Community

Join Our Community

At AFBC, membership means more than being in a pew on Sundays. It’s about belonging, growing, and serving together in the mission God has given us.
As you consider taking that step, we want to walk you through what it means, the benefits, the expectations, and how to join.

Why Become a Member?

Joining this church family invites you into:

  • Deep roots: “Sink your roots down deep here” at AFBC — becoming part of a community that supports and cares for you.
  • Meaningful relationships: Developing authentic connections with others who are pursuing Christ and are of “one heart and one mind.”
  • Spiritual growth: Opportunities through worship, small groups, ministries for children, students, men, women, seniors — growing in your faith and helping others grow.
  • Service & mission: Your gifts and experiences matter — there are places to serve both inside and outside our walls, as we “expand the kingdom of God.”
  • Stability and belonging: Being part of something larger than yourself: a church family, a mission, a legacy.

What We Ask of Members

To join AFBC as a member, you’ll be entering into a covenant of faith and commitment. Typically, this includes:

  • A trusted confession of faith in Jesus Christ (if not already).
  • A desire to live in community with other believers — participating in worship, serving, and growing.
  • A willingness to follow the vision, values, and leadership of the church.
  • A commitment to support the church through prayer, presence, service, and gifts.
  • Regular involvement in fellowship (small groups, programs) so that you’re not just attending, but belonging.

How to Join – “Discover Arcadia”

Becoming a member at AFBC is designed to be a clear, welcoming process. Here are the steps:
  • Visit the Welcome Desk on Sunday mornings to sign up.
  • Or call the church office at 409-925-2825. 
  • Or send an email to office@arcadiafbc.org. 
  • During the Discover class (lunch or coffee gathering), you’ll meet pastors and leadership, learn about our beliefs, mission, and what it means to belong.
  • Ask questions: what you can expect, how you can serve, how we live together as a church.
  • Fill out an application form (in person or online) indicating your desire to join.
  • Meet with a pastor or membership team for approval.
  • Be formally received in a Sunday service or membership class and be welcomed publicly into the family of the church.
  • Once a member, plug into a small group or ministry team.
  • Serve in the area of your gifts and interests.
  • Stay engaged, grow, and invite others into the community.

FAQs

A: Typically, churches ask that members be believers and baptized. If you haven’t been baptized yet, we’d be happy to talk with you about that next step.

A: That’s fine! We encourage you to attend “Discover Arcadia” anyway, so you can learn more and see if membership is right for you. Membership is a step of commitment, not a requirement for belonging.

A: No pressure. We want you to feel free to explore. Membership is a meaningful step, but it’s not meant to rush you. Let’s walk together.

Your Invitation

We’re so glad you’ve considered joining the AFBC family. Whether you’re new in faith, new to this church, or ready to make a deeper commitment — we believe you have a place here. Bring your questions, your hopes, and your gifts. Let’s grow together, serve together, and impact our community together.