Why is it important to be a member of a church?
Charis Community Church believes local church membership is important for multiple reasons. The Bible often speaks of the church as a family, or the "household of God". This helps us understand that church membership is not like joining a country club. In the context of the family and the church, each member serves a vital role.
This is why we do not want to treat the membership process as an insignificant event; for by treating it casually, it may send the message that membership is casual. We highlight membership by having a special service called "Membership Sunday" to communicate the importance of membership. Charis asks current and prospective members to verbalize membership vows before the rest of the congregation and sign the Membership Covenant.
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Charis Community Church Membership Process
PHASE I
Complete the membership application
Mark the appropriate box on the bulletin info card or contact an elder to receive a membership application. You may turn in your completed application to any elder. It will then be reviewed, and an elder will contact you to establish a time to meet whereby you can interview the church and vice versa. (see PHASE II)
Complete a 3-week membership class
As a prospective member, you will be invited to attend one of Charis' 3-week membership classes to meet the elders and gain a better understanding of Charis' mission and beliefs. These classes have been designed to communicate the theology of the church as well as our our vision. Additional topics will encompass the church's various expectations for its members.
Meet with an elder to share your testimony of faith in Christ
Charis' first priority is making sure each person has a clear and evident profession of faith. An elder will contact you to set up a convenient meeting time with you. The "interviewing" elder will introduce and walk you through the Membership Covenant. This will also be your opportunity to share your testimony and ask any questions you may have regarding Charis. The information you share will be communicated with the other elders and will be kept confidential apart from them. If you have not yet been baptized and are ready to take this step of obedience in Christ, the elder will help you begin the baptism process.
Recommendation to all elders
Upon completion of your membership interview, the elders will discuss your application and the information you shared during that meeting. You do not need to meet personally with the other elders. Membership recommendations will be reviewed monthly.
Approval by the elders
The elders will give final approval to your membership. You will receive a letter from the church indicating the approval of your membership application.
Sign the membership covenant
Included with your letter of membership will be two copies of the Membership Covenant. You will then sign one copy and return it to your "interview" elder. This will be kept on file by the church as proof of your membership. The other copy is yours to keep as a reminder of your commitments to God and His church. Return to Top
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