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Whether you've never been to a United Methodist Church, it's been years since you last visited or you attend every week, you may have questions about how the church operates and what its beliefs are. Below is a brief overview of United Methodism.
WHAT IS THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH LIKE?
GLOBAL
Today we speak many languages and live in many countries—with different cultures, ethnic traditions, national histories and understandings of Christian faith and practice.
CONNECTIONAL
Every United Methodist congregation is interconnected throughout the denomination via a unique, interlocking chain of conferences. The United Methodist Church practices representative democracy in its governance. Conferences elect delegates who are authorized to act and vote.
INCLUSIVE
All persons are welcome to attend our churches and receive Holy Communion, and are eligible to be baptized and become members.
GROUNDED IN SCRIPTURE
United Methodist trust free inquiry in matters of Christian doctrine. Our faith is guided by Scripture, tradition, experience and reason. Of paramount importance, however, is Scripture as the witness of God’s creating, redeeming and sustaining relationship with God’s people.
WESLYAN
The United Methodist Church has a Wesleyan heritage, and as such, places an emphasis on mind and heart (knowledge and vital piety) and putting faith and love into practice (life).
CONCERNED ABOUT SOCIAL JUSTICE
For more than 200 years, The United Methodist Church and its predecessor bodies have expressed concern for God’s children everywhere — the poor, the orphaned, the aging, the sick, the oppressed and the imprisoned
MISSION ORIENTED
Our mission is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. In uncomplicated terms, this means we strive to nurture followers of Christ who then reach out and teach others about the love of Jesus.
ECUMENICAL
United Methodists consider dialogue and missional cooperation between United Methodists and other Christians as a valid witness to the unity of the body of Christ
To learn more about the United Methodist Church, visit www.umc.org.
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