faqs
What is a United Methodist? How does United Methodism differ from other denominations and faith traditions?
This is a long conversation! For a brief overview of what we believe, click here to be redirected to our official denominational website, where you can learn about our history, our basic statement of faith, and many more things of interest. After having a look around, if you have additional questions, please talk to our pastor!
I’m a parent with young children. What do I need to know?
You and your children are welcome and celebrated here!
Kids of all ages are always welcome in worship, and we know that wiggles and noise happen as a normal part of childhood. So first of all, RELAX! We are glad you are here.
We have “busy bags” of quiet activities for kiddos that your children may use during worship. If you do not see them, an usher can help you find them.
If you are in worship with your child and feel the need to leave the sanctuary, there is an un-staffed nursery and cry room upstairs, overlooking the sanctuary where you are welcome to accompany your child. You will be able to see and hear the service and your child can get out his or her wiggles.
I hear a lot of confusing acronyms and “insider language” being thrown around. What does it all mean?
It can be confusing to walk into a new place and not understand all the lingo. But we've got you covered!
Click here for a PDF glossary of common acronyms and other terminology.
What do I need to do if I would like to join the church?
The first step is to talk to our pastor. You may email Rev. Terry tbrosius@susumc.org or call him at 717-778-2666 to set up an appointment. He will meet with you and hear the story of your faith journey, and explain to you the basics of membership.
I will give you some light reading or attend a membership class to cover four pamphlets: About the Lord's Supper; About baptism; About Being a United Methodist; And About the History of the United Methodist Church, before you join the church, so that you may more fully understand the nuances of the faith that you are stepping into.
If you are transferring your membership from another United Methodist congregation, a form and letter will be sent to your previous church asking them to transfer your membership to Bendersville UMC.
In both cases, you will be formally received into membership in a Sunday morning worship service.
I was baptized as an infant and don’t remember my baptism. I walked away from the faith and have recently returned, and I would like to be baptized again to signify this change in my life. What do I need to do?
In the United Methodist Church, we believe that baptism is an act of God, in which we are simply participants. As such, the work that God does in baptism happens once, and can never be un-done. We can walk away from our faith, but God remains present with us, whether we see and feel God’s presence or not.
Therefore, we do not rebaptize, as God’s work in baptism is already done. However, we would be delighted to celebrate with you and honor this phase of your journey through a Reaffirmation of Baptism – where you would reaffirm your baptismal vows. If this is something that you would like to consider, please talk to our pastor.