About Us
The United Church of Christ came into being in 1957 with the merger of the Evangelical and Reformed Church and the
Congregational Christian Church. Each of these denominations was, in turn, a result of a union of two earlier
denominations. Thus the term "United and Uniting" defines the ecumenical nature of our faith. Jesus's words, "That they
may all be one," (John 17:21) is the church's motto reflecting our spirit of unity.
We believe in the priesthood of all believers. All members of the church are called to minister to
others and to participate as equals in the common worship of God. Ordained clergy have special training in pastoral, and
leadership responsibilities. They are regarded as servants to the church rather than as persons in authority. Their task is
to guide, instruct, and enable all Christians to do the work of ministry.
We believe there is yet more light and truth to break forth from God's holy word. This classic
statement assumes the primacy of the Bible as a source for understanding the word and will of God. It recognizes that the
Bible was written in specific historical times and places, yet still speaks to us in our present condition. Because it is the
"living word of God" it cannot be limited to fixed interpretations but is to be pursued with expectancy for new insights and
inspiration.
We believe faith can be expressed in many ways. Therefore, we seek unity among our diversity.
We have no formula that is a test of faith and subscribe to no pre-stated doctrine. However, we do recognize the
authenticity of many historic Christian creeds and catechisms such as the Apostle's Creed, the Nicene Creed, the
Heidelberg Catechism, the Augsburg Confession, and others. The broad beliefs embraced by members of the United
Church of Christ are generally affirmed in the following United Church of Christ Statement of Faith:
We believe in you, O God, Eternal Spirit, God of our Savior
Jesus Christ and our God, and to your deeds we testify:
You call the worlds into being,
Create persons in your own image, and set before us the ways of life and death.
You seek in holy love to save all people from aimlessness and sin.
You judge people and nations by your righteous will
Declared through prophets and apostles.
In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Savior,
You have come to us and shared our common lot,
Conquering sin and death and reconciling the world to yourself.
You bestow upon us your Holy Spirit,
Creating and renewing the church of Jesus Christ,
Binding in covenant faithful people of all ages tongues and races.
You call us into your church.
To accept the cost and joy of discipleship,
To be your servants in the service of others,
To proclaim the Gospel to all the world
And resist the powers of evil,
To share in Christ's baptism and eat at his table,
To join him in his passion and victory.
You promise to all who trust you
Forgiveness of sins and fullness of grace,
Courage in the struggle for justice and peace,
Your presence in trial and rejoicing,
And eternal life in your realm which has no end.
Blessing and honor, glory and power be unto you.
Amen.
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