Ministerial Removal Policy
 
            As overseers and under shepherds of these churches, it falls upon us to guard the flock of God.
 
            1 Peter 5:1-4 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder,... Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight [thereof], not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind.  Neither as being lords over [God's] heritage, but being examples to the flock. 
           
            Hebrews 13:17b ...for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account...
 
            Therefore we desire a policy among us that not only reflects the best interest of the people, but also the best interests of the leaders.
 
            When sin issues come to the attention of us as overseers of the Patria Ministries, and we are called by local leadership to become involved on a local level, we will follow the procedures laid out in this policy.
 
            1. Recognition and Evidence of sin:
           
                        In 1 Corinthians 5:1 Paul says "It is commonly reported that there is ... among you,"
 
Some sins are known and easily recognizable, some are not, however there should always be evidence of sin brought forth, especially in cases of resistance and denial.
 
We cannot begin any removal process without clear evidence of sin.  Once evidence of sin is brought forth the overseers can begin the removal process.
 
            2. Admission and Repentance upon confrontation:
 
                        King David admitted his sin when confronted by the Prophet Nathan, 2 Sam. 12:7-13.
 
                        The sin must then stop
                                   
                        Depending on the severity of the sin, the person may be removed from leadership.
 
            3. Refusal to Admit and Repent:
 
                        A gathering of the overseers to act as judges takes place
                                   
                        The evidence is presented to the overseer
 
                        Decision by the overseers
 
                        If a not guilty verdict is rendered based on presentation of clear evidence:
                       
                                    - Person is vindicated and apologies should be forthcoming.
 
                        If a guilty verdict is rendered based on clear evidence:
 
                                    - Person is removed from leadership
 
                                    - Person, if willing, goes through restoration process
 
                                    - Restitution is brought to offended person and/or group