We don’t expect people to become members in their first weeks or even months of getting involved at Soma — it’s a big enough commitment that we’d rather people make the decision to commit slowly (or make it at another church!). We also acknowledge that church membership can carry some baggage. But we believe that church membership reflects what church really is: the unified body of Christ.

Here are the major steps that are involved in becoming a member at Soma:

 

1. Complete Soma DNA

Soma DNA walks you through the doctrine, mission, and distinctive characteristics of Soma, as well as our vision for the Christian life. Typically, this is a two hour gathering (available in fall and spring) to learn and to build relationships with others interested in membership. If you're unable to attend a scheduled date, you can listen to the Soma DNA recordings before moving to the next step. (Please contact Steve Jaeger.)

We also hold in-person Soma DNA classes.

Once you complete Soma DNA, you’ll also need to fill out our membership application.

 

2. Sit Down for a Membership Interview

Next, you’ll be invited to sit down with a Soma leader for a brief interview. Don’t be intimidated — this is a great time for you to ask us any questions you may have about life in our church family. It’s also an opportunity for us to draw near to hear your story.

 

3. Finalize the Process

Once you’ve completed your interview, we will collaborate with you to determine any final steps in the membership process. This could involve things like:

 

4. Take Your Membership Vows

Following the completion of any final steps, we’ll invite you to come up front on a Sunday morning, take the following vows, and be welcomed by the congregation. We’ll discuss these vows at the membership interview (if not during the DNA class itself), but you’re welcome to ask questions about them at any point in the process:

All of you being here present to make a public profession of faith, are to assent to the following declarations and promises, by which you enter into a solemn covenant with God and His Church.

1. Do you acknowledge yourselves to be sinners in the sight of God, justly deserving His displeasure, and without hope except for His sovereign mercy?

I do.

2. Do you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of sinners, and do you receive and rest upon Him alone for salvation as He is offered in the Gospel?

I do.

3. Do you now resolve and promise, in humble reliance upon the grace of the Holy Spirit, that you will endeavor to live as becomes the followers of Christ?

I do.

4. Do you promise to support the Church in its worship and work to the best of your ability?

I do.

5. Do you submit yourselves to the government and discipline of the Church, and promise to pursue its purity and peace?

I do.