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PASTOR GENERAL'S REPORT, JULY 22, 1986
FROM CHURCH ADMINISTRATION
BAPTISMAL COUNSELINGS; Y.E.S. ACHIEVEMENT CERTIFICATES;
RECENT ORDINATIONS; INTERNATIONAL NEWS--Caribbean,
Canada, Philippines, Spanish
PAGE 3
Baptismal Counselings
From time to time we receive questions regarding
counseling people for baptism.
As all of you will recall, Mr. Tkach
taught a very thorough class on the subject during Refresher I in 1980-
81. In the course of the class, Mr. Tkach emphasized the need for
thorough counseling with each individual, expounding the key scriptural
references regarding repentance, the symbolic meaning oroaptism, the
sacrifice of Christ, God's Holy Spirit and personal commitment to God's
government in completing the great commission.
However, it seems that some pastors, in an effort to be "complete" in
their counseling, have required the reading of all of Mr. Armstrong's
books prior to baptism. Although the reading of "Mystery of the Ages"
and certain booklets and Correspondence Course lessons regarding the
subjects related to baptism should be required, the complete reading of
all of Mr. Armstrong's lengthier books is, in most cases, an unnecessary
requirement for baptism candidates. Instead, take enough personal time
to counsel each individual so as to be sure that each one understands the
need to turn from the ways of this world, and sincerely desires to live
according to God's laws.
On a related matter, be sure that any young people who are interested in
baptism are given thetime to mature in their thinking.
Although no
mandatory age limit has ever been set, a young person should be out of
high school and have begun to accept the independent responsibilities of
an adult.
Only then can he or she seriously and objectively make a
commitment that lasts for all eternity.
Attention to these vital matters in directing those God is calling to
baptism will strengthen the foundation of God's Church.
Y.E.S. Achievement Certificates
With the Feast of Tabernacles fast
approaching,
most
church
areas
will
be
presenting
achievement
certificates to the children who have successfully completed their
levels. If you are in need of more certificates, please indicate on your
Ministerial Supply Request Form. Since administration and methods used
in the program are presently under review, we are discontinuing use of
the "Progress Report" cards. Further information on the Y.E.S. Program
will be forthcoming.
Recent Ordinations
The following men were ordained on June 14, 1986, to
the rank of local church elder: Jasper Hendren and Warren Wilson of the
San Jose, California, congregation. Also ordained as local church elders
on June 15, 1986, were Edward Partin of the Middlesboro, Kentucky,
congregation and Thomas Peine of the Indianapolis, Indiana, congregation.
Ordained to the rank of local elder on June 15, 1986, was David Cheperdak
of the Vancouver, British Columbia, congregation.