What We Believe

Holy Spirit DoveThe Big Picture:

Like most Christians, we believe God is the Author of Life, who came to us in human form as Jesus Christ, and moves among us today as the Holy Spirit. God is love, and we are called to love one another and to love God with all our hearts, minds and souls.

The Fine Points: Here is where Lake Edge and its national denomination, the United Church of Christ, stand on some of those issues where Christian churches tend to vary:

  • Open Communion : All believers are welcome to take communion with us. More about the UCC's view on communion
  • Inclusive and Equal: All people -- regardless of gender, race, class or sexual orientation are equal in the eyes of God and the church. The United Church of Christ and its ancestor churches have historically been leaders in breaking through social barriers. More about UCC Historical 'Firsts'           
  • Taking the Bible Seriously, Not Literally: The UCC encourages serious Bible scholarship, and we believe our understanding of God's Word is continually evolving. More about UCC views on the Bible
  • Freedom of Conscience: We believe all Christians are called to think for themselves, not follow blindly. Diverse opinions, friendly debate, and challenging questions are welcome here. More about freedom of conscience
  • Faith is about QUESTioning: We've got some answers, but faith is about the quest for a deeper relationship with God, questioning as well as answers. The freedom of conscience comes with the responsibility to actively journey, alone and together. We welcome you, wherever you are on your journey! More about Lake Edge's faith education programs.
  • Social Justice: Jesus called us to stand up for the downtrodden, to feed the hungry, care for the poor, to be good stewards of natural resources, and to be peacemakers. Lake Edge's strong involvement in mission is our way of trying to change the world. Find out more about the Lake Edge's mission activities
  • Democracy: The government of the UCC is run as a democracy. UCC members are elected to local church boards, regional Associations, larger Conferences, and the national General Synod. Elected lay people, guided by church constitutions and the Holy Spirit, make policy decisions.  More about how Lake Edge is governed
  • United and Uniting: The United Church of Christ was itself formed when several different Protestant denominations merged together (in 1957), and still today the UCC emphasizes ecumenical partnerships and works with other faiths (and disagreeing UCC members!) in a spirit of love, tolerance and cooperation. The UCC motto is "In essential things unity; in nonessentials, liberty; and in all things charity." The fine points must never overshadow the big picture
Read the UCC Official Statement of Faith

Read Lake Edge UCC's vision statement

See our mini-vision statement in image form Worship Grow Serve