“…You are a member of God’s very own family…
and you belong in God’s household
with every other Christian.” 
Ephesians 2:19 (LB)

Joining First Church
One of our greatest joys is receiving persons into membership at First Church.  We believe the church family reflects the Body of Christ and is the best arena to grow spiritually and be the visible presence of Christ for the world.

Why is membership important?
Membership is not for everyone, as joining the church is not like you are joining a club.  The church is the God-ordained place of spiritually gifted ministry by those who are willing to be part of the team.  And just as a marriage is strengthened and edified with a commitment vow, so I there spiritual growth for those who make the commitment to join.

Are there requirements?
Not requirements, but expectations.  It’s true when someone becomes a Christian, they become an automatic “member” in the kingdom of God.  So joining the church has nothing to do with salvation or eternal life.  A requirement would reflect a works-righteousness. 

However, membership means we are making a covenant with God and his church to serve him through the life of their particular congregation, and we take those vows seriously.  We encourage all who are making the decision to join to take a four-week membership class (First Class) either before or soon after they join.  The class meets three to four times each year.  You may call the office (233-0545) for more information, or check here for the schedule of classes.

What do I do when I desire to join?
Just fill out this form or mark a pew pad or response card in the pew and place it in the offering plate or drop it by the church office.  We will contact you, help answer questions, and confirm a date to “formalize” you decision.

How will that decision be recognized?
On a designated Sunday, we will invite you forward (if you are comfortable) and recognize you.  You will be introduced to the congregation, vows will be repeated and the congregation will have the opportunity to formally greet you at the end of the service.  We also take a picture of those joining to help us learn your name.

How do I become a Christian?
If you believe that Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior, and you confess that you want Him to come into your life to help you turn away from a life of sin so you can be with him eternally, then you have become a Christian.  Praise God! You will want to stay strong in your study of the Bible, prayer life and worship.  The best way is to join a church.  As a new Christian, you would join by "Confession of Faith."

What about baptism?
If you are a Christian but have not been baptized, the minister will be happy to discuss the meaning of the Sacrament with you in your home or in his study at your convenience.  If you have already been baptized and confirmed, these steps will not be repeated.  Click here for information about Infant Baptism…

What if I am transferring from another church or denomination?
Your baptism will be accepted.  You will be reconfirmed in a process call “Renewal of Vows.”  We will take care of contacting your former church for your letter of transfer.

What if I know my stay at First Church is only temporary?
Some choose to retain a membership in the “home” church and become an “Affiliate Member” of First Church.

Other questions?
Just call the office or schedule an appointment with the pastor.

FIRST CLASS
MEMBERSHIP CLASS

This four-week class will help give meaning to your membership.  Topics include:

• What it means to be a Christian
• Why church membership is important
• The history and unique beliefs of United Methodists
• First Church’s mission, beliefs, and strategy of ministry
• Our church’s structure and overview of our discipleship path
• The meaning of our membership vows.

 All new members are encouraged to take First Class.

MEMBERSHIP VOWS

• Do you wish to be a disciple and follower of Jesus Christ?
• Will you make this your church family, allowing the people of this church to love and care for you, as together we serve God with our prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness?

MEMBER EXPECTATIONS

Our ultimate goal as a church is to help you grow in your walk with Jesus Christ.  Therefore, we would ask those seeking to become members to:

• Attend worship every week unless you are sick or away
• Participate in at least one activity each year aimed at helping you grow in your faith apart from worship attendance (Sunday School, small group, Bible study, short-term classes, daily plan for prayer and Bible study at home).
• Give of your time in Christian service at least once each year through the ministry of the church
• Give financially in proportion to your income with the goal of tithing

For more information about United Methodism, go to www.umc.org