1. ELDER’S TRAINING SEMINAR Based on the Elder’s Handbook Ministerial Association of the General Conference www.ministerialassociation.com

2. The Elder and Special Service Chapter 8 – Part 1

3. Elder and baptism Elders help in organizing, directing, and giving support throughout the service. Under certain conditions, elders perform baptisms. Place of baptism. It may be held indoors or outdoors, in a church baptistry or in a river, lake, ocean, swimming pool and etc. Baptism

4. Preparation for baptism The time and place of baptism ought to be announced and advertised. Deaconesses will need to have the place of baptism prepared. Baptism

5. Dressing for baptism Advise candidates on suitable clothing to wear. Dark colors are least revealing when wet. Secure place for changing clothes. Baptism

6. Acceptance for baptism Candidates should be carefully examined and make a confession of their faith. At same time candidates should be officially welcome into the church family. The acceptance into membership may come before the baptism or immediately after. Baptism

7. Performing the baptism Baptism by immersion. Declaration. Be careful and gentle. Baptism

8. Dangers at baptism Be aware that some people have a fear of water. Never take hold of a microphone while in the water. Baptism

9. Welcome after baptism Make appeals. Give a warm welcome and gifts to the new members. Baptism

10. The N.T. does not command such a ritual as child dedication, however the way Jesus related to little ones encourages it. Child Dedication

11. Four basic purpose: 1. To thank God for the miracle of this birth. 2. To covenant the parents and family to raising the child to love Jesus. 3. To commit the congregation to give support for the family in its task. 4. To bless the child and dedicate to God. Child Dedication

12. Planning service Place. Time of year. Age. Conducting the service Parents called forward. Homily. Prayer. Certificate and congratulations. Child Dedication

13. Represents the celebration of a difficult project successfully accomplished. Pastors need assistance from their elders in planning the program. Order of service. Church Dedication

14. History of the church. Scripture reading. Act of dedication. Dedication weekend. Church opening. Church Dedication

15. Only ordained ministers or elders conduct the service. Renewing relationships. Celebrated ones per quarter. Preparing the emblems. Who may participate. Communion

16. Sermon. Footwashing. Lord’s Supper. Ending the service. Those who are unable to attend. Communion

17. Planning the service Groundbreaking is not entirely a religious service and does not belong on Sabbath. Sunday is often an ideal time. Groundbreaking

18. Preparing the site Should be cleared, a platform needs to be erected and a sound system installed. Order of service Order of service (See the Elder’s Handbook)Stonelaying The service can follow the same general order as for groundbreaking. Groundbreaking