Enduring Principles

God views all people as having inestimable and equal worth.

We seek to uphold and restore the worth of all people individually and in community, challenging unjust systems that diminish human worth. 

God graciously gives people gifts and opportunities to do good and to share in God’s purposes.

Some disciples are called and ordained to particular priesthood responsibilities and ministries for the sake of the community, the congregation, and the world.

We are a diverse, international family of disciples, seekers, and congregations. 

We seek agreement or common consent in important matters. If we cannot achieve agreement, we commit to ongoing dialogue and lovingly uphold our common faith in Jesus Christ and the mission of the church.

God’s grace, especially as revealed in Jesus Christ, is generous and unconditional.

We generously share our witness, resources, ministries, and sacraments according to our true capacity.

In the beginning, God created and called it all good. 

We join with God as stewards of care and hope for all creation.

God wants shalom (justice, reconciliation, well-being, wholeness, and peace) for all of creation.

We celebrate God’s peace wherever it appears or is being pursued by people of good will.

God gives humans the ability to make choices about whom or what they will serve. Some people experience conditions that diminish their ability to make choices.

We are called to make responsible choices within the circumstances of our lives that contribute to the purposes of God.

Scripture is an inspired and indispensable witness of human response to God’s revelation of divine nature. 

In humility, individually and in community, we prayerfully listen to understand God’s will for our lives, the church, and creation more completely.

Sacred community provides nurture and growth opportunities for all people, especially those who cannot fully care for themselves.

We are called to create communities of Christ’s peace in our families and congregations and across villages, tribes, nations, and throughout creation.