Central United Methodist Church
A reconciling congregation of compassionate, committed Christians
Welcome
Central Church is a reconciling congregation of compassionate, caring and committed Christians. Everyone is invited to participate in our worship services and ministries. Within our faith community, we all are nurtured and supported in our personal faith journeys.
Our Mission
Our Mission is to make disciples of Jesus Christ by inviting children of God to follow Jesus, nurturing them to grow in faith, empowering them to move with the Spirit, and equipping them to meet local and global need.
Worship with us online!
During COVID-19, we are hosting our worship services on YouTube and Facebook! Join us anytime after 8:00 am on Sunday! Be sure to subscribe to the channel so you’ll be alerted when our service goes live!
Ministries
News & Events
Find out the latest news and happenings going on with us!
FAQ
What Does Being a Reconciling Congregation Mean?
The United Methodist Church is open to all persons who seek to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. In acknowledging our oneness with all of God’s creation, a reconciling congregation invites gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons to share our faith, our community life, our ministries, and leadership positions. But our welcome does not stop there. A reconciling congregation affirms the same for all persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, marital status, age, economic status, or physical or mental condition. We at Central seek to be an inclusive congregation. We proclaim our commitment to seek reconciliation of all persons, to God and to each other through Jesus Christ. We work diligently to make the larger United Methodist Church inclusive and welcoming of all people
What Is A United Methodist Church
The United Methodist Church was formed in 1968 when the Evangelical United Brethren Church united with the Methodist Church. Prior to that several other groups merged in 1939 to form the Methodist Church. United Methodists trace our roots to John Wesley, founder of the Methodist movement in England. The movement first became an official church in 1784 in what is now the United States. Hallmarks of Methodism include an emphasis on God’s grace and the interconnection of spiritual practices (prayer, communion, fasting, holy communion) and social justice (feeding the hungry, visiting those in prison, caring for the vulnerable). Today, the United Methodist Church is a worldwide denomination with about 10 million members in almost every country of the world. Every United Methodist Church is connected through a system of districts and conferences that support shared community, statewide, national, and global ministries. Churches vary greatly in worship style and theological perspectives.
Are All the United Methodist Churches the Same?
No. While all United Methodist churches are connected to each other through shared denominational ministries, churches are as varied as people. Historically, Methodism has been a “big tent” tradition with room for many. Central has a strong tradition of justice-seeking ministries for the marginalized, including people experiencing homelessness, actively working to counter racism, heterosexism, and sexism in both church and society.
What Does It Mean to Be a Member of Central?
There’s one thing that Christians worldwide can agree upon: if you have been baptized, you’re already a member of the church. Being part of a particular United Methodist congregation means placing your name officially on its rolls. Our membership affects our voice within the larger denomination. Being a member also allows a person to fully participate in and vote in church conferences.
What Are the Demographics of of Central?
Our membership comprises individuals of many income groups, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and political persuasions. In addition to members, we have many active constituents who participate fully in the life of our congregation.
If I Am Unable to Attend Service, Can I View It Online?
Yes, you are able to view parts of our worship service online via our YouTube station and our Facebook page.
What Do People Wear to Church?
Some people wear suits and “traditional church clothes” while others dress quite casually. Everyone is welcome!
Are Children Welcome at Services?
Absolutely! The presence of children makes us a more faithful and vibrant congregation. We even have two rocking chairs for parents to use during a service.
Can Anyone Receive Communion?
At Central our Communion Table is open to all. We celebrate Holy Communion as a regular part of our worship service on the first Sunday of every month.
Is Your Church Involved in Outreach to the Community and the World?
Yes! Every United Methodist Church participates in national and global ministries through the shared programs of our denomination. Notable programs include the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), which provides immediate assistance to communities during a time of natural disaster; a strong system of colleges and Universities that were founded by Methodists and where United Methodist students can apply for denominational scholarships and other support; advocacy for those who are disenfranchised. Locally, Central has a strong history of supporting programs at Cleveland Elementary, our neighborhood elementary school; volunteering at St. Mary’s Dining Room; supporting the Stockton Emergency Food Bank; and maintaining an emergency food pantry at our church.