Somers Congregational Church
Learning More About Us
There are several ways to learn more about the Somers Congregational
Church, our beliefs, programs and activities. The best way is to worship
with us on Sunday or at one our special services. You may also pick up
written information at the church, or request a copy of Highlights, our
monthly newsletter.
Our Membership Board holds informational "Inquirers’ Meetings" several
times through the year. At these meetings, people interested in learning
more about the church receive an informational packet and are treated to a
presentation by the pastor and a few lay people from the church. People who
have attended an Inquirers’ Meeting are invited to become official members
of the church by affirming their faith and willingness to share in the
ministry and mission of the church during the Reception of New Members
during on of our 10 o’clock worship services.
We believe that an individual becomes part of the Christian community,
the Body of Christ, through his/her baptism. Becoming a member of our
congregation
is an affirmation of that belonging and a confirmation of baptismal vows.
Members and non-members alike are invited to share in the worship,
sacraments, rites, programs, and activities of the church. There are a wide
variety of ways in which anyone can be a part of our church community.
Reception of New Members
A ceremony is held during the 10 a.m. worship service at least twice each
year. Prior to joining the church, interested individuals meet with the
pastor, Membership Board, and other lay leaders, learning about the church
and getting to know one another. On a subsequent Sunday, those who wish to
join the church are invited to come forward during worship, affirm their
faith in the triune God, and their willingness to be part of this
fellowship. They are extended the right hand of Christian fellowship by the
pastor, a deacon, and a member of the Membership Board, as a sign of their
welcome into the congregation.
Individuals who have been members of other Protestant denominations are
encouraged to receive a "Letter of Transfer" which removes their name from
the rolls of their previous church, while adding it to ours. Adults, who
have been baptized and have not belonged to a church previously, or to a
church other than a Protestant one, may join by Affirmation of Faith,
declaring their belief in
the triune God. Persons who have not been baptized must do so prior to
joining the church. In the case of an adult, special arrangements for
baptism can be made.
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