Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 9/9/2008

Question
QUESTION: A friend of mine has attended Assembly of God churches her adult life. She finally became a member of one and now wishes she had not. She wants to know the process of stepping down as a member and if she will be asked to leave the church.

ANSWER: Marsha,

Thank you for the opportunity to help.

To my knowledge, there is no "process" for leaving the AG. Though I would suggest that she let the AG pastor (of the church she is a member of) that she is leaving, and the reason's why. This is not a requirement, but it is good manners for any church member at any church.

If you don't mind me asking, what are her reasons for leaving? Perhaps I could help.

God bless.
Elder Greg Madden

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Elder Greg, Thank you for your reply. She does not want to leave the church, just remove herself from membership. In part, they have some rules about being on committees & such and she donates most of her time in a local healing ministry. She also is desiring more freedom in worship & expression than is allowed so she is praying about where God wants her. At this point she just wants out of the membership.  THANKS!

Answer
Marsha,

Thank you for the clarification. However, I am still a little confused. Are you say that your friend wants to drop her membership, yet continue to attend the Ag church? I this is correct, then I am at a loss as to why she feels the need to drop her membership if she is still going to continue to attend. Why does she feel the need to drop her membership? It sounds to me like she needs to speak with her pastor, share her concerns, and see if these issues can be resolved. If not, then perhaps she can leave the church (after speaking with the pastor) and find a another church.

Please keep me informed.

Elder Greg Madden