Changing denominations

[counJS]

I am considering possibly switching denominations. I grew up Methodist but then switched to Baptist at 18 years old. I am not sure exactly how to rule in or out different faiths. I don't believe in infant baptism and prefer solid Bible preaching. I would like to have communion weekly. I dislike the church wide business meetings that Baptists have. I am not sure where I fit in?

 

[ValleyGal]

I think all churches will have church-wide AGMs because they fall under non-profit law and require a board, membership, etc. If you don't want to attend, don't attend. I think some of the more liturgical churches have weekly communion, but if your beliefs fall more in line with Baptist beliefs, you might be hard-pressed to find one....it seems to me that liturgy and weekly communion seem to go hand in hand with non-Baptist beliefs.

Imo, find a denomination that preaches solid theology. That is most important. Then if you want, ask the pastor to have more frequent communion, and don't attend the church-wide meetings - they are not mandatory.

 

[Albion]

The combination of beliefs and practices that you have given us is rare among Christian churches, although it seems strange that this should be the case. But if believer's baptism/no infant baptism PLUS weekly Communion are big issues with you, I'd suggest a close look at the Churches of Christ or their cousins, The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and Christian Churches and Churches of Christ. The Disciples are, however, more liberal than the others, more ecumenical, and more hierarchical. All of them, though, have weekly Communion and require a person to be old enough to make a personal decision for Christ before being baptized.

 

[Greg J.]

It may not be an issue (you didn't saying anything), but make sure your real denomination is Jesus. It makes it easier to understand the issues you need to evaluate for any church, regardless of their denomination.

 

[counJS]

I think all churches will have church-wide AGMs because they fall under non-profit law and require a board, membership, etc. If you don't want to attend, don't attend. I think some of the more liturgical churches have weekly communion, but if your beliefs fall more in line with Baptist beliefs, you might be hard-pressed to find one....it seems to me that liturgy and weekly communion seem to go hand in hand with non-Baptist beliefs.

Imo, find a denomination that preaches solid theology. That is most important. Then if you want, ask the pastor to have more frequent communion, and don't attend the church-wide meetings - they are not mandatory.

Yes,that is what I thought also, that I should skip right now the business meetings

 

[Goodbook]

Cant speak for all baptists churches but some do have weekly communion, if yours doesn't, suggest it, because ours does every Tuesday.

As for business meetings you don't need to go to them if you don't have the time. I think if you an official member you kinda obligated to go but if you not then its up to you. And its usually just AGM they don't have them all the time just once a year.

whats important is you have regular prayer meetings. That's where the real business gets done if you ask me.

 

[crossnote]

I am considering possibly switching denominations. I grew up Methodist but then switched to Baptist at 18 years old. I am not sure exactly how to rule in or out different faiths. I don't believe in infant baptism and prefer solid Bible preaching. I would like to have communion weekly. I dislike the church wide business meetings that Baptists have. I am not sure where I fit in?

You might fit in to a non denominational Church. I went through many denominations in my search with God's Word as my standard/plumbline. Denominations and non denominations today are in dismal disarray but at least with a non denomination there is a bit more latitude in not having to dot every 'I' and cross every 'T' to be accepted. Problem is if you land up in one where 'anything goes' that is not good either.
Make sure they hold to the basics... Scripture as God's Word...not man's. Deity of Christ. Bodily Resurrection of believers. Salvation by grace alone through faith alone. Virgin birth of Jesus. Christ's visible return.

 

[counJS]

Cant speak for all baptists churches but some do have weekly communion, if yours doesn't, suggest it, because ours does every Tuesday.

As for business meetings you don't need to go to them if you don't have the time. I think if you an official member you kinda obligated to go but if you not then its up to you. And its usually just AGM they don't have them all the time just once a year.

whats important is you have regular prayer meetings. That's where the real business gets done if you ask me.

From what I have seen most business meetings are poorly attended and same people there each time.

 

[Goodbook]

Attend prayer meetings instead.
I fall asleep in business meetings. Whether its church or otherwise. Dont go unless you really need a nap.

 

[HittitesA-muk]

hi I recommend a denomination that youve never before experienced; and probably wont be able to attend the services of; due to the fact that you have limited options in your area! You might want to be an Anglican knowing they have the full blessing of God; they are a denomination from the UK which has always been an ideal place to live; situated where it is; its very cold there; and comfortable for being cold!

 

[Albion]

hi I recommend a denomination that youve never before experienced; and probably wont be able to attend the services of; due to the fact that you have limited options in your area! You might want to be an Anglican knowing they have the full blessing of God; they are a denomination from the UK which has always been an ideal place to live; situated where it is; its very cold there; and comfortable for being cold!

CounJS said "I don't believe in infant baptism."