Exploring Membership

Registration is required

Have you been thinking about membership at St. Mark’s and wondering how to get more information and then join? Pastor Lynn and Tricia Chester lead an Exploring Membership class. This is an opportunity for you to learn more about St. Mark’s – our priorities and plans, as well as history and United Methodist beliefs. If you have questions, leave a message at 520-297-2062 and you will be contacted.

Times:
9-9:30 a.m. optional church campus walking tour
9:30 to 11 a.m. membership class
11-11:30 rehearsal for introduction in worship
11:30 a.m. lunch

Typically, participants may join the church during services the following day.

Register Here

Types of Membership

A Professing Member
Professes one’s faith in the trinity (God, the Father Almighty; Jesus, his only son; and the Holy Spirit). Commits one’s prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness to the church. Is officially added to the membership records of St. Mark’s and the United Methodist Church. Has been baptized. Can vote and participate in church business.

An Affiliate/Associate Member
Maintains membership at two churches (either United Methodist or one of another denomination). Enjoys the same benefits of professing membership. Agrees to the same commitments and meets the same requirements of a professing member.

A Baptized Member
Has received the sacrament of baptism in a United Methodist Church, or has received Christian baptism in another denomination and later transferred to a United Methodist Church.

Exploring Membership Classes

Whether you are a new Christian, transferring from another denomination or from another United Methodist Church, we ask that you consider the Exploring Membership class. Classes will provide information and discussion of the following topics:

  • The St. Mark’s congregation and campus
  • The United Methodist Church
  • How do I find my place at St. Mark’s?

Just as important as the topics is that the class allows you to become better acquainted with St. Mark’s staff members and other class participants. Even lifelong Christians and United Methodists have more to learn and much to share! You may register online, or sign up on Sunday at the Adult Spiritual Growth bulletin board in the courtyard. You may also call the church office, 520-297-2062, and ask to be put on the list for the next class.

FAQs

What is a United Methodist?

First, we are Christians. That means we strive to follow the life, example and teachings of Jesus Christ. We believe in God (Father/Creator, Son/Redeemer, and Holy Spirit/Sustainer).

As Christians who are specifically United Methodist, we determine our beliefs based on Scripture, reason, tradition and experience. We believe faith in God is expressed in acts of mercy and compassion, which are outcomes of our prayer and study.

Why be a member?

God seeks a personal relationship with each one of us. Church membership is one way to welcome that invitation. What can our church expect of its members?

  • Their Prayers – for the life and ministry of St. Mark’s and for the support of the church family, the community and the world.
  • Their Presence – in worship services each week and in education and service groups.
  • Their Gifts – in financial support of the church’s budget and missions and in their individual talents.
  • Their Service – in ministry and mission and in fellowship and caring.
  • Their Witness – in sharing their faith through words and actions.

In addition to these five traditional United Methodist vows, St. Mark’s asks its members to make an additional vow – to faithfully participate in a discipleship growth area or small group at St. Mark’s. This can take many different forms and is discussed during the Membership 101 class.

What can our members expect of the church?
  • Bible-centered, Christ-centered worship and ministry.
  • Christian education spanning the total age range of its members.
  • Opportunities and challenges to serve God within and beyond the local church.
  • A gathering of people with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints, where everyone may not agree, but all will be heard, as we strive to grow in Christian community.
  • Staff responses to personal communication.
  • Visits by pastors, staff or church volunteers during times of need.