2016 Wesleyan Discipline: 5550

5550. When candidates for membership have been approved for reception as given in 2016 Wesleyan Discipline:550–565, the pastor shall appoint a time during a regular worship service for their public reception, and shall preside over the service of reception, or appoint a representative to preside. In those churches in which the local churches must vote on the reception of members, such vote should be taken at a meeting prior to the service of reception. Paragraphs 2016 Wesleyan Discipline:5565–5567, “Reception of Members”, “Covenant Questions” and “Declaration of Purpose” have the authority of statutory law. The paragraphs must be followed as prescribed, except that paragraph 2016 Wesleyan Discipline:5566 may be addressed during membership preparation classes and omitted during the service of reception if a shortened service is desired.