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Book of Discipline

Membership Vows

The Book of Discipline, ¶217; The United Methodist Hymnal, pp. 33–39

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When a person joins The United Methodist Church, they make vows before the congregation that express their commitment to the community of faith. These vows have evolved over time — "witness" was added in 2008 — but they remain a concise summary of what it means to be an active member of the body of Christ.

The Membership Vows

As members of Christ's universal church, will you be loyal to The United Methodist Church and uphold it with your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service, and your witness?

Prayers

We commit to praying for one another, for the church, and for the world. Prayer sustains the community of faith and connects us to God's purposes beyond our own understanding.

Presence

We commit to being present in worship, in fellowship, and in the life of the congregation. Our physical presence matters — it encourages others and deepens our own faith formation.

Gifts

We commit to supporting the mission of the church through our financial generosity. Tithing and offerings fund local ministry, connectionwide programs, and global mission.

Service

We commit to serving within the church and in the world. Every member has gifts to share — in teaching, hospitality, advocacy, hands-on work, and countless other forms of ministry.

Witness

We commit to sharing our faith with others through word and deed. Witness is the outward expression of an inward grace — telling the story of what God has done in our lives.

Source: The Book of Discipline, ¶217; The United Methodist Hymnal, pp. 33–39

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