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About the United Church of Christ

The motto of the United Church of Christ is "That they may all be one" (John 17:21). The denomination was created in 1957 through the union of churches with roots from four historical backgrounds: ongregational churches tracing their faith back to the Pilgrims, Reformed churches recalling the history of German settlers in Pennsylvania, Christian churches which sprang up on the frontier, and Evangelical churches originating from the union of German Lutheran and Reformed churches. Congregations from Hispanic, African-American, Asian, and Armenian traditions have also joined through the years. The UCC is both a "united" and a "uniting" church, working to bring the family of Christ together.

We respect "testimonies of faith, not tests of faith." While the UCC Statement of Faith is part of our bylaws, we acknowledge the right of each person to express their faith in their own way. We believe that the study of scripture will reveal yet more light and truth for our age. "The priesthood of all believers" means to us that all are equal in the worship of God, and all are to be ministers to others. The long-standing tradition of our church is that pastors are ordained to serve a congregation after a thorough education. and examination by a council of pastors and lay people. "Responsible freedom" means to us that all are free to act according to their own understanding of God’s will for their lives, but are also encouraged to live in covenant with other another. UCC congregations are free to make their own decisions, but work together in covenant to prepare pastors and to carry out God’s mission in the world. Binding together our diversity, freedom, and respect for each one’s belief is a desire to express the love of God to all people.

If you would like to know more about the United Church of Christ, you may pick up a copy of "The United Church of Christ: Who We Are, What We Believe" at the church office.