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We're United Methodists! Just what does that mean?
BRIEF HISTORY
The United Methodist Church is a Protestant movement that traces its roots back to John Wesley, an Anglican priest in the Church of England in the 1700s. John and his brother, Charles, set out to revitalize the Church of England by forming societies of “Methodists” - so called because the members followed a daily routine of religious observance and social work. Methodism first spread to Ireland and then to America where it officially became its own denomination in 1784. Today United Methodist membership stands at nearly 10 million worldwide (more than 1 million are outside of the United States).
WHAT DO WE BELIEVE?
Part of the mark of being a United Methodist is that we hold a wide range of theological beliefs. John Wesley said, “As to all opinions which do not strike at the root of Christianity, we think and let think.” In general, we agree on the major aspects of theology. We believe in a Triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We believe in God’s love and forgiveness of all people. We believe in the mystery of salvation through Jesus Christ. And we believe in celebrating the Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion. For United Methodists, social consciousness has always gone hand in hand with faith. We believe, with John Wesley, “that the world is our parish.” Hence, we support mission and justice work locally, regionally and around the world. We cherish an ecumenical tradition and seek to work together with other Christian denominations as well as other religions. We believe in the dignity of each person and the practice of total democracy in our church’s life.
Our Vision and Statement of Inclusion
Mission Statement
Our church is a Christian community of faith that welcomes, accepts, and nurtures all people.
We provide opportunities for people to worship and grow in their relationship with God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
Statement of Inclusion
Franksville United Methodist Church is committed to the reconciliation of all persons as sacred, beloved children of God. Our welcome knows no boundaries. We support the full inclusion and participation of all persons in the life and ministry of the church, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, marital or socioeconomic status, age, family formation, or physical and/or mental ability.
At the same time, we recognize and respect the differences of opinion among us. We welcome all in our journey together in faith toward greater understanding and mutual respect.
We proclaim this statement of welcome to all who have known the pain of exclusion and discrimination within the church.
