Pre-membership Screening

About 15 years ago we included in our bylaws that no one will be considered for membership unless/until they complete 6 months of regular attendance. This has worked well for us in two ways. First, we get to know them to a much greater degree. Second, they get to know us and who we are and, better still, if this is where the Lord wants them to serve. Most have expressed appreciation for this method, as they can feel comfortable in knowing that they are not going to be badgered by the members to join.If they express a desire to join, then we have the time to check out previous church membership etc. They must agree with our statement of faith and our bylaws, and sign an application for membership which also states that they do agree. They must meet with the Deacons, who will then recommend them to the church at a membership meeting. All this has served to almost eliminate the "revolving door syndrome".When a person is accepted for membership he/she is sure of us and we are sure of them.

 

An Australian Perspective ...

At the church I'm a member of, we haethe following requirements,

attendance for at least 6 months,

baptism, doesn't matter where as long as it was by immersion as a beliver

acceptance of (not necessaraly full understanding of) the church's "Statement of Belief" and church bylaws.

interview by two members who report to the diaconate, then to the church members meeting and acceptance by the church membership.

A letter of commendation from a previous church they were part of is useful (if seeking a transfer), but no guarentee of acceptance. All go through the above process.

Regards
Bob

 

Depends on what a church wants. If they want just numbers don't require anything. If a church wants to head off future problems have some guidelines.