Читать книгу The Standard Manual for Baptist Churches онлайн

18 страница из 35

Note 2.—While the churches do not require candidates to sign any creed, confession, or articles of faith, yet they do expect a substantial agreement in matters of faith and practice on their part as essential both to the comfort of the individual, and the harmony of the body.

Note 3.—Should any member object to the reception of a candidate, such reception should be deferred, in order to consider the reasons for the objection. Objections judged groundless or unreasonable should not prevent the reception of a suitable candidate; yet no one should be received except by a unanimous or nearly unanimous vote.

Note 4.—It is customary for candidates, after their experience or letters have been presented, to retire while the church deliberates and acts upon their case.

Note 5.—Any member in good standing, is entitled, at any time, to a letter of dismission, in the usual form, with which to unite with another church of the same faith and order.

Note 6.—Letters are usually made valid for six months only, during which time they must be used, if used at all. But if held longer, they may be renewed by the church, if satisfactory reasons are given for their non-use.

Правообладателям