How Do You Become A Member Of The United Methodist Church?
• Discuss the different types of membership offered by the United Methodist Church. An affiliate or associate member may retain membership in another UMC congregation or even a congregation affiliated with a different Christian denomination. A preparatory member is one who has been baptized but not yet confirmed into full membership. A full member has experienced a baptism that is considered valid and has also been confirmed a member of the United Methodist Church. • Receive Christian baptism. For individuals who have not received a baptism that the Church understands as Christian, taking part in a baptismal ceremony will be necessary. This is usually preceded by making what is known as a profession of faith, which is simply affirming belief in the Christian gospel as affirmed by the Church. The United Methodist Church recognizes baptism by immersion as well as pouring and sprinkling as valid expressions, allowing those wishing to join to choose the mode that has the most significance
