A Progressive Congregation in Word and Deed
Since its inception in 1995, the United Church of Christ in Simi Valley has lived on the edge of time, one step ahead of other churches in Ventura County in its willingness to be a faith community walking its talk.
- In 1998 this congregation declared itself Open and Affirming (ONA) of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered persons. We are still the only UCC church in Ventura County designated as ONA.
- In May 2006 we became the first and only church in Ventura County, across all denominations, to publicly declare itself a member of The Center for Progressive Christianity (TCPC)
- In July 2007, we became the first and only church in Ventura County to become a Sanctuary Congregation in The New Sanctuary Movement.
- In June 2008, recognizing that county offices throughout the State of California began to issue licenses that recognize the legality of same-sex marriages, we publicly announced that we welcome all couples with equal regard who seek to covenant together in the rite of marriage.
Each of these steps says something about who we are and what we value. We are challenged and inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus. We engage in spiritual journeys, pilgrimages and processes that respect diversity and difference of opinion; and we practice an affirming faith that encourages involvement on behalf of those whose rights are threatened. These are foundational values that shape our decisions and inform our choices.
Faith and Fellowship:
If you come what will you find?
- People like you who reject theologies based on fear and guilt and who worship a loving non-judgmental God.
- An atmosphere of hospitality and grace nurtured by men and women who understand how painful it is to feel excluded by society, and especially family.
- An openness to children and a community dedicated to helping each child grow in love, where boys and girls learn to respect themselves and the diversity present in all of life.
- A community of believers able to respect different points of view while discussing complex and difficult questions of life and death.
- Opportunities to share your life with people of integrity and purpose who have the courage to work for justice and peace locally and globally.
- Experiences of love and affection, laughter and playfulness, joy and thanksgiving among people who believe that God’s love embraces everyone. Our promise to you is simple: “Whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!”
Faith and Worship:
Invitation to Communion: “It is time to let the Spirit have its way with us. This table is set, for sinners, lovers, dancers, and dreamers, the dying, divorced, suffering, and fearful. All who are weary and heavy laden, all who work for justice, all who seek resurrection. Come. Be not afraid, for hope is real, love is true, and God is good. Come, let us keep the feast!”
The center of our common life is Sunday morning worship, where all ages join together for praise and thanksgiving. The Sacrament of Holy Communion follows a welcome table practice where all are welcome, children as well as adults. Communion is celebrated the first Sunday of every month. The United Church of Christ practices infant and adult Baptism. Baptisms occur in consultation with Dr. Goudey and are scheduled during Sunday worship.
Faith and Education:
The United Church of Christ has a long and honored history of practicing a learned faith. We say with pride that “our faith is over two thousand years old, but our thinking is not!” Classes are held each Sunday for children and youth. Every Monday morning at 10:00 A.M. several folks gather for Bible and Beyond, a contemporary discussion group open to all. Other Adult education courses, including a Lenten Study Series are scheduled throughout the year.
You are welcome to visit and join our church family
where all find God's passionate love in action.
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