Welcoming Certified Congregation

North Highland UMC, Aberdeen, SD has been recognized by the United Methodist Communications as an official "Welcoming Congregation". Welcoming Congregations are a select group of United Methodist Congregations nationwide that meet criteria including embracing newcomers and providing opportunities in discipleship. The certification process was not the Welcoming Team’s original intent, but an outgrowth of a desire to learn more about what hospitality efforts were considered important by other churches and organizations. Looking at the Welcoming Certified Congregations literature of the United Methodist Church, the team decided that it was a good framework to use. The team also noted that the church in its continuing desire to be a friendly place had completed many the requirements to become a "Welcoming Congregation". It was decided by the Welcoming Team decided to pursue the certification from UMCom. During 2011 with the efforts of the team and the congregations, meetings were held, several new programs were initiated, and the congregation continued their commitment to welcoming guests and visitor.

The Find-a-Church feature on the UMC website, now, has the Welcoming Certified Congregation seal on North Highland United Methodist Church's entry.