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What We Believe

That they may all be one (John 17:21): The motto of the United Church of Christ reflects the spirit of unity on which it is based and points toward future efforts to heal the division in the body of Christ. We are a uniting church as well as a united church.

In essential unity, in non-essential diversity in all things charity: The unity that we seek requires neither an uncritical acceptance of any point of view, nor a rigid formulation of doctrine. It does require mutual understanding and agreement as to which aspects of the Christian faith and life are essential.

Testimonies of faith rather than test of faith: Because faith can be expressed in many different ways, the United Church of Christ has no formula that is a test of faith. Down through the centuries, however, Christians have shared their faith with one another through creeds, confessions, catechisms, and other statements of faith.

There is yet more light and truth to break from God’s holy word: The classic statement assumes the primacy of the Bible as a source for understanding the good news and as a foundation for all statements of faith. In recognition that the Bible, through writings in specific historical times and places, still speaks to us in our present condition. It declares that the study of the scripture is not limited by past interpretations, but it is to be pursued with expectancy for new insights and help for living today.

The Priesthood of All Believers: All members of the United Church of Christ are called to minister to others and to participate as equals in the common worship of God, each with direct access to the mercies of God through personal prayer and devotion.

Responsible Freedom: As individual members, we are free to believe and act in accordance with our perception of God’s will for our lives. But we are called to live in a loving, covenantal relationship with one another – gathering in communities of faith, congregations of believers, and local churches.