Membership

Being a member of a local church is a Christian saying, “I’m committed to Christ and these Christians and will be shepherded by these Elders.”

Every Christian is called to belong meaningfully to a local church. Membership is a commitment to mutual care, accountability, and discipleship in Christ. Mount Vernon seeks to know, disciple, and shepherd one another faithfully. When needed, we practice loving correction, including church discipline, that aims to restore believers to joyful fellowship. Learn more about joining!

Process

Step 1 • Attend Our Gatherings

Attend our Sunday morning worship and an evening service. These are foundational for worship and to know the members.

Join us for a Visitors Lunch to meet some of Mount Vernon’s pastors and staff and learn more about our church and ministries. You’ll also have a chance to ask questions. We host these lunches on the first Sunday in January, March, May, July, September, and November.

Step 2 • Knowing MVBC: Membership Class

Attend Knowing MVBC, a four-part membership class that introduces our beliefs, leadership, cultures, and commitments. This class is required for membership but open to anyone interested in learning more about Mount Vernon. Session 1 meets from 9–10am, and sessions 2–4 run from 12:15–3pm the same Sunday. Lunch and childcare are provided. Knowing MVBC is offered the first Sunday every February, April, June, August, October, and December.

Step 3 • Membership Interview

Following the membership class, you’ll be invited to meet with two elders for an interview. Don’t be intimidated! This is simply a time for us to hear your story personally and answer any questions you have about the church.

Step 4 • Finalizing Membership & Next Steps

During the membership interview, we will help guide you through the next steps to joining. For some, it may be learning more about continued discipleship or baptism. For others, it may be signing the Church Covenant and being recommended to the congregation for their vote of affirmation. Either way, we will be here to walk you through each step.

To think more about membership, listen to this sermon: Why Should I Belong?