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COMMUNION

Communion (also known as the Lord’s Supper) is a remembrance of the New Covenant instituted by God through Jesus Christ. In the observance of communion, we remember the body and blood of Jesus given on our behalf for the remission of sin. Our belief concerning the presence of God in Holy Communion is that the substance of the body and blood of Christ is present alongside/with the substance of the elements of Communion (bread and fruit of the vine). We believe in an “Open Table” where all are welcome to participate.

BAPTISM

Baptism is an act of faith indicating commitment to Jesus Christ and is the Holy Spirit’s work of initiating believers into the body of Christ – the Church. Baptism is not a means of salvation, rather it is an act of obedience symbolizing death to sin, the washing away of guilt and a new life in Jesus. A family may choose to baptize a child based on the family’s commitment to raising the child in the faith of the Lord Jesus Christ. The act of Baptism may be performed by sprinkling, pouring or immersion because we recognize that the power of baptism is not found in the amount of water used but rather in the Holy Spirit’s work.

THE CHURCH

The Church is a community of believers unified through faith in Jesus Christ. The Church is committed to the teachings of Jesus Christ, which are found in the Bible. We believe it is the responsibility of the Church to bring glory to God by participating in world evangelization to fulfill the Lord’s command to make disciples among all the people.

SALVATION

Salvation comes as a result of believing that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who was crucified, died, and rose from the dead as a sufficient payment for the sins of humankind. Salvation is a free gift from God to all and cannot be earned through our own efforts. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ can we be saved from an eternal separation from God. Eternal life with God begins the moment you receive Jesus Christ into your life through faith.

ETERNITY

We were created to exist forever. We believe in the resurrection of the body, with “forever” being spent in one of two places: heaven or hell. Spending eternity in heaven means being in perfect union with God. In contrast, an eternity in hell means being forever separated from God.

HUMANITY

Humankind was made in the image of God and created to be in a perfect relationship with God. We became alienated from God through our own disobedience, which the Bible calls sin. We are incapable of regaining a right relationship with God through our own efforts, which is why God sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to take the penalty for our sins so that we may be reconciled with God.

THE BIBLE

The Bible is God’s holy written word. It was written by human authors under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the ultimate source of truth, giving testimonies of God’s character, stories of Jesus Christ’s life and ministry, and instruction and wisdom for daily life.

THE TRINITY

God exists as one being in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Although each member of the Trinity serves different functions, they each possess equal power and authority.

THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit is equal with the Father and the Son as God. The Holy Spirit is present in the world to make us aware of our need for Jesus Christ. The Spirit lives in every believer from the moment of salvation and provides the Christian an understanding of spiritual truth and guidance in doing what is right. The Holy Spirit’s presence assures us of our relationship with Christ. The Spirit guides believers into all truth and convicts people of their sins. The Spirit comforts us, gives us spiritual gifts, and helps us become more like Christ.

JESUS CHRIST

Jesus Christ is the Son of God, conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He lived a completely sinless life and is the only person to be wholly human and also completely God. He was crucified on a cross and died in our place for our sins, so we may be reconciled with God. After three days, He rose from the dead to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to heaven and will return to reign as King of Kings.