Inquirer's Classes

Betty Splettstoesser, Glory Dunn and Karen Jennings have been attending the Spring Inquirer's Classes, which are intended to facilitate meaningful membership for folks interested in joining Peoples. Darryll Rideout also attended the first two classes, which are required for baptism. See Baptism article below.

We have also encouraged those who are already members to consider attending these classes, to brush up on some of the basics of Christianity and Methodism, as well as to support and connect with the newcomers. Wealthy Harvey, a long time member, has attended these classes as well.

The classes include Bible 101 (basics of what the Bible is, how it has come to us, how to use the Bible, etc.); What We Believe (basic Christian beliefs); Why I'm a United Methodist (what makes Methodism different from other denominations such as Catholic, UCC, Presbyterian, and Baptist, what is the history of the Methodist Church, what is the relationship between Peoples and the Methodist denomination); What is My S.H.A.P.E. for Ministry (what are my Spiritual gifts, Heart for ministry, Abilities, Personality type and Experiences ... which form who I am and impact what kinds of ministries would best suit me and how I can best receive spiritual nourishment); and Why Membership (what is the advantage of joining the church rather than just attending, what is expected of members).

There is no pressure for anyone attending these classes to join, but those who do decide to join will be welcomed into Peoples UMC on March 2. New members sign a covenant statement which summarize the vows they will take from the United Methodist Hymnal during worship. These vows include a profession of their faith in Christ, and expectation of the church to provide means for them to grow in their faith, affirming the denomination's mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ, and an agreement to share in the responsibility for the church family with their prayers, presence, gifts and service.

Why all this to join the church? For membership to have any meaning, either for the member or for the church, there needs to be an ongoing relationship and connection with the church, both in terms of receiving spiritual nourishment, and in terms of serving and reaching out to others. Churches that take membership seriously will gain members who likewise take membership seriously. Even those transferring from another United Methodist Church take these classes and sign the membership covenant. We have also encouraged current members who are in leadership positions to sign this membership covenant, thus renewing their vows.

If you are interested in attending the next Inquirer's Classes, please contact the pastors. And please come out March 2 and show your support and encouragement to our newest members!