To become a member, fill out the form at the bottom of this page.  

Why Membership?

Jesus once told the story of a great banquet (Luke 14:15-24), comparing the Kingdom of God to a big party.  We believe that Sanctuary exists to fully embody the reality of that big party and to invite all who might wish to join us.  Membership at Sanctuary is an opportunity to make a commitment to this specific community and to hosting that party.  Through membership, we take a step from being a “guest at the party” to becoming hosts, the people who help make it all happen.

GUEST -----> HOST

We commit to the church’s good and the good of all the individuals in it.  And we commit our time, energy, gifts, and money to its vision and values.

 
“I’m a member of Sanctuary because it seems like one of the best ways to live life to the fullest. Sanctuary provides me with a community of people who I can do life with - through all its ups and downs. I can also meet Jesus there - not a static Jesus, but a moving, breathing, living Jesus who helps me on my journey through life. It is a place where questions are encouraged and all are accepted. A place where we can all journey with Jesus together, along with our doubts, hang-ups, and triumphs. ”

Members’ Role in Church Governance

Membership is one formal way that decision making power is shared. Per our bylaws, 

  • Members vote to confirm Board members.

  • Members vote on any change in the senior pastor role. 

  • Members vote to amend the church’s bylaws.

 
“This church has taught me about a different version of God than I had known growing up, one who is gentle, kind, compassionate - not judgy, disappointed, or annoyed with me. I’m a member at Sanctuary because for the first time in my life I feel like God loves me AND likes me, and this helps me love others better.”

Membership Eligibility

Those wishing to become members need to fulfill these requirements:

A.  Attendance at Sanctuary for at least three months  

B.  Agreement with the bylaws which you can read in this shared document

C.  Committing to the following; 

  • Regular attendance at Sunday morning services and attendance at membership meetings (we don’t measure attendance but we know it’s important to show up in order to be a part of the community in meaningful ways)

  • Contribute to the church through service like volunteering on a Sunday team (Kids Wing, refreshments, music, etc.) or with Hands On Faith

  • Contribute to the church through regular and generous financial giving (see more below)

 
“I am a member of Sanctuary because I feel people want to know me there. I am so encouraged by this feeling, that I want to be a part of making others feel this way. Not just some, but everyone. It feels so good. ”

On Giving

Sanctuary is a vibrant faith community seeking to embody and share God’s goodness and generosity. Membership is open to anyone, regardless of financial giving. However, we exist only through the financial support and generosity of our members.

We view giving through two frameworks: 

1) Generosity

As we have received generously from God, so we give. We give to church, to other nonprofits, and to others in need. Giving 10% (a tithe) is a benchmark used in many church traditions, and Sanctuary practices that by giving away 10% of all we take in annually. While we do not hold onto that as a rule for members, we find the idea of generous giving compelling. Scientific research even confirms the benefits of giving.

 

2) Practicality 

Our 2023 budget is about $480,000, and we have around 400 people who consider Sanctuary their church home. If we received $1,200 per person annually—or $100 per person per month—in donations, we would meet our budget. For a family of four, this means giving $400 per month.  Perhaps that can be a starting point to consider.

We understand not everyone is in place to be able to donate at $100/month/person. Anyone is welcome to become a member and give whatever amount they determine is best. We also recognize then that we will need some members to give more than that target amount so we can meet our budget.

As you think about your monthly or annual donation to Sanctuary, please thoughtfully consider your financial resources. We invite everyone to lean towards generous giving, not just to Sanctuary but in every aspect of life.

Contact our bookkeeper, Lori Smith, at lori@sanctuaryic.org to set up automated monthly giving. You can see all the ways to give on this page.

Membership Form