Next January we will be holding a "New Member Orientation." The orientation will cover topics including the history, beliefs, and structure of the United Methodist Church. We will also touch on the particular gifts and graces of Faith United Methodist Church. I'm sure we'll spend some time discussing the history of our congregation and how it grew as a church plant from First UMC in Burlington about 45 years ago.

Everyone is welcome to attend whether a new church attendee or a long time member. Even those that are not sure if they want to join the church are invited. This will be a time of learning and exploration. The Sunday after the last session folks will have the opportunity to stand before the congregation and take membership vows.

Why, one might wonder, would anyone want to join? What are the benefits of becoming an official member? Practically speaking, there are few 'benefits.' Members do get to vote at our annual Church Charge Conference. Other than that members and nonmembers are virtually indistinguishable. Membership, it seems to me, is less about benefits and more about spiritual commitments. By joining a church ~ any church ~ one makes a statement of commitment to the spiritual journey with a particular group of people in a particular place. The journey might not always be easy, but as members we are in it together.

As part of the membership vows, United Methodists make a commitment to support the church (which is not just the building, but the people of the church) with 'prayers, presence, witness, gifts and service.' What a blessing it is to know that there is a group of people here in South Burlington committed to sharing the Faith journey and supporting each other in this way!

How has your membership been meaningful to you throughout the years? Are you contemplating membership? What appeals to you? What is challenging?