Discipline of a Church Member

An Article Written by Dr. Neil Chadwick


When any member desires to initiate a process leading up to disfellowshipping, the Council of Elders will follow the steps outlined here:

a. Interview person(s) bringing written accusations (confirming that there are at least two witnesses) by the appropriate sub-council of Elders, provided that those persons will have spoken of their concerns directly with the person whose actions or doctrines are in question, and provided that those person(s) bringing accusations have familiarized themselves with the Scriptures appropriate to their concerns.

b. Should the situation warrant it, further investigation by the designated sub-council of Elders will be made, including an interview with the accused person and with other persons who express a desire to speak to the issues involved. A further study of pertinent Biblical passages will be included in this investigation. The decision of the sub-council will be communicated in writing to both the accused and the accusers.

c. Should the sub-council decide to recommend disfellowshipping, they will do so at a regular or special meeting of the entire Council. Should the Council concur with this recommendation, the membership will be notified of these proceedings. The Council will retain the prerogative to call for additional investigation or interviews.

d. After sufficient time for prayer, fasting, counsel, careful thought and discussion, a final decision made by the entire Elder Council will be communicated in writing to both the accused and accusers.

e. Membership roster decisions made by the Elder Council will be announced with appropriate explanations prior to the calling of the roll on or before the next regular business meeting. If at such a meeting, notice is given concerning the disfellowshipping of a member, the congregation by a two-thirds vote may request a review of this action by the full council of Elders in the presence of District Officials; the Council of Elders will accept the counsel of the District Officials."

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