CONTENTS

I. Episcopal Address.
PART I. Pages 15-33
Articles of Religion	[15]-29
General Rules	[29]-33
PART II. Pages 37-66 CONFERENCES
I. GENERAL CONFERENCE
How composed, [37]:1; delegates, clerical and lay, 37:1-2; voting, 38:3; time and place of meeting, 38:4; quorum, 39:8; special session, 38-39:5-6; presiding officer, 39:9; power and restrictions, 40-42; unconstitutional laws, 42.
II. ANNUAL CONFERENCE
How composed, [43]:1-2; rights and duties of members, 43-44:3-4; number and boundaries—how determined, 44:5; time and place, 45:6-7; presiding officer, 45:8; order of business, 46-49; character and administration of preachers, 49-50:1-5; other business of, 51-53:1-7; committee of examination, 51-52; general minutes, 53:8; statistics, 53:10.
III. DISTRICT CONFERENCE
Time and place of meeting, [54]:1; how composed, 55:2; officers, 55:3-4; order of business, 55-56:1-4; lay delegates, 56:3.
IV. QUARTERLY CONFERENCE
How composed, [57]:1; time and place of meeting, 57:2; duties and powers of, 58-60:1-8; divorce, 59:6; order of business, 60-63.
V. CHURCH CONFERENCE
How composed, [63]:1; secretary, 64:2; order of business, 64-66:4-6.
PART III Pages 69-93. THE MINISTRY
I. BISHOPS
How constituted, [69]:1-2; duties, 69-74:1-14; retirement of, 74:15; restrictions, 75:16-18; veto of, 42.
II. PRESIDING ELDERS
Duties and powers of	[75]-78
III. PASTORS
Duties of, [78]-82; location of preachers, 101:3; supernumerary, 89; superannuated, 90.
IV. THE MINISTER AND THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Reception on trial, [82]-83; admitting into full membership, 83-86; ministers from other churches, 91-93.
V. DEACONS
How constituted, [86]:1; qualification, 86:2; duties of, 87:1-3; local preachers as, 99:2; ordination of, 317-324.
VI. ELDERS
How constituted, [87]:1; qualification, 88:1; probation, 88:2; duties of, 89:1-2; local preachers as, 99-100:3; ordination of, 324-339.
PART IV. Pages 97-111 LOCAL PREACHERS, EXHORTERS AND OFFICERS OF THE CHURCH
I. THE CALL TO PREACH	[97]-98
II. LOCAL PREACHERS & EXHORTERS
How made, [98]:1; qualification, 98-99:2; deacon, 99:2; Elder, 99-100:3; duties of, 100-101:1; certificate of removal, 102:4.
III. EXHORTERS
How made, [102]:1 duties of, 103:2; further directions, 103:1-3.
IV. CLASS LEADERS
How made, [104]:1-2; duties, 103-104:3.
V. STEWARDS
How made, [105]:1; qualification, 106:2; duties of, 106-107:2-3; number 108:4; junior stewards, 108:5; recording stewards, 109:6.
VI. STEWARDESSES
Number and mode of election, [109]:7; duties of, 109:7:3; junior, 109:7:2.
VII. TRUSTEES
How made, [110]:1; regulations concerning, 110:2; number, 111:3; amenability, 111:4.
PART V. CHURCH MEMBERSHIP, ORDER OF WORSHIP; MEANS OF GRACE, ETC.
I. HOW TO RECEIVE MEMBERS	[115]
II. ORDER OF PUBLIC WORSHIP	[116]-117:1
Special directions, 117-118:2-6; prayer meeting, 118.
III. CLASS MEETINGS	[119]-120
Division of membership, 119:1; meetings, 119:2; general class, 120:3.
IV. LOVE FEASTS
When, and by whom held, [120]:1; order of service, 120:2; strangers, 121.
V. CHILDREN
Dedication, [121]:1; pastoral instruction, 121:2; members of church, 122:3; catechism and doctrine, 122:4.
VI. SUNDAY SCHOOL
How formed, [123]; board of managers, 124:2; superintendent of, 124:5; department of, 223-228.
PART VI. JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION, Pages 129-159
I. TRIAL OF A BISHOP
Investigation, [129]; 132:4; suspension, 130; Court of Appeals, 131-132:3; accusation raised at General Conference, 133:4; trial, 133.
II. TRIAL OF A TRAVELING PREACHER
Amenability, [141]:1; investigation, 141-142; trial, 137; improper tempers, words, or actions, 137-138:3; erroneous doctrines, 138:4; inefficiency, 138:5; refusing to attend work, 139:6.
III. TRIAL OF A PREACHER ON TRIAL	[140]:1.
IV. TRIAL OF A LOCAL PREACHER
Amenability, [141]:1; investigation, 141-142:1-3; trial, 142:4; improper tempers, words, or actions, 142-143:3; erroneous doctrine, 143:4; inefficiency, 143:5.
V. TRIAL OF A MEMBER
Investigation, [145]:a; trial, 145: b, c, d, e; neglect of duty, sinful tempers, dancing, etc., 147:2; sowing dissension, 147:3; arbitration, 148-149.
VI. MINISTERIAL COURT OF APPEALS
How composed, [150]:1-4; the right of appeal, 151:5; challenge, 151:7; further procedure, 152:9.
VII. APPEAL TO THE GENERAL CONFERENCE
Appeal carried up, [153]:2; trial, 153-154:2-3-4.
VIII. APPEAL OF A LOCAL PREACHER
Committee, [155]:12; the evidence, 155:3; procedure, 156:4.
IX. APPEAL OF A MEMBER.
The evidence, [156]-157:2; procedure 157:4.
X. RESTORATION OF CREDENTIALS
Traveling Elders and Deacons, [158]:1-2; local elders and deacons, 159.
PART VII. Pages 163-174 SUPPORT OF THE MINISTRY, BUILDING CHURCHES AND PARSONAGES, SECURING AND TRANSFERRING CHURCH PROPERTY
I. SUPPORT OF THE MINISTRY
Support of pastors, [163]:1; of superannuated preachers, 231:IV:1-3; support of presiding elders, 163:2; 185:d; support of Bishops, 164:3; 179:IV:1; retired Bishops, 164:3; 179:V-2; widows of Bishops, 165:6; 179:IV:3.
II. SUPPORT OF GENERAL OFFICERS
Book Agent and Editor of Christian Index, [191]:V:2; secretaries of; Missions, 197:5; Church Extension, 205:IV:7; Education, 219:8; Epworth League, 213:IV:4; Ministerial Aid, 230, II:6; Sunday School, 225:4; not otherwise provided for, 165:4.
III. CHURCH PROPERTY
Charitable institutions, [166]:1; building churches, 166-168:II; building parsonages, 169:III.
IV. BUYING AND SELLING CHURCH PROPERTY
Securing churches and lots, [170]-171:1; securing parsonages and lots, 171-172:2; sale of church property, authority of, 172:II:2; relief of trustees, 173:3.
PART VIII. Pages 177-258. BOARDS AND DEPARTMENTS
I. FINANCIAL PLAN
General Assessment, [177]:1:1; Board of Equalization, 177:II:1-2; Book Agent, 178-182:III:V:VII.
II. JOINT BOARD OF FINANCE
How constituted, [184]:2; duties of, 185-186:3:a-g; right of Annual Conference, 186:5.
III. Publishing Department	[187]-193
IV. Gen. Missionary Department	[193]-199
V. Woman's H. Miss. Society	[199]-201
VI. Woman's Gen. Miss. Board	[375]-376
VII. Church Extension Board	[201]-209
VIII. Epworth League Board	[209]-214
IX. Board of Education	[214]-223
X. Sunday School Board	[223]-228
XI. Superannuated Preachers, Widows and Orphans Board	[228]-233
XII. MISCELLANEOUS
Children's Day, [233]-234; General Missionary Day, 234; Official Meeting, 235; The Western Index, 236; the Eastern Index, 237.
XIII. Schools and Colleges	[237]-245
XIV. Founder's Day	[245]-246
XV. Names and Boundaries of conferences	[247]-258
PART IX. Pages 261-353 THE RITUAL
I. The Lord's Supper	[261]-273
II. Baptism of Infants	[273]-278
III. Baptism of Adults	[278]-285
IV. Reception of Members	[285]-290
V. Matrimony	[290]-295
VI. Burial of the Dead	[295]-304
VII. CORNER STONE and DEDICATION
Form for laying Corner Stone of Church, [305]-310; form for dedication of church, 311-317.
VIII. ORDINATION
Form of ordaining deacons, [317]; 324; of elders, 324-339; of consecrating Bishops, 339-353.
APPENDIX PART X. Pages 355-377
I. Addresses of Bishops and General Officers	[355]-356
II. Commissions and Boards	[357]-359
III. COURSE OF STUDY FOR PREACHERS.
Local preachers, [361]-362; traveling preachers, 362-364.
IV. Rules for Organization and Conduct of General Conference	[365]-374
V. Woman's General Missionary Society	[375]-377

PART I
THE CONSTITUTION

CHAPTER I.
ARTICLES OF RELIGION

I. OF FAITH IN THE HOLY TRINITY.

There is but one living and true God, everlasting, without body or parts; of infinite power, wisdom, and goodness; the maker and preserver of all things, both visible and invisible. And in unity of this Godhead, there are three persons of one substance, power, and eternity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

II. OF THE WORD, OR SON OF GOD WHO WAS MADE VERY MAN.

The Son, who is the Word of the Father, the very and eternal God, of one substance with the Father, took man's nature in the womb of the blessed Virgin; so that two whole and perfect natures—that is to say, the Godhead and manhood—were joined together in one person, never to be divided, whereof is one Christ, very God and very man, who truly suffered, was crucified, dead and buried, to reconcile his Father to us, and to be a sacrifice, not only for original guilt, but also for actual sins of men.

III. OF THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST

Christ did truly rise again from the dead, and took again his body, with all things appertaining to the perfection of man's nature, wherewith he ascended into heaven, and there sitteth until he return to judge all men at the last day.

IV. OF THE HOLY GHOST.

The Holy Ghost, proceeding from the Father and the Son, is of one substance, majesty, and glory, with the Father and the Son, very and eternal God.

V. THE SUFFICIENCY OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES FOR SALVATION

The Holy Scriptures contain all things necessary to salvation; so that whatsoever is not read therein, nor may be proved thereby, is not to be required of any man, that it should be believed as an article of faith, or be thought requisite or necessary to salvation. In the name of the Holy Scripture, we do understand those canonical books of the Old and New Testament, of whose authority was never any doubt in the Church.

THE NAMES OF THE CANONICAL BOOKS

Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, The First Book of Samuel, The Second Book of Samuel, The First Book of Kings, The Second Book of Kings, The First Book of Chronicles, The Second Book of Chronicles, The Book of Ezra, The Book of Nehemiah, The Book of Esther, The Book of Job, The Psalms, The Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, or the Preacher, Cantica, or Songs of Solomon, Four Prophets the greater, Twelve Prophets the less. All the books of the New Testament, as they are commonly received, we do receive and account canonical.

VI. OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

The Old Testament is not contrary to the New; for both in the Old and New Testament everlasting life is offered to mankind by Christ, who is the only Mediator between God and man, being God and man. Wherefore, they are not to be heard who feign that the old fathers did look only for transitory promises. Although the law given from God by Moses, as touching ceremonies and rites, doth not bind Christians, nor ought the civil precepts thereof of necessity to be received in any Commonwealth, yet, notwithstanding, no Christian whatsoever is free from the obedience of the commandments which are called moral.

VII. OF ORIGINAL OR BIRTH-SIN

Original Sin standeth not in the following of Adam, (as the Pelagians do vainly talk,) but it is the corruption of the nature of every man, that naturally is engendered of the offspring of Adam, whereby man is very far gone from original righteousness, and of his own nature inclined to evil, and that continually.

VIII. OF FREE-WILL

The condition of man after the fall of Adam is such that he can not turn and prepare himself, by his own natural strength and works, to faith and calling upon God; wherefore we have no power to do good works, pleasant and acceptable to God, without the grace of God by Christ preventing us, that we may have a good will, and working with us, when we have that good will.

IX. OF THE JUSTIFICATION OF MAN

We are accounted righteous before God, only for the merit of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, by faith, and not for our own works or deservings; wherefore, that we are justified by faith only, is a most wholesome doctrine, and very full of comfort.

X. OF GOOD WORKS

Although good works, which are the fruits of faith and follow after justification, cannot put away our sins, and endure the severity of God's judgment; yet are they pleasing and acceptable to God in Christ, and spring out of a true and lively faith, insomuch that by them a lively faith may be as evidently known as a tree discerned by its fruit.

XI. OF WORKS OF SUPEREROGATION

Voluntary works, besides over and above God's commandments, which are called works of supererogation, cannot be taught without arrogancy and impiety. For by them men do declare that they do not only render unto God as much as they are bound to do, but that they do more for his sake than of bounded duty is required; whereas Christ saith plainly, When ye have done all that is commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants.

XII. OF SIN AFTER JUSTIFICATION

Not every sin willingly committed after justification, is the sin against the Holy Ghost, and unpardonable. Wherefore, the grant of repentance is not to be denied to such as fall into sin after justification. After we have received the Holy Ghost, we may depart from grace given, and fall into sin, and, by the grace of God, rise again and amend our lives. And, therefore, they are to be condemned who say they can no more sin as long as they live here, or deny the place of forgiveness to such as truly repent.

XIII. OF THE CHURCH

The visible Church of Christ is a congregation of faithful men, in which the pure word of God is preached, and the sacraments duly administered, according to Christ's ordinance, in all those things that of necessity are requisite to the same.

XIV. OF PURGATORY

The Romanish doctrine concerning purgatory, pardons, worshiping, and adoration, as well of images as of relics, and also invocation of saints, is a fond thing, vainly invented, and grounded upon no warrant of Scripture, but repugnant to the word of God.

XV. OF SPEAKING IN THE CONGREGATION IN SUCH A TONGUE AS THE PEOPLE UNDERSTAND

It is a thing plainly repugnant to the word of God and the custom of the Primitive Church, to have public prayer in the Church or to minister the sacraments in a tongue not understood by the people.

XVI. OF THE SACRAMENTS

Sacraments, ordained of Christ, are not only badges or tokens of Christian men's profession, but rather they are certain signs of grace, and God's good will toward us, by the which he doth work invisibly in us, and doth not only quicken, but also strengthen and confirm our faith in him.

There are two sacraments ordained of Christ our Lord in the Gospel; that is to say, Baptism and the Supper of the Lord.

Those five commonly called sacraments—that is to say, Confirmation, Penance, Orders, Matrimony, and Extreme Unction—are not to be counted for sacraments of the Gospel, being such as have partly grown out of the corrupt following of the apostles, and partly are states of life allowed in the Scriptures, but yet have not the like nature of Baptism and the Lord's Supper, because they have not any visible sign or ceremony ordained of God.

The sacraments were not ordained of Christ to be gazed upon, or to be carried about; but that we should duly use them. And in such only as worthily receive the same, they have a wholesome effect or operation; but they that receive them unworthily purchase to themselves condemnation, as St. Paul saith, 1 Cor. xi. 29.

XVII. OF BAPTISM

Baptism is not only a sign of profession and mark of difference whereby Christians are distinguished from others that are not baptized; but it is also a sign of regeneration, or the new birth. The baptism of young children is to be retained in the Church.

XVIII. OF THE LORD'S SUPPER

The Supper of the Lord is not only a sign of the love that Christians ought to have among themselves one to another, but rather is a sacrament of our redemption by Christ's death; insomuch that, to such as rightly, worthily, and with faith receive the same, the bread which we break is a partaking of the body of Christ; and likewise the cup of blessing is a partaking of the blood of Christ.

Transubstantiation, or the change of the substance of bread and wine in the Supper of the Lord, cannot be proved by Holy Writ, but is repugnant to the plain words of Scripture, overthroweth the nature of a sacrament, and hath given occasion to many superstitions.

The body of Christ is given, taken, and eaten in the Supper, only after a heavenly and spiritual manner. And the means whereby the body of Christ is received and eaten in the Supper, is faith.

The sacrament of the Lord's Supper was not by Christ's ordinance reserved, carried about, lifted up, or worshiped.

XIX. OF BOTH KINDS

The cup of the Lord is not to be denied to the lay people; for both the parts of the Lord's Supper, by Christ's ordinance and commandment, ought to be administered to all Christians alike.

XX. OF THE ONE OBLATION OF CHRIST, FINISHED UPON THE CROSS

The offering of Christ once made, is that perfect redemption, propitiation, and satisfaction for all the sins of the whole world, both original and actual; and there is none other satisfaction for sin but that alone. Wherefore the sacrifice of masses, in the which it is commonly said that the priest doth offer Christ for the quick and the dead, to have remission of pain or guilt, is a blasphemous fable and dangerous deceit.

XXI. OF THE MARRIAGE OF MINISTERS

The ministers of Christ are not commanded by God's law either to vow the estate of single life or to abstain from marriage; therefore it is lawful to marry at their own discretion, as for them, as for all other Christians, they shall judge the same to serve best to Godliness.

XXII. OF THE RITES AND CEREMONIES OF CHURCHES

It is not necessary that rites and ceremonies should in all places be the same, or exactly alike; for they have been always different, and may be changed according to the diversity of countries, times, and men's manners, so that nothing be ordained against God's word. Whosoever, through his private judgment, willingly and purposely, doth openly break the rites and ceremonies of the Church to which he belongs, which are not repugnant to the word of God, and are ordained and approved by common authority, ought to be rebuked openly, that others may fear to do the like, as one that offendeth against the common order of the Church, and woundeth the consciences of weak brethren.

Every particular Church may ordain, change, or abolish rights and ceremonies, so that all things may be done to edification.

XXIII. OF THE RULERS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

The president, the congress, the general assemblies, the governors, and the councils of state, as the delegates of the people are the rulers of the United States of America, according to the division of power made to them by the constitution of the United States, and by the constitution of their respective States. And the said States are a sovereign and independent nation, and ought not to be subject to any foreign jurisdiction.[1]

XXIV. OF CHRISTIAN MEN'S GOODS

The riches and goods of Christians are not common, as touching the right, title, and possession of the same, as some do falsely boast. Notwithstanding, every man ought, of such things as he possesseth, liberally to give alms to the poor according to his ability.

XXV. OF A CHRISTIAN MAN'S OATH

As we confess that vain and rash by our Lord Jesus Christ and James, his apostle, so we judge that the Christian religion doth not prohibit, but that a man may swear when the magistrate requireth, in a cause of faith swearing is forbidden Christian men and charity, so it be done according to the prophet's teaching, in justice judgment, and truth.

[1] As far as it respects civil affairs, we believe it the duty of Christians and especially all Christian ministers, to be subject to the supreme authority of the country where they reside, and to use all laudable means to enjoin obedience to the powers that be; and, therefore, it is expected that all our preachers and people, who may be under any foreign government, will behave themselves as peaceable and orderly subjects.

CHAPTER II.
THE GENERAL RULES

The General Rules of "The United Societies" organized by Mr. Wesley in 1739, are as follows:

There is only one condition previously required of those who desire admission into these societies, a "desire to flee from the wrath to come, and to be saved from their sins." But wherever this is really fixed in the soul, it will be shown by its fruits. It is therefore expected of all who continue therein that they shall evidence their desire of salvation—

First, by doing no harm, by avoiding evil of every kind, especially that which is most generally practiced; such as:

The taking of the name of God in vain;

The profaning the day of the Lord, either by doing ordinary work therein, or by buying or selling;

Drunkenness, or drinking spirituous liquors unless in cases of necessity;

Fighting, quarreling, brawling, brother going to law with brother, returning evil for evil, or railing for railing; the using many words in buying or selling.

The buying or selling goods that have not paid the duty;

The giving or taking things on usury, i.e., unlawful interest;

Uncharitable or unprofitable conversation, particularly, speaking evil of magistrates or of ministers;

Doing to others as we would not they should do unto us;

Doing what we know is not for the glory of God: as,

The putting on of gold and costly apparel;

The taking such diversions as can not be used in the name of the Lord Jesus;

The singing those songs, or reading those books, which do not tend to the knowledge or love of God;

Softness or needless self-indulgence;

Laying up treasure upon earth;

Borrowing without a probability of paying, or taking up goods without a probability of paying for them.

It is expected of all who continue in these societies, that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation—

Secondly, by doing good, by being in every kind merciful after their power, as they have opportunity, doing good of every possible sort, and as far as possible, to all men;

To their bodies, of the ability which God giveth, by giving food to the hungry, by clothing the naked, by visiting or helping them that are sick or in prison;

To their souls, by instructing, reproving, or exhorting all we have any intercourse with, trampling under foot that enthusiastic doctrine that we are not to do good unless our hearts be free to do it.

By doing good, especially to them that are of the household of faith, or groaning so to be, employing them preferably to others, buying one of another, helping each other in business; and so much the more because the world will love its own, and them only.

By all possible diligence and frugality, that the gospel be not blamed. By running with patience the race which is set before them, denying themselves, and taking up their cross daily; submitting to bear the reproach of Christ, to be as the filth and off-scouring of the world; and looking that men should say all manner of evil of them falsely for the Lord's sake.

It is expected of all who desire to continue in these societies that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation—

Thirdly, by attending upon all the ordinances of God, such as;

The public worship of God;

The ministry of the word, either read or expounded;

The Supper of the Lord;

Family and private prayer;

Searching the Scriptures, and

Fasting or abstinence.

These are the General Rules of our societies; all of which we are taught of God to observe, even in his written word, which is the only rule, and the sufficient rule, both of our faith and practice. And all these we know his Spirit writes on truly awakened hearts. If there be any among us who observe them not, who habitually break any of them, let it be known unto them who watch over that soul, as they who must give an account. We will admonish him of the error of his ways; we will bear with him for a season; but if then he repent not, he hath no more place among us; we have delivered our own souls.

PART II.
THE CONFERENCES

CHAPTER III.
GENERAL CONFERENCE

Ques. 1. Who shall compose the General Conference, and what are the regulations and powers belonging to it?

Ans. 1. The General Conference shall be composed of one clerical member for every twenty-eight members of each Annual Conference, and one lay member (who may be a local preacher) for each Annual Conference, to be appointed as follows:

The clerical representatives shall be elected by the clerical members of the Annual Conference: provided that such representatives shall have traveled at least four calendar years from the time they were received on trial, and are in full connection at the time of holding the Conference. The lay representatives shall be elected by the lay members of the Annual Conference: provided that such representatives be twenty-five years of age, and shall have been members of the Church for at least six years at the time of holding the Conference.

2. An Annual Conference, entitled under the second Restrictive Rule to two ministerial delegates, shall not be denied the privilege of two lay delegates also.

3. The ministers and laymen shall deliberate in one body; but upon a call of one-fifth of the members of the Conference, the lay and clerical members shall vote separately, and no measure shall be passed without the concurrence of a majority of both classes of representatives.

4. The General Conference shall meet in the month of May, once in four years perpetually, in such place or places as shall be fixed on by the General Conference from time to time.

5. The Bishops, or a majority of all the Annual Conferences shall have authority to call a General Conference, if they judge it necessary, at any time.

6. When a General Conference is called, it shall be constituted of the delegates elected to the preceding General Conference, except when an Annual Conference shall prefer to have a new election. The place of holding a called session of the General Conference shall be that fixed by the preceding General Conference.

7. The Bishops shall have authority, when they judge it necessary, to change the place appointed for the meeting of the General Conference.

8. At all times when the General Conference is met, it shall take a majority of the representatives of all the Annual Conferences to make a quorum for transacting business.

9. One of the general superintendents shall preside in the General Conference; but in case no general superintendent be present, the General Conference shall choose a president pro tem.

10. The General Conference shall have full powers to make rules and regulations for our Church under the following limitations and restrictions, viz:

(1) The General Conference shall not revoke, alter, or change our Articles of Religion, or establish any new standards or rule of doctrine contrary to our present existing and established standards of doctrine.

(2) They shall not allow of more than one representative for every fourteen members of the Annual Conference, nor allow of a less number than one for every thirty; provided, nevertheless, that when there shall be in any Annual Conference a fraction of two-thirds the number which shall be fixed for the ratio of representation, such Annual Conference shall be entitled to an additional delegate for such fraction; and provided, also, that no Conference shall be denied the privilege of two delegates.

(3) They shall not change or alter any part or rule of our government, so as to do away with episcopacy, or destroy the plan of our itinerant general superintendency.

(4) They shall not revoke or change the General Rules of the United Societies.

(5) They shall not do away with the privilege of our ministers or preachers of trial by a committee and of an appeal; neither shall they do away with the privileges of our members of trial before the Church or by a committee, and of an appeal.

Provided, nevertheless, that upon the concurrent recommendation of three-fourths of all the members of the several Annual Conferences, who shall be present and vote on such recommendation, then a majority of two-thirds of the General Conference succeeding shall suffice to alter any of the above restrictions, excepting the first article; and also, whenever such alterations shall have been first recommended by two-thirds of the General Conference, so soon as three-fourths of the members of all the Annual Conferences shall have concurred as aforesaid, such alteration or alterations shall take effect.

Provided, that when any rule or regulation is adopted by the General Conference, which, in the opinion of the Bishops, is unconstitutional, the Bishops may present to the Conference which passed said rule or regulation, their objections thereto, with their reasons, in writing; and if then the General Conference shall, by a two-thirds vote, adhere to its action on said rule or regulation, it shall then take the course prescribed for altering a restrictive rule, and thus passed upon affirmatively, the Bishops shall announce that such rule or regulation takes effect from that time.

CHAPTER IV.
ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Ques. 1. Who shall compose an Annual Conference, and what are the regulations and powers belonging to it?

Ans. 1. All the traveling preachers in full connection with it, and four lay representatives—one of whom may be a local preacher—from each Presiding Elder's District.

2. The lay members shall be chosen annually by the District Conferences; provided that no one shall be a representative who is not twenty-five years of age, and who has not been for six years, next preceding his election, a member of the Church.

3. The lay members shall participate in all the business of the Conference, except such as involves ministerial character.

4. It shall be the duty of all the members of the Conference to attend its sessions, unless providentially hindered. All the preachers on trial, and those to be admitted on trial, shall also attend the sessions, but they shall not vote on any question, nor speak unless by consent of the Conference.

Ques. 2. Who shall determine the number and boundaries of the Annual Conferences?

Ans. The General Conference.

Provided, however, that the Annual Conference or Conferences shall have the right to create other conferences in the interval of the General Conferences. The Conference or Conferences desiring to create a new Conference shall appoint a Commission for the purpose of arranging the boundary line of such Conference and giving it a suitable name. The Commission shall submit its report to the ensuing Conference or Conferences for ratification or rejection. In all cases the report of the Commission to become effective must be adopted by the Conference or Conferences which appointed the Commission.

Ques. 3. Who shall appoint the times of holding the Annual Conferences?

Ans. The Bishops; but they shall allow every Annual Conference to sit a week at least.

Ques. 4. Who shall appoint the places of holding the Annual Conferences?

Ans. Each Annual Conference shall appoint the place of its own sitting; but should it become necessary from any unforeseen cause to change the place after it has been fixed by the Conference, a majority of the Presiding Elders, with the consent of the Bishop who is to preside, shall have power to make such change.

Ques. 5. Who shall preside in the Annual Conferences?

Ans. The Bishops. In the absence of a Bishop, the Conference shall elect the president by ballot, without debate, from among the traveling elders. The president thus elected shall discharge all the duties of a Bishop except ordination.

Ques. 6. What is the method of proceeding in an Annual Conference?

Ans. The following questions shall be asked:

1. Are all the preachers blameless in their life and official administration?

2. Who are admitted on trial?

3. Who remain on trial?

4. Who are discontinued?

5. Who are admitted into full connection?

6. Who are re-admitted?

7. Who are received by transfer from other Conferences?

8. Who are the deacons of one year?

9. What traveling preachers are elected deacons?

10. What traveling preachers are ordained deacons?

11. What local preachers are elected deacons?

12. What local preachers are ordained deacons?

13. What traveling preachers are elected elders?

14. What traveling preachers are ordained elders?

15. What local preachers are elected elders?

16. What local preachers are ordained elders?

17. Who are located this year?

18. Who are supernumerary?

19. Who are superannuated this year?[2]

20. What preachers have died during the year?

21. What is the number of traveling preachers in this Conference?

22. What is the number of local preachers in this Conference?

23. What is the number of lay members in this Conference?

24. How many infants have been baptized during the year?

25. How many adults have been baptized during the year?

26. What is the number of Sunday-schools?

27. What is the number of Sunday-school teachers?

28. What is the number of Sunday-school scholars?

29. What is the number of Epworth League Chapters?

30. What is the number of Epworth League members?

31. What amount has been raised for superannuated preachers, widows, and orphans of preachers? (a) from General Funds? (b) from five cents assessment? (c) from per capita collection at the Annual Conference?

32. What amount has been received by claimants in this Conference?[3]

33. What was contributed for missions on General Missionary Day?

34. What amount was contributed for education on Children's Day?

35. What amount has been contributed for Church Extension?

36. What amount was apportioned in this Conference for General Funds?

37. What amount has been raised on General Funds this year?

38. What amount was apportioned in this Conference for Annual Conference Contingent Fund?

39. What has been raised on Annual Conference Contingent Fund?

40. Where shall the next session of the conference be held?

41. Where are the preachers stationed this year?

Ques. 7. What method is recommended in the examination of the life and official administration of the preachers?

Ans. 1. Let none be present except members of the Conference, and others who may be in attendance on Conference business, unless the Conference by vote shall order otherwise.

2. Let the name of every preacher be called, and let his Presiding Elder, or some other member of the Conference, state whether or not there be any complaint against him. If there be none, he may retire, and the Conference may make further inquiry concerning him, and pass his character without vote.

3. If there be a complaint, and the preacher has been advised of it, let it be stated to the Conference, and let the accused have the privilege of replying. He shall then retire, and the Conference shall determine by vote whether or not his character shall pass.

4. If a trial be necessary, it shall be conducted according to the provisions of Chapter XXIV.

5. The names of any who may be expelled or suspended, or who may have withdrawn from the Church, shall be stated in the minutes.

Ques. 8. What other business shall be done in the Annual Conference?

Ans. 1. Let every Annual Conference inquire into the state and character of all the institutions of learning that may be under its care, and the best means of promoting their interests, and, if necessary, of increasing their number. Provided, no member of the C. M. E. Church, bishop, presiding elder, or preacher shall establish a school in the name of the C. M. E. Church without first getting the consent of the Quarterly or Annual Conference within whose bounds said school may be located.

2. Let every Annual Conference take account of all the church buildings, parsonages, and other church property within its bounds, and see that same be legally secured to the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, according to the provisions of the Discipline.

3. In each Annual Conference, the bishop presiding shall appoint a committee of examination on the course of study provided for candidates for the ministry. The committee of examination shall consist of not less than three (3) nor more than eleven (11) of the most competent members of the conference. The committee shall serve four years, provided they are appointed at the first session of the conference following the General Conference. The Bishop may appoint one or more of the committee as often as he thinks the interests of the work require it.

4. The committee of examination shall assemble one day in advance of the Conference, and at the same place, to hold examination for all candidates. As far as practicable, all examinations shall be conducted in writing and at least ten (10) questions shall be proposed in each branch of study.

5. All applicants for admission on trial, into full connection and for ordination, and all local preachers seeking ordination as deacons or elders, must be examined in the course of study provided by the bishops and approved by the General Conference. All applicants must meet the committee one day before the opening of the Annual Conference.

6. The standard of examination shall be one hundred (100), but in no case shall an applicant be promoted or ordained who falls below seventy (70) in examination, provided, nevertheless the provisions for ordaining Missionaries be not changed.

7. Let every Annual Conference have a record of its proceedings, kept by a secretary chosen for that purpose; said record shall be signed by the President and the Secretary, and a copy of the same be sent to the General Conference at its next ensuing session.

8. The Secretary of each Annual Conference shall forward to the Editor of the Christian Index or Book Agent full and correct answers to the foregoing forty-one questions, for insertion into the General Minutes, according to the form therein adopted.

9. The Joint Board of Finance shall fix the salary and traveling expenses of the Presiding Elders, and apportion the same in and to the several charges within the District.

10. SECRETARY OF STATISTICS

(a) The Secretary of Statistics shall keep a record of the number of itinerant ministers and lay members, the number of churches and parsonages, the value of the same by Annual Conferences; all moneys raised for general and local purposes shall be tabulated by Annual Conferences, and published in pamphlet form annually. The pamphlet containing such information shall be known as "The Year Book of the C. M. E. Church," and shall be printed by the Book Agent.

(b) The Secretary of each Annual Conference shall, as soon as the conference closes, send to the Secretary of Statistics an accurate return from the Statistical Secretary and Joint Board of Finance, all figures necessary to be used in making up said "Year Book."

[2] NOTE: Let the answer to this question embrace the names of all superannuated with the date of their superannuation.

[3] Let answer embrace amount paid to each claimant in the conference.

CHAPTER V.
DISTRICT CONFERENCES

Ques. 1. What directions are given concerning District Conferences?

Ans. 1. There shall be held annually, in each presiding elder's District, a District Conference. The time shall be fixed by the Presiding Elder, and the place by the conference.

2. The District Conference shall be composed of all the preachers, in the District, both traveling and local, and of laymen, the number of whom, and their mode of appointment, each Annual Conference may determine for itself.

3. The Presiding Elder shall preside. In his absence, the Conference shall elect a president.

4. The Conference shall elect a secretary, who shall keep a record of all its proceedings.

1. It shall be the duty of the Conference to examine Quarterly Conference Journals, and to inquire particularly into the condition of the several charges in the District:—

(a) As to their spiritual state, and

(b) As to missions within the District, where new ones should be established, or what missions should be raised to circuits or stations.

(d) As to the financial system, the contributions to church purposes, and the condition of houses of worship and parsonages.

(e) As to the mission work and Church Extension; the amount raised for each.

(f) As to the Epworth League chapters and the manner of conducting them.

2. (a) Hearing reports from Special Committees.

(b) Reading and discussion of papers.

3. The District Conference shall elect annually, by ballot, from the District, four delegates to the ensuing Annual Conference; provided, no member of the Annual Conference shall vote in said election.

4. At these conferences prominence shall be given to religious exercises, such as preaching, prayer meetings, love feast, and the administration of the sacraments.

CHAPTER VI.
QUARTERLY CONFERENCES.

Ques. 1. Who shall compose a Quarterly Conference?

Ans. All the traveling and local preachers, exhorters, stewards (senior and junior), stewardesses (senior and junior), trustees of church property, class leaders, presidents of Epworth League chapters, Presidents of Woman's Missionary Societies, Superintendents of Sunday Schools, Secretaries of Church Conferences, and choristers, who are members of the church, and none else.

Ques. 2. When and where shall each Quarterly Conference meet?

Ans. Four times a year, at such place as the Conference may appoint, and at such time as the Presiding Elder may designate.

Ques. 3. Who shall preside in a Quarterly Conference?

Ans. The Presiding Elder, or, in his absence, the preacher in charge.

Ques. 4. What is the regular business of a Quarterly Conference?

Ans. 1. To receive and try appeals, to hear complaints, and examine Church Records and Registers.

2. To superintend the interests of Sunday-schools and the instruction of children.

3. To take cognizance of all the local preachers and exhorters in the circuits, stations, or missions, and to inquire annually into the gifts, labors, and usefulness of each by name.

4. To try, suspend, expel, or acquit any local preacher in the circuit, station, or mission, against whom charges may be brought.

5. To license proper persons to exhort and to preach; provided that no person shall thus be licensed to either preach or exhort who, for any cause, marries a divorced woman; to renew their license annually, when, in its judgment, their gifts, grace, and usefulness will warrant a renewal. All votes to license preachers shall be taken by ballot.

6. To recommend suitable candidates to the Annual Conference for deacon's or elder's orders in the local connection, and for admission on trial and re-admission into the traveling connection: Provided (a) that no one shall be admitted or allowed to remain in the traveling connection who marries a divorced woman: Provided (b) that no person shall be recommended to the Annual Conference for admission on trial, or for ordination, without first being examined in the Quarterly Conference on the subject of doctrine and discipline, and giving satisfactory evidence of his ability to read the word of God. All votes to recommend preachers for admission on trial, or re-admission into the traveling connection, or for deacon's or elder's orders shall be taken by ballot.

7. To elect trustees, stewards, and stewardesses, superintendents of Sunday-schools, according to the discipline, for the circuit, station, or mission, and of the stewards, to appoint one a Recording Steward.

8. To see that all its proceedings be faithfully recorded, by a secretary chosen for the purpose, in a book to be kept by the Recording Steward; the records of each session being signed by the President and Secretary.

Ques. 5. What order of business shall be observed in the Quarterly Conference?

Ans. After religious service, let the roll be called, and the following inquiries be made—

1. Are there any appeals?

2. Are there any complaints?

3. Is there a written report from—

(a) The Pastor as to the number and state of the church?

(b) The Superintendent as to the number and state of the Sunday School?

(d) Senior and Junior Stewardesses?

(e) Trustees of Church Property?

(f) Woman's Missionary Society?

(g) Epworth League?

(h) Church Extension?

(i) Chorister?

4. What were the estimated claims, and what the final settlement of the same, in the charge, during the past year? (1)

The answer to this question will embrace the amount assessed and paid Presiding Elder, Pastor, General Funds, Church Extension, Missions, Education, Superannuated preachers, widows, and orphans of preachers and other items.

5. What amount has been estimated by the Board of Stewards for the support of the preacher in charge, and his assistant, for the present year? (1 or 2).

6. What amount has been apportioned this charge by the Joint Board of Finance: 1, for Presiding Elder's salary and traveling expenses? 2, for General Funds, Education, Missions and Church Extension? (1 or 2).

7. Are there any applications—

(a) For license to exhort?

(b) For license to preach?

8. Who are elected to fill vacancies in the Board of Trustees?

9. What amount was raised for education on Children's Day? (3 or 4.)

10. Have the General Rules been read?

11. Is there a Church Register, and a Record of Church Conferences for each church on the charge, and have they been faithfully kept?

12. Have the exhorters and local preachers passed an examination of character, and have their license been renewed? (3 or 4.)

13. Are there any applications to the Annual Conference to be admitted on trial into the traveling connection, or for re-admission? (4).

14. What local preachers are recommended to the Annual Conference for ordination? (4.)

15. Who are elected Senior and Junior Stewards, and Senior and Junior Stewardesses for the ensuing conference year?

16. Who is elected Recording Steward? (4.)

17. Who are elected Sunday School Superintendents? (4.)

18. What amount was raised for Missions on General Missionary Day? (3 or 4.)

19. What are the statistics to be reported to the Annual Conference? (4.)

20. Is there any miscellaneous business?

21. Where shall the next Quarterly Conference be held?

CHAPTER VII.
CHURCH CONFERENCES

Ques. 1. What directions are given concerning Church Conferences?

Ans. 1. All the members of the Church, and resident members of the Annual Conference shall come together once a month, or on circuits at least every three months, at every appointment, to hold a Church Conference, over which the preacher in charge shall preside. It may be held at any time most convenient for assembling the greatest number of members; but if on the Sabbath, it should not interfere with the morning public worship.

2. A secretary shall be elected annually, at the first meeting after the session of the Annual Conference. He shall make a record of the proceedings, and shall keep in a book, and return to the Quarterly Conference, all statistics which the Discipline requires to be reported to an Annual Conference.

3. The roll of members shall be called at every meeting, unless otherwise ordered, and the Conference may strike off the names of any who, on account of removal or other causes, have been lost sight of for twelve months; provided, however, that if such member appears and claims membership, he may be restored by a vote of the meeting.

4. The following is suggested as the general order of business:

1. Receive reports—

(a) From the preachers, of their labors since the last meeting.

(b) From the class leaders.

(d) From the stewards and stewardesses of that Church.

2. The Conference shall inquire—

(a) What is the number of the poor of the Church?

(b) Have they been provided for?

(c) Is the church here doing its duty for the cause of missions and other Church enterprises, and for the collections ordered by the Annual Conference?

(d) Is our religious literature circulated and read?

(e) Can the Church extend its work by establishing additional prayer meetings, Sunday-schools or in any other way?

(f) Can anything more be done to strengthen and build up the Church in the community, and to advance the cause of Christ?

5. If the observance of this order of business is likely to protract the session beyond a reasonable limit, the president may, from time to time, select the most important matters and bring them forward.

6. Let the Church Conference be opened and closed with religious service, and conducted in a devout and prayerful spirit.

PART III.
THE MINISTER

CHAPTER VIII.
THE ELECTION AND CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS AND THEIR DUTIES

Ques. 1. How is a Bishop to be constituted?

Ans. By the election of the General Conference, and the laying on of hands of three Bishops, or at least of one Bishop and two Elders.

Ques. 2. If by death, expulsion, or otherwise, there be no Bishop remaining in our church, what shall we do?

Ans. The General Conference shall elect a Bishop; and the Elders, or any three of them, who shall be appointed by the General Conference for that purpose, shall ordain him according to our form of ordination.

Ques. 3. What are the duties of a Bishop?

Ans. 1 (a) To preside in the General and Annual Conferences.

(b) To fix the appointments of the preachers in the Annual Conferences; provided, he shall not allow any preacher to remain in the same circuit, station or mission more than six years successively, except where the presiding Bishop thinks a longer term of service will promote the welfare of the charge. The Book Agent, Editor of the Christian Index, the Secretaries of Missions, Church Extension and Epworth Leagues, superannuated and supernumerary preachers, Missionaries in foreign stations, Chaplains to military posts, preachers who may be appointed to labor for seamen and the American Bible Society and the presidents, principals or other teachers of seminaries and other institutions of learning under our superintendence are exceptions to the time limit as above indicated, (c) When requested by an annual conference, the Bishop may appoint a preacher for a term of years to any seminary or institution of learning not under our supervision and care. (d) He shall have authority when requested by the Annual Conference to appoint an agent, who shall travel throughout the bounds of such conference for the purpose of organizing Sunday Schools, aiding needy ones, and distributing tracts. (e) When requested by any annual conference, he shall have authority to appoint an agent or agents who shall travel and work in the interest of our literary institutions.

Sec. 2. To choose the Presiding Elders, fix their stations, and to change them when he judges it necessary, provided, however, that no Elder shall preside longer than six years consecutively, nor shall be reappointed to a district until he has served, at least, two years, in the pastorate or otherwise. (Mission fields excepted.)

3. To change, receive, and suspend preachers in the intervals of the Conferences, as necessity may require, and as the Discipline directs.

4. To ordain bishops, elders, and deacons; and to see that the names of the persons ordained by him be entered on the journals of the Conference.

5. To decide all questions of law coming before him in the regular business of an Annual Conference: provided, such questions be presented in writing, and with his decisions be recorded on the journals of the Conference. When the Bishop shall have decided a question of law, the Conference shall have the right to determine how far the law thus decided or interpreted is applicable to the case then pending. An Annual Conference shall have a right to appeal from such decision to the College of Bishops, whose decision in such cases shall be final. And no Episcopal decision shall be authoritative except in the case pending, nor shall any such be published until it shall have been approved by the College of Bishops. And each Bishop shall report in writing to the Episcopal College, at an annual meeting to be held by them, such decisions as he has made subsequently to the last preceding meeting; and all such decisions, when approved by the College of Bishops, shall be recorded in a permanent form, and published in such manner as the Bishops shall agree to adopt; and when so approved, recorded, and published, they shall be authoritative interpretations or constructions of the law.

6. To hear and decide appeals of the Quarterly Conferences on questions of law, when he shall be presiding in any Annual Conference; and the question contained in the appeal, together with the Bishop's decision, shall be recorded on the journal of the Annual Conference.

7. To see that the Districts be formed according to his judgment; provided, that no District shall contain more than eighteen appointments.

8. To unite two or more circuits stations or missions together, for Quarterly Conference purposes, allowing the financial interests and pastoral duties of each to remain separate and independent; and to divide a circuit, station, or mission into two or more, when he judges it necessary.

9. To spend at least six months annually from charge to charge, through out his Episcopal District, in order to preach, and to oversee the spiritual and temporal affairs of the Church.

10. To organize Annual Conferences in the interval of the General Conference, when in his judgment it seems wise to do so; and to see that one clerical and one lay delegate be elected from such Conference to the General Conference, according to the provision of the second "Restrictive Rule."

11. To appoint one of their number to preach the quadrennial sermon before the General Conference on the day of its opening.

12. They shall divide the entire Church into Districts, according to the number of active Bishops.

13. The Bishops shall choose their own work.

14. They shall change their Districts at least every four years.

15. Any Bishop elected since 1873 shall be automatically retired at the General Conference nearest his seventieth birthday.

16. No Bishop shall be treasurer or custodian of an Educational or General Church moneys.

17. A Bishop shall not raise or cause to be raised, collect or cause to be collected, or receive any public donations from any Annual Conference or Conferences in the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church.

18. The Bishop shall be President of the Board of Trustees of all schools and colleges located in his district.

CHAPTER IX.
PRESIDING ELDERS

Ques. 1. What are the duties of a Presiding Elder?

Ans. 1. To travel through his appointed District, in order to preach and superintend the spiritual and temporal affairs of the Church.

2. In the absence of the Bishop, to take charge of all the traveling and local preachers, and exhorters, in his District.

3. To change, receive, and suspend preachers in his District during the intervals of the Conferences, and in the absence of the Bishop, as the Discipline directs.

4. To be present, as far as practicable, at all the quarterly meetings, and call together the members of the Quarterly Conference, over which he shall also preside.

5. To decide all questions of law which may come up in the regular business of the Quarterly or District Conferences, when submitted to him in writing, subject to an appeal to the President of the next Annual Conference; but in all cases the application of law shall be with the Quarterly or District Conferences, which shall record in its journal all such questions and decisions.

6. To take care that every part of the Discipline be enforced in his District; to promote, by all proper means, the cause of the Epworth League, Church Extension, missions and Sunday-schools, and the publication, at our own press, of tracts and Sunday school books; to inquire carefully at each Quarterly Conference, whether the rules respecting the instruction of children have been faithfully observed; and to report to the Annual Conference the names of all delinquent traveling preachers within his District.

7. To attend the Bishops when present in his District; and to give them, when absent, all necessary information by letter, of the state of his District.

8. To direct the candidates for the ministry to those studies recommended for them by the Bishops.

9. To procure at the fourth Quarterly Conference full statistics from every charge, to be reported at the Annual Conference, in case the preacher in charge fails to make his report.

10. If any preacher absents himself from his circuit, the Presiding Elder shall, as far as possible, fill his place with another preacher.

Ques. 2. Shall the Presiding Elder have the power to employ a preacher who has been rejected at the previous Annual Conference?

Ans. He shall not, unless the Conference should give him liberty under certain conditions.

CHAPTER X.
PASTORS AND THEIR DUTIES

Ques. 1. What are the duties of a preacher who has the charge of a circuit, station, or mission?

Ans. 1. To receive, try, and expel members, according to the provisions of the Discipline, and to subscribe for the Christian Index. Any minister failing to subscribe for the same shall be guilty of neglect of duty.

2. To appoint all the leaders, and change them when he sees it necessary.

3. To see that all the ordinances and regulations of the Church be duly observed, and that the General Rules be read at least once a year in every congregation.

4. To see that a fast be held in every congregation within his charge on the Friday preceding every quarterly meeting, and that suitable services be held on the occasion, wherever practicable.

5. To hold Quarterly Conferences in the absence of the Presiding Elder.

6. To hold a meeting of the leaders and stewards of his charge once a week, if practicable, to receive their reports.

7. To report at each Quarterly Conference the names of all who have been received into the Church, and of all who have died, removed, withdrawn, or been excluded from it during the preceding quarter, and give a statement of the general condition of his station, circuit, or mission.

8. To give an account of his charge every quarter to his Presiding Elder.

9. To see that all the people within the bounds of his charge be duly supplied with our books and periodicals.

10. To keep a directory, in which the residence of all the members shall be noted, wherever it may be necessary to facilitate pastoral visitation.

11. To leave his successor a particular account of his charge including an account of the subscribers for our periodicals.

12. To see that a permanent record be kept of all the baptisms and marriages within the bounds of his charge.

13. To see that a register be kept, in which shall be noted the names, with the time and manner of the reception and disposal of every person belonging to the Church in his station, circuit, or mission, distinguishing between local elders, deacons and preachers, and lay members; and to report to the Annual Conference the number of each that may be under his charge at the time of its session.

14. To promote all the interests of the Sunday School, Epworth League, Church Extension, Board of Missions, Superannuated Preachers, Widows, and Orphans of Preachers Society, and the Tract Society of our Church in such a way as the Discipline and Annual Conference may direct, and to report to the Annual Conference the amount raised in his charge during the year for these several claims.

15. To see that reports are made at each session of the Quarterly Conference of the number and state of the Sunday School, Epworth League, and Woman's Missionary Society, and that the report of the work for the year in the above named departments be sent to the fourth Quarterly Conference and the Annual Conference.

16. To furnish every one removing from his charge with a certificate in the following form:

CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER
The bearer hereof................
is an acceptable member of the Colored
Methodist Episcopal Church....
.........station ........... Annual
Conference, and is hereby cheerfully
recommended to the fellowship of any
body of Christian believers with whom
...............may cast.........lot.
............Pastor.
............Sec'ty of Church.

CHAPTER XI.
ADMITTING ON TRIAL AND INTO FULL CONNECTION.
ELECTION TO DEACON'S AND ELDER'S ORDERS.

I. ADMITTING PREACHERS ON TRIAL

Ques. How is a preacher to be admitted on trial into the traveling connection?

Ans. 1. By the Annual Conference. In the interval of the Conference, he may be received and employed in the work by a Bishop, or the Presiding Elder of the District, until the sitting of the Conference.

2. No one shall be admitted on trial unless he procures a recommendation from the Quarterly Conference; nor shall a vote be taken upon the admission of any candidate who shall not have passed an approved examination upon the course of study prescribed by the Bishops, before a committee appointed by the Bishop for the purpose.

3. The Annual Conference may then admit him as a probationer by a vote of the majority. Observe taking on trial is entirely different from admitting a preacher into full connection. One on trial may be, either admitted or rejected without doing him any wrong; otherwise it would be no trial at all.

II. ADMITTING PREACHERS INTO FULL CONNECTION

Ques. Who shall be admitted into the Conference in full connection?

Ans. 1. No one except a preacher who has been employed two successive years in the regular itinerant work, (which is to commence from his being admitted on trial at the Annual Conference,) and who is approved by the Annual Conference.

2. Before any preacher is admitted into full connection, he shall have passed an approved examination upon the Course of Study prescribed by the Bishops for candidates for the ministry; and in no case shall a vote be taken to admit any one until he is recommended by the examining committee.

3. A missionary employed on a foreign mission may be admitted into full connection, if recommended by the superintendent of the mission where he labors, without being present at the Annual Conference for examination.

Ques. 2. What method do we use in admitting a preacher into full connection at the Conference?

Ans. After solemn fasting and prayer, every person proposed shall then be asked before the Conference the following questions, (with any, others which may be thought necessary), namely: Have you faith in Christ? Are you going on to perfection? Are you groaning after it? Are you resolved to devote yourself wholly to God and his work? Are you willing to conform to the Discipline of the Church? Will you diligently instruct the children in every place? Will you visit from house to house? Will you recommend fasting, or abstinence, both by precept and example? Will you especially observe the following directions?—

1. Be diligent. Never be unemployed. Never be triflingly employed. Never trifle away time; neither spend any more time at any place than is strictly necessary.

2. Be punctual. Do every thing exactly at the time. And do not mend our rules, but keep them; not for wrath, but conscience's sake.

3. Act in all things not according to your own will, but as a son in the gospel. It is therefore your duty to employ your time in the manner which we direct; in preaching, meeting the classes, visiting from house to house, and especially visiting the sick; in reading, meditation and prayer. Above all, if you labor with us in the Lord's vineyard, it is needful you should do that part of the work which we advise at those times and places which we judge best for his glory.

If he gives satisfactory answers to these questions, the Conference, by a vote of the majority, may admit him into full connection.

III. ELECTION TO DEACON'S ORDERS

Ques. 1. How is a deacon constituted?

Ans. 1. By the election of a majority of the Annual Conference, and the laying on of the hands of a Bishop.

2. Before any traveling preacher is ordained deacon, he shall have passed an approved examination upon the Course of Study prescribed by the Bishops for candidates for the ministry; and in no case shall a vote be taken to elect any one to deacon's orders until he is recommended by the examining committee.

Ques. 2. What shall be the time of probation of a traveling preacher for the office of a deacon?

Ans. No one shall be so elected and ordained who has not been one year in the regular itinerant work, except such as may be selected by the Bishop for missionary work, when the Annual Conference shall have authority to elect to the deacon's office sooner, if the Conference judge it expedient.

Ques. 3. What are the duties of a Traveling Deacon?

Ans. 1. To administer baptism and to perform the office of matrimony, in the absence of the Elder.

2. To assist the Elder in administering the Lord's Supper.

3. To do all the duties of a traveling preacher.

IV. ELECTION OF DEACONS TO ELDER'S ORDERS.

Ques. 1. How is an Elder constituted?

Ans. 1. By the election of a majority of the Annual Conference, and the laying on of the hands of a Bishop and some of the Elders that are present.

2. Before any traveling preacher is ordained Elder, he shall have passed an approved examination upon the Course of Study prescribed by the Bishops for candidates for all the ministry; and in no case shall a vote be taken to elect any one to Elder's Orders until he is recommended by the examining committee.

Ques. 2. What shall be the time of probation of a traveling deacon for the office of an Elder?

Ans. Every traveling deacon shall exercise that office for two years, before he is eligible to the office of Elder; except in the case of missionaries, when the Annual Conference shall have authority to elect to the Elder's office sooner, if the Conference judge it expedient;

Provided, always, that when a preacher has passed his examination, and been elected to deacon's orders, but fails of his ordination through the absence of a Bishop, his eligibility to the office of Elder shall run from the time of his election to the office of Deacon.

Ques. 3. What are the duties of a traveling Elder?

Ans. 1. To administer baptism and the Lord's Supper and to perform the rite of matrimony, and conduct all parts of Divine worship.

2. To do all the duties of a traveling preacher.

CHAPTER XII.
SUPERNUMERARY AND SUPERANNUATED PREACHERS—
PREACHERS FROM OTHER CHURCHES

I. SUPERNUMERARY PREACHERS

Ques. What is a supernumerary preacher?

Ans. 1. A supernumerary preacher is one who is so disabled by affliction as to be unable to preach constantly, but is willing to do any work in the ministry which the Bishop may direct, and he may be able to perform.

2. A supernumerary preacher who refuses to attend to the work assigned him, unless in case of sickness or other unavoidable cause or causes, shall not be allowed to exercise the functions of his office, nor even to preach among us; nevertheless, the final determination of the case shall be with the Annual Conference of which he is a member, which shall have power to acquit, suspend, locate, or expel him, as the case may be.

II. SUPERANNUATED PREACHERS.

Ques. What is a superannuated preacher?

Ans. 1. A superannuated preacher is one who is worn out in the itinerant service.

2. A superannuated preacher, living out of the bounds of the Conference of which he is a member, shall be held responsible to the Annual Conference within whose bounds he may reside, which shall have power to try, acquit, suspend or expel him, in the same manner as if he were a member of said Conference.

III. RECEIVING PREACHERS FROM OTHER CHURCHES

Ques. 1. How shall we receive those ministers who may offer to unite with us from other Christian Churches?

Ans. 1. Ministers of other Churches who may desire to unite with us as local preachers, may be received by a Quarterly Conference, upon giving satisfaction that they are suitable persons; but they shall not exercise the peculiar functions of deacons or elders until their orders are recognized by the Annual Conference:

Provided, no one who has been expelled from the ministry and membership of another Church shall be permitted to enter our itinerancy under five years from date of said expulsion.

Provided, that the Bishop may, at his discretion, allow ministers thus received to exercise their functions as Deacons or Elders until the session of the Annual Conference.

2. After such reception, and a recommendation by the Quarterly Conference, the Annual Conference, if satisfied of their being in order, and of their agreement with us in doctrine and discipline, and also of their gifts, graces and usefulness, may recognize them accordingly, without the re-imposition of hands, on condition of their taking upon them our ordination vows. If they cannot attend the Annual Conference, they shall send up a certified subscription to our doctrines and discipline, and to our ordination vows.

3. Ministers of other Churches, duly accredited as Deacons or Elders, who may desire to unite with us as traveling preachers, may be admitted as Deacons or Elders in full connection, after they shall have been members of the Quarterly Conference at least one year, and procuring a recommendation from the Quarterly Conference: provided, the Conference is satisfied with their gifts, graces and usefulness, and their agreement with us in doctrine and discipline, on condition of their taking upon them our ordination vows, without the re-imposition of hands.

4. When a minister has been received and recognized in orders, he shall be furnished with a certificate, signed by one of our Bishops, in the following words, viz:

This is to certify that..............
has been admitted into...............
Conference as a traveling preacher (or
has been received as a local preacher
on........................Circuit),
he having been ordained to the office
of a deacon, (or elder, as the case
may be,) according to the usages of
the.................Church, of which
he has been a member and minister;
and he is hereby authorized to exercise
the functions pertaining to his office
in the Colored Methodist Episcopal
Church in America so long as his
life and conversation are such as become
the gospel of Christ.
Given under my hand and seal, at
......this..........day of........in
the year of our Lord.........

PART IV.
LOCAL PREACHERS, EXHORTERS, AND OFFICERS OF THE CHURCH

CHAPTER XIII.
THE CALL TO PREACH

Ques. 1. How shall we try those who profess to be moved by the Holy Ghost to preach?

Ans. Let the following questions be asked, namely:

1. Do they know God as a pardoning God? Have they the love of God abiding in them? Do they desire nothing but God? And are they holy in all manner of conversation?

2. Have they gifts (as well as graces) for the work? Have they (in some tolerable degree) a clear, sound understanding, a right judgment in the things of God, a just conception of salvation by faith? Do they speak justly, readily, clearly?

3. Have they fruit? Are any truly convinced of sin and converted to God by their preaching?

As long as these three marks concur in any one, we believe he is called of God to preach. These we receive as sufficient proof that he is moved by the Holy Ghost.

CHAPTER XIV.
LOCAL PREACHERS AND EXHORTERS

I. LOCAL PREACHERS

Ques. 1. What directions are given concerning the licensing of persons to preach?

Ans. 1. The Quarterly Conference shall have authority to license proper persons to preach, and to renew their license annually, when, in its judgment, their gifts, graces and usefulness will warrant it.

2. No person shall be licensed to preach without the recommendation of the Church of which he or she is a member, or of the Leaders' Meeting of the charge to which he or she belongs. Nor shall any one be licensed to preach without first being examined in the Quarterly Conference on the subject of doctrines and discipline, and giving satisfactory evidence of his or her ability to read the word of God; nor shall any license be valid unless signed by the President and Secretary of the Conference.

Ques. 2. What shall be the time of probation of a local preacher for the office of a deacon?

Ans. A local preacher shall be eligible to the office of a deacon after he has preached four years from the time he received a regular license, and has obtained a recommendation from the Quarterly Conference, on a proper examination, signed by the President and Secretary, and after his character has passed, and he has obtained the approbation of the Annual Conference.

Ques. 3. What shall be the time of probation of a local deacon for the office of an elder?

Ans. A local deacon shall be eligible to the office of an elder after he has preached four years from the time he was ordained a deacon, and has obtained a recommendation from the Quarterly Conference, on a proper examination, certifying his qualifications in doctrine, discipline, talents and usefulness, signed by the President and Secretary. He shall present to the Annual Conference such recommendation, with a note certifying his belief in the doctrine and discipline of our Church—the whole being examined by the Annual Conference; and if approved, he may be ordained.

Ques. 4. What further directions are given concerning local preachers?

Ans. 1. It shall be the duty of local preachers to aid the preacher in charge of the circuit, station, or mission to which they belong in supplying the people with the ministry of the word. They shall subscribe annually for the Christian Index, and their license shall not be renewed by the Quarterly Conference until they shall have subscribed for the same. They shall accordingly be applied to by the preacher in charge as soon as he enters his work, to state what amount of service they are able and willing to perform; he may then draw up a plan by which their labors shall be regulated. They shall be authorized to form new congregations, to take a list of the names of all candidates for Church membership, and, if expedient, receive them into the Church; provided, that all such congregations, candidates, and members be reported as soon as possible to the preacher in charge, in order that they may be placed immediately under his pastoral care.

2. Every local elder, deacon, and licentiate shall have his name recorded on the Journal of the Quarterly Conference of which he is a member.

3. When any traveling preacher is located he shall be amenable to the Quarterly Conference of the charge last filled by him, until he presents his certificate of location to some other Quarterly Conference.

4. When a local elder, deacon or licentiate removes from one circuit, station or mission, to another, he shall procure from the Presiding Elder of the District or from the Preacher having charge, a certificate of his official standing in the Church at the time of his removal; without which he shall not be received as a local preacher in other places.

II. EXHORTERS

Ques. 1. What directions are given concerning the licensing of persons to exhort?

Ans. 1. The Quarterly Conference shall have authority to license proper persons to exhort, and to renew their license annually, when, in its judgment, their gifts, graces and usefulness will warrant it.

2. No person shall be licensed to exhort without the recommendation of the Church of which he is a member, or of the Leaders' Meeting of the charge to which he belongs; nor shall any license be valid unless signed by the President of the Conference.

Ques. 2. What are the duties of an exhorter?

Ans. To hold meetings for prayer and exhortation whenever opportunity is afforded, subject to the direction of the preacher in charge.

Ques. 3. What further directions are given concerning exhorters?

Ans. 1. Let every exhorter diligently exercise the functions of his office without assuming those of a preacher.

2. Every exhorter, by virtue of his office, shall be a member of the Quarterly Conference of the charge to which he belongs; but in all other respects he shall be dealt with as a private member of the Church.

3. When an exhorter removes from one circuit, station or mission to another, he shall not be recognized as such unless he obtains a certificate of his official character from the Presiding Elder of the District, or the preacher to whose charge he belongs at the time of his removal.

CHAPTER XV.
CLASS LEADERS

Ques. 1. How are the class leaders to be appointed?

Ans. By the preacher in charge, who shall appoint one person in each class to be the leader thereof.

Ques. 2. What are the regulations concerning the class leaders?

Ans. 1. Let them be men of sound judgment and truly devoted to God.

2. Let every one of them be carefully examined by the preacher in charge at least once a quarter, concerning his method of leading his class.

3. It is the leader's duty—

(1) To see each person in his class once a week, at least, in order to inquire how their souls prosper; to advise, reprove, comfort, or exhort, as occasion may require; to receive what they are willing to give toward the support of the preacher in charge and for the relief of the poor.[4]

(2) To meet the ministers and the stewards of the society once a week in order—

To inform the minister of any that are sick, or of any that walk disorderly and will not be reproved.

To pay the stewards what they have received of their several classes in the week preceding provided, the leaders collect from each member 5c per week, class dues.

[4] This part refers to towns and cities where the poor are generally numerous and Church expenses considerable.

CHAPTER XVI.
STEWARDS AND STEWARDESSES

Ques. 1. How are Stewards and Junior Stewards to be appointed?

Ans. The preacher in charge shall have the right of nomination, subject to the confirmation or rejection of the Quarterly Conference.

Ques. 2. What are the regulations concerning Stewards and Junior Stewards?

Ans. 1. Let them be men of solid piety, who both know and love the Methodist doctrine and discipline, and of good natural and acquired ability to transact temporal business of the Church.

2. It shall be the duty of the Stewards to make estimates of expenses and provision for the support of the gospel; to take an exact account of all moneys collected or other provisions made for the support of the ministry; expenditure of money, whether for the support of the ministry or the relief of the sick, or the poor; to seek the needy and distressed in order to relieve and comfort them; to inform the preachers of any sick or disorderly persons; to tell the preachers what they think wrong in them; to attend the official meetings and the quarterly meetings; to give advice, if asked, in planning the circuit; to attend committees for the application of money to churches; to give counsel in matters of arbitration; to provide elements for the Lord's Supper; to appoint some one, whenever necessary, to receive contributions for the support of the ministry and other purposes, and to obtain from each collector thus appointed the money received by him, that it may be reported to the Quarterly Conference; to take up collections quarterly in every congregation, if it be necessary, and to write circular letters to the societies to be more liberal, if need be; and to let them know, when occasion requires, the financial state of the Church, as reported at the Quarterly Conference. They shall elect their own chairman, secretary and treasurer.

3. The Stewards of each circuit and station shall be a standing committee (where there is no parsonage) to provide houses for the families of married preachers, or to assist the preachers to obtain houses for themselves when they are appointed to labor among them.

Ques. 3. To whom are Stewards accountable for the faithful performance of their duties?

Ans. To the Quarterly Conference, which shall have power to remove them from office.

Ques. 4. What shall be the number of Stewards in each circuit or station?

Ans. 1. Every pastoral charge shall be entitled to one Steward for every thirty members, to be elected annually: provided, nevertheless, that each society in a circuit shall have one Steward, and each circuit or station may have at least seven.

2. When two or more circuits or stations are united, the Stewards shall hold office till the first Quarterly Conference elects a new Board.

Ques. 5. What directions are given concerning Junior Stewards?

Ans. They shall be auxiliary to Stewards and their number and manner of election shall be the same.

Ques. 6. What are the duties of a Recording Steward?

Ans. To preserve the records of the Quarterly Conference, and to report to the Joint Board of Finance of the Annual Conference a full account of the acts of his Board of Stewards the preceding year.

Ques. 7. What are the regulations concerning Stewardesses and Junior Stewardesses?

Ans. There shall be a Board of Stewardesses and Junior Stewardesses in each circuit, station or mission, whose number and mode of election shall be the same as Stewards.

2. Junior Stewardesses shall be auxiliary to Stewardesses.

3. It shall be the duty of the Stewardesses to serve the table of the Lord, the table of the poor, and the table of the ministry; to assist in the collection of the General Funds, Presiding Elder's and Pastor's salary, and to do any other work that may be assigned to them by the pastor in charge or Board of Stewards of the Church.

CHAPTER XVII.
TRUSTEES OF CHURCH PROPERTY

Ques. 1. How are Trustees to be appointed?

Ans. Except where the laws of the State or Territory provide differently, the Preacher in Charge, or, in his absence, the Presiding Elder, shall have the right of nomination, subject to the confirmation or rejection of the Quarterly Conference.

Ques. 2. What are the regulations concerning the Trustees?

Ans. 1. No person shall be eligible as a Trustee of any of our parsonages or churches who is not a member of our Church, and at least twenty-one years of age.

2. All vacancies in the Board of Trustees, occasioned by death, resignation, or otherwise, shall be filled without delay.

3. Let nine Trustees be appointed for holding Church property, when proper persons can be procured, otherwise, seven, five, or three, who shall elect their own chairman, secretary, and treasurer.

4. The Board or Boards of Trustees of every circuit, station, or mission, shall be members of, and responsible to, the Quarterly Conference of the same, which shall have power to dismiss any of them from office; and shall be required to present a report of their acts, at least once a year, to the Quarterly Conference.

5. No person who is a Trustee shall be ejected while he is in joint security for money, unless such relief be given him as is demanded, or the creditor will accept.

PART V.
CHURCH MEMBERSHIP, ORDER OF WORSHIP, MEANS OF GRACE,
CHILDREN, AND SUNDAY-SCHOOL

CHAPTER XVIII.
HOW TO RECEIVE MEMBERS.

Ques. How shall members be received into the Church?

Ans. 1. When persons offer themselves for Church-membership, let the preacher in charge inquire into their spiritual condition, and receive them into the Church when they have given satisfactory assurances of their desire to flee from the wrath to come, and to be saved from their sins; and also, of the genuineness of their faith, and of their willingness to keep the rules of the Church.

2. When satisfied on these points, let the minister bring the candidates before the congregation, whenever practicable, and receive them according to the prescribed form.

3. If a member in good standing in any other Church shall desire to unite with us, such applicant may, by giving satisfactory answers to the usual inquiries be received without these formalities.

CHAPTER XIX.
ORDER AND DIRECTIONS FOR PUBLIC WORSHIP

Ques. 1. What directions are given for uniformity in public worship?

Ans. 1. The morning service shall be conducted in the following order:

ORDER OF PUBLIC WORSHIP

1. Organ voluntary or song.

2. Singing, congregation standing.

3. Repeating "Apostles' Creed."

4. Prayer—closing with Lord's prayer, repeated or chanted.

5. Singing—anthem or hymn.

6. Reading lessons out of the Old and the New Testament—with chant by choir or suitable song between the lessons.

7. Announcements and notices.

8. Singing—congregation sitting.

9. Preaching.

10. Singing—congregation standing.

11. Prayer.

12. Doxology and benediction.

2. The afternoon and evening services shall be the same as the morning, except that one of the lessons, or both, may be omitted, at the discretion of the minister.

3. The Lord's Supper shall be administered monthly, in every congregation, wherever it is practicable; and where it is not, at every quarterly meeting. Let the service preceding the administration be so proportioned as to admit of due time for this solemn ordinance.

4. Let the Lord's Prayer be used on all occasions of public worship, in concluding the first morning prayer, the congregation repeating after the minister; and the apostolic benediction (2 Cor. xiii. 14) in dismissing the congregation.

5. The Ritual shall be invariably used in all the offices for which it is prescribed.

Ques. 2. How shall we guard against formality in singing?

Ans. 1. By choosing such hymns as are proper for the occasion.

2. By not singing too much at once; seldom more than five or six verses.

3. By suiting the tune to the words.

4. By often stopping short, when the words are given out, and asking the people: "Now, do you know what you said last? Did you speak no more than you felt?"

5. In all our congregations let the people learn to sing, and use our own Hymn and Tune Books.

6. Exhort every person in the congregation to sing.

CHAPTER XX.
OTHER MEETINGS OF THE CHURCH

I. PRAYER MEETINGS

Ques. What directions are given concerning our prayer meetings?

Ans. Let the pastor hold prayer-meetings, weekly, in every church where it is practicable; and when he cannot himself attend, let him engage local preachers, exhorters, class-leaders, and others, to hold them.

2. Let prayer-meetings be held also at other places where there is a probability of their doing good.

II. CLASS MEETINGS

Ques. 1. What directions are given concerning class-meetings?

Ans. 1. Let the membership of every church, wherever it is practicable, be divided into smaller companies, called classes, according to their respective places of abode; and let the members be exhorted to attend the meetings of the same.

2. Two or more classes may meet at the same time and place, at their own option, and their leaders may alternate in conducting the exercises.

3. The pastor shall visit every class once a quarter, and report its condition to the Quarterly Conference; and let him hold general class-meetings as often as he shall find it expedient.

Ques. 2. Can any thing be done in order to make the class-meetings more profitable?

Ans. 1. Change improper leaders.

2. Let the leaders frequently meet each other's classes.

3. Let us observe which leaders are the most useful; and let these meet the other classes as often as possible.

III. LOVE-FEASTS

Ques. 1. What directions are given concerning love-feasts?

Ans. 1. Love-feasts shall be held quarterly, or at such other times as the preacher in charge may consider expedient, with closed doors, to which, besides Church members, other serious persons may be admitted by him.

2. In conducting the love-feast, after singing and prayer, the preacher may make a short address, setting forth the nature and design of this institution; every one present then partakes of a little bread and water in token of brotherly love; the members then give brief details of their religious experience; and the meeting is closed with singing and prayer.

Ques. 2. How often shall we permit strangers to be present at our love-feasts?

Ans. Let them be admitted with the utmost caution; and the same person on no account above twice or thrice.

CHAPTER XXI.
CHILDREN OF THE CHURCH

Ques. What directions are given concerning the children of the Church?

Ans. 1. Let the minister diligently instruct and exhort all parents to dedicate their children to the Lord in baptism as early as convenient.

2. In his pastoral visitations let him pay special attention to the children; speak to them personally and kindly on experimental and practical godliness, according to their capacity; pray earnestly for them, and cause them to be faithfully instructed in the nature, design, privileges, and obligations of their baptism.

3. As soon as they comprehend the responsibilities involved in a public profession of faith in Christ, and give evidence of a sincere and earnest determination to discharge the same, see that they be duly recognized as members of the Church, agreeably to the provisions of the Discipline.

4. Let our Catechisms be used as extensively as possible, both in our Sunday-schools and families; and let the preachers faithfully enforce upon parents and Sunday-school teachers the great importance of instructing children in the doctrines and duties of our holy religion.

5. It shall be the special duty of the preachers to form Bible-classes wherever they can, for the instruction of larger children and youth; and where they cannot superintend them personally, to appoint suitable leaders for that purpose.

CHAPTER XXII.
THE SUNDAY-SCHOOL

Ques. What directions are given concerning Sunday-schools?

Ans. 1. Let Sunday-schools be formed in all our congregations, where ten children can be collected for that purpose. And it shall be the especial duty of preachers having charge of circuits and stations, with the aid of the other preachers, to see that this be done; to engage the co-operation of as many of our members as they can; to visit the schools as often as practicable; to preach on the subject of Sunday-schools and religious instruction in each congregation; to have the Superintendents lay before the Quarterly Conference, at each quarterly meeting, to be entered on its journal, a written statement of the number and state of the Sunday-schools within their respective circuits and stations, and to make a report of the same to their several Annual Conferences.

2. Each Quarterly Conference shall be deemed a Board of Managers, having supervision of all the Sunday-school Societies within its limits.

3. It is recommended that each Annual Conference, where the general state of the work will allow, request the appointment of a special agent, to travel throughout its bounds, for the purpose of promoting the interests of Sunday-schools and his expenses shall be paid out of collections which he shall be directed to make, or otherwise, as shall be ordered by the Conference.

4. Let our Catechisms be used as extensively as possible in our Sunday-schools; and let the preachers faithfully enforce upon Sunday-school teachers the great importance of instructing children in the doctrines and duties of our holy religion.

5. The Superintendent of the Sunday-school shall be nominated by the preacher in charge, subject to the confirmation or rejection of the Quarterly Conference.

PART VI.
JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

CHAPTER XXIII.
TRIAL CODE OF A BISHOP

Ques. 1. To whom is a Bishop amenable for his conduct?

Ans. 1. To the General Conference which has power to try him for improper conduct and to acquit, suspend, reprimand, retire with or without salary or expel him.

Ques. 2. What provision is made for the trial of a Bishop if he be accused of immorality in the interval of the General Conference?

Ans 2. When a bishop shall be under a report or be accused of immorality, three traveling elders shall, after notice to him, carefully inquire into the case and if they believe an investigation necessary, they shall report the matter to another bishop—and it shall be his duty to call together at some convenient place not fewer than twelve (12) traveling elders— and also the witnesses by whom the accusation is expected to be established, and the said elders shall be a committee for the investigation of the charge against the Bishop.

If the majority of them believe a trial necessary, they shall suspend him until the next General Conference.

The presiding Bishop shall cause an exact record of the investigation, signed by the president and secretary, to be transmitted to the General Conference. By this record and such other testimony as may be obtained, the case shall be considered and determined by the General Conference without the intervention of another committee. But in no case shall the inquiring elders be recognized as the accusers, but the three elders afore-mentioned must act wholly upon rumors and not personal knowledge, and shall not take any further part in the case.

Ques. 3. What provision is made for the appeal of a Bishop who may be suspended during the interval of the General Conference?

Ans. 3. There shall be a court of appeals composed of fifteen (15) persons appointed as follows: Two by each Bishop and one by the fourteen (14) appointed by the Bishops—one of the Bishops shall be ex-officio president of said court. The number composing said court shall be increased at the same ratio as the number of Bishops may be increased until the number composing the court shall reach twenty-five (25), to which all appeals shall be made by the accused who may have been suspended in the interval of the General Conference; said court shall have the power to sustain the action of the investigating committee, reverse and remand, or reverse and dismiss. In all cases their decisions shall be final except when the action of the investigating committee is sustained by it.

In said excepted case, the suspension remains until the ensuing General Conference.

The Bishop appointed to preside over said court is hereby authorized, upon the receipt of an appeal, from the decision of any committee of investigation, to cause to be appointed the fifteen (15) members as above stated, which said number will sit as an appellate court as before stated at a place most convenient to all parties concerned.

But should an appeal reach the Bishop within three months of the sitting of the General Conference, the court shall not be convened—but the case takes its regular course.

Ques. 4. What provision is made for the trial of a Bishop if he should be accused during the session of the General Conference?

Ans. 1. An accusation preferred during the session of the General Conference shall be referred for investigation to a committee of twenty-five (25) members of the General Conference to be selected by the president. Of this number, the accused shall have the right of challenge for fifteen (15) of the twenty-five (25) appointed by the Bishop or president—and the committee shall report to the General Conference whether or not a trial is necessary.

If the committee of investigation decides that a trial is necessary, they shall formulate charges and specifications conforming them with the grade of offense involved in the accusation and shall appoint one or more of their number to prosecute the case.

The bill of charges and specifications shall be a part of the report of the committee to the General Conference. Every case to be tried under this process, shall, upon finding of a bill of charges, be referred to the Committee on Episcopacy, who shall have full power to try the case and whose decision shall be final save as to the right of appeal.

The said committee shall make a written report to the General Conference and deliver to the secretary the whole record of the case with the decision rendered.

2. A Bishop who shall be found guilty by the committee on Episcopacy shall have the right to appeal to the General Conference then in session which shall finally determine the case.

3. No charge against a Bishop shall be tried unless it be made in writing with specifications signed by the accusers—and a copy of the charge with the specifications shall be delivered to the accused in sufficient time before the trial to enable him to make all necessary preparation for his defense.

CHAPTER XXIV.
TRIAL OF A TRAVELING PREACHER

Ques. 1. To whom is a traveling preacher amenable for his conduct?

Ans. To the Annual Conference, which shall have power to try, acquit, or expel him.

Ques. 2. What shall be done when a traveling preacher is accused of immorality?

Ans. 1. When a traveling elder or deacon is under report of being guilty of some crime expressly forbidden in the Word of God, if it be in the interval of the Annual Conference, let the Presiding Elder, in the absence of the Bishop, call as many traveling preachers as he shall think fit—at least three—and, if possible, bring the accused and the accuser face to face. If the accused be clearly convicted, he shall be suspended till the ensuing Annual Conference. The Presiding Elder shall cause an exact record of the investigation, signed by the President and Secretary, to be transmitted to the Annual Conference, by which his case shall be fully considered and determined.

If the accused be a Presiding Elder, any three traveling Elders or Deacons of his District may inquire into the case, and if they judge it necessary report to the Bishop, who shall appoint a committee of at least three Elders, from within the bounds of the Annual Conference of which the accused is a member; he shall also preside at the investigation, or some traveling Elder appointed by him; and the accused, if guilty, shall be suspended.

If the accused and the accuser cannot be brought face to face, but the supposed delinquent evades an investigation, it shall be received as a presumptive proof of guilt; and out of the mouth of two or three witnesses he shall be condemned, and be accordingly suspended. Nevertheless, even in that case, the Annual Conference shall consider and determine the whole matter.

2. When the accusation is preferred during the session of the Annual Conference, it shall first be referred to a committee of three traveling Elders for investigation, who shall report to the Conference whether or not they judge a trial necessary. If the Conference differ in judgment from the committee, a new committee may be appointed to inquire into the facts and report.

The committee of investigation reporting a case for trial, shall bring forward the bill of charges in proper form and appoint one or more of their number to prosecute it.

Every case to be tried shall be referred to a committee of not less than nine, nor more than thirteen, who, in the presence of a Bishop or a chairman, whom the President of the Conference shall appoint, and one or more of the Secretaries of the Conference, shall have full power to try the case, and their decision shall be final, save as to the right of appeal: provided, that the accused shall, upon good grounds alleged, be allowed to challenge five in a committee of nine, or seven in a committee of thirteen, and in the same ratio for any other number. And the said committee shall make a faithful report to the Conference, in writing, and deliver up to the Secretary the whole record of the case, with the decision rendered.

Ques. 3. What shall be done in cases of improper tempers, words, or actions?

Ans. The person so offending shall be reprehended by his senior in office. Should a second transgression take place, one, two, or three ministers or preachers are to be taken as witnesses. If he be not then cured, accusation shall be preferred at the next Annual Conference, and the accused shall be dealt with as in a case of immorality.

Ques. 4. What shall be done with those ministers or preachers who hold and disseminate, publicly or privately doctrines which are contrary to our Articles of Religion?

Ans. Let the same process be observed as in case of immorality; but if the minister or preacher so offending do solemnly engage not to disseminate such erroneous doctrines in public or in private, he shall be borne with till his case be laid before the next Annual Conference, which shall determine the matter.

Ques. 5. What shall be done when a traveling preacher is complained of as being so unacceptable, inefficient, or secular, as to be no longer useful in his work?

Ans. 1. The Conference to which he belongs shall investigate the case, and if it appears that the complaint is well founded, and he does not give the Conference satisfaction that he will amend or voluntarily retire, it may locate him without his consent.

2. He shall be at liberty to defend himself before the Conference in person, or by his representative; and if he be located in his absence, without having been previously notified of an intention thus to proceed against him, he may apply to the Conference, at its next session, to be heard in his defense, and the matter shall be reconsidered for that purpose.

Ques. 6. What shall be done in the case of a preacher who refuses to attend to the work assigned him?

Ans. No Deacon or Elder who ceases to travel without the consent of the Annual Conference, certified under the hand of the President of the Conference, except in case of sickness, debility or other unavoidable circumstances, shall, on any account, exercise the peculiar functions of his office, or even be allowed to preach among us; but the final determination in all such cases is with the Annual Conference.

Nevertheless, in all the above mentioned cases of trial and conviction, an appeal to the Ministerial Court of Appeals shall be allowed, if the condemned person signifies to the President or the Secretary of the Conference his intention to appeal at the time of his condemnation; or at any time within two months thereafter.

CHAPTER XXV.
TRIAL OF PROBATIONERS AND LOCAL PREACHERS.

I. TRIAL OF A PROBATIONER

Ques. What shall be done with a preacher on trial who is accused of immorality?

Ans. He shall be accountable to the Quarterly Conference of the circuit on which he travels. The Presiding Elder shall call a committee of investigation, and the course of Discipline shall be pursued that is made and provided for a Local Preacher under a like accusation.

II. TRIAL OF A LOCAL PREACHER

Ques. 1. To whom is a Local Preacher amenable for his conduct?

Ans. To the Quarterly Conference, which shall have power to try, acquit, or expel him.

Ques. 2. What shall be done when a Local Preacher is accused of immorality?

Ans. 1. When a Local Preacher is under report of being guilty of some crime expressly forbidden in the Word of God, the preacher in charge shall appoint a committee of three Local Preachers to investigate the report; and if they judge a trial to be necessary, they shall appoint one or more of their number to prepare a bill of charges and specifications, and present it before the ensuing Quarterly Conference.

2. The Committee of Investigation shall, in every case, make a report to the Quarterly Conference; and if the Conference differs in judgment, a new committee may be appointed to inquire into the facts and to report.

3. A Local Preacher who has been notified by the Presiding Elder, or preacher in charge, of a bill of charges and specifications thus found against him, shall not be allowed to exercise the functions of his office until the case has been presented to, and determined by, the Quarterly Conference.

4. The President of the Quarterly Conference, shall at the commencement of the trial, appoint a Secretary, who shall take down regular minutes of the evidence and proceedings. The minutes, when read and approved, shall be signed by the President, and also by the members who are present, or a majority of them, and the sentence of the Quarterly Conference shall be pronounced by the President.

Ques. 3. What shall be done in cases of improper tempers, words, or actions?

Ans. The person so offending shall be reprehended by the preacher having charge. Should a second transgression take place, one, two, or three faithful friends are to be taken as witnesses. If he be not then cured, he shall be dealt with as in a case of immorality; and if found guilty and impenitent, he shall be expelled from the Church.

Ques. 4. What shall be done with those Local Preachers who hold and disseminate, publicly or privately, doctrines which are contrary to our Articles of Religion?

Ans. Let the same process be observed as in a case of immorality.

Ques. 5. What shall be done when a Local Elder or Deacon is complained of as being so unacceptable or inefficient as to be no longer useful in his work, and the Quarterly Conference refuses to pass his character on that ground?

Ans. The Quarterly Conference next succeeding shall proceed to investigate the case; and if it appears that the complaint is well founded, and he does not give the Conference satisfaction that he will amend or voluntarily retire, the Conference may depose him from the ministry. He shall be at liberty to defend himself before the Conference in person, or by his representative. The President of the Quarterly Conference shall have regular minutes of the investigation taken which on being read and approved, shall be signed by himself and a majority of the members of the Conference.

Nevertheless, in all the above mentioned cases of trial and conviction, an appeal to the ensuing Annual Conference shall be allowed, if the condemned person signifies his intention to appeal at the time of his condemnation, or at any time thereafter when he is informed thereof.

CHAPTER XXVI.
TRIAL OF A MEMBER

Ques. 1. How shall an accused member be brought to trial?

Ans. 1. Before the church of which he is a member, or a select number of them, in the presence of a Bishop, Elder, Deacon or Preacher, in the following manner:

(a) When a member of the Church is under report of being guilty of some crime expressly forbidden in the Word of God, the preacher having charge shall appoint a committee of three discreet members, who shall investigate the report, and if they judge a trial to be necessary, they shall appoint one of their number to prepare a bill of charges and specifications, and also to prosecute the case.

(b) Upon the presentation of such bill of charges, the preacher shall appoint a committee of not less than five, nor more than thirteen, before whom the accused shall be duly cited to appear, who shall have full power to try the case; and if the accused be found guilty by a majority of the committee, let the preacher declare him suspended or expelled. Nevertheless, the preacher may, at his discretion, bring the case before the whole Church for trial.

(c) A copy of the charge and specifications shall be delivered to the accused a sufficient length of time before the trial, to enable him to make all necessary preparations for his defense; and in case of trial before a committee, he shall be allowed, upon good reasons alleged, to challenge two in a committee of five, and in like ratio for any other number.

(d) The preacher in charge shall preside at the trial, and decide all questions of law appertaining to or growing out of the case. He shall, at the commencement of the trial, appoint a secretary, who shall take down regular minutes of the evidence and proceedings, which minutes, when read and approved, shall be signed by the president and the secretary.

(e) If the accused person evades a trial by absenting himself after sufficient notice given him, and the circumstances of the accusation be strong and presumptive, let him be esteemed as guilty, and be accordingly suspended or expelled. Witnesses from without shall not be rejected.

2. But in case of neglect of duties of any kind—imprudent conduct, indulging sinful tempers or words, dancing, or disobedience to the order and the Discipline of the Church; First, let private reproof be given by a preacher or leader; and if there be an acknowledgement of the fault and proper humiliation, the person may be borne with. On a second offense, the preacher or leader may take one or two faithful friends. On a third offense, let the case be brought before the Church, or a select number; and if there be no sign of real humiliation, the offender must be cut off.

3. If a member of our Church endeavor to sow dissension in any of our societies, by inveighing against either our doctrines or Discipline, such person so offending shall be first reproved by the senior minister or preacher of his circuit; and if he persist in such pernicious practices, he shall be expelled from the Church.

Ques. 2. What shall be done in case of disputes between members of the Church?

Ans. 1. On any dispute between two or more members of our Church, concerning the payment of debts or otherwise, which cannot be settled by the parties concerned, the preacher in charge shall inquire into the circumstances of the case; and shall recommend to the contending parties a reference, consisting of one arbiter chosen by the plaintiff, and another chosen by the defendant; which two arbiters so chosen shall nominate the third—the three arbiters being members of our Church.

2. But if one of the parties be dissatisfied with the judgment given, such party may apply to the ensuing Quarterly Conference for a second arbitration; and if the Quarterly Conference see sufficient reason, they shall grant a second arbitration, in which case each party shall choose two arbiters, and the four arbiters shall choose a fifth, the judgment of the majority of whom shall be final; and any person refusing to abide by such judgment shall be excluded from the Church.

3. And if any member of our Church shall refuse, in cases of debt or other disputes, to refer the matter to arbitration, when recommended by him who has the charge of the circuit, or shall enter into a lawsuit with another member before these measures are taken, he shall be expelled, unless the case be of such a nature as to require and justify a process of law.

Nevertheless, in all the above mentioned cases of trial and expulsion, an appeal to the ensuing Quarterly Conference shall be allowed, if the condemned person signifies to the pastor his intention to appeal at the time of his condemnation, or at any time thereafter when he is informed thereof.

CHAPTER XXVII.
MINISTERIAL COURT OF APPEALS.

1. Each Annual Conference shall elect every two years beginning with its first session after the General Conference, three Elders, who shall be men of experience, judgment and information touching the law of the Church, to be known as Triers of Appeals.

2. The Ministerial Court of Appeals shall consist of a President, who shall be a Bishop, and the Triers of Appeals from three Conferences adjacent to that of which the appellant was a member.

3. The President of the Ministerial Court shall be appointed by the House of Bishops; but in no case shall they appoint the Bishop who presided in the Annual Conference which tried the appellant.

4. Should any member of the Ministerial Court of Appeals, become an appellant to the Court of Appeals, he shall be disqualified to sit as a member of the said Court; his place declared vacant and another appointed in his stead.

5. Any member of any Annual Conference who has been tried and convicted shall have the right to appeal to the Ministerial Court; provided, he signifies to the Bishop of the Conference, his intention so to do within two months after the action of the Annual Conference.

6. The Secretary of the Annual Conference shall carefully preserve the record of the proceedings of the trial, all charges and specifications and documents relating thereto, and shall forward the same to the President of the Ministerial Court of Appeals as soon as he has been appointed.

7. The right of peremptory challenge shall not be denied an appellant, provided, the exercise of such challenge does not reduce the members of the Court below five, which number shall constitute a quorum.

8. The Ministerial Court of Appeals shall elect a Secretary from its own members to keep a record of its proceedings. In all cases the proceedings and findings of the Court shall be subject to review by the General Conference.

9. The appellant or his representative shall state the grounds of his appeal, and the representative of the lower court shall then be heard. The charges and specifications and all documents bearing on the case, together with the minutes of the lower Court, shall be read. The appellant is then heard in his defense and reply is made by the representative of the lower Court. When the representatives of the appellant and the Court below have been heard, they retire and the Court of Appeals deliberates and decides the case.

CHAPTER XXVIII.
APPEAL OF A TRAVELING PREACHER TO THE GENERAL CONFERENCE

1. In all cases, it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Annual Conference to preserve the documents relating to the trial of members, which documents only, in an appeal from the decision of an Annual Conference, shall be presented to the Ministerial Court of Appeals in evidence on the case.

2. When an appeal is made from the Ministerial Court of Appeals, and allowed by the General Conference, there shall be a committee appointed consisting of one delegate from each Annual Conference, who, in the presence of a Bishop and one or more of the Secretaries of the General Conference, shall have full power to try the case; and their decision shall be final. And the said committee shall make a faithful report to the General Conference, in writing, and deliver up to the Secretary the whole record of the case with the decision rendered.

3. No member shall be appointed to serve on any appeal when he has been a member of the committee that first tried the case.

4. The appellant shall state, either personally or by his representative, (who shall be a member of the Conference,) the grounds of his appeal, showing cause why he appeals, and he shall be permitted to make his defense without interruption. After which the representatives of the Ministerial Court of Appeals from whose decision the appeal is made shall be permitted to respond in presence of the appellant, who shall be at privilege of replying, which shall close the pleadings on both sides. This done, the appellant shall withdraw and the committee shall decide.

5. No minister, after such form of trial and expulsion, shall be restored to the communion of the Church without giving satisfactory evidence of repentance, unless the Annual Conference shall become convinced that he was innocent of the crime for which he was expelled; in which case the Conference may restore him to his previous standing.

CHAPTER XXIX.
APPEAL OF A LOCAL PREACHER.

1. When an appeal of a Local Preacher is made and allowed by the Annual Conference, the President shall appoint a committee of not less than nine nor more than thirteen, who shall have full power to try the case; and their decision shall be final.

2. No member of the Quarterly Conference that first tried the case shall be appointed on this committee.

3. The minutes of the trial in the Quarterly Conference shall be laid before this committee, which documents only shall be in evidence; and the said committee shall make a faithful report to the Annual Conference in writing, and deliver up to the Secretary the whole record of the case with the decision rendered.

4. The appellant shall state, either personally or by his representative (who shall be a member of the Conference), the grounds of his appeal, showing cause why he appeals, and he shall be permitted to make his defense without interruption. After which the representatives of the Quarterly Conference from whose decision the appeal is made, shall be permitted to respond in presence of the appellant, who shall have privilege of replying, which shall close the pleadings on both sides. This done, the appellant shall withdraw and the committee shall decide.

CHAPTER XXX.
APPEAL OF A MEMBER.

1. If there be a murmur or complaint from any excluded person, that justice has not been done in the trial before the Church or committee, he shall be allowed an appeal to the next Quarterly Conference.

2. The appeal being made and allowed, the preacher in charge shall present the minutes of the trial to the Quarterly Conference, from which minutes the case shall finally be determined.

3. No member of the committee for trial shall vote on the appeal.

4. The appellant shall state, either personally or by his representative, (who shall be a member of the church) the grounds of his appeal, showing cause why he appeals, and he shall be permitted to make his defense, without interruption. After which the representatives of the society or committee from whose decision the appeal is made, shall be permitted to respond in presence of the appellant, who shall have privilege of replying, which shall close the pleadings on both sides. This done, the appellant shall withdraw, and the majority of the members of the Quarterly Conference present shall finally determine the case.

5. No member, after such form of trial and expulsion, shall be restored to the communion of the Church without giving satisfactory evidence of repentance, unless the Quarterly Conference shall become convinced that he was innocent of the crime for which he was expelled; in which case he may be restored.

CHAPTER XXXI.
RESTORATION OF CREDENTIALS

I. TRAVELING ELDERS AND DEACONS.

1. When any traveling Elder or Deacon is deprived of his credentials of ordination by expulsion or otherwise, they shall be filed with the papers of the Annual Conference of which he was a member.

2. Should he, at any future time, give satisfactory evidence to said Conference of his amendment or innocence, and procure a certificate of the Quarterly Conference of the circuit or station where he resides, or of the Annual Conference which may have admitted him on trial, recommending him to the Annual Conference, of which he was formerly a member, the restoration of his credentials, the said Conference may restore them.

II. LOCAL ELDERS OR DEACONS.

1. When any local Elder or Deacon is deprived of his credentials of ordination by expulsion or otherwise, it shall be the duty of the Presiding Elder to require them of him, and to file them with the papers of the Annual Conference within the limits of which the said Local Preacher resides.

2. Should he, at any future time, produce to the Annual Conference a certificate of his restoration by the Quarterly Conference, signed by the President and Secretary thereof, his credentials may be restored to him.

PART ITHE CONSTITUTION

CHAPTER I.ARTICLES OF RELIGION

I. OF FAITH IN THE HOLY TRINITY.

II. OF THE WORD, OR SON OF GOD WHO WAS MADE VERY MAN.

III. OF THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST

IV. OF THE HOLY GHOST.

V. THE SUFFICIENCY OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES FOR SALVATION

VI. OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

VII. OF ORIGINAL OR BIRTH-SIN

VIII. OF FREE-WILL

IX. OF THE JUSTIFICATION OF MAN

X. OF GOOD WORKS

XI. OF WORKS OF SUPEREROGATION

XII. OF SIN AFTER JUSTIFICATION

XIII. OF THE CHURCH

XIV. OF PURGATORY

XV. OF SPEAKING IN THE CONGREGATION IN SUCH A TONGUE AS THE PEOPLE UNDERSTAND

XVI. OF THE SACRAMENTS

XVII. OF BAPTISM

XVIII. OF THE LORD'S SUPPER

XIX. OF BOTH KINDS

XX. OF THE ONE OBLATION OF CHRIST, FINISHED UPON THE CROSS

XXI. OF THE MARRIAGE OF MINISTERS

XXII. OF THE RITES AND CEREMONIES OF CHURCHES

XXIII. OF THE RULERS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

XXIV. OF CHRISTIAN MEN'S GOODS

XXV. OF A CHRISTIAN MAN'S OATH

CHAPTER II.THE GENERAL RULES

PART II.THE CONFERENCES

CHAPTER III.GENERAL CONFERENCE

CHAPTER IV.ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

CHAPTER V.DISTRICT CONFERENCES

CHAPTER VI.QUARTERLY CONFERENCES.

CHAPTER VII.CHURCH CONFERENCES

PART III.THE MINISTER

CHAPTER VIII.THE ELECTION AND CONSECRATION OF BISHOPS AND THEIR DUTIES

CHAPTER IX.PRESIDING ELDERS

CHAPTER X.PASTORS AND THEIR DUTIES

CHAPTER XI.ADMITTING ON TRIAL AND INTO FULL CONNECTION.ELECTION TO DEACON'S AND ELDER'S ORDERS.

I. ADMITTING PREACHERS ON TRIAL

II. ADMITTING PREACHERS INTO FULL CONNECTION

III. ELECTION TO DEACON'S ORDERS

IV. ELECTION OF DEACONS TO ELDER'S ORDERS.

CHAPTER XII.SUPERNUMERARY AND SUPERANNUATED PREACHERS—PREACHERS FROM OTHER CHURCHES

I. SUPERNUMERARY PREACHERS

II. SUPERANNUATED PREACHERS.

III. RECEIVING PREACHERS FROM OTHER CHURCHES

PART IV.LOCAL PREACHERS, EXHORTERS, AND OFFICERS OF THE CHURCH

CHAPTER XIII.THE CALL TO PREACH

CHAPTER XIV.LOCAL PREACHERS AND EXHORTERS