UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
The United Church of Christ (UCC) is a progressive Protestant Christian denomination rooted in a commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and theological diversity. Formed in 1957 through the union of several denominations, including the Congregational Christian Churches and the Evangelical and Reformed Church, the UCC embraces a philosophy grounded in unity, freedom of thought, and a living faith responsive to the modern world with the core philosophical tenets being:
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God is Still Speaking
Central to the UCC’s philosophy is the belief that divine revelation is ongoing. This means faith must evolve with new understanding and contemporary issues, reflecting a dynamic relationship between scripture, tradition, reason, and experience.
Extravagant Welcome
The UCC emphasizes radical hospitality and inclusion. It was the first mainline Christian denomination to ordain an openly gay minister (1972) and support marriage equality (2005), demonstrating its commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and gender equality.
Unity in Diversity
Rooted in the prayer of Jesus “that they may all be one” (John 17:21), the UCC seeks to bridge divides among Christians. It values diverse theological perspectives and encourages congregational autonomy while promoting mutual support and shared mission.
Faith in Action
The UCC philosophy holds that faith must be lived out through acts of compassion, justice, and peace. Its members have been deeply involved in civil rights, environmental stewardship, refugee resettlement, and economic justice movements.
Freedom of Belief
The UCC affirms the right and responsibility of individuals and congregations to interpret scripture and faith for themselves.
There is no required creed; instead, covenant relationships guide members toward shared values and service.
In summary, the philosophy of the United Church of Christ centers on inclusive love, spiritual openness, and a commitment to justice, fostering a faith that is both deeply rooted and forward-looking.
Purpose Statement
From the Gospel of Matthew:
To love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength and our neighbor as ourselves.
Vision Statement
United in Christ’s love, a just world for all.
Mission Statement
United in Spirit and inspired by God’s grace, we welcome all, love all, and seek justice for all.
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 each one 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.
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~Authorized by Executive Council in 1981
God is still speaking
