The United Methodist Church is a global denomination that opens hearts, opens minds and opens doors through active engagement with our world. The mission of The United Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
John Wesley and the early Methodists placed primary emphasis on Christian living, on putting faith and love into action. This emphasis on what Wesley referred to as "practical divinity" has continued to be a hallmark of United Methodism today.
In addition to these Wesleyan influences, United Methodists share a common heritage with all Christians. According to our foundational statement of beliefs in The Book of Discipline, we share the following basic affirmations in common with all Christian communities:
God, who is one, is revealed in three distinct persons. Read More
We believe in the mystery of salvation through Jesus Christ. God became human in Jesus of Nazareth; and his life, death and resurrection demonstrate God's redeeming love. Read More
The Holy Spirit is God's present activity in our midst. When we sense God's leading, God's challenge, or God's support or comfort, it's the Holy Spirit at work. Read More
Genesis 1:27 asserts that we've been made in the image of the Creator. Like God we have the capacity to love and care, to communicate, and to create. Read More
The church is the body of Christ, an extension of Christ’s life and ministry in the world today. Read More
We believe that the Bible is the primary authority for our faith and practice. Read More
The kingdom or reign of God is both a present reality and future hope. Read More
The United Methodist Church also operates with the understanding that our faith has real consequences in our world. United Methodists are committed to love that seeks justice and liberty for all people. Here are some of our Social Principles:
All creation is the Lord’s, and we are responsible for the ways in which we use and abuse it. Read More
We believe we have a responsibility to innovate, sponsor, and evaluate new forms of community that will encourage development of the fullest potential in individuals. Read More
We affirm all persons as equally valuable in the sight of God's sight. We reject discrimination and assert the rights of minority groups to equal opportunities. Read More
We claim all economic systems to be under the judgment of God no less than other facets of the created order. Read More
We hold governments responsible for the protection of people’s basic freedoms. We believe that neither church nor state should attempt to dominate the other. Read More
God’s world is one world. We pledge ourselves to seek the meaning of the gospel in all issues that divide people and threaten the growth of world community. Read More
Our Social Creed is a statement of faith reflecting our Social Principles. Read More