Joining our church family is a step in your faith journey that leads to many others! On that journey, each step deepens your relationship with Jesus Christ as you respond by sharing your prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness. The journey is an amazing experience of growing inwardly and serving outwardly, all the while surrounded by the incredibly loving community that is First United Methodist Church in Lexington.
Contact the pastors via email Pastor Cheryl or Pastor Kirk or by phone 336-248-2886 for information about joining the church.
Which way will I join and what will I say?
You will join by either:
Baptism and Profession of Faith
Since baptism is part of membership, if you have not been baptized, it is normally done within the context of a service of worship with the congregation making a profession to care for you. You will then respond to the United Methodist questions of faith asked by the pastor.
Reaffirmation of Faith
This is usually chosen as a renewal of faith after a period of inactivity or of not being on a church roll elsewhere for some time. The United Methodist Church believes that baptism is a one-time occurrence; therefore, we recognize baptisms from other faiths. You will not be re-baptized. You will then respond to the United Methodist questions of faith asked by the pastor.
Transfer from another United Methodist Church or Transfer from another denomination
This is chosen when you are a member of another church (United Methodist or otherwise). Your baptism is recognized. You will not be re-baptized. You will then respond to the United Methodist questions of faith asked by the pastor.
Questions of Faith asked at the time you join:
Do you renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the evil powers of this world, and repent of your sin?
Your Response: I Do.
Do you accept the freedom and power God gives you to resist evil, injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves?
Your Response: I Do.
Do you confess Jesus Christ as your Savior, put your whole trust in his grace, and promise to serve him as your Lord, in union with the church which Christ has opened to people of all ages, nations, and races?
Your Response: I Do.
As a member of Christ's universal church, will you be loyal to the United Methodist Church, and do all in your power to strengthen its ministries?
Your Response: I Will.
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?
Your Response: I Will.