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Preparation for Church membership begins immediately after the commitment is received.

1 )

The pastor writes a personal letter to each individual, expressing his joy over the decision, assuring him of a pastoral call at the earliest convenient time, and outlining the plan for membership preparation classes and Membership Sunday.

Some pastors write a letter the same night the decision is reported by the visitors.

It should not be postponed later than the next day.

A helpful leaflet may be enclosed in the letter.

2 )

The pastor calls in the home of each individual or family for a spiritual guidance conference.

If possible, he should make an appointment in order that all persons involved may be present.

This is not a social call.

It is definitely a `` spiritual guidance conference ''.

He will discuss the significance of Christian commitment, the necessity of family religion and private devotions, and the importance of the membership preparation sessions.

There may be problems of conduct or questions of belief which will require his counsel.

Each conference should be concluded naturally with prayer.

A piece of devotional material, such as The Upper Room, may be left in each home.

3 )

A minimum of four sessions of preparation for membership is necessary for adults.

Some churches require more.

None should ask less.

Those who join the Church need to be instructed in the faith and the meaning of Christian discipleship before they take the sacred vows.

They will have a greater appreciation for the Church and a deeper devotion to it if membership requires something of them.