As members of the United Methodist Church, we do not stand alone but are connected with Christians around the world.
The United Methodist Church was formed in 1968, the result of a merger between the Methodist Episcopal Church and the Evangelical United Brethren. Central to both of these churches, as well as the United Methodist Church is the idea that faith is not simply something that we get one day, or that we profess but something that grows in our hearts as we live faithfully.
German Pietism
Led by Philipp Jakob Spener (1635-1705), the German Pietists realized that the Lutheran Church, was not inspiring deep faith in the people of Germany. In response the Pietists sought to reform the church with an emphasis on the inward feelings of faith rather than the head knowledge. They also stressed the importance of reaching out to communities in works of social justice. The Pietists would later inspire the Wesleys as well as lead to the forming of the Evangelical United Brethren.
John and Charles Wesley
Are often recognized as the founders of the Methodist Church. Both of these brothers had transformative experiences in 1738 and sought to reform the Church of England, in which they were pastors. The brothers felt that the Church of England was in need of reform because it was failing to change the lives of the people of the nation. In response, John preached while Charles wrote hundreds if not thousands of incredible hymns such as "Hark! the Herald Angles Sing". The brothers and their compatriots founded schools, hospitals and gave out micro-loans.
So, what does it really mean to be a United Methodist?
UNITED METHODISTS speak many languages and live in many countries with many different cultures, ethnic traditions, national histories and understandings of Christian faith and practice.
WE ARE people dedicated to a life of participation, personal responsibility, generosity, sacrifice, and self-restraint, responding to the call of Jesus Christ.
WE ARE a covenant community, concerned about God's children everywhere. In life's clouds of doubt and division, we seek the sunlight of God's purpose bringing healing, harmony and hope.
WE LOVE worship, study of God's Word, music, potluck dinners and a sense of community, a sense of belonging.
WE WELCOME people of faith into our churches, and especially people who are searching for life's answers to tough questions, because we know what it's like to feel alone, unsure...to need a welcoming place with open hearts, open minds, open doors.
WE ROLL up our sleeves and say, "Let's get to work," as we answer the call of making disciples for Jesus Christ.
WE LIVE the promise we made the say we joined The United Methodist Church...the promise of our prayers and our presence...our gifts and our service
For more information visit: www.umc.org
- list of beliefs taken from http://www.manchesterumc.org/aboutbeliefs.php
