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.►•' '••«^'^ ^^ ^*,
^; N> s
DOCTRINE,
CONSTITUTION AND DISCIPLINE
OF THE
UNITED BRETHREN IN CHRIST.
SKVENTH EDITION-
CIRCLEVILLE, O.
'''RINTED A.T THE CONFEXENCB OTT'CV
1845,
01 THE
UNITED BRETHREN IN CHRliil
In the eighteenth century, it pleascci the Lord our God to awaken persons m different parts oF the worldj vvlVo should raise up the Christian religion from its fallen state, and preach the Gos[i»el of Christ crucified in its purity.
About the middle of the said century the Lord, in mercy, remembered the Germans of America, who, living scalj- tfered in this extensive country, had but seldom an opportunity to hear the gos- pel of a crucified Saviour preached to them, in their native language.
Ahiongst others, he raised up William Otterbein and Martin Boehm, in the State of Pennsylvania, and George A. Gecting m the State of Maryland,^ — armed them 'vvith spirit, grace and strength, to labot
4 rMTED BntTiiF{L?T
in His neglected vineyfird, and to call, "among the Gernnans in America, sinnera to repentance. These men obeyed the ♦^all of their Lnrd and Master; their la- bors were blessed; they established, in many places, excellent societies, and led many precious souls to Jesus Christ. Their sphere of action spread more and more, so that they found it necessary to look about for more feliow-laborers, to ' f ngage in the vineyard of the Lord, for the harvest was great, and the laborers but few. The Lord called others, who were willing to devote their strength to his «='ervice; such, then, were accepted by one or the other of the preachers, as fellow-laborers.
The number of members in the soci- ety, in different parts of the country, con- tinued to increase from time to time; and the gracious work of reformation spread through the States of Pennsylvania, Ma- ryland, and Virginia, Several great meet- ings were appointed, and held annually^ 'ivhen, on such occasions, Olterbein would
\
DISCIPLINE. 5
)ioltl particular cotiversationa with the preachers then present, represent to them the importance of the ministry, and the necessity of their utmost endeavors to save souls. At one of these meetings, it was resolved to hold a conference with all the preachers, in order to take into consideration, how, and in what manner they might he most useful.
The first Conference was held in the city of Baltimore, Md., in the year of our Lord, 1789. The following preach- ers were present, viz:
WM- OtTERBEIN, AdA3I LEHrifAX,
M.A.RTi>f BoEHM, John Ernst,
Geo. a. Geetinq, Henry Weidner, CiVn. Newcomer. The second Conference was held in Paradise township, York Co., Pa , at the house of Bro. Spangler, in the year of our Lord, 179 L The following preach- ers were present, viz: \Vm. Otterbein, John Ernst,
i\1aRTIN BoEILM, J. (ir. P.FREM3XER^
6 Ux^IITED BRETHREN
Geo. a. Geeting, JoifM Neidig, Ch''n. Newcomer, Benedict Sant-er. Adam Lehman.
After mature deliberation, how they rnight labor most usefully in the vineyard of the Lord, they again appointed such, as fellow-laborers, of whom they had cause to believe, had experienced true religion in their own souls.
\n the mean time, the number of mem- bers continued to increase, and the prea- chers were obliged to appoint an Annual Conference, irj order to unite themselves more closely, and to labor more success fully in the vineyard of the Lord; for, some had been Presbyterians or German Reformed, some Lutherans, and others Menonists. They accordingly appointed a Conference, to be held on the 25th of September, 1800, in Frederick Co., Md., at the house of Bro. Frederick Kemp. The following preachers were present^ viz:
Wm. Otterbetn, CnHi^TiAN Kruj-^j Maftin Bofiim, Henry Krum.
discipline. 7
'Geo. a. Geeting, John Hershey, Ch^n. NewcomeRj Jacob Geisingek. Adam Lehman, Henry Boehbi,
Abra'm Dracksel, Diet'k AurauFj I. G. Pfremmer.
There they united themselves into a Society which bears the name, ^'UNITED BRETHREN IN CtCRlST," and elect-^ ed WiUiam Otterhein a.nd Martin Boehn, as superintendents or bishops5and agreed that each of them should be at liberty, as to the mode and manner of baptism, to perform it according to their own con- victions.
From this time, the society increasing still, more and more, preachers were ap- pointed to travel regularly, inasmuch as the number of preaching places could not otherwise be attended to; and the work spread itself into the States of Ohio and Kentucky. It then became ne- cessary to appoint a Conference in the State of Ohio, because it was conceived too laborious for the preachers who la- bored in those States, to travel, annual-
o UNITEt) BRETHREN
ly, sucha great distance to the Confer- ence.
In the mean time, Brothers Boehm and Geeting d'xed, and Brother OUerbein desi- red that another Bishop should be elect- ed, (because infirmity and old age would not permit him to superintend any lon- ger,) who should take charge of the So- ciety, and preserve discipline and order. It was resolved at a former Conference, that, whenever one of the bishops died, another should be elected in his place: accordingly, Brother Christian Keiccom- er was elected bishop, to take charge of and superintend the concerns of the So- ciety.
The want of a Discipline in the So- ciety had long been deeply felt, and par- tial attempts having been made at differ- ent times, it was resolved at the Con ference held in the State of Ohio, that a GeDcral Conference should be held in order to accomplish the same, in a manner not de- rogatory to the word of God. The mem- bers of this Conference were to be elect-
DISCIPLINE.
ed from among the preachers, in the dif- lerent parts of" the country, by a vote of the Society in general. The following Brethren were duly elected, viz: Ch'n. Newcomer, Daniel Trever,
Abr'm. Hiestand, Andrew Zeller, Christian Berger, Abraham Meyer, John Schneider, Henry Kumler,
Geo. Benedum, Abr'm. Tracksel, Henry G.Spayth, I. Nighswanger, Christian Krum, Jacob Bowlus. The Conference convened on the 6th day of June, 1815, near Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland Co., Pa. After a mature deliberation, they presented to their brethren a discipline, containing the doc- trine and rules of the church, desiring that they, together with the word of God, should be strictly observed.
God is a God oforder, but where there is no order, nor Church Discipline, the spirit of love and charity will be lost.
Therefore, brethren, we beseech you to follow the example of our Lord: as it is written: "Be kindlv aireclionalc one
10 UNITED BRETHREN
to anotliei with brotherly love, in hon- or preferring one another. Let the mind be in you which was in Christ, who took ypon Iliraself the form of a servant, hum- t)led himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross," that by his grace we may submit ourselves <me to another in the fear of God. He who will not submit is in want of humble love. Jesus said: ''Whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your ser- vant. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, If ye have love one to another; and whoso loveth not his brother abideth in death." Let us walk in newness of life, that the prayer of our Lord may be ans\vei<ed in us: that we may be one in hiiYii and that he may |fil give us the glory which he gave to, hU- disciples, that we may be one even as ffe and the Father are one. Therefore, be- loved brethren, let us strive to be like minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind Let no one speak or think evil of his brother, but
DISCIPLINE. 1 1
pray God, that He may grant us His Spi- rit, and an earnest desii'G to lead a truly devoted life, to the honor and glory of His holy name: Amen.
12 UNITED BRETHREN-
SECTFON I. Canfessioii of JFitltli,
In the name of God we declare and confeis befcjre all men, that, We believe in th^ only true God, the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost: That these Three are One, the Father in the Son, the Son in the Father, and the Holy Ghost equal in essence or bains: with boih: That this Triune God created the heavens and the earth, and all that in ihem is, visible as well as invisible, and furthermore, sus- tains, governs, protects, and supports the same.
We believe in Jesus Christ: That He is very God and man: That He became incarnate by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the virgin Mary, and was born of her: That He is the Saviour and ]\lei* dialer of the whole human race, if they with full faith in him, accept ihe grace proflered in Jesus: That this Jesus suf- iered and died on the Cross for us, was buried, arose again on the third day, as- cended into He:u'en, and sittcth ou th.'^
i)]SC-irLL\E. 13
right hand of God, to intercede for us: and. that he shall come again at the last day, to judge the quick and the dead.
We believe in the Holy Ghost: that lie is equal in being with the Father-and the Son : and that lie comforts the faith- ful, and guides them into all truth.
We believe in a holy Christian! Church, the communion ofsaints, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting.
We believe that the Holy Bible, old and new testaments, is the word of God: That it contains the only true way to our salvation: That every true chris- tian is bound to acknowledge and receive it with the influence of the Spirit of God, as the only rule and guide: and that without faith in Jesus Christ true repen- tance, forgiveness of sins, and following after Christ, no one can be a true chris- tian.
We also hclievG, that what is conl^j'n- ed in the Holy Scriptures, to wtt : The fall in Adam, and redemption through
M- TJNITEI) BKEtIlR£r?
Jesus Cliiist, shall be preached through^ out the world.
We believe that th^ ordinances, name- ly, baptism, and the remembrance of the sufferings and death of oar Lord Jesuo Christ, are to be in use, and practised by all christian societies: And that it is in- cumbent on all the children of God, par- ticularly, to practise them: but the man- n'er in which, ought always to be left to the judgment and understanding of every individual: Also, the ex^ample of wash- ing feet, is left to the judgment of every one, to practise or not; but it is not be- coming for any of our preachers or mem^ bers to traduce any of their brethren' whose judgment and understanding, in this respect, are different from their own, either in public or private. Whosoever shall make himself guilty in this respect, shall be considered a traducer of his brethren, and shall be answerable for th© same.
DrscirLiNE. 15
b'ECTfON II. Coustitutioii.
We, the members of the Church of the UNITED BRETHREN IN CHRIST, in the name of God, do, for the perfect- ing of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, as well as to produce and secure a uniform mode of action, in faith a«d practice, as also to define the povversand the business of Quarterly, Annual, and General Conferences, as recognized by this Church, ordain the following articles of CONSTITUTION.
ARTICLE 1.
Section 1. — All ecclesiastical power herein granted, to make or repeal any rule of discipline, is vested in a General Conference, which shall consist of El- ders elected by the members in every Con. District throughout the Society: Provided, however, such Elders shall have stood in that capacity three years, in the conference district to which th^y belong.
16 UNITED BRETHREN
Sec. 2. — General Conference is to be held every four years: the Bishops to be considered members and presiding offi- cers.
Sec. 3. — Each AnnualConferenceshaH place before the Society the names of all the Elders eligible to membership in the General Conference.
ARTICLE 11.
Section l.~ The General Conference shall define the boundaries of the Annu- al Conferences.
Sec, 2.~The General Conference shall, at every session, elect Bishops from among the Elders, throughout the church, who have stood six years in that capacity.
Sec. 3. — The business of each Annual Conference shall be done strictly, accor- ding to discipline; and any Annual Con- ference acting contrary thereunto, shall, by impeachmentj be tried by the General Conference.
Sec. 4.— No rule or ordinance shall at any time be passed, to change or do
DISCIPLINE 17
away the Confession of Faith as ii now stands, nor to destroy the itinerant plan.
.Sec. 5. — There shall no rule be adop- ted that will infringe upon the rights of any as it relates to the mode of Baptism, the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, or the washing of feet.
Sec. 6. — There shall be no rule made that will deprive local preachers of their votes in the Annual Conferences to which they severally belong.
Sec. 7. — There shall be no connection with secret combinations, nor shall in- voluntary servitude be tolerated in any way.
Sec, 8, — The right of appeal shall be inviolate.
ARTICLE III.
The right, title, interest, and claim of all property, whether consisting in lots of ground, meeting houses, legacies, be- quests, or donations of any kind, obtain- ed by purchase or otherwise, by any per- son or persons, for the use, benefit, and behoof of the Church of the United 1*
18 UNITED BRETHREN
Brethren in Christ, is hereby fully recog xiized and held to be property of the Church aforesaid.
ARTICLE IV.
There shall be np alteration of the foregoing constitution, unless by request of two-thirds of the whole Society.
May 19, 1841.
SECTION III. Ceueral Coufcrence.
Question 1st. — Who are the members of the General Conference? OCrSee Constitution. Ques, 2. — How are they to be elected?
^715. 1. — It shall be the duty of each annual Conference to appoint a committee of three, in their several conference dis- tricts, to receive and count the votes, and immediately apprize those who may have been elected: also, to furnish the Presi- ding Elders with a list of all the elders eligible,
2. — The Presiding Elders shall furnish each preacher in charge, whose duty it
DISCII'LLXE. 19
shall be to furnish each class leader or steward, tiiroughout tke circuits, with a copy of the same, at least ten months be- fore the silting of General Conference, and the election to be held invariably on the first Saturday of November next, precedinj^ the Gen. Conference through- out the Church.
3. — It shall be the duty of each class leader or steward, to appoint a meeting of the membars of each class, for the purpose of electing, by ballot or other- wise, their delegates to represejU them in General Conference.
4 — It shall be the duty of each class leader, or steward, to sign, enclose, and seal each bill of election, and keep a cor- rect copy of the same, stating what class and circuit, hand it over to the preacher in charge, who shall deliver it to the Pre- siding Elder, whose duty it shall be to transmit it to the committee appointed by the Annual Conference.
5. — Said committee shall make a list of all the persons voted for, and of the
20 UNITED BRETHREN
number of votes for each. And should any two or more of the candidates have an equal number of votes, the committee shall determine, by lot, who, or which of them are elected. They shall also for- ward the names of those elected to the Conference Printing Establishment for publication, and if one or more of the brethren highest on the bill of election should be prevented by death, sickness, or otherwise, from attending, it shall be the duty of the tellers to notify the next liighest on the bill, to take his place.
Ques. 3. — What shall be the number of delegates to General Conference?
Ans — Three from each Annual Con- ference District.
Ques. 4. — How shall the expenses of ^the delegates to the General Conference 'be defrayed?
Ans. — When the classleader or stew- •ard takes the vote for delegates to Gen- •eral Conference, he shall lift a collection :for that purpose, which he shall remit
DISCIPLINE. 21
to the committee, who are to count the votes, and the committee shall pay it over to the delegates elected.
SECTION IV. Auiiiial Conference.
Qiies. 1. — Who are the members of this Conference?
Ans. — All the elders and licentiate preachers, who have bet n duly received by the Conference, but, when such licen- tiate preachers are proposed for ordina- tion, the Elders only shall determine the same by vote.
Ques. 2. — In what manner are the transactions of a Conference to be con- ducted?
Ans, 1, — A portion of Scripture shall b3 read: also singing and prayer each day, at the opening and at the closing of Conference.
2. — The Conference shall elect two Secretaries, one German, and one Eng- lish, wherever it may be necessary. And when but one Bishop is present, the Con*
22 UNITED BRETIiriEN
ference shall elect a chairman by ballot to act in conjunction with the Bishop.
3. — The preachers shall be c.xannined respecting their deportment towardstht ir fellow-beings, whether their conduct in life be blameless, and whether they e*^i- ploy as much time as possible to promote the kingdom of God; according to Titus 1st cp. 7th to 9th V. and 2d Tim. 2d cp. 15 v., and shall be admonished or advised as the case may be.
The following questions shall then be asked:
1. — Have any of the preachers died during the last 3^ear?
2. — Who are the candidates for the ministry ?
3. — Are any to be ordained to the office of Elder?
4. — What has been collected for con- tingent expenses and the salary of tra- velling preachers?
6. — [fas reckoning been made with the travelling preachers?
6.-i~Have they received their dues?
DISCIPLINE. 23
7. — Who are willing to travel the en suing year, without reserve? "
8. — Who are the Presiding Elders?
9 — Where are the preachers station- ed this year?
10. — No preacher shall arbitrarily form a mission, or circuit, within the em brace of any circuit, or Presiding Elders district.
1 1. — Where shall our next Conference beheld?
12. — Is there any thing else to be done?
13. — Is all that has been done entered upon record?
SECTION' V. Reception of Preacliers.
Ques. 1. — How are the preachers re- ceived?
Arts. — Every person proposed as a preacher, shall be examined by the Con- ference, or a select committee; and the following questions shall be put to him, viz:
24 UNITED BRETHREN
Have you known God in Christ Jesus to be a sin pardoning God.
Have you now peace with God, and is the love of God shed abroad in your heart by the Holy Spirit?
Do you follow after holiness?
Do you believe the Bible to be the word of God; and that therein is contained the true way lo our salvation?
What foundation have you for that belief?
What is your motive for desiring per- mission to preach the gospel ?
What is your knowledge of faith, of depravity, of repentance, justification, sanctification, and redemption?
Does your own salvation, and the sal- vation of your fellow mortals, lie nearer to your heart than all other things in the world?
Can you subject yourself to the coun- sel of your brethren?
Are you satisfied with our church go- vernment?
DISCIPLINE. 25
Will you be obedient and ready to speak or hold your peace, as your breth- ren may think expedient?
Are you willing, as much as is in your power, to assist in upholding the itine- rant plan, and supporting the same as much as possible?
IT None can be admitted without hav- ing a recommendation from the Quarter- ly Conference, and then only to be re- ceived on probation for the term of three years, but if Conference should on ex- amination, find that his abilities are in- sufficient to preach the gospel, it may re- fer him back to the Quarterly Confer- ence for further instruction, or reject him, as the case may be.
SECTION vr. Course oK Reading^.
Holding that at least a measureable knowledge of the Holy Bible is requisite for any one, to fit him for the Christian Ministry, therefore, the following ar- rangement of the great features of ^hr^
26 UiMTED BRETHllEN
Holy Scriptures, in regular order, is con- sidered by us advisable, and also, an as- sistant to a proposed Minister in the stu- dy thereof, therefore, none shall be ad- mitted to membership into an Annual Conference, who does not apply himself diligently to the study of the following particulars, viz: The Doctrine — Biogra- phy— Geography — History and Chronolo- gy of the Bible.
SECTION VII. Itinerant Plan.
Atevery Annual Conference after the present General Conference, the Bishop shall ask the following questions.
Ques. — Who are willing to travel with- out reserve?
1. Those who answer the question in the affirmative, and are placed on a cir- cuit, station or mission, by the stationing Committee, shall be considered Itinerant preachers from year to year. Provided, however, that if the Stationing Commit- tee see proper at a future time to leave
DISCIPLLNE. 27
any of the Itinerant brethren without an appointment, he shall not he debarred from his interest in funds belonging to said Conference.
2. — If any who are received as above stated, shall cease to travel without giv- ing satisfaction to the Conference of which he is a member, he shall not be entitled to any support from the funds be- longing to said Conference. And, fur- thermore, he shall not re-enter the Itine- rancy without the consent of at least two-thirds of the Conference.
3. — All who from time to time, propose joining the Itinerancy, must come in ac- cording to the above named plan.
Ques. — What shall be done for the support of the Itinerancy ?
Ans. — See Discipline^ Section xix.
Ques. — What shall be done for ihe sup- port of the P. Elder's?
Ans. — It shall be the duty of each An- nual Conference to make such regula- tions for the support of the Presiding J'Dders, as Ihey in their wisdom may think
28 UNITED BRETHREN
best calculated to accomplish the desi- red end.
Ques, — What shall be done to regulate the Annual Conference in the division of Circuits?
Ans. — The Annual Cohference shall appoint a comnnittee, whose duty it shall be to divide a Circuit when necessary. A Circuit for a married man shall con- sist of at least two hundred members; for a married and single man, three hun- dred members, and so on in proportion. This is not, however, to be so construed as to interfere with missions, or stations.
2. — 1 f a Station is desired by any class, it shall be made known to the preacher in charge, whose duty it shall be to call a meeting of the male members, and state the matter to them fairly, and if {wc- thirds of them are then in favor of it, and think that they can support a sta- tion, they shall then be advised to peti- tion the Annual Conference to have it granted. The Conference, however, shall not grant a Station, if by so doing, they
DISCIPLINE. 29
shall ascertain that it will so weaken the circuit, that it will not be ab'e to support a preacher.
3. — It shall be the duty of all Station- ed preachers to visit every family under their charge, at* least once every quarter, and pay strict attention to the young members of their charge.
4. — It shall be the duty of Circuit preachers to visit as much as possible.
May 19, 1845.
SECTION viri. Quarterly Conference,
Ques, 1. — Whoare the members of the Quarterly Conference?
Ans. — All the properly recognized preachers, exhorters, leaders, stewards, and Trustees of Meeting Houses; who reside within the bounds of the circuit or station.
Ques. 2. — What is the business of the Quarterly Cpnference?
Ans. 1. — To elect a secretary whose duty it shall be to keep a correct record of all their proceedings, in a book pro*
3U UNITED BRETHREN
vided for that purpose, in which the names of all the members, composing the said Conference, shall be entered.
2. — To make a general, or, if neces- sary, a particular enquiry into the mo- ral deportment of all its menbers.
3. — To receive and try all appeals, re- ferences, and complaints, that may come regularly before them, but no member of Quarterly Conference can be suspen- ded, or expelled, prior to a committee trial.
4. — To grant license to exhort, or preach, to such as may have been re- commfii.ded by, at least, two-thirds of the class of which he or they are members: provided, however, that none shall re- ceive license who cannot give satisfacto- ry evidence of his or their call, experi- ence, soundness in doctrine, and attach- ment to our church and government.
5. — To make settlement with the stew- a.<l-5 and travelling preachers.
(J — Tijui \\\e licciiscoi' pxhorter-;, and
DTSCIFLINK. 31
Quarterly Conference licenced preachers, be subject to a renewal annually.
v.— And that after such licentiate preachers have stood in that capacity one, or more years, the Quarterly Conference may recommend Ihem to the Annual Con- ference.
8.— All preachers recommended to the Annual Conference, and not received, may sustain their former relation.
Ques, 3. — How are preachers from other societies received?
Ans. — If they come to us with certifi- cates of good standing in the society in which they have had membership, and give satisfaction to the Quarterly Con- lerence, of their willingness to conform to our church government and usages, then the Quarterly Conference may li- cense them till the next Annual Confer- ence ensuing; after which, if their con- duct is in accordance with the Gospel of Christ, they may be considared as prea- chers or elders, \\\\o stand under a simi- lar license among us.
32 UNITED BRETHREN
Ques. 4. — What directions are neces- sary in case of appeals?
Ans. — Any exhorter, or preacher, dis- satisfied with the decision of a Quarterly Conference, shall, within thirty days af- ter the Quarterly Conference, notify the secretary, in writing, of his intention to appeal, together with his reasons for so. doing; and it shall be the duty of the sec- retary to take or send a certified copy of the proceedings, the notifications and rea- sons assigned, to the Annual Conference.
Ques. 5. — Where shall our next Quar- terly Conference be held?
It shall also be the duty of the Quar- terly Conference to open and close by singing and prayer.
SFOTION IX. iriembers in General.
Ques. — How shall members be taken into our society?
Ans. — When, at any meeting, a per- son makes known a design to become a
DISCIPLINE. 33
tt4ember of our society, then the preacher present shall put the following question :—
*'Have you experien<!ed the pardon of your sins, and are you determined, by the grace of God-, to save your soul?"
If the person answers the question ia the affirmative, and no objection be made by any member, on account of his or her immoral conduct, then the preacher will give his right hand to such, as a member of our society, and record his or her name on the class book ; but so long as any per- son cannot answer the above question in the affirmative, such person shall not be considered in full membership, and shall have no vote in the society.
Every member of this society shall acknowledge and confess that he believes the Bible to be, and contain, the holy word of God : that be will henceforth strive, with all his heart, to seek his eter- nal welfare in Christ Jesus, and work out his salvation with fear and trembling, to the end that he may be enabled iojlee from the wrath to come!
Every member shall endeavor to leacJ 2
34 UNITED BRETBREN
a good life, be diligent in prayer, parti- cularly in private, and, for his own edifi- cation, to be present at, and attend to, when practicable, all meetings for wor- ship.
Heads of families should never omit to pray with their families, morning and evening, and to set them a good exam- ple in all the christian virtues.
Every one should strive to walk as in the presence of God ; also, to accustom himself to a close communion with God^ in all his employments, and never to speak evil of his fellow beings, but to practise love towards friend and foe; to do good to the poor, and to endeavor to be a follower of Jesus Christ, indeed.
Every one shall keep the Sabbath day holy, as required in the word of God: — neither buy nor sell, but spend the sam« in exercises of devotion, in reading and hearing the word of God, and with sing- ing spiritual hymns to th€ honor and glo- ry of God.
It is the duty of every member to lead a ^uiet, peaceable, and godly life among
DISCIPLINE. 35
men, as it becomes a christian to live in peacej and to be subject to the higher or ruling powers, as the word of God re- quires.
Every member of our society should willingly and freely contribute something quarterly, *'as the Lord has prospered him;" 1 Cor., xvi, 2, towards the support of the itinerant preachers.
When it is known by any of our clas^ leaders, that there are poor members among them, who by sickness, accident^ or by other unavoidable circumstances, have been brought to want, it shall then be the duty of the leader in charge, to go, or appoint one to wait upon the class, to ask alms, money, clothing, or produce, as the circumstances may require, and should any one class be too poor to allc^ viate their poor, it shall then be made known to the preacher in charge, whose duty it shall be to inform the different classes on his circuit, and if it should so happen that any one circuit should be in- sufficient to meet the wants of their poor^ it shall then be the duty of the Presiding
36 UNITED BRETHREN
Elder, to present the matier on the dif- lerent circuits at their Quarterly Con- ferences, so that the unavoidable poor of <our church may be considered, and pro- vided for. 1 John iii. ch. 17 v. — XLI. Psa. 1-2 vrs.
The foregoing rules are drawn up for the better regulation of our society^ and we believe they are founded in the word ■of God, and incumbent en all who are members of our Church to observe-. Should any habitually neglect them, they shall be admonished, and if they do not reform they cannot continue among us.
•SECTION X. Iforining and Meeting Cla,sses«
Whereas, it is made the duty of El- ders and preachers to form and hold class meetings, which should always be done in great moderation and meekness. No member will be allowed to use any means to prevent an Elder or preacher in the discharge of his duty. A member doing so, shall be accountable to the next Quar- terly Conference.
DISCIPLINE. 37
SECTION xr. Classes.
I, — A class shall consist of three or more members, who shall annually elect one member from their own or some other class, who shall be called their leader.
Question. — What is the duty of a lea- der?
Ans. — It shall be his duty to meet his class in prayer meeting or class meeting, at least once a week ; to speak to them concerning the spiritual welfare of their souls, and to exhort ihem to unity and love. And lie shall extend the freedom of our prayer and class meetings to all sincere and well disposed persons who may desire to attend them.
U. — Every class shall annually elect one who shall be called class steward.
Qaes. — What is the duty of a steward?
Ans. 1, — -lie shall collect quarterly contributions for the support of the tra- veling preachers; keep an accurate ac- count thereof, and return the same to each Quarterly Conference.
38 UNITED BRETHREN
2. — He shall be accountable to the Quarterly Conference for the faithful discharge of his duties as steward of his class.
3. — And also, it shall be his duty to provide the elements for Sacrament.
Ques. — What shall be done in case of immoral conduct?
Ans. — The member or members com- plained of, or charged with immorality, shall be tried by the class to which they belong, or a select number thereof cho- sen by the parties concerned, with the preacher in charge of the circuit or sta- tion, who shall be chairman; and, if found guilty, the accused shall be expelled, un- less satisfaction be given by an expres- sion of repentance or otherwise. But, should any member be dissatisfied with the decision, an appeal may be had to the Quarterly Conference, by giving no- lice thereof to the preacher in charge. In such case, however, the same persons shall not sit in judgment on the sanie
case.
DISCIPLINE 39
Ques, — What shall be done when members trespass against each other?
Ans. — "If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother; but, if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more; and if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican."
Ques. — What shall be done in cases of disputes between members or preachers?
Ans. — The preacher to whom it shall be known, shall inquire into the circum- stances of the case, and shall recommend to the contending parties a reference consisting of one arbiter chosen by the plaintiff and another by the defendant, and a third by these two; then thes8 three are to decide.
But, if either be dissatisfied with th« decision, such may have a right to an appeal to the next quarterly conference, for a second arbitration, where each par-
40 UNITED BRETHREN
ty shall choose two arbiters, and the four shall choose a fifth; a decision of a ma- jority of whom shall be final. Any per- son refusing to abide by this decision, — and every member refusing, in cases of debt or other disputes, to refer the mat- ter to arbitration when recommended to him by a preacher or leader; or who shall enter into a lawsuit with another member before these measures are taken, shall be expelled: except when the case is of such a nature as to require and jus- tify a process at law, as executors or administrators, or when a member is in danger of suffering an unexpected loss of property.
Every class leader shall keep a record of the proceedings of church trials, deaths, expulsions, and removals, in a book provided for that purpose; and it shall be his duty, in case of an appeal, to send said record to the Quarterly Con- ference.
Any person wishing to obtain license to exhort or preach, must obtain from the class of which he is a member, by a
msciPLiNij:. 41
vote of two-thirds of the members, a re- commendation in writing, signed by the leader, to the quarterly Conference of his circuit or station.
SECTION xn, Preachers' Duties,
Ques. — What are the duties of prea- chers?
Alls. — To preach Christ crucified when- ever they can get hearers; to form class- es; to converse with the members on the spiritual condition of their souls; to administer relief; to strengthen and di- rect those that are afflicted and labor un- der temptations; to animate the indolent; to endeavor as much as possible to edify and instruct all in faith, in grace, and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ; to visit the sick on all occasions; to strive to en- force and confirm the doctrines they de- liver by a well ordered and exemplary life.
Ques, — What are the directions given to our preachers?
Ans.—Ue diligent. Never trifle away
42 UNITED BRETHKEN
your time unnecessarily; always be se- rious. Lei your motto be, "HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD!" Avoid all light- ness and jesting; converse sparingly; conduct yourself prudently with women; and demean yourself in all respects as a true christian.
Be at all times averse to crediting evil reports; believe evil of no one, without good evidence. Put the best construc- tion on every thing.
2. — Speak evil of no one. Whatever may be your own thoughts, keep them within your own breast, till you can tell the person concerned what you think wrong in his conduct.
3. — Let your business be to save as many souls as possible. To this employ- ment give yourself up wholly. Visit those who need it; and act in all things, not according to your own wills, but as sons in the gospel. For as such it becomes your duty to employ your time in the manner prescribed, in preachmg and visiting from house to house, in instruc- tion and prayer, and in meditating on
DISCIPLINE. 43
the word of God. With these be occu- pied until our Lord comelh.
SECTION XIII. Circuit Preacbers' Duties.
Ques. — What are the duties of a cir- cuit preacher?
Ans. 1. — To take the circuit assign- ed him, willingly.
2. — To attend the appointments on his circuit, regularly; preach to the people; and hold society meetings.
3.— The preacher in charge is to see that there are suitable persons appoint- ed, in each class, as stewards, leader or leaders.
4 — 'To read the following three sec- tions of our discipline, every six montlis, in each class, viz: — The Confession of Fctith — The Duly of Members — and the Duly of Leaders and Stewards.
5. — To sit as president on the trial of members, and see that a correct account of the same is kept.
6. — To render a strict account of the ©Qudition of his eircuii to the Presiding
44 UNITED BRETHREN
Elder, at each quarterly conference, where he is to be held accountable for the neglect of any regular appointments on his circuit.
7. — To give charge to all local agents of the Religious Telescope, to keep an account of all its subscribers in their respective neighborhoods.
8. — To make settlement with the local agents every six months, and render an account thereof to the district agent.
9. — It shall be his duty to keep a list of all the subscribers to our church or- gans, at the difTerent appointments on his circuit, and hand it over to his suc- cessor, at the Annual Conference.
10. — No preacher shall dismiss any appointment from his circuit without the consent of quarterly conference.
1 1. — To make out a list of all the ap- pointments on his circuit, and present it to the Presiding Elder at each Annual Conference, for the convenience of his successor,
12 — It shall be the duty of the prea- chers in charge of circuits and stations
DISCIPLINE. 45
to lift a collection annually at each of their preaching places, for the support of their Bishops.
SECTION XIV.
Elders, tUeir election, Ordination and
I>uty,
Ques. — How is an Elder constituted ?
Ans. — After a probation of three years, a preacher may be presented to the year- ly conference, for consideration; and if on examination, by the conference, he should be chosen as an Elder, he may, by the imposition of hands be ordained by a Bishop and two Elders. Yet cir- (cumstances demanding it, a licentiate may fee presented to conference for ordination, •at any time prior to a probation of three years; provided, so that two-thirds of the Elders present vote for the same.
1 — What is the duty of an Elder?
To preach as often as he can, to bap- tize, administer the Lord^s Supper, sol- emnize Marriage, perform all parts of divine worship, endeavor to establish and
46 UNITED BRETHREN
hold class meeting, and assist in the elec- tion of classleaders, and stewards.
2. — Where a local Elder or preacher, who does not suffer want himself, preach- es at a place where no traveling preach- er comes to, he shall make collections, take a catalogue thereof, and bring or send it to the Presiding Elder, or to the Conference for the support of needy preachers who preach among the poor people.
3. — Should a traveling preacher or el- der desire to leave the district assigned him, he must first acquaint the Presiding Elder of his intention by writing; and should any one leave or neglect his sta- tion, except it be through sickness or other unavoidable circumstances, he shall be accountable to the next Annual Confe- rence, and shall not be entitled to any salary for the time he may have traveled during the year.
4. — 'Where there are preachers found to be settled at a place who are poor and indigent, and yet required to preach, it is reasonable and just that the elders
DISCIPLINE. 47
should provide for their support in pro- portion to the time they may be employ- ed, and by making a collection for their benefit among the societies in their dis- trict, though not to exceed the sum fixed and alotted to the traveling preachers.
SECTION XV. Ordination of Elders.
I.-— On the day appointed there shall be a suitable sermon or exhortation de- livered.
II. — After their names have been read aloud, the Bishop or Elder shall read the following articles to all who may be chosen for ordination-
"An Elder must be blameless as the steward of God, not self willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre. But a lover of hos- pitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; holding faat the faith- ful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convince the gainsayers."— Titus, i, 7—9.
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Ques. — Do you trust that you are in- wardly moved by the Holy Ghost to take upon you the office of the ministry, to serve God in the church of Christ, to the honor and glory of his holy name?
Ans. — I trust I am.
Ques. — Do you believe the Holy Scrip- tures, Old and New Testament?
A71S.—I do believe them.
Ques. — Will you apply all your dili- gence to frame and fashion your life ac- cording to the doctrines of Christ: and to make yourself, as much as in you li- eth, a wholesome example of the iiock of Christ?
Ans. — I will, the Lord being my helper.
Ques. — Will you obey them to whom the charge and government over you is ■committed, and follow their godly admo- nitions with a willing and ready mind?
Ans. — I will endeavor, through the grace of God, so to do.
Then Prayer is to he offered.
[After prayer the Bishop and Elders shall lay their hands upon the heads of every one of them, and say:]
DISCIPLINE. 40
"Take thou authority to execute the office of an Elder in the church of God, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost: Amen."
[Hereupon the Bishap or Rider shall deliver to every one of them the Holy Bible, saying:]
"Take thou authority to read and preach the word of God in the Church of Christ."
[Then the Bishop or Elder shall pray. And after prayer he shall read from Luke, xii, 35 — 38:] "Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning, and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their Lord, when he shall return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they.may open unto him immediately. Blessed are those servants whom the Lord when he cometh, shall find watching. Verily, I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them, And if he shall come in the ?*econd walch, or come in the third 2*
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watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants."
[After this the following benediction is to be pronounced :]
The peace of God keep your hearts and minds in the knoidedge of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
SECTION xvr. Presiding Eltlei-s—Fylection and Duty.
Ques. — How are the Presiding Elders to be elected?
Ans. — They shall be elected annually from among the Elders, who have sus- tained that relation for one, or more years.
Ques. — What are the duties of a Pre- siding Elder?
Ans. 1. — To travel through the dis- trict appointed him, and to preach as of- ten as he can.
2. — He is to take charge of the prea- chers in his district; and to see that they conduct themselves as becometh the gos- pel.
3. — He shall appoint the quarterly and camp meetings, and attend them. He
DISCIPLINE. 51
shall hold Quarterly Conferences wilh the preachers, exhorters, leaders, stewards, trustees, and administer the ordinances, of Godls house. lie shall enquire and ex- amine whether the preachers do their duty, preach every Sabbath, and to ex- hort them to maintain discipline and or- der, love and seriousness in the society.
4. — ^And should any district happen ta be without a Presiding Elder, information shall immediately be given to a Bishopr who shall appoint an Elder to preside ir> said district until the ensuing Annual Conference.
5. — He can also, in conjunction with two elders, preachers, exhorters or lea- ders, [one from each circuit,] change the preachers in his district. Should any circuit be found without a traveling prea- cher, it shall be his duty to employ a preacher to travel on that circuit until the next Annual Conference.
62 UNITED BRETHREN
SECTION XVIf. Ilisliops-«FJection and Dutiei.
Ques. — How are the Bishops to be elected?
^725.— The General Conference shall elect them by a majority of votes; yet, the Conference may, at their option, re- tain the former Bishops four years lon- ger. The newly elected, however, as well as those retained, must be capable of attending the Conferences appointed them: otherwise, they cannot be elected.
Ques. — W hat are the duties of Bishops?
Ans. 1. — To preside over the Annual and General Conferences.
2. — In conjunction with the Presiding Elders, of the past and present years, they are to fix the appointments of the traveling preachers for the several cir- cuits, stations, and missions; Provided, that they do not allowany Itinerant prea- cher to remain in the same station or cir- cuit more than three consecutive years, unless particular circumstances require it; and then only with consent of the Conference,
DISCITLINE. 53
3. — The Bishops, in conjunction with twoel'd-ers appointed by Conference, shall point out the districts which are to he traveled by the Presiding Eiders.
4, — They are to attend to and oversee the spiritual concerns of the church.
5. — It is incumbent on thern to perform the rites of ordination.
6. — When a Bishop neglects his duty, he cannot be suffered to retain his office, unless prevented by sickness or other unavoidable circumstances.
7. — If our Church should, at any time, be destitute of a Bishop, a Chairman shall be elected from among the elders at each Annual Conference. Each chairman shall attend the next succeeding conference, in conjunction with the Chairman there elected^ that a regular correspondence be maintained until the ensuing General Conference.
8. — It shall be the duty of the Bish- ops to see that a suitable sermon be de- livered to the preachers present at each Annual Conference.
64 UNITED BRETHREN
SECTION XVI II. Immoral Conduct of Prcacliers,
Ques. — What shall be done when a Bishop, Presiding Elder, or Preacher, is reported of being guilty of immoralily?
Ans. — When a Bishop is thus accused, it shall be the duty of a Presiding Elder and an Elder, after being duly notified, to enquire into, and examine whether it is founded in truth. But as the apostle says: "Receive not an accusation against an Elder, but before two or three wit- nesses'T?' 1 Tim., v, 19; they shall not ar- raign him on mere vague reports. But if it appears that he is justly accused, they shall arraign him; take down their proceedings in writing, and send a copy thereof to the Bishop accused, and appoint a time and place where the accusers and the accused shall meet; where the case shall be tried by two Presiding Elders and three Elders; and if he is found guilty, he shall hold his peace until the sitting of the Annual Conference next en- suing, who shall again examine and try the said case. And if again found guilty,
DISCIPLINE. 55
he shall be suspended or expelled, as the case may require,
2, — When a Presiding Elder is thus accused, it shall be the duty of the nea- rest Eider, and a Preacher, to enquire into and examine the same; and if the accused be found guilty, they shall take down their proceedings in writing, and send the accused a copy thereof, and ap- point a time and place where the accus- ers and the accused shall meet; and in the absence of the Bishop another Pre- siding Elder, and two Elders, shall ex- amine the charge; and if he is found guilty, he shall hold his peace until the next Annual Conference, where he shall be accountable.
3. — When an Elder or Preacher is charged with immoral conduct, the prea- cher, to whom it is known, shall take with him another preacher, exhorter, or leader, and examine into the charge. Should he be found guilty, notice thereof shall be given him, and a time and place appomted where the accusers and the accused shall meet. Then three Eldeis^
56 UNITED BRETHREN
or Preachers shall try his case, who are to be appointed by the parties concerned, each party appointing one, aod the two a third; and if he be convicted, he shall hold his peace till the Annual Conference, where heshall be accountable. Butshould sufficient satisfaction be given in either of the foregoing cases, by an expression of repentance, or otherwise, they may be retained, if considered expedient. But should the accused Preacher, Elder, or Bishop, refuse to attend, after having been notified of the time and place of trial, he shall be suspended; and the committee shall notify him to appear at the next Quarterly or Annual Confer- ence, to answer to the charges preferred against him; and if he fails to attend, [sickness or unavoidable circumstane^K excepted,] heshall be suspended, or exK pelled as Conference may think propci:^ .
SECTION XIX. Preachers' !$alaries.
1. — The annual allowance of a trav- eling Bishop, or Preacher, if he has no
DISCIPLINE. 67
family, shall be one hundred dollars, and his traveling expenses^ if he has a fa- mily, it shall be two hundred dollars, his traveling expenses and hou^e rent not exceeding forty dollars.
2. — When a traveling preacher has a family of children, the Quarterly Con- ference of his Circuit, is, in that case, to grant him such an allowance, in addition to that above stated, as, in their judg- ment, will supply the wants of his family.
3. — It shall be the duty of the circuit or station, when a preacher is sent to them by Annual Conference, to move said preacher on such circuit or station, at their own expence.
Ques. — What shall be done for the needy, superannuated, or worn out tra- veling preachers, and for their widows and orphans,
Ans. — The dividend falling to the dif- ferent conferences from the benevolent fund, shall be appropriated to their sup- port.— Provided, it be strictly observed that the Benevolent Fund money shall not be appropriated to any other purpose.
50 UNITED BRETIIKEN
If there are no such claimants as the above specified, it shall be retained by the Conference, from year to year, un- til such cases do occur. And in case the Annual Conference shall, upon evidence received, be satisfied that there are such claimants, it shall be the duty of Confer- ence to appoint a committee, one of whom shall be a Bishop, to divide said fund. Provided, however, that a superannuated preacher shall be allowed no more, annu- al ly, that one hundred and fifty dollars, if married, and no more than seventy- five dollars, if unmarried: widows, no more, annually, than seventy five dol- lars: and an orphan no more than twen- ty, while under 12 years of age.
SECTION XX. Marriage Ceremony,
ADDRESS.
We are gathered together in the sight of God, and in the presence of these wit- nesses, to join together N, and M. as husband and wife. If any persons pre- sent know any just cause or impediment
DISCITLINE. " 59
why ihosG persons sliould not bo joined in nnarriage, let the same now speak, or forever hereafler keep silent.
[If no impedinnent be alleged, then shall tlie minister say unto the man:]
N., Wilt thou have this women to thy wedded wife, to live together after God\s ordinance? Wilt ihou love, honor, and comfort her in sickness and in health, in prosperity and adversity; and forsa- kmg all others, keep thee only unto her so long as ye both shall live? If so then answer, '-Yes."
[Then shall the Minister say to the woman :]
M., VVilt thou have this man to thy wedded husband, to live together after God''s ordinance? Wilt thou love, honor, and obey him, in sickness and in health, in prosperity and adversity; and, forsa- king all others, keep thee only unto him so long as ye both shall live. If so, then answer, '•Yes.'"
(Then the Minister shall require them to join their right hands together, and say]
€0 BiNITED BRETHREN
Those whom God halh joined together, let no man put asunder.
Inasmuch as N. and M. have consent- ed together in marriage, and have wit- nessed the same before God and these witnesses, I pronounce them husband and wife, in the name of the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost: Amen:
Ques^ — Who of our ministers are per- mitted to solemnize marriage?
Ans. — All ordained ministers, and also those that hav« obtained license from an Annual Conference, where the law of the State makes it the privilege of every regular licenced minister to solemnize marriage, and none are permitted to sol- emnize marriage with Q«<tr/€r/j/ Confer- ence license.
SECTION xxr. Necessity of Union anaonjr Ourselves.
Let us be deeply sensible (from what we have known,) of the evil of a divis- ion in principle, spirit, or practice, and of the dreadful consequences to ourselves and others. If we are united what can
mSGIPLlRE. 6"t
stand before us? If we are divided, we shall injure ourselves, the work of God, and the souls of our people.
What can be done in order to a closer union with each other?
1. — Let us be d'eeply convinced of the absolute necessity of it.
2, — Pray earnestly for, and speak tru- ly and freely to each other.
3\ — When we meet let ws never part without prayer.
4. — Take great care nat to despise each other's gifts.
5. — Never speak lightly ofeach other.
6. — Let us defend each other's charac- ters in every things so far as is consis- tent with truth.
7. — Labor, in honor, each, to prefer another before himself.
8. — We recommend a serious exami- nation of the causes, evils and cures of heart and church divisions.
/'
62 UNITEij liI<]:TIIRK?(
SKCTION XXII.
Visiting CvoiH Blouse to House, and cua iorcint^ Practical Ueii^ioii.
Ques. — flow can we lurthcr assist those under our care?
Ans. K — By instruciing them at their own houses, which is necessary to pro- mote coufidence and communion with God among up, to wean us from the love of the world, and to mure us to a life of heaven- ly mindedness; also, to encourage us to strive after and practise brotherly love, that no evil thinking or judging of one another be found among us; and, lastly, that vve may learn to do as we would v/ish to be done unto.
2. — Every preacher should make it bis duty to instruct the people on every occasion, both public and private; and exhort them to be diligent in all good works and doctrine. Until this be done, and that in sincerity, we shall, upon the whole, be of but little use, and our good shall be evil spoken of; therefore, wher- ever we may be we should guard against useless and idle conversation.
DISCIPLINE. G3
Undoubtedly this private application of visiting from house to house, and ex- horting the people, is found or implied in these solemn words of the Apostle:
''I charge thee, therefore, before God, and the I^ord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and dead at Mis appea- ring, and His kingdom; preach the word ; be instant in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long suffering and doctrine,"-II Tim. iv. 1, 2.
SECTION XXIII. Instruction of Cltildren*
What shall be done to benefit the ri- sing generation?
Let him who is in any way zealous for God, and the souls of men, begin the work withoutdelay. Whereverchildren are found, meet them as often as possible; speak freely with them, and instruct them diligently; exhort them to be good, and pray with them, earnestly, yet sim- ply and plainly, that they may learn to know their Creator and Redeemer in the days of their youth.
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SECTrOM XXIV. Doctrinal Publications.
No one of our preachers or laymen shall become the Author of any Doctri- nal Book or Pamphlet, in a printed form, without the approbation of the Annual Conference, or of a committee chosen by the same. And if any preacher or lay- man violates this rule, he shall be ac- countable to the class, or to the Quarterly or Annual Conference, as the case may be.
SECTION XXV. Oatlis.
We believe that the mode of testify- ing to the truth, when required so to do, in a legal form, by way of affirmation, is on us solemnly, conscientiously, and fully binding before God to tell the truth, the whole truth,, and nothing but the tratb.
DISCIPLINE. 65
SECTION XXVI,
Ardent Spirits^
The distilling and vending of ardent spirits shall hereafter be forbidden thro'- ought our whole society. Should any preacher, exhorter, leader, or layman, from and after the next Annual Confer- •ence in 1842, be engaged in distilling or vending ardent spirits, he shall be ac- countable to the class, the quarterly or annual Conference, to which he belongs, as the case may be. If the offending t>rother be an exhorter, leader, or lay- man, it shall be the duty of the preacher in charge to admonish him in meekness. If he be a preacher, it shall be the duty of the Presiding Officer of a Quarterly or Annual Conference to admonish him lo desist from his unholy employment; and if all friendly admonitions fail, such offending person or persons shall no more be considered as members of our church, but be expelled from the same. — Provi- ded, however, that this rule shall not be so construed as to prevent druggists and
3
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Others from vending for medicinal or me- chanical purposes.
SECTION XXVII. Free Masonry,
Free Masonry, in every sense of the word, shall be totally prohibited, and in no wise tolerated in our Society. And should any of our members continue to attend their lodges, or join as a member in any masonic procession, or otherwise join a masonic fraternity, he sliall,for so doing, be excluded from our church.
SECTION XXVIII. Slavery.
All slavery, in every sense of the word, is totally prohibited, and shall in no way be tolerated in our church. Should any be found in our Society, who hold slaves, they cannot continue as members unless they do personally manumit or set free such slaves.
DISCIPLINE. G7
SECTION XXIX.
fCulcs and Kcg'iilations
Of our JPrintin^£sta1>lisStnicnt iu €ir-
clcvillc, Oliio.
RULE I.
1. — The above Establishment shall be called ""The Conference Printing Estab- lishmentof iheUnited Brethren inChrist.'"'
2. — The legislative authority, herein granted, is vested in the General Con- ference of said Church, whose duly it is to make or amend any rules, as in their judgment may seem expedient.
3. — It shall be the duty of General Conference to appoint or elect three Trustees every four years; and, also, to employ an Editor and Publishing Agent.
4. — If a vacancy should occur in the Editorial or Agency Department, it shall be the duty of the Trustees to employ some other suitable person or persons to fill said vacancy until the sitting of the next General Conference.
5. — In case a vacancy in the Board of Trustees should occur, it shall be the duty of the remaining two lu appoint a third
68 UNITED BRETHREN
person to fill the vacancy until the silting of the next General Conference.
6. — The proceeds of said establish- ment, over and above contingent expen- ses, shall be applied to the traveling and worn out preachers, and their widows and orphans, to be equally divided annu- ally among the ditlerent Annual Confe- rences.
RULE II.
1. — It shall be the duty of the Trus- tees to make settlement with the Publish- ing Agent and Editor every six months; and cause the Publishing Agent to make out a report to each Annual Conference, of the Scioto District; and, aiso, to make a special report to each General Con- ference.
2. — It shall be the duty of the Scioto Annual Conference, in the interval of the sessions of the General Conference, to see that the Editor, Publishing Agent, and Trustees, discharge their official du- ties as required.
3. — On impeachment of any of the
DISCIPLINE. 69
above named officers it shall be the duty of the above named Annual Conference to examine into said impeachment; and, if guilty, in their opinion, to dismiss them, and supply the vacancy until the sitting of the next General Conference.
RULE III.
1. — It shall be the duty of the Editor to pay STRICT attention to all communica- tions sent for insertion; to revise them, if necessary, and then insert them. But, if he should receive any, which, in his opinion, are repugnant to the doctrine and rules of our church, he shall pre- sent them to the Publishing Agent, or to one or more of the Trustees; and, if re- jected by them, they shall be withheld; otherwise, inserted.
2. — It shall be the duty of the Editor to write editorial for each number of the paper; and to attend strictly to the read- ing of proof-sheet, making selections, &c.
3. — The Trustees shall have a general oversight over the Editor and Publishing
70 UNITED BRETHREN
Agent, and see that they discharge their duty; and if they do not, they may be suspended until the sitting of the next Annual Conference, which shall deter- mine the matter; in which case said Trustees shall supply the vacancy for the time being.
RULE IV.
1. — It shall be the duty of the Publish- ing Agent to take charge of the temporal concerns of the office; to keep all the books pertaining thereunto; to furnish, at the direction of the Trustees, such materials as may be needed at all times; and to act as General Book Agent under the instruction of said Tj ustees.
2. — It shall be the duty of the Publish- ing Agent to keep a general oversight over the hands in the olnce, and see that ihcy do not spend their time in idleness.
3. — Tiie Trustees shall have privilege to make any by-laws that may seem ex- pedient to them, for the better regulation of the minor concerns of the office: pro- vided, they do not violate any part of the above rules.
DISCIPLINE. 71'
SECTION XXX. Book Agency.
1. — There shall be a Book Agent ap- pointed in each Annual Conference Dis- trict, whose duty it shall be to take charge of all books sent to him by the Publishing Agent, and appertaining to, the Conference Printing Establishment in Circleville, Ohio.
2. — Said Agent shall be accountable to the Publishing Agent of said Establish- ment.
3. — It shall be his duty, so far as may be safe or expedient, to distribute to the circuit preachers, for the use of the church, ail the books that may be sent to him by the Publishing Agent,
4, — Said Agent shall keep an accurate account of all the distributions of books, and collections of money, for, and in be- half of said establishment. If books are wanted in his district, he is to notify the Publishing Agent by letter; and each Annual Conference shall be responsible for all moneys or books in the hands of the agent of its own appointing, and on
72 UNITED BRETHREN
default or neglect of duty on the part of a district agent, the Conference of which said agent is a member, shall be consi- dered bound for any sum thus delin- quent, with interest from the time of such default, or neglect of duty — Also, any district agent when succeeded by another in office, neglecting to transfer all books in his hands to his successor, and for- warding a receipt therefor, and closing \ip his own account, in some way satis- factorily shall be considered as neglecting his duty in the sense above specified. Said agent shall receive a fair per centage, as fixed by the Trustees, for his servi- ces, and be held responsible for all dis- tributions of books that he makes.
5.~When a district agent fails to comply with the requirements of discipline, ihe Publishing Agent shall inform the Annu- al Conference of which he is a member or resident, of such delinquency.
6. — Said Agent shall make settlement with the Publishing Agent, by letter or otherwise, every six months^
DISCIPLINE. 73
SECTION XXXI.
Order to be obscrrcd in Building inceting: Houses.
Ques. — Is any thing advisable in re- gard to the building of Meeting Houses? ^715. — Let all our Meeting Houses be built plainly and neatly with free seats, and not more expensive than necessary. Ques. — To whom are our meeting hou- ses, and the premises belonging to them, to be deeded?
Ans.— To a Board of Trustees, and their successors in office, in trust, as the property of the Church of the United Brethren in Christ.
Ques. — How is a Board of Trustees constituted?
Ans. — Whenever it is contemplated, by a Society, to purchase or to build a Meeting House, it shall be the duty of a leader or steward of such Society to make it known to the Quarterly Confer- ence of the Circuit or Station to which he belongs, whose duty it shall be to ap- point a judicious Board of Trustees, of not less than three in number. Provi-
74 UNITED BRETHREN
ded, however, that none be required to serve more than four years, unless in- dispensably necessary. No person shall be considered eligible as a Trustee for any of our Meeting Houses, who is not a regular member of our Church.
Ques. — How are the Trustees to pro- ceed in building a house?
Ans. — No Society shall commence the building of any meeting house, without first getting an act of incorporation, where the law of the State requires it. They shall form an estimate of the amount necessary to procure a lot, to build, and to make such other improve- ments as may be conceived necessary. And they shall at no time proceed with the building of a house of worship, be- vond the means, either in hand or suffi- cientiy secured, so as to avoid involving our houses of worship any way in debt, and also secure a lawful title for the lot upon which they intend to build.
To hold annual meetings, and keep a fair and regular record of the transac- tions oi' their Board, in a book provided
DISCIPLINE. 15
for that purpose, which shall at all limes be open ("or inspection by the Quarterly Conference of said Circuit or Station.
To take charge of the meeting house property, furniture, premises, burial ground, «Sz;c,
Ques. — What shall be done when a vacancy or vacancies occur in the Board of Trustees?
Ans. — It shall bo the duty of the Quar- terly Conference to appoint a suitable person or persons to fill such vacancies.
Ques, — What shall be done when any of our houses are vacant?
Ans. — It shall be the duty of a Quar- terly Conference, of the nearest circuit, to appoint not less than three suitable persons for Trustees, who shall have the power,, when authorized by two-thirds i of the members of that« Conference, to lease, rent, or sell such meeting house, and tlic appurtenances belonging to it; and lo appropriate the money arising from such lease, rent, or sale, to what said Conference may direct.
76 UNITED BRETHREN
The above rule to be observed in pur- chasing or building parsonage houses.
It shall be the duty of our Presiding Elders, as soon as convenient, to appoint, or see that three or five suitable persons are appointed with the consent of the Quarterly Conference, to take up sub- scriptions to build or purchase a parson- age house for their respective Stations or Circuits, the same to be deeded to those three or five Trustees, and their succes- sors in office, for the use of the Church of the United Brethren in Christ. We command that all our parsonage houses be plain, and located in some central place.
Note. — The Trustees should be care- ful, in all cases, to have deeds of convey- ance legally executed, and recorded in the county records where the property is : that is, to have the deed made to them and to their successors in office, in trust, -for the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, and to erect and build, or cause to be built, a house df worship for the use of the members of said Church.
DISCIPLINE. 77
SECTION XXXII, Certificates.
Members of our Society moving to oth- er places, and seeking admission there, shall procure such a Certificate as this, signed by a leader or Preacher —
"This is to certify that A. B. is a mem- ber of ^ood standing in the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, at
(Date, &c.)
Preachers removing from one Confer- ence district to another, shall, when they apply to another Conference for admis- sion, produce a transfer from the Con- ference to which he formerly belonged, and to be signed by the Presiding officer.
INDEX.
Annual Conference, - - 21
Ardent Spirits, - - - 65
Bishops, Election and Duties, - 62
Book Agency, - - - - 71
Building Meeting Houses, &c, - V3
Confession of Faith, - - 12
Constitution, - - - - 15
Course of Reading, - - - 25
Classes, - - - - 37
Circuit Preachers' Duty, - - 43
Certificates, - - - 77
Doctrinal Publications, - - 64 Elders' Election, Ordination and Duty, 45
F^^'ming and Meeting Classes, - 36
Free Masonry, . - . qq
General Conference, - - 18
Itinerant Plan, - - - - 26
Immoral Conduct of Preachers, - 54
Instruction of Children, - - 63
Members in General, - - 32
Marriage Ceremony, - - 58
Necessity of Union, &c. - - 60
Origin of the Church, - - 3
Ordination of Elders, - - 47
Oaths, 64
Preachers' Duties, ~ - - 41
INDEX. 79
Presiding Elders Election and Duty, 50
Preachers' Salaries, - - 66
Quarterly Conference, - - 29
Reception of Preachers, - - 23
llules and Regulations of Printing } ^-
Establishment, (
Slavery, . - . - ~ 66
Visiting from House to House, - 62
BX9878.52 .Al 1845
Origin, doctrine, constitution, and
Princeton Theological Seminary-Speer Library
1 1012 00045 5891
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