This petition is not an attack on the current elders, ministers, or staff; or an accusation of any wrongdoing or ill intent. It is an expression of our love for White Oak and our desire to protect a healthy, accountable church for future generations.

We are members and supporters of White Oak Christian Church who care deeply about our church and its future. We believe transparency, accountability, and meaningful congregational participation help build the trust that holds our church community together.

We are asking members to vote NO on the proposed bylaws in their current form and to work together on revisions that strengthen the church while preserving the congregation’s voice.

At the November 1, 2026, informational meeting, church leadership acknowledged that the proposed bylaws would remove significant congregational voting rights. This includes the existing process for members to initiate a recall of an elder or senior minister.

When members asked what would happen if serious concerns arose about leadership, the discussion emphasized trust in the elders, communication with them, and accountability within the elder team. Leadership also acknowledged that the proposed bylaws do not preserve the current congregational recall process.

Trust is important, but trust and accountability should work together. Written safeguards protect the congregation, the church, and the elders themselves. They are especially important when considering who may lead White Oak 10, 20, or 30 years from now.

During the meeting, it was also suggested that people who are dissatisfied with a church may leave. But White Oak is more than an organization to many of us—it is our spiritual home. Members should be able to respectfully ask questions, raise concerns, and participate in important decisions without feeling that leaving is their only meaningful option.

Congregational participation matters for another reason. White Oak reserves the role of elder for men. The ability to nominate and vote for elders gives women in the congregation a way to help shape the leadership of the church they serve and support. Those voices should remain part of the process.

We recognize that updating the bylaws may be necessary and that some proposed provisions could strengthen the church. We believe those improvements can be made without removing the congregation’s existing protections.

We respectfully ask White Oak’s leadership and congregation to:

Vote NO on the proposed bylaws in their current form.

Preserve meaningful congregational voting, nomination, and recall rights.

Establish a clear, independent process for members to raise serious concerns about leadership.

Provide documented answers about financial oversight, leadership accountability, and the congregation’s role before a revised proposal is brought to a vote.

Allow additional time for members to provide feedback and participate in revisions.

Confirm that respectfully raising concerns or disagreeing with leadership will not jeopardize a member’s standing in the church.

Again, this petition is not an attack on the current elders, ministers, or staff. It is an expression of our love for White Oak and our desire to protect a healthy, accountable church for future generations.

Our Church. Our Faith. Our Shared Responsibility.

Please sign to support a NO vote on the proposed bylaws and a more collaborative, transparent process for shaping White Oak’s future.