Columbia United Church of Christ

Overview

Columbia United Church of Christ is a local congregation of the United Church of Christ (UCC), a mainline Protestant Christian denomination in the United States. As part of the UCC, the church is rooted in historical and confessional traditions of Congregationalism, Restorationism, Continental Reformed theology, and Lutheran practices. The denomination is known for its liberal social and theological stances.

Mission and Values

Columbia United Church of Christ emphasizes a mission centered around celebrating God's boundless and unconditional love. The congregation intentionally welcomes and affirms all people, reflecting the inclusive and affirming nature of the broader UCC. The church engages in regular evaluations of its mission statement, core values, and strategic plan to ensure alignment with its vision of serving God and the community.

Core Activities

• Inclusive Practices: The church adheres to an "Open and Affirming" approach, which means it actively seeks to welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds and identities. This inclusivity is central to its covenant with God and the community.
• Community Engagement: Columbia United Church of Christ participates in local community activities and outreach programs, reflecting its commitment to serving God's world. The congregation is guided by a vision team that assesses and updates its strategies to align with its mission.

Affiliations

As a UCC congregation, Columbia United Church of Christ is part of a larger network that includes national and international partnerships. The UCC itself is involved in ecumenical efforts and maintains full communion with other Protestant denominations. Through its denomination, Columbia UCC aligns with broader goals of justice, peace, and love for all, as outlined by the UCC's strategic vision.

Governance

Like other UCC congregations, Columbia United Church of Christ operates under a covenantal polity, emphasizing autonomy for local churches while participating in regional and national church governance. Decisions are guided by the Holy Spirit and reflect the congregational democratic tradition of the UCC.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Church_of_Christ [2] https://www.columbiaucc.com/mission [3] https://www.ucc.org/mission/ [4] https://www.globalministries.org/about-2/ [5] https://www.firstuccdc.org/index.php/about-us/