New Member Classes

Offered at least twice a year, these classes are for anyone interested in membership. During these classes, we review the most basic teachings of Christianity, the history and culture of United Methodism, and the meaning and opportunity of membership in this particular church.  See Current Offerings or contact the Church Office for more information about the next scheduled classes.

Baptism

Baptism is one of the two sacraments celebrated by the United Methodist Church.  Baptism is a covenant between an individual and God, a visible sign of our acknowledgment of God’s grace, and our word to God, promising our response of faith and love.

In our tradition, we baptize infants, children and adults, believing that from the moment of birth and even before, every individual is surrounded by God’s love and grace, and that parents are in a good position to accept this grace and a place in the community of faith for their children.  You or your children can be baptized at First United Methodist Church if you are not members, but we strongly encourage you to find a home in this or another community of faith as soon as possible, so that you can experience the significance of your baptism. We baptize by sprinkling water that has been blessed. It is our tradition to do baptisms during worship, so that the gathered community can offer its support and blessings.

 If you would like to talk with the Pastor about planning a special baptism day for you or someone in your family, please contact the church office.

The United Methodist Church recognizes baptisms done in other faiths and churches and therefore does not “re-baptize”.

Confirmation

Confirmation is the time when a personal decision is made to confirm the vows of our baptism. At First Church, this happens as a group of middle school and high school students join together for a semester of exploring who God is, who Jesus is, what it means to know God, and how we follow Jesus as United Methodists. The Confirmation then takes place during a worship service, as the students who choose to do so publicly declaring their commitment to become full adult members of the church.

Confirmation is not simply a “rite of passage.” It is not just a class to complete. It is not just a class to take because every one else is. It is a step in a life-long journey of pursuing the heights and depths and widths of God’s love and making a vow to live in relationship with God for the rest of your life.  There is a Confirmation class currently in process.  If you would like more information, please contact the Church Office.