Our Expression

The Four Orders

The Centre, The Independent Church of Australia, The Independent Church in New Zealand, Het Esoterisch Christelijk Centrum in The Netherlands, has four orders and is led by the Meritus, Rev Antoinette Schoenmaker, who was elevated to this office in 1995, and Deputy Meritus, Rev Robert John, whose elevation we celebrated 25 February 2006.

Rev Antoinette Schoenmaker		Rev Robert John

We liken the orders to the body of Christ, not just a physical body but also an etheric body, an astral body and an I AMness. The orders correspond to each of these four spiritual qualities as follows:

Members

The membership relates to the physical body, the flesh and bones of the organisation. Through their attendance and the giving of time, energy and money it is possible to manifest the physical structure in which worship, learning, creativity and fellowship can take place. Each member can contribute in the areas of where help is needed whether it be in vestry, kitchen and catering duties, setting up and cleaning up for services or to provide administrative assistance. The physical is the foundation upon which consciousness grows and develops and in The Centre this is a consciousness of Christ.

Initiates

After a period of time a member may feel ready to take on a greater responsibility and build on their response to the Christ within. The Guild of Initiates corresponds to the etheric body and is the expression of the sensitivity, vitality and feelings of the body of Christ. They bring beauty, unity, love and healing whether it is during a service or within their community. In particular the Initiate develops spiritual healing qualities and become more involved in The Centre's healing ministry through participating in the laying on of hands during healing services.

Deacons

An Initiate works with the feeling levels, the life-force of the body of Christ. Once the Initiate has prepared themselves and feel that they want to undertake the next step they can become Deacons. The role of the Deacon is to become more closely associated with the altar through serving on the altar assisting the Priests. They are able to take on leadership positions and roles of responsibility within The Centre. Deacons represent the astral body and is what motivates, moves and animates the physical body.

Priests

A Deacon may prepare themselves for ordination and become part of the priesthood of The Centre. The Priesthood constitutes the individuality of The Centre and deal with the spiritual mysteries in the sacraments, making available the inspiration and flow of the spirit to the entire body.

For further reading on the Priesthood please go to The Priesthood according to the Order of Melchizedek.