We seek to be a community of folk responding to God’s call to be:
A learning congregation – growing in our knowledge and understanding of Hebrew and Christian scripture and tradition as
resources for living lives of purpose and meaning, and exploring religious, spiritual and ethical questions that emerge in our lives and the culture of which we are a part.
A congregation in mission – reaching out to serve through programs and service in the neighborhood, the city, the region and the world. The Irving Park Community Food Pantry (www.irvingparkfoodpantry.com) is located in our building and distributes food to over 350 families every month. This mission was started over 25 years ago by one of our members who distributed food to the hungry. Other programs in our building serve children (Christian Fellowship Co-Op, 773-481-9787) and those in recovery (Martha Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 312-346-1475). Weight Watchers meets in our fellowship hall every Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. (800-651-6000). Our Church also is home to the national offices of the Reconciling Ministries Network (www.RMNetwork.org) that serves United Methodist persons and congregations working on behalf of the full inclusion of GLBT persons in the life of the church.
A congregation of care – attending to the spiritual, physical, and relationship needs of members and friends as we are able.
A justice-seeking congregation – offering witness and action in the world in support of peace and justice for all people and responsible stewardship of the earth.
A welcoming congregation – skilled in offering God’s hospitality to all. With pride, we welcome folks and families of all kinds. We are committed to offering open hearts, minds and doors to those who seek companionship on the journey of faith.
A worshipping congregation – gathering weekly to share the old and new stories and music of God’s love shown in Jesus Christ. We share in the table fellowship of Holy Communion each week and claim God’s promise of grace and love through frequent baptismal renewal.
God calls us to a life of faith in community and promises to uphold us as we seek the path of deeper and more meaningful life through Jesus Christ. As we are, we come together to be the church in His Name!
A United Methodist congregation – connected to the larger community of United Methodists through our apportionment giving and the charge conference and appointment process, we also participate in activities and utilize numerous resources available through the district, conference, and global church. More information about the UMC can be found at the following sites:
Chicago Northwestern District News: ChicagoNWNews@aol.com
General Board of Discipleship:
www.gbod.org
UMC News: www.umc.org
Northern Illinois Conference: www.umcnic.org
Daily Devotional: www.upperroom.org
