A local church is a community of true believers under the Lordship of Christ,
united in service for the mission of God in the world. Under the discipline
of the Holy Spirit the Church exists for the maintenance of worship, the
edification of believers, and the redemption of the world. It is the
redemptive fellowship in which persons are sent to witness to Jesus Christ
in the world, to follow his teachings through acts of worship, devotion,
compassion, and justice, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The life of
this fellowship is ordered by servant leadership, according to Christ's
teaching and example. Through this leadership persons are formed for mature
Christian faith, the Word of God is preached by persons divinely called,
and the Sacraments are duly administered according to Christ's own appointment.
Under the discipline of the Holy Spirit the Church exists for the
maintenance of worship, the edification of believers, and the redemption of the
world.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 21894-LC-201-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference