Being Methodist - First United Methodist Church of Rutherfordton, NC

About Us - Being Methodist

What is a United Methodist?
In the words of founder John Wesley (1703-1791), "A Methodist is...one who loves the Lord his God with all his heart, with all his soul, with all his mind, and with all his strength."

What do United Methodist Believe?
United Methodists share a common heritage with other Christians including: (1) conviction that God has mercy and love for all people; (2) belief in a triune God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit; (3) faith in the mystery of salvation through Jesus Christ; and (4) celebration of the sacraments - Baptism and Holy Communion.

United Methodists also share four main guidelines for belief that help them understand their faith which include scripture, tradition, experience and reason.

For more information on being United Methodist or for an information booklet, please contact the church office
at 828-287-3704.

Baptism:

Incorporates new members into the church, to promote their spiritual growth
Identifies the recipient as a child of God
Signifies death, rebirth and new life
Assures us that our sins are forgiven.

Baptism is one of the sacraments ordained by Christ. We baptize people of all ages, from infants to adults. Usually we baptize by "sprinkling," but we also make special arrangements to baptize by pouring or immersion.

The United Methodist Church accepts the baptism of other denominations. Because we believe baptism is a once in a lifetime event, you do not have to be re-baptized to join the church.

Holy Communion:

Holy Communion is one of the sacraments ordained by Christ and part of The United Methodist Church. We normally celebrate Holy Communion on the first Sunday of every month.

We believe this holy mystery is the free gift of a loving God for all who desire to receive it. Communion is, therefore, open to anyone regardless of church membership or church affiliation.

You will be guided by the ushers to receive Holy Communion while kneeling at the alter.