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We're United Methodists! (Continued)
INTERPRETING SCRIPTURE
In the Wesleyan tradition, we follow four main guidelines that help us understand our faith. Scripture - what does the Bible say? Tradition - what do our tradition, our creeds and past theologians teach us? Experience - what does our experience tell us? Reason - does it make sense? These four are interdependent and allow for a variety of theologies and interpretations of scripture. The three main books that inform our faith and practice include: the Bible, with the Old and New Testament scriptures, in which we encounter the Living Word of God; the United Methodist Hymnal, with the songs, creeds and rituals of our personal and public worship life including the Sacraments, Weddings, Funerals and more; and the Book of Discipline, which contains our Articles of Faith, various rituals, and the laws of our denomination for the many facets of Christian life, Ordinations, Consecrations and Dedications.
ORDINATION AND APPOINTMENT OF PASTORS
We ordain men and women as pastors, and they may be married. Our pastors are appointed to the churches by the Bishop and District Superintendents, in consultation with leaders of the local congregations. The intent is to facilitate the wisest match between the clergy and needs of the churches.
MINISTRY OF THE LAITY
Lay ministry is not only encouraged in the United Methodist Church, but is vital to church life and growth. The laity are involved in all aspects of church life, from leading worship and preaching, to running committees and programs, to teaching. All of the lay committee members that run the local church are elected by the congregation. The congregation also elects lay delegates to the Annual Conference (a gathering of regional, or statewide clergy and lay members) where they have voice and vote in the guiding rules and principles of the United Methodist Church.
The Meaning of Membership
Being a member in the United Methodist Church means many things to many people. It means involvement in prayer, worship, sacraments, study, Christian action, and giving. It means sharing the work of the local church, ecumenical efforts and teaching about God. It means knowing that we have a commitment to God and to others, and understand that we are called to be God’s ministers in this world. Finally, we recognize that God is an active and loving part of our lives.
