The Oasis - January 25, 2023

Between three mass shootings in California, natural disasters, and the continuing war in Ukraine, there has been an enormous amount distressing events in the news this past week. As I was praying and reflecting, I began to think about the role of the church in the face of so much pain and uncertainty. That reflection led me to the United Church of Christ Statement of Faith. For me, the statement is both inspirational and a reminder of the church’s purpose. I thought I’d share it with you in hopes the words and concepts will speak to you and perhaps serve as a reminder of our purpose together in our troubled world. This is the United Church of Christ Statement of Faith in the form of a doxology:

We believe in you, O God, Eternal Spirit, God of our Savior Jesus Christ and our God, and to your deeds we testify:

You call the worlds into being, create persons in your own image, and set before each one the ways of life and death.

You seek in holy love to save all people from aimlessness and sin.

You judge people and nations by your righteous will declared through prophets and apostles.

In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Savior, you have come to us and shared our common lot, conquering sin and death and reconciling the world to yourself.

You bestow upon us your Holy Spirit, creating and renewing the church of Jesus Christ, binding in covenant faithful people of all ages, tongues, and races.

You call us into your church to accept the cost and joy of discipleship, to be your servants in the service of others, to proclaim the gospel to all the world and resist the powers of evil, to share in Christ’s baptism and eat at his table, to join him in his passion and victory.

You promise to all who trust you forgiveness of sins and fullness of grace, courage in the struggle for justice and peace, your presence in trial and rejoicing, and eternal life in your realm which has no end.

Blessing and honor, glory and power be unto you.

Amen.