Membership Classes By Pastor Kim Montenegro

Dear Fair Oaks UMC Attendees,

In most denominations or non-denominational churches if you attend you are considered a member. In the United Methodist Church, there is a difference between being a member and an attendee. Reverend Adam Hamilton says, church membership comes with no privileges, only responsibility. Membership, like any covenant, is a sacrificing of who you are for something bigger. You are also opening yourself to be accountable. For United Methodists, membership requires active participation in a local congregation. The vows of professing membership include promises to faithfully participate through prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness in connection with Fair Oaks UMC. By standing in front of the congregation and taking the vow of membership you join 12.5 million people around the world who are United Methodist!

If you have never been baptized, you will prepare for baptism. If you were baptized as an infant or young child and have not made a profession of faith and been confirmed, then you will prepare to reaffirm your baptism when you take the membership vows.

If you are a member of another part of the church (such as Baptist, Presbyterian or Lutheran), then you can transfer your membership from that church to a local United Methodist Church.

If you are a member of another Christian church that does not transfer membership, you can make a profession of faith and be received as a member.

The question I’m most often asked about membership is: “Do I HAVE to stand up in front of the whole church to do it?” In the Methodist Church, we take a vow of membership. This a solemn commitment between you, the church, and God. Just as married people stand up and take a vow before all who love them. When you join the church, the congregation also takes a vow to love and support you in our Christian journey together.

If you are aren’t currently a member, don’t worry we love you anyway! You are still able to participate in the full life of the church. You are welcome to serve on committees, participate in communion, and worship with us. All are welcomed here.

If you are interested in learning more, please let Pastor Kim know.

Blessings,

Pastor Kim Montenegro