The Riverside United Methodist Church is more than a building. We are a warm and open community that welcomes all people. We try to apply the gospel of Jesus Christ to today’s world. Seeking to use our unique gifts in God’s service, we are proud of our past and look forward to a vibrant future. But above all else, we strive to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and our neighbors as ourselves.

 The United Methodist Church (UMC) is a worldwide Protestant Christian denomination with roots in the Methodist movement. It emerged in the United States during the 18th century as a result of the efforts of John Wesley and his brother Charles Wesley, along with George Whitefield. The Wesley brothers played a significant role in the Evangelical Revival in England during the 18th century, which later led to the development of Methodism as a distinct religious movement.

The United Methodist Church emphasizes the importance of personal faith, social justice, and the pursuit of holiness. Its theological roots are grounded in Wesleyan theology, which emphasizes the concepts of prevenient grace, justifying grace, and sanctifying grace. These theological principles underscore the belief in God's active presence and transformative power in the lives of believers.

The UMC is organized into regional conferences, which include annual conferences, jurisdictions, and central conferences, depending on the geographical location. Each conference has its own structure and leadership, but they are all part of the broader connectional system of the United Methodist Church.

The denomination is known for its commitment to social justice and advocacy for various causes, including civil rights, gender equality, healthcare access, and environmental stewardship. The UMC has been actively involved in numerous social justice movements throughout history, often working in partnership with other faith-based and secular organizations to address systemic injustices and promote positive change.

In terms of worship and practice, the United Methodist Church typically follows a liturgical tradition, with services often including hymns, prayers, scripture readings, and a sermon. Sacraments are an integral part of Methodist worship, with the two primary sacraments being baptism and Holy Communion.

Overall, the United Methodist Church is a diverse and dynamic denomination that seeks to embody the teachings of Jesus Christ through faith, love, and service to others. Its rich history, theological heritage, and commitment to social justice continue to shape its identity and mission in the world today.

Personalized Cremation urn (Urnva)