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What is Membership?
Though all Christians are part of the universal body of Christ, the Church has always understood that to be expressed through membership in the local church. Membership calls us into covenant relationships with one another—relationships where we must practice the virtues of faith, hope and love. Through membership we commit ourselves to a group of Christians and they in turn welcome us into their community, committing themselves to us, as well. Membership brings us to a place in the body of Christ where we seek to know others and be known by others. Membership is sacred, reminding us that the model of the isolated Jesus-and-me Christian is insufficient. It is in practicing faith, hope and love together that we grow in the image of Christ and we show the world that there is a different way to live.
In The United Methodist Church, a committed member faithfully participates in the local church by praying, being present, tithing or working towards a tithe, serving through one’s spiritual gifts and living in the church and the community in such a way that the love of God in Christ Jesus is communicated.
The Membership Process
The membership process begins with meeting with a pastor to discuss what it means to be a faithful member of a church.
Membership is open to all who have made a profession of faith in Christ and have been baptized. If you have not, you will be led through that process prior to joining Porterfield. All three can happen in the same worship service. We recommend participating in a Membership Class to learn about the process.
The membership ritual occurs near the end of a worship service. We ask that you come stand before the people to whom you are committing. If you are transferring from another denomination (Baptist, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic, etc.) you will be asked if you will be loyal to The United Methodist Church. Finally, you will be asked, “As a member of this congregation, will you faithfully participate in its ministries by your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service, and your witness?”
If you are interested in beginning the membership process, please contact Rev. Josh Duckworth.