A place to learn more about FBC and explore membership.
If you're considering membership at First Baptist Church Wheeling, Starting point is the place to begin. Over the course of 6-8 weeks, you'll learn more about what we believe, how our church is organized, what membership means, and how we seek to live out our mission together.
What is Starting Point?
Starting Point is FBC Wheeling's membership class. It's designed to help you get to know our church more fully. Learn what we believe, how we understand church membership, and what it looks like to be part of the life of this church family.
During the 6-8 weeks of class, we'll talk through our beliefs, mission, leadership, and ministry, as well as the responsibilities and privileges that come with church membership.
Participating in the Starting Point class does not commit you to becoming a member. It simply gives you the information and opportunity you need to consider whether FBC Wheeling is the church family where you want to belong.
What You'll Learn
During Starting Point, you'll get a clearer picture of:
What we believe and the biblical convictions that shape our church
Who we are and the mission and values that guide FBC Wheeling
What church membership means and why we believe belonging to a local church matters
How FBC is led and how our pastors, elders, and congregation serve together
Life as a member-including worship, fellowship, discipleship, service, and caring for one another
What to Expect
Starting Point meets during the 9:00 am Equipping hour and typically runs for 6-8 weeks. Each week includes teaching and conversation designed to help you better understand FBC Wheeling and church membership. You'll have opportunities to ask questions along the way, and class materials will be provided.
If you have children, nursery care is available for children through age 3, and older children and students can attend their regular Equipping Hour (Sunday School) classes.
You don't need to have everything figured out before you come. Starting Point is simply a place to learn, ask questions, and consider whether membership at FBC Wheeling is the right next step for you.
The Membership Process
Starting Point is the first step in becoming a member of FBC Wheeling. After completing the class, the membership process continues with a few opportunities to get to know our church leadership and talk personally about membership.
Starting Point Class > Learn more about FBC Wheeling, what we believe, and what church membership means.
Celebration Meal > Spend time with our elders and deacons and their families in a relaxed setting, get to know them better, and ask any remaining questions.
Meet with an Elder > Have a conversation with a pair of elders about your faith, your understanding of membership, and your desire to join the church.
Membership > Those moving forward with membership are presented to the church and received as members at a members' meeting.
Who Should Attend?
Starting Point is for anyone considering membership at FBC, and wants to understand the church more clearly before taking that step.
It may be a good fit for you if you:
are new to FBC and want to learn more about who we are
have been attending for a while and are ready to explore membership
want to better understand what we believe and how our church is structured
have questions about what church membership means or what is expected of members
are looking for a church home and want to discern whether FBC Wheeling is the right fit
You do not need to be certain that you are ready to join before attending. Starting Point is designed to help you learn, ask questions, and make that decision thoughtfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about our mission and what you can expect when you visit us!
Do I have to become a member if I attend Starting Point?
No. Starting Point is designed to help you learn more about FBC Wheeling and consider whether membership is the right next step for you.
How long does Starting Point last?
Starting Point typically runs for 6-8 weeks during the 9:00 a.m. Equipping Hour.
What if I have to miss a week?
Missing a week does not necessarily mean you have to start over. If you know you will miss a class, let us know and we'll help you determine the best way to catch up.
Is childcare available?
Nursery care is available for children through age 3. Older children and student can attend regular Sunday School classes.
Can my spouse and I attend together?
Yes. Couples considering membership are welcome to attend together.
What happens after I finish Starting Point?
After the class, all participants are invited to share a meal after worship service with the elders and deacons and their families. Those who want to continue toward membership will meet individually with a pair of elders, and then move toward being received into membership at a member's meeting.
What if I still have questions after the class?
That's completely fine. Starting Point is meant to create room for questions, and you'll have additional opportunities to talk with church leaders throughout the membership process.
How often is Starting Point offered?
Starting Point is offered periodically throughout the year. If a class is not currently in session, you can still register your interest here and we'll let you know when the next class is scheduled.