That they may all be one. (John 17:21)
This motto of the United Church of Christ reflects the spirit of unity on which the church is based and points towards the future efforts to help the divisions in the body of Christ. We are a uniting church as well as a united church.
In essentials unity, in nonessentials diversity, in all things charity.
The unity that we seek requires neither an uncritical acceptance of any point of view nor rigid formulation of doctrine. It does require mutual understanding and agreement as to which aspects of the Christian faith and life are essential.
The unity of the church is not of its own making. It is a gift of God. But expressions of that unity are as diverse as there are individuals. The common thread that runs through all is love.
The unity of the church is not of its own making. It is a gift of God. But expressions of that unity are as diverse as there are individuals. The common thread that runs through all is love.