|
This is a sovereign and democratic Baptist Church under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. The membership retains unto itself the exclusive right of self-government in all phases of the spiritual and temporal life of the church. The membership reserves the exclusive right to determine who shall be members of this church and the conditions of such membership.
Any person may become a candidate for membership when the invitation is given during any church worship service. A candidate will be considered for membership under any one of the following provisions:
- By profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
- By acceptable letter from another Baptist church of like faith and order.
- By a person's statement of salvation, by admission of being of like faith and order, when no letter is obtainable.
- By special circumstances (other than stated in parts A, B, C above) that will be referred to the membership committee for consideration.
Membership in New Hope Baptist Church is a privilege that requires certain responsibilities. Members are expected to be faithful in attendance, to give scripturally of their possessions and time to the ministry of the church, and to share in its organized work.
Every member of the church may:
- vote at all elections and on all questions submitted to the church in conference, provided the member is present or provision has been made for absentee balloting by the church,
- participate in the ordinances of this church,
- be considered by the membership as a candidate for elective office in the church, provided qualifications are met,
- qualify as a member in good standing if the person accepts the church's Constitution and By-Laws, the Church Covenant, and the Baptist Faith and Message.
Members should endeavor, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, to live up to these requirements by systematically supporting the church in attendance, stewardship, and ministry to others.
It shall be the practice of the church to emphasize to its members that every reasonable measure will be taken to assist any member. The pastor, ministerial staff, and deacons are available for counsel and guidance. The attitude of members toward one another shall be guided by concern for redemption rather than punishment.
|
|
