Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. - Matthew 6:28
New Member FAQs
How do I become a member?
After visiting the church on Sunday morning, if you wish to join just come up to the pastor to express your interest in joining. We will do a new members’ class—nothing too long, but a way to better understand this church and the Presbyterian Church (USA). After the last class, new members meet with the session (ruling body of the church) who will vote to approve them for membership. The meeting isn’t anything scary or intimidating, just a way for the elders of the church to better understand your faith journey to this point! Once the session votes, we will welcome you into the church as members during Sunday morning worship.
What can I expect from the church?
We hope you will experience a welcoming, friendly community of people seeking to find ways to show God’s love to others. There are plenty of opportunities and ministries that will allow you to participate in the church life as much as you want.
What is expected of me?
There is nothing specifically expected of you as a new member—all we hope for is that you will become an active member of the church life; both on Sunday mornings and at other events when you are available! No one is perfect, and we certainly don’t expect you to be, either—you just need a desire to find Christ in your life.
How much do I pay for membership?
While there is no membership fee—there is something called per capita.
What is per capita? How is it used?
This is an amount set by the Presbytery of the Coastlands—the governing body of several churches in this area. That money goes to the presbytery so they can better help out the church communities it serves.
For more information on per capita, see: http://oga.pcusa.org/section/ecclesial-and-ecumenical-ministries/per-capita/frequently-asked-questions/
If coming from a different Christian denomination (i.e. Catholic) do I need to be baptized in the Presbyterian church to become a member?
If you were baptized in the trinitarian form (father, son, holy spirit) prior to joining the Presbyterian faith, we will recognize your baptism (further discussion can take place during new member class.
If I am of a non-Christian faith, do I need to be baptized?
If you’re coming from a non-Christian faith, you would need to take new member classes and be baptized in the Presbyterian faith.
What happens if I decide to transfer or move?
If you decide to transfer, move, or in any way leave the church, please let us know (in writing or via email)! If you are moving and find another Presbyterian church to attend, we can help transfer your membership to the new church!
What if I transfer from another church and want to become a member of
Oak Tree-Iselin Presbyterian Church?
Please ask your former church to send us a letter of transfer.