MEMBERSHIP

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER AT SOUTHTOWN

       Our church invites you to consider becoming a part of our family of faith. Membership at a church is not a requirement. It is simply a step towards spiritual maturity in your relationship with Jesus Christ as you commit to be an active member of a local church. There are several ways you may become a part of Southtown.

As Someone Wishing to Be Baptized
       We practice “believer’s baptism” which means we baptize only those who have made a conscious decision to follow Christ. If you have not yet become a follower, we invite you to talk with any of our church staff, deacons or council. If you are a follower of Christ and have not yet been baptized, we hope you would want to make this decision as a public demonstration of your relationship with Christ.

Upon Your Statement of Faith and Baptism
You may become a member of Southtown by indicating that you are a follower of Christ and have been Scripturally baptized (by immersion).

As A Member From Another Denomination
       It is never our intent to draw people away from another church. However, due to various circumstances, you may be interested in becoming a member of Southtown. Indicate this interest on the response card in the bulletin. Our pastor will be in contact with you.

As A Member From Another Baptist Church
       Every Christian should belong to a church close to his/her home and be able to participate in weekly activities of worship and Bible study. If you are a member of another Baptist church of like faith and practice, you can transfer your membership.

The Watchcare Ministry
       If you are temporarily in the area (student, job situation), you may be interested in our watchcare ministry. You do not transfer your church membership but you are able to be involved in the life and ministry of Southtown. See our pastor or one of our deacons for more information.

MEMBER EXPECTATIONS
(What the church expects of you)

To strive to live a Godly life.

To seek to be a daily witness for Christ at home, work, and to those in your circle of relationships.

To protect the unity of the church by:

- acting in love toward each other,
- refusing to gossip,
- following the leadership of the church.

To find a place of ministry and service where you can exercise your gift(s), talent(s), and calling, remembering to be a servant and taking on duties and responsibilities as you are able.

To invite family and friends to church and warmly welcome those who visit our church.

To be actively involved in weekly Bible study and community worship.

To pray for the leaders and workers of the church:

- that they will walk with God,

- that they will know God’s will,

- that they will walk by faith,

- that they will lead with integrity.

To pray for each other and especially those in our fellowship who are sick with special needs.

To seek spiritual guidance and counsel from the church family.

To give back/share financially toward the ministries of the church.

CHURCH EXPECTATIONS
(What you can expect of the church)

To rightly divide the Word of Truth through small groups and public proclamation.

To provide a place for you to exercise your gift(s), talent(s) and calling within the framework of our church’s mission.

To provide regular worship opportunities.

To be a Christian family to you.

To pray for and support you in times of crisis and need.

To love you.

To teach you the things of God.

To equip you for the work of ministry.

To enlighten and hold you accountable to the Word of God.

To administer your financial gifts in ways that will advance the Kingdom of God.

To partner with you in providing special services to which you can invite your family and friends in order for them to be exposed to the truths of Christianity in a non-threatening environment.