What We Believe

OUR VISION

To be an open and loving community of faith where all people may experience the Love of God in Christ. We strive to be a faithful, growing church that demonstrates true community, deep Christian spirituality and a passion for justice. (Micah 6:8)

MISSION STATEMENT

Witness to God's unconditional love,
Grow spiritually through worship and education,
Promote peace with justice,
Practice the stewardship of God's resources in all creation,
Value the diversity of human experience,
Respond as servants to the needs of the community and the congregation, and
Replace spiritual hunger with the fullness of life as revealed in Jesus Christ.

CORE VALUES

Inclusive and hospitable
Diversity of ideas and experience
Grace in all relationships
Compassion/Forgiveness
Outreach/ Peace with Justice
Involvement/Participation
Stewardship of life as sacred

OUR BELIEFS

First Christian Church of Orange is part of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Like most Christians, we believe:
     Jesus Christ is the son of the Living God and proclaim him Lord of our lives and Savior of the world.

WE PRACTICE:

Open Communion

 The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is celebrated in weekly worship. It is open to all who believe in Jesus Christ.

Baptism by immersion ~ In baptism the old self-centered life is set aside, and a new life of trust in God is made possible. Although we generally practice baptism by immersion, we honor other baptism traditions as well.

Disciples also generally believe:

Diversity of opinion ~ Each person is free to determine individual belief guided by the Bible, the Holy Spirit, study and prayer.

The ministry of all believers ~ Both pastors and lay persons lead worship, direct service opportunities and nurture spiritual growth.

Freedom of belief ~ We are called together around one essential of faith: belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

Belief in the oneness of the church ~ All Christians are called to be one in Christ and to seek opportunities for common witness and service.