We believe that we are invited to love God and our neighbors as we love ourselves. We even believe that we are called to embody a radical compassion that is capable of loving our enemies.  Jesus taught a radical and fierce way of compassion that begins with fully loving and honoring oneself, so that God might transform the world through the abundant, gracious compassion that the modern disciples of Jesus offer to others. And this is good. 

 

We believe, whether you are aware of it or not, that you are already being held in the compassionate embrace of the creator, redeemer and sustainer of life. You are held and surrounded by this embrace no matter your journey, your questions, your silent aches, longings or wounds; you are held as the beloved of the creator no matter the way you dress, eat, or love, no matter whether you even acknowledge a creator or not. And this is Good News. 

​

We live in a complex, beautiful yet mysterious world that was created billions of years ago by a creative force that the ancient Hebrew people knew as “I am.”  This powerfully creative force – the Creator God – brought the world into being.  And it was good.

 

We affirm with the Old Testament creation stories that the world was created with purpose and order. From the dust of the earth, with the breath of God, humankind was created.  In the image of the creator we each were formed, both male and female. We are the beloved. And it is good.  

 

We affirm that there is truth and great inspiration in the sacred scriptures, and in the teachings and narrative of the church. We also appreciate the truth of modern science and do not find science, scripture and faith to be mutually exclusive.   Where there is truth, there is life; there is God. And it is good.

 

We understand that we were created to live in community: communion with God, and communion with others; but the human condition often separates and drives us apart, apart from God, apart from others. And this is not good.

 

The way and teachings of Jesus are central to our understanding of reconciliation and redemption. The way of Jesus is a way of compassionate living and a radical response to the great needs in our world. The life and example of Jesus is the redeeming foundation upon which we strive to shape and build our lives. And it is good.

You are invited. Come and See. Receive the compassionate embrace of the one who calls you “beloved.”  This is “The Way of Compassion.” 

 

All are Welcome.