Means of Grace
United Methodists believe that spiritual practices or spiritual disciplines are not a way of producing or achieving more, but a practical methodology of accessing God’s amazing grace. We call them, “means of grace,” which is a way by which we yield ourselves to the experience of the grace God has already fully given to us in Jesus Christ. May doing the “means of grace” root you deeply into Christ and produce great fruit in your personal, home and public life!
John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement taught that the practices of the church are all “means of grace.” We aim to fulfill the vision of a grace community through the following actions:
- Receive: Worship, Bible Study, and Prayer
- Share: Small Group, Accountability, and Fellowship
- Give: Mission, Evangelism, and Justice Work
Formation of the United Methodist Church
The United Methodist Church was formed when the Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church merged in 1968. But we trace our heritage back to the movement begun in 1729 in England by John and Charles Wesley. Find out more about our history.
Characteristics of our denomination
Inclusive
All persons are welcome to attend our churches and receive Holy Communion, and are eligible to be baptized and become members.
Grounded in Scripture
United Methodist trust free inquiry in matters of Christian doctrine. Our faith is guided by Scripture, tradition, experience, and reason. Of paramount importance, however, is Scripture as the witness of God’s creating, redeeming and sustaining relationship with God’s people. Learn more about our basic beliefs.
Wesleyan
The United Methodist Church has a Wesleyan heritage, and as such, places an emphasis on mind and heart (knowledge and vital piety) and putting faith and love into practice (life). Find out more about our Wesleyan heritage.
Concerned About Social Justice
For more than 200 years, The United Methodist Church and its predecessor bodies have expressed concern for God’s children everywhere — the poor, the orphaned, the aging, the sick, the oppressed and the imprisoned. Learn more about our mission and ministry.
Mission-oriented
Our mission is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. In uncomplicated terms, this means we strive to nurture followers of Christ who then reach out and teach others about the love of Jesus. Find out about our mission around the world.