WHAT WE BELIEVE
We are rooted in hope, faith and prayer
We are part of the United Church of Christ
You might be thinking: I’m not that familiar with the United Church of Christ (UCC). What is it?
The history of the UCC goes back to early advocacy for religious freedom, the abolition of slavery and the ordination of women. We strive to offer Jesus’ message of hope, healing and wholeness and to champion causes such as caring for all creation, justice, peace, reconciliation and attention to the vulnerable.
Here are a few of the things that the UCC stands for:
No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.
We believe in extravagant welcome. This is why we insist that God’s communion table is open. We advocate justice for all. Our congregations extend hospitality as a sign of God’s inclusive love. Our perspective is global, not provincial. We work with—not against—people of other faiths.
Our faith is 2,000 years old. Our thinking is not.
We believe in God’s continuing testament. This is why we are committed to hearing God’s ancient story anew and afresh in our lives and in the world today. We try to remain attentive to God’s creative movement in the world. Religion and science are not mutually exclusive, and your head and heart are both welcomed into our places of worship.
Never place a period where God has placed a comma.
We believe the church’s mission is to change lives—individually, systemically and globally. We work to make transformation possible, but trust in God’s grace. This is why we insist that churches must be places of vitality in worship, learning and advocacy. We are committed to working for justice, and we believe that lives are changed through global experiences and friendships. Why? Because God is still speaking,
Want to know more? Visit ucc.org
Interested in joining our church community?
You are welcome to participate in our church whether you are a member or not for as long as you’d like. And if it’s a fit, we’d love to have you join us as a member. Here’s how you do that…
STEP 1: ATTEND WORSHIP
Attend our Sunday worship and see if you would like to become an active member of the Community Church of Sebastopol.
STEP 2: ATTEND AN INQUIRERS’ CLASS
Inquirers’ Classes are held every few months. Contact the office to find out when the next orientation will be held.
STEP 3: PARTICIPATE IN THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH
We welcome your full participation as a member in the life of our church. As members, we commit to:
- Attend Sunday services as regularly as life allows
- Deepen spiritually by participating in one church program
- Serve faithfully with the church in the wider community
- Share our financial resources so the church may thrive
- Aspire to a leadership or volunteer role
- Tell others about our church & why it means so much to us
Frequently asked questions
What if I can’t make it to the next Inquirers’ Class?
There will be another orientation in a few months, so you can attend the next one.
What if I can’t make it to the joining ceremony?
We will have you join in absentia, then introduce you on a subsequent Sunday.
Do my kids join with me?
While all baptized people, including infants, are members of the Body of Christ, local church membership is for anyone over confirmation age (14 or so). Children are invited to join us in the Inquirers’ Class if they like, and we would love for them to be with you during the joining ceremony.
What if I still have questions after the Inquirers Class?
Our pastor can be available during the week, in person or over the phone, to continue in conversation.
