The Old Apostolic Church (OAC) is known for maintaining a private and highly structured internal governance system. While specific "Domestic Rules" in a single PDF are often kept within the church's internal administrative hierarchy (accessible mainly to officers and clergy), several key tenets of their conduct and domestic regulations are well-documented. Core Governance and Conduct
Domestic Rules: These provide specific procedural details for the daily management of congregations, financial policy, and internal order. old apostolic church domestic rules pdf
The absence of a public "Domestic Rules PDF" serves a specific purpose: it maintains the boundary between the "sealed" community (members) and the "world" (non-members). It prevents external scrutiny of internal practices and ensures that interpretation remains the exclusive domain of the Apostolate. The Old Apostolic Church (OAC) is known for
: 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 Domestic Rules : These provide specific procedural details
Marriage Restrictions: Perhaps the most socially significant domestic rule is the prohibition of "mixed marriages." Members are strictly forbidden from marrying outside the faith. If a member wishes to marry a non-member, the non-member must first undergo conversion, baptism, and a period of proving their faith.
The bedrock of all domestic rules in the OAC is the doctrine of Separation from the World. This is derived from literal interpretations of passages such as Romans 12:2 ("Be not conformed to this world") and 2 Corinthians 6:17 ("Come out from among them, and be ye separate").