Aims and links for special services

Membership Renewal

This service is an annual event usually held in the month before the AGM where Citysiders (i.e. anyone who feels a sense of belonging to our community) can consider whether they want to become a member (for a year or in perpetuity), a 'friend of Cityside' or no change at all. 

In this service it is important to remind us about the Baptist understanding of Membership and how it works pragmatically (i.e. financial decisions, legal issues etc) and theologically (what does it mean, what was the original Baptist intent for it and how can we manifest that, if at all? What does covenant look like for today? How do we balance the open and relaxed value of Cityside with a more determined and intentional commitment?). 

There are usually three rituals in this service:

1. Overview and celebration of our history (6– 10mins). This is especially important for new people.

2. Membership liturgy

3. Response with signing and symbolism