Membership
We invite you to join us no matter what church relationship you perceive to be appropriate in your current faith journey.
We invite you to consider the more formal relationship of Member or Friend of the New Ark.
The New Ark UCC is an amazing gathering of diverse individuals who have chosen to share in the support of this congregation as it seeks to learn, know and practice a life of love with extravagant inclusivity, as modeled by Jesus.
Although we each bring with us the unique experience of our own lives and faith journeys, we do share a life lived in the spirit of love, peace, justice and care for each other, for the earth, and for all that inhabits it.
We hope you find your time with us enriching and personally comforting as well as energizing for a ministry that we already share by virtue of your presence with us.
An Invitation
We invite all—Members, Friends and Visitors—to join us in our ministry, in whatever church relationship you perceive to be appropriate in your current faith journey. We especially invite you to consider the more formal relationships of Member or Friend of the New Ark.
Why Membership?
Membership can strengthen our bond and commitment toward the church and each other.
Members have the privilege and responsibility of helping to determine the direction of the church and its ministries through the right to vote in congregational meetings.
Membership will connect you to the total ministry and fellowship of the United Church of Christ through the Chesapeake Association, Central Atlantic Conference, and the national body of the church known as the UCC Synod.
It is inspiring and life-giving on many levels to serve the church both locally, nationally and internationally in familiar and even unexpected ways.
Considering Membership?
- Let the pastor know of your potential interest.
- Pick up a Considering Membership? packet (located on a reception table in Wells Hall) containing a brief overview of the church.
- Attend an informational session, Exploring Membership, scheduled at your convenience, to learn more about the United Church of Christ and the New Ark UCC.
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Decide whether or not to formally join this particular church, as your own spirit and reflections lead you after the Exploring Membership session.
- If your decision is “Yes,” a New Member Sunday will be scheduled, with a brief ceremony for joining the church included in a regular worship service. If your decision is “Not right now,” you might consider becoming a Friend of the church.
Friend
You may ask to be identified as a Friend of the church if you are not ready or inclined to become a member but would still like to participate in worship, mission activities, or financial support, or if you just have a desire to keep in touch. A Friend of the church is added to our Friends Roster which is included in the church’s Annual Report.
Members, Friends and Visitors
We value and appreciate all in our midst, whether a Visitor, Friend, or Member. Thank you for your presence with us and your support of the New Ark UCC.
All are part of the heart and soul of the church as we engage lovingly and enthusiastically in life and ministry together, “Jesus-style!”
Please contact the pastor if you are interested in becoming a Member or a Friend.