The United Methodist Church (UMC) is built on the belief that faith and action are inseparable. If you had to boil it down to a single goal, it’s their mission: "To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world."

Here is a breakdown of what defines the UMC:

1. A Theology of Grace

Methodists talk about grace—a lot. They believe God’s love is active in our lives before we even know it (Prevenient Grace), brings us into a right relationship with God (Justifying Grace), and continually works to make us more loving and kind (Sanctifying Grace).

2. "Social Holiness"

Founded by John Wesley in 18th-century England, Methodism has always insisted that being "holy" isn't just about personal prayer; it’s about social justice. You’ll find United Methodists active in:

• Feeding the hungry and providing disaster relief.

• Advocating for civil rights and environmental stewardship.

• Building schools and hospitals globally.

3. The "Big Tent"

The UMC is known for being a "connectional" church. This means individual congregations are linked together to accomplish more than they could alone. It is also a "big tent" denomination, meaning it houses a wide range of theological and political perspectives, united by a common commitment to Christ and service.

4. Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors

This well-known motto reflects the UMC's goal of radical hospitality. The focus is on meeting people where they are, offering a community where questions are welcome, and everyone has a seat at the table.