Frequently Asked Questions
Beliefs
The foundation of our belief comes from our understanding of scripture and our faith in God.
These basic tenets of Christianity guide all that we do at Valley:
- Belief in a triune God─Creator, Savior, and Sustainer
- Faith in the mystery of salvation through Jesus Christ
- Focus on scripture as the inspired word of God and essential to spiritual growth
- Conviction that God has mercy and love for all people
- Celebration of the sacraments (Baptism and Communion) are a means of experiencing God’s grace
The doors of Valley UMC are open to all people. Wherever you come from and whatever you believe, you are welcome here.
Communion is open to any and all persons who wish to receive it in the United Methodist Church. Gluten-free wafers are available during Communion and the cup is grape juice so that any and all can partake in the sacrament. If you are unable to come forward to receive Communion, let an usher know and we will come to serve you.
What to Expect
You will feel welcomed and at peace when you come to worship and join in fellowship, study, and service at Valley UMC. Here’s how to plan your first visit to Valley. We can’t wait to get to know you!
John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, and the early Methodists placed primary emphasis on Christian living─putting faith and love into action.
This emphasis on what Wesley referred to as “practical divinity” has continued to be a hallmark of Valley United Methodist Church. Valley partners with 7 local mission and service organizations throughout the year to help our fellow neighbors in need.
Confirmation
United Methodists use the term “confirmation” to mark the first time a baptized Christian publicly “confirms” their intention to live the vows of the baptismal and membership covenant and so becomes a professing member of the local congregation and The United Methodist Church.
We expect that there may be several occasions during one’s Christian life when one may wish to re-affirm or re-profess their commitment to live the baptismal and membership covenant faithfully. Doing so more than once does not change or add to one’s status as a professing member in the Church. So while we encourage people to re-affirm as they find need, we do not call any subsequent reaffirmations or re-professions “confirmation.”
While the process of preparing to confirm or profess one’s commitment to live out the baptismal and membership covenant may take considerable preparation, which may include classes, retreats, service projects, and other spiritual exercises, the term confirmation properly belongs to what we do in the ritual when we publicly confirm our commitment.
Our Judicial Council has clarified for us that the determination of when someone is ready to say with integrity that they will live out the baptismal and membership vows is left solely to the appointed pastor. The appointed pastor has full discretion to decide whether someone is ready, regardless of their age.
Still have questions? Contact the church office for more information!