Transfer
A member in good standing in any Christian denomination who has been baptized and who desires to unite with The United Methodist Church may be received as a professing member by a proper certificate of transfer from that person’s former church, or by a declaration of Christian faith, and upon affirming willingness to be loyal to the United Methodist Church. (Paragraph 224 UMCBOD) The sending church will be notified of the reception of the
member.
Affiliate and Associate Membership
There are two forms of membership for those who do not wish to leave membership in a “home church” but wish to become a part of the community of faith in another local church.
A United Methodist who is a member of another United Methodist congregation “who resides for an extended period in a city or community at a distance from the member’s home church may, on request, be enrolled as an affiliate member.” (Paragraph 226 UMCBOD). The pastor of the home church will be notified of the affiliate membership and the person would still be counted as a member only of the home church.
A member coming from another Christian denomination may become an associate member under the same conditions as an affiliate member.
Starting Point
If you have theological, ecumenical, or sectarian questions and would like to join our pastors for coffee and an informal conversation, we invite you to join us for “Starting Point,” held quarterly on Sundays at 4 PM in the Family Life Center. No need to sign up. Members and non-members are welcome to join us! Check the weekly Inlet View e-news or CALENDAR for Starting Point dates.