Our Beliefs
Friends and Neighbors,
We are not a “progressive” church that merely welcomes LGBTQ+ persons.
We recognize and honor the presence of God in all people and fully welcome them into our community to be members, leaders, teachers, and preachers.
We are not a “progressive” church that uses inclusive language to be politically correct.
We identify the limitations of a male-dominated society and seek to rediscover the gifts and strengths of the feminine in both our members and the sacred.
We are not a “progressive” church that is all intellectual and boring.
We celebrate with joy and laughter our faith through varieties of music, the arts, worship styles, and forms of service and action in the community.
We are not a “progressive” church that considers the Bible irrelevant for today.
We value these ancient stories of people’s experiences of God in different times and cultures by using them as entry points to experience the presence and guidance of God today.
We are not a “progressive” church that downplays the role of Jesus.
We respond to the Jesus we meet in scripture who calls us to take up our own crosses and follow in the steps of his life, message, and vision, not just his death.
We are not a “progressive” church that does not believe in eternal salvation.
We recognize that salvation is also an experience in the here and now through our participation in God’s work toward a world of more equality, compassion, and peace.
We are not a “progressive” church that says whatever way works for you is fine.
We simply recognize that Christianity is our way into the life of God but do not confuse that as being the only way into God who will not be defined by human barriers.
Maybe First Congregational Elgin is the church you’ve been looking for!
Join us this Sunday for worship, and begin the journey of finding out.
Peace in Christ,
Rev. Dr. Jesse Tanner, Pastor