Church Membership

If you’ve been attending Forks for a while, you may have heard people talk about church membership and wondered what it actually means—or whether it’s something you should consider.

“Membership” can sound transactional, like signing up for a service. Church membership is relational—it’s about belonging and growing together.

At Forks, membership isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about choosing to be part of a church family—to learn together, worship together, serve together, and care for one another in meaningful ways. It’s a way of saying, “This is my church home.”

Who Is Membership For?

Membership is for those who have made a profession of faith in Jesus and want to take a step of commitment within this church family.

Forks is a church for everyone. You’re welcome to attend and explore faith here, whether or not you’re ready for membership.

What Is a Profession of Faith?

A “profession of faith” is the name we use for deciding to trust Jesus and start following Him. It doesn’t mean you have all the answers or that your life is suddenly perfect. It means you’re making a personal decision to place your faith in Jesus and begin growing in that relationship.

For many people, that decision begins with a simple prayer—sometimes called the “sinner’s prayer”—or with asking Jesus into their heart. The words themselves aren’t the point; what matters is the sincere decision to trust Jesus and begin following Him.

We believe this decision is meant to be shared in some public way—not to put anyone on the spot, but because following Jesus isn’t meant to stay only private.

How a Public Profession of Faith Happens

If you’re making a decision to follow Jesus or to join Forks and have not yet made a public profession of faith, there are a few ways that can happen.

For some people, that happens by coming forward during a service. For others, it may happen through baptism or another public step of faith. If coming forward during a service feels uncomfortable, we can talk with you about what another public step could look like.

When someone does come forward during a service, a pastor will pray with them and talk with them about the decision they’re making. Their decision is then shared with the church, and they’re invited to stand in the foyer so others can greet them—though this is optional.

If You’ve Already Taken This Step

If you’ve already made a profession of faith in Jesus in the past, you don’t need to repeat that step to become a member at Forks. Many people come to Forks already following Jesus and are simply looking for a church home.

If you’ve publicly shared your faith before—through baptism or another public profession of faith—that step still counts. Membership at Forks is about identifying with this church family, not starting your faith journey over.

If you’re unsure how your past experience fits with membership at Forks, we’re happy to talk it through with you and help you understand what your next step might be.

What About Baptism?

At Forks, baptism is done by full immersion (being fully submerged in water), unless someone is physically unable. If you’ve been baptized before, you don’t need to be baptized again at Forks—unless that’s something you choose to do.

Baptisms usually take place during a Sunday morning service and are scheduled when you’re ready. If a public baptism doesn’t feel right for you, we’re glad to talk with you about a more private setting. Each summer, we also celebrate baptisms together in Elkhorn Creek.

Membership for Children and Students

Children and students can become members at Forks too.

For children, Pastor Todd meets with the child and their parents to make sure the child understands the decision they’re making and feels ready to take that step.

For students, meeting with Pastor Todd or our Student Minister, JT, is available but not required. Some students find it helpful to talk through their questions first, while others are ready to take that step on their own.

If you’re a parent with questions about what membership might look like for your child or student, we’re happy to talk with you about it.

What Does Membership Look Like in Everyday Life?

Membership isn’t about meeting a checklist of requirements. As followers of Jesus, we’re part of the body of Christ—each person has a role, and we grow best when we’re connected (1 Corinthians 12:12–13).

At Forks, membership is about deeper connection and shared life: growing in faith together, serving together, and caring for one another. You don’t have to have everything figured out or agree on every small detail to belong here. What matters most is a shared desire to follow Jesus and grow together.

Some serving roles at Forks (like working with children or students, or teaching a class) do require church membership, while many other opportunities do not. Membership is one meaningful step toward being more connected and engaged, but it’s not the only way to take part in the life of the church.

How Do I Become a Member?

There are a few simple ways to take the next step:

• Come forward during the invitation at any worship service.

• You can also pick up a membership card from the church office and return it privately if you prefer not to come forward.

• Talk with Pastor Todd or one of our pastors (optional).

Membership is received right away. After you join, you’ll receive a welcome letter, be listed in our church newsletter, and be invited to Discover Forks. New members also receive a welcome bag with age-appropriate items, including a book or devotional to support you as you grow in your faith.

Want Help Taking the Next Step?

Discover Forks is a relaxed lunch designed to help people get more connected. You’ll meet church staff and ministry leaders, take a guided building tour, and learn about ways to get involved. Lunch is provided. Check our "News & Announcements" page to see when the next Discover Forks is scheduled.

📩 Questions?
Contact the church office at office@forksbaptist.org or (859) 873-1967.