"New Beginnings" Membership Classes 2023
New Beginnings is the class for people interested in becoming a member and learning more about First Church and Methodism. Participants will get to know each other and meet the pastoral team, staff and leaders of the church. We also offer a choice of online classes: see all dates below.
In-person 2023 class dates:
We will meet in Linder Lounge, Mission Valley Campus, from 12 - 2 PM. Lunch will be provided and we offer free Childcare. If you are new to Methodism or would like to know more about First Church, please view the online resources listed below, prior to this one time, 2-hour session. During our in-person gathering, presenters will highlight a few key points, followed by Q & A.
- Tour of the Mission Valley sanctuary & First Church History (in-person only)
- Wesleyan History, United Methodist Theology & Discipleship
- United Methodist Connection
- First Church’s Vision & Ministry Opportunities
- Membership Next Steps and Vows
Online 2023 class dates:
We will meet online via Zoom at 12:30-2 PM. Please RSVP to receive your Zoom invitation.
If you are new to Methodism or would like to know more about First Church, please view the online resources listed below, prior to this one time, 1.5-hour session. During which the presenters will highlight a few key points, followed by Q & A.
- Wesleyan History, United Methodist Theology & Discipleship
- United Methodist Connection
- First Church’s Vision & Ministry Opportunities
- Membership Next Steps and Vows
RESOURCES TO REVIEW BEFORE MEETING DATE
Sanctuary Tour & History of First United Methodist Church of San Diego
Guide to the sanctuary (PDF)
FUMCSD Highlights 1869-2009 (PDF)
mission valley campus map (PDF)
Wesleyan History, United Methodist Theology & Discipleship
UMC brief history (PDF): recommended, but not required for transfer members
Life of John Wesley (video link)
United Methodist Theology & Discipleship
Theological Foundation: "grace”
Sacraments as the means of grace
Baptism
The Baptismal Font (video link)
communion
the Communion (video link)
The Bread & the Cup (video link)
Our Four Theological Guidelines
United Methodist Connection
Additional resource in podcast format