What is the nature of the Free Methodist Church, and where do we actually fit? After exploring both sacramental and congregational church models, Kevin reveals where Free Methodists really sit on the ecclesiological continuum. Spoiler: we’re not in the middle, and we’re definitely not trying to be everything to everyone.
For ministry leaders, this clarity matters. Understanding that we’re a “modified episcopacy” – leaning toward the sacramental side but with important congregational modifications – explains why we practice infant baptism, appoint pastors through conferences, and celebrate two sacraments as means of grace, not just symbolic acts.
Bishop Mannoia addresses the question “Are we evangelical?” with surprising nuance, explaining that evangelicalism is more about mission than theology. You’ll find evangelicals across the entire continuum because being evangelical doesn’t determine church nature – it describes a commitment to sharing the gospel, high view of Scripture, and Christ-centered focus.
The episode concludes with a powerful call to embrace our identity rather than trying to replicate other church families. We have a clear last name, and our future depends on living into that identity with confidence.
Assignment: Select one aspect discussed (baptism, communion, or appointments) and talk with someone from a different denomination about how their church’s history shapes their understanding of that practice.
Note: This content is part of the forthcoming book “Living Our Name: Free Methodist Identity” – stay tuned for publication details.
Links:
FMCSC Website: https://fmcsc.org/
Ministry Training: https://fmcsc.org/training/
Identity Series Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL28rnyZQWTXk_tn2mlevUIdkU_OZUA0Ir
FMCSC AC25 Ordination Service: Eight New Elders Called to Ministry of Reconciliation
Experience the sacred ordination service from the Free Methodist Church in Southern California’s Annual Conference 2025, where eight pastoral candidates were ordained as elders in a powerful ceremony emphasizing the ministry of reconciliation.
Bishop Kenny Martin delivers a compelling message on reconciliation from 2 Corinthians 5:18, calling the church to unity and revival through repentance, restoration, and reunion. His message sets the spiritual foundation for the ordination of eight new elders who have answered God’s call to shepherd His people.
📖 Scripture Foundation:
• 2 Corinthians 5:18 – The Ministry of Reconciliation
• 1 Peter 4:7-10 – Serving for God’s Glory
• Acts 2:38-39 – The Promise to All Generations
• Isaiah 6:1-8 – “Here I Am, Send Me”
• John 10:11-18 – The Good Shepherd
✨ Newly Ordained Elders:
• Elizabeth A. Cornell
• Brian Scott
• Eleitino A. Tuiasosopo
• Andrea G. Vaudrey
• Reginald C. Wadlington
• Jaime L. Winslow
• Meg Wolfgram
• Jessica Zittel
Bishop Martin’s powerful message emphasizes the “R’s” of ministry:
• Reconciliation with God
• Restoring relationships
• Repentance and renewal
• Reaching those far from God
• Revival through unity
• Reunion of God’s people
The ordination ceremony includes:
• The historic Wesley Covenant Prayer
• Laying on of hands by ordained ministers
• Presentation of Bibles as symbols of authority
• Commissioning to minister the Word, celebrate sacraments, and shepherd God’s people
“Judgment begins in the house of the Lord… It’s time for the body of Christ to come together.” – Bishop Kenny Martin
This service marks a significant moment in FMCSC history as these eight leaders commit to the ministry of reconciliation, joining the legacy of faithful servants who have gone before them.
📍 CenterPoint Church, Murrieta, CA
🗓️ May 17, 2025
#Ordination #FMCSC #MinistryOfReconciliation #FreeMethodist #ChurchLeadership
Learn more about FMCSC: https://fmcsc.org
