¶ 505 CHURCH IN FORMATION
The formation of a core of believers is the first level for forming a national presence for the Free Methodist Church. It usually involves researching options as to where and how to begin. This initial phase of the development of a national presence involves the following activities:
- Organization
a. Membership instruction
b. Training of ministerial personnel – 3 courses
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- Introduction to Free Methodism
- Introduction to Christian Doctrine
- Inductive Bible Study Class
c. Reception of members
d. Designation by missionary of pastor/leader for the country
- Development
a. Formation of a lightly structured Administrative Committee
b. Development of a financial structure, budget (national and external support)
c. Initial steps toward a constitution, legal status and being incorporated
d. Discipleship and leadership training of laity and ministerial candidates
e. Strategic Plan for expansion developed for:
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- Church growth leading to organized local churches (12 adult members minimum)
- Church planting/expansion
