According to the Reverend at the Living Stone Assembly church in Scarborough, a newcomer to the church who possesses a certificate verifying their full-body baptism is able to simply transfer to the Living Stone Assembly church (23 June 2003). However, newcomers to the church do not always possess baptismal documents, especially when they were a member of an underground church in China (Living Stone Assembly 23 June 2003). Moreover, if a person has a certificate of baptism, but has only received a sprinkle of water on the head, then the Reverend recommends that they undergo a full-body immersion in the Living Stone Assembly church (ibid.). Once the ritual has been performed, the Reverend issues a baptismal certificate that includes a photo of the new member (ibid.).

After joining the Living Stone Assembly church, a person may participate in Bible study classes and attend the church (ibid.). According to the Reverend, approximately 20 to 25 per cent of new members move on from the church; however, the Reverend maintains contact with former members and recommends churches to attend in other cities (ibid.). For those who remain in the Toronto area, there are four other Living Stone churches they can access (ibid.).

This Response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the Research Directorate within time constraints. This Response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum.

Living Stone Assembly church, Scarborough. 23 June 2003. Telephone interview with the Reverend.