Duties of His Holiness the DIVISIONAL PATRIARCH

  • B 1                                DIVISIONAL PATRIARCH

 

  1. A very old, venerable man; an elder.
  2. The Divisional Patriarch is the wise and respected elder who helped to build the church “on his watch” and still has influence over major decisions.
  3. One who is regarded as the founder or original head of the Church, organization, or tradition.
  4. Divisional Patriarchs, most especially, are called to be a witness of Christ’s truth in its fullness…with a responsibility to address theological, social and moral issues. These responsibilities are heavy; if the Church were a human organization and not the Body of Christ, they certainly could not be fulfilled…and in unity we find strength!
  5. A bishop who holds the highest episcopal rank after the Patriarch.
  6. One who has authority over other bishops.
  7. A man who rules a Church, a family, home, or tribe.
  8. The holder of this office is appointed by the Patriarch and will hold office as his life adorns the word of God.
  9. A high dignitary of the priesthood empowered to invoke blessings.
  10. He is to serve the Mystical Order at the pleasure of the Patriarch.
  11. Must have attained the age of fifty (50) years and have been ordained for more than five years as a Bishop.
  12. He must hold at least a certificate in Administration or Management
  13. He shall hold office as long as his life adorns the Word of Almighty God.
  14. The Ordination and Consecration Committee shall prepare all documents and instruments for such ceremony to be final and sealed with the SEAL of the Church.
  15. The Divisional Patriarch shall maintain his title and respect of office after his retirement and shall function as the adviser to the Mystical  ORDER and Mystical COURT. He shall take the name  PATRIARCH EMERITUS.
  16. He shall be the Vice Grand Commanding Officer of the Mystical Court
  17. He is the to fill the office of Patriarch should there be sudden changes in the holder of the Office of Patriarch. This include incapacitation to function due to an accident, death (Article  1A [ i ] ) or removal from office (Article 13 [3])
  18. Maintain records of ordinations and Church activities and report to the Executive Council and/or the Patriarch of the Church at regular intervals
  19. Serve as ex-officio member of all standing committees,  shall not have voting rights
  20. Shall provide emotional support and psychological care to the members of the church and others who require assistance
  21. He shall supervise the keeper of all church records and ensure the security of the church stamps and seals

(1) B 2

The Divisional Patriarch of the Church is the head of the Church Administration. His responsibilities include:

  • recommending the general direction of the church;
  • the maintenance of the main website of the Church;
  • conducting his personal ministry;
  • ensuring applications received through the website are appropriately processed;
  • providing for the continuation of the Church beyond his time in office.

  • B 3      Succession

 

The current Divisional Patriarch of the Church holds office by virtue of having founded the Church. He has no current plans to relinquish this office.

Based on his assessment of the Matriarchs and Patriarchs, the Divisional Patriarch of the Church may from time to time appoint a Designated Successor to take on the office should it becomes vacant. Currently, that Designated Successor is selected by the Archbishop and confirmed by the Executive Council and appointed by the Patriarch.

In the event, there is no Designated Successor, or if the Designated Successor is unable to take office, then the Executive Council shall be responsible for electing a new Divisional Patriarch (or Matriarch) of the Church from amongst their members who are qualified to represent such office.

  • B 4            Election as Divisional Patriarch

 

Unlike other levels, neither the rank nor the position as Divisional Patriarch is necessary for life.

The appointment to an office may be revoked before installation, by the Patriarch of the Church or by a majority vote of the Executive Council. Normally, this sanction will be imposed for an extended period of no apparent performance of responsibilities. It may also be imposed for actions against the interests of the Church.

The Election to the rank of Divisional Patriarch cannot be reversed except under the rules of Article 13. This rare action would result from actions bringing dishonour upon the Church.

 

  • B 5       THE ROLE OF THE DIVISIONAL PATRIARCH

 

Spiritual Leader

The Divisional Patriarch serves as guide and advisor to the Patriarch and priest for the whole The Mystical Order of Spiritual Baptist and its clergy, who in turn function as guides and facilitators for the whole of the membership of The Mystical Order of Spiritual Baptist.

Keeper and Steward

The Divisional Patriarch serves as the keeper and steward of the traditions, rites, authority and disciplines of The Mystical Order of Spiritual Baptist, and also serves as the guarantor of the same. The Divisional Patriarch, in this role, assists The Patriarch in the governance of the Church by ensuring that the same aspects are maintained with purpose, dignity and integrity.

The Divisional Patriarch shall oversee the documentation of the church and keep in a safe place.

Administrator

The Divisional Patriarch governs and enacts the will of the Patriarch on behalf of the Church, and does so always in consultation with and approved by, in whole or in part, with the Patriarch Advisory Council, saving situation or circumstance which the Patriarch may deem to be a matter solely with the role of Keeper and Steward

Ordinary Representative

The Divisional Patriarch serves as the ordinary Representative of The Mystical Order of Spiritual Baptist to other Churches and religious groups, and as such is the sole individual with responsibility for determination and establishment of relationships with the above in an official manner with the officer for diplomatic affairs.

CHURCH VISITS

Whenever the Divisional Patriarch is present his flag must be flown above the roof of the church.

If both Patriarch and Divisional Patriarch are present

  1. the Patriarch’s flag is flown on the church
  2. the Divisional Patriarch flag is flown at the right of the main entrance if the Patriarch is present

Whenever the Divisional Patriarch is present:

  1. If the service is in progress whenever he arrives the flag must be hoisted
  2. The ringing of two bells at the main entrance must be rung seven times for a duration of five seconds each.

3. The Divisional Patriarch candles will be lit (two sets seven candles seven candles behind the throne) before his entrance

  1. The Divisional Patriarch will enter the church with his crozier (left hand always)
  2. His flag leading the procession
  3. Processional cross
  4. Candle bearers
  5. Bell
  6. Armour bearers

The congregation will stand until the Divisional Patriarch is seated.

The flag is placed to the right of the Divisional Patriarch’s throne.

The recession will follow the same pattern with all ministers behind the candle bearers and the Divisional Patriarch last.

The congregation remains standing until the Divisional Patriarch exits the church.

After the Divisional Patriarch departs the church the candles will be put out.

Whenever the Patriarch is present the Divisional Patriarch gives way and seated on the lower level.