What We Believe
"We affirm all persons as equally valuable in the sight of God. We therefore work toward societies in which each person’s value is recognized, maintained, and strengthened."
United Methodist Social Principles
The United Methodist Church is a global denomination that opens hearts, opens minds and opens doors through active engagement with our world. The mission of The United Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
A United Methodist is someone who joins in that mission by putting faith and love into action. We believe that God loves all people, and that we share in expressing that love. So the United Methodist tradition emphasizes God's grace and in serving others. We believe that Jesus Christ is the fullest expression of God's love--showing us the fullness of God's care through Jesus' teachings, death and resurrection.
John Wesley started the Methodist movement in 18th century England. His teachings on practical divinity (living out our faith) and appeals to reason and experience form important aspects of United Methodist practice today.
The United Methodist Church shares a great deal with other Christian denominations. We believe God's grace is open to all, and therefore practice "open Communion"--meaning that anyone may participate in receiving Communion. We believe salvation is an open gift from God, accepted by individuals according to their own free will. The United Methodist denomination is a "big tent" theologically, providing space for theological discourse and, at times, disagreement.
Like many other Christian groups, we affirm the beliefs expressed in the Apostles Creed. These include:
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The belief in one God, who is the Creator and sustainer of the universe.
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The belief in the Trinity, that there is one God in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
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The belief in the divinity of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who is fully human and fully divine.
Our Policy
The United Methodist Church's non-discrimination policy, as outlined in the Book of Discipline, emphasizes the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. The policy states:
The United Methodist Church acknowledges that all persons are of sacred worth. All persons regardless of race, color, national origin, status, or economic condition, shall be eligible to attend its worship services, participate in its programs, receive the sacraments, and become members in any local church in the connection. The United Methodist Church declares that it is committed to supporting those rights and liberties for all persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, which are consistent with the discipline of The United Methodist Church.
This policy reflects the church's commitment to inclusivity and equality, ensuring that everyone is welcomed and valued within the church community.