What is Covenant membership?
The Christian life is not designed to be lived in isolation. It's designed to be lived out in a community of believers committed to overseeing one another's faith through mutual encouragement and accountability. In the New Testament, believers who are committed to each other and for whom specific pastors must give an account (Heb. 13:17) are called "those inside the church" (1 Cor. 5:12). We call them "members."
At its core, membership is about mutual promise making. It's where an individual makes promises to a group of believers and their leaders who, in return, make promises to them. It's these promises that pave the way for meaningful, deep community, especially when "doing life" with others gets difficult (spoiler: it often does).
"What promises am I making and receiving in membership?" you might ask. Great question. New Century's Church Covenant details the promises of membership. The fact that every member of New Century joins in membership under the same covenant cultivates a unity and trust within the body that's based on commitment, not "vibe." It's what lets others know you're "for" them, even if they may not be your favorite (and vice versa). You can read through New Century's Church Covenant here:
At its core, membership is about mutual promise making. It's where an individual makes promises to a group of believers and their leaders who, in return, make promises to them. It's these promises that pave the way for meaningful, deep community, especially when "doing life" with others gets difficult (spoiler: it often does).
"What promises am I making and receiving in membership?" you might ask. Great question. New Century's Church Covenant details the promises of membership. The fact that every member of New Century joins in membership under the same covenant cultivates a unity and trust within the body that's based on commitment, not "vibe." It's what lets others know you're "for" them, even if they may not be your favorite (and vice versa). You can read through New Century's Church Covenant here:
four Steps to Membership
Step 1: Discovery Packet
Those interested in membership can fill out one of the Discovery Packets available at the Welcome Desk in New Century's lobby. This packet is designed to help us learn more about you and your story. You can return your completed packet at the Welcome Desk or the church office during normal hours.
Step 2: Discovery Class
Prospective members attend our two-session Discovery Class. These classes are offered once in the spring and once in the fall and take place on consecutive Sunday afternoons from 2-4pm. Our Discovery class is designed to let you know more about New Century's values and commitments and allows you to ask any questions you might have about the church.
Step 3: Meet With Your Elder
Every member at New Century joins under a pastor (i.e., elder) who is responsible for their general care and serves as their point of contact with New Century's leadership. In this meeting, your pastor will follow-up with you on your Discovery Packet and simply spend time getting to know you better. At New Century, our pastors our committed to truly shepherding those under their care, not just making decisions for the church.
Step 4: Public Commitment
In one of our LIFE127 members' meetings (we always have great food), you will stand before the congregation with your signed church covenant and make and promises to our church and its leadership. The church and its leadership will then stand make promises to you. We'll then have an opportunity to celebrate you as the newest member of our faith family.