Joining First Congregational United Church of Christ in Manhattan Kansas.

How do I get started?

The best way to get started is to come and be part of our journey—worship with us, fellowship with us, learn with us. There is no pressure to join, although we may ask. If you find that you are interested in becoming a member of First Congregational UCC in Manhattan, you can e-mail the pastor at pastor@uccmanhattan.org or call the church for more information. You can also indicate your interest my checking the appropriate box on the registration/friendship pads that are passed through the pews during Sunday worship.

What’s the process?

Inquirer’s Classes are usually offered in the spring and fall to provide newcomers an opportunity to meet other folks in the congregation and to learn more about the history and ministry of our church. Classes usually last 2-3 weeks and meet for lunch after Sunday worship. Contact the church office, and we will let you know when the next class will be offered. Of if you hear that a class is being offered, just show up! If you decide to become a member, you will be welcomed into the congregation during a Sunday worship service.

Do I have to believe certain things?

The United Church of Christ “claims as its own the faith of the historic Church expressed in the ancient creeds and reclaimed in the basic insights of the Protestant Reformers. It affirms the responsibility of the Church in each generation to make this faith its own in reality of worship, in honesty of thought and expression, and in purity of heart before God.” (The Constitution of the United Church of Christ) At First Congregational, Manhattan we seek to respect one another’s individual spiritual journeys. We take the Bible seriously, not literally. We celebrate two sacraments, baptism and communion. The worshipping community is central to the life of our church, and members are encouraged to attend regularly.

What does it cost?

We find that our spiritual journeys are enriched and supported by regular church attendance and involvement. We believe it is important to support the church with our time, our talents, and our treasure. Members support the mission and ministry of the church to whatever degree they are able. We understand our giving to be an expression of our gratitude to God.

Do I have to join to be part of the church?

No. Many folks participate in the life of our faith community without becoming a member. Nevertheless, most of us find that our experience becomes deeper and richer for having made the commitment of membership. You can even serve on some boards and committees without being a member, but there is one thing you can’t do: As a congregational church, members vote in congregational meetings (held a couple of times each year) on issues such as the budget, the election of officers and board members, the calling of pastors, and other policies. In order to vote in a congregational meeting, you must be a member or associate member.

But I don’t want to give up my church connection back home.

We know that many folks are only in Manhattan for a few years while in school at Kansas State University or while serving at Fort Riley. We are glad to welcome you into membership as an associate member—it has all the rights and privileges and responsibilities of regular membership, but you continue to maintain your connection with your “home church.”