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MINISTER’S MESSAGE
Welcome to those of you who are here because you are seeking a new church home and are naturally concerned about what you would be “getting yourself into” if you visited on a Sunday morning; or are already aware of the United Church of Christ and its roots in Congregationalism and Evangelical and Reformed churches which go back to the earliest days of America. A little summary of “what we believe” may help you. Here are the main Biblical values that are taken from the UCC Constitution:
1. “That they may all be one,” (John 17:21), reflects the spirit of unity in which our church is grounded. We are as much a uniting church that seeks to heal the divisions in the Body of Christ.
2. “In essential unity, in nonessential diversity, but in all things clarity,” more important than any point of view or doctrine is the understanding of Christ. Different ideas and expressions of faith are gifts of God, but the common thread which runs through all is God’s love as expressed in Jesus—His life, death, and resurrection showing that there is no power greater than the power of love.
3. “Testimonies of faith, not tests of faith.” Because faith is expressed in many different ways, we believe that there is not one test of faith.
4. “There is more light and truth to break forth from God’s Holy Word.” We believe that the Holy Spirit is God’s active presence among us, which enables our faith to be relevant to the struggles we face in the times in which we live.
5. “The priesthood of all believers.” We believe that each and all of us are called by God to minister and to worship as equals in a personal relationship with God, involving direct access to the forgiveness, healing and mercy of God through prayer and devotion.
6. “Responsible Freedom.” As the Apostle Paul proclaimed, “For freedom Christ has set you free.” We believe that freedom is freedom to live in a caring, respectful relationship with each other as a community of faith. So while each local UCC church is free to act in accordance with the decisions of its members, we are guided by the spirit in the light of scripture, seeking to share in, and expand, the work of God’s love.
Again, welcome, and God be with you.
Rev. Claire A. Beutler-Cruise
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