If you have been baptized, it is not necessary to be baptized again. If you have not been baptized, you can be baptized when you join. Classes are not required to join, but orientation is recommended after you join. If you would like to become a member or would like more information regarding NHUMC, please call Pastor Bill at his office number: 252–264–0399 or cell phone: 252–455–7117 or see him after church on any Sunday.

When you become a member of The United Methodist Church you will be asked if you: “Will you be loyal to the United Methodist Church and uphold it by your prayers, your presence, your gifts, and your service?” What do these vows mean...

Our commitment to uphold the Church through intercessory prayer is based upon the fundamental reality that we are not simply a human agency seeking to meet human needs: we pray because we require God’s guidance in order to be the church. When we pray for our pastor, for our teachers, for one another, and for those who may never even enter our doors, we express our dependence on God so that we might in turn express the will and compassion of Christ.

Our commitment to uphold the Church by our presence is a visible witness of our faith, both in the pew and in the world. Our relationship to Christ is nurtured by our presence in worship where we find spiritual guidance, comfort and strength. But our relationship to Christ is not confined to Sunday morning alone. We also uphold the Church by our presence at home, at work, at school, and in the community. Wherever we are, our presence should be an expression of our commitment to Christ.

Our commitment to uphold the Church by our gifts is a thankful response from the heart for all God has given us. Such a commitment serves to remind us of our role as stewards over what God has entrusted to us. The systematic giving of our money also helps to establish and maintain ministries that no individual or single congregation could fund alone. These worthy causes include hospitals, colleges, rehabilitation centers, food and clothing distribution, evangelistic and educational work, and emergency relief.

Our commitment to be loyal to the Church and uphold it by our service further reflects our commitment to follow the example of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). God has entrusted all of us with certain talents and abilities, and sharing these gifts is a means of sharing ourselves out of love and gratitude toward God and love for one another.

As United Methodists we are a community of faith who believe in doing God's work and are dedicated to a life of Christian purpose-a life of participation and personal responsibility, of generosity, sacrifice and self-restraint, responding to the call of Jesus Christ.

As members of New Hope United Methodist Church we encourage each other:

• to worship regularly;
• to continue to grow spiritually through Bible Study;
• to become active in a small group for fellowship with the Body of believers;
• to serve God;
• to uphold the church with our gifts as a thankful response for all that God has given to us.

See you in church Sunday!