The Methodist Faith – What Methodists believe
Our United Methodist heritage is rooted in a deep and profound understanding of God’s grace. This incredible grace flows from God’s great love for us.
God, who is one, is revealed in three distinct persons. The Bible asserts that we’ve been made in the image of the Creator. Like God we have the capacity to love and care, to communicate, and to create. We believe in the mystery of salvation through Jesus Christ. God became human in Jesus of Nazareth; and his life, death and resurrection demonstrates God’s redeeming love for all. The Holy Spirit is God’s present activity in our midst. When we sense God’s leading, God’s challenge, or God’s support or comfort, it’s the Holy Spirit at work. The church is the body of Christ, an extension of Christ’s life and ministry in the world today. We believe that the Bible is God’s Word and is the primary authority for our faith and practice. The kingdom or reign of God is both a present reality and future hope.
History
On May 1, 1959 thirteen families came together to form Asbury Methodist Church, the name designated by the Raleigh Board of Missions. There were 31 Charter members. In 1960 the small congregation moved into a metal “Quonset” building on New Hope Road and changed their name to St. James. The first building program produced the Chapel, a fellowship hall and kitchen and classrooms. The Sanctuary was completed in the late 70’s and the large wooden cross that adorns the area was constructed on site from old wooden beams. Other building programs added Carson Hall, an industrial kitchen, new offices and classrooms and the acquisition of Montague Hall. Fourteen senior pastors have served at St James.
Marching Forward
