The Christian community is called to show hospitality to all persons, extending the welcome of Christ to persons whom some of us might find unfamiliar or uncomfortable. The community of faith also is called to live in harmony as a way of giving glory to God, and to avoid quarreling and division. The community of faith is to aim at the building up of those who strive to follow Christ, rather than judging and criticizing one another. While persons of sincere faith and good conscience may disagree on what constitutes 'sin,' all are sinners, among whom there is no distinction, for all are saved by grace alone. The Confessions of our church are valuable guides in our decisions about ordination and many other issues, but they are always subordinate to the authority of Jesus Christ and to Scripture.
Reconciliation is accomplished.
This leads to an affirmation of diversity and the welcoming inclusion of all people. We understand our polity and system of ordination to mean that leaders are called by God and confirmed by the people, and that all members whose manner of life demonstrates the gospel and who possess the gifts and training for leadership should have opportunities to participate in leadership. In faithfulness to our call to be good stewards of the resources entrusted to us, we would affirm and enable ordained service and outreach by all in whom we discern a call to serve. To top 2001 by The Witherspoon Society. All material on this site is the responsibility of the WebWeaver unless other sources are acknowledged.