Frequently Asked Questions

Question:   How do I arrange for a baptism?  

Baptism is a symbol of God’s love toward us.  Baptism is a one-time sacrament. Persons who join WUMC and who have been baptized in another church or denomination are not baptized a second time.  While baptism is most commonly done for infants, there is no age restriction.  The Sacrament of Baptism is administered during worship.  To schedule a baptism, an adult wishing to be baptized or parents wishing to have their child baptized should call the church office to arrange a time to talk to one of the pastors.

Question:   I am not a member. Can I still receive communion?  

All are welcome to take communion in The United Methodist Church, including visitors, those who belong to other denominations, and those who have never been baptized.  Children are also welcome to take communion.  (Grape juice, rather than wine, is used.)  It is up to the parents to decide when their child should begin receiving communion.  The Sacrament of Communion is served on the first Sunday of each month.  Communion is served “at the rail” or by intinction.  When served at the rail, go forward and receive a cup and a piece of bread.  When served by intinction, go forward to the rail, accept a small piece of bread, and dip it into the juice held by the pastor or communion server.  When communion is served by intinction, individual cups of juice are also available. Gluten-free wafers are always available.  If you are unable to come forward, tell an usher and communion will be brought to you.

Question:   What is the procedure for providing ALTAR or NARTHEX flowers?  

Flower sign-up cards are posted on the hall bulletin board outside the Martha Manahan Room.  Choose a date, complete the card, and leave it on the board.  The information will be included in the Sunday bulletin.  (Because of communion, altar flowers are not used on the first Sunday of each month.)  Narthex flowers are two smaller arrangements which are placed between the railings at the steps inside the front doors.  Make the arrangements with the florist, who will bill you directly.  You may take the flowers home after the second service.  For ease of delivery, we recommend (but do not require) that you use The Flower Box (14 West Main Street, 410-848-5565).

Question:   I am interested in membership at WUMC. What should I do?  

Westminster UMC 101 is held several times a year.  These classes are for persons seeking faith and who are curious about Christianity and/or WUMC, as well as for persons wishing to become WUMC members.  New members are received by transfer from another United Methodist church or a church of another denomination, or by Profession of Faith for those who have never experienced church membership. Contact the church office to be placed on the list for notification about the next session.  Child care is available.

Contact:  Diane Arbutis D.Arbutis@wumcmd.org (410) 848-8325

Question:  I’m interested in having my wedding at WUMC. What should I do first?  

Our Wedding Guidelines document will answer most of your preliminary questions.  If you need more information, call the church office. You will be contacted after the completed Wedding Request form is received.

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