Join Us!
We are a close-knit church family that always welcomes new faces. Or, as our pastor often says, “we love company here at Christ Memorial Presbyterian Church!” We also hope that those who have joined us for worship or other activities might feel called to become members of our family. If you are considering membership here at CMPC or if you are simply curious about what that might mean please read on!
What Does Membership Really Mean?
Members of the church enjoy the benefits and privileges of membership while also sharing in the responsibilities. The benefits include: the right to voice and vote at meetings of the congregation, the right to hold office (as an elder or deacon), and the right to present children for baptism. Responsibilities include taking part in the common life and worship of the church, supporting the work of the church through the giving of money, time, and talents, and working in the world for peace, justice, freedom, and human fulfillment.
Do I Have To Be A Member to Attend Worship?
We welcome all to attend our services, have their young children participate in Sunday Experience, register children in preschool through high school for LOGOS, attend GIFT (Generations In Faith Together), and join in mission and service opportunities without becoming a member. Look around our website for other ways to become engaged with our community!
How Do I Become A Member?
Two to three times a year we will hold a membership class—usually for an hour and a half on a weekday evening. During the class, new members learn about the history and life of our particular church as well as our denomination (the Presbyterian Church USA). We will also take the time to introduce you to members of the session (the governing body of our church). It is a time to get to know the church as well as other folks who are choosing to join. The Sunday following the class, we will receive the new members as part of our worship service and celebrate them in our fellowship hour following.
Membership within the Presbyterian Church involves an affirmation of Christian faith in public worship and a commitment to actively participate within the life of the congregation. Membership is open to all men and women, regardless of race, class, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, or any other characteristic that divides the human community.
We are also happy to have new members join on an individual basis in the times between classes. This can be arranged with the pastor.
Please contact the church office at (410) 997-8011 or office@cmpcusa.org if you are interested in becoming a member.
Who Are The Presbyterians?
The Presbyterian Church is a protestant Christian denomination. The root word of Presbyterian is “Presbyteros,” which means “elder” in Greek. Our elders are elected by the congregation and serve the church along with our pastors. We have a rich history stemming back to the 1500’s. There is a more detailed history and much more information at the Presbyterian Church (USA)’s website.