The distinguishing marks of a United Methodist are probably best illustrated by a commitment to the basics of Christianity and by a Christian lifestyle, rather than by assenting to a particular scheme of beliefs.

United Methodists share a common heritage with other Christians:

• Conviction that God has mercy and love for all people
• Belief in a triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
• Faith in the mystery of salvation through Jesus Christ
• Celebration of the sacraments

In these and many other ways, Methodism affirms the unity of all Christians in the Body of Christ.

United Methodists also share four main guidelines for belief. These guidelines help us understand our faith, and include:

• Scripture
• Tradition
• Experience
• Reason

They are interdependent and allow for variety in theology.

Baptism

For United Methodists, baptism is the sacrament of initiation that joins us with the church and Christians everywhere. It’s a symbol of new life and a promise of God’s saving love, and a sign of God’s forgiveness for our sins. Both infants and adults can be baptized. A person receives the sacrament only once in his or her life. Water is the special symbol of baptism. United Methodists baptize by sprinkling, immersion, or pouring.