Mourner's bench a minister. In keeping with the doctrine of the mortification of the flesh, penitents do not kneel on kneeler cushions but instead kneel on the floor. Today many, but not all, Methodist churches supplant the mourners' bench with chancel rails, where Methodists (as well as other evangelical Christians) receive Holy Communion, in addition to experiencing the New Birth, repenting of their sins, and praying. Mourner's bench The mourners' bench, also known as the mercy seat, in Methodist and other evangelical Protestant churches is a bench located in front of the chancel. The practice was instituted by John Wesley, the founder
What Is a Nation? affirmation of life. This leads Renan to the conclusion that "A nation never has a veritable interest in annexing or keeping another region against the wishes of its people". In other words, areas such as states or provinces which wish to secede, should be permitted to do so. "If doubts arise about national borders, consult the population of the area in dispute. They have the right to an opinion on the issue." Renan concludes that nationhood is not an eternal concept, but changes over time (like everything else in this world). "A European confederation will probably replace the nations of