Rationale: The statement clarifies how the church should use AI with integrity and discernment. Proposed change: Add a doctrinal/ethical statement encouraging AI as a support tool for ministry while rejecting its use as a substitute for spiritual calling, and condemning misuse such as fraud or misinformation.

Rationale: The proposal seeks greater consistency by requiring state/regional council involvement in restoration decisions. Proposed change: Require both the state/regional overseer and the state/regional council to recommend reinstatement in explicit misconduct cases.

Rationale: Reporting procedures have changed, so the Minutes need updated language for online reporting and exemptions. Proposed change: Replace the old paper-form reporting section with online reporting guidance, paper fallback procedures, and exemption rules for retirement or disability.

One item that was not fully resolved at the 2012 General Assembly Agenda in Orlando was WOMEN in MINISTRY. Item 15 expressed a general desire to permit women to be fully represented in all roles within the church. It was NOT a gender issue, but rather a leadership one – an issue of ministry and of responsibility, if you will. Coming from […]

XVI.      Ministerial Position Criminal Background Checks RATIONALE: In 2004, the Church of God mandated that “All applicants for the ministry, including those advancing in rank, must give consent to the state/regional office to conduct criminal background checks” (See S21 IV. 6., page 95—2016 Minutes). Since that time, background checks for all persons in certain categories, […]