Why Join Phoenix URC?

We believe formal membership in a local church is God's chosen gift and will for all Christians. Here are three reasons why.

1. Because head & Body are united

“Christ is the head of the body, the church…” (Col 1:8) The Bible compares participation in the local church to how various parts (“members”) of the body share a living union. Not only are we joined to Christ, our Head, but to all his people. Faith naturally and necessarily entails living communion and mutual service with the church whom Christ calls his “Bride” (1 Cor 12:15-26; Col 1:8).

2. it’s Part of true Discipleship

Jesus said, “whoever would come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me” (Mt 16:24). Following Christ requires that we join ourselves to His church in a way that is public and vital (Mt 18:15-20; Heb 10:22-25; Acts 2:47). Covenant membership is God's way of committing ourselves to the local expression of Christ's church, much like formal vows commit husbands and wives to each other.

3. it’s essential to many Blessings

The full fruits of joy, fellowship, service, pastoral oversight, and accountability all come with participating in the local church.

“You can not have God as your Father if you won’t have the Church as your mother.” 
— Cyprian, c. 250 AD

How to Join (10 Steps):

1. Attend regularly for six months prior to making your decision.

2. Complete the Foundations Class (below).

3. Meet with our pastor and/or elders at least once in person. Besides getting acquainted, it’s a good time to raise questions or concerns you’d like to discuss.

4. Notify your current pastor/elders that you are considering transfer/dismissal to Phoenix URC so they can pray and care for you.

5. Prayerfully consider whether God is leading you to join Phoenix URC.

6. Confirm with our pastor that you would like to join. Likewise, if you determine not to proceed, please let us know. No hard feelings! God calls everyone to be part of a local church, but not necessarily this church.

7. Our pastor will connect you with two elders who oversee your geographical region so they can pray with you and introduce you to others in your area.

8. Request a membership interview with our consistory (elders + pastors). Basically, it’s a 30-minute conversation that helps us get to know you and determine if you’re ready to join. Don’t worry, you'll receive a copy of common questions in advance.

9. Once approved, we'll set a date to take membership vows and receive a congregational welcome.

10. If you are a member elsewhere, request a transfer/dismissal from your current leadership.