What does it mean to be a member of MCC?
Becoming a member of MCC (aka becoming an “MCCer”) is, at the most basic level, something someone does when they are ready to take their relationship with a local congregation to the next level. MCC has what is generally called “congregational polity (governance),” which means that the oversight of the congregation, along with its resources and policies, is invested in the members of the local congregation. We’re not a top-down church where decisions are made at a denominational level and then sent down to congregations for implementation. Rather, congregations make their own decisions and they (or their elected representatives) are the ones who make the decisions for the denomination when we come together for official denominational business. In order to have a vote on matters in a local congregation, one needs to be a member. Members make certain promises, among which is a statement that a person intends to support the congregation with their presence and with their resources (finance, time, talents).
Most congregations will have some kind of “membership class” for people interested in becoming members or just learning more about MCC and the local community. These classes generally connect interested parties with established leaders of the church, they review MCC’s history and core documents (bylaws, policies, etc.), and they provide a space to answer any questions people have about who we are or why we do what we do. If someone decides they want to become an official member (i.e. make the commitment to BE a formal part of the congregation), we usually have what is called a Rite of Membership during a worship service. This rite may look different from congregation to congregation, but it usually includes a time to talk about what membership means, to introduce new members and allow them to affirm their desire to become a member, and to allow the congregation to make their own promise to love, welcome and support the new members.
Membership in MCC does not have to be exclusive. There are people who are members of MCC that also participate in other congregations (non-MCC). That’s fine with us. So long as members maintain the expectations of membership (which may vary from congregation to congregation) and want to be an official part of the local body, you are welcome! Please reach out to the leadership of a local MCC in order to find out what their process for membership entails, and what they consider essential qualifications for membership.
