Lexington Presbyterian - Becoming a Member
People
Although we are pleased to welcome long-term visitors and incorporate them into the life of the church, most choose at some point to become members. If you are considering joining our church, your first step may be to attend our Explore class, although this is not required for membership. Attending this class does not obligate you in any way.
Additional information on this page is from the Book of Order.
Membership Details
Explore Class
Membership Categories
Becoming a Member of a Congregation
Membership Categories
There are four categories of membership defined by the Presbyterian Church (USA) Book of Order:
Baptized member
A person who has received the Sacrament of Baptism and who has been enrolled as a baptized member by the session but who has not made a profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Such baptized members are entitled to the pastoral care and instruction of the church, and to participation in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper.
Active Member
A person who has made a profession of faith in Christ, has been baptized, has been received into membership of the church, has voluntarily submitted to the government of this church, and participates in the church's work and worship. An active member is entitled to all the rights and privileges of the church, including the right to participate in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, to present children for baptism, to take part in meetings of the congregation, and to vote and hold office. Other conditions of active membership that meet the needs of the particular church and are consistent with the order and confessions of the Presbyterian Church (USA) may be adopted by the session after careful study and discussion with the congregation.
Inactive Member
One who does not participate in the church's work and worship. An inactive member is entitled to all the rights and privileges of an active member except the right to speak in the meetings of the congregation and to vote and hold office.
Affiliate Member
An active member of another church of this denomination or of another denomination or Christian body, who has temporarily moved from the community where the church of active membership is situated, has presented a certificate of good standing from the appropriate governing body of that church, and has been received by the session as an affiliate member. An affiliate member is entitled to all the rights and privileges of an active member except the right to vote and hold office.
http://lexpres.org/html/joining.htm
