Becoming a Member
Why Become A Member?
Being a Christian isn't easy. Ordinary life has so many demands and pressure on our time, talents and funds that, at times, our priorities shift or become misaligned.
Joining UPC offers you:
- A safe place to explore your faith, offering food for the mind and spirit
- An opportunity to demonstrate your commitment, and reaffirm the priorities in your life to God and his people.
The Meaning of Church Membership
 "The incarnation of God in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ gives to the church not only its mission but also its understanding of membership. One becomes an active member of the church through faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and acceptance of his Lordship of life. Baptism and a public profession of faith in Jesus as Lord are the visible signs of entrance into the active membership of the church." (Book of Order for the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A.)
Membership Types
Full-Membership. Traditional membership within the community at UPC by either Affirmation of Faith and Baptism , Reaffirmation of Faith, or By Transfer of Church Letter.
Affiliate Membership.Designed for University students and others who will be in our community for a short-time and wish to retain their primary membership in their home congregation while demonstrating their commitment to God and the community at UPC in Austin.
Member Responsibilities
The UPC community is vibrant and alive as we challenge members to practice the presence based upon our faith and mission. This includes worship, service and community.
- Two ways to explore your faith
There are many ways to actively explore your faith including active participation in Worship, Christian Education, Music, Small Groups, Retreats.
- Three ways to demonstrate your faith and commitment to God
Demonstrating faith and commitment through our daily lives as well as participating in Mission Projects, teaching Sunday School, singing in Choir, serving on the Session or Committees, and contributing financially to name a few.
Membership Classes
Attendance in a membership class is not mandatory prior to joining the community at UPC. Classes exploring faith are continuous at UPC,
and special Membership classes
known as "Weekends of Welcome," are offered periodically.
Our next Weekend of Welcome will be held in September
2006.
Those seeking further information about the Presbyterian heritage, beliefs, and our congregation, we recommend contacting our Pastors or join us at a Newcomers luncheon.
Additional information can be found in the church library.
Newcomers Luncheon
Several times a year, our members and staff host Sunday afternoon luncheons for all those who are interested in exploring more about the life and ministry of UPC, the meaning of membership, and learning more about the Presbyterian Church.
We encourage visitors and new members to join us for the luncheons. Please contact the church office if you have questions.
Membership Process
On the first Sunday of each month, the Session (our governing body) meets in the church library (located between the sanctuary and church office) immediately following worship to receive new members. Members are received in one of four ways:
1. By Affirmation of Faith and Baptism. This is for persons who have not made an affirmation of faith or been previously baptized.
2. By Reaffirmation of Faith. This is for persons who have previously made an affirmation of faith and received the sacrament of baptism, but who now desire to reaffirm their faith.
3. By Transfer of Church Letter. This is for persons who are transferring their membership from another church.
4. By Becoming an Affiliate Member. University students and others who will be in our community for a limited time, often join as affiliates. Affiliate members retain their membership in their home church.
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