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By Pastor Ray Hagins "I'm now a member of “The Afrikan Village Church." Many people have uttered these words with a joy in their hearts that is inexpressible. However, some who speak those words fail to comprehend their significance. Many “church members” have lived for many years without ever seeming to learn the real meaning of membership. Each member should know the seriousness and sacredness of his or her commitment. It is unfortunate that many hold membership without realizing their privileges and opportunities or accepting their obligations. This is not because of a determination to be indifferent, its just that they have not been brought face to face with the real meaning of church membership, nor have they had its various aspects laid on their hearts. Just what is this organization to which you now belong? It is an African-centered, church. The word “church” comes from the word “ekklesia” which means those who are called out for a particular purpose or mission. Another word that would best describe The Afrikan Village is a "movement." Membership also brings us great opportunities. These include opportunity for fellowship in the finest company that can be found and opportunity for spiritual growth, development, and training through the various ministries of the church. We also have opportunity to render service to those throughout our communities. Membership places upon us an inescapable obligation; an obligation to make our church and its work a priority in our lives. It is an obligation to use our time and our talents for the glory of God, an obligation to support the work with our presence, our substance, our influence, and our prayers. Always remember that our church (movement) can never be stronger than its membership; and a membership of worldly, careless, negligent, stunted believers will prevent our church from accomplishing the vision and mission that God has given to us. Every member (regardless of their geographical location) must be consecrated, equipped, and enlisted in active service. We are under the obligation to be the very best members possible through the teachings and the leading of the Spirit of God.
We see then that membership is a privilege and an opportunity that entails great obligations. There are many members of churches who have not learned these things. Their church means little to them, and they mean little to their church. After reading the above, if you still wish to become a member of The Afrikan Village, print out this page and the form below. Fill it in (please print clearly) and mail it to: Membership Team ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION FORM
NOTE: PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION: DATE: ____________________ Name: _____________________________________________________ D.O.B.____________ M/F:_____ Parents (if under 18 years old): _____________________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________________________________ City: _______________________________________ State:_________ Zip:_______________ Home Phone: ___________________ Work Phone: ____________________ E-mail:_________________ Marital Status: Single_____ Engaged_____ Married_____ Separated_____ Divorced_____ Widowed_____ Employer: ___________________________________________ Position:___________________________ Spouse’s Name: _______________________________________________________________________ Briefly explain why you would like to become a member of this ministry:______________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________
Are you willing to regularly give a percentage of your income for the support of this ministry? Y___ N___. Please list 3 character references along with their contact information: _______________________________________________ __________________________ Signature of Applicant (or Parent if under 18 yrs.) Date NOTE: PLEASE RETURN OR MAIL APPLICATION TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS |
