Our Mission:
The mission of the United Methodist Church is rooted in a clear and transformative purpose: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We believe that following Christ is a lifelong journey of faith, compassion, and action. By nurturing spiritual growth and fostering inclusive communities, we seek to share God’s love in ways that heal brokenness, seek justice, and bring hope to our neighbors both near and far.
Our Core Beliefs:
The United Methodist Church (UMC) shares many core beliefs with other Christian denominations—such as the Trinity and the divinity of Jesus—but it is uniquely defined by a "theology of grace" and an emphasis on putting faith into action.
Here is a brief overview of the pillars of United Methodist belief:
Methodists often describe God’s love through three distinct lenses:
Prevenient Grace: The love that surrounds us even before we are aware of God, seeking us out.
Justifying Grace: The forgiveness and acceptance we receive through faith in Jesus Christ.
Sanctifying Grace: The ongoing work of the Holy Spirit that helps us grow in love for God and our neighbors throughout our lives.
To understand God’s will and make theological decisions, United Methodists look to four primary sources, often called the Quadrilateral:
Scripture: The primary authority and foundation of faith.
Tradition: The wisdom and history of the Church through the centuries.
Reason: The use of our intellect and critical thinking to understand the world.
Experience: Our personal and communal encounters with God’s grace.
Methodism is famous for the idea that "there is no holiness but social holiness." This means that following Jesus isn't just about personal prayer and private piety; it requires Social Action. We believe that true faith is expressed through seeking justice, ending oppression, and serving the vulnerable.
In the UMC, the Lord’s Supper (Communion) is an "open table." You do not need to be a member of the church or even a Methodist to participate. We believe the table belongs to Christ, and all who love Him, earnestly repent of their sin, and seek to live in peace with one another are welcome.