How Pilgrim is led and the biblical foundation for our structure.
Our Leadership Model
Pilgrim Baptist Church functions under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ. We do not operate as a democracy run by the will of members or rule of the people. Instead, we are a spiritual body led by a pastor who serves as under-shepherd, with the counsel and assistance of deacons, elders, and trustees.
This leadership structure reflects the New Testament pattern, where God appoints spiritual leaders to shepherd, teach, and oversee the local church. The congregation submits to this leadership as they faithfully teach and apply God’s Word.
The Pastor
The pastor serves as the primary Bible teacher of the church under the authority of Jesus Christ and the direction of God’s Word.
The pastor shall preach the gospel regularly and faithfully teach all the counsel of God’s Word from the Authorized King James Bible. He has full liberty to preach on any biblical topic as the Spirit leads, without restriction or censorship from the congregation.
In matters of biblical interpretation and application, the pastor has authority to make final determinations, provided those interpretations align with Pilgrim Baptist Church’s doctrinal statement and convictions on life and family.
The pastor administers the ordinances of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, ensuring they are conducted biblically and with proper reverence.
All appointments for public worship, Bible study, and church activities — including times, locations, and property use — are under the pastor’s oversight. With the counsel of deacons, trustees, and church leaders, the pastor determines the appropriateness of all property use, which persons or groups may use church facilities, and scheduling of services, meetings, and events.
The pastor is responsible to fill the pulpit for each regularly scheduled service. In his absence, he (or the deacons, trustees, or leaders in his stead) shall invite speakers from within the membership or outside the church who will preach in a manner consistent with our statement of faith.
The pastor, along with church leadership, establishes and enforces mandatory safety and security procedures for all ministries and programs.
Deacons
Deacons serve the church by assisting the pastor in promoting spiritual welfare, conducting services, and overseeing the practical and business affairs of the church. They represent the membership and are recommended by the pastor based on their proven character, spiritual maturity, and faithfulness.
The pastor alone recommends men for the office of deacon. The appointment process is as follows:
The pastor announces his recommendation from the pulpit. All church members are given a two-week period to speak with the recommended deacon and/or the pastor. Members who desire to be heard have opportunity to share concerns or affirmations.
After two weeks, the pastor announces whether the church will move forward with the appointment.
If proceeding, a final two-week period is given for the pastor to meet with other deacons and leaders to confirm this is the right decision.
The pastor publicly recognizes and installs the new deacon.
The following qualifications from 1 Timothy 3:8--13 are requirements, not suggestions. A man must meet all of these qualifications to serve. This is not a “pick and choose” list.
Personal Character
Grave (dignified)
Down to earth, relatable, and approachable. Not prone to fits of rage or instability, but a man of substance and steadiness.
Not double-tongued (honest in speech)
Cannot be deceitful or make contradictory remarks depending on his audience. He speaks the same truth to the pastor, the congregation, and everyone else.
Not given to much wine (sober)
As a saved man full of joy and eternal life, he has no need for wine or strong drink. Alcohol or drugs may be used only for legitimate medicinal purposes.
Not greedy of filthy lucre (not greedy)
Since money flows through the church, leaders must be above reproach in financial matters. A deacon must be a faithful giver, evidencing that he is not controlled by money. We have zero tolerance for anyone attempting to “buy” leadership through large donations.
Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience
His conscience must be governed by biblical principles and led by the Holy Spirit. The congregation should see evidence that he holds firmly to sound doctrine with integrity.
First be proved (proven faithful)
A man must demonstrate his faithfulness before being appointed -- not promise what he would do if given the office. His track record should already be evident to the congregation.
Being found blameless (above reproach)
Not sinless, but blameless -- his character and conduct must not bring reproach upon Christ or the church.
Family Requirements
Husband of one wife
A deacon must be a man who has been married once and remains married to that one wife. A man who has been divorced and remarried does not meet this qualification.
Ruling their children and their own houses well
A married deacon must have children whom he and his wife are raising biblically together. He must demonstrate godly leadership in his home.
Qualifications for a Deacon’s Wife
Grave (dignified)
Down to earth, relatable, and approachable. A deacon will discuss church matters with his wife, so her character matters.
Not a slanderer
She must guard her tongue carefully. She cannot be a gossip, tale-bearer, or someone who always has something negative to say about others.
Sober (self-controlled)
Sober physically, mentally, and emotionally -- no drunkenness or drug use, and no pride or instability. Balanced, wise, and self-controlled in all areas of life.
“For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree.” — 1 Timothy 3:13. Faithful deacons earn respect, spiritual authority, and the privilege of greater usefulness in God’s kingdom.
Elders and Trustees
Elders and trustees serve alongside the pastor and deacons to provide godly counsel, wisdom, and practical assistance in specific areas of church life. They support the pastor’s leadership and ministry, helping to ensure the church is cared for both spiritually and practically.
Requirements for Ministry Leadership
All church members are encouraged to participate and serve in ministry activities. However, those who desire to lead ministries — such as teaching Sunday School, leading worship, conducting prayer meetings, overseeing evangelistic outreaches, or directing other church ministries — must meet specific biblical qualifications.
Be an Active, Faithful Member
18 years of age or older, member in good standing for at least 6 months, faithful in attendance at all church services, actively involved in evangelistic efforts, and living with a godly testimony. Absences due to illness, surgery, work, or family emergencies do not disqualify someone.
Be Scripturally Baptized
Baptized by immersion as a believer after salvation. If a member cannot obey the Lord in believer’s baptism, it would be unreasonable to expect them to faithfully lead others in obedience to Christ.
Fully Affirm Church Doctrine
In complete agreement with the church’s doctrinal statement and life and family values. Leaders represent the church’s teaching and must be able to uphold and teach what we believe without reservation.
Give Faithfully and Cheerfully
Demonstrate biblical stewardship through regular, cheerful giving. Leaders model generosity and trust in God’s provision for the body.
Not Be a Member of Secret Societies
Must not be affiliated with Freemasonry, Shriners International, or any other secret society. Such organizations require oaths and allegiances that conflict with exclusive devotion to Christ and biblical transparency.
Be Available for Leadership Collaboration
Willing to attend leadership meetings, offer insight and counsel when requested, and committed to working cooperatively with other leaders.
All members may participate and serve in appropriate ministries without meeting leadership requirements. Anyone can help with evangelistic outreaches, assist with setup and hospitality, or pray and give. However, those who lead, teach, or represent the church in official ministry capacities must meet the qualifications above.
How Decisions Are Made
All determinations regarding the internal affairs of the church are ecclesiastical matters decided according to the church’s own biblical convictions and procedures. These matters are resolved internally by church leadership under the authority of Scripture, not by external influence or secular processes.
The pastor, with the counsel of deacons, elders, and trustees, oversees and conducts all aspects of church life and ministry.
While final decisions rest with church leadership, members play an important role:
Church Voting and Business Meetings
The New Testament does not command churches to conduct business meetings or practice congregational voting. Instead, Scripture emphasizes prayer, the leading of the Holy Spirit, and godly leadership making decisions according to God’s Word.
At Pilgrim, we do not hold monthly business meetings or take congregational votes. We believe this approach protects the church from common pitfalls:
Instead of voting, all church members have the biblical right to approach the pastor and deacons with any matter of concern. This is not optional for leadership — the pastor and deacons are required to:
This approach ensures every voice can be heard while maintaining godly order and unity in the body.
Church Policies and Procedures
Property, finances, committees, and operational policies.
Read More → Biblical StandardsChurch Discipline and Conflict Resolution
How we handle sin, conflict, and restoration biblically.
Read More → Joining PilgrimChurch Membership
How to join and what’s expected of members.
Read More →Questions? Contact Pastor Fortunato directly.