The Methodist Church Today

The Methodist Church today

Methodist churches are usually organised into 'Circuits', with a large 'mother' church and a number of smaller churches and chapels. These churches are looked after by one or more ordained Ministers and then non-ordained preachers and worship leaders.

Usually only ordained ministers perform the special services of Holy Communion, Marriage and Baptism. However, many other services are held, and ordinary members of the church who have had training in how to lead services, often lead these. Methodists like to be involved in their services, and there is often drama and lots of music, and above all singing! In some places Methodists take communion once or twice a month and in others once every two or three months.

There are no restrictions on who can take communion. You do not have to be a confirmed member of the church, there are no age restrictions, and visitors of any denomination or none are welcome to join in this very special sacrament. The only restriction is that an ordained Minister must lead the service.

Any family who would like to have their child baptized can arrange for them to take part in this special sacrament. This is because Jesus said, "You must let little children come to me, and you must never stop them. The kingdom of heaven belongs to little children like these!" (Matthew chapter 19 verse 14). During the service the child's parents, friends and the church congregation promise to nurture the child and bring them up in a Christian environment. The Minister then names them, and makes the sign of the cross on their head with holy water . This signifies the baptism that Jesus received from John the Baptist.

Methodists have always believed in practical faith and outreach, and this has meant many Methodists are deeply involved in their communities, as volunteers, councillors, trade unionists and missionaries, in the U.K., and the wider world.

The major Methodist charity is the National Children's Home, now known as NCH Action for Children.

In summary -

• The Methodist church is an independent Protestant church
• Methodists believe strongly in putting their Christian faith into practical action
• Many Methodist preachers and worship leaders are non-ordained lay people
• People become members after deciding for themselves that they want to dedicate their life to Jesus
• Methodist services can be very varied

Everybody is welcome to share in communion

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