We trace our roots through the United Brethren, Evangelical United Brethren, and Methodist branches of the Christian tree. Formed in 1912, we have maintained a commitment to outreach that is both local and global. Today our focus is especially on providing healthy relationships through strong lay ministry and a vital group life. We stress mission that is hands-on and devoted to offering the spirit of Christ to all people.
John Wesley is credited with founding the Methodist Church, though he did not intend to establish a separate denomination. His radical commitment to preaching to the common people of England moved him beyond the boundaries of his Church of England, and paved the way to a more accessible frontier religion in America. From its inception, Methodism has always been largely a lay movement, and that emphasis continues today. When Methodists meet for "holy conferencing" in their geographical areas yearly (The Annual Conferences) and world-wide every four years (The General Conference), one-half of the members attending are clergy, and one half are laity.
Our doctrine rests on the time-honored creeds of Christianity: The Apostles Creed and Nicene Creed. We also embrace more contemporary expressions such as the Korean Creed, the United Methodist Social Creed, and the new social creed offered to the 2008 General Conference for reflection. We recognize two sacraments, baptism and holy communion, and we believe that grace is offered to all before we ask. The Bible contains all that is necessary for salvation, and is to be read and studied for the eternal truths found in it. We read the Bible for personal devotion with open minds and hearts, and we trust that sharing in Bible study with others strengthens understanding and prepares us for a life-giving faith in the world.
