About

Welcome

Below is our welcoming statement that was crafted in 2019 by members of our congregation and approved by our church council to ensure all people know they are welcomed.

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Welcome to Haygood. There is no asterisk after that statement. There are no exclusions and no limitations to our welcome. It is an all-inclusive, wholehearted, arms-wide-open welcome to you. 

Whether God created you with light skin, dark skin, or any shade in between, you are welcome here. Whether you are gay, straight, or transgender, you are welcome here. Whether you are single, married, or divorced, you are welcome here. Whether your challenges are major or minor — mental, physical, or emotional, you are welcome here. Whether you are young or young at heart, have spent your entire life going to Church, or it’s your first time through the doors, you are welcome here. 

We use the example of Jesus to light our path. Jesus who loved and accepted everyone — even those people society had labeled unworthy. At Haygood, there is only one label for you: A Child of God. Here we believe our individual differences and our unique God-given gifts come together to form an amazing body of Christ. A body that is committed to fulfilling the mission of the United Methodist Church: To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We believe this transformation begins with a fundamental acceptance that each person is wonderfully made and equal in God’s world. No one is superior. No one. 

 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34) The words of Jesus are simple and clear. It’s people who make it so messy. We do not support any action that contradicts the commands of Christ.

Our welcome to you is more than words on paper. We hope this isn’t just something you read, but something you feel. We welcome you fully into our family of faith, and invite you to explore the many small groups, and weekly opportunities available to deepen your faith and make a lasting, positive impact in our community and our world. 

We are thankful that God’s love for us is boundless, his mercy, endless. Shouldn’t we extend that same love to every person? Yes, we should. And yes, we do. 

There is a Place for You at Haygood!