A Contemporary Concept

by James E. Plueddemann

Once upon a time there was a wonderful, wonderful club. It was called The Membership Club. The only purpose for its existence was to gain more members. Here is a sample of the Constitution.

Once upon a time there was a wonderful, wonderful club. It was called The Membership Club. The only purpose for its existence was to gain more members. Here is a sample of the Constitution.

AIMS
1. Get more members, so as to get more members, so as to get more members, etc.

2. Establish new members in branch clubs which will be self-governing, self-supporting, and self-propagating.

ACTIVITIES
1. Study books on “Club Growth.”

2. Mobilize every member for a continuous “Total Mobilization Membership Movement ” (TMMM).

Club Motto: “Joined to Reproduce.”

Once in a while a crisis would arise. There would be a problem member in the club. One such member had the nerve to raise his hand in a meeting and ask:

“Why should I be a member of this club?”

The answer quickly came from the members in unison:

“You are `Joined to Reproduce”‘

“Yes, but why?” the rebel stammered.

“So that new members can be self-propagating,” sounded the chorus in an angry tone.

“Yes, but . . . why should we . . . ?”

“Sit down.”

“Heresy.”

“Liberal,” shouted the angry mob.

Are missionaries building a club?

After all, nothing is born merely to reproduce – except maybe weeds, and membership clubs.

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