FOUNDATIONAL BELIEF

“We believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God and we proclaim him Lord and Savior.”

Our Foundational or Core Belief binds us together with each other and with the whole church.  This belief also keeps us focused on our identity as Children of God.  This is the confession of faith, or the statement of belief that we are asked to make when we join the church. 

Too see what these terms mean, see the statement

"Who is Jesus Christ."

Core Values

• We value Love because Christ embodies God’s love for all creation. (John 3:16-17)
• We value Prayer because we are created to be in relationship with God and because we need God’s guidance and power in all the areas of life. (Matthew. 14:23, Romans 12:12  Philippians 4:6)
• We value Scripture because we can meet the risen Christ and receive God’s guidance and wisdom there.  (2 Timothy 3:16)
• We value Discipleship because it is through Christ’s disciples that we continue Christ’s ministry in the world and offer God’s love and forgiveness, healing and new life.  (Matthew 28:19)
• We value Christian Unity, around the confession of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and Diversity, respecting the freedom of individuals’ various opinions.  “In essentials unity, non-essentials liberty; in all things love.” (Ephesians 4:1-3, Ephesians 4:13, 1 Peter 3:8)
• We value Justice because the gospel of God’s love and mercy for all requires justice for all creation. Micah 6:8, Isaiah 65:20-23
• We value Responsible Stewardship of all resources because everything is God’s and we are stewards of God’s resources.  (Psalm 24:1)

Foundational Practices
(while recognizing the validity of other Christian practices)

• Believer’s Baptism by immersion, while recognizing and accepting other forms of baptism. (Matthew 3:16, Mark 1:10)
• Weekly Open Communion, where all followers of Jesus are welcome at the table. (Acts 20:7)
• Weekly Worship.  (Hebrews 10:24-25)
• Bible Study.  (2 Timothy 3:16)
• Priesthood, (ministry) of all believers. (1 Peter 2:4-10)