Frequently Asked Questions:
What do you believe? The congregation at Washington Street Church is open to all persons without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, social status, gender, sexual orientation, age, economic condition or disabilities. Our theology is grounded in God’s grace, (the understanding that God, through Christ, has done all that is necessary for our salvation and that we do not need to earn, and cannot work, our way into heaven.) We believe that God is love and that the deeper our relationship with God the more joyful, fulfilling and productive our lives become.
Who can receive communion? In the United Methodist Church, the Lord’s Table is open to all who come in the spirit of the service, regardless of whether you are a member of this church or any church. (We serve communion at the worship service each Sunday.)
Who can be baptized? We baptize adults who have never been baptized and are ready to profess their faith in Christ. We baptize infants as an early step in their faith journey. The primary focus is not dedicating a child, but on the gift of divine grace. Because infant baptism connects so directly to a specific church, only infants whose families are part of this community of faith are baptized. The baptism of someone of any age incorporates that person into our particular community of faith which vows to uphold them in their Christian journey and strongly encourages ongoing faithful commitment to the life of the church.
What is the best way for me to communicate with the church? While the Church Office is an excellent place to get information and to leave messages, the pastors are happy to receive phone calls and emails. A tear-off flap is also attached to the bulletin insert on Sunday mornings and this is a great way to sign up for activities and request additional information. (Just fill it out, tear it off, and place it in the offering plate, hand it to an usher, or leave it in the pew.) [Please Contact Us.]
How do I become a member of Washington Street United Methodist Church? New Members come to us by Certificate of Transfer (The Office Manager writes to their previous church for a letter of transfer), or by Profession of Faith. When someone informs the pastors, or church office, that they are ready to join the church a date is set that works well for that individual and her/his family. Then the date is announced to the congregation for a few weeks, (because others are often also ready to join and like joining as part of a group). Any who have not previously been baptized are baptized on the same day that they take the vows of membership. The welcoming of new members is a very special time and is cherished by the entire congregation.
Can I participate in the church without becoming a member? The ministries and offerings of the church are open to everyone, whether you are a church member or not. Non-members are also welcome to serve on committees as only a few, specific church offices require membership.
