Introduction to the 1961 Church Constitution
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary belief regarding ministerial service in the Methodist Church?

  • All believers are called to service. (correct)
  • Ministers are elected by congregation vote.
  • A select group of believers are specially chosen to lead.
  • Only ordained ministers can serve in leadership roles.

Which of the following is NOT a requirement for church membership in the Methodist Church?

  • Affiliation with another denomination. (correct)
  • Desire to be saved.
  • Living out one's faith.
  • Financial contribution.

What role does the Presiding Bishop serve within the Methodist Church?

  • Head of international missions.
  • Chief servant-pastor and overseer. (correct)
  • Leader of all youth programs.
  • Principal administrator of finances.

Which position is responsible for the administrative affairs of the church?

<p>Administrative Bishop. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How are new members documented within the Methodist Church?

<p>Their names are entered into a Class Book. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a core focus of the Methodist Church regarding its relationship with other denominations?

<p>Achieving union within Ghana and worldwide. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What title does the Lay President assume after leaving office?

<p>The Past Lay President. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sacrament is recognized by the Methodist Church?

<p>Baptism. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is NOT a member of the Representative Session?

<p>University Student Representatives (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Administrative Bishop have regarding the members of the Conference?

<p>Creates a list of members (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How are lay representatives elected by the Conference?

<p>To ensure sufficient representation at the next conference (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a vacancy occurs in the membership of the Conference?

<p>A substitute is appointed by the Diocesan Synod or Conference (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which group is responsible for electing ministers to the Representative Session?

<p>Diocesan Synods (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who determines the number of ministerial representatives elected by the Diocesan Synods?

<p>The Conference (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which institution's president is a member of the Representative Session?

<p>Trinity Theological Seminary (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is included in the membership of the Representative Session?

<p>Past Lay Presidents (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What title do individuals hold after completing their term as Administrative Bishop?

<p>The Past Administrative Bishop (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What designation will an ordained minister serving as the Diocesan Secretary of Synod be referred to as?

<p>The Very Reverend (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which title do all ordained ministers hold?

<p>The Reverend (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the title of a Diocesan Bishop if they are also the Administrative Bishop?

<p>They are only called The Administrative Bishop. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What title do members of Methodist-related institutions who are senior ministers hold?

<p>The Very Reverend (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the attire specification for the Presiding Bishop?

<p>Maroon/Purple Cassock with Stole (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What title do all probationers and Ministers-On-Trial hold?

<p>The Reverend (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What additional clothing may a Diocesan Bishop wear during liturgical seasons?

<p>Mauve Shirt (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum term length for the Lay President of The Methodist Church Ghana?

<p>Three years (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When does the Lay President officially take office?

<p>On October 1st of the following year (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who appoints a temporary Lay President if the immediate past Lay President is unable to fulfill their role?

<p>The Presiding Bishop (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for an Administrative Bishop in The Methodist Church Ghana?

<p>Must have at least 15 years of ministry experience (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of votes is required for the election of an Administrative Bishop?

<p>75% or more (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Lay President fulfill in the Presiding Bishop's absence?

<p>They preside over the Representative Session (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a vacancy arises for the Administrative Bishop, who appoints an acting Administrative Bishop?

<p>The General Purposes Council (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Lay President when the Presiding Bishop is out of the country?

<p>To make decisions within the church (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of the bilateral consultation held by the British Methodist Church Overseas Division and the Ghanaian Methodist Church in 1985?

<p>To improve the Constitution (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When did the mission of the Methodist Church begin in Ghana?

<p>1835 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which committee participated in the review of the Constitution alongside the General Purposes Council?

<p>Law and Polity Sub-Committee (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What document outlines the procedure of the Foundation Conference?

<p>Second Schedule (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant change occurred for the Methodist Church Ghana in 1961?

<p>It became an autonomous body (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is identified as the president of the Foundation Conference according to the Second Schedule?

<p>Rev. Francis Chapman Ferguson Grant (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What fundamental belief does the Methodist Church Ghana share with its parent church in Great Britain?

<p>Belief in the Holy Catholic Church (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How are ministers in the Methodist Church viewed in relation to their congregations?

<p>As stewards entrusted with care (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key roles of the Administrative Bishop during the Conference?

<p>To serve as an ex-officio member of all advisory teams. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How long must the assistant to the Administrative Bishop be a minister in full connection?

<p>At least 12 years. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who appoints the assistant to the Administrative Bishop?

<p>The Presiding Bishop, with consultation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Conference Arrangements Committee NOT handle?

<p>Ceremonial reviews of the local circuits. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be done with notices of motion in Conference?

<p>They must be submitted in writing to the Administrative Bishop. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What forms the basis for preparing the conference agenda?

<p>The Minutes of the Synods and reports from general directorates. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which group does not participate in the Executive System?

<p>The Circuit level officers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for implementing the resolutions of the Conference?

<p>The Administrative Bishop. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Methodist Church Ghana's autonomy

The Methodist Church in Ghana became self-governing in 1961, no longer directly controlled by the British Methodist Church.

Methodist Church Ghana's beliefs

The beliefs of the Methodist Church in Ghana are based on the British Methodist Church's fundamental doctrines and scripture.

Ghana Methodist Church's Constitution review

The Ghanaian Methodist Church reviewed its Constitution to improve it, working with the British Methodist Church overseas division to make necessary changes.

Deed of Foundation

A legal document that formally established the Methodist Church in Ghana outlining its founding by the British Methodist Church.

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Methodist Church's origins

The Methodist Church in Ghana was founded in 1835 and merged from prior existing Methodist bodies in the region.

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Ghana Methodist Church's role of Review Committee

A committee involved in updating the governing documents for the Ghanaian Methodist Church.

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Foundation Conference President

Rev. Francis Chapman Ferguson Grant was the president of the foundation conference formed to officially establish the Methodist Church in Ghana.

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Methodist Ministers

Stewards entrusted with leading and guiding congregations in the Methodist Church.

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Priesthood of all believers

A core belief in Methodism that all members have equal access to God and are called to service.

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Ordination in Methodism

The formal process of setting apart ministers to lead and administer sacraments within the church.

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Sacraments in Methodism

Holy rituals recognized by the Methodist Church, including Baptism and the Lord's Supper, considered divinely appointed.

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Membership in the Methodist Church

Open to those sincerely wanting salvation, members are expected to live out their faith, contribute financially, and participate in fellowship and service.

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What is a Class Book?

A record where the names of new members are inscribed, placing them under the care of a class leader.

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United Church

The Methodist Church Ghana's vision for closer cooperation and unity with other denominations.

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Biblical pattern of episcopacy

The Methodist Church Ghana's commitment to a more scriptural model of leadership, with bishops serving as spiritual guides and overseers.

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Presiding Bishop's role

The highest leader of the Methodist Church Ghana, serving as chief pastor, teacher, and overseer of the church.

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Administrative Bishop

A bishop appointed to oversee the day-to-day operations of a diocese. They hold the title "The Right Reverend" and will be known as "The Past Administrative Bishop" upon completion of their term.

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Diocesan Bishop

The leader of a Methodist Diocese, holding the title "The Right Reverend Diocesan Bishop". They are appointed by the Church and serve as the primary spiritual leader of the diocese.

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Diocesan Secretary of Synod

An ordained minister appointed to serve as secretary for the Synod of the diocese, holding the title "The Very Reverend".

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Superintendent Minister

An ordained minister appointed to oversee a particular church within a diocese, holding the title "The Very Reverend".

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Elders

All ordained ministers in the Methodist Church, referred to as "The Reverend...". They are considered leaders and have a significant role within their congregations.

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Deacons

Ordained ministers who are still in training, referred to as "The Reverend...". They are considered Deacons, essentially in an apprenticeship phase.

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Presiding Bishop's attire

The Presiding Bishop wears a maroon/purple cassock with a stole. They may also wear other ministerial attire depending on the liturgical season.

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Diocesan Bishop's attire

Diocesan Bishops wear a black, grey, maroon/purple, or white cassock and stole with a maroon band on the sleeve and buttonholes. They also wear a mauve shirt and may wear a gown on top.

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Representative Session Members

The Representative Session of the Methodist Church Ghana includes past leaders, bishops, lay representatives, and heads of various institutions. It reflects the church's structure and its engagement with education and mission.

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Lay Representatives' Role

Lay representatives are elected by Synods and the Conference to ensure their voices are heard in church governance. They bring perspectives from local communities.

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Conference's Lay Representation

The Conference determines the number of lay representatives for the next Conference, ensuring appropriate representation based on factors like the number of Lay Missionaries.

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Conference's Ministerial Representation

The Conference elects ministers to the Representative Session, with the number from each Diocesan Synod determined by the Conference.

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Filling Vacancies in the Conference

If a member of the Conference cannot or chooses not to serve, the Diocesan Synod or Conference appoints a substitute to maintain continuity in leadership.

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Administrative Bishop's Role

The Administrative Bishop compiles a list of all Conference members, ensuring an accurate record of those participating in governance.

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Lay President's Term

The Lay President of the Methodist Church Ghana serves a 3-year non-renewable term, elected by the conference.

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Lay President's Responsibilities

The Lay President assists the Presiding Bishop, presides over sessions in their absence, and makes decisions when the Bishop is abroad.

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Lay President's Appointment

If a Lay President can't serve, an emergency conference elects a new one. The immediate past President acts until then.

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Administrative Bishop's Qualification

To become an Administrative Bishop, a minister must have been in full connection for at least 15 years.

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Administrative Bishop's Election

The Administrative Bishop is elected by conference majority vote (75% needed), with a nominee recommended by the General Purposes Council.

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Administrative Bishop's Term

The elected Administrative Bishop takes office on October 1st of the year following their election.

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Acting Administrative Bishop

If a vacancy arises, the General Purposes Council appoints an acting Administrative Bishop until a new one is elected.

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Administrative Bishop's Absence

If the Administrative Bishop is absent, the conference can appoint a substitute if one is present.

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Assistant to the Administrative Bishop

This minister helps the Administrative Bishop with their tasks and must have at least 12 years of service.

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Conference Executive

The Conference Executive includes the Presiding Bishop, Lay President, and Administrative Bishop, forming the top leadership at the Connexional level.

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Diocesan Executive

The Diocesan Executive includes the Diocesan Bishop, Lay Chairman, and Synod Secretary, leading at the Diocesan level.

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Conference Arrangements Committee

This committee, made up of key leaders, plans logistics for Conference meetings, like scheduling, hospitality, and finances.

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What makes up the Conference agenda?

The agenda is based on minutes from previous meetings, reports from general directors, and the official church guidelines.

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Notice of motion in Conference

Suggestions for changes or new rules must be submitted in writing to the Administrative Bishop before being discussed in the Conference.

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Who prepares the Conference agenda?

The Presiding Bishop, Lay President, Administrative Bishop, and general directors work together to create the agenda.

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Study Notes

Introduction to the 1961 Constitution and Standing Orders

  • This book is a handbook for all members of the church, guiding personal and corporate Christian life.
  • It intends to be studied carefully and prayerfully, not just read quickly.

The Gospel as the life of the Church

  • The Church's priority is evangelism and pastoral care, requiring rules for health and corporate unity.
  • Rules must be applied according to the spirit of the Gospel and the teachings of Jesus and his apostles.

Earliest Rules of the Church

  • Jesus established the twelve and seventy disciples as apostles.
  • He established the practice of baptism and teaching; and celebrating the Eucharist.
  • Jesus emphasized reconciliation and conflict resolution within the church community.

John Wesley and the Formation of the Methodist Church

  • John Wesley established classes and leaders for spiritual guidance.
  • Leaders meetings followed for oversight and behavioral evaluation.
  • Conferences were developed for advice on best practices, to resolve specific problems, and for setting the methods for church work in all parts of the world.
  • Wesley developed a system for local church governance: District Synods, which helped unite the societies within each region and to address needed organizational issues.
  • Quarterly meetings within an area provided for more regular monitoring.

Background, Aims, and Principles

  • The Methodist Church strives for unity with other churches while maintaining meaningful tradition.
  • The Church focuses on its traditions, values, and insights of the Holy Spirit.
  • The Church seeks to understand and improve relationships with other denominations.

The 1989 Revised Constitution and Standing Orders

  • A major review of Standing Orders was deemed necessary due to growth and changing standards.
  • Needed revisions included dealing with legal, social and cultural standards, and the growing responsibilities of the developing church
  • A review committee collated findings from previous work and consulted with the British Methodist Church.
  • The changes sought to improve on procedures for dealing with church discipline.
  • The revisions were intended to improve clarity and referencing of the policies.

Deed of Foundation (1961)

  • The Methodist Church in Ghana was formed in 1961 through the union of three distinct bodies.
  • The church was given the status of self-governance by the Deed.
  • An overseeing body was established called the Synod of the Ghana Methodist District.
  • Various aims and principles of the church were established and formalized in the original document to guide members.

Origin and Beliefs of the Methodist Church Ghana

  • Methodist beliefs align with those of the parent church in Great Britain and its sister churches in West Africa.
  • The church traces its origin to a 1835 mission in the Gold Coast.
  • The church's foundation is based on scripture-based evangelical faith and doctrines.

The Sacraments

  • Baptism and the Eucharist (Lord’s Supper) are recognized sacraments.
  • Baptism marks the joining to the Church for adults and children through a formal statement of faith.
  • The Eucharist (Lord's Supper) is a central act of worship and remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice.

Church Membership

  • The church welcomes members through a statement of faith, evidence of practice, and a desire for fellowship.
  • Membership involves the regular participation in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper.

Church Union and Structure

  • The Methodist Church Ghana seeks to unite with other churches.
  • The Methodist Church Ghana looks forward to participating in world-wide church unity.
  • Procedures and resources to engage with other denominations are available from the church documents.

The 2022 Revised Constitution of the Methodist Church Ghana

  • The revised constitution updates the previous constitution by taking into account growth and necessary adjustments to policies and procedures.
  • The revised constitution takes into consideration needs that arose from a review of past procedures in order to address modern situations, issues, and circumstances.

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Description

This quiz explores the key aspects of the 1961 Constitution and Standing Orders of the church. It covers the influence of the Gospel in church life, the establishment of early church rules, and John Wesley's role in forming the Methodist Church. Test your knowledge of the church's foundational guidelines and practices.

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