¶1.1 The Christian Church is composed of all believers who have received Christ into their spirit and are trusting in the blood of Jesus Christ for cleansing from all sin unto eternal salvation.

¶1.2 The Bethel Methodist Church is a collection of persons who, by mutual agreement, are like-minded in matters of theology and united in the purpose of knowing and understanding God and causing Him to be known and understood.

¶1.3 In fulfilling this purpose, the local church meets regularly for the worship of God, the preaching and teaching of God’s Word and the receiving of the sacraments of baptism and Holy communion. The local congregation is both a spiritual and social family; they share one another’s joy and burdens, fellowship together, pray for one another and exhort one another to be more Christ-like. The local church also gives evidence of the knowledge and understanding of God by sharing the gospel in word and example at home and abroad, ministering to community needs and generally applying the teachings of Christ to everyday life.