Membership
Membership Classes
There are formal and informal ways to express your commitment to Parkside Church … to say “I’m here to stay for awhile.” The most informal expression is to show up and be present. Do this regularly and soon it will feel like you belong to the church.
Some people want to take that sense of belonging and formally express their commitment by joining the church. This formal expression is called membership, although the word can be misleading. The church is not a club with membership privileges, dues, and a fancy door that only members can use. At Parkside Church, it should feel like everyone is a member, whether it’s your first visit or your 100th.
We take membership seriously though. It’s a sacred promise to one another. So if you are interested in membership, sign up to attend one of our “Mimosa and Membership” meetings after worship. They happen monthly and you can find the details on the website and in the program on Sundays. Also feel free to send us an email to find out when the next one is scheduled.
Membership FAQ
What are the different ways that I can join?
Profession of Faith – Join this way if you were baptized in another church of any denomination but never professed your faith as an adult. If you need to be baptized, that will happen during a regularly scheduled worship service.
Transfer of Membership – You are on the active membership roll of another church. In this case, simply tell us what church and we will send a letter noting that you are now a member of Parkside Church.
Reaffirmation of Faith – You’ve made a profession of faith but are not on the active membership role of any church.
Do I have to be baptized again?
No. The Presbyterian Church (USA) recognizes all baptisms administered in a Christian church, irrespective of denomination. This includes the Catholic Church.
What if my membership is currently at the Catholic Church?
We will request transfer of membership on your behalf. Some Catholic churches, but not all, accept this request. We don’t make a big deal out of it though.
What is the difference between a charter member and a member?
Charter members are recognized on the church’s Charter, an official document noting who started the church. We’re hoping to have one of those by 2022. But charter membership doesn’t come with any additional privileges besides bragging rights. But please don’t brag.
How do I transfer my membership?
Once you join, you will receive an email asking you for the necessary information. We’ll handle the rest.
How do I reaffirm my faith or make a profession of faith if I've already been baptized?
You will be asked a series of questions by the elder participating in your joining the church.
How do I make a profession of faith if I haven't been baptized?
You will be asked a series of questions by the elder participating in your joining the church, and your baptism will be scheduled at a regular worship service.
Can I be a member of two churches at the same time?
Yes and No. You cannot be an active member of Parkside Church and be an active member somewhere else. But you can be an affiliate member. Affiliate members do not participate in congregational votes but can eat all the cookies and drink all the coffee they want.
If I was baptized in another denomination, does that count?
Yes. Its all “Team Jesus.”
Will there be a confirmation process for young people who would like to join the church?
Yes. We hold confirmation class every two years in the fall.
Does joining the church obligate me to do something?
What kind of question is that? There are no obligations with the joy of Lord! Seriously though, part of membership is committing to either a small group, the Men’s Crew, or being a Total Table host. Also, discerning and declaring where your personal ministry of presence is an important part of committing to this church’s vision in the community.
Does joining the church as a member cost money?
Technically, it does not. But don’t be a mooch because being a part of a community means that you are committed to supporting it with your time, gifts, and your money. Relative to other Presbyterian churches our size, the annual budget of Parkside Church is pretty small. We’ve managed to do a whole lot with a handful of committed supporters. But, now that handful needs to grow into at least two handfuls as our seeding funding decreases each year. So join the church but don’t be a mooch.
What if this FAQ didn’t answer my question?
Use the contact form here and submit your question. We will
respond and probably add it to this FAQ!