Introduction: A Prophetic People Called to Discern (6:25)
Listen: A Centering Activity (1:48)

Conditions of Membership

The 2007 World Conference passed a resolution entitled, “Conditions of Membership,” that concluded:

Resolved, That the World Conference request the First Presidency to examine the issue of rebaptism in the context of the worldwide mission of the Community of Christ; and be it further

Resolved, That following prayer, reflection, and discernment of God’s will for the Community of Christ, the First Presidency issue instructions relevant for today regarding requirements for church membership.

In response, the First Presidency has prayerfully studied, reflected, and discussed the issues this resolution raised. We also have had preliminary discussion with the Expanded World Church Leadership Council (general officers, directors, and representatives of the church fields) to begin to explore aspects of the topic.

The Presidency, while understanding its responsibility to interpret scripture and policy, believes this is a good time for the church to respond more fully to the counsel in Doctrine and Covenants 162:2c: “As a prophetic people you are called, under the direction of the spiritual authorities and with the common consent of the people, to discern the divine will for your own time and in the places where you serve.”

Therefore, we want to involve as many people as possible in prayerfully seeking God’s will on conditions of membership.

Over the next several months church leaders and members will receive information about praying, studying, listening, and seeking discernment for conditions of membership. Materials, available for individual and group use, will include information on how to send comments and questions to the Presidency. Some material will be ideal for small groups and reunions.

The Presidency invites the church to seriously engage in sustained prayer, spiritual formation, group discussion, and scripture study while listening to each other and the Holy Spirit. This process is not intended to be a popular opinion poll. If so, we simply would conduct a survey. In fact, one of the first steps of true discernment is to set aside preconceived ideas and agendas so we can become more open to God’s guidance, whatever it may be.

One important lesson we have learned in the Expanded World Church Leadership Council is to listen respectfully and lovingly to others before trying to reach conclusions. Building a healthy faith community and common consent includes opportunities for people to feel understood, regardless of the outcomes.

In the months ahead we will test our ability as a worldwide church to address an important issue with a wide spectrum of strong beliefs. We will search our scriptures, history, and World Conference resolutions to better understand current practices. We also will strive to open our minds and hearts to understand the diverse experiences and viewpoints of beloved brothers, sisters, and friends.

I believe that we are more than capable of exploring sensitive theological and sacramental issues in a spirit of mutual concern that respects the worth of all. As we continue to grow as a faith community, may we gain hope from the following promise:

Scripture, prophetic guidance, knowledge, and discernment in the faith community must walk hand in hand to reveal the true will of God. Follow this pathway, which is the way of the Living Christ, and you will discover more than sufficient light for the journey ahead.—Doctrine and Covenants 163:7d.

—For the First Presidency
Stephen M. Veazey