BECOME A MEMBERPeople become members of our congregation by completing one of the following:
Baptismal Membership Lutherans recognize the baptisms of all Christian congregations, because baptism is the promise that God gave all believers who baptize “in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” If you or other family members have not been baptized, we would be glad to bring the “washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.” Communicant Membership Communicant members are those who have been received by the congregation in an officially recognized way. Communion means “coming together” and designates that a person has been instructed in the Christian faith, understanding the “six chief parts” that every Christian should know: The Ten Commandments, Apostles Creed, Lord’s Prayer, Confession & Absolution, Baptism, and the Lord’s Supper. Transferral Membership Transferring a membership from one LCMS congregation to another is a very simple process generally. Declaring your intent to transfer by either requesting your records be sent to us, or, if you prefer we can make that request on your behalf. After receiving that request, member information will be transferred to us and we will add you to our member list. Membership by Affirmation of Faith Those who are Lutheran but of another denomination might join by “affirmation of faith.” If that is your situation, you can meet with pastor and talk about your current membership and what you believe about essential matters of faith, especially as it is compares with the official teaching and practice of your current denomination. With that and the approval of the elders, you will be received into membership by “affirmation of faith.” Christian Instruction is advised for those who are of another denomination or who have a weak knowledge of the Christian faith and Lutheranism in particular. If you want to become a member or if you simply want to learn more about the faith, pastor will be glad to take you through a course of instruction in the Lutheran faith, with GodConnects as an instructional guide. |