Our Administrative/Organizational Structure....
Historically, there are two principal forms of Church Government. The first of these is called "EPISCOPAL" or Dictatorship, where control is vested with the Bishop who is elected for life. Pastors are appointed by the Bishop and the leity have very little say in running the affairs of the church.
The second form of Church Government is called "CONGREGATIONAL" or Democratic. Most Baptist and independent churches use this structure, where the Local Members have control.
The Government of the International Church of the Nazarene is REPRESENTATIVE". It combines the Episcopalian and Congregational forms of Government, where the authority and responsibility for all care and interests for the local church are vested in the Church Board. We elect Board Members to represent the corporate Church Body. These Board Members are the Concregation's voice for ensuring that the work of the Church is done efficiently and effectively, and that the mission of the Church remains doctrinally sound and Scripturally based at all times.
The Structure of the Church Board, along with its Administration and Business responsibilities for the local Church , and its interaction with the District wherein it is located, and with the International Church are as prescribed in the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene. Specific responsibilities for our Board Members is shown on the Board's web page.