This document provides an overview of the United Church of Christ (UCC) and how it differs from other churches. The UCC values individual conscience over required doctrines, takes a non-literal view of the Bible, and believes science and faith are not mutually exclusive. It emphasizes local decision making and an open, inclusive and welcoming community. The UCC also has a strong social justice focus, advocating for civil rights and opposing issues like capital punishment. New members are attracted by its welcoming nature and passion for social justice issues.

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2. So how is the UCC different?In beliefsIn the way we make decisionsIn our commitment to inclusionIn the social scope of our ethical positions

3. We are different from many other churches in our beliefs.

4. We value and respect the individual conscience. So we don’t turn beliefs into required doctrines.We believe that the Scriptures are expressions of faith that contain spiritual truths. We take the Bible seriously but not literally.We value those things that science has discovered. We don’t think science and faith are mutually exclusive.

5. People attracted to the UCC say“We like the fact that we don’t have to leave our brains at the door when we come into the church.”

6. We differ from other churches in the way we make decisions.

7. All decisions of faith and morals are initiated at the local levelEvery setting of the church is free to speak and speaks only for itself

8. There are many differences among us, but…

9. We are committed absolutely that“Whoever you are and wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”

10. We think that being good people is not enough. To be followers of Jesus…

11. We think that Jesus calls us to repair a broken world. We believe Jesus sends us to care for those the world despises.We think God calls the church to speak the truth to power.We don’t hesitate to speak out on controversial subjects in the name of Jesus.

12. So we’ve done a lot to show that we care about God’s community of peopleBy sending medical, social, educational and agricultural assistance to communities all over the worldBy responding generously to people suffering from natural disasters and war.By building colleges, settlement houses, hospitals, and homes for the aged, for children and for persons with disabilities throughout our own country and in other lands.

13. And we have taken leadership in the struggle for justice In the opposition to American slaveryIn the ordination of women and people of color to Christian ministryIn supporting women’s right to voteIn the support of civil rights for African Americans, women, glbt persons, and immigrants In opposition to capital punishmentIn advocacy of a just peace

14. We’re seldom unanimous in our opinons on such issues…And we’re proud of that!And grateful for the presence and honesty of those who disagree

15. Do you know that…There are many people not attending any church who would be thrilled to discover a church like ours?

16. Why are new people deciding to join the United Church of Christ?We are seen as welcoming to those who are rejected by other churches for whatever reason.We seem untroubled by those who do not accept traditional doctrinal affirmations of faith.We embrace those who are passionate about working for peace and social justice and look for opportunities to help others.We are open to both faith and 21st Century science, and do not see them as mutually exclusive.