Membership in the Elmwood or Westminster Church

A Presbyterian Church receives members by profession of faith, transfer from another church, or reaffirmation of faith in Jesus Christ.

Profession of Faith
When a person who was baptized as an infant reaches an age where they are ready to make a public profession of faith, the church will receive them into active membership after a period of preparation (usually a Confirmation Class). A person who has not been baptized previously may enter into active membership by making a public profession of faith and receiving baptism.

Transfer
A person who has previously been a member of another church may transfer their membership to this church. We will request a letter or certificate of transfer from the other church.

Reaffirmation of Faith
If a person, who was previously a member of another church, is unable to secure a letter or certificate of transfer from that church, they may join this church by reaffirming their profession of faith.

After someone acknowledges a calling or invitation to the life and ministry of the Elmwood or Westminster Church, the pastor will follow up with a discussion of the ways in which they may become a member of the church and answer any questions they may have. The prospective member will then meet with the church Session, the local governing body with the responsibility of receiving new members. Following the affirmative decision of the Session, we will select a date for the new members to make their profession of faith during worship so the congregation may welcome them into membership.

The liturgy for Profession of Faith calls for affirmative answers to the following three questions. Trusting in the gracious mercy of God, do you turn from the ways of sin and renounce the power of evil in the world? Do you turn to Jesus Christ and accept him as your Lord and Savior, trusting in his grace and love? Will you be Christ’s faithful disciple, obeying his word and showing his love?

Please contact Pastor Joe with any questions or concerns.