may receive statistical information on other constituents as long as the statistical information does not reveal specific constituent information. d. Access to constituency information will be limited to those persons having a legitimate business purpose for that information, and will be protected to ensure data quality and integrity. e. Information about churches designated as lapsed or non-donor according to pre-established criteria may be shared with active Avant members upon approval from the President, Chief Financial Officer, or Vice President of Public Ministries. f. International Service Center personnel will have access to constituent information on an as needed basis to be determined by the President and/or Chief Financial Officer. g. Avant will not rent, sell, or lease constituent information. Avant will release constituent information to approved entities and/or business partners who are acting on behalf of the organization.

_____________________________________________

December 1, 2016

Scott Holbrook, President

Effective Date

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RECEIPT AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT—Member Copy

I, (print full name) _____________________________, acknowledge receipt of the Avant Ministries Member Handbook. I agree to familiarize myself with the information in this handbook and to observe the guidelines set forth herein. I also understand that the Executive Team may change, rescind, or add to any procedures, benefits, or practices described in this handbook from time to time at its sole discretion, with or without prior notice. I understand that such changes will be done in writing and signed by the President of Avant Ministries. I also understand that in the event that verbal or written communications issued before or subsequent to my receipt of this handbook appear to alter the contents of this policy manual, the guidelines set forth herein will be considered the official position of Avant Ministries unless the handbook is revised in writing, and such revision is signed by the President. I understand that this handbook supersedes all prior member policies, verbal communications, meeting minutes, and/or management memos, which may have been previously issued on subjects herein. I also understand and agree that my membership with Avant Ministries is strictly voluntary and may be terminated by either myself or Avant Ministries at any time, with or without cause or reason.

Signature ______________________________

Date __________

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RECEIPT AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT—International Service Center Copy

I, (print full name) _____________________________, acknowledge receipt of the Avant Ministries Member Handbook. I agree to familiarize myself with the information in this handbook and to observe the guidelines set forth herein. I also understand that the Executive Team may change, rescind, or add to any procedures, benefits, or practices described in this handbook from time to time at its sole discretion, with or without prior notice. I understand that such changes will be done in writing and signed by the President of Avant Ministries. I also understand that in the event that verbal or written communications issued before or subsequent to my receipt of this handbook appear to alter the contents of this policy manual, the guidelines set forth herein will be considered the official position of Avant Ministries unless the handbook is revised in writing, and such revision is signed by the President. I understand that this handbook supersedes all prior member policies, verbal communications, meeting minutes, and/or management memos, which may have been previously issued on subjects herein. I also understand and agree that my membership with Avant Ministries is strictly voluntary and may be terminated by either myself or Avant Ministries at any time, with or without cause or reason.

Signature ______________________________

Date __________

Signature ______________________________

Date __________

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