Our Faith

We are a diverse Christian faith community that is part of the global United Methodist Church.  We believe in the one true God, who is creator and sovereign of all things visible and invisible. God’s undeserved love is central, characterized by prevenient grace (drawing us to God), justifying grace (forgiveness), and sanctifying grace (growth in holiness). Ephesians 2:8-9 "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God."

We believe in salvation through Jesus Christ.  Jesus Christ, the Son of God, fully divine and fully human, is  the living Word of God, the Savior, and the Lord who offers redeeming grace and reconciles the world to God. Salvation begins with justification, where faith in Jesus Christ brings forgiveness for past sins and reconciles the believer with God. John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

The Holy Spirit is a divine person—not merely a force—who proceeds from the Father and Son, representing God's active presence.  The Spirit acts to lead people into the fellowship of the Church through a faithful response to the gospel. The Spirit guides believers, provides comfort, empowers the faithful, and leads them into all truth. John 14:26 "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."

The foundation of Christian living is faith in Jesus Christ. This faith is open to everyone who chooses it. Faith in action is practical divinity which encourages balancing faith with social action, caring for the marginalized, and doing good. Our church is an extension of Christ’s life and ministry in the world today.

We believe that the Bible is God’s word and is the primary source to guide our faith and practice.  We recognize two sacraments: Baptism and Holy Communion, which is open to all who wish to lead a Christian life.

 

Our Mission

The mission of our church is to be a welcoming faith community that offers God’s love and teachings to all people. We help people to learn about God’s message of love, hope, and salvation. We strive to demonstrate our faith by being the evidence of Christ’s presence here on earth.

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome at the Gardner Chestnut Street United Methodist Church.