In the Massachusetts Bay Colony, only male church members could participate in the government. This meant that only those who had been accepted into a Puritan congregation and had demonstrated their commitment to the faith were allowed to vote or hold office. This restriction was based on the belief that only those who were "visible saints" (individuals who could provide evidence of their conversion and salvation) were fit to make decisions for the community. Over time, however, this restriction was gradually loosened, and by the 1660s, most male property owners were allowed to vote.