Kenneth L. Carder

Living Our Beliefs, Third Edition

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 18:46:28 GMT

Available May 2027; Preorder Now!

What does it mean to be a United Methodist today?

In a season of profound change for both the church and society, how can United Methodist faith continue to shape our lives, our congregations, and our witness in the world?

Since Living Our Beliefs: The United Methodist Way was last updated in 2009, both The United Methodist Church and the wider culture have changed dramatically. In a society where religion no longer occupies a central place in public life, churches are called to articulate their identity, beliefs, mission, and witness with greater clarity than ever before.

In this newly revised edition of his classic guide, Bishop Kenneth L. Carder offers a clear, accessible introduction to United Methodist doctrine, theology, and practices that shape Christian discipleship. Drawing on the writings of John and Charles Wesley, insights from leading scholars, the liturgical resources of The United Methodist Hymnal, and other foundational sources, Carder identifies and clarifies United Methodist beliefs and their relevance for living as disciples of Jesus Christ, both individually and in community.

More than an introduction to Methodist doctrine, Living Our Beliefs demonstrates that theology is never merely something we affirm. It is something we live. As Carder reminds us, "Beliefs are to be lived; doctrine is to be practiced."

Whether you're preparing for confirmation, joining a United Methodist congregation, leading a small group, or seeking a deeper understanding of Wesleyan faith, Living Our Beliefs invites readers to discover how Methodist beliefs can shape lives, strengthen congregations, and transform communities.

"This revised edition is essential reading for every congregation seeking to move beyond institutional maintenance toward the transformative discipleship that has always been the Methodist way." —Rev. Dr. Laceye C. Warner, Professor of the Practice of Church Ministry and Methodist Studies and Associate Dean for Wesleyan Engagement, Duke Divinity School

Ministry with the Forgotten

Wed, 18 May 2022 21:13:02 GMT

This PDF is the Leader's Guide for Ministry with the Forgotten: Dementia Through a Spiritual Lens. This Leader's Guide provides five two-hour sessions of teaching plans to help lay servant ministers understand dementia from a spiritual standpoint and become more comfortable ministering with people affected by this condition. The advanced Lay Servant Ministries course based on the book Ministry with the Forgotten will equip lay servant ministers to lead their congregations in ministry with people with dementia and those who care for them. It will enable participants to learn about dementia, see people with dementia as disciples of Jesus, and discover how to relate to them in a helpful manner.

Living Our Beliefs

Sat, 14 May 2022 02:37:20 GMT

You can believe anything and be a Methodist, just so long as you're sincere.

Such a misperception has deep historical and cultural roots.

Explore a basic explanation of the beliefs and practices of the United Methodist Church as defined in Part II of The Book of Discipline. Uncover a deeper understanding and experience of Christian faith as you embrace the United Methodist way.

"Beliefs are to be lived; doctrine is to be practiced," writes Carder in this updated edition of his 1996 bestseller. "The authenticity of beliefs lie in their ability to shape people and communities into the image of Christ and to promote holiness and happiness. …The important test of the validity of doctrines and beliefs for United Methodists is the kind of character they produce in individuals and communities and the actions they inspire in the world."

Living Our Beliefs is essential reading for new members, confirmation classes and small group studies.

As one reviewer says, "Bishop Carder invites us to both understand and live our beliefs. With deep understanding of Wesley's teaching, he inspires us to practice what we preach. That is the United Methodist way."

The Leader's Guide for this course, Living Our United Methodist Beliefs, by George Hovaness Donigan may be purchased here.

Living Our Beliefs

Thu, 05 May 2022 20:14:00 GMT

You can believe anything and be a Methodist, just so long as you're sincere.

Such a misperception has deep historical and cultural roots.

Living Our Beliefs is essential reading for new members, confirmation classes and small group studies.

The Leader's Guide for this course, Living Our United Methodist Beliefs, by George Hovaness Donigan may be purchased here.