As
United Methodist, we believe..
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 them understand their faith, and include:
-
Scripture
-
tradition
-
experience
- reason.
They are
interdependent and allow for variety in theology.
About
Baptism
For
United Methodists, baptism is the sacrament of initiation that joins
us with the church and with 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.
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Our Mission
The
mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ by
proclaiming the good news of God's grace and thus seeking the
fulfillment of God's reign and realm in the world.
Our Vision
To
invite people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and one
another through worshiping, learning, praying, caring, giving, and serving.
The Lord's Supper
A holy
meal of bread and wine symbolizes the body and blood of Christ. By
sharing this meal, United Methodists give thanks for Jesus'
sacrifice for our sins and receive grace to empower us to go on in
Christian living. The Sacrament of Holy Communion recalls the life,
death and resurrection of Jesus and celebrates the unity of all the
members of God's family.
United
Methodists also celebrate other religious ceremonies. United
Methodists embrace liturgical services, preaching, prayer,
confirmation, marriage, funerals, family devotions.
For more
information or to discuss United Methodists' beliefs, send an
inquiry to
saumcinfo@standrewumc.org.
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