In Methodism (inclusive of the holiness movement), a tabernacle is the center of a camp meeting, where revival services occur.12 These evangelistic services are aimed at preaching the two works of grace in Methodism: (1) the New Birth and (2) entire sanctification. They additionally call backsliders to repentance.34 Tabernacles may be constructed in a cruciform-shaped fashion and are most often made of wood.56 Like the interior of many Methodist churches, in the center of the tabernacle is an altar upon which the Eucharist is consecrated; a pulpit stands near it and is used by preachers to deliver sermons.5 The area of the tabernacle housing the altar and pulpit is delimited by the mourner's bench, which is used by congregants during altar calls.5 Surrounding the tabernacle itself are usually several cabins and/or tents, where people stay while attending the camp meeting.6
Gallery
-
The tabernacle of Wesleyan Grove, also known as the Martha's Vineyard Campmeeting Association -
The tabernacle of Wesleyan Methodist Campground in Stoneboro, Pennsylvania -
The tabernacle of Ocean Grove, New Jersey -
The tabernacle of Bethany Beach, Delaware -
Methodists gather at the tabernacle of Ocean Grove, New Jersey -
The tabernacle of Indian Fields Methodist Campground -
A camp meeting service at Wesleyan Methodist Campground in Stoneboro, Pennsylvania -
The tabernacle of Pleasant Grove Camp Meeting Ground -
The tabernacle of Summit Evangelical Wesleyan Campground in Cooperstown, Pennsylvania -
The tabernacle of Flatwoods Reformed Free Methodist Campground in Vanderbilt, Pennsylvania
References
References
- David, Jonathan C. (2007). Together Let Us Sweetly Live: The Singing and Praying Bands. University of Illinois Press. p. 151. ISBN 9780252074196.
- Evans, Linda L. (2011). Will You Sparkle in the Light: An End-of-the-Age Crash Course in the Supernatural and Spiritual Things of God. WestBow Press. p. 218. ISBN 9781449719593.
- Heath, Elaine A. (1 January 2009). Naked Faith: The Mystical Theology of Phoebe Palmer. Wipf and Stock Publishers. p. 17. ISBN 9781630877170.
Penitents came forward to the "mourners' bench," a long bench near the pulpit where sins were confessed and forgiveness received.
- Atkin, Pippa (2003). Flexi-RE Evaluation. Nelson Thornes. p. 8. ISBN 9780748763542.
Their sermons done, revivalists like Caughey and Marsden, following time-honoured Methodist procedure, would urge people to the communion rail - called also the mourners' bench, a kind of Protestant confessional - in public acceptance of Christ.
- Randolph, Vance (1980). Religious songs and other items. University of Missouri Press. p. 13. ISBN 9780826203007.
- Lanier, Gabrielle M.; Herman, Bernard L. (19 June 1997). Everyday Architecture of the Mid-Atlantic: Looking at Buildings and Landscapes. JHU Press. p. 275. ISBN 9780801853258. Retrieved 1 July 2018.