Right Hand of Fellowship

When a new member is received into a family by marriage, or otherwise, it is usual, and in the fitness of things, for the family to welcome such new member. Similarly, what more becoming than for the Household of Christ to extend the right hand of fellowship to a new brother or sister?

In small Ecclesiae it is possible for each member to do so; but it is not practicable where Ecclesia numbers scores, not to say hundreds. As to when and where the collective right hand of fellowship should be given, surely his or her first appearance at the Table of the Lord is the most suitable time, and that, too, by the Presiding Brother, in the name of the Household.

“Let all things be done decently and in order” (1Cor. xiv. 40).

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Naar het Nederlands vertaalde versie / Dutch version: Rechterhand van gemeenschap