We invite you to download a digital version of the UM Handbook, which is available in French, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.
Note: We will not be reprinting this resource until after the 2024 General Conference session. The UM Handbook for the next quadrennium (2025–2028) will be available in early 2025.
Packed with denominational details, beliefs, history and maps, this handbook is a one-stop destination for all things United Methodist. Consider using it in new member and confirmation classes, leadership training sessions, welcome packets, church libraries and other congregational gathering spaces.
Here are five important things you’ll find:
- Beliefs
Perfect for welcoming visitors or orienting new members, the handbook details the basic beliefs of the denomination, the building blocks of Christian faith that have connected United Methodists around the world for generations. - Mission & The Four Areas of Focus
Learn how the denomination’s mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world is brought to life through United Methodists actively working in The Four Areas of Focus: Developing principled Christian leaders, Creating new places for new people and revitalizing existing congregations, Engaging in ministry with the poor and Improving health globally. - Structure
The denomination is often referred to as “the connection.” This concept has been central to Methodism from its beginning. In the handbook, you’ll find an illustration that explains this structure and how connectionalism helps us better accomplish mission and ministry goals. - Glossary
While you might speak fluent United Methodist, visitors and new members might feel out of the loop. Help them decode the most important denominational terms with the glossary section. - FAQs & Resources
The handbook is just the beginning. Browse lists of frequently asked questions, connectional giving information and communication tips. If you can’t find the answer to your questions, you will find details and contact information for different boards, councils and commissions who can answer them for you.