Order and Records
Order and Records
Order is essential and very beneficial in service. As the Scripture says:
“Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40).
It is not correct, as some think, to do things merely “by blessing” (meaning without planning or order). Even in the Gospel of the blessing of the five loaves, the Lord Jesus first emphasized order — He made the people sit down “in ranks, in hundreds and in fifties” (Mark 6:40). He gave to the disciples, and the disciples to the multitudes. And the Apostle says: “Withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly” (2 Thessalonians 3:6).
Therefore, it is good that every aspect of church service be organized and recorded in proper registers.
- Registers of Church Membership: Including all members of the congregation within the neighborhood, as well as those with active and leadership memberships.
- Registers of Baptism: From which baptism certificates are issued for all who are baptized.
- Registers of Engagement and Marriage: Recording any changes such as widowhood, divorce, or annulment — preferably stored digitally.
- Registers of Pastoral Visits: The church should have a map of the entire area with all streets, ensuring that the priest has visited every household.
- Registers of Social Service: Including a file for every family receiving assistance.
- Registers of Special Cases: For individuals or families receiving special pastoral care.
- Registers of Servants: Listing male and female servants in Sunday School, deacons’ and choir groups, and any updates or changes in these.
- Registers of Deacon Ordinations: Detailing every rank — from Epideacon to Reader to Psalmist — including the date, the bishop’s name, and those ordained.
- Registers of Church Activities: Covering the library, youth center, workshops, tutoring classes, nursery, visual aids, and others.
- Registers of Church Property: Including all items entrusted to the church, receipts, and the names of those responsible for them.
- Registers of the Church Council: Including meeting minutes, financial records, and official documents.
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