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RELIGION LIBRARY

United Church of Christ/Congregationalism

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Sacred Narratives

The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus comprise the central sacred narrative of the United Church of Christ. Jesus is affirmed as being both fully human and fully divine, the center of creation, and the head of the church.

Ultimate Reality and Divine Beings

Biblical in outlook, the United Church of Christ affirms the Christian teachings about God and the incarnation, and places special emphasis on the freedom of the Holy Spirit, whose active presence creates the church and its congregations.

Human Nature and the Purpose of Existence

Humans are created in the image of God but are also prone to sin, breaking the covenant with God and doing evil. The United Church of Christ teaches that reconciliation with God is possible because of the crucifixion of Christ.

Suffering and the Problem of Evil

Everyone suffers, and suffering is seen as evidence of a common humanity. The UCC teaches that the church partners with Christ in confronting suffering and restoring hope in divine salvation.

Afterlife and Salvation

Congregationalists gradually turned away from Calvinist teachings on predestination. UCC congregants hold a range of views on the afterlife, with some believing in universalism, or the idea that ultimately all humans will be reconciled to God.

History Rituals and Worship Back to religion Library

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