Our distinctive beliefs play a significant role in defining our church's unique character and culture. Although not required for covenant membership, congregation members can embrace these beliefs differently, reflecting individual perspectives and understanding. Our community actively cultivates an atmosphere of grace and understanding, allowing members to hold diverse viewpoints without causing divisiveness. This nurturing environment encourages open dialogue and fosters unity amidst diversity.
In essentials, Unity
In non-essentials, Liberty
In all things, Love
LEADERSHIP BY ELDERS - Our church adopts a Presbyterian form of government, focusing on the leadership of qualified elders who offer spiritual oversight and guidance to the congregation. This structure ensures a balanced and wise approach to the spiritual well-being of our church community.
REFORMED THEOLOGY AS OUR THEOLOGICAL FRAMEWORK - Our church's theology is grounded in the five solas of the Reformation: Scripture alone, Christ alone, faith alone, grace alone, and glory to God alone. As a community, we are passionately God-centered and grace-centered, emphasizing the sovereignty of God in all aspects of our lives, particularly in the realm of salvation through Christ.
HISTORIC CREEDS & CONFESSIONS: ANCHORING OUR FAITH -Our church cherishes and upholds the historic creeds and Confessions, acknowledging their crucial role in forming Christian beliefs and practices. By incorporating these foundational declarations of faith, we strive to maintain theological coherence, nurture unity, and sustain a strong link to the enduring legacy of Christianity across the ages. The three primary creeds are The Apostles' Creed, The Nicene Creed, and the Chalcedonian Creed. The Westminster Standards is the confessional statement of faith adopted by our denomination, the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC).
INFANT BAPTISM: EMBRACING THE COVENANT COMMUNITY -Our church embraces the practice of infant baptism, welcoming young children into the covenant community of faith. This distinctive belief highlights the importance of nurturing spiritual growth from an early age and allows families to commit to raising their children within the Christian tradition. (Note: You do not need to hold to infant baptism for covenant membership)
DISTINCTIVES OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH:
We hold a distinctive belief in the centrality of the Gospel for all aspects of our church life. This core principle guides our preaching, counseling, and ministry efforts, ensuring that the transformative message of the Gospel remains at the heart of everything we do, fostering spiritual growth and unity within our community. We are first and foremost, a Gospel-centered church.
GOSPEL CENTRALITY IN OUR PRACTICES:
CONTINUATION OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS: EMPOWERED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT:
Our church affirms the continuation of spiritual gifts, recognizing the significance of the Holy Spirit in empowering the ministry. We are not cessationists; instead, we believe in the Holy Spirit's work as long as it aligns with the Word of God and is conducted in an orderly manner.
EQUAL VALUE, DISTINCT ROLES: OUR COMPLEMENTARIAN VIEW:
Our church upholds a complementarian view of gender roles, which asserts that while men and women are created equally in the image of God, they are gifted with different and complementary roles in the church, family, and society. This theological understanding respects the unique strengths and responsibilities that God has endowed to each gender. In our congregation, we recognize and celebrate the contributions of women serving in a multitude of leadership roles, while men predominantly take on the responsibility of eldership, each uniquely reflecting the complementary gifts bestowed upon them.(Note: Recognizing the diversity of interpretations and practices within the body of Christ, we strive to foster an environment of mutual respect and graciousness towards differing views on this topic.)