You may join in one of several ways:
By Baptism and Confession of Faith
If you have never publicly accepted Christ and joined a church as a youth or an adult, you would join by Confession of Faith. A person also needs to be baptized to join a United Methodist Church, so baptism would also occur after consultation with the pastor if you have never been baptized.
By Transfer From Another United Methodist Church
Persons who are baptized and have joined another United Methodist Church would join by Transfer of Membership. It is not necessary for you to write your former church for a letter of membership. Shady Grove will handle the details of transfer for you.
By Transfer From Another Christian Denomination
The process is very much like the one above. Since you are already baptized and confirmed, these steps will not be repeated. You will be asked to take the vows made by all persons entering our congregation to support and uphold the United Methodist Church "by your prayers, your presence, your gifts and your service."
How to "Join" Without "Joining"
If you are a United Methodist whose membership is in another city or state and you wish to retain that membership in your "home" church, you can become an Affiliate Member of Shady Grove. This membership grants you pastoral oversight, fellowship, and full participation (including the holding of church offices) in Shady Grove. We will write your "home" church to inform them of your Affiliate Member status in Shady Grove Church. Members of other Christian denominations may elect to become Associate Members under the same conditions. |
