The foundation of domestic life is a family devotion known as "Aandag" (Afrikaans for "attention"). A "Perfect Apostolic Day" commences with "Family Aandag and prayer in the morning" and reaches its climax when the family assembles at the end of the day for another Aandag.
Ensuring that a service, wedding, or administrative meeting is conducted identically, whether in Cape Town, London, or Melbourne.
: The OAC primarily recognizes the Authorised King James Version of the Bible, though translations in other languages like Afrikaans or German are also used. 4. Financial and Administrative Transparency
The OAC operates under a strict, non-salaried, hierarchical ministry. The Domestic Rules clearly define the spiritual and administrative responsibilities of each office:
The domestic rules of the Old Apostolic Church are an essential aspect of the church's identity and practice. While they provide a framework for moral guidance and community life, they can also be limiting and restrictive. As the OAC continues to evolve and grow, it is likely that its domestic rules will be subject to ongoing debate and revision. Ultimately, the church must balance its commitment to tradition and authority with the need for flexibility and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. old apostolic church domestic rules pdf
Procedures for addressing behavior that contradicts the church's testimony or fractures peace within the congregation.
The domestic rules of the Old Apostolic Church are implemented and enforced through various mechanisms, including:
While the exact text of the Domestic Rules is updated periodically by the church's highest governing bodies to reflect modern administrative needs, the document consistently covers several core areas: 1. The Leadership Hierarchy and Offices
Daily life for members is structured, emphasizing an insular "Old Apostolic way of life" that includes frequent testimony services, tithing, and separation from non-members (referred to as "the world"). The foundation of domestic life is a family
If you are looking to understand specific clauses or historical updates regarding the church's governance, please share or administrative topic (such as ministry duties, financial rules, or membership requirements) you are most interested in exploring. Share public link
The rules explicitly map out the chain of command within the OAC. This includes the supreme authority of the Apostolate, the division of regions under Overseers, and the management of local wards by Elders and Priests. It outlines how officers are called, ordained, and retired. 2. Sacraments and Divine Services
: Members and officers are strictly prohibited from active political engagement, such as joining political parties or running for office, though they are permitted to vote as individuals. Code of Conduct for Officers
Understanding the Old Apostolic Church: A Comprehensive Guide to its Domestic Rules and Governance : The OAC primarily recognizes the Authorised King
However, some critics have argued that the domestic rules of the OAC can be overly restrictive and limiting, particularly for women and minority groups. For example:
New office-bearers or members transitioning into leadership roles often seek digital copies of these rules to ensure they are executing their spiritual and administrative duties precisely as the Apostolate intends. 4. Accessibility and Official Channels
The Domestic Rules of the Old Apostolic Church serve as the official constitution and operational manual for the denomination. Unlike purely theological texts, the Domestic Rules combine scriptural principles with practical, administrative bylaws. The primary objectives of this document include: