Membership
This phrase is actually a registered trademark of a certain credit card company. It is an elite card, with a high membership fee, the ownership of which confers some sort of exclusivity on its carriers. “If only I could be a member,” one is supposed to think, “then my life would be complete.”
At All Saints, we place high emphasis on membership, though with a wholeheartedly different twist than the credit card people. Membership in a local church body is first and foremost an acknowledgment of our own sin and our rest upon Jesus Christ for salvation. Beyond that, it is a commitment to a particular branch of His body. Ask any newlywed: the commitment to a relationship is different, somehow, after the wedding. Sure, during courtship and engagement a couple is committed, and planning a life together. But after the ceremony, that commitment has a weight that is heavier than the dirty socks on the floor, or the different opinions about housework, or the fun and challenge of life together. Commitment allows honesty and walking together “for better or worse”.
And membership does have its privileges. In a committed, accountable relationship, we encourage each other to uphold our membership vows, recognizing our dependence on the Lord for His grace and mercy. We establish community and the freedom to struggle and grow together. We pray for each other and help each other. We call to check on each other, not because we’re keeping score, but because we really want to know if you’re OK.
Being a member of All Saints doesn’t get you in to an exclusive club, and we won’t send you a tote bag. But we invite you grow in grace along with us. Read about the membership process below, or contact Rebe McReynolds.
Steps for membership at All Saints
1. Attend All Saints for at least 6 months (can include time in membership process)
2. Complete Membership Preparation Packet
3. Involve yourself somewhere at All Saints: attend a Bible study or community group; serve as an usher; participate in picnics, retreats, and events
4. Attend All About All Saints Class* (4 Sunday mornings during Sunday School, 9:30-10:15). The next class runs Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26.
5. Schedule Membership meeting with a pastor or elder
6. Take public vows before the church (twice per year, Easter and All Saints Day)
*The All About All Saints Membership Class is held two times per year, once in the fall and once in the spring. The class meets on 4 consecutive Sunday mornings during Sunday School (9:30-10:15), and participants are asked to complete a preparatory packet of reading prior to the first class.
Frequently Asked Questions
Members of PCA churches can join All Saints as Associate Members and still retain full memberships in their home churches. As Associate Members, you have all rights of membership with the exception of voting at congregational meetings. Associate Membership is appropriate for those, such as students or employees on short-term contracts, who do not expect to live in Austin indefinitely. Associate Members can change their memberships to full memberships at any time if plans change. Of course, even if you are only planning to be in Austin temporarily, you are always welcomed and encouraged to join as regular members, as well. Associate Members go through the same membership process as regular members. Our denomination does not offer Associate Membership for members of non-PCA churches.
How do I prepare for membership?
Please complete the checklist in the Membership Preparation Packet.
What is the membership process?
During the course of the class, you’ll be contacted by a pastor or elder for an interview. This is an opportunity for you to ask any questions, as well as to get to know some of our elected officers. You’ll also be asked to answer 5 membership questions (included in the packet you receive at registration). You’ll be formally received into membership on Easter Sunday (April) or All Saints Day (November), when you’ll stand as a group before the congregation and answer the questions again.
