Be it resolved that the Board of Trustees of the Universalist National Memorial Church takes the following actions:
1. Interprets the phrase "confirmed in Christian fellowship" in Article II, Section 1, of the by-laws not to require any particular confirmation ceremony. The declaration of a prospective member's intention to join the church and their acceptance of the "right hand of fellowship" offered on behalf of the church are deemed sufficient.
2. In the absence of a settled or interim minister, any UNMC deacon may act as a "minister authorized to act in such matters," per the by-laws, presiding at the new member welcome ceremony and offering the "right hand of fellowship" on behalf of the church to prospective members during such a ceremony.
Adopted 5 Jan 2004 (read more)