Our Beliefs
What we believe
We are First Wayne Street United Methodist Church, and our beliefs align with the values of the United Methodist Church. At our core, we believe in God’s grace, the dignity and responsibility of every person, and the power of transformation through faith. We believe that faith and good works are inseparable, and that by working together, we can create real change in the world.
We believe in God’s grace.
Grace is the gift of God’s love, freely given to every person. It’s not something we earn—it’s something we receive and share. God’s grace is revealed in Jesus: in the meals he shared with sinners, the lessons he taught, the cross he bore, and the victory of his resurrection. This grace draws us closer to Christ, forgives our sins, and moves us to love others, helping us grow into the fullness of his love.
We believe in the dignity and responsibility of all people
Every person is a child of God, created with dignity and worth. Because we are all connected as brothers and sisters, we are called to extend Christ’s love to others, seek justice, foster equality, and carry one another’s burdens.
We believe in transformation through faith.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Transformation happens when we turn away from sin and embrace the love of Christ. Some experience this change suddenly—in prayer, worship, or moments of awe. For others, it unfolds over time, nurtured by community and reflection, until the heart can say: “Jesus, you are my Lord and Savior.”
We believe that faith and good works belong together.
Love for Christ naturally flows into love for others. As James 2:17 reminds us, “Faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.” John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, urged believers to live out their faith through action, calling this “social holiness.” A personal relationship with Christ leads us to serve, heal, and uplift others, following his example among the broken and hurting.
We believe in working together as one body.
We are united in Christ and believe that churches are stronger together. When congregations share their insights, resources, and mission, we are better equipped to make disciples and serve our communities. Through our connection with other churches and the larger United Methodist Church, we become a transforming force for good in the world.
