Perhaps a phrase that more accurately reflects what WFMC means by membership is “partnership.” In other words, whereas becoming a member sometimes carries with it the idea of “elitism” or “insiders” – to be a member of WFMC is really about committing to partner (your gifts, talents, resources, etc.) with the work that God is doing through other believers gathered at WFMC.

We encourage people to become members because we believe it is important to make a commitment to community. Centuries ago, even monks had a tendency to jump ship when life in the monastery became difficult. Rather than work to solve problems they were inclined to move to another community. Eventually, many monastic communities called their people to take a Vow of Stability, saying in effect: “I will not easily leave." When people commit to become a member/partner of WFMC, they are in essence saying, “I will not easily leave.” 

You might ask, “What is in it for me?”

While there are personal benefits, our primary reason for encouraging membership is to be in a community context where we can develop into a fully-formed follower of Jesus. We believe a community of Christ-followers is the most effective means to making a difference in our world for the Kingdom of God. Our conviction is that learning to live in community is a key to becoming a fully-formed follower of Jesus. And since becoming fully-formed followers of Jesus is what we’re striving to be about at WFMC – we value a commitment to community and the local church.

Becoming participating members of WFMC involves three steps:

1. Attend the Belonging to the WFMC Family class. This class is offered 3 or     4 times a year and is primarily taught by our Lead Pastor. Typically this class
    is held on either Sunday afternoon or a Wednesday evening. It is a
    90-minute class that covers such things as:


       · WFMC’s vision of becoming fully-formed followers of Jesus


       · The role of Scripture, community, and service in the life of our

         church family


       · WFMC's core beliefs


       · What we sense God calling us to be and do as a church family

 

2. Meet with one of WFMC’s Pastors or Directors to talk about your spiritual
    journey and to ask any questions you might still have about WFMC.

3. Identify yourself as a participating member of WFMC (with other new
    members) during a Sunday evening Worship Gathering.