WHO WE ARE

Welcome Home! At the end of a long day, the trolley stops and you find a spiritual home at First Church where we are called to the ministry of reconciliation. We celebrate our human family’s diversity of race, ethnicity, age, national origin, faith history, economic status, ability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, and education.

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We affirm that all people are created in the image of God and as beloved children of God, all are worthy of God’s love and grace. We recognize that there are differences among us, but believe that we can love alike even though we may not think alike. We invite all people to join us in our faith journey toward greater love, understanding, and mutual respect.

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WHAT WE BELIEVE

--We believe that following the path of Christ is based in a living and organic relationship with God. We believe that scripture is meant to be taken seriously but not literally. We seek community that is inclusive of all people including persons of other faith backgrounds. We strive for peace and justice for all people through our thoughts and actions.

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--We believe that, if God can be manifest in three persons, then God can also be manifest in more than one gender. Therefore, we are intentional in our use of inclusive language when referring to God and God's children.

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HOW WE MINISTER

Inclusivity Practice

As a faith community who is committed to thinking differently and loving alike, we recognize that this is a challenging goal and involves cutting edge work. Individuals who experience mental illness or have different abilities have not always been fully included in the life of a church. It is our practice to provide support and assistance in helping individuals to both identify and to express their spiritual gifts in the church. 

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Reconciling Congregation

We are a Reconciling Congregation, encouraging persons in the LGBTQIA+ community to fully participate in the life of our church. This includes not only services and programs but church leadership, same-gender weddings and ordination as well.

Learn more about our Way Forward Covenant.

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Restoration to Community 

Historically, persons who have broken the law have not been included in the life of the church, even after they have completed sentencing requirements. As a community of loving accountability, we commit to upholding the law and following the sentencing requirements until they are completed. In addition to this we have offered our church as a site for persons to complete community service in Delaware County.

 

Wholeness and Safe Sanctuary Policy

There are some among us who have experienced abuse, neglect or discrimination.

It is our goal to be attentive to the needs of each other and to provide a place where people can recover and find safety.

Our safe sanctuary policy mirrors the Eastern PA Conference Resolution which can be found here.

 

Conflict Resolution

Our Staff Pastor Parish Relations Committee has identified members who are skilled in bringing parties together in order to resolve conflict. These meetings are conducted with observance of confidentiality and respect for persons involved.

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