About Saint Anthony Park UCC
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Christian Tradition. What does this mean?
It means that God, Jesus Christ and the Spirit are our foundation. It means we are grounded in the Bible, the sacraments of baptism and communion, and the liturgical church year. It means we sing hymns old and new, accompanied by organ or piano, in an architecturally traditional worship space. It means we are engaged in faith formation throughout our whole lives. It means we honor our Christian heritage without being bound by it.
Progressive Faith. What does this mean?
It means we value a variety of Biblical interpretations and recognize that Biblical texts must be engaged anew by each generation. It means we do not have tests of belief, but rather allow for many theologies. It means we trust that God is still speaking, still transforming, still working through people to create a more just and peaceful world. It means ambiguity and mystery are not our enemies. It means that we put our faith into action – socially, politically, personally, financially, collectively. It means we strive to experience God and live out God’s purposes in our daily lives.
All Are Welcome. What does this mean?
It means we take seriously Jesus’ example of radical inclusion of all people. It means we have an open communion table at which everyone receives the bread and cup, without exception. It means our children and youth are seen, heard and valued in the full life of the church. It means we acknowledge things that may divide us – white privilege and racism, class difference, socio-economic status, physical and mental abilities, gender identity, expression and sexual orientation, political stances – but we strive to overcome those divisions, welcoming all people as created in the image of God and beloved by God.
Vision Statement
Honoring our covenant relationship with God,
we are committed to grow in our responses to Christ’s call
that we love God with heart, soul and mind
and that we love others as God loves us all.
As a joyful community,
we affirm and nurture the gifts each person brings
and follow in the way of Jesus
through ministries of hospitality, compassion, justice and peace.
