| President's page |
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| Written by QTip | |
| Saturday, 02 February 2008 | |
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Welcome to the President’s page. This page has been set up to hopefully address some of the curious inquiries you may have regarding the Bondslave Motorcycle Club. Often we are posed numerous questions such as: “What are these guy’s all about? ” “Do you intend on planting other chapters across Canada?” “What is required in establishing a charter” and… “What is expected of those potential members desiring to become involved?” Hopefully this page will help to answer some of those questions. So what exactly is involved in forming a Bondslave chapter? To answer that, a basic understanding of how we function as a club is required. The following criteria is to be expected from any charter regardless of location. As we are a Motorcycle “Club” (not an association, group, or organization) we adhere to fundamental club principals that make up the chemistry of a well organized club structure. · Riding formation – As a club we ride Tandem at all times. That is, side by side. We ride tight in behind as well. Of course this is with in reason. As speeds increase on the highway the distance gap becomes a little more spread out while still remaining in a Tandem formation. This formation is symbolic of the unity we share as a brotherhood. There is also a structure within our placements. Road Captain takes the front of the pack. In behind follow the remaining officers such as President, Vice President, and Secretary. Following the officers, the full patch member’s fall in behind. Then the Probates (Prospective members) and then hang around’s and guests take up the rear. · Governing style – The government structure of the Bondslave MC is similar to that of most Motorcycle club’s in that it consists of a hierarchy rank and file. First beginning with the leadership office’s (known as officers) of President, Vice-President, Secretary, Road Captain. A fifth officer such as a Treasurer may be added if the size of the chapter requires it. (For example, a chapter with 20 members or more). Under the authority of the leadership is the membership. These are the men who have earned their full patch status within the club. Finally, the Probates. These are the men who have not yet achieved full patch status but they are under serious consideration as “Probationary” members who are working toward a full membership within the club. · How it works - The positions of office are done by appointment of the acting President and the terms are until such a time as the officer resigns or is removed from office for such reasons as commitment levels cannot be met or immoral conduct. Although this may appear to be a top down dictatorship, accountability is expected by the officers towards one another as well as to the membership. It is the officer’s who prayerfully lead and guide the membership relying on the direction of the Holy Spirit. Officers are expected to set the example Christ did by His servant like approach. Officers are also the only members who can sponsor a Probate. Their job with Probates is to impart discipline and good teaching by “culturalizing” the Probate for the mission field by educating them on proper conduct and protocol (without compromise) in the world of the biker. Although officers are responsible for their Probates it is expected that all the members are an active part of the growing process. · Membership – The Bondslave MC is a brotherhood whereby only men, 18 years of age or older. So what makes someone eligible in the eyes of leadership to become a Probate and eventually a full patch member? A good question! There are a number of items that officers will observe in an individual when considering approaching them for Probationary status with the club. Obviously the individual MUST have a motorcycle that is in good running condition and has ridden with the club on a number of occasions. But again, that is the obvious. There is a far more important criteria that is looked for in an individual. - They must be a follower of Jesus Christ - They must be teachable in the spirit - They must demonstrate good riding skills - They must work well in a team ministry - Must have a stable income - Must not be troublesome - Must be self starting - Must have a strong church attendance - Must exhibit Christian growth - Must have/display good moral character What we are NOT looking for is perfection! Both Officers and the membership are expected to be a part of the Probates spiritual growth and cultural nurturing. Servant hood is one the main focal points of any Probates tenor. Probates are expected to submit to any direction given by an officer or full patch member regardless of whether it comes from the sponsoring home chapter or a chapter from another city. However a Probate would and never should be asked to take on any duty that the officer/member would not do himself. The duration of a Probates term before a vote is called is open ended with a 4 month minimum of Probationary status. When the vote is eventually called the Probate must have the backing of 100% of the membership. ** It is important note that there is no application process. A Probate must be extended the invitation to Probate.** Forming a chapter – If one resides in a location where there is no Bondslave chapter remotely close then they can be a part of building God’s biker ministry thru the Bondslave MC. Aside from making the obvious contact with the club itself, the following informs you of what is to be expected in order to see a chapter formulate in your area. It is important to note up front that the entire process will be overseen by the sponsoring (Mother) chapter. First there would be the initial contact made by the interested party. If it is determined there is a high level of interest expressed by the person(s) then the following steps would take place soon after. 1.) A questionnaire level would be assessed asking questions such as: About your ministry, What is your purpose? How do you intend to fulfill this? What method would you use? What non-Christian riders do you meet? With and in what context 2.) Tell us about yourself Age Marital Status Make & Model of bike Church affiliation Employment In a short essay tell us your personal testimony. What has been your past or present motorcycle club, group, or affiliation membership experience. 3.) Interview level – Here we would get to know you and your group on a more personal level and also use this as an opportunity to expose and lay out our vision and club structure. It also gives you the opportunity to ask any questions regarding areas you may be unclear on. It also helps us to identify the natural leaders who might head up the chapter. 4.) If it is determined that the applicants are successful, then at the discretion of the leadership the potential members will gain Probationary status for a period of 4 months. 5.) Upon completion, of the probationary four (4) month period, the sponsoring chapter officers will appoint who will be officers and in which position and who will be members of the new chapter. A probationary chapter must have at least three (3) officers. 6.) Probationary Chapter Status Level - This term is for twelve (12) months. The sponsoring chapter will continue to monitor the probationary chapter. After twelve (12) months, two officers of this chapter will be admitted as National Officer Members and the chapter will be considered full status and will be left to it’s own autonomy provided it works continues to work within the Bondslave MC by laws. If you feel a draw upon your heart and are interested in becoming involved in this ministry then contact us thru this website. We would like to hear from you.
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