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How does a church become a part of A.F.I.?
There are two basic levels of relationship with A.F.I.: “Affiliated” and “Friends of A.F.I.” The following is provided to help clarify these two relationships.
“Friends of A.F.I.”
Agreement: An appreciation and understanding of the doctrinal tenants and values of A.F.I.
Relationship: Informal communication by phone, email or personal
visit throughout the year. Friends of A.F.I. are encouraged to participate in both the annual leadership conference as well as regional training gatherings.
Financial Support: Financial giving to A.F.I. on a free will basis.
“Affiliated Churches and Ministries”
Agreement: A proven working knowledge of the doctrinal tenants of A.F.I. as well as agreement and modeling the values of A.F.I. A certificate of Ordination will be issued appropriate to the calling of the affiliated individual or ministry.
Relationship: Affiliates are strongly encouraged to attend the annual A.F.I. leadership gathering or regional training gathering. A special gathering for “Affiliated” churches and ministries will be provided annually for the purpose of input and communication. Assistance by phone, email or personal visit will be regular throughout the year. The National Leadership Team of A.F.I. provides ministry resources, practical covering, counsel and training to all affiliates. Leaders will also receive monthly financial statements from A.F.I.
Financial Support: Local churches are encouraged to tithe to A.F.I. from their general tithe income. All other Affiliated ministries which are not A.F.I. local churches are encouraged to give 5% to A.F.I. and
5% to their local church.
The Process of Affiliation: It is our desire to establish lasting relationships with local churches and ministries. This is not accomplished without fellowship and much prayer. We view this relationship as that of a marriage. Like any good marriage, there needs to be a time of engagement before the commitment. Therefore, we encourage an “engagement period” for churches and ministries seeking affiliated status.
“Engagement Period”
This is a period of up to 12 months to build relationships and a time for the local church and the National Leadership Team to determine if a covenant commitment is the will of the Lord. During this time the National Leadership Team may recognize and credential the pastor and elders of the local church for a period of one year. There will be no expectation of financial support or involvement other than what is done voluntarily by the affiliated church. During this period, the National Leadership Team will serve this local church in the same manner it would any affiliated A.F.I. church.
“Marriage”
Following the engagement period, the National Leadership Team will consult with the leadership of the local church or ministry to determine if this relationship should move into full affiliation with A.F.I. Generally, there is a setting in of the church or ministry with members of the A.F.I. National Leadership Team present.
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