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THE LOCAL CHURCH

A Local Church is the local congregation of the Methodist Church meeting together as one for public worship and organized into Class/House Fellowship under the supervision of one Church Council.

Members include Junior Members, Members-on-Trial, Full Members, Catechumens, and Adherents.

Stages of Admission and Training

Children

  1. Baptism
  2. A period as Junior Members
  3. Confirmation, after a period of preparation

Adults

  1. Admission and training into Catechumens’ Class
  2. Baptism
  3. A period as Members-on-Trial
  4. Confirmation with a signed vow of commitment

Confirmation

Confirmation is done by the Bishop during a divine service with the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper and submission of a signed Vow of Commitment to Christ.

The Church Council

General

The governing body of a Local Church, chaired by the Presbyter, and responsible for administration, discipline, and spiritual direction.

Composition

Functions

Church Officers

Class and House Fellowship Leaders

Responsible for pastoral care, fellowship, and collecting dues from their members.

Church Steward

Coordinates services, manages funds and collections, and ensures smooth operation of church meetings.

Relief Fund Steward

Administers the Relief Fund and supports the needy.

Church Property Steward

Maintains church buildings, furniture, and reports to the council.

Committees

Trust Committee

Oversees church property and legal trust matters.

Welfare Committee

Coordinates welfare activities like hospital and orphanage visits and manages welfare funds.

Evangelism & Outreach Committee

Drives outreach efforts and Lay Preacher development, supports Sunday school, Bible studies, and discipleship.

Marriage Committee

Conducts seminars, investigates marital sincerity, and organizes Methodist-standard ceremonies.

Church Life

Class & House Fellowship Meetings

Weekly fellowships for spiritual growth and mutual support, typically with 12–25 members.

Weekly Classes

General Church Meeting

Open to all members, includes testimonies, reports, announcements, and updates on church progress and finances.