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PREPARATORY MEMBERSHIP RITUAL
A/360. (Ritual other than questions and answers is optional.)
(Those who are to be received as preparatory members shall
be called forward by name, and the pastor, addressing the people,
shall say:)
Dearly beloved, that none may be admitted into the Free Methodist
Church without instruction, we receive persons who seek fellowship
with us into preparatory membership, during which they may be properly
instructed, and also give proof, both to themselves and to the church,
of the sincerity and depth of their convictions and of the strength
and purpose of their desire to lead a new life.
(Then addressing the persons seeking admission as preparatory
members, the pastor shall say:)
Beloved in the Lord, you have by the grace of God made your
decision to follow Christ and to serve Him. Your confidence in so
doing is to be based not on any notion of fitness or worthiness
in yourselves, but on the gracious promise of God, through our Lord
Jesus Christ who loved us and gave himself for us.
That the church may know your purpose, will you please answer the
following questions:
- 1. Do you have the assurance that God has forgiven your sins
through faith in Jesus Christ?
Answer: I have.
- 2. Are you willing to receive membership instruction as offered
by our church?
Answer: I am.
- 3. Have you received Christian baptism?
Answer: Yes or no.
If not, will you receive this sacrament at a duly appointed time?
Answer: Yes.
- 4. You have been won to Christ. Will you endeavor to win others
to Christ and the church?
Answer: I will.
(Then shall the pastor say:)
On behalf of the Free Methodist Church and in the hope that
you will go forward to complete membership therein, I extend to
you a cordial welcome.
(Then shall the pastor offer extemporaneous prayer.)
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