/ Membership

Why Become a Member? In short, because to be a Christian is to belong. As followers of Christ, we are called to be in community with fellow believers in order that we might fulfill God’s will for our lives and for the world. Belonging is fundamental to who we are and what we are called to do, and membership allows us to experience that in ways that simple Sunday consumption doesn’t.

The main difference between being an attender and a member of a church is one of commitment. Members have a sense of ownership in the ministry and have committed themselves to play an active role in advancing Christ’s Kingdom through the church.

Rick Warren sums it up well: “Attenders are spectators from the sidelines; members get involved in the ministry. Attenders are consumers; members are contributors. Attenders want the benefits of a church without sharing the responsibility. They are like couples who want to live together without committing to a marriage.” (The Purpose Drive Church)

Membership solidifies a sense of commitment within the member and enables our church to identify those who desire to be co-owners of the ministry at Living Way.

In sum, membership communicates three things:

1. Membership communicates, “I belong here.” Knowing the importance of being in community, you are making a commitment to be a vital part of this spiritual family.
2. Membership communicates, “I share the vision, values, and goals of the church.” Having identified with the direction of Living Way, you are committing yourself to the church’s beliefs, values, and policies.
3. Membership communicates, “I will contribute to its forward progress.” Knowing that every member must do his/her part if the body is to be effective, you are making a commitment to play an active role in the life and mission of the church.

How to Become a Member

The membership process includes reading the membership handbook, attending two classes, applying online, and interviewing with a pastor. To start, follow these instructions:

1. Sign up for an online account. Register at: http://www.lwccla.org/user/register
2. After your account has been activated, log in to the site and download the membership handbook (you must be logged in). Read the handbook thoroughly.
3. Attend a two-part membership class. To sign up for the next class, go to: http://www.lwccla.org/webform/491
4. Submit the online membership application. Instructions for completing the application are at the end of the membership handbook.
5. Interview with one of the pastors.
6. After your application has been approved by the pastors, sign the membership covenant. You may also participate in the next membership induction ceremony.