The United Methodist Church has its roots in an 18th-century reform movement within the Church of England. The movement was led by John and Charles Wesley, both Anglican priests. John was an evangelist and organizer. Charles was a writer of hymns, many of which—like "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing!"—are still familiar today.

Methodists reluctantly separated from the Church of England at the time of the American Revolution. During that period, when many Anglican clergy returned to England or fled to Canada, American parishes were left vacant. In order to continue their work in America, Methodists began ordaining their own clergy. They also began working closely with German immigrants, whose Evangelical United Brethren church joined with the Methodist Church to become the United Methodist Church.

The United Methodist understanding of the Gospel emphasizes the freedom and responsibility of people before God and each other. We believe every person must choose to accept or reject Christ, and must also choose how he or she will live as a Christian disciple. Since we hope people will make positive, life-affirming choices, our missions tend to emphasize human services. People who are hungry, or families terrified by abuse, are seldom able to hear and answer the Gospel.

We baptize infants, extending the signs of God’s promises to every member of our households, and welcome everyone to our Communion table.