Discovering a New Identity 

 Rev. Gail Benson, Interim Minister

           One of the firmest foundations of our faith is that we worship a God who is continually “doing a new thing.” In fact, our denomination has used the phrase “God is Still Speaking” to help us define and live into our faith journeys as they move us in new directions. In 2Cor 5:17 we read Paul’s central teaching about God’s continual regeneration. “So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!” Our identities change through the years.

 So it is with congregations. Often this is noticed following the departure of a pastor or another staff person. It is not unusual for a congregation to recognize during an interim that part of their identity was directly related to the former pastor’s leadership style and spiritual gifts. This is true at Seaside Community Church UCC. 

 You have reflected on why you came to Seaside and why you have stayed. As you have shared your hopes and dreams with each other, you have been discovering and claiming a new identity. You have welcomed new leadership and you have opened up to new possibilities for worship and your life together. As a congregation you have been energized and there is excitement and anticipation for your future. Your commitment to stay with this journey is grounded in a faith that can fill you with the courage to continue to complete the tasks that will lead to a successful call of your new pastor.

 You will be hearing about some projects that need to be done before your church profile can be completed. Be ready to be called to support the work. Even better – volunteer!  Continue your commitment to the successful call of your new pastor.             

May it be so.  

Faithfully,  Rev. Gail

 “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”

We believe in an extravagant welcome. This is why we insist God’s communion table is open, not closed, and God’s gift and claim in baptism are irrevocable. We advocate justice for all. Our congregations extend hospitality as a sign of God’s inclusive love. We teach that evangelism – offering bread to those in search of it – is God’s mission. Our perspective is global, not provincial. We work with – not against – people of other faiths. Why? Because God is still speaking,

 - Isn’t it time for religion with relevance? You’re invited. Join us in the United Church of Christ.

We’re not a perfect church, but we do try to be faithful. We are known for arriving early on issues of inclusivity and justice. We were the first to ordain an African-American pastor (1785), a woman (1853), an openly gay person (1972), and the first to affirm same-gender marriage equality (2005).

We believe faith requires tenderness and courage, a kind of big love that is committed to changing people’s lives – in our churches, but also in the world around us. We call it religion with relevance. Why not give us a try? We hope you’ll visit a UCC congregation near you.

 - Our faith is 2000 years old. Our thinking is not.

We believe in God’s continuing testament. This is why we are committed to hearing God’s ancient story anew and afresh in our lives and in the world today. We try to remain attentive to God’s creative movement in the world. Religion and science are not mutually exclusive, and your head and heart are both welcomed into our places of worship. We prepare our members and leaders to be engaged in ministry in the present and future church, and we embrace all kinds of communities and new modes of thinking. Why? Because God is still speaking,

 - Never place a period where God has placed a comma.

We believe the church’s mission is to change lives – individually, systemically and globally. We work to make transformation possible, but trust in God’s grace. This is why we insist that churches must be places of vitality in worship, learning and advocacy. We are committed to working for justice, and we believe that lives are changed through global experiences and friendships. Why? Because God is still speaking,

 The above samples come from the United Church of Christ website: http://www.ucc.org/about-us/new-to-the-ucc.html