We are a United Methodist congregation grounded in historic Christian faith and the Wesleyan tradition. We affirm the core beliefs shared by Christians throughout the ages while emphasizing God’s transforming grace and our call to live out our faith in community and service.
Core Beliefs
- The Triune God: We believe in one living and true God, everlasting, without body or parts, of infinite power, wisdom, and goodness — the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
- Jesus Christ: We believe in Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, fully divine and fully human. Through His life, death on the cross, and resurrection, He reconciles us to God and offers salvation to all.
- The Holy Spirit: God’s Spirit is active in the world today, convicting us of sin, drawing us to Christ, and empowering us for holy living and service.
- The Bible: We believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the infallible Word of God..
- Grace: We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. United Methodists speak of God’s grace in three ways:
- Prevenient Grace — God’s love that goes before us and draws us to Him.
- Justifying Grace — God’s forgiveness and acceptance through Christ.
- Sanctifying Grace — God’s power that transforms us to become more like Jesus.
- Salvation and Discipleship: Salvation is a gift received by faith and lived out as we grow in holiness and love of God and neighbor.
Our Wesleyan Heritage
As United Methodists, we follow the example of John Wesley and the early Methodists by combining personal piety with social holiness. We believe that faith must be put into action through works of mercy and justice. Our mission is clear: To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Living Our Faith in Snow Hill
At Bates Memorial, these beliefs shape everything we do:
- Joyful, Scripture-centered worship every Sunday
- Active children’s and youth ministries that nurture the next generation
- Deep involvement in downtown Snow Hill and community revitalization efforts
- Outreach, food assistance, mission trips, and partnerships that serve our neighbors
We welcome all people — no matter where you are on your faith journey — to join us in this life of grace, growth, and service.