Church Membership

Our life together as followers of Christ at Hyattsville Mennonite Church must be one that invites others to join us in this journey. We extend a welcoming hand to all who want to join with us, who confess their faith in Christ as Lord of their lives and commit themselves to a life of discipleship and mutual care. We may receive new members in one of several ways.

1. New members are received by means of a faith decision. Those making a first profession of faith are given appropriate instruction over a period of time, and are then baptized.
2. a. New members are received by transfer from other churches of Anabaptist tradition;
   or,
   b. new members are received by transfer from other Christian churches. If they were baptized as infants, we invite them to signify their adult faith decision by receiving believers’ baptism. They are also instructed in the distinctive beliefs associated with the Mennonite church.
3. Persons who have not been associated with their church home for some time may also be received by a reaffirmation of their faith, and may be rebaptized.

Generally, prospective members become acquainted with the congregation by sharing in its life. We expect that prospective members will also discuss issues of faith with the pastor and become familiar with our constitution. We encourage these first steps for all new members. When the pastor discerns a readiness for membership in the candidate, s/he will recommend the person to the pastorate. If the pastorate approves, the candidate’s name is published in the church bulletin for three weeks before a date set for reception of new members. Subject to any further counsel from the congregation, the person is welcomed as a member of the congregation. We encourage new members to reflect publicly on their faith journey as part of the service.

Hyattsville Mennonite Church also offers associate memberships to people attending church for a limited period of time, and who wish to be identified formally with the congregation. We grant this temporary, 24-month membership to members of other Christian churches on request from the candidate, and on the recommendation of the pastorate. Associate members are understood to retain their membership in a home church, but to have all rights and responsibilities of membership in this congregation.

Rights of Membership:

• Members receive care counsel from their fellow members and the pastor.
• Members may vote in congregational meetings.
• Members may chair committees, and serve on the council and the pastorate.

Responsibilities of Membership:

• Members participate in caring for each other and in giving counsel.
• Members contribute to the life of the congregation through their gifts and talents.
• Members contribute as they are able to the financial support of the congregation.